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OKC FRIDAY Vol. 57 No. 32 • One Section • 14 pages • December 15, 2023

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Sanderfer family begins a new tradition: A Festival of Holidays Celebrates 16 holidays in just three hours

By Rose Lane Editor Like most families, it is hard for April Sandefer’s to get together for the holidays.

For Christmas 2022, daughter and son-inlaw who live in Fargo, N.D., could not get out of their state due to a big snow.

“So this year, we started talking about celebrating Christmas around Thanksgiving to potentially avoid travel issues,” April said.

“Once we determined everyone could get together the weekend after Thanksgiving, I started thinking bigger.

“Throughout the year, there are never ANY holidays that we can all celebrate together, so why not do them all at once? Thus, the First Annual Sandefer Family Holiday Festival was born.”

April went through the list of federal and “Hallmark” holidays and picked an assortment that she thought would represent everyone’s interests — and be fun.

Another daughter and two grandchildren also live here.

“I sent everyone the list and asked each

adult family member to pick one holiday that he or she would provide some kind of recognition for,” she said. “It could be whatever they wanted -- a food dish, a small or larger gift for each participant, a game or a decoration. Since there were only going to be 10 of us – and eight were adults -- I covered any leftover holidays, plus I got to pick Christmas, because it’s my favorite!”

The following are the holidays and details about their celebrations: New Year's Day – Hats, horns and beads.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day – April found a book of MLK Jr.-themed word search games and the family had a contest to see who could finish the fastest. Prizes included t-shirts with MLK Jr. sayings.

Groundhog Day – This holiday was celebrated with Groundhog Day pudding treats.

President's Day – Family members chose their favorite paper masks of the presidents.

Valentine's Day – A bowl of conversation hearts was on the treat table and April made a heart-shaped lasagna.

Above: April Sandefer with her daughter, Madison Neumann as they clean up after the three-hour Family Holiday Festival.

Background: The traditional Christmas tree. At left, the converation hearts for Valentines Day.

See FESTIVAL, Page 2

Village to go to one council meeting each month

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer The Village City Council has voted to join Nichols Hills and conduct council meetings only once per month starting next year.

The council has met twice each month for nearly 74 years since the incorporation of The Village as a Township in 1950.

City Manager Dave Slezickey recommended the change of meeting dates in a memo presented to City Council members earlier this month seeking guidance to staff regarding changing from bimonthly meetings to monthly.

Slezickey recommended the changes based on agenda content, the number of cancelled meetings for lack of agenda items and to

FRIDAY’s

improve efficiency of operations for staff.

City officials have the option to call a special meeting for actions that cannot wait until the next meeting date. The City Charter provides for a monthly meeting, with the first Monday in May following an election as the only required specific meeting.

City Manager Dave Slezickey recommended the council meeting be conducted on the second Monday of each month as reports, claims and financials are not always ready by the first Monday.

Next year has two second Mondays that are holidays including Columbus Day on Oct. 14 and Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11.

The council is to schedule these meetings on the following

Dog of the Week Little Taylor plays in the leaves. She’s a 16-year-old ChiPom — Chihuahua and Pomeranian — whose mom is Melanie Bradford.

She loves to chase squirrels and rabbits, go on car rides and have pup cups. Taylor is the boss of the household!

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

Tuesday.

The regularly scheduled city council meetings of The Village are to be conducted at The Village City Hall, 2304 Manchester Drive at 6:30 p.m. on the following dates unless otherwise noted.

Monday, Jan. 8, 2024 Monday, Feb. 12, 2024 Monday, March 11, 2024 Monday, April 8, 2024 Monday, May 6, 2024, 7:30 pm Monday, May 13, 2024 Monday, June 10, 2024 Monday, July 8, 2024 Monday, Aug. 12, 2024 Monday, Sept. 9, 2024 Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 (Columbus Day 10-14-24) Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024 (Veterans Day 11-11-24) Monday, Dec. 9, 2024

Casady student wins Congressional App Challenge Casady School Upper Division student Pari Gulati was awarded first place in the Congressional App Challenge for the 5th District of Oklahoma for her app STEAM Hunt.

Casady had three apps in the competition this year, including two apps created

by Middle Division students. The Congressional App Challenge is the most prestigious prize in student computer science, with winning apps selected by a state's sitting congress member. Winners have an opportunity to attend a reception in Washington, D.C. and demo their app for elected officials.

See APP, Page 3

Clark new chairman of national group Coleman Clark, president of BC Clark, was elected chairman of the Board of Directors of Jewelers of America from among its more than 2,000 retail member firms.

The Clark family has a long history of serving the jewelry industry on a state and national level in various capacities.

A new executive committee and new directors were also named. Clark said he looks forward to collab-

COLEMAN CLARK

orating with his fellow thought leaders to propel the jewelry industry forward.

“It is an honor to have been chosen by my industry peers to serve as the new chair of the Jewelers of America Board of Directors. I look forward to serving alongside this talented group of individuals as we help Jewelers of America continue to serve and represent our jewelry industry in powerful and meaningful ways,” he said.

Clark has served on the Jewelers of America See CLARK, Page 3

From Page One

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 2

FESTIVAL From Page 1

Deviled eggs for Veterans Day.

St. Patrick's Day – “We had St. Patrick’s Day beads and held a Stein Hoist contest (filled with water – next year I’ll remember to die the water green) and Irishthemed sweatshirts went to winners in various categories,” April said.

Easter – Since she lives in a condo and having an Easter egg hunt would be challenging, April filled the eggs and everyone got to pick four. Six of the eggs had numbers in them which coincided with prizes.

The rest of the eggs had candy.

Cinco de Mayo – “My granddaughter made a delicious sopapilla cheesecake and brought bags of Mexican candies,” April said.

Pride Month (June) – April made a rainbow fruit and cheese plate and found some cute Pride Month beaded necklaces and a couple of Pride t-shirts for prizes.

National Pudding Day (June 26) – “One of my daughters decided that was the ‘holiday’ she wanted to celebrate and she brought some pudding desserts,” April said.

Fourth of July – One of the participants made traditional Fourth of July food – barbecue ribs.

Halloween – The first “Halloween” movie was streamed on the TV in the main room throughout the event and one participant brought candy-filled trick-or-treat bags for everyone.

Veterans Day – April purchased some small toothpick flags representing various branches of the military and put them on deviled eggs — traditional Sandefer Christmas food.

Indigenous Peoples Day (instead of Thanksgiving) – “One of our participants brought a game for us to play that was based on a traditional American Indian game,” April said.

Birthday – “It was my granddaughter’s birthday, so we also had a cake for her and some Happy Birthday beads for every-

one,” April said.

Christmas – “I gave my Christmas presents to everyone then, put up my tree, had pecan pie (a Christmas staple for us) and made some gnome cupcakes,” she said.

Celebrating 16 holidays took about three hours. It was so much fun for everyone, April said.

“With each person participating in the planning/activities/etc., no one felt left out,” April said. “To put it mildly, we have a lot of strong personalities in our family, so it was just great seeing them all laughing and having a ball.

“The Fargo branch is already talking about next year and asked if we can think of having it in the summer. As the first year, we learned a lot and will likely make a lot of tweaks to it next time, but the great thing is that everyone WANTS a next time!”

April was a member of the OKC FRIDAY staff as an editor in the 1990s and has returned as a sales executive.

Khloe Webster and Jared Neumann with the Indigenous Peoples Day trophy.

Stein Hoist: Jared Neumann, Robert Loveland and Madison Neumann in a contest to see who can hold the glass up the longest.

At right: The celebration of National Pudding Day, which was June 26.

From Page One

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 3

VILLAGE

APP

From Page 1

From Page 1 This is the third year in a row a personal project developed at Casady in the Object Oriented Programming class has won first place in the Congressional App Challenge.

“I am proud that the hard work and dedication Pari put into her app has paid off,” Head of School Nathan L. Sheldon said. “Computer Science supports development of critical thinking skills and our Computer Science curriculum throughout all of our divisions is essential to our students’ development. Casady School is committed to empowering students with the knowledge and skill sets that will be invaluable in the workplace of the future.”

To create the app, Pari tapped into her passion for encouraging students, especially those historically under-

Board in several roles since 2012. He is a GIA graduate gemologist and AGS certified gemologist, continuing the Clark family tradition of bringing quality jewelry, watches, and personal service to local customers.

BC Clark, now in its 131st year, continues to be family-owned and operated, serving Oklahomans with locations in downtown Oklahoma City, Classen Curve, and Northpark.

Jewelers of America represents companies from all areas of the jewelry supply chain. Its members include independent jewelry stores such as BC Clark, jewelry retail chains, jewelry manufacturers and suppliers, jewelry designers and brands, and service providers to the jewelry industry.

The strategic direction of Jewelers of America is advised by executives who represent the diverse fine jewelry marketplace – from multi-generation jewelry store owners to executives of national jjewelry chains and luxury brands. The common thread among them is their passion for the jewelry industry and its continued success.

Casady School student Pari Gulati was awarded first place in the Congressional App Challenge for the 5th District of Oklahoma for her app STEAM Hunt.

represented in the field, to get involved in STEAM. For her senior year Capstone project, she challenged herself to create a more inclusive computer science field and STEAM Hunt was built to make a digital platform for that work. Pari worked with Myriad Botanical Gardens as her client, offering her app as a robust interdisciplinary educational opportunity for visiting children.

STEAM Hunt consists of various activities that kids and parents can work on at home while thinking critically and learning about the science and math behind experiments. In the future, Pari wants to expand the functionality of her app so that any institution can load their own activities.

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 4

Friday Society

Christmas Spectacular!

- Photo by Rose Lane

Christopher Lloyd and Erik Salizar, above, with Santa, hosted their annual Christmas Spectacular holiday party.

This year, they followed a New York New York theme and included horse and carriage rides, a Broadway playbill Christmas tree, Big Apple-style appetizers, including bagels and lox and little reuben sandwiches, and much more!

For more photos, see Page 12

Booster

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 5

CALENDAR THEATRE Dec. 15­17, 22­23 • A Sherlock Carol

In 3rd Act Theatre Company’s A Sherlock Carol by Mark Shana­ han, Moriarty is dead, to begin with. And Sherlock Holmes is a haunted man. But when a grown­up Tiny Tim asks Holmes to investigate the death of Ebenezer Scrooge, the Great Detective must use his gifts to solve a Dickens of a Christ­ mas mystery, with a bit of help from the spirits of the past, present and future.

Get tickets at 3rd acttheatreco.com.

MUSIC Dec. 28 • Talking Heads Tribute Talking Heads and David Byrne Tribute: HeartByrne is coming to the Tower Theatre.

HeartByrne picks up the torch where the seminal concert film ‘Stop Making Sense’ left off, breathing new life into the classics and pushing the grooves into unchart­ ed sonic territory.

Doors open at 7 pm.

All venue bars are cashless, getting you through the line faster to enjoy the show.

Touring merchandise may still accept cash and cash tips are always welcomed.

More details at towertheatreokc.com.

THIS WEEKEND

Dec. 15 • Caroling Cruises ArtAfloatOKC presents Caroling Cruises in partnership with Bricktown Water Taxi this holiday season. Cozy up on this 45­minute musical excursion featuring an array of spe­ cial themed performances by talented local artists. People of all ages will create lasting memories on the Bricktown Canal with friends and loved ones aboard a twinkling boat paired with magical entertainment.

Tours will benefit ArtAfloatOKC Foundation and their goal of funding additional artistic endeavors in Bricktown, including the per­ forming arts, murals and more. Special check­in and boarding location at Put a Cork in It Winery 115 E. California Ave. on the Bricktown Canal level. Concerts every Thurs­ day and Friday through Dec. 22, with show­ times at 6:30 and 7:30 pm. Wyatt Zane is playing Dec. 15 with Emily and Chase McCumber on Dec. 21 and Courtney Hooker on Dec. 22.

Dec. 15­17 • Ringling Bros.

Get ready for The Greatest Show On Earth. The reimagined Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey invites you to a spec­ tacle of superhuman feats and thrills.

Ignite family fun at The Greatest Show On Earth® when the new Ringling™ visits Oklahoma City, Dec. 15­17 at the Paycom Center.

Dec. 16 • Trout Derby Get ready for a day of fishing fun at the OKC Trout Season Kick Off being held at Route 66 Park, 9901 NW 23rd St. Guests can enjoy catching rain­ bow trout while also exploring our exhibitor booths.

Youth, 5­15 yrs., will

receive a free fishing rod and reel courtesy of the Police Athletic League. No state fishing license or city fishing permit required during the event, so come ready to cast your line and have a great time.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to con­ nect with the com­ munity and reel in some big catches from 12 – 3 pm. Visit oklahomacity.perfect­ mind.com to create an account for OKC Parks.

Dec. 28 • Jeff Dunham Jeff Dunham kicked off the second leg of his new 2023­2024 North American tour "Still Not Canceled" and will be making a stop in Oklahoma City on Thursday, Dec. 28 at the Paycom Center.

A Year in Virtual Reality

V

irtual reality has captivated me for more than a decade. I got my first taste in 2012 when I attended Sundance and they premiered their first virtual reality experience. In 2017, I helped launch a VR program at the deadCenter Film Festival and took virtual reality headsets to 30 high schools that fall to show off the technology. That same year, I directed my first virtual reality film called The Homecoming Trilogy about a young woman getting out of prison and going home to her family. I was a VR evangelist hitting my stride. Then the pandemic hit. Film festivals and virtual reality filmmaking came to a screeching halt.

In the fall of 2022, I got a call from my church. A St. Luke’s Methodist Church member, whose children were using tablets and VR for gaming and entertainment, wanted to tell the stories of the Bible in virtual reality to reach younger generations. She brought the idea and funding to the St. Luke’s ministry team, including Dr. Bob Long, Rev. Wendy Lambert, and Rev. Josh Attaway.

They recognized the potential of this new medium and chose the

resurrection of Jesus as the story to launch St. Luke’s into this new arena.

In January of 2023, we kicked off the Resurrection VR project. I co-wrote the screenplay with fellow St. Luke’s member and Heritage Hall graduate Ryan Johnston.

We hired Boiling Point Media, led by founder and lead animator Ryan Bellgardt, to create ancient Israel inside of the “Unreal Engine,” which is the same technology used for the Disney+ series The Mandalorian. We cast and filmed twelve actors as Jesus, Mary, and the other characters from Matthew 28.

We created a 5minute, 360-degree movie called Resurrection VR. More than 3,000 people put on headsets and watched Resurrection VR during Holy Week at St. Luke’s Methodist Church.

After the success of Resurrection, I was hooked. I partnered with Stephen Tyler of Mostly Harmless Media to program a slate of ten virtual

reality films for the 2023 deadCenter Film Festival. We included VR films about famous chefs, JFK, glaciers, the birth of civilizations, and an animated film using motion capture from the Cherokee Nation called The Origin of Strawberries.

This fall, Stephen and I partnered with the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation to create a virtual reality experience of their doctors and labs.

OMRF wanted the ability to show people in all 77 counties the ground-breaking work being done at OMRF. The 360-degree movie we created allowed them to show a working lab filled with doctors, researchers, and technicians and to highlight many of the award-winning doctors leading the research, like 2023 Oklahoma Hall of Fame inductee Dr. Judith James.

The resurgence of virtual reality has been the most exciting development for me and for McDaniel Entertainment. We have already scripted and designed an episodic VR project for the spring. And we are working on next year’s VR program for deadCenter. Stay tuned for more in the virtual world.

Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com Paycom Center Events/Shows: Ringling Bros Show ­ Dec. 15­17 DRAKE ­ Jan. 25 Disturbed ­ Jan. 27 TobyMac ­ Feb. 1 TOOL ­ Feb. 3 Fall Out Boy ­ Mar. 11

Zoo Amphitheatre: Civic Center Music Hall: The Nutcracker Ballet ­ Tina Turner Muscial ­ NYE Follies ­ Rachmaninoff! ­ Les Miserables ­

Dec. 8­18 Dec. 26­31 Dec. 31 Jan. 13 Jan. 16­21

Mariachi Los Camperos ­ Jan. 26­27 OKCPhil Brahms ­ Feb. 3 OKC Ballet Giselle ­ Feb. 9­11 Wicked ­ Feb. 21­Mar 10 Chicago ­ Apr. 9­14 Other Events/Shows/Awards: Clue: On Stage ­ through Dec. 17

Red Earth TreeFest ­ Polar Express Train Ride ­ Christmas Cracker ­ A Sherlock Carol ­ Paula Poundstone ­

through Dec. 30 through Dec. 27 Dec. 7­23 Dec. 8­23 Dec. 15

BIPOC artists wanted for Fresh Paint Mural Competition Arts Council Oklahoma City is searching for talented artists from the Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) community to participate in the Fresh Paint Mural Project at the 58th annual Festival of the Arts.

In partnership with the OKC City Thunder, the Fresh Paint Mural Project will connect five local, BIPOC artists with prominent art mentors in the Oklahoma City area. Those artists will collaborate with the mentors to create an 8’x 8’ mural, with the artists having full creative freedom to paint a masterpiece of their choosing. This year, for the first time ever, murals

will be displayed at the Festival of the Arts April 25-28, 2024.

“Oklahoma City is overflowing with talented young artists who are waiting for an opportunity to take their art to the next level,” said ACOKC Events Coordinator Avery Matney. “Festival of the Arts brings in over 550,000 visitors each year and Fresh Paint will allow these artists to showcase their creations at one of Oklahoma’s largest annual events.”

The competition is open to anyone in the Oklahoma City metro area between the ages of 18–25. All participants must be from the BIPOC community.

“OKC is a special place that is wonderfully diverse and Fresh Paint is an opportunity to celebrate how truly unique we are,” said Angela Cozby, ACOKC Executive Director. “We’re excited to partner with the OKC Thunder to showcase the outstanding work of local BIPOC artists whose artistic endeavors don’t represent a singular voice, but rather the beauty found in the diversity of our entire community.”

Selected artists will attend paint days at the OKC Farmers Public Market during February and March and will be coached by art mentors Denise Duong and Jaiye

Farrell through every step of the process.

“We’re grateful to have two incredibly talented local artists serving as mentors to the next generation of OKC artists” said Art Moves Director Erin Clemons.

“Having Denise and Jaiye working alongside them will certainly help these young artists tap into their potential and bring their creations to life.”

Applications are open until Jan. 5, 2024 and all submissions must include at least three (3) examples of the artist’s work. You can submit your application at www.artscouncilokc.com.

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FURNITURE T DESIGN T SUPPLIES T PRINTING

Oklahoma City T (405) 947-5676 T www.warrenproducts.com

10301 North May Q The Village Q (405) 752-2265

Locally Owned & Operated since 1983

Member F.D.I.C

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 6

OKC FRIDAY

Sports Weekly BOYS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Antlers net title at Tahlequah Keyed by three players in double figures, the Deer Creek boys basketball team rolled to a 64-49 win over Moore last Saturday to claim the Tahlequah Invitational championship.

Hudson Linsenmeyer paced the trio with 18 points to lead the Antlers (5-1). Clyde Davis collected 12 points and Cooper Laiske chipped in 10 points.

On Friday, Deer Creek held on for a 5855 win over Bixby in the semifinals behind Davis with 15 points and Ky Kougl with 11 points.

Davis also led three others in double figures with 13 points in helping the Antlers to a dominating 91-39 win over CHEF Tulsa on Thursday in the opener. Linsenmeyer claimed 12 points and Caison Robinson

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.

added 10 points.

Deer Creek visits Mustang this Friday in its finale contest before Christmas break.

IRISH TAKE 4TH AT DUNCAN After opening with a win, McGuinness dropped two straight games including a 6438 loss to Ada in finishing fourth at the Southern Oklahoma Invitational in Duncan on Saturday.

Cooper Bradley led the way with 12 points for the Irish (3-2), while Brody Parks and Hudson McCormick added 9 points each.

On Friday, McGuinness suffered a 71-51 setback against Tuttle in the semifinals.

Bradley finished with a team-best 13 points and McCormick chipped in 11 points.

The Irish cruised to a 72-25 win over Chickasha on Thursday behind Bryce Schwarz with 20 points and Bradley with 9 points.

This Saturday, McGuinness travels to Dallas for a matchup at Bishop Lynch.

CYCLONES 4TH AT COMMUNITY Casady endured a 56-41 loss to Anadarko last Saturday to claim fourth place at the Community Christian Classic tournament in Norman.

Bryson Buckingham grabbed a team-high 17 points and Peyton Mitchell-Johnson chipped in 13 points for the Cyclones (2-4).

Four players scored in double figures in a 71-49 setback against host Community Christian in the semifinals on Friday.

Kaden Leache collected 13 points followed by Davis Currie with 11 points and Buckingham and Mitchell-Johnson with 10 points each.

Buckingham also paced three players in double figures with 25 points in a 67-48 triumph over Plainview in Thursday’s opener.

Leache contributed 19 points and MitchellJohnson had 12 points.

Casady hosts a rematch against Community Christian this Friday.

CHARGERS WIN CONSOLATION Meanwhile, Heritage Hall rebounded from an opening defeat to win twice, including a 57-46 victory over Noble, to claim the consolation trophy at the Community Christian Classic.

T.J. Williams scored 18 points and Rashaud Smith added 16 points to lead the Chargers (22).

On Friday, Heritage Hall rolled to an 85-57

- Photo by Richard Clifton, rtcditigalimages.zenfolio.com

PC North’s Mekhi Thomas scored 14 points earlier this week in a matchup against Fridayland rival Deer Creek.

triumph against Crossover Academy.

Thad Butler finished with a team-best 20 points, while Smith tallied 15 points and Williams added 13 points.

The Chargers opened Thursday with a 70-36 loss to Guthrie behind Smith’s 12 points.

This weekend, Heritage Hall travels to Tulsa for a pair of games at Victory Christian on Friday and Cascia Hall on Saturday.

KNIGHTS TOP CARL ALBERT Crossings Christian jumped out to a lead and cruised from there to a 68-54 win against Carl Albert last week.

Phoenix Woodson paced the Knights (3-0) with 20 points and Braden Buckingham added 8 points.

Crossings is set to visit Shawnee this Friday.

EAGLES WIN TITLE AT MINCO CLASSIC Harding Charter Prep continued its strong start to the season by claiming the Minco Bulldog Classic championship last weekend.

The Eagles (6-2) outlasted The Academy for a 63-54 win on Sat-

urday in the final. They also held off Southwest Covenant in a 51-45 victory on Friday in the semifinals and opened with a 64-43 triumph against Western Heights on Thursday.

Harding Prep visits Fridayland rival Mount St. Mary this Friday.

PANTHERS NET 3RD AT JOE LAWSON Rebounding from a big loss in the semifinals, PC North posted a 53-48 victory against Del City last Saturday to finish third at the Joe Lawson Invitational in Norman.

The Panthers (3-4) endured a 46-29 setback to Norman on Friday in the semifinals but began with a 69-65 triumph over Grind Prep in Thursday’s opener.

Meanwhile, Fridayland rival Mount St. Mary posted a 57-44 win over OKC Storm on Saturday to claim seventh at the Joe Lawson Invitational.

The Rockets (3-2) suffered a 65-32 loss to Westmoore in the semifinals and a 53-45 setback against Del City in the opener.

This week, Mount St. Mary visits Harding Charter Prep on Friday while PC North hosts Piedmont on Tuesday.

– By Jason Jewell

Sports Weekly

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 7

GIRLS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Panthers net Joe Lawson crown Keyed by two big wins, the PC North girls basketball team held on for a 44-35 win against host Norman last Saturday to capture the Joe Lawson Invitational championship.

The Panthers (5-1) cruised to a 54-42 victory over Norman North on Friday in the semifinals and opened with a 50-34 triumph against Edmond Santa Fe on Thursday.

PC North visits Piedmont this Tuesday.

KNIGHTS TAKE 3RD AT CHA TOURNEY Crossings Christian rolled to a 49-32 victory against Crooked Oak

last Saturday to finish third at the Jim Elliott Invitational hosted by Christian Heritage.

The Knights (3-3) suffered a 45-41 loss to Destiny Christian in Friday’s semifinal and opened with a dominating 60-9 decision over Little Axe. Crossings travels to Shawnee this Friday.

IRISH CAPTURE CONSOLATION After opening with a close loss, McGuinness cruised to a pair of wins – including a 4537 triumph over Chickasha last Saturday – to bring home a consolation trophy from the Southern Oklahoma Invitational in Duncan.

The Irish rolled to an 89-17 victory against Capitol Hill in the consolation semifinal on

SWIMMING ROUNDUP

Friday and opened with a 30-26 setback against Cache.

On Saturday, McGuinness heads to Dallas for a road contest against Bishop Lynch.

EAGLES PLACE 5TH AT MINCO CLASSIC Harding Charter Prep jumped out to a big lead and cruised to a 55-19 win over Western Heights on Saturday to finish fifth at the Minco Bulldog Classic.

The Eagles (3-3) eked out a 33-31 decision over host Minco in the consolation semifinals but opened with a 4835 loss to Cyril on Thursday.

Harding Prep visits Mount St. Mary on Friday starting at 6 p.m.

Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

Cristo Rey sweeps Family of Faith Both Cristo Rey basketball squads posted Metro Athletic Conference wins last week over Family of Faith.

The Royal girls (3-6) held on for a 29-25 victory over the Warriors.

Keionna Tubbs led the way with 12 points and Nyrie Mason added 8 points.

Meanwhile, Chris Pratt scored a team-best 21 points to help the Royal boys (5-5) to a 54-43 win.

Juan Deigo Morales collected 10 points and KeiShon Graim had

9 points, as Cristo Rey swept the season series against Family of Faith.

In other action last week, both teams competed at the Mid-Moore Holiday Classic where Tubbs and Graim were named to the All-Tournament team.

The Royal boys cruised to a 3724 win over the Stillwater Spartans behind 12 points from Graim and 11 from Pratt.

Tubbs netted 11 points for the Royal girls in a 38-28 loss.

Antler boys swim to title at Yukon Invitational With seven athletes in the top 10, including an event champion, the Deer Creek boys swimming team claimed first and the Antler girls came in third at the Yukon Invitational last week at Edmond Aquatic Center.

Owen McCall paced the Antler boys with a gold medal in the 100ayard backstroke, touching the wall in 58.99 seconds, just over a second ahead of teammate Jason Hull in second.

McCall also claimed a second gold medal, along with Hull, Bronson Walz and Cameron Sein, with a victory in the 200 medley relay and was third in the 50 freestyle.

Beckham Shield earned a silver medal for Deer Creek with a second-place finish in the 200 individual medley.

In addition, Hull grabbed fifth in the 100 freestyle, while Sein was fourth in the 100 butterfly and sixth in the 200 freestyle.

Ashlyn Bucy led the Deer Creek girls with a gold medal in the 100 backstroke in

1:03.77 and joined Landry Mendoza, Skyler Brown and Kinley Manuel on the winning 200 medley relay team.

Manuel finished second in the 100 freestyle and third in the 50 freestyle and Medoza won silver in the 100 breaststroke, while Kierra Nguyen was third in the 200 freestyle and fifth in the 500 freestyle.

Harding Charter Prep’s Kaitlyn Simmons also earned a gold medal in the 500 freestyle with a winning time of 5:48.14.

Teammate Scarlet Mathis finished fourth in the 200 freestyle and sixth in the 200 butterfly.

Harding Charter Prep’s Jack Powell and Mount St. Mary’s Keegan Lassiter picked up silver medals in the 500 freestyle and 100 butterfly, respectively.

Powell also took third in the 100 butterfly.

Casady’s Thomas Rudnicki finished second in the 50 freestyle and fourth in the 100 freestyle, and Caroline Olszewski was fourth in both the 100 freestyle

and 100 butterfly for the Cyclones.

PANTHERS TAKE 2ND AT STILLWATER With a strong showing by both teams, the PC North boys finished second and the girls were fourth at the Stillwater Invitational last week.

Bobby Cunningham earned two gold medals in the 50 freestyle (27.31 seconds) and the 100 breaststroke (1:18.60) to lead the Panthers.

Colin Trubayne earned a silver medal in the 200 freestyle.

Noah Goggs placed sixth in the 100 backstroke and seventh in the 50 freestyle.

Cunninham, Trubayne, Goggs and Brody Cunningham teamed up for a second-place finish in the 200 freestyle relay.

The Panther girls placed two swimmers in three different events, led by Kayla Koch with a fifth-place finish in the 50 freestyle and sixth in the 100 freestyle, while Jordan Lent finished seventh in the 50 freestyle.

WRESTLING ROUNDUP

Antlers boast 3 gold medalists at Perry Tournament of Champs Keyed by sixth athletes reaching the podium, including three individual champions, the Deer Creek wrestling team finished fifth at the Perry Tournament of Champions last weekend.

Jace Province produced a 2-1 decision against Yukon’s

Dillon Ryan to win the 138pound division for the Antlers.

Garon Kaiser cruised to a 5-0 win over Kaden Wallis of Lawton MacArthur for the title at 144 pounds, while Brady Brewer downed Blackwell’s Lawson Lusk by

a 4-2 mark to capture the 165-pound crown.

Kegan Sullivan suffered a loss to Vinita’s Zane Donley for second at 126 pounds.

Junior Youmbi placed fifth at 175 pounds for Deer Creek, and Hayes McNeill finished in sixth place.

PCN’S STEWART PLACES AT MID-AMERICA PC North’s Markus Stewart reached the podium for the Panthers at the MidAmerica Nationals in Enid.

Stewart finished fifth in

the 215-pound division after a loss to Gray Wilks from Conroe Woodland College Park in Texas.

Two other PC North wrestlers, Madelynn Fazier and Rikkia Williams, competed at the Wrestle Like a Girl tournament in Cache.

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 8

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For more information or to place an ad, contact Landon Cobb at (405) 499-0022 or toll-free in OK at 1-888-815-2672.

25% DISCOUNT on Entire Inventory of DEALER #21 AT 23RD ST ANTIQUE MALL (3023 NW 23RD ST.)

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Torrance Parks You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage, alleging incompatibility.

You must answer the Petition on or before the 3 day of January, 2023, or the Petition will be taken as true and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner.

WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 22 day of November, 2023.

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, December 1, 2023; Friday, December 8, 2023; Friday, December 15, 2023) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-963 In Re the Marriage of: ) Araceli Frayre Reyes, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Lazaro Garcia Mendoza, ) Respondent. )

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Lazaro Garcia Mendoza You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage, alleging incompatibility.

You must answer the Petition on or before the 31 day of December, 2023, or the Petition will be taken as true and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner.

WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 16 day of November, 2023.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/Teresa Becker DEPUTY CLERK (SEAL) (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, December 1, 2023; Friday, December 8, 2023; Friday, December 15, 2023) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2023-2865

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(405) 850-1049 CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CASE NO. BOA 2023-20 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an application has been filed seeking a variance from the Nichols Hills City Code on the following described property: Lots One (1), Two (2), and Three (3) of Block Ninety-seven (97), in the Wilshire Section Nichols Hills, to Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, according to the recorded plat thereof.

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Case No. FP-2014-1071 THE DETERMINATION OF: PATERNITY, Thomas John Strickland Jr., Petitioner, and Tosha Lavern Scott, Respondent.

) ) ) ) ) ) )

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON”

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(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, December 15, 2023) RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/Jamie Houston DEPUTY CLERK (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, December 1, 2023; Friday, December 8, 2023; Friday, December 15, 2023)

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THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA: TO THE ABOVE NAMED RESPONDENT: Tosha Lavern Scott GREETINGS: You will take notice that you have been sued in the above names Court by the above Petitioner, for a Motion to Modify Custody, Visitation, and Child Support and that unless you answer the Motion filed by this Petitioner in said Court on or before the 28 day of December, 2023, said Motion will be taken as true and judgement granting to the Petitioner an Order Modifying Custody, Visitation, and Child Support, annulling, canceling, setting aside and holding for naught the contract with you and for other relief and orders rendered according to the prayer thereof.

WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 7 day of November, 2023. /s/Thomas J. Strickland Petitioner

The applicants desire to build a new main building. For the proposed main building the applicants are seeking an 11’3’’variance from the rear yard setback, leaving a 13’9’’ rear yard setback.

A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD on said application by the Nichols Hills Board of Adjustment in the Council Chambers, City Hall 6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma 73116 on the 20th day of December 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

ALL PERSONS, OWNERS, OR RESIDENTS within the above described area are hereby given notice that they may appear at said hearing or file a petition within the Board of Adjustment and offer arguments and evidence for or against the granting of said application as they deem proper in the premises.

Dated this 5th day of December 2023.

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News

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 9

OKC Parks presents “A Dickens Christmas” Everyone is invited to an evening of sketches from Charles Dickens’ stories followed by a Victorianera-inspired feast inside the Ed Lycan Conservatory at historic Will Rogers Park, 3400 NW 36th St., at 7 pm on Friday, Dec. 15, and Saturday, Dec. 16.

“A Dickens Christmas” is presented

by OKC Parks and performed by local actors with NW Optimist Performing Arts Center.

“A Dickens Christmas” is a brand-new

production for OKC Parks. This production features three of Dickens’ Christmas stories.

Following the performance, guests can enjoy traditional period fare, including beef Wellington, roasted chestnuts and bread pudding.

“What a perfect venue to spread a little classic holiday cheer as our audience strolls the Victorian-style conservatory watching scenes from each of the tales and listening to carolers sing tradition-

al yuletide music,” Program Coordinator Toby Tobin-Butts said.

“This will be a wonderful family-friendly experience. I constantly tell people what OKC Parks has to offer is the best-kept secret in the city!”

Registration is $12 per person and ends Dec. 15 for both the Friday and Saturda y productions. For more information on OKC Parks’ programs, visit okcparks.gov/par ks and click on “Browse Programs.”

New bill provides parents more funding for private school or tutoring New federal school choice legislation being considered by Congress would supercharge Oklahoma’s school choice program by providing thousands of dollars in additional funding for parents to consider private school or tutoring options.

The Educational Choice for Children Act is a tax credit scholarship bill funded with private donations, not federal money, and donors receive a federal tax credit. The legislation has more than 130 House cosponsors and more than two dozen Senate co-sponsors. Students could use ECCA scholarships for tuition, tutoring to address learning loss,

special needs services, or education technology.

This legislation would provide thousands of dollars on top of the state level tax credit for private school choice which offers families between $5,000 and $7,500 per child, expanding the purchasing power of Oklahoma parents by thousands of dollars.

Metropolitan Library Holiday Events Saturdays with Santa at Myriad Gardens • Dec. 16 The Downtown Metropolitan Library will be at the Myriad Gardens inside the Crystal Bridge lobby for Saturdays with Santa. The library will be providing a winter story time. Santa and other activities provided by the Myriad Gardens education team, 301 W. Reno, from 10:30-11:30 am.

Behind The Nutcracker • Dec. 16 Experience an exclusive behind the scenes glimpse into the Oklahoma City Ballet's rehearsal hall as the dancers gear up for their annual holiday classic, “The Nutcracker.” Witness the meticulous preparation and hard work that goes into putting on this awe-inspiring performance, captured in vivid detail by the cameras of OETA. We will also watch a version of The Nutcracker performed by the Slovak National Theatre. Belle Isle Library meeting room B (5501 N Villa Ave.) from 2 – 3:45 pm.

Land of Milk and Honey

By C Pam Zhang

C Pam Zhang has received high praises for her unusual talent of imagination, creation and power. She is a bestselling author as evidenced by her winning the Academy of Arts and Letters Rosenthal Award, and the Asian/Pacific Award for Literature, and becoming a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award. She is also a National Book Foundation 5 under 35 Honoree and has been listed as one of Barack Obama’s favorite books of the year.

Land of Milk and Honey hits all the bases of a dying world as its unnamed main character, a Chinese American chef from Los Angeles, becomes stranded in London when a toxic gray fog becomes the latest in the world’s natural disasters. This smog affects the entire world as it kills most crops and animals. National borders to most countries are closed, and this chef searches frantically for a job that will allow survival until the scourge passes. Finally, after a tedious search, the

chef is offered an unbelievable job in a small private country on a mountaintop in Italy. That brings on an exploration of desire and deception, privilege and faith that people played to survive.

It is an interesting road that leads her to a job that takes her away from the disaster affecting the world and offering a way out. This hope for survival comes through the billionaire and his daughter who have bought the entire mountaintop as he looks for a way to offer salvation to those who can afford the price. The chef has been hired to draw wealthy people living in the community into this project, and to appease their appetites by helping them rediscover their flavor for life.

This turns into a very difficult job. The chef has lost her sense of taste. She slowly finds that the reason she has been brought to the mountain is actually to assist the billionaire in trying to reshape the world.

Food is disappearing.

She is absorbed in trying to find delight and pleasure before she finally understands what she herself really deserves.

The world is eroding and the current plan is an attempt to reshape that world.

Choices become very

meaningful. In other words, the chef must find the meaning of her choices BEYOND the plate. There is, of course, a love story even if the years of bleakness have driven her away from the fields of color, touch, taste and desire. The billionaire and his daughter attempt to reimagine the world and force the chef into weighing the meaning of her choices other than those driven by appetite and pleasure.

“Moving from intimate longing to dangerous questions about the ethics of wealth and privilege creates a rapturous story about the transformative powers of pleasures and one woman’s embracing her own appetite.”

Sensuous and surprising, bitingly sharp and told in evocative language, this book of desire and deception, is actually a love letter to the wild delight of a woman finding her own self again. “ The publisher has listed the following genres of this exotic book as “fiction, dystopia, science fiction, contemporary literary fiction, adult, and adult food.” That in itself is a peek at what to expect when reading of the confusion of a dying world.

Thanks to Full Circle Bookstore for sharing these books with FRIDAY readers.

Locally-owned Business Directory Debbie South RE/MAX Preferred 9520 N. May, Suite 110 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Office: (405) 751-4848 debbiesouth.com

Nancy Farha’s 9205 N. Pennsylvania Casady Square The Village, OK 73120 (405) 775-0404 nancyfarha.com

Full Circle Bookstore 1900 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 842-2900 (800) 683-READ

23rd Street Antiques 3023 NW 23rd.

(405) 947-3800 Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Antiques23.com

Junior’s Supper Club 2601 NW Expressway Oil Center Building (405) 848-5597 juniorsokc.com

Coyle Law Firm 125 Park Ave. No.100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 583-3909 coylelaw.com

Boutique One 6478 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hill Plaza (405) 888-9822 boutiqueone.store

Gulfport Seafood Market 8016 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-3468 Gulfportseafoods.com

The Learning Tree 7638 N. Western Wilshire Village (405) 848-1415 learningtreeokc.com

Moorman's Distinctive Carpets and Area Rugs 3835 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4888 moormanscarpetsoklahoma city.com

Carwin’s Shave Shop 6411 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hills Plaza (405) 607-1197 carwinsshaveshop.com Winter House 6411 Avondale Dr. Nichols Hills Plaza (405) 607-1199 winterhouseinteriors.com International Wigs 4429 NW 10th St, .

Oklahoma City, OK 73107 (405) 943-1233

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 Britton Feed & Seed 708 W. Britton Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73114 (405) 842-5590 britton-feed-seed.hub.biz 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

Naifeh Fine Jewelry 6471 Avondale Dr,.

Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 607-4323 Naifehfinejewelry.com

CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com

Retirement Investment Advisors 2925 United Founders Blvd.

Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-3443 theretirementpath.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

Denner Roofing Co. LLC 6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com

Justin Beasley, DDS 4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com

First Source Real Estate Residential Sales 12020 N. Penn Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747

Cindi Shelby, Stylist Lela Rose & Pearl by Lela Rose 333 W. Wilshire Blvd., Ste. F Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 830-1138

Michael Biddinger Real Estate Commercial Sales, Management 12020 N. Penn Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747

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 Deer Clan Books 3905 N. College Ave. Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 495-9005 deerclanbooks@gmail.com First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com

Amy Wade & Co. Real Estate Team Amy Wade - Listing Specialist 1508 W. Edmond Rd. Edmond, OK 73131 (405) 605-9195 AmyWadeandCo.com Renaissance Hardwood Floors 3608 E. I 35 Frontage Rd. Edmond, OK 73013 (405) 225-3044 Krista Anne’s Boutique 7602 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 310-5500

The Adult Clinic at Hearts for Hearing 11500 N. Portland Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 548-4335

Tim Hughes Custom Homes, LLC 7009 N. Classen Blvd.

Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 229-7504

Christian Science Reading Room 6490 Avondale Drive (Nichols Hills Plaza North) Nichols Hills, OK 73116 405 843-5334 christianscienceokc.org

Norma Harris Harris Realty Company 13800 Quail Pointe Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73134 (405) 740-0123

Steam It Klean It LLC Carpet Cleaning PO Box 20232 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 602-4960 Steamitkleanit@gmail.com

Paul Seikel Pearls Oyster Bar 5641 N. Classen Blvd.

Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 848-8008 www.pearlsokc.com

Locally-owned business listings are only $25 a month.

Email rose@okcfriday.com

Editorial Page

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 10

OPINION O UR S 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.

MEMBER OF We urge courtesy in disagreement. We view with favor wise public choices and view with alarm flawed public choices. We give good advice to public officials at federal, state and local levels, and society in general, on what to do right. So, if they don’t take our advice, it’s not our fault.

EMAIL YOUR OPINION to: vicki@okcfriday.com

‘Lyric’s A Christmas Carol’ has bright, new approach Lyric Theatre “A Christmas Carol” Written by Charles Dickens Directed by Michael Baron

By Franci Hart Theatre Critic Lyric Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” is a family tradition that continues to give pleasure and delight each Christmas. As with all traditions, some evolution is appreciated. The 2023 production delivers this. With new sets, costumes and a reworked story, “A Christmas Carol” has a freshness to it while still retaining all the elements of this age-old Christmas ghost story that everyone loves.

Opening with the funeral of Marley, the production clips along at a very crisp pace with lovely renditions of favorite Christmas carols. A few

surprises: Scrooge, D. Lance Marsh, actually flies to the various places in his past with the Ghost of Christmas Past, Karsten Tate. I won’t spoil the surprise entrance of Christmas Present, Jerome Stevenson. But it is really exciting!

Marsh’s Scrooge captures his greed and lack of empathy and kindness that makes this story so powerful. His slow transformation is beautifully played and his joy at the end is outstanding.

This production, in addition to really scary ghosts has many humorous moments. One of my favorites is Bob Cratchit, Dustin Boatright, trying to sneak extra coal to warm the office. The party at the Fezziwig’s, Charlie Monnet and Elin Bhaird, was a show stopper full of energy, character interaction and just plain fun. Stevenson’s playful Christmas Present brought the house down and almost stole the show.

Then there were the really scary moments. No one is scarier than Vince Leseney as Marley’s

Dear Wise Elder: I recently heard the phrase “essential cogwheels of brain health,” but I don’t know what that means. Can you help?

Dear Cogwheel: The Eight Essential Cogwheels of Brain Health are factors which help maintain your mental acuity and overall wellbeing: Nutritional Cog: The food you eat provides the raw materials for brain function. A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins fuels your cognitive engine.

Exercise Cog: Regular physical activity enhances blood flow to the brain.

Cognitive Cog: Mental stimulation through activities like puzzles, learning, and reading.

ghost. He enters with a crash, boom and flash of light and limps out through the audience after delivering his message. The Ghost of Christmas Future, a puppet, looms large and threatening on stage. His silence is so powerful and frightening.

The sets by Adam Koch created sense of location with simple revolves. The lighting design by Fabian J. Garcia added to the scary ghosts. And as always, Jeffrey Meek’s costumes were outstanding.

I have seen Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” performed, on TV and in movies more times than I want to count. And although it is a part of my personal Christmas tradition, I am pleased when a new approach is presented. Lyric’s “A Christmas Carol” has a bright new approach and so much more. Give yourself an early Christmas present and go see this stellar production “A Christmas Carol” plays at Lyric’s Plaza Theatre through Dec. 24.

Rest Cog: Quality sleep allows the brain to repair and consolidate memories, essential for maintaining cognitive function.

Calm Cog: Stress management through practices like mindfulness and relaxation is vital.

Social Cog: Social connections provide emotional support and keep cognitive skills sharp.

Brain Safety Cog: Protect your brain from injury by wearing helmets during sports and seat belts in vehicles.

Medical Cog: Regular check-ups and disease management, like diabetes and hypertension, are vital for brain health.

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Students

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 11

Chargers spread holiday good cheer!

A s the last week before final exams approached the Charger community, holidays were on the minds of Chargers of all ages.

First graders made a significant donation of canned foods to City Rescue Mission. Following a field trip to Panera Bread, preschoolers hosted their annual Bakery Day to share baked goods with family and friends.

Middle School drama students performed a hilarious holiday favorite, “The Elf On A Shelf Must Die!,”

by Atala Johnson

HALL HAPPENINGS while Upper School chorus members spread holiday cheer campuswide with their annual caroling tour of campus.

To finish off the week, the annual Western Village Party in Reynolds Commons.

This party, which has taken place annually for decades, is a fan

favorite among students and faculty because it is an opportunity for the Upper School students to spend time with kindergartners from Stanley Hupfeld Academy at Western Village and fulfill part of their holiday wish lists A few weeks ago, student representatives introduced themselves to their Western Village buddies to become acquainted before the Christmas party. On the day of the party, the Upper School Reynolds Commons was lively and decorated for the

holiday celebration.

Wreaths, nutcrackers, candy canes, and inflatables filled every corner. In addition to an appearance by Santa, the party featured a giant gingerbread train full of cookies for the kids and students to enjoy after opening the gifts. Every year, the Western Village Christmas party is filled with joy, warm hearts, and warm cookies. This week definitely uplifted Heritage Hall students before winter break with both Charger and Christmas spirit.

Panther fall sports teams work hard to achieve success

T

he Putnam City North cross country team, although it is small, has worked incredibly hard to do well this year.

“We attended eight meets this year, and I was very pleased with the progress we made.

At conference, we ended up in fourth place. We were a couple points away from third place, which was great for us,” Coach Scott Anderson said.

The cross country coaches are working hard to build a larger and more experienced team.

“We have a very young team. They were dedicated, determined, and each day of practice they wanted to get better,” Anderson said.

Overall, Coach Anderson is proud of

by Abby Smith

PANTHER PROGRESS

the team for the progress they’ve made.

“Some of the high points for us — we had two all conference runners, and that means a lot to our young program. We received the academic achievement award, as well,” Anderson said.

Although at the beginning the cross country team struggled, the Panthers eventually overcame their challenges.

“In the beginning, all of us were struggling for some reason and it was just bad because

we were practicing harder than we were last year, and we weren't getting better,” sophomore Phoenix McClaine said.

The team saw improvements throughout the year.

“It was off to a slow start, but just staying consistent paid off in the end,” McClaine said.

• The 2023 season for softball was a teambuilding year, though the softball players built momentum as the season went on.

“A high point would be when we had a batfest here during school hours, and then the girls kind of bought in.

They turned it around and started playing hard, and they started putting we before me.”

Coach D’Antae

Mitchell said.

A challenge the team faced at the beginning of the year was believing in themselves.

“A big struggle was confidence in the beginning. I know they wanted to play hard and do the best they could, but they just were not as confident as we needed to be.”

Mitchell said.

Throughout the year, the team worked on connecting as well as confidence.

“The season was good, but there were a few rough patches. We worked on bonding together more though,” freshman Savannah Martinez said.

• Volleyball got a new coach this year, and they worked very See PCN, Page 13

Preschoo lers Livie Leon, Colton Corbett and Kennedy Kelseyhost their annual Bakery Day.

December 15 Elizabeth Borders Anne Cockrill Wade Cockrill Raymond Cohlmia Linda Dockery John David Markley Patty Gardner Cecil Sharp Jill Swisher Carrie Symes Joan C. Thomas December 16 Grant Greenberg Mabel Greene Dorothy Leesom Susan Parker Jenny Smith David Zeeck December 17 Helen Benham Floyd Bettis Snyder E Herrin II George Holt Alfred Jackson Caroline Moock Michelle Smith Jim Taylor Holly Thomas W.A. Vassar December 18 Ben Barritt Becky Skidmore Penny Richardson Cindy Rotter Ed Stanley L.D. Stanfell December 19

Stephanie Ballard Reagan Bradford Colin Curley Polly Enos Amy Freedman Rita Kanaly Meredith Louise Luetkemeyer Nancy Rooker Susan Rooker Janis Stallings Suzanne Tompkins December 20 Helen Conn Rogan Constantine Todd George Kelcey Harcrow Cannon McMahan Lauren Mize Greg Nelon Isabella Ostrowe Betty Powell Jack Robbins Mary Dean Streich Nathan Trotter Austin Troxel David Vance December 21 Bonnie Blackstock Jason Caudillo Maren Cottrell Laura Love Erin McCracken Lauren McWilliams Carolyn Murphy Michael Schmidt Benjamin Winfrey Kelly Zubik

Email updates for the birthday list to rose@okcfriday.com.

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 12

Friday Society

- Photo by Rose Lane

Pretty ladies with Oklahoma City University’s dancing Santas are: Christine Cole, Lindsey Patterson, Ashley Weems, Sarah Anderson, Kara Trahan and Phi Nguyen.

The event featured all things New York, including horse and carriage rides, a playbill-theme tree, bagels and lox, and much more.

Christmas Spectacular!

Above: Aimee and David Harlow at Christopher Lloyd and Erik Salazar’s Christmas Spectacular party. At left: Neighbors Carol and Gary Sander walked down the street to join in the fun.

Above: Sally and Jeff Starling catch up with Meg Salyer during the New York New York themed party. At left: Howell Felsenthal and his wife, Jane Jenkins.

Your brain: Use it or lose it T

he brain has plasticity and can grow at any age – if you use it.

Seniors in Oklahoma City took this “use or lose it” message seriously all year long.

More than 55 people every month took advantage of free sessions called Senior LifeSkills Learning workshops. These are the people, age 50 and more, who take personal responsibility for continued learning.

Senior LifeSkills Learning topics ranged from “How to Fall Correctly” to “Get a Grip on Improving Your Brain,” to “Insider Tips on Doctors Visits” and much more. All the presentations are based on approved and tested research, but presented for practical application and in “plain English.”

One of the popular workshops involved identifying and differentiating certain smells.

This demonstrates strong brain activity.

The sense of smell is one of the first things to change as Alzheimer’s disease takes root, even before other symptoms appear. The workshop offered a simple but valid standardized “scratch and sniff” screening to encourage intentional training of the brain to recognize smells.

VillagesOKC organizes and promotes these monthly 90-minute events in cooperation

VillagesOKC member Carolyn Wettengel, right, demonstrates during an exercise in cognition awareness at Senior LifeSkills Learning.

with Our Lord's Lutheran Church which provides the space.

In order to circle the city with learning opportunities, VillagesOKC also created three Positive Aging days of learning at local campuses. The first Positive Aging was held at Rose State College, then in June one was held at Southern Nazarene University, and most recently Positive Aging: Love Your Brain was held at MetroTech Springlake campus. Combined attendance at the Positive Aging and LifeSkills Learning events totaled 839.

More than 220 individuals came for a day of learning from local professionals such as Bruce McIntyre from

the Parkinson's Foundation and Richard V. Smith, MD, Neurosurgeon at Mercy. Dr. Smith gave the latest in stroke information and prevention. Dr. Jonathan Vestal reminded attendees to “do what you did at first” – hold your head high, look straight ahead when walking, shake hands often and break bread together.

He even had the crowd standing on one foot to improve balance. These daylong events were free and included a light lunch and a movie. All had one focus: improving the brain.

To learn more about VillagesOKC, call or text (405) 990-6637 or email info@villagesokc.org.

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 13

Students

PCN From Page 11 hard on all of its wins.

“Our loss to Crossings Christian was close, and we played at a very high level. Our revenge win was over NW Classen at the Shawnee tournament since we lost to them earlier in the season,“ Coach Donald Wood said.

This season was a year focused on learning to work together for volleyball.

“We had a new coach every year, and five coaches in four years. So, it was hard to try to stick with one, but I think the girls created strong friendships.

We just made it fun even if it was really difficult and even if there was lots of drama among the underclassmen,” senior Shianne Grassmann said.

The Advent of our Lord

Bears learn civics from Generation Citizen G

eneration Citizen is a program that comes into our schools to assist with civic education.

The program assists our government teachers in helping our students contribute positively to our communities. Yearly this group holds a Civics Day at the Oklahoma History Center where students get the opportunity to present their community-based experiential civics projects to peers, community members, and local leaders.

It is kind of like a science fair for civics. Our students had several projects presented and one group won an award for collaboration and diversity. This winning group is interested in there being a domes-

by Gabby James

JM JOURNAL tic violence registry.

All groups represented JM well and we had many compliments about their project ideas.

Senior Jada Freeman said, “The feeling of coming up with an idea that could make our state a better place in which to live is rewarding. Young people have great ideas and Civics Day is a place for us to share those ideas.”

•Our choir held its annual Christmas concert. Parents, staff and community members

Colossians 1:15–20 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to

The winners of the collaboration and diversity award at Civics Day: From left, The director of Oklahoma Generation Citizen, Phasias Carter; Jada Freeman; Gabby Dumais; Ka’Nyah Washington and JM teacher Kendra Whitman. enjoyed hearing the sounds of the Christmas season from our amazing vocalists.

Under the direction of choir director, Michael Kollmorgen, our students sang classics to newer pieces all with a Christmas theme.

“We are in a rebuilding year with this choir as I have only been here a semester, but we are making great strides,” said Kollmorgen. “We look forward to more concerts throughout the year to see our student’s growth as musicians.

reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

Micah 5:2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old,from ancient days.

Luke 2:1–7 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was gover-

•The Finance Academy attended the Junior Achievement (JA) Finance Park this week.

Finance Park is a curriculum for personal financial planning and career exploration. This program culminates into a life-like simulation which is what students attended.

During this event, students work with volunteers and put into practice what they’ve learned by creating personal budgets and using life like scenarios to navigate a “practice” life.

“I learned that I need to already start getting prepared for my financial future,” said junior Andre Caldwell. “I want financial freedom in life for me and my future family so I have to put in the work now.”

nor of Syria.

And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.

And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Friday, December 15, 2023, Page 14