MetroFamily Magazine November 2017 by MetroFamily Magazine

Our A nnual

Birthd

Party GU IDE

page 34

NOVEMBER 2017

Meet Darci Lynne

From Deer Creek to “America’s Got Talent”

Immigration in OKC

What’s next for young Dreamers?

Great Wolf Getaway

Tips for a trip to this Dallas resort

See our calendar

for 215 November events!

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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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NOVEMBER 2017

Features 10 Charity Birthday Parties How to help your kids plan a party to benefit others 14 Dream Turned Nightmare How the current status of immigration policy is impacting OKC’s youth 34 Birthday Party Guide All the hottest local venues for your next birthday bash. 38 At Home With Candice McCoy Inside the life of local mom of four and owner of Love well Handmade

In Every Issue

6 Ages & Stages Find the latest news and trends specifically for your child’s age group 12 Mom Humor A Friendsgiving to remember 18 Calendar of Events 42 Real Kids of the Metro Get to know “America’s Got Talent” winner Darci Lynne Farmer 44 Exploring Outside Oklahoma Tips for a winter getaway to Texas’ Great Wolf Lodge

Web Exclusives LOCAL EXPERTS We’ve compiled a panel of local experts to give our readers great advice on a variety of topics. This month, read tips for how to help your kids cope after tragedy at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/experts.

Contests K9 University Giveaway: Win a prize worth more than $300 including a six-week group class to address your dog’s specific behaviors, a one-on-one consultation with an expert and a box full of toys and training aids for your dog. Enter by Nov. 30.

4 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

In the spirit of this giving back issue, MetroFamily is partnering with K9 University, supporting their Roxy Pays It Forward dog food donation program. Drop off a bag of dog food at either MetroFamily’s office (318 NW 13th Street) or K9 University (9217 NW Expressway) and K9 University will match up to 500 pounds of dog food, with all donations given to the Pet Food Pantry of OKC. Learn more and find out about Roxy the “hero” rescue dog at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/roxy. Deadline is Nov. 30. Birthday Party Giveaways: To celebrate our annual birthday party guide, we’re

giving away birthday party packages at a handful of top local venues including Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, SoccerCity OKC, Upstage Theatre, Artsy Rose Academy, Tot Town, Arcadia Lake, Mobile Laser Forces, Mad Science Cenral Oklahoma and Skate Galaxy OKC. Enter by Nov. 30. Supper Club 76 Giveaway: Solve the “what’s for dinner” dilemma with Supper Club 76! Enter to win a $50 gift card for meal kits that include fresh ingredients and easy instructions. Shop local and save on eating out! Enter by Nov. 17. Enter to win all these contests at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

Publisher

Sarah Taylor

Managing Editor Hannah Schmitt

Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo

Contributing Writers

Heather Davis, Erin Page & Lindsay Cuomo

Contributing Photographer 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 Shelly Sanderson

READ ABOUT THE MCCOY FAMILY AND THEIR GIVING BACK EFFORTS ON PAGE 38. PHOTO BY EMILY HART.

don’t know if I’m getting more retrospective as I age or if the world is just actually getting scarier over time, but there’s nothing that bums me out more lately than reading about current events. Here at the magazine we publish articles from time to time with local experts sharing tips about how to help kids cope with bad news or scary world events. Right now it seems like that’s just not enough. Even adults are having a hard time coping and there’s not enough advice out there to make everyone feel better about it.

We have a feature on page 10 about some local kids who have used their birthday parties as avenues to give back to local causes. We hope it will inspire our young readers to do the same. On page 38, we highlight Candice McCoy, a local mom and owner of Love Well Handmade, a business that uses every purchase to help build homes for families living in poverty internationally. Take a look at the feature to hear from Candice how she encourages her own kids to adopt a givingback attitude from an early age.

There’s no way to stop tragic things from happening and it will always be a challenge to explain those things to your children. But one thing that can make an impact on the way you feel and on the hardships others are facing is by giving back. Even if we can’t hug someone who lost a loved one in Las Vegas or clothe someone who lost everything in Puerto Rico, making community involvement and aid a lifestyle choice can do wonders for your perspective.

If this Thanksgiving you find your house full of family and your table full of food, we hope you’ll take a minute to reflect on how you can incorporate some things in your daily life to help give someone else hope. Our comprehensive volunteer opportunities list for the Oklahoma City metro is a great place to start. Find it at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/volunteer. Hannah Schmitt Editor

318 NW 13th St, Ste 101 OKC OK 73103 Phone: 405-601-2081 Fax: 405-445-7509 sarah@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

Proud member of

This Month’s Cover

Theo S. Our editor’s son, Theo, appears on this month’s cover to celebrate his first birthday and the magazine’s annual birthday party guide (on page 34). Learn more about the high chair used in the photoshoot and how you can rent one for yourself on page 7. PHOTO BY EMILY HART WWW.NINAANDBPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

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

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

ages stages

Find first birthday ideas and some suggestions for helping your kids throw a birthday bash to benefit a local charity here on our Ages & Stages pages. Then flip to page 34 to see our popular annual birthday party guide. BY HANNAH SCHMITT

Babies and Preschoolers

10 Great Books for Baby’s First Year Every new mom has likely heard expert advice about the importance of reading to your child from the very beginning. Research shows there are many benefits to

infants being exposed to books. But any new mom who’s done some shopping for children’s books also knows they’re not all created equal. Some are far and away more interesting to read than others. As my son approaches his first birthday, here are some of my top picks for books we’ve read together. • “Your Baby’s First Word Will Be DADA” by Jimmy Fallon: Most advice I read

10 GREAT BOOKS FOR BABY’S FIRST YEAR

6 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

recommends the best books for infants were ones with little or no text and large, high-contrast pictures. This book fits the bill. There are very few words but sweet illustrations and a cute story line. • “Guess How Much I Love You” by Sam McBratney: Is there a sweeter story to read to your children? (Well, maybe “Love You Forever.”) • “50 Cities of the U.S.A.” by Gabrielle Balkan: This one is intended for much older kids, but I still love flipping through this one with my son. We travel a lot and have family all over the country so I imagine we’ll be cracking this one open to get to know new cities for many years to come.

THIS MANY TEE FROM COLLECTED THREAD

• “The Children’s Book of Virtues” by William J. Bennett: This is one of the first books I read to my son because I actually found the stories personally engaging before he could even interact. The book features tales separated into categories of virtues like courage and loyalty. It will be one we keep reading together throughout his childhood. • “The Popcorn Astronauts And Other Biteable Rhymes” by Deborah Ruddell: This book is a series of poems about food and parents are sure to get a kick out of it long before their children even understand the humor. • “On the Night You Were Born” by Nancy Tillman: This book was a gift from my grandfather and I started reading it each night at bedtime from the time my son, Theo, was born. A year later, I still recite it every night at bedtime and it’s one of Theo’s favorite daily rituals. • “Home” by Carson Ellis: There are very few words in this book but the beautiful illustrations bring the story to life. • “Baby Babble” by Kate Merritt: Any of these durable books are great for tiny readers but this is one of my favorites. They truly are indestructible and the bright illustrations are very engaging. • “My Wild Animal World” by Elizabeth Golding: This is actually nine tiny board books and each tells a few facts about a different animal. These have become favorites in the past couple months! • “Doggies” by Sandra Boynton: You can’t go wrong with a Sandra Boynton book and this is a top pick for anyone with a dog.

HIGH CHAIR FROM VINTAGE HIGH CHAIR

First Birthday Essentials Whether you go all out with a big bash or prefer a small celebration with family, your baby’s first birthday is definitely a milestone to commemorate. Here are a few things you can buy locally to make the day a little more memorable. This Many Tee: Available at Collected Thread (1705 N.W. 16th St.), this adorable shirt will help your little one announce to the world they’re the cause for celebration. Vintage High Chair: Tami Burke is a nanny in Edmond who started a business earlier this year renting out vintage high chairs for smash cake photoshoots and first birthday parties. Burke has a carefully curated

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

AGES & STAGES

collection of vinatge high chairs painted (in food-safe paint) in an assortment of colors to match every taste and theme. The lime green version appears on this month’s cover. Learn more at www.facebook.com / vintagehighchairrental. Sparkler Candle: Plenty Mercantile (807 N. Broadway Ave.) carries TOPS Malibu mini gold number sparklers that make beautiful cake toppers unlit and then dazzle the birthday boy or girl (and everyone else in the room) when lit.

Elementary

Host a Birthday Bash With a Mission Charity parties are the latest birthday trend and it’s a movement we can really get behind. On page 10, we highlight five Oklahoma City kids who have opted to pass on the presents for their birthdays and instead ask guests to donate to a local charity. Read about these inspiring kids and encourage your own children to take up one of these causes for their next celebration: • Collect clothing items for a local homeless shelter. Personal items like new socks are always needed and are an accessible and affordable item for party guests to contribute. • Create your own online fundraiser for Make A Wish Oklahoma and help empower a child battling a life-threatening illness. Oklahoma.wish.org has an easy-touse online fundraising option for specials occasions like birthdays. • Spend a few hours stocking the shelves of the Hope Center in Edmond. Volunteers can sort groceries, clothing and household items. • Collect backpacks and other school supplies for Positive Tomorrows, Oklahoma City’s only school specifically serving homeless children. • Invite guests to bring new and gently-used toys to stock the shelves of The Sharing Tree. Formerly known as The Christmas Connection, the non-profit serves families in need throughout the year a variety of ways. • Collect diapers, wipes, formula or new baby bottles for Infant Crisis Services, an agency that provides life-sustaining assistance to babies and toddlers in need.

JOHNSTON AND HENRY STRECKER HOSTING A CHARITY BIRTHDAY PARTY

Local Teacher Writes Book About Compassion She’s a second grade teacher and a mental health professional for kids with psychological disabilities, but Kimberly Anderson always had her sights set on something more. “My dream was always to be an author,” she said. “I wanted to write things that would help the kids I work with.” She recently self-published a book called “Be Kind.” The book focuses on kindness and compassion and was inspired by her experiences as a teacher. There’s a social skills component in the content of the book, Anderson said, and a literacy component in the back of the book. “Second graders in my classroom can read, but they don’t always comprehend what they read,” she said. “I wanted to put some curriculum in the back of the book so that parents and teachers can use that as they go through the book.” She asked her sister’s children to help her pick what animals would be the main characters of the book, she said, and she named two of the characters after her niece and her niece’s friend. “After school I work with children with psychological disabilities,” she said. “A big thing we work on is their social skills. A lot of them don’t know about manners or being kind so I wanted a book I could read with them that would reinforce those things.” The book and curriculum included in the book is meant for ages 5-9 but can be enjoyed by all ages. She’s gotten great

8 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

feedback from her students who have read the book so far.

powerful to hear from one of their peers. Here’s what Katie had to say about finding a reason to give back:

“My students love the book,” she said, “and they’re excited to know their teacher is an author. I believe it helps them believe they can do anything to see me chase after a passion of mine.” “Be Kind” can be purchased locally at Full Circle Bookstore or online at Barnes & Noble or Amazon.

Local Events Just for Teens

Teen/tween One Question Interview with Katie Francis

Katie Francis is a local 10th grader who’s known worldwide for setting the career record for Girl Scout cookie sales in the history of the organization. Her cookieselling efforts have benefited countless people and organizations in Oklahoma and beyond. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, volunteering will be top of mind for many Oklahomans. We can encourage your kids to spend their time giving back this season, but we thought it would be more

and like I’ve accomplished something in the world. No matter what you do, it can make a difference to someone and that can be applied to anything: animals in need, the elderly, anyone. What you do may seem small but it means the whole world to those you’re helping. Just find out what you love and figure out how to make a change with it.”

GIRL SCOUT RECORD BREAKER KATIE FRANCIS

“Giving back is a wonderful way to learn about your community and the needs of others. I hear about the needs of others and I know there’s always a way to make a difference. It makes me feel good and happy

We know it can be difficult to keep teens and tweens entertained. But did you know we have a special web page dedicated to local events and activities specifically for older kids? For example, the Norman Central Library is hosting Apple Pie 101 on Nov 22. Just in time for Thanksgiving, teen participants will be given ingredients and instructions to prepare a fresh apple pie from scratch. Students will put the ingredients together on-site and leave the event with a complete pie that’s ready to take home and bake. The event and supplies are free, but registration is required to participate. Register at www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org and visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ teens to find all our other ideas for keeping older kids entertained.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Birthday Fundraisers Use your special day for something great

Celebrating milestones is a rite of passage for kids and birthdays are a cornerstone of that tradition. But what if you could take all those balloons, streamers and cupcakes and turn them into something lasting? Thanks to a popular trend, many OKC metro families have embraced birthday fundraisers. In lieu of getting gifts, the birthday boy or girl instead asks friends and family to donate or volunteer at a favorite charity or cause, spreading cheer into the local community. Whether treats for pets, donations for a children’s hospital or books for kids in foster care, birthday fundraisers are a great way to extend your celebration into the community. BY LINDSAY CUOMO

Johnston, age 8, and Henry Strecker, age 5 Johnston and Henry Strecker are animal enthusiasts. So when those animals-in-need commercials come on TV, they often ask about adopting a pet. Looking around their toy-filled home, their mom, Kristen Strecker, had another idea. She asked the boys if they wanted to use their joint birthday party to help local animals. “I thought it might take more convincing but they bought into the idea,” Kristen shared. Together, they brainstormed some ideas and settled on collecting items for the Edmond Animal Shelter and the Oklahoma City Zoo. Continuing the animal theme, they hosted their party at the Oklahoma City Zoo and asked guests to bring pet food, treats or toys for the shelter, or purchase something off the zoo’s Amazon wish list. “I knew it would take the pressure off moms,” Kristen shared. “It’s really easy to pick up pet food anywhere.” The party was a success. Johnston and Henry got to have a fun day at the zoo, but the real payoff was delivering their collection to animals in need. “The shelter was so appreciative and gave the boys bookmarks and other stuff. They both held onto those for a long time,” Kristen said. “The zoo sent Johnston a letter in the mail and that was really special for him.”

10 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Devon Garrett, age 10 While hanging out with his Mom at Citizen’s Caring for Children, Devon noticed some bare bookshelves that should be filled with books for kids in foster care and that gave him a big idea. Devon dreamed up a Captain Awesome Pants themed birthday party, his fun twist on the popular “Captain Underpants” series by Dave Pilkey. He encouraged his party guests to bring books to fill those shelves instead of bringing him presents. “It was all his idea,” said Devon’s mom, Danielle Davila, who works at Citizens Caring for Children. “He won a birthday party at SoccerCity. It was great that he got to see the experience full circle. He was given something and he got to pay it forward.” Devon even got his school involved and asked schoolmates to donate books. “I know the kids don’t really deserve what is going on (in their lives) and books help them go to other places,” Devon shared. “Books are fun and help them get smarter.” He was able to collect 258 books to fill those shelves. “I told everyone how many kids my Mom sees a month and that they need good books like we like to read,” Devon said. Devon had a fun party, sharing games and cupcakes with family and friends, but the best part, Devon said, was the feeling he got from giving.

Claire Nguyen, age 11 Last year the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma distributed 52 million pounds of food throughout central and western Oklahoma. Those pounds are lovingly packed by volunteers. Eleven-year-old Claire Nguyen volunteered with her Girl Scout troop packing kid-friendly foods for the food bank’s Food for Kids program. She had so much fun she decided to have her 8th birthday party at the volunteer center and she invited several friends to help her.

Addy Riemer, age 13 As Addy Riemer and her parents were planning her 10th birthday, Addy decided that she wanted to help The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital. So along with all the details for her skating party, she included a list of items that the hospital uses often for the kids in their care. As they set out the pizza, cake and party decorations, they added a basket for guests to fill with diapers, wipes, soaps, towels, washcloths, books and more.

“It was so much fun and so easy to help people,” Claire shared. “You get to talk while you work and listen to upbeat music.”

“It felt good donating the items to the children,” Addy remembered. “The best part was delivering my donation. Someone took my picture and they even posted it on their Facebook page.”

Claire’s party was such a success she volunteered again for her 10th birthday but this time she invited family. They were able to pack 2,000 pounds of food.

Addy has one thing to say to other kids considering a birthday fundraiser. “Just do it! Giving to others has its own reward,” she said.

“Claire felt like she accomplished something big,” Claire’s mom, Jessica Nguyen, said.

Addy took her own advice and collected food for a local pantry the next year for her 11th birthday and plans to continue to incorporate giving to others in her future party planning as well.

“I liked knowing the food was ready to go to people in need,” Claire said.

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“Giving to others feels so good,” Addy shared. [Editor’s Note: For some specific ideas of ways to turn your birthday party into a charity event, see page 8.]

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SHARE YOUR STORY! @OklahomaHoF METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

MOM GETS THE LAST LAUGH

Happy Friendsgiving

ILLUSTRATION BY BR

W.V ITTANY VIKLUND, WW

IKLUNDMADE.COM

Not to brag (okay, maybe a little bit), I have lost almost 30 pounds since school let out last May. I’ve been eating clean in that I’ve cut out the processed and preserved foods and tried to eat as freshly as possible. My family? Well, let’s just say my daughters are second guessing every last meal I make because they sure do love those additives that they can’t even pronounce.

But, the holidays are coming upon us, and the girls are scared. They caught wind that I had created a Thanksgiving board on Pinterest. And their online sleuthing proved that to be true.

For the most part, though, I’m slowly winning them over, making their favorites and quietly producing them a clean version. They ate lentil pasta in their beloved macaroni and cheese for a full six weeks before they found the box in the trash and decided that they may not like it after all … you know, after their second helpings.

So, I’ve pinned such good recipes as Turkey Cordon Bleu, Sausage and Apple dressing, Green Bean Casserole … many of the standard Thanksgiving recipes. But … they are all clean.

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Now, lest you think that I’m going to deprive my kidlets of good, ol’ fashioned turkey and dressing that is not the case. On Turkey Day, we’ll be at my mother-in-law’s home and she does all the goodies with all the fixings. But, prior to Thanksgiving, we’ll gather with some good friends and celebrate Friendsgiving. And this year, we’re hosting.

Instead of cream of mushroom soup for the green bean casserole, I’ll be using fresh mushrooms, cream and homemade vegetable stock. Trust me. It’ll work and it’ll be delish. Our pumpkin pie will be

crustless, and our turkey cordon bleu will be made with uncured ham and crusted with whole wheat Panko. It’ll be really close to the way the pilgrims ate, ya know. If they had such things as casseroles. But, our forefathers didn’t have preservatives and additives and neither will we. Eventually, as I’m sure you’ve probably already guessed, I started receiving suggested pins from the girls. Pumpkin Cake Roll with cream cheese icing, creamed corn with cheddar and, of course, homemade macaroni and cheese with powdered cheese and a blue box. I tried to talk some sense into them. They could get all of that stuff and more when we went south to their grandparents’ home for our annual Thanksgiving celebration. “But our Friendsgiving, is going to be healthy. Delicious but healthy.” “Define delicious,” one of them mumbled as she stared into our pantry, which was filled with delicious, fresh, clean foods. Then she declared, “We have nothing to eat in this house.”

I briefly contemplated heating up some chunks-of-breaded-chicken-parts or making a making a crusted pie with lots of canned whipped cream, but we all know exactly how that would end. It would end with me stress eating the chicken parts, dipping them in piles of sprayed whipped cream. In a matter of two minutes or less, I’d gain back my thirty pounds and probably ten more. So, quickly, I ditched that idea. I sent out a group text to the Friends of Friendsgiving. I wanted to know if they were bothered by the clean eating menu, and they each responded with a resounding No Way! (Well, except my husband, who is not fooled by cauliflower mashed potatoes and said so in no uncertain terms.) Their encouragement was all I needed. At about the same time, the kids sent out a group text of their own … well, to the kids who had textable devices. And they came up with a solution of their own. The kids table should have their own menu. That menu should include pizza. And it should be served in a house that is far, far away from the Friendsgiving, clean-eating house. So, Chad

and Lesli agreed to host the kids and feed them pizza. So, let me clear a few things up for you. The grown-ups were going to eat grown-up food without complaints or moaning or picking and heavy sighs and plates filled with dinner rolls only. (Don’t tell them they are clean!) And the kids would be in an entirely different house, eating pizza from paper plates, watching Netflix and playing catch inside, drinking too much soda and shoving endless streams of Oreos in their faces. We would have grown up conversation about grown up topics and wouldn’t have to worry about nongrown-ups interrupting us. We wouldn’t have to clean up any messes, and we wouldn’t have to referee any fights. Plus, at the end of the night, I won’t have gained all of my weight back … and people would appreciate my cooking. I could be down with that. And that, my friends, is how Friendsgiving instantly became my favorite holiday. Heather Davis is a momma, a writer and is thankful for her family and her friends who become family. You can reach her through her website at www.Heather-Davis.net.

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Dream turned nightmare

BY ERIN PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS BY CHRIS CASTRO

What the end of DACA means for thousands of Oklahoma children, students and young workers Joel Viad doesn’t remember anything about being brought to the United States from Mexico at the age of 4. Viad didn’t know English and he recalls school being very challenging until a classmate and teacher spent a semester helping him learn the language. By the next year, he called English his first language, speaking it more than Spanish. It wasn’t until taking a test his freshman year in high school that he understood he was undocumented. Everyone’s social security number was on their test booklet but his didn’t have one.

14 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

“I was confused but I didn’t want to ask the teacher,” said Viad. “When I asked my mom, she explained everything to me. She told me it would be hard for me to find a job and get a driver’s license. I was in shock.” Viad applied for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, not long before the Trump administration rescinded the program in early September. The immigration policy, enacted by President Obama in 2012, allows undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children to receive work permits and exemption from deportation. Recipients can get a driver’s license, pursue their educations and pay taxes. Although the purpose of DACA was to support young, law-abiding, hardworking immigrants, it never provided a path to citizenship, merely an opportunity to

come out of hiding to contribute to the only home most of them have ever known. There are currently more than 800,000 DACA recipients in the U.S. Though Viad and the immigrant community in Oklahoma City were expecting the announcement from Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Viad still felt scared when he got the news DACA would be rescinded, especially because his own application was still in limbo. His friend and mentor Jace Kirk, assistant director of FaithWorks of the Inner City, a holistic community development agency for families of southwest Oklahoma City, reassured him that although no new DACA applications would be accepted as of Sept. 5, all those like Viad who had previously applied are grandfathered in. Dreamers, as DACA recipients are known,

Your dog is a beloved member of your family…. can stay in the U.S. until their current DACA permits expire. Those whose permits expire before March 5, 2018, could apply for renewal by Oct. 5. Though not formally announced by the White House, CNN reported the Department of Homeland Security urged DACA recipients in a memo to “prepare to leave the United States.” The Trump administration did note that DHS enforcement priorities will continue to focus on undocumented immigrants who have been convicted of crimes or are a threat to national security. DACA has been criticized for a number of reasons, with opponents calling the program illegal or unconstitutional because President Obama created the program by executive order when immigration policy is the responsibility of Congress as the country’s lawmaking body. The Trump administration has said it’s now Congress’ responsibility to create and pass legislation to protect Dreamers. Chris Brewster, superintendent of Santa Fe South Schools, acknowledges the “mess” of the current immigration system is largely one the current president inherited. “This can has been kicked down the road for some time now,” said Brewster. “As a country, we don’t seem to have been willing or able to solve this complex and emotional issue. It appears we must do so now. The clock is ticking for the most vulnerable members of our community.” Community advocates like Judith Huerta, an employee of Oklahoma City Public Schools and a member of immigrant advocate group DREAM Act Oklahoma (DAOK), said while there is fear permeating the immigrant community in Oklahoma City, they will renew their strength and fight to keep protection for Dreamers. “There should be no gap in protection,” said Huerta. “We need legislation that will protect our immigrant youth.” As Dreamers and their friends and family wait to see whether Congress will pass such legislation, Viad and others like him vow to continue to work hard to better themselves and the community around them. “I’m just going to keep going to school and live like everyone else,” said Viad. “I have faith that something good is going to happen.”

Who are the Dreamers? Oklahoma is home to more than 6,900 DACA recipients whose futures are now uncertain, including college student Alejandro Raigoza Munoz. Munoz dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher.

He discovered his calling through mentoring and teaching children and college students in various Bible study groups. Munoz came to the U.S. when he was just 18 months old and didn’t even know he was born in Mexico until the sixth grade.

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“I was undocumented,” said Munoz. “I wasn’t able to apply for jobs, I wasn’t able to drive a car legally and I didn’t know if I had a future in education.” Angelica Villalobos, advocacy and outreach director of DAOK and a Dreamer herself, said Oklahomans without legal status face daily obstacles in accessing simple and fundamental things, including enrolling a child in school, purchasing a car, renting or buying a home, setting up utilities, accessing healthcare, filling prescriptions, traveling, accessing higher education or the legal system, calling the police, caring for elderly parents and accessing childcare. Like Munoz, Villalobos experienced many of these hardships herself prior to becoming a DACA recipient. When Munoz became a DACA recipient six years ago, he said it allowed him to support his family and fulfill his educational dreams. “When the DACA program was created, thousands of brave young Oklahomans made the decision to apply for the program because they wanted to live, work and pay taxes legally,” said Rev. Dr. John-Mark Hart, pastor of Christ Community Church in Oklahoma City. Like Munoz, DACA applicants must be in school, have graduated high school or obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from the Coast Guard or armed forces. They cannot have been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor or more than three misdemeanors of any kind. They are not eligible to collect welfare benefits. Because they are undocumented, Dreamers are not eligible to apply for citizenship in the typical manner.

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“A lot of people think these people just have to take a citizenship test,” said Kirk. “If that were the case, everyone I know would do it.” To become a citizen, immigrants must first have a green card or permanent residency. Dreamers don’t qualify for green cards, and to become eligible for one, they would have to return to their original country, staying out of the U.S. for approximately 10 years. Because Dreamers left their country of origin as children, most have no recollection of where they were born, no friends or family there and no resources to support themselves. Dreamers would then have to be approved for a green card and apply

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

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for citizenship, which takes more time and thousands of dollars. When Kirk and his wife adopted undocumented Sixto at age 14, their joy in finally calling him son was coupled with relief that Sixto would also become a citizen through adoption. That was not the case. “I met with an immigration attorney thinking I’d fill out some paperwork, but he told me there was nothing I could do,” said Kirk. “I sat in his parking lot and cried. I felt like this was David versus Goliath: my son versus the United States Customs and Immigration Services, and that was a battle we weren’t going to win.” Kirk made appointments with local lawmakers he said were just as baffled by the situation as he. Current immigration policy in the US does not offer a viable pathway to citizenship for Sixto. When he enrolled at OSU-OKC, which he was able to do through DACA, he realized he could not pursue a career in law enforcement because he’s undocumented. His career choices are extremely limited, and Kirk said options for Dreamers like Sixto are typically cash-paid or labor jobs. Brenda Grant, who teaches Senior Seminar and college preparation to students at Santa Fe South High School, said it’s heartbreaking to have to tell undocumented students year after year that while they could apply for DACA, they don’t qualify for financial aid and won’t be able to pursue many of the career choices they dream about. She knows several families who have applied for citizenship who’ve been waiting for decades

16 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

for their applications to be processed. “And yet, these students continue to work and come to school and apply for college,” said Grant. “They are resilient and have a work ethic many of us need to admire. If there was an easy way for these students to ‘get in line’ [to become citizens], they would do it in a heartbeat, but it’s not that easy.” Through his work with the immigrant community, Kirk has realized because of their limited career choices, undocumented immigrants, including Dreamers, often don’t make enough money to survive and the cycle of poverty undocumented immigrants face perpetuates the problem. “These kids were brought here through no fault of their own,” said Kirk, “yet we’re expecting them to pay the price for this. That seems barbaric.”

Dreamers impact on Oklahoma According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Oklahoma’s immigrant population makes up nearly six percent of the state’s residents. As of 2013, 35 percent of immigrants in Oklahoma were naturalized U.S. citizens, and undocumented immigrants made up almost three percent of the state population. While some opponents of DACA have reported undocumented immigrants harm the economy, according to the Center for American Progress, the removal of Oklahoma’s 6,000 productive, and almost exclusively bilingual, DACA workforce would create an estimated annual GDP loss of more than $343 million in Oklahoma

alone. On the national level, the Immigrant Legal Resource Center reports the country would see a decrease in approximately 685,000 young immigrant DACA workers, with their unemployment costing employers an estimated $3.4 billion in turnover costs. Because DACA recipients pay taxes, the loss of their and their employers’ contributions to Social Security and Medicare would total an estimated $24.6 billion over the next decade. Nationally, Dreamers currently pay more than $11.64 billion a year in income taxes. “The data is clear: DACA changes lives and boosts the economy in Oklahoma and across the country,” said Villalobos. Villalobos said while the program helped thousands in our state, less than half of the 17,000 DACA-eligible Oklahomans had been utilizing the program. “The rest are living without documentation out of fear of giving the federal government their information, a lack of funds for attorneys and filing fees and/or pending eligibility,” said Villalobos. Mom to four daughters, all born in and citizens of the U.S., Villalobos said fear and helplessness can be debilitating. According to a study at the University of California at San Diego, about 200,000 children, themselves U.S. citizens, have parents who are DACA recipients. Those she has spoken with report their children are dealing with high anxiety and stress, unsure of their parents’ fate. “No child should have to lay in bed wondering if the goodnight kiss they just gave their parents will be the last they share together as a family,” said Villalobos. “I want

my children to grow up without that constant uncertainty, fear and burden. I want my daughters to achieve the American dream.”

In late September, Senators James Lankford of Oklahoma, Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Orrin Hatch of Utah introduced the Succeed Act to address DACA recipients’ pathways to citizenship. Read more about the differences in the Succeed Act and DREAM Act at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/succeed-act.

What happens next? As Dreamers watch the clock tick down on their work permits, they hope and pray for Congress to pass the DREAM Act, solidifying their pathway to citizenship. Oklahoma Congressman Steve Russell has publicly opposed efforts to end protections under DACA. Both Russell and Congressman Tom Cole have said the responsibility of immigration reform lies with Congress, and both have released statements saying fault should not be placed on children who were brought to the country by their parents. Senator James Lankford concurs and said immigration policy, strong border enforcement and merit immigration must all be addressed. While local DACA recipients and supporters have been encouraged by Oklahoma lawmakers’ responses, uncertainty still abounds. “This is a dangerous game [President Trump] is playing,” said Brewster. “He seems to believe that a Republican majority Congress, which cannot agree on tax reform or how to fix the Affordable Care Act, will somehow be able to sort out how to pass the DREAM Act in the next six months in order to protect these young people.” The DREAM (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors) Act is a legislative proposal for qualifying minors in the U.S. that would grant conditional residency, leading to permanent residency. The Act was first introduced in 2001, failing to pass then and with each reintroduction. The act is back on the table following the end of DACA. DAOK staff has been advocating for the DREAM Act on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., meeting with local lawmakers and passing out educational postcards about

the benefits Dreamers bring to the country. Back home, DAOK has been hosting DACA clinics to help recipients eligible to renew do so, even offering to cover some filing fees thanks to a grant. To better educate the community as a whole, the DAOK team has held education forums and participated in peaceful rallies, demonstrations and events across the metro. Kirk and the leaders of El Camino OKC, a network of churches in the metro committed to loving immigrants and protecting immigration injustice, have spent much time discussing the need for holistic immigration reform, and they believe securing U.S. borders should be a top priority. They believe those immigrants who come to the U.S. legally and overstay their visas should have mandated check-ins. Finally, Kirk said the parents of DACA recipients need to be addressed; otherwise “we are perpetuating a cycle of poverty.”

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Taking action Viad was recently the passenger in a car when the driver was pulled over for not using his turn signal. Kirk said Viad panicked because he thought he could be deported. “He was brought here when he was just 4 years old,” said Kirk. “He’s an excellent student, an athlete and a leader in school. This kid is on the right path, but even he lives with a constant fear that any little thing would lead to his deportation to a place he knows nothing about. It’s a very real fear for him and others, and it’s not a healthy way to live in society.” Villalobos said it’s important to channel those emotions into action. She believes volunteering with organizations like DAOK, El Camino OKC or FaithWorks, or simply having conversations with friends and family about the positive impact immigrants and DACA recipients have on the state and country can help move the needle toward inclusivity and the development of a clear path to citizenship. Viad hopes Oklahomans will call their congressmen to encourage their support of the DREAM Act. He and Sixto Kirk also share the plea that community members take time to better understand the predicament of the Dreamers.

Discovery Room

Open daily

Explore Evolution

Sept. 23 - Dec. 31

“Before people judge us or say ‘just apply for citizenship,” said Sixto Kirk, “I wish they would learn more about our situation and educate themselves.” [Editor’s Note: This is part one of a threepart series looking at immigration in OKC. Find the next two parts of the series in our December and January issues.] METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

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

Special exhibits sponsored by 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.

November

Sun

Mon

Tue

Find all these November events and hundreds more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar

OKC Philharmonic Discovery Family Series: Animals Abound! at Civic Center Music Hall at 2 p.m.

FREE First Mondays for Kids at Sam Noble from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

FREE Art Adventures at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at 10:30 a.m.

12 Wizards on Western in 13 the Western Avenue District from 1 – 6 p.m.

FREE Storytime at Mustang Public Library at 9:30 & 11 a.m.

14 Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens from 3 – 9 p.m.

perfect for preschoolers

great for teens

Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer: The Musical at Civic Center Music Hall at 7 p.m.

Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink FREE Make an Apple at Mitch Park from 3 – 9 p.m. Pie for Teens at the Moore Library at 2 & 3:30 p.m.

date night idea

fitness event

FREE Merry & Bright in FREE Red Earth Treefest the Crystal Bridge Tropical at the Red Earth Art Center Conservatory from 6 – 9 p.m. from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

worth the drive

18 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

28 Harkins Tuesday Night Holiday Movies presents Elf at 7 p.m.

Wed 1

Thu

Fri 3

Sat 4

FREE Wide Open Wednesdays at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Chemistry Day at Science Oklahoma Kids Count Museum Oklahoma from Conference at the Oklahoma State Capitol from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 8 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Reading Wednesdays Story Time at Myriad Gardens from 10 – 11 a.m.

FREE Teen Read the Movie Book Club at the Midwest City Library from 4 – 6 p.m.

FREE Veterans Day Parade in Midwest City at 10 a.m.

FREE Veterans Day Celebration at the 45th Infantry Division Museum at 10 a.m.

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

FREE Walk the Lights Holiday Lights Spectacular at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park from 6 – 8 p.m.

Questival Adventure Race at Wiley Post Park at 5 p.m.

FREE Luther Pecan Festival from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

FREE Toddler Story & Craft Time at Unpluggits Paint & Play at 11 a.m.

OKC Turkey Tracks 5K in downtown OKC at 8:30 a.m.

25 FREE Eagle Watch at

FREE Bricktown Tree Lighting Festival on Mickey Mantle Dr. from 5 – 7 p.m.

Lyric’s A Christmas Carol opens at Lyric Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

OKC Philharmonic Christmas Show at Civic Center Music Hall at 7:30 p.m.

Bedlam Bash 5K & Tailgate at Wiley Post Park from 9 a.m. – noon.

Lake Thunderbird State Park from 1 – 4 p.m.

OKC Family Fun sponsored by

Neighborhood crestoneridge.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

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

NOV 2 • THURSDAY

Thursday, November 30, 6:30-8:30 pm

Oklahoma Kids Count Fall Forum at the Oklahoma State Capitol (2300 N Lincoln Blvd) features speaker workshops, breakout sessions, guest speakers and the Laura Choate Resilience Award presentation. Tickets include breakfast pastries, box lunch, dinner ticket, as well as tickets to see the Potts Family Foundation Movie at the Farmer’s Market, and panel discussion after the movie. $99. 8am-8pm. 236-5437, www.oica.org

NOV 3 • FRIDAY Chemistry Day at Science Museum Oklahoma (2020 Remington Pl) features hands-on experiments and individual & team chemistry competitions. All ages are welcome. Free with admission. 9am-2pm. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.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

• Visits with Santa • Craft making • Hayrides • Tours of the House • Food truck • Holiday gift vendors Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door. www.harnhomestead.com/events/

FREE Tree Walk at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Learn the conditions that make for brilliant fall colors and ways you can help Mother Nature along in your quest for fall color. $2 suggested donation. Noon1:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball vs the University of Central Oklahoma at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman). Prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 11/7 vs Southwestern Oklahoma State, 11/10 vs Belmont, 11/17 vs SMU & 12/3 vs Florida. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com Oklahoma State Men’s Basketball vs Arkansas-Monticello at Gallagher-Iba Arena (200 Athletic Center, Stillwater). Prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 11/10 vs Pepperdine, 11/13 vs Charlotte, 11/16 Oral Roberts, 11/26 vs

Houston Baptist, 11/29 vs Austin Peay & 12/3 vs Mississippi Valley State. 877-2554678, www.okstate.com Oklahoma City Thunder vs Boston Celtics at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave). Prices vary. 8:30pm. Also held: 11/10 vs LA, 11/12 vs Dallas, 11/15 vs Chicago, 11/22 vs Golden State, 11/24 vs Detroit, 12/1 vs Minnesota & 12/3 vs San Antonio. 208-4800, www.nba.com/thunder

NOV 3 & 4 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 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 3-5 FREE Fall Festival Arts & Craft Show at Payne County Fairgrounds (4518 Expo Cr East, Stillwater) features more than 150 vendors from Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas and Arkansas. Free to attend but vendors charge for goods and services. Friday, 10am-6pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 747-7206

NOV 4 • 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 Bedlam Bash 5K & Tailgate at Wiley Post Park (2021 S Robinson Ave) features a timed and USATF-sanctioned 5K along the River Trails and, after the race, a tailgating with food trucks, yard games and more. Runners are encouraged to dress in your favorite school’s colors. Walkers and strollers are welcome. Preregister. $35. 9am-noon. 297-2279, www.facebook.com/OKCParks/ FREE Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival at the Dale Robertson Center (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) features vendors from across the

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20 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

state selling candles, wood crafts, needle work, Christmas ornaments, handmade soaps, jewelry, home decor and more. Indian tacos will be for sale benefiting Friends of the Park. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov

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FREE Must Love Dogs (and Cats) at the Edmond Library (10 S Boulevard, Edmond). Learn about pet safety and care, make toys to donate to the local shelter, find out about volunteering with Animal Services and meet and play with some adoptable pets. 10amnoon. 341-9282, www.metrolibrary.org

holidays

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: Nov. 18. 528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com Historic Tours in Downtown Edmond (various locations) features a 45-minute walking tour to learn about the structures and residents in the area. Photos will be shown on the tours, revealing changes through the decades. Preregister, scheduled by appointment only. $5. Also held Nov. 11. 715-1889, www.edmondhistoricpreservationtrust.com

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FREE Multi-Tribal Day at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Dr, Sulphur) features language demonstrations, native hymns, social stickball games and cultural demonstrations from the Chickasaw and other Native tribes. 10am-5pm. 580-6227130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com FREE Saturdays for Kids: Big, Bright, and Bold â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Painting as Storytelling at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features an acrylic painting demonstration by celebrated artist J. NiCole Hatfield. Preregister. For ages 4-12. 10am-noon. 478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Tree Craft Class at Will Rogers Gardens (3400 NW 36th St). Create original art with leaves and twigs collected on a trek through the Margaret Annis Boys Arboretum. Preregister. Best suited for ages 6-12. $5. 10:30am-noon. 297-1392, www.okc.gov/parksignup First Saturdays Hands-on History at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr) features a variety of activities throughout the museum including crafts, coloring, hands-on carts and educational trunks. Free with admission. 1-4pm. 521-2491, www.okhistory.org

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FREE Robotics Class at Sylvan of Edmond (3209 S Broadway Ave, Edmond) features fun, hands-on projects to get your child’s creative juices flowing. Along the way, they learn science and engineering concepts, such as how pulleys, levers and motors work. Call to preregister. 1-2pm. Also held Nov. 7. 562-5202, www.sylvanlearning.com FREE Irish Dance Performance at the Northwest Library (5600 NW 122nd St) features a performance from the Oklahoma Academy of Irish Dance. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn traditional dance steps. All ages welcome. 2-3pm. 606-3580, www.metrolibrary.org Haunted Hike at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn about the animals—both friend and foe—that have such a spooky reputation, including snakes, spiders, bats and more during this nighttime hike filled with Halloween treats. Hikes leave from the Visitor Center every 15 minutes. Closed-toe shoes required. Preregister. For ages 6 & up. $10/person. 6-8:30pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/active Trees for All Tree Sale and Planting Workshops at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features tree planting demonstrations and workshops as well as a variety of booths and vendors with more information and products for taking care of trees. Trees may be preordered online. $9 for members, $10 for non-members. 9am-noon, 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Pumpkin Palooza at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Learn about the different varieties of pumpkins and then re-purpose one as a mini-pumpkin bird feeder or pansy planter. Preregister. Best suited for ages 4-8. Member, $4; non-members, $6. 10:3011:15am. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Oklahoma State Football vs University of Oklahoma at Boone Pickens Stadium (700 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater). Prices vary. Time TBA. Also held: 11/18 vs Kansas State & 11/25 vs Kansas. 877-255-4678, www.okstate.com University of Oklahoma Volleyball vs West Virginia 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: 11/15 vs Iowa State & 11/25 vs TCU. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com

NOV 4 & 5 Fall Steam Train at Oklahoma Railway Museum (3400 NE Grand Blvd) features a restored Leigh Valley Coal Company #126 Engine, affectionately known as Sadie. Families can enjoy a 40-minute excursion aboard the vintage coal train. Adults, $15; kids (3-12), $5; kids (under 3), free. See website for departure schedule. 424-8222, www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

NOV 5 • SUNDAY 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 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 Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese (2201 Interstate Dr, Norman) features less crowds, dimmed lighting, the music and show turned down or off and limited appearances from Chuck E. Prices vary. 9-11am. 366-8200, www.chuckecheese. com/deals-offers/sensory-sensitive-sundays FREE Author Visit: Kim Ventrella at the Norman West Library (300 Norman Center Ct, Norman). Meet the author of the new middle grade novel “Skeleton Tree.” Kim Ventrella will talk about the magic of stories, answer questions on the writing journey and sign copies of her new book. 2-3pm. 701-2644, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Canadian County Veterans Parade & Celebration in Downtown El Reno (206 W Bickford, El Reno) features a parade, live re-enactment of the Iwo Jima Memorial, movies, a concert, poker run and more. 3pm. 262-1188, www.elrenochamber.com FREE Out of This World Story Time with Chapel Hill UMC at Greystone Elementary School (2401 NW 115th Terr) features a snack, activities and stories. For kids in 5th grade and under and their families. 5:30-7pm. 751-0755, www.mychapelhill.org

22 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

FREE Fall Lantern Walk at RR Pat Murphy Park (4500 W Hefner Rd) features a magical fall tradition drawing from celebrations around the world. Gather before dusk to sing traditional songs, light lanterns and enjoy an evening walk. Preregister. For ages 2-8 and their families. 5:30-6:30pm. 837-4014, www.tinkergarten.com

students going into grades 9-12. 6:30-8:30pm. 749-3001, www.heritagehall.com

more about the school’s programs. 7-8pm. 524-0631, www.westminsterschool.org

Full Moon Bike Ride and Run at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features a leisurely one-hour ride through downtown and timed training runs. All ages welcome. Runs begin at 5pm; bike ride at 7:30pm. $5. 7-8:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 6 • MONDAY

NOV 6 & 7

Next Level Art and Ideas at Syrup OKC (1501 NW 23rd St) features local art, live art demonstrations and specialty coffee and pancakes. Benefits Syrup OKC’s cause-based programs. Free to attend; pancake bar $8 per plate. 6-9pm. 601-1354, www.syrupbreakfast.com

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. 325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

FREE Stuffed Animal Sleepover at the Moore Library (225 S Howard, Moore). Drop off your stuffed animal or doll at the library for a sleepover and return the next day for a special story time about their library adventures. Preregister. Monday, 3-7pm; Tuesday, 10am. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

FREE Upper School Open House at Heritage Hall (1800 NW 122nd St). Meet students, teachers and faculty and learn more about the school’s college preparatory curriculum. For prospective families with

NOV 7 • TUESDAY FREE Primary School Open House at Westminster School (600 NW 44th St). Prospective parents of incoming pre-k & kindergarten students can see the campus and learn

FREE Calm Waters Hugs for the Holidays at Clegern Elementary School (601 S Jackson St, Edmond) features grief support for families who have lost a loved one. Preregister by phone. 6:30-8pm. 841-4800, www.calmwaters.org

NOV 7 & 8 FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at the Lego Store in Penn Square Mall (1901 NW Expressway) features a LEGO Puppy model build. The mini model must be completely built in store. For ages 6-14. Preregister. 5pm. 840-9993, Stores.Lego.com

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NOV 7-12 OKC Broadway presents Rent at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) presents a special 20th anniversary performance of the popular Broadway classic. Recommended for mature audiences. $20 & up. See website for show times. 877-737-2929, www.okcbroadway.com

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Homeschool Day at Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features hands-on, educational science programs focusing on discovering the natural world for kids in grades K-12. Preregister, space is limited. $10 for student and one adult. 10am5pm. 325-1008, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu Mistletoe Market Preview Party at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) features market shopping, tasting stations, a silent auction and live music. Benefits the Junior League of Oklahoma City. $50-$75. 5-9pm. www.mistletoemarket.org FREE Middle School Parent Preview Day at Heritage Hall (1800 NW 122nd St). Meet teachers and faculty and learn more about the school’s curriculum. RSVP required. 9am. 749-3001, www.heritagehall.com University of Oklahoma Men’s Basketball vs East Central University at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman). Prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 11/12 vs Omaha, 11/15 vs Ball State, 11/30 vs North Texas & 12/4 vs UTSA. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com

NOV 9 • 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 The Bad Beginning. Best suited for ages 12-18. 4-6pm. 732-4828, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Community Spirit at [Artspace] at Untitled (1 NE 3rd St) features a discussion of art exhibitions and different creative topics. 5-7pm. 815-9995, www.1ne3.org Murder Mystery Night at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr). Interview the suspects and follow the clues to solve the mysterious murder for a chance to win a prize. This event is come-and-go; the crime will take around an hour to solve. $5. 6-9pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com FREE Giant Game Night at the Bethany Library (7941 NW 23rd St, Bethany) features a collection of giant games and giant snacks.

Preregister. All ages welcome. 6-7:30pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org

NOV 9-11 Mistletoe Market at Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) features vendors from Oklahoma and across the country offering clothing, gourmet foods, gifts, children’s items, and more. Benefits the Junior League of Oklahoma City. Adults, $10; seniors (65+), $5; kids (12 & under), free. Thursday & Friday, 9am-8pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm. www.mistletoemarket.org

NOV 10 • FRIDAY Veterans Day Parade (8700 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features marching bands, military personnel and equipment, Shriner’s and more. 10am. 455-1818, www.midwestcityok.org Oklahoma State Women’s Basketball vs Incarnate Word at Gallagher-Iba Arena Gallagher-Iba Arena (200 Athletic Center, Stillwater). Prices vary. 11am. Also held: 11/14 vs Wichita State; 11/17 vs UT Rio Grande Valley, 11/19 vs Northwestern State & 11/30 vs Southern. 877-255-4678, www.okstate.com Family Fun Night at Tot Town (841 SW 119th St) features a showing of Cars 3, snacks, drinks, games and more. Pizza dinner options available. $25 per family. 6-9pm. 650-7560, www.tottownokc.com Devon Ice Rink opens at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). $13; $8, without skates; members, $7. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm; Friday 3-11pm; Saturday 11am11pm; Sunday 11am-7pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org Holiday Open House at The Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features shopping, free gift wrapping, a raffle and light refreshments. Admission is not required to shop. 5-8pm. 478-2250, store.nationalcowboymuseum.org 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 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/

24 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

and cheer squads, the Tinker Air Force Base Honor Guard, Navy Honor Guard and Chickasaw Nation Honor Guard and Shriners. 10:30am. 482-9392, www.cityofblanchard.us

NOV 11 • SATURDAY Holiday Bazaar at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (308 NW 164th St, Edmond) features over 80 vendors selling paintings, quilts, jewelry, pottery and more. Kids can enjoy story time with Buddy the Elf. Benefits Oklahoma Regional Food Bank and Lutheran Braille Workers ministry. Free to attend. 9am-4pm. 348-3292, www.holytrinityedmond.org

FREE Super Hero School at New World Comics (6219 N Meridian Ave) features a different super hero and on occasion a villain or two. All ages welcome. 10:30noon. Also held Nov. 25. 721-7634, www.facebook.com/newworldcomicsokc/

FREE Admission for Active & Retired Military at the Oklahoma City Zoo (2101 NE 50th St). Military ID or proof of service required. 9am-5pm. 424-3344, www.okczoo.org FREE Native American Basket Making at the Bethany Library (7941 NW 23rd St). Learn to make a basket using traditional Native American techniques with teacher Sydna Yellowfish. All materials will be supplied. Preregister. 10-11:30am. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Veterans Day Celebration at the 45th Infantry Division Museum (2145 NE 36th St) features a loud salute provided by a World War II anti-tank gun followed by a performance by the 145th Army band, guest speakers and a beautiful Massing of the Colors. The museum and its grounds will be open all day for attendees to enjoy. 10am. 424-5313, www.45thdivisionmuseum.com

Dog-N-Jog at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features a fun run benefiting improvements to the Edmond Dog Parks. Dogs are welcome but not required to participate. $20. 8-10am. 697-2862, www.facebook.com/ThreeDogBakeryOK Family Workshop: Natural Wreaths at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Explore the garden grounds and gather natural items for a seasonal wreath. Preregister. Best suited for ages 6-10. Members, $5; non-members, $7. 1-2:30pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org University of Oklahoma Football vs Texas Christian University at Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium (1185 Asp Ave, Norman). Prices vary. Time TBA. Also held: Nov. 25 vs West Virginia. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com

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

FREE Retro Video Game Tournament at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave). Compete for a grand prize in a fun and casual setting. Preregister. All ages are welcome; younger children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. 1-3pm. 231-8650, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Super Saturdays at US Grant High School (5016 S Penn Ave) features a districtwide professional development workshop for families who support the students in the Oklahoma City Public School District. Free childcare for ages 3-12 and lunch for those who register. 13 and older are encouraged to attend the college prep workshops. 10am2pm. www.okcps.org/SuperSaturdays

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

FREE See You Saturdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features 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 Lighted Miniature Christmas Tree Festival at the Southern Oaks Library (6900 S Walker Ave). Families can assemble miniature Christmas trees for a miniature holiday village on display at the library. The trees will be returned to participants in mid-December to take home and enjoy. Preregister. All ages welcome. 2-4pm. 631-4468, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Veterans Day Celebration in Blanchard (Main St, Blanchard) features a parade with high school marching bands

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

“Bring your kids... and start a new kind of holiday tradition” – Chicago Daily Herald

“This is a show that will go down in history... as a smashing HIT!” – Dallas Examiner

The beloved TV classic RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER soars off the screen and onto the stage this holiday season. See all of your favorite characters as they come to life in RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL. It’s an adventure that teaches us that what makes you different can be what makes you special.

SUNDAY NOV 21 7PM

Civic Center Music Hall Tickets: okcciviccenter.com (405) 297-2264 Civic Center Box Office

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

NOV 11 & 12 Veteran’s Day Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features free admission to the exhibit center for active military and veterans and a special discount in the Aaimpa Cafe. Saturday, 10am-5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com FREE A-OK Alpaca Blast Off at Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center (1700 W Independence, Shawnee) features an alpaca halter and fleece show, educational exhibits, alpaca products and alpaca-related goods and services, Made in Oklahoma vendors, family activities and more. See website for a complete schedule of events. 282-7433, www.alpacablastoff.com

NOV 12 • SUNDAY

JOIN US FOR AN EVENING WITH

BOB GOFF NY TIMES BESTSELLER & ENCOURAGER TO MILLIONS

SATURDAY

DEC. 9TH 7 PM Doors open at 6:30 pm Reception to follow Seating is limited so register for a free ticket at newcov.tv/bob-goff!

2700 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK n e w c o v. t v | 4 0 5 . 5 6 2 . 3 2 0 0

Gypsy Glam Roadshow Holiday Shopping Extravaganza at the Devon Boathouse District (725 S Lincoln Blvd) features a variety of food trucks, local entertainment, wineries, breweries and shopping with local vendors. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to help Gypsy Glam “stuff the Airstream” for Toys for Tots. 11am-6pm. 602-1851, www.oklahomagypsyglam.com Wizards on Western in the Western Avenue District (Western Ave between 39th & 44th St) features food trucks, refreshments, music and wizard-related activities including games, crafts, trivia, shopping and more. Costumes encouraged. Free to attend. 1-6pm. www.facebook.com/wizardsonwesternOKC/

NOV 14 • TUESDAY FREE Turkey Shoot at OKC Community Centers (various locations). Kids can compete in a basketball free throw contest to win a frozen turkey. Age groups are: 6-8, 9-12, 13-17 & 18+. 4-6pm. www.okc.gov The Gift Goes On Christmas Shopping Event at The Cube at Council Road Baptist Church (7903 NW 30th St, Bethany) features local vendors, a silent auction, raffle and food trucks, benefiting the Karis Adoption Fund. $5. 6-9pm. www.thegiftgoeson.com

FREE TLC (Touch, Learn, Create) – Thanksgiving at the Southwest Oklahoma City Library (2201 SW 134th St) features themed sensory activity stations for children ages 2-6. 10-11:30am. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Creating New Traditions at Calm Waters Center for Children and Families (4334 NW Expressway Ste 101) features a free, one-time event for families that have experienced the death of a family member. Adults will receive timely insight from a grief professional while children enjoy holiday crafts and activities. Space is limited, reservations are requested. 6:30-8pm. 841-4800, www.calmwaters.org

NOV 16 • THURSDAY Walk the Lights Holiday Lights Spectacular at Joe B. Barnes Regional Park (SE 15th & Century Dr, Midwest City) features a one-mile stroll through twinkling lights and animated light displays. Adults, $5; kids under 12, free. 6-8pm. 739-1293, www.midwestcityok.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 some amazing stories. Preregister. $20. 7-9pm. 525-5325, www.okhistory.org FREE Statehood Day Celebration at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features family friendly activities including story time, a craft and movie in the theater plus free admission to the museum. 10:30am. 523-3231, www.oklahomahof.com FREE Family Game Night at The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave, Moore) feature a variety of different games like Monopoly, card games, ping pong and more. All ages welcome. Kids under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. 7:30-9:30pm. 793-5090, centralpark.cityofmoore.com

NOV 17 • FRIDAY

NOV 15 • WEDNESDAY

Craft Fair at Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May Ave) features local vendors selling hand-crafted items. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. 378-0420

FREE Tours at the Academy of Classical Christian Studies (12500 S Penn Blvd). Prospective parents can see the campus and learn more about the school’s programs. 9-10am. 850-0633, www.theacademyok.org

FREE Filmography: Oklahoma Film Series at 21C Museum Hotel (900 W Main St) features classic art house films. November’s film is Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry. 8pm. 982-6900, www.21cmuseumhotels.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink opens at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond). $12 with skate rental, $8 without, kids (under 5), $6. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm; Friday, 3-10pm; Saturday, noon-10pm; Sunday, noon-9pm. 274-1638, www.edmondoutdooricerink.com FREE Jingle Jangle at Quail Springs Baptist Church (14613 N May Ave) features an evening of fun and encouragement for single moms. Guests can enjoy special guest speakers, holiday treats, door prizes and time to connect with other single moms. Childcare will be available for children ages 0-11 with pre-registration. 6:30-9pm. 812-5137, ariseministries.net/jinglejangle

NOV 17 & 18 Questival Adventure Race at Wiley Post Park (2021 S Robinson Ave) features a 24hour adventure race for teams of two to six people. $33-$45. Friday, 5pm-Saturday, 7pm. 435-851-4089, www.cotopaxi.com

NOV 18 • SATURDAY The Santa Market at the Downtown Edmond Community Center (28 E Main

St, Edmond) features over 100 vendors showcasing the hottest decor and fashion, handmade and unique items and the latest in direct sales. Proceeds from the show benefit the Alzheimer’s Association of Oklahoma. Families can meet Santa and pose for a free photo. Free to attend. 9am-5pm. 314-1033, www.facebook.com/thesantamarket

FREE Lights on Broadway Holiday Open House in Automobile Alley (Broadway Ave between 4th & 10th St) features holiday window displays, children’s activities, carriage rides, a chance to meet Santa, a live entertainment, a series of outdoor holiday movies and more. 4-8pm. 235-4789, www.downtownindecember.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 Oklahoma Nutcracker Preview at the Norman West Library (300 Norman Center Ct, Norman) features a performance by the Norman Ballet Company. Children are encouraged to participate in the Battle of the Mouse King. All ages are welcome to attend. 5-6pm. 701-2644, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

FREE Apple Pie Time at the Bethany Library (3510 N Mueller Ave, Bethany). Kids can practice following directions, measuring ingredients and putting together a delicious pie to take home and bake. Preregister, space is limited. For ages 9 & up. 2-3pm. 789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Grand Opening Celebration at Goldfish Swim School (10 NW 146th St, Edmond) features an open swim time, a DJ, face painting, a clown, arts & crafts and more. 1-4pm. 696-7500, www.goldfishswimschool.com

Chill Your Cheeks 5K Run at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon) features a 5k run that winds through the streets of Yukon and ends amid 4 million twinkling Christmas lights on display in the park. Activities also include train rides, pictures with Santa, refreshments, live Christmas music and games. 5pm. $20-$40. 350-8920, www.cityofyukonok.gov

NOVE

ER HUNT

S OW CENTER ERLAND ANE CHRISTMAS EVENTS

DEVON ICE RINK • DEVON’S SATURDAYS WITH SANTA • SANDRIDGE SANTA RUN • BRICKTOWN TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY SONIC • FREE HOLIDAY WATER TAXI RIDES • A DOG DAY IN DECEMBER • LIGHTS ON BROADWAY ANNUAL EVENT • LIFESHARE WINTERFEST AND SNOW TUBING • LITTLE WILLIE’S TRIPLE DOG DARE • AUTOMOBILE ALLEY LIGHT DISPLAY • BRICKTOWN CANAL LIGHT DISPLAY • FILM ROW LIGHT DISPLAY • BRICKTOWN HOLIDAY PARKLET SPONSORED BY PAINTED DOOR • DELUXE WINTER MARKET • HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOPS AT MIDTOWN • MYRIAD GARDENS HOLIDAY EVENTS • OKCMOA HOLIDAY EVENTS • RED EARTH TREEFEST • HISTORIC CHURCH TOUR AND SCAVENGER HUNT • LYRIC’S A CHRISTMAS CAROL PRESENTED BY DEVON ENERGY • OKC BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER PRESENTED BY DEVON ENERGY • MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS • OKC PHILHARMONIC’S CHRISTMAS SHOW • CANTERBURY CHRISTMAS AT THE CIVIC CENTER • THE CITY CABARET OKC’S RETRO WONDERLAND • AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM’S CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS • SHERATON DOWNTOWN HOTEL HOLIDAY EVENTS • SKIRVIN HOLIDAY EVENTS • SANTA FE STATION OPEN HOUSE • OKC ARTS COUNCIL’S OPENING NIGHT

THRU

MBER

JANU

ARY 2

FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENT DETAILS, VISIT DowntownInDecember.com

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Saturdays for Kids

December 2 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

Cimarron Opera presents La Pizza Con Funghi at St John’s Episcopal Church (235 W Duffy St, Norman) pokes fun at the kind of operas that were written in the 1800s. Musical clichés, melodramatic language and an insane plot all serve as an accompaniment to the entire catalog of mishaps that can befall an opera performance. Patrons are welcome to pack a picnic dinner and bring blankets or mats. Adults, $12; kids (12 & under), $8. Tickets must be purchased in advance. 6-9pm. 364-8962, www.cimarronopera.org FREE Tree Lighting Ceremony at Stockyards City Main Street (1217 S Agnew) features a special holiday ceremony with Christmas carols. 6:30-7pm. 235-7267, www.stockyardscity.org

NOV 19 • SUNDAY Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer: The Musical at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave). See all of your favorite characters from the television special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius and Rudolph as they come to life on stage. $43-$63. 7pm. 297-2264, www.rudolphthemusical.com Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker at the Rose State College Hudiburg Chevrolet Center (6000 S Prosper, Midwest City) features the artistry of worldclass Russian dancers, playful puppets and the unmatched splendor of hand crafted sets and costumes. $28 & up. 7pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com Historic Church Tour in Downtown Oklahoma City (various locations) features a self-guided tour of local churches with beautiful stained glass and amazing architecture. Proceeds from the event go to fund operations and services at Good Shepherd Ministries. $20. 2-5:30pm. 232-8631, www.downtownindecember.com

NOV 21 • TUESDAY

1700 Northeast 63rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Mon – Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sun, Noon – 5:00 p.m. (405) 478-2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org/kids

Tiny Tuesdays at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features a monthly themed come-and-go, open-ended artmaking experiences 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 FREE Make an Apple Pie for Teens at the Moore Library (225 S Howard, Moore). Learn how to make an apple pie and take it

home to bake. All supplies provided. Preregister. For kids in grades 6-12. 2 & 3:30pm. 793-5100, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org FREE Toddler Story Time at Chapel Hill United Methodist Church (2717 W Hefner Rd) features a story time with staff from the Metropolitan Library System. Best suited for ages 4 & under. 10-11am. 507-7311, www.mychapelhill.org

NOV 22 • WEDNESDAY FREE Apple Pie Workshop for Teens at the Norman Central Library (225 N Webster Ave, Norman). Participants will put together all the ingredients for an apple pie to bake at home for your holiday meal. Preregister. For kids in grades 6-12. 2-4pm. 701-2600, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

NOV 23 • THURSDAY Edmond Turkey Trot at the Downtown Edmond Community Center (28 E Main St, Edmond) features a scenic 5K, one-mile family wobble, inflatables and face painting. Preregister. Proceeds benefits Turning Point Ministries. $10-$26. 8-10am. 590-8665, www.edmondturkeytrot.com OKC Turkey Tracks 5K in Downtown OKC (5th & Harvey Ave) features a one-mile fun run and a 5K run. Strollers and dogs are welcome. Runners are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots. $20$35. www.okcturkeytracks.com FREE Edmond Community Thanksgiving Dinner at Nigh University Center at UCO (100 N University Dr, Edmond) features a community dinner. 9am-3pm. edmondthanksgivingdinner@ gmail.com Turkey Day 5K at Norman High School (911 W Main St, Norman) features a 5K and one-mile fun run benefiting Serve More. $25. 9:30am-noon. 793-0893, www.turkeyday5krun.com

NOV 23-26 Chris Neal’s Future Stars Calf Roping at Lazy E Arena (9600 Lazy E Dr, Guthrie) features roping, breakaway and tie-down competitions. Prices vary. 282-7433, www.risingstarscalfroping.com

NOV 24 • FRIDAY Black-out Day Camp at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features nature films, outdoor play, games, art and more. Preregister. $100. For ages 6 -12. 5:15am-2pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

FREE Tree Lighting Festival in Bricktown (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features a festive ceremony and free photos with Santa. 5-7pm. 235-3500, www.downtownindecember.com A Territorial Christmas Carol opens at Pollard Theater (120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie). The production mixes the classic tale of redemption and brotherly love in Charles Dickens’ novel with the Oklahoma Land Run. Best suited for ages 5 & up. $15$30. 8pm. 282-2800, www.thepollard.org

NOV 24 & 25 Cleveland County Craft Show at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson St, Norman) features decorating, handmade, seasonal and specialty items. Free to attend. 9am-4pm. 360-4712, www.clevelandcountyfair.org

NOV 24-26 LifeShare Winterfest at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle Dr) features two gigantic snow tubing slopes, one for thriller seekers and one for those wanting

Memorial, Sulphur) features a children’s Christmas ornament workshop, stomp dancing and living village activities. Admission required for exhibit center. Saturday, 10am5pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 580-622-7130, www.chickasawculturalcenter.com

a moderate thrill and Santa’s workshop with a children’s train and sparkling holiday décor. Riders must be 48” tall. Riders, $13; non-riders, $3. Noon, 2pm & 4pm. Also held: Dec 2 & 3. 218-1000, www.downtownindecember.com

NOV 25 • SATURDAY

NOV 26 • SUNDAY

Deluxe Winter Market at Leadership Square (211 N Robinson Ave) features unique makers, artists, vendors and other creatives as well as a free photo booth and Elf Market where kids can shop for gifts at kid-sized prices. Proceeds from the Elf Market go to the Curbside Chronicle. Free to attend. 11am-5pm. www.deluxeok.net

The Oklahoma Nutcracker & Sand Plum Fairy Tea Party at Nancy O’Brian Center for the Performing Arts (131 S Flood Ave, Norman) combines the history and beauty of Oklahoma with the artful expression of classical ballet. $15-$25. Tea party, 1pm; ballet, 3pm. 633-2717, www.normanballetcompany.com

FREE Eagle Watch at Lake Thunderbird State Park (1201 Clear Bay Ave, Norman) features a tour of the park to catch a glimpse of magnificent eagles in their winter home. Preregister. 1-4pm. 321-4633

Merry & Bright: FREE Sunday Evenings in the Crystal Bridge (301 W Reno Ave) features Christmas light displays and beautiful plant exhibits designed especially for the holiday season. Also held: Dec. 3, 10 & 17, 6pm-9pm 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 25 & 26 FREE Thanksgiving Celebration at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper

HOLIDAY PARTIES ARE A

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Call NOW for our Corporate Party Packages! 405-373-1595 5201 Cimarron Road NW Piedmont, OK 73078

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN NOV 27 • MONDAY FREE Community Tree Lighting Ceremony (Midwest Blvd & Reno Ave, Midwest City) features a Christmas carol sing-a-long, dance performances, a visit from Santa and refreshments as well as the tree lighting ceremony. 7pm. 739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org

NOV 28 • TUESDAY FREE Take & Bake Apple Pie Class at the Southwest OKC Library (2201 SW 134th St). Learn how to make an apple pie. All supplies provided. Preregister. For ages 6-12 with an adult. 4:30-5:30pm. 979-2200, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org Ray Chen, Violinist at Armstrong Auditorium (14400 S Bryant Rd, Edmond) features violin music from Spain, France, Belgium, Germany and Hungary. $23-$48. 7:30pm. 285-1010, www.armstrongauditorium.org

NOV 30 • THURSDAY Peppa Pig Live! at Hudson Performance Hall (2820 N May Ave) features colorful how with new songs and life-size puppets. Children who have had their second birthday need their own ticket. $15 & up. 6pm. www.peppapiglive.com Territorial Christmas at Harn Homestead (1721 N Lincoln Blvd) features hay rides, holiday crafts, Harn House tours and the chance to meet Santa. $5 in advance; $7 at the door. 6:30-8:30pm. 235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com

NOV 30-DEC 2 OKC Philharmonic Christmas Show at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features fresh interpretations of holiday favorites, celebrated through music, song and dance for over two decades. $19 & up. Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2 & 8pm. 842-5387, www.okcphil.org

DEC 1 • FRIDAY FREE Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting Ceremony at Andrews Park (201 W Daws St, Norman) features free hot chocolate & cookies, moon bounces, musical entertainment and a chance to meet Santa. Bring your own camera for a free photo with Santa. 5:30-7pm. 366-5470, www.normanfun.com UCO WinterGlow at Nigh University Center (100 N University Dr, Edmond) features the Ceremonial Lighting of the Old North as well as a winter carnival. Bring a toy to donate and receive a free photo with Santa. 6-9pm. 974-2363, www.uco.edu/winterglow

FREE A Dog Day in December at Midtown Mutts Dog Park (1171 N Hudson Ave) features a pet-friendly holiday party with music and food trucks. Dogs can take photos with Santa (printed on site), for a small donation, and enjoy “puppachinos” from The Children’s Hospital Volunteers’ new Paws for Purpose program. 6-8pm. www.downtownindecember.com FREE Holidays on the Paseo in the Paseo Arts District (Paseo Ave) features live entertainment, food trucks, kids’ activities, art demos, carolers and shopping. Kids can meet Santa. 6-10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.org Tomáseen Foley’s A Celtic Christmas at The Gate (7700 N Council Rd) features dancers, musicians, singers and storyteller from Ireland. $33-$40. 7-10pm. 343-1025, www.spotlightproductionsokc.com

DEC 2 • SATURDAY Edmond Ugly Holiday Lights Run at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features a Christmas sweater themed 5K and one mile fun run benefiting the holiday light display in Mitch Park. Runners can also participate in a sweater contest for the most creative, prettiest or ugliest sweater. $25. 2pm. 359-4630, www.edmondparks.com Little Willie’s Triple Dog Dare at Leadership Square (211 N Robison Ave) features a stair climbing event benefiting Homeless Alliance & Sunbeam Family Services. Racers will climb 138 floors in three buildings combined. Single and relay options available. $45 & up. 8am. www.littlewilliestripledogdare.com FREE Saturdays with Santa at Devon Energy (333 W Sheridan Ave) features crafts, live holiday music, a train ride, the chance to meet Santa and other holiday characters and more. Visits with Santa are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 10am-4pm. Also held: Dec. 10 & 17. www.downtownindecember.com FREE Yukon Mayor’s Christmas Party for Kids at the Dale Robertson Center (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) features crafts, games, the mayor’s essay contest and more. 10amnoon. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov

DEC 3 • SUNDAY FREE Family Day at Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features free admission, hands-on art projects and ingallery experiences throughout the Museum. Noon-5pm. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com

30 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Holiday Lights NOV 17 - DEC 30

NOV 18 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; JAN 1

NOV 24 - JAN 3

FREE Midwest City Holiday Lights Spectacular at Joe B Barnes Regional Park (8700 E. Reno Ave). Sunday-Thursday, 6-10pm; Friday & Saturday, 6-11pm.

FREE Automobile Alley Lights on Broadway Ave (NW 4th to 10th St. on Broadway Ave). Open dusk to dawn.

NOV 18 - DEC 31

FREE Bricktown Canal Lights Display (Mickey Mantle Dr & Reno Ave). Open daily at dusk through Jan. 1. Enjoy free water taxi rides certain nights of the week.

FREE Downs Family Christmas Lights (2900 72nd Ave SE, Norman). Bring a canned good or monetary donation to benefit the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Open seven days a week from 6-10pm.

FREE Christmas in the Park at Chisholm Trail Park (500 W Vandament, Yukon). Open seven days a week from 6-11pm. FREE Festival of Light at Shannon Springs Park (2400 S 9th St, Chickasha). Sunday-Thursday, 6-10pm, FridaySaturday, 6 -11pm.

NOV 24 - JAN 1

NOV 25 - DEC 31 FREE Celebration of Lights at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur). Open 6-9pm nightly.

FREE Holiday Lights Display on Film Row (Sheridan Ave). Open daily at dusk.

Open Nov. 10 through Jan. 28 See downtownindecember.com for information. @ devonicerinkokc @ devonicerink

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Your family could

WIN BIG through our

ULTIMATE Birthday Party

Giveaway

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 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

Due to the generous support of the following partners, MetroFamily is giving away party packages at these local family venues: Arcadia Lake Artsy Rose Academy Mad Science Mobile Laser Forces Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden Skate Galaxy OKC SoccerCity OKC Tot Town Upstage Theatre

You could be one of our lucky winners!

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 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 Fall Family Wagon Rides and Cook Outs at Honey Lee Ranch (7201 N Douglas Blvd) features a wagon ride to one of the Ranch’s remote locations and roast hotdogs and make s’mores. All the fixins are provided. Preregister. 12 & up, $12; kids (6-11), $6, kids (5 & under on a parent’s lap), free. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 6:30 & 7pm. 664-9666, www.honeyleeranchok.com 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. 2363100, www.okcmoa.com Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown (10th & Hudson Ave) features rotating, local vendors offering a variety of gift items and an urban Christmas tree lot. Opens Nov. 24. Thursday-Saturday, 10am-9pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm. www.okcpopups.com

Enter TODAY!

Deadline is Nov. 30. www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests

32 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

CALENDAR #OKCFAMILYFUN

ONGOING EVENTS NOV 10-JAN 28 Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave). Enjoy another winter of outdoor ice skating. $13, $8 without skates; members, $7. Monday-Thursday 3-9pm; Friday 3-11pm; Saturday, 11am-11pm; Sunday 11amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;7pm. See website for extended hours of operation and special events. 4457080, www.myriadgardens.org

NOV 13-JAN 13 FREE Red Earth Treefest at Red Earth Art Center (6 Santa Fe Plaza) features over 15 Christmas Trees decorated with handmade ornaments created by Oklahoma Native Tribes. Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm.; Saturdays, Dec. 2, 9 & 16, 10am-3pm. 4275228, www.redearth.org.

NOV 17-JAN 7 Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond). Families can enjoy ice skating, holiday music, Dental Depot Christmas Express and food concessions. $12 with skate rental, $8 without, kids (under 5), $6. Monday-Thursday, 3-9pm; Friday, 310pm; Saturday & Sunday, noon-10pm; Nov. 22-24, noon-10pm. 274-1638, www.edmondoutdooricerink.com

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. TuesdayFriday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. 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

NOV 25-DEC 24 A Territorial Christmas Celebration in Downtown Guthrie (various locations) features Victorian Christmas celebrations, historic home tours, theater performances of A Territorial Christmas Carol and a lighted parade with Santa as the parade marshal. Most activities are free. See website for a complete schedule of events. 412-4132, www.guthriesterritorialchristmas.com

NOV 29-DEC 24

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 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

THROUGH JAN 7

A Christmas Carol at Lyric Theatre (1727 NW 16th St). Take a magical journey with Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. $25 & up. See website for a full schedule of performances. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com

THROUGH NOV 25 Hidden Messages at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Gaylord-Pickens Museum (1400 Classen Dr) investigates identity and place through ceramics and mixed media. Marilyn Artusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work consists of things that were meant to only be enjoyed or used for a short time and then discarded. An avid maker

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 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 / NOVEMBER 2017

Birthday Party GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Andy Alligator’s 3300 Market Pl., Norman 405-321-7275 www.andyalligators.com

Oklahoma City is packed with incredible birthday party resources. From top notch attractions that welcome big groups to impressive companies that will bring the party to you, our annual Party Guide features all the venues and resources to make sure your next party goes off without a hitch. Find these and more resources at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/party-guide.

Twelve acres of party activities include go-kart speedway, two-story laser tag, outdoor rock climbing, 10-story Skycoaster thrill ride, arcade, private party rooms and expanded menu. Water park birthday party packages also available from May 1st to Labor Day. $130+. Parties available for all ages.

Arcadia Lake Office, 9000 E. 2nd Street, Arcadia 405-216-7470 www.arcadialakeok.com

Six pavilions located near the water, playground or a beach are available for rent. Each has electricity, lighting, fireplaces and grills. Birthday package includes a shirt for the birthday child and horseshoe or volleyball rental. Half-day and full-day rentals range from $50-$175.

Artsy Rose Academy 7739 W. Hefner Rd. 405-603-8550 www.artsyrose.com

Boy and girl birthday parties complete with setup and clean-up, paper goods (plates, napkins, cups, forks/spoons, table cloths), special gift for birthday child and “Shimmers” snow cones. $210, includes 10 painters and lasts 1.75 hours. $15 each for additional painters.

Brickopolis Entertainment 101 S. Mickey Mantle Dr. 405-516-2745 www.brickopolisu.com

Party packages include play cards for arcade games, attractions (mini golf, laser tag, Klime wall and more) and food at this family fun center located in Bricktown. Birthday party packages start at $160 for up to 10 guests and are available for ages 5 and up.

Chester’s Party Barn 5201 Cimarron Rd. N.W., Piedmont 405-373-1595 www.chesterspartybarn.com

Twenty-five acres of fun for private and special events year-round. Packages can accommodate birthday parties as well as events for up to 500 people. Activities include hayrides, pony rides, petting zoo, giant slide, bonfires, a 10-ton sandbox, karaoke, fishing, snack shack, pumpkin bowling and a corn maze.

Dodge City Paintball of OKC 16425 NW 150th, Piedmont 405-373-3745 www.okcpaintball.com

Parties for boys and girls ages 6 and up with low-impact paintball ideal for young players or regular paintball. With 10 or more players, rates are discounted from $20 per person to $15 per person with all gear included except the paintballs. Cooking facilities available (grill, refrigerator; bring your own charcoal).

Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge 421 N.W. 10th St., Oklahoma City 405-609-3302 www.dustbowlok.com

Packages for children’s birthday parties include bowling, shoe rental, unlimited soft drinks, tater tot bar and more. Parties start at $14.99 per child. Call to customize the best package for your family. Available for all ages.

34 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Edmond Fine Arts Institute 27 E. Edwards, Edmond 405-340-4481 www.edmondfinearts.com

Party packages include invitations, paper goods and a special gift for the birthday child. Parties are customized for every age between 4 and 12 and are 1.5 hours long. Prices begin at $200 for 10 children; $15 for each additional child.

Extreme Animals bookashow@extremeanimals.org 405-413-3174; 405-413-3157 www.extremeanimals.org

Animal party packages are $185/hour or $315/two hours. Additional hours are $100 each. VIP Package is available for $225/hour or $350/two hours and guarantees that you will get a visit from the kangaroo and one of the lemurs. Mileage fees may apply. Available for birthdays, school, church, corporate and community events.

Forever After Parties 405-693-1937 www.foreverafterparties.com

Skilled entertainers offer a variety of services for ages 1-10 including face painting, princess makeovers, hero acrobatics, storytelling, magic, scavenger hunts and music. In addition, your character booking includes a personal party assistant, available to clean up, pose for photos and cut and serve cake.

Includes all-day admission ticket, private party area for two hours, hot dogs, chips, drinks and a birthday cake. Set up and clean up provided so hosts can enjoy the attractions with the kids. Frontier City parties are available April through September. Birthday Parties start at $350 for eight guests of all ages.

Goldfish Swim School-Edmond 10 N.W. 146th St., Edmond 405-696-7500 www.edmond. goldfishswimschool.com

Party packages include a party coordinator, certified lifeguards and exclusive use of facility for two hours. Staff members greet children and take them to the decorated pool and viewing area. Guests from infants to age 12 will enjoy games, races and water fun complete with use of facility toys and rafts.

HeyDay Norman & Lower Bricktown 3201 Market Pl., Norman 405-310-3500 www.heydayfun.com

Now with two locations, HeyDay parties may include bowling, laser tag, ropes course, mini-golf, arcade and a party room sized for the number of guests. Parties are available for groups of all sizes and guests of all ages including children, teens and adults. Call to visit with a personal party coordinator or visit website for package or custom pricing.

Honey Lee Ranch 7201 N. Douglas Blvd., Jones 405-664-9666 www.honeyleeranchok.com

Parties for all ages offered beneath a pavilion next to a Koi pond, deep in the woods in conjunction with a campout or on the sands of the North Canadian River with a bonfire. Horseback riding and hayrides also available. $100 for each hour on premises. Horses are $30 an hour per horse. Hayride is $5 per person.

Mad Science 405-285-9643 www.okc.madscience.org

Parties are approximately 45 minutes to an hour long and hosted at the location of your choice. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interactive and suitable for groups of all sizes and great for kids ages 5-12. Special parties available for ages 3-5. Packages start at $195 for up to 15 children.

Metro Gymnastics 7420 Broadway Ext. Suite A 405-848-5308 www.metrogymokc.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Frontier City 11501 N. I-35 Service Road Oklahoma City www.frontiercity.com 405-478-2140

Parties feature 90 minutes of gymnastics instruction to ages 2-12 including obstacle courses, swinging on the bars and balancing on the beams. Emphasis on safety and excitement. Metro Gymnastics membership is not required to book a party. Guests bring the cake, drinks and paper goods.

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Mobile Laser Forces 405-259-9300 www.mobilelaserforces.com

Customizable indoor/outdoor laser tag with different options of play brought to your location. Like paintball but uses taggers that emit a signal that is similar to a television remote. This signal is read by sensors which are placed on the participants. Packages $150 and up. Appropriate for ages 6 and up.

Myriad Gardens 301 W. Reno 405-200-1547 www.myriadgardens.org/rentals/ birthdayparties

Have your next birthday party in the private pavilion in the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden. Several packages are available ranging from a basic space rental to add-ons like food and drinks, games, a tour of the Crystal Bridge and takehome favors. Ice rink parties available November-January. Party packages start at $125 and are available for kids up to age 12.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr. 405-278-8213 www.okcmoa.com/tours

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden 2000 Remington Pl. 405-425-0218 www.okczoo.org/birthdays

Ages 5 and up can enjoy a two-hour museum experience led by gallery teachers. Parties include a studio art project with themes like People and Portraits, Dale Chihuly: Magic and Light and Picturing Place. Prices are $300 for members and $350 for non-members for up to 15 children. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure date. Must book at least three weeks in advance.

Parties available for ages 1-12 and all food and drinks can be purchased through the on-site catering company. Package pricing includes your choice of one of the themed rooms, a birthday cake and a special visit from two of our animal ambassadors.

RIVERSPORT Adventures 800 RIVERSPORT Dr. 405-552-4040 www.riversportokc.org

Activities range from high-flying adventures on the SandRidge Sky Trail to on-the-water activities like whitewater rafting or flatwater kayaking. Choose an indoor or outdoor space for cake and gifts. Exclusive birthday parties, either before or after normal operating hours, are available upon request. For ages 6 and up.

Sam Noble Museum 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman 405-325-4712 www.samnoblemuseum.ou.edu

Dino Birthday packages vary but include a guided tour, Discovery Room time and party space for up to 25. Discounts available for museum members. $200-$300. Parties available for ages 5-12.

Science Museum Oklahoma 2020 Remington Pl. 405-602-3760 www.sciencemuseumok.org

Packages include admission, Planetarium and Science Live shows and a private party room for up to 30 people. Additional guests are $9 each. Demonstrations available for additional fee. Cost is $225 members/$260 non-members. Parties available for all ages.

Skate Galaxy OKC 5800 N.W. 36th St. 405-605-2758 www.skategalaxyokc.com

Customizable skate parties are available ranging from simple party packages starting at $119 to private parties where guests can rent out the entire rink. Parties available for ages 3 and up.

SoccerCity OKC 4520 Old Farm Rd., Oklahoma City 405-748-3888 www.soccercityokcity.com

Party packages include one hour of fun games or scrimmaging on the field with a coach, one hour in the party room eating pizza or snacks and a SoccerCity shirt for the birthday child. Packages start at $175 and parties are available for ages 18 months to 16 years.

36 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Sooner Bowling Center 550 24th N.W., Norman 405-360-3634 www.soonerbowl.com/birthdays

Bowling birthday party packages offered for ages 2 and up featuring traditional and glow bowling, shoe rental, pizza, soda, arcade game cards, party table place settings and personal party staff to ensure a fun and easy party.

Studio J School of Dance 420 S. Santa Fe Ave., Edmond 405-348-3377 www.studiojdanceok.com

90-minute parties include a party planner, event room, a staff assistant and a 45-minute dance class with choreography for up to 18 kids in the style/theme of your choice with instructor. You provide decorations, refreshments and cake. Parties available for guests ages 3-12.

Tot Town 841 S.W. 119th St. 405-650-7560 www.tottownokc.com

Party packages for ages 1-6 range from mini parties during open play hours to larger private parties on evenings and weekends. Includes birthday banner, plates, napkins, forks, cups and two balloon bouquets. Prices range from $85 for a mini party for up to eight to $225 for private party for up to 15.

Unpluggits Paint & Play 575 Enterprise Dr. Ste.110, Edmond 405-340-7584 www.unpluggits.com

Upstage Theatre 844 W Danforth, Edmond 405-285-5803 www.upstagetheatreok.com

Party package includes two hours in a party room of your choice, a craft and access to the playground and games. Invitations and paper goods are included. Outside food and drinks allowed. Cost for 12 children is $225 with $50 deposit to reserve; additional guests are $15 each. Discount of $25 available for active duty military. Parties available for all ages.

Fun-filled themed all-inclusive birthday parties where the birthday child and their friends get to learn more about being a theatre star. Parties available for boys and girls ages 4-12.

Velocity Dance Center 11122 N. Rockwell Ave. 405-818-6688 www.oklahomacitydancestudio.com

Birthday packages make the party a piece of cake! Professional, trained staff will do the setup and clean-up. Customize with a variety of themes. There are three levels of party packages and add-ons to create the perfect dance party experience for ages 3-12. All-inclusive packages start at $250.

White Water Bay 3908 W. Reno 405-478-2140 www.whitewaterbay.com

Includes all-day admission, covered area for the day, a locker, two tubes, meal and drinks. Area is set up with plates, cups and forks and clean-up is provided. Parties available mid-May through mid-September and start at $350 for eight guests of all ages.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City 14 locations in Oklahoma City, Moore, Edmond, Guthrie, Bethany, Chickasha, Midwest City 405-297-7777

Each facility is different, but parties are available in the YMCA event centers, activity rooms, swimming pools, gymnasiums, aerobics rooms and game fields. Prices vary per branch and parties are available for all ages.

Find more birthday party resources atÂ www.metrofamilymagazine.com/party-guide METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

At Home with

Candice McCoy

andice McCoy lives near downtown Edmond in a home built in 1923 she describes as “Kid Central” because she shares it with her husband, Jon, and their four children: 5-year-olds Lincoln and Vivian and 2-year-olds Eloise and Violet. Candice and Jon own Love Well Handmade, an Oklahoma Citybased clothing and home goods company that supports a partner charity with every purchase.

38 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

BY HANNAH SCHMITT PHOTOS BY EMILY HART

MFM: Tell me more about how you started Love Well. CM: Love Well sort of just happened by accident. It was just an idea that was given to us that really put together the areas that Jon was really good at and what I was really good at. We started the business four years ago. I was a teacher and although I loved the kids, I just didn’t feel like being in the classroom was my real passion. So I knew it wasn’t a long-term thing. We always wanted to have a way to teach our kids about giving back and investing financially to help others. We were living on a single income at the time (Jon was and still is working full-time as the

6-9PM, FRIDAY

DEC. 1, 2017

NIGH UNIVERSITY CENTER LIGHTING CEREMONY

AT OLD NORTH AT 6 PM

ACTIVITIES: COOKIES, HOLIDAY CRAFTS, INFLATABLES, TRACKLESS TRAIN RIDES, PHOTO WITH SANTA IF YOU DONATE A TOY FOR A LOCAL CHARITY

LOTS OF FAMILY FUN ACTIVITIES!

www.uco.edu/winterglow (405)974-2363 www.facebook.com/UCOWinterGlow @ucowinterglow

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA STUDENT ENGAGEMENT DEPARTMENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

director of annual giving at INTEGRIS) and we wondered if we could really show them the importance of being generous when we were strapped ourselves. If we could start a business that was self-sustaining, but could also give back, then that could be ingrained in their lives growing up. Linc and Viv were a year old and I was having trouble finding clothes for them that were a more simple style. That was five years ago and the options there now just weren’t there at the time. I had been making some outfits for them and Jon and I were sitting in the office one night and we started talking about doing that as a business. It was so natural because he’s a designer and I can sew and we wanted unique things for our own kids so we hoped other people would, too.

MFM: How in the world did you manage starting a business with a pair of 1-year-olds at home? CM: They were really good babies. It took three to four months but they were sleeping 12 hours at night and taking good naps during the day. But once they started getting older and sleeping less and then when the other two came along it’s just taken on a different dynamic. We’re creative in how we work together. And of course we have amazing support from others.

MFM: As your kids have gotten older, the business has changed. Has it changed because of them changing? CM: It’s been a natural transition. We started this business making predominately leggings but we’re not going to continue making the leggings and baby items anymore. We’re shifting away from that and focusing on shirts and home goods. Sitting in our office that night four years ago, we had no idea what it would be like to run a local retail business. We knew we wanted to make these clothes but we weren’t thinking about the cyclical nature of fashion, trying to stay up with trends or predict trends. That’s just not what we’re passionate about. It brings us a lot of joy to see people really take an interest in the baby items and I’ll miss that part of the business. But I’m excited to change and morph according to what is absolutely most valuable for me and my family.

MFM: So what’s the future of Love Well look like? CM: We unveiled our Love Tee last fall at Plaza Fest and we really felt energized when we were telling the people the story of how their purchase of the shirt would help others ($5 of every purchase goes to New Story,

a U.S.-based charity that builds homes for families living in slums in some of the most underserved countries in the world). It really lit a fire in us to create more things like that. So we’ll be collaborating with some other artists to give their interpretation of the love design.

MFM: You shared earlier this year on your blog that you got pregnant with both sets of twins through fertility treatments. Tell us more about your path to motherhood. CM: I didn’t expect a big family. I really thought after we had Linc and Viv that we were done. Jon could have been done. But I really wanted to experience pregnancy again and I wanted to have a more normal pregnancy. The first time around, I had preterm labor, I was on bedrest, the babies had to be in the NICU and I really just wanted that experience of a normal pregnancy, a delivery and then bringing the baby home after two days in the hospital. But the second pregnancy wasn’t exactly that. We had another set of twins, both girls. They too were born at 33 weeks and three days, just like Linc and Viv. God has tested us a lot. Jon and I value spontaneity and travel. We like to be active, out experiencing new things. That typically doesn’t mesh with having four young kids. It’s been the most challenging two years of my life but through it we’ve grown a lot. In the hardest times, you often see the most growth. These kids have pushed us out of our comfort zone and we’ve decided to just press on and do things anyway. We learned to be more flexible and it’s been the sweetest time.

MFM: So do you have any tips for traveling with a crew of young children? CM: Go in with low expectations. Stay calm and the kids will almost always rise to the occasion. They’re great like that. I feel like if you leave kids to their own devices, and I don’t mean electronic, they will surprise you in how they can entertain themselves. We made the decision when Linc and Viv were babies to put the television away and we really keep toys to a minimum so they’re encouraged to play with each other. They definitely have their moments of bickering and for that just lock them outside [laughing, of course].

MFM: Do you have any tips for fostering sibling bonds? CM: We’re figuring it out as we go. We don’t have any secrets or anything but I try to be

40 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

really communicative. Our family is a team. I constantly communicate that Mommy and Daddy and God expect them to watch out for and take care of each other. I really try to build them up and remind them what God has called them to do. I think communicating to all four of them has helped build that closeness and they take a lot of pride in the fact we’re a family.

MFM: You describe your home as “Kid Central” but it really looks tidy. How do you keep it from being overrun with toys? CM: Jon and I feel a lot more at peace and I think the kids feel a lot more at peace when we don’t have stuff all over the place. So we intentionally leave space for creativity, peace and calmness. It’s important to us, but we also want our kids to feel at home. They have a playroom upstairs. During the day they can certainly bring their toys downstairs and I want them to have the freedom to do that. But toys always go back upstairs at the end of the day and we encourage them to keep areas outside the playroom picked up. I used to feel a lot of anxiety when I would walk past the playroom and see the toy explosion in there. Someone said to me years ago, “Would you rather walk by and see it like that or walk by and see it empty?” That literally changed my heart on that. The day is coming when they will be too old to sit in that room and pull out all the toys and that’s going to be an emotional one for me. So right now this is fine.

MFM: So some aspects of the business have changed but you’ve maintained your mission to give back. Are the kids old enough yet to be aware of that mission? CM: I definitely think Linc and Viv understand it. We try to talk about it a lot but there’s a very thin line between sharing too many heavy things and helping them understand these things at a young age. We try to share about the hardships other people face in a gentle, childlike way. Jon and I were overseas for a year before we had kids. We did some work in a very poor village and every day the families in this village would cook a big bowl of rice and meat and that was the food for that day. We took a picture of a little girl there filling her bowl and we have that picture hanging up in our dining room. That’s one of many reminders we have at home to help our kids understand everyone else doesn’t have what we have. They are getting old enough to get excited when we talk to them about loving others well.

MFM: What other things do you do at home to help your kids learn more about being generous and serving others?

MFM: What’s the best and worst part of being a mom? CM: The best is the unconditional love. Even when I make a wrong decision and I have to apologize for it, they never for a second have a thought of not wanting to cuddle in my lap or love on me. I feel the same way about them. I don’t know if there’s

MFM: What’s life like with four kids under 5? CM: It’s so much about just letting things go and training your mind on what’s most important. This is hard because I’m a perfectionist. But I’ve had to accept I can’t do it all and I can’t manage everything. God gave me four kids to give me humility, I think. I used to think I had everything under control. But this has taught me to sit back and be okay with being out of control. With a family this large, 50 percent of the people are unhappy at any given time. But there’s a lot of joy that comes with it, too. We’re this little team. Somebody is always there to hug you or to help you.

MFM: What does motherhood mean to you? To me, motherhood means being their safe place they can come to with anything. Whether they want to talk or need comfort, I’m their safe spot they can depend on 100 percent. [Editor’s Note: This interview was edited for style and clarity.]

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CM: Overall, we just want them to realize the world is a lot bigger than they think. One of our fears in choosing to live in Edmond was that they would grow up in a bubble without a broad worldview. We’ve adopted an international student to spend time with and his name is Jason. Even before they can understand where Jason is from, they can see he speaks a different language and follows different cultural norms and it’s a subtle way for them to see a world beyond their small town.

another kind of love that can match it. The worst is just the lack of alone time. I’m an introvert by nature and having four of them so young, it’s difficult to get help with them. That’s just a lot to ask someone else to take on. So the worst part is not having much time to be alone and have space. Space is non-existent at this stage.

When we started Love Well, we wanted it to be a talking point for our customers, too. We have our signature heart that’s incorporated into everything we design. It’s more discreet in some designs than others but it’s always there. We encourage our customers to find the heart because that’s their reminder that they’re able to love people just by following a lifestyle of giving like buying something that serves a bigger purpose.

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kumon.com METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Real Kids of the Metro BY ERIN PAGE PHOTO OF DARCI LYNNE FARMER PROVIDED

When “America’s Got Talent” judge Mel B pressed the golden buzzer after Darci Lynne Farmer’s sensational ventriloquism audition, catapulting her straight to the live shows to compete for America’s vote, the Deer Creek Middle School student’s immediate response was a tearful “No way!” Farmer’s incredulity at her nationwide popularity and launch to superstardom continued until host Tyra Banks announced her the “AGT” Season 12 winner in mid-September.

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The self-proclaimed shy seventh grader isn’t a stranger to the spotlight, winning the Cinderella Scholarship Pageants’ 2013-14 title of International Mini Miss, showing off her impressive elite gymnastics skills to Rumble at halftime of an Oklahoma City Thunder game in 2013, appearing as a guest on “Little Big Shots” with Katie, her yodeling cowgirl puppet, in 2016, then traveling to Britain to perform on “Little Big Shots UK.” Even those experiences couldn’t have prepared the now 13-year-old Farmer to rack up the most votes ever for a finale show in “AGT” history and more than 300 million views across all social media platforms, according to NBC. Immediately after being crowned the winner and the third ventriloquist to win the show in its history, she declared, after making a donation to her church, her first purchase with her $1 million prize would be a new dishwasher for her family. Farmer will headline the “America’s Got Talent Live” show at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas on Nov. 3 and 4, with several of her season 12 competitors serving as opening acts.

What do you like to do when you’re not competing on “America’s Got Talent”? I love hanging out with my friends in my neighborhood. I love musical theater and I’ve done some pageants in the past.

What are your favorite subjects in school? Reading and writing.

When did you get into ventriloquism, and what inspired you? I met a girl at a pageant who did ventriloquism. We actually won together and got to travel to a couple different states to perform. I just watched her and thought ‘I want to do that so bad!’ I entered Edmond’s Got Talent contest and my mom really wanted me to sing, but I wanted to do ventriloquism. I had just gotten my puppet and we didn’t have anything ready. This was two weeks before the competition. I came up with something and ended up winning the competition.

Who was your first puppet? Do you have a favorite? The yodeling cowgirl was first. I have about five that I work with right now. One of my new ones [Oscar] is my favorite.

How have you practiced and honed your craft? I have to practice every day, and my coach, Gary Owen, would come over a couple days a week when we were getting close to going back [to “AGT”] for the live shows. I practice in front of my mom a lot.

Other than the show, what’s been your favorite place to perform? An event I did in Leedey, Oklahoma, was really fun because it was a fundraiser for a school in Uganda. There were several performers and a lot of people came.

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42 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

How did auditioning for “AGT” compare to other auditions or performances?

How do you sum up your experience on the show? It has been so amazing and stressful! But I just can’t believe it’s all over. When I made it to the finals, I was overcome with joy, relief and sadness because I hated to see my friends go home. Winning meant the world to me … just to think that America loves me enough to vote me to win a million dollars is incredible.

It can’t compare. It was way bigger than any other audition I’ve done. I’ve watched “AGT” over the years, and I knew that Terry Fator won, and Paul Zerdin, so I thought maybe I could win “AGT” as a third ventriloquist.

What was going through your mind when Mel B hit the golden buzzer?

What was the best part about coming home?

I don’t even remember; it was just awesome! We went there with low expectations. We just were really hoping for three or four yeses. We were not expecting the golden buzzer!

What were the judges really like? To me, they’re just like any other person. They were super nice. After my first audition, I got to talk to Mel B and take a picture with her. Her accent is really funny. Simon Cowell had a lot of nice things to say. I don’t remember much because I was so nervous! [Throughout the competition] the judges have said so many amazing things to me, and especially coming from them, their words mean so much and inspire me to keep doing what I love with confidence.

Seeing all my friends and sleeping in my own bed!

What has helped you stay grounded and true to yourself? Really it’s just praying because our family is Christian. We love to go to church, so when we get stressed or overwhelmed, we pray. My Dad and I like to do Bible studies together. I’m just relying on God.

What’s next for you? I want to do a musical on Broadway, and I want to have my own Darci Lynne show. I want to be a double threat!

What one word best describes you? Humble

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

EXPLORING BEYOND OKLAHOMA WITH CHILDREN

Holiday Getaway: Great Wolf Lodge

BY LINDSAY CUOMO PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GREAT WOLF LODGE

As the official Christmas Capital of Texas, the city of Grapevine, about a half-hour drive northwest of Dallas, spans their holiday celebrations over the course of more than 40 days, offering hundreds of festive events. Twinkling lights, larger-than-life decorations and a vintage railroad welcome travelers from near and far to enjoy the wonders of the holiday season. Amongst the holiday cheer is Great Wolf Lodge, a year-round hot spot for family fun. As you might expect from a family-focused resort, Great Wolf takes holidays to the extreme. Kicking off their celebration called Snowland the Saturday after Thanksgiving and continuing the festivities through the first of the year, the lodge becomes a winter wonderland of family fun. Towering trees and a life-size gingerbread house that

culinary teams have spent weeks cooking up welcome guests. Adorned with candy and heaps of white icing, the gingerbread house is more than just decoration. Families can dine inside and, in keeping with the spirit of the season, proceeds from your dining

44 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

experience are donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities. Magical indoor snow showers add extra holiday sparkle to the charm of the rustic resort. Santa will stop by the lodge for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 25 and

make appearances throughout the season to visit with kids and pose for photos. Guests can even reserve special Snowland suites that are decorated with lights, garland and a fully-adorned tree. Amidst the holiday cheer, the indoor water park certainly remains the highlight of any Great Wolf getaway. Access to the water park is included with your stay and exclusive to overnight resort guests. Winter weather is never a problem because the resort’s most popular amenity is always a balmy 84 degrees. Designed with all ages in mind, the water park has six different areas for splashing and swimming. Whether lounging in Crooked Creek, the park’s lazy river, or catching some waves in Slap Tail Pond, there are plenty of ways make memories together. Cub Paw Pool is likely where you’ll find the youngest members of the family. The zero-depth entry leads to an 18-inch “deep” end making this kiddie pool a step above the norm. For those often too short to make the

cut at other water parks, Cub Paw Pool has smaller kiddie slides that offer an accessible place for toddlers and preschoolers to explore. A selection of life jackets, including the popular Puddle Jumper style, are available free of charge for guests to use. Fort Mackenzie takes water play to the next level. Great for both younger and older kids, the treehouse-themed splash area offers a plethora of dump buckets, interactive water toys, kid-activated splash features and body slides the whole family can enjoy together. For the older and more adventurous members of the family, five full-size tube and raft slides will not disappoint. With single and multi-rider options available, high-speed drops and winding twists and turns aim to get your adrenaline going. The heart-pumping Howlin’ Tornado is instantaneously noticeable as you arrive. The towering yellow and red structure sends riders sailing through a six-story vortex on a super-fast thrill ride in a raft built for four. There are less intense slide options to

METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

Thank you! MetroFamily thanks all of the amazing sponsors of our Cover Kids Search 2018! And a special thanks to the families who joined the fun. We look forward to announcing our winners on Nov. 15 and to another exciting event next year.

accommodate a variety of adventure levels.

to earn a “Snowpolma” and a special prize.

The two other pools are home to some classic water park features. Slap Tail Pond sends the waves crashing every five minutes and Big Foot Pass features fun floats and an in-pool basketball hoop. If you are ready for a wind-down, the park’s two hot tubs are an enticing place to recuperate. South Hot Springs welcomes anyone over 8 years old while North Hot Springs is reserved for guests 18 and older. The water park can be accessed as early as 1 p.m. on the day you check in and families can stay and play until the end of the day they check out.

In addition to the free activities, Main Street is another hub of entertainment with an arcade, XD Theater, gift shops and more. The theater offers a selection of four short films that incorporate a multi-sensory experience with 3-D effects. Screenings are $7 each or $20 for all four movies.

When your crew is waterlogged, families can enjoy dozens of free activities offered throughout the day. Get loose each day with Yoga Tails and a Wolf Walk in the mornings. Hang out with Wiley and other Great Wolf characters near The Great Clock Tower and enjoy an animatronic show and story times twice a day that, during the holiday events, finishes with a festive indoor snow shower. Cub Club hosts games, crafts and other activities during the day. Families can wrap up their fun at the Jammie Jamboree, an allages pajama dance party in front of the clock tower at night. Special Snowland activities are planned for the holiday season including a North Pole University where kids are given a series of fun tasks to complete on their way

For a budget-conscience way to experience all the resort has to offer, consider purchasing a pass combining a selection of activities for one price. Be sure to ask about the three pass options at check-in. The resort’s MagiQuests are a popular stop. Armed with an interactive wand, guests search all of the hotel’s eight stories on an elaborate scavenger hunt adventure. The quests are a very active way to have fun together as you work through riddles and clues to earn rank and train to become a Master Magi. Once young Magis conquer the quest, which takes several hours (maybe

Thank you to our sponsors:

Participating Businesses Chester's Party Barn, iFly, Unpluggits Play Studio, Danny Gordon Art, Forever After Parties, Panera Bread, American Mothers Inc., National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum,Oklahoma Hall of Fame, American Banjo Museum, Braum's, Chick-fil-A, learning tree toys, books and games, inc., Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Skate Galaxy OKC Family Fun Center

46 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

even a couple days) to complete, additional mini-adventures like defeating a dragon keep the fun going. Kids can even get knighted during a special ceremony and receive a free gift. ShadowQuest and Compass Quest are additional adventures guest can tackle. Pricing for the quests start at $14.99 and all require a wand. Wands can be re-activated for future stays and your progress is saved for future visits to any Great Wolf location. Younger guests might enjoy a scaled-down quest called the Clubhouse Crew. Kids start off by creating a plush character in the Creation Station and then set out on a mission with the Great Wolf Kids. The adventure utilizes just two floors and takes about thirty minutes to complete. Scooops Kid Spa lets kids experience a sweet-themed retreat with fizzy soaks, ice cream scented scrubs, pretty polishes and organic facials. The mommy and me pedicures are a popular option.

work their way to the top for a final leap back to the ground. There are two course options: one for guests more than 48 inches tall and a smaller version closer to the ground for guests under 48 inches. Pricing ranges from $4.99 a climb to $19.99 for unlimited climbing during your stay.

After all of the fun with the kids, parents might need something just for them. Elements Spa Salon offers massages, manicures, pedicures and skin therapies. New this year, a Wine Down Service can be delivered to your room. Choose from a selection of wines paired with savory and sweet treats to enjoy as you settle in for the night.

The lodge offers several dining options including a buffet, pizza shop, sweet shop, wood grill, a full-service Starbucks and even a restaurant in the water park. Each guest’s suite includes a fridge and microwave so families have the option to store and prepare snacks and small meals in their room. Guests also have access to a gym and laundry room as part of their stay.

[Editor’s Note: Lindsay’s trip was provided by Great Wolf Lodge but the opinions expressed are her own.]

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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOVEMBER 2017

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FAMILY FUN

Fall Family Wagon Rides & Cookouts! For great western fun, take a wagon ride to one of our remote locations and roast hotdogs & make s'mores! Fun and all the fix'ins provided.

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Kid Review:

Science Museum Oklahoma Reviewer’s name: Samuel Roldán Age: 10

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I liked two areas most: there’s one where you can see the evolution of how bicycles were made and another with space equipment. Geology is also a cool part of the exhibitions on the first floor.

What was the best part? We bought some pyrite in the gift shop. It’s called fool’s gold so I’ve been trying to see if I can fool anyone with it. I can’t but I still love geology. The visit was fun for me but I loved watching my brother, Isaac, enjoy it even more because it was all new to him.

What was the worst part? There’s an area upstairs that shows Olympic training, kind of like an obstacle course. I wish that was for older kids. My brothers are 5 and 2 and they had a terrific time racing against each other with a timer and walking across a tightrope.

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Will other kids like this venue and why?

Yes, they would like visiting all the different areas. You don’t have to love rocks or spaces to enjoy it. Maybe you like optical illusions or you want to find out more about tornadoes. There are places to find out more about what interests you, even if that’s something kind of uncommon like how to fly paper airplanes or play a metal saw as though it was a musical instrument.

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

They loved visiting. There’s a hot air balloon that you can make fly into the air by pressing a button and starting a fire that makes it go up. I liked watching them do that because they looked happy and surprised.

If you could do this again knowing what you know now, what would you do differently? I would go with more time. I didn’t get to go over to the CurioCity area because we ran out of time. Three hours wasn’t enough.

Does what you saw match up with anything you’re learning in school or have seen before in a book, on TV, etc.? The different exhibitions matched up with a lot of books I’ve read and some science experiments we’ve done at my school. I love when you can visit something that makes what you read about feel real so it isn’t just an illustration on a page.

What do you think you’ll remember most about Science Museum Oklahoma? We saw a bicycle built for four. That’d be really cool for our family. Get more tips for exploring Oklahoma City with your kids at our Weekend Warrior blog, www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ Weekend-Warrior. Also, find all of Sam’s reviews at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ kid-reviews.

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Try your hand at drawing fresh flowers and fruit, inspired by the special exhibition Master Strokes: Dutch and Flemish Drawings from the Golden Age. Taking their techniques from masters such as Rembrandt and van Dyck, watch instructors from the Conservatory for Classical Art as they demonstrate with materials and methods hundreds of years old. Stop by the studio for an art-making experience the whole family will enjoy. Don’t forget to visit our onsite photo booth and meet your favorite SONIC characters! Experience the glass art of Dale Chihuly, uncover artists’ lives in our newly opened Art of Oklahoma galleries, and get creative as a family. Whether it will be your first visit to the Museum, or if you’re a regular, there’s something for everyone.

FEATURING: FRE E ADMISS IO N including the exhibitions Master Strokes: Dutch and Flemish Drawings From the Golden Age and The Art of Oklahoma ART IST DE MO NST RAT IO NS H ANDS -O N ART-MAK ING ACT IVIT IE S S K E TCH ING IN T H E G ALLE RIE S FAMILY G ALLE RY E XPE RIE NCE S PH OTOS with Mr. Cherry Limeade and Mr. Coney AND MO RE !

saturday DecembeR 2 â&#x20AC;˘ 2 p.m.

mitch park all ages