September 10, 2026 Vol. 27, No. 17
In This Issue
Edmond Connect Launches Parent Café A safe place to share experiences and learn about local resources
A large freshman class reported at UCO See Page 5
Providing mental health resources at Project 66 Back to School Bash FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Sunny Low 76° High 100°
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Sunny Low 75° High 100°
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Mostly Sunny Low 72° High 97°
The Parent Café was created as part of the City of Edmond’s continued work through the Edmond System of Care, supported by funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). It supports a larger goal of the Edmond System of Care: ensuring that parents, caregivers, youth, and families have a meaningful voice in the systems and services designed to support them. Each Parent Café centers around a different topic relevant to families, with guided conversations focused on building resilience, strengthening families and navigating challenges. “As a parent, I know what it feels like to love your child fiercely while also trying to navigate systems, find the right resources, advocate for what they need and sometimes wonder if anyone else truly understands what your family is going through, said Jessica Sell, Lead Family Coordinator for City of Edmond Housing and Community Resources. Edmond’s Parent Café is a relaxed, judgment-free environment where parents and caregivers connect with others and be part of a supportive community. They simply show up, sit with other parents and caregivers, share experiences, participate in meaningful
PHOTOS PROVIDED
conversations, learn about helpful resources and leave feeling more connected to Edmond. Parent Cafés are scheduled the second Wednesday of every month at Edmond First United Methodist Church (Wesley Hall), 305 E. Hurd St. from 6 – 8 p.m. with free childcare and dinner is served by the church at 5 p.m. “Being on the Parent Café’s Youth and Family Council taught me the power of shared experiences, and the positive impact it can have on programs/support for families in our community. Parenting is hard. Caregiving is hard. There is no reason to walk through it alone. The Parent Café is a new community space for parents and caregivers to share the load, encourage one another, and find the support we all deserve,” said Nicole S., Youth and Family Voice member. The Parent Café has seen success as families build relationships, discover resources, and realize how powerful their own experiences and voices can be. This program is part of Edmond Connect, a centralized hub dedicated to connecting Edmond residents with local resources and services. Find more information at Housing & Community Resources | Edmond, OK - Official Website.
Page 2 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
From the Publisher
Forty-year dream brought Olympics to Oklahoma City Edmond just hosted Beach Rowing at Arcadia Lake last week. Even though this sport will be new to the 2028 Olympic games it will be held in Los Angles. For the first time two Olympic sports will be held in Oklahoma City. While it may seem sudden and certainly a wonderful thing, it was a long path with exceptional efforts by Hibbard many of our civic leaders and organizations. I am just old enough to have seen it all. To understand how a city located a thousand miles from the nearest ocean became an Olympic host, you must stand in the red clay mud where the dream first flickered nearly forty years ago. The story begins in 1988, an era when Oklahoma City was desperately clawing its way out of a devastating economic bust. Looking for a spark, local leaders threw their energy into securing the 1989 U.S. Olympic Festival. To prepare, the city hastily upgraded its venues, which included installing a rudimentary flatwater canoe and kayak rowing course on the waters of Lake Overholser. It was an unusual summer with cool weather in the 70’s during the trials. We were afraid that visitors would think every summer in Oklahoma was this cool. When the Olympic Trials and Festival arrived, it was a modest success, but it planted a dangerous, beautiful idea in the minds of a few local believers: Why not us? The MAPS Revolution For years, the idea of Oklahoma City as a global sports hub was a punchline. The North Canadian River, which snaked through the city’s downtown, was so dried up and overgrown that city crews routinely mowed the grass in the riverbed. The turning point came in 1993 with the passage of the first Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) sales tax initiative under Mayor Ron Norick, who pioneered the sales-tax model to revitalize the city's dying infrastructure. City leaders decided to dam the dry riverbed, filling it with water and transforming it into what is now known as the Oklahoma River. By the mid-2000s, local visionary Mike Knopp began pushing boundaries, transforming the newly filled river into the Boathouse District. Knopp and city planners looked to the PGA Tour and NASCAR for inspiration, installing stadium lights over the water to host high-stakes night racing. “People loved it,” Knopp said reflecting on the early gamble. “It became the thing we were known for.” Knopp pitched city leaders during the formulation of the MAPS 3 initiative with an audacious hook: “Every great city has stadiums and ballparks. But we could do what nobody else has. We could really lean into this water sport thing and make it a differentiator. Voters bought the vision. MAPS 3 funded Riversport Rapids, a state-of-the-art, $45.2 million manmade whitewater facility featuring Class IV rapids.
Suddenly, Oklahoma City possessed the only elite whitewater slalom course west of the Mississippi River. Unlocking the Global Stage The investments paid off rapidly. The city secured the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for canoe slalom in 2016 and 2024. Concurrently, the city invested heavily in Devon Park (formerly the USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium), solidifying itself as the undisputed "Softball Capital of the World" and annual host of the NCAA Women’s College World Series. When Los Angeles was awarded the 2028 Summer Olympic Games, LA28 organizers faced a multi-million-dollar dilemma: build temporary, expensive whitewater and softball facilities in Southern California, or look elsewhere. Oklahoma City had the ultimate trump card. They already had world-class, permanent facilities bought and paid for by local taxpayers. Current Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt seized the moment, establishing high-level relationships with the IOC and LA28 planners to bridge the geographical gap. “It’s immortality,” Mayor Holt declared after the historic venue-sharing agreement was finalized. “We will talk about having done this for a generation... Ultimately, this is a story of investing in ourselves and leveraging those investments through relationships.” In a historic agreement, the Los Angeles City Council and the International Olympic Committee voted unanimously to move seven events across two sports to Oklahoma City. The Multi-Million-Dollar Capital Influx The financial calculus behind the Games marks a paradigm shift for the region. Tourism and economic development officials project that the games will draw as many as 500,000 international athletes, coaches, media members, and spectators to central Oklahoma. This massive influx is expected to completely saturate the region's hospitality market, with hotel capacity projected to sell out for miles in every direction outside the metro. Local economic analysts point to immediate financial windfalls, noting that the short-term rental market alone is braced for hosts to command three to five times their normal nightly rates during the peak July-to-August window. Local business groups, like A Good Egg Dining Group, are modifying logistical supply chains to manage an unprecedented wave of global dining traffic. Tax revenues generated from these millions of individual transactions in food, fuel, and retail will feed directly back into regional infrastructure. To catalyze this growth safely, the state and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce have partnered with LA28 venue sites through the Business Expansion Incentive Program (BEIP) to inject more than $100 million into localized preparations. This massive funding package includes a dedicated multi-million-dollar state allocation specifically carved out for transit logistics, regional safety infrastructure, and permanent upgrades to RIVERSPORT, Devon Park, and Oklahoma City University — which will serve as the official Olympic
Satellite Village. The Paralympic Pipeline: UCO’s Silent Legacy While Oklahoma City refined its waterways, the global spotlight was simultaneously being earned just fifteen miles north in Edmond. Under the guidance of former UCO Executive Vice President Steve Kreidler, the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) quietly laid the bedrock for the state's inclusion in the global Paralympic movement. In 2005, UCO achieved its designation as an official U.S. Paralympic Training Site. “This means UCO is now one of the go-to places in the country for future Olympians to train for competition,” Kreidler remarked at the launch, emphasizing the university's longtime commitment to adaptive athletics. Key figures like Jeff Boyland, UCO's director of sport and recreation, and legendary head coach Bill Hamiter stepped up to build out a premier training infrastructure. Thanks to their dedication, UCO became the permanent, year-round resident training home for the U.S. men’s and women’s national sitting volleyball teams. The program's meticulous efforts have culminated in global dominance. The U.S. women's sitting volleyball team recently captured gold at the Para Volley World Championships, while the men's squad secured their highest-ever world ranking. These historic performances mathematically locked in 2028 Paralympic qualification for both teams, ensuring that athletes who have spent decades living, studying, and training on UCO's campus will get to play for gold on domestic soil. Beyond volleyball, UCO’s legacy is rooted in the annual UCO Endeavor Games, the nation's premier multi-sport, multi-disability competition. Having served as a vital pipeline for regional para-athletes transitioning to international stardom, UCO’s grassroots infrastructure has cemented Oklahoma as a foundational anchor for the United States Paralympic Committee. The Road to 2028 Now, the dream is a reality. Under the direction of Michael Byrnes, president of the newly formed Team OKC planning organization, the communitywide volunteer and planning initiative has officially launched to welcome the world. Riversport Rapids is checking all the boxes, fresh off a successful test run hosting the International Canoe Federation's Slalom World Championships. When the opening ceremonies kick off, Oklahoma City will command the global spotlight for sixteen consecutive days. Seven Olympic gold medals will be decided right here in the heart of Oklahoma. From being a mowing line item in the budget for Oklahoma City in the shadow of 1988 to anchoring the 2028 Olympic Games, Oklahoma City did not just wait for its moment. It built it, drop by drop, ballot by ballot. (Ray Hibbard may be reached at ray@edmondpaper.com)
Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com
Check out what’s inside! --- UCO reports a large freshman class ............................................Page 5. --- Police booking report ..................................................................Page 6. --- Calendar of weekend events ..............................................Pages 6 & 7. --- Columnist looks at upcoming governor race ............................Page 10. --- Advice on getting, and keeping, a passport ............................Pages 11. ---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page14. --- George Gust reviews new movie ..............................................Page 14. ---- Business ....................................................................................Page 17. ---- Church directory ......................................................................Page 19. This and so much more in this week’s edition
Production Deanne York Advertising Director Business Editor Alexx Reger alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Kimberly Burk, Rose Drebes, and George Gust. Photographer Melinda Infante
Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2026 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved. Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 3
The city of Edmond’s mission to keep the town clean got a major boost recently with a new street sweeper. The vehicle cost $372,236.
City buys new street sweeper Approved by City Council Monday, June 22
Edmond’s Field Services team is responsible for street sweeping operations, and they do an amazing job of keeping Edmond streets, and ultimately waterways, clean. The City Council approved the purchase of a new street sweeper. This is a replacement unit for the existing sweeper which was 10 years old. The cost of the new sweeper is $372,236. Many people are not aware that the City of Edmond owns a street sweeper, likely because most street sweeping operations occur while they sleep. Those operations begin at 2:00 a.m., to avoid traffic congestion. “Our commitment to keeping Edmond clean goes beyond just appearance, it’s about community health and pride,” said Keith Stewart, director of public works. “Every sweep helps make Edmond a better place to
live.” Only major arterial streets, with curbs and gutters, are swept on a routine basis. Collector and residential streets are not part of the regular street sweeping routes, with a few exceptions in the downtown area. An average of just under 10,000 lane miles of streets are swept annually. Street sweeping plays an important role in reducing the amount of sediment and debris that ends up in Edmonds waterways. Therefore, street sweeping data is provided to the Engineering, Storm Water Division, for annual reporting to regulatory agencies. Thanks to the dedication of the team and support from city leadership, every corner of Edmond shines a little brighter, reminding residents that their community cares deeply about both local beauty and environmental stewardship.
Page 4 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Sisu Youth Services
A plan for tomorrow starts with a meal today By Rachel Bradley Most of us are pursuing something — a diploma, a career, a promotion — in the hopes of building a better life for ourselves and our families. We’re fortunate to be able to make these plans because, for the most part, our basic needs are secure in the present: a safe place to sleep and food on the table. Bradley Youth experiencing homelessness in Oklahoma City have dreams for their futures, too. They want to finish school, find meaningful work and build something they’re proud of. The difference is, they’re trying to pursue those dreams while worrying about where they’ll sleep or when they’ll eat again. Hunger can consume a tremendous amount of a person’s attention and energy. Feeding America reports that food-insecure youth often hide their hunger, ration food and take on additional responsibilities to acquire food. Hunger can affect mental focus, energy and academic performance, making difficult tasks even harder, yet a hungry young per-
son must still concentrate on school, apply for jobs or show up for work. They are still expected to take important steps toward their futures all while trying to manage their immediate needs. Hunger is more than a lack of food; it’s a barrier. It’s hard to make a plan for tomorrow when you’re worried about getting through today. That’s why Sisu Youth Services is built around a powerful idea: we’re building a future where all youth have a place to belong and a plan for tomorrow. As a low-barrier, affirming space where unhoused youth find shelter and support, we know providing a safe place to sleep and a reliable meal gives young people the ability to stop worrying about how they’ll survive and start thinking about what their life could become. Last year, we provided more than 11,000 meals and served 336 youth across our programs. A meal can quiet the rumble of an empty stomach, but even more, it can help a young person focus on the job interview they have next week or study for the test they have tomorrow. Helping a young person build a stable future takes time, resources and people willing to walk that journey alongside them. When we help meet
a young person’s basic needs, we’re doing more than just helping them get through the day. We’re helping them create the stability they need to begin imagining and building toward what comes next. September is Hunger Action Month, a national campaign held each year to raise awareness and inspire action to end hunger in America. For our community, that can mean something as simple as signing up to provide meals through a meal train, volunteering to deliver and serve food, or donating funds to feed sheltered youth. Every contribution helps ensure a young person has the food they need today so they can focus on tomorrow. Youth experiencing homelessness are working toward the same dreams the rest of us are. Hunger shouldn’t be the thing that gets in their way. Rachel Bradley is the executive director at Sisu Youth Services, a low-barrier, identity-affirming space in Oklahoma City that offers an overnight emergency shelter, a drop-in resource center, case management services, and transitional living programs for unhoused youth between the ages of 15-24.
Keeping football parties accident free From parking lot tailgates to backyard watch parties, football season brings fans together to celebrate their favorite teams. AAA is reminding fans that a winning gameday plan should include more than food and team spirit. Taking simple precautions can help prevent fires, property damage and impaired-driving crashes that can quickly turn a celebration into a tragedy. AAA is encouraging football fans to make safety part of their game plan so celebrations remain memorable for all the right reasons. "Football season should be remembered for great plays and great memories, not preventable accidents," said Dan Scroggins, Vice President, Personal Lines Insurance for AAA Club Alliance. "Whether you're tailgating at the stadium or hosting friends at home, a few simple precautions can help prevent injuries, property damage and costly insurance claims." Tailgating Safely in Stadium Parking Lots Tailgating brings fans together, but stadium parking lots also place grills, hot coals, open flames and flammable materials in close proximity to vehicles and other equipment. AAA recommends that tailgaters: Position grills well away from vehicles, tents and other flammable items. Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach. It can be used not only during an emergency, but also to help control flare-ups before they spread. Never leave a grill unattended, even for a quick trip to the cooler. “A fire extinguisher might not be the most excit-
ing tailgate accessory, but it could be the one that saves your car, your gear, or even lives,” said Scroggins. Don't Forget Grill Safety When the Tailgate Ends The end of a tailgate is just as important as the beginning when it comes to fire prevention. A 2022 tailgating fire at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami destroyed 11 vehicles after an unattended grill ignited a fire beneath a parked car. While incidents like this are uncommon, they demonstrate how quickly a grill fire can spread in a crowded parking area. AAA recommends these steps before leaving a stadium tailgate: Allow everything to cool completely. Hot grills, coals and grease trays should cool in a safe, open area — never under or next to a vehicle. Dispose of ashes properly. Place cooled ashes in a metal container with a lid. Never dump ashes on the ground or put them in plastic bags, which can melt or ignite. Keep warm equipment out of your vehicle. A grill or coal tray that remains hot can create a fire hazard inside a vehicle. Clean up grease and food debris. Remove leftover grease, wipe down surfaces and securely dispose of food and trash. Check for remaining heat or flare-ups. Conduct a final inspection to make sure nothing is smoldering and there are no fuel leaks. Secure the grill for transportation. Before placing a grill in a vehicle, make sure it is completely
cool, clean and securely fastened to prevent tipping or damage. “These steps can not only keep you safe, but they can also help you avoid costly damage and insurance claims,” Scroggins added. Hosting a Safer Watch Party at Home For fans watching the game at home, a backyard gathering can bring the stadium atmosphere to your own property. AAA insurance experts recommend taking a few precautions to help protect guests and property: Keep grills away from decorations, structures and overhanging branches. Have fire extinguishers nearby and make sure they are easily accessible. Keep walkways clear to reduce the risk of trips and falls. Keep Alcohol and Driving Separate Alcohol is often part of football-season celebrations, but drinking and driving can have deadly consequences. Every day, approximately 32 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — about one person every 44 minutes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In 2024, 11,904 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. These deaths were preventable. “Drinking and driving is not a game – it’s a deadly combination and a crime,” said Shawn Steward, Public Affairs Manager for AAA Club Alliance in Oklahoma. “Make your winning drive a sober one and designate a completely sober – not buzzed – driver or make plans for a ride share or cab home before indulging in alcohol. Drunk driving only leads to disaster and tragedy.”
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 5
UCO welcomes its largest freshman class in nearly a decade The University of Central Oklahoma recently welcomed the Class of 2030, its largest freshman class in nearly a decade — demonstrating UCO’s commitment to offering an accessible, affordable education while meeting students where they are. As of Friday, Aug. 28, UCO’s Class of 2030 is comprised of more than 2,000 first-time freshmen, an increase of 4% from fall 2025. The university has experienced strong growth in first-time freshman enrollment over the past three years, increasing 10% from fall 2023. More than 96% of the incoming class graduated from an Oklahoma high school, reinforcing Central’s continued success in attracting Oklahoma students and preparing the state’s next generation of professionals and leaders.
“This record-setting class represents the increasing number of students choosing to invest in their future and believe in what is possible at the University of Central Oklahoma,” said UCO President Todd G. Lamb. “As we welcome the Class of 2030, we are reminded that UCO’s greatest strength is our affordability and our ability to meet students where they are and prepare them to lead and meet critical workforce needs in a rapidly changing world. This momentum reflects the growing confidence in a UCO education and our unwavering commitment to career readiness as students discover their potential and build a future they can be proud of.” Undergraduate applications for the fall 2027 aademic year are now open. P
Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to maximize scholarship and financial aid opportunities. For more information, visit www.uco.edu/apply. UCO offers 121 undergraduate, 80 graduate and two doctoral programs to its more than 12,000 students from the main campus in Edmond, Oklahoma, and facilities throughout the Oklahoma City metro. The university is governed by the Regional University System of Oklahoma and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. UCO also holds dozens of specialized national accreditations for its colleges, schools, departments and programs. For more information about UCO, visit www.uco.edu.
Page 6 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
(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, AGG is aggravated, FTA is failure to appear, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)
Aug. 26 Duane Antonio Stevens, 46 of Spencer. Felony warrant. Mark Lewus Tribble, 66 homeless. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and three counts of failure to appear. Lindsey Noree Clegg, 34 of Edmond. Public intoxication.
Aug. 24 Kenneth Ray Faulkner, 66 of Edmond. Transporting open container of an intoxicating beverage or low point beer and trafficking in illegal drugs. Carolos Demarcus Brylin Oakes, 18 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant. Shane Joseph Elliot, 22 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant.
Aug. 27 Andrew Morris McBrayer, Jr., 76 of Edmond. Purchase, procure or possession of obscene material.
Aug. 25 Zyria Ashlyn Walker, 22 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Dustin Michael Eugene Smith, 35 of Moore. No proof of insurance, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and expired tag – over three months. Cody Rachael Humphrey, 50 of Oklahoma City. Conspiracy and (felony) larceny of merchandise from retailer. Krishana Delonne West, 48 of Oklahoma City. Misdemeanor warrant, conspiracy, obstruction of police officer and (felony) larceny of merchandise from retailer. Shawn Cory Douglas, 54 of Oklahoma City. A misdemeanor warrant, two felony warrants, conspiracy, obstruction of police officer and two counts of failure to appear. Da’Vionne Tyrell Caldwell, 19 of Oklahoma City. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Aug. 28 Caiden Reed Fergusion, 23 of Edmond. Possession of drug paraphernalia, possess CDS and operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .08 or more. Lindsay Ray Stone, 24 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear. Tyshsa Nicole Reeves, 35 of Spencer. Misdemeanor warrant. Sarah Anne Greco, 45 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear. James Kalvin Owens, 49 of Edmond. Felony warrant. Woody Lynn Robinson, 58 of Edmond. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked. Janna Lynn Shaffer, 58 of Edmond. Three counts of failure to appear. Mquaylon Terell Morrow, 22 of Oklahoma City. Two felony warrants. Jason Michael Robinson, 49 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Jasmine Denise McGinley, 28 of Edmond. Two counts of failure to appear, expired tag – over 3 months, improper lane usage and operating a
motor vehicle with no valid driver’s license. Sean Anthony Steiner, 53, homeless. Misdemeanor warrant. Aug. 29 Cortney Mae Wells, 50 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. Daisha Belle Baker, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication. Lindsay Ana Knavel, 42 of Edmond. Failure to appear. Zachary James Miller, 48 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol. Brea Jean Anne Parker, 37 of Edmond. Misdemeanor warrant. Amy Nicole Salsberry, 54 of Edmond. Shoplifting – petit larceny. Avarez Shemar Stevenson, 25 of Oklahoma City. Four counts of failure to appear, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and no proof of insurance. David Corey Smith, 30 Oklahoma City. Public intoxication (lake only). Ices Ming Royster, 20 of Oklahoma City. Interruption, disruption, interference with emergency phone call, (misdemeanor) domestic abuse assault and assault and/or battery with dangerous weapon. Aug. 30 David Leighton Malone, 36, of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation) and domestic abuse with prior pattern of physical abuse. 34 booking reports
Weekend calendar of events, Sept. 10-13 Weekend Calendar of Events Sept. 10-13 ---- In the Gallery ---- Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market ---- Heard on Hurd ---- Edmond Patriot Market ---- Weekly Game Night ---- Saturday Morning Music Sessions ---- Coffee & Guitars ---- Book Swap ---- Trivia Night ---- Vinyl Night ---- Music Bingo ---- 1889 Territorial School Open House ---- Beer + Yoga ---- Yoga in the Park ---- The Round Barn Rendezvous ---- BioBlitz: Bickham-Rudkin Park ---- Concerts in the Park ---- Bloc Project Open Climbing Competition ---- Girl Scouts Bestie Bash ---- Community Craft Supply Swap Donation Dropoff ---- Baby Storytime (0-24 Months) ---- Intermediate English as a Second Language Classes (ESL) ---- U.S. Citizenship Class ---- Teen & Tween D&D – Fall Session ---- AI Happy Hour ---- Family Storytime ---- Back-to-School Frames ---- Community Fiber Arts Group ---- Chalk the Walk ---- Oklahoma City Ballet presents: Ballet Under the Stars ---- Oklahoma Comic Arts Festival & Second Saturday ---- The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show ---- Oklahoma Gun Show ---- TORC Triathlon ---- Okie Nationals – Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66 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 Reian Williams; edmondfinearts.com Outdoor Edmond Farmer’s Market Location: Festival Market Place Extra Info: Sat, Apr 11 – Sat, Oct 31; each Saturday; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Free; edmondok.gov
Heard on Hurd Location: Downtown Edmond Extra Info: Sat, Mar 21 – Sat, Oct 17; recurring monthly on the 3rd Saturday; free; 6 – 10 p.m.; mycitizens.bank Edmond Patriot Market Location: 425 Fretz Ave, Edmond Extra Info: Recurring last Saturdays of the month; 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; free; facebook.com Weekly Game Night Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; visitedmondok.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 Coffee & Guitars Location: Edmond Music Extra Info: Every Saturday morning; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Book Swap Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring every 2 months on the first Sunday; 2 – 5 p.m.; visitedmondok.com Trivia Night Location: Flatire Burgers Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; 8 – 10 p.m.; flatireburgers.com Vinyl Night Location: Round Midnight Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Thu; facebook.com Music Bingo Location: Flatire Burgers Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Sat; 7:30 p.m.; flatireburgers.com 1889 Territorial School Open House Location: 124 E 2nd Extra Info: Recurring weekly on Sat; 1 – 4 p.m.; Free; edmondhistory.org Beer + Yoga Location: American Solera – Icehouse Project Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; americansolera.com Yoga in the Park
Location: Shannon Miller Park Extra Info: recurring weekly on Saturday until Aug 29; Free; 9 – 10 a.m.; facebook.com The Round Barn Rendezvous Location: Arcadia Round Barn Extra Info: Recurring monthly on the 2nd Sunday; Free; 12 – 4 p.m.; arcadiaroundbarn.com BioBlitz: Bickham-Rudkin Park Location: Bickham-Rudkin Park Trail Extra Info: Tue, Sep 1 – Wed, Sep 30; Free; Recurring Daily; Sat, Sep 5: Plant Walk with a Botanist @ 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.; Fri, Sep 11: Tree Walk with a Forester @ 6 – 7:30 p.m.; Sat, Sep 12: Bugwatching @ 6 – 7 p.m.; Sat, Sep 12: Moth Night @ 8 p.m. – midnight; Sat, Sep 19: Plant and Pollinator Photo Meetup @ 10 – 11:30 p.m.; edmondok.civicrec.com Concerts in the Park Location: Stephenson Park Extra Info: Free; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; Thu, Sep 10: Erin Michelle, Kentucky Daisy – Country, Southern Rock; edmondok.gov Bloc Project Open Climbing Competition Location: Blocworks Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.; $60 to compete; $12 for Finals Showdown Spectators; climbblocworks.com Girl Scouts Bestie Bash Location: Mitch Park, Pavilion #5 Extra Info: Sun, Sep 13; Free; 2 – 3:30 p.m.; gswestok.org Community Craft Supply Swap Donation Dropoff Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Tue, Sep 8 – Fri, Sep 11; metrolibrary.org Baby Storytime (0-24 Months) Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Thu, Sep 10; 9:30 – 10:15 a.m.; metrolibrary.org Intermediate English as a Second Language Classes (ESL) Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Thu, Sep 10; 6 – 8 p.m.; metrolibrary.org U.S. Citizenship Class Location: Edmond Library
See Calendar, Page 7
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 7
Bice reviews work done in Congress By Congresswoman Stephanie Bice Each year, Congress designates the month of August as a district work period. During Congress’ early years, the Capitol did not have air conditioning, causing Members to leave Washington during the summer months to escape the heat. After years of varying summer schedules, Congress formally established the August district work period as part of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1970. Today, this time remains an important part of the congressional calendar, allowing Members to hear directly from constituents and see firsthand how decisions made in Washington impact the communities we represent. This August, I was grateful to spend the month traveling throughout Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District and hearing directly from the people I represent. It was an honor to welcome two Administration leaders to Oklahoma this month and showcase the incredible work being done across our state. I joined Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner for a visit to Pivot, where we toured their innovative tiny home community for young adults experiencing housing instability. In addition to housing, Pivot provides young people with life skills, education and resources to help them build successful, independent futures. We also visited Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, an important part of our state’s history that honors those who were killed, those who survived, and those who were changed forever. Later in the month, I welcomed Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz to OU Health and the Stephenson Cancer Center. During his visit, we highlighted efforts to improve access to quality health care across rural Oklahoma through the Rural Health Transformation Fund. This $50 billion investment over five years will help rural hospitals modernize and
Congresswoman Bice strengthen models of care, because a patient’s ZIP code should not determine the quality of care they receive. I also held several roundtables throughout the district to hear directly from those working on issues that impact Oklahomans every day. I met with county and municipal officials to discuss how my role on the Appropriations Committee can help facilitate local projects for infrastructure or other community needs. During a Manufacturing Roundtable, we discussed tariffs, trade, workforce development, permitting, and other issues impacting Oklahoma manufacturers. At a Border Security Roundtable, I heard directly from those on the front lines combating illegal immigration, fentanyl, and trafficking. Thanks to President Trump, our border is secure and fentanyl deaths are down 22% from 2024 through 2025. I also joined community leaders from the YWCA and the National Association of VOCA Assistance Administrators at Palomar to discuss domestic violence services and how we can continue supporting organizations that provide vital assistance to our communities. I highlighted the Crime Victim Fund Stabilization Act,
Calendar From Page 6 Extra Info: Thu, Sep 10; 6 – 8 p.m.; metrolibrary.org Teen & Tween D&D – Fall Session Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Thu, Sep 10; 6 – 8:30 p.m.; metrolibrary.org AI Happy Hour Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Fri, Sep 11; 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.; metrolibrary.org Family Storytime Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Fri, Sep 4; Birth – PreK; 10 – 11 a.m.; metrolibrary.org Back-to-School Frames Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; 2 – 3:30 p.m.; metrolibrary.org Community Fiber Arts Group Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; Adults; 10:30 a.m.– 12 p.m.; metrolibrary.org Chalk the Walk Location: Edmond Library Extra Info: Sun, Sep 13; All ages, Adults; 1:30 – 5:30 p.m.; metrolibrary.org Oklahoma City Ballet presents:
Ballet Under the Stars Location: Scissortail Park Extra Info: Fri, Sep 11; 7 p.m.; okcballet.org Oklahoma Comic Arts Festival & Second Saturday Location: 11 NW 11th Streer, OKC Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; oklahomacontemporary.org The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show Location: Skirvin Hilton Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; 6 – 9 p.m.; thedinnerdetective.com Oklahoma Gun Show Location: Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12 – Sun, Sep 13; Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; oklahomagunshows.com TORC Triathlon Location: Riversport OKC Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; triokc.club Okie Nationals – Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66 Location: 4100 Perimeter Center Dr Extra Info: Sat, Sep 12; 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.; facebook.com Send items to infante318@cox.net
Engagement, Wedding notices Do you have a wedding or engagement notice? If so, please contact us at Edmond Life & Leisure, either by phone, 340-3311 or e-mail, news@edmondpaper.com. We will then send or fax you an engagement or wedding form.The cost is $35, which includes a photograph. Payment is due upon submission by noon Thursday.
which passed the House this year. I cosponsor this legislation, which ensures consistent year-to-year funding for the Crime Victims Fund, maintaining support for essential services for domestic violence victims such as crisis counseling, emergency shelter, legal assistance, and advocacy. These conversations help strengthen the connection between the work being done in our communities and how I can best represent their priorities in Washington. Another meaningful part of the August district work period was recognizing Vietnam veterans from across Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District. I was excited to host multiple events in Seminole, Guthrie, and Chandler honoring the men and women who served our nation during the Vietnam War. Many Vietnam veterans returned home without receiving the recognition and gratitude they deserved, and it is always a privilege to thank these veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice. Throughout the month, I also had the chance to visit businesses, schools, health care providers, and community organizations doing important work across the district. I joined Flourish Compounding Pharmacy for its grand reopening, toured ACME Brick Company to learn more
about Oklahoma’s brickmaking industry, and visited Greenlight OKC to hear about efforts to modernize Oklahoma City’s permitting and inspection processes. I also visited the Oklahoma Poison Center and Dean McGee Eye Institute, met with leaders at Oklahoma Christian University, and learned more about workforce development programs at Goodwill Central Oklahoma Opportunity Center. From meeting with local Breakthrough T1D advocates to visiting organizations serving families and communities across the district like the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, each stop gave me another opportunity to hear directly from Oklahomans about their priorities and the work happening right here at home. As Congress returns to Washington, the House must build upon our successes as we seek to deliver results for hard-working Oklahomans. This week, I supported legislation to keep the government open and avoid a harmful shutdown. While we doubled the standard deduction, prevented the largest tax increase in history, and expanded no tax on tips and overtime, we have more work to do. (Bice represents the Fifth District, Oklahoma, which includes Edmond)
Page 8 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Edmond arboretum a place where residents can connect with nature By Kimberly Burk For Edmond Life and Leisure You might call it a “museum of trees,” says Leigh Martin, principal urban forester for the city of Edmond. The Margaret Annis Boys Centennial Arboretum is a sanctuary for more than 100 varieties of trees that grow well in Edmond. It’s at the southern edge of Bickham-Rudkin Park, which is home to the popular canine socializing spot at E. 33rd and Rankin. “The initial purpose of the arboretum was for education about proper tree planting, selection and care,” Martin said. But since planting of the original 275 trees was completed in 2008, “I think it has broadened to serve as a place where residents can connect with nature and enjoy the calm setting.” The arboretum, Martin says, “is surprisingly quiet, and many people enjoy the trail or visit to watch birds or take photos.” Exercisers who don’t mind breaking their stride can read the interpretive signage placed at many of the trees. “This is a great place to come to learn about trees that people may want to plant in their own yards,” Martin said. “Tree signage offers an opportunity to learn about the features of species within the arboretum and observe demonstration plantings such as a utility-compatible planting adjacent to the overhead electric lines along Smiling Hill Boulevard,” Martin said. If there’s a celebrity tree in the park, it might be the weeping Japanese pagoda. “The tree was originally growing on the site of the Mercy Health facility that was built in 2011 along I-35, south of 15th Street,” Martin said. “A plant nursery previously existed there, and this unique tree was a specimen on that site. Mercy worked with the city to preserve the tree during construction, and then it was dug up and moved with a crane onto a truck and transported to the arboretum. This October will mark 15 years since it was transplanted.” Martin said she is also partial to a sassafras tree on the west end of the arboretum. “It’s always one of the first trees in the arboretum to have fall color, and I love the form of the tree,” Martin said. “The arboretum is a special place. I enjoy how calming it is.” Another interesting feature, which is really a feature of the whole of Bickham-Rudkin, Martin said, is the prairie ecosystem within the center of the arboretum. “The Parks Department proactively
manages native grass areas in the park to limit invasive species and encourage establishment of native grasses and forbs. The area in the arboretum also includes thickets of sand plum and sumac,” Martin said. Naturalist Neil Garrison leads birdwatching walks through city parks across Edmond and Oklahoma City, including Edmond’s Mitch Park, Hafer Park and Bickham-Rudkin Park. In Bickham-Rudkin, he said, “there is a resident pair of red-shouldered hawks. They are beautiful birds, and they are very vocal.” In the winter months, huge numbers of eastern bluebirds can be found at the south end of the park near the arboretum, Garrison said. “Is there anything more beautiful than a bluebird? I think not,” Garrison said. Red-bellied woodpeckers live in the park year-round, Garrison said, noting that the bird is a different species from the redheaded woodpecker, which is not found in the park. The pied-billed grebe can sometimes be seen at the lake in BickhamRudkin Park, Garrison said. “Grebes are water birds, and although they sort of look like ducks, they are not ducks,” Garrison said. “Ducks have webbed feet. Grebes catch and eat small minnows.” When a grebe is frightened, it will dive beneath the water’s surface, Garrison said, “and after a while, just their eyes and nostrils slowly come up and break the water surface. That allows them to get a breath of fresh air, and it lets them see if danger is still near. They are very interesting little birds.” Edmond residents can also enjoy Bickham-Rudkin and the Margaret Annis Boys Arboretum by volunteering and by registering for activities sponsored by the parks department, Martin said. “The arboretum has a drip irrigation system, which is helpful for preventing tree stress during times of drought, as well as establishment watering for newly planted trees. We try to stay on a rotation of replenishing mulch around the trees to conserve soil moisture and enhance tree resilience,” Martin said. In August, volunteers spent a Saturday helping with the mulching project, Martin said. In conjunction with this month’s Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz, Martin will lead a tree walk at 6 p.m. Sept. 11 in Bickham-Rudkin Park. Trees at the arboretum were purchased with grant funding through the Oklahoma City Community Foundation from the Margaret Annis Boys Trust, Martin said, in partnership with the Tree Bank Foundation. Addi-
Volunteers help with a mulching project at the weeping Japanese pagoda tree in the Margaret Annis Boys Centennial Arboretum. (Photo provided by city of Edmond Urban Forestry Division)
tional grant funds were received from the Edmond Parks Foundation and Edmond Electric. Margaret Annis Boys, a longtime educator, loved taking Sunday drives into the Oklahoma countryside with friends, according to the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. Boys had a passion for native flowers and trees and would often identify them for her traveling companions. She had no immediate
heirs and decided to create an endowment to fund projects that would beautify and care for public parks and medians. The arboretum can be accessed by parking near the dog park on E. 33rd St. and following the trail to the south end of the Bickham-Rudkin Park, or by parking in the Whispering Heights playground parking lot off Meadow Lane and following the trail south.
Ground was broken for the Margaret Annis Boys Centennial Arboretum in 2007, the year of Oklahoma’s centennial. (Photo provided by city of Edmond Urban Forestry Division)
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 9
Septem September mber 1717-27 -27
Starts St tarts in n One W Week!
Coming g to t OG&E Co oliseum
ONE NIG GHT ONLY SEPTEM MBER 24 7 Perform mances September r 17 – 20
AL LL EVENT TICKE ETS INCLUDE FRE EE OUTSIDE GATTE ADMISSION
Exciting Pbr P Action! Septemb ber 25 & 26
Gate Admissiion – Buy Early and SAVE Outside G E! Adul lt (12+): $12 advance, a $17 7 regular 0 advance, $110 regular Child (6-11): $7.50 Child (5 an nd under): Fr ree DISCOUNTS END E SEPTEMBE ER 16 Avaiilable at metro OnCue lo ocations
Entertainment Stage Concerts FREE with outside gate admission 9/17 7:30 PM Aarro on Watson w/ w Alex Miller 9/22 7:30 PM Le e Freak 9/18 7 30 PM b ti B h w// G 7 30 PM Jimmy Holmes - Tribute to Elvis 7:30 P S Sebastian Bach Greatt White Whit 9/23 7:30 9/19 7:00 PM P Route 66 Red Dirt D Music Festival 9/24 7:30 PM Co ooper Alan Wade Bowen, William Clarrk Grre een, Cam Allen 9/25 7:30 PM Ginuwine w/ DJ Daren 9/20 4:00 & 7:00 PM Family Fun F Day 9/26 7:30 PM Ha airball Let’s Sing S Taylor w/ DJ Buff ff 9/27 7:30 PM La a Furia del Bravo & 9/21 7:30 PM P Ben Fuller La Reunion n Nortena
Carnival Ride e Armbands SAVE $10 when you y purchase an advance carniva al ride armband.. d through Septem mber 16. Advance prices are good fee added. Each armband will have a $2 activation fe n – Thurs: $25 advance, $35 regular Mon Fri – Sun: $40 adva ance, $50 regula ar
3 ways to buy b tickets OKC Fair Park k Box Offffice, 405-94 48-6800, or onlin ne at okstatefairr..com . Fee es plus any and all a applicable taxes will w be added at time of purchase..
Off ficial Sofft Drink of the Oklahoma a State Fair
State Fairr Coupon Book - Little G DEAL$ L Book of BIG Available at outsid de ticket booths,, OKC Fairr Park Box Offffice e, InF FA AIRmation Booths, B and the Made in Oklahoma Store - lo nnett Event Centterr. ocated in the Ben $4 on both TFCU Th hrifty Thursdays and on Taste of the Fair Tuesda ay, Over $250 in savings!
F comp For plete l t details, d t il vis isit it us att okstatef k t t fa air ir..com
Page 10 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side November showdown looms Childcare receiving
By Steve Gust It will be a sprint to November to elect a new slate of state officers, particularly governor. In case you missed it, last month Mike Mazzei won the GOP nomination for GovSteve Gust ernor. He’ll be running against a few independents in November as well as the Democrat nominee, Cyndi Munson. In the social media world, you’d swear every Republican in Oklahoma has switched over to Cyndi’s side. That’s not the case but a lot of people allegedly were asking for “Republican for Munson” yard signs. Amazing the sway yard signs have in affecting our vote. But that’s a column for another day. The message is pretty clear. Munson will need a nice chunk of the Republican vote to become the first Democrat elected to state office since Brad Henry was re-elected in 2006. Can it be done? Almost anything’s possible in politics. One of the more fascinating statistics involved the 1960 presidential race in Oklahoma. Richard Nixon, the Republi-
can vice presidential candidate, easily won the state and defeated John Kennedy with almost 60 percent of the vote. What’s especially interesting about that is almost 82 percent of the voters were registered Democrats or about 800,000 compared to less than 200,000 registered Republicans. So Cyndi Munson has that bit of history going for her. Can she win in November? I’m not sure, but some of her votes, while in the state legislature, might pose problems for her on the campaign trail. We’ll see. —Major college football seems to have gotten more popular. And yes, a lot of money follows it. I was watching the Colorado-Georgia Tech game last week. The last two minutes of the game seemed to take 30 minutes. We had the two-minute timeout and then three timeouts by Colorado. Almost each break in the action featured ads by six to eight companies. The breaks were incredibly long. The two-minute timeout in college football is still an outrage. If Trump wanted to sign an executive order banning the two-minute timeout – it would be perfectly fine with me. (Steve Gust can be reached for comment at news@edmondpaper.com.)
attention from state Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton has appointed Senator Christi Gillespie, R-Broken Arrow, to serve on the newly established Oklahoma Early Childhood Task Force, a two-year initiative created to study and improve how Oklahoma delivers services to children ages zero through five and their families. Gillespie said she is honored to serve on the task force and looks forward to helping identify practical solutions to strengthen Oklahoma’s early childhood system. “This is about making sure we are doing everything we can to give Oklahoma children the best possible start,” Gillespie said. “I look forward to listening, learning and working with the other members of the task force to develop meaningful recommendations that can make a real difference for families across our state. I’m grateful to Pro Tem Paxton for this appointment and for the opportunity to be part of this important work.” The Early Childhood Task Force goes into effect November 1, 2026, examining the state’s current early childhood system, including governance, collabo-
ration and opportunities to streamline services and improve outcomes for Oklahoma children and families. Currently, Oklahoma families must navigate through 19 different programs within six state agencies just to get the services they need. The task force will help streamline those efforts to get Oklahoma families’ needs met. Twentysix other states have implemented similar early childhood initiatives and have seen positive results in areas including school readiness, infant and childhood health, and access to care. “Senator Gillespie is a thoughtful and dedicated legislator who understands the importance of giving Oklahoma children the strongest possible start in life,” Pro Tem Paxton said. “I’m confident she will bring a solutions-oriented approach to this task force and work to ensure our early childhood system is more coordinated, efficient and accessible for families. She understands that helping Oklahoma families shouldn’t mean making them navigate a maze of programs and agencies to find the services they need. We have an opportunity to take a hard look at how these programs are administered, eliminate unnecessary duplication, improve accountability and make better use of taxpayer dollars." Over the next two years, the task force will review Oklahoma’s existing early childhood programs and services and identify opportunities to reduce administrative overlap, improve accountability and efficiency, and provide families with more direct access to high-quality programs. The task force will use information gathered during the two-year review to develop recommendations aimed at creating a more effective, coordinated system that better meets the needs of Oklahoma’s youngest children and their families. ‘
‘She (Rep. Gillespie) understands that helping Okla. families shouldn’t mean making them navigate a maze of programs and agencies to find the services they need.’ Pro Tem Paxton
Ben Franklin quotes “Love your Enemies, for they tell you your Faults.” - Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1756 “He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.” - Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1739 “There never was a good war or a bad peace.” -Letter to Sir Joseph Banks, president of the Royal Society of London, July 1783. Also cited in a letter to Quincy, Sr., American merchant, planter and politician, September 1783. “He that lies down with Dogs, shall rise up with fleas.” - Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1733 “Better slip with foot than tongue.” - Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1734 “Look before, or you’ll find yourself behind.” - Poor Richard’s Almanack, 1735
Thanks for printing letter EDITOR Appreciate you publishing the letter from Cynthia Boyd in your 09/03 edition. Boyd's letter is a well written rebuttal to a liberal rant (08/13 edition) from a local citizen infected with a extreme case of Trump Derangement Syndrome. Her letter provided factual information without the junior high level name calling and unfettered bias prevalent in the liberal rant. Don't agree with everything in her letter, but it was certainly a more mature expression of an opinion versus the trash contained in the 08/13 letter. Been a Republican since 1971. My party has plenty of flaws. But I firmly believe our country will be better off after four years of Trump versus what could have been after four disastrous years of Harris and Walz. MICHAEL CUNNINGHAM EDMOND
Letters to the Editor policy We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters:
1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste). 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.
Letters to the Editor Published letter praised EDITOR: I wanted to compliment the letter written by, Cynthia Boyd.(“Letter writer claims Randel Shadid has a case of Trump Derangement Syndrome,” Sept 3 edition. I myself am what I would describe as conservative although I am open to as anyone else’s opinion regardless of party, I am not normally a one party voter, as I have grown older I definitely have become more conservative thinking though. I personally regardless of party even if I didn’t vote for a candidate respected the will of the people and for the good of the country hoped for the best for the good of the “USA” for some reason which I cannot understand “Trump“ brings out a hatred towards him and the “ Trump Haters” just can’t let it go. Even before he was elected being what most people would be considered a political outsider both parties were bound and determined to use every dirty trick in the playbook against him, I really believe he is about the only person who could of withstood what they tried doing to him, politics is a dirty game, I just wish for the good of the country folks would jump on the good for the country “USA” bandwagon, I know it’s just wishful thinking. Again I am proud to have read the letter from Cynthia Boyd and grateful to know we had her for an Edmond educator, long live the “USA” DAVID W LIPPERT EDMOND
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 11
Check your passport now or risk travel delays later Travelers dreaming about their next international getaway may want to start with a less glamorous but critical task: checking their passport. As National Passport Awareness Month begins, AAA is urging Americans to verify passport expiration dates, reviewAAA National Passport Awareness Month - Sept 2026.jpeg destination-specific entry requirements and renew travel documents well before booking overseas travel. Waiting too long could lead to costly delays, canceled trips or denied entry into certain countries. "Many travelers don't realize that several destinations require passports to be valid for months beyond their travel dates," said Shawn Steward, public affairs manager for AAA Club Alliance in Oklahoma. "Checking your passport now can help avoid last-minute stress and ensure you're ready when travel opportunities arise. Plus, for domestic air travel, a valid U.S. passport or passport card is also an acceptable alternative to a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license.” Passport demand remains historically high. The U.S. Department of State issued 27.3 million passport books and cards in fiscal year 2025, up from 24.5 million in 2024 and the highest annual total in the State Department data included in your release. More than 183 million valid U.S. passports were in circulation at the end of fiscal year 2025. Right now, the U.S. Department of State, which issues U.S. passports, is reporting routine processing times of 4 to 6 weeks once the application has been received. This does not take into account mailing times, which could take up to two weeks to reach the State Department and up to two additional weeks to receive the completed passport. Passport Books vs. Passport Cards Passport books allow you to travel internationally by air, sea, or land. Passport cards allow you to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, some Caribbean destinations, and Bermuda by land or sea. Passport cards are not valid for international travel by air (including Canada and Mexico). They can be used to cross land borders faster from Mexico and Canada at Ready Lanes. Both a U.S. passport book and passport card are acceptable TSA identification for domestic flights. 6 Passport Tips Every International Traveler Should Know: Don’t miss out on International Travel. U.S. citizens are required to carry a valid U.S. passport
passport validity beyond the dates of travel. Just because a passport does not expire until after planned vacation does not mean travelers have a useable document. Many countries have a ‘six months passport rule’, meaning that traveler passports must continue to be valid for at least 6 months after the trip. AAA is advising any traveler whose passport expires this year to begin the renewal process immediately. Passport processing requires travelers to temporarily surrender their birth certificate (new applicants) or their current/expired passport (renewals). While those documents will be returned after the new passports have been issued, anyone who needs their birth certificate or uses their passport for identification unrelated to foreign travel should be sure to have a backup form of identification in the interim. Travelers can monitor their application status online. Whether travelers have applied in person or renewed by mail, they can check their passport status at passportstatus.state.gov.
when flying, but they also must carry it when driving or even walking across the border to Canada or Mexico. U.S. passport cards can only be used for land and sea travel/entry to Canada and Mexico, not air travel. If you don’t have one or your passport will expire before year’s end, AAA advises you to submit your passport application or renewal for upcoming holiday travel or 2027 trips. Passports are issued by the U.S. Department of State. Routine processing times of 4 to 6 weeks once the application has been received. This does not take into account mailing times, which could take up to two weeks to reach the State Department and up to two additional weeks to receive the completed passport. Expedited service options are available at an additional charge. Anyone planning to travel should visit the U.S. State Department website to initiate the process as soon as possible. Passport validity lengths vary: Adult passports (age 16 and older) are valid for 10 years, while minor passports (under age 16) are valid for 5 years. Some countries require at least six months of
AAA International Travel Resources While AAA does not process passport applications, the auto club provides travelers with resources to make the passport process and other aspects of international travel easier. Trusted Travel Advisors – Beyond trip planning and booking, AAA Travel Advisors can help travelers navigate and understand any unique passport requirements related to their destination, such as the 6-month passport rule. Passport Photos – Visit a AAA Store for quick and convenient passport photos. No appointment necessary. AAA members receive them at a discount, and Premier members receive them at no additional cost. RushMyPassport – AAA members receive 10% off expedited U.S. passport and global travel visa services through RushMyPassport. International Driving Permits (IDPs) – AAA encourages travelers in need of an International Driving Permit to apply as soon as they confirm travel plans. Visit a AAA Store to apply for an International Driving Permit. Foreign Currency Exchange – AAA Retail locations offer most foreign currencies. Travelers are encouraged to exchange at least 10 days in advance to ensure they have some money on hand when they arrive at their destination. Read about The Most Common Passport Mistakes at AAA.com/TheExtraMile.
A University of Oklahoma (OU) College of Dentistry student provides free dental treatment to a child during OU Kids’ Day, sponsored in part by the Delta Dental of Oklahoma Foundation’s grant program.
Delta Dental opens grant program Applications are now open for Delta Dental of Oklahoma (DDOK) Foundation’s 2027 grant program, which will provide millions of dollars in grants and in-kind support to organizations working to improve oral health across the state. Eligible initiatives include free and low-cost dental care clinics, training and scholarships for future dental professionals, and oral health education and outreach programs for children and adults. “Our Foundation’s grant program helps makes dental care more accessible to those who need it most,” said John Gladden, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Oklahoma. “By supporting initiatives designed to improve oral health education and lower barriers to dental care, Delta Dental of Oklahoma aims to strengthen communities across our state and make a lasting difference in the lives of our fellow Oklahomans.” In 2026 alone, DDOK Foundation
is projected to award more than $10 million to support 71 oral health initiatives across the state. Grantees include AustimOklahoma, Crossings Community Clinic, ReMerge of Oklahoma County, Compassion Outreach Center, Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma, technical colleges and state universities, among many others. “We’re always looking to partner with organizations working to expand or strengthen their oral health services,” said Terrisa SingletonSmith, director of the DDOK Foundation. “At DDOK Foundation, we welcome new partnerships. Whether you’re a recovery program incorporating dental care, an education initiative or a clinic, we encourage you to explore applying for a grant.” All grant applications must be submitted by Monday, October 12. Interested grant applicants can review eligibility requirements and apply for a 2027 grant today at DDOKFoundation.org/grants.
Page 12 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Super cool summer soups when the heat is really on By Carol Smaglinski Check out the weather thermometer as it creeps up and up. What to cook? What to eat? In this particular kind of heat, a hot kitchen can be a culinary dilemma, but easy to solve. As they say on TV these days, stick around. Cold soup is nothing new. I recently learned that it began with Louis XIV of France (1638-1715) who reigned as king for 72 years and 110 days. His nickname was the Great Sun King. He was so frightened of being poisoned, by the time his tasters sampled his food, and by the time the soup reached His Royal’s lips, the soup was stone cold. Throughout his lifetime, the king very seldom had a decent hot bowl of soup. While serving as assistant director of Rich’s Cooking School in Atlanta, one of our students was the family chef of the late President Jimmy Carter. It was
rumored that the much-loved president had people who tasted his food, too, a procedure probably not being followed today. My culinary colleagues and I taught chilled soups, which I dubbed “liquid salad” and included an avocado soup, and a cucumber soup. We also presented Gazpacho, a favorite soup from Spain and Latin America, which can be made a number of ways using fresh basil, tomatoes, cucumber, green pepper and onion sprinkled with croutons. And then there was Vichyssoise, (Vih shee SWAZ). In culinary jargon, Americans most often say Vih she swah. Be aware that the se on the end is pronounced like a “z.” Vichyssoise is a simple, smooth chilled soup made with cream, leeks and potatoes garnished with chives. Note that it is best when made one day ahead, permitting the soup to get super cold and its flavors to marry. Or, start early in the morning and all that is left is slicing a loaf of crusty bread and pouring the iced tea or wine. You might even move to the patio and relax out there. However, even with its French name, this soup has American roots, and was originally made by French/American Chef Louis Diat, in the huge kitchen of the Ritz-Carlton in New York in 1917. Recalling his mother's recipe in France by adding cold milk to leftover potato soup, which they ate for breakfast, was the chef’s first step. Diat’s elegant classic recipe is now being served all over the world today and in Paris restaurants night after night. Make this and your house will smell heavenly. The secret is to not use butter to cook the leeks and potatoes and other veggies, so that the finished soup remains as white as snow and the butter, when chilled, will not be forced to congeal in the soup. Simple steps: Chop veggies, cook veggies, puree mixture and both you and the soup, chill out! Note that the creamy additions are added just before serving. Vichyssoise Makes 6 servings 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced 2 large leeks, rinsed carefully and finely diced using just the white part 1 onion, sliced and 2 stalks celery, sliced 2 cups water, in a large soup pot 4 cups chicken stock Salt and pepper to taste Boil water, add veggies, cover and cook gently for 35 minutes. Stir now and then. Add chicken stock and rub vegetable mixture through a strainer or place ingredients in a blender. Chill 4 hours or overnight until well chilled. Correct seasonings. Just before presenting, add 1 and 1/2 cups half and half and ¼ cup heavy cream Add chopped chives for a garnish.
Older adults need strength training By Brian Attebery I started working out with weights at the age of 13. It was something I was fascinated with. How do those muscles work? How do you tweak angles to hit different muscles? The science of it was and is fascinating. Early in my life, it was about sports and vanity. Later I got into competitive bodybuilding and eventually won the title of Mr. Oklahoma and competed on the National level. After a 12-year competitive career, I deAttebery cided to retire when my two kids were little to focus on just making it a lifestyle as I ran my gym and trained my clients. Now, as a 51-year-old, I continue to “body build” but I think more about being able to maintain my life and the things I want to be able to do. I love to hunt, hike, and be able to take care of my property while maintaining my physique at a higher-than-average level. Our fitness and goals must evolve as we age. If you don’t have any fitness goals as you have aged, it is time to get started. It is so fun to see the variety of ages in my gym from 12 to 91. Yes, I have several people that come on a regular basis that are over 70. Why? They want to live life at a quality level. They want independence. They want to be those people that can depend on themselves and don’t have to rely on others if possible. If you are not thinking about getting stronger because of the myths of bulking up, you need to get your facts straight. For one thing, you lose muscle as you age. Sarcopenia (agerelated muscle loss): Muscle mass and strength decline 1–5% per year after age 50, making walking, climbing stairs, and rising from chairs harder. If you are not going ahead, you are going behind. In other words, if you are not trying to get stronger and build muscle
See Attebery, Page 13
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 13
UCO public health programs earn prestigious national accreditation The University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS) has earned accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) for its Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Master of Public Health programs, recognizing the university's commitment to excellence in public health education and preparing graduates to meet today's evolving workforce needs. CEPH is an independent agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit schools and programs in public health. The accreditation process evaluates programs against rigorous national standards related to curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support, community engagement and continuous quality improvement. This recognition affirms the strength of UCO’s public health programs and its commitment to preparing students with the knowledge, skills and applied experiences needed to address today’s public health challenges. "Achieving CEPH accreditation reflects the University of Central Oklahoma's unwavering commitment to academic excellence and to preparing the next generation of public health leaders," said UCO President Todd G. Lamb. "Our graduates leave UCO equipped with the knowledge, practical experience and compassion needed to improve the health and well-being of communities across Oklahoma and beyond." Community engagement is a defining focus of UCO’s public health programs. Students gain hands-on experience working alongside community members and partners to address real-world health issues and develop practical, community-informed solutions. “This recognition underscores the academic rigor and community-driven focus that define UCO’s public health programs. Our faculty, staff, students
and alumni have built truly exceptional programs that not only meet national standards but also respond directly to the needs of our region,” said Bryan Duke, dean of CEPS. UCO’s public health program emphasizes evidence-based practice, systems thinking, effective policy and meaningful engagement with communities. Graduates are equipped with versatile skills
Attebery From Page 8 tone, you are losing it gradually over time. Those hunched shoulders, aching back, weak knees and hips can all be improved with the proper combinations of strength training, flexibility, cardio, and nutrition to help you recover and have energy. You can build muscles later in life. No, you are not going to become Mr. Universe but you can become your own best version of Mr. or Miss. Quality of Life! You need to be strength training an average of twice per week and engage in some kind of cardio like brisk walking, biking, aerobic classes, or non-impact cardio machines like the elliptical for example. You DO have time and it is not expensive to have a basic membership at most gyms. What is expensive is being unhealthy and at the end of the day, you are your most important invest-
ment. Why work your entire life and aim for retirement to end up not being able to actual experience life in that retirement with an active, strong body! Strength training is good for everyone. Your level of fitness, goals, and potential restrictions will vary regardless of your age. You need to get educated, learn the proper techniques, and be consistent with it all. Find a partner that you can go with for some added fun and accountability but regardless, do it for yourself. You matter and older adults need weight training even more than those teenagers who are just starting out. (Brian Attebery is a Degreed/Certified Trainer. He owns and operates Results Fitness and Nutrition Center, L.L.C. in Edmond. www.resultsfitnessusa.com)
Local news? Do you have a local news item or a local photograph? Share the good news with your neighbors and the community through Edmond Life & Leisure newspaper. Simply e-mail the items to news@edmondpaper.com
that prepare them for careers in government agencies, health care systems, nonprofit organizations, private industry and other public health settings. By achieving CEPH accreditation, UCO joins a select group of institutions nationwide recognized for delivering high-quality public health education that prepares graduates to improve their communities' health and well-being.
Page 14 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Review of ‘Turning Point: Generation 9/11’
Documentary gives new perspective By George Gust “Turning Point: Generation 9/11” arrives on Netflix with an interesting angle on one of the most documented events in modern history. Rather than simply revisiting the attacks of September 11, 2001, the documentary focuses on the generation that grew up in their aftermath. Through interviews with children of victims, military veterans, survivors, and others whose lives were shaped by the attacks, the film attempts to answer a larger question: What did living in the post-9/11 world do to America and the people who inherited its consequences? The documentary is at its strongest when it stays focused on individual experiences. The stories from family members of victims remain heartbreaking, and hearing directly from those who served in Afghanistan provides a human perspective that statistics and history books simply cannot. The film also deserves credit for presenting viewpoints from a variety of communities. Veterans, Muslim Americans, immigrants, and survivors are all given space to discuss how 9/11 and its aftermath altered their lives. At its best, the documentary connects that day to many of the defining issues of modern America, from national
Answers on Page 19
security and foreign policy to growing public distrust in institutions. The problem is that the film never fully commits to the premise it introduces. After opening with the idea of exploring the generation that learned about 9/11 in school and grew up under its shadow, the documentary gradually broadens into a general survey of post-9/11 America. It touches on the War on Terror, Homeland Security, immigration policy, conspiracy theories, social media, political rhetoric, and the withdrawal from Afghanistan. While all of those subjects are relevant, the film spreads itself too thin. Almost every topic it raises feels substantial enough for its
own documentary, and as a result many of its observations feel more introductory than insightful. The breadth is impressive, but the depth is often lacking. As with most documentaries, the real strength comes from the people being interviewed. The personal stories provide an emotional weight that the broader analysis sometimes struggles to match. The segments focused on military service and the 2021 Abbey Gate attack are particularly effective because they put faces and voices to the long-term consequences of decisions made in the years after 9/11. Those moments help reconnect the film to the human impact at the center of its story. Ultimately, “Turning Point: Generation 9/11” is an engaging but unfocused documentary. It raises important questions and offers worthwhile perspectives, but it never quite fulfills the promise of its central idea. As a reflection on the lasting legacy of 9/11, it is thought-provoking. As an exploration of the generation shaped by it, it feels frustratingly incomplete. “Turning Point: Generation 9/11” is now streaming on Netflix. 3 out of 5 stars
“Turning Point: Generation 9/11” releases on Netflix near the 25th anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11/2001 with a perspective of the ripple effects that day would bring in the following decades.
National Child Awareness month Senate resolution introduced by US Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Maggie Hassan (DNH), designating September as National Child Awareness Month (NCAM), recently passed the Senate unanimously. The resolution promotes awareness of charities that benefit children and youth-serving organizations across the country. “Every child has tremendous worth and potential, and for nearly two decades, the Senate has supported the charities, nonprofits, and outreach organizations that make their futures even brighter,” said Lankford. “The volunteers and staff who invest in America’s youth demonstrate the Oklahoma Standard. This month – and every month – we recognize the work they do to strengthen our families and empower the next generation of leaders.” “Helping children succeed is one of the best investments that we can make for the future of our country,” said Hassan. “This month is an opportunity to recognize the organizations and volunteers who work every day to support children and families in New Hampshire.”
Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT MEDIA Crossword Puzzle Theme: Movie Quotes ACROSS 1. Give benediction 6. World's oldest broadcasting company, acr. 9. Hoodwink 13. H, spelled out 14. Have a cold, e.g. 15. Dogma 16. Raja's wife 17. Shel Silverstein's constrictor 18. Extreme, prefix 19. *"____, my dear, I don't give a damn" 21. *"Why so ____?" 23. "High" beverage 24. Fairytale's second word 25. "Swan Lake" step, e.g. 28. Potassium hydroxide solution, pl. 30. Nincompoop 35. Month of Purim 37. At any time 39. Coastal town in southern England 40. Flick part 41. 4 x 4 race 43. Like most Brothers Grimm stories 44. "Peer Gynt" playwright 46. Actress Campbell 47. Please do not delay, acr. 48. Experienced sailor (2 words) 50. Dispatched 52. a.k.a. Tokyo 53. Window guards 55. Beer faucet 57. *"I'm mad as hell, and I'm not going to take it ____" 61. *"What we've got here is ____ to communicate" 65. Like United States Capitol 66. Food safety org. 68. Ritual basin 69. Tooth trouble 70. Husk of corn 71. Sharks' domain 72. Fence board 73. Pastrami partner 74. Paper quantities DOWN 1. Vomit 2. The one with pants on fire 3. Volcano in Sicily 4. *"I can smell the ____ of a woman... Honey oil, lavender, soap" 5. Israeli monetary unit 6. *"Hasta la vista,
____" 7. Life story, for short 8. Fastener 9. Hero shop 10. "Do ____ others..." 11. Paddington Bear's homeland 12. Airport postings, acr. 15. Rutabaga cousin 20. Extra sweatshirt, e.g. 22. Long period of time 24. No-good 25. *"We'll always have ____" 26. Hacienda brick 27. Mexican cuisine staple 29. *"She doesn't ____ go here" 31. Party garb? 32. Not better 33. Homer's famous poem, with The 34. *"Not quite my ____" 36. Donna or Lou 38. Techno dance party
42. Busybody, in Yiddish 45. *"____ puts Baby in a corner" 49. Toothy fish 51. Alterations specialist 54. Mention something 56. *"There's no ____ like home" 57. Contributes 58. Season to be jolly 59. Village People hit 60. Source of protein 61. Cab payment 62. Eye layer 63. #74 Across, sing. 64. Sea eagles 67. *"Go ahead, make my ____"
Answers On Page 19
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 15
Federal audit exposes recurring problems discovered in Oklahoma state agencies Oklahoma State Auditor & Inspector (SA&I) Cindy Byrd last week released the Federal Single Audit for FY 2024. This annual audit is a federallymandated examination of whether the State of Oklahoma spent federal grant money in compliance with federal regulations. The audit report covers roughly $14 Billion of expenditures which are audited based upon a formula provided by the federal government. “This is the fourth Single Audit in a row in which we have warned lawmakers and agency directors about the consequences of mishandling federal money,” Auditor Byrd said. “While the amount in questioned costs has decreased from the previous year, Oklahoma still has improvements to make to ensure good financial management. The debt is piling up and Oklahoma taxpayers could be forced to refund millions of dollars to the federal government.” This year’s audit found questioned costs totaling almost $25 Million. Questioned costs are any expenditures that do not comply with the law, cannot be documented, and/or appear unreasonable or unethical. The combined questioned costs from the last five Federal Single Audits stands at more than $200 Million. “The federal government has the authority to demand all of that money back from the State of Oklahoma,” Byrd said. The latest audit reveals particular problems at the Department of Human Services (DHS) the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), and the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS). DHS failed to provide proper oversight of its Child Care Desert Grant Program (CCD), its LowIncome Heat and Energy Assistance Program (LI-
Cindy Byrd HEAP), the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). CCD: DHS failed to monitor attendance records. As a result, 23% of the facilities tested by SA&I were claiming children attendance that significantly exceeded each facility’s licensed capacity. Approximately 95% of all CCD dollars tested for this year’s report, $12.6 Million, are labeled as questioned costs. Total questioned costs for all DHS daycare programs is $14.5 Million. The risk of fraud remains extremely high as DHS does not have adequate controls to identify fraudulent activities at child care centers. LIHEAP & LIHWAP: DHS failed to provide oversight which allowed a former employee to misappropriate almost $2 Million from LIHEAP and
City officials concerned over Mitch Park’s ‘hot’ issues By James Coburn For Edmond Life & Leisure The Mitch Park YMCA & Edmond Aquatic Center has become a heated topic. Complaints that the water temperature and airflow is too hot have increased with the thermometer. There seems to be a public misperception that city government is not providing the resources to fulfill its responsibility for the facility, Edmond Mayor Mark Nash said. The $22.5 million facility opened in March of 2014 as a partnership by the City of Edmond, the YMCA, and Edmond Public Schools. The Olympic-size pool houses state and regional swim meets. The swimming pool belongs to the school district and the YMCA maintains it. So, the city is not responsible for the daily operations of the pool or swim meets, Nash said. City government is not in the business of owning swim teams and does not manage the facility. Historically, the city has paid 25 to 50 percent of repairs, Nash explained. “If we have to pay for things, we are out there saying we’re going above and beyond. We said for those rooftop units, if we have to pay for 50 percent of them up to $200,000 — we’ll do it. We have said on the cooling tower the same thing, ‘Whatever it takes — we’ll do it.’” The issue with the geothermal system goes back eight to 10 years when the YMCA began informing the city of increased costs, Nash said. “There have been repeated repairs to the system as a whole. There have been repairs to just the geothermal system,” Nash said. “Other than that, you’ve got other issues with the pool area. There have been complaints about the cleanliness of it. There have been complaints about the locker area.” Matters became considerably worse in 2025 when the YMCA recognized there was a problem with the pool area. So, it terminated its contract with the third party conducting the maintenance. A new company was hired, and maintenance improved dramatically, Nash said.
In 2025 city staff met with the YMCA and the school district to discuss solutions to fix the geothermal system. This year the city agreed to pay up to 50 percent of 10 rooftop units. City Manager A.J. Krieger, said at the August 24 city council meeting, that the Edmond YMCA has encountered more mechanical difficulties. The plan to replace the rooftop units became more problematic with air flow due to clogged pipes. So, the city agreed to pay for a temporary cooling tower that has been installed. “They had to back-flush the entire system to get it operational again. And, as they were finishing that, they determined that because of the slow movement of the hot water through the system and the extreme heat in the geothermal field, it overheated. The only way to get it to cool down will depend on when cooler temperatures occur outside,” Nash said. The hope is the cooling tower combined with the dehumidification rooftop units will create a reasonable climate change. Krieger said the school district expects to resume swim team practices in September and swim meets in November. “Between now and then, they should have a better handle on the limitations, or the capabilities when we reset the mechanical system that’s in place right now,” Krieger said. Meanwhile, the city council has directed Krieger to inform the YMCA and the school district that the city council will make sure future financial needs are met. “There’s two other entities in this partnership. But we’re going to make sure it gets fixed,” Nash said. The Edmond City Council has always viewed quality of life and recreation at parks and other activities as a high priority, said Barry Moore, Ward 2 councilman. “Our people, the citizens of Edmond expect that. Historically, councils from years ago to the current one have agreed with that and favor that. So, it’s my judgement that citizens of Edmond want us to continue that. And that will be my objective.”
LIHWAP. That employee was the primary administrator with final approval authority over LIHEAP applications. This employee appears to have accessed expired applications and approved payments under the names of former LIHEAP recipients. He also had the ability to modify banking information. SNAP: Starting in October of 2027, the federal government will slash SNAP benefits for states with an error rate of 6% or higher. Oklahoma’s error rate is currently 11%. If DHS fails to rectify this problem, Oklahoma taxpayers stand to lose more than $236 Million in federal funding each year. OMES has $3.8 Million in questioned costs for the Emergency Rental Assistance program (ERA). This is in addition to the $15.8 Million in questioned costs identified previously in the ERA program. ODMHSAS spent $6.2 Million on designs and planning for the proposed Donahue Behavioral Health Campus. ODMHSAS failed to evaluate the feasibility or long-term funding requirements for the facility. The project was later abandoned and taxpayers got nothing in return for their $6.2 Million. “Stopping fraud, waste, and abuse should be a non-partisan issue” Auditor Byrd said. “Taxpayers work too hard for their money -- money that the government takes from their paychecks -- to tolerate this level of irresponsible spending. A poorlymanaged state government does incredible harm to its own citizens. Mismanagement scares away outside investment and capital. Mismanagement loses federal funding. Oklahoma must get its act together.” The full FY 2024 Federal Single Audit is now posted on the Oklahoma State Auditor & Inspector’s official website.
Page 16 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Official weighs in on wildfire risk By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready Oklahoma’s summer has been back in full force. Much of the state has seen daily temperatures above 100 degrees, with nighttime lows hovering around 80. In addition to the dangerous heat, drought conditions are widespread. Warm, dry weather exposes Oklahomans to one of the state’s biggest hazards: wildfires. Mulready Here’s how to help prevent wildfires and protect your home. First, consider the current conditions. The entirety of Oklahoma is experiencing dry weather, and almost two-thirds of the state faces severe to exceptional drought, with the driest conditions in western Oklahoma. Forecasts show little relief in sight for the next several weeks. These factors create ideal conditions for wildfires, and any fire that starts can intensify quickly. For example, the March 2025 wildfire outbreak alone scorched over 170,000 acres, resulting in over 500 homes and businesses destroyed, over 200 injuries and tragi-
cally, four fatalities. Though the dangers posed by wildfires are quite serious, there are still some actions you can take to prevent them and prepare for them. Stay vigilant. Actively monitor conditions and pay close attention to weather forecasts. On highrisk days, avoid activities that create sparks or open flames. Follow official guidance, especially burn bans and fire-related weather alerts. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately. Before wildfires strike, review your homeowners insurance policy. Know what your policy covers and if you have actual cash value or replacement cost coverage. Also, check with your insurer for any discounts related to wildfire mitigation measures. Inspect and maintain your property to reduce your risk. The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) provides an in-depth guide on preparing your home. Quick tips you can implement include: Keeping a five-foot noncombustible area around your home clear of vegetation, tree branches, stored vehicles and other flammable items Maintaining a 30-foot defensible zone beyond
your noncombustible zone by trimming vegetation and protecting detached structures to control the spread of fires Swapping flammable building materials for nonflammable options Cleaning out gutters regularly to prevent the buildup of flammable debris In addition to preparing your property and insurance for fires, prepare your family. Have a plan of action in place in case a wildfire threatens your family. Pack a go-bag, including anything you might need when evacuating, like supplies, medication, insurance documents, your home inventory list, and identification. Ensure everyone in your household knows your emergency plan and the escape routes from your home. Plan for anyone in your family who may have unique needs. Wildfire risk is high during this scorching summer. With smart prevention and strong insurance readiness, Oklahoma families can be prepared for wildfires. If you have insurance questions or issues, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) will show you the way! Contact us at 800-522-0071 or oid.ok.gov.
Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., serves as executive vice president and chief medical officer for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.
OMRF helps provide new insight on lupus in kidneys For decades, scientists have focused largely on the immune system when searching for ways to treat lupus-related kidney disease. A landmark study involving Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientists offers a new perspective: The kidneys themselves may play a bigger role than previously thought. Researchers examined kidney tissue one cell at a time to create a detailed map of what happens inside the kidneys of people with lupus nephritis, a complication of lupus that can cause permanent kidney damage. The findings reveal changes in both immune cells and kidney tissue cells that could eventually help explain why kidney damage occurs and why treatment does not work the same way for every patient. “This large collaborative study brought together leaders in lupus nephritis from across the country to obtain and examine molecular data in lupus nephritis,” said Soumya Raychaudhuri, M.D., Ph.D., of Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital. “We found that specialized immune cells called macrophages appear to be highly correlated with, and potentially driving, tissue damage.” Macrophages can enter and reside in tissues, in-
cluding the kidney, where they normally regulate inflammation and respond to injury. In this study, particular macrophage populations within the kidney were associated with inflammation, tissue damage and scarring. “We’ve always thought that certain immune cells were responsible,” said OMRF Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Judith James, M.D., Ph.D. “This study identified potential culprits and how they interact with the kidney tissue itself.” Lupus is a chronic condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues and organs. It is a leading cause of death in young women between ages 15 and 45, with kidney damage disproportionately contributing to disease severity. This discovery involved lupus experts from some of the nation’s premier medical and research institutions. They were brought together through a public-private partnership led by the National Institutes of Health and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health. Scientists analyzed tissue from about 160 people with lupus who underwent kidney biopsies due to concerning findings in their urine. OMRF
researchers processed kidney tissue samples, performed blood and urine testing, organized clinical data, and built the research infrastructure needed to connect information from individual patients with the molecular changes found in their kidneys. “Lupus nephritis is not one disease with one underlying cause,” said James, who holds the Lou C. Kerr Endowed Chair in Biomedical Research at OMRF. "By identifying the different cellular processes that may be active in different patients, we may be able to better understand why some people respond to treatment while others do not." Raychaudhuri, who led the study, said this discovery lays the groundwork for future research to better understand the mechanisms of kidney damage in lupus nephritis and identify opportunities to intervene before irreversible injury occurs. Their results were published in the journal Science Translational Medicine. OMRF’s role in the study was supported by grant UM2-AR067678 from the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, part of the NIH. This content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 17
State portfolio hits $18 billion The Oklahoma State Treasurer’s Office released its July 2026 Investment Report, showing continued stability in the state’s investment portfolio as financial markets adjusted to rising long-term Treasury yields, mixed equity performance and ongoing inflation concerns. The state’s investment portfolio reached $18.0 billion in July, an increase of approximately $200 million from July 2025. The portfolio earned a 3.80% yield, up from 3.71% one year earlier, with a weighted average maturity of 908 days. “July’s portfolio performance reflected continued stability as markets responded to changing economic conditions,” said State Treasurer Todd Russ. “Our balanced and disciplined investment strategy continues to provide stability while positioning the state to earn competitive returns.” U.S. Treasurys continued to make up the majority of the state’s portfolio at 76.1%, followed by money market mutual funds at 11.3% and mortgage-backed securities at 10.5%. The remaining investments included state and foreign bonds, U.S. government agencies and certificates of deposit. Financial markets were mixed in July. The Dow
‘Our balanced and disciplined investment strategy continues to provide stability while positioning the state to earn competitive returns.’ State Treasurer Todd Russ. Jones Industrial Average gained 0.3%, while the S&P 500 declined 0.1% and the Nasdaq Composite fell 3.2%. Rising Treasury yields contributed to a shift away from technology stocks and toward financial, energy and other value-oriented sectors. Treasury yields rose sharply at longer maturities during the month. The 10-year Treasury yield increased to 4.74%, while the 30-year yield reached 5.27%, its highest level since 2007. The shift reflected continued concerns about inflation and expectations that interest rates could remain elevated. The Federal Reserve held the federal funds rate steady at 3.50% to 3.75% during its July meeting, though three members dissented in favor of a quar-
ter-point increase. The Federal Open Market Committee continued to cite inflation remaining above its 2% target. Economic data showed a mixed picture. Nonfarm payroll employment declined by 23,000 in July, while the unemployment rate edged down to 4.1%. At the same time, inflation moderated for a second consecutive month, with the Consumer Price Index increasing 3.4% over the prior year, down from 3.5% in June. Consumer spending also softened in July, with retail sales declining 0.6% after five consecutive monthly gains. The housing market weakened as existing home sales fell 1.7% from June, while the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate increased to 6.54%. The report also notes that real gross domestic product increased at an annualized rate of 1.5% in the second quarter, slowing from 2.1% in the first quarter. Consumer spending, investment and exports contributed to growth, while government spending declined. The complete July 2026 Investment Report is available at treasurer.ok.gov.
Stitt seeks expansion of state beef markets Governor Kevin Stitt last week sent letters to President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, and congressional agriculture leaders urging action to expand interstate market access for qualified Oklahoma meat processors. Under current law, Oklahoma state-inspected processors may sell wholesome, inspected beef within the state but generally cannot sell the same products across state lines. Federally inspected processors may enter interstate commerce, creating a barrier for smaller and state-inspected facilities seeking to reach new markets.
“Expanding the number of Oklahoma processors capable of entering interstate commerce would create new markets for Oklahoma cattle, increase domestic processing capacity, strengthen competition in the packing industry, and put more American beef into the national marketplace,” said Governor Stitt. Stitt asked USDA and the Food Safety and Inspection Service to work with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry to establish an expedited pathway for qualified processors to obtain interstate market access, in-
Being ready in case an emergency strikes Major disasters are happening more often now, about once every two weeks. Add on the smaller emergencies that happen every day, like a fire in someone’s home, and it’s more important than ever for everyone to get their households prepared. At the same time, as prices continue to climb on just about everything, getting prepared for a disaster can feel out of reach, too much of a financial burden. But the American Red Cross of Central and Southwest Oklahoma has a few simple, low-cost or no-cost steps everyone can take to help them get prepared. “September is National Preparedness Month, the perfect time to get ready for emergencies large and small,” said Loida Haffener Salmond, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Central and Southwest Oklahoma. “Disasters can happen anywhere, at any time and getting your household ready for them doesn't have to break the bank. Try a few of these low-cost or no-cost steps and get started protecting your loved ones.” STEPS TO PREPAREDNESS
Download the Red Cross Emergency app, which helps you and your loved ones before, during, and after a disaster. The app includes guides to help you prepare, National Weather Service alerts, live weather maps and help locating Red Cross shelters. And best of all, it’s free to all users, available in English and Spanish, and designed with accessibility in mind. Find it by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store or visiting redcross.org/apps. Develop an emergency plan for your household ─ a great way to get started, and it won't cost a thing. Pick two places to meet: right outside your home and a place outside your neighborhood in case you can’t get home or have to evacuate. Plan how you will evacuate. Think about where you will go, how you will get there, where you will stay and what you’ll take with you. Plan well in advance if you’ll need help leaving or use public transportation. Don’t forget your pets. Keep a phone list of pet-friendly hotels/mo-
See Prep, Page 18
Banker graduates from OBA school Rachel West, with BancFirst, in Edmond, recently completed the Oklahoma Bankers Association Compliance School in Oklahoma City. West was among 41 participants at the school, which was held Aug. 17-21 at the OBA Harris Event Center. The OBA Compliance School, conducted annually, trains bank employees to deal with the many laws and regulations that affect bank lending and deposit functions. The school is designed to provide an extensive body of knowledge and information on consumer compliance, which can contribute to the development of
compliance officers. Students return to their banks equipped to deal with compliance regulations that impact lending practices and deposit functions as well as other related federal and state law regulations. The OBA conducts more than 70 educational programs and seminars each year, which reach more than 5,000 bankers across the state. The Association represents approximately 200 banks across the state and serves as the primary advocate for the banking industry. It’s also heavily involved in fraud training and prevention as well as legal and compliance services and communications for its member banks.
cluding through the Talmadge-Aiken Cooperative Inspection Program and the Cooperative Interstate Shipment Program. The Governor also urged congressional agriculture leaders to consider reforms through the 2027 Farm Bill. "Increasing the supply of beef available to American consumers does not have to depend solely on increasing foreign imports,” Stitt said. “We should also remove unnecessary barriers that prevent American ranchers and American processors from supplying American consumers.”
Page 18 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure
Prep From Page 17
Please support local businesses
tels and animal shelters on your phone. Make up emergency contact cards for the whole family in case the internet is down and save the information on everyone’s phone. Don’t forget the number for your children’s school or daycare Gather supplies for a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Use items you already have on hand to keep the cost down. Build your kit slowly, perhaps buying an item every time you shop. Look for sales, check clearance bins, clip coupons and shop discount stores to get key items at lower prices. Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can take with you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water and a one-month supply of medications, if possible. Other items could include a flashlight, a first aid kit, and a battery or hand-crank radio. Make sure to include backup batteries and chargers for your devices (flashlight, cell phone, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.) and critical personal records. You might also want to in-
Family Circus
Beetle Baily
Hi and Lois
Blondie
Shoe
Hägar the Horrible
Zits
clude sanitation and personal hygiene items, extra cash, maps of the area, pet supplies, baby supplies, matches, N95 masks, a manual can opener, extra car and house keys, towels, work gloves, a multi-purpose tool, blankets, and sleeping bags. Customize your kit to meet your household’s specific needs. If you have young children, don’t forget formula and diapers. If you have pets, include leashes, carriers, food, bowls and litter. If you own a business or are part of a school or organization, it’s critical you are prepared, that you know what to do should an emergency happen. The Red Cross Ready Rating Program is a free service that provides tools, resources and information for improving your group’s ability to withstand disaster, maintain operations, and protect lives and property. “Disasters don’t wait for the ‘right time.’ They can happen in the middle of the night, while you’re at work or your kids are at school,” Haffener Salmond said.
Edmond Life & Leisure • September 10, 2026 • Page 19
Public plea made during Hunger Action Month This September, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is joining Feeding America and food banks nationwide for Hunger Action Month, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about hunger and inspiring action to end it. According to the latest data available from Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap study, Oklahoma has the second highest food insecurity rate in the nation at 20.2% in 2024, only behind Arkansas at 20.7%. Oklahoma has the highest child food insecurity rate in the nation at 27.3%, with more than 263,000 children facing food insecurity statewide. This data confirms that hunger exists in every county in Oklahoma and is affecting more Oklahoma families than in recent years. This Hunger Action Month, the Regional Food Bank is asking Oklahomans to come together and play their part to fight hunger together, whether by volunteering, advocating, donating or wearing orange to raise awareness. “As the cost of essentials like groceries and energy continue to put pressure on household budgets, everyone can take action this September to help ensure their neighbors have access to the food they need to thrive,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. “Whether you give, volunteer, speak up or support your community in another way, your actions matter.”
Sept. 29: Hunger Action Day. The Regional Food Bank encourages everyone to wear orange, the color of hunger relief, to promote hunger awareness in Oklahoma. The Regional Food Bank’s Food for Kids Match campaign continues through Sept. 30. Donations to the Regional Food Bank’s Food for Kids Programs are matched, dollar-for-dollar, up to $285,000, thanks to the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma, Mark and Beth Brewer, Expand Energy, Dolese Brothers Corporation and David and Lezlie Hudiburg. For more information on Hunger Action Month and how you can get involved, visit rfbo.org/ham.
Dates to remember are: Sept. 15: National Voter Registration Day. Encourage your friends and neighbors to register to vote.
“WHEN YOU ARE KIND TO OTHERS, IT NOT ONLY CHANGES YOU, IT CHANGES THE WORLD” - HAROLD KUSHNER
About the Regiona Food Bank of Oklahoma The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is leading the fight against hunger in 53 counties in central and western Oklahoma and envisions a state where no one goes hungry. Founded in 1980, the Regional Food Bank is the state’s largest domestic hunger-relief 501(c)(3) nonprofit that distributes food through a network of community- based partner agencies and schools. The majority of people served by the Regional Food Bank are chronically hungry children, seniors living on fixed incomes and hardworking families struggling to make ends meet. The Regional Food Bank is a member of Feeding America, the nation’s network of food banks. To join the fight to end hunger, visit rfbo.org.
Page 20 • September 10, 2026 • Edmond Life & Leisure