Memorial is set
The memorial for Oklahoma icon Gene Rainbolt is set for this Saturday, March 1, at St. Luke’s Methodist Church in Oklahoma City, beginning at 1 p.m.
OKC FRIDAY
58 No. 39 • Two Sections • 24 pages • February 28, 2025 $1 per copy
www.okcfriday.com facebook.com/okcfriday OKC’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with all local news Serving affluent far north Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills and The Village for 51 years
The Uncommon Ground names campaign honorary co-chairmen, committee
The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park and Edmond Fine Arts announce the launch of The Uncommon Collective, a capital campaign supporting Oklahoma’s first dedicated sculpture park. The Uncommon Collective is a committee led by experienced community leaders from across the region.
Lana and Dave Lopez are the honorary co-chairmen for
the Uncommon Collective capital campaign. Dave Lopez is on the board of directors of BancFirst Corporation and Hall Capital. He also serves on the advisory board for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma. Lopez had a 22-year tenure with SBC Communications, serving as president of Oklahoma and later Texas. Lopez subsequently served as president of
Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc., president of the American Fidelity Foundation and interim superintendent of Oklahoma City Public Schools. His public service also includes tenures as secretary of commerce for Oklahoma and, more recently, Secretary of State.
Lana Lopez is a dedicated community volunteer and talented artist passionate
about making a difference. She has served on the boards of directors for several organizations, including the Lyric Theatre, Calm Waters, the Oklahoma Humane Society, the Metropolitan Library Endowment Trust, and the Juliette Low Leadership Society committee for Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma.
See CAMPAIGN, Page 2
Our teachers are finalists for district’s top award
By Rose Lane Editor
Three of the nine finalists for the Oklahoma City Public Schools District hail from Fridayland schools. They are: Jessica Catalano, art teacher at Quail Creek Elementary; Michele
Contreras, strings teacher at Classen SAS Middle School; and Erika Vasquez, dance teacher at Classen SAS High School at Northeast.
The finalists were chosen for their outstanding dedication, innovation and impact in the classroom. They exemplify excellence across OKCPS, from elementary
Distinguished Graduate
Mary Kempf Pinzon is the 2025 Christ the King School Distinguished Graduate. Mary was honored at mass, with a reception following. Mary was recognized for her constant efforts in making the community a better place through her display of integrity and service. Pictured are: from left, Dr. Jenny Richard, principal of Christ the King School; Distinguished Graduate honoree Mary Pinzon; and Reverend Rex Arnold, pastor of Christ the King Church.
to high school, through language arts to STEAM to physical and special education.
The OKCPS Teacher of the Year is selected from this group of finalists and announced on May 8 at the OKCPS Foundation’s annual Stars of Education celebration.
See FINALISTS, Page 3
FRIDAY’s
Aurora, a sweet 7-year-old terrier mix named after Sleeping Beauty, is truly the queen of her castle. She resides in Oklahoma City with her humans, Leah and Micah Fryslie, where she lives up to her namesake and spends most of her time snoozing comfortably.
Aurora loves cuddling, staring deeply into your eyes, and getting good sniffs on walks.
Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@okcfriday.com.
Bursting at seams: DC looks at new building
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Dozens of new neighborhoods, retail outlets, restaurants and offices are fueling Oklahoma City’s rapid development as it marches north along Portland Ave. toward Logan County. The fast growth is prompting Deer Creek Schools to experience never-before-seen enrollment figures for the once rural school district founded 104 years ago.
Enrollment in the Deer Creek School District increased 311 percent between 2001 and 2022 and boasts 8,156 students today. Deer Creek has experienced an average annual student growth rate of 7.38 percent over the past 20 years.
Because of its rapid enrollment growth, the school district is developing a master plan for the Deer Creek High School campus, 6101 NW 206th Street, that will include significant changes to its current campus configuration with hopes to expand offerings, classroom
See DC, Page 3
The Uncommon Collective Capital Campaign Committee Chairmen Shane Pate, Dave Lopez, Lana Lopez, Anne Holzberlein, Annette White-Klososky and D. Benham Kirk.
— Photo courtesy of UCO Photographic Services and wardrobe by William & Lauren.
CAMPAIGN
From Page 1
In addition to the honorary chairmen, Uncommon Ground and Edmond Fine Arts have delegated campaign leaders for their respective organizations. The Uncommon Ground co-chairmen are Shane Pate, the city manager for the City of Nichols Hills, and Anne Holzberlein, who served as the vice president for advancement at UCO and president of the UCO Foundation before her retirement. She currently serves on the Capitol Improvement Task Force in Edmond.
The Edmond Fine Arts co-chairmen are Annette White-Klososky, a founding partner at Future Point of View, and D. Benham Kirk, a partner at Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson and recognized lawyer in the world of commercial real estate, mergers and acquisitions with a hospitality industry focus.
With a total of 50 volunteers, The
The 62-acres of Uncommon Ground will be home to play spaces, event centers, hiking trails and more than 40 unique sculptures by renowned artists sprinkled in.
– Conceptual renderings provided by
Uncommon Collective is composed of an advisory committee and six sub-committees each led by a subcommittee chair.
“Located along historic Route 66, Oklahoma’s first dedicated sculpture park will attract guests from a 300-mile radius benefiting our state and region,” said Melissa Pepper, executive director of The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park.
The Uncommon Collective aims to support both entities in raising $72 million for the park and $20 million for the new Edmond Fine Arts center located in the park. As a 501c3 organization, The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park will be bolstered by contributions from individuals, corporations, and foundations. This new 62-acre park is to boost Oklahoma’s third-largest industry, tourism, by collaborating with other cities and organizations to promote the Oklahoma City metropolitan region as the “Outdoor Art Capital of Oklahoma.”
To learn more and get involved, visit uncommonground.org.
from
HFSD, Inc.
This impressive outdoor stage is to offer an array of entertainment,
concerts, movie nights, to cultural fairs, festivals and little theatre productions! — Conceptual rendering by Rand Elliott Architects
Deer Creek High School, 6101 NW 206 Street, is bursting at the seams with an enrollment of 2,290 students. District leaders want to replace the existing high school with one to accommodate 4,000. They will go to voters during a Bond Election to fund new construction in February 2026.
From Page 1
space and flexible learning environments.
District leaders plan to bring their plans to a vote during a February 2026 bond election to approve funding for a new high school large enough for 4,000 students to replace the current facility. The project cost is still undetermined.
District administrators are watching enrollment figures at the other schools to determine needs as the bond election nears.
“Deer Creek High School is designed for a student capacity of just over 2,200 students. Our current (high school) enrollment stands at 2,290, with more growth coming each year,” said District Superintendent Dr. Jason Perez in a letter to constituents last month. “The high school campus should be the Gold Star location of any school district, but our star is beginning tarnish.
TEACHERS
From Page 1
“We want to ensure a positive high school experience for our students and that foundation begins with the school,” he wrote. “Over the next several months, district leaders will be working on a long-term master plan for the entire high school campus in an effort to meet the learning needs for tomorrow’s students.”
Perez noted challenges facing the current high school include no room for added classrooms, insufficient weight and locker room spaces to keep pace with the expansion of athletic programs to Class 6A, a lack of performing arts spaces to accommodate growth and an overcrowded cafeteria.
“Thanks to the ongoing support of our community through the passage of bond issues and the continuous work of our operations staff, Deer Creek is blessed to have some of the most beautiful school campuses in Oklahoma,” said Perez. “As we continue to build new schools in our district, it is equally important to pay attention to the condition and capac -
Superintendent Dr. Jamie Polk said OKCPS is a destination for excellence, attracting top-tier educators who are deeply committed to shaping the future of students.
"These nine Teacher of the Year finalists embody the innovation, passion and leadership that define our district. Their dedication ensures that OKCPS continues to be a place where all students thrive, families choose to enroll, and educators are proud to teach,” Dr. Polk said. “As a district, we are focused on academic achievement, student growth and postsecondary success—hallmarks of a ‘first choice’ school system. These outstanding educators are driving real impact in our classrooms, directly supporting the six Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that measure our progress.
“They represent the very best of OKCPS, proving that great schools start with great teachers. We are honored to celebrate their achievements and the lasting impact they have on our students and community.”
Kendra Horn, president and CEO of the OKCPS Foundation, said,
ity of our current schools as well.”
Deer Creek High School is the district’s oldest campus comprising a mixture of old high school and middle school buildings, along with a stateof-the art football stadium and other additions over the decades.
Next year, the Fridayland school district will have six elementary schools with the addition of Knight Ridge Elementary; and one 4-5th grade center, intermediate school (6th grade), middle school (7-8th), and high school (9-12th). The district has 821 staff members.
The district does not yet have a timetable for construction or opening of the new high school.
Deer Creek High School, 6101 NW 206th Street, is bursting at the seams with an enrollment of 2,290 students. District leaders want to replace the existing high school with one to accommodate 4,000. They are to go to voters during a bond election to fund new construction in February 2026.
“Teachers are the backbone of OKCPS, and these nine finalists truly represent the best of the best. Congratulations to this year’s finalists who exemplify excellence everyday in their classrooms. Their passion for education and commitment to students is inspiring, and we are thrilled to celebrate them. We are also grateful to OKCPS and our community partners, whose generosity and support make this recognition of excellence in education possible.”
Each year, staff at every OKCPS school selects a Site Teacher of the Year. From this exceptional group, each nominee is invited to apply for OKCPS District Teacher of the Year. This rigorous selection process includes a written application, interview, and classroom observation evaluated by a panel of highly qualified educators.
This year’s event takes place at the Yale Theater in Oklahoma City.
Finalists receive cash awards and additional prizes generously provided by community partners. The 2025 OKCPS District Teacher of the Year then goes on to represent OKCPS in the Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year competition.
For more information about Stars of Education, visit okckids.com.
BASKETBALL | REGIONAL TOURNAMENT PREVIEW
Panthers, Antlers, Irish, Chargers host regionals
The PC North girls, along with the Deer Creek boys and both squads from McGuinness, host regional tournament games this week as the basketball playoffs enter the second round.
The Panthers took on U.S. Grant, while Fridayland rival Deer Creek faced Moore in a Class 6A West regional last Thursday. The winners meet at 1 p.m. Saturday, also hosted by PC North.
The Antler boys opened its postseason this Friday at 6 p.m. against Lawton Eisenhower in a 6A West regional. Choctaw and Yukon battle
OKLAHOMA
in the nightcap at 7:30 p.m., as the winners face off this Saturday at 7 p.m.
Also, in 6A, the PC North play Edmond North this Friday at 7:30 p.m. in a regional at Norman North with the winner to battle the host Timberwolves or Capitol Hill at 7 p.m. Saturday.
Both John Marshall squads compete in 5A regionals at Carl Albert, as the boys played Southeast last Thursday and the girls faced the host Titans on Tuesday.
Regional finals are set for the girls at 3:30 p.m. and the
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boys at 7 p.m. on Friday.
Meanwhile, Fridayland schools from 3A and 4A also move into regionals following the district round last week.
McGuinness played host for a 4A regional.
The Irish boys took on Ardmore in a winners bracket contest on Thursday, with the winner to play the Idabel-Sulphur winner at 7:30 p.m. Saturday in Madill. A loss drops them to the face the Tuttle-Plainview winner at 2:30 p.m. Friday in Madill.
The Irish girls played Plainview in a consolation matchup. A win advances
them to the play the MadillLone Grove winner a consolation semifinal at 1 p.m. Friday in Madill, and a loss ends their season.
The Crossings Christian boys traveled to Glenpool on Thursday for a 4A regional semifinal against Skiatook.
The Knights are slated to host the championship game against the Bethany-Tecumseh winner, but a loss drops them to a consolation semifinal against the BristowEufaula winner also on their home floor.
The Mount St. Mary and Harding Charter Prep squads
tried to stave off elimination in regional consolation matchups on Thursday.
The Rocket girls and boys took on Harding Fine Arts at Blanchard, and the Eagles faced Bridge Creek at Douglass.
In 3A, both the Heritage Hall squads and Casady girls captured a district title last week.
The Chargers also host regional tournament games, including the regional final along with consolation semifinal and finals.
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
BASKETBALL | DISTRICT TOURNAMENT ROUNDUP
Irish boys run over Tuttle in 4A
Keyed by three players scoring in double figures, the McGuinness boys cruised to a dominating 68-51 victory at Tuttle last Saturday in a Class 4A district tournament.
Bryce Schwarz netted a team-best 18 points to lead the Irish (16-8). Brody Parks collected 14 points and Cooper Bradley
chipped in 11 points.
The Irish girls endured a 52-48 loss to the Tigers in a district matchup.
AceLynn Tucker and Mariah Conally scored 16 points each and Elliott Jones chipped in 7 points for McGuinness (9-14).
KNIGHTS CLOBBER HILLDALE
Jumping out to an early lead, the Crossings Christian boys rolled to a 72-41 win over Hilldale last Saturday in a 4A district at Checotah.
Rylen Sykes collected 16 points, while the Braden Buckingham contributed 11 points and Becket Buckingham had 9 points for the 4A No. 3 Knights (22-3).
CHARGERS
DOWN STAR SPENCER
Heritage Hall earned a 3A district title last Friday night with a 6444 triumph over Star Spencer.
T.J. Williams grabbed 20 points and Ronan Welch chipped in 11 points for the
McGuinness’ Bryce Schwarz netted a team-best 18 points in helping the Irish to a 68-51 win last Friday at Tuttle in a Class 4A district tournament.
Chargers (9-11). Denton Suthers and Parker Gillispie also contributed 8 points each.
The Charger girls (13-9) also cruised to a 77-23 victory against the Bobcats.
CHICKASHA TOPS CYCLONES
Despite four players scoring in double figures, the Casady boys endured an 80-63 loss
at Chisholm last Friday in a 3A district.
Davis Currie paced the Cyclones (2-22) with 14 points, followed by James Elder and Sam Edwards with 12 points each and Jozef Pikula with 11 points.
The Casady girls (169), however, opened the night with a 63-46 win against Chisholm.
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
- Photo by Lance Payne, thephotograb.com
ROUNDUP SWIMMING ROUNDUP
Antlers grapple to 3rd at 6A regional tournament
Keyed by seven athletes reaching the podium, the Deer Creek wrestling team finished third last weekend at the Class 6A West regional tournament at Yukon.
Four Antlers secured runner-up finishes, as they qualified for the state tournament this Friday and Saturday at State Fairgrounds Arena.
Jace Province suffered a 6-1 decision loss to Edmond North’s Garrison Sartain for second in the 144pound division.
Garon Kaiser and Brady Brewer endured major decision setbacks, as Kaiser fell to Edmond North’s Joseph Jeter at 157 pounds and Brewer to Daegan Reyes of Mustang. At 190 pounds, Junior Youmbi lost to Cole Olguin from Westmoore in the championship match.
PC North’s lone qualifier Jaaziel Benman joined Deer Creek’s Brandon Schoenecke in third place at the regional.
Benman prevailed in a 12-2 decision against Westmoore’s Gavin Chatham at 106 pounds and Shoenecke pinned Gavin Gagnon also of Westmoore in the heavyweight division.
Two Antler athletes placed fourth, highlighted by Parker Degraffenreid at 132 pounds and Hayes McNeill at 138 pounds. Dylan Hamilton also finished fifth at 126 pounds.
IRISH’S RICH CLAIMS 2ND AT 5A REGIONAL
Two McGuinness wrestlers quali-
fied for the 5A state tournament with second and fourth-place finishes last weekend at regionals.
Cohen Rich led the way with a runner-up trophy at 157 pounds after a 12-5 loss to Lawton MacArthur’s Kaden Wallace in the championship match.
Elijah Velazquez made the field with a fourth-place effort with a loss to Chickasha’s Joshua Moore in the 120-pound consolation match.
CHARGERS, KNIGHTS, ROCKETS MAKE STATE
Athletes from Heritage Hall, Crossings Christian and Mount St. Mary also made the field for the 3A and 4A state tournaments this weekend at State Fair Arena.
Crossings Christian’s Konrad Kosanke paced the Fridayland qualifiers with a runner-up finish in the 3A West regional at Kingfisher. Kosanke endured a loss to Comanche’s Gage Jessen at 120 pounds.
Heritage Hall’s Carter Harris finished third in the 4A West regional at Weatherford with an 11-5 win over Harrah’s Noah Henderson in the 113-pound consolation match.
Mount St. Mary’s Donald Sanders also secured a third-place finish in 3A with a win over Gavin Williams of Mangum at 215 pounds, with Crossings Christian’s James Graham reaching a wrestle-in match at state thanks to placing fifth at 175 pounds.
BASKETBALL | DISTRICT ROUNDUP
Irish girls fall at
Crossings Christian’s Zach Lopp solidified himself as a state title contender with a victory in the 100-yard backstroke preliminary and third-place in the 200 individual medley in the Class 5A state swimming championships at Jenks Aquatic Center.
Fridaylanders make waves at state prelims
Several Fridaylanders put themselves in position to compete for a state title thanks to strong performances at state swimming preliminaries last Monday.
The event finals were scheduled for Tuesday at Jenks Aquatic Center. Due to press deadlines, official results are posted online at okcfriday.com.
Winter weather over the weekend forced officials to move the state swimming championships to last Monday and Tuesday.
Harding Charter Prep’s Jack Powell swept the 200- and 500yard freestyle events with gold medals in the 5A preliminaries.
Zach Lopp from Crossings Christian also won the 100 backstroke and cracked the top 5 in the 200 individual medley with a third-place finish.
Lopp’s teammate Roxy Podoba took second in the 500 freestyle and third in the 200 freestyle for the Knights.
McGuinness’ Camryn Kanaly secured a pair of runner-up finishes in the 100 back-
stroke and 200 individual medley.
Crossings Christian’s Jasper Jernigan placed third in the 50 freestyle and 100 backstroke, as Heritage Hall’s Coraline Harrison took third in the 500 freestyle and Casady’s Caroline Olszewski was fourth in the 50 freestyle and fifth in the 100 butterfly.
Casady’s Ayden Kerr also grabbed second in the 100 freestyle and fourth in the 50 freestyle in the preliminary round.
McGuinness’ John Nguyen and Brady Mitchell cracked the top 3, as Nguyen took third in the 200 freestyle and Mitchell collected third in the 500 freestyle behind Powell.
Both the Casady and McGuinness boys finished strong in the 400 freestyle relay with the Cyclones in second and the Irish in third in the event.
The Cyclones also placed fourth in the 200 freestyle and 200 medley relays and the Irish were fifth in the 200 freestyle relay.
Meanwhile, the Casady girls claimed
fourth in the 200 medley relay and McGuinness came in fifth in the 200 freestyle relays.
Five different Deer Creek swimmers staked their claims for potential state titles with strong showings in the 6A preliminaries last Monday at Jenks Aquatic Center. Bucy claimed fourth place in the 100 backstroke and fifth in the 100 butterfly, while Husbands grabbed fourth in the 100 breaststroke and fifth in the 200 individual medley for the Antler girls.
Beckham Shields paced the Antler boys with a fourth-place finish in the 100 backstroke just ahead of teammate Owen McCall in fifth place.
Jason Hull finished fifth in the 50 freestyle and barely made the 100 freestyle final in eighth place.
The Deer Creek boys also finished second in the 200 freestyle relay and fourth in the 400 freestyle relay, while the girls were fourth in the 200 medley and fifth in the 400 freestyle relays.
- Photo by Caleb Williams, photosbycaleb.com
McGuinness’ AceLynn Tucker, right, joined teammate Mariah Conally with 16 points each in the Irish’s 52-48 loss at Tuttle in a Class 4A district tournament.
Tuttle
- Photo by Lance Payne, thephotograb.com
CALENDAR
THEATRE
March 36 • Beetlejuice The Musical, Jr. Spotlight Acting Academy's Broadway Bound and Curtain Call Classes present Beetlejuice The Musi‐cal, Jr. at the Civic Center for three performances. Visit okcciviccenter.com for details and tickets.
March 1823 •
Peter Pan
This highflying musical has been thrilling audiences of all ages for close to 70 years and is now being brought back to life in a new adaptation by celebrated playwright Larissa FastHorse, directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price and choreography by Lorin Latarro at the Civic Center, okcciviccenter.com.
CONCERTS
March 9 • Sing Along with Phil OKCPHIL is thrilled to invite you to their 2nd Annual Sing Along program featuring the incredibly talented soprano, Audrey Logan. Get ready to be swept off your feet as Audrey leads the audience and orchestra through an hour of the most spectacular songs you’ve ever heard at the Civic Center. It’s a musical journey you won’t want to miss, filled with joy, harmony,
March 15 • St. Patrick’s Parade
Come to Historic Stockyards City, in OKC, on Saturday, March 15 for the free, annual St. Patrick’s Parade. It is a celebration of Oklahoma Irish heritage and the western culture of Stockyards City. This family friendly event begins at 10 am. The parade will be led by the Slash O Ranch Longhorns. You can see St. Patrick, marching bands, bagpipes, Irish dancers, the Shriners, cool cars, community groups, equestrian entries and much more. The parade route begins at the intersection of Exchange Ave. and Penn, it will head west to Agnew Ave. and then go south to S.W. 15th St.
and unforgettable performances. Visit okcciviccenter.com for details.
FESTIVALS
March 8 April 6 • Orchid Show
Myriad Botanical Gardens welcomes visitors to experience the noble beauty of the orchid with this year’s exhibition, “The Way of Flowers – Orchid Ikebana.” The Japanese art of flower arrangement, ikebana (also known as kadō), demonstrates the unique beauty of Japan with the orchid long celebrated as a representation of elegance and prosperity. Guests will experience a vast array of orchid varieties showcased to welcome them to the solace and serenity of the Myriad Gardens. Open daily 9 am to 5pm and 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays.
March 14 • PlazaCon LIVE! on the Plaza is the Plaza District's
free and monthly art walk featuring art shows, live entertainment, great food and local shopping. This month's theme is PLAZACON! Meaning a celebration of cosplay, art, gaming, and all things Comicon from 6 – 10 pm.
March 2930 •
Tulip Festival
The annual Tulip Fes
tival is at the Myriad Botanical Gardens for two days and 50,000 beautiful tulip blooms to celebrate the arrival of spring. Much more than just the flowers, myriadgardens.org.
OKC THUNDER
HOME GAMES
Paycom Center
100 West Reno Ave.
Monday, March 3 • Houston Rockets 7:00 pm Friday, March 7 • Portland Trail Blazers 7:00 pm Sunday, March 9 • Denver Nuggets 12:00 pm
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
The Oscars
The 97th Academy Awards is coming up this Sunday evening live on ABC, Hulu, and YouTube. The ceremony starts at 6:00 pm CST, an hour earlier than usual. The official Red Carpet coverage from ABC is 30 minutes long and starts at 5:30 pm.
If you want more interviews with nominees and presenters or a deeper dive on the fashion, check out E! News Live from the Red Carpet, a twohour pre-show that starts at 4:00 pm. That pre-show will air on NBC, E! News, and their affiliates.
For social media users, The Oscars, ABC, and E! News will all release photos, updates, and videos of the nominees, winners, speeches, and especially the fashion throughout the night. Check out their Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and other social media outlets.
The Oscar nominated movies, which were met with a lot of skepticism when first announced, have revealed themselves to be a wildly diverse, thought-provoking group of artistic, challenging, beautiful films… just like most years at the academy awards.
Wicked, the gigantic musical set in the land of Oz, has ten nominations. The film grossed $728 million at the global box office. The soundtrack streamed
more than 500 million times. Wicked recently surpassed Mamma Mia as the most successful Broadway musical film adaptation of all time.
The two stars of Wicked are both nominated for Oscars, Cynthia Erivo for Best Lead Actress and Ariana Grande for Best Supporting Actress. Both are powerhouse vocalists and are scheduled to sing live on the broadcast. Both are also valid contenders for the Oscar, though neither goes into the night as the odds-on favorite.
Wicked is most likely to take home three awards: Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, and Best Sound. But there is stiff competition from Dune: Part Two, which looks likely to win Best Visual Effects, and Nosferatu, which looks just weird enough to sneak into one of those categories as an outsider.
In the acting categories, it looks like Demi Moore will win Best Actress for The Substance, which will also win Best Make-Up for turning her into Quasimodo. Zoe Saldana will win best Supporting Actress for Emilia Perez, which will
also win Best Original Song for “El Mal.” Kieran Culkin will win Best Supporting Actor. Adrien Brody should win Best Actor for The Brutalist. But Timothee Chalamet just won Best Actor at the SAG Awards, so he could be a fun spoiler. Conclave, the flock of Cardinals selecting a new Pope movie, is nominated for eight Oscars. It will most likely win for Best Editing and Best Adapted Screenplay, written by Peter Straughan based on the novel by Robert Harris.
Anora, the wild stripper drama, is a lock for Best Original Screenplay and a leading contender for Best Picture and Best Director for writer/director Sean Baker. I believe the three-hour epic, The Brutalist, will sneak away with the Best Director award for Brady Corbet as well as Best Cinematography and Best Original Score. But, with PGA, DGA, and WGA victories, Anora is going to win Best Picture. Best Animated Feature will be The Wild Robot; Best Documentary Feature will be No Other Land; and Best International Film will be I’m Still Here from Brazil. Best Live Action Short will be The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent; Best Documentary Short will be I am Ready, Warden; and Best Animated Short will be Yuck!
Vote to name OKC Zoo’s Great EscApe America’s Best Zoo Exhibit
One of the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden’s fan-favorite exhibits is about to make a lot more fans as the Zoo’s Great EscApe habitat is nominated for USA Today’s 10Best 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Zoo Exhibit. Voting is open and ends Monday, March 10, and fans can vote daily for the duration of the contest at 10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-zoo-exhibit-2025
Since opening in 1993, Great EscApe has delighted millions of guests with up-close views of critically endangered Western lowland gorilla troops, Sumatran orangutans, and chimpanzees. Today the habitat is home to two Sumatran orangutans, six Chimpanzees, and ten Western lowland gorillas. At more than three acres in size, visitors are able to discover these fascinating primates in a variety of outdoor and indoor areas.
The habitat includes four diverse outdoor habitats, each with different
climbing structures, swings, hammocks, shaded areas and elevated perches. The habitat also includes three indoor “day rooms” where guests can see individuals or entire troops gather and discover daily enrichment provided by a dedicated team of expert caretakers.
For more adventurous guests, the habitat features an immersive virtual reality experience, Gorilla Trek With surround sound, motion and 360degree views, participants are transported virtually to a hike through the Rwandan rainforest to discover
Western lowland gorillas in their native habitat. Gorilla Trek is available for an additional fee.
“Great EscApe is one of those rare Zoo habitats that really do connect guests with wildlife in unforgettable ways,” said Shannon Charles-Ray, OKC Zoo’s Curator of Primates.
Whether you’re viewing an orangutan climb up 30-foot tree or watching our 2-year-old chimp Kiazi play on a swing, guests will have memorable encounters and an unforgettable appreciation for these incredible mammals, she said.
Great EscApe also features Caretaker Chats in which guests can meet an expert primate caretaker and learn more about the gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees as well as other primates they care for, including lemurs, langurs and spider, and squirrel monkeys. Caretaker Chats are held daily at 3:30 p.m. daily and are free with general admission. Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Bl uesky, Linktree and TikTok. Become a ZOOfriends member or renew today at okczoo.org/membership
All 8 Casady Merit semifinalists are finalists!
The National Merit Scholarship Program has now determined which of the 16,000 semifinalists named in September 2024 met all requirements to advance to Finalist standing in the competition. All Finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarship Awards to be offered in 2025. All eight of Casady's semifinalists have become finalists. Those students are Umer Ahmad, Robert Evans, Grey Guzzy, Ishaa Mehta, Krish Patel, Samuel Rhoades, Humza Saif and James Sun.
Four earn honors at the University of Alabama
Whitney Goodman, Kelly Willis and Jordan Rambo, of Oklahoma City were named to the Deans List and Maddie Smith, also of Oklahoma City, was named to the Presidents List at The University of Alabama during the fall semester.
To achieve the Dean's List, students had an academic record of a 3.5 grade point average (or
above). The President's Lst requires an academic record of a 4.0 GPA (all A's).
The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state's flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service.
With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides an inclu-
sive, forward-thinking environment and nearly 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cuttingedge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. As the state's largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.
(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 28, 2025; Friday, March 7, 2025; Friday, March 14, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No. FD-2025-121
In Re the Marriage of: ) Kevin Edwards, ) Petitioner, ) -and- ) Loushar Russell, ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Loushar Russell You hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage. You must answer the Petition on or before the 28 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 11 day of February, 2025.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By: /s/Diane Watson
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 28, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-390
IN RE: The Name of: ) Amanda Clariese Richards )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Amanda Clariese Richards has petitioned to change his/her name to Amanda Clariese Kizzee.
A Hearing on said petition is set for 2:00 o’clock P.M. on the 6 day of March, 2025, before Judge Dishman in his/her courtroom in 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 By: /s/Bryan Glenn Deputy (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 28, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-309
In the Matter of the Application ) of Capree Smith ) as next of friend of (child) ) Baby Boy Smith ) to Change Her/His Name )
NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Capree Smith, as next of friend of Baby Boy Smith has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Baby Boy Smith to (b) Uriah Smith; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Stinson of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 3 day of April, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/J. Salas Deputy (SEAL) CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 28, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-392
IN RE THE NAME OF: ) KEITH WADE DRAPEAU )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Keith Wade Drapeau has petitioned to change his/her name to Keith Wade Hilliary. A Hearing on said petition is set for 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 17 day of April, 2025, before Judge Timmons at 11;00 o’clock in courtroom 201 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/Bill Young By: DEPUTY (SEAL) LPXLP
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BOCC
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 28, 2025) 02-14-2025 BOCC Minutes Friday February 14 2025 Board of County Commissioners Special Call to Order Roll Call Present: 3 - County Commissioner Myles Davidson County Commissioner Brian Maughan and District 1 - Chief Deputy Joe Blough Notice of the meeting was properly posted on February 11 2025. For purposes of this agenda “Action” means any of the following: amending approving approving as amended deferring denying giving instructions to staff making a recommendation to another public body receiving documents or presentations referring to committee reconsidering re-opening returning or striking the item. Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Maughan. Brian Approval of Minutes Discussion and possible action regarding the minutes of the meeting held on February 3 2025 prepared by the County Clerk as authorized by statute 19 O.S. §243 244 and 445 subject to additions or corrections by the Board of County Commissioners. Maughan moved Blough seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson Maughan and Blough Recurring Agenda Items: Discussion and possible action regarding all claims; list is attached and available for inspection in the Office of the County Clerk Room 203. Maughan moved Blough seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3Davidson Maughan and Blough Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution No. 2025-0486 for Blanket Purchase Orders as submitted by each department; list available for inspection in the Office of the County Clerk Room 203 225 Maughan moved Blough seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson Maughan and Blough Consent Agenda Items on the consent agenda are routine in nature and approved with a single vote. However any item on the consent agenda is subject to individual consideration at the request of a member of the body. The following items are Consent Items and are routine in nature: Maughan moved Blough seconded to approve the consent agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson Maughan and Blough Discussion and possible action regarding Employee Benefit Medical Claims UMR for Oklahoma County in the amount of $242 262.76 pending notification of encumbrance to Mariana Hernandez Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office. Discussion and possible action regarding Employee Benefit Warrant No. 872716 through 872743 for Oklahoma County in the amount of $30 734.29 pending notification of encumbrance to Kindy Stevens
Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office. Discussion and possible action regarding Employee Benefit AffirmedRX Invoice No. 2057 for Oklahoma County in the amount of $407.99
January 2025 for the Oklahoma County Juvenile Bureau Discussion and possible action regarding Employee Benefit Warrant No. 872744 through 872774 for Oklahoma County in the amount of $13 312.50 pending notification of encumbrance to Jackie Wilson Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office. Assessor’s Revolving Fee Account 8101 End of Consent Docket Departmental Items District No. 3 Discussion and possible action regarding approval of a Mutual Cooperation Agreement between the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and the Board of County Commissioners for the construction installation and maintenance of a salt and sand storage facility at Turner Turnpike and Hogback Road. Approved as to form and legality by Lisa Endres ADA. Requested by Myles Davidson Chairman of the Board. Davidson moved Blough seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson Maughan and Blough Discussion and possible action regarding project cancellation reallocation increase or other intended use of the excess funds from ARPA Project 10033: Court Clerk Social Distancing in an amount not to exceed $400 000.00. Requested by Myles Davidson County Commissioner. 18-19 Maughan moved Continued on Page 9
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, February 28, 2025; Friday, March 7, 2025) OKLAHOMA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LAWS ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE In accordance with Title 37, Section 522 and Title 37A, Section 2-141 Evergreen Rancho LLC, 1415 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73034, an LLC hereby publishes notice of its intention to apply within sixty days from this date to the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission
73119 under the business
Name ChaNge
OPINION OPINION O O UR UR S S TAND TAND
“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 political icon David Boren left a legacy of service
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Former University of Oklahoma president, United States Senator from Oklahoma and Oklahoma Governor
David L. Boren passed away last week. We lost a political icon upon his death.
David Boren came from a political family –he was born in the D.C. area the son of Lyle Boren who represented Oklahoma in Congress from 1937-1947. Both father and son passed away at age 83.
Boren swept his way onto the Oklahoma
political stage 50 years ago when he led his “Broom Brigade” to the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion in 1975. Upon his election he became the nation’s youngest governor at age 33 and changed the course of Oklahoma politics forever.
After Boren’s passing University of Oklahoma President Joseph Harroz Jr said, “Few individuals have so wholeheartedly dedicated their careers to serving others as President Boren who was driven by a bold vision to create a better, stronger future.” We agree with Presi-
dent Harroz.
Boren’s bold vision started at the Oklahoma State Capitol where he was a member of the House before being elected Governor. He went on to spend nearly three terms in the United States Senate beginning in 1979 before stepping down in 1994 to resume an academic career he started in Shawnee at Oklahoma Baptist University.
Boren was admired by his peers and the longest-serving chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, where current Oklahoma U.S. Senator James Langford (R) currently serves. During his time on the committee, Boren created the National Security Education Program providing scholarships to students to study national security issues around the world including
Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.
Boren was known for his bipartisan approach to leadership in everything he did, whether on Capitol Hill, the state house or university campus.
Boren left Washington D.C. to become the president of the University of Oklahoma where he spent 24 years introducing new programs to draw National Merit Scholars, created the OU Honors College and began programming that would eventually become the Boren College of International Studies. The school is named in his honor.
U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (R, Moore), who has a PhD in British history from OU said, “His impact is still visible today on the OU campus through academic pro-
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Dear Friend: A physical sign of obvious impending decline is dim lighting from light bulbs that need replacing. This is often because he can no longer safely reach the lights. No working night lights in the bedroom and bathroom will tell you a fall is likely. If window blinds and curtains are never pulled back to let in sunlight that may indicate a withdrawing and lack of contact with people. Another sign he may be in decline
grams, architecture, infrastructure, and the university’s dynamic role in the civic, cultural and economic life of the state.”
Throughout his political career, Boren fiercely advocated for the energy industry by lobbying the Carter administration to deregulate the cost of natural gas in the wake of the 1970s energy crisis. He spent his time in the Senate advocating against a proposed energy tax in the early 1990s.
Congressman Frank Lucas (R, Cheyenne), the only member of the current Oklahoma delegation to have shared time in Washington with Boren, said in a statement on X, “David will be remembered for his decades of devotion to public service and his desire to better our great state. Oklahoma’s agricultural, oil and gas, and
is clutter. Papers and clothing left on furniture when in times past there was seating space and order. Kitchen counter tops filled with supplies and open food items. Unsafe and expired food items in the refrigerator. Chair side tables filled with tissues, medicines, food items often indicate reduced physical energy to retrieve or replace items appropriately. Neighbors can help make his home safer by offering a home safety checklist and offering to provide periodic filter and light bulb changes along with an annual window washing.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990-6637
educational institutions had no fiercer support or defender in Washington than David Boren.”
Boren became the first Oklahoma Governor to be married in office when he married Molly Shi Boren. She survives her husband of 48 years. His son, Dan, also served in Congress, representing Oklahoma’s 2nd District until 2013 and now serves as the secretary of commerce for the Chickasaw Nation.
“The countless heartwarming stories I hear almost daily from people across this state who he helped are reminders of his remarkable life. We shall cherish the memory of his service,” Dan Boren said of his father. Boren was a remarkable man who loved his home state of Oklahoma. He will be missed. Godspeed, President Boren.
Bank of Oklahoma Financial wins Gallup Exceptional Workplace award
The Oklahoma City BOK Financial team eagerly welcomed the traveling trophy to their employee event after it made the rounds across eight states.
They’re celebrating the company’s win of the 2024 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award (GEWA). This award recognizes the most engaged workplace cultures in the world.
After another year of disruption in the workplace, Gallup found that BOK Financial continued to engage and develop its people in innovative ways.
“Congratulations to the 60 organizations that have redefined what it means to be a great place to work. Your commitment to creating environments where employees are listened to, valued and positioned to use their strengths every day is what sets you apart. Thank you for setting a new global standard in what it means to be a thriving workplace," said Jon Clifton, Gallup chief executive officer.
The GEWA winners' ratio of engaged employees to actively disengaged employees is 11 times higher than the global average. Worldwide, only 23% of employees are engaged - that is, committed to their work and connected to their
workplace - and just 33% of employees in the U.S. workforce are engaged. Seventy percent of employees at winning GEWA organizations are engaged.
“This recognition speaks to how engaged our employees are in creating a culture that supports collaboration and growth,” said Greg Wheeler, EVP, OKC market president and director of private Walth. “Our team’s commitment to fostering an environment where people feel valued is a big part of what makes this such a great place to work and thrive.”
“This award is a true testament to the commitment of our employees to creating a culture of collaboration, inspiration and tenacity that attracts and retains top talent while also driving business growth,” said Stacy Kymes, BOK Financial president and CEO.
Gallup's meta-analysis on team engagement and performance is the most comprehensive workplace study ever conducted, with data on more than 2 million employees in 276 organizations across 54 industries
and 96 countries. Highly engaged organizations significantly outperform their peers in important business outcomes, including customer ratings, profitability, productivity, turnover, safety incidents, shrinkage, absenteeism, quality, wellbeing and organi-
Beutler joins Rehab Services
zational citizenship.
The Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services welcomes welcomes Mark Beutler to its executive team, leading the Office of Communications.
“Mark has over 35 years of progressive experience in public relations, television, journalism, print and radio,” DRS Executive Director Melinda Fruendt said. “Most recently he was the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. He was a radio announcer and television reporter, covering events including the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.
“During his tenure at several local newspapers and magazines,
Mark showcased his talent for writing and storytelling,” Fruendt added. “He has a proven track record of success in social media, and I look forward to Mark sharing our many stories focusing on the work we do here at DRS. I feel confident he will lead our communications into the next journey of our future work.”
Nicole Harvey, a longtime employee of the Oklahoma Historical Society, has been named the next director of the Oklahoma History Center Museum. She has a proven record of strategic leadership, collaboration and innovation.
“Nicole took over as interim director of the museum in October. Since then, she has performed exceedingly well in the role. She has built strong rela -
tionships with the museum staff, opened a new sports exhibit, worked to plan new future exhibits and strengthened the relationship between the museum and the other departments within the OHS as well as our outside stakeholders,” said Trait Thompson, executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society. “Nicole is a strategic thinker who has been dedicated to the OHS for the past 13 years, and I know she will continue the tradition of excellence the Oklahoma History Center Museum is known for.”
In her tenure as grants administrator and later as director of strategic initiatives at the OHS, Harvey successfully oversaw the Oklahoma Heritage Preservation Grant Program, which funded more than 200 local historical projects with a total of $2 million in awards. She also provided project-focused
support for OHS’s executive leadership, guiding agency-wide planning efforts and developing key strategies that foster accountability and teamwork.
Prior to working with the grant program and strategic initiatives, Harvey served as executive assistant to the agency’s thenexecutive director, Dr. Bob Blackburn. During this time, she co-curated a major exhibit and provided research, curatorial assistance and logistical support for others. She also helped launch immersive public programming — including the annual “A Night in the Life” Gala — broadening community engagement with the organization’s mission. Harvey is a lifelong Oklahoman who grew up in Oklahoma City. She earned her bachelor's degree from Oklahoma City University and her master’s degree from the University of York (UK). With her deep roots in the state and extensive experience at the OHS, she is poised to guide the Oklahoma History Center Museum into its next exciting chapter.
The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people.
MARK BEUTLER NICOLE HARVEY
Harvey new museum head
Above: Christi Woodworth, 2025 luncheon co-chairman, and 16-year-old Girl Scout Sierra Karl, who is on the Girl Scouts Board of Directors, interview guest speaker Candice Hillenbrand. At left: From left, Jill Trauschke, 2025 JLLS luncheon co-chairman; Jessica Lamb, GSWESTOK resource development manager; Candace Nelson, Sprinkles founder and guest speaker; Candice Hillenbrand, GSWESTOK chief resource officer, Christi Woodworth, 2025 luncheon co-chairman, and Ann-Clore Duncan, 2025 honorary chairman.
Juliette Low Leadership Society luncheon breaks record
The 21st Annual Juliette Low Leadership Society (JLLS) Luncheon achieved recordbreaking success, raising more than $480,000 and attracting a record crowd at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. The festive event benefiting Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma brought together nearly 600 community leaders, advocates, and supporters to celebrate and empower the next generation of female leaders.
toward their futures.”
Trauschke echoed a similar sentiment, “The success of the Juliette Low Leadership Society Luncheon is a testament to the dedication of our donors and advocates. Together, we’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of girls in Oklahoma, providing them with the skills and resources they need to achieve their dreams.”
The honorary chairman for the 2025 luncheon was AnnClore Duncan, a dedicated supporter of Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma and a longtime member of JLLS whose community work also includes serving on boards for the Oklahoma Policy Institute and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.
This year’s luncheon featured Candace Nelson, nationally recognized for founding Sprinkles, the world’s first cupcake bakery and cupcake ATM. Nelson shared her inspiring story of entrepreneurship, perseverance and the importance of empowering young women. With the leadership of event co-chairmen Jill Trauschke and Christi Woodworth, the luncheon successfully raised over $480,000 to support Girl Scout programming across Western Oklahoma.
Nelson’s message of courage, creativity and vision was a highlight of the luncheon. The serial entrepreneur and bestselling author shared her recipe for sweet success to revolutionize the baking industry when she left a career in finance to start Sprinkles. Nelson followed with the launch of Pizzana, a growing chain of Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded pizzerias leading the third wave of pizza in the U.S.
In addition to the luncheon co-chairmen, the following individuals served as committee chairmen Matilda Clements, Amy Crowley, Peter Farrell, Debbie McKinney, Kim Mosburg, Lee Ann Nordin, Rachel Phillippi, Myrla Pierson, Nancy Seely and Mary Tidholm.
“We are honored to lead this year’s record-breaking luncheon and experience such overwhelming community support,” said Woodworth. “The opportunities girls will experience thanks to today’s luncheon will ignite their passions and build confidence to take bold steps
“Sharing my story and supporting the Girl Scouts mission was a true privilege,” said Nelson. “The work being done here in Oklahoma is nothing short of extraordinary. My advice to the next generation of female leaders, especially to my younger self, is this: Dream big, chase those dreams unapologetically, and don’t worry so much –everything has a way of working out exactly as it should.”
Since its inception in 2004, JLLS has raised more than $6.58 million to fund Girl Scout programs that teach leadership, life skills, outdoor education, community service and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) initiatives. The funds raised at the luncheon directly support Girl Scout programming, equipping thousands of Oklahoma girls with leadership and life skills in their communities and beyond.
For more information about Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma or to learn how you can get involved, visit gswestok. org/jlls.
Above: Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma Board of Directors Chairman Gale Semtner and Chrissy McLaughlin. Below: Terri Cooper and Carol Troy.
- Photos by Rose Lane