Edmond Life and Leisure - November 6, 2025

In This Issue

Where is Church & State line?

Local pastors discuss this & other issues

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9

By Kimberly Burk

For Edmond Life and Leisure

During Sunday services at Liberty Church Edmond, “we try to encourage people to stay off their cell phones,” Pastor Paul Blair said with a laugh. He knows it’s a tough ask.

“Technology is a benefit in some areas, but hurts us in others,” Blair said.Among people of faith, social media has become a vital platform for sharing testimony, words of encouragement and pleas for prayers. It’s also rife with personal opinions about the intersection of religion and politics, and some church members look to their denominations and their pastors for guidance about how to vote.

“I don’t believe it’s my place to endorse a candidate from the pulpit,” said the Rev. Dr. Tiffany A. Nagel Monroe, senior pastor of Edmond First United Methodist Church.

“I think that clouds my ability to serve God,” Monroe said. “I am focusing on Scripture and focusing on God’s grace. It really is about seeing them as a child of God and who they are.

”Among his parishioners at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, “I don’t know what they vote or how they vote,” said the Rev. William Novak, pastor of the large Edmond church.

“I preach the gospel,” Novak said. “I don’t preach politics. I don’t preach political parties.”

At Liberty Church, Blair said, “We talk about everything. I don’t talk about politics all the time. I just don’t shy away from it.”

Blair said “every area of life has been covered to some degree in Scripture. And that includes civil government. We need to know what it was created for, and what it was not created for.”

Political disagreements are causing pain, Monroe acknowledges.

“I see it in the church, in the community, in families, in marriages,” she said.

“We’ve gotten to a place where we can’t talk,” Monroe said. “How do we bring friends back together? We are better together.”

Local pastors can set an example of civility by developing friendships among themselves, said Novak, who is beginning his third year at St. John’s.

“When I arrived at St. John’s, I called up some of the pastors of other Christian denominations and I introduced myself,” Novak said.

Hefton, a great man

During my career I have had three strong and successful mentors in this business. They are J. Leland Gourley, Richard (Dick) R. Hefton and Ed Livermore, Jr. We lost Leland in 2012 and just last week, we lost Dick Hefton. It was sad for me, but we had plenty to celebrate about his life.

The General as we liked to call him guided me for over 45 years on how to operate not only in the newspaper world but also in business and life. There were times he set me straight when I needed it. He also encouraged and supported us during challenging times. The General’s advice was always direct but spot on and just what needed to be said. He always operated with a tremendous sense of humor and left the room laughing.

During meetings with others, I would hear him refer to “setting your hair on fire.” I never knew what that meant until I got in business for myself. I asked my mentor Leland Gourey what that meant and he said they send generals to school to know those things. He and Hefton were great friends along with Livermore. The combination of those three made for more knowledge of community journalism than any other group in the country. They were respected, loved and even feared by a few.

I have many stories about The General but really too many to tell and probably should not share some of them. Like so many others, the lessons he taught me will live on for years to come. His greatest role for me was that of teacher. He offered what he knew too so many.

Below is his obituary. You can see what an incredible guy he was and why so many folks referred to him as a great man. He will be missed.

Obituary Dick Hefton

Brigadier General (Ret) Richard Ramsey Hefton passed away October 28, 2025, comfortably at his home at the age of ninety-five. He was born February 6, 1930, in Muskogee to Thomas M. and Erlynn R. Hefton. General Hefton was keen of wit, articulate and full of knowledge right up until his Tuesday death. Although weakened, he was full of spirit and right down talkative. The Dick Hefton grin never left. He faced death as he had lived life, with confidence and candor.

He inherited his entrepreneurial spirit, salesmanship skills and community service from his parents. These traits were evident in his ability to investigate, share facts and stand up for his community through the freedom of journalism. In addition, his involvement in important community decisions and directions were a testament to his service and commitment to the betterment of our state. The State of Oklahoma was of vital importance to him as his Oklahoma lineage extends for five generations. He was inducted into the First Families of the Twin Territories for both the Indian and Oklahoma Territories. He was a devoted son, brother, husband, father and grandfather.

In 1992, Hefton married Rhonda Hefton. Through thick and thin, the two shared 33 years of domestic and world travel, family, food, fun and

faith in their love of Christ through their service to Westminster Presbyterian Church. She remained by his side and provided loving care until his death.

Hefton graduated from Muskogee High School in 1948 and the University of Oklahoma in 1957 with a degree in Business Management. At OU, he joined the Beta Theta Pi fraternity and was a lifetime supporter. It was there that he developed his lifetime love of Oklahoma football and was a season ticket holder for more than 50 years. He loved the pursuit of knowledge and attended Tennessee Tech, the American Press Institute and Columbia University.

General Hefton had a genuine lifelong love of flying and owned his own Cardinal Airplane for many years. He began his military career by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force on January 3,1951 and served five years on active duty where, after completing Aviation Cadet training, he graduated from the USAF Fighter Weapons School, Nellis, AFB, NV, he advanced to flight commander, flight instructor, engineering test pilot and aircraft accident investigator.

He is rated a Command Pilot with over 5,000 flying hours in military and civilian aircraft. His tour was followed by 31 years of active service in the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard. He retired from the USAF in 1990, at the time, serving as Assistant Adjutant General and Commanding General of the Oklahoma Air National Guard composed of a C-130 Airlift Wing in Oklahoma City; F-16 Fighter Wing in Tulsa; 2 Electronic Engineering Squadrons and Civil Engineering Squadrons, Aero Med Evacuation and Air Support Squadrons with some 2,500 personnel. He completed advanced studies with the Air Command and Staff College and the National Defense University. He was a qualified pilot in the following military aircraft: AT-6 C, E, F, G; L-20, C-119; Jets; T-33, F-80 A, C; F-86 Sabre E, F, H; RF-84F; FlOlA/B; RF-101C; F-100 Super Sabre F&D.

Hefton's love of the newspaper business began at an early age when he delivered newspapers for the Muskogee Phoenix. He joined the McAlester News-Capital and was promoted to President before leaving the paper to become Executive Vice President of the Journal Record newspaper in Oklahoma City. In 1976, he purchased the Oklahoma County News, Choctaw-Nicoma Park Free Press, Harrah Herald and Spencer Star from George Keyes. He later added the Midwest City Sun, Del City Sun and Sunday Sun to his newspaper ownership. The newspapers consistently earned the Sequoyah Award for the best newspaper in their division. He was active with the Oklahoma Press Association and served as president. He was inducted into the Journalism Hall of Fame in 1987.

When asked in an interview, Richard said he admired candidness, working on merit badges, driving yourself, staying curious, building better operations, playing more golf and skiing whenever you could. Hefton loved his friendships, travel, reading, card games, genealogy, history, politics, newspapers and golf to name a few. His political

savvy and reach are evidenced by the "Contract With America,” developed by U.S. Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, which was hatched in the conference room of the Midwest City Sun in 1994 as reported by American columnist and journalist Robert Novak.

But he especially loved his family, holiday traditions and the success of his children and grandchildren. He was very proud of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.

Hefton was keen on community service and charitable giving. He served as a regent and chair of Rose State College. He was an Eagle Scout, Order of the Arrow, lifetime Rotary Club member, past president of the Midwest City Chamber of Commerce, vice president of the State Chamber, past president of the Oklahoma Press Association, member of the Oklahoma Lake Redevelopment Authority, Oklahoma Panning and Resources Board, Board of Governors for Midwest Regional Medical Center, Board of Directors for the Science Museum Oklahoma, mentor of the Spark program and many leadership positions at the Westminster Presbyterian Church.

We are deeply grateful for the loving care and friendship provided by Livia Laescu, Glenda Bell, and Gwen Stapps during Richard’s illness.

Richard is survived by his wife Rhonda of the home, daughter Hilarie Blaney and husband Kevin; son Sam and wife Kathy; granddaughter Jordan Dean Farhang and husband Justin; daughters Ali Justus, granddaughter Scarlet; Abby Lawrence and husband Andy and grandchildren Carsten, Andrew, Betsy and Lillian. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister MacLeone Bradley, daughter Holly Hefton and grandson, Haydn Ramsey Lawrence. Richard was fortunate to have dear friends, especially Randy Goodman and David Hudiburg who shared decades of lunches, football games, books, golf and history. General Hefton will be dearly missed by all those who had the pleasure of his intellect, his wit and his love of life.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure , may be reached for comment at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Some advice to protect your personal financial information

Identity theft is a very real threat in the digital age. While it once was complicated for criminals to collect personal data, such as identification numbers, emails, phone numbers, and more, the connectivity the internet offers can sometimes make stealing information as easy as clicking a button.

In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission fielded more than 1.1 million reports of identity theft. Credit card fraud was the most common crime. Also, 2024 saw the largest data breaches in history, impacting billions of users and subjecting customers to the potential of having personal data exposed and ultimately exploited.

Although there is no foolproof way to keep personal and financial data safe, people can take several steps to safeguard their information.

· Use strong, unique passwords. Have several different and complex passwords for each online account to prevent a compromised password from providing access to all of the accounts. People can use a password manager to help create and store these unique passwords. The U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency says that strong passwords should be at least 16 characters; feature a random string of mixed-case letters, numbers and symbols; or comprised of a memorable phrase of four to seven unrelated words, known as a passphrase.

· Use two-factor authentication. Enable twofactor authentication (2FA) on all accounts to add an extra layer of security. This second form of verification often comes by the way of a texted or emailed code that must be entered to log into an account.

duty fraud alert expires in a year, while an extended fraud alert lasts seven years, but requires an FTC identity theft report. A credit freeze is a greater measure of security that keeps others from getting into the credit report at all (with a fraud alert the credit report can still be accessed). That means no one can open a new credit account while the freeze is in place. It must be lifted each time a person wants to open a new account.

· Consider extra security for your credit report. Individuals can contact the three major credit bureaus and bolster their credit-related security. A fraud alert tells businesses to check with the person before opening a new account to verify if it is really him or her. An initial fraud alert or active

Cover

“We visited about all sorts of things. We do a lot of the similar things. We just have different theologies. It was good for me to reach out to the other ministers.”Last November, Monroe attended a dinner organized by the Interfaith Alliance of Oklahoma.

“A variety of faiths were represented,” she said.

“That was a really good opportunity to be neighbors and build relationships. We learned more about local issues. There were questions placed on the tables to get us engaging in conversation with one another, such as ‘Tell me something about your faith that’s really special to you.’”

Interfaith work has a long tradition, Monroe said.

“John Wesley is well known for saying, ‘if we can’t think alike, can we not love alike?’”

Blair said he has several pastor friends in Edmond.

“I reach out to them periodically. But it seems like we can never find time to get together.”

Engaging in community service can help church members focus on what matters most,

· Protect your identification numbers. Individuals should not carry a Social Security card in a wallet or give out their Social Security Number (Social Insurance Number in Canada) unnecessarily.

· Exercise caution on the phone and when answering emails. Scammers can mislead others

by using seemingly legitimate phone numbers or email addresses to solicit information. Always verify the validity of requests before sharing personal information.

· Regularly check accounts. People should double-check all financial accounts periodically for suspicious transactions. Each year individuals are able to request and check a free credit report from Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.

· Use a secured internet connection. To reduce the risk of data being stolen, only review financial information when utilizing a secured (password locked) internet network.

Taking strides to protect personal data is important to safeguard one's financial security.

Monroe said.

“This year, we worked on helping to feed children over the summer who might not have access to food and housing and other resources,” Monroe said. “We partnered with Project 66 and the Kaleo Foundation. No matter your economic status, you are a child of God. People in every economic bracket are hurting today.”

At St. John the Baptist, “we run a ministry called the Samaritan House,” Novak said.

“We help people in need. Anyone who comes to us can receive food assistance, and rental assistance. It’s open five mornings a week on our property. It’s an extraordinary ministry to the community. The members of the parish support this ministry and they are very generous.”

In the pulpit, pastors must strike a balance between sharing the unconditional love of Jesus Christ and preaching the gospel of repentance.

“God doesn’t force himself on anyone,” Blair said. “But as Christians it should certainly be our desire to be obedient and do what’s right in every area of life. It’s still something we should strive for.

When we do things His way, it always works better.” With certain political and social issues, Blair said, “I don’t take a neutral position,” specifically mentioning his opposition to abortion and to transgender surgery for children.

Novak said the Catholic Church does not endorse any political party because “none of the parties embrace the Church fully. We can’t endorse a party because none of them stand for the Catholic teachings entirely.”

But, Novak said, “We are definitely pro-life in our preaching and our teaching. We pray peacefully in front of abortion clinics.”

Monroe said there is “a diverse group of people in our congregation, people who vote all over the political spectrum. We believe in open doors, open minds and open hearts. All are welcome at the table of the Lord. We just think that all of God’s people are sacred.”

Drivers may be confused on safety laws

Last year, 46 emergency responders across the country never made it home, according to the Emergency Responder Safety Institute. They were police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and tow truck operators — struck while assisting others on the roadside. “Slow Down, Move Over” (SDMO) laws were created to prevent these tragedies, but a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) finds that confusion about theSDMO_Logo_Gradient.jpg laws and inconsistent enforcement are leaving responders at continued risk.

“For more than 20 years, AAA has championed ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ laws in every state, yet we are still losing far too many roadside heroes in the line of duty," said Gene Boehm, President and CEO of AAA National. "It’s clear that awareness alone isn’t enough. Drivers need to understand what these laws require and why they matter.”

“Slow Down, Move Over laws exist to protect roadside heroes, first responders, and the stranded motorists who they serve. However, as these statistics demonstrate, drivers do not always follow the law, all too often resulting in preventable tragedies,” said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

While every state and the District of Columbia has a “Slow Down, Move Over” law, many drivers don’t fully understand what those laws require. In a forthcoming AAAFTS na-

tional survey, two-thirds of drivers said they’ve heard of SDMO laws, but many couldn’t say whether their state has one or what the law entails. Drivers are far less likely to move over or slow down for tow trucks or stranded vehicles than for police, revealing a widespread misconception about who the laws protect.

When researchers reviewed realworld footage of drivers passing roadside incidents, they found only 64% of vehicles either slowed down or moved over. The remaining 36% did neither. Changing lanes was far more common than reducing speed, suggesting that many drivers are missing half the law’s intent.

The research reveals several troubling trends:

Tow truck operators face the greatest risk. Only 58% of drivers witnessed in surveillance footage slowed down or moved over when a tow truck was stopped at the roadside, compared to 66% who slowed down or moved over for police vehicles.

Intentions don’t match actions. Most drivers say they comply with SDMO laws, but roadside video shows otherwise—especially when it comes to reducing speed.

Weak enforcement reduces deterrence. Drivers perceive little risk of being ticketed, and penalties vary widely—from $30 in Florida to $2,500 in Virginia.

“Every responder working on the roadside deserves to make it home safely,” said AAA Director of Traffic

Safety Advocacy and Research Jake Nelson. “We need clear, consistent laws, visible enforcement, and education that resonates with drivers. When everyone understands what ‘slow down, move over’ really means, we can make our roads safer for those who protect us every day.”

AAA is encouraging policymakers, enforcement agencies, and safety partners to strengthen and align their approaches to “Slow Down, Move Over” laws—making them clearer, more consistent, and easier for drivers to follow.

Recommendations include:

Clarify and align SDMO laws across states, including a consistent definition of what it means to “slow down.”

Raise public awareness through emotionally compelling, visually clear campaigns that humanize the impact of noncompliance and showcase all vehicles covered by the laws.

Increase enforcement visibility with coordinated, high-visibility efforts and education-first use of emerging tech-

nologies like dashcams and automated enforcement systems.

Oklahoma’s Move Over law

The Oklahoma Move Over law requires any driver approaching all stationary vehicles displaying flashing lights, even motorists with hazard lights, to move into a lane that is not adjacent to the vehicle. If no additional lane exists, motorists should proceed with “due caution” and slow to “a safe speed for the existing road, weather, and traffic conditions.” The law also includes any parked maintenance, law enforcement or emergency vehicles. Violation of this law may result in a fine from law enforcement in the amount of $1,000 for a first offense and $2,500 for a second offense.

AAA furthers its mission to protect service technicians and tow providers by offering innovative solutions that improve safety at the roadside by partnering with companies like HAAS Alert, to provide advance notice to drivers about an incident at the roadside and remind them to slow down and move over.

50th anniversary of International Festival this Saturday

The University of Central Oklahoma’s International Student Council will host the 50th annual Edmond International Festival from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Edmond Festival Market Place, 30 W. First St., in Edmond. The festival is free and open to the public.

“The Edmond International Festival is a great way for the entire community to come together and celebrate the international communities who call Edmond home,” said Jared Scism, director of the Centre for Global Competency and Global

Learning at UCO.

“This year is especially meaningful as we mark the 50th anniversary of the festival and the 10th year of hosting it in downtown Edmond. What began as a small gathering has grown into a beloved tradition that showcases how global cultures strengthen and enrich both our Edmond and Broncho communities.”

International students will share their cultures through food, performances and displays representing a wide variety of countries and regions, in-

cluding Africa, Arab nations, China, Germany, India, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Latin America, Malaysia, Nepal and Vietnam.

In case of inclement weather, the festival will be moved to the Nigh University Center Ballrooms, located on UCO’s campus. Information regarding the festival can be found on the UCO International Student Council’s Facebook and Instagram.

For more information, contact the Centre for Global Competency at cgc@uco.edu.

(Editor’s Note: The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)

Oct. 20

Matthew Tanner Spence, 32 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Celiah Olivia Cross, 38 homeless. Two counts of failure to appear.

Jared Ray West, 26 of Oklahoma City. Possession of drug paraphernalia and trespassing after being warned.

Curtis Eugene Leeks, 52 of Edmond. No proof of insurance, expired license tag – over three months and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Austin Alonzo Anderson, 33 of Edmond. Trespassing after being warned.

Brooklyn Tyenna Flyingout, 29 of Edmond. Child endangerment and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Cydney Elizabeth Gore, 31 of Edmond. Failure to appear.

Oct. 21

Michael Joseph Baker, 44 of Guthrie. Felony DUI/APC.

Jeffrey Bryan Skelton, 55 of Midwest City. Possess drug paraphernalia and trafficking in illegal drugs.

Oct. 22

Ashley Nichole MaCauley, 36 of Edmond. (Misdemeanor value) receive stolen property.

Erica Beth Tran, 50 of Edmond. Changing lanes unsafely, no proof of insurance and driving while

privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Zachary Chase Husband, 36 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Isabela Maria Floyd, 20 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear.

Oct. 23

Guiping Jiang, 60 of Sacramento, Calif. Prostitution – maintaining house and engage/solicit prostitution.

Jolesha Lasha Barber, 27 of Oklahoma City. No proof of insurance and driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Samuel Brandon Delp, 57 of Enid. Felony warrant.

Oct. 24

Charles Henry Brooks, 29 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Christian Hyied Torres, 38 of Edmond. No proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and no tag – improper tag.

Theresa Smith, 40 of Edmond. Speeding (15 mph more), driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and two counts of failure to appear.

Lydia Opal Justis, 42 homeless. Non-assault resisting officer, possession of marijuana and public intoxication.

Dante Malik Lewis, 32 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.

Pratul Kumar Agarwal, 51 of Edmond. Using computer to annoy/abuse/threaten another person, lewd or indecent proposals or acts to child under 16 and solicit sexual conduct or communication with minor by telecommunication.

Jimmy Levert Ezell, 53 of Edmond. Failure to yield to emergency vehicle, expired tag – over three months and driving while privilege is can-

celed, suspended, denied or revoked.

Oct. 25

Jolee Jane Morgan, 23 of Oklahoma City. Possess CDS, driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more.

David Brandon Hendren, 28 of Guthrie. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Breshawna Ahnae Mathis, 29 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Joseph Ryan Swier, 37 of Bethany. Possession of marijuana, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and no proof of insurance.

Oct. 26

James Robert Everette Lassier, 36 of Edmond. Leaving the scene of accident unattended vehicle and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Christian Soloman Degeare, 33 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Jasmine Lenae Fernandez, 27 of Edmond. Nonassault resisting officer and public intoxication.

Anthony Varlee Togbar, 33 of Moore. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Laron Marsha Thrash, 37 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and trespassing after being warned.

Brandon Michael Parks, 49 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant.

Chance Evan Meek, 30 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and shoplifting – petit larceny.

Adam Ray Longley, 40 homeless. Misdemeanor warrant and trespassing after being warned.

36 booking reports

Weekend calendar of events, Nov. 6--9

Weekend Calendar of Events Nov.6-9

---- In the Gallery

---- Indoor Farmer’s Market

---- Board Game Night

---- Karaoke Thursdays

---- Karaoke Night

---- Beer + Yoga

---- Books + Board Games

---- Saturday Morning Music Sessions

---- Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

---- Watch Party

---- Coffee & Guitars

---- Edmond Ice Rink

---- Wild Shadows

---- 50th Annual International Festival

---- One Year Birthday Party

---- Small Works, Great Wonders Art Sale

---- National Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend

---- Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm

---- Guthrie Haunts

---- American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show

---- Workshop: Harvesting & Saving Seeds

---- Civic Center Music Hall presents: Curtains

---- Mistletoe Market

---- First Friday Gallery Walk

---- Midtown Walkabout

---- Gypsy Soul Holistic Fair

---- Tree for All

---- OKC Ghost Tour

---- OKC Renaissance and Scottish Festival

---- Pop-Up Nature Center: Noticing Nature

---- Oklahoma Bridal & Wedding Expo

Extra Information

In the Gallery

Location: Edmond Fine Arts Institute

Extra Info: First Thu of every month Gallery

opening: 5 – 7 p.m.; Free; Gallery is open Mon –Thu; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Free; Featuring Behnaz Sorhabian “Moments in Color”; edmondfinearts.com

Indoor Farmer’s Market

Location: MAC in Mitch Park

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 1 – Sat, Mar 28; Saturdays 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov

Board Game Night

Location: MAC in Mitch Park

Extra Info: recurring monthly on the 1st Saturday through Sat, Dec 6, 2025; edmondokcivicrec.com

Karaoke Thursdays

Location: The Frosted Mug, 1333 N Santa Fe Ave, Suite 107, Edmond, OK

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; Free; 8:30 p.m. – 1 a.m.; frostedmugedmond.com

Karaoke Night

Location: The Gin

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; 7 p.m.; theginok.com

Beer + Yoga

Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; americansolera.com

Books + Board Games

Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thursday; Free; 7 p.m.; americansolera.com

Saturday Morning Music Sessions

Location: Arcadia Round Barn

Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Saturday; 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.com

Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch

Location: 720 S Henney Rd, Arcadia

Extra Info: Fri, Sep 19 – Sun, Nov 9; parkhurstranch.com

Watch Party

Location: The Gin

Extra Info: Recurring weekly every Thursday; Free; 7 p.m.; visitedmondok.com

Coffee & Guitars

Location: Edmond Music

Extra Info: Every Saturday morning; 10 a.m. –12 p.m.

Edmond Ice Rink

Location: Mitch Park

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7 – Sun, Feb 1; $10+; Mon – Thu: 3 – 9 p.m.; Fri: 3 – 10 p.m.; Sat: 12 – 10 p.m.; Sun: 12 – 9 p.m.; edmondicerink.com

Wild Shadows

Location: University of Central Oklahoma –

Melton Gallery

Extra Info: Mon, Oct 13 – Wed, Nov 19; Free; 12 – 5 p.m.; uco.edu

50th Annual International Festival

Location: Festival Market Place

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 8; 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Free; uco.edu

One Year Birthday Pary

Location: The Old Icehouse

Extra Info: Sat, Nov 8; Free; 4 – 8 p.m.; theoldicehouse.com

Small Works, Great Wonders Art Sale

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; swgw.nationalcowboymuseum.org

National Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend

Location: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7 – Sat, Nov 8; nationalcowboymuseum.org

Fall Festival at the Orr Family Farm

Location: Orr Family Farm

Extra Info: Sat, Sep 20 – Sat, Nov 8; orrfamilyfarm.com

Guthrie Haunts

Location: 4524 Riverside Circle, Guthrie, OK

Extra Info: Fri, Oct 3 – Sat, Nov 8; open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Thursday, Oct 30; guthriescaregrounds.com

American Quarter Horse Association

World Championship Show

Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds

Extra Info: Mon, Nov 3 – Sat, Nov 22; okcfairgrounds.com

Workshop: Harvesting & Saving Seeds

Location: Myriad Botanical Gardens

Extra Info: Thu, Nov 6; 6 – 7:30 p.m.; myriadgardens.org

Civic Center Music Hall presents: Curtains

Location: Civic Center Music Hall

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7 – Sat, Nov 8; Fri: 7 p.m.; Sat: 2 p.m.; okcciviccenter.com

Mistletoe Market

Location: 3101 Gordon Cooper Blvd

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7 – Sun, Nov 9; Fri & Sat: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; jiloc.org

First Friday Gallery Walk

Location: Paseo Arts District

Extra Info: Fri, Nov 7; 6 – 9 p.m.; thepaseo.org

Cycle 66 gives back to the community with a check of $18,334.

Cycle 66 donates more than $18,000 to local charities

Cycle 66 Presented by Amazon and Walmart recently donated $18,350 in event proceeds to three local charities — the YMCA, Bike Club OKC, and the Oklahoma Route 66 Association.

Each organization received $6,116.66 following the 4th annual cycling event held in downtown Edmond. Checks were presented to representatives of all three charities at a gathering hosted on October 26 at the Edmond History Museum.

“Cycle 66’s support helps us keep the momentum rolling,” said Alyssa Lutz, Executive Director of Bike Club OKC. “Thanks to this partnership, our students are cruising toward confidence, teamwork, and lifelong wellness. We’re thrilled to be riding in tandem with Cycle 66 to change lives, two wheels at a time.”

Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, shared that the funds will help the group cel-

ebrate the Route 66 Centennial. “The money we received from Cycle 66 will support our historic marker project and help us engage communities along the more than 400 miles of the Mother Road in Oklahoma,” he said.

Chris Berry, District Executive Director of the YMCA, added, “With the new YMCA and Library opening in 2026, we’ll offer a bike checkout program that encourages residents to explore nearby trails. We’re thankful for Cycle 66’s support and the impact it will have in Edmond.”

This year’s Cycle 66 welcomed 560 cyclists from eight states to ride distances of 10, 18, 33, 66, and 1 mile (Kids’ Ride) along historic Route 66. Riders’ $45 registration fees directly funded the donations. As cyclists crossed the shared finish line on Broadway Avenue, their efforts not only celebrated cycling but also fueled meaningful community impact.

Looking ahead to 2026 — the

Route 66 Centennial year — Cycle 66 will expand with out-and-back rides to Arcadia (20 mi), Luther (37 mi), Wellston (52 mi), Chandler (74 mi), and Stroud (102 mi), along with the fast-paced, USA Cycling–sanctioned criterium races in downtown Edmond.

The 5th annual Cycle 66 will take place Sunday, October 4, 2026.

For details, visit www.cycle66ok.com.

Grant will help study arthritis progression

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation has received a new $1.7 million National Institutes of Health grant. The award will fund studies aimed at understanding how the body’s immune system changes when a person develops osteoarthritis.

OMRF’s Matlock Jeffries, M.D., the lead investigator on the grant, said the project may provide clues about who’s at risk of developing the disease and how rapidly it may progress.

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, part of the NIH, awarded the three-year grant before the federal government shut down over an ongoing funding dispute.

Jeffries, a rheumatologist and director of OMRF’s Arthritis Research Center, will analyze existing blood samples from OMRF clinic patients and from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, an NIH-sponsored project focused on studying how the disease progresses over many years.

Osteoarthritis, or OA, is both the most common form of arthritis and the leading cause of disability in this country, affecting more than half of all Americans over age 65.

The only definitive treatment for knee OA, joint replacement, is the largest Medicare expense.

“There are generally three types of OA,” Jeffries said. “There’s the kind that follows some sort of joint trauma, like from a car wreck or athletic injury, the kind that accompanies obesity from extra stress put on weight-bearing joints, and finally the type that is part of the aging process.”

OA involves an overactive immune system, resulting in chronic inflammation and making joints hurt

and lose function over time. In most cases, the disease is active several years before damage appears on Xrays, Jeffries said.

“We want to understand how the immune system in people with OA differs from that of healthy controls,” Jeffries said. “Beyond that, we hope to learn how the immune system changes over time after the onset of OA.”

Clinical trials are ongoing for potential OA treatments, but these tend to focus only on a single affected joint.

The problem with that approach, Jeffries said, is that OA seldom is confined to a single joint.

“While one joint may experience the most significant inflammation, people with OA tend to have it in other joints, too,” he said. “So, if we can better understand what’s going on within the overall immune system, it might lead us to a treatment that slows progression throughout the body.”

OA varies, not only from person to person, but even between joints in the same person, noted Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., OMRF’s executive vice president and chief medical officer.

“That’s why Dr. Jeffries’ work is so important,” said James. “He is developing tools and biomarker sets to help us see whose arthritis is progressing or has the potential to progress quickly toward irreversible damage.”

Jeffries’ new grant is No. 2R01AR076440. Preliminary research leading to this grant was supported by the Presbyterian Health Foundation and the Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research, a program of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust.

New law makes getting a breast exam easier

New law ensures diagnostic and supplemental breast cancer services covered

Effective now, a new law updated existing diagnostic mammography law to ensure diagnostic and supplemental breast cancer services are covered with no out-of-pocket costs under health benefit plans. Services covered are recommended by medical experts for early detection of breast cancer.

The law’s House author is Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa.

“Early detection saves lives," said Provenzano. “In 2022, we passed legislation to cover diagnostic mammograms, but since then, we know not every Oklahoma woman has access to the same machines and tests. This law makes it so no matter your zip code, every Oklahoman can get the care they need covered by their insurance, not subject to policy deductible or co-pay. This law would not have

happened without the full bipartisan support of the Oklahoma legislature.”

The law’s Senate author is Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City.

“This legislation is about removing barriers to care,” said Stanley. “When it comes to breast cancer, time matters. By ensuring diagnostic and supplemental screenings are fully covered, we’re giving Oklahomans a better chance at early detection and survival — no matter where they live or what insurance plan they have.”

This year, 1 in 8 women across America will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In Oklahoma, that number is closer to 1 in 6.

According to Susan G. Komen, in 2025 alone, more than 3,460 individuals will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 570 will die of the disease in Oklahoma.

Early detection saves lives and saves money on costly treatments that come with a later stage diagnosis.

Supporters of Open Primary system start signature drive

The Vote Yes 836 campaign launched its statewide signature-gathering effort last week with energetic kickoff events in downtown Tulsa and Oklahoma City, where dozens of trained volunteers collected hundreds of signatures to place State Question 836 on the ballot.

“Today’s launch was the next step in a years-long process to fix our election system in Oklahoma,” said Margaret Kobos, founder of Oklahoma United, the local nonprofit that helped initiate the ballot measure. “Oklahomans are ready for an open primary system where every voter matters and has a voice. We are excited to visit communities across the state to ensure every voter has a chance to sign our petition and put this initiative to a vote of the people.”

About SQ 836:

State Question 836 would establish an open primary system in Oklahoma. Under the reform, all candidates for an office would appear on a single primary ballot, and every voter—regardless of party registration—could participate. The top two finishers would advance to the general election. The goal is to give all taxpayers a voice in all publicly funded elections and ensure elected officials are accountable to the whole community, not just a narrow slice of primary voters.

The events mark the beginning of a 90-day window for supporters to gather over 172,993 to qualify SQ 836 for the ballot. In addition to public kickoff locations in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, volunteers will be organizing petition opportunities in communities across Oklahoma throughout the signature period.

Bronchos drop to 4-5

KEARNEY, Neb. – Central Oklahoma suffered a 35-24 loss at Nebraska Kearney Saturday afternoon in game with stark differences in each half.

UCO is now 4-5 on the season following the loss and 4-3 in the MIAA. Kearney improved to 6-3 overall and is also 4-3 in league play.

"Mistakes got us today," UCO head football coach Adam Dorrel said. "We didn't play a clean game and had some unfortunate miscues and they took advantage of every one of them. Credit to Kearney for the game they played today."

Central Oklahoma went ahead 17-0 early in the second quarter before UNK scored 28 unanswered points. UCO made it 28-24 in the fourth quarter but couldn't get the stops or scores needed to complete the comeback.

Central gained 379 yards of total offense, 217 through the air and 162 on the ground. But the Bronchos gave up 399 yards, including 230 on the

ground and 169 in the pass game.

UCO forced three turnovers, all in the first half. The Bronchos forced a fumble on the opening possession. While defenses reigned supreme most of the first quarter. Dev Mathews broke free for a 40-yard touchdown run with 3:07 left in the opening frame to give Central a 7-0 lead.

Jett Huff connected with Dominique Dunn for a 39-yard touchdown pass with 13:37 to play in the second quarter to make it 14-0, and Joseph Kim made it 17-0 with a 21yard field goal with 9:03 remaining before halftime.

But UCO wouldn't do much more in the game.

Kearney scored its first touchdown with 2:03 remaining in the first half and the game went to halftime 17-7.

Central Oklahoma returns home for the final time in 2025 to host Missouri Southern Saturday, Nov. 8 at 1 p.m. from Chad Richison Stadium.

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Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

A familiar & scary plot

I happened to watch “House of Dynamite” – a film on Netflix. You might have seen my son George’s review on it last week.

The fictional film is about a nuclear armed ICBM on its way to Chicago and our government’s response.

Steve Gust

The story isn’t new. There have been movies in the past about such a horrendous event. And there will be more in the future. The possibility of destroying earth is a plot that the movie people can’t resist.

This latest version is OK, but I had questions. Most of us know our government usually isn’t the most efficient. Yet you’d like to think they’d up their game with missile defense. The movie showed professionals dedicated to security. Yet I suspect reality dwarfs this account and there are all kinds of safeguards. It wouldn’t surprise me if our government is working on way to detonate missiles in the air or change their flight path. Without giving away the plot, there is a scene in which the presi-

dent is aboard Marine One – the presidential helicopter. With the president is a naval officer who has the nuclear football with him. That device gives the president communications on a possible strike. It also has attack options.

In this particular case, the president was alone with the naval officer. With the missile due to strike in minutes, the Navy guy is going over options, with massive casualty options given the president.

The chief executive acts as if he had never seen it before. And then, more amazingly, he wants recommendations from the young Navy officer.

In real life I’m not sure the president would ever make his decision, involving the lives of millions of people, on the word of a young officer. That isn’t realistic.

But “House of Dynamite,” does remind us of the gosh awful power we have.

Let’s hope all nations, who possess such weapons, realize how utterly ridiculous and insane it would be to ever use such power.

(Steve Gust may be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com)

Lawmaker seeks clarification on law

Would protect minors from obscene shows

Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore, and Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, last week submitted a request to the state attorney general asking for clarification and guidance concerning the enforcement and intent of House Bill 1217. The measure prohibits adult performances containing obscene material in public spaces where children might be present.

The bill passed with an emergency clause allowing it to become effective immediately after the governor signed it into law May 9.

"We were very clear in our legislative intent," West said. "We want to protect minors and the general public from exposure to obscenity in public settings. This law was pursued to give clear direction to municipalities, event organizers and law enforcement so issues of public exposure can be avoided before they happen rather than punished after the fact."

Sen. Bullard said, “Our goal is to ensure that there is no confusion with municipalities about the expectations of this law. Obscene behavior in front of

kids is not acceptable, and their job is to protect the kids who are in their public places from obscenities. If a council or organizer hosts an event they have approved then they must, by law, make sure it will not be obscene.”

In the request sent to the attorney general, the two lawmakers specified that HB1217 directly incorporates the definition of obscene material that exists in state statute, which codifies the Miller v. California test.

"That test exists to thread the needle between rights – acknowledging that individuals have broad constitutional freedoms in how they dress, express themselves, and perform, while also protecting the community's and families' right, and indeed responsible expectation, not to be involuntarily exposed to explicit sexual conduct or imagery in public or 'family-friendly' spaces," the request reads.

"This balance is not only the foundation of obscenity law; it is also the proper balance between local discretion and state-level consistency."

West and Bullard asked the attorney general to address six specific questions regarding the new law, one of which asked if it is accurate to interpret the bill as being enacted primarily to prevent exposure to obscene material through clear statutory limits and proactive compliance by local governments, rather than to create new grounds for prosecution.

The purpose of the questions, they said, was to promote clarity, consistency and prevention. They said a timely clarification for municipalities is needed given that this time of year includes numerous community festivals, holiday parades and public events across the state.

——

Rep. Mike Kelley, R-Yukon, hosted an interim study examining the history, funding and future sustainability of Oklahoma’s public pension systems.

The study brought together representatives from every state pension system including the Oklahoma Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS), the Teachers’ Retirement System, the Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System, the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Retirement System and others.

New law strengthens DUI penalties

Senate Bill 54, a measure championed by Senator Darrell Weaver, R-Moore, during the 2025 legislative session, will went into effect on Nov. 1 and expand the definition of Aggravated DUI under Oklahoma law.

The new law strengthens Oklahoma’s efforts to protect motorists and families by including additional offenses such as causing a motor vehicle incident, eluding police, speeding in a school zone, having a minor in the vehicle, or committing other reckless acts while driving under the influence under the definition of Aggravated DUI, a felony offense.

Weaver, who chairs the Senate Public Safety Committee and has extensive law enforcement experience, said the measure was needed to strengthen penalties for impaired drivers, whose actions undermine public safety.

“With this new law in place, those who endanger lives will be held accountable and face greater penalties for their dangerous behavior,” Weaver said. “By broadening what is classified as Aggra-

vated DUI, we are protecting Oklahoma families, children, and everyone who shares our roads.”

Weaver added that he hopes the law will also deter individuals from driving under the influence.

“I have seen the devastating effects on families who have lost their loved ones at the hands of an impaired driver,” Weaver added. “With the implementation of stronger penalties through Senate Bill 54, I hope that anyone considering driving under the influence knows that the legal consequences are severe, but more importantly, that the human cost is irreversible. Their convenience or poor judgment is not worth the pain and loss it causes within our communities.”

Senator Weaver collaborated with public safety officials and the Oklahoma-based nonprofit, Victims of Impaired Drivers (VOID), on SB 54.

——

A bill helping to further remove discriminatory and unfair housing regulations from Oklahoma property records takes effect Nov. 1.

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1) You must tell us your full name;

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Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034. or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

House Bill 2171, authored by Rep. John Pfeiffer, R-Orlando, eases the process for property owners and homeowner associations to remove unlawful land restrictions from property records – many of which were drafted more than a century ago.

The measure builds on legislation Pfeiffer authored the last several years that allows counties and municipalities to remove illegal, often discriminatory, covenants from within their charters. The process started with House Bill 2088 in 2023 and then Senate Bill 1617 in 2024. HB2171, passed this year, extends the right of repudiation to individual property owners and homeowner associations.

“I’m glad to bring Oklahoma in line with other conservative states like Texas and Florida that have already done this,” Pfeiffer said. "Addressing this ensures offensive and illegal language can now be purged from these records."

Pfeiffer explained HB2171 includes language from the Uniform Commercial Code, which standardizes business dealings across states.

America is a Constitutional Republic

The founding fathers gave us a represented Constitutional Republic.

Letter to the Editor

They hated democracy because it always descends to democratic mob rule and crushes society. Ray Hibbard clearly laid out the "Importance of free speech" (EL&L 10/15/25 page 2).

But for some reason he kept referring in his column to our "democracy." Let's get our terminology in line. Otherwise we're just muddying the water.

Those today crying, "Threat to democracy" are actually advocating their agenda to replace our Republic with authoritarian statism. Meanwhile let's focus diligently on how to deal with bullying and hate speech while preserving freedom of speech. Duane L Burgess Edmond

Blasting off for America’s Rocket City

By Elaine Warner Huntsville,

Huntsville, Ala. is home to Space Center

Alabama, affectionately called America’s Rocket City is a must-see for anyone who ever thrilled to the amazing feats of America’s first astronauts. The science and engineering required to get us to the present point is mind-boggling and nowhere, short of a live launching, will you get a better sense of the genius involved in the space program than at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville.

Fortunately for tourists, that’s just one of the city’s many attractions.

Jack and I scheduled a three-hour visit to the Space Center – we could have spent the whole day. As usual on our trips, we could only hit the high spots.

Exploration starts the minute you park – with the Pathfinder Space Shuttle on display close to the parking lot. While this vehicle never made it to space, it was the simulator created for testing. Nonetheless, it’s an impressive sight.

Inside, the exhibits cover everything space-y, from real astronaut flight suits and robot explorers and a walk-through a model of the International Space Station to actual flown vehicles like the Apollo 16 Command Module that flew to the moon and back.

If there’s a Space Camp going on, you may see participants working in a simulated space environment. Several graduates have become astronauts, even more found employment in the aerospace industry. It’s never too late – there are even Space Camps for adults.

Outside in Rocket Park, you’ll see vehicles which led to the ultimate development of the Saturn V rocket. There are only three Saturn rockets – the largest, most powerful rockets ever built – on display in the U.S. The other two are at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida and the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston.

If you’re brave, try the moon launch simulator –shooting up 140 feet in 2.5 seconds achieving four Gs of force. Experience two to three seconds of

weightlessness before a free-fall descent. I got butterflies just watching it!

We capped our visit with a show – James Webb Space Telescope: The Story Unfolds – in the Intuitive©Planetarium, an immersive, Domed theater. Basic tickets to the Space Center are $30 for adults. Check the web site for discounts: HYPERLINK "http://www.rocketcenter.com" www.rocketcenter.com. Some activities, like the Moon Shot, are included in the admission price; others, like a VR experience and the planetarium, are extras. Take your time on your visit – you’ll get your money’s worth.

For me, another must-see was the Huntsville Botanical Garden – 118 acres of formal plantings and natural areas. The main trail through the gardens is a mile long. If you take offshoots from that path, you can get steps equaling four miles.

We wandered along a flower-lined path beside a lake, crossing a small bridge to the Wicks Family Garden. This two-acre area features delights for youngster like a walk under dinosaur ribs and through an actual Space Station node.

Perhaps the biggest attraction in the garden is Mama Zelda, the Mother Earth Troll. Created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, this over-sized troll is made from natural and recycled materials. Exploring a maze to reach the center is a treat in itself. The sight of the troll is the big reward.

Mama Zelda is one of the newest of the 159 Dambo installations (as of May, 2025). She’s 18 –20 feet tall with a mass of viny, twiggy hair. A warning plaque states that if you step on Mama Zelda’s hair, she will hang you up to dangle.

Other areas of the garden include an azalea trail, trillium garden, aquatic garden and more. There’s something beautiful to see in every season.

Historic Downtown Huntsville is also worth exploring. Look high and low for tiny bronze ducks; there are 15 of them hidden around downtown. I only found one. It was perched high on a light pole near Harrison Brothers Hardware – the oldest operating hardware store in Alabama. In business since 1879, a stop here is worthwhile.

I’ve been to several towns with scavenger hunts for small sculptures – most recently Greenville,

South Carolina. There, I hunted for mice, chosen for their appearance in a children’s book.

Huntsville chose ducks to honor the ducks in Big Springs Park.

Also in the historic area is Constitution Park –an open-air homage to Alabama history. Sixteen buildings have been constructed to represent buildings in Huntsville between 1809 and 1819. Included is the building which housed Alabama’s first Constitutional Convention.

The last attraction we visited was Burritt on the Mountain. Atop Round Top Mountain, overlooking the city, we toured the 1938 Burritt Mansion and explored a historical park showing life on the Cumberland Plateau in the 1800s. Kids will love seeing the animals in the barnyard.

I rarely write about hotel chains – most people are familiar with them – however our experience at the Drury Inn in Huntsville was unusual. Our room was attractive, comfortable and clean, as we expected. What we didn’t expect was – in addition to the complimentary breakfast – there was also a complimentary dinner buffet – which included a beverage (not just soft drinks or coffee – I had a Margarita!). The soft drinks were available all day – and popcorn was an added treat.

Not only was our stay great, it was convenient. The Space Center was just across the highway. Our stay was short so we missed a lot of what Huntsville has to offer. Not only is it Rocket City, it’s an all-around great destination.

Seminar to examine ‘What is

What does it mean to have a “good death”?

That question will take center stage at VillagesOKC’s next free Positive Aging seminar led by Dr. Steven A. Drabek, a longtime hospice and family medicine physician. The program will be held Tuesday, Nov. 12, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Metro Technology Centers Conference Center, 1900 Springlake Drive in Oklahoma City. Dr. Drabek brings more than 35 years of hospice experience and four decades of medical practice to this deeply human topic. His journey began in 1987, shortly after surviving esophageal cancer at just 30 years old. That life-altering experience shaped his understanding of pain, suffering, and compassion in medicine. When he began practicing in 1990, hospice care was virtually unknown in Oklahoma City. He joined one of the

area’s first two hospices, learning from dedicated hospice nurses and becoming a pioneer in medical pain management at the end of life.

Through his work, Dr. Drabek became what he calls a “Comfortologist”—a physician devoted to treating the whole person, not just their symptoms. Drawing on both professional and personal experience with chronic pain, he has helped countless patients and families navigate life’s most difficult transition with dignity, empathy, and grace.

In his seminar, Dr. Drabek will discuss the concept of a “good death”—a reality that can be difficult to face yet offers the possibility of peace and meaning. He will share personal reflections and stories from decades of caring for patients at the end of life, exploring what it means to live — and die — well.

He will also explain the fundamentals of hospice care, a Medicare benefit created in 1983 to provide comfort-focused care for those nearing life’s end. About 98% of hospice services take place in the patient’s home, supported by a dedicated interdisciplinary team that may include nurses, social workers, chaplains, aides, physicians, and volunteers.

“Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz was correct,” Dr. Drabek notes. “There is no place like home.”

Dr. Drabek’s book, The Comfortologist: A Physician's Empathetic Perspective on Compassion, Caring, and Pain Relief, expands on many of these themes. His Positive Aging presentation promises to be a heartfelt exploration of courage, compassion, and the final gift of comfort at life’s end. Registration is open at https://villagesokc.org/positive-aging, or by calling (405) 990-6637.

Genealogy meeting scheduled for Nov. 19

Genealogy is one of the fastest growing hobbies. The desire to connect with family and distant relatives can draw people into the history of their family, their town, their nation and eventually to a country of origin.

The temptation to add more and more names to a pedigree chart can become a lifetime passion. However, the stories that bring those names and dates to life are what gives us that connection to family and to history. Oklahoma Home and Community Education (OHCE) Genealogy Group member, Emily Hedinger, loves those family stories having had a maternal grandmother that lived with her family when Emily was a child. “Granny” told many stories about growing up in the hill country of Texas and ignited the genealogy bug in Emily. On Wednesday, November 19th, at 10 a.m. the OHCE Genealogy Group will host Emily as she presents “It’s More Than Just Trees”. The OHCE Group will meet at the Oklahoma County Extension Center, 2500 NE 63rd St., OKC. All our meetings are open to the public. For more information about our group see our website: ohcegenealogy.com or Facebook page: OHCE Genealogy Group.

New family physician joins the Integris staff

Andrew Young, M.D., is a board-certified family medicine physician with INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Edmond Renaissance.

After graduating from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Young completed a sports medicine fellowship at the University of Oklahoma – Tulsa.

Young treats patients of all ages, aiming to empower them to live long, happy and healthy lives. His areas of interest include sports medicine, arthritis care, hypertension management, diabetes guidance and general preventive care.

Young is now accepting new patients at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Edmond Renaissance at 1700 Renaissance Blvd., in Edmond, OK. To schedule an appointment, call 405-844-4300. Young

Due to a change in services offered by our vendor, the State Election Board will no longer offer election reminders, press releases, voter registration reports, and other notices via text messaging. Email notifications are not affected by this change. If you do not currently receive email notifications from the State Election Board, you may update your GovDelivery account to include an email address, so that you can continue to receive election reminders, press releases, voter registration reports, and other notices from our agency. You may update your account at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/OKELECTIONS/subscriber/new.

Meeting on Nov. 17

Five political candidates to address Edmond Republican Women’s Club

By Tonya Coffman

The next meeting of Edmond Republican Women’s Club will be Monday, Nov. 17, in the Meinders/Gaylord Center of Oklahoma Christian University, 2501 E. Memorial Rd., Edmond. Doors open at 11:15 a.m., when check-in begins, with the buffet lunch served at 11:30 a.m. This month our speakers will be two Republican candidates for Attorney General of Oklahoma, former State Representative/Attorney, Jon Echols, and Attorney/Businessman, Jeff Starling.

Also, three Republican candidates for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner, John Pfeiffer, Lisa Janloo, and Kevin West. We will have an opportunity for hear from each of them, visit with them, and ask any questions that we might have for them.

On Tuesday, November 10th, our club will hold its first "Lucky Elephant March to Midterms Game Night". This is a fundraiser to help Republican candidates running for office. The first game event will be Bunco and the location will be in the New Covenant Church, Activity Center, 2700 S. Blvd., Edmond. Time is 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. If you would like to join us, RSVP to ERWC1787@gmail.com.

If you would like to attend the General Meeting on the 17th, again the location is the Meinders/Gaylord Center of Oklahoma Christian University, 2501 E. Memorial Rd., Edmond,

73013. Please RSVP at ERWC1787@gmail.com to make your reservation, indicating whether or not you will be having lunch.

Meeting and lunch is $23.00, and meeting only is $5 (which helps to defray the cost of our meetingroom. (You gentlemen are also welcome to attend).

Reservations are needed by Thursday, Nov. 13th. Hope you can join us!

State officials look at influence of

Chinese Communist

Senator Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, recently held an interim study to evaluate the influence of the Chinese Communist Party within the state of Oklahoma. The study evaluated the surge in illegal marijuana cultivation in the state, raising concerns about foreign involvement, environmental hazards, and risks to public safety.

“CCP presence in Oklahoma and the United States has rapidly progressed from influence to insurgency,” Hamilton said. “In WWII, just over 407,000 Americans were killed in action. Now compare that with the 100,000 deaths from fentanyl overdoses each year, and you begin to get a sense of the problem. CCP and their proxies are killing Americans, and we’ve got to do more to protect our citizens.”

Presenters at the study reported significant foreign influence in the state’s marijuana operations, with a notable increase in foreign ownership and control of land and licenses through straw ownership, with profits ultimately being sent back to China and other adversarial nations.

Lieutenant Colonel Mitch Smith of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs (OBNDD) Marijuana Enforcement Unit highlighted that the value of illegal marijuana in Oklahoma varies per pound but increases substantially as it is transported toward major East Coast cities.

Officials from the Office of the Attorney General, including Steve Blevins and Dane Towery, reported significant foreign influence in the state’s marijuana operations, with ownership

Party

The expert testimonies further warned of permanent loss of agricultural land due to abandoned grow houses, illegal dumping, and pesticide contamination.

and control from individuals of Asian descent, particularly Chinese, as well as Russian, Bulgarian, Vietnamese, and other actors.

Kelley Currie, State Armor Advisory Board member, highlighted sophisticated operations exploiting U.S. systems, including foreign influences donating large sums of money to educational institutions within the state.

“I am grateful to State Armor for their input. The Chinese Communist Party has no business of any kind at a taxpayer-funded institution. Our legislation this year will get rid of their influence,” Hamilton added.

The expert testimonies further warned of permanent loss of agricultural land due to abandoned grow houses, illegal dumping, and pesticide contamination.

All of the presenters emphasized the nationwide implications of these illicit operations, while Lieutenant Colonel Jabonn Flurry of the Oklahoma National Guard 63rd Civil Support Team detailed the chemical risks to first responders, and the close relationships between the chemicals in the contraband pesticides and nerve agents.

Chip Keating running for Governor

Chip Keating has officially launched his campaign for governor with a video titled “Oklahoma is at a Crossroads,” calling for what he describes as bold, conservative leadership to protect families, strengthen the economy, and defend Oklahoma values.

Keating, 45, a businessman, former Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper and former Oklahoma Secretary of Public Safety, says the state needs strong leadership to stand up to political insiders and the far left.

“Oklahoma is at a crossroads,” Keating says in the video. “We need someone with the toughness of President Trump to stop the radical left and the political insiders. I’m the only conservative, small businessman and outsider running for governor, and I’ve been an unwavering supporter of America First since day one.”

Keating began his career with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol before entering the private sector, where he built businesses in oil, gas and real estate. As Secretary of Public Safety, he oversaw Oklahoma’s response to the 2020 riots, deploying state troopers and the National Guard.

“While other states burned, Oklahoma didn’t,” Keating says. “We stood our ground and did what was right without hesitation.”

Keating, a father of three, says his campaign will center on defending families, expanding school choice, boosting energy production, and strengthening American manufacturing in Oklahoma.

“The career politicians won’t get us there,” Keating said. “I’m running to move Oklahoma forward for our families, our values and our way of life.”

Review of ‘Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere’

Casual viewers may not get film

By George Gust

“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” follows Bruce Springsteen's journey crafting his 1982 album Nebraska, which emerged as he recorded Born in the USA with the E Street Band. Based on Warren Zanes' book of the same name.

Writer/Director Scott Cooper frames the film as a close-up on a handful of days and nights, mixing present-tense scenes of isolation with flashbacks to childhood and early career moments. Cooper’s choice to zero in on one creative episode is bold cinematic choice and could have paid off. However, the film often feels weighed down by the director’s familiar self-serious tone (“Out of the Furnace” “Hostiles”). Those flashbacks, meant to provide an emotional grounding, tend to slip into music-biopic clichés and montage beats that undercut the intimacy the movie is trying to build. Rather than letting the songs and performances carry emotional weight, Cooper keeps returning to interior moments and exposition, which leaves less room for the music itself to breathe.

Jeremy Allen White gives a committed performance as the Boss. His physical transformation into Springsteen is convincing and he brings a gritty vul-

nerability to the role. His work with the music is believable, and there are moments when his presence anchors the film.

Still, the script rarely gives him the chance to perform in a way that would let audiences feel the music’s pull. Much of the drama centers on him scribbling in a notebook, wrestling with inspiration, which can feel repetitive and static over the film’s runtime.

Where jukebox-style biopics like “Bohemian Rhapsody” found a broad audience by delivering full, crowd-pleasing performances and familiar hits, “Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” avoids spec-

tacle in favor of restraint. And in an effort to stand out from the crowd the film doesn’t replace big musical moments with equally powerful dramatic revelations. Compared with last year’s “A Complete Unknown”, which showed a lot of Bob Dylan performing throughout the early days of his career and the pivotal shift from folk to electric, this film is the reverse: it focuses tightly on personal breakdown and the shift from electric to acoustic, yet offers little in the way of onstage ‘bring the house down’ kind of moments.

There are worthwhile parts to this movie, with moments of honest examination of depression, and Jeremy Allen White’s committed turn.

For die-hard Springsteen fans, the film’s attention to detail and its quiet moments will hold interest. However, for casual viewers, it feels dry and incomplete too narrowly focused portrait that doesn’t justify its dour mood.

“Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere” is ratedPG-13 for thematic material, some sexuality, strong language, and smoking.

2.4 out of 5 stars

Sweet Adelines to perform

The award-winning OK City Chorus, an allfemale a cappella ensemble celebrating its 70th anniversary next year, recently returned from Columbus, Ohio, where it earned a spot among the Top 10 choruses in the world at the Sweet Adelines International competition.

Competing against some of the finest barbershop ensembles across the globe, the chorus proudly placed ninth, marking the second time it has achieved this distinction.

With international competition now behind them, the OK City Chorus is turning its focus to the holiday season. The group will present its annual Christmas concert at 7 p.m. on Monday, December 8, at First United Methodist Church at 131 NW 4th in downtown Oklahoma City. The concert will be held in the church’s historic sanctuary and is open to the public. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

To sign up to sing, visit www.okccity.org or check out the OK City Chorus Facebook page.

UCO & Moore police department have mutual education initiative

The University of Central Oklahoma and the Moore Police Department (MPD) are partnering to address critical workforce needs by offering a dual pathway that combines a college degree with a career in law enforcement.

The collaboration is the third of its kind for UCO, following similar agreements with the Oklahoma City Police Department and Edmond Police Department, underscoring UCO’s commitment to bridging higher education and public service.

Through this initiative, individuals who complete the Moore Police Academy are eligible to receive 12 academic, prior-learning credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree from UCO.

Additionally, UCO students can be admitted to the Moore Police Academy while simultaneously enrolled at UCO. Upon completing academy training, students will earn 12 priorlearning credit hours and receive an offer of employment as a peace officer with the MPD.

“Our partnership with the Moore Police Department builds upon the University of Central Oklahoma’s growing network of collaborations with law enforcement agencies across the state, creating meaningful pathways for those who choose to serve and uniting academic excellence with real-world impact,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb.

“Service to others is at the heart of both education and law enforcement. Together, we are strengthening Okla-

homa’s workforce while reinforcing the vital bond between higher education and public service.”

The partnership was made official Oct. 24, with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between President Lamb and MPD Police Chief Todd Gibson.

This shared initiative demonstrates how UCO’s academic mission and MPD’s commitment to professional policing can converge, enabling bold career pathways for students, enhancing officer education and delivering elevated service to the communities of Oklahoma.

“We value our partnership with the University of Central Oklahoma and their dedication to elevating the standards of policing not only in Moore, but across the entire state of Oklahoma,” Gibson said.

“At the Moore Police Department, we believe that investing in highly trained and educated officers not only strengthens our service to the community but also helps reduce organizational liability.”

UCO students must meet qualifications for admission to the Moore Police Academy and pass a background check, maintain physical fitness standards, meet regularly with an MPD mentor and maintain eligibility to work on the Moore Police Force while participating in the academy.

To learn more about the UCO School of Criminal Justice, visit www.uco.edu/cj or email criminaljustice@uco.edu.

Mullin endorses administration’s strikes on Caribbean drug boats

(Editor’s note: This article appeared in the Oct. 29, 2025 edition of the Washington Times newspaper.)

At a time when some of his congressional colleagues, including Republicans, are criticizing the administration’s strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean, Sen. Markwayne Mullin says he has no qualms about what President Trump is doing.

He said the threat from drugs — and fentanyl in particular — is so stark that it demanded somebody take the fight to the cartels.

“How many lives has it saved? That’s what the conversation needs to be,” the Oklahoma Republican said in a new interview for “Sitdown with Alex Swoyer,” a W ashington Time s video series.

Mr. Mullin hailed Mr. Trump for expanding the traditional definition of foreign terrorist organizations to now include major Mexican drug cartels, MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, the Venezuela-based gang that the administration has tied to some of the boats it’s sunk.

The senator said that declaration is enough legal justification for the strikes, adding he isn’t troubled by the dozens of crew killed.

“Why would we care? They’re terrorists. They’re terrorizing our cities, they’re terrorizing our streets,” he said. “They don’t give a rip about our families. It’s all about

profit for them. And for President Trump to go out there and say we’re going to stop it? Good on him.”

Mr. Trump’s administration has alerted lawmakers about the strikes on the boats since they began in September. Critics have argued the administration should get congressional approval.

Mr. Mullin, in a wide-ranging interview, also defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has ruffled feathers at the Pentagon with some of his moves. In particular, a speech in September to top brass at Quantico, Virginia, demanding strict adherence to physical fitness and grooming standards, rubbed some Trump supporters the wrong way.

But Mr. Mullin said Mr. Hegseth got it right in going after woke policies.

“The Department of War, at that time the Department of Defense, had got so political that they were so risk-averse, we weren’t winning wars. We were winning battles; we weren’t winning wars. There’s a difference. He’s changing the focus of it,” he said.

Mr. Hegseth announced that members of the military — no matter their rank — must meet certain physical fitness standards. He noted women would be required to meet the same standards as men, which has received particular pushback from critics.

Sovereign Bank marks Edmond grand opening

Also makes donations to Edmond high schools

Sovereign Bank, the largest tribally owned bank in the nation, celebrated the grand opening of its newest branch in Edmond, located at 3480 S. Boulevard. The Shawnee-based bank, which is owned by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation (CPN), hosted a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 30.

“This milestone marks an exciting new chapter for Sovereign Bank and for the community we are honored to serve,” Sovereign Bank CEO Bryan Cain said. “For years we have been here through our lending office, building relationships, and investing in the dreams of Edmond families and businesses. This full-service branch is the next step in that commitment. Our purpose has always been to

give people the freedom to dream and the tools to achieve, and we look forward to walking alongside this community as it continues to grow and thrive.”

As part of its grand opening celebration, Sovereign Bank donated $5,000 to each of Edmond’s three high schools. Edmond North High School received support for 2026 BALTO Week, Edmond Memorial High School for 2026 SWINE Week, and Edmond Santa Fe High School for 2026 DWDW.

“Supporting local schools is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the future of Edmond,” Cain said. “We are proud to mark this

See Sovereign Bank, Page 18

Credit union names new CEO

Social Security hike

The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced last week that Social Security benefits, including Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for 75 million Americans will increase 2.8 percent in 2026. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by about $56 per month starting in January.

Over the last decade the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increase has averaged about 3.1 percent. The COLA was 2.5 percent in 2025.

Nearly 71 million Social Security beneficiaries will see a 2.8 percent COLA beginning in January 2026. Increased payments to nearly 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 31, 2025. (Note: Some people receive both Social Security benefits and SSI).

"Social Security is a promise kept, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment is one way we are working to make sure benefits reflect today’s economic realities and continue to provide a foundation of security," said Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. “The cost-of-living adjustment is a vital part of how Social Security delivers on its mission.”

Other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) is slated to increase to $184,500 from $176,100.

Social Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December 2025.

Similar to last year, Social Security beneficiaries will receive a simplified, one-page COLA notice, which uses plain and personalized language, and provides exact dates and dollar amounts of an individual’s new benefit amount and any deductions.

Communication Federal Credit Union (CFCU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephen Lark as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026. Lark brings more than 27 years of credit union industry experience, a deep understanding of member needs, and a lifelong passion for helping credit unions thrive through innovation and service.

Lark succeeds Larry Shropshire, who is retiring after 16 years as President and CEO. Under Shropshire’s leadership, CFCU experienced remarkable growth, expanded its digital and community presence, and strengthened its reputation as a trusted financial partner for more than 130,000 members across Oklahoma and Kansas.

“Larry’s leadership and dedication over the past 16 years have guided CFCU through tremendous growth and positive change,” said Mirl Whisman, Board Chairman. “We are grateful for his years of service and wish him all the best in retirement. Looking ahead, the Board is confident that Stephen’s vision, experience, and heart for people will carry that success forward and open new opportunities for our members and communities.”

McBride Orthopedic Hospital is proud to announce it has received a 5star rating for “Quietness of Hospital Environment” from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) — the highest possible score in this category. This national recognition reflects the hospital’s dedication to creating a calm, healing-focused atmosphere where patients can rest, recover, and heal in comfort.

The CMS star ratings are based on patient feedback collected through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey. The “Quietness” measure specifically reflects how patients

A lifelong Oklahoman, Lark has served the past 14 years as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at CFCU, leading teams in business intelligence, marketing, employee and financial education, digital products, and community development. His leadership helped launch the credit union’s business intelligence and digital strategy teams. These initiatives that have enhanced member experience and supported significant organizational growth.

A 2016 graduate of Southwest CUNA Management School, Lark was recognized as the 2018 Marketing and Business Development Professional of the Year by the Cornerstone Credit Union League and honored as the 2022 OCUPAC Political Activist of the Year.

“It’s a true honor to be chosen as the next President and CEO of Communication Federal Credit Union,” said Lark. “As a lifelong Oklahoman, I’ve seen firsthand the difference that credit unions make in people’s lives. Larry has built a strong foundation of service and integrity, and I’m excited to build on that legacy. Our mission has always been about helping members achieve their dreams and making a difference in the communities we serve, and that’s a mission I’m proud to continue.”

When he’s not at the credit union, Lark enjoys spending time with family, working on vintage vehicles, and perfecting his championship BBQ.

rate the sound level around their rooms at night — a key factor in patient satisfaction and recovery.\

“We’re incredibly proud of this recognition,” said Krista Reyna, Chief Nursing Officer. “Quiet isn’t just about noise levels — it’s about respect, compassion, and ensuring every patient feels cared for and at peace. Our team takes that to heart in everything we do.”

To achieve this rating, McBride Orthopedic Hospital implemented a variety of initiatives focused on enhancing the patient experience, including quiet zones, staff awareness and positive reinforcement with patients/visitors.

Sovereign Bank

grand opening by giving back to the students, teachers, and families who make this community so special.”

The new 8,513-square-foot facility was acquired by Sovereign Bank in 2024 and has been fully renovated to offer a complete suite of banking services. In addition to personal and business banking, the bank provides lending support, financial planning resources, and a team dedicated to relationship-driven service.

“For generations, CPN has worked to build institutions that strengthen communities and support our neighbors, and this branch is a part of that vision,” CPN Tribal Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett said. “Each new chapter in Sovereign Bank’s growth is not only an investment in economic opportunity, but also in the lasting partnerships that tie our Nation and this community together. It reflects our belief that progress is measured by what endures and what we leave

From Page 17

behind for future generations.”

The Edmond branch represents Sovereign Bank’s ninth retail location in Oklahoma and expands on the lending office that has served Edmond customers for several years. Its opening follows a period of strong growth for Sovereign Bank and CPN, including the 2023 acquisition of Union Plaza Building in Oklahoma City, now home to the bank’s Oklahoma City branch.

With more than $1 billion in assets, Sovereign Bank continues to grow its presence across the state while remaining true to its mission: to empower its communities with the freedom to dream through tailored services and a commitment to relationship banking, backed by the heritage and values of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.

For more information about Sovereign Bank and its services, visit banksovereign.com.

Luper Sit-In Plaza dedicated

Thousands gathered in downtown Oklahoma City over the weekend to dedicate the Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza, a permanent tribute to the Oklahoma City youth and teacher who ignited the nation’s sit-in movement.

On Aug. 19, 1958, the original 13 student members of the NAACP Youth Council, led by schoolteacher Clara Luper, participated in a sit-in at Katz Drug Store. That act of courage resulted in the desegregation of Katz stores within three days and inspired a wave of sit-ins that propelled the Civil Rights Movement, advancing equal rights for all.

The newly dedicated art installation, located at North Robinson Avenue and West Main Street at the former Katz site, commemorates this historic moment with a lasting symbol: a 4-ton bronze lunch counter with realistic, life-sized depictions of the original 13 student “sit-inners,” Luper and a Katz Drug Store employee.

The plaza’s public dedication included musical performances by local choirs and remarks from Clara Luper’s daughter, Marilyn Luper Hildreth; committee members the Rev.

Dr. Lee Cooper Jr. and John Kennedy; Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt; and StudioEIS representative Elliot Schwartz.

Ten of the 13 original sit-inners attended, marking one of the most significant gatherings of participants in the past decade. Others who participated in subsequent sit-ins were also present.

“For so long, this moment in Oklahoma City has been overlooked in the history books, yet it helped change the nation,” said Luper Hildreth, who sat at the Katz counter at just 10 years old. “Seeing it honored in bronze, with such care and collaboration, would have meant the world to my mother. This sculpture ensures that future generations will remember that ordinary young people, acting together, can create extraordinary change.”

StudioEIS, an internationally acclaimed sculpture and design firm in Brooklyn, New York, spent four years creating the art installation, working directly with sit-inners to ensure authenticity.

A team of artists and craftspeople also supported the project.

New law affects families of dementia patients

Beginning Nov. 1, a new law under HB 2262 creates the Alzheimer’s Dementia and Other Forms of Dementia Special Care Disclosure Act. The law’s House authors are Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, and Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa. The law requires facilities who advertise memory care to disclose what type of care is being provided.

“Families making decisions about memory care deserve transparency, clarity and confidence in the care their loved ones receive,” Miller said. “This law builds on the work I began in 2021 to strengthen accountability and ensure families have the information they need to make informed choices and that every Oklahoman in memory care is treated with the quality and respect they deserve.”

Veterans Day event

Edmond History Museum is hosting Edmond’s 5th annual Veterans Day Celebration on November 11th, 2025 at 4:30-5:30pm at the Stephenson Park Pavilion. The ceremony will begin at 4:30, followed by the opportunity to visit veteran-related booths.

Event speakers are in this order: Jessica Timmerman, Final Salute; CSM (R) Bryan Tyler; Lt Col (R) Greg Kent, USAF. The National Anthem will be sung by Alicia Vanderschaaf, the Armed Services Medley by the Edmond Community Chorale, the Edmond North Jr. ROTC will do the Presentation of Colors, and the Sons of the American Revolution will conduct a musket salute.

The event, hosted by the Edmond History Museum, will be outdoors at the Stephenson Park Pavilion.

Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa, co-authored the bill and presented it in House committees and on the House Floor.

“Caregivers and families of those with Alzheimer's or dementia already face immense emotional stress when trying to figure out what facility is best suited for their loved ones's needs," said Blancett. "The last thing they need is to get misinformation in the decision process because the life of their loved one can literally hang in the balance if a bad placement is made.

"This bill places greater disclosure requirements on both referral agencies, caregivers and the Oklahoma Department of Health to better ensure families know in advance which facilities provide which memory care services, and which do not."

According to the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter, in Oklahoma, there are over 70,500 Oklahomans aged 65 and up with Alzheimer's, there was a 152% increase in Alzheimer's Deaths from 2000-2022, and 18% of Hospice Residents have a primary diagnosis of Dementia.

The law also requires the conspicuous posting of information about where a person can report a referral agency or a facility which has not provided the appropriate information about a facility's memory care capabilities. Reporting such complaints are to be made to the Consumer Protection Unit of the Office of the Attorney General.

Consumer representatives can be reached at: (405) 521-2029; (833) 681-1895

“WHEN YOU ARE KIND TO OTHERS, IT NOT ONLY CHANGES YOU, IT CHANGES THE WORLD” - HAROLD KUSHNER