www.okcfriday.com facebook.com/okcfriday OKC’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with all local news Serving affluent far north Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills and The Village for 50 years
By Rose Lane Editor
The iconic Miss Oklahoma City competition, launched in 1923, celebrated its 101st anniversary this year.
Back when it began, gas cost 22 cents per gallon, stamps were 2 cents and new cars averaged $364. Mary Dean Overly was crowned the organization's first winner. Elizabeth Gibson was crowned the 101st Miss OKC 2025 winner.
The Miss OKC competition has a rich history of producing successful contestants. Jane Ann Jayroe Gamble, Miss OKC 1966, went on to win Miss America 1967. Similarly, Susan Powell claimed the Miss America 1981 title after winning Miss OKC 1980. This year's event opened with the national anthem performed by outgoing Miss OKC 2024, Mia-Lynne Smith.
Gibson, the newly crowned Miss OKC 2025, brings a unique blend of talent and heritage to the title. The 25-year-old Oklahoma City native and Oklahoma City University graduate holds a bachelor of fine arts in acting. In a touching twist of fate, the competition venue, Putnam City High School (est. 1914), witnessed a family legacy unfold. Her mother, Deanna Luckinbill Gibson,
held the Miss OKC title in 1991 and was third runner-up to Miss Oklahoma. Gibson is the daughter of Deanna and Robert Gibson. Contestants were evaluated on interview skills, fitness, community service initiatives, and
See PAGEANT, Page 2
Scammer gets $50k from Nichols Hills resident; $ gone
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Nichols Hills Police have reported a scam that resulted in the loss of $50,000 for a Nichols Hills resident. Police say the victim of the fraud will never recover his money.
“On June 21, a resident came into the police station to report possible fraud,” Chief Steven Cox shared with the Nichols Hills City Council in his monthly report. “The victim stated he received a call from an individual who claimed to be a Nichols Hills police officer, and stated a warrant was issued for missed jury duty.”
Nichols Hills police say the caller identified himself as James Davis and told the victim that arrest could be avoided by paying a fine of $50,000. Nichols Hills Police do not make calls asking for money.
“The payment was made using Bitcoin,” said Cox. “Once the victim made the payment the
See NHILLS, Page 5
Report finds that Oklahoma City water is clear and OK to drink
By Rose Lane Editor
Oklahoma City’s drinking water meets or exceeds all federal and state standards.
The Oklahoma City Utilities Department published its annual Drinking Water Quality Report, also known as the Consumer
Miss OKC pageant celebrates historic 101st anniversary Duong is
Confidence Report (CCR), for 2023 with that information. This report includes important information about the quality and safety of Oklahoma City’s drinking water.
The CCR offers a detailed overview of the sources of Oklahoma City's drinking water, the substances it con-
tains and the measures taken to ensure it meets state drinking water quality standards.
Required by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the report is released annually by July 1.
The report also includes information about contami-
Artist Denise Duong is to be honored during the Putnam City Schools Foundation’s 2024 Wall of Fame ceremony.
This annual event honors a Putnam City Schools graduate who has experienced significant success in their chosen field. The 2024 ceremony is set for Thursday, Sept. 19, beginning at 6 p.m. at Oklahoma Contemporary, 11 NW 11. Her works are displayed on walls big and small throughout the OKC metro, the U.S., and the world — including murals in the Plaza, West Village and Asian Cultural districts.
For more information, visit putnamcityfoundation.charityproud.org.
nants regulated by the EPA, such as natural substances from the ground that get into the water and the disinfectants used to make the water safe to drink.
“Our water treatment operators work hard to ensure the quality of water we provide not only meets all safety standards but exceeds them,”
FRIDAY’s
Meet Gus, the 11-year-old Labradoodle of Jason and Paige Moreland. He spent the Fourth of July holiday lounging in the pool and swimming after fake duckies, what a dream! Thank goodness he had his holiday hat and sunnies to beat the heat. He’s one happy dude, always!
Email Dog of the Week, Baby of the Week and Cat of the Week submissions to rose@okcfriday.com.
Leigh Ann Kitsmiller, regulatory compliance manager for the OKC Utilities Department said. “Our staff is proud of the water we deliver.”
Utilities Water Quality staff treated more than 40 billion gallons of water in 2023 and
See WATER, Page 5
- Photo by Fran Kozakowski
Miss Oklahoma 2024 Lauren Frost and Miss OKC 2024 Elizabeth Gibson.
DENISE DUONG
PAGEANT
From Page 1
second runner-up Abigail Slate.
evening wear presentation. Gibson captivated the audience with her operatic performance of Mozart’s “Der Hölle Rache” and showcased her fitness, backed by several national figure skating titles. Her elegant navy velvet and silver-beaded evening gown complemented her poise as she presented her community service initiative, “#Our Social Dilemma,” addressing the impacts of social media.
Other top finishers included first runner-up, Anna-Marie Wright; second runner-up, Evelyn Smith; third runner-up, Emily Smith; and fourth runnerup, Alyssa Payne.
The evening also celebrated young talent with the crowning of the new Miss OKC Teen. Miss OKC Teen 2024 Hallee Fransisco performed a dance routine for the crowd and gave up her local title to Miss OKC Teen 2025 winner Chloe Cavinder. Cavinder was followed by first runner-up Finley Henderson and
The event drew several distinguished guests, including Miss Oklahoma 2024 Lauren Frost, who is to compete in the upcoming Miss America 2025 competition. Former title holders Gina-Lynne Smith Kossover, Miss Oklahoma 1991, and Sunny Day, Miss Oklahoma 2023, attended to honor the organization's legacy. Makenna Smith Green, Miss Oklahoma 2007, served as a judge, while Mackenzie McIntyre-Childers, Miss OKC 2022, Ashleigh Robinson, Miss OKC 2020, and Miss Oklahoma 2021 emceed the evening.
Miss Oklahoma City Executive Director Vickie Munsey said, “My biggest memory of being on the Miss OKC Board would have to be last year, the 100th celebration!! Former Miss OKCs came from many different states to celebrate, including Jane Jayroe and Susan Powell, former Miss OKCs who were crowned Miss America. We were honored by the Miss America organization with a golden crown to crown our Miss OKC 2024 winner - Mia-Lynne Smith.
Miss Oklahoma City Director Joe Chappell has been associated with the local organization since 1979. He credits watching Susan Powell, Miss Oklahoma City 1980, win the title of Miss America 1981 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, as his most memorable competition moment. “I love the Miss Oklahoma Organization and all the good things it represents.”
Miss Oklahoma City Teen Co-Director Dianne Redden said, “I find so much joy in watching our young women share their talents, and meeting the people who support them.” Co-Director Ashley Stuart said, “I find each young woman we work with to be a blessing. I also enjoy watching them gain confidence while our organization attempts to create a memorable and wonderful experience for them
The Miss Oklahoma Organization, which crowned its first Miss America in 1926, has also had six Miss America winners. The Miss Oklahoma Organization is proud to offer over $2,000,000 in cash and in-kind scholarships to delegates each year statewide.
Miss OKC’s teen court, from left: First runner-up Finley Henderson, Miss OKC Teen Chloe Cavinder and first runner-up Abigail Slate.
Miss OKC’s court, from left: Fourth runner-up Alyssa Payne, second runner-up Evelyn Smith, Miss OKC Elizabeth Gibson, first runner-up Anna-Marie Wright, and third runner-up Emily Smith.
- Photos by Fran Kozakowski
Happy Birthday Jordan and Natalie!
Chris Saxon and twins Jordan von Netzer and Natalie Movagar hosted a joint 1980s birthday bash at Rad Bar. Attendees sipped on themed drinks such as Marty McFly's OJ and Pretty in Pink, ate cake and enjoyed a DJ set from BUMP. The night was topped off with a surprise live performance from actor and Grammy-nominated artist, Tone Loc. Above: Jonny Drubel, Gena Kagen, Meg Calhoon and Christy Blankenship. At far left: Hosts Jordan von Netzer, Natalie Movagar and Chris Saxon. At immediate left: At left: Grammy-nominated artist Tone Loc.
Above: Paul Steinke, Kendall King, Fred Anawalt, Ross Zapin and Nick Movagar. Below: Chris and Susan Espinoza, Katie and Taylor Shinn and Bailey and Aaron Benham.
Sports
Rockets softball takes big steps in rebuilding program
By Jason Jewell Sports Editor
Shortly after ending the 2015 season, the Mount St. Mary softball program experienced an unimaginable tragedy with the death of longtime coach Daryl Reynolds.
Reynolds brought the Rockets to new heights during his tenure which started in 2004. He led them to a state championship in 2010 and an appearance in the state tournament in 2015.
Reynolds’ death threw the program into shock as Mount St. Mary didn’t field a softball team for some time until Tyler Schilly
approached school officials about restarting the program.
Schilly, a recent Notre Dame graduate at the time, helped guide the Rockets back but had limited success.
“Tyler did a great job with what he had,” said fourthyear coach Will Biswell. “He was fresh out of college and did the best he could.”
Biswell took over in 2021 and helped lead the team to its first winning record (1614) in nearly a decade, which included its first district win and a title at the Queens of the South tournament.
The Rockets continued building on that success into last season when they posted a 9-17-1 record but reached
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.
SCHEDULE
Monday, Aug. 12
at McGuinness, 5 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15 at Western Heights, 5 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 19 at Weatherford, 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 20 vs. Santa Fe South, 4:30 p.m. Thurs., Aug. 22-Sat., Aug. 24 at USA High School Festival
Monday, Aug. 26 vs. Kingfisher, 5 p.m.
the regional semifinals.
“We are loaded with several returning seniors and All-District players,” Biswell said. “We have a lot of
expectations for this season. We’re going to do all we can to reach our goals.”
Among them, according to the coach, are winning a regional tournament and earning a spot in the Class 4A state tournament.
Mount St. Mary recently started practice but begins earnest preparations for the upcoming season over the next two weeks by competing in scrimmage festivals at Jones on Aug. 1-2 and Mounds on Aug. 9.
The 2024 season starts Aug. 12 at McGuinness.
Returning for the Rockets in 2024 are three seniors and five All-District players including senior Maddie
Biswell and sophomore Jayla Daniels who received firstteam selections.
Biswell, along with Daniels and sophomore Morgan DeHart, became the first Mount St. Mary players selected as freshman to the All-District team.
Seniors Karli Shahan and Magen Rigsby-Homan also received All-District honors last season.
Biswell, the daughter of coach Will Biswell, led the team in hitting from her positions as pitcher and at first base, while Shahan is the starting catcher, RisgbyHonan and Daniels play in the outfield and DeHart is the starting shortstop.
Athletes ready for action during fall sports
Scores of student athletes participate in scholastic sports each year. Next College Student Athlete (NCSA), an organization that connects young athletes with college coaches, says high school sports in particular provide competitive experiences for nearly eight million student athletes each year.
Schools follow seasons that determine when certain sports are played in a year.
Sports seasons are largely consistent across the country, though there are some exceptions. It is always best for potential student athletes to understand how their schools break down seasons so they don’t miss the opportunity to participate.
Generally speaking, here is a list of the sports student athletes can expect to encounter once school begins (or shortly before) as part of the fall season, courtesy of the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association (OSSAA).
All nine Fridayland schools – including Bishop McGuinness, Casady, Crossings Christian, Deer Creek, Harding Charter Prep, Heritage Hall, John Marshall, Mount St. Mary and Putnam City North – compete in cross country, softball and volleyball.
Harding Charter Prep does not compete in football, while Casady also fields teams in boys volleyball and field hockey.
FOOTBALL
American football is one of the most popular fall sports across North America among athletes
and fans. Football attracts more than one million players each year. The object of the game is to score more points than the opponents in the alloted time. Each team gets four downs to move the ball 10 yards forward. There are 11 players from each team on the field for each play.
CROSS COUNTRY
USA Track & Field indicates cross country is a sport in which teams and individuals run races on outdoor courses over natural terrain. Cross country courses may be set up in parks, open country, fields, golf courses, and grasslands. The runners are known as harriers, and the goal is to come in at the lowest time for the set course.
SOFTBALL
Fast-pitch softball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. Similar to baseball, softball games are played on a diamond with nine players on each team. A softball field is about 2/3 shorter than a baseball field with the base paths measuring 60 feet and the pitcher’s rubber at
43 feet. Most softball games last for seven innings, but can end early if one team is up eight or more runs on the other or move into extra innings if the score is tied after the seventh inning.
VOLLEYBALL
In Oklahoma, volleyball is primarily a girls sport. Generally speaking, volleyball consists of six players per team on the court at a time, designating front row and back row positions, says USAVolleyball. All players rotate clockwise through the six positions on the court. A team must earn 25 points with a 2-point difference to win a set and three sets to win a match, with the fifth set played to 15 points.
FIELD HOCKEY
A field hockey season typically begins in mid- to late-August. Field hockey is similar to ice hockey but is played on grass or a turf field. It also uses a hard ball instead of a puck. Each goal scored is worth a single point. On the high school and collegiate levels in the U.S., field hockey is traditionally a girl’s sport.
OKC FRIDAY in Norway
OKC FRIDAY
newspaper visits
Bergen, Norway with Mary Blankenshp Pointer and Isa Durham. Be sure to pack your newspaper when you travel. Email photos with descriptions to rose@okcfriday. com.
WATER
From Page 1
conducted 203,000 individual tests to ensure the water distributed met all guidelines for safety. Water is monitored at the city’s two treatment plants and at 260 ODEQ-approved
NHILLS
From Page 1
suspect ended the call, and the phone number was disconnected. These callers rely upon fear and intimidation to commit their crime.
“Crimes like this are usually committed against senior or elderly citizens,” he said. “This time, though, the victim was not a senior citizen. It can happen to anyone.”
“Nichols Hills Police will never call and demand money during a telephone conversation,” he said. “No police department in the United States will call and demand money, and no government agency will demand Bitcoin.”
Cox said the best advice is to not answer calls from an unknown telephone number even if they look local and familiar.
“Be aware that scammers can also spoof real government agen-cy telephone numbers and caller ID information,” he added. “If you have any questions about the caller hang up and call the police department immed iately.”
sample stations located throughout the City’s system for delivering treated water.
“Water is a vital community resource,” Utilities Director Chris Browning said. “Our employees do an exceptional job ensuring it is safely delivered to the communities we serve 24 hours a day, seven
This is not the first time a scam like this has happened in Nichols Hills. Chief Cox said, “If the scam is committed using bank transfers our police department can possibly work with federal partners to stop the transaction, but when using Bitcoin, the victim will never get their money back.
days a week. I encourage our customers to go online and read the report so they can learn more about how their water is sourced, treated and delivered.”
Customers can see a copy of the 2023 Drinking Water Quality Report online at okc.gov/ccr. A select number of hard copies
“Unfortunately, this type of scam is common and generally done by callers outside the United States,” he said. “People need to be wary of these types of calls. We have sent tips to avoid being scammed to our residents via emails and notification pushes through our app.”
are also available at Oklahoma City metropolitan libraries or by calling (405) 297-2422.
CALENDAR
FUNDRAISERS
Aug. 17 • Dancing for a Miracle Ten local celebrities will serve as Ambassadors, and will take the stage in a joint effort to raise funds benefiting Children’s Health Foundation’s pediatric research, education and clinical care programs. This night of musical excellence begins at 5:30 pm with a happy hour followed by silent auction, dinner, live auction, program and celebrity dance competition beginning at 8 pm at the Embassy Suites, 2501 Conference Dr., Norman, Okla. Go to chfkids.com for more information.
CONCERTS
Oct. 7 • Benson Boone
The Zoo Amphitheatre welcomes Benson Boone with special guest Daniel Seavey on Monday, Oct. 7. Boone is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist appearing on American Idol and popular on TikTok. More info at okczooamp.com.
STATE OF SCHOOLS
Aug. 7 • State of the Schools
Greater OKC Chamber presents State of the Schools from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Attendees will hear from the
July 27 • National Day of the Cowboy Round up your posse and head to Oklahoma City for the National Day of the Cowboy celebra ti on. Held at the Na ti onal Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the celebration will include the main highlight, a larger-thanlife performance by the Oklahoma Opry. Dress up in your best Western ou tf it and enjoy a day of crafts and family-friendly activities in honor of cowboy culture, 10 am to 2 pm. Join Kent Rollins, cowboy humorist, storyteller and cowboy cook, for two presentations and a meet-and-greet. Be sure to purchase Kent Rollins’ cowboy cookbooks and products in Persimmon Hill. Kent Rollins Schedule
11 am - Chuck Wagon Cooking presentation 12 - 12:45 pm - Meet and greet 1 pm - Food on the Trail presentation Free for members or with Museum admission at nationalcowboymuseum.org.
newly appointed OKC Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Jamie Polk and she shares her vision for the district. University of Oklahoma President Joseph Harroz will focus his address on how the university is becoming an econom-
ic engine for the state. Chamber members $65, nonmembers are $90. Register online at okcchamber.com/SOS. School supply donations will be accepted at the event to benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.
Natural History Honored by OMA for “Flight Lines: The Art of Natural History at OU” temporary exhibit
The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History has been honored by the Oklahoma Museums Association for the best Oklahoma museum exhibit within a budget range of $10,000 to $50,000 for its recent exhibit, Flight Lines: The Art of Natural History at OU Flight Lines, which was on exhibit July 15 to Nov. 26, 2023, captivated visitors with its stunning scientific illustrations of birds. The exhibit featured works by both students and renowned bird artists, including George Miksch Sutton, Louis Agassiz Fuertes and Francis Lee Jaques. Visitors had the opportunity to view intricate drawings, vibrant paintings and dynamic animations that beautifully captured the essence of avian life and flight.
“This award celebrates the powerful and effective translation of scientific knowledge that can result when visual artists engage deeply with collections, like the naturalist art collection in the museum’s ethnology department,” said Claire Nicholas, Ph.D., who co-curated the Flight Lines exhibit along with Haley Prestifilippo of the OU School of Visual Arts.
Nicholas added, “Studying and sketching across the work of expert illustrators, ornithology specimens and students’ own research opened windows for our visitors onto the habitats, life cycles, elegance and character of birds.”
The exhibit also highlighted the process of scientific illustration, emphasizing ornithology as a central theme. Students from the OU SOVA contributed their artwork, created during courses such as “Drawing the Natural World” and “Computer Animation.” These courses are part of an exciting new
scientific visualization track within SoVA, where students learn to translate scientific knowledge into compelling visual representations.
“Working with the Sam Noble has been an exceptionally rich collaboration; their curators and staff have been incredibly generous in sharing their collections and expertise with our visual arts students,” Prestifilippo said. “Receiving this award highlights the importance of cooperation between the arts and sciences, and I am very grateful and excited to continue this work.”
The works of George Miksch Sutton, former OU professor and curator of ornithology at the Sam Noble Museum, played a pivotal role in the exhibit. His legacy as one of the most respected scientific illustrators of the 20th century was showcased through a range of pieces. Many of these artworks were publicly displayed for the first time, along with scientific bird specimens prepared by Sutton.
“We are grateful for the recognition, and immensely proud of the achievement,” said Janet Braun, director of the Sam Noble Museum. “The collaboration between students, faculty and renowned artists exemplifies the museum’s dedication to fostering creativity, curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.”
The award will be officially presented on Sept. 12 during the Oklahoma Museum Association’s annual awards banquet.
Though Flight Lines is no longer on display, the Sam Noble Museum is currently showcasing a new exhibition in partnership with the OU SOVA, Prehistoric Visions which reimagines what ancient life may have looked like through the eyes of artists and illustrators.
Outré West: The American School of Architecture
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center’s Eleanor Kirkpatrick Main Gallery, Outré West: The American School of Architecture from Oklahoma to California considers the works of a group of architects who were educated and mentored in Oklahoma in the 1950s and 1960s, and later developed groundbreaking design practices in California. Iconic projects like the eastern span of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge and the fantastical Pavilion for Japanese Art on the Miracle Mile in Los Angeles demonstrate their imaginative approach to design.
The American School of Architecture emerged from the University of Oklahoma in the postwar period and became known for emphasizing individual creativity and experimentation. Under the guidance of professors like Bruce Goff
(1904-82), who also chaired the department, and Herb Greene (b. 1929), students were inspired by everyday objects, the natural landscape and the designs of cultures around the world.
Other schools in the United States were heavily influenced by the European Bauhaus and Beaux Arts models, but the American School in Oklahoma transcended the accepted canons of Western architecture. The American School encouraged students to test themselves and their own creativity, and to look beyond European styles for inspiration: Native American designs, Asian architecture, South American architecture, nature and found objects.
“Goff came in and had built this community of practice that was resourceful, contextual and experimental, and this is so unique to Oklahoma. Frank Lloyd Wright was his key mentor. “They were
actually pen pals and had been since Goff was a young man,” said guest curator Angela M. Person, PhD, associate professor of architecture at the University of Oklahoma. At a young age, Goff asked Wright whether he should get an architecture degree. Wright told him that if he went to architecture school, he might “risk losing what made him Bruce Goff in the first place.” The young Goff listened, and by the time he was 15 years old his first house was under construction. By 21, he’s designed Tulsa’s Boston Avenue Methodist Church, described by New York Times as a “soaring Art Deco-Gothic masterpiece.”
Goff and others within the American School embraced the use of cast-off materials, preceding the recent sustainable architecture movement by decades.
Co-curator Stephanie Z. Pilat, professor
of architecture at the University of Oklahoma, explains, “When he came to OU and was elected the chairman, he didn’t have a precedent or a model on which to develop a curriculum, so he and his colleagues invented a wholly new approach to teaching architecture, and that’s where it gets the name the American School. It was really centered on developing the individual creativity of the students, rather than following a master-disciple kind of relationship, which is what you see elsewhere,” Through archival drawings, largescale photographs, architectural models including some at full scale, newspaper clippings and more, Outré West explores how these architects translated their American School education into practices that continue to enrich California’s built environment to this day. Exhibit showing through January
Erin Engelke new ReMerge CEO
ReMerge of Oklaho-
ma County has announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously chosen Erin Engelke, APR, as the organization's new chief executive officer. Engelke joins ReMerge on August 12.
“On behalf of the ReMerge Board of Directors, we couldn’t be more excited for Erin to be our next CEO,” said Lindsay Laird, ReMerge board chairman. “She is a proven nonprofit leader in our community who cares deeply about our mission and we are grateful to have someone of her caliber leading ReMerge.”
“A strong advocate for women, Erin is also a compassionate mental health advocate with extensive experience in communications, nonprofit leadership, strategic planning and fundraising. Her ability to drive excellence and her passion for our mission will help ReMerge continue to impact Oklahoma’s high rate of female incarceration and serve as a model to the power of rehabilitation.”
Engelke brings more than 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to ReMerge. For the past six years, she served as CEO of Calm Waters, Oklahoma City’s grief center, which serves children and families who have experienced loss due to death, divorce or other significant loss.
She has also held leadership roles with Sunbeam Family Services, Feed the Children, and World Neighbors.
“I am truly excited and honored to be joining the team at Remerge of Oklahoma County. For the last 20 years, I have been absolutely passionate about supporting women and children in our community and I can't think of a better organization to lead than ReMerge which works tirelessly to improve so many precious lives every day,” said Engelke.
She currently serves as co-chairman of the Oklahoma County Citizens Advisory Board for the Jail Trust and in 2023 Gov. Stitt appointed Engelke a commissioner on the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women. Engelke is
accredited in public relations (APR) through the Public Relations Society of America.
Andrus is CFO at BancFirst
Hannah Andrus has joined BancFirst Corporation and serves as executive vice president, chief financial officer.
In this role, Andrus is responsible for managing the company’s accounting, financial reporting and investor relations functions. Andrus offices in the BancFirst Tower in downtown Oklahoma City.
Regarding the hiring of Andrus, David Harlow, BancFirst Corporation CEO, said, “We are delighted to welcome Hannah to the BancFirst team. Hannah’s deep background and experience in audit and assurance, especially with public companies, reinforces our ongoing commitment to strong financial transparency and oversight.”
With more than 14 years of experience in the audit and assurance sector, Andrus brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Banc-
First. After receiving a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in accounting from Southern Methodist University, Andrus started her career at EY (Ernst & Young) in Assurance Services, working her way up to assurance senior manager during her tenure. She performed audit and assurance services for US SEC filers, including large multinational corporations, as well as various smaller, private entities. Her career with EY began in Dallas and took her to London before moving her back home to Oklahoma City.
A native Oklahoman, Andrus is active in her community, currently serving as a board member for WildCare Oklahoma and as a member of both PEO and Junior League of OKC.
Andrus holds a CPA in both Oklahoma and Texas as well as a membership with the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) and the OSCPA (Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants).
“I’m thrilled to be a part of BancFirst and to work alongside the topnotch management team here. I look forward to leveraging my experience to support the integrity and financial transparency of BancFirst,” said Andrus. “I am proud to be a part of an organization that has contributed so significantly to the vibrancy and economic prosperity of Oklahoma.”
ERIN ENGLEKE
In Re the Marriage of ) Angela Mitchell, ) Petitioner, ) -and- ) Steven Mitchell, ) Respondent. ) NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Steven Mitchell You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage. You must answer the Petition on or before the 28 day of August, 2024, or the Petition will be taken as true, and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner. WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 15 day of July, 2024.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By: /s/Teresa Becker Deputy (SEAL) (Published in OKC
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, July 26, 2024; Friday, August 3, 2024) IN AND FOR THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CASE NO: PB-2024-870
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ) NATHAN ALLEN GOODWIN, ) DECEASED )
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
All creditors having claims against NATHAN ALLEN GOODWIN, Deceased, are required to present the same with a description of all security interests and other collateral, if any, held by each creditor with respect to such claim, to ERIC IRVIN, the named Personal Representative at Aaron D. Gwartney, of the Gwartney Law Group, PLLC, 16312 Muirfield Place, Edmond, OK 73013, on or before the following presentment date: September 21, 2024, or the same will be forever barred.
DATED: July 19, 2024
/s/Aaron D. Gwartney, OBA#17229 The Gwartney Law Group, PLLC 16312 Muirfield Place Edmond, OK 73013 Phone: (405) 249-3374 Fax: (405) 285-8110
Attorney for Personal Representative
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, July 26, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. CV-2024-1912
In re: Change of Name of Minor ) From: Diamond Louise Durham ) To: Ash Miles Durham ) Name of Petitioner: ) Jennifer Durham )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Jennifer Durham has petitioned filed a Petition pro se, on behalf of a minor, seeking to change the name on minor’s birth certificate and other state and federal records, to conform with minor’s requested name. A hearing on said Petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 8 day of August, 2024, before Judge Ogden in said Judge’s courtroom in the Oklahoma County courthouse, located at 320 Robert S. Kerr Ave. STE 203, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. 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 with the clerk of this court, prior to the above date. Should you fail to do so, the Petition will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, July 26, 2024) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No. CV-2024-1939
In the Matter of the Application ) of Bessy N. Villanueva Valle ) as next of friend of (child) ) Dariel A. Mejia Villanueva ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Bessy N. Villanueva Valle, as next of friend of Dariel A. Mejia Villanueva has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Dariel Alonso Mejia Villanueva
Real Americans
By Rachel Khong
Rachel Khong has written the novel Goodbye, Vitamin which was named a Best Book of the Year by NPR, and she has also written for O Magazine Vogue and Esquire. In 2018 she became a founder of The Ruby, a work space for women and artists in San Francisco’s Mission District. Rachel was born in Malaysia and now lives in California.
Real Americans focuses on three generations of one family, beginning in 1966 in New York City and touches many Asian Americans with their problems of language, customs and values which even reach the propriety of phrases such as “I love you” from parents to children. These years reflect the Cultural Revolution and the years of restrictions of Mao Zedong which
caused the relocation of many to the shores of the U.S., especially to California, Washington and Oregon. A very large adjustment to the lives of the Chen family unraveled in the fields of science and medical research due in some measure to the giant Maier Pharmaceutical Company. Trying to gain recognition from working in these fields caused formerly unknown tensions. Their differences in customs reflected in the families were far greater than simply economics and language. They’re working for recognition in a world of prejudice.
Real Americans is a story of trust and forgiveness.
The list of characters in this novel is long but easily followed due to the division of the book into three parts: Part One – Lily Chen; Part Two - Nick and Part Three – May. Lily is the heroine, Nick, the Americanized form of his name, Nico, and May, the grandmother of all. They weave their way through science with amazing abilities for inventions and
DNA discoveries after stints at Harvard, Yale and years of being unseen. Ping, Levi, Otto and Matthew, Timothy and Chen Wen Fong keep the plot exciting, and the story of young love moves forward at a fast pace as they confront the awkwardness of their differences.
Pressing questions such as American identity in the three generations as well as determination of who they are and what their lives will become are addressed with pathos as well as joy. Our author has firsthand knowledge of the emotional pains and rewards from wealth of the Maier Pharmaceutical Company. Many people struggle to recognize their obligations for their roles in it. The good and not so good effects of Nick’s search for his biological father also figure into the drama of identity and its place in this century. WHO will reveal what their futures will be?
Only TIME will tell.
Thanks to Full Circle Books for sharing these books with FRIDAY readers.
Oklahoma State Parks welcomed almost 300,000 visitors for July 4th weekend
The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD) released an update on the increased travel and visitation numbers generated by July 4th weekend at Oklahoma State Parks.
In total, between Wednesday, July 3 and Monday, July 8, Oklahoma State Parks welcomed almost 300,000 visitors, generating
over $41 million in economic impact for local communities.
“We are incredibly pleased with the number of visitors that chose to spend their Independence Day at Oklahoma State Parks,” said Shelley Zumwalt, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. “To see an economic impact of $41 million from people
visiting and staying in our Oklahoma State Parks over one holiday weekend shows the tremendous importance the tourism industry plays in our state’s overall economy.”
For more information about travel and tourism in Oklahoma, visit travelok.com and follow TravelOK and Oklahoma State Parks on social media.
Wrapping up with The Sweet Remains
Arts Council Oklahoma City’s Twilight Concert Series finishes on a high note July 28 with a free performance from The Sweet Remains, an all-independent band with more than 60 million streams on Spotify.
“We’ve had a wonderful summer of live music in the Myriad Gardens, and we’re excited to cap things off with a band performing on the Twilight stage for the very first time,” said Arts Council OKC Events Coordinator Avery Matney. “The Sweet Remains have gained notoriety for not only making outstanding music for nearly two decades but also for their awardwinning feature film “The Independents,” streaming on Amazon Prime, which was
inspired by the band’s journey to becoming mainstream musicians.”
The Sweet Remains operate as a 3-piece band with each member contributing to the writing and harmonies. Driven by strong lyrical and melodic writing, their songs appeal to fans of modern folkrockers like Jason Mraz and John Mayer, while bringing lush harmonies that harken back to super-groups of the 60s and 70s like CSN, the Eagles and Simon & Garfunkel.
“The Sweet Remains are a world-traveled band that brings a sound and style that is unique to the Twilight Concert Series,” said ACOKC Executive Director Angela Cozby. “We’ve had an incredible Twilight season
with performances from Husbands, Joe Hertler and the Rainbow Seekers and Branjae, and The Sweet Remains are the perfect way to end a beautiful summer of live music.”
Sponsored by The Chickasaw Nation, the Twilight Concert Series takes place on the Devon Lawn at the Myriad Botanical Gardens on select weekends throughout the summer. All performances begin at 7 pm and are free to attend.
“There’s no better way to end the weekend than relaxing with live music in the Myriad Gardens,” said Matney. “Invite your family and friends, and don't forget your lawn chairs or a blanket for what is certain to be a great night of free entertainment!”
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
Junior’s Supper Club 2601 NW Expressway Oil Center Building (405) 848-5597 juniorsokc.com
Boutique One 7636 N. Western Wilshire Village Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 888-9822 boutiqueone.store
The Learning Tree 7638 N. Western Wilshire Village (405) 848-1415 learningtreeokc.com
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
Nancy Farha’s 9205 N. Pennsylvania Casady Square The Village, OK 73120 (405) 775-0404 nancyfarha.com
23rd Street Antiques 3023 NW 23rd. (405) 947-3800 Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Antiques23.com
Coyle Law Firm 125 Park Ave. No.100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 583-3909 coylelaw.com
Gulfport Seafood Market 8016 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-3468 Gulfportseafoods.com
Moorman's Distinctive Carpets and Area Rugs 3835 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4888 moormanscarpetsoklahoma city.com
Naifeh Fine Jewelry 6471 Avondale Dr,. Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 607-4323 Naifehfinejewelry.com
Retirement Investment
Advisors 2925 United Founders Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-3443 theretirementpath.com
Thrifty Pharmacy
10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852 230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 thriftypharmacyedmond.com
BancFirst 6200 Waterford Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 270-1622 Bancfirst.bank
First National Bank of Oklahoma 10900 Hefner Pointe Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 fnbok.com
La Baguette Bistro 7408 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 840-3047 labaguettebistro.com
CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com
Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank
Covenant Brothers 5900 Mosteller Dr. No. 7 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-4671 covbros.com
Justin Beasley, DDS 4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com
Cindi Shelby, Stylist Lela Rose & Pearl by Lela Rose 333 W. Wilshire Blvd., Ste. F Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 830-1138
Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126
All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 Northwest 63 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.com
Papa Dios 10712 N May, Suite D Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-2255 papadiosokc.com
First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com
Denner Roofing Co. LLC 6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com
First Source Real Estate Residential Sales 12020 N. Penn Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747
Michael Biddinger Real Estate Commercial Sales, Management 12020 N. Penn Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747
The Adult Clinic at Hearts for Hearing 11500 N. Portland Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 548-4335
Christian Science Reading Room 6490 Avondale Drive (Nichols Hills Plaza North) Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 843-5334 christianscienceokc.org
Steam It Klean It LLC
Carpet Cleaning PO Box 20232 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 602-4960 Steamitkleanit@gmail.com
Krista Anne’s Boutique 7602 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 310-5500
Paul Seikel Pearls Oyster Bar 5641 N. Classen Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 848-8008 pearlsokc.com
Laura Lynn’s Home Care 9801 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 418-2961 lauralynnshomecare.com
Chelle Greene Real Estate RE/MAX First 1000 W. Wilshire, Ste. 428 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 818-91931 Chellegreene.com
Basey's Roofing Gary Basey 2700 S. May Ave. Okla City, OK 73109 (405)755-8717
baseysroofingjs@gmail.com Cornerstone Home Health, Inc. 8370 NW 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008 (405)354-5454 cornestonehomehealthservices.com
Niroula Law 511 Couch Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 496-9250 niroulalaw.com
Locally-owned business listings are only $25 a month. Email rose@okcfriday.com for more information.
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.
The big advantage of our small-town library
By Judy Smith Commissioner, Metropolitan Library
My love of reading began at breakfast. Many mornings as a child, I devoured not just Post Sugar Crisp but also the words printed on its box. Some were descriptive, “puffed wheat coated with sugar and honey,” while others were poetic, “as a cereal it’s dandy and for snacks it’s so handy!”
Even as a child I felt
empowered by the ability to learn something new.
Reading and libraries became my lifelong passion.
Today public libraries are more important than ever. The Village Library offers a wide array of resources to make our lives better. It wouldn’t happen without the support of the Metropolitan Library System (MLS). While our library has a rich collection of books, free Wi-Fi, computers,
printers, meeting spaces, and even an outdoor amphitheater, the real magic lies in the extended resources provided by MLS. With 19 locations throughout Oklahoma County, MLS offers our cardholders access to more than $8.5 million in physical and digital materials and 500 monthly events. For a small community like ours, this access is nothing short of transformative.
MLS is funded through
Dear Wise Elder: I love my husband and years ago made a commitment “until death do us part.” Because of his dementia, I have tried to protect him from embarrassment with our friends, but that means I have been cut off from our friends too. And the heavy physical load of caring for him with his increasing dementia difficulties is overwhelming. Are there alternatives to placing him in a facility?
Dear Until Death: First, know what a great example of keeping a promise that you are to grandchildren, family, friends and the community. Since you are not alone in this promise,
Oklahoma County property taxes. Each city pays for the construction of a library within its borders. MLS then leases the facility and shoulders the lion's share of operating costs.
While lease agreements are customized to each branch, efforts are made to keep them as standardized as possible. Doing so ensures consistency and streamlines operations across various locations.
Currently, the system spends about $1.2 million
ask for help now. Isolation is also a big concern for caregivers providing care for someone with dementia. It's important to have a support system of friends and community who will fill in daily, weekly and the times when the caregiver needs a week away. It truly takes a village. Caregivers must have a quality of life, too. VillagesOKC has many facing the same situation. Reach out and connect. You are not alone, and you must care for yourself in order to be there for the long haul.
a year on our library, most of it on salaries. The remaining funds support programming, technology, and facilities expenses. Our library is an indispensable resource for community growth, education, and vitality. Our partnership with MLS ensures it will be for years to come!
Judy Smith has served on the Metropolitan Library Board of Commissioners since 2007 when The Village City Council appointed her to the post.
Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School
August 2024
7 - 9th Grade Orientation (8 a.m.-3 p.m.)
8 - 10th Grade Orientation (8-11 a.m.)
8 — 11th Grade Orientation (12:30–3:30 p.m.)
9 — 12th Grade Orientation (8-11:00 a.m.)
9 — Mean Green Fling 7-9 p.m. (Register @ 6:30 p.m.), Freshmen Parent Party 7-9 p.m. (The Commons) 12 — First Day of School 15 — All School Mass (9:30 a.m.) 19 — Back to School Night (7 p.m.) 27 AM Assembly - Celebration of 2024 Spring Activities September 2024 2 — No School – Labor Day
6 — Homecoming Reveal/Beat Kelley Assembly AM in PM 10 — All School Mass (9:30 a.m.) 11 — Grandparents Day 18 — 12th Grade Retreat 19 — T1 – End of First 6 Weeks
20 — Football Homecoming vs. Bishop Carroll (7 p.m.)
20 — No School - Archdiocesan In-Service 24 — Classroom Night with the Teachers (7:30 p.m.) October 2024
8 — All School Mass (9:30 a.m.)
8 — Understanding College Finances for Seniors
10 —9th–11th PSAT (dismissal 11 a.m.) / 12th Career Day 11-14 — No School – Fall Break
— K-4th Student Orientations/Open House 14 — Friday, August 16 Preschool / Pre-K Orientations
14 — K-12th First Day of School 19 — Preschool / Pre-K First Day of School 20 — Middle School Parent Orientation
27 — 1st-4th Parent Orientation
September 2024 2 — Labor Day Holiday 3 — Upper School Parent Orientation October 2024 11 — 7th/8th Quarterly Testing 17 — No Classes / PS-8th Conference Day / US Prof. Dev. /End of 1st Quarter 18—21 Fall Break 22 — Beginning of 2nd Quarter 23 — 9th-11th PSAT/US Early Release November 2024 25-29 — Thanksgiving Break December 2024 17- 20 — 7th / 8th Quarterly Testing/ US Semester Exams 20 — Early Release / End of 2nd Quarter 23 - Jan. 3 Christmas Break January 2025
6 — No Classes/ Staff Professional Development 7 — Classes Resume/Beginning of 3rd Quarter 13 — US PreACT Testing 20 — MLK Holiday February 2025 14-17 — Winter Break 10-13 — 7th/8th Quarterly Testing March 2025 14 — PS-8th Conference Day/ 9th -12th Class in Session/End of 3rd Quarter 17-21 — Spring Break 24 — Beginning of 4th Quarter
April 2025 18 — Good Friday Holiday 28 — May 2 LS/ MS Standardized Testing May 2025 12-14 — Senior Final Exams 16-12 — Final Exams 19-21 — Early Release 21 — Last Day of Classes/End of 4th Quarter 22 — EOY Ceremonies Commencement
Deer Creek Public Schools
August 2024
6-7 — New Teacher Profressional Development 8-13 — Professional Development 14 — First Day of School
30 — Remote Learning Day September 2024 2 — Labor Day, No School
October 2024
17-18 — Fall Break, No School 21 — No School, Conference Nights
November 2024
22 — Remote Learning Day 25-29 — Thanksgiving Break, No School December 2024 23-31 — Winter Break, No School
January 2025
1-3 — Winter Break, No School
6 — Professional Development 20 — Martin Luther King Day, No School
February 2025
14 — Remove Learning Day
17 — President’s Day, No School
March 2025 14 — No School, Conference Night 17-21 — Spring Break, No School
April 2025 18 — No School
May 2025
— Baccalaureate Services, 5 p.m.,
Edwards Chapel 31 — Graduation, 7 p.m., St. Edwards Lawn
22 — LastDay of School 23 — Teacher Record Day 26 — Memorial Day
Mount St. Mary OKC Public Schools
August
— First Day of School
September 2024
November 2024 22 — Early Dismissal, 12 p.m. 25-29, Thanksgivining Break
December
August
Classes Begin
September 2024
— Labor Day
— Parent Conferences
October 2024 14-18 — Fall Break
November 2024
— Thanksgiving Break
December 2024
6 — Winter Break
January 2025
— MLK Jr. Day
February 2025
— Parent Conferences
March 2025
— Spring Break May 2025
— Last Day of Classes
— Record Day
— Memorial Day
Putnam City Public Schools
August 2024
— Teacher Work Day
14 — Classes Begin Septebmer 2024 2 — Labor Day, District Offices Closed
—Teacher Collaboration Day, No Classes
October 2024 17 — Parent Conferences, No School 18 — Fall Break, District Offices Closes
— Professional Day, No Classes
November 2024 5 — Election Day, No Classes High School
—Thanksgiving Break, District Offices Closed
December 2024 23 — Winter Break Begins, District Offices Closed January 2025 6 — Teacher Work Day, No Classes 7 — Classes Resume
— Martin Luther King Day, District Offices Closed February 2025 3 — Site Professional Day, No Classes 17 — Asynchronous Day, Students Virtual, Teachers on Site March 2025
— Conferences/Enrollment Day, No Classes 17-21 — Spring Break, No School, District Offices Closed April 2025
— No School High School, District Offices Open May 2025 22 — Last Day of Classes 23 — Teacher Work Day
As school bells approach, it’s time to get back in the routine
Children will soon be trading in the chimes of neighborhood ice cream trucks for the bells of school as summer vacation gives way to the start of a new academic year. August through September is prime back-to-school season, with children all across the country stocking their backpacks and shopping for new school wardrobes.
There is more to getting ready for the start of school than making sure pencils are sharpened and tablets are charged. Parents and children can work together to ensure the transition back to the classroom is as seamless as possible.
• • • Adjust sleep and wake times
Summer vacation often means letting loose of schedules for a while, and that may translate into later-thannormal bedtimes and rising a little later in the morning. Everyone in the household will have to reacquaint themselves with schedules that ensure kids get to school on time. A few weeks before the first day of school, start incrementally going to bed at an earlier time and start waking up earlier each morning. Try to plan out the increments so that by the time the last few days of
summer vacation wind down, the family is on target with a waking schedule that mirrors the school schedule.
• • • Acclimate to being around people
Although summer vacation may involve trips that bring children in contact with other people, it may have been some time since they've spent five or more hours per day around 20 to 30 people their age. It may take a transition period to get used to being around a bunch of peers, so families can visit places where there tend to be crowds of kids, such as zoos, aquariums, parks, and trampoline centers. These can be low-pressure locations to dust off social skills.
• • • Know the route or plan for school transportation Students may be driven independently, ride the school bus, walk or bike, or carpool with others to and from school. Families can establish plans so that getting to and from school is not something kids need to worry about. Practice routes and timing, taking into consideration that when schools open there will be much more traffic. Parents can reassure children that there will be a learning curve, but
all of the kinks generally get worked out during the first week.
• • • Avoid ‘summer slide’
Most students don't want to think about studying, homework and testing while on summer break, but it can be beneficial to stay current on some lessons. Summer slide refers to the loss of some of the learning achieved during the previous school year over the summer break. Some experts
say summer slide is overstated, but it can't hurt for students to refresh their memories on some math, science and language arts concepts over break so that they will be ready to hit the books when the new school year begins.
• • •
Prep for school lunches
Children and adults can work together to map out healthy eating options for school lunch. Many school districts have lunch plans
that can be purchased through an online account. Participating students simply enter a number or swipe a code at checkout. School lunches are built to be nutritionally diverse and have options that even picky eaters will like.
• • • School is right around the corner, and families should get ready for the routine and needs that go with the academic year as the first day draws closer.
Parents
About our schools: Mount St. Mary High School Crossings Christian School
Mount St. Mary High School is a private, Roman Catholic co-educational high school in Oklahoma City. It was established in 1903 by the Sisters of Mercy and located in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City as a girl's boarding school. The Mount became a co-educational day school in 1950. Students enroll from 14 Catholic feeder
schools as well as several charter schools, public schools, home schools, and other Christian schools in central Oklahoma Community Service is a way of life at MSM. There are many opportunities for students to serve the community through class work days, and service projects with clubs, organizations and athletic teams.
The mission of Crossings Christian School is to partner with parents and church to develop students into Christ-centered servant leaders who are academically and spiritually prepared for college and life.
Crossings’ core values are:
• Authority of scripture.
• Academic excellence.
• Spiritual development.
• God-honoring relationships.
The vision of Crossings Christian School can best be explained by describing the ideal graduate CCS desires to produce. In many ways this description is truly an ideal, but it represents the target that CCS strives for as it carries out its mission effort. This ideal graduate will be trained to emulate Christ – intellectually, socially, physically and spiritually.
Casady School is a PreK-12, independent, college preparatory Episcopal day school committed to deeperlevel learning. Casady School welcomes a student body that reflects the diversity of the world around us and therefore does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, nationality, or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletics and other schooladministered programs generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
Casady is commited to providing a foundation of excellence for all its students, instilling them with the educational and social skills to triumph in their future endeavors.
Oklahoma City Community College
Oklahoma City Community College offers a range of educational programs and is located in Oklahoma City. It is situated on a more than 143-acre campus and serves over 28,000 students every year. The college offers several associate degree programs that prepare students to transfer to baccalaureate institutions. It also offers other degree and certificate programs that are designed to prepare students for immediate employment in a variety of fields.
The college’s academic courses include arts and humanities, information technology, science, mathematics and nursing. It provides students opportunities to participate in various student clubs and See OCCC, Page 15
Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School
Since 1950 Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School has provided superior secondary education in the greater Oklahoma City area. All students undertake a college-preparatory curriculum that comprises traditional core subjects, theology, and a wide variety of electives in visual and performing arts, practical studies, STEM and other fields. Bishop McGuinness educates the whole person by offering
numerous extracurricular, athletic, and spiritual-development opportunities.
As a Catholic community of faith, Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School is dedicated to educating and developing the whole person, providing a moral, ethical and Christ-centered compass for life. The teachings of the church permeate the school’s spiritual, academic and social life, forming a Person for Others.
organizations. Additionally, it offers a variety of community and continuing education courses, workshops, conferences and seminars.
From Page 14
Oklahoma City Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which is a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
At right, St. Anthony Foundation’s Annual Giving Director Randy Cassimus and Regional Vice-President of Philanthropy
Lynann SterkBrooks join Russell Davis and Stephen Howard at the POP! Champagne and Spirit Tasting event.
Celebrating the event’s fifth year, St. Anthony Foundation’s POP! Champagne and Spirit Tasting at Mercedes-Benz of OKC raised a record-breaking $30,800 in support of the ICU and critical care services at St. Anthony Hospital.
Supporting the mission of St. Anthony Foundation are, above, Doug Sterk and Dr. Karen Allen; at left, Linda Haneborg, Nancy Anthony and Sherry Rhodes. Guests enjoyed more than 50 samples of Champagne, sparkling wine, scotch, whiskey and cognac. Cellist Sam Kahre entertained the crowd.
Above, Katie and Dr. Matthew Jared. At left, Kristi and Jason Coleman.
From left, Andrew and Marissa Noland with Lynn and John Robberson.
