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Welcome to Our Kids & Pets Issue!
The Kids & Pets issue is always one of my favorite issues to pull together, and I think you're going to enjoy what we have to share inside these pages. Here's a peek:
• The Oklahoma City Ballet doesn't just stage world-class ballet productions, they set the stage (so to say) for young talent interested in a career in ballet to get their first toe-hold in this art form! The ballet company offers Creative Movement classes for kids under age 5 that use dance, music, rhythm and the children’s own imaginations to move, stretch, play and dance to build coordination, motor skills and spatial awareness. See story on p. 20.
• Most parents want to dress their children well, especially during the school year, as well as for special occasions. (Summertime, of course, is more casual.) But as every parent knows, quality clothes don't come cheap, especially when one takes into account the short amount of time they will wear them before they become too small. Enter Just Between Friends and JBF-Norman and JBFEdmond founder Kathy Winslow. Learn more about this popular event, which also offers toys, games, books, strollers, and so much more, and Kathy in our story starting on p. 16.
• While most pet rescue nonprofits across the state and nationally focus their efforts on dogs and cats, one organization headquartered in Oklahoma City also is leading the charge on the equine front. Read about how Nexus Animals is leading the charge for comprehensive animal welfare across Oklahoma through education, outreach and placement programs. Story on p. 24.
This issue also shines the spotlight on a Christian academy in OKC that caters to children whose parents are incarcerated as well as some low-income students and, of course, our monthly OKC Vibes column, and so much more! It's hot outside! Grab a comfortable seat in air-conditioned comfort and something cool to drink, and enjoy the issue!
1-7: Over 200 dance lovers gathered at Oklahoma City Ballet’s Susan E. Brackett Dance Center May 8 for the third annual RAISING THE BARRE luncheon chaired by Stephanie Kazenske and Paige Shepherd. Guests heard remarkable stories of the ballet’s community impact and witnessed performances by the studio company and participants from the Dance for Parkinson’s program. $230,000+ was raised. 1: Susan McCoy, Daniel Mathis, Valerie Traynor, Sarah Jordan, David Carlson 2: Brandi Clark, Laura Linville, Jordan Gould, Jill Farrand 3: Erin Sullivan, Heather Busey, Stephanie Kazenske, Mary Kathryn Austin 4: Liz Hoffman and Susan Laster 5: Vionette Dunn, Leann Farha, Mia Harper, Kylie Faherty, Sara Mason 6: Racheal Nye and Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye 7: Attendees at OKC Ballet’s Raising the Barre luncheon
by Mel Drake Photography
Photography
1-7: Thousands of fans of the Star Trek and Star Wars franchises and Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” books and movies, along with anime enthusiasts and others passionate about science fiction and fantasy, turned out for SoonerCon 33: Gateway to the Galaxy, held June 20-22 at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center, Norman. The event featured celebrity guests, costume contests, the largest sci-fi and fantasy art show in the region, tabletop and video gaming, panels, workshops and kids programming. 1: Garrett Wang, who played Ensign Harry Kim in Star Trek Voyager, was a featured speaker. 2: Former Cleveland County resident Larry Nemecek emcees a session titled “Stuck in the Delta Quadrant”. 4: Wang with Ethan Phillips, who played Nelix in Voyager
Photography by Jerri Culpepper
Janes Appointed as deadCenter Film Exec Director
Acclaimed film producer/editor, creative strategist and industry builder Amy Janes has been appointed as the executive director of deadCenter Film. Amy spent two decades in LA, where she was a producer, creative executive and marketing innovator. She served as VP of Film Production at Paramount-based Parkchester Pictures, developing relationships across all media platforms and producing award-winning feature films, including As Seen Through These Eyes, a documentary narrated by Maya Angelou and funded by Sundance Channel.
Lamb Named as Paseo Arts Association's Community Engagement Manager
Amy Lamb has been named as the Paseo Arts Association's new community engagement manager. In this role, she will support fundraising efforts and sponsorship development, assist with the events and strengthen donor relationships across all the association’s programs. Amy brings nearly two decades of professional experience as a graphic designer in Oklahoma City, where she also served on the board of American Institute of Graphic Arts Oklahoma.
Goin' West Music Fest
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum has announced the Goin’ West Music Fest on Friday, Sept. 5, from 7 to 10 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. The second annual celebration of country music will be headlined by Josh Abbott Band, one of the most influential groups in Red Dirt music. Advance reservations are required. Tickets are available at Universe.com/events/ goin-west-music-fest
SMART MOMS KEEP CONSIGNMENT ‘JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS’
Trending Now: Children’s Clothing and Toys
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE PIPES
“Consignment offers a feel-good way to align your values with your lifestyle—helping others while reducing waste.”
Just Between Friends children’s consignment sales in Oklahoma City, Norman and Edmond have become the cornerstone events for families seeking to buy or resell quality children's items. Held biannually—spring and fall—JBF offers the perfect opportunity to sell a vast selection of gently used, name-brand clothing, toys, books, and baby gear.
“The children's consignment market is a rapidly growing segment of the resale industry, with projections estimating that American parents will spend $12.8 billion on secondhand children's goods by 2030, with the most popular categories being clothing, toys, sports and outdoors, furniture, and shoes,” said Kathy Winslow, owner of the OKC Just Between Friends and founder of both the Norman and Edmond JBF sales.
In 1999, Kathy started the Norman JBF sale in her living room. It has since grown into three large-scale events that foster widespread community engagement across the metro. Consignors can earn up to 80% of their sales, and unsold items are donated to local charities, contributing to over $15 million in cash and in-kind donations nationwide.
“While consignment sales are often associated with budget-conscious shoppers, upper-class families find value in JBF through access to a curated selection of name-brand and boutique children's items, allowing families to find quality and luxury products at reduced prices,” said Kathy, who has been a driving force in the JBF
franchise for her efficient and effective processes and ideas that have helped to make JBF the number one children’s consignment sales franchise in the U.S..
Why do upper-class families choose consignment for their kids’ items over other resale options? In today’s era of conscious consumerism, sustainability and curated convenience, even upper-class families are turning to consignment sales as their preferred method for reselling children’s clothing, toys and gear.
While platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay or neighborhood yard sales still have their place, consignment sales—especially reputable ones like Just Between Friends— offer a unique combination of efficiency, value and social impact.
The top reason smart moms are choosing consignment sales is because of their minimal effort and hassle-free selling. Affluent families often prioritize time over money, and consignment sales streamline resale. Instead of photographing, pricing, listing, messaging and coordinating individual sales, consignment events let you tag everything once and drop it off. The sale organizers handle everything else: advertising, setup, customer service and even post-sale donations if you choose not to reclaim unsold items.
“JBF sales offer a polished, professional system that respects your time and simplifies the process,” Kathy explains.
CONTINUED >
“Families can earn significantly more on premium items than through casual resale platforms without needing to haggle. Also, JBF offers busy moms a Valet Tagging service where their items are picked up, tagged and dropped off at the sale for them. Our average Valet Tagging checks are around $500, with some consignors making more than $2,000 on their name-brand items.”
Consignment sales frequently offer a much higher return on quality items than garage sales or online platforms. Many sales—like Just Between Friends—let consignors earn up to 80% of the sale price. These events attract thousands of buyers looking for premium brands at fair prices, and gently used designer clothes, high-end strollers and boutique toys move quickly.
“Consignment offers a feel-good way to align your values with your lifestyle—helping others while reducing waste,” said Kathy, who partners with Infant Crisis Services and Agape Baptist Church community closet on items that are unsold and not picked up after each sale.
“Families who need help with children’s items benefit from every consignor who chooses to donate and has unsold items at the end of each sale.”
Sustainability and conscious consumption are priorities in many affluent households. Consigning is a smart way to keep items out of landfills while
passing them along to families who need and will cherish them. Plus, unsold items can often be donated directly to local nonprofits through the sale, creating a streamlined, meaningful way to give back.
Letting go of unused and outgrown items can be an emotional and logistical hurdle. However, consignment sales transform decluttering into a purposeful activity. Families know their beloved items will go to other children who need them—not just into a donation bin or storage unit. The hyper-organized, selective nature of JBF also preserves the dignity of high-quality items while adding sentimental value and a sense of closure to letting go.
Participating in consignment sales plugs families into a broader community of like-minded parents. For those who value networking and social capital, this is more than a financial transaction—it's a space to connect, support, and influence local family culture. Some families even shop and consign together, making it a seasonal tradition.
Just Between Friends offers a streamlined, profitable and socially responsible way to resell children's items with minimal stress and maximum impact. They provide more than just a payout; they offer a sense of community, purpose, and pride. Consignment makes sense whether you’re downsizing the playroom or making room for the next growth spurt.
Children’s Classes Teach Fundamental Concepts
ARTICLE BY JACLYN RALEY AND ERICA PORTELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANA CARSON
OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET OFFERS MOVEMENT CLASSES FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
If you have a young child at home who loves to spin and jump, or can’t keep themselves still when music is playing, you might have a budding dancer on your hands.
Luckily, Oklahoma City Ballet has a solution for you: Creative Movement classes. These fun movement classes (typically for kids under age 5) use dance, music, rhythm and the children’s own imaginations to move, stretch, play and dance to build coordination, motor skills and spatial awareness. Dancers may also start to understand the concepts of time (e.g., fast vs slow), space (high vs low) and force (sharp vs smooth movements).
Creative Movement classes also teach skills that children will utilize later in life: teamwork and social skills (as they learn, play, and share with others in class); structure and following a schedule; and the foundation for more formal dance training in the future. Classes are also a place many young children might first start learning right from left, how to line up and take turns, or how to take direction from an adult that is not a parent or guardian.
Oklahoma City Ballet offers two types of classes for younger children. The first (“Creative Movement”) is offered for children ages 3 to 4. Each class is 45 minutes and encourages the dancers to use their imaginations while they do hands-on activities with props such as scarves and tambourines. These classes are often themed for the season, which adds a fun element of play. Dancers are encouraged to wear any clothes they can dance and move in— anything from Spiderman pajamas to tutu dresses!
Students in Creative Movement classes should be potty-trained and able to take the classes independently (but don’t worry–parents can walk their dancers to class and stay nearby in the parent lounge in case they’re needed).
Oklahoma City Ballet also offers classes for even younger dancers (ages 0 to 2): “Move with Me.” This special class helps babies and toddlers to develop fine and gross motor skills alongside their favorite adult. Teaching artists are able to adapt the classes for “baby-wearing” as well as independent movers.
Both classes are held at Oklahoma City Ballet’s Five Moons Studio (6917 N Classen Blvd.), and offer sliding scale class fees—those paying for classes may pay any amount between the “minimum value” and “class value” listed with the class.
For more information, or to view the current class schedule, please visit Oklahoma City Ballet’s website: okcballet.org/ community/creative-movement
Interested in supporting Oklahoma City Ballet, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization? Donations, as well as planned and creative giving opportunities, are available. For more information, email development@okcballet.org or call 405.848.9898.
You’ve built a life. You might’ve left a little behind Old jobs. Closed accounts. Forgotten refunds. Let’s reconnect you with what’s yours.
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NEXUS ANIMALS CONNECTS COMMUNITIES WITH PETS
HELPFOR HORSES , TOO
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY HYDE
Sage Payne, Nexus Equine trainer, takes a horse for a ride.
“Our vision is to make Oklahoma a national model for animal welfare innovation.”
While most pet rescue nonprofits across the state and nationally focus their efforts on dogs and cats, one organization headquartered in Oklahoma City also is leading the charge on the equine front.
In fact, this organization was founded in 2016 as Nexus Equine to fill a massive void in horse welfare in Oklahoma.
“The state of Oklahoma is within the top five states in the nation for population of horses, yet there are significantly less resources per capita available here than in most other states,” observes Amanda Stump, development manager of the nonprofit Nexus Animals.
The nonprofit added Nexus Pets in 2023 to address similar gaps in services and lifesaving efforts for dogs and cats.
“Operating in alignment with Nexus Equine, Nexus Pets bridges the gaps between people and resources for pets across Oklahoma,” Amanda explains. “Our primary goal is to connect communities
with pets, reducing the number of at-risk animals through education, outreach and adoption initiatives.”
Today, Nexus Animals leads the charge for comprehensive animal welfare across Oklahoma through education, outreach and placement programs.
“Our vision is to make Oklahoma a national model for animal welfare innovation,” she says. “But our mission goes beyond rescue. We’re building sustainable solutions to Oklahoma’s biggest challenges—overcrowded shelters, limited access to care and the demand for progressive programs.
“As the largest organization in the state addressing horses, dogs and cats, Nexus has already transformed nearly 8,000 lives in just eight years.”
“Animals do more than share our lives; they heal and inspire us,” she shares. “And at Nexus Animals, we’re ensuring they get the love and protection they deserve.”
Nexus Animals CEO & Founder Rita Hoch
NEXUS ANIMAL PROGRAMS
• Nexus Care Connection Fund. Keeps pets with their families by providing essential resources such as veterinary care and food, which in turn, reduces shelter surrenders.
• Nexus Transport Program. Relocates animals to areas with higher adoption demand and decreased animal shelter overcrowding, giving them a faster path to loving homes and alleviating pressure and need for euthanasia on local shelters.
• Rita’s Angel Fund. Provides critical medical care for animals in severe need, transforming dire situations into stories of recovery and hope.
THE ROAD AHEAD
“As we expand our programs, we’re deepening our ‘hoof and paw prints’ in communities that need us most,” Amanda said. “Every initiative advances our mission: building a more humane, equitable future where both animals and the people who love them can thrive together.”
For more information, including how you can support this worthy organization, visit Nexusanimals.org.
A horse is prepared for training at Nexus Equine.
Kalea Remy, Nexus Pets population coordinator, hugs an adorable rescue puppy.
Amanda Stump (far left), Nexus Animals development manager, poses alongside volunteers at an event.
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LITTLE SCHOOL WITH a big heart
Light Christian Academy Dedicated to Helping Children Affected by Incarceration and Poverty
BY
ARTICLE
JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LIGHT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
It’s known as the small school with a big heart.
Established in 2012, Light Christian Academy’s mission is to “empower, educate and encourage our students to become followers of Jesus that are academically and spiritually prepared for life,” said the academy’s founder and Head of School, Robin Khoury, aka Ms. Robin.
The private college prep academy, which serves children in pre-K through fourth grade, opened in 2012 with an enrollment of only six. Today, some 30 students are enrolled in this special school.
“Children that have one or more parent who is incarcerated (or have been in the past), as well as some low-income children, often experience anxiety and depression. This can make learning difficult,” Robin said.
“At LCA, they enjoy and benefit from the family atmosphere and small classes,” she added, noting that class sizes are capped at 10.
Light Christian Academy, located at 3301 N. Martin Luther King Ave. in Oklahoma City, accepts applications from any student who has a parent who is currently incarcerated (or has a history of incarceration), as well as families living in the 73111 and surrounding ZIP codes (North East OKC and Midtown).
Eligible students receive scholarships to attend the academy, and are also provided free meals, uniforms, school supplies and transportation within the designated area. These scholarships are provided by community people, businesses, churches and clubs as well as foundations and tax credits.
Learn about how you can help support this small school with a big heart, including becoming a Dream Builder or Community Partner, at LightChristian.academy/donate. Individuals also are needed to volunteer to serve in a variety of roles as "Buddies." For more information about the academy and its mission, email info@lightchristian. academy or call 405.208.7858.
OKC fam, August is here! This month, we’re talking about two things very near and dear to our hearts: kids and pets. But amidst the adorable chaos, sometimes you just need a little escape, right? Enter Mary Eddy’s Italian Grill, the chicest spot in downtown OKC, nestled inside the historic Fordson Hotel in the West Village District. Think deep emerald greens, velvety textures, lush white orchids, and chandeliers glowing like it’s golden hour all day long. Oh, and the food? Chef’s kiss.
From the moment we walked in, it felt like Mary Eddy herself was welcoming us to sit back, unwind and treat ourselves. The restaurant, named after Mary Eddy Jones (philanthropist, arts enthusiast, all-around queen), is a love letter to hospitality and shared experiences. If you’re ready for elevated Italian with a side of wow-factor, keep reading because we are here to spill all the tea (or Aperol Spritz).
These cocktails are like little works of art in a glass. Here’s what we tried (and loved):
Aperol Spritz - Aperol, prosecco, citrus oleo saccharum and lemon. Bubbly, refreshing and a little sunshine in a glass.
Mela Mistica - Japanese whiskey, calvados, green apple, fennel, lemon oleo saccharum and a splash of Topo Chico. Complex, classy and oh-so-smooth.
OKC Vibes: Mel & Lestari's Insider Scoop
This Month, the Spotlight's on Mary Eddy’s Italian Grill
ARTICLE BY MEL DRAKE & LESTARI KUSUMAWARDANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY HARLEA ROBINSON
The Barb - Rhubarb, strawberry, cinnamon, lemon and old tom gin, with a touch of quillaja. This one’s fruity and fun with a hint of spice.
Smoke & Flames - Reposado tequila, mezcal, carrot, habanero, cinnamon, lemon and smoked paprika. Bold, smoky, and fiery.
STARTERS
When it comes to starters, you’ll want to order one of everything. Just trust us.
Nonna’s Meatballs - Sweet peppers, San Marzano tomato sauce and a big hug from Nonna herself (or at least that’s what it tastes like).
Prime Beef Filet Tartare - Calabrian chili dressing, horseradish cream sauce and perfectly crisp sourdough toast. A flavor explosion.
Colossal Poached Shrimp - Horseradish and tangy San Marzano tomato cocktail sauce. Juicy, fresh and totally irresistible.
MAINS
Mary Eddy’s mains are all about indulgence, and boy, did we indulge!
Mel's Pick -Spicy Blue Crab Campanelle - Velvety vodka sauce, aromatic garlic and spiced breadcrumbs sprinkled on top like fairy dust. Dreamy.
Lestari's Pick - Wagu Tomahawk Ribeye - Creamy horseradish sauce is the perfect companion to this melt-inyour-mouth masterpiece.
Lasagna - Veal ragout, mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, and San Marzano tomato sauce stacked to perfection. Comfort food with a luxe twist.
Grilled Halibut - Citrusy beurre blanc with green beans and cippolini onions. Light, flaky and oh-so-delicate.
SIDES
Whatever you do, don’t skip the sides. They’re major scene-stealers.
Crispy Brussels - Agave, balsamic vinaigrette, and fresh chives. Sweet, tangy, and crispy perfection.
Grilled Zucchini - Served with creamy burrata and white balsamic vinaigrette. Vibrant and oh-so-satisfying.
SWEETS & THINGS
Dessert at Mary Eddy’s isn’t optional. It’s essential. Tiramisu Parfait - Biscoff crumble with sweet mascarpone layers. Light, creamy and completely decadent.
Carrot Cake Ice Cream Sandwich - Cream cheese semifreddo, candied walnuts and carrot caramel. Need we say more?
Affogato - Vanilla ice cream drenched in espresso. Simple, bold and the perfect end to your meal.
UNTIL NEXT MONTH!
Whether you’re looking for a chic date-night spot, a post-pet-playdate indulgence, or just a fabulous excuse to treat yourself, Mary Eddy’s Italian Grill is calling your name. Grab your squad, snap some Insta-worthy pics (did we mention the chandeliers?), and savor every single bite.
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @ThisIsMelDrake and @le.star for more insider vibes.
Cheers and love always, Mel & Lestari
AUGUST 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 2ND
Oklahoma Railway Museum Offers Train Rides
3400 NE Grand Blvd. | 11:15 PM
Join the Oklahoma Railway Museum the first and third Saturday of the month for a train ride on vintage diesel locomotives and historic passenger coaches. Regular train rides leave the Oakwood Depot at the Museum at 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m. & 3:15 p.m. $12 Adults, $5 children age 3 to 12, under 3 ride free in a parent's lap.
AUGUST 17TH
FAM Sets Sewn Symmetry Beadwork Workshop
659 First Americans Blvd. | 1:00 PM
Restoring Commercial Real Estate Value
Rolling Suds, the nation’s leading power washing franchise, dedicates its services to revitalizing and enhancing the value of commercial
Are you a beginner or intermediate beader? Participants ages 13+ will learn basic techniques (and a few more advanced tips) from a skilled instructor during this workshop at the First Americans Museum. All students will receive a beadwork kit worth $75. $30 nonmembers.
AUGUST 21ST
Spice It Up at OKCMOA
415 Couch Drive | 6:00 PM
In collaboration with The SoundBar OKC and Latin Fusion Oklahoma, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art brings rhythm to the Museum Patio with Salsa Nights— an upbeat evening of music and dance happening every third Thursday. Join professional salsa dancers for an evening of fun, movement, and community. This beginner-friendly event welcomes everyone.
‘COOL OFF WITH A CLAIM’ THIS SUMMER
OKLAHOMA STATE TREASURER ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO SEARCH FOR UNCLAIMED PROPERTY
As Oklahomans embrace the summer season, the Oklahoma State Treasurer’s Office is encouraging residents to take a moment to check for unclaimed property, financial assets that may have been forgotten, misplaced or simply overlooked.
The Treasurer’s Office currently holds more than $1.4 billion in unclaimed assets belonging to current and former Oklahoma residents. These funds can include forgotten bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, utility deposits and more.
“Summer can be a slower season for many: school’s out, routines shift and people finally find time to catch up on things they’ve put off,” said Oklahoma State Treasurer Todd Russ.
“It’s the perfect moment to check and see if there’s unclaimed money waiting for you or someone in your family.”
You can also search for close family members, including loved ones who have passed away, as some assets may still be claimed by their heirs or designated representatives. The Unclaimed Property Program is one of several ways the Treasurer’s Office helps Oklahomans protect and recover their assets.
Searching is fast, free and secure at YourMoney. ok.gov. All you need is your name to get started. The entire claims process can be completed online.
For more information or to begin your search, visit YourMoney.ok.gov
Image: The Oklahoma State Treasurer’s Office is encouraging residents to take a moment to check for unclaimed property, financial assets that may have been forgotten. (Photo provided.)
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