MetroFamily Magazine February 2015

CeleCome wit brat hu e Me e s! t Y

2015

our Fam ily F avo (Se rite ep . 44 s ) FEBRUARY 2015

TEAM ROBERTS: The touching story of an Edmond student’s tragedy overcome by family and football STRIKE UP THE BAND: Find great music programs for your kids FIND UNIQUE DATE SPOTS FOR A SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY

See our calendar for 134 fabulous events!

WITH

Chelsea

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The ultimate OKC family fun

Volume 18, Number 2

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015

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EDITORIAL

Sarah Taylor–Publisher Hannah Schmitt–Managing Editor Lindsay Cuomo–Calendar Editor Mark Smith, Heather Davis, Jennifer Geary, Jennifer Sharpe and Lindsay Cuomo–Contributing Writers Steffanie Halley and Emily Hart– Contributing Photographers

See how music education is enriching the lives of local youth and find out how to get your own kids involved.

HAVE A STORY OR BIG EVENT? We are all about family activities and fun in the OKC metro. If you have a story to share, let us know!

CONTACT THE TEAM AT 405-601-2081 or email info@metrofamilymagazine.com.

YOUTH ORCHESTRA

DESIGN & SALES Stacy Noakes–Art Director Callie Collins–Marketing Director Athena Delce & Dana Price–Sales Kathy Alberty–Office/Distribution

Circulation - 35,000 Also available as a digital edition at www.metrofamilymagazine.com Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc.We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is a monthly magazine published by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 OKC, OK 73103 Office: 405-601-2081 Fax: 405-445-7509 info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2015, All Rights Reserved.

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SARAH ROBERTS You’ve seen this Real Mom on television but now you can get her take on her unique family.

PLUS...

DON’T MISS ALL THIS

20

NEXT STOP SALLISAW Discover the perfect winter road trip combining the best history and wildlife in the state.

7

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LOCAL SHOPPING Enjoy the ultimate Okie shopping experience at Blue Seven.

Editor’s Picks: Off-the-beaten-path date night ideas

8 Learn more about our Strong Together team 24 Calendar of Events 42 Mom Humor: Snow Days 44 Meet your Family Favorites: Introducing the 52

winners and finalists you chose to be named the best in the metro

The state of OKC’s after-school activities

Welcome FROM OUR EDITOR

This month, we highlight the best businesses in OKC, introduce you to an Edmond mom making headlines and uncover the benefits of music lessons for kids.

A

publication is only as good as its readers and I believe MetroFamily has the best ones.

You are smart and inquisitive and you certainly care deeply about making OKC an even better place to raise your family.

You share your stories with us on Facebook, you let us know when we’re wrong about something and you celebrate the best parts of Oklahoma City right along with us.

I can’t thank you enough for walking alongside us, but this month I will try. Our annual Family Favorites contest is our way of giving back to you. In our effort to highlight top family establishments, the list of Family Favorites points parents to the top businesses and services available in the metro.

If a business is named a Family Favorite, that means it’s been used and approved by local families.

To launch the contest, we asked our readers to tell us the OKC businesses and services they believe are top notch.

We received 40,859 votes for everything from nail salons and fitness centers to birthday party venues and family doctors.

recognition because they work tirelessly to serve locals.

MetroFamily’s staff has worked tirelessly to tally the votes and are proud to now announce who YOU, our readers, chose as the best businesses and services in the metro area. We hope you’ll use the list all year long to make decisions about where to spend your time and money.

Beyond our Family Favorites contest, we get behind the scenes of top local shops with our Local Shopping column.

Businesses can’t pay to be highlighted there, either. The featured shops and restaurants are carefully selected for their service to families. See this month’s feature about Blue Seven on page 36 and find more at bit.ly/Local_Shopping.

Hannah Schmitt Editor

The businesses can’t pay to be on the list. They earn the

ATE R B E L E C HIS T E V O L FAMILY AT Y R A U FEBR NT E V E C AN OK N PAGE 24 DAR O CALEN

r Enter ou contestsig! to win b

NOMINATOR TIFFANY WHITEFIELD AND HER AUNT, REGINA HARRIS, WHO WON OUR 2014 AWESOME MOM CONTEST. OUR 2015 CONTEST RUNS THIS MONTH.

• Enter our February giveaways at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/contests

Nominate an Awesome Mom—We’re giving you a chance to nominate a local mom to be featured in our Real Moms of the Metro column in May! Nominate someone special and the winning mom and nominator will both be awarded weekend trips to The Artesian Hotel, Casino & Spa in Sulphur. Enter by Feb. 28.

• Online Exclusives:

Oklahoma City University Elementary Education Program—Learn about the new OCU program that can get anyone with a bachelor’s degree certified to be an elementary school teacher in just 30 hours of coursework.Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ ocu-education/ to learn more.

Q&A with Dr. Schiermeyer—INTEGRIS OB/GYN Robert Schiermeyer, D.O., answers tough questions from readers about pregnancy and delivery. Find his Q&A and other tips for women revealed later this month at www. metrofamilymagazine.com/integris.

THIS MONTH’S COVER: Kadence W., age 5, is one of our 2015 Cover Kids winners. She is the daughter of Crystal and Jeremy W. Her favorite activities are swimming and dancing.

!

W WO

Kadence is wearing an outfit provided

by Macy’s Quail Springs. Special thanks to the local department store for providing outfits to our Cover Kids winners.

Photo: Emily Hart, www.ninaandbphotography.com

family buzz

This month, we’re buzzing about after-school activities in OKC, some unique date destinations for February and our upcoming Strong Together fitness initiative.

It’s all about family fun!

RESOURCES TO ADD TO YOUR FAMILY FUN QUOTIENT

BY HANNAH SCHMITT - MANAGING EDITOR

What are your kids doing after school?

A

recent study about after-school programs found that while Oklahoma City is home to many quality programs for children, there aren’t nearly enough after-school options for the number of kids who need them.

On page 52, writer Lindsay Cuomo dives into the study, chats with local experts and discovers how metro businesses are looking to fill the after-school gaps. We asked our Facebook fans how their kids spend the time between 3 and 6 p.m. Here are some responses:

Desiree S.: Depends on the day. My daughter has rowing on Mondays and Tuesdays and dance on Wednesdays and Fridays. My son has swim Tuesdays and Thursdays. We are busy, busy.

Joy S.: My kids go to a wonderful afterschool program at the Tinker School Age Program on Tinker Air Force Base. The program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation.

It features a “Choice System” that allows youth to pick which classrooms they want to play in. Great staff and programming!

Leesa C.: Snack is their priority! We also do tutoring, homework, Zumba at the Y, play, read, walk the dog, chores and/or occasionally nap or have some tv time.

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FEBRUARY 2015

Dan R.: The kids go to the after-school program at their school. However, the word “program” is one I use loosely. It’s just them sitting around the cafeteria, having a snack and/or playground until we pick them up. Both of mine are at the same place so it works for us, but I wish it was more enriching.

Judy H.: Three days of the week he goes to grandma’s house and eats a snack and does homework. The other two days he attends an after-care program.

Tara W.: I work from home, but would love my daughter to participate in an after-school program that’s not too expensive where she can have and enjoy fun activities as well.

Editor’s Picks: Off-the-Beaten-Path Date Night Ideas

I

t might be tough to swing a date on Valentine’s Day, when restaurants are packed and babysitters are hard to come by. But don’t rule out a February date just yet.

Here are some unique ways to spend quality time with your love this month.

Rocktown Climbing Gym 200 S.E. 4th St. 319-1400 www.rocktowngym.com

Why we love it: While facing your fears and working up a sweat are usually things you want to avoid on a date, we promise you’ll love tackling a challenge with your partner at Rocktown. With indoor and outdoor climbing options, you never have to worry about the weather ruining your date. Located in a downtown grain silo, the destination itself is unique and with no climbing experience needed, it’s a great choice for anyone.

Hoboken Coffee Roasters 224 S. Division St., Guthrie 760-3034 www.hobokencoffeeroasters.com

Why we love it: Literally off the beaten path, this cozy coffee house is located in Guthrie. Use the relaxing drive out as part of the date and arrive at Hoboken ready for a tasty specialty coffee and a fresh-baked pastry. Soft music, comfortable seating and friendly faces make it the perfect spot for a romantic, low-key date.

with your date can spark your interest in a new topic and give plenty of conversation material for dinner, which you’ll want to enjoy afterward at the Museum Cafe with their special $29 per person deal that includes a film ticket and a prix-fixe dinner.

Dust Bowl Lanes & Fassler Hall 421 N.W. 10th St. www.dustbowlokc.com www.fasslerhall.com

Why we love it: Couples can go back in time at this just-opened bowling alley, where you’ll even keep your own score with pencil and paper. The kitschy atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a beer and a bowl of tater tots, which you can order right from your lane.

Afterward head upstairs to Fassler Hall, a bar and restaurant styled after a German dining hall, where you can indulge in a traditional German pretzel or a not-so-traditional hamburger topped with sauerkraut and smoked gouda.

Paseo Arts District

28th & N. Walker to 30th & N. Dewey www.thepaseo.com Why we love it: There’s a lot of romance in spontaneity and a visit to the Paseo Arts District should be done impromptu.

No need to make elaborate plans for your visit to the city’s oldest arts community.

Just grab your love and head to the quaint neighborhood to visit any galleries that call your name before ducking into one of the district’s vibrant restaurants for a bite to eat.

If you’re feeling really adventurous, go for scallops or a surprising vegetarian option at Picasso Cafe (www.picassosonpaseo.com).

ROCK TOWN CLIMBING

GYM

Oklahoma City Museum of Art’s Sam Noble Theater 415 Couch Dr. 236-3100 www.okcmoa.com

Why we love it: The traditional dinner and a movie date gets a serious upgrade at this theater, which shows art house cinema.

You may have never heard of the films before as many of them are international, classic or independent but watching one METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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family buzz

Join Us as We Get Strong Together

BY HANNAH SCHMITT

STRONG TOGE THER

O

SPRING 2014 RUNNER S

ne year ago this month, MetroFamily launched a fitness initiative to inspire Oklahoma City moms to get fit called Strong Together.

The program invites all local females into eight weeks of free encouragement, instruction and community. The program is co-sponsored by runhers, a women’s lifestyle organization dedicated to health and wellness. At the direction of runhers coach and certified personal trainer Sara McCauley, the participants follow the “sofa2success©” program that equips them to be able to run a 5K at the end of the training season.

Our program is growing and we can’t wait to welcome more women into the Strong Together community this spring. The training will kick off Feb. 15 and we will all work together to get into better shape in time to run Oklahoma City’s famous RedBud Classic 5K on April 12.

Participants in Strong Together will get discounted entry to the race, but the program is more about the fellowship with and encouragement from other women than it is about the discount. Last October, almost two dozen Oklahoma City women crossed the finish line together at the Susan G. Komen Oklahoma City Race for the Cure.

After eight weeks of training, these women saw improvements in their physical fitness and their attitudes toward getting in shape and had made some friends along the way.

Voted Best Art Studio/ Art Lessons

The coaches and staff at runhers are with our Strong Together participants every step of the way. They not only train with our participants each Saturday, but they’re

always available to answer questions about exercise and nutrition. We also have a group of bloggers sharing their experiences with the whole Strong Together team, including our spokesperson Georgeanna Johnson.

Georgeanna is a Tulsa mom who lost 165 pounds on ABC’s popular show Extreme Weight Loss. She’s a living example of how a healthy diet and regular exercise can be life-changing.

Georgeanna will join a handful of other bloggers who are metro moms on their own health journeys. They will blog weekly about their experiences to help inspire the whole Strong Together team. Elite Feet in Edmond will be providing new running shoes to our Strong Together bloggers.

We welcome any and all women to join us in getting Strong Together. Participants range from seasoned runners to those who haven’t worked out in years. They’re grandmothers or moms of newborns. Some work inside the home and others report to an office every day.

Strong Together participants come from all backgrounds, but the one thing they have in common is that they’re ready to set new fitness goals and spend a little more time focused on their personal health.

If you’re interested in joining our Strong Together Spring 2015 session, please attend one of two informational meetings offered on Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 7 at 10 a.m. at the EWF International Building at 725 N.W. 11th St.

GEORGE ANNA JOHN METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

To learn more and RSVP for one of our informational meetings, please visit http://bit. ly/Strong_RedBud2015.

local family fun

MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL BAND, PHOTO BY JOY NEEL

How learning an instrument

impacts classroom performance

BY MARK SMITH - CONTRIBUTING WRITER INTRODUCTION BY HANNAH SCHMITT MANAGING EDITOR

Strike up the Band!

This month brings us to our fourth and final installment of MetroFamily’s series on Introducing Kids to the Arts. Since November, we’ve shared with you the value of creative experiences to kids and revealed some of the great ways for them to encounter the arts in the metro. This month, we highlight instrumental music.

The Arts Education Partnership’s Music Matters study reports a long list of academic and social benefits to music education. Exposing kids to music from a young age prepares students for learning, according to the report.

Young music students have superior working memory, better thinking skills and improved fine motor skills. As they grow up, exposure to music improves their ability to recall and retain verbal information while also advancing math achievement. Older music students have sharpened attentiveness, better study habits and self-esteem and higher SAT scores.

These are just a few of the benefits of music education called out in the report, but they all are evident to Cindy Scarberry, an Oklahoma City metro music teacher, executive director of the Opry Heritage Foundation and founder of the Opry’s Granville Community Music School. The teachers at the school, located at 2304 Exchange Ave., have seen the benefits first-hand.

“That’s really the sole reason we started this program,” Scarberry said about the statistics.

“We have witnessed the power of music and we know what it can do in the lives of children. It’s so much more than just about the music.”

She sees students in the Granville Community Music School become more confident, make better grades, make new friends and overcome social issues all because of the music lessons.

Thank you for voting us

Best Alternative Doctor GRANVILLE COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL

Granville Community Music School Granville started in 2009 with just 15 students. Today, the school serves 200 students and according to Scarberry, the program is looking to grow if they can recruit more instructors and get more instrument donations to serve the students on the waiting list.

Any Oklahoma City student who qualifies for free or reduced lunch programs also qualifies for the Granville Community Music School.

The school offers weekly music lessons and instrument rental to students who otherwise wouldn’t have the means to learn to play an instrument. Students in the program schedule lessons at the school weekly.

To illustrate the success of Granville, Scarberry told a story of one of the early students in the program. He started playing the flute at the music school in 2009 and by the time he was graduating high school, the college offers and music scholarships were pouring in.

“They’re doing better here, so we know it’s about more than music,” she said. “It’s about so many life skills they can learn through music.”

Oklahoma City offers endless opportunities for kids to engage in music from early childhood all the way through high school. To the surprise of some parents, most music programs don’t require any previous experience or musical talent, just a desire to get involved and learn something new.

Below, we discuss music education options at both public schools and private institutions, including Granville. While we cannot list every Oklahoma City music program available to youth, we hope this list provides inspiration and encourages you to seek out additional musical experiences that might be a good fit for your family.

“We noticed early on that he had a huge talent,” she said, “and he started thinking about college and dreaming of becoming a professional musician, a band director, a teacher.”

The whole world opened up to him through music, she said. The student decided to go to college and is now in his second year as a chemistry major at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Even though he didn’t choose to pursue music professionally, Scarberry said she is proud about the role music has played in his life.

“I’m not worried about trying to make them all musicians,” she said of Granville students.

“I just want them to realize that there is a big world they can be part of and have an impact on and you can get the confidence and the resources and the networking all right here through music.”

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

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Scarberry sees music impact all kinds of students, not just the ones at Granville.

In addition to her duties there, she’s been teaching music for 20 years and currently teaches at Norman High School weekday mornings and Monroe Elementary weekday afternoons.

“I’m also a singer-songwriter,” she said. “I grew up in church, my dad was a preacher and my mom played piano so music was always a big part of my life. I know what music has done for me. I’ve been able to use music to help me through some of the hardest times in my life.”

To be able to provide free lessons to Oklahoma City youth, the music school relies on the generosity of local teachers and music enthusiasts and on local businesses willing to support the cause. Granville recently was awarded the $50,000 Cox Connects IMPACT Grant and has received funding from the Oklahoma Arts Council, Devon Energy, Taco Mayo and the Kirkpatrick Foundation.

There are no auditions for the free music school but students must complete an eight-week music theory class to qualify for

OKLAHOMA YOUTH

lessons. Granville is open to students between 9 and 18 years old.

ORCHESTR A

NOTE: If you have a musical instrument you’d like to donate, are interested in donating your time as an instructor or would like to inquire about lessons for your child, please contact oprystaff@ohfo.org.

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras Oklahoma Youth Orchestras offer additional musical education opportunities for Oklahoma City metro students. Jason Edward Grife, executive director of the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras, said his main goal is to prepare students for life and to correct inaccurate views regarding orchestras.

“Instrumental music opportunities for today’s young musicians are necessary for both the continuation of the art form and the continued development of the art form’s

audience,” Grife said. “It also is important as an organization that we help eliminate the view that orchestral music is ‘high art’ and only for the affluent. Music is meant to be created and enjoyed by everyone.”

The Oklahoma Youth Orchestras cater to all kinds of students. With 12 ensembles and 300 students from Central and Western Oklahoma, the program has what it takes to create the next Mozart.

Fill your summer with Adventure on the Oklahoma River! Reach for the sky on the SandRidge Sky Trail, high speed slide and zip line. Then get out on the water in a kayak or dragon boat. You’ll find all this and more in our camps for ages 8-16; full and half day options available.

Visit us online at boathousedistrict.org to learn more!

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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G Y M N A S T I C S The orchestras play at prestigious Oklahoma City events and with talented adult groups including the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.

Celebrating Our 34th Year of Gymnastics

MUSTANG PUBLIC SCHOOLS

“The organization offers auditioned classical orchestras, a wind ensemble, string orchestras and even rock music,” Grife said. “Our students join in with their peers from all over the state each week to make music together.”

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras typically play concerts September through May, but Grife said ensembles do play other venues throughout the year.

“Our youngest students perform community outreach concerts to senior living communities,” he said, “and string orchestras work with nationallyrenowned music educators during our Guest Conductor Workshop series.”

Younger students can play without auditions but are required to be able to read music and one year of experience.

Students also are asked to participate in their school musical program, if available.

Older students must audition for placement within one of the ensembles. The programs are designed for students from 5th to 12th grade with at least one year of instrument experience and the ability to read music.

Tuition ranges from $300 to $525 per year.

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras provide several payment plans, and financial aid is available as well. Auditions for 2015-2016 will be hosted May 16, 17 and 18. Parents can learn more at www.harrisonacademy.org.

In addition to ensembles, Oklahoma Youth Orchestras plan to start its first summer camp next year.

“Summer Symphony Strings Camp is a weeklong day camp designed for young string players grades five through eight,” Grife said “The camp is non-auditioned and concludes in a final performance for families.”

For more information about joining the Oklahoma Youth Orchestras, contact info@ oyomusic.org or call 405-232-1199.

Mustang Public Schools The Mustang Broncos teaches school pride through its renowned music and band programs.

With nearly 1,000 students from Mustang Public Schools, the band’s size allows it to

be a major competitive force according to Bandleader Ryan Edgmon. The group has been recognized as one of the top achieving bands in the state.

“Our size allows us to facilitate more activities at all levels of achievement than many of our neighbor programs,” Edgmon said. “We have a marching band that is a top competitor at our state competition.”

The band’s impressive performances have allowed students to compete on the national level, as well. The past two seasons have taken the group to compete in Indianapolis and St. Louis and the jazz program and wind ensemble have been recognized for their talents, as well.

• • • • • • • • •

Parent-Tot Preschool Gymnastics (boys & girls) Recreational Classes Home School Classes Tumbling Classes Competitive Team Private Lessons Birthday Parties Play Group Outings

Enrollment is open to all sixth graders and up. Band is a seven-year continuous course of study that starts when students are in 6th grade.

For more information, parents can contact Edgmon at 405-376-7340.

Edmond Memorial High School For Edmond Memorial High School student Josh Bruza, joining the band meant more than learning to play music. It also meant finding friends and discovering a sense of belonging.

Josh’s mom, Margret Bruza, said his standard response to how band practice went is “band is love, band is life.”

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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848-5308

www.metrogymokc.com 7420 N. Broadway Ext., Suite F email: metrogymokc@sbcglobal.net

Co-Owners: Sarah Blackledge Brawley Carol Blackedge Lee

G Y M N A S T I C S

EDMOND MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL, PHOTO BY JOY NEEL

“Band is a brotherhood,” Josh said. “The students enjoy marching as it is a lot of fun, and after months of effort and practice, everyone experiences a great sense of accomplishment. It’s a support group where even incoming freshmen are welcomed immediately.”

His family doesn’t have a music background, but Josh joined the band in middle school and immediately found a new skill and a tight group of friends. Band doesn’t just offer a sense of belonging and accomplishment; it encourages and motivates students to perform better academically and socially.

Band also connects students with a creative outlet that improves their self-esteem. Josh said he’s become better at time management and multitasking since joining the band and has more commitment and motivation than before.

Founded in 1938, EMHS’ Big Bad Bulldog Band offers high school students the marching band, three concert bands and three jazz ensembles. EMHS’ marching band is a competitive band that performs halftime at all home football games. Members also perform at contests and festivals.

Wind bands consist of three separate groups – Symphonic Band (Grades 10-12), Wind Ensemble (Grades 9-12) and Concert Band (entry level).

Assessment fees for the band start at $225, and parents are responsible for trips and marching shoes. For more information about EMHS bands, contact the school at 405-3402850.

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Crooked Oak Public Schools Southeast Oklahoma City school district Crooked Oak Public Schools staff members take pride in helping beginners learn the foundation of music. District administrators believe music education connects students with other concentrations.

“It is our mission,” said Crooked Oak High School Band Teacher Maria Ward, “to provide an exceptional music education to every single student that is interested in participating, regardless of financial constraints or scheduling conflicts with other activities or classes.”

The school offers a beginners class for high school students who want to learn an instrument but didn’t take band in middle school. Crooked Oak also has an advanced level band which competes in state tournaments and performs at various venues.

“Our advanced high school band is small but mighty,” Ward said. “The students work very hard to perform in a variety of venues including football games, basketball games and veteran events.”

Ward said the band’s success is a testimony to the commitment and passion of each student.

“The students love music and jump at any opportunity to share their love of music with others,” she said. “We also strive to provide students with opportunities they may not otherwise.”

Crooked Oak provides 100 percent of all materials and costs. Parents and students are not required to contribute financially to the band. For more information, contact Ward at mward@crookedoak.org or 405-677-5252 ext. 125.

Join us for our Thunder Youth Basketball camps, presented by Cox Communications! Get out of the house and onto the court to hone your basketball skills and have some fun. Camps fill up fast, so register now or sign up for future camp notifications!

CAMPS

JUNIOR CAMPS

FLEX CAMPS

5-DAY CAMP

5-DAY CAMP

1- TO 5-DAY CAMPS

AGES 10-16

AGES 5-9

AGES 5-16

9AM TO 2:30PM

MORNING ONLY

COME AS MANY

9AM TO NOON

DAYS AS YOU CAN

VISIT THUNDER.NBA.COM TO REGISTER FOR AN UPCOMING CAMP For all Thunder Youth Basketball camps, Thunder players or coaches may visit as their schedules allow, but player/coach appearances are not guaranteed. Each camp participant will receive a Thunder Youth Basketball T-shirt and a basketball.

Real moms of the metro Meet Sarah Roberts

BY JENNIFER SHARPE - CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHOTOS BY STEFFANIE HALLEY www.steffaniehalley.com

T

here are so many words to describe Sarah Roberts: Mother, ministry leader, coach’s wife, mentor and friend, but these words do not even begin to cover the talents and responsibilities of this 36-year-old woman.

Many people know her name from the Together We Make Football campaign, but Sarah was inspiring and encouraging those around her long before she was featured on The Today Show or before her family won the NFL-sponsored contest.

“Somebody once told me you can have it all, you just can’t have it all at once,” Sarah said about motherhood. “It’s okay that I’m not being everything to everybody all at once. But I live by the idea of ‘be where you are.’”

And where Sarah is right now is in the spotlight. The Edmond mother has had quite a year. Sarah’s husband, Chris, is the head football coach of the Crossings Christian School football team. When one of his players lost both his parents, Sarah and Chris welcomed him into their own family, which already included children Cale (10), Chloe (8) and Case (5).

It was Christian Osterhout’s freshman year at Crossings when his father died. Going beyond his duties as a coach, Chris stepped up to mentor football player Christian, who started spending more and more time with the Roberts family. Over the next couple years, Christian’s mother battled terminal illness and it became apparent that plans would need to be made should she die.

Christian asked Chris and Sarah if he could join the Roberts family, and preparations were made. When Christian’s mom died in the fall of 2014, he moved in with the Roberts family.

That’s when Sarah entered Christian into a contest sponsored by the NFL called Together We Make Football. The contest had thousands of entries but Christian’s powerful story won people over and he was named the winner of the contest at the beginning of the year and this month they’ll accept their prize as the whole family heads to the 2015 Super Bowl.

While Sarah and her husband have received a lot of attention for what they’ve done for Christian, the humble couple insists they

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e d m o n d pa r k s & r e c r e at i o n

march 16–20 Science of the Future Your future scientist will develop submarines, wind-up space stations, learn about lasers, build a light stick and decipher fact from fiction along with so much more!!

9 a.m. – Noon | 2nd – 6th Grade MAC in Mitch Park | Cost: $138

LEGO NXT Mindstorms Robotics Kids will explore their inner robot with LEGO NEXT Mindstorms robots. They will learn robot mechanics, electrical circuitry while testing, identifying and comparing toy robots.

1 – 4 p.m. | 2nd – 6th Grade MAC in Mitch Park | Cost: $156

Learn to Draw!

Anyone can learn to be a confident artist in Abrakadoodle’s innovative drawing program where students learn to draw using easily recognizable shapes. Watch how quickly your child’s confidence grows in this class!

9 a.m. – Noon or 1 – 4 p.m.

MAC in Mitch Park Ages 8 – 13 | $80

Register Today! Go to EdmondParks.com and click on the Recreation Friends tab.

are the ones that have been blessed by their growing family.

Even before they saw a need to help Christian, Chris and Sarah felt called to add to their family through adoption. They’re currently fostering another child, 5-year-old Elisha, who is set to be adopted soon.

“The only thing I can say about why we fostered and adopted was we were blessed with a burden,” Sarah said. “Oklahoma has one of the highest foster child ratios and although we didn’t have much, we knew we had what they needed: a family.

“After much prayer, we were sitting in church Christmas 2013 and our pastor did a message called ‘Fear Not for What God Is Asking You to Do.’ It was on Mary. Our pastor said, ‘Maybe you’re sitting here and you have three kids of your own and God is asking you to foster or adopt. Obedience is up to you and the outcome is up to God.’ We knew that was our confirmation and we signed up that week!”

While the NFL contest coverage has taught us a lot about the Roberts family, it hasn’t shown everything Sarah does behind-thescenes.

Much of what goes on with “Team Roberts,” as Sarah affectionately refers to her family, is related to sports and athletic seasons. When Chris is in-season, Sarah takes on the lead parenting role in the home. She attends team activities, goes to games to cheer them on and even hosts meals for the team in their home. When the football season ends, Sarah’s work outside the home enters her busier season as Chris becomes the lead parent.

SARAH ROBERTS PIC

TURED WITH HER “W

founded Trophy Wives, a support system under her ministry that aims to serve the wives of coaches and athletic support staff.

“I’m always learning,” Sarah explained. “At the beginning of every year, I don’t do a New Year’s resolution, I choose one word to guide me throughout the year and 2014’s word was intentional. Everything I do has a purpose.”

Her word for 2015 is “today” and as she strives to live in the present, she’s inspiring those around her to do the same. The busy mom has written a book of devotionals called “Just Ask” geared toward women in athletics that will be published by CrossTraining Publishing this spring.

Sarah is the Director of Women’s Ministry for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for Oklahoma, where she serves female coaches, athletes and wives of coaches and athletic staff. She is the chaplain for the University of Oklahoma women’s softball team, where she offers Bible studies, chapel services and provides a “ministry of presence” by attending occasional practices and being available as a resource for team and one-on-one mentoring.

Sarah sees her most important job as being mom to her five kids, which involves constant energy, love and guidance.

Additionally, she works with a variety of other high school and collegiate teams mentoring and ministering through team building activities. She supports female coaches with emails, written letters and videos. Sarah also

Whenever possible, Sarah includes her children in her work, bringing them to her speaking engagements and activities.

“When somebody says to my kids, ‘You are just like your mom,’ I want my kids to take that as a compliment and not a negative,” she said. “I want it to be a positive thing. I want them to understand that they are first and foremost my most important ministry.”

“When the kids hear me speaking to a

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ILD” FAMILY.

group,” she said, “I want them to say, ‘That is the same thing that she taught us at home!’”

Twice a year, Sarah and Chris have a family meeting where they ask the children what they can do to be better parents.

“We have to be ready for their honest, sometimes gut-wrenching, truth,” she said.

“We ask them and we want to know what they experience.”

As they continue to invite more children into their family, Sarah is inviting more input about what she can do better and where she falls short. Regardless of how she is portrayed on television through Christian’s story, she wants people to see an authentic side to the family, as well.

“It’s funny because when people say, ‘I don’t know how you do it,’ they are really just saying, ‘Your situation is horrible and I do not want it,’” she said. “As a mother, you don’t do it all, it’s impossible to do everything you want to do all the time. I don’t want people to read about me and say, ‘This isn’t real.’ The struggle is real.Yes, there are a lot of great things going on and I love my life, but there is still a struggle and the struggle is real. I want to encourage other moms in that way, so that they know they are not alone.”

As Sarah’s family has grown, she’s learned a thing or two about parenting.

Get the inside scoop below!

Thank You OKC!

What is your biggest challenge?

Thinking I can be everything to everybody all the time.

How would you describe your parenting style?

Intentional. Everything I do as a parent I want it to have purpose.

WINNER Best Pediatrician

What is on your wish list?

I’m really wanting a couch that hasn’t been pooped on, peed on or thrown up on.

How has motherhood changed you?

Motherhood has shown me how selfish I can be and selfless I need to become.

What is your favorite quote about motherhood?

My mom always told me to “never wish away your children. Never wish they could walk or talk or drive. Just enjoy every season.”

How do you banish stress?

I love naps! Even if it’s 20 minutes in the car, it does wonders when I am stressed.

What motivates you?

My personal mission is “winning the lost and encouraging those who have already won.” This motivates me every day in my home and outside.

What is on your playlist?

Hillsong, Colbie Caillat and Natalie Grant.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I love watching movies I can sing and dance to. “Footloose,” “Grease” and “Pitch Perfect.”

What is your favorite television show?

“The Goldbergs.” Beverly Goldberg is my favorite television mom!

Describe yourself in five words.

Relational, passionate, fun, positive, nontype A.

What would your friends or family say everyone else doesn’t know about you?

I was the baby of my family growing up and after 36 years, my family would still say I am the “baby” of the family.

How do you find balance?

I love the Bible. One of my favorite verses says “Seek first the kingdom of God and then all these things will be added to you.” When I seek God first then I can be the mom, wife, ministry leader I am suppose to be. My life is crazy and I need someone to balance the craziness and that is my Jesus.

FINALIST Best Urgent Care

Angela K. Yaffe, M.D. Pediatrician

Sarah Palm, M.D. Pediatrician

Jordan Pope, M.D. Kaylee D. Heim, APRN Pediatrician Nurse Practitioner

PEDIATRIC CLINIC HOURS

Monday-Friday: 8am–5pm SW OKC 2809 SW 119th St. (Just east of May) OKC, OK 73170

MOORE 400 N EASTERN (Just north of Moore HS) MOORE, OK 73160

URGENT CARE HOURS

Monday-Friday: 5-9pm Sat, Sun & Holidays: 9am-5pm

What makes you proud?

This family! We call ourselves Team Roberts because that’s how we view ourselves: a team.

2809 SW 119th St. (Just east of May) OKC, OK 73170

What is your favorite indulgence?

The Melting Pot dessert fondue.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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JustKidsPeds.com • 405-757-7818

exploring oklahoma with children

Family Road Trip to Sallisaw

BY JENNIFER GEARY - CONTRIBUTING WRITER MAIN PHOTO BY JENNIFER GEARY, TOP PHOTO COURESTY OF U.S. FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE

A

re you looking for a good weekend trip that includes both indoor and outdoor activities? Something to satisfy the history lovers and the nature lovers? It’s time to head east to Sallisaw, where you can explore both the great outdoors and our great state’s history!

SEQUOYAH NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE You may be wondering how family-friendly a trip to a wildlife preserve can be, and the answer is that in the case of the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Vian, it can be a wonderful family experience! Before you visit the refuge, make sure to visit their website (www.bit.ly/SequoyahNWR) for detailed information on how to prepare for your visit.

They have wildlife-watching tips for you to make the most of your time outdoors as well as printable species lists for birds, fish, mammals and reptiles and amphibians. Once you’re on site, you’ll find plenty of signage, too, to help you identify some of the most abundant plants and animals.

If you have kids who need to burn off some energy after a car ride (about two hours and 20 minutes from Oklahoma City), there are

two separate mile-long nature trails you can try. These are paved trails that are stroller and wheelchair accessible, so everyone in the family can take part. The Sandtown Nature Trail offers a view of the Arkansas and Canadian Rivers’ delta and is a popular area to spot bald eagles. My kids and I walked the Horton Slough Trail, which winds through a beautiful forested area where we saw several different types of birds and heard many woodpeckers.

The trail is also adjacent to a wetlands area with several benches along the way to rest and enjoy the scenery. At the midpoint of the trail, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the wildlife on Sally Jones Lake.Visiting the refuge was the highlight of the trip for me.

Despite cold weather, I always enjoy watching my kids explore outside and the amount of information the facility provides for what plants and animals to seek out in the area was outstanding.

If you don’t want to get out and walk the nature trails, there are two car tour routes to choose from. The Sandtown Bottoms route is a six mile gravel road that offers the chance to see bald eagles, deer and other animals. The Webbers Bottom route is two miles long and also has fishing access.

Depending on weather and road conditions, these routes may be closed, so you should check in at the refuge headquarters if you have any questions.

Though the refuge feels very secluded, you’re only about three miles south of the interstate. Head east on I-40 east, take the Vian exit (#297) and follow the road south to the refuge headquarters. There are plenty of signs along the way to make sure you’re on the right path. The refuge is open for visitors from 5 a.m. to sunset every day, and the headquarters is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The staff can provide maps, handouts and other information to help make your visit more enjoyable.

Be sure to check the events calendar on the website for details on specific events, such as the eagle tours going on in February and March.

QUOYAH NATURE TR AILS AT SE REFUGE NATIONAL WILDLIFE

After your visit to the wildlife refuge, head east a little farther on I-40 and take the Sallisaw exit (#308) for US-59. Sallisaw is approximately two and a half hours east of Oklahoma City on I-40, so it’s a simple day trip. There are no toll roads and plenty of places to exit and re-enter if you’re traveling with small ones who need frequent breaks, so this is a pretty simple drive.

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OAsmiles.com

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN AT THE COWBOY

Saturday, February 7

14 FLAGS MUSEUM

Saturdays for Kids Mixed Media Journal Making 10:15 and 11:15 a.m.

Free for Children and Families

Friday, February 13

Madonnas of the Prairie: Depictions of Women in the American West

Hosted by the Museum and organized by the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum in Canyon, Texas, this exhibit features more than 100 works focusing on women in the late 19th century through the present as seen through the talents of multiple artists.

And there is always more!

HISTORY ART SHOPPING DINING

1700 NE 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK (405) 478-2250 WWW.NATIONALCOWBOYMUSEUM.ORG

14 FLAGS MUSEUM

SEQUOYAH’S CABIN

Follow US-59 to Cherokee Street and just after Wheeler Street you’ll come to a unique roadside attraction, the 14 Flags Museum.

The museum takes its name from the 14 different flags that have flown over what is now Oklahoma, from the Spanish flag brought by Coronado in 1541 to our present flag, which was adopted in 1925.

Your next stop, Sequoyah’s Cabin, is about 15 minutes outside of town. Head north on Wheeler Street to OK-101 and follow it approximately seven miles to the site, which is well-marked and will be on your right.

There are four different buildings which comprise the museum: a depot which is dedicated to early train travel in the area, a Trail of Tears Interpretive Center and two cabins which document the lives of early settlers in Indian Territory. The Trail of Tears exhibit was my 5-year-old daughter’s favorite part of the trip. She loved listening to the music as she walked through the educational displays.

There is a Union Pacific caboose on site as well. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day and is free to visit. This is a self-guided venue but there are brochures available to provide information about the buildings and artifacts.

SEQUOYAH’S CABIN

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As you’ve likely heard if you’ve spent much time in Oklahoma, Sequoyah was the creator of the Cherokee syllabary, which allowed the tribal members to communicate through writing for the first time using their own language.

Sequoyah was born in Tennessee and later lived in Arkansas before coming to Indian Territory and building the cabin on-site in 1829. This cabin is the actual cabin he built (and not a reproduction) and is still on the same site. After the Oklahoma Historical Society acquired the cabin in the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration built the stone building that currently stands around the cabin.

Inside the cabin, you can see artifacts from

Sequoyah’s time, including some items that actually belonged to his family. My 10-year-old son said viewing the artifacts was the highlight of the trip for him and he found the old pieces very interesting. In the building surrounding the cabin are other Cherokee artifacts and information on the syllabary and how its creation compares to the development of other languages.

In addition to the cabin building, you’ll want to make sure you have time to walk the grounds. The 10-acre park surrounding the buildings is some of the most beautiful land in the area and the gently sloping hill and wide open spaces will beckon your kids to expend some energy before getting back in the car for the drive home. There are several picnic tables located near Sequoyah’s spring which give you a great place for your lunch or snack.

Be sure to keep your eyes open for the new little (wooden) bear that has taken up residence on the property near the tables, too!

The site is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.; there is no admission charge.

There is also a gift shop, so bring a little money along for some souvenirs. Happy travels!

SEQUOYAH’S CABIN

DETAILS: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge 107993 S. 4520 Rd. Vian, OK 74962 918-773-5251 fws.gov/refuge/Sequoyah/ 14 Flags Museum 400 E. Cherokee Sallisaw, OK 74955 918-775-2608 Sequoyah’s Cabin 470288 Highway 101 Sallisaw, OK 74955 918-775-9744 okhistory.org/sites/ sequoyahcabin.php

DR. ROBERT SCHIERMEYER It’s the most important experience for you and your new little one. Why not put it in the hands of an OB/GYN – and a hospital – you know and trust? Dr. Robert Schiermeyer, one of the area’s favorite OB/GYNs, is part of INTEGRIS Health Edmond. And yes, he delivers.

You can expect the one-on-one attention you deserve as you deliver your baby in a large, cozy suite, nestled in the most serene of hospital environments, with the most advanced technology available – close to home.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Schiermeyer at INTEGRIS Family Care East or INTEGRIS Edmond Renaissance, call 405.657.3955.

THE OB/GYN IS IN.

integrisok.com/edmond • 405.657.3955

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calendar

events this

february

OUR CALENDAR MAKES IT EASY TO FIND FAMILY FUN IN OKC. FIND MORE AT WWW.METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM/CALENDAR KNIGHTS & PRINCESSES—FEB 8

Fairytales and a Shakespeare classic come to life at Knights & Princesses, an Oklahoma City Philharmonic Discovery Family Concert.

Hear the music of Cinderella, Romeo & Juliet and Beauty and the Beast at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker). Kids are encouraged to dress as their favorite character. The Philharmonic’s Discovery Series offers one-hour concerts designed to entertain and educate little audience members ages 4 to 13 in hopes to set them on the path to a lifelong love of music. Join the pre-concert fun in the lobby with an Instrument Playground and Conductor’s Corner, where kids can meet the performers and discover the instruments. Pre-concert activities begin at 1pm and are FREE with ticket purchase. Tickets are $9 and seating is general admission. Concert begins at 2pm.

MORE INFORMATION: WWW.OKCPHILHARMONIC.ORG PHONE: 842-5387 Photo courtesy of Oklahoma City Philharmonic

BART & NADIA SPORTS EXPERIENCE—FEB 14

Grab the family and take on the Perfect 10 Fitness Challenge at the Bart & Nadia Sports Experience at the Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens). The event is organized by Olympic gold medalists Bart Conner and Nadia Comaneci. Families are encouraged to take ownership of their health through activities that embrace Olympic, Paralympic and Special Olympic ideals with an emphasis on sports, nutrition and wellness. Kids who complete 10 various fun fitness activities will earn a Bart & Nadia Sports Experience gold medal. Kids can try archery, gymnastics, kayaking, boxing and more at this ultimate family fitness challenge. Admission is FREE. 9am-5pm.

MORE INFORMATION: WWW.BARTANDNADIASPORTSEXPERIENCE.COM PHONE: 475-3156 Photo courtesy of the Bart & Nadia Sports Experience

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calendar

NORMAN MARDI GRAS PARADE—FEB 14

Celebrated since 1994, the Norman Mardi Gras Parade offers the community a chance to rally together in a creative spirit. Shake off winter and welcome spring with this exciting march through Downtown Norman. This year’s theme, “Pop’s Wonderful World,” will honor the late jazz musician, Louis Armstrong. The parade circles twice so you won’t miss any of the action. Stop in one of the several downtown businesses that will be open later, offering parade specials.

Michelangelo’s (207 E Main St) will feature a jazz band and The Diner (213 E Main St) will be cooking up beignets. Spectators should park one block north of Main, on Gray between Crawford and Peters. Parade is FREE and is held rain or shine starting at 7pm.

MORE INFORMATION: WWW.NORMANMARDIGRASPARADE.COM PHONE: 514-0781 Photo courtesy of Norman Mardi Gras Parade

AMERICAN GIRLS TEA PARTY—FEB 27 The American Girls Tea Party at the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) is an exclusive opportunity just for girls that promises lots of fancy fun for American Girl Doll fans. Girls ages 5 to 12 are encouraged to bring their favorite doll along with them for a special tea party. The tea party will have finger sandwiches, fruit, punch and plenty of sweets along with dancing, games, crafts and primping. The event is part of the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre’s Friday Fun Nights. For $25 per child, parents can have a few hours to themselves while the kids hang out at the theater. Preregister to ensure your spot. 6-9pm.

MORE INFORMATION: WWW.OKLAHOMACHILDRENSTHEATRE.ORG PHONE: 606-7003 Photo courtesy of Oklahoma Children’s Theatre

MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE!—FEB 27-MARCH 1

Marvel Universe LIVE! will be flying in to Oklahoma City’s Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno) for six thrilling performances. In an original story, Marvel’s biggest superheroes Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk and Thor along with Spider-Man and Wolverine encounter some of their biggest adversaries including Green Goblin, Doctor Octopus, Red Skull, Madame Hydra, Aldrich Killian and Electro. Your kids will love seeing their favorite characters come to life on the same stage. Tickets start at $20 plus fees. Get half off a children’s ticket with MetroFamily’s exclusive coupon code, KIDS50. Performances are Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 11am, 3pm and 7pm; Sunday, 1:30pm and 5:30pm.

MORE INFORMATION: WWW.CHESAPEAKEARENA.COM PHONE: 602-8700 Photo courtesy of Marvel Universe LIVE!

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events this

february

FEB 2 • MONDAY

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Orlando Magic at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno). Ticket prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 2/6 vs New Orleans Pelicans; 2/8 vs Los Angelos Clippers; 2/11 vs Memphis Grizzles; 2/19 vs Dallas Mavericks; 2/22 vs Denver Nuggets; 2/24 vs Indiana Pacers. 208-4800, www.nba.com/thunder

FEB 3 • TUESDAY

FREE Open House at Westminster School (612 NW 44th St) presents a chance for prospective parents of preschool and kindergarten students to meet staff and see the campus. RSVP to Rebecca Skarky. 7pm.

524-0631, www.westminsterschool.org

FREE Introductory Meeting for Strong Together at MetroFamily Magazine (725 NW 11th St) kicks off an exciting fitness initiative for metro women.

6:30pm. Also held Feb 7 at 10am. Join the team and register for the meeting at 601-2081, www.metrofamilymagazine.com/ fitness University of Oklahoma Men’s Basketball vs. West Virginia University at the Lloyd Noble Center (2900 Jenkins Ave, Norman). Ticket prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 2/9 vs Iowa State University; 2/17 vs University of Texas; 2/28 vs Texas Christian University. 325-2424, www.soonersports. com FREE Mini Lego Build at the Lego Store at Penn Square Mall (1901 NW Expressway) features a chance for kids ages 6-14 to build a LEGO® Space Shuttle. Quantities limited.

5pm. 840-9993, www.lego.com

FEB 4 • WEDNESDAY

University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball vs Iowa State University at Lloyd Noble Center (2900 Jenkins

Ave, Norman). Ticket prices vary.

10:30am. Also held: 2/7 vs Kansas State University; 2/14 vs Texas Christian University; 2/25 vs Baylor University; 2/28 vs University of Kanas. 325-2424, www.soonersports.com Oklahoma State University Women’s Basketball vs Baylor University at Gallagher-Iba Arena (1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater). Ticket prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 2/11 vs University of Texas; 2/14 vs Iowa State University; 2/21 vs University of Kansas. 744-5745, www.okstate.com

FEB 5 • THURSDAY

A Day of Love and Logic Parenting Conference at Metro Tech Conference Center (1900 Springlake Dr) features Dr. Charles Fay presenting practical advice and steps to parents, educators and mental health professionals on how to handle unruly kids. Seating is limited, register early. $99 per person. 8:30am-2:30pm. 800-3384065, www.loveandlogic.com Chocolate Decadence 2015 at the Hudson-Essex Loft Offices (825 N Broadway Ave) features a variety of chocolate treats from premier local restaurants & caterers, smooth jazz & a Valentine auction. Proceeds benefit community projects in Automobile Alley.

Ages 21+. $60. 6-8:30pm 618-8820, www. automobilealley.org FREE Open House and Transition Night at Westminster School (612 NW 44th St) is for prospective parents of 6th grade students to meet staff and tour the facility. RSVP to Rebecca Skarky. 7pm. 5240631, www.westminsterschool.org FREE Open House at Academy of Classical Christian Studies (12500 S Penn Ave) at 9:30am. Also held Feb 19 at 9:30am and at second campus (1120 E Hefner Rd) on Feb 9 at 10am. www.theacademyok.org

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FEB 5-8 Metamorphosis at Burg Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder), presented by Theatre OCU, brings Ovid’s tales to life. $12. ThursdaySaturday, 8pm; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm.

208-5227.

FEB 6 • FRIDAY

The Whirling Dervishes of Rumi at the OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center Theater (7777 S May Ave) presents a spiritual Turkish celebration featuring a traditional twirling dance. $20-25. 7:30pm.

682-7579, www.tickets.occc.edu The Real Story of Little Red Riding Hood at the McMahon Memorial Auditorium (801 NW Ferris Ave, Lawton) tells the other side of the famous fairytale through the eyes of the Wolf. $3 general admission and kids 2 and under are FREE. 6:30pm. (580) 581-3472 FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District (3022 Paseo) features more than 60 artists in over 20 galleries and live music. 6-10pm. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com

FEB 6-8

An Affair of the Heart at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features arts, crafts and antiques. $7/person for 3 days’ admission. Friday & Saturday, 9am6pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. www.aaoth.com

FEB 7 • SATURDAY

FREE Saturdays for Kids at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd) features mixed media journal making for kids and families. 10:15-11:15am. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org

Harlem Globetrotters at the Cheasepeake Energy Area (100 W Reno Ave) features the world famous Harlem

events this

february

(THROUGH FEBRUARY 7)

Globetrotters in an entertaining basketball game. After the game, stars will stay for an autograph, photograph and high five session for fans (subject to availability). $19 plus fees and up. 2pm. www.harlemglobetrotters.com Yukon Chocolate Festival at the Robertson Activity Center (1200 Lakeshore Dr, Yukon) offers a variety of assorted chocolates served by local businesses and groups. Includes silent auction. $8 for six samples. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov Mystery and Magic at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features internationally-acclaimed cellist Julie Albers,

the OKC Philharmonic and Joel Levine in the Inasmuch Classics Series. $19 & up. 8pm.

842-5387, www.okcphilharmonic.org BALTO 5K 2015 at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell, Edmond) features a 5K and one-mile fun run, a Bring A Light To Others tradition since 1995, benefiting Hearts for Hearing. $30, $25 t-shirt only option. 9am. www. baltoweek.org FREE OKC Hot Wheels Association Show at The Crown Center (13300 S Western) features 40+ tables of collectables for sale or trade including Hot Wheels cars.

Includes raffles, pizza and downhill races.

9am-3pm. www.greaterokchotwheels.com FREE Storybook Hour at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23rd St). Children listen to a story while parents enjoy coffee and conversation. Also held Feb. 21. 10-11am.

528-2122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com Oklahoma State University Men’s Basketball vs University of Kansas at Gallagher-Iba Arena (1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater). Ticket prices vary.

1pm. Also held: 2/18 vs Iowa State University; 2/21 vs West Virginia University. 744-5745, www.okstate.com

ENJOY

20% OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $75 OR MORE! 15th & Bryant Spring Creek Village 405-330-0100

(Cannot be combined.

Expires 2.28.15.

“METROFEB20”.)

www.thevintagepearl.com METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

What does it take to help a child in foster care?

events this

februa

FREE Origami Valentine Box Craft at the Bethany Library (3510 N Mueller Ave, Bethany ) teaches kids how to make their own Valentine paper gift box to fill with candy & give to someone special. All supplies provided including candy. 2-3:30pm.

789-8363, www.metrolibrary.org

You

(along with some support from experts) That’s where Angels Foster Family Network comes in, providing you and your family with the training, help and emotional support that you need to provide a loving, nurturing home to babies in need.

If you’re interested in changing a child’s life through foster care, contact Angels Foster Family Network Oklahoma City today at

405-285-6193.

Norman Daddy Daughter Dance at Embassy Suites (2501 Conference Dr, Norman) features dancing, refreshments and fun for dads and their daughters ages 4-14. $13. 2:30-4pm, 5-6:30pm, 7:30-9pm.

366-5472, www.normanfun.com Children of the Civil Rights Documentary Film at the Oklahoma History Center (2401 N Laird Ave) features a screening of a documentary made about Oklahoma City children and the civil rights movement. Includes wine and cheese pairing, auction and a Q&A panel discussion with key people from the film. $15. 6-9pm. 360-305-7837, www. childrenofthecivilrightsfilm.com Rocks Rock! Workshop at Sam Noble Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman). Webelos will learn about the different types of rocks and minerals that make up our world and earn the “Geologist” activity pin. Badges are not included. $10 includes museum admission for one Cub Scout & adult.1-4pm. 3251008, www.snomnh.ou.edu

FEB 8 • SUNDAY

Oklahoma City Philharmonic Discovery Series: Knights & Princesses at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) presents fairy tales coming to life with the music of Cinderella, Romeo & Juliet and Beauty and the Beast.

Kids are welcome to dress as their favorite character. $9. 2pm. 842-5387, www. okphilharmonic.org FREE Born to Do Science at the Stillwater Public Library (1107 S Duck, Stillwater) gives kids a chance to meet

Find more at

www.angelsfosterokc.org

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face-to-face with scientists and learn what they do. For kids in 3rd-8th grades. Also held Feb. 22. 2pm. 372-3633, www.

MontyHarper.com FREE Eagle Watch at Lake Thunderbird (1201 Clear Bay Ave, Norman) features a guided tour of the park to catch a glimpse of magnificent eagles in their winter home.

Be sure to bring your binoculars and dress appropriately. Preregister. Also held Feb. 22. 1pm. 321-4633 FREE Open House at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School (925 S Boulevard, Edmond) is a chance to meet the staff and see the campus. 1-3pm. 348-5364, www. seascardinals.org

FEB 9 • MONDAY

FREE Valentine Make & Take at the Almonte Library (2914 SW 59th St) features everything needed to craft personalized valentines for your loved ones.

3-5pm. 606-3573, www.metrolibrary.org FREE Romance and More Book Sale at Norman Public Library (225 N Webster Ave, Norman) features an assortment of gently-used, fiction and nonfiction books from favorite authors, vintage romances, as well as collectibles, children’s books and DVDs. 9am-5pm. 701-2600, www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org

FEB 9-MARCH 6

Dr. Seuss’ Cat in the Hat at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder Ave) is an onstage production of the tale directly taken from the pages of the classic children’s book. Adults, $10; Kids (2-12), $7. Show times vary. 951-0011, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

FEB 10 • TUESDAY

The Trees of Winter at Norman Public Library Central (225 N Webster Ave, Norman) is presented by the Oklahoma City Zoo. Through science, song and

ary

WEEKLY EVENTS

(THROUGH FEBRUARY 13)

storytelling, kids will explore what makes winter trees so special and meet animals that call these trees their winter home.

No registration required. 6-7pm. Also at the Norman West location Feb. 27, 6:30-8pm. 701-2600, www. pioneerlibrarysystem.org

Theatre: Hospital Homicide at Sooner Theatre (101 E Main St, Norman) is an adults-only, comical evening of murder and mystery. Proceeds benefit the programs and operations of the historic Sooner Theatre. $75. 6:30pm 321-9600, www. soonertheatre.org

FEB 11 • WEDNESDAY

26th Annual Valentine Cabaret Show at Oklahoma Christian University (2501 E Memorial Rd, Edmond) features a Sondheim Sampler with OC musicians performing songs such as “Putting It Together” and “Broadway Baby.” Dessert will be served during intermission. $18 with dessert, $10 without. 7:30pm. 425-5540, www.oc.edu/valentinecabaret

FREE HeartLine 2-1-1 Day at Macy’s Courtyard in Quail Springs Mall (2501 W Memorial Rd) offers games, prize wheel, face-painting, photos and balloons to learn about the Heartline. 6-9pm. 840-9396, www.heartlineoklahoma.org FREE Fancy Nancy & Fly Guy Dance Party at the Moore Public Library (225 S Howard, Moore) features music, dancing and crafts. Make a Fly Guy bow-tie or Fancy Nancy ring. 4:30-6pm. 793-5100, www. pioneerlibrarysystem.org/hometowns/ moore

FEB 12-14

Musical Murder Mystery Dinner

FEB 13 • FRIDAY

FREE Be Mine! Valentine Card Making at Ralph Ellison Library (2000 NE 23rd St) features a come-and-go Valentine’s art activity where kids can make one-of-akind cards for their loved ones. Noon-6pm.

424-1437, www.metrolibrary.org Youth Visions Photography

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Competition at the The Fine Arts Institute of Edmond (27 E Edwards St, Edmond) is open to 9th through 12th grades. Young photographers can submit their photography for the chance to have their work hang in the Institute’s gallery and for one of 10 $25 cash prizes. $3 per entry. Entries due by 4pm. 340-4481, www. edmondfinearts.com Murder at the Museum at the Museum of Osteology (10301 S Sunnylane) features an adults-only evening of danger and deceit.

Preregister. $50. 6-9pm. 814-0006, www. museumofosteology.org Painting Party Date & Friend Night in the Banquet Hall at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features painting instruction provided by Wine & Pallete. All supplies furnished. Bring your own snacks & drinks. Wine is welcome.

Portion of sales benefits the senior center.

Preregister. $25. 6:30-8:30pm. 376-341, www.cityofmustang.org/parksrec FREE 2nd Friday Circuit of Art in Downtown Norman features a monthly

events this

februa

Since 1925

With FOUR metro locations, a large medical staff & office hours including Saturdays, we make your treatment plan convenient for YOU

celebration of the arts that connects the downtown arts district with art galleries throughout the city. Ride the CART trolley’s special 2nd Friday route. 6-9pm.

360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com

FEB 13-15

Frigid 5 Run at Mitch Park (1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond) features a 5-mile run, 1-mile fun run for ages 12 and older and the children’s 1-mile run benefiting the cross country teams of the area high schools, Edmond Parks and Recreation department and Allied Arts. Adults, $25 and up; Kids (under 11), FREE. 8:30am. 808-7371, www. edmondrunning.wordpress.com

Romeo & Juliet at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker Ave) features the OKC Ballet and the OKC Philharmonic presenting Shakespeare’s poetic, tragic tale of two star-crossed lovers. Tickets $26-59.

Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter.com

RIVERSPORT RUNderground 5K at the Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) takes participants through the downtown area’s tunnel system bathed in different colors of neon lights. Adults, $25; Kids (12& under), $15. 12:30pm. 552-4040, www.boathousedistrict.org

FEB 14 • SATURDAY

FREE Chocolate Fest at the Warr Acres Library (5901 NW 63rd St, Warr Acres) celebrates Valentine’s Day with decadent treats including chocolate fondue & games. For ages 12-18. 2-3:30pm. 7212616, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Live! on the Plaza in the Paseo District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) is a monthly celebration on the second Friday of the month featuring an art walk, local artists, live music & shopping.

7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org

Gregory M. Metz, M.D., Richard T. Hatch, M.D., Warren V. Filley, M.D., and Shahan A. Stutes, M.D., (Seated, l-r) Stefanie E. Rollins, APRN-CNP, Karen L. Gregory, DNP, Patricia I. Overhulser, M.D., Florina Neagu, M.D., and Laura K. Chong, M.D.

Call today to make an appointment with the Allergists at the Oklahoma Allergy & Asthma Clinic

405/235-0040 www.oklahomaallergy.com at the Oklahoma Health Center 750 N.E. 13th Meridian Medical Tower (Across from Mercy Hospital) 13321 N. Meridian, Suite 100 Edmond at Fisher Hall 3560 S. Boulevard Norman Physician’s Building (Across from Norman Reg. Hospital) 950 N. Porter, Suite 102

Facebook for daily allergy reports

Norman) marches rain or shine, to the theme of “Pops Wonderful World” in honor of Louis Armstrong. 7-9pm. www. normanmardigrasparade.com

FREE Parks & Presidents at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) recognizes the presidents who had a hand in shaping the National Park Service.

3pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_ park

FREE Make + Take at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing Blvd) provides instruction and supplies for a different creative endeavor. Projects are designed to be accessible and fun for visitors of all ages and all levels of art-making experience. Come-and-go. 1-4pm. 9510000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org

FREE Family Valentine Crafternoon at Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno Ave, Midwest City) features an afternoon of creativity with family and friends. All supplies provided. 3-4pm. 7324828, www.metrolibrary.org

FREE Bart & Nadia Sports Experience at the Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens) offers sports, fitness and health activities to encourage families to take ownership of their health. 9am-5pm. 475-3156, www. bartandnadiasportsexperience.com

Premiere Night for Jewel Orchids: Treasures of the Rainforest at the Crystal Bridge Conservatory (301 W Reno) features a glass of champagne and live music to entertain guests while they marvel at more than 1,000 orchids.

The orchid will be on display until March 14. Members, $15 per person, $25 per couple; Non-members, $20 per person, $30 per couple. 6-8pm. 563-8980, www. oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com

FREE Norman Mardi Gras Parade in Downtown Norman (Main St and Jones,

Valentine’s Dinner & Dance at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage

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FEBRUARY 2015

ary

(THROUGH FEBRUARY 14)

Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features a buffet dinner and dancing hosted by the Museum’s Dining on Persimmon Hill restaurant in the Sam Noble Special Events Center.

Museum galleries open. Preregister. $49.95 per person. 6-10pm. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org Greater Oklahoma Bluegrass Music Society Concert Jam at the Oklahoma Country-Western Museum & Hall of Fame (3925 SE 29th St, Del City) features three professional bluegrass bands. Adults, $8; Kids (12 & under) FREE. 6:30-9:15pm. 6777515, www.gobms.org

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Park House (125 Ron Norick Blvd) features a three-course menu. $89 per couple.

Reservations begin at 5pm. 232-PARK, www.parkhouseokc.com A Night at the Bellagio Gala in the Historic Grand Ballroom at the Skirvin Hotel (1 Park Ave) features dinner and dancing, auctions, gaming tables and entertainment. Benefits the Edmond Women’s Club. $125 & up. 6:30pm, www. ewc.org

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FEB 14 & 15

Monster Jam at the Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features racing and freestyle action from the biggest Monster Jam superstars. $20-$25 plus fees.

Saturday, 2 & 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm. www. chesapeakearena.com Oklahoma Motorcycle Show at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features classic cars and motorcycles and a parts and accessories swap meet.

Single day pass, $15; Two day pass, $20.

Saturday,10am-6pm; Sunday, 9am-4pm. 816228-5811, www.jwswapmeet.com/okcshow

events this

february

FEB 15-21

Just Between Friends Consignment Sale at the Cleveland County Fair Grounds (615 E Robinson, Norman) features new and gently used children’s clothes, toys, furniture & accessories. Sunday, noon-9pm; Tueday, Wednesday & Thursday, 10am-4pm; Friday, 10am-9pm; Saturday, 10am-2pm. www. norman.jbfsale.com

FEB 16 • MONDAY

Come & Go Open House at Oklahoma Christian Academy (1101 N 9th St, Edmond) presents a chance for parents to learn more

about programs for PreK-12th grade. 2-4pm.

844-6478, www.ocacademy.org

Vipers. 208-4800, www.nba.com/dleague/ oklahomacity

FEB 17 • TUESDAY

FEB 20 • FRIDAY

Oklahoma City Blue vs Santa Cruz Warriors at the Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens). Ticket prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 2/22 vs Texas Legends; 2/25 vs Rio Grande Valley

Oklahoma City Barons vs Adirondack Flames at the Cox Convention Center (1 Myriad Gardens).

FREE Mardi Gras Craft at Wright Library (2101 Exchange Ave). Discover Zydeco music and take home some of your very own Mardi Gras beads. 10:30am-4pm.

235-5035, www.metrolibrary.org

Flaky Fun at the Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno) celebrates the snowflake. Learn about what causes snow and whether it’s good for plants and animals. Members, $5; Nonmembers, $7. 10-11am. 445-7080, www. oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com

Be a part of NORMAN's best children’s and maternity consignment SALE • February 15-21 Stop by and visit us!

Cleveland County Fairgrounds

Check us out on facebook at facebook.com/JBFofOKC

615 E. Robinson, Norman 73071 Shop Sun 12p-9p • Mon 10a-9p • Tues-Thurs 10a-4p • Fri 10a-9p • Sat 10a-2p Sell your kids’ items as a consignor and earn up to 70%!

Save money and make money with JBF! It’s all here under one roof!

Smart! Many items discounted an additional 50% off on Friday and Saturday!

jbfsale.com

shop. sell. save. smart!™

$5 off $50 purchase on Wed, Feb 18 with this AD METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

Consignor registration and details available onlne

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events this

february

(THROUGH FEBRUARY 21)

Ticket prices vary. 7pm. Also held: 2/21 vs Adirondack Flames; 2/24 vs Texas Stars; 2/27&28 vs San Antonio Rampage. 232-4625, www. okbarons.com

FEB 20 & 21

Pixar in Concert at Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) presents the artistry of Pixar with stunning HD, widescreen images and a live musical performance by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Features clips from 13 animated films. 8pm. Tickets $19-65.

297-2264, www.okciviccenter.com

The Addams Family at Sooner Theatre (101 E Main St) is a new musical comedy featuring an original story about this famous TV family, performed by 8th-12th grade students in the Junior Production class. $10.

Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 2pm.

321-9600, www.soonertheatre.org

FEB 21 • SATURDAY

FREE Endangered Species at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) presents a lesson on endangered species that live in the United States and those

native to Oklahoma. 3pm. 297-1429, www. okc.gov/parks/martin_park Victorian Tea at the Edmond Historical Society & Museum (431 S Boulevard, Edmond) teaches the history & importance of teatime in the 1800s. Includes authentic teatime foods, living history performers & favors. For girls in grades 2-12. Preregister. $15. 10-11:30am. 340-0078, www. edmondhistory.org FREE 3rd Annual Daddy Daughter Dance at the Purcell Public School Administration Building (919 N 9th St, Purcell) features a photo booth, music,

Open House LOWER & MIDDLE DIVISIONS FIRST - EIGHTH GRADES

Tuesday, April 7, 2015 6:00 p.m.

Casady School is a college-preparatory Episcopal day school.

Casady School admits students of any race, color, creed and national or ethnic origin. www.casady.org • 405.749.3185

9500 North Pennsylvania Ave. • Oklahoma City, OK 73120

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for Call Trial E FRE lass C

Lil Kickers Winter Session continues through March 14.

events this

februa

dancing, door prizes and delicious food. Preregister. Six tickets per adult limit. 6-8pm. 527-5546, www. pioneerlibrarysystem.org Dad & Daughter Dance at the Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd, Mustang) features music, dancing & refreshments in an Enchanted Winter Wonderland. $15 per couple and additional daughters are $5. 7-9pm. 376-3411, www. cityofmustang.org/parksrec

FEB 21-22

FREE Friends of the Metropolitan Library System Annual Book Sale at State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd) features one of the biggest yearly book sales in the state offering more than 600,000 books, CDs, movies and audio books. 9am-5:30pm. 606-3763, www. supportmls.org

Enroll for SPRING BREAK CAMPS:

FEB 21-MARCH 4

Morning camp: 9am-noon Afternoon camp: 1pm-4pm $95/camper (includes T-shirt)

Camelot at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) is presented by Celebrity Attractions. The show recounts the timehonored legend of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot and the Knights of the Round Table. Ticket pricing TBA. 297-2264, www. okcciviccenter.com

March 16 - 19 (ages 4-16)

Call TODAY! • Birthday Party Packages • Indoor Soccer Leagues • Rent fields for many different sports/activities

soccercityokcity.com 4520 Old Farm Road, OKC

(west of Meridian, south of 122nd)

405-748-3888

FEB 22 • SUNDAY

Oklahoma Community Orchestra at the OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center (7777 S May Ave) features A Season for All Ages Children’s Concert with guest artist Emily Sutton. $15. 3pm. 425-1990, www.okorchestra.org

FEB 24 • TUESDAY

Tiny Tuesday at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) is a comeand-go art class. Dress for a mess. Ages 2-5 with adult. FREE with paid admission or membership. 10am-noon. 236-3100, www. okcmoa.com

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FEB 25 • WEDNESDAY

FREE Lettuce in the Hoop House Class at Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno) offers kids a chance to learn about winter vegetables, sample and plant some of their own. Best suited for ages 2 to 5. $2 donation suggested. 11am-noon. 445-7080. www.oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com

FEB 27 • FRIDAY

American Girls Tea Party at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) is an evening just for girls.

Guests are encouraged to bring their favorite doll along with them for this special tea party. $25. 6-9pm. 606-7003, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

FEB 27-MARCH 1

Marvel Universe LIVE! at the Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) presents an original story that brings more than 25 Marvel characters together on one epic quest. $20-$80 plus fees. Get half off a children’s ticket with the code KIDS50. Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 11am, 3 & 7pm; Sunday, 1:30 & 5:30pm. www. chesapeakearena.com Pirates of Penzance presented by Bass School of Music at Oklahoma City University (2501 N Blackwelder) features a timeless comedy about a world of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted lovers and dewy-eyed daughters. $12 & up. Friday & Saturday, 7:15pm; Sunday, 2:15pm. 208-5227

FEB 28 • SATURDAY

FREE Invasive Species at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) invites guests to learn about the dangers of invasive species of flora and fauna. 3pm.

297-1429, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park

Wild Artists! at the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua Ave,

ary

(THROUGH MARCH 8)

Norman). Watch an Oklahoma City Zoo animal create a masterpiece before your eyes. Then, create one of you own like the animals do! For ages 5 & up with an adult.

Members, $ 20; Non-members, $ 30. 9amnoon. 325-4712, www.snomnh.ou.edu FREE Seussabration at the Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W. Memorial Rd) features a party to celebrate Dr. Seuss’ Birthday and National Reading Day with cake, crafts, reading fun and Lorax hikes.

1pm. 297-1429, www.okc.gov/parks Daddy Daughter Dance at the Sheraton Midwest City Reed Conference Center (5750 Will Rogers, Midwest City) features dancing, music and light snacks.

Dads & their little girls can also enjoy carriage rides and professional photographer packages for an additional costs. $8 per person. 4-5:30pm, 6-7:30pm, & 8-9:30pm.

739-1293, www.midwestcityok.org

MARCH 3 • TUESDAY

FREE Open House at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School (5000 N Grove) is a chance to meet the staff and see the campus. 2:30-4:30pm. 789-0224, www. stcharlesokc.org

MARCH 5 • THURSDAY Full Moon Hike at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) presents an after-hours hike to observe the full moon and a discussion about the nocturnal happenings at Martin Park. $5. 6:30-8:30pm.

297-1429, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park

MARCH 6 • FRIDAY

Bright Nights of Grossology at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd St) offers a night of science for the whole family. Dress comfortably and pack sleeping gear. $45 for non-member, $35 for members, Adults $25.

7pm Friday to 7am Saturday. 602-3760, www. sciencemuseumok.org

Miranda Lambert’s Certified Platinum Tour at Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) with special guests Justin Moore, Sunny Sweeney and Jukebox Mafia. $36.75 & up. 745-3000, www. chesapeakearena.com

MARCH 7 • SATURDAY

Winter Jam 2015 at the Chesapeake Energy Arena (100 W Reno Ave) features hit Christian artists Skillet, NewSong, Jeremy Camp, Francesca Battistelli, Building 429, for King & Country, Family Force 5 and evangelist Tony Nolan. $10 at the door.

Doors open at 5pm. Show starts at 6pm. www.chesapeakearena.com

MARCH 8 • SUNDAY

FREE Amazing World of Reptiles at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features Russ Gurley, the director of the Turtle and Tortoise Preservation Group, as he shares insight about snakes, turtles and tortoises. 3pm.

297-1429, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park

EXPERIENCE THE RENOVATED MUSEUM • 35 NEW INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS • $10 MILLION IN RENOVATIONS

OklahomaCityNationalMemorial.org

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events this

february

WEEKLY EVENTS

FREE Admission to the Oklahoma City Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) every Monday through Feb 23. 424-3344, www.okczoo. com FREE Evening Family Playtime at the Downtown Library (300 Park Ave) features an hour of family play time meant to help children build social skills, promote learning and discover that the library is a destination for fun. Mondays, 6:307:30pm. 231-8650, www.metrolibray.org FREE Art Adventures at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman), for ages 3-5. Young artists are invited to experience art through books. Visit site for full list of dates, books and activities.10:30am on Tuesdays. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma FREE Tuesday Noon Concerts at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features 30-minute concerts performed by OU School of Music students and faculty. Noon on Tuesdays, 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma Toddler Story & Craft Time at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) features a different story each week & a related craft time. FREE with paid admission. Wednesdays, 11-11:30am.

340-7584, www.unpluggits.com FREE Bringing Books to Life in the lobby of the Crystal Bridge in the Myriad Garden (301 W Reno) every Wednesday.

10am, for ages 2-5. Books are naturethemed and selected based on the season.

Children will also create a small craft after the story. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens. org FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) hosts a different craft each week. Come-and-go, no reservation needed. Saturdays, 11am3pm, ages 3 and up. 858-8778, www. lakeshorelearning.com FREE Children’s Story Time at Full Circle Books (1900 NW Expressway).

Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, www.

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fullcirclebooks.com FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books (1313 E Danforth, Edmond). Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 3409202, www.bestofbooksedmond.com FREE Nature Story Time at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) for ages 2-6 features stories to help children discover the world of nature, followed by an activity or outdoor hike.

Saturdays, 10am. 755-0676, www.okc. gov/parks FREE Roller Skating Lesson at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36th St) offers free skate instruction each Saturday. Learn to skate and make friends at the same time.

Noon-12:45pm. $2 skate rental. 605-2758, www.skategalaxyokc.com All Star Bowling for DifferentlyAbled Individuals at AMF Windsor Lanes (4600 NE 23rd) invites differentlyabled individuals and their friends and families to bowl on Saturdays. $8.

Noon-1pm. 354-2516, www.amf.com Drop in Art at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features hands-on art activities for all ages. FREE with paid admission. See website for themes/activities. Saturdays, 1-4pm. 2363100, www.okcmoa.com Saturday Discovery Days at Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman) features interactive activity for preschoolelementary ages. Free with paid admission.

Saturdays, 2-3pm. 325-4712, www. education.snomnh.ou.edu

See more events and special Valentine fun at

www.metrofamilymagazine. com/calendar

events this

february

ONGOING EVENTS

THROUGH FEB 15 Pageant at Lyric at the Plaza (1725 NW 16th St) presents a musical comedy beauty contest highlighting the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. Find out who will be crowned Miss Glamouresse. $30 and up. Wednesday & Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday & Saturday, 8pm; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm.

524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com

THROUGH FEBRUARY

FREE John Wolfe Exhibit “People, Plants and Places” at the Norman Depot (200 S Jones, Norman) presents the work of retired arts educator John Wolfe, who recently was featured on OETA’s Gallery. Monday-Friday, 8am-2pm. 307-9320, www.normandepot.org Oscar Tune-up at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (415 Couch Dr) features several 2015 Academy Award®-nominated films and a few Oscar snubs on the big screen in the Samuel Noble Theater.

Parental ratings vary based on film. Adults, $9; Seniors 62+, $7; College students (with ID), $7; Members and kids 12 & under, $5.

Showtimes vary. 236-3100, www.okcmoa. com

FREE Monothon Exhibition at [Artspace] at Untitled (1 NE 3rd St) features hand-pulled monotype print creations of more than 90 artists in an introduction to the exciting medium of printmaking. Wednesday-Saturday, 10am6pm; Sunday, noon-6pm. 815-9995, www. artspaceatuntitled.org

THROUGH APRIL 25

FREE First Fifty Years of Oklahoma Art at Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum (1400 Classen Dr) presents a special exhibit that showcases Oklahoma’s pioneer artists.

Tuesday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 10am5pm. 235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage. com

THROUGH MAY

Chickasaw Cultural Center Dugout Canoes: Paddling through the Americas at Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Charles Cooper Memorial, Sulphur) features a landmark exhibition with interactive play and videos that explore the history of dugout canoes. MondaySaturday, 9am-5pm. 627-7130, www. chickasawculturalcenter.com

FREE OKC125 in The Underground (downtown Oklahoma City) is a photography exhibit showing off the work of 125 artists who were given disposable cameras and only 125 minutes to capture Oklahoma City. Select prints will be on sale for $125. The exhibit is displayed in The Underground tunnel system downtown, which can be accessed inside the First National Center at 100 Park Ave. Daily, 6am-8pm. www.ovac-ok.org/events/event/ okc125-okc/

THROUGH SEPT

FREE Monkey Do Art Exhibit at the Myriad Botanical Gardens (301 W Reno) features paintings of animals and nature

by Oklahoma City artist Matt Goad in the South Lobby of the Crystal Bridge.

Exhibit is open to the public during regular Crystal Bridge. Monday-Saturday, 9am5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 445-7080, www. oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com

THROUGH OCTOBER

Grossology: The Impolite Science of the Human Body at Science Museum Oklahoma (2100 NE 52nd St) uses sophisticated animatronics and imaginative exhibits to let visitors explore the good, the bad and the ugly about runny noses, body odor and more. FREE with admission. Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm.

602-3760, www.sciencemuseumok.org

FREE Orly Genger: Terra at Campbell Park (NW 11th & Broadway) is an art installment presented by Oklahoma Contemporary. The outdoor sculpture piece is made of 1.4 million feet of recycled lobster-fishing rope and painted with terracotta colored paint. 951-0000, www. oklahomacontemporary.org METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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local shopping

t a ie k O g in h t y r e v Find E

Blue Seven

BY MARK SMITH - CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHOTOS BY STEFFANIE HALLEY, www.steffaniehalley.com

T

he buyers at Oklahoma City-based shop Blue Seven follow one simple rule to bring one-of-akind goods to local shoppers: nothing boring or mundane.

While most of the merchandise at the May Avenue shop is clothing for men and women, shoppers walk through a maze of funky products to get to the apparel including unicorn cookie cutters, samurai swords that double as umbrellas and plenty of household goods in the characteristic outline of Oklahoma.

Caleb and Julie Arter purchased Blue Seven from previous owners nine years ago. Since then, the shop has grown tremendously along with the Arter family. Caleb said his kids, 3-year-old Judah and 2-year-old Elsie, are a big part of the Blue Seven shopping experience.

“They come to the shop about once a week and hang out with me. Some customers are thrown off by it when I am holding a 2 year old and then I ask them if they need help,” he said. “However, a lot of our customers

at Oklahoma’s award-winning children’s museum

are regulars and have been for years so they are really interactive with the kids just like we are with their kids when they come to the shop. We love keeping our whole family involved in the shop.”

Shoppers seem to love that the family is involved, too. Since the Arters have owned Blue Seven, it’s grown in popularity and even expanded to the retail space nextdoor.

“I never thought I’d own my own retail store,” Caleb said. “Over the past several years though, we’ve seen the store grow and enjoyed the learning in the process. It has been a blast.”

Blue Seven sells an eclectic collection of men’s and women’s apparel, children’s playthings and home essentials.

“The good thing about owning your own business is you can have fun and sell anything you want,” Caleb said.

And walking through the unique collection of goods at the store, the couple’s style is evident. From standout clothing for toddlers to the home accessories you never knew you needed, the shop is alive with products you won’t see anywhere else.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CALEB ARTER

“I don’t think there is a store that offers such an eclectic mixture,” he said. “There are some items that are indescribable and shoppers just have

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Rigamajig Interactive hands-on exhibits exploring science, engineering, art, math, history and culture.

308 W. Franklin Lane, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74075 (405) 533 -3333 | www.okwondertorium.org Admission $7 | Open Tue - Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 1-5pm Closed Monday Recipient of Frontier Country Marketing Association’s “Outstanding Attraction” (2012-2014) and 2014 “Outstanding Children’s Attraction.” Also voted “Outstanding New Attraction” in 2013 by the Oklahoma Travel Industry Association

LYNT: The Blue Seven brand that wants you to do more for OKC One way Blue Seven supports the community is by selling a local sock brand called LYNT, or Love Your Neighbor Threads. A play on the word “lint,” the noshow sock brand was formed to encourage buyers to love others where they are.

The company was started about a year ago

by Oklahoma City resident Joe Quinlin.

Quinlin works at local nonprofit The Spero Project and didn’t start LYNT as a way to make a living, just a way to give back. The company has no paid employees. Quinlin originally wanted the sale of the socks to provide meals to hungry locals, but he found some disconnect in that model that he didn’t like.

“When you make that purchase and three meals to go help someone you’ll never meet, there’s a disconnect.You get the feeling you’re helping someone without really helping someone because you’re getting a product in exchange for that,” he said. “We want to remove that convenience of helping someone without actually doing anything.”

Now, LYNT is moving in a new direction.

The profits from the socks will now go to Oklahoma City’s under-resourced schools starting with New Land Academy, a school for local refugee youth. Eventually, the students at the school will get more involved with the production and sale of the socks to learn important entrepreneurship skills, get hands-on business experience and raise funds for the school.

to see them to understand. We have wooden spoons with drumsticks on the other side.You can play drums and cook at the same time. I could go on forever describing the stuff we sell or came across the past few years.”

No one is left out when it comes to the items up for grabs at Blue Seven. For those with a taste for adventure, Blue Seven has bacon-flavored cotton candy, or if you prefer the smell of bacon to the flavor, pick up some bacon-scented air freshener. For the lawn, grab a zombie garden gnome. For the baby, pick up a vintage toy or clothing made in Oklahoma.

A couple of the most popular items for children are the wooden trains and a wooden Areaware robot kit. Whether you’re purchasing for kids or adults, Blue Seven is one of the most popular spots for picking up local goods. Much of the inventory is made in Oklahoma.

A favorite locally-made item is the Boys and Girls Club of Oklahoma County alphabet book “O is for Oklahoma” written by and for children.

While much of the merchandise is quirky, Caleb said the store has a serious side as well. Blue Seven sells high-quality apparel and home supplies and supports local artists and creators.

With all the unique locally-produced finds, Blue Seven has opened a sister store in the

shop space next-door called Just OK. Everything in the store, from coffee to clothing and everything in between, was made in Oklahoma.

But the business-savvy couple isn’t finished growing yet. Caleb said they have plans to continue a healthy growth and he wants to specifically expand the children’s inventory, which currently includes toys, shoes, clothing and some household items for kids. He also said plans include bringing in even more Oklahoma-made products, possibly even creating some of their own.

However, fans of the store might have to wait a while before continued growth of the store. The couple has plans to hopefully adopt in the future and spend more time with their children, Caleb said, and just running the stores they have takes a lot of time. Plus the couple has other community and social interests that take a fair amount of time.

The packaging of the LYNT socks is changing, too, with the words “Share a Pair, Share a Note or Share a Story.” Buyers will receive two pairs of socks in each package and are encouraged to share a pair with someone else. A postcard comes with the socks so buyers can give a friend a note of encouragement and shoppers also are asked to share a story on social media to make generosity more personal and less passive.

Whether expansion is in the future for Blue Seven or not, shoppers can rely on Blue Seven as the perfect place to pick up a oneof-a-kind gift and support local makers and causes while they’re at it.

For more information about Blue Seven, shoppers can visit the store at 7518 N. May Ave. or shop online at www.myblueseven. com.

Two pair of LYNT no-show socks can be purchased for $12 at Blue Seven. For more information about LYNT, email hello@ lyntlife.com.

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FEBRUARY 2015

Meet exotic animals at the Extreme Animals Petting Zoo.

Saturday, April 18

11am to 4pm at the Cox Convention Center

Enjoy over 60 booths with hands-on activities for kids • Inflatables • Safety Village presented by Oklahoma Safe Kids Coalition • Stage Entertainment by Spaghetti Eddie, Monty Harper & others • Petting zoo by Extreme Animals •

Every booth will include a fun hands-on activity for kids.

Face painting • Door prizes AND MUCH MORE!

Kids are FREE and adults (18 and older) are just $5 each.

(See coupon below!)

THANK YOU to our PRESENTING SPONSOR

and our SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Hear Monty Harper and encourage your kids to clap, dance and laugh along with this awardwinning singer.

Also on stage:

Save with this coupon!

Bring this coupon to MetroFamily’s Kids Fest to receive $1 off admission up to two (2) people!

Adults (ages 18 and up) are $5 • Kids are FREE Saturday, April 18, 11am to 4pm at the Cox Convention Center More info at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/kids-fest.

Only good for MetroFamily Kids Fest, 4/18/15. No cash value.

mom gets the last laugh

How Did Snow Days Get to Be so Long?

ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY BALL, WWW.EMILYMGBA

LL.COM

BY HEATHER DAVIS - METROFAMILY COLUMNIST

I

t wasn’t that long ago that I remembered being snowed in with a couple wild children who went stir crazy in no time flat. We’d watched Frozen until my eyes were frozen to the screen—then I sang to my kids as I shooed them outside.

Since it was eleventy-hundred degrees below freezing outside, they didn’t stay out very long and soon enough, they were back in from the tundra that was our backyard. I washed their snowy clothes and again, we found ourselves eating grilled cheese crackers (I didn’t get to the store in time to get bread, so we used saltines) and watching, you guessed it, Frozen. Again.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

But this time we watched with hot chocolate (made with canned milk … too late to the store) and popcorn. This popcorn would end up all over the house because of the dogs. And the cats. And the kids who thought they could throw the puffy goodness into the air and catch it with their mouths. They can’t.

Along with their snowy clothes, I washed the towels I used to mop up the floor when the snowy kids and animals made their way back inside. I also washed their pajamas because they couldn’t put back on the same pajamas they had just taken off 20 minutes ago when they decided to go outside.

Time has a funny way of dragging its clumsy feet when one is stuck inside the house with two children, two dogs, two cats and a DVD of Frozen. When I looked at the clock, I discovered that all of this took

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place before noon. Before noon, y’all!

At lunch, we ate everything in the house (except sandwiches, see the no bread comment previously mentioned). We colored all the blank pages in the house and then we colored them again. We made cookies. We baked half of them and ate the other half straight from the mixing bowl. And yes, I did wash the mixing bowl before we made slime in it and after we made snow ice cream.

We handmade our Valentines and since we were in a creative mood, we made Easter cards, Mother’s Day cards, Christmas cards and even Arbor Day cards. Then we addressed them all, and we might have even put them out for mailman to take as he trudged through the snow in his super colossal snow boots.

clothes twice, watched Frozen a few more times and eaten all the food in the house aside from the cat food and the dog kibble; honestly, though, I’m not sure they didn’t eat some of that as well. We played all of the board games—even Monopoly, and that takes forever! We played with all the toys, even the broken ones and we listened to all the music and danced all the dances.

The girls played in the bathtub; I cleaned the bathroom. The girls built a fort in the living room; I refolded the sheets. The girls went back out into the snow forty-two dozen times, each time staying no more than three minutes. I mopped and dried clothes and dried clothes and mopped. The dogs even shook their heads at the frivolous and constant in-and-out of their human sisters.

The girls re-read all their favorite books and even wrote a few stories themselves.

Then they acted them out on the stage they created in front of the fireplace while wearing clothes they found in the back of my closet.

(Note to self: Clean out closet.)

By the time the day came to a close, I had burned approximately 4,291 calories (but had taken in 6,295). I had popped out 24,098 new grey hairs and I had Googled recipes that included Fruit Loops, cream of celery soup and pita bread because that was all we had left in the house to eat.

By the end of the day, the girls had changed

Once winter melted into spring and spring

into summer, I took the time to gather crafting supplies. Lots and lots of crafting supplies.

I bought crayons, markers and colored pencils.

I got sketchbooks, coloring books and tracing paper. I picked up some pipe cleaners, yarn, fuzzy balls, googly eyes, and patterned duct tape. I purchased craft glue, all-purpose glue, glitter glue, rubber cement and a cool hot glue gun—cool as in temperature and as in nifty. I procured craft idea books, rubber band looms and knitting needles. I was ready for the worst snowstorm Mother Nature could throw at us.

Then one Saturday night when my husband and I were relaxing in the living room watching a newsy-type show (read: sleeping in front of the television), the girls got really quiet.

Soon (after I woke up), I discovered they’d found my snow-day stash. And used it. All. Oh well, we still have Frozen. I’ll just have to learn to let it go.

Heather Davis is a momma, a writer and has mixed emotions about snow days. She and her family live in Oklahoma, where she blogs about her antics at www.minivan-momma.com.

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Serving award-winning breakfasts and lunches since 1980

TE

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ID

O

HID

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15 convenient

E A W AY P I Z Z A

T

years ago, the An Egg-cellent Way To Starthree Your Day! staff at MetroFamily Open Daily 6:00am – 2:00pm Magazine set out

FAMILY FAVORITES

to design an annual contest to point local families to the most family-friendly businesses and services in www.JimmysEgg.com Oklahoma City.

The result was Family Favorites, an annual award campaign that relies on nominations and votes from our readers to determine the best local businesses. Just receiving a

food

Best Ethnic Food Restaurant

Best Burger Restaurant for Families

Alfredo’s Mexican Cafe

WINNER: The Garage

Zorba’s Mediterranean Cuisine

Johnnies Charcoal Broiler

In the following pages, find the dozens of local businesses our readers voted to the top.

The MetroFamily staff has spent hours sifting through the thousands of votes from our readers to highlight the metro businesses that share our mission of making the Oklahoma City metro a great place to raise a family.

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/familyfavorites/ to see the list online and search it by category. Finalists are listed in alphabetical order.

Pie Junkie

WINNER: Chick-fil-A McDonald’s

Best Restaurant for Pizza Night: WINNER: Hideaway Pizza All American Pizza

S&B’s Burger Joint

Empire Slice House

Tucker’s Onion Burgers

Jo’s Famous Pizza

Braum’s

Best Family-Friend Restaurant, Casual Dining: WINNER: Chili’s Interurban

Upper Crust

Texas Roadhouse

The Wedge Pizzeria

WINNER: Charleston’s Cheever’s Cafe

nomination for a Family Favorite award is a great recognition and winning one means you’re really doing things right.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurant, Fast Food:

Tarahumara’s Mexican Cafe

POPS

Best Date Night Restaurant

TH U N D ER

WINNER: Ted’s Cafe Escondido

Flatire Burgers Irma’s Burger Shack

O KC

Best Breakfast/Brunch:

Deep Fork Grill

Best Restaurant to Find Sweet Treats:

The Melting Pot

WINNER: Braum’s

Musashi’s

Eileen’s Colossal Cookies

First Watch The Daytime Cafe

Signature Grill

Gigi’s Cupcakes

IHOP

VAST

La Baguette Bistro

Kitchen No. 324

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WINNER: Jimmy’s Egg Cafe 501

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Best Movie Theater for the Family:

Best Place to Have Fun with Kids of Varied Ages:

WINNER: Moore Warren Theatre

WINNER: Science Museum Oklahoma

AMC Quail Springs Mall

Andy Alligator’s Fun Park

Best Family-Friendly Sporting Event:

Cinemark Tinseltown

WINNER: OKC Thunder OKC Dodgers (previously Redhawks)

Best Outdoor Fun/Amusement Venue:

OU Sooner Sports

WINNER: Oklahoma City Zoo

Best Place to Swim:

Andy Alligator’s Fun Park

WINNER: White Water Bay

Frontier City

Andy Alligator’s Water Park

Orr Family Farm

Earlywine Park YMCA Aquatic Center

Best Free/Low-Cost Attraction for Family Fun:

Frontier City

WINNER: Oklahoma City Zoo Abrakadoodle

Pelican Bay Aquatic Center

Bricktown

Best Place for Fun with Toddlers:

Myriad Botanical Gardens

WINNER: Oklahoma City Zoo Myriad Botanical Children’s Garden

Best Indoor Fun/Amusement Venue: WINNER: Science Museum Oklahoma Andy Alligator’s Fun Park Dave & Buster’s HeyDay Entertainment Unpluggits Playstudio

Best Local Place to Take OutOf-Town Visitors: WINNER: Bricktown Myriad Botanical Gardens Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City Zoo

Science Museum Oklahoma

Water-Zoo, Clinton YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

Best Museum for Children/ Families Outside the OKC Area: WINNER: Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum, Seminole

Unpluggits Playstudio

Best Place for Tween/Teen Fun: WINNER: Frontier City Elevation Trampoline Park OKC RIVERSPORT Adventures

Best Place to Explore Nature in Oklahoma:

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum, Enid Oklahoma WONDERTorium, Stillwater

Best Museum for Children/ Families in the OKC Area: WINNER: Science Museum Oklahoma Museum of Osteology

WINNER: Martin Park Nature Center

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Turner Falls (Davis, OK)

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (near Lawton, OK)

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Best Annual Family-Friendly Festival Inside the OKC Area: WINNER: Festival of The Arts Children’s Cowboy Festival, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Choctaw Oktoberfest

GY M N A S T

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Best Annual Family-Friendly Festival Outside the OKC Area: WINNER: Chickasha Festival of Light Rush Springs Watermelon Festival

Best Hiking-Biking Trail for Families: WINNER: Bert Cooper Trails (Lake Hefner) Arcadia Lake, Arcadia (City of Edmond)

Best Party Venue:

WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

WINNER: Paint Your Art Out

Arctic Edge Ice Arena

Mitch Park, Edmond

camps

Best Day Camps, Arts: WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

OKC RIVERSPORT Adventures SoccerCity of Oklahoma City

Elevation Trampoline Park Metro Gymnastics Oklahoma City Zoo

Best Day Camp, Multi-Activity: WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Abrakadoodle Camp DaKaNi

Unpluggits Playstudio YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

Best Place to Buy Birthday Cake/Cupcakes/Ice Cream: CO-WINNER: Johnnie’s Sweet Creations

OCCC Summer Camps

Best Sleep-Away Camp, More Than 100 Miles from OKC:

CO-WINNER: Eileen’s Colossal Cookies ButterSweet Cakes

WINNER: Kanakuk Kamps, Missouri

La Baguette Bistro

Dwight Mission Camp, Oklahoma

shopping

Best Sleep-Away Camp, Within 100 Miles from OKC: WINNER: Camp Classen (YMCA) Camp DaKaNi Falls Creek Youth Camp, Davis

party

WINNER: Once Upon A Child Cinnamon Bears Green Bambino Keedo Clothes Peek-a-booTique

Fine Arts Institute Oklahoma Children’s Theatre

WINNER: Extreme Animals My Princess Party Abrakadoodle

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

Best Children’s Clothing Store:

Ladybugs & Lizards Children’s Boutique

Best “Party Comes to You” Entertainment/Entertainer

Abrakadoodle

Abrakadoodle Andy Alligator’s Fun Park

Camp DaKaNi

Hafer Park, Edmond Martin Park Nature Center

E E N B A M BIN O

Best Day Camp, Sports:

Yukon Czech Festival Oklahoma State Fair

GR

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Tiny Tulips Uptown Kids

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Best Children-Friendly Book Store: WINNER: Full Circle Bookstore

TA G E P E A R L

Fowler Hudiburg Joe Cooper Ford

Barnes & Noble Best of Books learning tree

Best Place to Buy Baby/ Children’s Furniture: WINNER: Mathis Brothers

Best Consignment/Thrift Store:

Babies “R” Us

WINNER: Once Upon A Child

Burlington Coat Factory

Bargain Thrift

Storkland

HOPEfully Yours Save U Moore Upsy Daisy

Best Grocery Store to Find Healthy Food: WINNER: Sprouts

Best Grocery Store to Stretch Your Food Budget:

Edmond Farmer’s Market

WINNER: Crest

OSU-OKC Farmer’s Market

ALDI

Uptown Grocery, Edmond

OKC Farmer’s Market

Buy For Less/Uptown Grocery Sprouts

Best Consignment Sale:

Walmart

WINNER: Just Between Friends (JBF Sale)

Best Jewelry Store

The Original Children’s Consignment Sale

WINNER: BC Clark Jewelers Huntington Fine Jewelers The Vintage Pearl

Best Place to Buy a Family Car: WINNER: Bob Moore Bob Howard

Pass It On Kids Sweet Repeats Kids Consignment

Best Specialty Baby Store/ Boutique WINNER: Green Bambino Cinnamon Bears Uptown Kids

Carmax Diffee

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Best Toy Store:

Best OB/GYN:

Best Alternative Doctor:

WINNER: learning tree

WINNER: Dr. Andrea Palmer

Cinnamon Bears

Dr. Lorri Dobbins

WINNER: Elledge Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Kidoodles

Dr. Anthony Shanbour

Toys “R” Us

Dr. Karen Wilks

medical

Best Orthodontist:

Active Care Chiropractic Community Midwifery Chung & Waggoner Chiropractic Doyle Chiropractic & Family Wellness

Best Dentist for Children/ Family:

WINNER: Orthodontic Associates

WINNER: The Dental Depot

Lewis Orthodontics

Brace Place, Dr. Steffen and Dr. Farrow

Bright Smile Family Dentistry Dr. Phillip Parker, Norman

Best Pediatrician/Family Doctor:

Best Emergency Room:

WINNER: Just Kids Pediatrics

WINNER: Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center

Dr. Hamed Albiek

Integris Baptist Medical Center

Norman Pediatrics

Mercy Hospital

Northwest Pediatrics

Norman Regional Hospital/HealthPlex

The Pediatric Group

St Anthony Hospital

Village Center Pediatrics

Best Eye Care Provider:

Best Place to Have a Baby:

WINNER: Dean McGee Eye Institute

WINNER: Mercy Hospital

Children’s Eye Care

Integris Baptist Medical Center

Oklahoma City Vision Source

Lakeside Women’s Hospital

Dr. Timothy Krous (Edmond Pediatrics)

Millspaugh Chiropractic

holiday celebrations Best 4th of July Celebrations/ Festivities: WINNER: LibertyFest, Edmond Bethany Freedom Festival Bricktown 4th Fest City of Moore-Buck Thomas Park Yukon 4th of July

Best Pumpkin Patch: WINNER: Orr Family Farm Chester’s Party Barn TG Farms

OU Medical Center

Best Holiday Lights:

WINNER: Mercy Hospital

Best Urgent Care Clinic:

Chesapeake Energy

Integris Baptist Medical Center

WINNER: Mercy Convenient Care

OU Medical Center

Access Medical Centers

Best Hospital:

Just Kids Pediatric Urgent Care Kids 1st Pediatric After-Hours Clinic

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WINNER: Chickasha Festival of Light, Chickasha Christmas in the Park, Yukon

AB

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service providers Best Family/Child Photographer:

WINNER: Art and Soul Photography Brandon Burton Photography Portrait Innovations Sundance Photography

Best Fitness Center WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City 10Gym Cleveland County YMCA Gold’s Gym Key Health Insittute Jazzercise Planet Fitness

IO

DA J SC HOOL OF

NC

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Key Health Institute Mademosielle

Best Spa/Medical Practice for a “Mommy Makeover”: WINNER: Cottonwood Salon and Spa Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates Renaissance Spa and Salon

after school activities Best Art Studio/Art Lessons: WINNER: Abrakadoodle YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Fine Arts Institute

Best Dance Studio: WINNER: Studio J School of Dance Dance Unlimited

Best Place for Pampering Moms:

Gravity Dance

WINNER: Cottonwood Salon and Spa

Tippi Toes

Kim Massay Dance Productions Velocity Dance Center

Bella Strada Eden Salon

Best Gymnastics/Cheer Training Facility

Best Childcare Center in a Fitness Center:

WINNER: Metro Gymnastics Bart Conner Gymnastics Academy

WINNER: Mitch Park YMCA

Dynamo Gymnastics

10Gym

Oklahoma Gold Gymnastics

barre3

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Best Martial Arts Studio:

Best Public School System:

Classen School of Advanced Studies, OKC

WINNER: Martial Arts Ministries

WINNER: Edmond Public Schools

Highland East Jr. High, Moore

Poos Taekwondo

Deer Creek Public Schools

Mustang High School, Mustang

Pride Mixed Martial Arts

Moore Public Schools

Westmoore High School, Moore

Mustang Public Schools

Yukon High School, Yukon

Best Music Instruction:

Norman Public Schools

WINNER: Ginger’s Musicgarten (previously Kindermusik)

Putnam City Schools

Best Private School, Preschool:

Yukon Public Schools

WINNER: Crossings Christian School

Best Public School, Elementary:

The Academy of Classical Christian Studies

Anderson Music Studio Norman Music Institute Red Dirt Brothers Guitars

Best Sports League for Kids Sports: WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Crossings Community Church Edmond Soccer Club King Marlin Swim Club Moore Youth Football Norman Youth Soccer Association SoccerCity OKC South Lakes Soccer Club Upward Youth Sports

education Best Tutoring/Learning Assistance Center:

WINNER: KUMON Learning Center Abrakadoodle

WINNER: Deer Creek Elementary, Deer Creek

Casady School Christian Heritage Academy

Chisholm Elementary, Edmond

Christ the King Catholic School

Cleveland Elementary, OKC

Holy Trinity Christian School, Edmond

Cross Timbers Elementary, Edmond

Primrose Schools

James L. Dennis Elementary, Putnam City

Village Montessori

Midwest City Elementary, Midwest City

Yukon Kids First

Nichols Hills Elementary, OKC Plaza Towers Elementary, Moore Roosevelt Elementary, Norman Russell Dougherty Elementary, Edmond Soldier Creek Elementary, Midwest City South Lake Elementary, Moore Truman Elementary, Norman Washington Irving Elementary, Edmond Westfall Elementary, Choctaw-Nicoma Park Will Rogers Elementary, Edmond

Best Public School, Secondary:

Club Z Tutoring

WINNER: Edmond Memorial High School, Edmond

Mathnasium

Cheyenne Middle School, Edmond

Sylvan Learning Center

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Best Private School, Elementary: WINNER: Oklahoma Christian Academy The Academy of Classical Christian Studies All Saints Catholic School, Norman Casady School Christ the King Catholic School Christian Heritage Academy Crossings Christian School Destiny Christian School Heritage Hall Oklahoma Christian School Southern Nazarene University School for Children

O

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Best Private School, Secondary: WINNER: Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School The Academy of Classical Christian Studies Christ the King Catholic School

child care Best Children’s Day Out/ Mother’s Day Out

Christian Heritage Academy

WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

Crossings Christian School

Southern Hills Christian Church, Edmond

Heritage Hall Mount St. Mary Catholic High School Oklahoma Christian School

Best Homeschool Resource Organization:

Best Child Care Center: WINNER: YMCA Child Development Center

community support Best Nonprofit Organization That Serves Families and Children: WINNER: YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Infant Crisis Services Lilyfield Christian Adoption and Foster Care

All About Kids Santa Fe, Moore

Salvation Army

WINNER: OCHEC (Oklahoma Christian Home Educators Consociation)

Camelot Child Development Center

United Way

Pottawatomie County Home Educators Association

Creative Kids’ Learning Center, S. OKC

Childcare Network The Goddard School LaPetite Academy

Best Place to Find Homeschool Resources:

North Penn Creative Kids Learning Center, OKC

WINNER: OCHEC (Oklahoma Christian Home Educators Consociation)

Primrose Schools

Abrakadoodle

Special Care, Inc.

Community Hero/Family Advocate Who Serves Families and Children: WINNER: Infant Crisis Services Kevin Durant YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City

St. Luke’s Children’s Center

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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After School Programs in Oklahoma:

High Quality

but Lacking Quantity

BY LINDSAY CUOMO - CONTRIBUTING WRITER

W

here are your kids between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.?

In a household where both parents work, this question may bring up some feelings of stress. After-school care is a hot topic. Obviously, parents want quality care that’s also affordable, but that’s not always easy to find.

The Afterschool Alliance commissioned a household survey, America After 3PM, to determine the biggest issues parents face in seeking after-school programs. The mission of the organization is to raise awareness about the importance of after-school care and help parents find after-school resources. The 2014 survey took into account responses from 30,000 households and 200 in-depth interviews of Oklahoma families.

The survey, which asked parents of schoolaged children how their kids spend the hours between school letting out and parents getting off work, found mixed results in Oklahoma. Although Oklahoma ranks

near the top nationally for how satisfied parents are with the social and educational environment of their after-school care, the survey found the demand for after-school programs in Oklahoma far exceeds the supply.

Although Oklahoma’s after-school program participation slipped slightly from 2009, the vast majority of parents who have access to after-school programs have a positive perception of the program they use. In fact, the study showed 94 percent of Oklahoma parents said they were highly satisfied with their child’s after-school program. That puts Oklahoma ahead of the national average, which was 89 percent in 2009 and 2014.

“Oklahomans have made progress creating after-school opportunities for their children and should be proud of what the state has accomplished,” explained Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance.

The availability of after-school programs continues to grow, but currently for every child who participates, there are two more who would like to, the survey found.

“It’s great that we’ve made progress on after-school, but we’ve still got a long way

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to go,” said Chuck Mills, chairman of the State Chamber of Oklahoma and co-chair of the OK Workforce Youth Council. “The unfortunate reality is that after-school programs in the state reach only a fraction of the children and families who need them.”

Sheryl Lovelady, the executive director of the Oklahoma Afterschool Network, can attest to the success in our state, as well.

“Oklahoma is moving in a great direction in after-school and summer programs,” she said. “Our programs come from a wide range of providers: for-profits, not-for-profits, faith-based organizations and others in the community have created a network to fill the need. But, we need to build a better infrastructure to reach all kids.”

The primary barrier for families is the availability of programs that fit their needs.

The gap can be attributed to several factors.

Costs associated with after-school care can be prohibitive for many families. Many after-school programs do not qualify as child care subsidy programs which help parents obtain low cost care for their children while they work. Transportation to and from the program and school also can be a problem.

“Most parents in the state who want their child in a program can’t find one that works for them and that needs to change,” Grant said. “For many cities, especially in rural areas, programs have long waiting lists and some cities have no programs at all.”

“Our kids are always learning wherever they go,” Grant said. “It is important to make sure our kids are learning something positive.

Quality after-school programs keep kids safe, inspire them to learn and help working families.”

Oklahoma families often use a variety of after-school solutions. Whether by choice or by necessity, most children spend some portion of the hours after school either in the care of a parent or guardian, in a traditional child care center or with other family members or friends such as a grandparent or neighbor. Although down from 29 percent in 2009, the survey found that 20 percent of Oklahoma students between kindergarten and 12th grade are without adult supervision in the afternoons, that’s a total of 130,367 unsupervised kids.

The survey found that Oklahoma parents agree. After-school programs are more than a place for their child to hang out and be supervised. Parents are looking for afterschool programs that offer opportunities for physical activity, homework assistance, opportunities for reading or writing and STEM learning opportunities. Additionally, parents feel after-school programs can help children develop important social and workforce skills like teamwork, leadership and critical thinking.

Grant cautioned that unsupervised children are more likely to engage in risky behaviors.

According to a study conducted by the YMCA, kids who are left unsupervised are three times to more likely to enter into at-risk behaviors and are more at risk of dropping out of school altogether. Lovelady added that is especially true for teens.

Many Oklahoma communities have had great success building more after-school opportunities.

The impact and importance of quality programs in the community goes well beyond keeping children safe and out of trouble. On average, a child spends seven hours each week in their after-school program, which is about the equivalent of an extra school day. Imagine what your child could accomplish during all that time.

“We want kids to see it as fun and play but it should be a fun way to reinforce what kids are learning at school,” Grant said. “There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to afterschool care. The right program depends on your child.”

In an effort to close the educational achievement gap in many communities, the Oklahoma State Department of Education offers grants for schools and other community organizations to create low-cost or often free after-school programs.

“The grant process is highly competitive,” says Andrea Hohller with the State Department of Education. “There are only so many dollars to go around.”

“When you have the extra time, kids can fully explore a project,” Lovelady said. “It is the time when we can connect education and the workforce, helping kids see the relevancies in what they are learning.”

Organizations looking to start an afterschool program can apply for a 21st Learning Center Grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Qualifying programs can get a three-to-five year grant which would provide anywhere from $50,000 to $300,000 toward funding their after school program.

Speaking from his experience with the State Chamber of Oklahoma and OK Workforce Youth Council, Mills added the quality of care as a child can make an impact into adulthood.

If you are interested in finding an after-school program for your family, the Afterschool Alliance suggests asking these important questions of the program you’re researching:

“Economic growth in our state depends upon a well-educated and skilled workforce,” he said. “Quality after-school programs are teaching kids the skills necessary to succeed in school and are helping prepare them for the future.”

•

Are younger kids mixed with older ages?

•

How long has the staff been there?

•

What are your resources and community connections?

•

What can you offer my child?

Grant agreed quality programs now are essential to the future of Oklahoma’s workforce.

[Editor’s Note: Find a guide to after-school programs offered in the metro at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/after-school]

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

resource

directories

GOT CHILDREN? THEN YOU NEED LOTS OF RESOURCES! INTRODUCING THE “YELLOW PAGES” FOR OKC AREA PARENTS. From pediatricians to special needs therapy, birthday party ideas and private schools, our resource directories—both here and online—provide local parents with the information they need to help their families and children thrive. Check out these businesses and those you find at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories/ and be sure to tell them you found their business via MetroFamily Magazine.

56

After School Activities, page 56 Fine Arts Institute Ginger’s Kindermusik Oklahoma Sport Fencing Studio J School of Dance The Dance Department Velocity Dance Center

55

Childcare, page 55 Child Care Inc. North Penn Cretaive Kids Learning Center

60

Education, page 60 Erna Krouch Preschool Holy Trinity Christian School King’s Gate Christian School KUMON Learning Centers, Edmond Oklahoma Christian Academy Quail Springs United Methodist Church Early Childhood Program Westminster School

57 55

Family Fun, page 57 Be Wild for Art Dodge City Paintball Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum Paint Your Art Out Unpluggits Playstudio

58

Party Guide, page 58 Abrakadoodle Andy Alligator’s Bouncin Craze Building Minds Jump Zone Mad Science of Central Oklahoma Mobile Laser Forces Paint ’N Station Paint Your Art Out Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Skate Galaxy Water Zoo Indoor Water Park

60 61

Retail/Restaurant, pages 60-61 Full Circle Bookstore Green Bambino Jimmy’s Egg learning tree toys, books & games Once Upon A Child The Original Children’s Consignment Sale Pass It On Consignment Sale Ted’s Cafe

55

Special Needs, page 55 Sensational Kids, Inc. Total POSS-Abilities

Family Services, page 55 Lilyfield Adoption Services

Find more at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories/ METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

Child Care with a

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Lilyfield’s Care Connect Counseling program specializes in the issues facing foster and adoptive families.

Please call us at 405-216-5240 or visit www.lilyfield.org.

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

FAMILY SERVICES

We take Sooner Care and most insurance and bill on a sliding scale rate.

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

PARTY

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Birthday Parties with Lego® bricks!

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Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

58

FEBRUARY 2015

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

59

FEBRUARY 2015

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Quail Springs United Methodist Church Early Childhood Program

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

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FEBRUARY 2015

Confidence.

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405.216.9800 • kumon.com/edmond-west

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

©2014 Kumon North America

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FEBRUARY 2015

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