OKC FRIDAY
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 Sara Sweet Special to OKC FRIDAY
In December 2022, my dear friend Susanna Gattoni asked me if I’d like to hike the “Rim to Rim” trail in the Grand Canyon. Not truly understanding what I was committing to, within a few days, I replied, “I’m in!”
I learned that I was committing to a 24.6 mile hike that involved hiking down the north side, across the bottom, and back to the top on the south side for a total elevation gain of 5,574 feet. Both 1972 babies, Susanna and I shared a similar attitude toward turning the big “5-0.” Big whoop! It’s just a number, and taking on this legendary hike felt ambitious but thrilling. I worked that sadistic stair master as best I could and went on sev-
eral training hikes in Oklahoma and Colorado.
Susanna, our friend Vi, and I met several times for early morning hikes around Lake Arcadia, Lake Draper, and Mount Scott, startling the deer with our chatter and laughter. As mothers of college-
aged children, we shared our excitement, concern, and hopes for our kids as they navigated that unique part of life in which you have a foot in childhood while you try on adulthood.
By the end of summer, we felt prepared and were excited to
Shots fired in The Village
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
hike on Sept. 15, 2023. Days before we were set to leave, Susanna began to feel poorly. She was hospitalized and diagnosed with acute leukemia, and she passed away on Sept. 11, 2024, four days before our “big See HIKE, Page 12
9 cars hit in 1 night during NHills spree
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Nichols Hills residents experienced a rash of car burglaries last month when nine vehicles were broken into on Westminster Avenue in a single night. The crime spree led the City Council to request an official letter from the city notifying its nearly 4,000 residents of the burglaries and to provide best practices to avoid becoming a victim.
A similar car burglary spree occurred last May in The Village when suspects stole items valued at over $3,000 from unlocked vehicles during late night break-ins near Lakeside Drive and Hefner Road.
At the September City Council meeting, Nichols Hills Ward 1 Councilman Sody Clements requested correspondence be sent to residents letting them know of the crime spree.
“We want to make a statement and by sending this notice via USPS rather than as an insert in a utility bill,” she said during the council meeting. “It’s important to reach our residents to inform them of this danger.”
The city spent $1,250 on postage and $300 on supplies to send the letter to all city residents via first class USPS.
“Although one of the safest cities in the nation, Nichols Hills experiences its share of car and home break-ins,” said City Manger Shane Pate in the letter dated Sept. 13. “FORBES recently reported an NBC survey of over 500 convicted burglars in which 42 percent of the respondents said they entered through an unlocked window and 39 percent said they gained access through an unlocked door.”
Police Chief Steven Cox said the city experiences a rash of vehicle burglaries two to three
See NHILLS, Page 3
Three cook up wins at the state fair
By Rose Lane Editor
Lillie-Beth Brinkman and Kathye Winslow pumped up the jams and jellies and Erin Engelke brought the best brownies to win ribbons at the Oklahoma State Fair.
See SHOTS, Page 12
Village Police responded to several calls of gun shots being fired in the 1700 block of Westchester last Sunday afternoon around 2:38 p.m. Officers were on the scene within two minutes. Nearby residents identified the suspect as a Black male in a dark gray SUV who fled the scene traveling southbound on Stratford from Westchester. Neighbors told police the suspect exited his vehicle and stood in the front yard while
OKC FRIDAY: Fabulous at 50
Events, names are still important
By Helen Wallace Retired Journalist
Congratulations OKC FRIDAY newspaper on 50 years of excellent reporting. FRIDAY has been known for its focus on private and community social events, as well as sports, arts and government.
I have loved the really good photos and news of parties throughout the years and have enjoyed seeing what Nichols Hills, The Village and Quail Creek people have been up to. Country club events and holiday parties are always good feature sto-
ries, in my mind, because, they give people decorating ideas they might want to use for their own parties. And right now, FRIDAY is the only newspaper which gives this type of coverage. Community events and names in the news are still important to many of us as readers.
Publisher Vicki Clark Gourley and Rose Lane, editor, have seen to the strong voice about local and state government in FRIDAY newspaper. That is important in today’s political atmosphere.
See 50, Page 3
Lillie-Beth’s masterpiece came about after an “accidental” peach tree grew by her front door.
“But in the years since it grew, I have had so much fun with it – learning how to tend to it to produce more peaches, making cobbler and then learning how to make peach jam, learning how to design a label for the jam in Adobe Illustrator and giving jars away to family and friends,” she said. This is the second year she has entered her Jam
FRIDAY’s
Dog of the Week
See FAIR, Page 2
From Page 1
Session Jam With Front Porch
Peaches creation in the state fair. Last year, she placed sixth and this year, Lillie-Beth rose to fifth.
“But the real award for me came when the Oklahoma State Fair hosted a live jelly- and jam-tasting competition this year for the first time in decades –at least 20 years,” she said. “My family and friends had said the jam was good, and the judges thought so, too – I entered a second jar in it and won a red ribbon – second place! For this amateur, it felt like an accomplishment.”
Kathye topped the Nonstandard, Blended Flavors Jelly category of the tasting event. At 90-years-old, she has been making the unripened, green concord grape blended with raspberry variety since she was 14.
She lives at Epworth Village, where she is also involved in gardening.
Erin was No. 1 in the Brownies — Plain — No Additives category. She took a trip to the state fair with her two daughters.
“Did I really just wanna go to see how my brownies placed?” she said. “Well, yes for sure. And, they literally got first! I was so excited.”
The brownies also placed first in the Idaho State Fair when she was growing up.
“So this was extra fun,” Erin said.
Darla Z Live from the Hollywood Room Podcast and Radio Show launched
Award Winning Singer/
Songwriter Darla Z is hosting a new radio show on Bootlegger Radio — a show that dives deep into the lives of her mega guests, focusing on their success stories and why they never gave up!
The “Darla Z Live from the Hollywood Room” kicked off its inaugural show with renowned TV Star Richard Rawlings, owner of the beloved and globally known brand Gas Monkey Garage.
Fridaylander Darla Zuhdi’s (Darla Z) new show
broadcasts every Monday and is certain to entertain audiences around the world with her exciting line-up of remarkable guests, described as “movers and shakers” in any industry or people who make a difference in the lives of others.
“I am so thrilled to be sharing the exciting success stories of my guests,” Darla Z states. “These people became who they are today because they refused to quit. I can’t wait to share their stories of perseverance, courage, and intimate details on their
determination to never give up.”
Included in Darla Z’s lineup following Richard Rawlings’ interview is Oklahoma’s own Grammy Awardwinning composer Kitt Wakely, renowned beauty icon to the stars Peter Lamas, CCM media personality Brandon Woolum and internationally-known speaker and lecturer Australian Simone O’Brien, who tells her personal survivor story of domestic abuse.
Christy Beam, author of Miracles from Heaven, which
was later turned into a movie by that same name starring Jennifer Gardner, is also on the list of notables who are guests on Darla Z’s show.
Bootlegger’s Radio can be heard around the world in 150+ countries on all seven continents. The “Darla Z Live from the Hollywood Room” show is available on the Bootlegger’s web site at bootleggersmusicgroup.com/ darla-z-show, through Bootlegger’s App, Darla Z’s web site at darlaz.com, and Darla Z’s YouTube channel Darla Z at youtube.com.
From Page 1
The columnists at FRIDAY are also excellent reads and bring several different viewpoints to the newspaper. It is
NHILLS
From Page 1
times a year with 90 percent of the vehicles burglarized unlocked with valuables in plain sight.
Since Jan. 1, there have been 21 larcenies from a motor vehicle reported to the Nichols Hills Police Department. None of the victims of the recent burglary spree reported a loss to NHPD.
“If your door has a lock use it. If you have an alarm set it. If you can park in the garage please do so,” said Chief Cox. “Get in the habit of locking all doors, vehicles and home every time you close them.”
In his letter to Nichols Hills residents City Manager Shane Pate said, “Unfortunately, it appears all these incidents were
always interesting to read about high schools in the area brought to us by high school correspondents. I began my own journalism career as a high school correspondent, so I always
crimes of opportunity.
“While we may not be able to prevent all burglaries from occurring, the city has assembled this list of best practices to help deter the opportunistic burglar from making your home or vehicle his next target,” said Pate. “Get in the habit of locking entry points even when home.
“Always lock your vehicle doors when you get out of your vehicle, whether parked inside the garage, in a parking lot, or on the driveway of your home,” he continued. “And never leave a remote garage door opener inside your ungaraged vehicle during the evening.”
The letter went on to prioritize the importance of garage door security, video surveillance, home security alarm sys -
take the time to read what these young people have to say.
Keep up the brilliant work, FRIDAY ! We love what you are writing! Happy anniversary!
tems, and exterior and interior lighting.
“Never leave a purse, wallet or other valuables in plain sight and never leave any valuables inside your ungaraged vehicle,” he said. “Overgrown shrubs are perfect places for burglars to hide. They also interrupt sightlines around your property and can interfere with security camera footage. Keep landscaping at a low level and cut back drooping tree branches.
“The best crime prevention is a good neighbor. When peo -
ple on a street look out for each other by paying attention to suspicious behaviors, burglaries are less likely,” he said.
Pate said the Nichols Hills Police Department is available to review home security measures and offer suggestions on how to make improvements.
Nichols Hills is currently recruiting volunteers to renew a Neighborhood Watch Program and encourages those interested to contact Lindy Hough at lhough@ nicholshills.net.
Knights take on Little Axe in district home opener
With a full slate of games for Fridayland football teams this week, only Crossings Christian enjoys a home contest in Week 5.
The Knights host Little Axe this Friday at 7 p.m. in their district home opener.
Crossings Christian comes off a dominating 48-7 victory at Marietta.
Quarterback Tristan Berglan threw a seasonbest six touchdown passes as the Knights improved to 2-1 overall and 1-0 in District 2AI-2.
Berglan tossed two TD passes to Bennett Baker, along with four others to Jonah Neher, Cam Parker, Kaden Laisle and Jake Robison. Undefeated Deer Creek visits longtime rival Edmond North on Friday.
The Antlers, 4-0 overall and 1-0 in District 6AI-1, cruised to a 49-0 victory over Enid last week, behind five total touchdowns from quarterback Grady Adamson.
Heritage Hall also
OKLAHOMA CITY
FRIDAY
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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.
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looks for a fourth straight win in a road contest at Anadarko.
The Chargers (3-1, 10 3A-1) cruised to a 3520 win against North Rock Creek last Friday night at Pop Murray Memorial Field.
Quarterback Teegan
Lawson threw two TD passes to Barrett Travis and Carter Knowles, while Travis added a short TD run.
Upstart Mount St. Mary contiues its strong season with a trip to Chisholm.
WEEK 5 SCHEDULE
Friday, October 4
Casady at Newkirk
Little Axe at Crossings Christian Deer Creek at Edmond North Heritage Hall at Anadarko
Mount St. Mary at Chisholm
PC North at Ponca City
Thursday, September 26 John Marshall at Lawton Note: All games start at 7 p.m., unless noted.
The Rockets rolled to a 63-0 district-opening win over Crooked Oak, improving to 4-0 over-
all and 1-0 in District 2AI-1. They have already eclipsed their win total from last two
seasons after going just 2-8 in both years.
Meanwhile, PC North ventures north to Ponca City for a district clash. The Panthers (3-1, 1-0 6AII-2) posted a 49-0 triumph over PC West.
Casady looks for its first win at Newkirk, after the Cyclones (0-4, 0-1 2AII-1) lost to Alva last Friday.
On Thursday, John Marshall (0-4, 0-1 5A-2) traveled to Lawton following a setback against Guthrie.
Big 3rd quarter boosts Antlers past Enid
Erupting for four touchdowns in the third quarter, Deer Creek pulled away for an easy 49-0 win in the district opener.
Quarterback Grady Adamson threw two TD passes and ran for two more scores for the undefeated Antlers (40, 1-0 6AI-1). Adamson connected with his favorite target Mason
Smith twice for seven and 33 yards and added two short runs of two and three yards.
Tailback Lamar Davis also ran for scores covering 30 and 60 yards.
KNIGHTS RUN OVER MARIETTA
Dominating from the start, the Crossings Christian football team scored in every quarter on the way to a 48-7 victory at Marietta in the district opener for both teams.
Quarterback Tristan Berglan accounted for six touchdowns to lead the Knights (2-1, 1-0 District 2AI-2).
Berglan threw a pair of TD passes to Bennett Bakker for one and 67 yards, along with four others to Jonah Neher for 11 yards, Cam Parker for 41 yards, Kade Laisle for 36 yards and Jake Robison for 12 yards.
Tailback Heher also added an 18-yard run.
IRISH CLOBBER CLASSEN SAS
McGuinness notched its third win in a row,
since an opening loss to Fridayland rival Deer Creek, with a 63-0 triumph over Classen SAS last Friday in the district opener at Pribil Stadium.
Quarterback Damon Cochran threw three
24 yards, respectively, while Tom Watts returned an interception 55 yards for a TD.
CHARGERS TOP N. ROCK CREEK
Heritage Hall ran its
touchdown passes, as the Irish (4-1, 1-0 5A-1) scored six times in the first quarter.
Cochran connected with A.J. Twombly on a 78-yard bomb, Nate Steiner on a short 7yard toss and a 14yarder to Jett Schafer.
Nick House and J.R. Fletcher found the end zone on runs of six and
current winning streak to three games after pulling off a 35-20 win over North Rock Creek in the district opener. Quarterback Teegan Lawson threw a pair of touchdown passes to Barrett Travis for five yards and Carter Knowles for 11 yards
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
SOFTBALL ROUNDUP CROSS COUNTRY ROUNDUP
Chargers host 3A regional tourney
Five Fridayland softball teams embark on their quest for a berth in the state tournament as they compete in Class 3A and 4A regional tournaments this weekend.
Heritage Hall is the only team to host a regional, which started last Thursday, as the Chargers earned a bye into the semifinals. Fridayland rival Crossings Christian battled Marietta in the opener with the winner to face Heritage Hall.
On Friday, the Heritage Hall-Crossings Christian loser faces Marietta in a consolation final and the victor would have to beat either the Chargers or Knights twice to win the regional.
Mount St. Mary and McGuinness participate in 4A regionals, as the Rockets battled Sulphur in Newcastle and the Irish took on Bridge Creek in Elk City.
Winners and losers played later Thursday, followed by the consolation final at 10 a.m. Friday, regional final at noon and “if necessary” game at 2 p.m.
Regional winners advance to super regionals next weekend.
IRISH GET PAST SHAWNEE
After seeing a 3-run lead disappear, McGuinness regrouped to score a run in the eighth inning to pull off a wild 13-12 win over Shawnee last Monday.
Casady competed in a 3A regional at Perry and opened on Thursday against Comanche. The winner faced host Perry in the semifinals. Friday’s consolation contest starts at noon with the final at 2 p.m. and “if-necessary” game at 4 p.m.
Mya Madu batted 4for-5 with a double and four runs scored to lead the Irish (14-17). Abby Edwards recorded three hits, including a 3-run home run in the sixth inning to ultimately force extra innings.
Lainey Waldo also had three hits and
drove in the winning run on a single to score Molly Milligan.
Pitcher Olivia Giles allowed six runs on seven hits and struck out three over four innings in the victory.
ROCKETS DOWN WESTERN HEIGHTS
Scoring three runs in the fifth inning, Mount St. Mary pulled away for a 6-2 triumph against Western Heights last Monday.
Jayla Daniels batted 3-for-4 with a pair of doubles, three RBIs and two runs scored for the Rockets (15-14). Morgan Dehart belted a triple and scored twice, while Karli Shahan drove in a run and Megan Lowery singled.
Pitcher Maddie Jones recorded 11 strikeouts and allowed two runs on six hits over seven innings in the win.
CYCLONES TOP CROOKED OAK
Casady’s offense erupted for 16 hits on the way to a dominating 19-1 victory against Crooked Oak in the regular season finale.
Mattingly Bard and Leela Walia recorded three hits each, as Bard drove in four runs and scored two more and Walia had two RBIs and scored once for the Cyclones (4-10).
Reagan Prestidge belted a three-run home run in the fourth, while Brookyln Wells whacked a double and drove in three runs.
Prestige also allowed a run on two hits and had four strikeouts over 2 2/3 innings in the pitching win.
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Antler squads take 5th place at Chile Pepper Festival
Putting a combined 10 athletes in the top 100, both Deer Creek boys and girls cross country teams finished in fifth place last weekend at the prestigious Chile Pepper Festival in Fayetteville, Ark.
Micah John paced the Antler boys with a 29th-place finish, as Maddie Cottier took 35th place for the Antler girls.
Four other Deer Creek boys cracked the top 100 in competing with a field of 731 runners. They include Colson Robertson in 58th, George Simon in 70th, Ian Change in 90th and Mason Storozyszyn in 98th place.
Madlynn Clark highlighted three other girls to crack the top 100 in 51st place out of 593 competitors. Emily Clark grabbed 60th place, while Sadie Wedge took 66th place and Graycie Lucas came in 74th place.
Both McGuinness squads competed at the Chile Pepper Festival, led by Joe Hoch in 116th place and Camryn Kanaly in 269th place.
CYCLONES, CHARGERS, ROCKETS PLACE AT OSU
A nice group of Fridayland ath-
letes finished in the upper half of the field last weekend at the OSU Cowboy Jamboree in Stillwater.
The Casady boys led the group with three inside the top 100 in a field of 447 competitors. Sam Rhoades placed 43rd and Billy Mathis came in 45th place, along with Ayden Kerr in 98th place.
Heritage Hall’s Dylan Orcutt finished in 61st place and teammate Finn Martin grabbed 125th place.
Meanwhile, two Casady and Heritage Hall girls cracked the top half of the field of 345 athletes. Hope Fahler paced the Cyclones in 116th place and teammate Eva Scheer came in 130th, while the Chargers’ Zeffie Ellenburg finished 123rd and Coral Grimmett took 162nd place.
Mount St. Mary also competed the OSU Jamboree, led by Jocelyn Peterson in 217th place for the Rocket girls and Gabriel Homeyer placed 373rd for the boys squad.
EAGLE GIRLS RUN TO 7TH AT KINGFISHER INV.
Two Harding Charter Prep girls cracked the top 40 in helping the team to seventh last weekend at the Kingfisher Invitational.
Tegan Ashley finished 36th and Jocelyn Martinez came in 39th for the Eagles. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
VOLLEYBALL ROUNDUP
Rockets collect title at Jenks Inv.
Splitting the opening four sets, the Mount St. Mary volleyball team powered its way to a 16-14 victory in the deciding fifth set against host Jenks to claim the gold bracket championship last weekend at the Jenks Invitational.
Livia Ward paced the Class 5A No. 1 Rockets (31-1) with 52 assists, 23 digs, three hits and three blocks in being tabbed as the tournament Most Valuable Player. The senior setter has been named MVP in two other tournaments this season.
Ella Hale recorded a
team-best 26 kills against Jenks in the final and 87 kills over five matches to earn a spot on the All-Tournament team along with MacKenzie Bass who collected 17 digs and 11 assists in the championship game.
Mount St. Mary cruised to a 3-1 win over Edmond North in the semifinals and posted a 3-0 record in pool play with victories against Bixby, Broken Arrow and Edmond Memorial.
The Rockets hosted Tulsa Kelley last Thursday, as the seniors close in on 150 wins
over their careers, and end the season on Oct. 10 with a tri-match against McGuinness and Jenks.
CHA TOO MUCH FOR CHARGERS
Heritage Hall ended its regular season with a 3-0 loss to 3A No. 1 Christian Heritage. Reagan Ferris led the 3A No. 6 Chargers (128) with five kills and eight digs. Taylor Smith had nine digs and Reece Foster added five digs and four assists. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
CALENDAR
CONCERTS
Oct. 12 • Organ Symphony
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic is excited to welcome worldrenowned organist Cameron Carpenter for a special performance featuring two iconic works for organ and orchestra:
Poulenc's Organ Con‐certo and SaintSaëns’ Organ Symphony beginning at 8 pm.
Music Director, Alexander Mickelthwate will host a preconcert lecture at 7 pm. Tickets are available at the OKC Phil box office (405) 8425387 or online at okcphil.org.
BALLET
Oct. 1820 • Peter Pan Catch Peter, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook, the Lost Boys, plus Wendy Darling and her brothers fly across the Civic Center stage in this familyfriendly classic adapted from the famous J.M. Barrie novel for the OKC Ballet. Event features live music by OKCPHIL, highflying adventures and is suitable for all ages. Sensoryfriendly version is on Oct. 19 at 2 pm. Get tickets at okcciviccenter.com.
Oct. 30 • Grand Kyiv Ballet OCCC presents the Oklahoma premiere of Grand Kyiv Ballet’s “Snow Queen” Oct.
Nov. 9 – Jan. 1 • Safari Lights
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS begins Saturday, Nov. 9 and runs nightly through New Year’s Day, from 5:30 to 11 pm nightly with the last check in at 10 pm, offering opportunities for a driving tour through the Zoo and fun walking trail featuring various interac ti ve displays. From the comfort of their cars, guests will enjoy views of vibrant, larger than life lanterns inspired by wildlife and wild places, plus whimsical winter and holiday scenes as they drive a guided path through the park. Online reservations are required and can be made at okczoo.org/safarilights.
30 at 7 pm. A Christmas ballet, “The Snow Queen” is based on the famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen and set to the music of Edvard Grieg, Jules Massenet, Mozart and Vivaldi. The Grand Kyiv Ballet is a company of touring Ukrainian ballet dancers founded by the premiere of the ballet of the National Opera of Ukraine, Oleksandr Stoianov, who serves as founder, artistic director and principal. The Oct. 30 show at OCCC will be the first time the company has performed in Oklahoma. Purchase tickets onlat tickets.occc.edu or by phone by calling the OCCC Box Office: (405) 6827579.
THIS WEEKEND
Oct. 4 • ARTonTAP
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art celebrates 21 years of beers and cheers with ARTonTAP. This beertasting event features
your favorite Oklahomabased breweries, light bites, and access to the Museum’s permanent collection galleries. The Roof Terrace Beer Garden will host a great beer selection, unparalleled skyline views, and live music throughout the evening from 710 pm.
Through Oct. 6 • MJ The Musical He is one of the greatest entertainers of all time. Now, Michael Jackson's unique and unparalleled artistry comes to Oklahoma City in MJ, the multiple Tony Awardwinning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, making its premiere at the Civic Center Music Hall, okccivic
center.com.
Oct. 5 • Luke Bryan in concert at the Paycom Center.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Thunderbird Drone Festival
The Thunderbird Drone Festival takes flight this Friday night at the OSU-Tulsa Conference Center, offering a comprehensive exploration of drone technology across a variety of business sectors. The two-day event includes a night of drone films, a 100-drone light show, competitive drone races, demonstrations, panel discussions, education sessions, and drone soccer demos, a brand-new sport that mixes drones and competitive soccer. This is the fourth year for the annual festival, and its first year in Tulsa.
The Thunderbird Drone Festival was founded by Chris Castor, a young businessman living in Woodward. Castor became fascinated with drone technology after graduating from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha. In 2017, Castor and his 5-yearold son created a drone movie called Cardboard Cadet, about a boy who builds a cardboard airplane that comes to life when he sits in it. With great drone footage and spectacular special effects for the dogfights, the film became a worldwide sensation, winning awards at festivals across the globe. And it established Castor as a leading filmmaker in the drone industry.
Inspired by the
community excitement he witnessed at the different drone festivals he attended, Castor and his production partner Nathan Holliday launched the Thunderbird Drone Festival in Woodward, Oklahoma. The inaugural festival drew 150 film submissions and attracted hundreds of people to Woodward to demonstrate drones, watch drone movies, and compete in drone races. The city council, the arts council, and volunteers from all walks of life welcomed people from 25 different countries to Woodward, all because of a drone film festival.
During the next couple of years, the festival grew, attracting drone industry experts excited to exchange ideas in the middle of America.
The U.S. Air Force, Federal Aviation Administration, NASA, Boeing, and other leaders in the sector set up booths, hosted panels, and sponsored this vital gathering. But the biggest supporter of the Thunderbird Drone Festival was always Oklahoma State University.
Dr. Jamey Jacob, the Executive Director
of the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education at Oklahoma State University, played a key role in helping Castor and Holliday launch the festival. Dr. Jacob gave the initial keynote address, led discussions, helped secure speakers and sponsors, and added a level of expertise that elevated Thunderbird above its peer festivals that only focused on offering drone films. This year, the Thunderbird Drone Festival has moved to the OSUTulsa Conference Center to better leverage the strategic partnership with Oklahoma State University and the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute for Research and Education. The OSU-Tulsa Conference Center is located at 700 Greenwood Ave. Doors open on Friday at 6 pm with the film screening at 7 pm. On Saturday, the festival runs from 9:30 am until 3 pm. The Thunderbird Drone Festival is a fantastic example of the impact one person can have on an industry. Chris Castor wanted to share his love of drones with his friends and family, so he created a festival. Because of that, Oklahoma now boasts one of the premiere drone festivals in the world. You can check out the full schedule and trailers on the website at thunderbirddronefestival. com. See you there!
OKC Beautiful Hosts Fall Harvest Festival
Outdoor event to include chili cookoff, live music, local craft beer, and seasonal activities.
OKC Beautiful is hosting its sixth annual Fall Harvest Festival on Sunday, Oct. 13, from 2 – 5 pm at the Delmar Gardens Food Truck Park in the Farmers Market District.
The event will include a variety of seasonal foods and activities. A chili cookoff will feature local restaurants and home chefs, with guest judges Apollo Woods (Bigger Than Food Foundation), Phi Nguyen (Take a Bite OK), and
Juliana Lopez (OKC Latina) selecting winners. The Big Friendly Beer Bus will be serving local craft beers.
Entertainment and activities will include live music by Stephen Salewon and Jenna Owens, pumpkin decorating, mini farmers market with school garden produce and information about OKC Beautiful’s school garden program, yard games, and more. In partnership with Fertile Ground, this is a zerolandfill event.
A zero-waste event is designed to reduce or eliminate waste that ends up in a landfill by reducing the amount of material used and
using materials that can be reused, recycled, or composted. For example, rather than using plastic cups, plates, and utensils, guests will be provided with reusable or compostable alternatives. Instead of having one giant garbage can for everything, bins will be provided for recycling, composting, and reusable items.
Tickets can be purchased at okcbeautiful.com/fall-harvest-fest.
21+ Tickets are $35 and include two beer tickets, chili, and access to games and activities. Youth tickets are $20 and include chili and activities. Funds raised from the event benefit OKC Beautiful’s
environmental education programming. OKC Beautiful is an environmental beautification and education nonprofit enhancing the image and appearance of Oklahoma City through education, programs and community engagement.
Bears attend college fair to study options
By Toluwalase Aderonbi
John Marshall Enterprise High School students were invited to the college fair that was hosted at the MidAmerica Christian University.
At the college fair there were different types of colleges like the University of Central Oklahoma, The University of Oklahoma, Redlands University, and Rose State College and many others. Not only were there colleges from Oklahoma but there were also colleges from out of state.
This was to give options to the people who want to study outside of Oklahoma. The students had a great time there.
“I really enjoyed the fair. I got to see a lot of my options if I decide to stay in state to go to school,” said senior Ruby Alvarez.
“I was interested in
OU and it was great to get to talk with their recruiter about the options the university provides,” stated senior Dulce Castro.
• John Marshall had four E-sports students play in the E-sport Skylines Tournament at the state fair. Two of the four players on the team qualified for the state championship last school year. Our players were Don Clark, Eudonnis Blackman, Karter
Chrystal and Sanchez Arenas.
The state fair also had a professional Esports tournament at the same time for fairgoers to enjoy. This was a highly anticipated tournament for John Marshall and they were expected to win.
Unfortunately, they lost to U.S Grant and went into the consolation bracket. In this bracket they beat all the schools and were
in the grand finale. There they played against Northwest Classen.
Unfortunately, they lost and came second in that bracket.
Clark said, “Every time I go into a tournament I hope to learn new things. I made some mistakes this time that I won’t make again. Eudonnis and Karter were the real superstars for our team — they made up for my faults.”
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1-888-815-2672
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64198. The comment period will not end before October 24, 2024 and may be somewhat longer. The Board’s procedures for processing applications may be found at 12 C.F.R. Part 262.25. The Federal Reserve will consider your comments and any request for a public meeting or formal hearing on the notice if they are received in writing by the Reserve Bank on or before the last day of the comment period. (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024; Friday, October 11, 2024; Friday, October 18, 2024) IN THE DISTRICT COURT IN AND FOR OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA AMERICAN FAMILY MUTUAL | INSURANCE COMPANY, | S.I. d/b/a AMERICAN FAMILY | INSURANCE, | Plaintiff, | vs. | CHRISTINE BROWN, an | individual,
NEWSPAPERS. We can place your ad in 142 newspapers. For more information or to place an ad, contact Landon Cobb at (405) 499-0022 or toll-free in OK at 1-888-815-2672.
is brought for: 1971 Forester Kayot 179433-16L. Subscribed and sworn to before me this 25 day of September, 2024. /s/ Jessica Jones Notary Public (SEAL) #23012486 exp. 09/14/2027
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024; Friday, October 11, 2024; Friday, October 18, 2024; Friday, October 25, 2024) SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA IN MARICOPA COUNTY
Case No. FN 2024-001344 HONORABLE AMY MICHELLE KALMAN
IN THE MATTER OF: ) VANESSA MARIE VALDEZ, ) Petitioner, ) and ) VERONICA STEVENS, ) Respondent. ) NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
FROM THE STATE OF ARIZONA TO: Veronica Stevens A lawsuit has been filed against you. A copy of the lawsuit and other court papers are served on you with this “Summons.”
If you do not want a judgement or order entered against you without your input, you must file a written “Answer” or a “Response” with the court, and pay the filing fee. Also, the other party may be granted their request by the Court if you do not file an “Answer” or “Response” or show up in court. To file your answer or response take, or send it to: Office of the Clerk of Superior Court 201 West Jefferson St. Phoenix, AZ 85003 You have Thrity (30) days to respond to this notice.
Vanessa Marie Valdez Petitioner
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024; Friday, October 11, 2024; Friday, October 18, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2024-905
IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: Torria M. Oguinn, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Marcus Amone Thompson, ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA: TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPONDENT: Marcus Amone Thompson
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 1 day of November, 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 18 day of September, 2024. /s/ Torria Oguinn /s/ Preston Herron Petitioner Notary (SEAL)
SUBSCRIBER AND SWORN to before me this __ day of _____, 2024. My commission expires: 12/18/2027 Commission Number: 23016264
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024; Friday, October 11, 2024; Friday, October 18, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No. FD-2024-2029
IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: Oscar Thomas, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Chinita Thomas, ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA: TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPONDENT: Chinita Thomas GREETINGS: You will take notice that you have been sued in the above names Court by
the prayer thereof.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 24 day of September, 2024. /s/Oscar Thomas /s/Brandelyn E. Petitioner Forehand Notary (SEAL) SUBSCRIBER AND SWORN to before me this 24 day of September, 2024. My commission expires: 08-08-2026 Commission Number: 22010751
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No.: PG-2024-718
In the matter of the Guardianship of ) Simone E. Cranfield ) A Minor Child )
NOTICE FOR HEARING PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN
You are hereby notified that Nicole M. Brown has petitioned this Court to be appointed guardian of the person of the above-named minor Simone E. Cranfield, and that said Petition will be heard in the court room of Judge Kerr Room 217 in the Oklahoma County Courthouse at 320 Robert S. Kerr on the 4 day of December, 2024, at 2:00 o’clock P.M. at which time you may appear and show cause if any, why said Petition should not be granted. Witness my hand and seal of said Court this 19 day of September, 2024.
ELIZABETH H. KERR
JUDGE OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk (SEAL) By /s/illegible signature, Deputy
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No.: PG-2024-739
In the matter of the Guardianship of ) Quincy O. Bowen ) Journei J. Bowen ) minor children )
NOTICE FOR HEARING PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN
You are hereby notified that John F. Bowen and Willecia A. Bowen have petitioned this Court to be appointed guardian of the person of the abovenamed minors and that said Petition will be heard in the court room of Judge Kerr Room 217 in the Oklahoma County Courthouse at Oklahoma County on the 21 day of November, 2024, at 2:00 o’clock P.M. at which time you may appear and show cause if any, why said Petition should not be granted. Witness my hand and seal of said Court this 26 day of September, 2024.
ELIZABETH H. KERR
JUDGE OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk (SEAL) By /s/Diane Watson, Deputy
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2634 In the Matter of the Application ) of Sarah Tunnell ) as next of friend of (child) ) Griffin Tunnell ) to Change Her/His Name )
next of friend of Griffin Tunnell has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Griffin Clark Tunnell to (b) Griffin Alexander Tunnell; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Ogden of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 17 day of October, 2024 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/Diane Watson Deputy (SEAL) CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2671
In Re: The Name of: ) William Jayden Morgan-Wiggs ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that William Jayden Morgan-Wiggs has petitioned to change his/her name to Jayden Philip Morgan. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 16 day of October, 2024, before Judge Mai at 1:30 o’clock in courtroom 709 at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Teresa Becker By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2731
In Re: The Name of: ) Charlotte Ann Kelley ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Charlotte Ann Kelley has petitioned to change his/her name to Charles Anthony Kelley. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 20 day of November, 2024, before Judge Mai in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 4, 2024)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2727
In Re: The Name of: ) Ukamaka Okwudigbo ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Ukamaka Okwudigbo has petitioned to change his/her name to Amaka Chimziterem Genevieve Okwudigbo. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 20 day of November, 2024, before Judge Mai in his/her courtroom 709 in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/R.Valle By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) celebrated 52 years with Founders’ Day events on Sept. 25.
OCCC traces its beginning to March 20, 1969, when a committee of the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce was organized to circulate petitions asking the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to establish a junior college in the area. South
Oklahoma City Junior College opened for classes on Sept. 25, 1972, with an enrollment of 1,049 students. In 1983, the name was changed to Oklahoma City Community College.
“Fifty-two years ago, our founders had a vision for a community-focused institution of higher education in south OKC,” said Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, president of OCCC.
Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park introduce new Friends & Family Membership
As Scissortail Park celebrated its 5th anniversary in September and Myriad Botanical Gardens prepares for its annual Pumpkinville celebration in October, the properties’ parent organization, Park Management Company, introduces a new Friends & Family Membership program offering benefits at both of Oklahoma City’s premier downtown urban greenspaces.
“For years our guests have requested a jointmembership program to support both Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park,” said Marlo Turner, VP of Development and Interim CEO of Park Management Company. “We are thrilled to offer this new package so the community can enjoy exclusive benefits at both of our world-class properties.”
Program Highlights
• Year-round discounted and free admission for programs and events including Myriad Garden’s Pumpkinville and ScaryTale Park at Scissortail Park.
• Free admission to the Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory.
• Unlimited rides on Mo’s Carousel at Myriad Gardens.
• Free roller skating at the Sky Rink at Scissortail Park.
• Reciprocal admission with the American Horticultural Society. And so much more!
Duo - $85 | Admission for 2, any age Quad - $150 | Admission for 4, any age
Find more information at myriadgardens. org/membership or scissortailpark.org/ become-a-member.
“Today, OCCC remains committed to our founders’ vision and mission of ‘Student Success. Community Enrichment.’ While we have grown significantly over these past five decades, our values and dedication to serving our students and community remain the same. I’m excited about our recent accomplishments and optimistic about the future of the college.”
Oklahoma
Older Adults Arts Festival
Community Health Centers, in partnership with the Community Health Recreation and Wellness Center and Arts Council Oklahoma City, is excited to announce the inaugural Oklahoma Older Adults Arts Festival, a two-day celebration of artistic expression for seniors. The event will take place on Oct. 26-27, from 8 am to 6 pm at the Community Health Recreation and Wellness Center, located at 3748 N. Lincoln Blvd. This free event is open to the public and will feature a diverse array of visual art exhibitions by talented artists aged 50 and older. There will also be live performances, culinary arts, and presentations on art history. The festival is designed to honor the creativity of older adults and showcase their contributions to the arts.
The finalists have been chosen and the tickets are on sale; it’s almost time for Paseo FEAST!
FEAST is a unique community-grant program for artists hosted by the Paseo Arts Association. This year’s FEAST will be Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 6-8 pm. It will be held at City + State Venue + Events on 19 NE 6th St. Tickets can be purchased for $40 each at thepaaok.org/feast.
FEAST stands for Funding Emerging Artists with Sustainable Tactics. A selection committee of art professionals review project proposals from local artists and five finalists are selected to present their projects to an audience enjoying a delicious meal. At the end of the evening, audience members will vote on their favorite projects and the winner will win a grant generated from FEAST ticket sales. Grants generated from FEAST range from $700-$2,000 and have been used to fund
diverse projects, including public art displays, funding for studio space, book productions and more.
This year’s finalists include Amber Andersen’s proposal, The Grand Unseen, an exhibit where insects would be the central theme. Sophia Marsh would use film to create public art that explores society’s standards of the female figure with Flesh of My Flesh. Another proposed exhibit is The Origins of Us by Leondre Lattimore, which would explore the legacy of Black Oklahomans. Literati Press aims to establish a creative writing center in its expanded space within the district to better support the metro’s storytelling community. Finally, Whitney Allen’s The Baggage Movement aims to spark awareness of childhood trauma through a collection of specialty bag products.
Guests who purchase a ticket to FEAST
will be served a pasta and salad dinner with a cash bar available. Guests will also receive a token to vote on their favorite proposal and will get a chance to meet the selected artists personally, learning about their creative processes and inspirations. By shining a light on the diverse styles of art and interactions with creatives, the public can support local arts in a meaningful way.
The Paseo Arts Association is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that has developed the Paseo Arts District into Oklahoma’s premier arts destination. Programs such as FEAST are part of the organization’s vision to enrich, educate and inspire the community through the arts.
For more information, call the Paseo Arts Association at (405) 525-2688 or email amanda@thepaseo.org. Visit thepaseo.org/join for membership information.
145th Army Band offers public performance
The 145th Army Band, also recognized as the “Governor’s Own,” will play a public concert on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 1-3 pm at the Oklahoma History Center. The band will play selections including jazz, show tunes, classics and patriotic music. There is no charge for the event, but seating is limited, so an early arrival is recommended. The event will be held in the Devon Great Hall of
the Oklahoma History Center, located at 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr. in Oklahoma City. It is free and open to the public. For further information, please call 405-522-0765. The band has a long, successful history. It was organized and federally recognized on August 31, 1918, in the Oklahoma National Guard at Oklahoma City as the Band Section., Headquarters Company, 2nd Infantry.
The group has traveled all over the world and participated in numerous wartime campaigns in Sicily, Naples, Rome, Southern France, Ardennes, Central Europe and Korea. Always in demand, the 145th Army Band is called the “Governor’s Own” and performs at the governor’s request while still maintaining its role as an active recruiting force for the Oklahoma National Guard.
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
943-1233
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 cornestonehomehealth services.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.
Status of Women names officers, conducts survey
The Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women (OCSW,) a state government commission established in 1994, has re-elected officers and elected a new Advisory Council Chair for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
The officers were nominated by a committee comprised of OCSW commissioners, and then elected by the full commission.
The 2024-2025 elected officers, who form the OCSW executive com-
mittee, include:
•Chairman: Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, president and CEO of Jones PR, of Edmond.
•Vice Chairman Carol Hefner, vice president of Cedars Commercial Development, of Edmond
•Financial Officer: Jill Shero-McDaniel, co-founder and chief operating officer of Indigenous Class, of Oklahoma City.
•Secretary: Julie Dermody: Rogers County Election Board secretary, of Oologah.
•Advisory Council Chairman: Jana Gridley marketing and brand manager of Claims Management Resources, of Edmond.
“This year’s leadership will focus on continuing and expanding the commission’s mission in assisting Oklahoma women improve their status of life through education, awareness, and training” said OCSW Executive Director Kitti Asberry.
In October 2023, OCSW hosted a daylong summit that addressed the economic impact on Oklahoma businesses and family household incomes due to a lack of access to affordable childcare services. Presentations were made
by leaders in healthcare, education, legislature, non-profit groups, and state agencies that demonstrated the connection between economic costs and life quality, which spurred the commission to conduct a statewide survey to further study and gauge interest in jointly addressing these issues.
The statewide survey was released in
Dear Wise Elder: Like my mother before us, my husband and I always planned that “when the time came,” we would sell the house and move to assisted living. But the situation changed. He died. And four years later, I’ve begun having mysterious seizures with the last one resulting in hospitalization and six weeks of rehab. With medicine, I’m now stable, but my family is fearful for me to live alone or drive again. It comes as a shock to me that “the time” has come so soon. Should I “give in” and sell
late August and will remain open for public input until Oct. 15.
State Chairman Barwick stated, “The commission has hosted several summits on important topics impacting Oklahoma women and the next summit topic will be based on results from this statewide survey.”
Results of the OCSW statewide survey on issues impacting women identify the
now? Or should I insist that “I can be independent” again?
Dear Shocked: Your family has a history of being wise planners. Now, move forward. Sell the house and embrace this season. God has you here for a reason. Seek a new purpose. Freedom from home maintenance will open time and energy to help others. Be grateful you are stable and can carry on a legacy of being wise.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
economic impact of social issues as a major concern will be issued in October.
OCSW works closely with the Governor, and the Oklahoma legislative and executive branches to provide expertise and offer recommendations to assist in facilitating solutions through legislation or policies for women through community conversations, summits, and research.
Dr. Bob Blackburn speaks to club gathered at Gaillardia
John Wilkins, Dr. Bob Blackburn (speaker) and Carol and Don Kaspereit at the
The Men’s Dinner Club is back. Hosted by President Dr. Mark Hanstein at the Gaillardia Golf and Country Club, saw the remembrance of the venerable club with its opening speaker, none other than historian extraordinaire, Dr. Bob Blackburn.
Dr. Blackburn, in his usual historic way weaved a tale through many generations of the Gaylord, Kerr, and Norick families that culminated in the acquisition of the OKC Thunder.
About 115 men and a few ladies gathered in the gorgeous Great Ball Room and were treated to a well-crafted dinner of caesar salad, baked patato bar, braised short ribs and Tuscan chicken with pearl carrots and haricots verts. Dessert was a buffet of lemon squares and double chocolate brownies.
“It was a beautiful evening enjoyed by all,” Hanstein said.
For information regarding the remainder of the 2024/25 season, contact the Men's Dinner Club at (405) 521-0097.
Hearts for Hearing team members, donors, board members, and community leaders celebrate a ribbon-cutting to introduce one of the most advanced mobile hearing health care clinics in the United States.
Mobile hearing clinic soon to roll down Oklahoma highways
Mororists will soon see Hearts for Hearing’s state-of-theart mobile hearing care clinic on the highways and byways across Oklahoma in the coming days, weeks and years.
“This mobile hearing care clinic has all the capabilities of our brick-and-mortar locations and will allow us to serve patients of all ages from newborn to senior adult and wherever most needed in the state,”said President & CEO Jennifer Burton. “It includes comprehensive audiology exam space, listening and spoken language therapy services, and newborn hearing
screen equipment.”
The clinic is fully accessible and includes a spacious sound booth and master control area – equipped with all the latest audiology equipment – that allows Hearts for Hearing clinicians to serve patients and families safely and comfortably.
The Hearts for Hearing mobile clinic was made possible thanks to a successful fundraising initiative spearheaded by community
leaders Judy Love and Jim Morris. Other generous donors are Cassie and Charlie Bowen, the Kirkpatrick Foundation, David and Cori LeNorman, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and many others. In total, more than $640,000 was raised to ensure Hearts for Hearing operates the bestequipped, safest, mobile care clinic in See BUSINESS, Page 12
HIKE
From Page 1
Susanna Gattoni strikes a pose atop a large boulder along the trail of Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains. Suxanna died four days before she and her friends were to hike rim to rim of the Grand Canyon.
day.”Losing her was an absolute shock. As I sat on a pew at Susanna’s funeral, I couldn’t help but think, ‘We should be in the Grand Canyon right now. SHE should be there.’”
During our last training hike on Aug.27, 2023, Susanna climbed on top of a large boulder along the trail of Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains. With a characteristic brilliant smile, she extended her arms in a power pose for a picture. Strong, beautiful, and poised, Susanna looked like the Queen of the World, while Vi and I dissolved in the Oklahoma heat in a puddle of sweat and sunscreen as we watched her with love and awe.
Sometimes, as I walk by my computer, the screensaver scrolls through a random array of my photos. It’s a bit like emotional roulette. A toddler-era photo of one of my children pops up, and I’m instantly transported to that precious time when you get to live with a person for whom everything about life brings wonderment.
Recently, Susanna’s power pose picture appeared, and it took my breath away. She loved and appreciated her life. Susanna was thrilled and oh-so-proud that her son Pete had just started his first year at the University of Oklahoma. Following in the footsteps of his mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother, he was the fourth generation Sooner. Susanna was also very close to finalizing the paperwork to obtain dual citizenship with Italy, after tracing her paternal grandmother, Maria Garibaldi, to her birth town of Né, near Genoa. Susanna was intelligent, warm, adventuresome, and kind.
When Vi proposed hiking Rim to Rim in Susanna’s honor this year, I again replied, “I’m in!.” On Friday, Sept. 13, at 4:37 a.m., with headlamps firmly in place and a 32-degree breeze at our backs, we started down the trail on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon on what became not just a physical challenge but a mental and emotional one.
Helen Keller once said, “Walking with a friend alone in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.” That day, the four women in our group started our journey in the dark and we completed our journey in the dark. Helen got it right. Susanna, you were in our hearts each of the 70,000 steps of the way.
BUSINESS
From Page 13
Special features include satellite uplink capabilities to
ensure connectivity no matter how rural the community being served, back-up battery operating capability and a motorized ramp to serve people using wheelchairs and walkers.
Hearts for Hearing is a
SHOTS
From Page 1
firing a “long gun” into the home. The suspect was able to leave the scene just before officers arrived. There was no one home at the time of the shooting.
“Several .223 caliber rifle shell casings were located in the front yard, leaving us to believe the weapon used was an AR-15 style rifle,” said Village Police Chief Russ Landon. “Several rounds impacted the brick facade of the home and a few went through some of the windows.”
Landon said residents told officers they “had no idea why their home would be targeted.” Officers are looking for additional video evidence from the area, including License Plate Recognition and intersection video cameras.
“We are in contact with the Oklahoma City Police Department with the infor-
not-for-profit 501(c)3 foundation that raises funds to help teach babies and children with hearing loss to learn to listen and talk. Such outcomes are possible with early detection of hearing loss, the use of technology, and par-
mation we have and they are assisting in reviewing their video footage from nearby to try to help us develop leads to run down,” said Landon. “At this time the suspect vehicle appears to be a new model, dark gray, Toyota RAV4. The suspect was last seen wearing a bright orange shirt and driving westbound on Britton toward the Lake Hefner Parkway.”
Landon said crimes like this are not a common occurrence in The Village.
“We did have a shooting at an Airbnb in the 2200 block of Carlisle a few weeks ago during a large birthday party,” he said.
“The suspect fired multiple rounds from a 9 mm pistol into the home and fled. Thankfully, no one was hit by gunfire.
“Oddly, we didn’t receive any calls on that incident until about 30 minutes after it occurred,” he said. “The caller gave vague information and
ticipation in specialized speech-language therapy.
Hearts for Hearing provides the first set of hearing technology and speech-language therapy services at no out-ofpocket cost to families.
remained anonymous.”
No suspect has been charged in the Airbnb incident and police don’t believe the shooting on Carlisle was gang-related.
“I don’t believe The Village residents have anything to be worried about because I don’t think these shootings are random,” he said. “A shooting in broad daylight on a Sunday afternoon is extremely uncommon, which leads me to believe the house on Westchester was specifically targeted for some reason. We are still searching for the suspect and a motive for Sunday’s shooting.
“Our uniformed officers are out proactively patrolling around the clock and can be anywhere in The Village in about two minutes,” he added. “If anyone has information that might help us solve this crime, please call our Crime Stoppers line at (405) 751-1234 or email us at www.thevillageok.gov.”
Hearts for Hearing has
grown to become a comprehensive hearing health care and research center of excellence with offices in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Norman. Last year, Hearts for Hearing served more than 40,000 patients.
On the chamber calendar
Community Coffee
Thursday, Oct. 3, 8- 9 a.m.
3701 N. MacArthur
Blvd.
Join us to make new connections, grow relationships and learn more about our com-
munity. This week we will be celebrating Hispanic Heritage month at Supermaercado Morelos with cohost Health Insurance EEC.
Guests Welcome. FREE the country.