Send us photos of your favorite Veterans by Nov. 1. We will include them in our Nov. 8 edition. Email rose@ okcfriday.com. Vote
OKC
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
Department earns accreditation
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
The Village Police Department has achieved reaccreditation from the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Accreditation Program, an accomplishment only 26 police departments in Oklahoma have achieved.
See POLICE, Page 12
Citizens Police Academy strengthens relationships
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Eleven Village residents are halfway through the third Citizen’s Police Academy class offered each fall and spring by The Village Police Department.
The popular program was resurrected in 2022 after a 20-year hiatus and provides insights into the operation of a suburban
police department in a large metro environment.
The academy meets once per week for eight weeks and is offered free of charge to the public. The two-hour sessions are taught by a variety of police officers, investigators, communications personnel and administrators.
Rockets bring home Class 5A volleyball title
OKC FRIDAY: Fabulous at 50
Newspaper
helps build community
By Meg Salyer Community Volunteer
What fun to celebrate 50 years of OKC FRIDAY and reflect on decades of memories made and recorded!
As a transplant from NYC in the early 1980s, FRIDAY provided me a window into life in my new hometown and helped me imagine ways I might participate in building our community. With a focus on the people and events shaping Oklahoma City’s future, FRIDAY helped me begin to see patterns in who, what and where.
I got involved with organizations that were often featured, including Rotary, the Junior League and the Woman’s Committee of the Symphony (now the Orchestra League). Working as a volun-
teer helped build friendships and networks that have spanned decades.
Leland, Vicki, Rose and the team, were and are, such enthusiastic supporters of happenings in OKC. In so many ways, their reporting has contributed to the unprecedented renaissance we are experiencing today. Every week we have the opportunity to cheer on our student scholars and athletes, congratulate local businesses on milestones reached and celebrate the many nonprofits making such a difference in our community. We can be armchair travelers as OKC FRIDAY ventures around the globe!
Thank you FRIDAY for 50 years of community building, and for shining a spotlight on the many things that make my adopted hometown such a special place to live.
“I can’t say enough about the Citizens Police Academy,” she said during a recent Village City Council meeting. “We learned something new and exciting in every class. I was so impressed by the professionalism of our Village Police Department and
See ACADEMY, Page 3
Village resident Jane Lowther attended the academy in 2022 and was impressed with what she learned.
Rare split vote cast on Nichols Hills rental units
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
A rare split vote was cast during discussion to rezone a residential property at the recent Nichols Hills city council meeting. Councilman Sody Clements cast the lone no vote to approve the rezoning of a duplex home located at 6523 Avondale Drive from R2 Residential property to R3 Residential property. Edmond resident Susan Binkowski, representing Esperanza Real Estate Investments and owner of the property, requested the property be rezoned to allow for the addition of a residential unit converting the property from a duplex into a triplex.
The Nichols Hills Planning
See NHILLS, Page 12
FRIDAY’s
Dog of the Week
Marlee is Brooke Haneborg’s best friend. She’s a rescue who loves any and all toys, with her favorite being a stuffed cham pagne bottle. She even likes to take her toys with her on her neighborhood walks. Her vet refers to her as a “cuddle monster” and she can never have too many belly rubs! Email Pet of the Week submis sions to rose@okcfriday.com.
The Mount St. Mary volleyball team celebrates after winning the Class 5A state championship last weekend. The Rockets posted a 3-0 sweep over Tulsa-Booker T. Washington on Saturday at Moore High School for the fifth title in program history and third since the 2021 season. See SPORTS, Page 5, for the complete story.
- Photo by Ani Vazquez, Mount St. Mary Athletics
Signing Day celebrates C4K’s successes
Cleats for Kids held its annual Gamechangers Tailgate luncheon at St. Luke’s Methodist Church.
This year’s theme of Signing Day aimed to highlight a commitment to empowering kids
across the community through sports and physical activity.
The Signing Day luncheon was an opportunity to celebrate over 275,000 kids being served at C4K since 2011. A highlight of the luncheon was the announcement of a 4year campaign to equip 500,000 kids by 2028. Attendees were given the opportunity to make a 4-year pledge, joining the Letterman’s Club in support of the campaign.
Oakes.
Memorial Teen Board is named
Twenty Fridayland students have been named to The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum’s 2024-2025 Teen Board.
They are: Katherine Bonnell , Classen SAS High School; Hattie Bradford Heritage Hall; Rory Brewer, Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School; Carson Byrnes, Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School; Joseph Coats, Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School; Lottie Fares, Casady School; Yehoshua Graham, Mount St. Mary Catholic High School; Hollis Gridley, The Academy of Classical Christian Studies; and Gabriella Gross, Heritage Hall.
Also, Burke Johnson, Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School; Kinley Randolph, Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School; Asher Reed-White, Casady School; Lilly Ross, See TEEN, Page 11
From left: Top row, Mackenzie Kenny, Lance McDaniel, Tom McDaniel, Mark McDaniel, Randy McDaniel, Josh McDaniel and Cole McDaniel; and bottom row, Julie McDaniel, Brenda McDaniel, Meghan McDaniel and Stacy McDaniel.
From left: Top row, Meredith Tatum, Jerzi Hawkins, Stacy McDaniel and Keith Richardson; and bottom row, Allyson Meyer, Mandy Parker and Staci
From Page One/Business
act with our stakeholders.
From Page 1
encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity.”
The Village Citizens Police Academy is open to residents of The Village and those that may have a special interest in the city, including business owners. Participants must be at least 18-yearsold with no criminal history. Each academy can accommodate up to 25 participants
Police Chief Russ Landon saidhe makes this class a priority as part of the department’s community policing efforts, “because it allows us face to face time to inter-
“Over the course of the class over a dozen or our officers teach on a variety of subjects including communications, crime scene investigation, use of force, DUI investigations, domestic violence and handling the homeless and mentally ill,” said Landon. “We do everything we can to make this free class hands-on and informative.
“As former Police Chief Michael Robinson taught me 30 years ago, it’s critical to allow citizens the opportunity to help us set our priorities,” he said. “Our CPA is a great opportunity to do that. I believe most departments don’t have CPA’s due to the expenditure of manpower and
equipment. We provide crime scene processing supplies, nonlethal ammunition for firearms and other supplies to conduct the classes.
“This relationship allows us to hear from people we serve so we can review and establish our priorities,” he said. “Our mission statement is ‘Working with our community to provide professional law enforcement services.’ Our Citizens Police Academy is an excellent way to fulfill that mission.”
Village Police is to conduct another Citizens Police Academy in the spring and is currently accepting applications for the eight-week class that begins in March.
Metro Library names Jason Kuhl new CEO
The Metropolitan Library Commission announced the appointment of Jason Kuhl as the new chief executive officer of the Metropolitan Library System.
Kuhl brings over 20 years of experience in the library industry, previously serving at library systems in Illinois and Missouri, including his most recent position as CEO of St. Charles City-County Library in St. Peters, Mo., a St. Louis suburb.
“Jason is a visionary who sees the library for all its possibilities and has championed major successes in his experience with multiple library systems,” said Metropolitan Library Commission Chairman Brian Alford.
“We’re excited to see the work that Jason will do for the Metropolitan Library System and the communities we serve across the Oklahoma City metro area.”
Kuhl holds a master of
science in library and information science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a bachelor of arts in art history. In 2008, he became the manager of information services at Arlington Heights Memorial Library and then the executive director in 2012. Kuhl has been with St. Charles City-County Library since January 2018 and has held leadership positions in both the American Library Association and the Illinois Library Association.
“For the past 20 years, I’ve worked to ensure the libraries I served brought people-first spaces and unique resources to meet the communities’ needs
and inspire learning, intellectual freedom and creativity,” said Jason Kuhl.
“Bringing my experience to one of the fastest growing cities and metro areas in the United States is an exciting challenge, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Metropolitan Library Sys-
tem’s mission: Connecting our diverse communities with resources and experiences to educate and enrich lives.”
JASON KUHL
Chargers look to continue district streak against Purcell
Coming off a pair of closely fought wins, the Heritage Hall football team drew a bit of a break in its final two weeks of the season.
The Chargers face teams in the bottom half of the district standings, starting this Friday against Purcell.
Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Pop Murray Field.
Heritage Hall essentially secured the District 3A-1 title and ran its district winning streak to 78 games with a 41-36 victory at Pauls
Valley last Friday.
Tailback Barrett Travis enjoyed a big night with 203 yards rushing and three touchdowns to lead the Chargers (7-1 overall, 50 3A-1).
Purcell (3-5, 1-4) pulled off its first district win with a 55-26 win over Star Spencer.
Heritage Hall visits Star Spencer next Friday in the season finale.
PC North could be in the mix to win a district title game with a victory this Friday against
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.
Sand Springs.
The Panthers (7-1, 50 6A-II-2) currently sit in a tie with Muskogee for the district lead after holding on for a 73 win at Sapulpa.
A victory would give PC North a chance to claim the district title when it hosts the Roughers in Week 10.
McGuinness could get back to the top of District 5A-1 with a victory at first-place Newcastle on Friday.
The Irish (6-2, 3-1) cruised to a 70-7 tri-
WEEK 9 SCHEDULE
Friday, November 1
Luther at Casady
Crossings Christian at Washington
Bixby at Deer Creek
Purcell at Heritage Hall
John Marshall at Western Heights
McGuinness at Newcastle
Mount St. Mary at Blackwell
Sand Springs at PC North Note: All games start at 7 p.m., unless noted.
umph over Southeast, led by four total touchdowns from quarterback Damon Cochran II.
Several other Fridaylan teams look to get back on the winning track this Friday.
Deer Creek (6-2, 3-2 6A-I-1) hosts powerhouse Bixby, while Crossings Christian (4-3, 3-2 2A-I-2) travels to Washington, Mount St. Mary (4-4, 1-4 2A-I-1) visits Blackwell, Casady (3-5, 3-2 2A-II-1) hosts Luther and John Marshall (0-8, 0-5 5A-2) visits Western Heights.
The Antlers lost at Norman, with the Knights falling to Lindsay, the Rockets to Jones, the Cyclones to Stroud and the Bears to El Reno.
El Reno proves too much for Bears
Despite falling behind in the first quarter, the John Marshall football team battled back to score twice in the second half but ultimately suffered a 46-18 loss to El Reno last Friday at Taft Stadium. The Bears (0-8 overall, 0-5 District 5A-2) got on the board in the final minute of the second quarter when tail-
back Andre Blake squirted through the line for a 5-yard run with 1:41 left in the half.
Quarterback Shawn Powell accounted for the final pair of scores, completing a short 1yard toss to Kameron Marshall and a 66-yard bomb to James Allen to end the game.
IRISH RUN OVER SOUTHEAST
McGuinness cruised to a 70-7 victory against Southeast last Friday at Pribil Stadium.
Quarterback Damon Cochran II recorded four total touchdowns, including three TD passes, to pace the Irish (6-2, 3-1 5A-1). Cochran threw a pair of 55-yard strikes to Jace Weeks and A.J. Twombly to go along with a 35yarder to Andrew Harris and a 7-yard run.
McGuinness opened with three straight scoring runs by Tom Watts for three yards, J.R. Fletcher for 15 yards and Jett Schafer for seven yards.
CHARGERS HOLD OFF PAULS VALLEY
Heritage Hall used a pair of touchdown drives in the fourth quarter to secure a 4136 triumph at Pauls Valley last Friday night to essentially claim another district title and run its district winning streak to 78 games.
Tailback Barrett Travis enjoyed a big night with 203 yards rushing and three touchdown runs covering five, 30 and three yards for the Chargers (7-1, 5-0 3A-1).
Kicker Beau Butler opened the game with two field goals of 39 and 33 yards and connected on all three extra-point attempts.
NORMAN TAKES DOWN ANTLERS
Deer Creek saw Norman erupt for three scores in the second period to hand the Antlers a 54-27 loss.
Quarterback Teegan Lawson threw two TD passes to Rhett Davis for 40 yards and Carter Knowles for three yards.
See WEEK 8, Page 5
Casady quarterback Ethan Hamilton (14) accounted for over 500 yards of offense and nine total touchdowns in a wild 68-46 win at Meeker last week.
- Photo by Richard Clifton, rtcditigalimages.zenfolio.com
CROSS COUNTRY ROUNDUP
9 teams qualify for state
Thanks to strong finishes at regionals last weekend, nine Fridayland cross country teams qualified for state meets this Saturday at Edmond Santa Fe.
Both boys and girls squads from Deer Creek, along with PC North’s Toni Ibarra, compete in Class 6A and open the day’s events with the girls’ race at 8:30 a.m. and the boys at 9:05 a.m.
McGuinness earned spots in 5A with the girls starting at 9:50 a.m. and boys at 10:25 a.m.
Both Casady squads join the Heritage Hall girls in 3A at 11:10 a.m. and 11:40 a.m., while the Crossings Christian and Heritage Hall boys run in 4A at 2:10 p.m.
ANTLER BOYS RUN TO 6A TITLE
Keyed by all five runners in the top 10, the Deer Creek boys cruised to a Class 6A regional title and the girls claimed second place last weekend at Owasso.
Micah John paced the Antlers with a runner-up finish, completing the five-kilometer course at O’Brien Park in 15:52.1, while Ethan Stuart took fourth and George Simon garnered fifth place.
Colson Robertson and Ian Chang rounded out the team in eighth and 10th places, respectively.
All five Deer Creek girls also earned spots in the top 25, led by Maddie Cottier in seventh place. Madelynn Clark collected 10th place and Riley Woodcock came in 11th place for the Antlers, as Graycie Lucas garnered 13th place and Emily Clark took 22nd place.
PC North athlete Toni Ibarra also qualified for state with a 37th-place finish in the 6A regional at Westmoore.
CYCLONE BOYS TAKE 3A CROWN
Casady’s Billy Mathis and Sam Rhoades cracked the top 5 in helping the Cyclone
boys to a 3A regional title at North Rock Creek in Shawnee.
Mathis took fourth and Rhoades came in fifth, followed by Ayden Kerr in seventh, Ashton Hale in ninth and Joshua Goggins in 14th place.
With three runners in the top 15, the Casady girls placed third in the regional.
Hope Fahler led the way in fourth place, with Lila Garabelli in 13th place and Eva Scheer in 14th place for the Cyclones.
Meanwhile, the Heritage Hall girls competed in a 3A regional at Henryetta and finished second behind all five runners in the top 20.
Zeffie Ellenburg paced the Chargers in sixth place and Coral Grimmett cracked the top 10 in eighth place.
Kaylee Norman, Zara McDaniel and Addie Plumbtree rounded out the quintet in 11th, 12th and 17th place, respectively. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
FOOTBALL | WEEK 8 ROUNDUP
WEEK 8
From Page 4
Quarterback Grady Adamson threw three TD passes, including two to Jalen Davis for 32 and 25 yards and another 67-yarder to Mason Smith, to lead Deer Creek (62, 3-2 6A-I-1).
Zeke Groom also added a 1-yard run in the third quarter.
LINDSAY GETS PAST KNIGHTS
Crossings Christian let a slim third-quarter lead get away in a 2117 loss to Lindsay last Friday at Knights Stadium.
Kicker Kaden Laisle opened the
game with a 30-yard field goal before the Knights (4-3, 3-2 2A-I-2) erupted for two scores in the third quarter.
Wyatt Dalton got things started with an interception return and tailback Jonah Neher added a 1-yard TD run.
CYCLONES FALL AT STROUD
Enduring a difficult trip up the Turner Turnpike, Casady ran into 2A powerhouse Stroud and came home with a 54-7 setback on Friday night.
Quarterback Ethan Hamilton collected 169 total yards and tossed a 31-yard TD pass to Cade Vesta for the Cyclones (3-5, 3-2 2A-II-1).
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
BACK ON TOP!
Rockets sweep Tulsa Washington for 5A title
By Jason Jewell Sports Editor
MOORE – Heading into this season, the Mount St. Mary volleyball team “went on a mission” to once again reach the pinnacle of Class 5A with a state championship.
Mission accomplished as the Rockets battled for a 3-0 sweep over Tulsa-Booker T. Washington to claim their fifth title in program history – and third in the last four seasons – last Saturday at Moore High School’s Douglas H. Frederick Sports Complex.
“Our seniors have been on a mission this year,” coach James Ward said. “They set a number of goals for themselves this season and hit every one of the them.”
Mount St. Mary (391), which was ranked
No. 1 for the entire season, seized momentum about midway through the first set to take a 169 lead and held on for a 25-22 decision.
In opening the second set, the Rockets hit a lull and fell behind 12-10 before rallying for a 25-21 victory to take a commanding 2-0 lead in the match.
“(Tulsa Washington) made some adjustments in that second set and it took us a little bit to adjust back to them,” Ward told FRIDAY
Mount St. Mary, then, jumped out to an early 4-1 lead in the third set and fought off a Hornets comeback to close out the match with a 25-20 triumph.
“We made good adjustments and played better defense,” Ward said.
Junior Ella Hale proved to be a force on the front line in collect-
ing a match-high 23 kills and 10 blocks for the Rockets.
Senior captain Livia Ward grabbed 40 assists, 15 digs and five kills, while senior libero MacKenzi Bass had 20 digs and an assist. The Rockets also cruised to 3-0 sweeps over Oklahoma Christian School (OCS) in Friday’s semifinal and Shawnee in the quarterfinals on Thursday. Hale and Ward set new school records this year, as Hale recorded 588 kills for a season and Ward garnered marks in assists with 1,233 in 2024 and 3,659 for her career.
Senior Georgia Ahlert added to the record books with 108 total blocks for the season, while amassing 37 total kills, 12 blocks and three aces at state. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
- Photo by Ani Vazquez, Mount St. Mary Athletics
Mount St. Mary team members huddle before taking the court against TulsaBooker T. Washington in the Class 5A state volleyball championship game last Saturday at Moore High School.
CALENDAR
THEATRE
Nov. 717
• California Suite
Brought to you by OKC Parks & Recreation at the Civic Center. In this humorous confection by the famed playwright Neil Simon, we find ourselves in a hotel suite, experiencing four different stories: The Visitor from New York, The Visitor from Philadelphia, The Visitors from London, and The Visitors from Chicago. It is Neil Simon at his most humane and compassionate best. Visit okcciviccenter.com for tickets.
Dec. 1315 •
Hip Hop Nutcracker
Experience RACE’s Hip Hop Nutcracker, a unique and exciting twist on the holiday classic. Featuring beats by DJ Nymasis, RACE Collective dancers, and youth dancers from OKCPS and local dance programs, this dynamic performance reimagines the Nutcracker through a fresh, urban Oklahoma lens. Follow Carlos, a spirited young boy raised by a single mom, as he’s whisked away on a magical journey of selfdiscovery. Along the way, he learns the power of community and familial love in this heartwarming, highenergy show.
OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center Theater. Get tickets at occc.edu.
Nov. 7 • Red Earth Rendezvous
Get ready for an exciting evening, as we gather together to raise funds for an incredible cause. With a variety of unique items up for bid, including collectable artwork from master ar ti sts. Best of all, your par ti cipa ti on directly supports Red Earth's mission to promote Na ti ve art and culture. Grab your friends and get ready for a night of giving back at the Will Rogers Gardens’ Ed Lycan Conservatory, 3400 NW 36th St. Fundraiser is from 6:30 – 9 pm.
CONCERTS
Nov. 5 • Brightmusic Guest violinist YooJin Jang returns to OKC to perform with Brightmusic’s Amy ILin Cheng (piano) and Jonathan Ruck (cello) Tuesday, 7:30 pm at First Baptist Church in midtown. There will also be a short preconcert showcase from Oklahoma Youth Orchestra’s “Simply Strings” quartet. The Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble is Oklahoma City’s foremost presenter of classical chamber music. For more information, visit brightmusic.org.
THIS WEEKEND
Nov. 1 • Nikki Glaser
The Criterion hosts Nikki Glaser on her Alive and Unwell Tour. Visit criterionokc.com for info.
Nov. 2 • Creed See Creed in concert at the Paycom Center on their Are You Ready? Tour along with special guest 3 Doors Down and Mammoth WVH. Visit
okcciviccenter.com for tickets.
Nov. 120 • American Quarter Horse
The American Quarter Horse World Championship is returning to OKC Fairgrounds daily beginning at 8 am. The 2024 show runs from Nov. 1 20.
Nov. 23 • Train Show
The Oklahoma Railway Museum and Oklahoma Model Railroad Assoc. & Museum present the 2024 OKC Train Show at The Pavillion at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, 10 am to 4 pm.
OKC THUNDER
HOME GAMES
Paycom Center
100 West Reno Ave.
Monday, Nov. 4 • Orlando Magic 8:15 pm
Friday, Nov. 8 • Houston Rockets
7:00 pm Sunday, Nov. 10 • Denver Nuggets 8:00 pm Monday, Nov. 11 • LA Clippers 7:00 pm
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Celebrating Yousef Kazemi
Yousef Kazemi is celebrating 15 years with the Oklahoma Film and Music Office. Kazemi is the Outreach & Production Manager for OF+MO, which is a division of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. In the role, Kazemi is the first point of contact for large productions coming to town, communities hosting productions, and people looking to transition into the film industry. Kazemi, a graduate of Oklahoma City Christian Academy, began his work with OF+MO as a college intern. After graduating from the University of Central Oklahoma, Kazemi accepted a full-time position with OF+MO as the office’s administrative assistant. Within two years, he was promoted to Locations Coordinator, where he introduced Hollywood production teams to the iconic Oklahoma locations featured in Oscar nominee August, Osage County, Oscar nominee Killers of the Flower Moon, and Oscar winner Minari As Outreach & Production Manager, Kazemi leads the Oklahoma Film Friendly Community Program that encourages statewide community development in support of the state’s film and television industry. Kazemi provides logistical support for productions filming on-location in Oklahoma. And he represents the
OF+MO at national and local events such as the Sundance Film Festival, the Oklahoma Arts Conference, and the deadCenter Film Festival. Kazemi wrote and directed four short films: Checking Out (2015), Yes, We’re Open (2016), Previously on Alley Cats… (2017), and The Stand-In (2020). He worked as a crew member on the Casey Affleck film The Killer Inside Me (2010), co-produced my dance short film SWIRL (2016), and executive produced the feature film You People (2018) from director Laron Chapman. He also acted in several films, including the new comedy horror film Hell Hath No Fury from director Zachary Burns which comes out Nov. 8. We’re Open, Kazemi’s most personal film as a director, was nominated for awards at ten different film festivals and won Best Short Film at five of them: Waco Independent, Bare Bones, Clean Shorts, Red Dirt, and Love Your Shorts Film Festival. The film, about a convenience store owner who provides a safe space for a girl who is being bullied by local boys, was based on Kazemi’s own father. Another stand out short, The Stand-In, focuses on a young, gay man whose wedding is upended when his mother decides not to attend. The film is based on the story of Sara Cunningham, a local Christian mother who once rejected her son for being gay. She eventually decided that she was called to bring people to God, not drive them away. She launched a nonprofit called Free Mom Hugs and attended Pride events around the country, wearing Free Mom Hugs buttons, and making sure that everyone there knew they were loved by God. In 2018, Cunningham made a Facebook post that she would stand next to anyone who had been rejected by their parents at their same-sex wedding. The response was enormous. She travelled the country and expanded Free Mom Hugs into all 50 states. She worked with Kazemi to write and direct the short film. And she sold the rights to her life story to Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis Yousef Kazemi is an insightful storyteller, a thoughtful collaborator, and an exceptional advocate for the Oklahoma film industry. For thousands of filmmakers who travel here from across the country to work on giant blockbusters like Twisters, Yousef Kazemi is Oklahoma. We are so fortunate to have this bright, intelligent, local star leading the way.
Scientist explores zombie butterfly phenomenon
Published scientific paper shows Monarchs, other butterflies, can temporarily function without heads.
A recent paper from a scientist at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden explores a spooky recurrence: zombie butterflies.
In a paper published in the journal American Entomologist, Dr. Emily Geest, a Conservation Scientist at the OKC Zoo, describes the “Marie Antoinette” phenomenon in Monarch butterflies—butterflies who continue to function without a head.
“When it first showed up, I thought, ‘Well, that’s weird.’ And then it kept showing up, which means maybe there’s something to this,” Geest said. “The big question is: is this because they’ve lost their heads, or is it genetics?”
While she initially dismissed a zombie Monarch, she saw in 2017 as one-in-a-million, she realized that with millions of butterflies flying about, one-in-a-million isn’t all that rare. And headless butterflies are not limited to Monarchs, either. An 1879 article in the journal Nature describes a Painted Lady that was able to lay eggs a day after a bird removed its head, lending credence to the idea that it can be caused by trauma.
How they continue moving isn’t necessarily a mystery, Geest said. Monarchs, like all butterflies, have a decentralized nervous system—their brains aren’t only in their heads, but in ganglia (cluster of nerve cells) that
repeat throughout the body.
“If one piece is lost, the body and nervous system can continue functioning, albeit for a short time—the insect has a substantially reduced capability to avoid predation and find food, and no ability to ingest any food it may stumble upon,” she wrote in her paper.
But some of the Monarchs people have documented have perfect wings, like they just came out of their chrysalis without a head, which would lean toward the idea that it could be genetic, as well. Shortly after the paper came out a video of a headless Monarch was sent to Geest that had just come out of its
chrysalis, further adding to the mystery.
Even though their brains are spread in clusters throughout their bodies, butterfly heads are still necessary for life. Monarchs use their antennae on their heads to orient themselves during migration and are sensitive to pressure from changing weather. And, of course, they can’t eat without a head.
“It’s weird and it’s strange, but that’s insects,” Geest said. “It highlights how unique invertebrates are from vertebrates.”
To learn more about Zoo happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org.
Bears complete more than 200 college applications
By Toluwalase Aderonbi
JohnMarshall held its annual college application day.
The whole library was filled with students that were eager to get help from the staff and complete applications.
Senior Malik Carter said, “I am grateful that my school and the staff provided us with the support we needed to start our college journey.”
“Having college app day motivates our students to not put off applying to schools and get it done,” explained senior sponsor Shelly Campbell. “It also helps to have people there to help them, so if they have questions or needs we can help them overcome the obstacle to completing the application.”
The app day was a success as our JM seniors completed over 200 college applications.
• Students attended
the Build My Future Career Day this week. It was a one-day Construction Career day for high school students across the Oklahoma City area.
Interactive, handson exhibits from organizations in the skilled trades and the building industry provided students opportunities to
experience what their future could be in this career area. Student activities included educational displays, equipment operations, and learning experience.
“My friends and I went to the career day not thinking we would find much of interest to us since it was regard-
ing construction, but it opened my eyes to the many incredible opportunities in construction.
As a woman, I never considered this field, but this trip changed my mindset and showed me how rewarding and impactful a career in construction could be,” said senior Heaven Savage.
JM JOURNAL
Above: From left, Osvaldo Gutierrez, Neveah Savage, Niyah Moore, Heaven Savage, and Aniya Roberts get some applications completed at the JM College App Day. At right: Yazmin Cardoza-Bejarano and LaShawn Hines try one of the experiences at the Build My Future Conference.
before Judge Andrews at 1:30 o’clock in courtroom 359 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/illegible signature By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 1, 2024)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2024-2876
In Re: The Name of: ) Robin Nichole Verrette )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 1, 2024) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2861
In the Matter of the Application ) of Constance Hardy ) as next of friend of (child) ) Avery R. Ownby ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 1, 2024) DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2877
In Re: The Name of: ) Gabriel Alvarez ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Gabriel Alvarez has petitioned to change his/her name to
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Robin Nichole Verrette has petitioned to change his/her name to Robin Nichole Watts. A Hearing on said petition is set for 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 9 day of January, 2025, before Judge Timmons 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, November 1, 2024)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2024-2940
In Re: The Name of: ) Ariana Danielle Rice )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Ariana Danielle Rice has petitioned to change his/her name to Ariana Danielle Prince. A Hearing on said petition is set for 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 9 day of January, 2025, before Judge Timmons at 11:00 o’clock in courtroom 201 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, November 1, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2024-2860
In the Matter of the Application ) of Polly DeAnn Calhoun ) as next of friend of (child) ) Braxton Samuel Gifford ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Polly DeAnn Calhoun, as next of friend of Braxton Samuel Gifford has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit: From (a) Braxton Samuel Gifford to (b) Braxton Samuel Calhoun; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Bonner of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Constance Hardy, as next of friend of Avery Ownby has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Avery Robert Ownby to (b) Avery Robert Hardy; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Andrews of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 23 day of January, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/illegible signature Deputy (SEAL) CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 1, 2024)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. CV-2024-2789
In the Matter of the Application of ) Gabriela Guadalupe Sanchez Ucela ) As next best friend of ) Jaciel Alexander Rivera Sanchez, ) A Minor, to Change His Name ) NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
TAKE NOTICE THAT: Gabriela Guadalupe Sanchez Ucelo, as natural mother of Jaciel Alexander Rivera Sanchez, has petitioned the District Court of Oklahoma county for an Order to change her minor child’s name Jaciel Alexander Rivera Sanchez to Jaciel Alexander Mazariegos Sanchez. The hearing on said Petition will be heard on the 23 day of January, 2025 at 1:30 p.m., before Judge Andrews, Judge of the District Court of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma County Courthouse, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Any person may file a written protest in this matter prior to the date for hearing.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By: /s/Teresa Becker Deputy Court Clerk (SEAL)
Ste. 130 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, 73103 under the business name of Bao Soup Dumpling.
Dated this 17 day of October, 2024. /s/ Jiayue Zhao County of Oklahoma, State of Oklahoma.
Before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared: Jiayue
me known to be the person(s) described in and who executed the foregoing application and acknowledged that he executed the same as
/s/Jennifer Clark, Notary Public (SEAL) State of Oklahoma #13007871 My commission expires 08/27/2025
Name ChaNge
OCCC served more than 2,000 at giveaway event
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) assisted more than 2,000 during a free community giveaway event in partnership with Ebenezer Baptist Church on Oct. 12.
Approximately $350,000 of donated items were given away, including home furnishings, essential household goods, personal care items, and more. Items were donated to Ebenezer Baptist Church by World Vision.
“OCCC was honored to partner with Ebenezer Baptist Church to support those in need in our community,” said Dr. Jason K. Johnson, vice president for student affairs at OCCC. “I also want to express gratitude for the volunteers who helped with the event.”
The event was supported by more than 100 volunteers, including students and employees from OCCC.
Several community groups assisted by volunteering and/or providing items: American Red Cross Central and Southwest Oklahoma Chapter, Best Friends of Pets, Community Health Centers of Oklahoma, Delta Dental of Oklahoma, Dental Depot, Home Creations, Jones Bail Bond, Oklahoma County District Attorney's Office, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, Pepsi/Faith, Hope and Love Missionary Baptist Church, Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma/St. Lukes's Methodist Church, and Sunbeam Family Services.
She-Wolves: The Untold History of Women on Wall Street
By Paulina Bren
After several successful books written by Paulina Bren about life after the culture of Communism and consumption in Cold War Eastern Europe came her bestseller The Barbizon: The Hotel that Set Women Free. Her new book, She-Wolves: The Untold History of Women on Wall Street is now wildly popular. It tells of those young women who were trying to enter the world of high finance which was male dominated by the firms, J.P. Mor-
gan, Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers, Merrill Lynch and Bear Stearns. Small brokerage houses that were also owned and run by men began to open up. Minorities need not apply. Not surprising, women were on the periphery in menial tasks even though they were graduates of some of the same Eastern business schools and Stanford. Of particular interest to Oklahomans was the active and dominant role of Ace Greenberg whose success in New York was well known at the top of the New York Stock Exchange in both finance and social areas, truly a story that men could work toward and extremely ambitious bright women dream of could hope for. The 1960s was a breakthrough for both, and
OKC Philharmonic Brings From The Highlands Concert to OKC
Featuring Oklahoma City Artists Bruce Robertson on the bagpipes and Jonathan Ruck on the cello.
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic is set to present From The Highlands on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 8:00 pm at the Civic Center Music Hall. This concert will open with the majestic Highland Cathedral, a stirring piece featuring bagpipes, played by Oklahoma City artist Bruce Robertson. Second on the program is Elgar’s renowned Cello Concerto, performed by Jonathan Ruck, principal cellist of the OKC Phil, and the evening will conclude with Mendelssohn’s evocative Scottish Symphony
there were certain unwritten rules, such as “dress for success,” and in being eligible for exotic perks that ruled out the undesirable, minorities and women.
The story of what yuppiedom brought to the street, and at last the acceptance and the success of Jewish, foreign and Blacks is the stuff of which movies are made, and the personal tales of what it took to get rid of “NO LADIES “ signs at luncheon clubs. Things underwent quite a change in the brokerage and investment houses as well as beginning to actually find these minorities involved at the middle of the Swinging 60s. Changes were coming even though very slowly. Wealth and stature were sure to follow, and indeed
Both featured performers bring notable local and international recognition. Bruce Robertson, a first-generation American with Scottish heritage, began playing the bagpipes under his father’s guidance at age six.
Jonathan Ruck, a celebrated cellist, has a distinguished career as a soloist and chamber musician, performing across various continents.
“Bagpipes evoke feelings of ancient times, bare mountain ranges, lonely castles, wild beauty, kilts, and
they have.
This book is so well written that one might find it well at the top of exciting true tales of today as well as the ’40s. The times, places and events range from impressive to hysterical. Paulina has once again opened our eyes and minds to life in the big world, especially New York City. If former years had led to the men in charge being called the “Wolves of NYC” it also made known and respected the female “She Wolves of Wall Street.”
To read She-Wolves is an education in itself of the people, the industry, successes and unbelievable things that could never happen but often did.
Thanks to Full Circle Bookstore for sharing books with FRIDAY readers.
long-gone battles. This is the setting of our next Classics From The Highlands,” said Alexander Mickelthwate, Music Director of the OKC Philharmonic. “Our orchestra will be right in the midst of the storytelling. We will bring a full symphonic rendition of late Queen Elizabeth’s most favorite piece for bagpipe: Highland Cathedral. Elgar’s romantic cello concerto will give a British musical anchor featuring our own Jonathan Ruck. The symphony of the evening is
Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony, music that he felt deeply inspired to write standing in the ruins of Queen Mary Stuart’s Castle in Edinburgh.” The OKC Philharmonic’s Music Director, Alexander Mickelthwate, will host a preconcert lecture at 7:00 pm. Tickets range from $24 to $109, with student pricing available at $11 with a valid ID. For ticket purchases, contact the OKC Philharmonic box office at (405) 842-5387 or purchase online at okcphil.org
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
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
Strebel Creek Vineyard & Gift Shop 11521 North MacArthur Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73162 (405)
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.
Flood insurance: It’s time to get ready
By Glen Mulready Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
The U.S. has just experienced two significant hurricanes, leaving trails of destruction in their wake.
Some of the hardest-hit areas are hundreds of miles inland and nowhere near the coast, with one profound impact: flooding. This scenario has happened in Oklahoma several times,
where a hurricane or tropical storm moves in from the Gulf of Mexico and brings significant rainfall. The convective storms we see in the state usually carry a flood risk, too. With flood at the forefront of our minds, I want to give Oklahomans an overview of flood insurance.
Considering a flood insurance policy before the next storm is critically essential. A standard homeowners
policy does not typically cover floods; most flood policies have a 30-day waiting period. You can purchase a flood policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which FEMA manages, or through a private insurer.
Flood insurance covers losses directly caused by flooding. Coverage options and amounts vary from insurer to insurer. As an example, NFIP flood policies contain two types of coverage:
Building coverage
Building coverage includes structural damage or damage to plumbing and electrical systems. It can also
include large and built-in appliances, HVAC systems, permanently installed cabinets, and, depending on the policy, detached garages.
Contents coverage
Contents coverage encompasses personal belongings such as clothing, furniture, electronic equipment, curtains, washers, dryers, portable and window air conditioners, microwave ovens, and carpets not included in building coverage.
A common misconception about flood insurance is that it’s only needed when required by your bank or mortgage company, but consider this: more than 40% of
Dear Wise Elder: Since my mother died, dad continues to work and is healthy. We have a very close relationship. The concern I have is that his world is limited to me, my family and children and very few other people. When I suggest doing something, he’s always willing. However, it is a heavy load for me to be his ONLY social connection to something interesting or new. I feel like his activity director; I keep suggesting things he could do. But, I really wish he would initiate something new on his own.
Dear Wishing: Rather than
NFIP claims come from outside the highrisk areas. Floods are also one of the costliest types of natural peril. Just one inch of water can cause $25,000 in damage.
FEMA provides a flood map tool that shows if you live in or near high-risk areas, but floods can affect any property. One of the most common questions about flood insurance is how much it costs. The answer varies. Premiums are calculated based on multiple factors, including the risk of flood, the type of coverage, the deductible, the amount of coverage, the location of your
make your suggestions about him, change the focus of the conversation by telling your dad that you feel responsible for his fun. Tell him you are worried he never initiates activities on his own. Ask him as a favor for you, to take action to meet new people and new opportunities. Suggest he could begin volunteering through RSVP, or get a membership at the Healthy Living Center or become a member of VillagesOKC.org. Ask him to do it to help you.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
structure, the design and age and the location of your structure’s contents. The NFIP provides a detailed list of these considerations in its Rate Explanation Guide. Typically, coverage can cost around $500 a year and up but can save you thousands in the event of extensive damage. With the recent storm activity and more storms on the horizon, flood insurance could be the key to protecting you and your home. Talk to your agent and explore your flood options today. To learn more about flood insurance, visit oid.ok.gov/flood or floodsmart.gov.
The Scissortail District of the Last Frontier Council of Scouting America honored Alice and Phil Pippin with its 2024 Citizen of the Year Award. The pair has served with Cub Scout Pack 5 at All Scouls Eipiscopal Church and with Troop 193, where all three of their sons earned the rank of Eagle Scout. At right: The Pippins — Phillip, Alice, Phil and Richard (son John was unable to attend). Above: The Armitages — Catherine and John and daughter Vivian Tokarz.
TEEN
From Page 1
Casady School; RoseMerrie Smith, Harding Fine Arts Academy; Addison Starling, Casady School; Megan Starling, Casady School; Leo Sweet, Casady School; Jon Trudgeon, Heritage Hall; Dominic Trupiano, Deer Creek High School; and Lauren Wilson, Heritage Hall.
The board offers high school students an extraordinary way to engage with the Memorial’s mission of remembrance, education and service. At monthly meetings, the 45 members of the Teen Board delve into the lessons of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. In addition to students from the metro area, teens from cities across the state are on the
Alice and Phil Pippin are Citizens of the Year
25 Teen Board.
Board, including Yukon, Broken Arrow, Chickasha, Choctaw, Pauls Valley and Prague. “The Teen Board looks to our future and
grows community leaders with lessons learned from the Oklahoma City bombing,” said Kari Watkins, President & CEO, Oklahoma
City National Memorial & Museum. “These students, a generation not alive in 1995, will hear from city, state and national leaders who connect
history with challenges we face today.”
This is the second Teen Board class.
The program fosters leadership skills and encourages them to become ambassadors for the mission of the Memorial & Museum, spreading the values of the Oklahoma Standard – Service, Honor and Kindness. Students learn how to take an active role in combatting violence and become trained facilitators for “Better Conversations” – experiences they can take back to their own schools and families. “It’s a really good leadership opportunity to help in my community,” said Teen Board member Katie Kinkade. “It will help grow my skills and my ability to communicate with people better.”
On the chamber calendar
Chamberfest After Hours Thursday, Nov. 7, 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m.
Castle Falls Restaurant & Venue
820 N MacArthur Blvd.
Please Register by Nov. 5 to help us plan.
Day of event attendance with no registration is $20 per person
(Pre registration no-shows may be billed $10)
Twenty Fridayland students have been named to the OKC National Memorial & Museum’s 2024-
- Photos by Rose Lane
David and Susie Bennett attended the dinner in support of Scouting.
Above: Kathleen Stevenson and Nancy and Charles Rogers. At left: Alan and Becky Roten.
There are a lot of fun things happening at Bishop McGuinness
The Irish have had an exciting week!
The senior class held a Halloween carnival complete with bouncy houses, games and food for the children of the Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County. Each senior had to serve at least two hours organizing or working the carnival as part of the Senior Service Project. This was the 11th year for Bishop McGuinness’ senior class to host a service project for the Boys and Girls Club.
by Anna McFadden
There are 320 police departments in the state.
Village police achieved their first accreditation in 2001 and was the third department in Oklahoma to do so. Oklahoma City and Edmond are the only other metro areas whose police departments have achieved accreditation.
• The Irish welcomed French exchange students from Amiens, France. The students are to be here until Nov. 4.
• The Future Healthcare Workers Club went to the University of Oklahoma for a field trip. They participated in activities and learned about brain cancer and how to treat it.
• The sophomores attended their annual class retreat, where they went around the metro to serve nonprofit organizations such as the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, the Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County, Pivot and Sanctuary Women’s Development Center. In the afternoon, they came back to the school for games with their classmates.
When current Village Police Chief Russ Landon was appointed to the rank of captain in 1999, he was assigned the responsibility of the department’s first accreditation manager. The Oklahoma Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (OLEAP) had just been established and was modeled after other disciplines such as medical and education accreditation programs.
“As with those widely-accepted programs, law enforcement accredited agencies must meet
or exceed an established set of professional standards and best practices,” said Landon. “Little did I know it would take almost two years and lots of effort to achieve this lofty goal.
“Communication with our police personnel about this accreditation process and what was practical and supportive of them was critical during this time,” he said. “I had to educate, debate and receive feedback from our members to build a comprehensive manual to serve as a map to govern our agency for the future. We obviously could not ask them to do what was not in the highest interests of our citizens or a best practice for professional law enforcement.
“In 2001 a team of assessors spent three full days at our department, dissecting our policy manual and inspecting supporting documentation, combing through our evidence room, riding with our patrol officers and conducting interviews with a variety of our members,” Landon recalled. “I remember we had to shore up a few things but soon thereafter we became the third fully-accredited police department in Oklahoma.”
Since the department achieved its first accreditation in 2001 a team of assessors has returned every four years to con-
NHILLS
From Page 1
firm that it continues to meet the high standards of remaining accredited.
Landon says it is difficult to comply with OLEAP’s 170 standards, proving through supporting documentation and in-person inspection that an agency is managed professionally. State and federal laws and best practices change periodically, and an agency must be aware of the changes.
“Our current accreditation manager is Deputy Chief Matt Butcher,” said Landon. “He is doing an excellent job of staying on top of requirements. He has my full support and I’m proud of the job he’s doing.”
The Village Police Department employs 23 certified police officers and seven civilians to serve The Village 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During an average month the department takes approximately 600 calls for service and conducts about 500 traffic stops. Officers patrol an average of 10,000 miles every month in the 2.5 square mile city.
“Certification ensures we are transparent and accountable to our citizens and is an independent confirmation we meet rigorous professional standards,” he said. “It also helps us know we are delivering services effectively and efficiently. I hope we
Commission met three months ago and recommended approval limiting the footprint to no more than three dwelling units. Mayor Peter Hoffman and Vice Mayor Steven Goetzinger voted to approve the request.
Binkowski told the council her real estate investment company purchased the properties at 6521, 6523 and 6527 Avondale Drive with the intention to perform a “complete overhaul” of the properties. All three are multifamily units that resemble single family residences.
“After spending three years on the block we are getting to know our community and how to serve people who need housing from young to seniors,” she told the council. “I like to think we are providing a gateway into our community. We will preserve the character and quality of these properties.”
Binkowski told the council her company has spent $750,000 to remodel the property in question.
In a letter to the city, Nichols Hills residents Tony and Susan Lathrop voiced their concerns for the zoning change.
“Residential properties in Nichols Hills should remain primarily owner occupied,” they wrote in their letter. “It gives the residents ownership in the
have greater credibility with our public, our city manager and elected officials by being accredited and that it gives them the confidence we don’t take their trust for granted.”
City Manager Dave Slezickey said accreditation adds value for Village residents.
“I’m not taking anything against any department that is not accredited, but the accreditation certifies that we operate how we say we operate,” Slezickey said. “Accreditation validates that we use best practices for law enforcement, have current and updated policies that are followed and conduct quality training for our law enforcement personnel
“Not only are we doing it right, we also document that we do it right. This is a highly commendable achievement,” he said. “Recertification is just as challenging as becoming certified, and that we’ve been certified for so long speaks at length for officers and the department. This is a lot of work, record keeping, tracking and reviewing to sustain recertification.”
The program is endorsed by the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training, the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group, the Oklahoma Municipal League and the City Management Association of Oklahoma.
community, creates likeminded neighbors and forms the environment that makes Nichols Hills a pleasant place.
“Revolving tenants that aren’t invested in their properties cause instability in many ways including property values,” they wrote. “Facts show that a homeowner can expect a 12 percent decrease in value if near an R3.”
Councilman Sody Clements said she didn’t feel increased rental property was a benefit to the city, saying, “We’ve had trouble with our rentals in the past.
“I don’t think (approving the rezoning) serves our purpose,” she said.
“Some people in the immediate area have concerns. There are a lot of places outside Nichols Hills where there is a lot of rental property for investors. I don’t want to personally encourage more rentals.”
Mayor Hoffman said he was “initially very concerned” when he first learned of the change of zoning request.
“Apparently we’ve had three occupants in them for many years and no one at city hall knew,” he said. “I found it interesting that had not caused a congestion vibe.”
“I’ve seen the property that has been remodeled and the quality upgraded is hugely inside,” he said. “She did a very good job. It will upgrade the community a lot.”
Jim Spearman, Oklahoma Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission member, presents certificates and confirmation of successful reaccreditation to Village Police Chief Russ Landon, right, and Deputy Chief Matt Butcher.
IRISH ITEMS
Prior to the start of the Halloween Carnival, senior Abby Edwards practices her face painting skills on senior Ana Barrios.
- Photo by Kelly Matteson
Senior Billy Nguyen oversees the bowling game at the Halloween Carnival, which the Bishop McGuinness seniors held for the Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County.
- Photo by Rebecca Horn