06-09-23 Print Replica

Musician of the Year

OKCPHIL Artistic Director Alexander Mickelthwate, right, is presented a proclamation from Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt by the Ladies Music Club President Diane King. He was named Musician of the Year by the club.

Goddard names center after Ron Allie

Heritage Hall Middle School faculty and staff have collaborated with Goddard Youth Camp in Sulphur to honor former Middle School Head Ron Allie through the dedication of the Ron Allie Activity Center on the camp’s grounds.

Allie served as Heritage Hall’s Middle School Head from 1978 to 2021. During his tenure as an administrator, Allie accompanied hundreds of Heritage Hall fifth graders to Goddard Youth Camp. Since 1976, the annual visit to Goddard has been a highlight of the fifth grade experience, and for Allie, going to camp ranked high among his favorite activities with students. In honor of Allie’s retirement in 2021, Middle School

faculty and staff aimed to recognize Allie’s decades-long commitment to providing students the enriching experience of hands-on learning in one of nature’s most inviting classrooms.

“Dedicated May 9,

Page 13

Graduates are concerned over prominence of technology

By Annabella Potts Student Intern

The Class of 2023 is troubled with the rise of social media and technological advancements, social polarization and declining mental health among their peers.

OKC FRIDAY asked our local All-Star Scholarship and Leadership Teams from the special May 26 Class of 2023 tabloid to address some of the greatest issues facing their generation.

With such a reliance on social media and technology, students expressed discontent with the isolating experience of communicating through screens. Many graduates feel unaligned with the present, as Sydney Brown from Mount St. Mary Catholic High School explained.

“I believe social media is a concern that is unfortunately creating many problems in my generation,” Brown said. “Teens are believing the lies told to them from behind their screens and it’s made it impossible to truly experience life without the distraction of a phone or needing to capture the given moment.”

2023, the Ron Allie Activity Center proudly bears the name of a venerable educator and one of Goddard Youth Camp’s most ardent supporters,” said the camp’s director, Clayton Edgar, who presented Allie

with a proclamation of the building’s naming. Attending the presentation were Allie’s wife, Betsy, and longtime fifth grade teachers and faculty campers, Holly Carlin ’89 and Connie Martin.

Putnam City North High School graduate Piper Bush said the lack of regulation across various social media platforms opens up a dangerous space online.

“Although social media can be great for the spread of new ideas, its power to influence persons of all ages, particularly our youth, is enormous,” Bush said. “Without appropriate safeguards, information is available at inappropriate ages and unrealistic expectations are set for

See CONCERNS, Page 7

County Assessor Stein details property statistics for Village

By Mike W. Ray Staff Writer

The Village has 4,932 residential properties, but only 1,812 of them have filed for a homestead exemption, Oklahoma County Assessor Larry Stein revealed Monday night during a presentation to the City Council.

Approximately 2,100 households in The Village are

single occupants, former City Manager Bruce Stone said.

Besides the residences, The Village also has 118 commercial properties and an OG&E substation, Stein said.

More than 410 residents of the community have claimed a “senior freeze” on their property taxes, he said; the assessed value of their homes has been frozen, based on their household income. These

are property owners who are at least 65 years of age and have total household income of less than $85,300 – an amount that increased 16.5% last year, Stein said.

The market value of all property inside the two and a half square-mile city limits of the community in northwest Oklahoma City is $914 million and the value of all property in The Village that is assessed

FRIDAY’s Dogs of the Week

Winnie, 5 months, and Willow, 3 years, are both Mini Golden Doodles. Willow likes to greet her family at the door by grabbing a toy and wiggling in a circle. Winnie tries her best to speak and tell her family how much she missed them when they return. They are fun, sweet, snuggly pups that are best friends to Katy, Stella and Tess Boren of Oklahoma City.

Email Dog, Cat, Pet and Baby of the Week nominations with complete descriptions to rose@okcfriday.com. Submissions are used in the order they are received.

for ad valorem purposes is $852.5 million, the assessor reported.

Oklahoma County encompasses 720 square miles and has 19 cities and towns, Stein said.

The county has 282,592 residential properties, 15,470 commercial properties, 6,177 industrial properties, 3,035 agricultural properties and 630 public service properties,

records reflect.

More than 110,400 homeowners filed for a homestead exemption and more than 20,300 claim the ad valorem “senior freeze.” Oklahoma County also has almost 15,000 parcels of land that are exempt from property taxes, Stein said; these include schools, government buildings,

See VILLAGE, Page 5

Wegeners are Renaissance Ball co-chairs

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) announced the 47th Renaissance Ball is to be held on Friday, Sept. 8, at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club, 7 p.m. until midnight.

Bobby and Meredith Wegener are the co-chairmen of this year’s blacktie gala and the theme is to reflect the museum’s summer exhibition –“True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism.”

“Renaissance Ball has served as one of the premier events in Oklahoma City and has kicked off the social season for 46 years on the first Friday after Labor Day,” said Museum CEO and President Michael Anderson, Ph.D.

The ball is a critical part of the museum’s fundraising efforts and provides a major source of support for exhibitions, film and educational programs.”

The evening is to feature an open bar cocktail reception followed by an elegant dinner. The late-night celebration, a separately ticketed event, is set to begin at 9:30 p.m. with an open bar and refreshments continuing until midnight.

“We are thrilled to be chairing this year’s event,” Bobby Wegener said. “Without community support, the museum isn’t able to bring blockbuster exhibitions, such as See BALL, Page

From left: Goddard Youth Camp director Clayton Edgar, Connie Martin, Holly Carlin ’89, Ron Allie, Betsy Allie and Wayne Edgar, former camp director.

Fashion Editor Jennifer Clark helps us Shop the Look with styles from Pearl by Lela Rose styled by Cindi Shelby, CK & Co., Krista Anne’s Boutique and the Women’s Health Boutique.

Crescendo honors Dr. Randi Von Ellefson

Robert Lintner, Lexi Skaggs, Terry Donsoulin and Dennis Maran are ready to enjoy the Crescendo concert presented by Canter bury Voices. The Oklahoma History Center hosted the evening of music.

director for 19 years, this was Ellefson’s final concert.

Enjoying the Canterbury concert are, clockwise, starting at left: Luke and Miki Homes; daughter and mom making good on a birthday present, Tracy Ratliff and Luel Crawford; Jeff and Charissa Spruill; and Lisa Love and Oklahoma City University Associate Dean of Music Mark Belcik.

Dr. Randi Von Ellefson, right, is presented the Myles Criss Visionary Award by Canterbury  Voices Board President Mark Clayborne, left, during Crescendo: An Evening with Canterbury. After serving as the artistic

- Photos by Rose Lane

Kelly Moore, Canterbury’s marketing and ticketing manager, toasts Dr. Randi Von Ellefson with Rachel and Jeremy Wilcox.

Club honors Alexander Mickelthwate

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‘True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism,’ to our community, or offer programming that my family has enjoyed over the years.

“I invite the Oklahoma City community to join us in celebrating and supporting the arts by attending the 47th Renaissance Ball in September.”

The Wegeners have been OKCMOA members since 2009, co-chaired last year’s gala and currently participate at the Museum’s Friends membership level. Bobby Wegener is managing partner at MAP Energy, LLC, and served as the state of Oklahoma secretary of energy from 2008-2011. Meredith Wegener is a professor, the B.C. Clark Chair in Legal Studies and Director of Energy Programs at Oklahoma City University.

Renaissance Ball Co-Chairmen Bobby and Meredith Wegener, Mark and Julie Beffort and Oklahoma City Museum of Art President and CEO Dr. Michael Anderson.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities and benefits, please contact Sara Miller at smiller@okcmoa.com or (405) 278-8216, or visit the museum’s website to download a commitment form.

OKCPHIL Artistic Director Alexander Mickelthwate, right, is introduced as Musician of the Year by the Ladies Music Club’s Connie Sallee during a luncheon at the Wanda L. Bass Atrium on the campus of Oklahoma City University. Sallee presented Mickelthwate with a custom case for his baton.

- Photos by Rose Lane

Above: Diamond Horn, Barbara McMullin and Harold Watson at the Ladies Music Club’s Spring Luncheon and Guest Artist presentation. Canterbury Chamber Voices performed a concert for those in attendance. At left: Club President Diane King and Sandia Thompson.

FUNDRAISERS

June 24 • Purple Sash YWCA’s 20th Annual Purple Sash Gala is at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum at 6 pm. Enjoy dinner, runway show and auctions benefiting the YWCA and its programs. For tickets and details visit purplesash.org.

Aug. 12 • Back to the Ballroom Children’s Health Foundation’s 15th Annual Dancing for a Miracle is Aug. 12 at the Embassy Suites, 2501 Conference Dr. in Norman. The evening begins with a 6 pm cocktail reception and silent auction followed by a seated dinner, live auction, program and celebrity dance competition. Make your reservations early at okchf.ejoinme.org/dfa m2023.

THIS WEEKEND

June 9­11 • Affair of the Heart

Each year, patrons make their way to An Affair of the Heart where they are treated to one of the largest craft shows in the Southwest featuring exhibitors from over 30 states displaying antiques, collectibles and handmade items. The show features items including quilts, antique furniture, baskets, dried flower arrangements, sten­

June 22 • ArtNow: The Soul Is a Wanderer

From June 22 through Jan. 15, 2024 this Oklahoma Contemporary exhibition will be in the Eleanor Kirkpatrick Main Gallery. The Soul is a Wanderer highlights new and recent art from a selection of artists active in the state. Together, the works in The Soul Is a Wanderer evoke the landscape of Oklahoma — its topography and our shared reality — as a site for questioning, dreaming and action. The ArtNow Party with a Purpose is June 22 from 6 – 9 pm for $100 which includes a performance, open bar, hors d’oeuvres and entry into Late Night on the Terrace from 9 – 11 pm. Single admission to Late Night is $40 and includes beer, wine, light bits and dancing. Go to oklahomacontemporary.org for tickets and details.

ciling, wooden and painted folk art, Belgian lace pictures, antique jewelry, toys, dolls, stoneware, clothing, patio and garden items, watercolor paintings and much more at the State Fair Park. Hours are June 9 and 10 ­ 9 am to 6 pm and Sunday, June 11, 11 am to 5 pm.

June 9 • Wheeler District Farmers Market

The Wheeler District Farmers Market is located in the heart of Wheeler District, just south of downtown Oklahoma City. Enjoy shopping for fresh produce, baked goods, pantry staples, and more from local vendors in a family friendly market environment. Every Friday, the streets of the district will be lined with homegrown, handmade, and artisan created goods from all over Oklahoma. The Wheeler District Farmers Market

Paycom Center Events/Shows: PBR Freedom Fest ­ Sept. 8­10

Jelly Roll ­ Sept. 19

Koe Wetzel ­ Sept. 30

ODESZA ­ Oct. 12

Jason

Erica Tremblay Named Film ICON

Erica Tremblay, an award-winning filmmaker and citizen of the Seneca Cayuga Nation of Oklahoma, has been selected as the 2023 Oklahoma Film ICON by the deadCenter Film Festival. Tremblay is the writer and director of the closing night film, Fancy Dance, which will screen at the First Americans Museum at 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 11, with a reception beforehand hosted by the Cherokee Nation Film Office.

will be held every Friday night May 5 through October 27 from 6 – 9 pm.

June 10 • Roller Derby Twister City Roller Derby is bringing in two fierce competitors for this thrilling June double header. The Victory All­Star Squad will take on the Kansas City Roller Warriors and Tornado Alley will take on Rocktown Roller Derby. Come on down to Arctic Edge Ice Arena Saturday, June 10. Doors will open at 5 pm and the first bout will start at 5:30 pm. However, before the first bout there will also be a special Junior scrimmage at 4:15 pm, the first of the year for the Dust Devils.

June 10 •

Weezer OKC Zoo Amphitheatre welcomes Weezer with guests Modest Mouse & Momma at 7 pm.

Erica Tremblay is a film and television writer, director, and producer who was raised in Oklahoma and now lives in upstate New York on her ancestral land on Cayuga Lake. Her short film Little Chief premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival and was included on IndieWire’s top-10 list of must-see short films at the festival. In 2021, her first feature film project, Fancy Dance, was accepted into the Sundance Directors & Screenwriters Labs. From there, she was hired as executive story editor on the television series Dark Winds, produced by George R.R. Martin & Robert Redford.

Tremblay’s most recent work has been in collaboration with Sterlin Harjo, the creator of the Oklahoma filmed television series Reservation Dogs and 2014 winner of the very same Oklahoma Film Icon Award. Tremblay joined

Reservation Dogs as executive story editor for season two and ended up directing her first tv episode. For season three, she will both Executive Produce and direct. Tremblay and Harjo are currently partnering to adapt the Pulitzer Prize finalist novel Yellowbird (2014) into a series for Paramount+.

Fancy Dance, Tremblay’s first feature film, is a Native drama filmed on location in Oklahoma. After her sister’s disappearance, a Native American hustler played by Lily Gladstone, star of the upcoming epic Killers of the Flower Moon kidnaps her niece from the girl’s white grandparents and sets out for a powwow in an effort to keep what is left of her family intact.  Fancy Dance premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize, then screened at SXSW, where it was nominated for the Audience Award. The film also won Best Narrative Feature at the Sun Valley Film Festival.

Nick Demos, the Tony and Olivier Award-winning producer of Memphis and Come From Away, and

the former artistic director of Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, returns to deadCenter for the second time with the world premiere of his new documentary about body image in the LGBTQ community called The Body Electric That film screens Saturday night at 8:00pm at the OKC Museum of Art, followed by a Q&A with City Councilman and film professor James Cooper Andrew Bowser returns to deadCenter with a wild, monster filled feature called Onyx the Fortuitous and the Tailsman of Souls. Bowser won Best Narrative Feature in 2013 with his feature film WORM, filmed on location in Guthrie and produced by Oklahoma filmmakers J.D. Woods and Ian van Woods WORM was made using one continuous shot from a Go Pro camera. It is still one of the most impressive films I have ever seen. WORM screens Friday at 10:00pm and Saturday at 8:30pm, both times at Harkins Bricktown Cinemas. The 2023 deadCenter Film Festival will be held across multiple venues in downtown OKC, hosting 160+ films, nightly parties, and offering various filmmaker discussions, panels and industry events. To purchase festival passes, see the list of films, or review the schedule, please visit www.deadcenterfilm.org

D-DENT 24th Annual Golf Tournament

D-DENT, Inc., Dentists for the Disabled and Elderly in Need of Treatment, is planning their 24th Annual Golf fundraising event on Monday, June 19, 2023 at the River Oaks Golf Club, 10909 Clubhouse Rd., in Edmond. The event centers around Veterans, who have committed so much of themselves for all of us.

D-DENT, Inc. is a local non-profit 501(c)3 organization that offers free restorative dental care to Veterans who do not qualify for dental benefits through the Veterans Administration.

In addition to Veterans, D-DENT offers free dental care to low-income, uninsured seniors (60 plus), intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals and people who are experiencing oral problems as a result of life-threatening diseases, like oral can-

cer. D-DENT is celebrating 37 years of providing free comprehensive restorative and preventative oral care services, statewide.

Karen Chadwell, Executive Director of D-DENT, Inc. describes DDENT’s restorative program as follows: “Our program provides the dental services at no cost to the patients and are made possible by volunteer professionals and their support staff, in the convenience of their own clinics. Any laboratory costs associated with the restoration process are paid by D-DENT. Restorative volunteer services include the exam plus cleanings, fillings, extractions, bridges, crowns, root canals and dentures. So many times, we will have people come in who have only two or three teeth in their mouth. But

for many people, when it’s the difference between eating or getting their medication, people let their teeth go. With the help of our volunteer dentists and their support staff, people have been observed to have less pain related to acute/chronic oral health conditions, improved chewing abilities, an improved self-image, and improved overall health.

“In addition, D-DENT offers preventative educational programs to help people understand and maintain their oral health,” said Chadwell.

The event raises about 5% of the organization’s budget and will begin with a sendoff from The Sons of the American Revolution presenting the Color Guard and Pledge of Allegiance. The tournament begins at 7:30 am for registration and has an 8:30

am shotgun start. The tourney includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, breakfast and lunch. The cost to participate runs $150 per player or $600 per team. For our Veterans, the cost runs $125 per player or $500 per team. We welcome Veteran team sponsorships ($500 per team) as well as hole sponsorships starting at $500. Other levels of sponsorship are available on the website, www.d-dentok.org. All sponsorships will be matched dollar for dollar up to $10,000 through a generous gift from the Carl C. Anderson, Sr. & Marie Jo Anderson Charitable Foundation.

Contact information for D-DENT, Inc., 3000 United Founders Blvd., Ste. 116, Oklahoma City, OK 73112. The telephone number to call is (405) 4248092.

Variety of topics come before council

By Mike W. Ray Staff Writer

Miscellaneous topics discussed Monday night during The Village City Council meeting were the annual city budget, speeders, and the OKC Pride Parade.

Karen Benson asked the council to consider adding a stop sign at Andover and Stratford.

“That area has become a ridiculous speedway,” she said. There’s a crosswalk along with a stop sign on one side of the intersection but not the other, “so drivers just ignore the one that’s there.”

“We will register this with our traffic department,” Mayor Bubba Symes vowed.

City Manager Dave Slezickey gave the council an overview of the proposed $33.5 million city budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24.

“Do we have enough income without dipping into our reserve funds?” the mayor asked.

“We do,” the city manager replied.

Councilwoman Melodie Moore announced that she participated Sunday in the OKC Pride Parade on NW 39th Street, “and I wanted you to know how welcoming everyone was,” she said. “I walked 18,000 steps yesterday.”

“I have a trans brother in Tulsa” and several other relatives who are gay, she

VILLAGE

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churches, parks, and the State Capitol Complex.

Nevertheless, more than 22% of the total ad valorem property tax base among the 77 counties of this state is in Oklahoma County, Stein said.

More than 82% of the Oklahoma County budget is created by property taxes, he said. And the Oklahoma County jail is the only one in the state whose operations aren’t financed with a sales tax, he said.

The Oklahoma County Assessor’s Office is responsible for “accurate-

Wynn Construction crews were busy Tuesday laying a stormwater drainage line between the Bruce K. Stone Municipal Building and the pavilion that’s under construction to the east in The Village. The new line will route runoff rainwater from the City Hall complex and the pavilion area to the drainage channel on Vineyard Boulevard.

said. “LGBTQ+ individuals are people, too.”

“I have a gay son” who lives in California with his partner, Mayor Symes said.“It’s been interesting. It’s been eye-opening. We love them both.”

The Village has a “significant” gay community, Councilman Sean Cummings said.

ly determining market values for more than 325,000 accounts,” Stein said.

By law the county assessor is required to conduct a visual inspection of every piece of property once every four years.

“We’re conducting about 87,000 field inspections every year, with a staff of fewer than 40 people,” he said.

The assessor also told about a new service –“alert.okcc.online” –which will “notify you if anyone files with our office a document that contains your name.” The service is intended to deter and expose fraud, Stein said.

He related one such incident that occurred in The Village.

A woman who previously lived in The Village moved to California 20 years ago but maintained ownership of her house. Her brother was driving by the house one day and saw a couple entering the residence. He stopped and asked what they were doing.

“We just bought this house!” the excited couple said.

Someone had filed “a fraudulent deed with a fraudulent notary,” Stein said. Consequently, the woman’s brother “had to hire an attorney and go to court to get the property back.”

- Photo by Mike W. Ray

Sports Weekly

Bears welcome new football coach Malcolm Mack

After more than two decades on the sidelines, Malcolm Mack returns to a familiar place for his first head coaching job.

Mack comes back home to John Marshall as the Bears’ next head football coach. A 1986 JM graduate, he graduated from UCO in 1999 and began his coaching career at East Central in Ada.

Returning to high school after nearly a decade as a college coach, Mack made stops at Perry, Bristow, Millwood and Edmond North with his longest tenure of 15 years as the defensive coordinator at Millwood.

In those 15 years, the Falcons collected nine district titles and multiple trips to the playoffs, culiminating in back-to-back state championships.

Mack also serves as an Oklahoma history teacher and enjoys gardening in his spare time.

The long-time coach believes, “that in time no one will remember the Friday night scores but they will remember how you made a difference in someone’s life.”

Mack and his wife Melanie have three children and two nieces.

OKC Parks hosts ‘Family Tree’ golf tourney

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.

Golfers of all ages and skill levels are invited to celebrate Father’s Day weekend with their families by playing in Oklahoma City’s Parks Department’s first multigenerational golf tournament at Lake Hefner Golf Club, 4491 Lake Hefner Dr., on Saturday, June 17.

“Our ‘Family Tree’ golf tournament is Oklahoma City Park’s first multigenerational tournament, and it’s a great way to kick off summer,” said Oklahoma City Parks Golf

‘FAMILY TREE’ TOURNEY

When: Saturday, June 17

Where: Lake Hefner Golf Club, 4491 Lake Hefner Dr.

Cost: $150 team of 3; $200 team of 4

Who can play: Grandparents, parents, and children can play in a scramble tournament

More information: okc.gov/parks

Trust Specialist Sean Simpson.

“Our goal is to make this a family tradition and foster quality time in a competitive environ-

ment. We want families to get out on the course and have a great time together.”

Grandparents, parents, and children can compete in a scramble tournament for trophies and prizes, with tee times beginning at 8 a.m.

Cost is $150 for a team of three and $200 for four players. For more information about Lake Hefner Golf Course, please visit okc.gov/parks.

Cyclones grab walk-off win over Cashion in summer league

With two outs in a tie game, Casady’s Henry Lewis belted a ground ball to the shortstop who mishandled the ball and allowed Andrew Fitzpatrick to score the goahead run in a 5-4 victory over Cashion in the first game of a summer league doubleheader last Monday.

The Cyclones got on the board quickly with three runs in the top of the first inning.

Four players recorded hits in the win, led by Bolen McKellar and Marcus Budd who combined for three runs batted in.

Cade Vesta and Micah White added two singles and scored a run each for the Cyclones (1-3).

McKellar also picked up the pitching victory, allowing four runs on eight hits and collected six strikeouts over five innings.

In the nightcap, Casady’s bat fell silent as the Cyclones didn’t record a hit but were hampred by two errors in a 9-0 setback to Cashion.

Budd got roughed up for seven runs on six hits in 1-2/3 innings.

This Monday, Casady visits Bethany for a doubleheader starting at 5 p.m.

KNIGHTS FALL TO BRONCHOS

Falling behind early, Crossings Christian never recovered in an 8-2 loss at Bethany in summer league.

Carson Baugh and Cade Winestroer accounted for both hits, as Winestroer smacked a double to drive in a run.

Pitcher Alex Foraker surrendered four runs on three hits and struck out one in the losing effort.

New John Marshall football coach Malcolm Mack examines the workout facilities.

New John Marshall football coach Malcolm Mack, left, is welcomed to the school by principal Rochelle Conner and athletic director Kevin Myers.

Science Museum OK to offer fun and games for the 21+

Get ready for a thrilling night of nostalgia and fun at SMO21: Game On!

On Friday, June 16, the Science Museum Oklahoma’s adults-only (21+) event, SMO21, turns back the clock and with an evening filled with the games many grew up loving.

From pixelated classics to the latest board game sensations, SMO21: Game On! promises an unforgettable adventure as favorite games come to life. From card games to board games to role-playing games, SMO21 is to have something for everyone.

“Games were such a huge part of my life when I was younger!” said Science Museum

CONCERNS

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young women, which is detrimental to our society as a whole.”

Price Collier of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School believes the gradual implementation of artificial intelligence into society is to be a long-standing battle, as this recent technological advancement may take over certain jobs.

“Maintaining employment will soon require intentional and diligent restrictions on A.I. across all aspects of the economy and society,” Collier said. “A.I. holds countless answers to our problems while creating countless more.”

A lack of proper communication has many graduates concerned for their peers' mental health. Sabrina Guzman

Oklahoma educator Sarah Shafer. “Being a gamer doesn’t always look the same from person to person and we are super excited to offer activities that appeal to gamers of all types!

From giant ravenous pachyderms to RPG character design, we got something for everyone.

During SMO21 events, the museum is in full swing giving guests the opportunity to explore the museum’s exhibits, shows and galleries. All guests will enjoy themed activities, great music and a cash bar with beer, wine and signature cocktails.

Pavlov’s Café will be open for guests who work up an appetite.

Those purchasing VIP tickets have exclusive access to the SMO

from Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School thinks their generation is more prone to hiding their true emotions.

“Technology has saved, but also destroyed communication through social media and text messages in general,” Guzman said. “It’s simple to write ‘I’m fine’ behind a mask when your world might be crumbling down. This generation is relying on hiding behind a screen rather than revealing ourselves.”

The link between a constant online presence and poor mental health is yet another of the Class of 2023’s concerns. Mount St. Mary’s graduate Jane Ertl shared her opinion on the matter.

“The way we treat others is a direct reflection of how we treat ourselves, and consuming toxic media causes negative thoughts, which spark

Barcade for a night of special activities, a free signature cocktail, discounted refills and early access.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of the event. VIP tickets are $35 when purchased in advance and $40 at the door. This event is expected to sell out so purchasing tickets in advance is encouraged.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for those with VIP tickets and 7 p.m. for general admission. Ticket sales end at 7:30 p.m. No outside food or drink are permitted for adult events. There will be no reentry for this event.

For more information about SMO21 or to purchase tickets, visit smo.org/smo21.

negative actions toward ourselves and others,” Ertl said.

Heritage Hall graduate Sofia Tipple thinks the spread of misinformation and political polarization brought on by social media creates a negative mindset.

“There is a lack of collaboration between people with different beliefs, which increases hatred and isolation,” said Tipple. “This means that no progress can be made because no one can agree on any issue.”

With the constant overflow of opinions,

entertainment and information from the media, students can get caught up in everything, but forming human connections. Meera Patel of Heritage Hall said this is her greatest concern.

“Despite the world becoming increasingly connected through technology and social media, we, as individuals, are disconnected,” said Patel. “There is a lack of proper communication and empathy. Everyone is always talking and sharing their ideas, but no one seems to be listening.”

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 9, 2023; Friday, June 16, 2023)

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No.PB-2023-654 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE) OF MARILYN GAYE BARNARD,) Deceased.)

NOTICE OF HEARING PETITION FOR PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE, DETERMINATION OF HEIRS, DEVISEES AND LEGATEES AND TERMINATION OF JOINT TENANCY

Notice is hereby given to all persons interested in the Estate of MARILYN GAYE BARNARD, Deceased, that on the 25th of May, 2023, there was produced and filed in the District Court of Oklahoma County, State of Oklahoma, and instrument purporting to be the Will of MARILYN GAYE BARNARD, deceased, dated July 19, 2012, and there was also filed in the Court the Petition of ZACH BARNARD a/k/a ZACHARY RONELDRIGE BARNARD praying that the Will be admitted to probate, Letters Testamentary issued to ZACH BARNARD, a/k/a ZACHARY RONELDRIGE BARNARD as Personal Representative of the Estate, to serve without bond, for a judicial determination of the heirs, devisees and legatees of the Decedent.

Pursuant to an Order of this Court made on the 25 day of May, 2023, notice is given that the 27 day of June, 2023, at 1:30 o’clock p.m., is the day and time that the Petition will be heard in the District Courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse, 320 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Oklahoma City, OK, 73102, and all persons interested may appear and contest the same.

Witness, the undersigned, Judge of the District Court of the District Court of Oklahoma County, State of Oklahoma, this 25 day of May, 2023.

THOMAS C. RIESEN

JUDGE OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk

By: /s/Teresa Becker Deputy (SEAL)

Steven D. Kaestner, OBA#4854

Steven D. Kaestner, P.C. 15401 N. May Ave. Suite 500 Edmond, Oklahoma 73013 Phone: (405) 841-7667

Fax: (405) 285-2911

Email: steve@ironhorseinvest.com

Attorneys for Petitioner (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 9, 2023; Friday,

Ave., Oklahoma City, OK, 73102, and all persons interested may appear and contest the same.

Witness, the undersigned, Judge of the District Court of the District Court of Oklahoma County, State of Oklahoma, this 25 day of May, 2023.

THOMAS C. RIESEN JUDGE OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk

By: /s/Teresa Becker Deputy (SEAL)

Steven D. Kaestner, OBA#4854

Steven D. Kaestner, P.C. 15401 N. May Ave. Suite 500 Edmond, Oklahoma 73013

Shark Heart: A Love Story

By Emily Habeck

Shark Heart is a first novel written by Emily Habeck and is set to arrive in bookstores by August 2023. This is a haunting tale written in a very unusual mixture of E.E. Cummings and Edgar Allen Poe. It is a compelling read touching on marriage, motherhood, metamorphosis and letting go. Amazing! All in one novel! The author is an alumna of SMU’s Meadows School of the Arts, Vanderbilt University Divinity School and Vanderbilt Peabody College. She is from Ardmore, Oklahoma and skillfully tells the

story with an amazing talent that weaves the parts together with humor, creativity, and imagination.

The basic love story is of people, life, humanity and nature so intertwined that at first it might seem just a smooth telling of the unimaginable. The story begins with the Marriage of Wren and Lewis, a thirty-year-old newlywed couple. Immediately Lewis is diagnosed with Carcharodon carcharis, a disease of mutation which will in nine months change him into a Great White Shark. His features will change, and he will have a 10-foot-long body with a weight of more than one ton. His facial features will also begin to change, and he will watch his molars become light weight “tiny skin teeth.” His eyes will split into fins.

Part One is followed by the same quest for

meaningful life with the friends and relatives of Wren’s mother, Angela, her brother George, a herpetologist, and others. As the process moves into a milder reptilian, mutation appears, (varanus komodoenis). Other people appear with their short comings and yearnings. At the end of the five-year process, the reptilian mutation was indeed formed, and Margaret C. Finnegan enters Lewis Woodard’s life. Lewis tries to learn the difference between loneliness and being alone, but his physical body continues turning into the predatory creature shark.

Family members differ on how and where to keep Lewis now as well as when he is ready for the release into the ocean. This is funny and visceral, as are lives of grief and pain with their attitudes and decisions. In

reality, decisions become impossible. In spite of this, life of some sort goes on. There are some tender touches for all, such as Wren’s loving naming of her youngest child “Joy” representing the peace she has made with herself. This unlikely plot is stretched through the book in a unique manner. Some chapters have five words in them; some are several pages or the pattern of a modern-day poem.

Certainly, Emily Habeck will be turning out more “shock and awe” novels from her present home in Cambridge, Massachusetts. These will hopefully also be such imaginative books with concerns of humans and the sparks of doubt and curiosity to make them very explosive and rewarding to read.

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

The CARE Center hosts exciting Trivia Night Fundraising Event

The CARE Center’s Young Professionals Board is thrilled to announce its third annual fundraising event, Trivia Night, featuring prizes, raffles, food trucks, and music trivia. This highly anticipated event will take place on Thursday, June 15 at 7 p.m. at City Garden, located in the heart of Midtown.

The CARE Center’s Trivia Night promises an evening of exhilarating competition and entertainment while supporting a worthy cause. Attendees will have the opportunity to showcase their knowledge in music trivia, while enjoying the vibrant outdoor atmosphere of City Garden. The event will also feature exciting raffles, mouth-watering food from local food trucks, and three rounds of Singo.

“We are delighted to host our second Trivia Night ever, and we can’t wait to see the

community come together for an unforgettable evening,” said Savannah Jones, The CARE Center’s Communications Manager. “Not only will participants have a fantastic time testing their music trivia skills, but they will also contribute to The CARE Center’s mission of helping children heal after abuse.”

Tickets for Trivia Night are available for purchase at the event’s official website, carecenter-okc.org/trivianight/. Individuals can secure their spot for $40 per ticket or enjoy a discounted rate of two tickets for $75. Each ticket includes one drink ticket redeemable for a choice of wine, beer, or a cocktail, a delicious meal, and participation in the exciting game of Singo.

For further inquiries about Trivia Night or sponsorship opportunities, please contact info@carecenterokc.org.

Arts Council partnerships bring free programming to kids

Arts Council Oklahoma City (ACOKC) is partnering with Oklahoma libraries and recreation centers to bring free arts programming to kids this summer.

Neighborhood Arts, a partnership between ACOKC and the Metropolitan Library System, brings free, daily performances to libraries across Oklahoma County. Twelve groups, such as the Sugar Free Allstars, OKC Improv, Lyric Theatre, Lucas Ross and Mister Puppet will perform at 19 locations.

Throughout June and July, you can enjoy a variety of musical styles and performance arts, such as rock music, puppet shows, hip-hop demonstrations, and opera. Every week a new artist will be featured at each library, so kids can come back all summer long.

“Neighborhood Arts is in 19 locations that span all across Oklahoma County and truly helps us achieve our mission of bringing the arts and the community together” said All

Access Arts Director Nick Caudle. “The libraries offer a variety of free programming to kids throughout the year and we're thrilled to be part of their well-rounded initiatives each summer.”

Arts in the Park, a partnership between ACOKC and the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department, brings free visual art classes to recreation centers across Oklahoma City. These classes are taught by professional teaching artists on a set

schedule each week, taking place each TuesdayThursday in June and July. Kids will work with a variety of mediums, including clay, collage, painting and more.

“Creativity is an important aspect of development and the summer months can make it difficult for kids to flex their creative muscles,” said All Access Arts Coordinator Liliana Gordon. “With Arts in the Park, kids only need to travel as far as their local recreation center to participate in

entertaining hands-on art classes to keep their minds sharp.”

Summer art programs and camps are often structured differently than traditional school classes, allowing more space for children to express themselves while learning new concepts and developing skills that ultimately enhance learning in the classroom.

“Through our great partnerships with schools in Oklahoma City, we’re able to offer wonderful Arts in

Schools programs to kids throughout the school year, but the summer months are crucial for art education” said Arts Council OKC Executive Director Angela Cozby. “These programs offer a wonderful opportunity to bridge the gap between school years, keeping kids engaged in handson, creative activities while they’re away from the classroom.” You can find the full schedule for these kids’ programs at artscouncilokc.com.

Locally-owned Business Directory

Debbie South RE/MAX Preferred 9520 N. May, Suite 110 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Office: (405) 751-4848

debbiesouth.com

Full Circle Bookstore 1900 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 842-2900 (800) 683-READ

Swiss Cleaners @ Laundry 3737 NW 50th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 946-0629

Junior’s Supper Club 2601 NW Expressway Oil Center Building (405) 848-5597 juniorsokc.com

Boutique One 6478 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hill Plaza (405) 888-9822

boutiqueone.store

The Learning Tree 7638 N. Western Wilshire Village (405) 848-1415 learningtreeokc.com

Carwin’s Shave Shop 6411 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hills Plaza (405) 607-1197 carwinsshaveshop.com

Winter House 6411 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hills Plaza (405) 607-1199 winterhouseinteriors.com

International Wigs 4429 NW 10th St, . Oklahoma City, OK 73107 (405) 943-1233

Nancy Farha’s 9205 N. Pennsylvania Casady Square The Village, OK 73120 (405) 775-0404 nancyfarha.com

Journey Quilt Company T-shirt Quilts 16516 N. Penn Ave. Edmond OK 73012 (405) 340-0444 journeyquilts.com 23rd Street Antiques 3023 NW 23rd. (405) 947-3800 Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Antiques23.com

Concordia Life Plan Community 7707 W. Britton Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 720-7200 concordiaseniorliving.com

Coyle Law Firm 125 Park Ave. No.100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 583-3909 coylelaw.com

Gulfport Seafood Market 8016 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-3468 Gulfportseafoods.com

Home Care Assistance of Oklahoma 323 S. Blackwelder Ave. Edmond, OK 73034 (405) 277-0035 homecareassistance.com

Moorman's Distinctive Carpets and Area Rugs 3835 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4888 moormanscarpetsoklahomacity.com

Naifeh Fine Jewelry 6471 Avondale Dr,. Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 607-4323 Naifehfinejewelry.com

Retirement Investment Advisors

2925 United Founders Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-3443 theretirementpath.com

Thrifty Pharmacy

10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852

230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 thriftypharmacyedmond. com

State Farm Insurance Gary Baccus 16145 N. May Ave. Edmond, Ok 73013 (405) 844-6300 Garybaccus.com

Balliets

6443 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 848-7811 Balliets.com

BancFirst 6200 Waterford Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 270-1622 Bancfirst.bank

Britton Feed & Seed

708 W. Britton Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73114 (405) 842-5590 britton-feed-seed.hub.biz

First National Bank of Oklahoma

10900 Hefner Pointe Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 fnbok.com

La Baguette Bistro 7408 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 840-3047 labaguettebistro.com

McBride Orthopedic Clinic 9600 Broadway Ext. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 486-2530 mcboh.com

CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com

Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank

James B. Lowe, DDS 2821 NW 58th Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 848-3535

Covenant Brothers 5900 Mosteller Dr. No. 7 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-4671 covbros.com

Justin Beasley, DDS 4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com

We Pay Fast 2239 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (800) 937-2932 wepayfast.com

Cindi Shelby, Stylist Lela Rose & Pearl by Lela Rose 333 W. Wilshire Blvd., Ste. F Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 830-1138

Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126

All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 Northwest 63 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.com

Papa Dios 10712 N May, Suite D Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-2255 papadiosokc.com

Deer Clan Books 3905 N. College Ave. Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 495-9005 deerclanbooks@gmail.com

J. Holland Photography 1130 W. 15th St. Edmond, OK 73013 (405) 341-5088 jhollandphotography.com

First Liberty Bank 9601 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 608-4500 myfirstliberty.com

First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com

Denner Roofing Co. LLC 6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com

Beef Jerky Emporium 810 W Danforth (next to Hobby Lobby) Edmond, OK (405) 359-8200

First Source Real Estate Residential Sales 12020 N. Penn Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747

Michael Biddinger Real Estate Commercial Sales, Management 12020 N. Penn Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747

The Adult Clinic at Hearts for Hearing 11500 N. Portland Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 548-4335

Christian Science Reading Room 6490 Avondale Drive (Nichols Hills Plaza North) Nichols Hills, OK 73116 405 843-5334

christianscienceokc.org

Steam It Klean It LLC Carpet Cleaning PO Box 20232 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 602-4960

Steamitkleanit@gmail.com

Amy Wade & Co. Real Estate Team Amy Wade - Listing Specialist 3000 E. Britton Rd. (405)605-9195

AmyWadeandCo.com

Locally-owned business listings are only $25 a month. Email rose@okcfriday. com for more information.

“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.

We urge courtesy in disagreement. We view with favor wise public choices and view with alarm flawed public choices. We give good advice to public officials at federal, state and local levels, and society in general, on what to do right. So,

Letter to the Editor

Veterans should get to play golf free on holidays

To the Editor:

As a veteran who plays golf, I thought of this:

COMMISSIONERS

PRESENT:

James M. Reid, Chair

Mike Cassady, Vice Chair

Mick Cornett

Leroy Richardson

D. Eliot Yaffe

Tom Caraway

LeeAnn Fairlie

Andy Coats

George Barnes

Memorial Day is a day for remembrance of our veterans. The 4th of July is a day for remembrance of our independence as a result of our veterans!

The Oklahoma Golf Commission sees fit to charge our veteran seniors who have served this country extra money to play

golf on these days commemorating their service! I’m sure they have never considered this injustice because all they do is go to their country club to play. I would suggest that it would be more patriotic to allow active service individuals and veterans to play for free on these days commemorating their service. Surely charging more

Dear Wise Elder: I am a career girl who married later in life, and we had no children. My successful husband and I loved working together. Now he has passed away and I have no family living nearby. In fact, my family and I have not had much contact through the years. As I see what some of my friends are facing as their health declines, I want to get my own paperwork in order. But I have no one.

Dear No One: It is a choice. When you cannot speak for yourself, someone or some corporate

because it is a “holiday” is unjust when the holiday is for their sacrifice to benefit the country.

I’m certain that any individuals on the Commission that are veterans would agree!

Sincerely, Wendell Long M.D. Nichols Hills, OKC (405) 301-4777

entity WILL step in and make decisions. But, there is another way. You can choose to ask someone younger whom you trust from your current friends to go with you as you learn about options and make decisions. It will be a blessing for the younger person to see how you go about the process, and you will find whether this person is capable or interested in becoming someone you can trust for your future. When all is said and done, choose someone.

- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org

(405) 990 6637

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

How we’re combating isolation among seniors

The U.S. Surgeon General recently issued an advisory calling attention to the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation and lack of connection in our country. Dr. Vivek Murthy officially gave the label of "epidemic" to loneliness.

“Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation has been an underappreciated public health crisis that has harmed individual and societal health,” Murthy said. "Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being hiding in plain sight – one that can help us live healthier, more fulfilled and more productive lives."

A Surgeon General’s Advisory is a public statement that calls the American people’s attention to an urgent public health issue and provides recommendations for how it should be addressed. Advisories are reserved for significant public health challenges that require the nation’s immediate awareness and action.

We know that loneliness and isolation are

especially acute among older adults. VillagesOKC exists to help fill the gap for seniors in the Oklahoma City metro. Regular social connection is as essential as food and water for survival. Lacking social connection has serious health consequences including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression, anxiety and premature death.

In 2021, 49% of Americans reported having three or fewer close friends compared to 27% in 1990. This lack of social connection may be deadly – as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according the Surgeon General’s advisory. The rate of loneliness and isolation is increasing every year and exacerbated by the pandemic and screen time – television, computer, smart phone.

VillagesOKC is committed to turning the tide by providing a robust calendar of events which offer members opportunities for learning, planning and helping others.

Every event is an opportunity for human interaction. It might be a daylong event like the Day of Positive Aging held at Rose State College in May and planned for Southern Nazarene University in June. It might be a cookout at a members house, a lunch gathering at a local restaurant or a tour of a local landmark.

For the past four years, VillagesOKC has provided trusted connections for mature adults through organized friendships. Often people become members after attending a coffee or free educational presentation. Some become members when an adult child purchases a VillagesOKC membership for Mothers Day, Fathers Day or a birthday. Others become members when the pastor or someone in the faith community urges

joining. But most often membership happens when a friend reaches out because he simply wants to share the joy of aging with vitality and positivity.

The satisfaction of meeting trusted professionals also give this organization a small town feeling of connection. The television show “Cheers” had it right; it’s good to go where everyone knows your name.

A 501(c) tax-exempt organization, VillagesOKC is part of a “national village movement.”

These villages are intentionally bringing likeminded people together to embrace aging and practice positivity. VillagesOKC membership includes a modest annual membership fee and background check. For more information, go to www.villagesokc.org or call (405) 990-6637.

VillagesOKC members enjoy socializing over burgers during a recent cookout.

Scott & Alix in Wonderland

Scott & Alix in Wonderland was the theme of a party feting Alix Benear and Scott Shad on their upcoming nuptials.

The invitations were custom created by a party host and the decor was everything Wonderland, with the flowers in teapots and tea cups placed throughout. The party was at the home of Dana

and Matt Price.

Hostesses, from left: Aimee Harlow, Dana Price, Melinda Cox, Libby Denner, Camilla Ostrowe and Anne Henderson. There were four hostesses who were not at party and therefore not pictured — Lana Raupe, Patti Lane, Julie Hall and Terri Cummings.

The two families, from left: Troy and Terri Benear, Alix Benear, Scott Shad and Jim Shad and Linda Shad. The Shads are from Michigan.

Hostesses, from left: Caroline Hendee, Jessica Bevers, Jill Dobbins, Susie Dougherty, Kelly Gentry and Tracy Mee.

Hostess Kelly McLain with sister-of-the-bride Kate Benear, Dillon Choate and Matt Price.

Fall 2023 Fall 2023