MOORE MONTHLY - July 2023

STEPS — Westmoore alum Derek Loccident is turning a life-changing accident into high-octane motivation as a para-athlete.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

SOUTHERN COMFORT — Roosevelt’s Bar & Grill features a menu filled with unique and classic comfort foods, but

powered by a passion for special needs students.

BOHROFEN TARGETS MLB — The former Jaguar and Arkansas Razorback baseball star talks about his major league baseball

Mid-summer and the heat is on! The July issue is packed with stories that catch us up with MPS alumni who are making their mark in the world outside Moore. From an athlete who is turning tragedy into sporting triumph…to a veterinary student shaped for success by the local FFA program…to the next professional baseball diamondin-the-rough. You’ll also hear about the City of Moore’s new 911 dispatch program, designed to deliver emergency services more efficiently and effectively than ever.

Grab a glass of ice cold lemonade and settle down in the shade with the July issue of the Moore Monthly!

Those around the Westmoore football program re member Derek Loccident well from his days as a Jaguar star. The talented safety signed to play for UCO after high school and was ready for the next step to stardom when he lost most of his lower leg in a train accident in 2018. It took him two-and-a-half years, but he returned to play for the Bronchos in 2021 in a remarkable feat of will and strength.

Today, he is a Paralympian, training in California to com pete in the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games. Locci dent was back in Oklahoma in June for the world premiere of Steps, produced by OKC Thunder Films. The return was an emotional one for Loccident.

"It was an awesome, awesome sight to see, family mem bers and friends and, you know, just everyone gathering together is to see a film on me," said Loccident. "And I'm living a dream right now, you know, and it is a blessing."

Loccident narrates the 15-minute film directed by Michael Zubach, a creative lead in the Thunder's broadcasting de partment. The film itself is a stirring production that testifies to the strength and grace of Loccident's journey.

"Mike being out there, we got to build a relationship be tween each other," said Loccident, "And it wasn't really just him filming me. It was us just talking back and forth and just having fun. That made things a lot easier on me, not just having a camera straight into my face."

The short film gives a brief but powerful update on Loc cident's life. He is training for more than just the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. He's already won a position

on the USA World Team and is training at an elite facility in California. Dan Mahoney, the Thunder's Vice President of Broadcasting and Corporate Communications, says the goal of the film was to give people an inside look at the emotions Loccident has as he has moved through.

"He opens up to us quite a bit about what his feelings have been," said Mahoney, "His ups, his downs, his pains, his celebrations. Everything that has occurred along the way. And he gave us a glimpse into his life as he does this."

That glimpse reveals a motivated and passionate young man who continues to overcome a life-changing accident and turn it into a model to encourage others. As he has trained, Loccident has connected with young amputees struggling to deal with their new physical reality. One of those people was a youngster named Elijah.

"That day, we had a track meet, and we had the same race (the 100)," said Loccident. "I got to talk with him and to be able to include him in this journey and to know that hopefully, one day, he'll have his own film going on."

Steps allows Loccident to open up about his accident and the journey back to physical, emotional, and spiritual health. In the film, he shares the pain of waking up in the hospital and apologizing to his mother for the accident.

"My mom told me that I was going to be able to bounce back from this," said Loccident in the film. "This does not determine

my life and who I am as a person. Come back from this, you know, make something great of myself."

Loccident shares the story of his college defensive back's coach showing him a film of an amputee girl who was a gymnast. As remarkable as the video was, it wasn't the girl's ability that caught his attention. It was the joy she experienced competing as an amputee. It is clear that joy now infuses how he's living his life.

"It was actually awesome, man," said Loccident. "It's been great, and I just I'm just happy to be able to do something like this and have this a part of my story, to be able to share my story and be able to show my kids this one day and showing them my journey and part of this whole process of being a Paralympic athlete."

Loccident is training to compete in the 100-meter sprint and the long jump. He uses a blade prosthetic developed by Scott Sabolich in Oklahoma City. The Sabolich Prostethic & Research Center has become internationally famous for breakthrough prosthetic designs. Being close to one of the world's leading prosthetic innovators has helped Loccident navigate the bumps and turns in his journey as a para-athlete. Sabolich provided his first prosthetic in 2019.

Later that year, he tried out his first Sabolich blade prosthetic at the Endeavor Games, an annual Paralympic Event at UCO. Even without practicing with the blade Loccident ran

the 100-meter race in just over 13 seconds. He realized his athletic career was far from over.

"There's a lot of days where I would show up to class where I would just have either sweat pants or jeans on, just because I didn't want people staring at me or looking at me," said Loccident. "Being around the football team really helped me a lot because they didn't really view the amputee side of me. They just viewed me as Derek, the football player."

His return to the football field in April of 2021 was another critical part of the journey for Loccident. It was a return built on a foundation of family, friends, and faith.

"Proverbs 16:9," says Loccident in the film. "We can make our plans, but God determines our steps."

Steps that became the theme and title for the OKC Thunder Film retelling of his story. For Loccident, partnering with the Thunder to tell that story was perfect.

"I was just on cloud ten hearing that," said Loccideent. "I wouldn't have gone with anybody else to have a film made over me. Having it done in Oklahoma City, like part of the Oklahoma City Thunder Team. It just felt great, you know."

As he continues to train and prepare for the 2024 Paralympic games, Loccident finds himself locked back into the mental toughness he has always had as an athlete.

"I have a warrior mindset," said Loccident. "Like, it's just really just putting in the work each day and, you know, getting the results after during competitions and, and things like that. And it was the same process for me when I was going back to football, just grinding out each and every day in the classroom and on the field."

Loccident says it gave him so much joy to take a break from that grind and return to Oklahoma City in June for the premiere of Steps at the DEADCenter Film Festival. It gave him the op-

Photo courtesy UCO Broncho Football

portunity to reconnect with so many family members and high school friends.

"There's a lot of people that I got to spend time with after the film," said Loccident. "I was dead tired because I had flown in like Thursday the morning of, and the next morning, I had work worked out. But, seeing all those people just gave me that burst of energy and, and yeah, I mean, I got to, got to spend some time with some, some people, some loved ones and got to chat it up."

It also allowed him to catch up on two of his favorite fastfood stops.

"I was itching because they don't have Cane's or Braum's out in San Diego right now," said Loccident. "It's just like either Cane's or Braum's. Yeah, those two options. I was like; we got to get one."

Having met his fast-food cravings, Loccident is ready to get back to the grind. As he says in Steps, he's facing each new challenge with the confidence that comes from faith.

"My faith has grown a lot throughout the last four years," said Loccident. "I feel like I've taken the right steps. The man that I've wanted to become. And I'm not really too worried about how big of a step or how small. As long as they're the right steps in the right direction."

You can watch Steps in its entirety on the OKC Thunder film website: OKCThunderFilms.com

Moore Monthly would like to acknowledge the gracious help of the OKC Thunder and OKC Thunder Films for their help in producing this article.

Distracted Driving and Older Drivers

"Voice-command functions found in new in-vehicle technology are intended to help drivers by keeping their eyes and attention on the road," Dr. David Yang, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety executive director, said.

"Unfortunately, the complexity and poor design of some of these systems could cause more harm for older drivers."

According to AAA, by 2030, one in five drivers on the road will be over 65 years old.

When Carla Brown, a 76-year-old driver from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, gets behind her 2018 Ford Expedition wheel, her phone automatically connects to the car. She uses Bluetooth technology to call friends and change the radio station without taking her eyes off the road. However, sometimes, the system doesn't pick up Carla Brown's voice right away.

"It doesn't always understand what I am saying," she says, "That can be a little frustrating."

Nevertheless, audio commands and touchscreens in cars can sometimes frustrate older drivers - they can be downright dangerous. Older drivers are more likely to be distracted while using in-vehicle technology than their younger counterparts, who may send texts while driving, thus being distracted visually, manually, and cognitively. This is according to a report released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

The study showed that when performing simple tasks like programming navigation or tuning the radio, drivers between 55 to 75 years of age took their eyes off the road an average of eight seconds longer than those 21 to 36 years of age.

According to AAA, a nonprofit auto group that provides roadside assistance, taking your eyes off the road for two seconds doubles the risk of crashing. More and more motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers are happening each day.

According to the AAA report, an in-vehicle information system (IVIS) is the collection of features in a vehicle that allows drivers to complete tasks unrelated to driving while operating the car or truck. These systems include voice command options, a screen in the middle of the dashboard, or a rotary wheel in the center console. According to the AAA report, older adults took between 4.7 and 8.6 seconds longer to complete the tasks, responded more slowly to system commands, and experienced visual distractions. Some operating systems have more complex designs than others, including multiple menus and voice command functions that only sometimes work on the first try, which can frustrate older drivers.

"This is a design problem, not an age problem," Jake Nelson, AAA director of traffic safety advocacy and research, said. "Designing systems to meet the safety and comfort needs of aging drivers would benefit all of us today."

AAA recommends that drivers avoid using in-vehicle information systems while on the road unless an emergency occurs. Travelers could also practice using voice command touch screen functions when not driving to become more comfortable with the systems or avoid buying vehicles requiring a center console controller.

Until then, make sure you understand the system in your vehicle thoroughly. Various YouTube videos can be accessed to learn everything you can about the IVIS system in your vehicle. Be aware of taking your eyes off the road, and if you have someone riding with you - have them operate the IVIS system while you drive if needed.

Stay safe, don't text, and use your IVIS system very carefully out there while driving your vehicle!

July

July

JULY 2023

July

July

July

July

July

Exercise: Mon, Wed, & Fri 10:15

Stretch, Strengthen and Health: Tues. 9:30

Chair Yoga: Tues. & Thurs. 10:15

Arm Chair Travel: Wed. 9:00am

Woodcarving: Wed. & Thurs. 9:00-11:00

Dominos, Card games, Jig-Saw puzzles, Pool, Quilting, & Volunteer work to assist the homebound or work is available at the Brand Center.

Moore Council On Aging Bus Service: 799-3130 Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments 8am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday

Aging Services

Monday through Friday

Call & make reservation by 1:00pm.

Reservations for meals: 793-9069

Donation for a meal for seniors

60 & above: $2.25

Required cost for guests under 60: $5.00

BUSINESS: Roosevelt’s Bar & Grill

ADDRESS: 1120 N. Eastern Ave, Suite 102

PHONE: 405-735-7377

WEBSITE: rooseveltsbarandgrill.com

INSTAGRAM: rooseveltsbarandgrill

HOURS: Monday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Southern Comfort with a Passion and Purpose

Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7:00 p.m

served in mason jars. Granderson adds the menu is still under construction and some items will be available on specific days of the week.

“We’re planning on adding items like grits and catfish very soon,” said Granderson. “We use homemade recipes that are very unique. In fact, we’ve already gotten a lot of great feedback on our BBQ sauce.”

This is the first time Granderson has opened a restaurant, but she said her passion to help children with autism is the driving force behind taking the plunge.

With the recent opening of Roosevelt’s Bar & Grill, te intersection of classic Southern comfort food and a business with a deeper purpose can be found on Eastern Avenue in Moore. Selica Granderson, the owner, says the recipes are originals she brought with her from Jackson, Mississippi. The purpose, adds Granderson, can be found in the name of the restaurant.

“It’s named after my son, Roosevelt,” said Granderson. “He’s the reason I’ve created all this. He has faced autism since he was a baby. We were able to get services he needed outside of school from fourth grade to graduation, but the services were not allowed in the schools. My goal is to open a school for autistic children here in Moore and this restaurant will help support that school.”

Roosevelt’s menu features classic Southern comfort offerings like fried okra, brisket mac and cheese, chicken wings, burgers, BBQ beef, BBQ brisket sandwiches, and banana pudding

“I’ve learned a lot and have a newfound respect for restaurant owners,” said Granderson. “This is a tough business, but it’s been rewarding since we recently opened. We’re getting a lot of love from the community. I’m excited about the way folks in Moore have welcomed us with open arms.”

As of press time, Roosevelt’s had only been open for just over a week, but customer reviews are already naming this as a must-dine spot. That’s music to Granderson’s ears, who wants local diners to have a fantastic food experience while helping lay the foundation for her special needs school.

“Step one is the restaurant,” said Granderson. “And we want it to be a great place for folks to come and eat. But for me it’s always been about the school. I don’t want other kids to have to struggle with the things my son struggled with and this is one way I can help give back.”

Way to Veterinary School for Caroline Jones

Jones’ family moved to Oklahoma shortly before her freshman year and her love for animals was one of the things that led her to FFA.

“I had my horse and my dogs, but I know I was missing something,” said Jones. “I found out about FFA through my school counselor and I went out the FFA farm one day. I saw that they had animals out there and that was when I decided I wanted to get involved.”

In addition to showing animals as part of her FFA experience, Jones also got deeply involved in many other aspects of the program. That included entomology and livestock judging.

Southmoore alum and recent OSU graduate Caroline Jones has been dreaming of becoming a veterinarian for as long as she can remember. The road to becoming a veterinarian is one of the toughest around, but Jones says participating in Moore’s FFA program as a high school student played a big role in her acceptance to OSU’s veterinary program.

“I don't think I would have gotten into OSY without all the experiences that I had through FFA,” said Jones. “The veterinary schools really, really like seeing that on your resume. All of the experience I've accumulated throughout those four years at Southmoore really helped propel me into the positions I was able to hold in college. And so, I really would recommend FFA to anybody.”

Jones says she’s planning on a career as a large animal veterinarian. OSU’s programs made it her top choice.

“I had a couple different offers for a few other schools,” said Jones.

“Oklahoma State has a phenomenal bovine program, so obviously I was thrilled when I found out I was accepted.”

“We would go all around Oklahoma identifying different species of bugs,” said Jones. “And livestock judging was a lot of fun as well.”

But it was the combination of relationships with people and animals in FFA that really cemented Jones’ passion for veterinary medicine.

“I always knew I loved animals and never had to second-guess that,” said Jones, “But I also love people and that’s a big aspect of the veterinary community. In fact, a major reason why I want to go into this profession because I enjoy helping others and I love getting to know their story and how I can be of use to them and, you know, make them more profitable with their ranch.”

Jones hopes that high school students take advantage of FFA and the various ways it can help them achieve their goals in life.

“FFA is about so much more than most people think,” said Jones. “Yes, you learn about so much that’s related to agriculture, animals, and farming. But I also learned great lessons in leadership, communication, and public speaking. I had so many different opportunities opened for me through FFA and the only thing was that you have to take advantage of them.”

NRHS Obstetrical Emergency Department is the First in the US to Be Recognized

Norman Regional has been accredited by CIHQ (Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality) as a Center of Excellence for our OBED (Obstetrical Emergency Department) located inside Norman Regional HealthPlex.

This distinction marks the first time a health system has been recognized for its OBED. Norman Regional will now serve as a blueprint across the nation for other health systems hoping to be recognized for their OBED.

"We are very excited and honored to receive this prestigious recognition. From the beginning, we have strived to ensure that our OB Emergency Services provide excellence in practice and serve as a model program for evidenced-based care," stated Annette Troxell, Norman Regional's Director of Women & Children's Services.

Troxell continued, "We now have the validation that our efforts were successful. I am so proud of this team of nurses and OB hospitalists who provide exceptional daily care to the pregnant patients that we serve."

CIHQ officials spent a day evaluating our OBED with over 20 elements required to receive designation as a 'Center of Excellence in Emergency Services.'

We were the first OB Emergency Department in the nation to be surveyed and recognized for this certification.

The arrival of two new Centers of Excellence for our Labor and Delivery department: OBED and Advanced Certification in Perinatal Care, is the culmination of years of committed staff and leadership for maternal care.

Rising maternal morbidity and mortality rates are a problem across the country, and here in Oklahoma, we want to be better than the 40th spot. Certifications raise the bar towards safer patient care by adding accountability and oversight from an outside organization that specializes in best practices and performance improvements that are sustainable over time.

Norman Regional's highly engaged team of maternal, child, and perinatal healers is always ready and eager to meet all our patients' needs.

"Our hope at Norman Regional is that these certifications convey to the public how much we value safe, quality care. We want our current and future patients to be confident in the care provided to them and their growing families," shared Richie Splitt, NRHS CEO, and President.

Norman Regional was also surveyed by the Joint Commission and accredited in Advanced Certification in Perinatal Care.

Food Safety Tips for the Summer

days and cook/eat within that same timeframe. If you need a quicker fix, place it in a Ziploc bag and thaw it in the sink or a bowl with cold water. When preparing your meats, keep them away from raw foods that are not being cooked, and always use separate utensils for raw and fresh/cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination. When marinating, do so in the refrigerator, as bacteria can form when meat reaches room temperature.

When it is time to grill, it is helpful for your grill to be preheated before adding your food, just like an oven. If you are using a charcoal grill, it is recommended to preheat coals for 20 to 30 mins prior to adding food. If you want to avoid a fire truck visiting your event, it is best practice to check your propane tank for leaks and keep the house, children, and pets at least 10 feet away from the grill. Furthermore, do not forget about your vegetables! Large veggies, such as corn on the cob, can be placed directly on the grill, while chopped veggies should be wrapped in aluminum foil before grilling.

Summertime means picnics, pool time, and cooking delicious meals outdoors as it allows us to come together for fun events with family and friends, and it is a healthy way to cook your favorite summer staples. When that temperature climbs, so does the growth of bacteria and the risk of foodborne illness. According to the USDA, bacteria are present throughout the environment in soil, air, water, and in the bodies of people and animals, and these microorganisms grow faster in the warm, humid summer months. When grilling or eating outside, we do not always have access to food safety controls such as refrigeration, washing facilities, and thermometers, so it is essential to learn food safety rules to keep you and your friends and family safe.

Bringing ready-to-eat food is a great way to avoid health risks associated with preparing food outdoors. Examples include deli meat sandwiches, pre-sliced fruits and veggies, trail mix for heart-healthy fats, and dips such as hummus or guacamole. If you bring any raw meat, avoid cross-contamination by packing the raw meat in separate containers away from the ready-to-eat foods and drinks. All cold foods, including raw meats and fruits, veggies, and similar foods, should be kept in a cooler with a freezer pack to allow food to stay below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Once done eating, the food should be put back into the cooler within 1-2 hours, preferably sooner if the temperature outside is above 90 degrees. Bacteria can begin to grow/multiply if in the temperate danger zone (40-140 degrees Fahrenheit). On the flip side, all hot foods should be cooked to their correct temperature and kept at 160 degrees Fahrenheit or above to prevent bacterial growth. Using a meat thermometer will assure you if your food is ready to eat or not.

If you bring raw meat to cook on the grill, here are some safety tips to remember. Plan ahead of time when thawing meat in the fridge for 1-2

Stay happy and healthy with these food safety tips this summer, and have a great summer!

Safe Cooking Temperatures

Food

Beef, Pork, Veal and Lamb (steaks, chops, roasts)

Ground Meats (beef, pork, veal, lamb)

Ham, Fresh or Smoked (uncooked)

Fully Cooked Ham (to reheat)

All Poultry (whole birds, parts, ground poultry and stuffing)

Minimum Internal Temperature

145°F (62.8°C) and allow to rest for at least 3 minutes

160°F (71.1°C)

145°F (62.8°C) and allow to rest for at least 3 minutes

140°F (60°C) for ham packaged in USDA plants, 165°F (73.9°C) for all other hams

165°F (73.9°C)

Eggs 160°F (71.1°C)

Fish and Shellfish

145°F (62.8°C)

Casseroles 165°F (73.9°C)

HEROES

VETERAN/ARMED FORCES SPOTLIGHT

A Tribute to the "Veterans of Foreign Wars"

Poem by Tony McGrew VFW POST 8706 MOORE, OKLAHOMA

Tony McGrew doesn’t really consider himself much of a poet, but he has been passionate about serving his fellow veterans for as long as he can remember. Recently, as he dealt with significant personal health issues, that passion led him to pen the following lines of praise:

YOU WERE THE ONE STANDING ON THE WALL. AS LONG AS YOU STOOD IT WOULD NOT FALL. YOU ANSWERED THE CALL TO GIVE YOUR ALL. STANDING ON THE WALL.

THE THIN RED LINE THAT SURROUNDS OUR LAND LAID DOWN BY OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS WHO WORE OUR COLORS, TOUCHED BY GOD’S OWN HAND IS STILL INTACT BECAUSE OF YOU.

YOUR SACRIFICE FOR OUR LAND WILL BE REMEMBERED BY FAMILY AND FRIENDS TOLD AT GATHERINGS ON REMBERANCE DAYS.

MAY GOD BLESS YOU FROM THIS DAY FORWARD AND FOREVER.

McGrew said, “You know, every year when Memorial Day and Veterans Day comes around, I find myself thinking about the ceremonies we gather for to honor our veterans. This was just something special I wanted to do to honor my brothers and sisters that I hadn’t done before.”

The Veterans of Foreign Wars roots can be traced back to 1899, following the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection. When many veterans returned home wounded or sick, there was no medical care or pension available for them. Some of them banded together and formed chapters in Ohio, Colorado and Pennsylvania. Today, membership stands at more than 1.5 million members. Congress officially chartered the VFW in 1936, under the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

McGrew also hopes folks will remember that veterans play key roles all throughout the Moore community.

“We ARE your community,” said McGrew. “We are your police officers, your EMTs, your electricians and plumbers. We’re the ones who help meet all kinds of needs in our community.”

A few years back, McGrew was instrumental in helping the Westmoore marching band obtain a generator for their on-field performances. He also points out that the VFW rallied to help veterans impacted by Moore’s devastating tornadoes, distributing around $50,000 in support.

“The Moore VFW post has been around for as long as I’ve been alive,” said McGrew, “And I believe 2024 might be the 75th anniversary. We’ll be here to support veterans and the Moore community for a long, long time after I’m gone.”

The VFW also serves Moore in other ways, including the regular “Day of Service” and the “Voice of Democracy Essay Contest.”

“High school students can compete to win a $35,000 college scholarship,” said McGrew. “And middle schoolers can win $5,000.”

Applications for the 2023-2024 contest must be submitted by midnight, October 31. For more information on the contest, visit vfw.org

Moore Firefighter Embraces the Family Business

"It was always in the back of my mind," said Powell. "Back in the day, I'd go to the station with my dad and work the whole shift with him. I would sleep there with the guys, eat with them, all that stuff. Moreover, I saw how much they loved the job."

As a nine-year-old, those were impressive images. Powell says they stuck with him as he grew to the point where he still would have ended up in a firehouse even if his soccer career had taken off.

"The thing I love is just helping the public," said Powell. "Being able to respond to them and help them out in a way that's hopefully, you know, beneficial to them and kind of just the whole team aspect of firefighting is what, you know, kind of drew me to it."

Powell's journey to the Moore Fire Department involved working in an ambulance and an emergency room in Norman. That allowed him to see all sides of the first responder world as an EMT. He says joining the department in Moore has been a perfect fit. Moreover, as a corporal, he sometimes finds himself behind the wheel of a fire truck.

Matt Powell's family history is filled with firefighters. Both his father and grandfather were firefighters in Texas, and he has great memories of their lives. His family moved to Norman when he was 12, and he became a top soccer player, playing for Norman North and then West Virginia University. However, as Matt remembers, fate had other plans for him.

"I went to college to try and play soccer, and it just didn't work out," said Powell. "So, I came back home, and I was like, I'll get in the family business. So that's when I started attending school to be a fireman."

Powell, who is a corporal with MFD, says that even though soccer took him to college, he always knew that he wanted to pursue a career as a firefighter.

"It's intimidating at first because you are driving this huge truck," said Powell, "And honestly, it can be challenging when you deal with distracted drivers. It ends up being a very aggressive form of defensive driving. We're always watching and always on our toes watching for other drivers."

Away from the station, Powell enjoys being a husband and father, and working on his wife's horse ranch.

"I've been happily married for 13 years," said Powell, "I have a 23-year-old daughter. She's my stepdaughter, But I raised her, so I claim her. And then we have a four-year-old little girl that's a little pistol. So she keeps us on our toes. My wife has a horse farm. She does like horse riding lessons and stuff like that. So, on my days off, there's always something to do on a farm."

Stephanie Royse MBA, APR

Royse currently serves as the executive director of strategic partnerships for Moore Norman Technology Center where she has also held the titles of executive director of strategic communications and engagement, and director of marketing communications. She has over 25 years of experience in marketing, communications, and public and media relations. She earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oklahoma and holds a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Central Oklahoma. She is also accredited in public relations by the Public Relations Society of America.

Moore Norman Technology Center Launches Alumni Association

What is the MNTC Alumni Association?

There are thousands of people who have attended MNTC since classes began in the early 1970s, but most of them have not had a direct line of communication keeping them informed about incredible things happening in the district. The MNTC Alumni Association is a new opportunity for people who have attended Moore Norman to reconnect and stay engaged with the school.

After 50 years, why is MNTC starting an alumni association now?

We have spent the past 18 months or so preparing for our 50th Anniversary celebration. In doing so, we realized how much the school has progressed since the first classes were offered in the early 1970s. There are so many stories to share with our alumni. We also know that countless students used their Moore Norman education to go on to do incredible things with their lives. We want to hear those stories! Launching the MNTC Alumni Association as part of the 50th Anniversary year of celebration gives us opportunities – like this – to encourage MNTC alumni to join us and tell their stories which we can then share throughout this year and beyond.

Why should someone join the MNTC Alumni Association?

The main reason we hope people will join the MNTC Alumni Association is for the tremendous potential it gives them to reconnect, and potentially get involved in, their alma mater Moore Norman Technology Center. Many MNTC graduates have grown in their careers, some have started their own business(es) and

have become major employers. For them there is the potential to come in and talk to classes, participate in job fairs, maybe even find new employees. They could potentially serve on advisory committees and help our instructors stay in attuned to the latest trends in each industry. For others, the alumni association may serve as a conduit to old friends and instructors. They may be interested in attending public events on campus, and with the year-long 50th Anniversary celebration from July 2023 to May 2024, we have some great events coming up.

How can a person join the MNTC Alumni Association?

Joining the MNTC Alumni Association is completely free and requires nothing more than completing a simple online form by going to www. mntc.edu/alumni

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART

555 Elm Avenue, Norman

Yellowstone in Color

Thursday, July 6, 5:00 p.m – 7:00 p.m.

Join us for some post-Independence Day fun for the whole family as we celebrate the opening of "Yellowstone in Color: Thomas Moran and Louis Prang Print the West." Enjoy free food trucks, live music from the Jazz Exchange, and a printmaking demonstration! For more information call 405-325-3275.

Yellowstone in Color - Opening Weekend Take & Make

Saturday and Sunday, July 8-9 "Yellowstone in Color" celebrates the first U.S. national park through art, but we hope you’ll explore the beautiful parks right here in Oklahoma this summer too. When you drop by our new exhibition this weekend, pick up a free state park passport and a field notebook to take on your adventures while supplies last. Thanks to Lake Thunderbird State Park for the passports! For more information call 405-325-3275.

Spotlight Saturday: Color Block Printing

Saturday, July 22, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Drop by the studio space in the new exhibition "Yellowstone in Color: Thomas Moran and Louis Prang Print the West" to make an exciting color print of your own. Free and fun for all ages! For more information call 405-325-3275.

CHURCH & SPIRITUAL CONNECTION

FIVE LOAVES FOOD PANTRY

Wednesday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. 291 W. Main Street – the Northeast Door. Or by appointment: call 405-7946671 (Moore First United Methodist Church).

FRESH START COMMUNITY CHURCH FOOD PANTRY

open the third Thursday of each month, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 309 N Eastern Avenue, West Campus-Family Life Center. Canned and dry goods available. Must be a resident of Moore (please bring an ID).

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

Monday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Faith Crossing Baptist Church, 13701 S. Pennsylvania. For more information, contact Nancy at 405-514-9990.

CITY MEETINGS & EVENTS

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Monday, July 3 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore

CELEBRATION IN THE HEARTLAND

Tuesday, July 4, 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Buck Thomas Park, 1903 NE 12th Street. Enjoy one of the largest fireworks show in the state with food trucks, vendors, and activities throughout the day. Fireworks will begin around 9:45 pm and will be set to music. FM 89.9 should carry the music if you are watching from outside of the park. There is no cost to enter the park. Vendor sales will be available throughout the park.

Featured bands: Like Before, Jason and the High Heat (featured on Tulsa King), and Shiloh Steel

Food Trucks: Dos Gringos Cabana; Cutie Pies Concession; Newmans Firehouse BBQ; Yum Pig; Cousins Maine Lobster; Chef Rays Street Eats and More; Tiny Trailer Treats; Bondi Bowls; Cone Heads; Whoopie Wagon; Htea0 and City Ice.

Breweries: Anthem and Big Friendly Bus Wineries: Wild Horse Canyon and Native Spirits.

Activities include: Gametime Inflatables, bucking bull, bungee trampoline, helicopter rides, Children’s Tent (Moore Public Library) and barrel train. Fire-

works begin at dark (approx. 9:45 pm).

Important Information: Happy Tails

Dog Park Closed:  June 29th - July 6th, Buck Thomas Park Closed:  July 3rd for vendor set-up

Permitted Items: Chairs, Service Animals (no other dogs allowed), Umbrellas, Strollers, Cooler (Coolers and bags may be searched by event security.)

Prohibited Items: Alcoholic beverages unless provided by an on-site approved city vendor, Glass containers of any kind, Drug Paraphernalia / Weapons, Pets (Dogs are not allowed in the park for this event), Fireworks, Smoking or vaping.

PARKS BOARD MEETING

Wednesday, July 5 at 6:00 p.m.

The Station at Central Park, 700 S. Broadway

URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY

Monday, July 10 at 6:30 p.m.

Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore

BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MEETING

Tuesday, July 11 at 5:30 p.m.

Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore.

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING

Tuesday, July 11 at 7:00 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore.

DIVE IN MOVIE

Saturday, July 15, 8:30 - 10:30pm

The Station Aquatic Center - 700 S. Broadway. Movie: Raya and the Last Dragon(PG) - Max. 300 tickets available.

Fee:  $5.00 per person

Tickets can be purchased in person only on the day of the event starting at 12:00 pm at The Station Aquatic Center admissions office. Join us for a dive-in movie at the pool plus concessions. This event is held in the lap pool only. All other aquatic areas will be closed. The Station Aquatic Center will close at 7 pm for this Special Event. For more information please call (405) 793-5090

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Monday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore

MOM & SON DANCE & DIVE: SURF’S UP

Friday, July 21, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m

The Station Aquatic Center - 700 S. Broadway. A date night for sons escorted by any adult figure. Bring your swimwear and enjoy dancing, snacks, and door prizes. Tickets are $10 per person or sold the day of the dance for $15 (until sold out). The Station Aquatic Center closes at 5 p.m. for this Special Event. Call The Station Front Desk for more information at 405-793-5090.

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY

Friday, July 28, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Central Park Multipurpose Pavilion, 700 S. Broadway. Join us for your lunch break and some live music at our Food Truck Fridays! A variety of different food trucks right here at Central Park in Moore. Food Trucks:  Yum Pig; Some Like It Tot and Cousins Main Lobster. Live Music:  Tyler Smith

ADULT SWIM PARTY

Friday, July 28, 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. The Station Aquatic Center, 700 S. Broadway. Tickets are$10 per person for ages 21 and up, and are available for purchase now through the day of the event. ID is required for purchase and gate entry. BEER: 405 Brewing  FOOD TRUCKS: Coneheads. No outside drinks or smoking/vaping will be allowed in the Aquatic Center. The Station Aquatic Center will be closing at 6 pm for this Special Event. For more information please call (405) 793-5090.

ADOPT-A-PET

Moore Animal Shelter, S-I35 Service Road. Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., closed on holidays. For additional information call (405) 793-5190.

BIG TRASH PICK UP

Moore residents will be allowed two FREE big trash pick-ups a year and one free voucher to the city landfill for each physical address in Moore. Call (405) 793-5070 to schedule your trash pick-up.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM

Moore Police Dept. is starting a Neighborhood Watch Program. If you’re interested in helping your neighborhood reduce crime, contact Sgt. Jeremy Lewis, (405) 793-4448.

OKLAHOMA PARKINSON’S ALLIANCE SUPPORT GROUP

First Tuesday of each month, (no meeting in July) 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 13200 S. May Ave. For more information contact the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance at 405-810-0695.

MOORE ROTARY CLUB MEETING

Weekly on Wednesdays, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Moore Chamber of Commerce, 305 W. Main St. Moore Rotary Club meetings are held weekly. At our meeting, we aim to have fellowship and fun, enjoy a good meal and listen to an interesting speaker as well as communicate activity updates to members. There are membership fees associated to Rotary International. Come visit at least once and we’ll be happy to discuss membership options. Rotary International is an international service organization whose stated purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service and advance goodwill and peace

around the world. It is a non-political and non-religious organization. For more information contact Dee Ann Gay at 405-300-6202.

405 BUSINESS CLUB

Weekly on Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar & Grill”, 1199 S. Service Road. Here members learn more about each other's businesses and pass referrals between members of the group, all while building friendships, camaraderie, and eat lunch.  Meetings are open to visitors looking to find a networking group to join, however; we only allow one business per business category.  So before you choose to come, please check out our membership and determine if there is an open seat for you & your business in our group.

MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Closed July 3-4 for Independence Day.

MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF TOURNAMENT

Monday, July 10, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Hidden Trails Golf Club, 6501 Country Club Drive, OKC. The Chamber's annual Golf Tournament has come around again - but BIGGER than ever! It will be a full day of fun with lunch and 19thhole treats, 18 holes of golf, prizes, added games and opportunities to win, and MORE! Get out of the office and make connections on the course. 4-Person Team - $700. SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE! Contact Kelly Arnold, karnold@ moorechamber.com, for sponsorship information.

MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NETWORKING LUNCH

Tuesday, July 11, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Moore Norman Technology Center, 4701 12th Ave NW, Norman. Tickets are $15/person, which includes a catered Fuzzy’s Taco lunch. Registration and full payment are expected before the

event. Join us for great food, door prizes, and an opportunity to grow your business knowledge, share new ideas and connect with our business community. Each attendee is given the opportunity to present information regarding their business to all in attendance. So, bring your best sales pitch - make it innovative and memorable. Thank you. For more information contact Amy Lee at 405-794-3400 or email alee@moorechamber.com.

FILL THE BUS SUPPLY DRIVE

Friday, July 14, 21, and 28, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Walmart Supercenter, 501 SW 19th Street. Fill the Bus, Moore Chamber Foundation's annual school supply drive that benefits Moore school teachers, kicks off on Friday, July 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Walmart Supercenter at 501 SW 19th Street in Moore. An MPS school bus will be sitting at the front of the parking lot where shoppers/donors may drop off donations for the drive. Additional drop-off dates are Friday, July 21 and 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and then concluding at National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 1, at the Regal Warren Moore Theater parking lot from 7 to 9 p.m. Monetary donations will also be accepted. All supplies are being donated directly to the Moore Public Schools to help teachers offset the personal costs of school supplies during the year. By investing in our children today, we are providing them a path to a brighter future tomorrow. Every child deserves a chance to succeed. List of supplies needed: #2 Pre-sharpened Pencils, Glue Sticks,Crayola Crayons, Markers & Colored Pencils, Folders, Dry Erase Markers, Facial Tissue, Index Cards, Backpacks, Calculators, Reusable water bottles, Composition Books, Pens. Sponsorships are available. Contact Kim Brown at 405-794-3400 or email kbrown@moorechamber.com.

STATE OF THE CITY

Tuesday, July 18, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Station at Central Park, 700 S Broadway in Moore. The State of the City address will be presented by Mark Hamm, acting as Vice Mayor; and Brooks Mitchell, City Manager - both with the City of Moore. Individual tickets are available for $30/members or $35/ non-members. (Early bird discount before 7/11). Table sponsorships are also available for $225/members or $275/non-members. RSVP is required. The annual State of the City Address features city leaders who discuss the accomplishments of the past fiscal year and the future of Moore. For more information contact Kelly Arnold at 405-7943400 or karnold@moorechamber.com.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS IN THE WHEELER DISTRICT

Wednesday, July 19, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

1712 Spoke Street, OKC. We hope you can join us at Business After Hours in the Wheeler District for a wine sampling and check out the Thrown boutique. Thrown Design & Wine is a design and wine boutique in the heart of the Wheeler District. They offer interior design & styling services for the modern family. The Thrown space hosts a unique collection of homewares and worldly finds, as well as thoughtfully curated wines by the bottle. Free admission. For more information contact Elizabeth Fox at 405-634-1436 or email elizabethfox@southokc.com.

MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WIN NETWORKING HOUR

Tuesday, July 25, 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Moore Chamber of Commerce, 305 W. Main St. Hosted by Ultimate Design Consulting/Five Ring Financial – Pam Thompson. Newly formed in 2020, WIN was created to bring the businesswomen of Moore and the surrounding areas together for strength, support, and camaraderie in both business and

life. We will do this through events and programs throughout the year. For more information contact Kim Brown at 405-794-3400 or email kbrown@ moorechamber.com.

FOOD FRENZY FRIDAY

Friday, July 28, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. South OKC Chamber of Commerce, 701 SW 74th St. Food Trucks, Sweet Treats, Vendor Booths, Free Networking, & Door Prizes! We're excited to have this summer program to show our current members and also non-members to all the great networking events we have to help build their business. Free for members and non-members. For more information contact Jamie Crowe at 405-634-1436 or Marla Robinson at 405-514-8937.

SENIOR CONNECTION

P.A.L.S. PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

Seniors are assigned to a buddy who will call every day to check on you. Sign up with Sgt. Lewis, Moore Police Dept., (405) 793-4448.

PROJECT RETURN HOME FOR ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS IN MOORE

For information about enrolling a loved one, contact Virginia Guild at (405) 793-4478 or Sgt. Jeremy Lewis at (405) 793-4448.

TRANSPORTATION:

• Metro Transit will provide van service for age 60 and older on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the Moore area to Oklahoma City for medical appointments. Call Jackie at (405) 297-2583.

• Moore Council on Aging Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the city of Moore for errands or appointments. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Call (405) 799-3130 at least one day in advance.

• “Share-A-Fare” for age 60 and over or disabled. Purchase taxi fare at 40% off.

ACTIVITIES & CLASSES

This is a partial list of schedules, activities, and classes available through the Moore Parks & Recreation department. You can find something of interest for everyone by visiting Moore Parks and Recreation website at: https://www. cityofmoore.com/departments-divisions/parks-recreation or by calling The Station front desk at (405) 793-5090

SUMMER PROGRAMMING AT THE STATION

SUMMER SWIM LESSONS

The Station’s swim lesson curriculum emphasizes proper swimming technique and water safety, all while having a blast at The Station. Swim lessons classes available are Parent/ Child, Preschool 1 & 2, Youth Level 1–4 and our highly sought out Private or Semi-Private Lessons.

Lesson time could change at any time.

WHEN: Weekday Session 3 July 3-13 / Session 4 July 17-27 / Session 5 July 31-Aug. 3

*Fast Track* Weekend – Saturdays Only 8-29

TIME: 9 a.m. / 9:40 a.m. / 10:20 a.m. / 11 a.m.

AGES: 6 months–14 years

FEE: Group Weekday $40 / Group Weekend

$30 / Private $90 – Prices per participant

WHERE: The Station Aquatic Center

REGISTRATION: Open for Everyone

AQUATICS FITNESS

WHEN: Mon-Thu, Through August 9

TIME: 7:00-7:50 a.m./8:00-8:50 a.m.

WHERE: The Station Aquatic Center

COST: $6-Moore Residents / $10-Non-Residents / Free-Passholders

LAP SWIM

WHEN: Mon-Thu, Through August 9

TIME: 5:30-6:50 a.m.

WHERE: The Station Aquatic Center

COST: $6-Moore Residents / $10-Non-Residents / Free-Passholders

TODDLER TAKEOVER

WHEN: Mon-Thu, Through August 9

TIME: 10:00-11:00 a.m.

WHERE: The Station Aquatic Center – Baby Pool Only

WHO: Toddlers and Caretakers

COST: $2 per person

PROGRAMS AT THE STATION

WEEK LONG SUMMER CAMPS

Enrollment now open

Camps being offered:

Science Camp: July 17-21 – (Ages 6-12 years)

Youth Art Camp: July 24-28 – (Ages 6-9 years)

Magic Camp: July 10-14 – (Ages 6-12 years)

Magic Camp: July 31-August 4 – (Ages 6-12 years)

Extreme Animals Camp: July 24-28 (Ages

6-12 years)

Pre-Teen Painting Camp: July 10-14 (Ages 10-12 years)

Pickleball Camp: July 10-14 (Ages 9-15)

Summer July Basketball Camp: July 17-21

(Ages 6-12)

Balloon Twisting Camp: July 17-21 (Ages 10-14)

Summer Volleyball Camp: July 24-28 (Ages

6-12 years)

Summer One Day Basketball Offensive Camp: July 10 (Ages 6-12 years)

Summer Two-Day Basketball Skills Camp:

July 20-21 (Ages 6-12 years)

Summer Volleyball Camp: July 24-28 (Ages

6-12 years)

Summer Intermediate/Advanced Tennis

Clinic: July 24-27 (Ages 11-17 years)

Summer Three Day Basketball Camp: July

31-August 2 (Ages 6-12 years)

ERUPTION: A VOLCANO EXPERIENCE

(AGES 6-9)

3…2…1… Come and join us as we countdown to Eruption week! This class is EXPLODING with excitement! You don’t want to miss out as we make our very own volcanoes!

Week 1: Kids will make the base out of paper and tape

Week 2: Kids will make the structure out of paper and glue

Week 3: Kids will paint their volcanoes

Week 4: ERUPTION WEEK!

When: July 6-27

Time: 6-7pm

Fee: $30

Where: The Station Recreation Center

Registration: Through July 5

2023 MOORE SENIOR GAMES

Tournaments will be available through September 2023.

This program is for all adults 50+

who like to stay in shape and love competition! The games run from June through September 2023.

AGE CATEGORIES: 50-59, 60-69, 70+ Registration deadlines, unless otherwise stated, is 7 days prior to tournament dates.

Fee:  Free to participate  Call (405) 793-5090 or (405) 793-3130 for more information.

Tournament Schedule

Pickleball

Games: Tuesday, July 18 @9am

Where: The Station Recreation Center

Registration: Through July 10

8-Ball Pool

Games: Friday, July 21 @9am

Where: Brand Senior Center

Registration: Through July 14

Pegs and Jokers

Games: Wednesday, July 26  @12:30pm

Where: Brand Senior Center

Registration: Through July 19

Darts

Games: Tuesday, August 1 @10am

Where: Brand Senior Center

Registration: Through July 21

Hand and Foot (Card Game)

Games: Friday, August 4 @12:30pm

Where: Brand Senior Center

Registration: Through July 28

Horseshoes

Games: Tuesday, August 16 @9am

Where: Fairmoore Park

Registration: Through August 9

Fitness Challenge

Games: Tuesday, August 29 @9am

Where: The Station Recreation Center

Registration: Through August 22

Board Games

Games: Wednesday, September 6 @12:30pm

Where: Brand Senior Center

Registration: Through August 30

Table Tennis

Games: Sunday, September 10 @9am

Where: Moore Community Center

Registration: Through September 3

Basketball Hot Shot

Games: Thursday, September 21 @9am

Where: The Station Recreation Center

Registration: Through September 14

https://www.cityofmoore.com/departments-divisions/parks-recreation/activities-camps-programs

Your Local Go-To Sporting Goods Store Since 1981

Baseball • Softball • Football Basketball • Wrestling

Track and field • Volleyball

Soccer • Team Uniforms

Athletic Shoes & Equipment

Lettering • Letterman Jackets

Bat re-gripping • Glove re-lacing Specialty Services

Thank you for voting for us! Thank you for voting for us!

Everything You Need To Be At The Top of Your Game… Now You’ll Find In Your Neighborhood

VIRTUAL PROGRAMS

Many virtual programs require signup in advance with a valid email address. Go online to www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org/calendar for more information and the most current schedule of upcoming events.

Monday, July 3, 17, 24, 2:00 p.m. Healthy Brain, Healthy Mind: Meditation

Tuesday, July 11, 6:00 p.m. Book Discussion on The Ex Talk

Saturday, July 15, 11:30 a.m. Behind the Story: Author Talk with Charles Soule

Thursday, July 20, 10:30 a.m. Behind the Story: Author Talk with Ethan Kross

Tuesday, July 25, 3:00 p.m. Behind the Story: Author Talk with Erika Sanchez

IN–PERSON PROGRAMS

Moore Public Library, 225 S. Howard Ave.

Tuesday, July 4, 11, 18, 25, 6:00 p.m. Connection Corner: Knit Together

Wednesday, July 5, 12, 19, 26, 10:30 a.m. Rhythm Babies (0-18 Months)

Saturday, July 8, 2:00 p.m.

Creativity Unleashed: Studio Ghibli Film Series

Thursday, July 6, 10:30 a.m. Early Explorers

Friday, July 7, 10:30 a.m. Hula Hooping Basics with Inspyral Circus

Monday, July 10, 8:30 a.m. Kick-Start Kindergarten

Monday, July 10, 17, 24, 31, 11:00 a.m. Kick-Start Kindergarten

Monday, July 10, 24, 31, 4:30 p.m.

Creativity Unleashed: Art (5-7 and 8-11)

Monday, July 10, 17, 24, 31, 6:30 p.m. Get Moving with All Levels Yoga

Tuesday, July 11, 18, 25, 10:30 a.m. Preschool Story Time (3-5 Years)

Thursday, July 13, 27, 10:30 a.m. Toddler Story Time (1-3 Years)

Thursday, July 13, 2:00 p.m. Eat Smart: Teens Cook

Friday, July 14, 10:30 a.m. Paleontology: Clues to the Past

Friday, July 14, 6:00 p.m. Creativity Unleashed: Natural Dyes

Saturday, July 15, 10:30 a.m. Early Explorers

Saturday, July 15, 2:00 p.m. Connection Corner: Dungeons and Dragons

Tuesday, July 18, 4:00 p.m. Sensory Explorers

Thursday, July 20, 10:30 a.m. Early Explorers

Thursday, July 20, 2:00 p.m Animal CSI: Stories Uncovered

Friday, July 21, 10:30 a.m. STEAM Kids (ages 5-7) LEGO Bricks Engineering

Friday, July 21, 1:00 p.m. Create & Take

Thursday, July 27, 2:00 p.m. Extreme STEAM: Teens! Foxhole Radios

Friday, July 28, 10:30 a.m. Spaghetti Eddie in Concert

Friday, July 28, 10:30 a.m. Eat Smart: Juicing

Southwest OKC Library, 2201 SW 134Th Street, OKC

Monday, July 10, 17, 24, 31 5:30 p.m. Connection Corner: Lawn Games

Saturday, July 1, 10:30 a.m. Creativity Unleashed: Studio Ghibli Film Series

Monday, July 3, 10, 2:00 p.m. Hula Hooping Basics with Inspyral Circus

Wednesday, July 5, 10:30 a.m. Family Story Time (All Ages)

Thursday, July 6, 10:30 a.m. Kick-Start Kindergarten

Friday, July 7, 10:30 a.m. Sensory Explorers

Friday, July 7, 3:00 p.m. Teen Connect: Your Library, Your Voice

Friday, July 7, 3:30 p.m. Eat Smart: Healthy Cooking for Adults

Saturday, July 8, 11:00 a.m. Creativity Unleashed: Ukulele Workshop

Friday, July 8, 2:00 p.m. Teen Connect: Animanga Club

Tuesday, July 11, 25, 10:30 a.m. Music Connection

Tuesday, July 11, 11:00 a.m. Maker Lab Meet & Greet

Wednesday, July 12, 5:30 p.m. STEAM Kids (ages 5-11)

Thursday, July 13, 1:00 p.m. Teen Connect: Content Creation

Thursday, July 13, 4:30 p.m. Paleontology: Clues to the Past

Thursday, July 13, 6:30 p.m. Book Discussion with SOKC Library

Friday, July 14, 21, 28, 3:30 p.m. Eat Smart: Healthy Cooking for Adults

Tuesday, July 18, 10:00 a.m. – Teen Connect: Your Library, Your Voice

Monday, July 17, 1:00 p.m. Create & Take

Wednesday, July 19, 10:30 a.m.. Early Explorers

Thursday, July 20, 1:00 p.m. Teen Connect: Content Creation

Thursday, July 20, 5:30 p.m. Build It!

Friday, July 21, 10:30 a.m. Sensory Explorers

Saturday, July 22, 10:30 a.m. Early Explorers

Saturday, July 22, 28, 10:30 a.m. Maker Lab Meet & Greet

Monday, July 24, 3:00 p.m. Teen Connect: Unplug and Play!

Tuesday, July 25, 5:00 p.m. Creativity Unleashed: Wood Burning

Wednesday, July 26, 5:30 p.m. STEAM Kids:(ages 8-11)

Wednesday, July 26, 6:00 p.m. Creativity Unleashed: Wood Burning

Thursday, July 27, 1:00 p.m. Teen Connect: Content Creation

Thursday, July 27, 5:30 p.m. Creativity Unleashed: Making Music with Found Sound

Saturday, July 29, 10:30 a.m. Creativity Unleashed: Friendship Bracelets

Friday, June 9, 10:30 a.m. Get Moving: Kids Yoga at the Storywalk Central Park Storywalk, 700 S. Broadway, Moore

What It’s Like to Be a Bird

Author: David Allen Sibley

Reviewer: Matti Yarn, Information Services Librarian, Southwest OKC Public Library

Whether you can distinguish between Whip-Poor-Wills and Western Nightjars by sound, or simply enjoy seeing cardinals and sparrows at your bird feeder in the winter, David Allen Sibley provides an insightful look into the world of avians that readers of all expertise levels will enjoy!

Formatted into a series of essays, What It’s Like to be a Bird is meant to be an easy entry into the fascinating world of birds. Whether you want to know more about how bird feathers keep them dry, how birds use their six senses, or why Bluejays aren’t actually blue, you’ll find yourself sharing what you learn with others long after you’ve finished this book!

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM — CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW

Rather than the usual field guides that he authors and illustrates, Sibley provides an overview of bird behaviors through the lens of selected species. Starting with a long and well-detailed introduction, Sibley ensures that a complete beginner can follow along with his research, before diving into portfolios of a variety of birds from across North America.

While the physical book is a marvel to behold on any coffee table, the eBook has uniquely incorporated links within the text to connect between sections of the book. This allows readers to check citations, read further information, and view Sibley’s signature full-color illustrations all with a simple click!

What It’s Like to Be a Bird is available through the Pioneer Library System in print or as a downloadable eBook through Libby.

For more information on this title or other recommendations, call the Southwest OKC Public Library at 405.979.2200, or visit us in person or online at pioneerlibrarysystem.org.

Very Good Hats

Author: Emma Straub

Reviewer: Heather Fellenstein, Library Associate, Children’s Services, Moore Public Library

“Do you know what a hat is? I bet you think you know what a hat is...”

Very Good Hats by author Emma Straub is a quirky, creative little story about seeing ordinary things in our lives in a very extraordinary way. In this book, acorns and raspberries are snug hats for your fingers, and an empty pudding cup is a good hat for your favorite teddy bear. Pajama pants make dangly hats, books can make a great floppy hat, and bubbles make very fine hats, even if they are temporary.

Readers will be delighted to discover that anything can be a hat if you believe it is. A good hat can be anything or anywhere! You just have to imagine it.

Very Good Hats is the perfect family read aloud or bedtime story and great for ages 2-5. For more information on finding a copy of Very Good Hats and other silly and creative themed reads, please visit the Moore Public Library Children’s Desk or call us at 405.793.4347. You can also visit us online at pioneerlibrarysystem.org or download the PLS Connect app.

Bohrofen Eyes MLB Draft After Stellar Season of Razorback Baseball

ace Bohrofen has spent the past week riding the whirlwind of the Major League Baseball combine in Phoenix. The 2020 Westmoore grad is hoping that his time in Arizona, along with an outstanding second season of baseball at Arkansas, will lead to a trip to the MLB dream that so many kids grow up chasing. Bohrofen is coming off a season where he batted .318 with 16 home runs and 52 runs batted in. Add to that, 54 runs scored and 15 doubles, and it becomes clear that he has worked hard to elevate his

“We had a new strength coach come and we all hit the weightroom hard in the off-season,” said Bohrofen. “He got us to buy into this culture and I think every single one of us made great strides. I also spent a lot of time focusing on stretching and my pre-game hitting routine, getting into the cages, and going through the drills that worked for me.

Combine that with the amount of fun he was having playing the game with his Arkansas teammates and it adds up to a very special year. The Razorbacks won the SEC West regular season title and was one of 16 teams that hosted an NCAA baseball regional.

“It was such a special year with these guys,” said Bohrofen. “It was a chemistry that I haven’t experienced in a long, long time. This was a very unselfish group of guys and to accomplish what we accomplished in hosting a regional at Baum-Walker was fantastic. And Arkansas fans are second to none when it comes to supporting their teams, even in the SEC where the atmosphere just gets crazy.”

Unfortunately for the Razorbacks, they ran into a red-hot TCU team in their regional and saw their dream of playing in the College World Series in Omaha left unfulfilled. Bohrofen says even with that disappointment, he wouldn’t trade his time in Fayetteville for anything.

“It’s a great school and in a very beautiful part of the country,” said Bohrofen. “Diving up Interstate 49 from Fort Smith to Little Rock is just gorgeous with all the valleys and mountains. It's really cool to see in the fall with all the beautiful colors.”

Bohrofen says participating in the MLB Combine is the next step in his goal of playing at the professional level.

“I’ve been going through a lot of the medical testing, cardio and things like that,” said Bohrofen. “I’ve also been meeting with some of the teams where you get a chance to know each other.”

After his seasons with Arkansas and in the Cape Cod Summer League, Bohrofen believes he has a solid body of work that will draw the interest of MLB clubs.

“I'm feeling pretty confident,” said Bohrofen. “I’m coming off a good season here in Arkansas where I faced some good arms. I feel like that's really helped prepare me for what in the minors and then ultimately at the major league level.”

Once the combine is in the rear-view mirror, he plans to get in a little relaxation time as he waits for the MLB draft.

“After I get done out of here in Phoenix, I’ll probably just go home for the next two or two-and-a-half weeks,” said Bohrofen. “To just really relax, hang out with my family, work out, try to stay in shape. And just maybe go to the lake a couple of times on the weekends?

New Dispatch System Should Make for Better Emergency Call Response

“It'll lead them through a series of questions with the caller to identify what the hazard type is,” said Chief Herbster. That will allow us to recognize it and send the appropriate response for that. But it also sort of levels the playing field for dispatchers regardless of their experience. Whether they've been there six months or 20 years, everyone's going to get the, the same quality of service.”

The Priority Dispatch System™ (PDS™) includes ProQA® software, a three-day certification training course for emergency dispatchers, and continual quality improvement (QI) benchmarks and training. All emergency dispatchers who work on the new system are certified by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch® (IAED™) and must recertify every two years, complete 24 hours of continuing dispatch education (CDE) and pass all requirements for IAED recertification.

“At the IAED, our goal is to help the emergency dispatcher do his or her job better,” said Dr. Jeff Clawson, Chair, Rules Committee for the IAED Medical Council of Standards. “This system increases safety and effectiveness for the first responders and creates better outcomes for callers.”

The City of Moore Communications Center along with the Moore Fire Department is excited to announce the implementation of the Fire Priority Dispatch System™ (FPDS™) to better serve the residents of Moore, OK in emergency situations.

With this new system, emergency dispatchers will follow nationally recognized standards and research-based protocols to identify life-threatening situations and to safely prioritize calls for response. The protocols guide emergency dispatchers through a series of questions they ask callers to identify the problems so they can send the correct help.

Fire Chief Greg Herbster said he loves how the software will provide a consistent level of service by every dispatcher, regardless of experience, and will speed up the process to get fire units on the scene faster.

The constantly evolving software will help provide the highest standard of care to the community, allowing Dispatchers to better manage resources and increase the accuracy and efficiency of the dispatching process.

With the Moore Communications Center implementation of this system, residents can have peace of mind that when they call their local emergency number for assistance, highly trained emergency dispatchers will properly handle their needs with timeliness and expert care.

“It should definitely speed up response times,” said Chief Herbster. “The software will help efficiently identify whether it's an extreme emergency or a lower priority. For example, if you have a structure fire with victims trapped, it'll identify that within like two questions and it's going to get a much quicker response. If it's something less life-threatening, they may ask five or six questions before they respond with fire units.”

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS to our Moore Urgent Care and Family Medicine Clinic

Located at 1015 SW 4th St, our new facility is over 9600 square feet and will house our Moore Urgent Care and Family Medicine clinics. It has 15 exam rooms, and a state of the art X-Ray and Lab.

Our hours of operation are:

Classen Urgent Care: 7 am – 8 pm daily, 365 days a year (no appointment needed!)

Classen Family Medicine: Monday thru Friday, 7 am – 5 pm

Medical care by experienced, board-certified medical providers when you can’t see your doctor, or don’t have one.

Lisa West, PA-C Quynh Chao, PA-C

Brenda Mah-McCaa, M.D.

Daniel Rau, PA-C