OKC FRIDAY
By First Graders Heritage Hall
First, you buy a turkey at the toy stor. Next you cover it in cehup and stuff it whith a book. Then you do your homewrk. Cook in the mikrewav at 1 minute. Finally the turkey is done when im finish with home wrk.
— Josie
First, you buy a turkey at a ice cream shop. Next, you cover it in ice and stuff it
with cookies. Then you put a cake. Cook in the pantry at 999 degrees for 1 minutes. Finally, The turkey is done when it is night time. Enjoy! — Jade
Chenoweth coming to OKC
Oklahoma Contemporary is hosting acclaimed actor, singer and beloved Oklahoman, Kristin Chenoweth.
“An Evening with Kristin Chenoweth” is set for Tuesday, Dec. 10, beginning with a cocktail reception 6-7 p.m., followed by a cabaret performance, 7-8:30 p.m. The attire is cocktail.
See EVENING, Page 14
Meet Ringo! This lucky fellow has found his forever home with John and Mary Gron.
Ringo is a 1-year-old Bernedoodle who loves to play, non-stop with his Collie brothers Casper and Crosby.
Email Pet of the Week submissions to rose@ okcfriday.com.
First, I will go to the grocery store. then I am going to put it in the car. Next I am going to put the oven on. Next I am going to pat butter on the turkey. Then I
am going to put it in the oven. Next I am going to put it in for 35 minutes at 350 degrees. Next, I am going to
See TURKEY, Page 2
Casady students to sing for clothes for the homeless
By Rose Lane Editor
Casady School junior Christopher
Bankhead is combining his passion for choir, opera and musical theatre, as well as helping the unhoused in Oklahoma City, by creating an event Caroling for Clothes.
On Sunday, Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m., Christopher, voice teacher Regina Grimaldi and his fellow voice students, are loading up in a van and cruising through the streets of Nichols Hills.
“I have been in contact with the Homeless Alliance and what they need for their clients is donated clothing items,” Christopher said. “I asked my voice teacher ... if we could sing and go caroling around Christmas time and gather up clothing items to donate to the Homeless Alliance.
”She said that before Covid she and her voice students did a project called, Caroling for Cans. They sang carols and collected cans of food to donate to the food bank.”
C hristopher distributed flyers asking Nichols Hills residents to clean out their closets and place the donations on their front porch. The students are then planning to collect those items and sing
See CAROLS, Page 14
Putnam City launches Guest Teacher Program
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
For years school districts across the nation have experienced teacher shortages and schools in Fridayland are no different – especially when it
comes to finding substitute teachers to meet the classroom needs of the Putnam City schools in the northwest Oklahoma City.
Members of the Putnam City School Board addressed the issue of substitute shortages by
listening to their employees and implementing a series of incentives designed to increase their pool of substitute teachers by 20 percent. The district now refers to substitute teachers as See PC, Page 7
they can help the community
By Tsinina Thompson Attorney, Retired President/CEO
Lawyers for Children
As OKC FRIDAY marks this fabulous milestone, I would be remiss without thanking the Gourleys for their foresight and commitment to bringing outstanding journalism to our community.
As a young adult, OKC FRIDAY was my local newspaper of choice to learn about our local schools' ratings in athletics and academics. Even as a college student, I enjoyed OKC FRIDAY'S editorial page because of its relevance
to this community. OKC FRIDAY encouraged me and others to think about our community in terms of how we could help and showcased ways for us to be able to be engaged early on. Yay, art's commandos! OKC FRIDAY has always been the best source for learning about the new and existing work being done by our many local nonprofits supporting local citizens. Without that level of connection, many would not know how to help and others would not know how to access such resources.
See 50, Page 7
Brooks M. enjoys the Thanksgiving feast served to the Casady School preK classes.
- Photo by Connor Pearson
TURKEY
From Page 1
take it out of the oven. Next I am going to put mash potatoes and green beans. Next I will serve it to my family. That’s how to make a turkey.
— Trey
First, you buy it at the forist. Next you cavr it in cathup. Next you stuf it with stuf. Next you breh the tv to the grandb you ckook it for 1000000000 hours and 10 minits. Finally it is dune.
— Elizabeth
First, you buy a turkey at the store. Next you cuver it in syrup and stuff it with a mini pie. Then you add fruit rollups. Cook it on the sun at 900K degrees for 1 hours 0 minutes. Finally the turkey is done. When
you eat it Enjoy! — Abel
First, buy a turkey at The mall. Next, add meat peper, seesnese, salt. Then put it in the oven for 2 hours. Last, serve it with mas btoatse.
— Tripp
First, buy a turkey at the stor. Next add oluvol, sauce, and seesunen. Then, put it in the oven for two minutes. Last, serve it with crosos and joos. — Evelyn
First, I will go hunting with my Dad and my grandpa. It is fun to go hunting with my family! Next I will pluck the feathers. then I put salt on it. Next I put the turkey in the oven. The temperature is 40 Degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours. I put on candy and butter. Now I put salt and pepper too. I give it to my family to eat for Thanksgiving dinner. I serve it with some pig too. My parents love it sososo much. They want me to cook every night. — Braxton
First, buy a turkey at the backere. Next, add Hot sos, add met, add cechup. Then, put it in the oven for 999 hours. Last, serve it with pinappol. — Beau First, you buy a turkey at here at mcdonolds. Next, you cover it in sisktts and stuff it with hsisktst. Then, you givit to mcdonolds mcdonolds cook in the turkey at 999 degrees for 100001 hours l minutes. Finally, the turkey is done when it is done? Enjoy!
— Knox
First, you buy a turkey at The Store. You cover it in salt and stuff brade. You heat it up. Cook in the over at kicin for 30 mins. The turkey is done when put on the plate.
— Aman First, buy turkey at Costco. Next butter and salt. then, put it in the oven for 10 hours. Last, serve it with chicin.
— Sofia First, hunt the turkey.
I will go in my Dad’s truck. My Mom and Dad will help me. Then put on chocolate chips and some M and M’s. Then you turn on the oven. You put it on 3,000 degrees for 16 minutes. Then you take it out and serve it to your family. That is how you make a turkey. — Sutton First you buy it at the store. Next you put oil on it. Then, you cover it with pickles. Cook it in the forist for 100 hours and 9 minutes. Finally the turkey is done when 9:15. Enjoy! — Klyde First, I will go to the store. I will go back home. next I will put marshmellows on. Then I will put chips on it. Then I will put butaru. Then I will put it on the oven for 1 hour. I eat it! Then I will put it on 30000. Then it will be hot. — Finn
First, you buy a turkey at the kitchen. Next, you cover it in hot sauce and stuff it with pickles. Then, you put some cake in the turkey. Cook it in the oven at 600 degrees for 700 hours. Finally, The turkey is done when it’s at night. Enjoy! — Khloe
First, buy a turkey at Costco. Next ad sauce, butter, salt, sesining and eat meat. Then put it in the oven for for 1000,000,000,000 hours. Last serve it with a try. — Connor
First, I will go hunting for it. I will also buy a turkey. I will go to the store. I will go to the farm. Next I will put a cherry on top and some candy too! My oven will be on 100 degrees for 4 hours. I will put on some salt and pepper. Now it is ready to eat! My family is coming! Happy Thanksgiving!
— Hadley
First, you buy a turkey at the stor. Next, add sauc met, salt and sasning. Then, put it in
the oven for 1 hour. Last, serve it with mash botatoes. — Harrison First, I’ll go to the store. I buy the turkey. Next I will take my turkey home. Then I set my oven to 350 degrees. Then I put it butter on it. Then I will put stuffing in it. Then I will put into a sack. The turkey is going in the oven for 1 hour. The turkey is coming out of the oven. It is hot. I am having mash potatoes and green beans. I am having dinner with my grandparents. — Campbell First, buy a turkey at the stor. Next, add seesynen, butter and salt. Then, put it in the oven for 1 hour. Last, serve it with mash potaos.
— Danielle First, I buy a turkey at the store. I take it home. Next, I put butter on it. Then I put stuffing in it. Then I put it in a sack. Now I put it in an oven for 350 degrees for 4 hours. I said done! I feed it to my sister and my mommy and my daddy and myself. I say yummy. That is how you cook a turkey. The end. — Harris First, buy a turkey at the stor. Next. add meet sauce, solt and senen. Then, put it in the oven for 05 minutes. Last, serve it with maptos and bareios. Lees eat. eumm. this is the best thagive. — Bennett First, you buy a turkey from a store. Next you put candy on it and you also put chips on it. Then you can cook it. When you are waiting to eat the turkey you still have to wait payshintly. When the turkey is done you can eat it. — Luke First, Buy a turkey at the costco. Next, add meat, salt, sauce. Then, put in the oven for ten minutes. Last, serve it with my whole family.
Nora
Elizabeth M. is thankful for the Casady Primary Division Thanksgiving feast.
Blair W. munches at pumpkin bread during Casady School’s Primiary Division Thanksgiving feast.
- Photo by Connor Pearson
Brunch fetes newlyweds Katie and Blake Keesee
A brunch welcomed newlyweds Katie and Blake Keesee back to Oklahoma City. Blake is son of Chris Keesee, chairman of the Kirkpatrick Foundation and president of the Kirkpatrick Family Fund. Above: Kirkpatrick Family Fund Director Liz Eickman and husband Marvin Quinn. At right: Rex Urice, Joan Payne and Katie and Blake Keesee.
At left: Mary Frates, Annie Bohanon and Alexandra Urice Kokoszka. Below: Sara Northwood, Becky McCubbin, Jeanette Elliott and Connell Brannon.
Rand Elliott and Joe McCune congratulate the newlyweds.
Sara Northwood, Becky McCubbin, Francie Love Koop and Maggie Love Koop.
Chris Keesee and Annie Bohanon.
FOOTBALL | PLAYOFF PREVIEW: 3A SEMIS – CHARGERS VS. BULLDOGS
Heritage Hall gets another shot at rival Lincoln Chr.
A buddling football rivalry between Heritage Hall and Lincoln Christian enters another chapter this Friday night, as the teams battle in the Class 3A semifinals.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Prague High School.
Prior to this season, the Chargers and Bulldogs faced off six times with Heritage Hall taking the first three games and Lincoln Christian prevailing the
final three contests.
In 2024, the Chargers suffered a 28-20 loss to the Bulldogs in the season opener.
Heritage Hall used that loss as fuel and won 11 in a row including an 11th straight district championship and a pair of playoff wins.
Last Friday, the Chargers outlasted Tulsa-Holland Hall in a 43-21 victory, behind five total touchdowns by tailback Barrett Travis.
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.
They opened the postseason with a 43-20 triumph over Purcell in the first round.
Meanwhile, TulsaLincoln Christian (12-0) cruised to a pair of blowout victories in the first two rounds on the playoffs, including a 49-7 victory against Pauls Valley last week in the quarterfinals and a 62-8 win over Jay in the first round.
The Bulldogs have only allowed opponents to score double
CLASS 3A SCHEDULE
Friday, November 29
Semifinals
Heritage Hall vs. Lincoln Christian, 7 p.m. at Prague High School Sulphur vs. Checotah, 7 p.m. at Moore High School Thursday, December 5 Championship
HH-LC Winner vs. SUL-CHEC Winner, 7 p.m. at Chad Richison Stadium, Edmond
digits in four games, with Heritage Hall being one of two teams to score 20 or more points on them. In the other 3A semi-
FOOTBALL | PLAYOFF ROUNDUP
final on Friday, Sulphur takes on Checotah at Moore High School.
The semifinal winners meet this Thursday, Dec. 5, for the state championshp. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Chad Richison Stadium on the University of Central Oklahoma campus in Edmond.
Last season, Heritage Hall and Lincoln Christian faced off in the 2023 3A title game, as the Bulldogs posted a 48-28 victory.
Chargers dominate Holland Hall
Facing a tie game in the first half, the Heritage Hall football team scored on three straight possessions to pull away and hold off a late Holland Hall rally to secure a 43-21 victory last Friday night in the Class 3A quarterfinals at Pop Murray Field.
Tailback Barrett Travis opened the
game with a 20-yard touchdown for the Chargers (11-1) and the Dutch came right back to tie the score.
Travis returned the ensuing kickoff 88 yards for a score to start the rally and ended it with a 45-yard rumble. In the middle, quarterback Conner Quinterro connected with Terrance Johnson on a 40-yard pass.
Travis finished off his night of five total TDs with a pair of runs covering six and 15 yards.
ANTLERS FALL AT OWASSO
Falling behind early, Deer Creek rallied for four scoring drives in the second half but ultimately suffered a 40-26 season-ending loss at Owasso in the Class 6A-I quarterfinals on Friday.
Quarterback Grady Adamson got the Antlers (8-4) on the board in the third quarter on a 10-yard pass to Lamar Davis. The senior also scored on a five-yard scramble.
Defensive back Jay-
Bradshaw returned an interception 105 yards for a TD, and kicker Reece Mitchell added a 36-yard field goal.
DEL CITY TOO MUCH FOR IRISH
Held to under 200 yards of offense, McGuinness endured a 66-0 loss at Del City last Friday in the 5A quarterfinals.
The Irish (8-4) were
hampered by eight turnovers, including five fumbles and three interceptions, while managing just 49 yards on the ground.
STILLWATER
DOWNS PANTHERS
PC North ended its season with a 49-14 loss at Stillwater in the 6AII quarterfinals last Friday night, as the Panthers accumulated an 84 record.
don
Heritage Hall tailback Barrett Travis (2) fights through the line last Friday against Holland Hall. Travis accounted for four touchdowns in the Chargers’ 43-21 victory.
- Photo by Tina Walker, tinawalker.pixieset.com
Fridayland squads preparing for new season
As the football playoffs enter their final two weeks and other fall sports have been completed, Fridayland teams prepare to take the court this week as
the 2024-25 basketball season tips off. Four squads open the new year this Tuesday, highlighted by Casady hosting Fridayland rival McGuinness.
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
Tuesday, December 3
McGuinness at Casady, 6 p.m.
Edmond Memorial at Deer Creek, 6 p.m.
Christian Heritage at Mount St. Mary, 6 p.m.
Piedmont at PC North, 6 p.m.
Thursday, December 5
PC North at Putnam City, 6 p.m.
Friday, December 6
Casady at Oklahoma Christian (OCS), 6 p.m.
Classen SAS at John Marshall, 6 p.m.
McGuinness at Glenpool, 6 p.m.
PC West at PC North, 6 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 5-Saturday, Dec. 7
Crossings Christian at Edmond North, TBA
Deer Creek (B) at Phog Allen Classic, TBA
Harding Charger Prep at Madill Tourn., TBA
Monday, December 9
Santa Fe South at Crossings Christian, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, December 10
McGuinness at North Rock Creek, 6 p.m.
Casady at Christian Heritage, 6 p.m.
Deer Creek at Yukon, 6 p.m.
Harding Charter at Harding Fine Arts, 6 p.m.
OCS at Heritage Hall, 6 p.m.
John Marshall at Western Heights, 6 p.m.
Harrah at Mount St. Mary, 6 p.m.
Capitol Hill at PC North, 6 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 12-Saturday, Dec. 14
McGuinness at Harrah Tourn., TBA
Casady at Community Chr. Tourn., TBA
Crossings Chr. (G) at Wynnewood Tourn., TBA
Deer Creek (G) at Alva Tourn., TBA
Heritage Hall at Harrah Tourn., TBA
John Marshall at Harrah Tourn., TBA
PC North at Joe Lawson Tourn., TBA
Monday, December 16
Mount St. Mary at Crossings Chr., 6 p.m.
Tuesday, December 17
Mustang at Deer Creek, 6 p.m.
Destiny Christian at Harding Charter, 6 p.m.
John Marshall at Altus, 6 p.m.
PC North at Norman, 6 p.m.
Friday, December 20
Casady at Crossings Christian, 6 p.m.
Deer Creek at U.S. Grant, 6 p.m.
Harding Charter at Bethany, 6 p.m.
Heritage Hall at Victory Christian, 6 p.m.
Midwest City at John Marshall, 6 p.m.
Choctaw at PC North, 6 p.m.
Saturday, December 21
Heritage Hall at Metro Christian, 1 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 26-Saturday, Dec. 28
Crossings Chr. (B) at Tourn. of Champions, TBA
PC North at Bank 7 Holiday Classic, TBA
Note: Girls’ games times list first.
The girls’ game starts at 6 p.m., followed by the boys at 7:30 p.m.
Deer Creek hosts Edmond Memorial, while Mount St. Mary entertains Christian Heritage and PC North plays host to Piedmont in the other opening games.
Completing the first full week of December, the Crossings Christian boys compete in a tournament at Edmond North, the Deer Creek boys participate in the Phog Allen Classic in Kansas City, and Harding Charter Prep is at the Madill tournament.
Next Friday, Dec. 6, two local teams play home games and two others hit the road. John Marshall hosts Classen SAS and PC North entertains PC West, with Casady traveling to OCS and McGuinness heading to Glenpool.
Other key games in December include:
Monday, Dec. 9 –
Santa Fe South at Crossings Christian; Tuesday, Dec. 10 –McGuinness at North Rock Creek, Casady at Christian Heritage, Deer Creek at Yukon, Harding Charter at Harding Fine Arts, OCS at Heritage Hall, John Marshall at Western Heights, Harrah at Mount St. Mary, Capitol Hill at PC North; Thursday, Dec. 12Saturday, Dec. 14 –McGuinness at Harrah Panther Classic, Casady at Community Christian Invitational, Crossings Christian (girls) at Wynnewood tournament, Deer Creek (girls) at Alva tournament, Heritage Hall at Harrah Classic, Mount St. Mary at Joe Lawson Invitational, PC North at Joe Lawson Invitational;
Monday, Dec. 16 –
Mount St. Mary at Crossings Christian; Tuesday, Dec. 17 –Mustang at Deer Creek, Destiny Christian at
Harding Charter, John Marshall at Altus, PC North at Norman; Friday, Dec. 20 –Casady at Crossings Christian, Deer Creek
at U.S. Grant, Harding Charter at Bethany, Heritage Hall at Victory Christian, Midwest City at John Marshall, Choctaw at PC North.
CALENDAR
CONCERTS
Dec. 4 •
Lindsey Stirling
Lindsey Stirling is bringing her magical blend of electronic violin and captivating dance to the Paycom Center with her Snow Waltz Tour. The worldrenowned musician and performer reimagines holiday classics and original songs with her enchanting style. Stirling’s unique ability to tell stories through her mesmerizing melodies makes this a holiday concert you won’t want to miss. For information and tickets visit paycomcenter.com.
ART SHOW
Dec. 12 • 4x4 Art Show
The Paseo Arts Association will also be hosting the annual Deck the Walls, 4x4 Art Show and Auction on Thursday, Dec. 12 from 68 pm at 3024 Paseo, featuring art by over 70 artists, with a musical performance by the energizing Cheyanne Marie and refreshments. All proceeds support the PAA’s annual arts programs and events, and artwork bidding starts at $25, making this the perfect event to collect unique artwork for holiday gifts.
THIS WEEKEND
Dec. 7 • Cowboy Christmas Parade Stockyards City Main Street would like to invite everyone to come to historic Stock
yards City for the annual Cowboy Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 7. The fes ti vi ti es kick o ff at 10 am with the Slash O Ranch Longhorns leading the parade. Also included are equestrian groups, antique cars, community groups, law enforcement, pageant royalty, the famous Cowboy Santa, and much more. This year's Grand Marshal is TikTok content creator Gatlin Didier. If you want to check out Gatlin’s family’s beef and their story go to didierranch.com. The parade will begin at Penn and Exchange, head west on Exchange to Agnew, turn south on Agnew to S.W. 15th St. Following the parade, you can get your picture made with Cowboy Santa at Rodeo Cinema, 2221 Exchange Avenue. Shop the unique locally owned stores and grab a bite to eat.
Through Dec. 29 • Myriad & Bright
The Inasmuch Foundation Crystal Bridge Conservatory at the Myriad Botanical Gardens will stay open extended hours until 8 pm Thursdays through Sundays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 29, for guests to enjoy a special light and music show. Admission to the Crystal Bridge includes the light show performances.
Nov. 30 • Holiday Artist Markets Factory Obscura’s Annual Holiday Artist Markets are back. On Saturday, Nov. 30, and Saturday, Dec. 14, from 36 pm, shop unique, oneofakind, handmade finds by local artists. Our annual markets seek to highlight the best, most unique, fun, and
wondrous artist’s work in Oklahoma.
The Holiday Artist Market is held in conjunction with Automobile Alley’s Lights on Broadway event. Explore the whole neighborhood for holiday lights, performances, hot drinks and sweets, and even more local shopping.
Nov. 30 •
Shop Small
Join the Plaza District for Shop Small Saturday in the Plaza and support your favorite local shops, restaurants, and small businesses in the Plaza, located on NW 16th St. between Classen and Penn Ave.
OKC THUNDER
HOME GAMES
Paycom Center
100 West Reno Ave.
Tuesday, Dec. 3 • Utah Jazz 7:00 pm
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Wicked Delights
The blockbuster musical Wicked has arrived just in time for the holidays. Based on the Tony award-winning Broadway musical that catapulted Oklahoma’s Kristin Chenoweth into global superstardom, this adaptation starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo is a visually stunning, musically satisfying expansion of the world of Oz. Kristin Chenoweth is actually in the movie. She has a festive, music-filled cameo appearance alongside her original Broadway castmate Idina Menzel Chenoweth is dazzling, as are the other stars, especially Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh and Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey. For fans of the original flying monkeys, there is also a brief but fascinating origin story.
Chenoweth has been an active part of the Wicked press tour. She has joined the stars on talk shows and strutted the red carpet at multiple premieres, placing the Tony and Emmy winner back in the spotlight as she returns to Broadway. Chenoweth will originate another major Broadway role in 2025 as the star of The Queen of Versailles, the latest musical from Stephen Schwartz, the visionary composer of Godspell, Pippin’, and, of course, Wicked As if that isn’t exciting enough, Chenoweth is coming to Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Dec. 10, to give an intimate cabaret performance
at Oklahoma Contemporary. The show will benefit the education programs at Oklahoma Contemporary as well as Chenoweth’s own Broadway Bootcamp. Limited sponsorships may still be available.
Wicked the movie is already a major success. The musical dominated the U.S. box office last week, earning a whopping $114 million on opening weekend. The film added $50 million internationally to bring its worldwide haul to $164 million. That sum makes it the most successful global opening ever for a Broadway musical adaptation, leap frogging Les Misérables, which scraped together $103 million in 2012.
Gladiator II, Ridley Scott’s long-awaited sequel to his Oscar winning triumph, slashed its way into second place in the U.S. box office with $55 million. Its massive $165 million international rampage hoisted the Roman action flick to the top of the global box office with $221 million. Box office information like this is always available at the Box Office Mojo website. Similarly, facts, figures, and full filmographies for actors,
directors, producers, and writers can be found at IMDB, the internet movie database. Both companies are owned by Amazon. As award season heats up, these are great resources to find out where you have seen the different actors and find out how your favorite films are faring at the box office.
As an exercise, try looking up Kristin Chenoweth on IMDB. She has 81 credits as an actor, including Wicked. She launched her television career in 1999, landed her own series in 2001, starred in the West Wing from 2004-2006, and won the Emmy for her supporting role in Pushing Daisies from 20072009. Since then, she has starred in television musicals, comedy series, major motion pictures, animated series, and guest starred on dozens more, including an Emmy-nominated turn on Glee. She has worked and worked and worked and worked to fine tune her craft, expand her range, and successfully navigate the everchanging pop culture landscape. Go see Wicked. When Oklahoma treasure Kristin Chenoweth pops up in the land of Oz, take pride knowing that her mega-watt smile and legendary voice are fueled by an awesome education at Oklahoma City University, and decades of hard work, struggle, sacrifice, and faith. For that, we can all give thanks. Happy Thanksgiving.
OCU gallery exhibits Sunny Dayz murals
The next exhibit in Oklahoma City University’s art gallery will feature large-format murals and behind-the-scenes photos of past events from the statewide artist organization called Sunny Dayz.
The works will be displayed in OCU’s Nona Jean Hulsey Art Gallery from Nov. 25 through Feb. 28, with an opening reception from 5 to 7 pm Dec. 5.
The exhibit will include four murals painted on canvas measuring approximately 25 feet wide by 4 feet tall. Photos and videos of past Sunny Dayz Mural Festivals will adorn the surrounding walls and
other gallery spaces.
The Sunny Dayz Mural Festival started in 2021 as an annual summer event with live mural painting, entertainment, activities and independent merchants. It became a nonprofit organization the following year in hopes of advancing and celebrating underrepresented artists, especially women and gender minorities.
Virginia Sitzes, an arts educator and muralist, said she initiated the festival as a way to improve the aesthetics of underserved areas while at the same time providing a creative outlet for muralists on the margins.
“We’re trying to spread love and community while empowering communities through public art,” Sitzes said.
The first festival was held in Oklahoma City’s Britton District. They have since held festivals and events around the state, including in Edmond, Tulsa and Ponca City. They plan to hold a festival next summer in the Calle dos Cinco in Historic Capitol Hill district of Oklahoma City
before touring to more rural towns. The Nona Jean Hulsey Gallery is inside the Norick Art Center at 1608 NW 26th St. Hours are 8 am to 10 pm Mondays through Fridays. Admission is free. For more information visit okcu.edu/artgallery
guest teachers and currently has 245 on their roster.
PC Schools have an enrollment of nearly 19,000 students in 27 schools that dot northwest Oklahoma City. The district was founded in 1914 and serves Warr Acres, Woodlawn, most of Bethany and parts of Oklahoma City, including Fridayland with seven schools and a combined attendance of 5,002 students, or 26 percent of the total enrollment.
Putnam City schools found in Fridayland include Putnam City North High School, Hefner Middle School, and Dennis, Harvest Hills, Northridge, Ralph Downs and Will Rogers elementary schools.
A recent survey of guest teachers (substi -
OKC FRIDAY has been exceptional at connecting those doing the work with those supporting the efforts by highlighting events and fundraisers, the Community Booster series and local business support.
Page 1
There are so many things to love about OKC FRIDAY and one of my favorites is that its wonderful staff always knows the very best of everything local.
From coin brokers, fish mongers, who's
tute teachers) in the district identified two concerns that were common themes including pay and the disconnect from the Putnam City community.
To address these concerns the Putnam City School Board unanimously approved the implementation of a new Guest Teacher Initiative in October to include a competitive tiered compensation schedule and incentive package focused on boosting retention rates and providing a more supportive environment for guest teachers across the District.
“Putnam City Schools prides itself on being responsive to the good and the bad with our students, staff and stakeholders,” said AJ Graffeo, communications director for PC Schools. “After the survey of our current guest teachers, we identified
having a birthday (very important), worship schedules, wed -
ways we can empower and value our hardworking guest teachers better. We are proud to provide a very competitive pay program and several incentives that focus on professional development and belonging.
Guest teachers in Putnam City benefit from tiered compensations, including rewards that increase pay based on the number of days worked. Daily rates now start at $75 for non-certified guest teachers and go up to $110 after 120 days. For certified and/or degreed guest teachers, daily rates start at $95 and go up to $130 after 120 days.
Thus far, the school district has exceeded its goal of increasing recruitment of substitute teachers by 20 percent and is now focusing on finding guest teachers interested in
dings and galas, OKC FRIDAY is our trusted resource to know
the elementary levels.
Guest teachers in the PC School District are able to teach at other districts at the same time, however, “We are greatly rewarding those that choose to work consistently in PC Schools with pay bonuses every 60, 90, and 120 days and a base pay level higher than most surrounding districts,” said Graffeo.
“Working as a guest teacher in Putnam City Schools is a fantastic choice for local college students, retirees, parents and those looking to earn some extra money with the flexibility to create their own schedule,” he said. “We want to make sure all our guest teachers continue to know that they are a critical part of the fabric of Putnam City Schools.
“This program is not only about filling classrooms, but about creat-
where to go and what to do when!
Cheers to 50 more!
ing an inclusive and supportive environment for those who step in to ensure that learn-
ing is not severely disrupted and our students can continuously go boldly,” he said.
LARGE ABSOLUTE AUCTION
BOCC Minutes and PrOCeedings
bids or RFQs may see the Purchasing Agent immediately following this meeting. P25373-01 Fifth Floor Court Clerk Renovation Blough moved Foster seconded to tabulate and return. CBR Commercial Contracting LLC. Caddell & Co. LLC. Jim Cooley Construction LLC The motion carried
Blough moved Foster seconded to approve with the addition of Requisition No.12503251 in the amount of $1 525 636.00 noted by Chantel .
by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Blough Clayton and Foster Consent Agenda Items on the consent agenda are routine in nature and approved with a single vote. However any item on the consent agenda is subject to individual consideration at the request of a member of the body. The following items are Consent Items and are routine in nature: Blough moved Foster seconded to approve the consent agenda. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Blough Clayton and Foster Monthly Report of Fess for October 2024 for the Oklahoma County Juvenile Bureau Litigation: Case No. CJ-2023-5699 Summons Case No. CJ-2024-4963 Summons Case No. CV-2024-1324 Notice Case No. CV-2024-1334 Notice Case No. CV-2024-1336 Corrected Notice Case No. CV-2024-1340 Order Case No. CV-2024-1354 Journal Entry Case No. CV-2024-1358 Corrected Notice Case No. CV-2024-1358 Notice Case No. CV-2024-1360 Corrected Notice Case No. CV-2024-1360 Notice Case No. CV-2024-1324 CV-2024-1324 Corrected Notice Case No. CV-2024-1324 CV-2024-1359 Notice Case No. CV2024-1324 CV-2024-1359 Corrected Notice Case No. TC-2024-017 Tort Claim Discussion and possible action regarding Workers’ Compensation claim payments from
PuBliC nOtiCe
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.
YOUR OPINION to: vicki@okcfriday.com
It’s officially Christmastime — ‘A Christmas Carol’ opens
Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma “A Christmas Carol”
By Charles Dickens
Adapted for the Stage by Michael Baron
Directed by Michael Baron and Ashley Wells
By Franci Hart Theatre Critic
The Christmas season has official -
ly opened with a superb production of Dickens “A Christmas Carol” at Lyric Theatre. New sets by Adam Koch and costumes by Jeffrey Meek, so many beautifully sung Carols and most of all a very talented cast combine for theater magic. A few tweaks of previous productions make this year’s show fresh and memorable.
The production opens with a very moving funeral for Marley. It then proceeded to the more familiar scenes in Scrooge’s office. D. Lance Marsh as Scrooge is so menacing, he’s scary.
And his anger makes a scene that could be mundane, it is so familiar, come alive with new meaning. Marsh’s emotional tools are on full display: his fright at Marley’s ghost; his scorn at the ghost of Christmas pasts, and especially his transformation at the end.
Marsh’s Scrooge is something to see. Charlie Monet has played Bob Cratchit for years. However, Baron’s tweak of the script gave Monet a chance to display his ability to deliver emotion. Emily Pace as the ghost of Christmas Past, another regular, added still another interpretation of this ghost much to the delight of the audience. Vince Leseney’s Marley was truly frightening.
I will not spoil his surprising entrance. Just be prepared to jump
Dear Wise Elder: I’m looking for a reputable window washer who I can trust to come to my dad’s home. The windows need cleaning inside and out. It’s important the firm treats him with respect and does great work since I will not be there when the service is done. Where should I start?
Dear Clean Windows: You are very wise. Clean windows allow sunlight to come into the home, and through the winter months this is particularly important for plants and human mental and physical health. The healing qualities of the sun’s
out of your seats when it happens. An added dimension to his frightful performance was the sound of his chains clanking.
The sets designed by Adam Koch, from New York, revolved effortlessly and captured the feel of London in the 1840s. Loved the entrance of the ghost of Christmas Present, Ashley Mandanas, on a train. As always, Jeffrey Meek’s costumes were superb.
Dickens wrote his Christmas ghost story after seeing the horrors of child labor. He was
rays are an inexpensive way to add to your dad’s personal health. There are many quality window cleaning companies in our city. But to connect with those referred by another adult (50+), simply reach out to VillagesOKC.org for more information. Its list of Trusted Providers is updated quarterly and is member-recommended. There’s no better seal of approval than the recommendation of a good VillagesOKC neighbor. - Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
deeply moved by what he saw. When he was a child, his own father was sent to debtors prison.
Finally, Victorian England was beginning to embrace a Christmas celebration with trees and carols. While it was written in the 1840s, this old story’s themes are very relevant today.
Lyric Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” plays at Lyric at the Plaza through Dec. 27. Give yourself a Christmas present. Go see “A Christmas Carol.”
The Casady Community celebrated Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, during a special Lower, Middle, and Upper Division assembly and a special presentation in Primary Division. Cyclones watched dancing by their fellow students, listened to music, and learned about this important festival that symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.”
The date Diwali begins is based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar, and celebrations generally last five days. One of the distinctive traits of Episcopal Schools is the rich variety of religious culture found in their students and families. Casady is an Episcopal Christian school that seeks to be welcoming to students and families of a variety of faith traditions, as well as families who have no religious practice. This is the inclusive nature of the Episcopal Church that also helps children learn to live in a diverse and multicultural world.
In North’s Writing Club, everyone pens differently
When the young writers enter English teacher Daniel Young’s classroom after the seventh period on Thursdays, they sit down and wait as the director and co-director reveal the writing prompt and challenge for the day.
They are there for the Creative Writing Club at Putnam City North. Writers don’t need to stick to a certain genre; everyone writes differently!
by Bella Bostick
PANTHER PROGRESS
”I really like writing horror and darker, more gothic stories. I feel like it’s so beautiful,” sophomore club member Abby Parker said. “You can’t use the sam words as other genres, and it’s just so beautiful to explore the
darker sides of humanity in writing.”
After all who have wanted to share during a designated share time, the club relaxes and chats for the few remaining minutes until the meeting is dismissed at 4:30 p.m.
”I mainly like hearing everyone’s stories. Everyone is so good at writing and it’s so cool to get a peek into people’s minds and how they work,” Parker said.
The people in the
club are very friendly and welcoming to anyone who joins.
”I think my favorite thing about the club is how supportive everyone is,” Young said. “Sharing your stories can be a scary experience, so I’m glad everyone is so kind to each other. If I could change anything, I wish we had more time for creative writing in English class. I wish it could be more on the curriculum, instead of just an after-school activity.”
Kathie Lee Gifford is honored by society
Photos by Rose Lane
Kathie Lee Gifford was honored with the Annie Oakley Society Award. She is a presenter, singer, songwriter, actor and author. Her dedication to impowering women and promoting education aligns with the mission of the Annie Oakley Society, which honors the legacy of the iconic sharpshooter and advocate for women’s rights. Above: Kathie Lee talks with Governor Frank Keating and Representative Mark McBride. Kathie Lee met Governor Keating and First Lady Cathy Keating when she was a student at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa. At left: Presenting the award, from left, Annie Oakley Society Chairmen Lynn Friess and Cathy, Kathie Lee, Julie Twilley and Chairman Judy Hatfield. Kathie Lee babysat Julie’s children while in Tulsa.
Above: Nancy Ellis and Helen Wallace. At right: Donna Lawrence and Karen Dulaney.
Above: From left, Karen Mayfield, Sherry Beasley, Sylvia Slater, Barbara Brou and Susan Johnston. At left: Melanie Shelley and Jo Rowan.
Sody and Robert Clements inducted into Maestro’s Circle
The Maestro’s Ball is the OKCPHIL’s largest fundraising event of the year with contributions totaling over $230,000 in 2023.
In the 2023-2024 school year, proceeds from Maestro’s Ball provided free music education programs to more than 100 Oklahoma schools, 7,347 students and teachers attended a Youth Concert at the Civic Center Music Hall, and 46 schools were visited by OKCPHIL musicians as part of the We’ve Got Rhythm program.
Each year the Maestro’s Ball honors individuals who have long championed the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and have stepped in time and time again to keep orchestral music alive in Oklahoma City. Above: Robert and Sody Clements are the 2024 Maestro’s Circle Inductees. At left: OKCPHIL Executive Director Brent Hart and Melanie and Jim Shelley.
Above: OKCPHIL Artistic Director Alexander Mickelthwate. At left: Maestro’s Ball Co-Chairmen Terri Cooper and Farooq Karim.
Maestro’s Circle member Jane Harlow and her son David at the Maestro’s Ball.
Photos by Rose Lane
In photos, clockwise, starting at left: Curtis and Wendi Wilson; Carol Johnson and Suzanne Reynolds; and Penny and John McCaleb.
Above: T-shirts and tote bags are printed with the Caroling for Clothes log. At right: Event organizer Christopher Bankhead visit the Homeless Alliance.
CAROLS
From Page 1
holiday carols in return.
The Homeless Alliance is particularly in need of men’s and
EVENING
From Page 1
women’s jeans, sweatpants, shorts, winter coat or jackets. The organization is seeking gender-neutral t-shirts or sweatshirts and winter hats, gloves, scarves or summer ball caps.
Christopher asked anyone interested in helping the choir serve the homeless and receive some holiday cheer to text him at (405) 886-5786. For more information on the mission of the Homeless Alliance, visit homelessalliance.org.
Benefiting the educational programs of Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center and Kristin Chenoweth’s Broadway Bootcamp, this evening presents an incredibly unique opportunity to enjoy a cabaret performance featuring this Tony and Emmy Award-winning artist.
“Oklahoma Contemporary is excited to host this exclusive event in the Te Ata Theater, welcoming a limited audience of around 250 guests for an intimate and engaging experience,” organizers said. “We hope you can join us for an unforgettable evening with Kristin Chenoweth in support and celebration of the arts!”
For more information, visit oklahomacontemporary.org.
