03-01-24 Print Replica

Jane Lowther, left, and Suzy Bennett. during a celebration of life at The village’s new Civic Center for former Mayor Cathy Cummings.

OKC FRIDAY

The Bishop McGuinness cheer teams had much success this year at the national championship located in Dallas, Texas. The Performance Team came home with a first place finish at the national championship. The Performance Team members are, from left: First row, Jozie Weaver, Pyeatt Rivera, Kyla Reid, Addie Pitman, Lily Cunningham, Jaida Gatimu, Bellah Foster, Avery McIntire and Grace McDaniel; and second row, Berlin

Brown, Haven O'neil, Emma Meisman, Kinsley

St. Eugene Catholic Church to construct $6 million childcare center

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer

Saint Eugene Catholic Church is to break ground this spring on a new $6 million early childcare center near at the intersection of Hefner Road and Greystone Avenue in The Village.

The Village City Council approved a zoning review for the project presented by the planning and zoning commission at the recent City Council meeting.

The parish of 2,400 families plans to construct the 12,694-square-foot early childcare center and gymnasium on its property running south from Hefner Road along the east side Greystone Avenue. The proposal requires the demolition of three existing homes along Greystone to construct the new educational building. The school is to incorporate existing parking from the church.

Church officials say the early childhood center opens new spots in pre-k and kindergarten and is designed with the “newest school safety features and a nurturing environment in mind.”

See CENTER, Page 12

Harding Fine Arts to present awards

Nancy Anthony, the Oklahoma Arts Institute, Joyce A. Henderson, Sally Frye Bentley and Carlie Preskitt are to be honored during next Tuesday, March 5’s Leadership in Arts and Education Awards Banquet, beginning with a 6 p.m. cocktail reception and followed by the awards ceremony at 7 p.m. The evening begins at the Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23.

Then, Harding After Dark is set for 10 p.m. at Ponyboy, 423 NW 23.

John & Joy Reed Belt Award

Nancy Anthony joined the Oklahoma City Community Foundation as executive director in 1985 when it had assets of $20 million and one other full-time employee. She directed the growth of the Community Foundation to assets of more than $1.6 billion during 2021. Today, the Community Foundation has 47 full-time employees and makes average annual distributions to the Oklahoma City community of $46 million. In 2015 she was named the President of

See HFAA, Page 7

Oklahoma City Ballet Ball to be a ‘boatload of fun’

Oklahoma City Ballet presents Ballet Ball: Coastal Cruise, 6 p.m. to midnight, April 6 at the Omni Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City.

All proceeds from the Ballet Ball benefit Oklahoma City Ballet’s programs and performances. Co-chaired by Bailey Gordon and Natalie Fitzpatrick, this gala features cocktails, dinner, a live auction, dancing, plus a special performance by

Oklahoma City Ballet dancers. Guests are encouraged to dress in nautical-chic evening wear. Annie Bohanon is the honorary chairman. “This year’s Ballet Ball will be a boatload of fun,” said cochairman Bailey Gordon. “We are excited to welcome our guests for beachside cocktails, an incredible dinner, and a captain’s party complete with a yacht rock band.

“My favorite part of the night is always the special performance by Oklahoma City Ballet dancers. It’s the perfect way to remind guests that funds raised at the event fuel Oklahoma City Ballet’s programs year-round, including free community programs and performances that are enjoyed by thousands.”

The nautical theme is

See BALL, Page 2

Lakehurst receives grant to replace trees along May

By Rose Lane Editor

The Lakehurst Homeowners Association announced the

receipt of a grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation for the replacement of trees damaged by severe weather.

FRIDAY’s

Spokeswoman Susan Edwards said the money comes from the Margaret Annis Boys Fund, an endowment left by a teacher for

OKC beautification projects. Part of the fund’s focus is on urban trees.

See LAKEHURST, Page 13

Dog of the Week Newspaper helped elevate the

When OKC FRIDAY was born I was very active on the Associate Board of the Symphony.

FRIDAY covered all our events, helping us publicize an event, and publishing lots of pictures afterward. I credit them with creating additional

interest in the city’s philanthropic activities, giving them a high profile. Some fun was made of the original slogan, being for the city’s “Beautiful People,” but FRIDAY was certainly for the FUN AND INTERESTING people!

Have any fun memories of OKC FRIDAY ? Send 150200 words to rose@okcfriday.com.

Molly’s family is Scott and Carolyn Thompson. Molly is a 12-year-old Mini Schnauzer. Molly loves going to the lake and captaining the boat. She loves to go on walks and is NOT a big fan of live squirrels (only stuffed ones). Molly is undergoing chemotherapy right now and has her bad days.

For more, see Page 13.

They are No. 1!

Tietsort, Grace Abel, Mia Scholze, Brooklyn Sarkey, Kennedy

Brown and Kendall Brown. Clancy, the Bishop McGuinness mascot,Gavin Gowens, received the Major Mascot Award, which is the best mascot of the entire division.

BALL

From Page 1

inspired by May’s production of “Fancy Free,” a ballet by Jerome Robbins that inspired the film On the Town. “Fancy Free” is to be presented with “Carmina Burana” and “Cacti,” May 10-12, as part of the Ballet’s “Shorts” series, which features three short ballets in one program.

“Every year the Ballet Ball creates an annual theme which allows

the attendees to get creative with their attire. It’s a lot of fun to see what people wear. This year, we want people to think of an elevated yacht party. We even have a “what to wear” guide on the website,” said Fitzpatrick.

Live music is to be presented by Soft Hands, a local yacht rock band. A highlight of the evening will be a performance by Oklahoma City Ballet’s professional dancers, who perform a special piece choreographed just for this occasion.

Individual tickets are $250 per person and sponsorships are available starting at $1,000. Tickets go on sale March 1. To purchase tickets to the Ballet Ball, visit okcballet.org/balletball, call (405) 2088836, or email events@okcballet.org. Checks can be mailed to Oklahoma City Ballet, 6800 N. Classen Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73116.

Ballet Ball Sponsors at the Onyx ($3,000) level receive a one-of-akind silk scarf or pocket square by local clothier William & Lauren, made exclusively for this event.

For more information, tickets, and to learn about other performances, call (405) 838-TOES (8637), visit okcballet.org, or follow Oklahoma City Ballet on social media @okcballet.

Above: Ballet Ball Honorary Chairman Annie Bohanon. At left: Ballet Ball Co-Chairmen Natalie Fitzpatrick and Bailey Gordon.

Sports Weekly

BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS | CLASS 5A, 6A AREA

Fridayland trio to play in area title games

Thanks to big regional wins, the Deer Creek and Crossings Christian boys, along with the PC North girls basketball teams sit a win away from a berth in the state tournaments.

The Antlers face off against Norman this

Friday at 6 p.m. in a Class 6A West area final at Noble. A win puts them in the state tournament but a loss drops Deer Creek to the consolation final at 7:30 p.m. Saturday against the PC North-PC West winner at Shawnee.

The Panther girls also traveled to Noble for a 6A West area final on Thursday against district rival PC West. With a loss, they would face the YukonEdmond Santa Fe winner at 3:30 p.m. Saturday in Shawnee. Meanwhile, the Crossings Christian boys battle familiar foe Carl Albert at 6 p.m. Friday in a 5A West area final at Piedmont.

A loss moves the Knights into an area consolation final at 6 p.m. Saturday against the Santa Fe South-El Reno winner for a spot in the state tournament.

In addition, the PC North boys need a pair of wins against PC West on Friday and the Deer Creek-Norman loser on Saturday to

make the 6A field.

REGIONAL RESULTS

• Antlers hold off Norman North: The Deer Creek boys posted a 53-44 win over Norman North last Friday to claim a Class 6A West regional championship. Clyde Davis Jr. netted 20 points and Mason Smith contributed 12 points to lead the host Antlers (20-5).

Deer Creek opened on Thursday with a 5833 triumph against Yukon behind three players in double figures. Smith led the way with 14 points, followed by Jeremiah Deering with 12 points and Davis with 10 points.

• Knights take down Del City: Buoyed by a trio in double figures, the Crossings Christian boys secured a 54-44 win against host Del City in a 5A West regional final last Friday. Phoenix Woodson paced the Knights (186) with 17 points, 22

rebounds and 6 blocks, while Cam Parker scored 15 points and Cal Furnish chipped in 13 points.

On Thursday, Crossings Chrisitan cruised to a 72-58 victory over Southeast in the opener behind Parker with 15 points, Furnish with 14 and Woodson with 13 points.

• Panther girls top Norman North: Jumping out to an early lead, the PC North girls rolled to a 52-38 victory against Norman North in a 6A West regional championship last Friday. The host Panthers (20-5) also dominated Lawton for an 89-15 triumph on Thursday in the regional opener.

• Panthers cruise past Mustang: After opening with a loss, the PC North boys rebounded with two straight wins including a 69-50 victory against Mustang last Saturday to capture a 6A West consolation trophy at Lawton.

Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

The PC North girls basketball team celebrates after winning a Class 6A West regional tournament last weekend. The Panthers outlasted Norman North for a 52-38 victory and sit a win away from making state. PC North is coached by Logan Martin, standing at far left.

PC North’s Nevaeh Sanchez (3) directs the offense during last Friday’s regional championship game against Norman North.

Casady’s Ace Hodges placed fourth in the 285-pound division last weekend at the Class 3A state wresting tournament.

- Photo by Johnny Holland, jhollandphotography.com

Harris grapples to 3rd, Hodges takes 4th at state

A pair of Fridayland wrestlers earned spots on the podium at last weekend’s state tournament at State Fairgrounds Arena.

Heritage Hall’s Carter Harris won a close 4-3 decision over Elijah Cherry from Tulsa-Edison Prep to claim third place in the 106-pound division at the Class 5A tournament.

Ace Hodges from Casady, who reached state in the Cyclone’s first season as an

OSSAA member, suffered a loss to Watonga’s Malaki Perez to settle for fourth place at 285 pounds in 3A.

Nine other Fridaylanders from Deer Creek, PC North, McGuinness and Heritage Hall qualified for state but fell in the consolation rounds.

Deer Creek’s Nash Neeley and Jace Province reached the consolation semifinals in the 113- and 138pound divisions, respectively, to lead the

BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Graim, Tubbs named All-Staters

Cristo Rey’s KeiShon Graim and Keionna Tubbs earned All-State honors from the Heartland Christian Athletic Association.

Graim helped the Royal boys to their best season ever with a 15-12 record, while Tubbs led the girls to a 9-13 mark.

Antlers.

PC North’s Markus Stewart also lost out in the consolation semifinals at 190 pounds in the 6A tournament, as did Heritage Hall’s Peyton Park at 132 pounds in 5A.

In addition, the Deer Creek duo of Garron Kaiser (144 pounds) and Barrett Weathers (157), along with McGuinness’ lone qualifier Cohen Rich (150) ended their seasons in first-round consolation matches.

BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS | 3A, 4A AREA

Rockets need win for berth in tourney field

Of 10 Fridayland basketball teams who started the playoffs, only four advanced to area tournaments this weekend and the Mount St. Mary boys sit a win away from a berth in the Class 3A state tournament.

The Rockets take on Oklahoma Christian (OCS) this Friday at 7:30 p.m. in the 3A Area IV championship at Ada. A victory puts Mount St. Mary in state, while a loss drops them to the consolation final at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

The Heritage Hall boys opened Thursday against Kingston in an area consolation contest at Ada. With a win, the Chargers advance to face the Lindsay-Jones winner at 2:30 p.m. Friday in the consolation semifinal and potential matchup against the Mount St. Mary-OCS loser on Saturday.

The McGuinness and Casady boys, along with the Heritage Hall girls, also competed in area consolation games on Thursday.

The Irish took on Tulsa-Nathan Hale in 4A Area II at Okmulgee, with the winner to square off against Stillwell or Bethany at 2:30 p.m. Friday. That winner moves on to the consolation final at 7:30 p.m. Saturday against the Newcastle-North Rock Creek loser. Casady encounters a similar situation, as the Cyclones battled Kellyville on Thursday in 3A Area III at Seminole.

A win puts them in the consolation semifinal against the KeiferPrague winner at 2:30

p.m. Friday and against the Crooked Oak-Millwood loser at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Heritage Hall girls opened against Kingston in a 3A Area IV consolation matchup at Ada.

With a win, the Chargers would battle the Lindsay-Eufaula winner at 1 p.m. Friday and potentially compete against the Community Christian-Jones loser at 6 p.m. Saturday for a spot in state.

REGIONAL RESULTS

• Rockets take down Jones: The Mount St. Mary boys

ness boys suffered a heartbreaking 52-50 loss to Newcastle last Friday night in Bethany. Jett Schafer scored a team-best 18 points, as Brody Parks and Cooper Bradley had 9 points each for the Irish (12-13).

McGuinness opened on Thursday with a 4542 win against host Bethany in the semifinal, behind Bradley’s 24 points and Nate Cauthen with 9 points.

• Millwood too much for Cyclones: Falling behind early, the Casady boys never recovered in a 92-63 loss to host Millwood last Friday in a 3A

secured a 54-45 win over host Jones in a 3A regional championship game last Friday night.

The Rockets (21-5) cruised to a 74-27 victory against Chandler in Thursday’s semifinal.

• Irish fall to Newcastle in final: After advancing the regional title game, the McGuin-

regional final. Bryson Buckingham led the Cyclones (14-12) with 22 points and Kaden Leache added 16 points.

Three players scored in double figures as Casady held on for a 55-53 victory over Holdenville.

Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

- Photo by Johnny Holland, jhollandphotography.com Casady’s Kate Naifeh (34) scored 20 points in the Cyclones’ season-ending loss to Bethany.

CALENDAR

CONCERTS

March 9 •

Dan + Shay

Dan + Shay’s Heartbreak on The Map Tour with Ben Rector and Hailey Whitters is coming to Paycom Center on Saturday, March 9. Dan + Shay is an American country pop music duo composed of vocalists and songwriters Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney. They are best known for their Grammy award­winning hit song “Tequila,” which went to No.1 on the US country chart and reached 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. Visit paycomcenter.com for tickets.

March 14 •

Violinist Ray Chen Star violinist Ray Chen will perform at Armstrong Auditorium on Thursday, March 14, at 7:30 pm. Joined by pianist Julio Elizalde, Chen’s program will feature Chick Corea’s “Spain,” Dvorak’s Slavic Dance #2, Beethoven’s Sonata #7 and more. Tickets start at $55 for adults and $35 for youth aged 6 and up. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit ArmstrongAuditorium.org or call the Box Office at (405) 285­1010.

THEATRE

Through March 10 • Twelfth Night

One of Shakespeare’s

Paycom

March 5 • Three Piano Trios

Guest artist Sean Wang returns to Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble for a trio of trios featuring piano, violin and cello on 7:30 pm

Tuesday, March 5 at First Baptist Church in midtown Oklahoma City. The styles of pieces range from 18th Century Austrian composer Franz Joseph Haydn, an early master of the piano trio in the Classical age, to a work by 20th Century Jazz master David Baker, who drew on his African American roots. Likewise, 19th Century Czech composer Bedřich Smetana helped revive a uniquely Czech musical identity. Tickets are $20 at the door and free for students and active­duty military with ID. First Baptist Church is located at 1201 N Robinson Ave. For more information, visit brightmusic.org.

most beloved comedies of cross­dressing, cross­garters and mistaken identities, it is sure to put a smile on your face and a song in your heart. Oklahoma Shakespeare presents Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare, directed by Kathryn McGill, indoor at the Black Box Theatre, 2920 Paseo. Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Visit okshakes.org for tickets and details.

ART

March 8 •

LIVE! on the Plaza is the Plaza District's free and monthly artwalk 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. The Plaza District is located on NW 16th St.

between Classen and Penn Ave. The artwalk is free to attand from 6–10 pm.

March 9 – July 7 •

Georgia O’Keeffe

“Magnificent Beauty: Georgia O’Keeffe and the Art of the Flower” examines explorations of flowers in painting and photography by O’Keeffe and Imogen Cunningham, highlighting their unique interpretations of the traditional subject matter. The OKC Museum of Art hosts the exhibit until July 7. Visit okcmoa.com for tickets and details.

OKC THUNDER

HOME GAMES

Paycom Center

100 West Reno Ave.

Friday, Mar. 8 • Miami Heat 7:00 pm

Sunday, Mar. 10 • Memphis Grizzlies 6:00 pm

Tuesday, Mar. 12 • Indiana Pacers 7:00 pm

Bob Marley: One Love

On December 3, 1976, armed men invaded the home of singer Bob Marley and shot him in the chest. They shot his wife Rita Marley in the head. Marley, who had recently become the biggest star in Jamaica, was planning a huge concert called “Smile Jamaica” that was to take place two days later. The concert was meant to bring the people of Jamaica together. There was a great divide in the country caused by opposing political leaders stoking flames of division. Marley believed that only God, called Jah by Rastafarians, could heal the nation through music.

Bob Marley: One Love, a new movie about Bob and Rita Marley from Paramount Pictures, is the number one movie at the box office for the second weekend in a row, taking in $120 million globally. The movie covers the time surrounding the recording of the “Exodus” album, which Marley recorded while in exile in England. The album made Marley an international superstar, expanded the reach of reggae around the world, and was later selected as the most important album of the 20th Century by Time magazine. The biopic includes several of Bob Marley’s classic songs, but it is very much a drama and not a musical.

The movie opens with Ziggy Marley, their son, speaking directly to camera thanking the audience for coming and acknowledging that the Marley family was involved in every part of making of the movie. It was the first time I’d seen that at a movie theater. But it absolutely made me believe and enjoy every detail of the movie even more.

One Love stars British actors Kingsley BenAdair and Lashana Lynch in the lead roles. Both actors are riveting, and the script gives them ample room to build their characters and dive into their complicated but passionate relationship. It’s the first Marley movie that I have seen where Rita is given an equal voice, which might be a product of the movie being produced by the kids she raised while Bob was out touring.

Ben-Adair is fabulous as Bob Marley. He brings the legend to life in such an alluring manner, but also leans into the spirituality, politics, and frustration.

Ben-Adair has experience playing real and fictional figures. He played Malcolm X in

the Oscar-nominated movie One Night in Miami, Barack Obama in TV mini-series The Comey Rule, Gravik in the Marvel TV series Secret Invasion, and one of the Kens in the blockbuster Barbie. His first big success was starring alongside Oscar nominee Cillian Murphy in Peaky Blinders from 2017-2019.

Lashana Lynch gives Rita Marley a strength, depth, and clarity of voice that Marley has not always been afforded. Lynch starred as Maria Rambeau in Captain Marvel and The Marvels, Izogie in The Woman King, Captain Marvel in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and Miss Honey in Matilda: The Musical. Perhaps because of her ability to navigate wild genre shifts, she was given the Rising Star Award at the 2022 BAFTA’s.

Bob Marley: One Love is an outstanding drama with captivating performances that is worth a trip to the theaters. When you get home, check out the 2012 documentary Marley, which is more music focused and includes several live versions of Bob Marley’s classic songs.

Bob and Rita Marley survived the shooting. It happened at the beginning of the movie, not the end. Never let fear keep you from doing what Jah has called you to do.

A sold-out Boots and Ball Gowns returns Saturday, March 9

The Chickasaw Nation and Quintessa Marketing present the 15th annual Boots and Ball Gowns benefiting Infant Crisis Services at the Oklahoma City Convention Center on Saturday, March 9. The agency, which is celebrating 40 years of service, is excited to welcome over one-thousand supporters with dinner, cocktails, a silent auction, dancing, and entertainment by the Royal Dukes Band and Inspyral Circus.

“Boots and Ball Gowns is one big celebration of our community’s generosity and commitment to feeding and diapering Oklahoma’s infants and toddlers,” said Miki

Farris, Co-founder and Executive Director at Infant Crisis Services, “We cannot imagine a better way to toast to 40 years than with a sold-out room filled with our nearest and dearest friends.”

Voted as one of Oklahoma’s Best Charity Events, Boots and Ball Gowns is made possible thanks to Presenting Diamond Sponsors, the Chickasaw Nation and Quintessa Marketing, as well as Turquoise Presenting Sponsors, Caption Partners, Ketchum Charitable Foundation, MidFirst Bank, and Valor Bank. Kate Gordon and Katty Gasbarra are this year’s Gala Marshals. All proceeds from the gala provide

food, formula, and diapers to infants and toddlers across the state.

About Infant Crisis Services

Infant Crisis Services provides life-sustaining food, formula, and diapers to babies in toddlers in times of crisis... because no baby should go hungry. In the agency’s 40 years of service, over 375,000 little ones have received essential

items for their development. Founded in 1984, Infant Crisis Services is the only formula and diaper bank of its kind in the metro-area, and its unique BabyMobile program expands the mission into 27 counties across the state. To learn more about Infant Crisis Services and to donate, visit infantcrisis.org.

HFAA

From Page 1

the organization.

Community Impact Award

In 1977, the Oklahoma Arts Institute (OAI) – a statewide, private educational and philanthropic organization –was established to provide intensive, highquality fine arts training to talented high school students at the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute (OSAI). Worldclass artists come to Quartz Mountain each June to teach and mentor over 240 gifted young Oklahoma artists. OSAI offers classes in acting, chorus, creative writing, dance, drawing & painting, film and video, orchestra and photography.

Innovation in Education Award

Joyce A. Henderson is a 1964 graduate of Dunjee High School. She received her B. S. degree from Langston University, M.Ed. degree from the University of Central Oklahoma, and Secondary School Administration Certification from the University of Oklahoma.

In her 37 years in education, Henderson spent approximately 20 years as principal at five different area schools in the Oklahoma City Public Schools (Emerson Alternative High School, the original Classen High School, Northeast High School, Star Spencer High School, and opened one

of the district’s first magnet schools, Classen School of Advanced Studies). The Classen School of Advanced Studies has been listed as one the nation’s top schools of excellence. Her last 10 years in the school district, she served on the Superintendent’s Cabinet as the Executive Director of School and Community Services.

Outstanding Alumni Award

Sally Frye Bentley ‘64 was born and brought up in Oklahoma City. She attended both Horace Mann Elementary and Nichols Hills Elementary schools. Although her parents wanted her to attend private school in seventh grade, she convinced them that Harding Jr./Sr. High School was where she belonged. It was at Harding that she

received an outstanding college preparatory education, made lifelong friends, and met her future husband, Steve Bentley ‘65.

In 2003, John Belt asked her to help establish and join the Harding Fine Arts Academy Charter School Board, dedicated to providing an arts-integrated college-preparatory high school experience. Sally served as School Board President for six years. In 2019 the Harding Fine Arts Academy Foundation Board was formed to successfully raise the money to purchase the historic Harding building. Sally has served on the Foundation Board since that time and has been part of the growth of that organization for the benefit of Harding Fine Arts Academy, its students, and the community.

Carlie Preskitt graduated as valedictorian from Harding Fine Arts Academy in 2015. She attended the University of Oklahoma on scholarship where she earned her bachelor of fine arts degree in ballet performance and bachelor of science in multiple disciplinary studies (neuroscience focus). After graduating from OU with distinction, she joined the Oklahoma City Ballet as a second company member. The following year she was promoted to the main company as an apprentice and danced with the company for two years. Preskitt has also had the opportunity to perform as a guest artist with Tulsa Ballet and toured internationally with Hartel Dance Group.

For more information, visit hfaafoundation.org/lae/.

About the NWOKC Chamber

We are the catalyst for community connections by growing relationships, sharing resources, and creating results. Thriving businesses keep our community strong.

For more information, visit nwokc.com.

NANCY ANTHONY JOYCE HENDERSON SALLY BENTLEY CARLIE PRESKITT

“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.

By Joe Dorman President & CEO Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy

On Feb. 7, children in an Oklahoma school got into an altercation which became violent. The day after, one of the children, 16-year-old Nex Benedict, died.

The initial result of a preliminary autopsy suggests the death was not the result of trauma, but no other information has been provided; a full autopsy has not been publicly released. Speculation is rampant about the cause of Nex’s death,

but there likely is not much the public will know until a full report is released by the Oklahoma State Medical Examiner.

What we do know is the story is tragically familiar: bullying is getting worse. According to the Pew Research Center, more than half of U.S. teens say online harassment and online bullying are a major problem for people their age, while 46% have been cyberbullied. In 2021, high schoolers who are gay, lesbian or bisexual were about twice as likely as their

heterosexual counterparts to say they were bullied at school and online.

Child deaths are far more common than you might expect. The U.S. Census estimates that Oklahoma is home to almost one million children. America’s Health Rankings, part of the United Health Foundation, estimates the Oklahoma death rate for children ages 1-19 is 34.5 per 100,000, or 345 Oklahoma children, ranking the state 14th in the nation. Breaking down that number further for suicide of children in Oklahoma ages 15-19, the number is 18 deaths per 100,000, or about 180 youth.

Children’s mental health nationwide is at a despairing level. Our state, like all others, had

significantly increased children’s mental health challenges due to the pandemic and isolation. Contributing to that are Oklahoma’s higherthan-average numbers of issues faced by children, including high rates of abuse, neglect, homelessness, parent drug abuse, parental incarceration, and caretaker inability to cope with the responsibilities.

Adding to the stress children face is the pressure from adults, sometimes in the home or school, and far too often by the hateful rhetoric of public figures about them. To youth, the feeling of the weight of the world created by adults is passed along, including when judgment occurs or when ample support systems are not in place to help reduce

Dear Wise Elder: What can be done about the new way to cheat people with a cash offer for “mom’s” home? The “investor” or “realtor” has been trained to act caring and nice, but their offer is far below market value. “They” pretend to be my friend and are willing to “help” me and my family dispose of the “stuff” that I do not want to take with me. They prey on busy families in a time crunch when emotions are high and no one is thinking clearly. I heard them brag about working two hours and selling the home in seven days making a

anxiety.

A few weeks ago, I wrote a column about the use of words by politicians. Again, I encourage leaders to choose words wisely when it comes to casting light on a particular group of children, a program or school, a community, or some other delineation.

Elected officials, due to media attention, can cause more harm than they realize when categorizing people. We often hear about the need for rights for people, but we also need to equally count responsibility into that conversation.

My advice for all adults and youth alike is to please choose your words wisely. We lost a child and the other children involved are likely

$20,000 profit. That’s not right!

Dear Not Right: In this free country, each has a personal responsibility to do research and become informed from reliable sources. Check out the Senior Living Truth Series held monthly at Crossings Community Church. For nine years, this group has consistently introduced seniors and their families to organizations who love to educate first. There you and your family can meet others who are searching for current, reliable businesses.

- Courtesy VillagesOKC www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637

You can have your ad here! $20 a week. Call (405) 755-3311 for details.

struggling with their involvement in the altercation, along with many others identifying with the story. In fact, Time magazine reports a call crisis center operated by The Rainbow Youth Project has seen a 500% increase in the number of calls it received since the death of Nex. We do not need to lose any more children due to bullying or rhetoric, and we certainly need our leaders to live up to that title for the best interests of all our children. If you see bullying, report it. If you have authority over a bullying circumstance, properly address the situation. If you see a child struggling, help connect them with counseling by calling 988. It truly could be a matter of life and death.

At right:

Oklahoma Regional Science and Engineering Fair.

At far right: Dr.

Heritage Hall Chargers focus on studies

This week at The Hall (Feb. 19-23) was an eventful one for Chargers in all divisions.

• In the Middle School, the sixth grade science students participated in the classic activity of crafting solar ovens in order to melt s’mores under the light of heat lamps. Students learned about the power of the sun’s energy, as well as renewable energy through this project.

On top of the middle schooler’s academic endeavors, the traditional advisory dodgeball tournament commenced this week - may the best advisory win!

by Atala Johnson

HALL HAPPENINGS

• Upper schoolers have been focused on their studies as the upcoming ACT approaches. To offer additional help this year, Director of School Counseling Dr. Kylie Lyons has led the effort to offer a weekly ACT prep seminar for sophomores and juniors, deep diving into the most helpful infor-

mation about each section of the test.

• As part of the School’s “Courageous Conversations” series, Heritage Hall invites guest speakers for lunch and learn opportunities for students and faculty, featuring compelling conversations on a variety of topics. This week, Chargers welcomed the former Executive Director of the Oklahoma Historical Society Dr. Bob Blackburn, who presented “From Slavery to Freedom: The Story of African-Americans in Oklahoma History.”

• The Heritage Hall Steel Band presented a

dynamic set for their Feb. 24 concert following a two-day clinic with one of the country’s leading percussion and steelpanists, Tracy Thornton.

• Congratulations to Zachary Davis ’26 for taking first place in the Plant Sciences category at the Central Oklahoma Regional Science and Engineering Fair!

Zachary’s studies focused on the symbiotic relationships between plants and root fungi, which encourage drought resilience and ground cover as a means of restoring wildfire zones.

March 1

Sue Adams

Donna Bozalis

Theresa Lepak

Monica Marino

Pam Newman

Mark Schwartz

Dixie Stewart

Jane Sutter

Ann Tullius

March 2

Jennifer Contreras

Chad Homsey

Melinda K. Medley

Les Tolbert

March 3

Norma Borders

Ross Brunner

Nick Cudjo

Krystian Hamilton

Willie McFall

Cyndi Williams

Brian Zahn

March 4

Marle Abshere

Harry Anderson

Destiny Brown

Blair Elder A.V. Peoples, Jr.

Julie Ruffin

March 5

Jessica Blackstock

Richard Howell

Kyle Keeton

Bradley Lamprich

Frank McCollom

Stephen Zahn

March 6

Brian Blackstock

Marjorie Sue Bleakley

Mandi Brader

Karen Ingram

Meredith Kelley

Jack Knott

Libby Price

Tom Stewart

Jana Walls

March 7

C. Henry Amis

Eddy Blosser

James F. Davis

J.D. Hadley

Kathie McCurdy

Sydney Natale

Edward Rambo

Richard Roberts

Tracy Russell

Evola Zeeck

Email updates for the birthday list to rose@okcfriday.com.

Zachary Davis ’26 takes first place in the plant sciences category at the Central

Bob Blackburn speaks to faculty and students about the story of African-Americans in Oklahoma history.

They have spirit!

CENTER

The church has secured more than $5.8 million of its $6 million goal in cash and pledges.

our ability to welcome young families,” the church posted.

“St. Eugene is flourishing in many ways, but we need more space to continue to form parishioners of all ages – from the youngest among us to those who helped lay the first brick 64 years ago,” Fr. Jim Goins has posted on the church website.

“First, we will build a new, secure and developmentally appropriate education space for our thriving early childhood program, enhancing

“Because of space restraints, we cannot currently fill the requests for small groups to gather for Bible studies, sacramental preparation, followship, and outreach. This will allow us to repurpose and refresh room in the main parish, gaining critically important ministry meeting space for all to enjoy,”

The new childcare center is to include classrooms, a multipurpose area and space for outdoor learning. A staff workspace also doubles as a storm shelter.

The childcare center is the latest of several large projects to enhance the growing Saint Eugene Catholic Church

From Page 1 St. Eugene Catholic Church has secured more than $5.8 million for the construction of an early childhood education center.

campus. In recent years, the church has constructed a new elementary and middle school building, a new church rectory and has improved many other areas

of the campus.

In 1958, Fr. Jim Ross and nearly 60 families from Christ the King parish were tasked with building a new parish in north Oklahoma

City. The parish was named St. Eugene, honoring Pope Eugene I, who served as Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church from 654 to 657.

The Bishop McGuinness cheer teams had much success this year at the national championship located in Dallas, Texas. The Game Day Rally Team came home with a third place finish at the national championship. The Game Day Rally Team members are, from left: First row, Jada Dunning-Carbin, Hannah Kate Johnson, twirler Bridgy McCollum, senior Katelin McDonald, senior Allie Scholze, Ashlyn Dolan, Rylan Turner, Avary Cronic, Avry Howard, Lily Lashley and mascot Gavin Gowens; and second row, Fiorella Perdue, Bella Loveless, Danica Allen, Olivia Dunham, Margaret Elle McCann, Eliza Lewis, Hanna Owens, Olivia Neumann, Grace Grimes, Maddy Martinez, Anna LaForge, Charlotte Shortt, Gigi Perdue and Ava Buchanan.

Hundreds gather to honor the life of Cathy Cummings

Hundreds gathered last Sunday afternoon at the new Civic Plaza for a Celebration of Life to remember former Village Mayor Cathy Cummings. The first event at the new $8 million Civic Area event featured a free barbecue buffet, potluck supper, live music, friends and fellowship.

LAKEHURST

From Page 1

The Lakehurst HOA maintains the right-of-way from Landsdowne past Regency Court on North May between Britton and Wilshire. Edwards said the association is responsible for moving, planting and caring for trees, shrubs and seasonal flowers. The goal is to add color and increase the tree canopy of the neighborhood and city, she said.

- Photos by Eric Oesch

At top: Village Firefighters Juan Torres and Jonathan Willman with City Manager Dave Slezickey. Above: Cara and Richard Connor, left, with Leslie Spears.

Above: State Senator Julia Kirt, left, with Denan Alleman. At right: Patrick and Rhonda Mannix with little Milo. Below: Matt and Colleen O’Neill with baby Patrick.

Celebrating 20 years!

Above: University of Oklahoma head girls softball coach Patty Gasso empowers the crowd. At right: Girl Scout supporters Katie Long, Melissa Pepper and Stacy Schuch.

The Juliette Low Leadership Society celebrated 20 years of supporting the Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma during its annual luncheon at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Chrissy Bode McLaughlin and Amy McLaughlin Gray, left, were the co-chairman. Their mother-in-law and mother, respectively, Jean McLaughlin, was the honorary chairman.

- Photos by Rose Lane

Above: Liz Eickman secures a pearl for her Juliette Low Leadership Society pin. Below: Honorary Chairman Jean McLaughlin.