Above photo, PC North’s Milton Alford looks for running room during a preseason scrimmage against Norman. Fridayland teams kickoff the 2024 season this Friday. Also, check out OKC FRIDAY’s annual pigskin preview in this week’s edition. Sports, Page 4
Village library is staying put
Updated
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Metropolitan Li-brary System (MLS).
“We are both very different operations and terminology has different meanings, so clarifying language is crucial,” said Slezickey.
Heat hot topic of summit
By Rose Lane Editor
It’s been a long, hot summer and it might not be over yet.
In response to recent triple-digit temperatures, the City of Oklahoma City and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration hosted an interagency exercise in August to better understand heat, heat risk and the populations most at risk when a heat wave occurs in OKC.
“We have seen how a prolonged heat wave can negatively impact
See HEAT, Page 3
After having a lease proposal by The Village rejected two months ago by the Metropolitan Library System to operate The Village Branch Library for another year, City Manager Dave Slezickey says the city has achieved acceptable terms of mutual benefit to continue the operation of the facility.
He expects an agenda item to be placed before the City Council for approval during its Sept. 9 meeting.
Slezickey said both parties had productive and cordial meetings to finesse language to meet the needs of both The Village and the
Slezickey says the MLS does not pay a lease fee, and the agreement with them is not a traditional tenant landlord lease. The city subsidizes a lease payment in return for the benefits residents receive from the programs the library offers.
The Village Library first opened in 1966 inside a rented Casady Square storefront where the current Walmart Neighborhood Market is found.
See VILLAGE, Page 3
Women’s Hall of Fame to induct six
The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women (OCSW) has selected six women to be inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame (OWHOF).
The women are to be honored at the induction ceremony on Friday, Sept. 27, at the Omni Hotel and
Ballet to collaborate with Flaming Lips
Oklahoma City Ballet is to present a world premiere ballet featuring the music of Oklahoma City legends, The Flaming Lips, to debut May 9-11, 2025 at the Civic Center Music Hall.
This world-premiere work, created by Oklahoma City Ballet Artistic Director Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye, is the first time a professional ballet company has utilized music by The Flaming Lips.
The world premiere is part of “Shorts,” a collection of three short ballets, all presented in one program. In May 2025, “Shorts” feature a wonderful variety, including “Otra Vez,” an AfroCuban ballet by Stephanie
Martinez; “Divertimento No. 15,” a neo-classical ballet by George Balanchine; and Jolicoeur-Nye’s world premiere featuring eight songs spanning several decades by The Flaming Lips.
“As a longtime fan of The Flaming Lips, this is like revisiting my childhood, marrying two things I love: rock music and dance. I want to juxtapose typical ballet stereotypes and rock and roll stereotypes and hopefully congeal them in a way that changes how one thinks of OKC Ballet,” said Jolicoeur-Nye.
See BALLET, Page 7
Resort in downtown Oklahoma City.
The inductees are Dr. Nancy Anthony, of Oklahoma City; Marilyn Mauer Hugon, of Duncan; Edie Roodman, of Oklahoma City; Jane Semple Umsted, of Durant; Crystal Stovall, of Tulsa; and Molly Wehrenberg, of Edmond.
To be eligible for the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame, nominees must live in Oklahoma or be a former resident of Oklahoma. Inductees were nominated because they have made enduring contributions to
See HOF, Page 12
FRIDAY’s
Cat of the Week
Mason painting
Attendees were transported to the streets
and
Artist Desmond Mason with the painting he created live during the Oklahoma Lawyers for Families and Children’s L'amour en Lumière gala.
of Paris for cocktails, French culinary delights
interactive performances.
VILLAGE
From Page 1
Its current location at 10307 N. Pennsylvania Ave. was constructed in the early 1990s through a special sales tax vote of city residents and is operated by the MLS. It was last renovated in 2019. The physical structure is owned by The Village.
Slezickey contends the MLS never wanted to end the lease agreement with The Village, but rather hoped to update the agreement to provide the “clarity in language” needed.
“The Metropolitan Library System requested the updated lease,” said Slezickey. “The old lease was not an issue for the city, but again, we’re different types of organizations. I don’t think there ever were any major points of contention nor disagreement.”
The MLS is updating lease agreements for each of its 19 locations throughout Oklahoma County.
HEAT
From Page 1
Oklahoma City,” OKC Emergency Management Police Lt. David Storer said. “This exercise was designed to help us better plan for and find ways to reduce the effects of a sustained heat event.”
From 2013 to 2022, there were 141 heatrelated deaths in Oklahoma. In that same period, there were 44 deaths from tornadoes, Sarah Terry-Cobo, associate city planner and comanager of the urban heat island study, said.
“Heat deaths can be difficult to track and are often under-reported,” she said. “Someone might be feeling chest pains because they were out in the heat and goes to the ER, and if they die, it likely will be reported as a heart attack, not attributed to heat.”
One goal of the exercise was to better understand populations who would be most affected by a heat wave. TerryCobo said it was revealed by heat-related illness visits at OKCCounty facilities, May to September 2003 that the average age of patients was 43 years and that 66 percent of the cases were male and 34 percent female.
According to the World Health Organization, heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths and can exacerbate underlying illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health, asthma and increase the risk of the transmission of infectious diseases.
“Many people can face higher heat risks
“Although the city could operate a library service internally, I don’t feel we could provide the quality and efficiency that MLS operates,” he said. “(It has) a lot more resources than we could organize.”
The Village will remain responsible for the structure of the library, and MLS is to be permitted to decorate and remodel the interior as desired. MLS is to be responsible for minor repairs of operational maintenance (plumbing, lighting, etc.) and both parties negotiate to share costs for major repairs.
“The building is holding up well for a 35-year-old building. MLS has done a good job of maintaining it with routine preventative maintenance,” said Slezickey. “The roof has surpassed its lifespan as I’m pretty sure it is original to the structure. There has been storm damage over the years that hasn’t helped, but it was definitely well-constructed to last this long.”
A mandatory pre-bid confer -
than typical healthy people, including those with heart, lung or circulation issues, those taking certain types of medications and those who are pregnant, children and people over 65,” Terry-Cobo said.
Low-income and minority folks are also more likely to be vulnerable to heat illness or heat injury, such as a stroke or heart attack.
“People in these categories have a harder time cooling down their bodies due to chronic health conditions or age; so they are more likely to get heat exhaustion faster than a healthy adult,” she said.
The group also looked at ways the word can get out by ris-
ing temperatures.
ence and site visit to address the roof was held earlier this week and bids are due on Sept. 12.
The Metropolitan Library System operates 19 locations throughout central Oklahoma. The Village Library’s square footage is approximately 14,618 while the Downtown OKC location is the largest with 124,023 sq. ft.
The Village Branch Library employs 23 individuals and had 92,210 guests in 2023. It boasts nearly 9,500 cardholders. The library offered 326 programs in 2023 with an attendance of nearly 6,500 children and adults.
The 19 branch locations of the MLS reached nearly 1.85 million guests in 2023 with 4.86 million physical check outs and over 5 million digital resource check outs. It was the first year in MLS history that digital check outs topped physical checkouts.
A second MLS library in Edmond is currently under construction and is expected to open in early 2026.
loose-fitting
“An easy way to communicate heat risks is by being weather aware,” Terry-Cobo said. “Check the National Weather Service Norman’s website for forecasts and pay special attention to heat advisories and excessive heat warnings.”
Ways for at-risk people to beat the heat were also discussed.
“When there is an excessive heat warning, people should do their best to stay in air-conditioned places and avoid activity outside if possible,” Terry-Cobo said.
“If they work outside, they should drink lots of fluids, take rest breaks in shade frequently and wear light-
colored,
clothing.”
- Photo by Rose Lane
The Dean A. McGee Awards, hosted by Downton OKC Partnership, took place at the Omni Hotel. From left: Emerging Leaders Co-Chairman Michelle McBeath Lubbers, awards Co-Chairman Marva Ellard, Dean A. McGee Award recipient Richard Tanenbaum, Stanley Draper Award honoree Deborah Senner, Neal Horton Award recipient Andy Burnett, awards Co-Chairman Jim Couch, Downtown OKC Partnership President Michelle Nakayama and Emerging Leaders Co-Chairman Collins Peck. For more photos, see Page 11
Friday, September 6
Casady at OCS
Deer Creek at Edmond Memorial
Lincoln Christian at Heritage Hall
Bethany at John Marshall
McGuinness at Tulsa-Bishop Kelley
Community Christian at Mount St. Mary
Shawnee at PC North
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.
FOOTBALL | WEEK 1 PREVIEW
Rockets host Community Christian
With four teams in Week 0 last week, seven Fridayland squads officially kick off the 2024 season this Friday.
Mount St. Mary headlines a quartet of home contests as the Rockets host Community Christian to inaugurate the J.D. Runnels era.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Father Fulton Field.
A former standout at the University of Oklahoma, Runnels hopes to reverse a recent trend of losing seasons.
The Rockets also drop down to Class 2A and compete in the newly-created top division.
Harrison Tesio returns for his
final season as the starting quarterback to lead MSM’s offense. The senior threw for nearly 2,000 yards and 13 touchdowns last season.
Senior John Allison is expected to be Tesio’s top receiving target at tight end, after making 44 catches for 513 yards and four touchdowns.
Junior Gabe Ward has also emerged as a viable receiving target. He collected 29 receptions for 295 yards last season.
Sophomore running backs
Cord Brown and Jefferson Hodge combined for 610 yards rushing, but should be called on for more production this year.
SOFTBALL ROUNDUP
On defense, senior linebacker Zach Ellison ended last season with 88 tackles and three sacks. Junior Greyson Buell and Allison join him at linebacker, as Buell had 43 tackles and Allison added 44 stops.
Heritage Hall gets a rematch of last year’s Class 3A championship game game as the Chargers host Lincoln Christian.
John Marshall entertains Bethany, while PC North plays host to Shawnee.
Other games include Casady at OCS, Deer Creek at Edmond Memorial and McGuinness at Tulsa-Bishop Kelley.
Knights hold off Irish rally for 10-8 win
Leading by a run after three innings, the Crossings Christian softball team scored five runs in the top of the fifth inning and held off a late McGuinness rally to secure a 10-8 win over the Irish last week.
Jayden Kakish and Audrey Martin collected two hits each to lead the Knights (6-7). The duo also combined to drive in two runs and score three more.
Emmy Rouse belted a 2-run double and Holland Robertson hit a 2run triple for Crossings.
Pitcher Elizabeth Porter allowed eight runs on eight hits and struck out four over 5 2/3 innings to earn the victory.
Margo Webb batted 2-for-4 and Mya Madu collected an RBI double and scored twice for McGinness (6-8).
Pitcher Olivia Giles surrendered
nine runs on six hits with four strikeouts in the setback.
Crossings Christian competes this weekend at the Lincoln Christian tournament and the Irish are at Tulsa-Bishop Kelley on Friday.
MUSTANG CLOBBERS ANTLERS
Hampered by three errors and unable to generate much offense, Deer Creek suffered a 12-1 loss to Mustang.
Lauren Hugo and Kimber Duval accounted for both hits for the Antlers (7-3), as Hugo belted a double. Pitcher Ryan Amorosi got roughed up for 11 runs on nine hits in 2 2/3 innings.
The Antlers visit Edmond Santa Fe this Monday. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Six Troop 4 Boy Scouts of America earn Eagle Scout rank
Boy Scouts of America Troop 4, Last Frontier Council, Scissortail District, announced the advancement of six distinguished scouts to the rank of Eagle Scout. The Court of Honor ceremony was held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, sponsor and “home base” for Troop 4.
The new Eagles are: Samuel Marc Edwards, Robert Don Evans, III, Blaine Thomas Kirk, Evan Joseph Kirt, Noah Lang Ram and Charles Anthony Zeeck.
The Eagle Scout rank represents the pinnacle of Scouting achievement, awarded to those who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, fulfilled significant community service, and completed rigorous requirements in various areas. The Eagle Scout Court of Honor is a momentous occasion to recognize and celebrate these young men’s exceptional accomplishments.
“In this day and age, it is uncommon to find young people who are willing to put themselves in uncomfortable, physically and mentally challenging situations. These Scouts have all chosen to challenge themselves in this way – and, all have succeeded,” said Troop 4 Scoutmaster Kyle Sweet. “They are young men who have passed the highest test of character, dedication and resilience. To be an Eagle Scout means something. It isn’t a line
on a resume. It’s a symbol of the type of human being who can be relied upon to deliver in difficult circumstances and lead those around them.”
Samuel Marc Edwards earned his Eagle rank on July 17. He attends Casady School and is in the class of 2027. His parents are Nikki and Marc Edwards.
For his Eagle project he researched, ordered, built and installed two “Buddy” Benches at Positive Tomorrows in Oklahoma City.
“I also cleared the area with mulch and edging to make a dedicated space for the benches. Positive Tomorrows is a school for children experiencing homelessness,” Samuel said. “The benches serve to allow the kids to find a friend or make a new one. The playground area needed more seating and this was a great addition.”
Robert Don Evans, III earned his Eagle rank on Aug. 16, 2023. He attends Casady School and is in the class of 2025. His parents are Susan and Don Evans
For his Eagle project he built four raised garden beds for a new garden at Camp Shiloh.
“Camp Shiloh is a summer camp for inner city youth in Oklahoma City,” Robert said.
“The garden beds allow Camp Shiloh’s gardening class to flourish. This class teaches children how to be self-sus-
tainable, to be patient and hardworking, and how to grow healthy and nutritious food.
“I raised funds within Troop 4, and with the assistance of several volunteers, we built the garden beds and filled them with potting soil.”
Blaine Thomas Kirk earned his Eagle rank on Aug. 16, 2023. He attends Heritage Hall and is in the class of 2027. His parents are Sandra and Dr. Michael Kirk.
He said his Eagle project benefited Willow Springs Boys Ranch.
“I worked with members of Troop 4 to refinish 14 outdoor benches,” Blaine said. “Only a few members of my work team had worked on projects in the past so this was a good experience for Troop 4. It took approximately five hours to sand, paint, and seal the benches.
“The mission of Willow Springs Boys Ranch is to provide a nurturing, secure, and safe environment to help boys develop the tools to navigate the challenges of life. Willow Springs Boys Ranch is a long-term residential childcare program that accepts applications from school-age boys who find themselves in crisis. There is a small administrative team at Willow Springs Boys Ranch and my project helped ease their workload.”
Evan Joseph Kirt earned his Eagle rank
on July 17. He attends Casady School and is in the class of 2027. His parents are Chris and Kathryn Kirt.
In describing his Eagle project, Evan said, “My team installed four trees and over 70 ground cover plants in a garden area as well as clearing two more garden beds and transplanting moneywort at St. Paul’s Cathedral in downtown Oklahoma City. I raised the funds for my project within Troop 4.”
Noah Lang Ram earned his Eagle rank on Sept. 14, 2023. He attended Heritage Hall and graduated in 2024. His parents are Peter and Kathleen Ram.
He said that one of the most interesting learning experiences he had in Scouts was to help retire old U.S. flags at Scout campouts.
“Before this experience I was not aware that U.S. flags needed to be retired. As part of the retirement ceremony, I learned the importance of respectfully and properly retiring old U.S flags and the process required to dispose of old flags the right way,” Noah said. “I also learned that flags are usually just thrown out because people aren’t sure what to do with the flags, and don't have a place to bring those flags for proper disposal.
“I decided a good Eagle project would be to find a location in my community to set up a retired U.S. flag deposit box. For my project, we
designed, assembled and installed a retired United States Flag deposit box. The box is located in the parking lot of the Nichols Hills United Methodist Church.”
Charles Anthony Zeeck earned his Eagle rank on June 4. He attends Casady School and is in the class of 2026. His parents are Tracey and Andy Zeeck.
For his Eagle project,
they restored the Purple Heart memorial at the 45th Infantry Museum.
“As it stood, the memorial was in a state of disrepair with weeds growing all around it. When I saw this I thought restoring the memorial would not only show respect to the wounded soldiers the memorial is honoring but give the museum a helping hand as well.”
Taste of the Northwest
Taste of the Northwest
Thursday Sep 26, 2024
6-8 p.m.
Cantera North Event Center
3701 N. MacArthur
Warr Acres Come on down and play at the Taste of the Northwest. The event
includes game shows galore andmore. You'll have an opportunity to play and win big prizes at “Family Feud,” “The Price is Right” and Wheel of Fortune, in addition to food from NWOKC restaurants.
SAMUEL EDWARDS ROBERT EVANS, III BLAINE KIRK EVAN KIRT NOAH RAM
CHARLES ZEECK
CALENDAR
EXHIBITS
Sept. 22Nov. 15 •
Artist Series
Oklahoma City University’s next art gallery exhibit will feature a community bank’s collection of works by Oklahoma artists. “Highlights from the Collection of NBC Oklahoma,” which includes selections from the bank’s Oklahoma Artist Series, will be on exhibit in OCU’s Nona Jean Hulsey Art Gallery from Sept. 22 through Nov. 15. An opening reception will be held from 57 pm Oct. 3. The gallery is inside the Norick Art Center at 1608 NW 26th St. Hours are 8 am to 10 pm, Mondays through Fridays. Admission is free.
CONCERTS
Sept. 13 • Crash Test Dummies Canadian rock band Crash Test Dummies brings their clever lyrics and folktinged melodies to the Tower Theatre. Get tickets at towertheatreokc.com.
Sept. 26 • Hozier
Hozier is bringing his historic Unreal Unearth Tour to the Paycom Center along with special guest Allison Russell.
THIS WEEKEND
Sept. 7 •
Nov. 1 • Day One Luncheon
Join the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum for the 168 Days of Remembrance leading up to April 19, 2025, and the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. Step back into the incomparable Myriad Convention Center that housed hundreds of first responders from around the world as they assisted with recovery efforts in the wake of the bombing. These 11 searchandrescue teams were fed by the Oklahoma Restaurant Association, who pivoted from what was to be their annual trade show to a 24/7 food service and sleeping operation. The Day One Luncheon is at the Cox Convention Center (Prairie Surf Studios), 1 Myriad Gardens, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, Memorialmuseum.com/DayOne.
Primate Day The OKC Zoo and Botanical Garden welcomes lemur lovers, ape appreciators, gorilla gurus and monkey maniacs for its next animal awareness event, World Primate Day from 9 am to noon on Saturday, Sept. 7. World Primate Day is a Zoowide event for visitors
with activities happening across the park. Get tickets at okczoo.org/tickets.
Sept. 8 • CAKE
Spend an evening with CAKE at The Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheatre on Sunday. Doors open at 6:30, show at 7:30 pm. Get tickets at okczooamp.com.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Reba Returns to Television
Reba McEntire, global superstar and Oklahoma Hall of Fame inductee, makes her triumphant return to network television this fall on NBC. The veteran actress returns to her favorite genre, the sitcom, with the premiere of Happy’s Place on Friday, Oct. 18, at 7:00 pm.
Reba, who needs no introduction, but certainly deserves a glowing recap, was raised on a ranch in southeast Oklahoma and discovered singing the “Star Spangled Banner” at the National Finals Rodeo here in Oklahoma City. Since then, she has sold more than 75 million records worldwide and earned 25 number one country hits. She has been honored with three Grammy Awards, seven Country Music Association Awards, nine People’s Choice Awards, fourteen American Music Awards, sixteen Academy of Country Music Awards, and the 2018 Kennedy Center Honor.
As an actress, Reba has been surprisingly successful. It is very rare for a famous musician to cross over into television or movies as an actress. Yet Reba has been doing it well for decades. She has 61 acting credits on IMDB since 1986,
including some of her music videos, but also several television roles, including the Kevin Bacon movie Tremors, the Kenny Rogers television sequel The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw, and the Burt Reynolds sitcom Evening Shade
Her biggest television hit so far has been Reba, the sitcom that ran for five seasons from 2001 to 2006 on The Warner Brothers network and then an additional season on the newly formed CW network. In 2004, Reba was nominated for the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Comedy. Reba followed that success by starring in another network sitcom on ABC called Malibu Country. More recently, she has costarred on the David E. Kelley dramatic series from ABC called Big Sky and the CBS hit sitcom Young Sheldon, both of which place Reba alongside her real-life boyfriend, Oklahoma City superstar Rex Linn Rex Linn is an Oklahoma acting leg-
end. Armed with a degree from Oklahoma State University, Linn headed to Hollywood after working in banking and oil. Once he landed, he quickly took off, earning 108 acting jobs from 1986 until now. Linn has starred in big blockbusters throughout his career, including Cliffhanger, Wyatt Earp, Rush Hour, and Django Unchained. But he is best known for his extensive work on television in dramas like Better Call Saul, Big Sky, Lethal Weapon, and especially CSI: Miami, on which he starred in 187 episodes from 2003 to 2012. Linn’s outstanding work for the past seven years on the sitcom Young Sheldon is what led to his upcoming role on Happy’s Place In addition to Rex Linn, Reba is joined by her former co-star and longtime friend Melissa Peterman Peterman played Barbara Jean on the long running Reba series. The two of them were perfectly matched, creating comedy gold throughout the run of that show. With Peterman and Linn by her side, Reba is poised to reclaim her wellearned spot atop the sitcom universe with the new sitcom Happy’s Place on NBC. Be sure to check it out.
Rodeo Legends to be inducted into National Rodeo Hall of Fame
Since 1955, the National Rodeo Hall of Fame, located at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, has been dedicated to honoring and memorializing the legacy of great competitors in rodeo and its related professions. That tradition will continue as rodeo icons are recognized at the upcoming Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend presented by The Dellora A. and Lester J. Norris Foundation. The celebration will take place at The National Cowboy Museum on November 8-9, 2024, with honorees being inducted into the distinguished National Rodeo Hall of Fame. The Tad Lucas Memorial
Award and the Ben Johnson Memorial Award recipients will also be honored.
Inductions and awards are sponsored and selected by the Rodeo Historical Society, an organization under the auspices of the Museum whose worldwide members share an interest in preserving both rodeo history and the sport itself.
The selection process begins with the Rodeo Historical Society Committee and is then voted on by the Rodeo Historical Society members. Membership supports the Museum’s rodeo programs, including research, an ongoing oral histo-
ry project, acquisition of materials for the American Rodeo Gallery and the National Rodeo Hall of Fame, which is a leading destination for rodeo and Western culture enthusiasts.
“We are delighted to celebrate rodeo every year by honoring the incredible men and women who helped make it an institution in America and across the world,” said Pat Fitzgerald, President and CEO of the Museum. “Their remarkable achievements have profoundly shaped the rodeo industry, and we look forward to commemorating their stories over the historic weekend.”
All inductees and honorees are recognized during the Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend, which includes a Champions’ Dinner, Induction Ceremony and Benefit Auction, Inductee Panel Discussion, and Rope ‘N’ Ride Cocktail Reception. For sponsorship or reservation information, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org/rodeo-historical-society/rodeo-hall-of-fame-weekend/.
Students/From Page One
McGuinness begins a busy year
Wby Kate Menz
IRISH ITEMS
ith the start of a new school year, the Irish community has been busy.
• Both the boys and girls cross country teams spent the weekend on retreat at Our Lady of Guadalupe Camp. The teams let loose with team games, relaxed in the pool and had their timed trials.
• For the first time, the REACH department has launched the Rother Program, an academic support program for students with learning disabilities who have extensive support needs. The program aims to teach students life skills and prepares them for transitional college programs through individualized curriculums and peer mentorship. Led by Jade Carter and Samantha Watson, the program has started with two students but aims to expand in the future.
In other news, the drama department has selected “Mama Mia” as the fall musical.
From Page 1
Every element of The Flaming Lips ballet is to be created in Oklahoma City, from sets and costumes to music and choreography, and all performed by Oklahoma City Ballet’s professional dancers.
“Oklahoma City Ballet is striving to show ballet in a new light. We want ballet to be accessible and fun, and music is a great avenue
to introduce new audiences to ballet. The Flaming Lips have been OKC’s resident rock stars for 40 years, and we are thrilled to have their blessing and support for this production,” said Whitney Cross, Director of Development and Communications for Oklahoma City Ballet. “Shorts” closes Oklahoma City Ballet’s blockbuster season which includes “Ballet Under the Stars” (Sept. 13), “Peter Pan” (Oct. 18-20), an all-new pro-
duction of “The Nutcracker” presented by Devon Energy and The Chickasaw Nation (Dec. 14-23), “Swan” Lake (Feb. 7-16, 2025) and “Future Voices” (March 20-23). Tickets to “Shorts” range in price from $64-$94 including fees. Both single and season tickets for all of Oklahoma City Ballet’s 2024/25 Season are available now by calling (405) 848-8637 or visiting okcballet.org. Season ticket holders receive extra benefits
like discounts, first choice of seats, free exchanges, and more. Tickets may be purchased by calling Oklahoma City Ballet (405) 848-TOES (8637), online at okcballet.org, or by calling the Civic Center Box office at (405) 2972264. The Oklahoma City Ballet Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 6800 North Classen Blvd., Oklahoma City. Follow Oklahoma City Ballet on social media @okcballet.
- Photo by Lance Payne
Estate of Micky Cary • 401 SW 97, OKC
Contents of House, Garage and 2 Sheds, 2012 Mercedes C250 w/82,000 miles (car sells at 1 PM)
SAT., SEPT. 7 • 9:00 AM
Formal liv. rm and dining sets, marble top tables, matching “Bellissimo” Italian lamps, “Satsuma” 3ft+ vase made in China, sectional sleeper sofa, recliners, bedroom suite, appliances, 4- Bally slot machines, poker/bumper table, bar & stools, Craftsman router & planer, drill press, table & circular saws, Much Much More, buyer premium applies. See pics at: www.firstbostonrealestate.us First Boston Auction, 3204 NW 23, OKC 405-947-4000 Joe Fred Boston, Broker-auctioneer
COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2024-841
IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: Nichole Jones, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Tai Jones, ) Respondent. ) NOTICE BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA: TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPONDENT: Tai Jones
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 7 day of October, 2024, 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 10 day of June, 2024.
SUBSCRIBER AND SWORN to before me this 4th day of October, 2022.
Notary: /s/Samantha Cox (SEAL) My commission expires: 05/11/28 Commission Number: 20005242 Presented by: /s/ Nichole Jones
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, September 6, 2024; Friday, September 13, 2024; Friday, September 20, 2024) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2024-1589
In Re the Marriage of: Irma Gray, ) Petitioner, ) and ) James Leslie Gray, ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: James Leslie Gray You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage. You must answer the Petition on or before the 13 day of October, 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 28 day of August, 2024.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/illegible signature Court Clerk (SEAL)
The village
OPINION OPINION O O
“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.
local levels, and society in general, on what to do right. So, if they don’t take our advice, it’s not our fault. EMAIL YOUR OPINION to: vicki@okcfriday.com
Long-term care insurance:
By Glen Mulready Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
Did you know that life expectancy in the United States for men and women increased by about 10 years between 1960 and 2015? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, individuals over 65 accounted for 16.8% of the country's total population in 2020. Americans are living longer, and often, older adults rely on long-term care during
the later stages of life, which is where longterm care insurance can help. There are several factors to consider when considering long-term care insurance.
What is long-term care insurance?
Contrary to what many might think, long-term care encompasses more than care in a nursing home. This type of care usually includes home care, hospice care, or adult day health care. Long-term care insur -
ance helps to cover the cost of this care. It includes policies providing nursing home care, home health care, community-based care, or any combination. This type of policy does not include coverage provided under comprehensive or major medical policies, Medicare Advantage, or accelerated heath benefit-type products.
How much does long-term care cos ?
Long-term care can be expensive. The Cost of Care Survey by Genworth, which breaks down costs for different kinds of care for each state, found that monthly costs in Oklahoma can range from about $1,800 for
Dear Wise Elder:
adult day health care to almost $7,000 for a private room in a nursing home facility. These are median costs for the state and can vary depending on location and level of care.
Does Medicare cover long-term care?
JEWELL, Production Mgr., Web & Sports Editor
JENNIFER CLARK, Legal Notice Coord./Circ./Classif.
ERIC OESCH, Staff Writer
LANE,
When determining your need for longterm care insurance, consider several factors:
You should consider your personal health situation. If you need assistance with daily activities due to illness or disability, a longterm care policy might benefit you.
Your age should play a part in your decision, as your need for care increases as you age.
You should think about your financial situation. Long-term insurance might be a good option if you can afford premiums without financial difficulty.
Medicare generally does not cover longterm care. Medicare Part A does cover skilled nursing facility care, nursing home care (as long as custodial care isn't the only care you need), hospice care and limited home care. You may qualify for long-term care through Medicaid, but you can opt to purchase a longterm policy from a private insurance company. Do I need long-term care insurance?
I read in The Lancet, a prestigious medical journal, that 45% of dementia cases are “potentially modifiable.” Is that scientifically true?
Dear Reader: Yes. The Lancet published an update to the standing Lancet Commission on dementia prevention and intervention. Risk factors including loss of HEARING, loss of VISION and SOCIAL ISOLATION together are key factors on which you and I can take action. According to the July 2024 Lancet, improving hearing and vision can reduce dementia onset by 9%. Socialization –increasing the number of new friends weekly, keeping weekly
contact with long-time friends — can further reduce dementia by an additional 7%. That’s a 16% improvement. Screening annually for hearing loss and a vision check allow the detection of slight changes only a professional can spot. Slowing both hearing loss and vision loss can significantly reduce the impact of dementia. Why is this? Loss of hearing and vision are barriers to conversation. When I cannot hear, I am isolated! When I cannot see, I can feel alone. The Lancet provided the scientific information; it is up to me to take action.
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers a comprehensive shopping guide to long-term care insurance that can answer many questions about this type of insurance. The United States Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living has a LongTerm Care Pathfinder to help locate care and assess needs. As always, if you have any questions about this type of insurance, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is here to help at 800-522-0071 or oid.ok.gov.
Dean A. McGee Awards
- Photo by Rose Lane
Celebrating the winners of the Dean A. McGee Awards are, from left: Jeanette and Rand Elliott and David Harlow. The awards, hosted by Downtown OKC Partnership, toasted the accomplishments of Deborah Senner, Andy Burnett and Richard Tanenbaum.
Above: Blakely and Oklahoma Contemporary Director Trent Riley. At left: Festival of the Arts Director Seth Lewis, Downtown OKC Partnership COO Phi Nguyen and Arts Council OKC Executive Director Angela Cozby.
From Page 1
the state of Oklahoma and beyond.
“Whether positively elevating the status of women and girls, opening new frontiers for women, or achievements in her professional work, the 2024 class is special. This
honor is the highest bestowed upon a woman by the State of Oklahoma,” said Commissioner Briana Ramos, who is serving as co-chairman of the 2024 Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame with Commissioner Emmalee Barresi. Dr. Nancy Anthony served as the executive director of the Oklahoma City Community Foundation for 38 years. Dr.
Anthony became recognized as one of the most effective, respective, and important leaders in philanthropy in the nation. Her leadership lead to the largest organizational endowment program in the United States and the largest independent scholarship program in Oklahoma, laying the groundwork for women across this city, state, and region to rise to
leadership positions on their own.
Marilyn Mauer Hugon is a lifelong Oklahoman who served on the board of directors of Duncan Regional Hospital where she helped bring state-of-the-art cancer care and imaging services to Southwest Oklahoma. Hugon’s efforts brought the highest quality of healthcare to women in the region. She is a noteworthy geologist and worked in various sectors, including finance and energy industries. In 2023, she was inducted into the Duncan Area Arts Hall of Fame and currently serves on the Oklahoma Arts Institute Foundation board of directors.
Edie Roodman is executive director of the Oklahoma Israel Exchange and former executive director of the Jewish Federation of Oklahoma City. With a deep commitment to public service and advocacy, Roodman has made great contributions to helping women through her work with non-profits to implement support programming for women re-entering the job market. In addition, she has collaborated with counseling departments to maximize delivery of counseling
and other job services available to women.
Jane Semple Umsted is a world-renowned artist, educator and community leader from the Choctaw Nation, whose career has contributed to elevating the profile of both women and Native American people in Oklahoma. Umsted’s artistic work, inspired by her heritage and culture, is prominently displayed in Oklahoma museums, businesses and homes. Currently, she serves on the Institute of American Indian Arts board of trustees, appointed by President Joe Biden.
Crystal Stovall is cofounder of the Stovall Center for Entrepreneurship, which awards undergraduate degrees at Oral Roberts University, and the Stovall Foundation that provides scholarships for students. She co-founded the Emmy Award-winning Narrative Television Network, which makes movies, TV shows and educational programming accessible to 13 million blind and visually impaired Americans and their families. She serves on the Tulsa Ballet Board of Directors and is Chair of the $16 million Preserving the Legacy Campaign.
Molly Wehrenberg is
a former nurse and Spanish translator for eye surgeons doing surgery on non-English speaking patients. As a leader in helping to refurbish the Oklahoma acre at Valley Forge Medal of Honor Grove in Pennsylvania, Wehrenberg’s efforts brought nationwide attention to the women and men from Oklahoma who served our nation and received the highest military decoration. She previously served as a Commissioner on the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women.
After being established in 1982 by thenGov. George Nigh, the 2024 inductees add to the current 141 women who have been inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame since 1983.
Barresi added, “The ceremony will include the presentation of the Guardian Award to an Oklahoma elected official, and the Kate Barnard award to a woman who exemplifies excellence in public service. The Commission looks forward to honoring these state officials at the event. It will be a special time to celebrate Oklahomans making a difference in the lives of women!”
