MetroFamily Magazine October 2017

Fall

FUN Guide page 10

OCTOBER 2017

Autumn Adventures

Hayrides, pumpkin patches & Halloween events galore

Mud Pies & Butterflies

The importance of nature play in your child’s development

Family Campout

Top tips for pitching a tent

See our calendar

for 255 October events!

ONGOING EVENTS FREE WITH ADMISSION UNLESS SPECIFIED Cider Press at Pumpkinville FRIDAY-SUNDAY, 1-1:30PM $1 PER CUP

Pumpkinville Story Time

Pumpkinville Express Train

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 1-5PM $2 FOR AGES 2 AND UP

Express Clydesdales

EVERY DAY, 11-11:30AM

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14, 10AM-2PM

Pumpkinville Pop-Up Crafts

PUMPKINVILLE POP-UP SHOPS Scissortail Gifts

MONDAY-FRIDAY, 10:30AM-12:30PM

Face Painting

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 10AM-5PM PRICES VARY BASED ON DESIGN

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 10AM-5PM

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Pop-Up Shop

SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS, 10AM-5PM

CALL TO REGISTER TODAY!

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OCTOBER 2017

Features 10 Fall Fun Guide Thrilling adventures for a memorable season 14 Nature Play Why outdoor, unstructured play is critical to your child’s development 40 Day in the Life of Amber Sharples Get to know this local mom and arts advocate

In Every Issue 6 Ages & Stages Find the latest news and trends specifically for your child’s age group

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12 Mom Humor Unwanted fall decor 18 Calendar of Events 42 Real Kids of the Metro Meet the local student chasing his dreams at Juilliard 44 Exploring Oklahoma with Children Tips for a fall family campout 54 Kid Review Myriad Botanical Gardens

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Web Exclusives Did you know we have a panel of local experts giving timely parenting advice to our readers? New topics are added every month and include how to handle bullies, teaching good sportsmanship and assigning chores without nagging. Find their tips at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/experts.

We have three brand new contributors to our Thrive & Dime blog. These local moms are breaking down the best places to have family fun on a budget: Keely Steger writes about how she takes her husband and four kids to eat out at the hottest restaurants in OKC for $40 or less.

Formerly a school counselor, Megan Beisel writes about themed craft and

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reading activities she does at home with three kids under 5.

Miranda Steffen writes about visiting top metro destinations that make the whole family happy, regardless of age or special need.

Find all these blog posts at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/thriveand-dime.

CONTESTS Discovery Family Series: We’re giving away a family four-pack to the Discovery Family Series presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. The package is valued at more than $137 and includes season tickets to three events and memberships to their Kids Club. Enter by Oct. 23.

Christmas Show Ticket Giveaway: Enter to win four tickets to “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical” at the Civic Center Music Hall Nov. 19. Four sets are being given away. Enter by Oct. 10.

Enter at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/contests MetroFamily’s App Giveaway: We’ve gotten excellent feedback from our first app users and we’re giving you another reason to download. Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/app to download then check out the “Don’t Miss This” tab to enter to win a twonight stay for four at the Gaylord Texan resort in Grapevine, TX during their Lone Star Christmas event. Deadline to enter the contest is Oct. 15.

Publisher

Sarah Taylor

Managing Editor Hannah Schmitt

Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo

Contributing Writers

Heather Davis, Erin Page & Lindsay Cuomo

Contributing Photographers

Kimera Basore, Mark Doescher & Emily Hart

Contributing Illustrator Brittany Viklund

Art Director Stacy Noakes

Marketing Director Callie Collins

Sales

Athena Delce, Dana Price

Project Manager Jessica Misun

Office/Distribution Kathy Alberty

Business Development

A

friend recently texted to see if I could get together for a playdate later in the week.

“3:30?” I responded. “No,” she typed back, “I’ll be getting dinner ready around then.”

Dinner prepping? At 3:30? After re-reading it a few times, my heart sank. A dinner plan never even comes into my mind until my husband calls on his way home from work around 6:30 asking what we’re going to have.

What kind of mom and wife am I? I sat there and criticized myself for about 30 seconds before getting distracted with the constant tug of work obligations and saving my son from climbing up a piece of furniture and plunging to his death.

But sure enough the exchange came to mind again around 7:30 that night as I pulled toppings off leftover pizza to feed to my 11-month-old for dinner. The day had gotten away from me. Work duties had piled up and I (again!) didn’t make that trip to the grocery store. But my son didn’t know that. Maybe it’s just because he’s used to late, thrown-together

dinners by now, but he devoured the cold little chunks of pepper, onion and olive and looked at me like I hung the moon.

Part of my job is hearing the stories of other local moms and this feeling of not being good enough comes up often. But another part of my job is encouraging those moms by reminding them they’re rocking motherhood and that they shouldn’t compare themselves to anyone else. But I’m slowly realizing that’s easier said than done.

Even though there are days I carve out time to make organic vegetable purees for the baby, I know I’ll never be the Prep Dinner at 3:30 Kind of Mom and that’s okay. However you’ve been feeling inadequate lately, I’d encourage you to look at yourself a little more like your kids look at you. Because to them, you hang the moon.

Hannah Schmitt Editor

Shelly Sanderson

Contact us

318 NW 13th St, Ste 101 OKC OK 73103

This Month’s Cover

Phone: 405-601-2081 Fax: 405-445-7509

Kendal R.

info@metrofamilymagazine.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2017 by Inprint Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

Circulation audited by

The stunning 12-year-old dressed as a Halloween punk princess on our cover is Kendal. She lives in Arcadia and loves her two horses, Chuy and Shadow. She’s one of our 2017 Cover Kids Search winners.

PHOTO BY EMILY HART WWW.NINAANDBPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Proud member of

Also a member of Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce & Moore Chamber of Commerce

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

5

Play • Learn • Thrive

&

ages stages

From car seat installation tips for babies to how the latest DACA news will impact local students, here are some news and trends for every age and stage. Have an idea you’d like us to cover?

Email it to hannah@metrofamilymagazine.com.

BY HANNAH SCHMITT

Services Include: Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy & Speech-Language Therapy for Children of All Ages & Abilities

In-network providers for the following insurance companies: BC/BS Tricare United Healthcare Health Choice Soonercare Oklahoma Health Network

(405) 840-1686

www.SensationalKidsOKC.com

Two locations to serve you 14715 Bristol Park Blvd., Edmond 5701 SE 74th St., OKC

Babies and Preschoolers

Sign Up For Our New Email If you’re a new or expectant mom in Oklahoma City, we’re launching a brand new e-newsletter just for you! We’ve long had an e-newsletter campaign for local family fun but the new email will focus specifically on pregnancy through preschool. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/toddlers to sign up.

Spaghetti Eddie Releasing New Album It’s been almost two years since children’s band Spaghetti Eddie released an album but they’re preparing to release “Spaghetti Eddie! And Other Children’s Songs Vol. 5” this month. Brendan Parker is one half of the duo that is based in Oklahoma City.

The father of two said everything about Spaghetti Eddie is a direct reflection of family life, from the types of songs on the albums even to the amount of time it has taken to put out “Vol. 5.”

“This is the longest amount of time between albums,” said Parker, who mentioned the band usually releases an album a year. “My kids are almost 5 and 7 now and as they grow you just get busier and time gets away from you.”

The band has always made children’s music but this album focuses on less concrete kid

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topics and more about things you can’t touch or see, Parker said.

“My oldest is almost 7 and he’s growing up so there’s a song on this album called ‘Growing Up,’” he said. “Other songs are about being happy, having a home or having someone there when you need them. When you write family-friendly music especially for children, it’s hard to keep coming up with subject matter that’s not too obvious. I don’t think I’ll ever write a song about going to the bathroom. I know those exist and that’s great but what I’m trying to do is write music that can be appreciated when you’re 0, 1, 2 up to 60 and 70 years old.”

All his music is tested out on his sons James and George, Parker said. The album’s character song, “Danger Dog,” is the first one they heard and he’s already gotten a little criticism.

“My youngest doesn’t like the word ‘danger’ so he was like, ‘Do you have to call it that?’”

Parker said. “It was pretty harsh but also pretty cute criticism.”

Parker is looking forward to getting more feedback from the latest album. The public is invited to the album release party at noon on Oct. 28 at Tower Theatre.

Car Seat Tips From A Real Mom A study recently published in the Journal of Pediatrics had certified child passenger safety technicians watch moms install and

position their babies in car seats and found only five percent of them made no mistakes.

Most of the 300 moms in the study were between the ages of 25 and 34. I’m 29 with an infant who I put in and out of a car seat every day so I couldn’t help but wonder if I was making any mistakes.

So I took my son and his car seat to Green Bambino (5120 N. Shartel) where owner Morgan Harris, a certified child passenger safety expert, agreed to perform a safety check for me. The check is complimentary to anyone who purchases a car seat at Green Bambino; she’ll offer the check to anyone else for a $30 fee. The check involves her uninstalling the seat and reinstalling it and then watching the parent position the child in the seat. Here’s what I discovered during the check.

Thankfully, I was actually doing everything right! But I would be lying if I said I wasn’t on my very best behavior with her watching.

She helped me realize that my most common mistake would probably be failing to pull the chest clip up high enough. The chest clip should align with the child’s armpit. Too low and the child could be ejected from the seat in a crash. Too high and it could cause a neck injury. Many parents, myself included, have a tendency to be lazy with the chest clip placement, especially if they’re in a hurry or dealing with a very wiggly child.

Here are other tips I learned to help me avoid mistakes in the future: I need to read the manual myself. My husband installed the seat so he had read the manual. But Harris pointed out the importance of everyone driving the car to know what’s in the manual and know how to install the seat.

“Don’t be afraid to practice putting the seat in and out,” she said. “You don’t want a breakdown on the side of the highway to be the first time you try to install your seat because it’s very likely you’ll make a mistake that could compromise his safety.”

Just because a car seat is highly rated doesn’t mean it’s the one for you. Harris pointed out that a seat might have great reviews or great safety ratings but it might not be the ideal fit for your specific car. Reviews and ratings can be helpful, but parents really only need to answer these three questions when shopping for a seat: - Is it right for my baby? Check the seat’s guidelines to make sure it is a legal, safe place for your baby to ride in the car.

- Is it right for my car? Harris suggested always trying the seat in your own vehicle before purchasing. You should be able to tell at a glance if it will be a good fit.

Make sure your car has lower anchors in the position you plan to put the car seat, for example, and that the car seat won’t encroach too far on the space the front seats have between them and the dashboard.

- Are you confident you can install it correctly every single time? All car seats are safe when used correctly but the biggest thing that separates cheaper and more expensive seats is ease of use. A caregiver should feel confident installing the seat and positioning the child every single time the seat is used.

Don’t get in a hurry to go to the next stage.

Keep your child in the lowest level stage as long as possible. Until you reach the maximum limit for the seat to be rear facing, for example, don’t turn the seat around.

There are a lot of seats marketed for “birth to booster,” Harris said, but oftentimes these compromise on one end or the other. Focus on the stage you’re in and only one stage ahead instead of trying to find a single seat to last every stage. If a seat is safe for an infant to rear face, for example, it’s probably going to leave a lot to be desired as a booster seat, she said.

Pay attention to the expiration date. Most seats are made predominately or entirely with plastic. It breaks down over time, Harris said, especially in a car with temperature swings and UV exposure. The expiration is there to protect kids from being in a seat with plastic that’s broken down over time.

Note: This information doesn’t even go into all the more obvious things like laws regarding car seat safety. To read the basic car seat laws for Oklahoma, visit www. metrofamilymagazine.com/car-seat-law.

Elementary Need To Get Rid of Halloween Candy?

October means Halloween is coming and it’s likely you’ll have more candy than you want your kids to eat. Many local organizations do Halloween Candy Buy-Backs, giving kids opportunities to “sell” back extra Halloween candy, protect their teeth and benefit some great organizations at the same time. Find our list of buy-back programs at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/candy-buy-back.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

7

AGES & STAGES

National Bullying Prevention Month

Family-Friendly Event for Cancer Support

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. There’s a national initiative started

by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center to celebrate Unity Day on Oct. 25.

The organization is asking people to wear orange that day to signify a message of support to those who have experienced bullying. Also, we’ve rounded up some tips from local experts on how to help your kids deal with bullies and how to make sure your child doesn’t become a bully. Find them at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/bullies.

Oklahoma City’s Light the Night event is coming up at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Boathouse District. This family-friendly event is organized to celebrate, honor and remember those touched by cancer. The event features a one-mile evening walk where participants carry illuminated lanterns.

Strollers are welcome at the event.

Ask the Experts: Chores Without Nagging Just because your kids are old enough for some household responsibilities doesn’t mean they’ll always execute them without reminders. We asked our panel of local experts to share their best tips for helping kids responsibly complete chores without having to nag them. Here’s what Dr. Anne K. Jacobs, a child psychologist in Edmond, has to say about the topic: If you find yourself constantly nagging, there are several steps you can take. Practice giving direct commands like “Please put all of your dirty clothes in the hamper” rather than diffuse suggestions like “Your room’s a mess, how can you live like that?”

If your children struggle with initiating the chore, try setting a timer and playing “beat the clock.” Let them know that once the chore is completed to your satisfaction, they may engage in an activity they want to do. It helps to phrase it in a positive manner like “As soon as you finish vacuuming the floor, you can get on Minecraft” instead of, “No screens until your chores are done.”

If your kids start the chore but get distracted along the way, consider using a whiteboard where they can list and check off their duties or even a visual reminder such as a picture of a clean bathroom. Break chores into smaller steps to allow you to check their progress more frequently to praise their work or help them redirect back to task.

Finally, consider reframing chores as family responsibilities where everyone pitches in to help the family. For older kids, try tying chores to life skills that fit their interests.

Does he or she love clothes? Then, it is important for them to learn how to do laundry properly. Reframing might not make duties fun, but sometimes a sense of meaningfulness can go a long way.

Find tips from other local experts on this topic at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/chores.

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Registration is free but participants are encouraged to raise money before the event, which is hosted by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Funds raised will be used to give blood cancer patients access to the best available treatments. Light the Night is an ideal way to give back as a family and enjoy a fitness activity together. Register and learn more at www.lightthenight.org/oklahoma.

Teens

New Local Activity Perfect for Teen Thrill-Seekers If your older kids are getting tired of mini golf and the movie theater, maybe it’s time to try a more off-beat activity: axe throwing.

Bad Axe Throwing recently opened at 1201 W. Reno and Melanie St-Amour, the company’s marketing and development coordinator, said kids as young as 10 can participate as long as they have the strength to throw the axe safely.

Axe throwing is a traditional backyard pastime in Canada and Bad Axe is a franchise looking to take the activity across the country.

Bad Axe Throwing provides a coach to teach the basics then throwers have the option to test out their skills and even compete with others. The facility offers specials for groups and parties and walk-ins are welcome, too. Find a schedule for walk-ins at www. badaxethrowing.com/walk-in-schedule.

New Study Urges Later School Start Time A recent RAND Corporation study found that if the nation were to push school start times to no earlier than 8:30 a.m., economic gains of $83 billion could be realized within a decade. The study cites several other benefits to starting school later, like improvements in academic performance, mental and physical health and public safety. We asked Beth Harrison, chief communications officer for Oklahoma City Public Schools, if the district had any plans to use this study in planning school start times in the future.

“We are aware of the research, and this is something we have looked into in the past,” she said. “At this time, we don’t have plans to adjust our start times, but it is something we may consider again in the future.”

Still, the district inadvertently accommodated a later start time for some campuses this school year when they shifted the start and end times of seven schools to eliminate some bus routes to save money. The district now has 10 schools starting at 7:35 a.m., 48 starting at 8:20 a.m. and these 12 beginning at 9:10 a.m.: Classen SAS, Capitol Hill ES, Cleveland ES, Horace Mann ES, Jefferson MS, Kaiser ES, Mark Twain ES, Rogers MS, Roosevelt MS, Taft MS, Webster MS and Westwood ES.

How Will Latest DACA Decisions Impact Oklahoma Students?

Alejandro Raigoza Munoz is studying at OSU-OKC to become an interpreter in the medical field, helping doctors and nurses better communicate with patients who speak Spanish. He hopes to one day earn his degree in elementary education so he can inspire the next generation of young Oklahomans.

Brisa Ledezma is a teacher at Santa Fe South Middle School, where she loves working with the community that once encouraged her to pursue her higher education dreams.

Joel Viad is a senior at Santa Fe South High School, excelling in basketball and making plans to attend college to study business.

This drive to succeed and support their communities is prevalent among the 800,000 DACA recipients nationwide, whose status in the United States became uncertain with US Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ announcement last month to rescind the DACA program.

DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, is an immigration policy that allows undocumented immigrants who came to the United States before the age of 16, most brought by their parents seeking a better life, the opportunity to register for college, enlist in the military, register for work permits and exemption from deportation. President Obama enacted the policy in 2012, which also allows recipients to get a driver’s license and pay taxes, though it does not offer a path to permanent citizenship and must be renewed.

Next month, we’ll kick off a three-part series on immigrants in Oklahoma City.

Until then, we have an article detailing some of the many ways these decisions regarding DACA will impact local students. Find it at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/daca.

MetroFamily’s Fall Fun Guide

metrofamilymagazine.com/fall-guide We know you love fall and all the family fun it brings. Check out this guide to some of the best things to enjoy during this wonderful time of year. You’ll find pumpkin patches, fall festivals, Halloween activities and more. Whatever you do and wherever you go, have fun this fall!

Chester’s Pumpkin Patch Sept. 30-Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon-Sat, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Sun Chester’s Party Barn & Farm 5201 Cimarron Rd. N.W., Piedmont Fall fun activities at this pumpkin patch include pony rides, a petting zoo, hayrides, barnyard games and a pumpkin cannon.

Children are $10, adults are $6 and admission is free for under 11 months and over 65.

Fall Family Wagon Rides and Cookouts Every Friday, Saturday & Sunday in Oct. & Nov. Choose either a 6:30 or 7:00 pm ride.

Honey Lee Ranch 7201 N. Douglas Blvd., Jones Enjoy a wagon ride to a remote site to roast hot dogs and make s’mores. Ages 12 and up are $12; ages 6-11 are $6; no charge for younger children who can ride in parents’ laps.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Pumpkinville Oct. 6-22, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily Myriad Botanical Gardens 301 W. Reno Ave. Pumpkinville is a celebration of pumpkins, harvest and all things fall. Thousands of pumpkins will fill the Children’s Garden along with crafts, games, imaginative displays, a party and more. Members & kids (2 & under), free; non-members, $6.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Drop-In Art Oct. 7, 14 & 21 from 1-4 p.m. and Oct. 28 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr. Try your hand at an art project for the whole family each Saturday throughout October. Drop-in art features projects like torn tissue paper selfies and abstract cat paintings. $12 adult admission, free admission for kids (military, senior and student discounts available).

Mummy Son Costume Party Saturday, Oct. 14, 5-8 p.m.

City of Edmond Parks and Recreation Department 2733 Marilyn Williams Dr. Boys ages 4-12 and their moms are invited to put on their costumes and come dance to the Monster Mash, Thriller, One Eyed Purple People Eater and more! Snack food, drinks, games and a costume contest included. $30/ couple & $10/each additional boy.

Haunt the Zoo October 21-22 & October 28-29, 2017 Oklahoma City Zoo 2000 Remington Pl. Due to extraordinary popularity over the last 30 years, the OKC Zoo is moving the event to daytime hours for two full weekends of spooky fun from 9 a.m.4 p.m. each day. Haunt the Zoo goers can explore the trick-or-treat trail and the Zoo at their own pace while costumed

kids collect candy from festive volunteers at 25 themed booths. It’s a Halloween adventure like no other. Trick-or-treat bags are $7 per person in addition to general admission. To learn more, visit www.okczoo.org.

Haunt the Harn Thursday, Oct. 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Harn Homestead Museum 1721 N. Lincoln Blvd.

This annual fall celebration features trick-ortreating, hayrides and plenty of fall festival games. $5 in advance, $7 at the door.

Westminster’s Fall Fest Friday, Oct. 27, 5-7 p.m.

Westminster Presbyterian Church 4400 N. Shartel Ave. This trunk-or-treat event features decorated trucks, treats, games, a costume walk and food. Festivities will be held indoors in the event of rain. Most activities are free; the costume walk is $5.

Servant Fall Fest Friday, Oct. 27, 6-8 p.m.

Church of the Servant 14343 N. MacArthur This trunk-or-treat event features a petting zoo, games, inflatables, balloon artists, face painting, cake walk and a hot dog dinner.

In case of rain, all activities will be moved indoors. Children should bring treat bags and come in costume (no scary costumes, please).

Guests are encouraged, but not required, to bring donations of diapers or wipes for Infant Crisis Services.

Bob Moore Subaru Howl-o-ween Adventure Saturday, Oct. 28, 4-8pm Big Water Grill 800 Riversport Dr.

Fall Fun Guide is sponsored by the OKC Zoo. Check out the BIG changes happening with their Haunt the Zoo event this year!

Bob Moore Subaru is hosting a free pet and child costume party to celebrate the launch of the Subaru Crosstrek. Trunk-orTreat, pumpkin painting, photos, food trucks and more.

Nichols Hills UMC Fall Festival Sunday, October 29, 5-7 p.m.

Nichols Hills United Methodist Church 1212 Bedford Dr. This Fall Festival includes everybody’s favorite autumn activities, including a chili cook-off, hayrides, games, s’mores and more.

Trunk-or-Treat Sunday, Oct. 29, 6-8:30pm New Covenant United Methodist Church 2700 S. Boulevard, Edmond Join in on a night of trick-or-treating and games at a safe and family-friendly event with free food, inflatables, music, and, of course, candy!

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

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MOM GETS THE LAST LAUGH

The Unwanted Fall Decor

ILLUSTRATION BY BR

I

have spent the entire summer dreaming of the day after Labor Day. That’s the selfimposed date I put upon myself for fall decorations. Fall is, like every other woman in the world (if Facebook is to be believed), my favorite time of year. I know that I say that with every season and every holiday, but I mean it this time (wink, wink).

So, I put up the garland on the mantle. It’s gold and orange and black with chalk lettering announcing “Yay Fall!” I pulled out the pumpkinshaped cookie jars. I donned the still-up Christmas tree. (My husband wouldn’t take it down, so it’s been up all year long, changing with the seasons. It works. Don’t judge.) Little resin pumpkins and acorns and owls can now be spotted all over every surface in our warm and welcoming autumn home.

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W.V ITTANY VIKLUND, WW

IKLUNDMADE.COM

Finally, I hung the front door wreaths. We have cottage doors, therefore, we have two wreaths that need to be hung. It’s like twin doors. If I see one cute wreath, I get two of them exactly the same.

I stood back from the doors, pulled my phone from my pocket and snapped a cute pic that was Instagram-worthy. I walked inside and immediately noticed something.

This thing, much like my twin doors and their wreaths, is never alone. Where there’s one, there’s two or three or seven or ninety-twohundred-zillion. They disappear around Easter time and reappear when I bring out the pumpkin spice scented candles. And, as I stood just inside my front door peering into full-of-orange-yellow-and-red living room. I spied the first one of the season. And my blood began to boil.

A sock.

Eventually, there would be others.

Socks.

There’s not a spray to keep them away.

There’s not a sticky strip to which they’d be attracted. There’s no sure-fire way to avoid having these lone, solitary, singular items of clothing not collect on my floor during the fall and into the winter.

I finished Instagraming my front-door picture, slipped the phone calmly back into my pocket then took a deep breath before bellowing my frustrations to the rest of my family.

“QUICK! EVERYONE COME HERE NOW!” From the recliners and bedrooms and bathrooms the other eight feet scurried to my side and peered into the living room.

“What? What’s wrong, Momma? What’s going on?” they all cried, their confusion clear in their voices.

I glanced down at their feet before speaking.

There were two still socked, two in tennis shoes (I can only hope there were socks underneath them), two in flip flops and two bare feet. Eight feet all total, not counting my feet, secure in the TOMS. There was no single, solitary socked foot.

I closed my eyes, composing my soul, willing myself to not let this be the moment my heart seizes and I go to that big, sock-less mansion in the sky. I stretched out my arm slowly and pointed to the single sock. “To whom does this sock belong?” I asked in my best Joan Crawford whisper.

“What sock, Mommy Dearest?” asked a deep masculine voice. Since we have no sons, I’m going to assume it was my husband being overly dramatic. I don’t know why he thinks that would be okay.

Of course, you all know this much about my story: Not one person in my household owned up to owning that sock. That one solitary sock, turned partly inside-out and left in the middle of my hardwood floors. I know that socks are made for feet, which are made for walking … but socks, on their own, don’t just walk to the middle of the floor and stop. This, however, is the exact truth my family expects me to believe.

“A single sock should never be left in the middle of any floor,” I announced before taking my miffed-self into the kitchen where I opened a jar of freshly canned pumpkin

and sniffed it, trying to find my happy place.

I heard my family silently shuffle from the living room back to their rooms and their shows and their internet and their homework.

I hoped that my little fit had taught them a lesson. I hoped that they knew that when they remove their socks, regardless of where they are at the time of removal, the floor was not the appropriate place to keep their socks. We have drawers for the clean socks and hampers for the dirty socks.

I recapped the jar of pumpkin and left the kitchen to look for that one pin (of eleventyhundred) of that one pumpkin dish I couldn’t wait to try.

What I saw in the living room floor brought tears to my eyes. Not one sock. Nope. I saw five socks.

My family isn’t going to think they’re so funny when the Great Pumpkin passes them by this year.

Heather Davis is a momma, a writer and hopes (kinda) that Fay Dunaway plays her in her biopic. You can reach her through her website at www.Heather-Davis.net.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

13

LOCAL FAMILY FUN

Playing to Learn

BY ERIN PAGE PHOTOS BY KIMERA BASORE

The importance of free outdoor play to child development Educator Krista Baker believes outdoor play is as vital to a child as learning to read and she’s not alone. After teaching in Putnam City Schools, Baker now homeschools her two daughters and two of her daily priorities for her kindergartner are reading and playing outside. With a focus on free play, Baker has noted her daughter’s growing creativity, calmer demeanor and enhanced confidence.

“Imaginative play is more vital for a child’s future than many parents and educators realize,” Baker said.

Baker left the teaching profession in part because she was dismayed by the focus on standardized testing and diminishing creative exploration allowed by educators.

She said the lack of spontaneity and openended play in early childhood can affect a child’s development. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)even links increases in depression and anxiety to a lack of unstructured playtime.

“In today’s world, our children are accustomed to manufactured toys with defined

purposes, television and film that present someone else’s imagination, computers that use other people’s programs and classes in dance or sports in which someone instructs them in what to do,” said Baker.

The AAP reports that when play is controlled by adults, like in organized sports, they lose the benefits of developing creativity, leadership and group skills. Melinda Miller, assistant director of the City of Oklahoma City’s Parks and Recreation Department, agrees when children are constantly told what to do and how to behave, their curiosity and sense of self can’t develop as fully as when they play freely.

“They aren’t given the opportunity to understand their own abilities or strengths,” said Miller. “Kids need to learn to explore and ask questions about nature.”

With a minor in reading instruction, Baker also has spent time leading the Metropolitan Library System’s reading program and a particular episode at an after-school program has stuck with her. While reading a story

about a little girl playing in the mud, Baker paused to engage the children by asking who had ever played in the mud to raise their hand. Not a single child did.

“It was shocking to me,” said Baker. “A lot of children have lost a sense of wonder. Giving children a chance to play in nature and get dirty helps them thrive.”

Effects of Diminishing Time Outdoors Coined by author Rich Louv, of “Last Child in the Woods,” the term Nature Deficit Disorder explains the issues associated with children spending less time outdoors.

Although the AAP declares children’s physical and mental health requires at least 60 minutes of unstructured, outdoor play daily, only six percent of kids ages 9 to 13 play outside on their own in a typical week.

Children’s time outdoors has decreased by half in the last 20 years, while the AAP reports 8-to-10-year-olds spend up to eight hours a day in front of a screen and some

teens spend nearly 11 hours on screen time.

Perhaps most alarming, the Dirt is Good global study found, on average, children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates, with inmates receiving at least two hours outside daily and children less than an hour.

“If you’ve been deprived of [experiences in nature] in your childhood, you’ve lost a window of time,” said Myriad Botanical Gardens Executive Director Maureen Heffernan. “Those impressions and experiences can set a seed in you that blooms later in life and lets you have a richer life.”

A 2006 study in the Journal of Children, Youth and Environments found one of the greatest implications for caring for the environment as an adult was participation in wild nature activities before age 11. In addition to an understanding of and empathy for the world around them, children who play outdoors regularly gain problem-solving skills, focus and self-discipline. Improvements in physical health and less tendency toward obesity, learning abilities, creativity and mental, psychological and emotional well-being were noted in a recent University of Essex study.

“A child’s entire cognitive self is stimulated by outdoor play,” said Miller. “Children’s behavior is improved significantly, as well as their sense of self, self-confidence and self-awareness. Engaging in play from 15 to 30 minutes can decrease anxiety, episodes of ADHD and severity of symptoms for Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

Although the importance of outdoor free play is widely recognized, Louv reports in his book that 30 percent of schoolaged children in the nation get less than 15 minutes of recess per day, while many schools have canceled recess altogether.

Patricia Hocker, retired from 40 years spent in education and administration in Oklahoma, said the pressures of testing and accountability are to blame for a reduction in recess in our state, but she knows from experience that outdoor free play is instrumental in a child’s development.

“Interaction with peers in an unstructured environment teaches children how to get along with others,” said Hocker. “Even organized recess games like kickball give them the opportunity to learn cooperation and teamwork.”

When Hocker was an administrator, her school started an outdoor classroom, complete with vegetable and butterfly gardens, that gave inner city children in particular an opportunity to connect with nature for the first time. As a current

supervisor for student teachers at the University of Central Oklahoma, Hocker is pleased to see more Oklahoma schools offering students an outdoor classroom, planting a garden or working with parents to start a community garden. She said while the teaching students she works with understand the benefit of free and outdoor play, they don’t know how, or if, they can implement it in the school day.

“There’s a real awareness of it,” said Hocker, “but it’s so hard because of the expectations for high academic achievement.”

Nature Play at Home Nearly four out of five parents believe children aren’t getting enough physical playtime, according to surveys by Playworks and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Because kids aren’t always getting it in their school day, parents may feel pressured to incorporate more play time at home, a charge that can feel daunting with everything on the schedule of a typical family.

Baker feels fortunate to have the freedom to incorporate outdoor play in her daughters’ educations and to have easy access to nature. While not every family has the same opportunities, she said parents can try simple things to incorporate outdoor play in their schedule.

“Don’t overwhelm yourself by attempting to become that family that goes camping every weekend,” said Baker. “Be realistic with your lifestyle and start small.”

Baker has a set schedule of outdoor time every week, making it routine for her family.

While dinner is cooking, her family enjoys a few minutes outside together. On Saturday mornings before chores and errands, they take a walk. Hocker said while the act of exercise itself is important, pointing out changes in nature or gathering items, like fallen leaves, to bring home and study together can extend learning for the whole family. Enjoying nature doesn’t always have to be active but can be as simple as looking up at the stars, watching the sun rise or set or reading outdoors.

For families without personal green spaces, the city of Oklahoma City is home to more than 160 parks. Heffernan said the Myriad Botanical Gardens offers both accessibility to the outdoors and to a diverse range of community members who might not otherwise interact.

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“We have a lot of families that have a tradition of walking together in the evenings,” said Heffernan. “Often people

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in modern society are so self-segregating by income or education or race, but the community really gathers here to meet other kinds of people.”

scheduling time outdoors, Miller said parents will see improvements in their own stress levels, not to mention cognitive benefits for their children.

Outdoor time provides relational benefits to parents and children. Although Baker multi-tasks throughout her day, her children know on their walks she is totally present with them. She incorporates learning and free outdoor play with her older daughter’s nature journal, where she draws or records what she sees in their back yard or on walks.

Nature Play in the Community

“She notices the smallest things,” said Baker. “She’ll find a berry on a bush, describe the color and shape, and then take me to see it. It’s a world of creativity that she wouldn’t be able to hone if she hadn’t had the opportunity to freely explore.”

While her daughters are playing, Baker often works in her garden, both because she enjoys it and she believes it’s important for children to see active examples of the behavior parents want them to emulate.

“If you make it a priority for yourself, your children will do the same,” said Baker. “We can help them build a healthy way of living that can carry them their entire lives.”

By the 1990s, the radius around the home where children were allowed to play on their own was only a ninth of what it had been 20 years prior, according to Louv. Parents today recall time spent unattended outdoors in their own childhoods but may not allow the same freedom to their children, with safety identified as the biggest barrier to children’s independent play. Oklahoma City programs and parks have recognized the need to provide safe spaces for outdoor play, as well as instruction and encouragement for parents who may need to relearn how to play like a child.

Inspiring unstructured play was a priority in the development of the Children’s Garden in the Myriad Botanical Gardens.

The playground equipment is unique and intentionally open-ended, encouraging imagination.

For families feeling too harried to add outdoor time into their routines, limiting extracurricular activities for parents and children alike can help. The Journal of Marriage and Family reports children’s discretionary time has declined 16 percent since 1981, and free time is spent more and more in structured activities.

The Myriad’s Crystal Bridge, home to 750 varieties of plants and two distinct climate zones, offers endless educational opportunities, as do year-round gardening and cooking classes for children. The Myriad’s skate rink opens Nov. 10 and curling programs for all levels will return for the holidays and an obstacle course on the great lawn will celebrate the 2018 Winter Olympics.

By keeping extracurriculars to a minimum, building in downtime, simplifying or

Another favorite metro-area park will reveal a remodeled visitor center late this year.

16 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Martin Nature Park is located between two ecosystems in Oklahoma—the cross timbers region to the east and the grass prairies to the east—and the new center will better explain why these regions are so important to the city and how people have impacted the ecosystem. The center’s popular native animals, like snakes, turtles and fish, will once again be on display.

The biggest takeaway for Baker’s girls was their enhanced environmentalism. Baker’s oldest daughter began to refer to their rose bushes as their “pets,” noting when they were thirsty.

“Children love to take care of things,” said Baker. “They learn if we don’t take care of Mother Earth, there are consequences.”

Hocker is encouraging a love of nature, too, through the Oklahoma Gardeners Association’s new set of classrooms throughout the metro. She uses the classrooms to teach children in kindergarten through middle school how nature impacts the world. The programs are offered free to schools, after-school programs and community or civic groups for children, providing take-home materials to teachers or program directors to incorporate in future lessons. The Association’s butterfly program is popular in the springtime and has even prompted some local schools to plant milkweed or create their own butterfly gardens so students can continue to watch nature at work.

Closing the Nature Deficit As Baker’s older daughter repeatedly passed a tree on their routine walks, she decided she wanted to learn how to climb it. She began to devise a plan for her climb, and when she conquered that tree, she moved on to another, building independence and confidence in her problem-solving abilities.

“We have more interpretive panels and hands-on displays for kids,” said Miller.

“Homeschool teachers and parents will love it because it now encompasses an entire social studies lesson.”

Hocker said it’s developmental benefits like these which children often don’t get elsewhere, that should drive educators, caregivers and parents alike to be bold about making free and outdoor play a priority, especially in early childhood. Miller agreed.

When the center opens, it will again host Saturday morning craft and story time for young children. Led nature hikes are ongoing, the nature-inspired playground remains open, and fall break camps will teach children about Oklahoma’s ecosystems and how to take care of the environment.

“Our children are hyper-scheduled, and they are constantly fed excitement or activity,” said Miller. “They become stressed because they don’t understand downtime and they don’t know how to entertain themselves or just be bored.”

Early childhood learning opportunities in nature are also offered through Tinkergarten, where young participants learn focus, self-control, self-reliance, problem-solving, imagination and empathy through playful activities. Children might make stone soup to feed to a tree, “paint” with ingredients found in nature or build dens for stuffed animals to hibernate.

“I’m a trained teacher but I still went into the class learning,” said Baker, a Tinkergarten facilitator. “I never would have thought to do something this simple with my children.”

Children are born with a strong impulse to play. When they are given the time and space to use their imaginations fully in free and outdoor play, their social, emotional and physical selves all benefit.

“They tend to be more harmonious and less aggressive, and they show a better understanding of other people,” said Baker.

“The more they are allowed to be absorbed in their play, the more fully and effectively they will later take their place in the community as adults.”

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

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October

Sun

Mon

Tue

1

2

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A Day Out with Thomas at the Oklahoma Railway Museum from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Tulsa State Fair all week

FREE Robotics Class at Sylvan of OKC at 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

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MetroFamily’s 2018 Cover Kids Search at Myriad Gardens from 1 – 5 p.m.

Painted Pumpkins Craft Class at the MAC at Mitch Park at 10 a.m.

FREE Fall Break Family Fun at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum at 10:30 a.m.

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DogFest Walk n’ Roll OKC at Earlywine Park from noon – 3 p.m.

Fall Break Drop-In Activities begin at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum from 10am – 2pm

Tiny Tuesdays at Oklahoma Museum of Art at 10 a.m.

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perfect for preschoolers

great for teens

FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art from 1 – 4 p.m.

FREE Art in the Park at Chitwood Park from 9:30 – 10:30am

FREE Brick-or-Treat in Bricktown from 4 –7 p.m.

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FREE Magic Lantern Celebration in the Paseo Arts District from 3 – 6:30 p.m.

FREE Halloween Toddler FREE Haunt the Hill On Dance & Costume Parade Calle Dos Cinco in the at the Southern Oaks Library Historic Capitol Hill District from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. from 5 – 7:30 p.m.

date night idea

fitness event

worth the drive

18 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Wed 4

5

OU Volleyball vs Texas Tech at OU Field House at 7 p.m.

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Thu

Fri

Sat

6

7

Full Moon Bike Ride and Run at Myriad Gardens at 7 p.m.

FREE EdFest at Edmond Farmer’s Market from 6 – 10 p.m.

FREE Saturdays for Kids: Dia de los Muertos at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum at 10 a.m.

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FREE Rhythm and Rhyme at the Yukon Community Center at 10:30 a.m.

FREE Sensory Night at Pumpkinville at Myriad Gardens at 6:30 p.m.

FREE Family Make + Take at Oklahoma Contemporary from 1 – 4pm

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FREE TLC (Touch, Learn, Create) Fall at Southwest Oklahoma City Library at 10 a.m.

FREE Screening of Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone at the Moore Library at 2 p.m.

Mustang Mummy & Son Masquerade Ball at Mustang Town Center from 7 – 9 p.m.

FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

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FREE Spike’s Spooktacular Fall Festival at Sam Noble Museum from 4 – 7 p.m.

FREE Fall Festival in Downtown Norman from 6 – 9 p.m.

FREE Trick or Treat City in Midwest City from 2 – 4:30 p.m.

Rock of Ages opens at Lyric’s Plaza Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

FREE Mall-O-Ween at Penn Square Mall from 6 – 8 p.m.

OKC Family Fun sponsored by

Find all these October events and hundreds more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar crestoneridge.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

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CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

THROUGH NOV 5

Chester’s Pumpkin Patch at Chester’s Party Barn & Farm (5201 Cimarron Rd, Piedmont) features unlimited pony rides, hayrides, 3-acre mystery maze, games, free pumpkin with admission and more. Annual memberships are available. Admission is $10 for children 1-10, $6 for ages 11-64.

Infants 11 months & younger and seniors ages 65 & older are free. Monday-Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 1-6pm. 373-1595, www.chesterspartybarn.com

OCT 2 • MONDAY FREE First Mondays for Kids at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) features complimentary admission for kids 17 years old and under on the first Monday of each month. General admission applies to guests 18 and older. Adults (18-64), $8; seniors (65+), $6; kids (17 & under), free.

10am-5pm. Also held: Nov. 6. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu FREE Read with a Ranger at Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features a story time, games, songs and a craft led by a National Park Ranger to learn about exploring and enjoying the great outdoors. 10-11am. 609-8860, www.nps.gov/okci

OCT 3 • TUESDAY FREE Robotics Class at Sylvan of Oklahoma City (9634 N May Ave) features fun, hands-on projects for kids to learn science and engineering concepts.

Preregister. 6:30-7:30pm. Also held: Nov. 7.

842-7323, www.sylvanlearning.com

OCT 3 & 4 FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at the Lego Store in Penn Square Mall (1901 NW Expressway) features a LEGO Robot model build. The mini model must be completely built in store. For ages 6-14. Preregister. 5pm.

840-9993, Stores.Lego.com

OCT 4 • WEDNESDAY Kings of Leon at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features their Walls Global tour and special guests Dawes. $33 & up.

7pm. 602-8700, www.chesapeakearena.com OU Volleyball vs Texas Tech University at the OU Field House (151 E Brooks St, Norman). Adults, $10-$15; youth & seniors, $8. For $5 tickets, visit soonersports.com/ promocode and enter FAMILY. 7pm. Also held: 10/7 vs Kansas, 10/22 vs Texas, 10/28 vs Baylor & 11/4 vs West Virginia. 3252424, www.soonersports.com

20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

FREE Tour of the Academy of Classical Christian Studies (1201 N Robinson Ave, Norman). Prospective parents can see the campus and learn more about the school’s programs. 9-10am. Also held at other campuses: Oct. 18 & 25; Norman campus, Nov. 1. 850-0633, www.theacademyok.org

OCT 5 • THURSDAY Edmond’s Art in Public Places Tour begins at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond) features a guided tour of the public art statues in Edmond. Learn the stories behind the works during a walking and driving tour throughout the city. $10. 10am1pm. Also held: Oct. 26. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com FREE Origami Tsunami at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond). Learn some new folding techniques and meet some new friends. For ages 9 & up. Preregister.

4-5:30pm. 341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org Full Moon Bike Ride and Run at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features timed runs and a leisurely hour ride. All ages welcome. Runs, 7pm; bike ride, 7:30pm.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

OCT 5-7 Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival at Cottonwood Flats (212 W Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie) features three days of live bluegrass music from acclaimed local and national artists and a kids tent with crafts, activities and youth music. $15 & up. Thursday, 10am-10pm; Friday, 11am-1am; Saturday, 10am-9pm. 282-4446, www.oibf.com

OCT 5-8 Oklahoma Regatta Festival in the Boathouse District (725 S Lincoln Blvd) celebrates rowing, kayaking, dragon boating and a family festival with a children’s area, fireworks, food trucks, a beer garden and a front row seat for all the racing. Free to attend. Thursday & Friday, 6-9pm; Saturday, 10am-10pm; Sunday 7am-5pm. 552-4040, www.riversportokc.org

OCT 6 • FRIDAY FREE Lilly the Mouse Open House at the Moore Library (225 S Howard Ave, Moore) features a come & go event for area first graders and their families with crafts, games, a photo booth and an appearance

by Lilly the Mouse. 5-6:30pm. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District (NW 30th & 17th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features local artists, special themed exhibits, refreshments, live music and food trucks. 6-10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com FREE EdFest at Edmond Farmer’s Market (25 W 3rd St, Edmond) features local beer and food, live music, kids activities and more.

A special kids’ zone will feature a jump house, face painting, games, character photos and more. EdFest benefits Edmond Mobile Meals.

Free to attend; kids’ zone wristband, $5. 3413411, www.edfestokc.com Camp Fired-UP! at Camp DaKaNi (3309 E Hefner Rd) features a 26-foot rock wall, face painting, inflatables, raffle, an outdoor movie and more. Benefits Camp Fire Heart of Oklahoma. Adults, $7; kids (5-12), $3.

6-10pm. 254-2065, www.campdakani.org

OCT 6-8 A Day Out With Thomas at the Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd) features a 25-minute ride on a train car pulled by a 15-ton replica of Thomas the

Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends™ series as well as storytelling, music, arts & crafts, miniature golf, model train layouts, inflatables and more. Friday, $16; Saturday & Sunday, $18; children (2 & under), free. Friday-Sunday, 8am-6pm. 424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

s’mores cookout. All the fixins are provided.

Preregister. No charge for five years and younger, sitting in a parent’s lap. 12 & up, $12; kids (6-11), $6. Friday-Sunday, 6 & 7 pm. Also held every Friday, Saturday & Sunday through November. 664-9666, www.honeyleeranchok.com

Sweet Repeats Children’s & Maternity Consignment Sale ( 10 W Main St, Yukon) features gently-used children’s, maternity & junior clothes, along with toys, shoes, books, bedding, and baby gear. Free to attend. Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday, 9am6pm; Sunday, noon-3pm. 532-4053, www. sweetrepeatsOK.com

OCT 6-22

Rock Island Arts Festival at Rock Island Depot (100 Chickasha Ave, Chickasha) features fine art displays, live music & entertainment as well as face painting, storytelling, crafts and inflatables.

Free to attend. Friday-Saturday, 10am9pm; Sunday, noon-4pm. 274-7547, www.rockislandartsfestival.org Fall Family Wagon Rides and Cookouts at Honey Lee Ranch (7201 N Douglas Blvd) features a wagon ride and hot dog &

Pumpkinville at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) is a celebration of pumpkins, harvest and all things fall. Thousands of pumpkins will fill the Children’s Garden along with crafts, games, imaginative displays, a party and more. Members & kids (2 & under), free; non-members, $6. 10am5pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

OCT 7 • SATURDAY FREE Fishing Days in Oklahoma City (various locations). The City of Oklahoma City offers free fishing on the first Saturday of each month. No city permit is required, however a State license is for anyone 16 and older. 297-1426, www.okc.gov

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Turn the Town Upside Down!

October 21 and 28 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Festive Halloween fun!

Kids are encouraged to come in costume.

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

Oklahoma Czech Festival at Yukon Czech Hall (205 N Czech Hall Rd, Yukon) features a parade, polka music, dancing, carnival rides, a petting zoo and a craft show as well as kolache pastries, klobasy sandwiches and a selection of Czech breads.

Free to attend. 8am-5pm. 206-8142, www.czechfestivaloklahoma.com Touch-a-Tractor Day at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western Ave) features a tractor show by P & K Equipment. Free with admission. 10am-9pm. 799-3276, www.orrfamilyfarm.com FREE Old Volks Show in Grahams parking lot (3700 W Reno Ave) features over 20 different classes of cars from the earliest makes and models and beyond as well as a live DJ playing music from the 60s & 70s and food trucks. 8am-4pm. 203-3821, www.vwclub.org OKC River Run at Wiley Post Park (2021 S Robinson Ave) features a chip-timed, USATF certified 5K/10K course along the picturesque Oklahoma River. Benefits Rett Syndrome research. $25-$35. 9-11am. 918-633-8097, www.RunSignUp.com/OKCRiverRun FREE Firehouse Coin Bank Workshop at Home Depot (various locations). Kids can build a cute coin bank with a fire station design. Preregister. 9am-noon. www.homedepot.com/workshops

$5 per person or FREE to members of Oklahoma Children’s Theatre and National Cowboy Museum

FREE Old Timers Day in downtown Jones (Main St, Jones) features a parade, cake & pie eating contests, live entertainment, hay bale throw and more.

Food trucks and craft vendors will be on site as well. 9am-midnight. 399-5301, www.townofjonescity.com FREE Old Settler’s Day in downtown Perkins (Main St, Perkins) features parade, vendor alley, kids zone, baking contest and auction, hot dog eating contest and live entertainment. 9am-2pm. 714-0171, www.perkinsok.net FREE Moore Arts and Crafts Festival at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features local vendors selling arts and crafts. 9am-3pm. 793-4332, www.cityofmoore.com/centralpark

1700 Northeast 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 (405) 478-2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org/kids

Industry Flea in Midtown (10th & Hudson Ave) features an open-air market with food trucks, live music and a variety of artisans and shops offering vintage clothing, furniture, art, locally-made food and more. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. www.industryflea.com

22 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

PBJ MOMs Fall Consignment Sale at Grace United Methodist Church (6316 N Tulsa Ave) features gently-used clothes, shoes, toys, books & more, sizes starting at newborn. $1 admission. 8am-2pm. www.facebook.com/Pbjmomsconsignment/ FREE Monarchs in the Park at Lions Park (SW 7th St & Madison Ave, Blanchard) features butterfly displays, education, art, face painting, bounce house, a butterfly plant & seed sale and the beautiful gardens teeming with many different butterflies during the fall migration. Dress as a butterfly, caterpillar or flower, and join the annual Parade of Butterflies. 9am-3pm. 227-7423 Market in the Park at Harrah Heritage Park (1374 N Church, Harrah) features vendors, a pumpkin patch and pumpkin painting for kids, kid zone, hay rides, bluegrass festival, 5K color run and BBQ cook-off. 9am-6pm.

454-2951, www.cityofharrah.com FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation. 10-11am. Also held: Oct. 21.

528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com FREE Saturdays for Kids: Dia de los Muertos at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features festive crafts including sugar skulls, paper flowers and face painting. Preregister. Designed for children ages 4-12. Free for children and accompanying adult. 10am-noon. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org FREE Super Saturdays at Douglass Mid-High School (900 N Martin Luther King Ave) features a district-wide professional development workshop for families who support the students in the Oklahoma City Public School district. Workshop includes a resource fair, educational workshops and student performances. Free childcare for ages 3-12 and lunch for those who register.

13 & up are encouraged to attend the college prep workshops 10am-2pm. www.okcps.org/SuperSaturdays Stockyards Stampede in Stockyards City (1305 S Agnew) features a full day of fun Western activities and entertainment including gunfight reenactment, kids zone, petting zoo, tours and more. Free to attend. 10am4pm. 235-7267, www.stockyardscity.org

Know a teen or young adult interested in learning more about

a career in technology?

Encourage them to register for the

STEM Retreat presented by Dell OKC Women in Action and Oklahoma Women in Technology (OKWIT)

Nov. 3, 8am-1pm at Devon Energy Registration deadline is Oct. 18.

This informative workshop is particularly geared for young women who are high school students (grades 9-12) or who have recently graduated from high school.

At the event, participants will: • LEARN about the breadth of career opportunities in the IT field • BE INSPIRED by the wide range of educational programs and IT training programs available in OKC • BE ENCOURAGED to join the IT workforce

Find more info and a registration form at www.OKWomenInTech.org

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

FREE Grand Opening of Sylvan of Edmond (3209 S Broadway Ave, Edmond) features hands-on activities, LEGO robots, refreshment, prizes, giveaways and more.

One lucky family will win a free robotics Course. Preregister by Oct. 6. 11am-1pm.

562-5202, www.sylvanlearning.com FREE Planes, Trains & Automobiles at the Pottawatomie County Oklahoma Museum & Historical Society (614 E Main St, Shawnee) features an air show, mini train rides, pony rides, petting zoo, historical illustrations and enactments, live music, classic cars, motorcycles and tractors. 8am-7pm. 275-8412, www.pottcountymuseum.org FREE Duct Tape Style Trick-or Treat Bag Craft at the Norman West Library (300 Norman Center Ct, Norman).

Learn how to create treat bags using duct tape. All materials provided. Preregister.

For ages 8-14. 2-4pm. 701-2644, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Things That Go Bump in the Night at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features a daytime presentation about the nighttime happenings of Oklahoma’s nocturnal creatures and why, for some animals, life is better when the lights are turned out. Preregister. For ages 6 & up. 3-3:45pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov Cool Autumn Nights Car Show in the Incredible Pizza parking lot (5833 NW Expressway) features fine automobiles and food. Free to attend. 3-9pm. 413-6501, www.okmustangclub.com FREE Lunar Moon Festival at Military Park (Classen & NW 24th St) features dragon dances and other traditional dance performances, food trucks, shopping and games. 4-10pm. 763-5904, www.facebook. com/Vietnamese-American-Community-ofOklahoma-1500183043608910/ Urban Camping at RIVERSPORT Adventures (725 S Lincoln Blvd) features classic camping favorites like stargazing and outdoor games, just steps away from modern conveniences including indoor restrooms.

Preregister. $10 per tent. Also held: Oct. 14.

7pm-8am. 552-4040, www.riversportokc.org OU Football vs Iowa State at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (1185 Asp Ave, Norman). Prices vary.

Also held: 10/28 vs Texas Tech. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com

24 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

OCT 7 & 8 Repticon Show at State Fair Park Hobbies, Arts & Crafts Building (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and raffles. Adults, $10; kids (5-12), $5; kids (under 5), free. Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 10am-4pm. 863-268-4273, www.repticon. com/oklahoma/oklahoma-city

OCT 7-15 Pumpkin Drive at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St). Bring a pumpkin larger than your head and receive free sameday admission to the Zoo. The donated pumpkins will be used to decorate the Haunt the Zoo trail. 9am-5pm. 424-3344, www.okczoo.org

OCT 8 • SUNDAY MetroFamily’s 2018 Cover Kids Search at Park House Event Center at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). MetroFamily is searching for local kids with big smiles and bright personalities to grace our 2018 covers! The first 100 entering families in the project will receive a swag bag and tickets to visit the Crystal Bridge that day along with many other perks. Late registration accepted until Oct. 5 at $25 per entry, not to exceed $50 per family.

Check website after Oct. 5 to find out if walk-in registration will be allowed. 1-5pm. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/cover-kids Archaeology Day at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features archaeological demonstrations, archaeologist-led tours and archaeo-scavenger hunts, sandbox excavations, arts and crafts and more. Free with admission. Adults, $8; kids (4-17), $5; kids (3 & under), free. 1-5pm.

325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu FREE Oklahoma is about…All That Jazz Performance at Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave) features a musical journey through Oklahoma’s jazz history, beginning with the deep deuce jazz era in Oklahoma City, through the Greenwood jazz scene in Tulsa, through today’s contemporary jazz era. 2-3pm. 631-4468, www.metrolibrary.org

OCT 9 • MONDAY Painted Pumpkins Craft Class at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond). Paint a pumpkin to take

SODA. SO DAMAGING to your HEALTH.

home to add to your Halloween decor.

For ages 2-5. $10. 10-11am. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com

OCT 9-14 Kids Consignment Sale at Yukon Shopping Hills (1093 S Cornwell, Yukon) features gently-used items for babies and children. Free to attend.

Monday-Friday, 8am-7pm; Saturday, 8am-4pm. www.kidsconsignmentsale.com

OCT 10 • TUESDAY FREE Open House at St. Mary’s Episcopal School (505 E Covell Rd, Edmond).

Experience the campus and get to know students, faculty, and staff. 8:30-10:30am.

341-9541 ext. 103, www.smesedmond.org

OCT 10-21 FREE Fall Break Family Fun at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum (1400 Classen Dr) features story time, crafts, movies and a community art project. Tuesday-Saturday, 10:30am. 235-4458, www.oklahomahof.com

Soda can contain the same amount of sugar as more than 3 donuts!

1 12-oz CAN =

10 PACKETS

OF SUGAR

OCT 11 • WEDNESDAY FREE Day of the Dead Calavera Craft at Almonte Library (2914 SW 59th St). Paint and decorate paper mache skulls in the style of the traditional sugar skulls used to celebrate the Day of the Dead. For ages 12 & up. 5-7pm. 606-3575, www.metrolibrary.org

OCT 12 • THURSDAY FREE Teen Read the Movie Book Club at the Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave) features pizza and a discussion of the book and movie Frankenstein. Best suited for ages 12-18. 4-6pm. 732-4828, www.metrolibrary.org

OCT 13 • FRIDAY FREE 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk in the Norman Arts District (downtown Norman) features a monthly celebration of the arts in Norman. 6-9pm. www.2ndfridaynorman.com Sensory Night at Pumpkinville at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a welcoming environment to experience the fall festival with no loud music and smaller crowds. Attendees can enjoy festive booths, crafts and activities. A light snack will be provided for registered participants.

Preregister, space is limited. Siblings welcome. Members, $10; non-members, $12; adults, free. 6:30-8:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

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SO BE DONE WITH SODA. CHOOSE HEALTHY, INSTEAD. HYDRATING

October is Pink Ribbon Bagel® Month During the month of October .25 cents of the sale of the Pink Ribbon Bagel will be donated to The Central and Western Oklahoma affiliate of Susan G. Komen®.

October 13th – 100% of the proceeds will be donated.

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more on the second Friday of the month. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org/live/ Home Free in Concert at Rose State College Hudiburg Chevrolet Center (6000 S Prosper Rd, Midwest City) features the all-vocal country group performing popular country hits. $27.50 & up. 8pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com

OCT 14 • SATURDAY FREE Dads & Donuts Story Time at the Southwest OKC Library (2201 SW 134th St) features stories, a craft and donuts. For ages 3-6 with a caregiver but all ages welcome. 10-11am. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Walk for Freedom OKC at Regatta Park (701 S Lincoln Blvd) features a walk to bring awareness to human trafficking. Free to attend; fundraising/donations encouraged.

10am. www.a21.org/oklahoma-city FREE See You Saturdays at GaylordPicken Museum (1400 Classen Dr) features a bounce house and themed experiences and learning opportunities for families to enjoy together including crafts and guided tours.

All ages welcome. 10am-5pm. 235-4485, www.oklahomahof.com FREE Family Make + Take at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing Blvd) features an art-making project inspired by works of art on view at the museum.

Projects are designed to be accessible and fun for visitors of all ages and all levels of art-making experience. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 1-4pm. 951-0000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org

“Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine this simple bagel concept – created in my Tulsa bakery-cafe – would grow to where it is today, educating the community on breast cancer and inspiring those who are fighting this disease. I’m extremely blessed to have survived to see the Pink

FREE Masquerade Trivia for Teens at the Bethany Library (7941 NW 23rd St, Bethany). Make masks and play Halloweenthemed trivia and other word games. Prizes will be awarded for the best mask and the trivia champion. Preregister. For ages 12 & up. 2-4pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Bigfoot, and Werewolves, and Chupacabras, Oh My! at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd).

Discover the most likely truth behind popular wildlife myths while studying the creature from the tale. Preregister. For ages 6 & up. 3-3:45pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov

Ribbon Bagel make such an impact over more than a decade.”

Sue Stees, c0-creator of the Pink Ribbon Bagel and 33 year breast cancer survivor.

26

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Mummy & Son Costume Party at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond) features a night of dancing, games, snacks and a costume contest. For ages 4-12.

Preregister by Oct. 6. $30 per couple, $10 each additional boy. 5-8pm. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com Oklahoma State Football vs Baylor University at Boone Pickens Stadium (700 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater). Prices vary.

Time TBA. Also held: 11/4 vs Oklahoma.

877-255-4678, www.okstate.com FREE Super Hero School at New World Comics (6219 N Meridian Ave) features a different amazing super hero each week and on occasion a villain or two as well.

10:30-noon. Also held: Oct. 28. 721-7634, www.facebook.com/newworldcomicsokc

OCT 15 • SUNDAY DogFest Walk n’ Roll OKC at Earlywine Park (3033 SW 119th St) features a family and dog-friendly walk benefiting Canine Companions for Independence. Activities include vendors, music and a short walk with your pooch. Free to attend; fundraising encouraged. Noon-3pm. www.cci.org FREE Harvest Hustle 5K at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park (8700 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features a non-competitive 5K run & walk for all fitness levels and an interactive wellness expo before the race. Expo begins at 1pm; run, 3pm. www.facebook.com/MWCmoving/

OCT 16-20 Fall Break Drop-in Activities at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features different make-&-take activities each day including tin can lanterns, bandannas and foil art, while supplies last. 10am2pm. Free with admission. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

OCT 17 • TUESDAY Tiny Tuesdays at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a monthly themed come-and-go, open-ended artmaking experiences are geared towards children, ages 5 and under, with a parent or caregiver. Dress for a mess! No advance registration is required. Free with admission.

10am-noon. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

Mummy Son Costume Party Put on your best costumes and come dance to the Monster Mash, Thriller, One Eyed Purple People Eater and more!

We will have snack food, drinks, games and a costume contest.

Saturday | October 14 | 5–8p Ages: 4–12 | Register by Fri., Oct. 6 Fee: $30/couple & $10/ea. add’l boy Location: MAC at Mitch Park Register Today!

EdmondParks.com

Follow us on

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

NEW COVENANT’S

OR

Painted Pumpkins Craft Class at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond). Paint a pumpkin to take home to add to your Halloween decor.

For ages 6-12. $10. 6-7:30pm. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com FREE Summer Songwriter Series at SandRidge Commons (123 Robert S Kerr Ave) features a monthly concert by popular local artists. Bring lawn chairs and/or blankets. 6-8pm. 235-7700, www.facebook.com/crowedunlevy

OCT 19 • THURSDAY FREE Screening of Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone at the Moore Library (225 S Howard, Moore). Enjoy the first movie in the Harry Potter series. 2-4pm. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Taste of Western at Will Rogers Theatre (4322 N Western Ave) features samples from local restaurants as well as wine and beer. Benefits the beautification of Western Avenue. 6-9pm. 293-3033, www.tasteofwestern.squarespace.com

FREE FAMILY EVENT FOOD, GAMES & FUN

SUNDAY | OCT. 29 6-8 PM

FREE Clue LIVE at the Warr Acres Library (5901 NW 63rd St). Put sleuthing skills to the test as participants explore different areas of the library to find evidence in this live game of Clue. For ages 12 & up.

6-8:30pm. 721-2616, www.metrolibrary.org Mysteries of the Overholser Mansion Tour at Henry Overholser Mansion (405 NW 15th St) features an after-hours tour of the mansion, the chance to examine archival materials and hear stories about the mansion. Preregister. $20. 7-9pm.

525-5325, www.okhistory.org

OCT 19 & 20 Fall Break Day Skate Sessions at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St) $6 admission includes skate rental. 1-4pm. 605-2758, www.skategalaxy.com

OCT 20 • FRIDAY

2700 S. Boulevard

Edmond, OK 73013 4 0 5 . 5 6 2 . 3 2 0 0

w w w. n e w c o v. t v

Pumpkin Chomp & Stomp at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St) features a Halloween-themed animal enrichment day. Zookeepers prepare fun food for the animals to enjoy. Free with admission. 10am-2pm. 425-0262, www.okczoo.org FREE Teen & Tween Quidditch at the Moore Public Library (225 S Howard Ave, Moore). Learn the basics of how to play the game the muggle way. Preregister.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Space is limited. Grades 3rd-5th; 3:304:30pm; 6th-12th, 5-6pm. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Light the Night Walk at Devon Boathouse (725 S Lincoln Blvd) features food, entertainment, illuminated lanterns and goodies. Free to attend; fundraising encouraged. Benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. 5-9pm. 415-7031, www.lightthenight.org/ok/ FREE Mix on Main Street Festival at Carriage Plaza (Main St between 24th Ave NW & Mercedes, Norman) features live music, food trucks and outdoor family fun activities including glow golf and more.

6-9pm. www.facebook.com/themaindistrict FREE Teddy Roosevelt Re-enactor Performance at Will Rogers Amphitheater (3400 NW 36th St). Learn about our 26th president and his role in the history of American conservation. Free with a Metropolitan Library card. 6:30-8pm 297-1429, www.okc.gov Family BINGO Night at Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon) features a night of games and prizes. All ages welcome. Concessions available for purchase. Preregister; space is limited.

Admission, $1; game books, 50 cents. 6:308:30pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov Mustang Mummy & Son Masquerade Ball at Mustang Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features a costume-themed dance for mothers and sons, ages 4 and up, including crafts, games and refreshments.

Preregister, space is limited. $7. 7-9pm.

376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org Trail of Fears at Little River Park (700 SW 4th St, Moore) features a haunted trail through the woods of Little River Park with terror lurking around each corner. Best suited for kids 12 and up. Children 11 or younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. $7.50.

8-11pm. 793-5090, www.cityofmoore.com FREE Filmography: Oklahoma Film Series at 21C Museum Hotel (900 W Main St) features classic art house films. October’s film is David Lynch’s Eraserhead. 8pm.

982-6900, www.21cmuseumhotels.com OU Soccer vs University of Kansas at the OU Soccer Complex (500 Imhoff Rd, Norman). $8-$10. For $5 tickets, visit soonersports.com/promocode and enter FAMILY. 7pm. Also held: 10/22 vs Kansas State. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com

OCT 20 & 21 Boo on Bell in Downtown Shawnee (Main St & Bell Ave, Shawnee) features Halloween fun including car show, live music, trick-or-treating, ghost tours, boo bingo, old fashion carnival with rides and games, pet costume contest, hayrides and more. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, 11am-10pm.

432-4131, www.seffshawnee.org All Night Skate at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St). Celebrate Fall Break with an all night stay at Skate Galaxy. $20. 8pm-8am.

605-2758, www.skategalaxy.com

OCT 20-22 An Affair of the Heart at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) is a threeday shopping event featuring art, clothing, antiques, collectibles, gourmet foods and more. Three-day pass, $8. Friday & Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 632-2652, www.anaffairoftheheart.com/okc/ Swan Lake at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features the hauntingly beautiful Tchaikovsky score and the muchloved tale of Odette. $15-$65. Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 2pm. 297-2264, www.okcballet.org Friends of the Norman Library Book Sale at the Norman Central Library (225 N Webster Ave) features used books from a variety of genres available for purchase.

Proceeds from the sale benefit the Norman Public Library. Friday, 6-9pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 1-5pm. 701-2600, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

OCT 21 • SATURDAY Walk for Wishes at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) features a walk, family carnival, food, music and more, benefiting the Make a Wish Foundation. Free to attend, fundraising is encouraged. 8:30am.

286-4000, www.oklahoma.wish.org FREE SportForward Adaptive Sports Camp at OU’s Sarkeys Fitness Center (1401 Asp Ave, Norman) features wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball and other games and activities for local children ages 5 to 16 living with physical and developmental disabilities. Preregister.

10am. 928-3959, www.sportforward.org FREE Fall Festival at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd,

Sulphur) features cultural and language demonstrations, traditional games, storytelling, food arbors and stomp dance demonstrations. Admission applies for the exhibit center. 10am-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation. 10-11am. 528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com FREE WANDERLUST Pop Up Shops at the Wheeler Ferris Wheel (1701 S Western Ave) features an outdoor market with artists, hand-crafted artisans, boutiques and local businesses offering repurposed, vintage and unique products. 10am-6pm. 810-6977, www.revolve-productions.com FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center (120 David L. Boren Blvd, Norman) features many weather-related organizations and activities including hourly weather balloon launches with local TV meteorologists, emergency response vehicle and equipment displays and weather-themed superheroes. Visitors also can tour the the National Weather Service forecast operation areas. 10am-2pm.

325-3095, www.nwf.nwc.ou.edu Turn the Town Upside Down at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features fantasy and imaginative, kid-friendly activities including sampling sarsaparilla in the Silver Dollar Saloon, visit the Fleming Mercantile for peppermint sticks and salt water taffy and more. Costumes encouraged. $5. Museum or Oklahoma Children’s Theatre’s members, free. 10am-2pm. Also held: Oct. 28. 4782250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Eats on 8th Food Truck Festival in Midtown (NW 8th & Harvey) features some of the finest gourmet foods in the Oklahoma City area and live entertainment. Free to attend. Noon-8pm. 234-7960, www.facebook. com/Eats-on-8th-Harvey-484846148346074/ FREE Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse at the Moore Library (225 S Howard Ave, Moore). Learn about how to prepare for and survive zombies, natural disasters and more with Gayland Kitch, Director of Emergency Management for the City of Moore. 2-3pm.

793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

Do you think you have conjunctivitis (pink eye)?

You and/or your child may be able to participate if you (or they): • have had pink eye symptoms (e.g. redness, watering/ discharge, or irritation) in at least one eye for no more than the past 3 days • are interested in taking part in a research study for up to 13 days • are willing to travel to the study center for appointments.

Qualified participants may receive the non-antibiotic investigational drug and study-related procedures and visits at no cost.

Health insurance is not required to participate.

To find out more, and to see if you qualify, call:

1-877-731-7352

www.PinkEyeResearchStudy.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

29

CTM_Alt Patient Color Print Ad [V01 USA]

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

OCT 21 & 22 Haunt the Zoo at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St) features photo opportunities, 21 fantasy-themed booths & trick-or-treating. Costumes encouraged.

Adults can dress up too but nothing too scary, please. Kids, $7; adults without candy bag, $4. Saturday & Sunday, 9am-4pm. Also held Oct. 28 & 29. 424-3344, www.okczoo.org

Make plans to join us at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame this October!

FREE story time, craft and activity. FREE FUN starts at 10:30 a.m.!

FREE Day of the Dead Ceramic Skulls at the Norman West Library (300 Norman Center Ct, Norman) Commemorate the Day of the Dead with a hand decorated ceramic skull. All materials will be provided.

Preregister. For ages 12 & up. 2-4pm.

701-2644, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Heard on Hurd Street Fest in Edmond (Broadway between 1st & Hurd, Edmond) features local food, unique shopping and live music. 6-10pm. www.citizensedmond.com/heardonhurd.htm Garden Monster Bash at Pumpkinville at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features ghoulish garden games, eerie entertainment and devilishly good treats, all more friendly than frightening. Costumes encouraged.

Preregister, space is limited. Members: $10 per person; non-members: $13 per person.

6-8pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

OCT 22 • SUNDAY

Spend Your Fall Break With Us! October 10 Wacky Weather Day 11 Under the Sea Day 12 Hoops Day 13 Favorite Famer Friday 14 Dinosaur Day 17 Space Day 18 Talk Like a Pirate Day 19 Super Hero Day 20 Jungle Day 21 Paint a Pumpkin Day Oklahoma Hall of Fame – Gaylord-Pickens Museum 1400 Classen Drive (N.W. 13th and Shartel) Oklahoma City, OK, 73106

OklahomaHoF.com (405) 235-4458

SHARE YOUR STORY! @OKLAHOMAHOF

FREE Family Day at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman).

Explore art in the museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, and enjoy a variety of hands-on art activities for the entire family. 1-4pm. 325-3272, www.ou.ed/fjjma Pooch Parade at Myriad Botancial Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features spooky music and a parade of pooches. Judges will present prizes to the best dressed pooch.

Preregister. Members, $10 per dog; nonmembers, $12 per dog. 2-3pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

OCT 23 • MONDAY FREE Art in the Park at Chitwood Park (712 W 1st St, Edmond) features natureinspired art making with natural items.

Preregister. For ages 2-12. 9:30-10:30am.

359-4630, www.edmondparks.com Paint Away Class at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond) features a basic social painting class for ages 13-17. $12. 1-3pm. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com

30 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Yukon’s Mummy & Son Masquerade at Jackie Cooper Gym (1024 E Main St, Yukon) features a fun evening of carnival games, costume contest, hot dogs, spooky music and lots of candy for boys ages 4-12 & their mummy. $4 in advance, $5 day of. 6-8pm.

350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov

OCT 24 • TUESDAY FREE Brick-or-Treat in Bricktown (Reno Ave & Mickey Mantle Dr). Trick or treat more than 40 Bricktown businesses and enjoy a FREE pumpkin-painting station and SNL Photo Booth. Oklahoma City Dodgers will be hosting a post trick-or-treat movie at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Trickor-treaters must be under 14 years old and in costume to receive candy. 4-7pm. 236-8666, www.downtownokc.com/brick-or-treat/ FREE Autumn Art & Science at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond).

Explore the science behind some of the exciting changes that unfold during Autumn.

Preregister. For ages 5-12. 6:30-7:30pm.

341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org Halloween at the Movies Kilgen Organ Performance at Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr). Organist Clark Wilson will provide musical accompaniment while attendees enjoy a screening of the silent horror film, Nosferatu (1922).

Members, $10; non-members, $20. 7-8:30pm.

522-0765, www.okhistory.org

OCT 25 • WEDNESDAY FREE Mall-O-Ween at Penn Square Mall (1900 NW Expressway) features indoor trick-or-treating at participating retailers that have an orange pumpkin in their windows.

Festive fall scenes will also be set up on the lower level in center court for families to grab photos. Costumes are welcome but only during event hours. 6-8pm. 841-2696, www.simon.com/mall/Penn-Square-Mall FREE Fall Festival of Treats at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (222 NW 15th St, OKC & 900 N Sooner Rd, Edmond) features trunk-or-treating, games, prizes & food.

6-8:30pm. 232-1371, www.stlukesokc.org

OCT 26 • THURSDAY Edmond’s Art in Public Places Tour begins at the MAC at Mitch Park (2733 Marilyn Williams, Edmond). Tour Edmond’s public art statues and learn about the stories behind the works. Preregister by phone, space is limited. Proceeds benefit the Edmond Visual Arts Commission and Edmond Parks and

Recreation Department. $10. 10am-1pm. 3594630, www.edmondparks.com FREE Little Jack-O-Lanterns’ Story Time at the Bethany Library (7941 NW 23rd St, Bethany) features not-too-scary stories, music, rhymes, a craft and a Halloween treat. Costumes optional.

Preregister. Best suited for ages 3-5. 1010:45am. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Spike’s Spooktacular Fall Festival at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman). Explore the galleries while hunting for prizes, snap a photo with props at the photo booth, get your face painted or create the perfect fall craft. Kid-friendly costumes are encouraged. 4-7pm. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu FREE Life-sized Candy Land at the Southwest OKC Library (2201 SW 134th St). Travel through the Gumdrop Mountains all the way to the Peppermint Forest. This is a come and go event for all ages. No registration required. Costumes are encouraged. 4:30-6pm. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

FREE Fall Bash at Spring Hill Suites (3201 W Memorial Rd) features trunk-ortreating and activities for kids as well as live music and an art show. 5:30-7pm. 749-1595, www.marriott.com/okcsh FREE Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Sooner Showcase at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman). Check out the 2017-18 Sooners and enjoy free snocones while supplies last. Kids under 12 can take part in a postgame shootaround. 7pm.

325-2424, www.soonersports.com Haunt the Harn at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features old fashion Halloween fun including trick-or-treating, face painting, pumpkin bowling, a cupcake walk, hayride and more. $5 in advance, $7 day of. Those accompanying trick-or-treaters do not have to pay. 6:30-8:30pm. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com FREE Spooky Stories at the Northwest Library (5600 NW 122nd St). Enjoy spooky stories around a “campfire.” For ages 12 & up.

606-3580, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Ping Pong Mania at The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a family-friendly evening of ping pong. Staff will be on hand offering tutorials of how to play. Best suited for ages 6 & up. Kids 6 & under must be accompanied by an adult. 7:30-9:30pm. 793-5090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com

OCT 26-28 Lord of the Flies at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 Blackwelder Ave) features a co-production between Oklahoma Children’s Theatre and TheatreUCO of the classic novel. Recommended for ages 12 & up. Adults, $15; students, $10. 6pm. 950-0011, www.oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

OCT 27 • FRIDAY FREE Fall Fest at Westminster Presbyterian Church (4400 N Shartel Ave) features trunkor-treat, games, half-mile costume walk and food. In the event of rain, activities will be held in the basement of the church. Costume walk, $5. 5-7pm. 524-2224, www.wpokc.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

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CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

Advancement Programs: Boy Scout Girl Scouts American Heritage Girls

www.okhistory.org/historycenter/scouts

Classes:

Home School Day Monday, Oct. 9 Southeastern Beadwork I class Saturday, November 18

www.okhistory.org/historycenter/classes

First Saturday – Hands on History November:

American Indian Month and Hispanic Heritage Month

December 9:

Join us for Deck the Halls www.okhistory.org/historycenter/classes

FREE Fall Festival at Crow’s Corral at Lake Thunderbird State Park (13101 Alameda Dr, Norman) features face painting, games with prizes, popcorn, cotton candy and other treats. 5:30-7pm. 360-3572

Road with Lucas Ross and Matt Denman as well as Canterbury Youth Voices, Moore choruses and Mustang High School Choir. $15-$60. 8-9pm. 232-7464, www.canterburyokc.com

Norman Mummy & Son Masquerade Ball at the Norman Recreation Center (1701 12th St NE, Norman) features a special night for sons ages 4-12 and their mummy to celebrate Halloween together. Preregister.

Tickets must be purchased in advance. $8.

Two dances: 6-7:30 p.m. and 8-9:30 p.m.

292-7275, www.normanfun.com

OCT 27 & 28

FREE Tractors & Treats at First Southern Baptist Church (6400 S Sooner Rd) features a treat trail for the whole family with candy, prizes and costumes. Costumes encouraged.

Activities with take place indoors. 732-1300, www.firstsouthern.tv Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Party at Unpluggits Paint & Play (575 Enterprise Dr, Edmond) features art activities plus face painting, Halloween games, prizes and crafts. Costumes encouraged. $7. 6-8pm. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com FREE Fall Festival in Downtown Norman (Main & Jones St, Norman) features trick-or-treating, games, activities, costume contest & prizes. 6-9pm. 366-8095, www.facebook.com/FallFestNorman/ FREE Fall Festival at Church of the Servant (14343 N MacArthur) features trunk-or-treat and carnival games outdoors.

Indoors, guests can enjoy inflatables, face painting, balloon animals, a cake walk, therapy dogs and a bake sale. Dress up encouraged, but no scary costumes, please.

Families are encouraged to bring donations of diapers or wipes for Infant Crisis Services.

In case of rain, activities will move indoors.

A hot dog dinner, cotton candy and popcorn will be available for minimal cost. 6-8pm.

721-4141, www.churchoftheservant.com Moore Mummy & Son Dance at The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a Halloween-themed dance for mothers & sons ages 4-14 with a haunted room and treats. Costumes encouraged. $10 in advance; $15 day of. 7-9pm. 793-5090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com Bluegrass and Blue Jeans at OCCC Performing Arts Center (7777 S May Ave) features Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe

Participate by contacting education@okhistory.org or

(405) 522-3602

education@okhistory.org 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr./OKC

32 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

FREE St. Elijah Food Festival & Bake Sale at St. Elijah Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church (15000 N May). Sample pastries, breads, cookies, cakes, pies and ethnic foods from around the world, made by the parishioners of St. Elijah, and tour the historical church. 10am8pm. 755-7804, www.facebook.com/ StElijahAnnualFoodFestival/ Edmond Historic Ghost Tours in downtown Edmond (various locations).

Enjoy some friendly haunted fun as you learn about the history of Edmond and take a tour of the downtown area where many founding fathers of the city lived and worked. Tour guides dressed in late 1800s and early 1900s period costumes will play the parts of deceased historical figures to bring them back to life. $7. 6-9pm. 715-1889, www.edmondhistoricpreservationtrust.com

OCT 27-29 Wizard World Comic Con at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) features live entertainment, gaming, exclusive Q&A sessions with top celebrities, movie screenings hosted by stars and director. $35 & up. Friday, 4-9pm; Saturday, 10am-7pm; Sunday, 10am-4pm.

310-648-8410, wizd.me/OklahomaCityPR Macabret: A Spooktacular Halloween Review at UCO Jazz Lab (100 E 5th St, Edmond) features some of your favorites songs about vampires, zombies and werewolves including Michael Jackson’s Thriller and Only the Good Die Young. Friday & Saturday, 6:30 & 9pm; Sunday, 5:30 & 8pm. $22.

974-3375, www.ucojazzlab.com

OCT 27-31 HallowMarine at the Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks) features an indoor trick-or-treat trail, games, inflatables, PeeWee Pirate Zone, treasure hunt and mermaid and pirate dive shows, plus all the exhibits are open. Kids are encouraged to wear costumes. Kids, $7; adults $10; 2 & under, free. 6:30-9pm. 918-296-3474, www.okaquarium.org

OCT 28 • SATURDAY Run the Boolevard at Orvis Risner Elementary School (2801 S Rankin St, Edmond) features a 5K race, kids’ fun run, bounce houses, food trucks, music and more.

Family-friendly costumes are encouraged.

Benefit school’s PTA. 5K, $30; kids’ fun run (12 & Under), $15. 8am. www.orpta.com FREE Oklahoma Toy, Diecast, & Comic Association Show at Crossroads Convention Center (7000 Plaza Mayor Blvd) features collectables for sale or trade as well as raffles, pizza and more. 9am-5pm. 481-1743, www.oktdc.com Turn the Town Upside Down at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features kid-friendly activities including sampling sarsaparilla in the Silver Dollar Saloon, visiting the Fleming Mercantile for peppermint sticks and salt water taffy and more. Costumes encouraged. $5.

Museum or Oklahoma Children’s Theatre’s members, free. 10am-2pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Trick ORR Treat at the Farm at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western Ave) features trick or treating, a costume contest, a screening of an outdoor movie and bonfires in addition to the farm’s attractions. Costumes encouraged.

Contest begins at 3pm. Free with admission. $11.50 & up. 10am-9pm.

799-3276, www.orrfamilyfarm.com

Scan this to visit us at edmondparks.com Follow us on

FREE Apple Pie Time Program at The Village Library (10307 N Penn). Kids practice following directions, measuring ingredients and putting together a delicious pie to take home and bake. Preregister, space is limited. Best suited for kids ages 5-12.

10-11am. 755-0710, www.metrolibrary.org Gypsy Glam Roadshow Fall Festival at Tony’s Tree Plantation (3801 S Post Rd) is a family-friendly festival with food trucks, face painting, clowns, balloons, games, photo stations for kids and pets, pumpkin decorating, animal rescues, pop-up shops, pet tags, trick-or-treating, make-&take art & pooch parade. Admission and parking free. Costumes encouraged for children and pets. 11am-3pm. 388-4665, www.oklahomagypsyglam.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

wednesday evening classes available

33

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

FREE Highway 3 Autumn Festival at the Rockwell Event Center (7250 N Expressway) features games, pop-up shops, live entertainment, food trucks, prizes, bake sale, silent auction and more. Benefits the Impact Women’s Outreach. 11am-4pm 367-4993, www.impactwomensoutreach.com Spook N’ Roll Halloween Party at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St) features a costumed skate, complete with a costume contest. $12. 7–midnight. 605-2758, www.skategalaxy.com FREE Paranormal Fest at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave). Learn about the paranormal with guest experts including the Oklahoma City Metaphysical School, local author Jeff Provine, Insight Paranormal Investigations and more. Noon-3pm.

231-8650, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Trick-or-Treat City at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park (8700 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features a Candy Village with candy and famous characters and a carnival with crafts, games, inflatables and more.

Carnival requires ticket purchases.

Costumes encouraged. 2-4:30pm. 739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org FREE Sugar Skull Craft at the Bethany Library (7941 NW 23rd St, Bethany).

Embellish a sugar skull with glitter, feathers, a hat and more. Preregister. All supplies provided. For ages 12 & up. 2-3pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Spooktacular Saturday at Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave) features Halloween activities including a costume contest. Costumes are encouraged.

Preregister. For ages 5-12. 2:30-4pm.

631-4468, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Nighttime is the Right Time for Scorpions at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn about these ancient arachnids—the scary and the fun—and find out how these secretive and mysterious animals make their way through the environment. Preregister. For ages 6 & up. 3-4pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov FREE Fall Festival in downtown Edmond (30 W First St, Edmond) features seasonal fun including games, crafts, activities and candy for children and families. Costumes are encouraged. 3:30-5:30pm 249-9391, www.downtownedmondok.com FREE Haunt the Library at the Moore Library (225 S Howard Ave, Moore) feature

34 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

an exhibit from SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology, crafts, snow cones, photo booth, games and more. All ages welcome, costumes encouraged. 4-7pm. 793-4347, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Haunt Old Town in Moore (Broadway Ave, Moore) features family fun activities including trick-or-treating, inflatables, games, music & candy. 4-7pm.

793-5000, www.cityofmoore.com FREE Howl-o-ween Adventure at Big Water Grill (800 Riversport Dr) features a pet and child costume party with trunk-ortreat, pumpkin painting, photo opportunities and food trucks. The event is free and open to the public, and trick-or-treaters. Leashed dogs welcome. 4-8pm. 605-1287 FREE Trunk-or-Treat in the Park at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) decorated vehicles and candy for kids in a safe & fun environment. Costumes encouraged. 5-7:30pm. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com FREE Halloween Carnival at St. James the Greater Catholic School (401 S McKinley Ave) features games, kid-friendly haunted house, refreshments and more. All ages welcome, free to attend. Some activities require a ticket purchase. 6-9pm. 636-6810, www.stjames-catholic.org Halloween on the Green at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St) features Halloween fun for the whole family including decorating sugar skulls, face paint and coloring. No registration required. All ages welcome. $5. 10am-2pm. 297-1392, www.okc.gov FREE Super Hero School at New World Comics (6219 N Meridian Ave) features a different amazing super hero each week and on occasion a villain or two as well. 10:30-noon. 721-7634, www.facebook.com/newworldcomicsokc Spooksville at the Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon) features costume contests for kids and pets, carnival games, clowns, magician and treats. Kids, $3; adults, free. 2-6pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov FREE Festifall at Southmoore Baptist Church (3801 S Broadway St, Moore) features a bouncy house, games with prizes and trick-or-treating. Costumes welcome.

6-8pm. 794-5491, www.southmoorebc.org

OCT 28 & 29 Haunt the Zoo at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St) features photo opportunities, 21 fantasy-themed booths & trick-or-treating. Costumes encouraged.

Adults can dress up too but nothing too scary, please. Zoo admission applies. Trick-ortreat bags: members, $6; non-members, $7.

Saturday & Sunday, 9am-4pm. 424-3344, www.okczoo.org Halloween Train at the Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd) features a Halloween train ride, moon bounce and miniature golf. Smiley O’Riley from Dental Depot will be handing out goodie bags to all of the children. Costumes encouraged.

Train rides: 13 & up, $15, kids (3-12), $5; kids (under 3), free. 9am-5pm. 424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org Oklahoma Bead & Jewelry Show at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features beads, beading supplies, pearls, silver, findings, chain, designer cabochons, fine minerals and more as well as teaching demonstrations. $6; kids (12 & under), free.

Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm.

504-265-8830, www.omgs-minerals.org

OCT 29 • SUNDAY FREE Day of the Dead Festival in the Plaza District (NW 16th St between Indiana Ave and Blackwelder Ave) features a parade, art, dancing, music, activities (for kids and adults), vendors, food trucks, group art show, annual La Catrina Procession and more. 1-7pm.

796-9424, www.plazadistrict.org FREE Open Streets OKC in South Oklahoma City (S Robinson Ave) features local food trucks and wellness ideas and activities. A portion of Robinson Ave will close to motorized traffic to encourage active transportation such as biking or walking to promote healthier residents.

Leashed pets welcome. 1-5pm. 419-4166, www.openstreetsokc.com Monster Dash 5K and Fun Run at Reaves Park (2501 Jenkins Ave, Norman) features a 5K, fun run nd costume contest benefiting the Junior League. Costumes encouraged. $10$30. 2-5pm. 795-7056, www.facebook.com/ JuniorLeagueNorman/

Edmond Shines Talent Show at Edmond North High School (215 W Danforth Rd, Edmond) features a talent competition benefiting Edmond Family Counseling. $10.

2-4pm. edmondshines.edmondfamily.org FREE Magic Lantern Celebration in the Paseo District (Paseo Ave between 27th St & N Walker and 30th St & N Dewey). Children of all ages are invited to come as they are and transform themselves with the help of local artists and join in on a costume parade on the labyrinth painted on the street. The Pumpkin Parade is at 5:45 p.m. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 3-6:30pm.

525-2688, www.thepaseo.com FREE Fall Festival at Nichols Hills United Methodist Church (1212 Bedford Dr, Nichols Hills) features a Chili Cook-off, hayrides, games, s’mores and more. 5-7pm. 842-1486, www.nicholshillsumc.org FREE Trunk-or-Treat at Crown Heights Christian Church (4020 N Western Ave) features truck-or-treating, a cake walk and bounces houses. Costumes encouraged.

For ages 11 & under. 5-6:30pm 528-5568, www.chccokc.org

GROWING STRONGER TOGETHER Say goodbye to being a patient and hello to getting back to being healthy.

That is exactly what LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA does. This free 12-week YMCA-funded program supports cancer survivors through small group physical activity and emotional support.

LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA works with survivors and their support partner to: • Build Strength

• Reduce Side Effects of Treatment

• Increase Endurance • Improve Energy Levels and Self-Esteem • Increase Flexibility

• Improve Quality of Life

By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA helps survivors move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body.

YMCAOKC.ORG/LIVESTRONG METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

35

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

THIS YEAR,

BE GREATER THAN My fear of math

FREE Trunk-or-Treat at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (10600 N Council Rd) features two inflatables, a cupcake walk, food and trunks to trick-or-treat. 5-7pm.

721-0590, www.stpaulsokc.com FREE Trunk-or-Treat at New Covenant United Methodist Church (2700 S Boulevard, Edmond) features a family-friendly evening with plenty of candy, decorated trunks, games, inflatables, music and free food.

Costumes encouraged. 6-8pm. 562-3200, www.newcov.tv FREE OU Day of the Dead Street Festival at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman) features carnival rides, food trucks, traditional dance performances, live concert, rafts, art items for purchase, face painting and more. 2-10pm. 325-3163, www.facebook.com/HASAOU/ FREE Trunk-or-Treat at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church (2717 W Hefner Rd) features hot dogs, inflatables, trickor-treating and more. All children must be accompanied by an adult. 5-6:30pm.

751-0755, www.mychapelhill.org FREE Trunk-or-Treat at St. Matthew United Methodist Church (300 N Air Depot Blvd, Midwest City) features trunk-ortreating, story time in the pumpkin patch and more. 5-7pm. 732-6831, www.stmatthew.org

As your child gears up to head back to school. Mathnasium is here to help set the stage for success!

Our unique teaching method is designed to strengthen math foundations, boost confidence, and ultimately, make math make sense.

Whether your child is ahead of the curve, performing at grade level, or falling behind, together, we can make this school year greater than last year!

Pre-K – 12

Call a Mathnasium near you TODAY! Central OKC: 405-225-1477 Edmond: 405-348-6284 Norman: 405-701-0700 North OKC: 405-412-8758 South OKC/Moore: 405-412-8758 Yukon: 405-324-4005 mathnasium.com

FREE Trunk-or-Treat at Lake Overholser Church of the Nazarene (3900 E Overholser Dr, Bethany) features candy as well as toy options for children with allergies, popcorn, inflatables, a cardboard maze, apple cider and more. 6-8pm. 789-0879, www.lakeonaz.org

OCT 30 • MONDAY FREE Halloween Toddler Dance & Costume Parade at the Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave) features an unstructured play time as toddlers and their caregivers dance along to kid-friendly and slightly spooky tunes. Costumes encouraged.

Preregister. For ages 5 & under. 10:3011:15am. 631-4468, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Pumpkin and Pajama Party at the Northwest Library (5600 NW 122nd St) features a story time with age appropriate stories, activities and seasonal songs. Bring your teddy bear or favorite stuffed animal. 6:30-7:30pm. 606-3580, www.metrolibrary.org

OCT 31 • TUESDAY FREE Halloween Story Time at the Moore Library (225 N Howard Ave) features

36 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

themed songs, stories, crafts, music and more. Costume welcome. 10-11am. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Trick-or-Treat at Northpark Mall (122nd & N May). Select stores will be handing out candy. Costumes welcome.

3-5pm. www.northparkokc.com FREE Fall Carnival at the Schilling Recreation Center (539 SE 25th St) features a variety of carnival games and treats.

3:30-5:30pm. 631-2466, www.okc.gov FREE Haunt the Hill On Calle Dos Cinco in the Historic Capitol Hill District (SW 25th St between Hudson & Robinson) features safe trick-or treating including business booths offering free games and goodies. 5-7:30pm. 632-0133, www.historiccapitolhill.com FREE Halloween Arts Spectacular at The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) features a Halloween-themed art-making time including drawing, painting, candy and treats. Costumes encouraged.

Children under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. 5:30-8:30pm. 793-5090, centralpark. cityofmoore.com FREE Trunk-or-Treat at Edmond First Baptist Church (1300 E 33rd St, Edmond) features a family-friendly night of fall fun including carnival games, decorated trunks and trunk-or-treating. Costumes encouraged but not required. 6-7:30pm. 341-0253, www.fbcedmond.org Halloween Bash at SKELETONS: Museum of Osteology (10301 South Sunnylane Rd) features a spooky, but not too spooky, adventure with scavenger hunts, Halloween-themed games, creepy crafts and trick or treating. $5. 6-9pm. 814-0006, www.museumofosteology.org FREE Trunk-or-Treat at Western Hills Fellowship Church of God, Int’l (11501 N Western Ave) features games, a cupcake walk, candy and more. 6-8pm. 749-1100, www.westernhillscogi.com

NOV 3 • FRIDAY FREE Women Who Wonder STEM Retreat at Devon Energy (333 W Sheridan Ave) is geared to students in grades 9-12 and young adults who have graduated high school. The keynote talks and breakout sessions focus on information and inspiration to encourage participants to start STEM careers. Sponsored by Oklahoma Women in Technology (OKWIT). Register by Oct 18. 8am-1pm. www.OKWomenInTech.org

FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo District (NW 30th & 17th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features local artists, special themed exhibits, refreshments, live music and food trucks. 6-10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com Night of Music at DC on Film Row (609 W Sheridan Ave) features a variety of musical performances by local artists including jazz, hip hop, rock, gospel and R&B. Proceeds will benefit Stop The Violence camps. $20. 7-10pm. 822-7844, www.stoptheviolenceok.com

features speakers Sarah Blount, Jess Connolly and Elaine Fisher as well as worship led by Aubrey Oaks and Anna Byrd. $39-$59. Friday, 6pm & Saturday, 8:30am. www.hisconference.com The Wonderful Music of Oz by the OKC Philharmonic at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) pays tribute to the story as told on Broadway (Wicked, The Wiz), in Hollywood (The Wizard of Oz, Return to Oz) and on the radio (Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Tin Man). $19 & up. 8pm. 297-2264, www.okcphil.org

NOV 3 & 4

NOV 5 • SUNDAY

Fall Craft Show at Southgate Baptist Church (740 SW 4th St, Moore) features over 50 vendors with unique items from home decor, crafts & jewelry and baked goods.

Free to attend. Friday, 1-8pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm. 794-6646, www.facebook.com/ events/111997982800187

OKC Philharmonic Discovery Family Series: Animals Abound! at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features a one-hour concert designed to entertain and educate youngsters ages 4 to 13 years.

Join the pre-concert fun at 1pm in the lobby featuring an Instrument Playground, Conductor’s Corner, performers meet & greet and more. $9. 2pm. 842-5387, www.okcphil.org

En+Pointe Conference at UCO Nigh Ballroom (744 E Main St, Edmond)

PJ Masks Live: Time to Be a Hero at Hudson Performance Hall (2820 N May Ave) is a super-heroic, brand new live show, featuring the heroic trio from the TV series: The PJ Masks. Children who have had their second birthday must have their own ticket. $36.75 & up. 3pm. www.pjmaskslive.com

Find even more local fall fun at metrofamilymagazine.com/

fall-fun

CHESTER’S 2017

PUMPKIN PATCH & 3-Acre Mystery Maze

September 30th thru November 5th 2017 Mon~Sat 9am-6pm Sun 1-6pm Regular Gate Admission: $10 Kids age 1-10, $6 ages 11-64, Ages 0-12 months & 65 and older FREE! Full Concession Stand Available, Indoor & Outdoor Seating We accept ~ Cash, Checks, Visa, Mastered, Discover

Includes Unlimited: •Hayride •Giant Slide •Petting Zoo (zoo food sold separately) •Pony Rides (under 75lbs.)

•Games •3-Acre Mystery Maze •One (1) Pumpkin (1 per paid guest, from designated area, while supplies last)

405-373-1595, 5201 Cimarron Road NW Piedmont, OK 73078 From NW Expressway: Exit North (at blue water tower) onto Cimarron Road.

We are 3.5 Miles North on Cimarron Road

Find Us on Facebook @ Chester’s Party Barn & Farm

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

37

WE MAKE YOUR SMART KID EVEN SMARTER! ©2017 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

WEEKLY EVENTS FREE Art Moves in Downtown Oklahoma City (various locations) features a wide range of artistic mediums including musical and theater performances, live art demonstrations, short film selections and more. Weekdays, noon-1pm. 270-4848, www.artscouncilokc.com FREE Art Adventures at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) for ages 3-5. Young artists are invited to experience art through books. Tuesdays, 10:30am.

325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Tuesday Night Classics at Harkins Theatre (150 E Reno Ave) features special presentations of classic films on the big screen. $5. Tuesdays, 7pm. 231-4747, www.harkinstheatres.com/TNC.aspx

ES

FOR AG

Give your child an academic advantage that lasts a lifetime!

SCHEDULE A PARENT ORIENTATION TODAY!

Kumon Math & Reading Centers of EDMOND - NORTH • 405-715-1111 775 W. Covell Rd., #150, Edmond, OK 73003 EDMOND - WEST • 405-216-9800 245 South Santa Fe Ave., Edmond, OK 73003 NORMAN • 405-364-1600 1320 N. Interstate Dr., Norman, OK 73072 OKLAHOMA CITY - NORTH • 405-752-2000 9300 N May Ave., Ste. 200, Oklahoma City, OK 73120 OKLAHOMA CITY - NORTHWEST • 405-721-7323 6220 Northwest Expy., Oklahoma City, OK 73132 OKLAHOMA CITY - SOUTH • 405-691-8900 10600 S. Pennsylvania Ave., #5, Oklahoma City, OK 73120 YUKON - SOUTH • 405-265-0075 501 S. Mustang Rd., Yukon, OK 73099

kumon.com

Storytime Science at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd St) features a story and corresponding hands-on science activity in various locations throughout the museum.

Best suited for kids ages 6 & under. Free with admission. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30am.

602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org FREE Mother Goose Story Time at the Mustang Public Library (1201 N Mustang Rd) features singing, dancing, finger plays and more. For ages 2 & under with a parent or guardian. Wednesdays, 10-10:45am & 11-11:45am. 376-2226, www.mustanglibrary.org/library FREE Reading Wednesdays Story Time at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a nature-themed story time and craft activity. Best suited for ages 2-5.

Walkups welcome. Wednesdays, 10-11am.

445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Early Explorers at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features come & go, hands-on science activities for kids ages 6 & under. No registration required. Free with admission.

Wednesdays, 10-11am. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org FREE Wide-Open Wednesdays at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features complimentary admission to the public, courtesy of the Oklahoma Ford Dealers.

Wednesdays, 10am-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org FREE Western Movie Matinees at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features a screening of titles recently recognized by the Museum with prestigious Western Heritage Awards including Cimarron

38 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.

Wednesdays, 1pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Toddler Story & Craft Time at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise Dr Ste 110) features a short story time and age appropriate craft with lots of gluing and coloring. Free with admission.

Wednesdsays & Thursdays, 11-11:30am.

340-7584, www.unpluggits.com FREE Whole Kids Club Story Time at Whole Foods Café (6001 N Western Ave) features stories, music, rhymes, puppet plays, crafts and snacks. Best suited for ages 5 & under. Thursdays, 10-11am. 879-3500, www.wholefoodsmarket.com FREE Rhythm and Rhyme at Yukon Community Center (2200 S Holly Ave, Yukon) features dancing and singing to develop literacy and motor and verbal skills.

Best suited to ages 4 & under with a parent or guardian. Thursdays, 10:30am. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov Family Skate Night at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St). Admission includes basic skate rental. (Family package coupon available at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/coupons). $6. Thursdays, 7-10pm; Sundays, 6-8pm. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com FREE Family Story Time at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond).

Pajamas welcome. Preregister, best suited for families with kids ages 1-5 years old.

Thursdays, 6:30-7:15pm. 341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Children’s Story Time at Full Circle Books (1900 NW Expressway).

Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, www.fullcirclebooks.com FREE Storytime with Mr. Steve at Barnes and Noble (540 Ed Noble Parkway, Norman) features an extremely silly story time followed by a coloring activity. Saturdays, 11am. 579-8800.

Drop-In Art at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) is an art-making session open to all ages and skill levels. Free with admission. 1pm-4pm on Saturdays (extended session from 11am-4pm Oct. 28).

236-3100, www.okcmoa.com FREE Tango for Teens at Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave). Learn the fundamentals of technique and social etiquette of the national dance of Argentina, Argentine Tango. Preregister. For ages 12 & up. Saturdays, 4:30-5:45pm. 631-4468, www.metrolibrary.org

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

ONGOING EVENTS THROUGH OCT 22 We the People: A Portrait of Early Oklahoma at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features diverse and vibrant communities of central Oklahoma through the photography studio of Henry M. Wantland.

Adults, $12.50; kids (6-12), $5.75; kids (5 & under). Free. Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

THROUGH OCT 29 Bodies Revealed at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd St) allows visitors to get an up-close look inside the skeletal, muscular, reproductive, respiratory, circulatory and other life-sustaining systems of the human body. Museum admission plus exhibit: adults, $25.95; kids (3-12), $18.95.

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am6pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

THROUGH NOV 12 Women’s Point of View at Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (190 W MacArthur, Shawnee) focuses on the female perspective in a Muslim and male-dominated society through photographs and other projects of several female students at Dar Al-Hekma University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Adults, $5; kids (6-17), $3; kids (5 & under), free.

Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, 1-4pm. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org

THROUGH NOV 25 Hidden Messages at Gaylord-Pickens Museum (1400 Classen Dr) investigates identity and place through ceramics and mixed media. Marilyn Artus’ work consists of things that were meant to only be enjoyed or used for a short time and then discarded.

An avid maker of objects, Amy Sanders is dedicated to handmade, functional objects that have an ability to draw in a viewer and create a moment of connection. Adults, $7; kids (6-17), $5; kids (5 & under), free.

Tuesday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 10am5pm. 235-4458, www.oklahomahof.com

THROUGH NOV 30 FREE Not for Sale: Graffiti Culture in Oklahoma at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing Blvd) features ten artists who have been an integral part of the Oklahoma graffiti scene. Artists will paint their pieces directly on the walls

of the gallery, transforming Oklahoma Contemporary into an amazing display of styles. Monday-Thursday, 9am-10pm; Friday & Saturday, 9am-5pm. 951-0000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org

THROUGH DEC 30 Mythical Menagerie at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features a comprehensive exhibition of the original models, prototypes, bronzes, sketches and storyboards of the fantasy films of stopmotion animation pioneer Ray Harryhausen.

Free with admission. Adults, $15.95; kids (3-12), $12.95; kids (2 & under), free.

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org

THROUGH APRIL 1 Cartoons & Comics: The Early Art of Tom Ryan at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features the cartoonist’s original characters Dan the Cop and Joe Campion, Jr. in small drawings that provide a snapshot of Ryan’s high school and Coast Guard years. Adults, $12.50; kids, (6-12), $5.75; kids (5 & under), free. Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

OCT 5-JAN 7 Cowboy Crossings at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) showcases the best of saddlemaking, bit and spur making, silversmithing, and rawhide braiding, while celebrating the west through painting, drawing and sculpture.

Adults, $12.50; kids (6-12), $5.75; kids (5 & under). Free. Monday-Saturday, 10am5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

OCT 6-DEC 30 FREE Distinguished Visiting Artist: Robert Taylor at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm Ave, Norman) features figures from Native American life at the end of the reservation era, around the turn of the twentieth century. Tuesday-Saturday, 10am5pm; Thursday, until 9pm; Sunday, 1-5pm.

325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma This is just a sampling of the current museum exhibits that can be found around town.

Discover more at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/museums.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

39

A Day in the Life of

Amber Sharples SUBMITTED BY AMBER SHARPLES, EDITED BY HANNAH SCHMITT PHOTOS BY KIMERA BASORE

A

mber Sharples is executive director for the Oklahoma Arts Council, the state agency that leads in the support and development of the arts. Sharples has been with the Council for more than a decade. She has been in her current position for four years. Sharples lives in Oklahoma City with her son, Asher.

6:00 a.m. Alarms go off on both my watch and my phone. I am a deep sleeper, always have been, and I am definitely not a morning person. So, it’s imperative that I have multiple alarms set at 15-minute intervals. By the second alarm (okay, maybe the third) I am up and around. I check my phone for news and updates involving matters at the State Capitol.

6:30 a.m. I wake my 6-year-old son Asher and head to the kitchen to make breakfast. First things first, I immediately boil water for my French press coffee. I hate to admit it but I drink a lot of coffee in the morning.

6:45 a.m. Asher and I eat breakfast and then he heads upstairs to get dressed. I think about our evening activities. He will have soccer, piano and/or Boy Scouts and I may have a work-related event or a flamenco dance class. Whatever the evening activities include, morning is the time to prepare for clothing changes and snacks.

7:00 a.m. I turn on “CBS This Morning.” I am a huge fan of Nora O’Donnell, Gayle King and Charlie Rose. I try to catch 15 minutes of national news while sipping my coffee.

7:15 a.m. Time to check on Asher and make sure he is getting

dressed. Then, it is time for me to hit the shower and run through a mental checklist of the day’s activities for the two of us. If it is legislative session, my wardrobe is a suit. That tends to be my go-to uniform, although I enjoy accessorizing with splashes of color and handmade, artisan jewelry. I’m a big fan of Erin Merryweather’s jewelry right now. She is a close friend and fellow Oklahoman.

7:45 a.m. I leave the house to drop off Asher at school. Asher’s school (Wilson Arts Integration Elementary School) is an exemplary public elementary arts integration school. Not only are the arts integrated into all areas of instruction to enhance learning of all subjects, stand-alone and core arts education classes ranging from dance, drama, visual arts and music are offered. I strive and work each day so that every Oklahoma student has this same depth of arts integration and arts education as part of their formation.

8:00 a.m. I make it home from dropping off my son, and regroup and finish getting ready, then head to the office.

8:30 a.m. I make it to the office and join our fabulous team. I

consider it an honor to work with such dedicated, purpose-driven experts in the arts. We are a small but mighty team that is passionate

40 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

about supporting and developing our state’s arts industry. Our grant-making is a public good, so we strive to ensure that all Oklahomans have access to the many benefits of the arts and arts education.

9:00 a.m. I meet with my assistant,

Connie Taylor. Connie used to live in Durant where she worked in the arts in a rural part of our state. She understands our agency’s impact in those areas. She plays an indispensable role, keeping both the office and my schedule organized. She gives me a short overview of any major meetings or pressing issues that need to be addressed.

9:15 a.m. Off to the Capitol to meet with

several legislators who are sponsoring the recognition of veterans who participated in our recent pilot arts program at the Norman Veterans Center. The program is part of our agency’s Oklahoma Arts and the Military Initiative. We are really proud that the veterans’ artwork— creative writing, visual arts and photography—is being exhibited in the Governor’s Gallery on the second floor of the Capitol. It is a special opportunity to give back to these men and women who served our nation. Through the program, the arts are used as transformative tools for improving the health, well-being and quality of life of our veterans.

11:00 a.m. Back to the office for one of

our grant panels. Residents from across the state and nation provide their expertise in reviewing hundreds of grant applications that we receive each year. Panelist insight is vital to a transparent and rigorous process for how our funding is invested. Time to listen to panel comments and feedback before heading to lunch. Our agency’s grants ensure individuals statewide have access to the arts. A majority of the agency’s budget is invested directly in to Oklahoma communities in the form of grants and more than 40 percent of the agency’s grant funding supports arts and arts education programming in rural areas.

12:30 p.m. Meeting with Sandy Kent, executive director of Oklahoma A+ Schools, over lunch to talk about how we can work together to strengthen arts integration and arts education policy in our state. It is great to have such wonderful colleagues in Oklahoma working to strengthen education and the arts in schools across our state.

2:00 p.m. Time to head to the Capitol again to meet with architects, construction teams, designers and other partners on the Capitol restoration project. The Oklahoma Arts Council serves as collections manager for the Capitol, so I join our director of visual arts and Capitol collections, Alan Atkinson, as we discuss how to protect the artwork. Preserving the priceless works of art at the Capitol, art that belongs to the people of Oklahoma, requires expertise, especially in the harsh environment created by ongoing renovation and construction.

Spike’s Spooktacular

Oct. 26

4:00 p.m. Time to catch up on email and voicemail at the office. I meet with my leadership team and/or staff on any projects or issues that arise.

5:30 p.m. It is time to head out for any

evening arts events, and I swing by and pick up Asher. If we don’t have an activity or event, we head home and start to tackle dinner and homework.

6:00 p.m. I make dinner most nights during the week. Asher plays outside or with our two dogs, Maya and Walter, while I prepare dinner. Sometimes, Asher wants to help me out in the kitchen as well. We are bold and adventurous eaters and we try all kinds of food. I am thankful that Asher is not afraid to try new things!

Explore Evolution

Sept. 23 – Dec. 31

7:00 p.m. After dinner, we tackle homework and prepare for weekly spelling tests.

8:30 p.m. This is when Asher and I start the bedtime routine. Our routine is simple: change into pajamas, brush our teeth and snuggle into bed. Then, I ask Asher every night what he is grateful for and we give thanks for the day and for our blessings. We read books for 15-20 minutes until Asher is out.

9:00 p.m. Tidy up the kitchen, start the

dishwasher, and either try to read a book or I try to squeeze in a little of whatever series I am watching on Netflix. I’m about an 80 percent Spanish speaker from living in Spain and Mexico so I like a mix of Spanish and English shows. Some of my favorites are “House of Cards,” “Velvet,” “El tiempo entre costuras” (The Time in Between) and “Mar de plástico” (Plastic Sea).

11:00 p.m. This is when I make it to bed, say my own thanks for the day and try to get some rest.

Spike’s Club

Fall 2017

2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman, OK 73072-7029 (405) 325-4712 | samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

Special exhibits sponsored by METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

41

The University of Oklahoma is an equal oppor tunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo. For accommodations on the basis of disability, please call (405) 325-4712.

ANTHONY BARRINGTON. PHOTO BY MARK DOESCHER.

Real Kids of the Metro

BY ERIN PAGE

Two years ago, Anthony Barrington was a typical junior at Putnam City North High School. He’d been playing the trumpet since age 8, and while he enjoyed being a member of his high school band and marching band, he’d never considered turning his part-time passion into a full-time career. When Anthony started contemplating his future beyond high school, he realized he wanted his love of music to lead his life. Exchanging his traditional school for an online school that would accommodate practicing trumpet for at least five hours a day, Anthony landed auditions at schools in Atlanta, Houston, California and his dream school of Juilliard in New York City. Dream turned reality, Anthony, now 19, officially calls himself a Juilliard student.

42 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

When did you know you wanted to pursue playing the trumpet professionally?

I didn’t really ever have any ambition to play or practice the trumpet until two years ago.

I was playing in different ensembles and groups and I just fell in love with playing and making music. I thought I’d try to make it to a university or college but I thought Juilliard was a stretch.

How difficult was it to balance practicing with school?

I had a really enjoyable experience at Putnam City North. I loved being part of the band and marching band program. During my junior year, I was trying to practice more and more. I had marching band before and after school but I didn’t have any time for myself to work on the craft that I really wanted to do. I made a decision last summer to attend Oklahoma Connections Academy [an online school] my senior year. I could make time to practice and go different places to audition, which I really enjoyed.

So your senior year looked a lot different than a traditional student?

I had the freedom to wake up and start practicing early in the morning. I like to start my day working on what I want to do and planning my day and year out. The least amount of practice time every day was four hours, and after all that was said and done, I could focus on my school work. I had that focused practice time and mental preparation earlier in the year, knowing I had to prepare to go to New York City and California and all the places I auditioned.

It was great for me when I traveled because I could do my schooling on the road and I didn’t have to worry about missing a few days of school or getting caught up. It also allowed me to go to trumpet competitions throughout the year. I got to work on what I wanted to, better myself and still receive my high school diploma.

How does your passion for music inspire you to give back to others?

My Dad works with the Salvation Army and every summer they hold a music camp in Tahlequah. The camp is designed for underprivileged kids to learn music and how to be leaders in society. We have a lot of kids who come who are homeless and from broken families. They learn to have a passion for making music and helping others. I’ve been able to be an instructor to these kids and I’ve really loved it.

What was your Juilliard audition like?

It was a little crazy. There are people who’ve come from all over the world to try to make it. The day of auditions I was in line and the kid in front of me was from Hong Kong.

They have you line up outside the room, and you can hear everybody who goes in before you. I went in and the trumpet instructors are in there, and they did a weird thing where they made me face toward the window and the New York City skyline. The city drew me in, and I knew that being there was right for me.

How did you feel when you found out you’d been accepted to Juilliard?

I was sort of amazed. I didn’t really plan on making Juilliard but just wanted the experience of going to New York City and auditioning. Honestly, I had planned on staying in Oklahoma City and studying here. I was actually at a national trumpet competition in Colorado and my Dad and I were at a taco joint. I checked my email and saw that I’d been accepted. We both cried.

Being able to study at Juilliard with really legendary teachers is a dream come true.

These are musicians that I’ve looked up to and I’ll get to meet them and hopefully work with them. I’m just really happy to have this opportunity. I believe this is a gift from God and I have a lot of people to be thankful for to get to do this.

Who has inspired you most along your journey?

My family has always been there for me and always has my best interests at heart.

My Dad went with me to all my auditions and has supported me my whole life, musically and as a father. I would not be the musician or person today without Michael Anderson, my trumpet teacher at Oklahoma City University. He’s molded me to be a different person and I wouldn’t have gotten to Juilliard without him.

What’s after Juilliard for you?

I have always dreamed of playing in a big orchestra, like the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or the Los Angeles Philharmonic. As a student, I can take these big auditions for major orchestras just to experience them. If I win something, of course I’d take it, but if I don’t, I can stay and keep studying to get additional degrees.

What one word best describes you?

Blessed.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

43

EXPLORING OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN

Plan a Family Campout 5 Tips from Local Pros

BY LINDSAY CUOMO

Study after study reveals a connection to how nature impacts social, emotional and physical well-being. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics considers unstructured, outdoor free play time to be essential for children’s mental and physical health. But, busy lives often get in the way. Between school, homework and other commitments, kids often have as busy a schedule as adults.

If your family is in need of a healthy dose of the outdoors, camping just might be the right prescription. Fresh air, beautiful scenery and a slower pace await you.

“Camping gives families that unscripted, unstructured time they need and a disconnection from our digital world to engage directly with our primitive world,” said Kyle Thoreson, park ranger at Osage Hills State Park.

Here are five pro tips for camping with kids to help make sure your outdoor endeavors reap the plentiful benefits.

Preparation is vital.

Preparation is extremely important when camping with kids. Taking on too much right off the bat just might sideline your family’s future camping excursions. For those who are completely new to camping or have young

44 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

kids, a great place to start might be in your own backyard.

“Backyard camping takes very little preparation and money and helps you work out some of the kinks and learn about your equipment,” explained Thoreson.

You might even consider a trial run and spend the day at a park nearby to see how your family reacts to the experience, taking notes about what you learn and what you need for future trips. Be sure to involve the kids as much as possible in the preparations and activity planning to build their sense of adventure, suggests Emily Hiatt, naturalist at Martin Park Nature Center. The more they are involved in the process the more they will want to go again, she said.

“I like to see the experience through kids’ eyes,” Thoreson said. “I let my daughter pack a bag with whatever she wants. I don’t even look in there. She puts together some comfort items on her own that will help her feel at home.”

Realistic expectations also are important.

Consider what your family can and will enjoy. For example, if you have a toddler in your group, a long hike isn’t likely to turn out well.

“Know your children, and their attention spans. Younger children are usually the most happy when they are given plenty of free play. Often just being outdoors is all the entertainment they need,” said Nick Conner, park manager of Osage Hills State Park. “As our children get older, they enjoy

more structured activities, but don’t neglect free play time for them and yourselves.

We all could use some time at a creek skipping stones or chasing grasshoppers and butterflies.”

Educate yourselves before you go.

Safety must be a top priority. Nothing will turn a campout upside down quicker than an accident.

“Learn about the local flora and fauna of the area where you are camping,” said Conner.

“There are plenty of resources online to learn about what sort of plants and animals you may encounter. Park professionals will be glad to answer all of your questions and help put to rest any fears you might have of the outdoors.”

No matter your destination, there are specific safety precautions you need to follow while interacting with and in nature.

“Don’t feed the wildlife. Human food is generally not good for animals,” Thoreson warned. “It is against policy in most parks and it can be dangerous. They are wild and should be treated as such. In Oklahoma, we don’t have much of a bear or cougar population to be concerned about but snakes, ticks and mosquitoes are our primary concerns.”

Insects can be more than just pesky pests.

During the warm months, insect repellent is a must to deter ticks, chiggers and mosquitoes from making your family their next meal and potentially passing along unpleasant illnesses.

“For tick and mosquito control, DEET products are best. Other options don’t have the same efficacy,” Thoreson said. “You can also treat your camping clothes in permethrin.”

Once treated, permethrin (an insect repellent for clothing) will protect against insects even through a few washes. Connor suggested doing a thorough tick check before bed, even if you use insect repellent.

DEET: According to Thoreson, products with this ingredient are best for tick and mosquito control.

Permethrin: Thoreson suggests treating camping clothes in permethrin, a product that will protect against insects for a few washes.

Tecnu cleanser: Hiatt recommends bringing this cleanser along because it can remove the rash-causing oils of poison ivy if used within two to eight hours of exposure.

Other important things to keep in mind when it comes to safety are weather and food safety. Be sure to prepare for inclement weather and always follow safe food storage and preparation practices.

“Stress free is the way to be,” Conner said.

“Bring all the things for proper sanitation and food storage, especially when bringing along raw meat and dairy products.

Prepackaged and pre-prepared meals and snacks are good ideas to avoid having to

think on your feet when your campfire won’t cooperate or you accidentally drop all of the bacon in the fire.”

Therapeutic screenings are still free at the McCarty Center

Pack for success.

Camping with kids isn’t exactly a good time to pack lean. There are important creature comforts that help ensure a positive experience. What you need to pack varies based on your destination and skill-level. Packing lists will look different for the family car camping than the family backpacking.

When car camping, families pitch their tent and set up camp by their vehicle allowing more space for supplies and extras. More experienced campers might enjoy a remote location and load up all they need in a backpack. Whichever your family prefers, Thoreson suggests starting small when collecting your camping gear.

“There is a good selection of inexpensive equipment available on the market,” Thoreson said. “Go ahead and spend $30 on a tent and give it a go and find out if you like it. Then keep getting bigger and better, collecting more as you find your interest level.”

Must-have items include: shelter, water, food, clothing, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, toilet paper, trash bags and sunscreen. If your destination includes water play, add life jackets to that list.

The J. D. McCarty Center for children with developmental disabilities conducts FREE therapeutic screenings of children who have unique challenges or a disability, or for parents who have concerns about their child’s development.

Our screening team is composed of a pediatrician, nurse, social worker and pyschology clinician. When the team has completed their screening process they will sit down with you to review what services are available for your child here at the McCarty Center as well as through other community, state and federal programs.

We can also screen for Autism.

Today, more than ever before, we are an important resource for Oklahoma parents. We have been working with children for 71-years to help them achieve their highest level of function and independence.

The screening is absolutely free-ofcharge. Call 405.307.2800 and ask to speak to a social worker for more information and to make your appointment.

J. D. McCarty Center

for children with developmental disabilities

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

45

2002 E. Robinson Norman, Oklahoma 73071 405.307.2800 or 1.800.777.1272 www.jdmc.org

Since a tent will likely be on most families’ packing list, a good rule of thumb is to add one or two to your desired capacity to allow for gear and a comfortable sleeping arrangement. Also, those temperatures on inexpensive sleeping bags are usually more of a survival rating than a comfort-level guide, Thoreson warned.

“The more inexpensive the sleeping bag the more optimistic they tend to be about those temperatures. I would say to take away about 15 degrees to be comfortable.”

Many families will likely leave electronics off their packing list. Unplugging is typically a main goal when camping.

Coloring books, word puzzles, yard games and decks of cards are fun options for campsite entertainment. However, forcing a technology-addicted child to go cold turkey might leave them not wanting to repeat the experience. So what you decide to pack or not pack goes back to those realistic expectations mentioned previously.

Choose your destination wisely.

There are several factors to consider when choosing where to go including experience, interests and budget. Close-to-home options are good for the new-to-camping family and can be budget friendly. Parks with a nature center and ranger-led activities offer fun things to do, easing the burden of keeping the kids entertained.

“Parks with rental facilities are a fun bonus,” said Thoreson.

46 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

Some Oklahoma State Parks offer unique shelter options including cabins, teepees, covered wagons and canvas wall tents. Most also feature playgrounds, mini golf courses and water entertainment.

Veteran campers might prefer dispersed camping. These off-the-beaten path sites have less people but usually also lack access to water and restrooms.

Wherever you choose to go, help protect and preserve the natural world by practicing the principles of leave no trace and do not bring firewood. Leave no trace by camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly, leaving what you find, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife and being considerate to other visitors.

Learn how to build your own campfire using wood sticks and logs that you find at your campground. Bringing firewood in with you is discouraged as it can also transport invasive species of bugs which can be very harmful. Dontmovefirewood.org is a good source to learn more.

Know when to leave.

Despite all of the best preparations and Pinterest hacks, sometimes things just don’t go as planned. Having an exit strategy if things go for the worst and knowing what to do in the event of an emergency will help keep your family safe.

“Don’t overstay,” Thoreson said. “Know when to go and where to go.”

A Pro’s Packing List:  Tent & ground tarp  Sleeping bag/ blankets & pillow  Mattress or sleeping mat  Insect repellent  Lanterns (LED head lamps are great for kids)  Camping stove & propane/butane  Wind-proof/weatherproof butane lighter  Cooking supplies  Food  Food storage  Cookware  Servingware  Broom and dustpan  Drinking water

 Toiletries  Toilet Paper, paper towel & baby wipes  Plastic bags/garbage bags  Sunscreen  Clothing  Rain gear  Swimsuit  Hiking or tennis shoes  Life Jacket  Fishing gear  Whistle  Axe  First aid kit  Compass or GPS  Tecnu poison ivy treatment  Camp chairs  Entertainment items

We have featured many Oklahoma state parks in our Exploring Oklahoma with Children columns. Find them all at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/travel.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

47

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EDMOND

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421 NW 10th • 405.609.3302 dustbowlok.com

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

PARTY GUIDE

Birthdays are a blast at Chester’s Party Barn & Farm!

Plan the

best party ever!

Party packages for up to 15 children include all this and more: • Unlimited pony rides • Petting zoo

• Party barn games • Hayride

Ask about our “party comes to you” entertainment options for celebrations, corporate parties, school functions, etc.

Schedule your child’s special celebration TODAY! 5201 Cimarron Rd NW, Piedmont, Ok 405-373-1595 • office@chesterandcrew.com

Find Us on Facebook @ Chester’s Party Barn & Farm

Find more about these businesses and other party ideas at: metrofamilymagazine.com/ party-guide

my sister?”

“Will we be able to stay together?”

Give hope.

Change a life.

Become a foster parent.

FOSTER CARE

“What about

EDUCATION

CHILD CARE

Learn more at www.fostercare-ok.org www.fostercare-ok.org 1-877-263-1890 or call 877-263-1890

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

53

Kid Review:

Myriad Botanical Gardens Reviewer’s name: Samuel Roldán Age: 10

What made the experience stand out?

We were in Oklahoma City but it felt like being in a giant garden. If I closed my eyes, I could imagine away the sidewalks and streets.

What was the best part?

I love that it’s in the middle of my city and it’s a good place to meditate. Meditation is very important to me because it lets me find peace. My Mom let me be by myself, like a short distance away without talking to me, and I just meditated on a rock in the Children’s Garden and over by the waterfall in the Crystal Bridge. I’m sure other people have said “ohm” in there too.

What was the worst part?

We had to keep feeding the parking meter.

I accidentally pressed the 30-minute button twice when my Mom put in her credit card so we had to come back twice after like twenty minutes. I didn’t mean to do that. I thought I was adding time but instead, I kind of made it worse because I just wanted to push the button.

Will other kids like this venue and why?

Yes, other kids will love the experience because the rest of the world goes away. I like to imagine nothing else exists when I go to a place in nature. The Children’s Garden is fun because you can balance on a rubber ball, run under the splash pad if it’s hot and see different types of plants.

My Mom thought I wouldn’t like that area anymore because I’m 10 but I do. There’s an event in October called Pumpkinville with 16,000 pumpkins, a Halloween party and pumpkin crafts. Kids would love those things, I think. I want to go to all of that.

Would this venue be enjoyed by your siblings? Why or why not?

Yes, I wish my brother, Isaac, had come because there was a chameleon in the Crystal Bridge. He loves those and keeps saying he’s going to buy one when he’s an adult. My brothers are 5 and 2 and they both like to run. The Children’s Garden is like one big green space, with places to climb and butterflies to see. We could also bring Midnight, our black lab, next time.

I want to buy her a costume and put her in the Spooky Pooch Parade. She’d make a good vampire.

54 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / OCTOBER 2017

If you could do this again knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?

Besides not pressing the button immediately on the parking meter, what I’d do differently is spend more time in the Crystal Bridge. It reminds me of a tropical rain forest in there, with thick plants and a parrot. My Dad is from Costa Rica and it’s very similar to that. I would also spend more time seeing the ducks and the goldfish; they followed us as we walked by.

Does what you saw match up with anything you’re learning in school or have seen before in a book, on TV, etc.?

I’ve read about tropical plants and seen those in person when I go visit my grandparents. The overall feeling is like Monday Meditation at my school. That’s important because sometimes your mind needs a break. I also read a book over the summer about urban escapes, which are intentional green spaces. Is this one of those? I think it could be.

What do you think you’ll remember most about Myriad Botanical Gardens?

It’s strange but happy to go to the center of the city and see turtles, geese and beautiful plants like hibiscus, which I just learned the name of, and see all these natural things. I’ll remember taking the time to stop what I was doing and get out of the house to wind down instead of amp up or be in a hurry. That’s a cool thing to do because it rests you somehow.

Ohhhhmmmm….

Note: Myriad Botanical Gardens will host Pumpkinville Oct. 6-22. Register early for the Oct. 21 Halloween Party. The Spooky Pooch Parade will be hosted Oct. 22.

Get more tips for exploring Oklahoma City with your kids at our Weekend Warrior blog, www. metrofamilymagazine.com/WeekendWarrior. Also, find all of Sam’s reviews at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kidreviews.

Please Join Us For The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s 2017 Light The Night!

FRIDAY, October 20th @ 5:30 p.m.

Oklahoma City Boathouse District

Light The Night is an annual event to raise funds to cure devastating blood cancers. Friends, families, and co-workers gather for one evening of fireworks, kids’ activities, food trucks, yoga exercises, and a touching walk that honors those who have been impacted by cancer.

Register today and receive a commemorative lantern - white for survivors, red for supporters and gold for those walking in memory of a loved one. It’s an evening of light and we hope you’ll be there to make it brighter.

Contact: Sara Mason at sara.mason@lls.org Phone 405-415-7032

REGISTER NOW: LightTheNight.org/OK

November 10, 2017 – January 1, 2018 • NEW ICE! theme – 2 million pounds of colorful, hand-carved ice sculptures and slides featuring ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas • 2 million twinkling lights along with lavish holiday displays • Gingerbread Decorating Corner • Build-A-Bear Workshop® & Scavenger Hunt • NEW-Breakfast with The Elf on the Shelf® • Ice Skating and Snow Tubing • Cookies with Mrs. Claus, Photos with Santa & much more!

GRAPEVINE, TX

Tickets and Packages on Sale Now!

ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com

(817) 778-1000

PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc. FUJIFILM and INSTAX are trademarks of FUJIFILM Corporation and its affiliates. © 2017 FUJIFILM North America Corporation. All rights reserved. © Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved. The Elf on the Shelf and © CCA and B, LLC. All rights reserved.

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