08-04-23 Print Replica

Inside Barbie’s World

Fridaylanders flocked to the premier of “Barbie.” At left: OKC FRIDAY Sales Executive Gina Nichols and her daughter Hays At right: back row, Sarah Anderson, Sandy Tru, Kari Collier, Val Standefer and Phi Nguyen, and in front, Kara Trahan and Ashley Weems.

For more photos, see Pages 2 & 12

NHills approves training tower, garbage truck, employee bonuses

By Mike W. Ray Staff Writer

The purchase of a fire training tower, a new refuse collection truck and a security camera were authorized by the Nichols Hills City Council recently, as well as bonuses for the city’s 76 employees.

The city received four bids on construction of a training tower for the Fire Department and awarded a $959,000 contract on the project to Landmark Construction.

Norma’s can-do attitude keeps her smiling

By Annabella Potts Student Intern

Long-time realtor Norma Harris, 89, has always had a “can-do’ attitude.

“I've always been an ‘I can do it’ person,” she said. “One of my boys said, ‘it's Miss YouCan-Do-Anything.

“So that's kind of my attitude. I can do it. That's my slogan. And I always think I can. Sometimes I can't, but I try anyway. It's got me where I am, and that's worked out.”

Norma grew up in Oklahoma City where her father had a restaurant. She was in charge of waiting on customers, which wasn’t to her liking, but in her youth, she

dabbled in many different hobbies. At a young age, she loved to dance and perform acrobatics, where at one particular point, she jumped off a 14-foot ladder into her instructor's arms.

“Well, you have to do what makes you happy, not what other people want you to do to be happy,” she said. “I don't know. I just always kind of did what I wanted growing up.”

Norma went to college at the University of Oklahoma but left early to get married. She previously worked as a secretary but says that women from her time were only offered that role or the job of a schoolteacher.

“I just think the young kids

today have so much fun,” she said. “They have so many more opportunities than we did when we were growing up. You know, there's things that women do today they wouldn't have thought of back then.”

She has been at the helm of Harris Real Estate for many, many years. Back in the day, at least as early as 1977, Norma wrote a column for OKC FRIDAY, “Let’s Talk Real Estate.” Also a long-time resident of Quail Creek, she took a client to her home to check on available listings. Norma’s own home was the one for that client. She sold it and found

See NORMA, Page 5

Fire Chief Kevin Boydston previously said his department envisions a modular, customized, four-story structure that can be easily modified for multiple training sessions, such as rappelling or cutting holes in a roof to gain access to a building ablaze.

The facility is to have a smoke generator and forcible entry doors, for simulated search and rescue drills when visibility is obscured, Boydston said. The tower also will have movable walls that can be reconfigured for different scenarios.

The tower is to be used for training Nichols Hills firefighters alongside those from The Village and/or Oklahoma City, Boydston said. In addition, “We want to host classes for training other departments, as well, to enable them to acquire hands-on experience in fighting structure fires.”

City Manager Shane Pate said, “This will provide our department with a great opportunity to train regularly for all kinds of fires, including fires at multiple levels.”

The City Council authorized Public Works Director Randy Lawrence to buy a 2023 heavyduty Freightliner compressed natural gas-powered

See NHILLS, Page 5

12th Cookies & Cocktails supports Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma has set its 12th annual Cookies & Cocktails fundraising event for Friday, Aug. 18 at Camp Trivera, 2508 N.E. 50 in Oklahoma City.

A VIP social begins at 5:30 p.m., with the event following at 6:30 p.m.

Cookies & Cocktails, now in its 12th year, is a creative partnership event featuring cookie-

Village hires firm to collect past due $

By Mike W. Ray Staff Writer

The Village is contracting with a new company to collect money that deadbeats owe the city.

A resolution adopted by the City Council related that city staff was dissatisfied with collections provider American Municipal Services.

Consequently, the council voted unanimously to hire the Oklahoma City firm of Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins and Mott to collect on delinquent accounts owed to City Hall and on unpaid municipal court citations.

State law decrees that a city council may enter into a contract with a collection agency for “one or more of the following items: (1) debts and

accounts receivable including, but not limited to, unpaid fees, penalties, interest, and other sums due the municipality, or (2) court penalties, costs, fines and fees in cases in municipal court in which the accused has failed to appear or otherwise failed to satisfy a monetary obligation ordered by the court.”

The Village will add a fee of no more than 35% to the delinquent debt, and that fee will constitute “the full compensation to which Perdue is entitled” for collecting the overdue amount.

The Village bills 4,859 utility customers, “on average,” and approximately 200 of them “would get frequent-flyer points if we had rewards

See VILLAGE, Page 3

themed recipes of sweet and savory varieties from local restaurants, caterers and bars. Attendees have the opportunity to taste the one-of-a-kind creations while enjoying music and fellowship.

General admission tickets are $60 with VIP tickets available for $80. VIP tickets include early access to the event starting at 5:30 p.m. with VIP bar access

Dog of the Week

This is Jenson, an 8-monthold, 62-pound golden retriever who loves his tennis ball more than life. When he is not playing fetch, Jenson enjoys summer swims, boat rides, and shaking your hand (as long as it holds a treat).

His smile brings joy to all those he meets — especially his dad Mason Belcher.

Email Dog, Cat, Pet and Baby of the Week nominations with complete descriptions to rose@okc-friday.com.

and a special tray for easy tasting. Food, wine, beer and cocktails are included with either ticket price. Guests must be 21 years of age to attend.

“It’s always fun to see local restaurants and caterers put their creativity into tasty creations for Cookies & Cock-tails,” said Cookies & See COOKIES, Page 3

KATIE LONG LINDSEY McCARTY

Norma Harris, with family at her 89th birthday party last December, from left: Son-in-law and daughter Steve and Linda Parduhn, Norma, son Glenn Harris and Dawn Longacre.

Living in a Barbie World

From left: Erik Salazar, Dane Kaylor, Christopher Lloyd, Matt Cole and Aaron Trahan. For another group photo, see Page 12.

Fridaylanders — male and female — flocked the theaters to see “Barbie” and take advantage of a photo opp in the “box.” At right: Back row, from left, Crystal Hardberger, Kara Locke, Lillie-Beth Brinkman; and front row, Cindy Derryberry and Stacey Rist.

From bottom to top. Christi Coyle, Aimee Harlow, Stacey Haggard, Jill Williams and Celina Harrison.

Staggs is on Dean’s List at RIT

Ren Staggs of Oklahoma City was named to the Dean's List at Rochester Institute of Technology for the spring semester of the 2022-2023 academic year. Staggs is in the environmental science program.

VILLAGE

From Page 1 for habitually paying late,” City Manager Dave Slezickey said. Past-due accounts total “around $30,000,” he said on July 18, “but this includes those on payment plans, not just delinquent or failure-topay,” he added.

Retaining Perdue “should improve our results and reduce the open amounts,” Slezickey said.

COOKIES

From Page 1

Cocktails Co-Chairman

Katie Long. “Attendees get to sample food and drinks inspired by Girl Scout Cookies, and everyone votes for their favorites. At the end of the night, some of our chefs walk away with bragging rights, and guests leave with their bellies full, knowing they’ve had a great

time supporting a terrific cause through Girl Scouts.”

Lindsey McCarty is the other co-chairman.

Money raised at Cookies & Cocktails goes to support Girl Scouts’ programming, including the Highest Awards program.

Susan Regier is to be recognized as this year’s Cookies & Cocktails honorary chairman and celebrated for her support of Girl Scouts

FRIDAY in Italy

Sarah and Hayden Roberts’ sons Owen (14) and Jackson (20) with OKC FRIDAY in Italy. Owen is an incoming eighth grader at Crossings Christian School. Jackson goes back to school as a sophomore at the University of Oklahoma. Be sure to pack your newspaper when you travel. Send photos to rose@okcfriday.com.

Western Oklahoma.

Tickets and sponsorship information are available at gswestok.org/cc23 or by calling (405) 5284475. Restaurants or caterers can also reach out to join the event.

About Girl Scouts

Western Oklahoma

Located in 39 Oklahoma counties in the central, southwest and northwest region of the state, Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma builds girls of

courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. Through leadership-building programs, GSWESTOK offers girls pathways to explore their interestsincluding STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math), healthy lifestyles and activities like our High Adventure Team and summer camps and community service projects through the Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.

Sports Weekly

Casady softball adjusting to new schedule in OSSAA

By Jason Jewell Sports Editor

Beginning its first season in the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association (OSSAA), the Casady softball team needed to make major scheduling adjustments for the 2023 fast-pitch season.

The Cyclones have moved from playing in the spring season throughout their sixplus decades in the Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC), to the fall season in OSSAA.

“This has been a massive adjustment,” coach Deana Haines said. “Our last game in

SPC was just in midApril so we’ve just had a couple months off before having to jump

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.

ing tournament with a 7-4 overall record and 7-2 in conference play.

For 2023, the Cyclones compete in Class 3A.

The new season begins this Thursday, Aug. 10, when Casady hosts Washington at 4 p.m., followed by a road game Aug. 11 at Bethel near Shawnee.

Casady players to face off against many of their friends or summer club teammates, the coach said.

“Many of our players have friends who play on other schools on our schedule,” she said. “So, I think that could give them a little more to play for.”

along with being the top pitcher and playing middle infield.

Lily Johnston, a junior and another player set to make a position change, is transitioning to first base from her outfield spot during last season.

into the new season.”

In its final SPC season, Casady finished third in the season-end-

Another change in scheduling for the Cyclones involved the number of games on their slate. They normally played just 12-14 games in the SPC, but have 24 games scheduled for this year.

Playing in-state also allows many of the

Five seniors – all starters – graduated from last season’s squad and presented a challenge of reshuffling Casady’s lineup.

“Replacing the seniors we lost is a big adjustment,” Haines said.

Junior Reagan Prestidge returns as the team’s leading hitter,

Brooklyn Wells fits the ultility player description as the sophomore has seen time at catcher, pitcher and third place but is likely to play second base or shortstop, Haines said.

The lone senior Mollie Coate takes over as the “on-field general” at catcher after primarily playing in the infield last season.

Sportsmanship principles athletes should learn

Competitive sports have a lot to offer young people. In addition to exposing children to the thrill of competition, competitive sports can set a foundation for a lifetime of healthy living.

Competitive sports also teaches valuable lessons about humility and respect. Sportsmanship is a vital and valuable component of competitive sports, and that’s a lesson no athlete is too young to learn.

Coaches and parents can work together to emphasize these principles of sportsmanship to young athletes.

• Always respect officials. In the era of instant replay in professional sports, criticism of officials has become more common. Such criticism can easily move from the professional to the amateur arena if players are not taught to always respect the officials. Unfortunately, many amateur sports officials continue to be the victims of overaggressive behavior from coaches, parents and athletes, and many have simply chosen to walk away rather than subject themselves to abuse. Coaches and parents can practice what they preach when teaching young athletes to respect officials at all times, regardless of how games unfold on the playing field.

• Respect the rules Respect for officials should coexist with respect for the game itself. Every game has rules, and knowing and adhering to those rules is a vital component of good sportsmanship. Coaches and parents can set the tone for this by encouraging kids to play by the rules during

Sportsmanship is a vital component of sports participation. Teaching young athletes the principles of sportsmanship adds one more unique benefit to sports participation.

the games, but also by adhering to rules governing practice times and offseason workouts when no one is watching too closely.

• Respect opponents. Showing respect for opponents is another principle of good sportsmanship. Social media provides a readily available platform for athletes to disparage their opponents before and after games. Such platforms have even proven too tempting to resist for some professional athletes. But showing respect for opponents, even in defeat, illustrates to parents and coaches that young athletes are mature and cognizant of the fact that partici-

pation in sports requires good sportsmanship.

• Respect coaches Good sportsmanship also involves respecting coaches, even when they make decisions players and their parents do not necessarily agree with. That respect has been dwindling in recent years, and it’s contributing to a coaching shortage in youth sports. Many coaches volunteer their time to teach young people the game, and players should be taught to respect coaches at all times. That includes those times when players feel like they aren’t getting enough playing time or when they disagree with coaches’ ingame decisions.

- Photo by Johnny Holland, jhollandphotography.com

Mollie Coate, the lone senior on the Casady softball team in 2023, makes a position change to catcher.

From

another residence on the Quail Creek golf course.

Norma values the nature of going with the flow and enjoying what adventures life brings. She believes her attitude growing up is what shaped her into the woman she is today.

“Do what makes you happy, not what somebody else says,” she said.

Nowadays, Norma likes to spend her time going on trips with her friends. She said they get up early in the mornings to catch the bus, where they drive to their chosen location.

Recently, Norma and her friends went to Branson to watch the live performances and relax in nature.

“There were a bunch of us that went, and we just laughed and had a good time, so that's better than sitting at home, I can tell you for sure,” Norma said. “You know, there's plenty to do out there. You don't have to be bored. You just have to go and do those things. Go when you can, because sometimes that chance doesn't come back. But life is fun, you know, and you can make it what you want it to be.”

Norma lives her life unafraid to try new things and take on different challenges. She loves to window shop and decorate her home, and one of her favorite community events is the 4th of July parade because everyone is out celebrating in the street. Norma likes to take photos of everything she can in order to document the memories she’s made. She offers advice for people who might forget to bring their cameras around.

“You know, sometimes people don't take pictures, and they should, because then you get them out and look at them and remember all those crazy and good times.”

NHILLS

From Page 1

trash truck and a 25 cubic-yard Leach packer body; the $318,673 in purchases is to be made through state contracts. The council previously set aside $320,000 for the acquisitions.

The Public Works Department is to “surplus and trade in” Freightliner 2014 and 2016 sanitation trucks to offset some of the cost of the new vehicle.

Lawrence said the Public Works Department has three residential trash collection trucks, two of which “run daily” and a third held in reserve as a

backup unit.

Information Systems Manager Neil Gray received permission to spend up to $2,300 to buy and install a security camera at the water pump house building in the Public Works Complex.

Bonuses ranging from $1,600 to $7,300, and totaling $247,867, were approved for City of Nichols Hills employees, and the council passed supplemental compensation totaling $32,668 for employees of the Nichols Hills Municipal Authority.

The bonuses augment cost-of-living adjustments that were included in the recently approved $34.56 million city budget for Fiscal Year 2023-24.

Beef council event benefits Pepper’s Ranch

The Oklahoma Beef Council hosts the second annual Steak & Grape wine pairing event on Friday, Sept. 15 at Will Rogers Theater in Oklahoma City.

The beneficiary of this year’s event is Pepper’s Ranch, Oklahoma’s premiere foster care community.

Located on 240 serene acres near Guthrie, Oklahoma, Pepper’s Ranch is home to tenured foster families

providing love and care for youth within the foster care system. Pepper’s Ranch seeks to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect through a neighborhood of loving homes, counseling, and growth-oriented activities. Their safe and nurturing community inspires and equips each child to break the cycle, reach their full potential, and become productive citizens of society.

Steak & Grape is to

BOCC MINUTES AND PROCEEDINGS

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 4, 2023)

feature a four-course meal developed by Chef Kurt Fleischfresser featuring beef expertly paired with Premium Brand wines. The night will also feature an opportunity to further support Pepper’s Ranch through a live auction with offerings of incredible trips, original artwork, and BEEF! Individuals can purchase tickets and sponsorships online at bit.ly/Steak_Grape.

public service. Requested by Commissioner Brian Maughan Chairman of the Board. Maughan moved Blumert seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Maughan Blumert and Cash Emergency Management Discussion review and possible action regarding the FY 2024 Annual Fire Equipment Agreement between Oklahoma County and the City of Spencer/Spencer Fire Department. This Agreement as reviewed by the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office commences upon signature by the Oklahoma County Board of County Commissioners and ends on June 30 2024. Blumert moved Cash seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Maughan Blumert and Cash Facilities Management Discussion and possible action regarding a renewal contract between the BOCC and Waste Connections for FY 23-24. Pending encumbrance. Req # 12400544. Blumert moved Cash seconded to receive document. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Maughan Blumert and Cash Blumert moved Cash seconded to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Maughan Blumert and Cash Human Resources Discussion and possible action regarding recognition of the July 2023 BOCC Employees of the Month. This item is requested by Karen Kint Director of HR/Safety Chris Crawford MIS Blumert moved Cash seconded to approve Chris Crawford. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Maughan Blumert and Cash Juvenile Bureau Discussion and possible action regarding the Agreement for Non-Residential Services between the Board of County Commissioners of Oklahoma County on behalf of the Oklahoma County Juvenile Bureau and Pivot Inc who shall provide non-residential services to non-adjudicated and adjudicated juvenile offenders in a comprehensive

Norma Harris’ column which appeared in the May 27, 1977 edition of OKC FRIDAY.

Lou Kerr, left and Nina Gaugler, center, tour Norma Harris’s new home in Quail Creek overlooking the golf course. This story was included in the April 30, 2021 edition of OKC FRIDAY.

FESTIVALS

Aug. 18 •

Asian Night Market

Head over to the Asian District for their annual Asian Night Market Festival Aug. 18­19 from 5 ­ 11 pm. The Asian Night Market Festival is one of the largest and most culturally diverse events in Oklahoma. Hosted by the Asian District Cultural Association, this is an exciting event full of cultural performances, food vendors, fashion show, food eating contest and much more. Visit asiandistrictok.com to learn more.

CONCERTS

Aug. 9 • Orville Peck

The Jones Assembly presents Orville PeckBronco Tour. Peck is a South African country musician based in Canada. He wears a fringed mask and has never shown his face publicly. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Full bar and walk­up food window available during the show. Get tickets at thejonesassembly.com.

Aug. 11 • Jimmy Eat World

See Jimmy Eat World and Manchester Orchestra with Middle Kids at The Criterion. Doors open at 5:30 and the show beginning at 7 pm. Get tickets at criterionokc. com.

Aug. 26 • Lion’s Club Car Show

The Village Lion’s Club 18th Annual Car Show is Saturday, Aug. 26 at Duffner Park (east of May Ave. on Hefner Rd.). From 9­11:30 am is registration with judging from 12­1:00 and awards at 2:00 pm. This event is free to spectators with proceeds going to the Lions EYEBank, Boys Ranch, Coats for Kids, BritVil Food Pantry and other projects in the Village. Bring your used eyeglasses to be recycled.

Aug. 17 • Thomas Rhett Thomas Rhett brings his Home Team Tour to the Paycom Center on Aug. 17 with special guests Cole Swindell and Nate Smith. Go to paycomcenter.com for tickets and details.

Oct. 14 • Chris Young Local Credit Unions presents a free country­music concert at Scissortail Park for everyone in the community to enjoy. CU in the Park scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14, stars Chris Young, multi­platinum global entertainer and one of Billboard’s top country artists of the decade. The concert is free and open to the public on the Love’s Travel Stops Stage and Great Lawn at Scissortail Park.

FUNDRAISERS

Oct. 14 • OPUS XII

Are you ready to kick up your heels this fall? OPUS XII Club Cabaret is at the OKC Golf & Country Club

and will welcome guests with showstopping entertainment, delectable food and libations and an auction featuring exclusive packages. Donations to Allied Arts reach more than one million people each year by funding arts programs statewide in Oklahoma. Visit opusokc. com for details.

THIS WEEKEND

Aug. 5 • OKC Horror Con Oklahoma City’s Horror Con is a Horror themed, familyfriendly event at Remington Park. The show consists of celebrity guests, the BEST vendors in the region, cosplay, Q&A panels, Nightfall Haunted Territory’s haunted forest, Scaryokie and many more spooky events. Horror fans come join us for the most exciting weekend of the year. Saturday, Aug. 5 (10am – 6pm) and Sunday, Aug. 6 (11am – 5pm). For tickets visit horrorconokc. com.

Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com

Paycom Center Events/Shows:

Thomas Rhett ­ Aug. 17

PBR Freedom Fest ­ Sept. 8­10

Jelly Roll ­ Sept. 19

Koe Wetzel ­ Sept. 30

ODESZA ­ Oct. 12

Jason Aldean ­ Oct. 13

Nate Bargatze ­ Oct. 22

--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Oklahoma state and local officials joined American Heartland leadership to announce American Heartland Theme Park and Resort, a more than $2 billion entertainment destination development in northeast Oklahoma, just west of Grand Lake on Route 66.

The development will be built in phases starting with a large-scale RV park with cabins scheduled to open phase one in spring 2025 and a world-class theme park and resort scheduled to open in 2026. The American Heartland Theme Park and Resort will offer a unique

Crook Manifesto

By Colson Whitehead

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks ­ Nov. 18­19 Ringling Bros Show ­ Dec. 15­17

Zoo Amphitheatre: Sam Hunt ­ Aug. 5 Incubus ­ Aug. 20

Rick Springfield ­ Aug. 23

All American Rejects ­ Oct. 14 Civic Center Music Hall:

visitor experience rivaling the world’s top resort destinations.

American Heartland will be a 1,000-acre development with a 125acre theme park, which is comparable to the size of Magic Kingdom® Theme Park and Disneyland® Park. The park will feature an Americana-themed environment with a variety of entertaining rides, live shows, family attractions, waterways as well as restaurantquality food and beverage offerings.

The adjacent 320-acre Three Ponies RV Park and Campground, designed by Oklahoma architects

Colson Whitehead has completed the third novel of the trilogy Crook Manifesto which began with Harlem Shuffle in 2021 and is being hailed as “not just crime fiction at its craftiest, but shrewdly rendered social history.” Whitehead has written eleven fiction and non-fictions and won the Pulitzer Prize twice. His book The Underground Railroad won the National Book Award. Other awards also include both MacArthur and Guggenheim fellowships.

This fast-moving tale of 20th-century Harlem begins with the life of Ray Carney, a furniture dealer with a criminal side to his life. The 70s are bad years for New York City economically and socially (as in bankruptcies, murder and killings), during the Nixon era and rise of warring militants, the Black Panther and the Black Liberation Army who differed in more ways than just their names. Ray was falling into a middleclass rut when his former partner-in-crime entices him to get back

into his other persona as a fence, an “accomplished fixer.” This which put him close to crimes of robbery and kidnapping and forced him to become a quiet partner in his former cop friend’s crime rampage in NYC.

Thus begins the third part of the novel in the bicentennial year of 1976 at the peak of the city’s fiscal crisis. Suddenly there were many fires in vacant buildings in Harlem and other poor neighborhoods. This caught Ray’s attention, and he wondered who is starting such dread fires that kill people who are still in the building. He reaches to former partners in his own shady past for help in finding out.

There is no love for mankind here as Ray’s cronies even consider the underserved as “just black thieves refused service by the white fences downtown.” The book is not just crime fiction at its best, but a look at how such cities as NYC survived the era. Only novelists with keen observation powers and master writing skills could so believably continue to tell about police corruption, murder, failures and successes. It

Ain’t Misbehavin’ ­ July 25­30

Ain’t Too Proud ­ Aug. 15­20

Spider­Man ­ Sept. 21

To Kill a Mockingbird ­ Oct. 10­15

Bluey’s Big Play ­ Oct. 17­18

Tina Turner Muscial ­ Dec. 26­31

Other Events/Shows/Awards: Prix de West ­ June 2 ­ Aug. 6

ADG Blatt, will be the largest campground in the central U.S. with 750 RV spaces and 300 cabins plus amenities.

“There’s no better place to represent the heart of America than northeast Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma State Sen. Micheal Bergstrom. “This $2 billion investment in our state will create more than 4,000 jobs and introduce a new category of entertainment to the region, and its long-term economic impact will be transformative.”

American Heartland Theme Park and Resort is a family-friendly park promising timeless fun and bound-

would be very hard to find another one about a second-hand rug dealer/crook with such a storied background as Ray Carney and friends.

Eventually crooked politics raises its head as Elizabeth, Ray’s wife, campaigns for a former friend who is running for D.A. The battle snakes through the already crumbling city run by a shady, violent and corrupt list of characters.

Strangely, the meaning of family and loyalties slip into the flow, and though dark, the humor saves one from gasps of disbelief and biting too many fingernails.

Bad things happen to good people, but in the Crook Manifesto they also happen to bad people. Harlem, East New York City, the ratty side of the life and times of Harlem, East New York. The trilogy tells it all with powerful words that keep one reading to see how or if the city will recover and survive. Change is not easy for people, nor is it easy for giant cities. My last unexpected laugh came with closing words, “The neighbors liked the way it used to be.” Thanks to Full Circle for sharing books with FRIDAY readers.

Orville Peck ­ Aug. 9 Jimmy Eat World ­ Aug.

less adventure. The 125-acre theme park will feature a collection of six distinctly American lands to welcome guests on a journey through the best of the American story. Families will find thrilling rides and heartwarming shows as they discover Great Plains, Bayou Bay, Big Timber Falls, Stony Point Harbor, Liberty Village and Electropolis.

The development will also include a top-tier 300-room hotel and modern indoor water park. Learn more at americanheartlandthemepark.com and threeponiesrvparkandcampground.com.

All-Stars shine light on inspiring teachers

Compiled by Annabella Potts

Student Intern

We asked members of our All Star Scholarship and Leadership teams from the Class of 2023 graduation tabloid to describe the most inspiring teacher in their educational career.

The following are their responses:

JOHN MARSHALL

Shelly Campbell, AP English

Language, AP Literature

“Mrs. Campbell is my AP English teacher. She is a very passionate teacher who shows up to work daily expecting her students’ absolute best. She is a teacher who enforces deadlines and doesn’t let things slide, which has prepared me and increased my confidence heading into college.”

-Angel Deleon

“Mrs. Campbell has been an impactful person who has guided and taught me many things. She is a well-qualified teacher who I come to for assistance with my education. I take comfort knowing that she is always willing to help. Not only is Mrs. Campbell my favorite teacher, she is the heart of John Marshall.”

-A’sya Gray

“I believe she has made an impact on the whole school, not just me. Mrs. Campbell is definitely a go-getter! She is amazing at what she does and inspires me to chase my goals no matter the obstacle. Her great energy and the way she loves and gives rubs off on us.”

-Gabrialle Thomas

“Mrs. Campbell has had one of the biggest impacts on me by introducing me to the student council. Student council has helped me find my voice and helped me identify who I am. Going through high school I have improved my communication

skills and met many connections along the way. If it wasn’t for Mrs. Campbell, I would not be involved in so many school activities which are now helping me as Senior Class President.”

-Keyli Perry

Middle School two years ago, and in that time, he has entirely transformed the school by showing the students the same love and concern he shows for me and his own brothers.”

-Kaylen Geretta

MOUNT ST. MARY

Ignacio Ruiz, Spanish, Webcast Journalism

-Erick Mora Moncada

“She taught me lessons that improved my professional, academic and personal life. Her wise words allowed me to integrate her advice into my most important life choices. Her guidance opened many doors for me. Mrs. Campbell prepared me for life challenges.”

“Mrs. Campbell is a teacher that is worthy of every teacher/character related award to ever exist. There is not a time I can remember that Mrs. Campbell wasn’t present and preparing me and my peers for success in some way, shape or form. She has motivated, encouraged and guided me during my high school career like no other.”

-Janiya Martin

“She is an exceptional teacher and one of the best I know. She pushed me to always turn in my best work and to succeed in and out of the classroom.”

-Corriuna Nero

Joe Backstrom, Algebra

“Mr. Backstrom has made a profound impact on my education by fostering an intellectual classroom atmosphere. With his skills and amiable demeanor, he has managed to create a fun-filled learning environment which instilled a passion for mathematics in me.”

-Crayden Sandersfield

Keyshawn Shells, History - John Marshall Middle School

“Mr. Shells’ influence on me is due to the fact that he is a fantastic brother and role model and now an amazing educator. He has always been a fantastic leader to me and my other two siblings as we have grown up. He started teaching history at John Marshall

“What every kid needs to find his passion is someone who believes in him and provides encouragement. Mr. Ruiz has made me realize that once you love something, you should never give up on it. It is this lesson that enabled me to love everything I do.”

-Kenneth (Kedon) Gumerson Mark Woodward, Geometry, AP Calculus

“Mr. Woodward has inspired me in a fascination with math. He has taught me through most of my high school math. It is his inspiring and helpful teaching style that helped me become so interested in higher level math.”

-Justin Zondor

“Mr. Woodward instilled a passion for learning that continually pushes me to set and reach higher goals. He inspired me to look outside of the classroom to learn new topics, and my love of learning new and niche topics in every discipline stemmed from my experiences in his classroom.”

-Thomas Doan

Matthew Sheber-Howard, English

“Mr. Sheber-Howard consistently made sure to check in on his students and create a welcoming and enjoyable learning environment for all. He truly cared about his students and was always looking out for them.”

-Isabel Neuhalfen

See TEACHERS, Page 11

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, July 28, 2023; Friday, August 4, 2023; Friday, August 11, 2023)

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2023-1638

IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: Katherine L. Chandler,) Petitioner,) and) Wesley E. Chandler,) Respondent.)

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA: TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPON-

DENT: Wesley E. Chandler

GREETINGS: You will take notice that you have been sued in the above names Court by the above petitioner, for a Dissolution of Marriage on the grounds of incompatibility and that unless you answer the petition filed by the petitioner in said Court on or before the 8 day of Sept., 2023, said Petition will be taken as true and judgement granting to the petitioner a Dissolution of Marriage, annulling, canceling, setting aside and holding for naught the marriage contract with you and for other relief and orders rendered according to the prayer thereof.

WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 21 day of July, 2023.

Petitioner: /s/Katherine Chandler

Notary: /s/Mary N. Llwyd

SUBSCRIBER AND SWORN to before me this 21st day of July, 2023.

Notary: /s/ Mary N. Llwyd (SEAL) My commission expires: 01-16-2026

Commission

COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2023-1781

In the Matter of the Application ) of Zainab Al Khailani) as next of friend of (child) ) Maryam Al Hamadani ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME

To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Zainab Al Khailani, as next of friend of Maryam Al Hamadani has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit:

water cooler, Shuffleboard table, Numerous flat screen TVs, 1991Skeeter Bass Boat, and Much More. This is only a partial listing!

“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.

My Benedetto original

I met Tony Bennett in 2017 in New York City. He and his wife were sitting at a corner table of a small cafe on Broadway.

Leona Mitchell was with us and he kept looking over at our table. I thought he was trying to attract Leona’s gaze because they were

friends from doing a TV Christmas special together.

I walked over to his table and he handed me the caricature, left. Not the most flattering, but it was a signed Tony Bennett. He uses his family name, Benedetto. May he rest in peace.

Dear Wise Elder: I think my older neighbor may be being abused by a family member. What can I do to help? Who should I call?

Dear Neighbor: Show your support and care for your older neighbor. Offer a listening ear and let them know you are there to help if they need anything. Ensure they are aware that they are not alone and that there are resources available to them. Encourage them to seek assistance and offer to help them connect with local support services, such as counseling or support groups for seniors. Remember, reporting your

concerns is crucial, but being a compassionate and supportive neighbor can also make a significant difference in their life during this challenging time. You can report your concerns if you suspect that an Oklahoma elder is the victim of abuse, neglect or exploitation, online at abuseisnotok.org or by calling Adult Protective Services at 800-522-3511. When making the report, provide as much detailed information as possible. Be prepared to share your name and contact information.

- Courtesy VillagesOKC www.VillagesOKC.org

(405) 990 6637

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

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, if they don’t take our advice, it’s not our fault.

From Page 7

Frank Cleary, Campus Ministry

“Mr. Clearly was able to help guide me through high school and my faith journey. Whenever I had issues rather it be in school or just in my life, he would always have his door open and help me through them. He said ‘hi’ to me every day in school and always checked up to see how I was doing. He made a huge impact on my high school experience.”

-Maria Roquemore

A unique business model

EDMOND’S TRADITIONS FINE FURNITURE AND DESIGN

“Mr. Cleary will always be one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. He was always an encouragement to those around him and not only impacted me as a person, but others too. He helped deepen my spiritual life and has always brought such a light to our school community.”

-Sydney Brown

Francois Boda, French, Business Entrepreneurship, Personal Finance

“Mr. Boda is a very thoughtful, kind, yet strict teacher. He has a good balance of both, and is an extremely motivated and hardworking individual. He is welcoming to everyone and can make anyone laugh. He’s made such a prominent and bright impact on me and I’m grateful for that.”

-Katalina Robberson-Bishop

“This gentleman is one of my greatest role models and mentors. Being a nationally-acclaimed athlete, educator and businessman, he has pushed me to be my best since day one. He always encourages me to strive for excellence in all that I do. He has taught me that becoming the best version of myself will serve as an example for others to do the same.”

-Jane Ertl

Linda Soudek, Speech and Debate

“Mrs. Soudek has been one of the most influential teachers in my life. She has developed me into a more confident, composed speaker and all of my success is a direct result of her teachings.”

-Pranav Patel

Mrs. Hargis, English, LiteratureSt. John Nepomuk

“Mrs. Hargis had a profound impact on me because she not only taught me the subjects but she also weaved in life lessons and morals. She was much more than just a teacher, she was a role model.”

-Meah Allison

While many furniture stores today offer in-home assistance with color and decorating selections, Traditions takes that to a new level with their unique two-pronged approach. Traditions, an award-winning interior design firm, has a unique model, incorporating commercial and residential design AND a showroom offering products from nearly 200 manufacturers. This offers their clients the best of both. These two distinct arms work hand-in-hand to provide projects of all sizes and styles with creative design solutions accompanied by factory-direct pricing on flooring, tile, lighting, cabinet hardware, and furnishings of all types.

The design team is educated and equipped to produce both commercial and residential interiors, and to

produce construction documents needed to visualize and construct them. For some, that’s all that is needed. For others, the resources in the Traditions showroom offer a more complete package.

Designer, J. Mark Taylor, RCID, recently completed the Bradford residence, a culmination of 18 months of planning. Owner Susan Bradford, said, “Mark and his team literally designed every detail of our home — the layout of our cabinets and closets, selection of every fixture and finish, and ultimately furnishing and staging the home when we moved in! Their presentations and threedimensional renderings allowed us to visualize the spaces BEFORE we committed to the design, giving us confidence throughout the building process.”

Consumers looking for a complete design-build solution are welladvised to visit Traditions’ office and showroom, 3409 S. Broadway, Suite 100, in Edmond, or traditionsedmond.com.

Refreshing Nichols Hills dining room designed by J. Mark Taylor of Traditions Fine Furniture & Design.

HFAA is combating student stress and sadness through the martial arts

Harding Fine Arts Academy students are excelling in a world where student stress and sadness are at a record-breaking high.

The CDC reported this year that nearly half of high school students, especially young girls, deal with feelings of hopelessness and sadness—a challenge the country is working to combat. At HFAA, students have the option to face their emotions head-on through the centuries old practice of martial arts.

HFAA is the only public school with an accredited martial arts curriculum. Students benefit from increased discipline, growth, and confidence that help them manage stress, busy schedules, and coursework. “We think it is important to offer students a variety of options for self-discovery and learning,” says Superintendent Taylor Stanton who supports diverse opportunities to guide students through their educational journey.

The exposure to new and unique forms of art may help students discover lifelong principles for managing daily life and be a source of functional conditioning that can be tapped for decades.

“Students love this art because it has given them so much,” said Stanton. “Instructors want to share these skills with them to help them grow into adulthood, but also to give them strategies to face the world.” HFAA has sent numerous students on to win state, regional, and national championships.

According to experts, students need to channel stress into a productive outlet and martial arts is accessible for most. Learn more about HFAA’s martial arts program and how to support the school by visiting hardingfinearts.org or calling (405) 702-4322.

Living in a Barbie World

Food Bank names Leadership Council selections

The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma announced the 14 young professionals selected to join its Leadership Council Group IX.

Members of Leadership Council Group IX will spend the next year learning more about the Regional Food Bank's programs and its vision of an Oklahoma where no one goes hungry. Leadership Council members will work together to raise awareness about the issue of hunger in Oklahoma while also participating in fundraisers, social gatherings, special volunteer opportunities and networking events.

Ally Randels, of Purposeful Play Family Enrichment Center and Taylor Gorjiyan, of Income Laboratory, Inc. are to serve as chairmen of Leadership Council Group IX. Both are members of Leadership Council Group VIII. The Leadership Council Group IX members are: Isaac Alvarado, Tinker Air Force Base; Rachel Buford, Lumeris; Sara Clifford, Love’s Travel Stops and Country Stores; Raven Crisp Smith, Selfless Hands Foundation; Leanna Espinoza, First Fidelity Bank Yesica Gonzalez, YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City; Dawson Hendricks, Sover-

eign Bank; Erin Hennessy, Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma; Peyton King, OU Health; Kristella Lepak, Oklahoma State Department of Health; Emma McKinney, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits; Jalon Moore-Smith, Oklahoma Human Services; Shea Penning, MTM Recognition; and Bradley Ward, Tinker Air Force Base.

After a provisional year, Leadership Council Group IX members will be eligible for full Leadership Council membership. Learn more about the Regional Food Bank’s Leadership Council by visiting rfbo.org/leadershipcouncil.

Polly Kranz, Charlie Knight, Alison Naifeh Dick, Jenny Price, Lisa Richardson, Amy Parrish, Mary Fitch, Kristen Seikel, Jane Helms and Anna Browning join Michelle Parrish Woford center, back row, for a Barbie birthday celebration at Barbie World in Chicago, Ill.