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OKC’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with all local news Serving affluent far north Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills and The Village for 50 years

Village police, fire to join other metro cities on OKC radio system

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer

Councilmembers in The Village have approved an agreement with the Oklahoma City Police Department that brings enhanced police and fire department radio communications to The Village.

The city incurs approxi-

Celebration of Hope

Actor Tom Selleck with Celebration of Hope Sponsorship Chairman Mary Blankenship Pointer. The event was hosted by the Salvation Army and featured an interview with Selleck. The event raised nearly $1 million to support the Salvation Army’s local programs.

For more, see Page 12.

mately $30,000 per year for usage and maintenance fees from Oklahoma City.

Village Police Chief Russ Landon and Fire Chief Chris Brigan addressed the council in support of the agreement before it was unanimously approved. The city currently uses the stateoperated Oklhoma Wirless Information Network

(OKWIN) for both the fire and police departments.

Under the new agreement, The Village joins other metro cities such as Bethany Warr Acres and Yukon which have been successfully running on the Oklahoma City Radio Network system for years.

“We are currently on the state’s radio system, devel-

oped years ago for state agencies, primarily the highway patrol, to communicate along the I-44 corridor from Lawton to Tulsa,” said Police Chief Russ Landon. “The Oklahoma City Radio Network was developed so OKC employees could communicate better by radio.

“The state system was

Election set to raise hotel tax rate to 9.25 percent

Oklahoma City Council set a citywide election for Aug. 27 to increase the hotel tax from 5.50% to 9.25%.

The tax is charged to people who stay overnight in a hotel or rent a home-sharing property in OKC.

Oklahoma City residents last considered a hotel tax increase in 2004, when it passed with 89.4% approval.

If the election passes, the 3.75% increase is projected to bring in an additional $11.6 mil-

lion, which is to be allocated to as follows:

•75% for tourism promotion, direct funding to promote and/or foster the convention and/or tourism (visitor) development of Oklahoma City.

•13.3% for event sponsorships.

•6.7% for OKC Fairgrounds for improvements, not including operational costs.

•5% for OKC Convention Center for improvements, not including operational costs.

The hotel tax is currently 5.5% and is distributed as follows:

•55% for OKC Fairgrounds for improvements, not including operational costs.

•36% formtourism promotion, direct funding to promote and/or foster the convention and/or tourism (visitor) development of Oklahoma City.

• 9% for event sponsorships.

The 9.25% hotel tax would be in addition to the 4.5% state

Sign-up now to protect home from scams

Anyone’s home can be sold out from under them — even Elvis Presley’s.

“It took a judge’s decision to prevent the sale of the iconic home of ‘The King’ and if some scammer is bold enough to try and rob Elvis Presley’s family — anyone could become a victim,” said Oklahoma County Assessor Larry Stein.

“Make sure your home is safe from being sold out from under you: monitor your property ownership on the web at oklahomacounty.org/assessor,” Stein said.

On the website you can find out information about your taxes through a link to the County

Treasurer’s Office, and can follow a link to the County Clerk’s Office and sign up for alerts if someone attempts to tamper with the deed to your property, Stein said.

“This service is free from the County Clerk’s Office and you can sign up at alert.okcc.online. Register and OPT-IN to the filing Alert System. The Clerk’s Office will notify you by phone, email or text,” Stein said. “The King is dead—but that didn’t stop scammers from trying to steal Graceland. Protect your property and continue to be the king - or queen - of your castle and sign up your property today.”

designed for users to communicate outside over distance. The OKC system was designed for users to communicate clearly in a metropolitan environment, with greater clarity indoors.”

While The Village has not needed to pay for using the state’s system, Chief Landon

See VILLAGE, Page 3

OKC inks agreement for new arena

By Rose Lane Editor

Oklahoma City Council approved a development agreement for the city’s new arena between the city and PBC Sports and Entertainment, LLC (PBCS&E), owners of the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Oklahoma City Blue.

The arena is to be located in the city-owned former site of the Cox Convention Center, which is now Prairie Surf Studios. The city did not extend the organization’s lease, which ends in 2025, after voters approved a special one-cent sales tax for the arena in December.

The development agreement is based on the original 2008 past arrangement which was used to improve the current arena and build the practice facility used by the Thunder. It also aligns with the Letter of Intent approved by the City Council in September 2023.

The development agreement covers major elements of the process of designing and constructing the new arena.

Agreement overview:

Funding — OKC agrees to spend a minimum of $900 million on the new arena. The new arena is to be funded by (listed in order of how the money is to be spent):

• $78 million from MAPS 4.

• $50 million from PBCS&E.

• A minimum of $772 million, financed through the 72-month, one-cent special sales tax.

Any surplus revenue from the one-cent special sales tax after the arena's construction and repayment of financing costs is to be allocated to capital improvements and maintenance of the new arena.

The agreement acknowledges that there are no other sources of revenue to fund the new arena, and so the agreement provides that if the costs appear to exceed available budgeted funds, the parties will work together to value engineer the

See ARENA, Page 3

See TAX, Page 3

FRIDAY’s

Travis Mason, Posititive Tomorrows President and CEO Margaret Creighton, Board President Gregg Henson and Dominique Cimina.

Cork & Canvas benefits elementary school

and

from

Russell and Aubrey Williams lounge in the unique bookshelf at Positive Tomorrows.

Cork & Canvas is a fun, casual evening of delicious appetizers, drinks

live entertainment with a great selection of silent and live auction packages, including one-of-a-kind artwork

Positive Tomorrows students. All proceeds benefit Positive Tomorrows’ work to help children and families experiencing homelessness. Above, from left: Darcy and Mim Peterson and Jeff and Leah Dutton.

- Photos by Rose Lane

Above: Sarah and Kermit Frank support the mission of Positive Tomorrows. At left: Jonathon Hampton and Jordan Jackson.

VILLAGE

From Page 1

said, “It’s been rumored for the past few years that agencies utilizing it will be billed to contribute to the maintenance of the system.”

In 2018 the city received a $50,000 grant to buy portable radios for the city. The radios are beginning to show signs of wear due to their hard use and age.

“I’m learning it may cost us at least $500 per radio for our current radios to be serviced,” said

ARENA

From Page 1

project. PBCS&E can privately fund portions to avoid removing them through value engineering.

Location — The city owns and be responsible for maintaining and operating the new arena. Approximately 1.4 acres of the site is to be reserved for a potential future intercity transit hub.

PBCS&E can negotiate with the city for a ground lease to develop any unused property on the new arena site at market rate, with revenue from the lease to be used for the arena’s maintenance and improvements.

Construction — The agreement outlines a collaborative process between the City and PBCS&E in the planning and construction of the building. The city and PBCS&E are to work together to select the arena’s project consultant, engineer, architect, design and other aspects of construction.

Landon. “If we switch to the OKC Radio Network, their technicians will repair or replace our radios as part of our agreement and fees. We will be looking to procure new radios in the future.”

Fire Chief Chris Brigan said the city is looking at $30,000 for both fire and police departments to switch to the Oklahoma City Radio Network for capital replacement allocation fee and usage fees.

“Our old system is not so outdated, but the OKC Radio Network will better suit our current and future communication needs,” said Chief Brigan. “The

The new arena is to be at least 750,000 square feet. It is being built to benefit the residents of Oklahoma City, meet NBA specifications and requirements and maximize team revenues, ensuring the sustainability of major league professional sports in Oklahoma City The project includes the construction of a new parking garage on the arena site with at least 650 spaces.

Timing — The Thunder is to continue to play home games at the Paycom Center until the new arena opens. The agreement maintains the completion date of 2029 as outlined in the letter of intent but provides a path to a target completion date of June 2028, with a contractual obligation to open the new arena by June 2030. The Thunder’s 25-year commitment to remain in Oklahoma City begins when they move into the new arena.

Arena Background

The Oklahoma City Thunder has called Oklahoma City home since 2008. In 2023, the

OKC Radio Network will offer us more stable communications within our area, that will impact our community positively. It has more towers with less users and is built to sustain environmental disasters better and will be safer for our first responders.”

Both Landon and Brigan told the council the change in radio providers is to take place once both cities have successfully tested communication and addressed any concerns or issues.

“I don’t envision this being a quick process,” said Brigan, “as effective communication is crucial for public safety response.”

initial term of the 2008 use license agreement expired. The team exercised an option to extend the agreement for three years to allow time to develop a plan for a new arena to keep the Thunder in Oklahoma City for 25 years after the new arena opens. In December 2023, Oklahoma City voters overwhelmingly approved a penny sales tax to build a new, publicly-owned arena. The new arena is the fourth downtown arena in city history constructed by the public.

TAX

From Page 1

sales tax and the 4.125% City sales tax, for 17.875%.

If passed, the new rate will take effect Oct. 1, 2024.

“Tourism is a vital part of OKC’s economy and Visit OKC is proud to be the driving force behind growing and promoting our visitor experiences,”

Visit Oklahoma City President Zac Craig said. “OKC has invested billions in world-class infrastructure and facilities, but we need to also scale our destination marketing efforts as we compete with larger peer cities to attract leisure, convention and sports visitors.”

Sports

OSSAA sets new football districts for 2024 season

The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association unveiled new districts for the 2024 and 2025 high school football seasons.

After a court ruling voided amendments to an OSSAA rule focused on private schools, the OSSAA and Oklahoma Football Coaches Association redrew districts to reflect the changes as a number of Fridayland teams are impacted by the alignment changes.

Continued growth in Deer Creek has moved the Antlers into Class 6A, Division I.

They are set to join District 1, along with Bixby, Edmond North, Enid, Jenks, Moore, Mustang and Norman.

PC North stays in 6A-II,

District 2, with Bartlesville, Capitol Hill, Muskogee, PC West, Ponca City, Sand Springs and Sapulpa.

McGuinness, which was originally moved to 6A-II, remains in 5A but moves to District 1 away from previous District 2 rivals Carl Albert and Guthrie.

The Irish compete against Classen SAS, Duncan, Guymon, Lawton MacArthur, Midwest City, Newcastle and Southeast.

John Marshall also joins 5A, but in District 2, with Altus, Carl Albert, El Reno, Guthrie, John Marshall, Lawton, Noble and Western Heights.

In earlier district parings, Heritage Hall moved

OKLAHOMA CITY FRIDAY

Publication No. (USPS 893-600)

PHONE 405-755-3311 • www.okcfriday.com

Official Legal Newspaper For OKLAHOMA, OKLAHOMA CITY and OKLAHOMA COUNTY, including NICHOLS HILLS and THE VILLAGE Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Office of publication, 10801 N. Quail Plaza Drive, P.O. Box 20340, Oklahoma City, OK 73156. FRIDAY is published each Friday by Nichols Hills Publishing Co., Inc. It is an official, legal newspaper, under Oklahoma law, published in Oklahoma County, primarily serving Oklahoma City but also The Village and Nichols Hills. Mail subscription price in county $35. elsewhere in Oklahoma $45, elsewhere U.S. $45. Newsstand price $1.

Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FRIDAY, P.O. Box 20340, Okla. City, OK 73156.

MEMBER: Oklahoma Press Association, National Newspaper Association, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Northwest OKC Chamber of Commerce. Represented nationally by USSPI, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Detroit, Dallas.

Class 6A-I, District 1

Bixby, Deer Creek, Edmond North, Enid, Jenks, Moore, Mustang, Norman

Class 6A-II, District 2

Bartlesville, Capitol Hill, Muskogee, Putnam North, PC West, Ponca City, Sand Springs, Sapulpa

Class 5A, District 1

Classen SAS, Duncan, Guymon, Lawton MacArthur, McGuinness, Midwest City, Newcastle, Southeast

Class 5A, District 2

Altus, Carl Albert, El Reno, Guthrie, John Marshall, Lawton, Noble, Western Heights

jumped up to 4A but returns to 3A, District 1, which includes Anadarko, Kingfisher, North Rock Creek, Pauls Valley, Plainview, Purcell, and Star Spencer.

To accommodate an

Class 3A, District 1

Anadarko, Heritage Hall, Kingfisher, North Rock Creek, Pauls Valley, Plainview, Purcell, Star Spencer

Class 2A-I, District 1

Blackwell, Chisholm, Crooked Oak, Jones, Millwood, Mount St. Mary, OCS, Perry

Class 2A-I, District 2

Crossings Christian, Dickson, Lexington, Lindsay, Little Axe, Marietta, Marlow, Washington

Class 2A-II, District 1 Alva, Casady, Hennessey, Kellyville, Luther, Meeker, Newkirk, Stroud

increased number of teams, the OSSAA split Class 2A into two divisions, and will award a state championship to each division.

Mount St. Mary and Crossings Christian have

Tips for staying hydrated

Summer is marked by hot and humid conditions. After all, the band The Lovin’ Spoonful didn’t sing, “Hot town, summer in the city. Back of my neck getting dirty and gritty” because the summer weather is crisp and cool. Although summer temperatures can make a day at the beach or in the pool ideal, that rising mercury also can contribute to dehydration.

The Mayo Clinic advises that water is critical to every cell, tissue and organ in the human body. The body relies on water to function properly. Water helps to regulate body temperature, flush waste from the body, lubricate and cushion joints, and promote healthy digestion.

So when temperatures climb and the body begins sweating to cool off, it is vital to replenish lost fluids at a faster rate.

The following are six ways to stay properly hydrated to avoid adverse reactions during hot summer days.

• Consume a glass of water when you wake up. Start the day off with some water to give you an energy boost and get your metabolism moving.

• Coffee and tea count toward fluid intake. Drinking your favorite tea or coffee is another way to take in fluids. A 2016 metaanalysis published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport found that caffeine doesn’t contribute to dehydration for healthy adults, so having a cup or two should be fine.

• Certain foods are

been assigned to Division I, while new OSSAA member Casady competes in Division II.

The Rockets, which played in 3A last year, join District 1 with Blackwell, Chisholm, Crooked Oak, Jones, Millwood, Oklahoma Christian School and Perry. The Knights are in District 2, competing against Dickson, Lexington, Lindsay, Little Axe, Marietta, Marlow, and Washington.

The Cylcones jump into District 1, which includes Alva Hennessey, Kellyville, Luther, Meeker, Newkirk and Stroud.

this summer

hydrating as well Hydrating foods include cucumbers, celery, tomatoes, watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit, and peppers. The Mayo Clinic says the average person gets 20 percent of his fluid intake from food.

• Make water more fun. Add unsweetened flavoring to water if you find plain water too bland. You can squeeze in lemon or lime juice, or float cucumber or apple slices in the water for some flavor.

• Reach for caloriefree beverages before food. It’s easy to mistake the signs of dehydration for hunger. By drinking a glass of water or another unsweetened beverage prior to every meal, you can stay hydrated and reduce the amount

of food you eat. This can be part of a healthy weight loss plan.

• Occasionally consume electrolyte powders and drinks. Working out in the heat or sweating profusely can unbalance electrolytes in the body. The Cleveland Clinic says electrolytes are substances that help the body regulate chemical reactions and maintain balance between fluids inside and outside of your cells. They include sodium, calcium and potassium. An electrolyte-infused beverage can help replenish these lost substances. Staying hydrated is essential at all times, but it’s especially important when summer temperatures can make loss of body fluid more significant.

– metrocreativeconnection.com

CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS

CALENDAR

CONCERTS

Sept. 24 • Last Airbender in Concert

Get ready for an unparalleled musical odyssey as Nickelodeon, GEA Live and Senbla proudly present: Avatar: The Last Airbender In Con‐cert. Immerse yourself in an over twohour show with a live orchestra bringing the show’s iconic musical score to life, in perfect harmony with highlights and favorite moments from the series. Taiko and erhu will share the spotlight while the series' most beloved scenes play out on screen. Avatar: The Last Air‐bender In Concert will perform at the Civic Center Music Hall on Sept. 24, at 6:30 pm. Get tickets at OKCBroadway.com by calling (405) 5948300.

THIS WEEKEND

May 30 – June 7 • Softball World Series

The 2024 NCAA Women’s College Softball World Series is at the OGE Energy Field at Devon Park (2801 NE 50th St.). The eight­team field consists of Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Oklahoma State, UCLA, Stanford, Duke and Alabama. Games will be televised on ESPN and ABC. Devon Park operates with a

June 22 • Football Camp

NFL Great Gerald McCoy and his Patricia Diane Foundation will host a free youth football camp on June 22 at Energy FC Field at Taft Stadium for students aged 8­18. Gerald and other NFL veterans will coach participants to learn fundamental skills and NFLinspired drills. All participating campers will receive a t­shirt, post­camp lunch and a goodie bag. The Taft Stadium concession stand will also be open, along with food trucks with food available to purchase. The camp is supported by Gatorade, Quest Nutrition, Swadley’s Bar­B­Q, Jersey Mike’s and Taco Picaso. Once the event is sold out, walk­up participants may register on­site on the day of the event. Registration is available at GeraldMcCoyCamp2024. eventbrite.com.

clear bag policy for all events but permits non­clear small bags 7”x 9” or smaller. The 2024 NCAA Women’s College World Series is a mobile ticket only event. Download the AXS app in the App Store or Google Play before arriving at Devon Park. Show the tickets in your app at the gate for entry. If you’re going with a group, make sure everyone enters together, or transfer tickets to friends before the event.

May 31 – June 2 • Pride on 39th St Visit prideon39th.com to see all the details and events happening this weekend. Opening ceremony is at 6 pm Friday and the Parade is Sunday at 6 pm.

June 1 • Factory Obscura Celebrate Pride on one of OKC’s most

colorful streets, 9th Street. Come for Pride­themed drinks, eats, giveaways, dancing, art, music and more. All are welcome. Events and eats and shopping from 11 am to 10 pm.

June 1 • Wines of the West Come to Historic Stockyards City for the 14th annual Wines of the West! The event is Saturday, from 11 am to 4 pm at The Corral, 2200 Exchange Ave. Attendees will be able to sample different varieties of wine, watch live entertainment and enjoy a Made in Oklahoma Market. Tickets are required for the wine tasting. They are only $20 per person if purchased in advance, or $25 the day of the event. For more information visit stockyardscity. org or call 405­235­7267.

Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com

An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s

By Doris Kearns Goodwin

Doris Kearns Goodwin’s career path as a presidential historian reads as smoothly as her astounding life itself. Accolades to her are many and are as interesting to read as her books. Her first book was Lyndon Johnson and the American Dream which she immediately followed with No Ordinary Time: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt; The Homefront in World War II for which she won a Pulitzer Prize.

Another prestigious award, the Lincoln Prize, followed for the Team of Rivals and another literary prizes came with the Carnegie Medal for The Bully Pulpit about the friendship of Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. Then came Leadership in Turbulent Times where she was the source for a joint venture with Stephen Spielberg and the History Channel in the docuseries on Abraham Lincoln. Her interest in Richard (Dick) Goodwin was during this time, and although they did not marry until later in life, they were married 42 years. He, too, was a brilliant writer of history and became known as a chief speech writer for Kennedy’s New Frontier followed by Johnson’s Great Society. He was also tied to various presidential campaigns working for economic and racial justice. Gifted with humor, political understanding and ability to give his expertise to

Best of the Rest

The 24th annual deadCenter Film Festival is currently underway. Luckily there are still plenty of fantastic films, virtual reality experiences, and filmmaker parties to make this a fabulous, film filled weekend.

Hey Viktor, a hilarious, Canadian mockumentary is screening Saturday, 5 pm, at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Hey Viktor is a comedy co-written and directed by Cody Lightening, an actor who starred in the seminal Native American movie Smoke Signals as a child. The film takes place twenty-five years later, when Lightening decides to end his work drought and solve his marital problems by launching and starring in his own sequel to  Smoke Signals

Secret Mall Apartment is a wonderful documentary about a group of Rhode Island artists who create a secret apartment inside the Providence Place Mall and then live there for four years. The film is directed by Jeremy Workman, who was last at deadCenter in 2018 with his film The World Before Your Feet

Michael Townsend, the leader of the Rhode Island artists that inhabited the mall apartment,

has a strong Oklahoma connection.

Townsend was one of the artists that was visiting Oklahoma when the 1995 bombing took place. He went to local hospitals to draw pictures with the kids and ended up creating murals with tape. He has now expanded that tape art mural program to children’s hospitals across the country. Secret Mall Apartment screens Saturday, 7:30 pm, at Harkins Bricktown, and Sunday, 12:30 pm, at the First Americans Museum.

Twisters Teaser! Thanks to the blockbuster Twisters filming here in Oklahoma, Universal Pictures is showing an advance sequence from the movie exclusively in at deadCenter. The new sequence will be released at Scissortail Park before the rock doc about the Black Keys.

Finally, the Fordson Hotel is hosting a collection of virtual reality films in their ballroom on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm. The virtual experiences include Buried in Rock, cave diving in Northern Ireland; Dani: the Portrait of a Beauty, a Korean love story told through paintings; HunterGatherers, living with the Hazda Tribe in Tanzania; Last We Left Off, a Dungeons and Dragons comedy; and OMRF VR, a look inside the labs at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. deadCenter is Oklahoma’s largest and most exciting film festival. Go discover the magic for yourself!

This is a Film about the Black Keys is exactly what it says, an exciting new documentary about the Grammy award-winning rock band. The film follows musicians Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney as they pair up and rise from small jam band to rock super stardom. From 2011-2013, the band won two Grammy awards for Best Rock Album, two for Best Rock Performance, and one for Best Rock Song. Like all great bands, there are plenty of struggles along the way. This week, they cancelled their North American tour. So, this movie may be your only chance to see the Black Keys this summer. The film screens on Saturday night, 9 pm, at Scissortail Park.

many, he gave his solid loyalty to all of them.

After their marriage, they frequently were able to make new judgments of times and people and take a close look and evaluation of the big names. She dips generously into their files in their works with John Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., Robert Kennedy, Eugene McCarthy, and the strong Lyndon Johnson. In reading of these years, one is marked with respect for these men and women.

It is indeed an honor to see how this unfinished love story for America began and is now left for citizens and students. As some 20 pages of reference and notes relate, this was history as it happened according to those who made it happen. An additional dozen pages of black and white photos prove these events really occurred from the presidential national conventions to

real people and real contributions to America and the citizens who will reap the benefits for years to come. Undoubtedly these are the folks who will close out this love story. That may be the answer. Cheers for Doris and Dick who felt they should “add our voices along with a chorus of firsthand participants and witnesses to the task of restoring a “living history” of that decade allowing us to see what opportunities were seized, mistakes made, chances were lost and what light might be cast on our own fractured time.” They carry forth the belief that the spark of communal idealism and belief that kindled social justice and love makes for a more inclusive vision of America…. and that’s what they could do for their country. So, they did.

Thanks to Full Circle Bookstore for sharing these books with FRIDAY readers.

NHills UMC celebrates 75th with old-fashioned sock hop

By Joy Richardson Special to FRIDAY

Sure wasn’t traditional church music blasting out the door of Nichols Hills United Methodist church on Friday night. It was The Temptations, Elvis and the Beach Boys, and for the most part those were NOT teenagers in saddle oxfords, letter jackets, blue suede shoes and cat eye glasses. Furthering their celebration of 75 years of this church, it coincided with the first ever sock hop — 75 years ago — perfect for a fun party.

Tuck into the “Jeopardy” portion of your head that the FIRST Sock Hop was held to raise money for the Junior Red Cross. Fittingly participants at this 75th celebration tossed money into a basket for the same purpose.

At our household we tugged a vintage letter jacket from the costume box, and not knowing where to find Wildroot Cream Oil (the male hair product of choice in the 50s and 60s) I found something called Ultra Glue Invincible Styling Gel, and transformed my steady boyfriend into a spiky pompadoured ducktailed Elvis — Elvis in his later years. My Poodle skirt would now need to be a Hefty Beagle skirt to cover me, but I get points for wearing husband Jerry’s class ring on a chain around my neckcomplete with the

mandatory tape to make it sized to fit my finger - some of you may remember that.

Creating the party atmosphere was a spinning disco ball, spectacular balloon bridge, cut-outs for photo taking, era-perfect sunglasses for and peoplesized cutouts of the appropriate fashions. There were hamburgers, hot dogs and ice cream sundaes from Freddy’s, and the laughing crowd barely stopped dancing long enough to eat.

Pastor Jim Perkin and his multi-talented family set the tone. That man has moves! His darling wife Mary Lynn and daughters must be professional dancers. We found it hilarious to see the gentleman who is articulate, wise, deeply spiritual and kind in the

pulpit leading us in the stroll! We were amazed that the younger crowd knew how to twist, hand jive, bop — they were

adorable! Chairmen for this year-long 75th celebration are Jami Cravens

See HOP, Page 12

Getting their “Poodle on” are sock hop planners: Kery Mueller, Jami Cravens, Kristen Seikel, Kathy Walker, Michelle Woford, Katherine Buxton and Pastor Jim Perkin.

Bette and Jim McKellar have the best costume box!

Ready to rock are Betsy and Nick Berry.

- Photos by Joy Richardson

(Published

DISTRICT

In Re: The Name of:) Dalton Jake Seagroves) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Dalton Jake Seagroves has petitioned to change his/her name to Jake LaVerne Seagroves. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 13 day of June, 2024, before Judge Ogden at 1:30 o’clock in courtroom 325 at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature By: DEPUTY (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, May 31, 2024)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2024-1315

IN RE: The Name of:) Zareus Isaiah Garcia)

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Zareus Isaiah Garcia has petitioned to change his/her name to Rhen Isaiah Garcia. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 27 day of June, 2024, before Judge Stinson 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 /s/Diane Watson By: DEPUTY (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, May 31, 2024)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2024-1290

In Re: The Name of:) Michael Taylor Chirstesson)

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Michael Taylor Christesson has petitioned to change his/her name to Michael Taylor Giba. A Hearing on said petition is set for 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 11 day of July, 2024, 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/L. Bell By: DEPUTY (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, May 31, 2024)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-1378

In Re: The Name of:) Alex James Snarski) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Alex James Snarski has petitioned to change his/her name to Alex James Honaker. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock

ABSOLUTE REAL ESTATE AUCTION

WED. JUNE 5TH AT 10:00 AM

AUCTION HELD AT: DAKIL AUCTIONEERS, INC. 200 NW 114TH ST, OKC (W. Side Service Rd of the Bdwy Ext. between 122nd & Hefner) ALL FIVE PROPERTIES SOLD FOR ONE PRICE —SOLD ABSOLUTE. These can be viewed from exterior only

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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.

if they don’t take our advice, it’s not our fault. EMAIL YOUR OPINION to: vicki@okcfriday.com

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer

May is the peak month for all tornadoes in Oklahoma City and we can proudly lay claim to the world’s best reality television during severe storms. When the weather gets to rumbling every one of our local television stations go live with outstanding weather depart-

ments providing news that save lives with their reporting.

I’ve been around for a long time having grown up in Oklahoma City with weathermen like KFOR’s Jim Williams, KOCO’s Fred Norman and Ross Dixon, and KWTV’s own Lola Hall and Gary England. These pioneers set the stage for what has become what I contend is

the home of America’s best weather experts and storm chasers. They know their stuff. Period.

Being on a television weather team in Oklahoma City is considered by those in the know as the best weather job in America. Our wild variations of weather extremes from winter blizzards to violent tornadoes are the envy of meteorologists across the country. Imagine being stuck at a weather station in Phoenix – hot and dry, day in and day out.

They’re all excel-

lent stewards of our safety during violent tornadoes.

Channel 4’s Mike Morgan, Channel 5’s Damon Lane, and good ol’ David Payne at Channel 9 are the best in the business. We all have our favorites; I just happen to be a David Payne fan. He means business. We’ve all been taught to be “weather aware” during tornado season in Oklahoma. So, when severe storms are eminent, we can turn on the television and with pinpoint accuracy know exactly the

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Dear Discouraged: Yes. You have many options and mindlessly following doctors' orders is one of them. Another choice is to research what steps would reduce your A1C. Lose weight. Walk two miles a day. Take a physicianendorsed class such as Well-

track of the storm, when it will arrive, where a tornado is and where it’s headed. Still amazes me.

Oklahoma tornado season is so significant that a new variety of tourism with professional storm chaser guides attracts hundreds every year from all over the world looking to experience what we’re trying to avoid. Sometimes these adventurers get in the way of our real storm chasers out to protect us. The release of the new “Twisters” movie this summer will only increase this trend.

ness and Longevity’s “ReStart Program” which is also available in VillagesOKC offices. Prime Health Associates is another physician-led organization that will do a deep dive into your lab results and work WITH you to help you achieve changes with minimal medications. We are fortunate to have medications available that extend and save lives. But a better solution is to work with physicians who will help your body restore optimum health. - Courtesy VillagesOKC www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637

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So, thanks to the folks at the 4Warn Storm Team, KOCO First Alert Storm Team, FOX 25 Storm Watch Weather Team and the News 9 Weather Team for your dedication, long hours and hard work for us. When the storms are rolling in, get to the living room for some more reality television and be thankful for our weather teams in Oklahoma City that keep us safe and save lives. The best in the world.

Stanton Young Award / D-DENT Fundraiser

Dr. Halliday receives Stanton Young Award

Fridaylanders gathered at the University of Oklahoma to honor Dr. Nancy Halliday who was presented with the Stanton L. Young Master Teacher award from the OU College of Medicine.

At right, Claire Foltz, Stephen Young, Matt Kelly and Anna Young.

D-DENT hosts inaugural BBQ, Boots & Brews fundraiser

D-DENT sponsored its first-ever BBQ and brew competition as an annual fundraiser at the Harn Homestead in Oklahoma City.

Everyone polished their boots, jumped into their best denim jeans and brought along the cowboy hats.

The event provided D-DENT with the necessary monies to continue assisting those in need of dental treatment – including seniors, veterans, those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and those with life threatening illnesses.

The event was full of excitement as each person sampled incredible BBQ from Blake’s BBQ, #1 BBQ and Burgers and Oklahoma Smoke. Each vendor selected their individual best BBQ to serve.

Patrons sampled delicious dishes, including pulled pork with cheesy potatoes, ribs with mac and cheese and pork tacos sided with sweet potato casserole.

Oklahoma Smoke emerged from the fierce competition with their first-place win of ribs with mac and cheese.

Little Mike’s Hamburgers provided

dessert for the evening – peach, cherry and apple fried pies with whipped cream.

Later in the evening, competition turned to the three Oklahoma breweries and their individual choices, as each one brought several samples of the very best beers their organizations have to offer.

Vendors included Anthem Brewing, Lively Beer Works and American Solera, which won the top prize for best brew.

Dane Spain, an individual with physical disabilities, served as guest speaker for the event. He spoke about adversity and never giving up.

Spain also assisted with award presentations to the night’s biggest honoree, Dr. Adam Brewer. Dr. Brewer has served D-DENT faithfully since 2009. His accomplishments include providing free dental care to almost 20 individuals per year with a total donated dental value of $703,115.

Also honored were Shirley Harris for her unwavering dedication to D-DENT for 27 plus years as executive

director. In addition, Dr. J. Don Harris was honored for founding D-DENT 38 years ago and continuing to support D-DENT in every way possible.

The 2nd Chance Band, which performs regularly at Hollywood Corners in Norman and is comprised of veterans, provided entertainment along with Kara Cochran.

The Line Dance Troop from the Healthy Living Center on North Rockwell also taught line dancing and two stepping for all that chose to partake.

About D-DENT: DDENT is a non-profit organization that provides free comprehensive dental care through a network of volunteer dental professionals for individuals with IDD, the elderly, veterans and those with life threatening illnesses residing in Oklahoma. D-DENT volunteer dentist work from the comfort of their private dental clinics. D-DENT pays any dental laboratory fees the dentist may incur during the patient’s dental restoration. For more information or to make a donation contact DDENT at 405-424-8092 or visit their website at www.d-dentok.org.

D-DENT staff member Karen Chadwell honors founder Dr. J. Don Harris at the organization’s BBQ Boots & Brews fundraiser. At right, Oklahoma Smoke won the cooking competition with their dish of ribs with mac and cheese. Below, staff members Kiera Powell and Catherine (Cat) Ellis show off their dance movies as 2nd Chance Band provided entertainment.

Above,

Supporting the OU College of Medicine are, from left, Christopher Lloyd, Erik Salazar, Peter and Hillary Farrell, Clay and Becky Taylor, and Lauren and Rich Johnson.

- Photos by Fran Kozakowski

Dr. Nancy Halliday makes remarks after receiving the Stanton L. Young Master Teacher Award from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.

Above, BancFirst chairman emeritus Gene Rainbolt with Charlotte Lankard. At right, former OKC council member Meg Salyer joins Oklahoma Center for Nonprofit’s Marnie Taylor and Clayton Taylor at the Stanton L. Young Master Teacher Award gala.

Jill and Thane Swisher.

Salvation Army

Celebration of Hope raises nearly $1 million

The Salvation Army of Central Oklahoma Celebration of Hope Gala raised nearly $1 million to support its local programs.

Hosted by The Salvation Army’s Advisory Board and Women’s Auxiliary. The event brought together nearly 800 community members to celebrate the impactful ministries of The Salvation Army. The organization interviewed Tom Selleck as its special guest speaker.

The funds that were generated are critical to sustain and expand its efforts to serve those in need within Central Oklahoma. The money supports a range of programs, including emergency shelters, food distribution, youth services, and disaster relief efforts.

Captain Jamie Clay, area commander of The Salvation Army of Central Oklahoma, expressed her gratitude, “We are deeply

thankful to everyone who attended and supported the Celebration of Hope Gala. The funds raised will enable us to continue providing essential services for the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The Salvation Army encourages anyone who would like to contribute to visit its website at tsaok.org. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us continue doing the most good.

HOP

From Page 7

and Kathy Walker. But if you're planning year-long fun with impish ideas, you’ve got to break it down. Imaginative, hard-working, idea-filled with a dash of silly were chairmen of this event: Michelle Woford, Kristen Seikel, Kery Mueller and Katherine Buxton - who brought it all together tied up with a big bow of precious! They went all-out in ‘50s poodle wear, pony tails, bows and glasses - as if they knew anything about all that. But their parents, did!

You’d have blackmail material if I shared all my photos, but suffice it to say those on the dance floor got into it. Among the many dancers: Bette and Jim MacKellar, Linda and Ken Howell, Becky and Jim Buchanan, Lida Elkins, Betsy and Nick Berry, Marty and Robert Margo, Ann and Ruben Millerborg and Kent Campbell. Munching on sundaes were Kathy and Russ Walker, Jami and Mark Cravens, Jane Rauh and Don

and Dennis Bradford, Barb

Wilson, Sally Stringer, Deloris

Hay, Anne and Win Holbrook, Pama and Mike Palmer, Charlette Perryman, Marty and Hoffie Smith, Helen Sullivan and Jennifer and Lew McGinnis. Children and grandchildren stole the show with their energy in dancing and giggles, don’t you imagine they had questions as to why “those ladies had DOGS on their skirts?” It was multil-generational fun - but we all acted like kids.

Mike and Pama Palmer silly it up at the Nichols Hills United Methodist church sock hop.

Above: Actor Tom Seclleck was the special guest speaker for the Salvation Army’s Celebration of Hope. Below: Kristi Hall and long-time Salvation Army Auxiliary member Annette Basey.

Above: Tricia Everest and Judy Love. At left: Governor Frank and Cathy Keating, with their son Chip Keating, are honored by the Salvation Army.

Above: Joseph Palmer, Annie Perkins, Captain Jamie Clay and Captain Russell Clay. At left: Shelly Tubbs and Jill Walker.

- Photos by Fran Kozakowski