By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City has announced plans to build a $37 million facility to replace the aging Northside YMCA at 10000 N. Pennsylvania Ave. near Casady School.
A 13-acre tract of land at the intersection of Pennsylvania Ave. and Hefner Rd. is to be
Village resident and business owner, Sean Cummings, was honored by a local Daughters of the American Revolution chapter for his philanthropy in paying student school lunch debt in 40 school districts across the state since March 2024 in memory of his late wife, Cathy Cummings.
Cummings paid out $100,000 which was donated by individuals from around the country to erase student lunch debt. Local DAR chapter, Colonel John Starke. Sr. presented Cummings with a national DAR Excellence of Community Service Award during a meet-
home of the new 68,000-squarefoot facility.
The current Northside Y was constructed on property donated in 1955. Ground was broken on Oct. 26, 1959, and the new YMCA opened in early 1960. At the time the Northside YMCA was on the outskirts of the metro area.
The 13-acre property on the southeast corner of Pennsylvania Ave. and Hefner
ing at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club.
Cummings spoke and explained the origin of
his efforts and the significance of alleviating lunch debt for students.
Daughters of the American Revolution is
February is the month of love, and what better way to show kindness than by helping a neighbor in need?
The Oklahoma City Utilities Department’s Help 2 Others (H2O) program makes it easy for customers to lend a helping hand by rounding up their monthly water bill to the nearest dollar.
The H2O program provides onetime financial assistance to customers to help keep their water flowing.
“The need in our community is greater than many people realize,” Utilities Customer Service Superintendent Michelle Lisenby said. “Every month, hundreds of
customers, many of which are families, struggle to pay their water bill, yet only a small percentage of our customers contribute to Help 2 Others. We would love to see more people join in—because even a little bit can make a big difference for the program.”
Founded in partnership with the Salvation Army in 2002, H2O is funded exclusively through customer donations. In 2024, Utilities customers raised more than $113,000 to help those in need. Oklahoma State law prohibits municipal utilities from using ratepayer funds to provide See NEED, Page 7
a 135-year-old nonpolitical service organization that promotes historic preservation, education, and patriotism.
Rd. is currently owned by Love’s Travel Stops whose national headquarters is located across the street from the home of the new Northside Y.
A statement from Love’s reads:
“Love’s owns the 13-acre parcel of land located the intersection of Hefner and Pennsylvania and has entered
See YMCA, Page 7
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
The Village Civic Area was recognized as the Outstanding Public Initiative at the 11th Annual Impact Awards ceremonies presented by Urban Land Institute Oklahoma. Awards were presented during ceremonies held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. Other nominees included the Almonte Library in southwest Oklahoma City, RAPID NW Embark and W.P. Bill Atkinson Park in Midwest City.
ULI Oklahoma’s Impact Awards recognizes projects that exemplify best practices in the responsible use of land in creating and sustaining thriving communities. The finalists represent those projects and initiatives determined to best promote the creation of resilient communities, intelligent densification and urbanization, as well as outstanding quality of design and construction.
“The Village Civic Area is an ambitious project built through decades of planning efforts,” said Michelle McBeath Lubbers, executive director ULI Oklahoma. “Its nomination and
See VILLAGE, Page 2
Tico (2 years) and Kermit (6 months) are domestic shorthairs who live in the Deep Deuce area with their “cat mom” Kelli Nusspickel. Tico loves to explore and would roam wild if given the opportunity. Kermit is totally content to stay indoors and snuggle with anyone who is willing. They have become best friends and love to wrestle, explore, and cuddle with each other.
Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@okcfriday.com.
From Page 1
win reflect its achievement and impactful urban development, with a strong focus on connectivity and thoughtful design.
“Spearheaded by the City of The Village, this initiative exemplifies outstanding leadership in creating and sustaining a thriving community,” she said. “The Village Civic Area serves as a ‘core’ for this once suburban city lacking a main street or downtown.”
The four projects nominated for the Outstanding Public Initiative represented munic-
ipalities across the Oklahoma City metro and the state and included a public library, bus rapid transit and another city park.
“We hope the impact Awards will inspire developers, city officials and everyday residents to build better,” said Lubbers. “Our communities desire walkable, livable places, and we each have a part in making this happen.
“The decade and patterns of sprawl and auto-centric development have created unintended consequences,” she said. “We want to help lead the way in creating more sustainable and equi -
table cities, where all residents can thrive.”
Village City Manager
Dave Slezickey called the panel of judges, “A very bright and brilliant mix of some of the premier urban planners and developers in the area.
“I think the fact that we’re a small community had an influence on our win. That we don’t have a community gathering area such as a Main Street or central community and this project provided for a growing community was a factor,” he said. “It was an incredible honor to be nominated for this award and then to become a finalist, we felt like a winner
regardless of who received the award.
“The other finalists were top notch projects, but I think ours provides the most opportunity for all members of the community to benefit,” he said. “The other nominees were great projects that collectively show how awesome or region is. It’s a humbling honor just being nominated with these other projects that build community and enhance the quality of life in the OKC metro.
“I also think the panel may have had some appreciation of a community our size being able to fund a project of this magnitude,” he added. “Tak-
ing a vacant tract of city-owned land and creating this development on it may have had some merit as well.”
Slezickey credits The Village “community” who provided input and feedback into the project.
“We couldn’t have created something like this without the collective community identifying our needs; Bruce Stone, and past council members, including Sonny Wilkinson, Sean Cummings, Cathy Cummings, Adam Graham, Wynter Griffis and David Glover,” he said. “Tim Johnson and Associates did a lot of the engineering work;
Wynn Construction as the general contractor and all of their subcontractors. Most importantly the entire team at LAUD Design that created this project from concept to reality.”
Slezickey said that while the recognition is always appreciated, “I think the true benefits will be seeing community members utilize the Civic Plaza for recreation, enjoyment and making new friends.
“An added benefit is the visibility of the project and hoping we can share our success with other cities to develop similar projects to add value to their communities.”
A dozen Fridayland basketball teams begin their journeys toward a possible berth at state with district tournaments this Friday and Saturday.
Both Heritage Hall squads host a Class 3A district matchup this Friday against Star Spencer. The girls’ game tips off at 6 p.m. followed by the boys at 6:30.
Three other Fridayland teams also take part in districts, with the Casady boys and girls at Chisholm and the Crossings Christian girls at Lindsay.
Meanwhile, seven local teams hit the road in 4A district contests.
McGuinness travels to Tuttle, and Harding Charter Prep is at Douglass.
The Crossings Christian boys venture east to Checotah, as Mount St. Mary visit Newcastle.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FRIDAY, P.O. Box 20340, Okla. City, OK 73156.
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Building a doubledigit lead by the end of the third quarter, the McGuinness boys basketball team survived a late rally by Fridayland rival Heritage Hall but ultimately prevailed in a 60-54 road win last Friday night.
Three Irish players scored in double figures, as Heritage Hall (8-11) closed to within a basked midway through the fourth quarter but McGuinness pulled away in the final minutes.
Cooper Bradley led the way with 16 points, while Brody Parks collected 14 points and Hudson McCormick chipped in 11 points.
On Tuesday, the Class 4A No. 11 Irish (15-9) posted a 65-57 victory against OKC Storm, behind 21 points from Bradley, 11 from Parks and 9 from McCormick.
McGuinness was scheduled to visit Ada on Tuesday, but a winter storm forced cancellation of the contest. The game will not be made up.
Crossings Christian ended its regular season on a high note with a 56-52 victory at Carl Albert last Thursday night.
Cal Furnish paced the 4A No. 3 Knights (21-3) with 22 points.
Cam Parker grabbed 10 points and Coleman Ridley added 7 points.
Crossings Christian opened the week with a dominating 70-42 triumph at 2A No. 9 Christian Heritage on Tuesday. Furnish netted a team-best 23 points, as Rylen Sykes scored 9 points and Parker and Max Moser contributed 8 points each.
Keyed by three players in double figures, John Marshall cruised to a 75-59 victory over Harding Fine Arts last Monday.
Antonio Green scored 22 points to lead the Bears (14-10), followed by Zuo Kpogba with 15 points and Jamarion Bolding with 11 points.
On Friday, John Marshall endured a 6952 loss at Lawton behind a team-high 9 points from Derek Shaw. Kaveion Ikuesanu collected 7 points and Dre Bowling had 6 points.
The Bears opened the week with a big 9066 win over Duncan last Tuesday. Kpogba led three players in double figures with 24 points. Green grabbed 18 points as Bolding chipped in 14 points.
NORMAN NORTH TOPS ANTLERS
Getting a jump on the bad weather, Deer
Creek ended its regular season last Monday with a 59-49 win at Southmoore.
Clyde Davis led the Antlers (18-4) with 22 points. Phoenix Woodson collected 14 points and Mason Smith contributed 10 points.
On Friday, Deer Creek never recovered from an early deficit in a 52-32 loss at Norman North. Woodson scored team-best 12 points and Smith added 7 points.
The Antlers opened the week with a 51-48 victory against Putnam City. Woodson netted
the Cyclones (2-21) with 16 points in a 5744 setback at 3A No. 10 Community Christian, as Davis Currie collected 12 points and James Elder added 7 points. Currie and Elder netted 21 points each and Jack Barker chipped in 8 points in a 74-69 defeat to the Eagles.
Panthers clobber Lawton Ike: PC North cruised to three victories last week to end its regular season. The Panthers (16-8) posted
19 points and Davis chipped in 12 points. Smith and Caison Robinson also contributed 8 points each.
Casady endured a pair of tough losses against Community Christian and Fridayland rival Harding Charter Prep to end the regular season.
Sam Edwards paced
a 57-50 win at Edmond Santa Fe on Monday, preceded by a 73-39 victory over Lawton Eisenhower and a 43-31 triumph over Moore. OKC Storm stalls Rockets: Mount St. Mary also got a mixed bag from last week’s action. The Rockets (158) suffered a 60-51 loss to OKC Storm but opened with an 88-63 victory over Tecumseh. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
By Jason Jewell Sports Editor
Keyed by a pair of regional event champions and a strong relay team, the Deer Creek girls swimming team eyes at least a top-5 finish enjoys a decent chance to win a championship trophy this weekend at the Class 6A state meet in Jenks.
“We’ve had a really good season and look foward to competing at state,” said first-year coach J.C. Riley. “Our girls team is really strong and I fully expect them to finish in the third to fifth range this weekend.”
Freshman Harper
Husbands and junior Ashlyn Bucy anchor Deer Creek’s squad.
Husbands earned gold medals in the 100yard breaststroke and 200 individual medley at the 6A regionals, while Bucy took the 100 backstroke title and finished runner-up in the 100 butterfly.
The team’s lone senior, Mace McFarlane, qualified for state in the 50 and 100 freestyle.
A bit of bad luck and untimely injuries has
limited the Deer Creek boys in some events at state.
However, the Antlers sit among the favorites to win the 200 freestyle relay. Team members include Jason Hull, Owen McCall, Beckham Shields and Tony Kieu.
Hull qualified for state in the 50 and 100 freestyle events. McCall and Shields also compete in the backstroke. Shields, however, will miss the 200 IM, his signature event, after being disqualified at regionals.
McCall also sat out the 100 butterfly – also his signature event –race with a shoulder injury.
“I felt really bad for the boys,” Riley said. “We had some bad luck and injuries at regionals that put us down a couple of events (in competing for the team title).”
Maddalena Scorpecci competes in the 200 and 500 freestyle.
The Antler girls also qualified in the 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays, as the boys also made the 400 freestyle relay field.
Four PC North
Seven Fridayland boys wrestling teams embark on their journeys toward a state championship when they compete at regional tournaments this weekend.
swimmers also earned spots in the state field.
Colin Turbayne and Xander Applegate made two events each.
Turbayne competes in the 50 and 100 freestyles, while Applegate is in the 200 freestyle and 100 butterfly. Brody Cunningham also qualified in the 100 breaststroke and 200 IM.
Jordan Lent, Scarlet Mathis and Luke Englemann round out the group.
Lent competes in the 50 freestyle, Mathis in the 200 IM and Englemann in the 100 backstroke.
In addition, both squads from Casady and McGuinness, along with dozens of other Fridayland athletes from Crossings Christian, Heritage Hall and Mount St. Mary, take part in the 5A state meet this weekend at Jenks Aquatic Center.
The Cyclones and Irish stand among the favorites to pick up a team title.
Casady’s Ayden Kerr and McGuinness’ Camryn Kanaly earned gold medals at regionals.
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Deer Creek and PC North venture to the west metro for the Class 6A West regional at Yukon High School and McGuinness travels to Chickasha for its 5A West regional.
Heritage Hall hits the road for its 4A West regional at Weatherford.
Casady, Crossings Christian and Mount St. Mary
In a battle of Fridayland teams, the McGuinness girls basketball team came on top with an exciting 4241 victory at Heritage Hall (12-9) last Friday night.
AceLynn Tucker netted a team-best 14 points for the Irish (912). Coffey Collier finished with 8 points and Elliott Jones contributed 6 points.
Keyed by three players in double figures, McGuinness escaped with a 63-61 overtime win against Ardmore on Tuesday.
Tucker collected 17 points, followed by Layla Love with 13 points and Mariah Conally with 12 points.
Mount St. Mary cruised to double-digit victories in a busy 3game week.
The Rockets (10-14) boasted three doubledigit scorers in a 61-30 victory over Cache on Monday.
Kylie Ross netted 20 ponts, as Genevieve Holland collected 14 points and Jasmini Jessie had 11 points.
On Friday, the Mount cruised to a 5536 triumph over OKC
participate in a 3A West regional at Kingfisher.
State tournaments for all classes are set for Feb. 27March 1 at State Fairgrounds Arena in OKC.
ANTLERS FALL TO SAND SPRINGS AT DUAL STATE
Trailing by 11 points in the final two weight classes,
Storm. Lundyn McGilbra collected a team-best 15 points.
Sienne Easly and Jessie added 11 points each.
The Rockets opened
HARDING TOO MUCH FOR BEARS
John Marshall
endured a 43-39 loss to Harding Fine Arts on
Harrod nets 1,500 points
PC North’s Brandie Harrod (3) nailed a free throw against Lawton Eisenhower last Friday to pass 1,500 points in her career. The Panthers cruised to a 93-48 victory. - Photo by
with a 53-41 win over Tecumseh, behind 18 points from Ross, 14 from Easly and 13 by Holland.
the Deer Creek wrestling team won the final two duals but ultimately fell short in a 32-30 loss to Sand Springs in the quarterfinals of the Class 6A Dual State tournament at Tulsa Union’s Multipurpose Activity Center..
The Antlers’ Brady Brewer pinned Sand Springs’ Peyton Callis at 175 pounds in the final match, preceded by
Monday. Kandice Brown scored 22 points to lead the Bears (1-22). Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Garon Kaiser’s 7-6 victory against Isaac Sensintaffer at 165 pounds. Deer Creek boasted five other wins in the quarterfinals, including Easton Witters at 106 pounds, Nash Neeley at 120 pounds, Hayes McNeill at 138 pounds, Jace Province at 144 pounds and Brandon Schoenecke at 285 pounds.
March 78 •
Pink Martini
Oklahoma City Philharmonic is thrilled to announce the return of globetrotting musical ensemble Pink Martini and China Forbes: 30th Anniversary Season to the Civic Center Music Hall on Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8, 8:00 pm. Pink Martini’s captivating fusion of pop, jazz, and classical music comes to the Civic Center stage for two genredefying evenings of music. The incredible pairing of Pink Martini and the OKC Philharmonic is an event you shouldn’t miss. Tickets are available now at okcphil.org or by calling (405) 8425387.
Aug. 13 •
Kidz Bop Live
The KIDZ BOP Kids are back in 2025 with their all new KIDZ BOP Live Certified BOP Tour, coming to the Zoo Amphitheatre. Sing and dance along to today biggest BOPs live on the big stage including “espresso,” “HOT TO GO,” and “Dance Monkey.” The ultimate pop concert experience for kids will have eyepopping new stage design and interactive elements kids will love, as well as the return of the popular Daddy Dance
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is excited to announce its upcom
ing docent training program, designed for individuals passionate about sharing knowledge and engaging with the public. Docents play a crucial role in the museum, serving as guides who enhance visitors’ experiences by providing educa ti onal informa ti on about exhibits and the museum’s objects on display. The incoming docent class will meet once a week beginning Saturday, March 29, for approximately a month, to learn the essentials of being a docent. Prospective participants are required to apply at least one week before the first training session. Applications can be found under the volunteer tab on the museum’s website. For more information about the docent training program and to apply, please visit samnoblemuseum. ou.edu/ getinvolved/volunteer/.
Off. More details at okczooamp.com.
March 11 • Chili Cookoff
The OICA Chili Cookoff is at the State Capitol and this year’s theme is “Working Together for Oklahoma’s Children.” This oneofakind event is held right outside the Capitol and is an opportunity to connect with legislators, judiciary members, and the press in a fun and engaging setting from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. Visit oica.org to sign up for the event.
Feb. 2123 • Library Book Sale Friends of the Metropolitan Library Book Sale will be held in the Oklahoma Expo
Building at the OKC Fairgrounds. This sale is free and open to the public. That means making an online guide to help everyone navigate the Book Sale and outlining the best way to tackle the Book Sale at supportmls.org.
Hours are: Friday, Feb. 2117 pm *MEMBERS ONLY* Saturday, Feb. 229 am to 5 pm Sunday, Feb. 23
9 am to 5 pm
OKC THUNDER
HOME GAMES
Paycom Center
100 West Reno Ave.
Monday, Feb. 24 • Minn. Timberwolves
7:00 pm
Monday, March 3 •
Houston Rockets 7:00 pm
Friday, March 7 • Portland Trail Blazers 7:00 pm
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Paycom Center Events/Shows:
Feb. 21 Harlem Globetrotters
Mar. 22 Tom Segura
In the summer of 2015, I travelled to Savannah, Georgia, for a month-long film residency. I had directed footage for a new short film with a local cast and crew at locations across Oklahoma City. The SixTwelve film residency paired me with a filmmaker from Savannah, Josh Branstetter, to collaborate on the editing of the film, offering me a fresh perspective on the story and the footage.
The short film was called SWIRL. It told the story of a kid’s first crush in high school, using only dance and no dialogue. We filmed along the Oklahoma River, inside the Devon Boathouse, and throughout the old Classen High School. We used music from two local musicians studying at the Academy of Contemporary Music, Alexis Quinn and Troy Brainard from the band QUIL
SWIRL starred two local high school students, Aaron Stewart from Classen School of Advanced Studies, and Emmett Prince from Del City High School. Stewart ultimately graduated from the musical theater program at the University of Oklahoma and is currently touring with the North American cast of Peter Pan Prince attended the dance program at University of Central
Oklahoma, starred as the lead dancer on multiple cruise lines, and is currently the lead in the Las Vegas residency of Magic Mike
SWIRL was the most successful short film I have made as far as getting accepted into film festival around the world. It travelled for two years from Melbourne to Hamburg to Newport Beach to the Bahamas. And it featured several local performers in their first film roles.
But for me, the residency itself was the turning point in my career. I was stuck in a rut with my writing and filmmaking. So, I tried something different. I made a film with no dialogue and limited myself to dance choreography to convey the story. And I applied for the SixTwelve Residency to go to Savannah and be in a new environment as I worked out these new ideas.
SixTwelve has provided residencies for several local artists over the years. The program launched with visual artists like Denise Duong, Tyfan-
ny McKnight, and Amanda Zoey, moved into more filmmaking with Bradley Beasley, dance and movement with Maria Casimir and Julie Mulvihill, and sculpture with Gabriel Friedman Now, SixTwelve is offering primarily music residencies, allowing local musicians the opportunity to write, record, and produce music in Oklahoma City, Savannah, and Los Angeles.
SixTwelve is a community arts and education center in the Paseo founded, nurtured, and run by CEO Amy Young. They offer two, weekly after school programs, several seminars and camps, and classes for all ages all year long. But the most impactful program they offer for local artists is the SixTwelve art residency.
The Mardi Gras Ball celebrating ten years of SixTwelve residencies and educational programming is coming up this Saturday night at Tower Theatre starting at 7:00 pm. The night includes delicious Cajun food and great music from the King Cabbage Brass Band followed by a magical rock concert from rock band Broncho. Get your tickets today at sixtwelve.org or towertheatreokc. com or donate online to help keep these SixTwelve art residencies thriving.
Auction proceeds to provide food, shelter and medical care for animals
Nearly 300 dogs and cats at the state’s largest no-kill sanctuary will be supported by donations raised at a benefit auction from 6 to 8:30 pm on Thursday, March 13 at the Oklahoma Contemporary in Oklahoma City.
The 41-year-old sanctuary, Free to Live, is located in north Edmond and is home to many of the state’s homeless and
unwanted cats and dogs. While the sanctuary facilitates adoptions of hundreds of pets each year, there are more than 100 cats and dogs that have become permanent residents of Free to Live due to special needs, age or health concerns. As a nonprofit, Free to Live is supported entirely by donations. Every year, as the organization grows and takes in more animals, the financial needs increase as well.
“We are here for some of Oklahoma’s most vulnerable dogs and cats – many who need a second and even third
chance at a full life,” said Free to Live Executive Director Reagan Hamlin. “Your generosity helps us raise awareness and funds to support these animals who rely on the medical and rehabilitative care we provide.”
Participants can bid online or attend and bid in person at bidpal.net/artauction25.
The show will include submissions from well-known local artists as well as several Free to Live dogs and cats.
There is no cost to attend and complimentary wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
Free to Live is the largest non-profit, no-kill animal sanctuary for stray, abandoned and mistreated dogs and cats in Oklahoma. More than 100 animals are adopted out of Free to Live to loving homes each year. At the sanctuary, animals that are not adopted live out their lives with healthy food, shelter and medical care. Euthanasia is not practiced.
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into an agreement to donate the property for purposes of this YMCA project. Love’s is very excited to be a part of this project as the Northside YMCA has proudly served the community surrounding our corporate offices for decades. We look forward to being part of this new reimagined facility.”
There are no plans for Quality Foods (formerly a Kinney Shoe Store) on the current site. Plans for the new Northside YMCA include a four-lane lap pool, warm water family pool with spray features, a gymnasium with indoor track, and a large fitness center with ultramodern strength and cardio equipment.
Other amenities will include three studios to expand group exercise
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direct financial assistance to customers, making Help 2 Others a muchneeded program. How can customers support the H2O program?
offerings, an early learning center for 130 children, intergenerational spaces to support after school and summer day camps, child watch and kids adventure center.
A fundraising campaign has already raised $21.4 million toward the new Northside YMCA.
“With partnerships, sale of existing properties, ARPA dollars, etc. we need to raise $26 million through charitable contributions to complete the $108 million in projects for Northside, Edmond, Stillwater and Camp Classen,” said Kelly Kay, president & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City. “We’ve raised $21.4 million toward our capital campaign. Several million of those funds are undesignated, which means we can use them for any of the four projects, including the new Y in The Village.
Participation is easy and can be customized based on preference. Customers can register to automatically round up their bill each month, set a specific donation amount on a recurring basis, or choose a onetime gift at any time convenient to them. Proceeds are put into a fund administered by the Central Oklahoma Area Command of the Salvation Army, which screens individuals for eligibility. All donations are tax deductible and applied after regular water, wastewater, solid waste and other fees have been added to a customer’s bill. 100 percent of the contributions are used to assist Oklahoma City Utilities customers.
“Our community is strongest when we look out for one another,” Lisenby said. “A small donation can be lifechanging for someone
“Village institutions, including Love’s, Casady School, Crossings Community Center and The Village library, have been long time mission partners and supporters of the YMCA,” Kay told Village city council members during their February meeting. “These Village institutions have been long time mission partners and supporters of the Y and have provided support and been very engaged assessing community needs and planning for the future development of this YMCA project.
“We are extremely grateful for the partnerships we’ve developed over the past 60 plus years and are always looking for opportunities to make a stronger impact in the community,” he said. “We know from experience that successful Ys are built by the surrounding community – it’s the people that make a Y
facing hardship—a senior on a fixed income, a single parent working hard to get by or a neighbor who just needs temporary help.”
Customers who want to celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Day and share the love this February can sign up using their online account at okcutilities.com, the MyOKCUtilities mobile app, or by checking the “Round It Up” box on their paper water bill and adding the round-up amount when they submit their bill for payment by check. For those wish-
special.
“Whether that’s the mom relying on afterschool care for her kids, the widow finding friendship after loss, or a teenager learning lessons about leadership and service at their first job,” he continued. “We’re for all and we welcome anyone with a connection to The Village – individuals or organizations – to join us in this cause.”
Kay said he expects the Northside YMCA membership and participation in offerings to more than double and possibly triple with the new facilities and amenities like what they have experienced with their Edmond Mitch Park location opened in 2014.
The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City held discussions with leadership at Casady School about the fate of the existing Northside YMCA building and said Casady leadership
ing to sign up by phone, call (405) 297-2833, and a Customer Service Representative will assist. For those in need
Customers who may need bill pay assistance are encouraged to call the Salvation Army at (405) 246-1100 to see if they qualify to enroll. In addition to H2O, the Utilities Department offers other assistance options, including installment payment plans and a reduced trash rate for qualified customers. For more information on the H2O program and other assistance options, please visit OKC.gov/Utilities.
is aware of the desire to sell the property.
“We will sell the property to reinvest the proceeds into the new YMCA,” he said. “We have such a long relationship with Casady as our neighbor. We hope to continue to serve and engage their students and families.”
Kay said he expects construction to begin in spring 2026, saying, “It will take approximately 18 months to construct
so we would hope to open summer of 2027.
“We are currently not ready,” he said. “At a minimum we need to complete the fundraising and finalize agreements with other parties and complete the sale of the existing YMCA.”
Lingo Construction is to serve as construction manager of the project and officials are to be seeking RFQs from architects soon.
December, 2024.
/s/Ashley McDonald /s/Angela Smith Petitioner Notary
SUBSCRIBER AND SWORN to before me this 4 day of December, 2024.
Notary: /s/Angela Smith (SEAL) My commission expires: 7-4-2026 Commission Number: 22009046
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 14, 2025; Friday, February 21, 2025; Friday, February 28, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2025-115
IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: Alejandro J. Valdez, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Carol Lynn Valdez, ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Carol Lynn Valdez You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage, alleging incompatibility. You must answer the Petition on or before the 7 day of February, 2025, or the Petition will be taken as true and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner. WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 7 day of February, 2025.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/L.Bell (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 14, 2025; Friday, February 21, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CASE NO: PB-2025-129
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Aurelia Prado STATE OF OKLAHOMA } }ss. COUNTY OF OKLAHOMA }
NOTICE OF HEARING PETITION FOR PROBATE OF WILL
Notice is hereby given to all legatees and devisees of Aurelia Prado, Deceased, that on the 21 day of July, 2024, Christina Poos, personal representative to the estate Produced and filed in the District Court of the County of Oklahoma, State of Oklahoma, an instrument in writing purporting to be the last will and testament of Aurelia Prado, deceased, and also filed a Petition for Probate of will praying for the Probate of said will and that Letters Testamentary be issued thereon to Christina Poos as Personal Representative named in said Will. Pursuant to an order of said court made on the 3 day of February, 2025, notice is hereby on the 27 day of February, 2025, at 10:00 o’clock a.m. Judge Oakes that said day has been appointed as the time for hearing said petition and proving said will at the County Courthouse, 321 Park Avenue, Room 217, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, when and where any person interested in said estate may appear and contest the same. Dated this 3 day of February, 2025.
MARTHA OAKES Judge of the District Court Rick Warren, Court Clerk Oklahoma County, Oklahoma By: /s/J. Salas Deputy
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 21, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-298
IN RE: The Name of: ) Jackson Everett Miller )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Jackson Everett Miller has petitioned to change his/her name to Evelyn Marie Miller. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:00 o’clock P.M. on the 20 day of March, 2025, before Judge Andrews in his/her courtroom in at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 21, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-271
In Re: The Name of: ) Derik Anthony Shimer-Glick ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
ORDINANCE NO. 1274
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 50-529 OF THE NICHOLS HILLS CITY CODE REGARDING APPOINTMENT OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS; REPEALING ALL CONFLICTING ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND DECLARING
Commission
until their terms have expired. Members may be removed by the City Council for inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance in office, upon written charges and after public hearing. Vacancies occurring otherwise than through the expiration of the term of office shall be filled for the unexpired portion of the
Section
TO:
Debbie South RE/MAX Preferred 9520 N. May, Suite 110
Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Office: (405) 751-4848 debbiesouth.com
Full Circle Bookstore
1900 NW Expressway
Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 842-2900 (800) 683-READ
Junior’s Supper Club 2601 NW Expressway Oil Center Building (405) 848-5597 juniorsokc.com
Boutique One
7636 N. Western
Wilshire Village
Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 888-9822
boutiqueone.store
The Learning Tree 7638 N. Western Wilshire Village (405) 848-1415 learningtreeokc.com
Nancy Farha’s 9205 N. Pennsylvania
Casady Square
The Village, OK 73120 (405) 775-0404 nancyfarha.com
23rd Street Antiques 3023 NW 23rd. (405) 947-3800 Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Antiques23.com
Coyle Law Firm 125 Park Ave. No.100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 583-3909 coylelaw.com
Gulfport Seafood Market 8016 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-3468 Gulfportseafoods.com
Moorman's Distinctive Carpets and Area Rugs 3835 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4888 moormanscarpetsoklahoma city.com
Naifeh Fine Jewelry 6471 Avondale Dr,. Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 607-4323 Naifehfinejewelry.com
Retirement Investment Advisors 2925 United Founders Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-3443 theretirementpath.com
Thrifty Pharmacy 10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852 230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 thriftypharmacyedmond.com
BancFirst 6200 Waterford Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 270-1622 Bancfirst.bank
First National Bank of Oklahoma 10900 Hefner Pointe Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 fnbok.com
CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com
Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank
Covenant Brothers 5900 Mosteller Dr. No. 7 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-4671 covbros.com
Justin Beasley, DDS 4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com
Cindi Shelby, Stylist
Lela Rose & Pearl by Lela Rose 333 W. Wilshire Blvd., Ste. F Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 830-1138
Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126
All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 Northwest 63 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.com
Papa Dios 10712 N May, Suite D Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-2255 papadiosokc.com
First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com
Denner Roofing Co. LLC 6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com
First Source Real Estate
Residential Sales 12020 N. Penn Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747 Michael Biddinger Real Estate
Commercial Sales, Management 12020 N. Penn Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747
The Adult Clinic at Hearts for Hearing 11500 N. Portland Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 548-4335
Christian Science Reading Room 6490 Avondale Drive (Nichols Hills Plaza North) Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 843-5334 christianscienceokc.org
Steam It Klean It LLC Carpet Cleaning PO Box 20232 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 602-4960 Steamitkleanit@gmail.com
Krista Anne’s Boutique 7602 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 310-5500
Paul Seikel Pearls Oyster Bar 5641 N. Classen Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 848-8008 pearlsokc.com
Basey's Roofing Gary Basey 2700 S. May Ave. Okla City, OK 73109 (405)755-8717 baseysroofingjs@gmail.com
Niroula Law 511 Couch Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 496-9250 niroulalaw.com
OKC FRIDAY P.O. Box 20340 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 755-3311 okcfriday.com
Strebel Creek Vineyard & Gift Shop
“And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32 (quoting Jesus).
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” – Edmund Burke paraphrase, 1767.
If you want it in the paper, it’s advertising. If you don’t want it in the paper, it’s news.” – Ancient Chinese Proverb
“Without, or with, offense to friends or foes, We sketch your world exactly as it goes.” – Byron, 1818.
“Every violation of truth is a stab at the health of human society.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1878.
“We must always stand – alone if necessary – as the conscience of this community.” – J. Leland Gourley, 1959.
Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready announced that the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has selected Oklahoma City as the host location for their 2029 Spring National Meeting. Commissioner Mulready and First Deputy Commissioner Brian Downs made a successful presentation to
NAIC membership during the annual Commissioner’s Roundtable meeting.
Oklahoma City has been a finalist for several national meetings over the past year, competing with Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, Hollywood (Florida) and Kansas City (Missouri). In its 154-year history, this will be the first NAIC National Meeting ever held in Oklahoma.
“I am excited for colleagues and industry professionals from around the country to experience our capital city and witness the values of service, honor, and kindness that make up the Oklahoma Standard,” said Commissioner Mulready.
“This will also be a lasting memory for those that work in our department who
protect and serve Oklahoma consumers every day.”
As part of the state-based system of insurance regulation in the United States, the NAIC is the standard-setting organization that is governed by the chief insurance regulators from the 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. NAIC provides expertise, data, and
Dear Wise Elder: My mother lives independently in her own home. When I call to check she says, “Everything is fine,” “No problems,” “I’m really doing well and busy.” However, I get the feeling she’s not being straight with me. I’m not confident about her welfare. What do you suggest?
Dear Not Confident: Rather than “How are you doing?” the key is asking more specific questions. Tell me what you had for dinner? Tell me your schedule for the week? Which of your friends will you be having lunch with soon? Inquire what she is doing to stay fit; physical movement
analysis for insurance commissioners to effectively regulate the industry and protect consumers.
The meeting will be held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center and is to bring close to 2,000 attendees from every state and U.S. territory, as well as visitors from several different countries. The conference will have a major impact
gets the biggest bang toward staying independent. Tell her what you are doing to keep moving. Aerobic exercise, strength building, balance programs and flexibility and stretching are much preferable to pain-relieving drugs. When she stands on one foot in the kitchen, she is strengthening hip and thigh muscles and improving balance. We all know that DOING 10-20 minutes a day can produce great results. To receive a digital copy of an Independent Checklist, contact VillagesOKC.org.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
on the local economy as guests are to stay at several downtown hotel locations for an average of four nights and enjoy entertainment, food, and tourism amenities across the city.
The NAIC provides expertise, data, and analysis for insurance commissioners to effectively regulate the insurance industry and protect consumers.
At right and below, Casady students interact with Dragon Dancers from Vien Giac Buddhist Temple’s Youth Organization in celebration of the Lunar New Year.
In celebration of the Lunar New Year, talented Dragon Dancers from Vien Giac Buddhist Temple’s Youth Organization performed for Primary, Lower and Middle Division students at Casady School.
This colorful, energetic dance is a fun and festive way to ring in the New Year, and the dragon is traditionally a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture.
Experiencing festivals and celebrations from diverse cultures fosters cultural appreciation, broadens perspectives, and promotes understanding. It cultivates empathy, enriches social skills, and encourages a global mindset. Witnessing performances like Dragon Dancers during Lunar New Year not only educates but also celebrates the richness of human diversity, crucial for wellrounded individuals in the Casady Community.
Not only did Nelly Jimenez learn two new scientific words this week – pathology and histology – she became an amateur practitioner of both.
Nelly was among 30 students who participated in the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation’s Junior Scientist Days. Since 1979, the annual twoday event has given students from Putnam City Schools a chance to meet researchers and try hands-on experiments in OMRF’s labs.
Teachers select one student per school for Junior Scientist Days, using criteria ranging from essays to classroom performance to interest in science.
Nelly, a fifth-grader
at Ralph Downs Elementary, spent two hours applying stain to liver cells and then examining them under a microscope. Her lab partner was Mike McDaniel, who manages the labs in OMRF’s Cardiovascular Biology Research Program.
“What we just did in a 31-step process was similar to what a hospital diagnostic lab would do,” McDaniel told his temporary protégé.
Afterward, Nelly explained to teachers, parents and students that pathology is the study of disease and histology is the study of tissue.
Other students, each paired with an OMRF
scientist, tackled different experiments: One extracted DNA from a banana, while another learned how genetic mutations can affect a tiny species of fish. A third got a microscopic view of her own cells, removed painlessly from her cheek.
Under the tutelage of Joanna Papinska, Ph.D., fifth-grader Rylee Marks learned “that all living things have DNA, and that our DNA determines who we are and how we look.”
Parents and teachers, meanwhile, toured OMRF and heard updates from two scientists focused on cancer research, including Linda Thompson, Ph.D., who holds the
Putnam City Schools
Distinguished Chair in Cancer Research.
OMRF created Junior Scientist Days after the district designated the foundation as beneficiary of its Putnam City Cancer Drive. Now in its 50th year, the effort has raised nearly $4 million for cancer
research at OMRF. That research has led, among other things, to an experimental brain cancer drug now undergoing clinical trials at the OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year,” said Katherine Jackson, OMRF’s assistant director of donor relations. “We love helping science come alive for these young minds, and we appreciate the opportunity to show our gratitude to the Putnam City district for its continuous support of our mission.”
Joanna Papinska, a postdoctoral researcher at OMRF, helps fifthgrader Rylee Marks extract DNA from a banana as part of Junior Scientist Days.
he Oklahoma Hall
Tof Fame’s Second Century Board, an engaged group of young professionals from across the state dedicated to telling Oklahoma’s story through its people, has selected its 2025 executive committee and new board members. Carol Goodwin, employed at Amber Integrated, is serving a one-year term through December 2025 as the board’s chairman. Supporting Goodwin in board endeavors will be the 2025 executive committee consisting of Luis Lopez, chair-elect, employed at the Oklahoma City Thunder; Rachal Lisle , vice chairman board development, employed at Hiltgen & Brewer, P.C.; Grace Enmeier, vice chairman Oklahoma Born & Brewed, employed at Devon Energy; and Spencer Londagin, vice chairman out -
reach, employed at MidFirst Bank.
New board members for 2025 include: Brandon Baker, Edmond, Our Blood Institute; L. Patrice Bell, Yukon, L. Bell Solutions LLC; Rachel Benbrook, Oklahoma City, OSU Foundation; Aubrey Bowser, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Chiller; Alanna Brehm, Oklahoma City, Studio Architecture; Michael Diver, Moore, Gaming Capital Group; and Brenna Dunham, Enid, Enid Public Schools. Also, Sam Holland, Edmond, Morgan Stanley; Jonathan Johnson, Oklahoma City, Franklin Energy; Gigi McCormick, The Village, Oklahoma Bar
Association; Cooper Mosely, Chickasha, Mosley Agency, Inc.; Daniel Pae, Lawton, Oklahoma House of Representatives; Ashley Peterson , Edmond, LYT Group; Karsyn Redinger, Oklahoma City, Cortado Ventures; Madeleine Williams, Oklahoma City, BancFirst Insurance; and Josh Yager , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City Police Athletic League.
Returning members of the Second Century Board are as follows: Janelle Archer, CoreLogic; Candice Coonrod, Oklahoma City Thunder; Addison Dupree, MidFirst Bank; Kendall Dye, PING Golf; J ames Foster, Bluejay Executive
Partners; Bradley Fritch, University of Oklahoma Foundation; Mike Hearne, This Is Oklahoma & The Agency OKC; Andrew Hewlett, U.S Department of Defense; John Milner, Commercial Carpet Contractors, Inc.; Justin Moon, Patrons
Bank; Madison Nash, Oklahoma Tax Commission; Kalynn Pierce, Phase 2; Bailey Smith Londagin, 222 Injury Lawyers; Madi Taylor, Hal Smith Restaurants; Jonna Vanderslice, McAfee & Taft; Ashley Warlick, MidFirst Bank; and Samantha Wil -
Peterson, Josh Yager, Rachel Benbrook, Karsyn Redinger, Aubrey Bowser, Alanna Brehm, Sam Holland and L.
son, Cox Communications. The Second Century Board supports the free educational and cultural programs offered by the Oklahoma Hall of Fame by holding an annual fundraiser and hosting outreach events with inspiring Oklahomans.
