May 2014 digital edition by MetroFamily Magazine

Save

BIG K wit h

ids P ass (Se e p.

32)

MAY 2014

GET OUTSIDE! BEST PLACES TO EXPLORE NATURE IN OKC

Meet our “Awesome Mom” contest winner PIRATES, PLANES & THE SCIENCE OF THE SEA: EXPLORE GALVESTON!

Our picks for the best places to celebrate mom 17 REASONS YOU’LL LOVE PONCA CITY

Over 174 ways to have fun this month!

guide...

The ultimate OKC family fun

Volume 17, Number 5

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE | MAY 2014

EDITORIAL

Sarah Taylor–Publisher Brooke Barnett–Editor/Social Media Sara Riester–Assistant Editor/Calendar Jessica Bowers, Nicole Nuccio Calvert, Stephanie Clinton, Heather Davis, Jennifer Sharpe, M.A. Smith–ContributingWriters Steffanie Halley–Contributing Photographer

Best places to discover nature in OKC

Five places to help your family reconnect with the natural world—and each other.

GOT 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.

DESIGN & SALES Kristi Dunkle–Art Director Callie Collins–Marketing Director Athena Delce, Dana Price–Sales Kathy Alberty–Office/Distribution

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.

Circulation - 35,000

GALVESTON GETAWAY Plan a summer vacation so fun that your kids won’t even realize how much they are learning.

PLUS... DON’T MISS ALL THIS

VISIT PONCA CITY Pioneers, oil barons and more make this the perfect day trip to take with your family.

AWESOME MOM Meet the winner of our 2014 Awesome Mom contest.

3rd Annual Kids Fest a success

Editor’s Picks: Five places to hang out with Mom

Respect Diversity exhibit

Local moms get Strong Together

Mom humor: Becoming a health nut

2014-15 Kids Pass

Local shopping: Serendipity Market

Find the best birthday party venues, summer camps and more in our specialty ad guides

Welcome FROM OUR EDITOR

This month, we are celebrating Mother’s Day with great ideas for places to spend time together—plus, our Kids Pass is back to help you save money while you’re having fun.

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine.com/contests to enter.

n interesting study was released last year that suggests a woman starts to adopt the same tastes and habits as her mother beginning at age 31. So, perhaps the saying is true...we really do turn into our mothers. For me, turning into my mother is actually a good thing. She is the one who taught me how slow cookers can be your best friend on busy weeks, that fresh produce really does taste better, that I should wear “appropriate footwear”at all times and about the importance of family. Another mom who is a living example of the importance of family is the winner of our 2014 Awesome Mom Contest, Regina Harris. Columnist Nicole Nuccio Calvert shares her inspiring story beginning on p. 16. This month is also full of great ways to spend time with your family—from a fun day trip to Ponca City (p. 24) to a summer

r u o r e t n E contestsig! to win b

vacation to Galveston that will have your kids learning while they have fun (p. 20). Contributing writer Jennifer Sharpe also shares five awe-inspiring places to reconnect with nature in the OKC metro, beginning on p. 10. Another thing that my mom taught me? The importance of saving money. Our 2014-15 Kids Pass can be found on p. 32 and has coupons that can be used at 29 venues across the state to help you make the most of your budget. And as you save money, know that my mom would be proud of you.

TEXAS SEAPORT MUSEUM IN GALVESTON

•

Happy Mother’s Day!

• • •

SAVE atUES EN V N U F 29 SS! A P S D I with K See p. 32

Galveston Trip Giveaway—Enter to win a family getaway valued at over $1,500, including a two night stay at the AAA four-diamond Moody Gardens Hotel, a $100 gift card to Nonno Tony’s World Kitchen, four passes to the Galveston Island Pleasure Pier, a 4-pack of tickets to Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark, VIP passes for four to 13 venues (courtesy of the Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau) and a $300 VISA gift card to help with travel expenses (courtesy of Oklahoma Employees Credit Union). Deadline to enter is May 31. Wake Zone Cable Park Giveaway—One lucky reader will win a season pass, valued at $750, to this fun water sports park designed for wakeboarding, waterskiing and more. Deadline to enter is May 23. Dodge City Paintball Giveaway—Enter to win a paintball party for 10. Deadline is May 29. Sister Act Ticket Giveaway—Two readers will win family 4-packs of tickets to the opening night performance on May 20. Contest ends May 12. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Giveaway—enter to win a family membership & museum passes. Contest ends May 16.

THIS MONTH’S COVER

! W WO

15 month old Germaine Coulter III is the son of Elizabeth Andrade and Germaine Coulter. Cover photo by Randy Coleman

family buzz

This month, we’re buzzing about Kids Fest, honoring diversity through art and spending quality time with mom. Photo courtesy of Aparna Fonseka

It’s all about family fun! RESOURCES TO ADD TOYOUR FAMILY FUN QUOTIENT BY BROOKE BARNETT - METROFAMILY EDITOR

3rd Annual Kids Fest a Success!

etroFamily’s Kids Fest and Education Expo moved to a new venue, incorporated new educational elements and brought hundreds of families together with community resources for a great day of family-friendly fun.

Held on Saturday, April 5, this year’s event brought approximately 4,500 attendees to the Cox Convention Center for hands-on fun, information, live entertainment, an education expo, an Extreme Animals petting zoo, the Instabus photo booth, face painting, costumed mascots and characters, inflatables provided

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

by Allison’s Fun and a STEM Safari robotics area. More than 60 local businesses, venues and service providers shared information and provided handson activities. We sincerely thank all our attendees, vendors, volunteers and entertainers for making our biggest annual event a success. Our deepest appreciation goes to K12.com/OVCA for serving as our Silver Sponsor, the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs for sponsoring our Education Expo and the Oklahoma STEM Foundation for sponsoring our STEM Safari. This event would not be possible without their generous support. Please join us at the Cox Center on April 18, 2015 for our 4th annual event!

Editor’s Picks: Best places to hang out with mom in the OKC metro

ay is the perfect time to celebrate mom and nothing is better than spending quality time together. Here are our top picks for the best places to relax, explore new interests or have a sweet treat with your family’s leading lady.

DREAMSTIME.CO

cupcakes and gourmet coffees. With lots of comfortable seating in a laid-back atmosphere, this family-owned cafe serves cupcakes made fresh daily and locally-roasted coffee drinks. Our advice? Try their Boom Boom Pow cupcake for an unforgettable taste of vanilla bean, chocolate butter cream and sea salt.

Inspirations Tea Room

Oklahoma History Center

Why we love it: Featuring over 100 varieties of tea, Inspirations is a special place to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, fresh ingredients and unforgettable desserts (be sure to try the fresh baked scones and homemade lemon curd!). In addition to the award-winning food and tea, Inspirations also features a large gift shop perfect for finding a special gift for your special mom.

Why we love it: Whether she is a native Oklahoman or new to the state, mom is sure to enjoy this 215,000 square foot museum that explores our state’s culture, heritage and more. Plus, if mom is a movie buff, she won’t want to miss the new exhibit “Oklahoma @ the Movies,” which showcases the creativity and innovation of Oklahomans who create, star in and watch motion pictures on the silver screen. The Winnie Mae Café allows you to enjoy a meal while gazing over a replica of Wiley Post’s famous airplane of the same name and the museum store features Madein-Oklahoma gifts that mom is sure to love.

2118 W. Edmond Road, Edmond 405-715-2525 www.inspirationstearoom.com

Full Circle Bookstore

1900 Northwest Expressway, Oklahoma City 405-842-2900 www.fullcirclebooks.com Why we love it: If mom is a bookworm, she’ll love a relaxing afternoon at the largest independent bookstore in the metro. In addition to browsing through more than 60,000 titles in every genre available, participate in one of Full Circle’s book discussions, live performances or story times. Don’t forget to grab a bite at The Garden Café for a tasty selection of soups, salads, sandwiches and sweets before you leave.

Cuppies & Joe

727 N.W. 23rd Street, Oklahoma City 405-528-2122 www.cuppiesandjoe.com

800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City 405-521-2491 www.okhistory.org

Will Rogers Gardens

3400 N.W. 36th Street, Oklahoma City 405-943-0827 www.okc.gov/parks Why we love it: Take mom for a nature walk down meandering walkways and enjoy thousands of roses, irises, azaleas, peonies and other colorful flowers in these historic gardens located on the northern side of Will Rogers Park.Visit the Charles E. Sparks Rose Garden to see 80+ varieties of roses in bloom. The rose garden is also a perfect place for a photo-op to remember your special day together.

Why we love it: If mom has a sweet tooth, you will score big points with Cuppies & Joe’s fresh

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

family buzz

Local students explore diversity through art BY M.A. SMITH—CONTRIBUTING WRITER

aya Angelou once said, “It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength.” The Respect Diversity Foundation (RDF) celebrated those sentiments during the Thirteenth Annual Respect Diversity Awards Ceremony, an annual event that brings local residents, community leaders and school children together to learn about the different cultures and heritages in America. Hosted by RDF, the celebration was held April 8 at the Harding Fine Arts Academy. Musicians from the Nichols Hills Elementary Varsity Choir, Lakeview Elementary Choir, Ida Freeman Honors Choir, The Kaiser Kangaroo Chorus and the Capitol High School Honor Choir performed during the ceremony. Another highlight of the evening is the Respect Diversity Arts Contest and Exhibition. Every year, children across the state create representations of what diversity means to them. “One of RDF’s most popular projects is the national Respect Diversity Arts Exhibition, structured to include students of all ages, from pre-Kindergarteners to university students,” RDF Executive Director Joan Korenblit said. “This competition is important because it inspires teachers to guide students to explore diversity through the arts. Diversity is our strength. The better we know our neighbors, the more we find ways to appreciate their cultures and the closer we advance toward peace. Art integration enhances all the disciplines,” explains Korenblit. For the past two years, Harding Fine Arts Academy has won first place honors. Connie Seabourn, Harding’s art teacher in charge of the project, says the students worked hard this year to win first prize for the third straight year. After hearing this year’s theme for the program “Imagine—Oklahoma Respects Diversity,” Seabourn said, “Right away, we thought of our project, which we named Oklahoma Imagines.”

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE

RESPECT DIVERSITY FOUNDATION

She said the children tossed around ideas before ultimately creating three civil rights leaders sculpted out of papier mâché (pictured above). The figures are sitting on top of a cube, made of tiles with diversity images painted on them. But the competition represents more than arts and crafts. Seabourn said she also wanted the lesson about diversity to sink in and had the students apply their knowledge to their lives. “In my smaller classes, we listened to the song ‘Imagine.’ And I made copies of the lyrics for my other classes,” Seabourn said. “They kept journals through the project and wrote about what diversity means to them.” “Over the past 14 years, over 200,000 students throughout Oklahoma have participated in this exhibition,” Korenblit explains. “By collaborating on diversity art and showcasing symbols of respect for diversity, our youth are indeed helping to define who we want to be as a nation. Through art, students are teaching people that no matter what our differences may be, by working together we can make this a better world.” Learn more and view all the entries in the 2014 Respect Diversity Arts Exhibition at www.respectdiversity.org.

local family fun

Best places in OKC to explore nature BY JENNIFER SHARPE—CONTRIBUTING WRITER

MARTIN PARK NATURE CENTER

ENS

E MYRIAD GARD

SPLASH PAD AT TH

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

et outside and enjoy nature in the metro as a family this spring! “Exploring nature provides many benefits, especially when experienced as a family,” said Jennifer McClintock, spokesperson for the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department. “First and foremost, it helps you re-connect with the people closest to you. When you’re hiking in the woods or along a trail, you can let go and experience the world as it was intended to be.” “Families can look for wildlife together, play a game of nature ‘I Spy,’ go geocaching, or participate in a nature scavenger hunt, all of which can improve observation and communication skills, especially as it gets everyone away from video screens and smartphones, which are such a constant part of our lives these days,” McClintock adds. There is no better time than spring to get outside and enjoy nature with your family. And the best news is, you don’t have to travel far to experience the wonders of nature. It’s all right here in Oklahoma. Ready to unplug and reconnect with your family? Here are five beautiful places to rediscover nature close to home. URBAN PARADISE Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W. Memorial Rd, www.okc.gov/parks) is a 144acre preserve located in northwest Oklahoma City. Martin Park is home to many species of animals including butterflies, squirrels, deer, foxes, coyotes, armadillos and a multitude of birds. Hiking trails weave through the wooded and grassland areas of the park, with signage and trail maps available to guide and educate visitors. Additional park amenities include a playground, pavilion for rent, restrooms and an education center offering a variety of educational programs. Nature Story Time is a free program held on Saturdays at 10:00am for ages 2–6, and includes a story and activity. Children ages 9–13 can participate in conservation projects with the Green Earth Gang on

BERT COOPER

TRAILS AT LA

KE HEFNER

park

Saturdays from 10:30am–12:30pm. Ages 13–18 can be part of the Green Earth Rangers meeting on Sundays from 2:00–4:00pm. Regular park hours are 9:00am–6:00pm, Wednesday through Sunday. [Editor’s Note: Check MetroFamily’s calendar at www.metrofamilymagazine. com/calendar for other special events held throughout the year.] THE PATH TO GOOD HEALTH The Bert Cooper Trails at Lake Hefner (Britton Road near Lake Hefner Parkway, www.okc.gov/trails) are multi-use paved paths that loop around an approximately 9.1-mile circumference of the lake. The 6- and 12-foot wide paved trails are perfect for biking, roller blading, walking and running and are open from 6:00am-10:00pm daily. Clear signs and maps help to keep park goers oriented. Other amenities along the trails include portable restrooms, drinking fountains and picnic areas. Lake Hefner, its parks and the Bert Cooper trails offer many activities for all ages to enjoy, including access to fishing docks, ball fields, playgrounds, restaurants and the Lake Hefner Golf Course. Ample parking is offered at a variety of points around the lake, with large lots along the east side of the lake accessible from Britton or Hefner Roads, or on the south side of the lake at Stars & Stripes Park. HORTICULTURE HEAVEN

Park Near You! Flight of the Navigator Chitwood Park | Friday, June 13

The Best Game Ever Played KickingBird Driving Rg. | Friday, July 11

Located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, the Myriad Gardens (301 W. Reno, www.myriadgardens.org) is a 17-acre park between West Reno, West Sheridan, South Hudson and South Robinson Avenues. A children’s garden, an off-leash dog park, restaurant, splash fountains and paths for walking and

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

Coming this Summer to a

E.T. Hafer Park | Friday, August 15 Movies start at dusk. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. No outside food or drink allowed. Bring blankets or lawn chairs.

MAY 2014

359.4630 | edmondparks.com

NEW FOR 2014 Kids 12 and under Free

CRYSTAL BRIDGE TROPICAL CONSERVATORY AT THE MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS

MYRIAD GARDENS’ THUNDER FOUNTAIN AT NIGHT

jogging provide families with ample opportunities to explore nature right in the city. The outdoor grounds hours are 6:00am–11:00pm daily and access is free. The Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory in the center of the Myriad Gardens allows visitors to explore more than 2,000 varieties of plants, plus a 35-foot waterfall beautifully displayed inside a unique, cylindrical building. The Crystal Bridge includes 13,000 square feet of plant display area in two distinct climates: a Tropical Wet Zone and a Tropical Dry Zone. Hours are 9:00am–5:00pm Monday through Saturday, and 11:00am–5:00pm on Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, students and active military, $4 for children ages 4–12. Children under 4 are free. The Myriad Gardens offers a variety of events including classes, festivals and horticultural education programs for adults and children throughout the year. From May 9–18, the Children’s Garden will be transformed into the lush English garden that served as the setting for the classic children’s book, The Secret Garden. This special project, presented by the Junior League of Oklahoma City, will include beautiful displays celebrating the magic of the book, crafts, a scavenger hunt and other special activities. The Secret Garden will be open from 10:00am–6:00pm daily, and 10:00am–8:00pm on METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

Saturday, May 10 for a special outdoor screening of the movie The Secret Garden at the Water Stage at 8:30pm. The screening will also include performers from Lyric Theater serenading the crowd beforehand with selections from The Secret Garden: the Musical. On May 9–10 and 16–17, Lyric’s performers will entertain from 11:00am–noon and the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre will perform an adaptation of The Secret Garden at 1:00pm. Secret Garden admission is free for members; nonmember fees are $5 per child and $3 per adult. OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Arcadia Lake (www.arcadialakeok.com) is located approximately two miles east of I-35 between 15th and 2nd Streets in Edmond. The lake is part of the Deep Fork River and offers 26 miles of total shoreline for lots of outdoor adventure, including fishing, boating, skiing, swimming and other water sports. Three inter-connected city parks are located in the northwest section of the lake, including the 249-acres Central State Park (7900 E. 2nd St), Edmond Park (7100 E. 2nd St) and Spring Creek Park (7200 E. 15th St). All parks are open for playing and outdoor recreation from 7:00am–10:00pm for day use, and camping is also available. The parks offer parking areas, playgrounds, swimming, restrooms, pavilions, lake access and trails. Spring Creek Park also offers two 18-hole Frisbee disc golf courses. The lake’s most popular trail is the 6.5 mile Multiple-Use Trail which extends from the main park office to Spring Creek Park. Originally designed for mountain bikers, this single dirt track trail also attracts hikers, cross-country

BALD EAGLE AT ARCADIA LAKE ARCADIA LAKE

runners and walkers to enjoy the twisting and winding trail that features beautiful bridges and water crossings. Coming soon, Spring Creek Trail will run from a new Wellness Park on the west side of I-35 to Spring Creek Park. Another upcoming project is the Arcadia Lake Trail, which will be a paved 18-mile trail around the lake that will enable walkers, joggers and cyclists to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while preserving the native habitat and vegetation. More information on this planned trail can be found at www.arcadialaketrail.com. On Saturday, June 7, bring your own fishing pole to the Kids All-American Fishing Derby at Spring Creek Park for kids ages 5–15. Fishing begins at 9:00am and worms will be for sale. Call 405-216-7471 for more information. NATURE IN NORMAN The George M. Sutton Wilderness Park (1920 12th Ave N.E., Norman; www. ci.norman.ok/parks) is comprised of approximately 200 acres of native land, including a lake, gazebo and walking/jogging course. The park is a thriving ecosystem, designed as a representation of the natural ecology of Oklahoma. Dirt trails connect the park’s various habitats, which include prairie patches, wooded areas surrounding a lake, creeks, ponds and marshes. A variety of plants and animals thrive in this mixed habitat, including reptiles, mammals and a variety of rodents. Named after the internationally-recognized bird artist and University of Oklahoma professor George Miksch Sutton, the park attracts a

large variety of both year-round and migratory birds (including great egrets, great blue herons, belted kingfishers, painted buntings, numerous native sparrows, Nashville warblers, redwinged blackbirds, hawks and owls), making it a perfect place to introduce children to bird watching and identification. Free ample parking is located adjacent to the park and the park closes at dusk. PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE In addition to spending the time outside, numerous studies have shown that even a short walk in a natural environment can help improve mode and decrease stress. “Regular contact with nature can improve brain function, and even help children who are affected by ADHD or certain spectrum disorders learn to focus,” McClintock concludes. “There is simply no drawback to experiencing the outdoors, especially when it’s so close at hand.” So unplug, pack some snacks, apply sunscreen and lace up your sneakers for a fun family adventure outdoors.

GEORGE M. SUTTON WILDERNESS PARK

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

2 EVENTS. 1 PARK. 1 FUN-TASTIC DAY. Saturday, May 24 Will Rogers Park 3201 N Grand Boulevard OKC PARKS & RECREATION

KIDATHLON 7– 10a

A swim, bike and run event for kids 5-14

• Prizes for each age group • Participants need to bring their own equipment (helmet required) • Bike Safety Rodeo • Cost: $30 per participant

OKC PARKS & RECREATION

11a– 2p KIDATHLON

SUMMER KICKOFF

moms recharged

Local moms celebrate getting Strong Together

ast January, MetroFamily kicked off a new healthy living initiative called Strong Together, encouraging local moms to get active, get fit and reach their fitness goals in 2014. The results far exceeded our wildest expectations! In partnership with Runhers Women’s Club, the Redbud Classic and Red Coyote Running and Fitness, Strong Together encouraged more than 100 local moms to follow an eight-week training program that prepared them to run the Redbud Classic 5K. The training program was led by Runhers coaches Sheila Kidder and Sara McCauley and provided the moms with training advice, exercise tips, nutritional advice, support and encouragement. Four local moms, Carrie Chlebanowski of Edmond, Serena Hanson of Norman, Rachel Johnson and Alicia Currin-Moore of OKC blogged about their experiences and provided encouragement to the other participants throughout the entire process. On April 6, more than 20 Strong STRONG TOGETHER REDBUD CLASSIC TEAM

FREE Old-Fashioned Family Carnival featuring: • Carnival games, face-painting • Zumba, Tai Chi, Yoga • Photo booth • Basketball Contests • Swimming • Performing arts, more…

$3 ‘Twilight’ rate all day on May 24 for Earlywine and Will Rogers Family Aquatic Centers

For more information, call 297-2211 or visit www.okc.gov/parks okcparks @okcparks

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

STRONG TOGETHER

BLOGGERS

Together members gathered and successfully crossed the finish line at the Redbud Classic. “I needed something to do for me. And I know that the encouragement I receive from moms in similar journeys has helped me and I wanted to give that same help to other moms,” Carrie explained. “It was great. I worried that the training program wouldn’t be regimented enough for me, but I made myself stick to it and it worked beautifully.” Plans for the second Strong Together initiative are under way and we would love to have you join us. Sign up for future email notifications at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/fitness.

Real moms of the metro BY NICOLE NUCCIO CALVERT - METROFAMILY COLUMNIST PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFFANIE HALLEY- WWW.STEFFANIEHALLEY.COM

Meet Regina Harris THE WINNER OF OUR 2014 AWESOME MOM CONTEST IS A DOWN-TO-EARTH MOM WHO OPENS HER HEART AND HOME TO CHANGE LIVES FOR THE BETTER. TIFFANY WHITEFIELD AND OUR 2014 AWESOME MOM WINNER REGINA HARRIS

hen Regina Harris learned that her 16-year-old niece Tiffany Whitefield was pregnant and being asked to leave her father’s house, she felt compelled to step in. By opening her heart and her home, Regina became the forever foster mother that Tiffany needed at just the moment she needed her most. In nominating Regina for MetroFamily’s 2014 Awesome Mom Contest, Tiffany wrote: “To take on a teen with a baby is a lot, and at that time, Regina also had two kids of her own. If it wasn’t for Regina I would have been on the streets and who knows where now. She supported me so I could get through high school and graduate.” TAKING ON TIFFANY When Regina learned of Tiffany’s pregnancy and found out that Tiffany had to leave her home, she immediately offered her home and support. “I don’t even think I asked my husband!” Regina giggles. But she says her husband David, an oil field worker, was right behind her. “There was never a hesitation with him,” she explains. “We just knew it was the right thing to do. Family is supposed to be there for each other.” Today, at age 29,Tiffany recalls how Regina has always been a pillar of support. “I lived at Regina’s house. She was there for me at the hospital when I delivered [my baby], when my parents weren’t,” she explains.Through tears,Tiffany gratefully expresses, “I just love her, because if it wasn’t for

Regina I would be on the wrong path REGINA HARRIS, HUSBAND DAVID & FAMILY right now. She took me in her little house, even though she had a tiny teeny little house.” Regina, David and their daughters Hallie (now age 21) and Hanna (now age 16) made room for Tiffany and her soon-to-be son, Mark (now age 13), in their 900-square foot home. “We can laugh about it now,” says Tiffany. “But she helped me raise Mark for a year and a half. She showed me how a mom is supposed to be, how you are supposed to have unconditional love and how to be a “Fostering was something we knew we always Proverbs 31 type of wife. She just cares about wanted to do,” Regina says. “We just wanted everyone and is always there for anybody who the timing to be right. We wanted to spend needs her. ” time with our [biological] girls and for them not to feel like we took anything away from them Because of Regina’s generosity and guidance,Tiffabefore we adopted.” ny went on to graduate from high school.Tiffany fully credits Regina with making it possible for her Although her children keep this stay-at-home to keep the baby that she would have been forced mom’s life very busy, Regina does find time to to otherwise give up.Tiffany has since gone on to pursue her own passions. Recently, Regina has take college courses and secure a good job at a had a significant weight loss and discovered a local bank. In addition to Mark, she and husband love for running. She enjoys growing vegetables Ryan have two more children, Maxx (age 6) and in her garden, spending time on a tractor and Maylee (age 2).Tiffany feels she became a happy the smell of fresh dirt. She also enjoys finding a and successful person and mother all because of good deal at a thrift store or a garage sale. Regina’s support. “No one can stand next to Regina on the things TAKING ON LIFE that she has done for others,” Tiffany concludes. Regina humbly replies, “You do what you have Regina and David have continued to open their to do. That is what family does.” She adds, “You home in Bridge Creek to those in need. Togethdon’t have to have a million dollars and you don’t er they have fostered and now adopted five have to have a bedroom for everybody. It’s just more children: Eli (age 20), Brittany (age 19), Allove. That’s all you have to have.” bany (age 12), Amaya (age 10) and Jake (age 10).

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. Call 552-4040 to learn more!

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

boathousedistrict.org MAY 2014

Here’s more about how this 44-year-old mom shares the love How do you help others? I enjoy cooking for others.When someone I know has had surgery or a baby, I like to take a homecooked meal to them. What is your parenting style? I am very hands on—what I say, I do . I don’t give in and I am very creative in my means of discipline... just ask my kids! HITEFIELD

S, TIFFANY W

RI REGINA HAR

, & FAMILIES

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I used to weigh almost 300 pounds.

Favorite advice about motherhood? “You have two choices for dinner—take it or leave it!”

QUICK FACTS ABOUT REGINA: •

What are five words that describe you? Energetic, strong-willed, loving, selfless, cheap.

•

What is your favorite indulgence? Iced coffee and chocolate.

How has motherhood changed you? It has made me a selfless person and has taught me patience.

•

What’s your favorite TV show? Duck Dynasty.

•

What’s always in your handbag? Wet wipes and lipstick.

How do you banish stress? I run every morning at 5:00 am.

•

What’s your favorite family outing? Six Flags or camping.

•

What’s your favorite movie? Beauty and the Beast.

•

What’s your guilty pleasure? Chinese food.

What are you passionate about? My church.

What is on your wish list? I’d love to run an orphanage. What is the biggest challenge in your life? Making sure I have instilled enough morals and values in my children’s lives that when they are older, they will make good decisions. What are you most proud of? My marriage of 21—almost 22—years. Advice for other moms? Take one day at a time and never go to bed mad. How do you find balance in your life? A good cup of iced coffee and a big calendar on my pantry door, with all the important dates written down.

WANT TO MEET MORE REAL MOMS? ONLINE: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/real-moms

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

TIFFANY, SON

MARK AND RE

GINA

Pirates, planes & the science of the sea: Exploring Galveston BY JESSICA BOWERS - CONTRIBUTING WRITER

aking an educational vacation to Galveston this summer is a bit like having your cake and eating it too— you can enjoy all the sun and fun, but come home with more than just a tan. Many, if not all, of Galveston Island’s top attractions have a learning component built into the activity and offer an opportunity to gain new insights and interests. The best news is that the kids will be having so much fun, they won’t even notice that you snuck some science and history into their summer.

TEXAS SEAPORT MUSEUM SHIP PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GALVESTON ISLAND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

BIG HITS FOR HISTORY LOVERS Galveston is steeped in history, with attractions that run the gamut from the era of World War II to the nautical past that is deeply intertwined with the island. Give the kids a hands-on history lesson with attractions for every interest. Named for the Seawolf Submarine lost in WWII, Seawolf Park (100 Seawolf Park Blvd, www.americanunderseawarfarecenter. com) now displays both the WWII submarine Cavalla and the USS Stewart Destroyer Escort, one of only three submarine destroyers left in existence. The park was built on an immigration and quarantine site, so visitors can also learn about why Galveston is known as the “Ellis Island of the West” during their visit. A playground, picnic facilities and free fishing off the pier make this a perfect family destination. For a different view of maritime history, visit the Texas Seaport Museum (2200 Harborside Dr, www.galvestonhistory.org) located on Historic Pier 21.The museum tells of the legacy of the sea in both commerce and immigration while offering hands-on exhibits for exploring how the sea has shaped the Texas coast. The museum is also home to the famed Tall Ship Elissa, a three-masted, iron-hulled sailing ship that was built in 1877. The seaworthy vessel serves as the official Tall Ship of Texas, and sails annually to keep the heritage of masted ships alive. Take a break from the heat, but keep the history exploration going with a stop at Pier 21 Theatre (2100 Harborside Dr, www.pier21galveston.com) More than 100 years later, the Great Storm that hit Galveston in 1900 is still a vital part of the history of the island. A film chronicling the firsthand accounts and pictures from the terrible disaster can be seen at this theater, along with other historical films featuring pirate Jean Lafitte, who called Galveston home, and another film highlighting the history of immigration in Galveston. If learning about the Great Storm of 1900 inspires an interest in life in the Victorian era, you are in luck. Galveston is filled with detailed architecture examples from before 1900, including two famous mansions that survived the storm and offer tours daily. Moody Mansion (2618 Broadway St, www.moodymansion.org), built in 1895, and Bishop Palace (1402 Broadway St, www.galvestonhistory.org), built in 1892, are prime examples of the Golden Era of Galveston when the port was bustling with commerce and cotton.

Tours of the homes allow kids to step back in time and see what life was like at the turn of the century. As a bonus, Bishop Palace provides play trunks in each room that contain toys and activities to help children explore the mansion in a kid-friendly way. It would be impossible to leave a destination with so much high seas history without exploring the role of pirates. Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast (2313 Harborside Dr, www.piratesgulfcoast.com) is an interactive scavenger hunt that invites families to step aboard a pirate ship to learn about the history, myth and legend of piracy. As kids search for clues aboard the ship, they will encounter costumed actors representing historical figures such as Jean Lafitte, Jim Bowie and the Karankawa Indians. Learn more about the true history of pirates at the Moody Gardens (1 Hope Blvd, www.moodygardens.com) exhibit Real Pirates. This one-of-a-kind exhibit features over 150 treasures from the Whydah, the first authenticated pirate shipwreck in US waters. The exhibit includes treasure that was last touched by pirates before it sank into the ocean in 1717. PLANES, TRAINS & OFF-SHORE OIL RIGS Kids of all ages are fascinated by the way things work, including the wonders of transportation like planes and trains. Nestled among the miles of white sand, Galveston offers world class collections of antique forms of transportation, as well as a unique look at an off-shore oil rig. Lone Star Flight Museum (2002 Terminal Dr, www.lsfm.org) is home to one of the finest restored aircraft collections in the nation with 40 historically significant aircraft and hundreds of artifacts related to the history of flight. The museum includes the unique opportunity to take to the air in one of several restored Warbirds. Soar from the rugged history of military aircraft to the romance of rail travel with a visit to the Galveston Railroad Museum (2602 Santa Fe Pl, www.galvestonrrmuseum.com). The historic museum boasts one of the largest restored railcar collections in the Southwest, and one of the five largest collections in the country. Important pieces of the collection include Santa Fe Warbonnets rolling stock and an extensive assortment of model train layouts in a range of gauges.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

MOODY GARDENS REAL PIRATES EXHIBIT

For a unique look at an important part of the commerce of the Gulf Coast, visit the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum and Education Center (2002 Wharf Rd, www.oceanstaroec.com). The museum consists of a retired jackup drilling rig that has been transformed into exhibits that explore the life aboard an offshore oil rig. The museum features three floors of models and interactive displays illustrating the story of offshore oil and gas from seismic technology to exploration and production. Scale models of production platforms, actual drill bits and remotely-operated vehicles (ROVs) are also on display. The highlight of the museum is the chance to walk the skywalk to the drilling floor of the rig to get a close-up look at the massive mechanism. SCIENCE & THE SEA It’s no surprise that the sea is at the center of the scientific exploration in Galveston, but there are surprisingly many aspects of ocean life to discover in the port of Galveston. Check out all the activities at the pyramids of Moody Gardens or explore the flora and fauna of the natural areas of the coast, all while learning about biology and oceanography. Moody Gardens packs a mighty educational punch in the form of three unique pyramids that contain live animal exhibits, IMAX movies and other hands-on science experiences. The Aquarium Pyramid houses one of the largest aquariums in the world, divided into four distinct ocean environments. The chilly South Atlantic exhibit houses five different species of penguins that you can meet up close and perMETROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

sonal in a behind-the-scenes tour. The highlight of the North Pacific exhibit is meeting Squirt, the blind sea lion who playfully scoots around entertaining guests. The South Pacific is filled with colorful coral and beautiful fish. Throughout the aquarium, there are plenty of hands-on activities for kids like touch-friendly sea creatures or games, including a shark search where kids can stamp their passport as they find each species of shark. The Rainforest Pyramid allows visitors to tour all the levels of the rainforest from the canopy to the rainforest floor. The canopy gives visitors an eye level view of monkeys, sloths and other free roaming tree dwellers. As you journey downward, you will pass through the cloud layer where you will encounter colorful frogs and artifacts from the rainforest people. The Discovery Pyramid houses traveling science exhibits and live interactive demonstrations. Through September 28, National Geographic’s Real Pirates:The Untold Story of the Wydah is on display at the Discovery Pyramid. Along with the three pyramids, Moody Gardens also offers interactive and educational films in the 3D, IMAX and Ridefilm theatres. For a slightly more artistic look at the ocean ecosystem, book a tour with Artist Boat (2415 Avenue K, www.artistboat.org). Public tours of the marshland combine an active kayak tour with a unique watercolor class. Paddle out into the coastal margins and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, then stop for a relaxing break that encourages participants to channel their inner Picasso and create a watercolor souvenir of the beautiful surroundings. Big Reef Nature Park (Bolivar Rd & Boddecker Drive, www. galveston.com) is a bird watchers’ paradise and great place to let the kids explore the ocean ecosystem. The large wetland area features egrets, herons, ducks, cormorants and gulls, often in large flocks. The park also includes the East Lagoon Nature Trail where the tidal marsh environment creates a

perfect home for bird watching and other animal sightings. At the end of any summer vacation in Galveston, you should have a little sand between your toes and salt in your hair, but if you plan it carefully, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also slip in some unforgettable learning experiences. Think of it as hiding some healthy vegeta-

bles in the sweetness of the cake. To learn more about the options in Galveston, visit www.galveston.com to find links for lodging, special events and more attraction details.

PORT 21

SEAWOLF PARK

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

[Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note: Enter to win a fun family vacation to Galveston, including hotel stay, tickets to attractions and a $300 VISA card to help with travel expenses, courtesy of our friends at the Galveston Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and Oklahoma Empoyees Credit Union.Visit www.metrofamilymagazine. com/Contests for details.]

17 reasons to explore Ponca City

ike many Oklahoma towns, Ponca City has a quaint, small town feel. Also like many Oklahoma towns, it is a hidden gem offering a delightfully diverse collection of museums, parks, arts and attractions. If you are looking for a fun day trip or planning a summer staycation, Ponca City is the perfect destination, located just 90 minutes from the Oklahoma City metro. Here are 17 reasons to take a quick drive up I-35 to explore this town, rich with the history of oil barons, pioneer life and more.

BY STEPHANIE CLINTON - CONTRIBUTING WRITER PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE CLINTON & COURTESY OF THE PONCA CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE..

PIONEER WOMAN STATUE

exploring oklahoma BE AN OIL BARON Ponca City has a long and rich history in the oil industry. As you drive into town, you are met by the sight of the Conoco plant and adjacent Conoco Museum (501 W. South Ave, www.conocomuseum. com). Designed as a tribute to the more than 100 years that the international energy company has enjoyed success, the museum gives a very in-depth history of the company and oil industry. Families can enjoy interactive touch screen exhibits, learn about the process of refining oil, stand in a replica of a research and development laboratory and try out a gravity-fed gas pump. The museum also highlights the early days of oil tycoon E.W. Marland, who went on to become one of Ponca City’s most generous benefactors and Governor of Oklahoma. The museum offers free admission and friendly museum docents are on hand to answer questions. A PALACE ON THE PRAIRIE A trip to Ponca City wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Marland

Grand Home (100 E. Grand www.marlandgrandhome.com) and the Marland Mansion & Estate (901 Monument Rd, www.marlandmansion. com). The Grand Home is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00am-5:00pm and admission is $3 for adults and $1 MARLAND MANSION & ESTATE for students. Here, you can step back in time to see how E.W. and his wife Virginia may have spent their days and learn dishwashers and refrigeration and an about the sometimes scandalous history elaborate master bath. Now a National of this prominent family. The Grand Home Historic Landmark, the mansion contains includes a collection of memorabilia from more than 50 rooms, a dozen bathrooms the 101 Ranch and Wild West Show, an and three kitchens. The estate is open impressive collection of Native American Monday-Saturday from 10:00am-5:00pm artwork, clothing, tools and instruments and Sunday from 1:00-5:00pm. Admisand a display by the Daughters of the sion is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and American Revolution. students and $4 for children. Not far away is the Marland Mansion and Estate, a 43,561-square-foot mansion gives the visitor a glimpse into the luxurious life of an oil tycoon. Called “The Palace on the Prairie,” the mansion was state of the art in the 1920s, featuring automatic

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

THE ORIGINAL PIONEER WOMAN Before Ree Drummond dubbed herself “The Pioneer Woman” and became an Oklahoma celebrity, there was the original

Standing Bear Park (2401 S. 7th St, www. standingbearpark.com) is a beautiful spot for enjoying nature and learning about Native American culture. The 63-acre park features winding paths and spots to sit and enjoy the beauty around you. A 22-foot bronze statue of Chief Standing Bear is an impressive feature. The Standing Bear Museum and Education Center offers free admission and features exhibits, artwork and artifacts from six Native American tribes. The museum is open Monday-Friday from 9:00am-5:00pm and Saturday, 10:00am-2:00pm. Each year, Standing Bear Park is home to the Annual Standing Bear Pow Pow, held on the first Friday and Saturday of September and the public is invited to join the celebration.

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Pioneer Woman in Ponca City. Commissioned by Marland to honor the spirit of the women who played such a significant role in the settling of the plains, this bronze Pioneer Woman Statue stands 17-feet high and depicts a woman of courage, determination and humility gazing towards the horizon. The statue is located one block from the Marland Mansion in front of the Pioneer Woman Museum (701 Monument Rd, www.pioneerwomanmuseum.com). The 10,000-square-foot museum showcases the history of women in Oklahoma and tells the story of how their bravery and strength helped to develop our state. The museum also pays tribute to women who have made significant contributions to Oklahoma’s history and gives a taste for what daily life was like for historic Oklahoma homesteaders. Families will want to be sure to visit the Children’s Corner, which offers educational activities, to try their hand at spinning, knitting or quilting in the “Heart of the Home” area and to play the “What Is It?” game to see how well they can identify unusual historic items from the past. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday and admission is $4 for adults, $3.50 for seniors, $1 for children and children under 6 are free.

If you’re looking for outdoor recreation, Ponca City has you covered. The Lake Ponca Recreation Area (www.poncacity. com/lake_ponca.htm) is just a few minutes from downtown and features a swim beach, playground, camping, golfing, hiking, fishing and boating. Just 10 minutes farther is Kaw Lake (www. kawlake.com), a 38-mile-long lake featuring nearly 170 miles of shoreline,which welcomes water and jet skiing, hiking, fishing, horseback riding and swimming on three beaches. Make sure to set aside an entire afternoon for Sun and Fun Waterpark (8900 Lake Rd, www. sunnfunwaterpark.com) which includes four water slides, wave pool, lazy river, bumper boats, go-karts and batting cages. See website for ticket information and special offers. If you are into camping, be sure to visit Sarge Creek and Osage Cove for family-friendly camping sites and playgrounds.

PICTURESQUE PARKS Ponca City is a perfect destination for a family on a budget, offering many inexpensive and free museums and parks. There are several conveniently-located parks that offer ideal places for a picnic lunch, play areas and paths for kids to explore. L.A. Cann Memorial Garden (14th & Grand Ave, www.poncacity. com/cann_garden.htm) is just blocks from the downtown area and features several hundred varieties of annuals and perennials and more than 70 different species of trees nestled on 10 acres.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

STANDING BEAR MUSEUM

LAKE PONCA RECREATION AREA

101 Rodeo arena (300 N. 3rd St, www.101wildwestrodeo.com), with team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bull riding and more. The 101 Wild West Rodeo Parade is held on Saturday, June 14, followed by the 101 Wild West Kid’s Rodeo held at the Ponca City Library (515 E. Grand, www.poncacitylibrary. com). The Kid’s Rodeo includes a stick horse flag race, Rodeo Queen autographs, dunk tank and many other activities sure to delight your little buckaroo.

Ponca City packs it in when it comes to family-friendly events, with many fun festivals happening in June. Gardening enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 21st Annual Herb Festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 7 at LA Cann Gardens, which features hard-to-find herbs and plants, as well as gardening vendors, horticulture seminars, food tastings and free children’s activities.

The city’s Juneteenth Celebration is held on Saturday, June 21 at noon at the Attucks Community Center & Park (1001 S. 12th St) and includes a free picnic-style lunch, games and live entertainment. The event, which celebrates the historic emancipation of slaves, also features an evening fish fry and BBQ dinner.

The 55th Annual 101 Wild West PRCA Rodeo is held nightly from June 12-14 at the

Whether you’re there for just a day or an entire weekend,

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVALS

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

Ponca City has something for everyone. For more family-friendly festivals and other reasons to take a trip to Ponca City, visit www.poncacitytourism.com [Editor’s Note: Find more ideas for fun weekend getaways and day trips in Oklahoma at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/Exploring-Oklahoma.]

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Join us to celebrate our history at the annual Chisholm Trail and Crawfish Festival! June 7th, 2014 at the Kirkpatrick Family Farm, 1001 Garth Brooks Boulevard from 9A-6P. FREE! For more info please contact 405 -350 -8937 or visit www.cityofyukonok.gov

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Becoming a health nut: emphasis on nut BY HEATHER DAVIS - METROFAMILY COLUMNIST

pproximately twelve weeks ago, I made a resolution that I would be healthier in the New Year. I read that people who made small goals and worked to achieve those small goals were more successful at keeping their resolutions. I decided that my first small goal would be to not hit snooze so much in the morning. I imagined that I would be amazingly productive if I got up when my alarm first sounded as opposed METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

to hitting snooze twelve times. Studies indicate that those extra nine-minutes of “snooze sleep” are of no use and contain no good sleep time. Those studies might have been written by toddlers, I’m not sure. I told my husband of my plan. “If I wake up when my alarm goes off and get out of bed, I can do yoga, get a couple of chapters written, set the day’s dinner in the slow cooker and maybe even read for pleasure.” He reminded me that my alarm was set to go off just thirty minutes before I needed to get ready, and I had

MAY 2014

just listed about three-hour’s worth of activities. He’s awfully smug for a man who wakes up every morning without an alarm clock. Oh wait. I guess he can be that way. I double-checked my alarm before going to bed and when the alarm sounded the next morning, I hopped out of bed and wandered into the living room when I fell asleep on the recliner. The silver lining here? I didn’t hit snooze. I didn’t hit snooze the next morning when I just turned my alarm off, rolled over and stayed in bed until my kids asked if they were to drive themselves to school. And I didn’t hit snooze the morning after that when I fell into bed at an awful hour and forgot to turn my alarm on at all. So, I guess you could say that I was meeting my goal of not using snooze on my alarm in the morning. Sorta. My next goal was to start the day off with a healthy breakfast. Too often, I toss a fruit bar to the girls as we sail out the door to start our day. While there’s nothing wrong with fruit bars if they are indeed fruit bars, there might be something wrong with them if they are instead candy

bars, cookies and still-frozen waffles which I called fruit bars to make myself feel better. My ever-supportive husband asked if I wanted him to help. I held my head high and proclaimed that this was something I wanted to do—it was my goal. I could make it happen. The first morning, I got up when my alarm went off, wandered into the kitchen and began browning hamburger meat for a good ol’ one-skillet boxed meal. “What are you doing?” my patient husband asked. “Making Hamburger Helper, I think,” I sleepily replied stirring the sauce with cold milk and hot water while still in my nightgown. “For breakfast?” he asked as he got the bowls out of the cabinet and began filling them with cereal and milk for him and the girls. “I guess I’m a little bit confused,” I admitted before falling back asleep on the couch. Good news: Dinner was already done for that evening. See how effective my new healthy goals were making my life? Over the course of that week, our daughters had leftover pizza for breakfast (grains, protein and dairy—it’s the perfect food, morning, noon

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

or night), an entire bag of Cuties, Nutella and an actual fruit bar that I think Nana brought over. After that week of trying to wake up early and have a healthy breakfast, I had a new motto: Ehhh…close enough. Finally, with my sleep habits and breakfast beginnings in check (ehhh…close enough), I was ready to implement part three for a healthy me. Exercise. I exercise regularly. Every week, I push my cart through the grocery store and that sucker is heavy, y’all. It’s strength training and aerobic rolled into one. Jillian Michaels tweeted me and told me I was lying to myself about that. I tweeted back and told her she clearly had not seen my weekly shopping list. But, on a bright Saturday morning, the perfect morning routine came to me. The entire family rolled out of bed at about the same time. Sure, the clock’s hour was in the double digits, but we didn’t hit snooze and we all laced up our expensive tennis shoes and set out on a morning walk. To the donut shop. C’mon! Donuts are healthy if you have to walk a mile to get them. Don’t tweet that to Jillian Michaels for confirmation, though.

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3300 Market Pl, Norman (I-35 & Indian Hills Road) 405-321-7275 – www.andyalligators.com Purchase a $20 game card and get $5 free. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

14901 N Lincoln Blvd, Edmond (405-607-2020) 9333 W Reno, OKC (405-470-7000) www.bouncincraze.com Buy 1 admission and get another admission 1/2 off. Limit 1 per customer. Cannot be used on special event days. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center

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Dodge City Paintball & Outdoor Laser Tag

507 S 4th St, Enid 580-237-1907 – www.csrhc.org 1 free child’s admission with paid adult admission. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

1000 Chisholm Trail Pkwy, Duncan 580-252-6692 – www.facebook.com/onthechisholmtrail 1 free youth admission with the purchase of an adult/senior admission. Expires 9/1/14 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

16425 NW 150th St, Piedmont 405-373-3745 – www.dodgecitypaintball.com $5 off regular admission price. 1 coupon per player. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum

Harn Homestead Museum

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum

1400 Classen Dr, OKC 405-235-4458 – www.oklahomaheritage.com 1 free student admission with purchase of 1 adult admission. Up to 2 free student admissions with purchase of 2 or more adult admissions. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

1721 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC 405-235-4058 – www.harnhomestead.com Receive 4 admissions for $10 Not valid for group admissions or educational programming. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

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SW 104th St & S Western (Palagio Shops), OKC 405-200-1691 – www.jumpzoneparty.com $5 off Jump!Pass. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

200 E Maple Ave, Enid 580-233-2787 – www.leonardos.org $1 off admission for up to 5 people. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Check www.metrofamilymagazine.com/Exploring-Oklahoma for great Oklahoma travel ideas and more! METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

1714 W Wrangler Blvd, Seminole 800-259-5437 – www.jasminemoran.com $1 off single admission. (Children 2 and under free.)

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1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee 405-878-5300 – www.mgmoa.org Buy 1 adult admission and get 2 free children’s admissions. Promo code SCVB. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

10301 S Sunnylane Rd, OKC 405-814-0006 – www.museumofosteology.org Get $1 off general admission for up to 4 people with this coupon. Limit one coupon per family. (Code #7) Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

1700 NE 63rd St, OKC 405-478-2250 – www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Free child admission with paid adult. Limit 2 children (ages 4-12) per coupon. Not valid for special events. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Oklahoma Aquarium

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300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks 918-296-FISH – www.okaquarium.org $2 off general admission, limit 4 per visit. Cannot be combined with other discounts/coupons. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

415 Couch Dr, OKC 405-236-3100 – www.okcmoa.com 1 free child’s general museum admission (up to age 12) with paid adult general museum admission. Good for up to 4 people. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Oklahoma History Center

Oklahoma Railway Museum

800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC 405-522-0765 – www.okhistory.org $2 off one regularly-priced Family Pass. Each Family Pass is good for up to 6 people. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Pawnee Bill Ranch & Museum

1141 Pawnee Bill Rd, Pawnee 918-762-2513 – www.pawneebillranch.com 2 free child admissions with each paid adult admission. 10% discount in museum store. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Science Museum Oklahoma

2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 405-602-6664 – www.sciencemuseumok.org $1 off adult & $0.50 off child/senior admission for up to 4 people. Does not include Dome Theater. Code: 700-038 Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Toy & Action Figure Museum

111 S Chickasaw, Pauls Valley 405-238-6300 – www.actionfiguremuseum.com Buy 1 admission, get 1 admission FREE (regularly $6). Limit 1 per family or group. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

620 N Harvey, OKC 405-235-3313– www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org $2 off regular admission (limit 1). Children 5 & under FREE. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Paint N’ Station

3400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC 405-424-8222 – www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org 1 free child’s train ride (ages 3-12) when accompanied by a paying adult. Valid only for regular museum trains that take place the 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, April - August. Not valid during special events. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

7906 N May Ave, OKC 405-842-7770 – www.paintnstation.com Spend at least $25 and receive $5 off your entire purchase. 1 discount per visit. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

RIVERSPORT Adventures

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

725 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC, Boathouse District 405-552-4040 – www.boathousedistrict.org $5 off Adventure Day Pass. Limit to 4 per visit Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman 405-325-4712 – www.samnoblemuseum.org 1 free child’s admission for each paid adult admission. Limit 2 children per coupon. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Sun N’ Fun Waterpark

Tom Stafford Air & Space Museum

8900 Lake Road, Ponca City 580-762-3331 – www.sunnfunwaterpark.com Buy 1 admission ticket, get 1 free. Expires 8/15/11 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Unpluggits Playstudio

575 Enterprise Dr, Suite 110, Edmond 405-340-7584 – www.unpluggits.com $1 off paint ‘n play admission for up to 4 people. Limit 1 coupon per visit. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

3000 Logan Rd, Weatherford 580-772-5871 – www.staffordmuseum.com Buy one adult admission, get one adult admission free. Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

Water Zoo Indoor Water Park

1900 Blvd of Champions, Clinton 580-323-9966 – www.water-zoo.com Everyone pays child’s admission price on Monday,Tuesday or Wednesday. (Not valid during March 2015.) Expires 4/30/15 MFMKidsPass2014 Not to be combined with other offers.

2014-2015 Kids Pass

Kids Pass coupon must be presented to admission personnel to receive discount. *Good through April, 2015 or as specified.

www.metrofamilymagazine.com/Exploring-Oklahoma METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2014

Good April, thru 2015 *

local shopping

BY BROOKE BARNETT - METROFAMILY EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOKE BARNETT

Serendipity Market: Local shopping with style

erendipity means a “pleasant surprise” or “happy accident” But there is nothing accidental about the wide variety of elegant gifts, home décor, restyled furniture and more that you will find in this locally-owned crafter’s marketplace and shopper’s heaven. “PART OF THE PASSION” Serendipity Market (917 E. Danforth, Edmond; www.serendipityofedmond.com) originally opened in 1991 under the name of Crafter’s Mall, but the name was changed ten years ago to reflect how shoppers can discover their own style by the “happy discovery” of beautiful products, chic decor and hand-made treasures.

“Like Etsy, but local” is a great way to describe Edmond’s Serendipty Market.

Owner Yanhao Xie, better known as “Ms. Hallie” to her booth vendors and customers, actually started out as a vendor at Serendipity Market herself. “It was a journey of ‘serendipity’, too,” Hallie explains. “We were just one of the vendors back then and actually enjoyed creating unique styles for the home decoration area. But through the past 10 years of store management, our passion now is to assist these talented dealers in fulfilling their

If you are looking to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift, forget the big box stores. Edmond’s Serendipity Market is a one-stop shopping oasis for gifts in every style—all in a fun, eclectic marketplace environment. METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

dreams. Of course, supporting their local small business becomes part of our passion while we are building our vendor relationship. It is important to the whole community to support each other.”

TRADITIONAL & TRENDY Walking through Serendipity Market offers new surprises around every corner, ranging from home décor and vintage items to clothing, jewelry and more. Each booth is like a store within itself and Serendipity contains dozens of vendor booths to explore, with styles ranging from country French to coastal living to shabby chic. “We have dealers who have been in our shop since 1991,” Hallie explains. “However, we also have lots of new dealers providing trendy gifts, home décor and ladies’ fashion.” Selecting booth vendors is an art in itself, with Hallie looking to provide the best possible mix of products to keep customers coming back. “We select dealers by the demand of the shoppers and by following the retail trends in home décor, gifts and fashion.We carefully screen vendors to avoid unhealthy competition and, at the same time, we try our best to pick different vendors so that our market can provide a

variety of products to satisfy our customers.” Serendipity also features seasonal and holiday decor, hand-made items, toys and children’s items, specialty t-shirts and hand-stamped jewelry. Some of the newest vendors at Serendipity Market include: •

A Gathering Place (www.gatheryeroses. com) offering chic style pillows, French farmhouse offerings vintage lace complements and one-of -a-kind designs.

•

Refunk My Junk (www.refunkmyjunk.com) featuring hand-painted furniture and carefully-curated home décor.

•

Doodle Design Shop (www.doodledesignshop.com) offering antiques and vintage hats, home décor and t-shirts.

“And Briar Patch, Josie’s Closet, Soulful Charm, Tee for the Soul...,” Hattie continues. “We have lots of great vendors.”

TREATS FOR MOM While the items at Serendipity change yearround, Mother’s Day is a great time to explore all that the marketplace has to offer. “We feature unique products usually cannot be found at other shops,” Hattie explains. “You can find petite sachets with lavender at A Gathering Place that are lightweight and perfect for mailing. Happy Chaos offers some small ‘Mom’ pillows and Briar Patch offers beautiful floral arrangements.We also exclusively offer Tokoyo Milk candles and body lotions. Some customers will find great gifts in our restyled/repainted furniture. Of course, you can find trendy clothes and jewelry here, which moms love very much!” For shoppers who are unable to narrow it down to that one perfect item, a Serendipity Market gift card will allow mom to enjoy her own shopping experience.

BECOME A V.I.P. For customers at Serendipity Market, the shopping experience itself is part of the venue’s charm. “The thing I hear most often is that we

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have a beautiful shop, that customers love our stuff, enjoy the great displays and having so many selections.” Looking towards the future, Hallie says she will continue to select the unique, stylish and affordable merchandise, designed to help her customers live a quality life. “Some shoppers spend time at our shop simply to get inspiration about how to decorate their house in the most economical way,” Hallie says. To stay on top of the latest offerings from Serendipity, sign up for the V.I.P. Club (http://mpage.info/ serendipitymarket) for vendor updates, special discounts and information about sales and events, including open houses, girl’s night out events classes and more. In addition, find Serendipity Market on Pinterest and Instagram to see photos of current products and get design ideas. Serendipity Market is open Monday-Saturday from 10:00am–6:30pm. For more information, call 405340-8869 or follow Serendipity Market on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SerendipityMarket.

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calendar

may

events this

OUR CALENDAR MAKES IT EASY TO FIND FAMILY FUN IN OKC— PLUS FIND EVEN MORE AT WWW.METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM 19TH ANNUAL CHUCK WAGON GATHERING & CHILDREN’S COWBOY FESTIVAL—MAY 24–25

Recently recognized by American Cowboy magazine as a Top 3 pick for Best Family Event, the Annual Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival returns to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museums on May 24–25. This family-friendly festival offers mouth-watering food, activities for children, musical entertainment and an opportunity to browse one of the nation’s premier Western heritage museum.

The festival is expected to attract more than 8,000 visitors over two days to partake in memory-making activities spread across the museum complex. Headlining the stage entertainment will be balladeer Don Edwards on Saturday, May 24 and acclaimed Western singer and poet Red Steagall Sunday, May 25. Children can participate in numerous outdoor activities, including pony rides, rope making, bandana designing, leather crafting & more. Stagecoach and covered wagon rides are offered around the festival oval. The festival also includes traditional cowboy & chuck wagon fare. Ten chuck wagon crews prepare stew, brisket, sourdough biscuits, beans, cobblers and rice pudding for visitors to sample. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors & students and $5 for children ages 6-12. Children ages 5 and under are admitted free, as are museum members. Festival hours are 10:00am–4:00pm, and the museum is open from 9:00am–5:00pm. The event’s associate sponsor is Remington Park. Additional cosponsors include The Oklahoman, KKNG 93.3 FM and Great Plains Coca-Cola, with support from Museum Partners Devon Energy Corporation, Chesapeake Energy Corporation and the E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation. MORE INFORMATION: www.nationalcowboymuseum.org PHONE: 478-2250 Photos courtesy of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

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calendar

FREE ADMISSION FOR MOMS—MAY 10–11

Looking for a way to celebrate mom? Spend some quality family time together and enjoy complimentary admission for mom at many local museums and venues on Mother’s Day weekend. Moms can enjoy free admission to the Orr Family Farm on Saturday, May 10 and take part in the farm’s zip line, train rides, petting zoo & more. On Sunday, May 11, moms get in free at the Oklahoma City Zoo, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History and more. Find these and other Mother’s Day events in our 2014 Mother’s Day Fun Guide. MORE INFORMATION: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/mothers-day

SUMMER READING PROGRAM KICKOFF—ONGOING The upcoming summer vacation does not have to mean a vacation from reading! The summer months are a great time to expand your children’s literary world, teach them to enjoy reading for pleasure, help sharpen school skills and bridge the gap between school years. Both the Metropolitan Library System and the Pioneer Library System are offering summer reading programs to reward your readers and allow them to take part in special activities and events. A host of kickoff events are held at the end of May, allowing kids to set a reading goal, take part in activities and sign up for the summer reading program at their local libraries. Kickoff events will be held at the Moore and Southwest Oklahoma City libraries on Thursday, May 29, and at the Del City library on Friday, May 30. For a complete list of kickoff events around the metro, see our 2014 Summer Reading Program Guide online. MORE INFORMATION: www.metrofamilymagazine.com/summer-reading Photo courtesy of the Pioneer Library System

RED EARTH FESTIVAL—JUNE 5–7

The 28th Annual Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival will be held June 5–7 at Remington Park (1 Remington Way). American Indian artists and dancers will gather from throughout North America to celebrate the richness and diversity of their heritage with the world. A grand parade opens the Red Earth Festival, including tribal representatives in full regalia. At Red Earth, guests can sample the work of some of the nation’s most celebrated artists, purchase contemporary and traditional basketry, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, paintings and more. The event also includes dance competitions and demonstrations, featuring elite Native American dancers. Admission is $10 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 6-17 & seniors and children under 6 are admitted free. MORE INFORMATION: www.redearth.org PHONE: 427-5228 Photo courtesy of Red Earth

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may

events this THROUGH MAY 9

Alexander & the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day presented by the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder) based on the popular children’s book. Recommended for grades K-3. $10 adults, $7 ages 2-12. Wednesday & Friday, 11am; Saturday & Sunday, 2pm. 606-7003, www. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org.

THROUGH JUNE 12

FREE The Incredible Years Parenting Classes at Quail Springs UMC (14617 N Penn) for parents of children ages 1-8 features strategies that work in real life situations, parent handbook & more. Childcare available. Limited seating. Wednesdays, 6-8pm. 419-4112.

MAY 2–4

Norman Friends of the Library Better Book Sale at the Norman Library (225 N Webster, Norman) offers a wide selection of coffee table, rare & collectible books for purchase. Proceeds benefit the Norman Library. Friday, 6-9pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday,1-5pm. 701-2600, www.pls.lib.ok.us. FREE Downtown Edmond Arts Festival (Broadway & 2, Edmond) features artists & crafters, food, performing artists, children’s area & more. Friday-Saturday, 10am-8pm; Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 249-9391, www.downtownedmondok.com. FREE Rose Rock Music Festival in Noble features a carnival, art & craft vendors, festival food, live music, parade, car show & more. See website for schedule. www.nobleok.org/rose-rockmusic-festival.

MAY 3 • SATURDAY

FREE Comic Book Day at participating retailers across the country offers a free comic book to all customers to introduce new readers to

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the comic book medium. Details at www. freecomicbookday.com.

FREE Prague Kolache Festival on Main Street in downtown Prague offers dance, song, food, crafts, parade, carnival rides & more. 567-4866, www. praguekolachefestival.com. FREE El Reno Fried Onion Burger Day in downtown El Reno features live entertainment, arts & crafts, food, games, rides & more. 262-8888, www. elrenoburgerday.com. Autism Oklahoma PieceWalk & 5K at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle) benefits Autism Oklahoma with a 5K, walk & a resource fair. Resource fair, 7:30am; walk, 8:30am; 5K, 9am. www. piecewalk.org. March for Babies at the Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno) benefits the March of Dimes. 9am. 943-1025, www. marchforbabies.org. FREE Kids Workshop “Build a Flower Planter” at participating Home Depot Stores. Children ages 5-12 complete a wooden project & receive a free apron. Firstcome, first-served. May preregister. 9amnoon. http://workshops.homedepot.com. Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park (2200 S Holly, Yukon) features over 50 areas of activities including crafts, storytelling, kayaking, moon bounces, performing arts stage & more. $5 in advance, $7 day of the event, adults FREE. 10am-4pm. 354-8442, www.cityofyukonok.gov. FREE Teen Volunteer Recruitment Open House at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) provides information for teens ages 14-18 & their parents about the Junior Curator program at the zoo. 1-3pm. 4250275, www.okczooed.com/volunteers. FREE Make & Take Art Project at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center (3000 General Pershing) for ages 5-13 with adult features a come-and-go “Felt Flowers” craft. 1-4pm. 951-0000, www. oklahomacontemporary.org.

(THROUGH MAY 8) FREE Movie in the Park at Mustang Town Center (1201 N Mustang, Mustang). Concessions available. 8:45pm. 376-3411, www.cityofmustang.org.

MAY 3–4

MAY 5 • MONDAY

FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm. 325-4712, www. samnoblemuseum.org.

May Fair Arts Festival 2014 at Andrews Park in Norman features arts & crafts vendors, entertainment, food vendors, children’s area, Art & Sole Run & more. Saturday, 9am-8pm; Sunday, 11am5pm. www.norman.assistanceleague.org.

5x5 Art Show & Sale at the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond (27 E Edwards, Edmond) features original art, all 5x5 for $55 created by 55 Oklahoma artists. $5. 5:55pm. 340-4481, www.edmondfinearts.com.

MAY 3–18

MAY 6 • TUESDAY

OKC Philharmonic Symphony Showhouse “View To a Thrill: Founders Tower Penthouse” (5900 Mosteller) is a presentation of interior & exterior design benefitting the OKC Philharmonic. $15. Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, noon5pm. www.symphonyshowhouse.com. FREE Muslim Voices Book Club Does My Head Look Big in This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah at the Village Library (10307 N Pennsylvania) for teens. Books available at Casady School or the Village Library circulation desk. Preregister online. 12:30pm. http://www.signupgenius.com/ go/4090D45AEAA22A46-muslim. Also held: 5/10, Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi.

MAY 4 • SUNDAY

FREE Plaza Sunday in the 16th Street Plaza District features such activities as sidewalk chalk, crafts, art demonstrations, food trucks, live music, church service, shopping & more. Held the 1st Sunday monthly. 1-4pm. www.plazadistrict.org.

Listen to Your Mother at the Will Rogers Theater (4322 N Western) features original live readings from mothers. $15. 2pm. www.listentoyourmothershow.com/ oklahomacity. 5th Annual Princess Run & Little Dude Dash at the OKC Boathouse District (725 S Lincoln) features a 2K run for ages 12 & under as well as a FREE Family & Kid Festival. $25+. Festival, 1-5pm; Run, 2pm. www.princessrun.com.

FREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Children 6-14 can build a new model on the first Tuesday of every month. Quantities limited. 5pm. 840-9993, www.stores.lego.com.

OKC Redhawks vs. Memphis Redbirds at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 S Mickey Mantle). 7:05pm. 2181000, www.okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 5/7-13, 27-31. In June: 6/1-3, 9-16, 26-29.

MAY 7 • WEDNESDAY FREE Positive Behavioral Practices for Home & School at Easter Seals Oklahoma (701 NE 13) offers trainings for parents & family members with a loved one with developmental disabilities or challenging behaviors. Preregister. 4pm. 239-2525, www. eastersealsoklahoma.org.

MAY 8–10

Seussical Jr. presented by students of the Thelma Gaylord Academy at the Lyric Theatre at the Plaza Theatre (1725 NW 16) features characters from children’s literature. $10. Thursday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, www.lyrictheatreokc.com. Native American Play Festival presented by the OKC Theatre Company at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features staged readings of 2014 finalists, cultural events, food, Native singers & panel discussions. Ages 14+. www. okctheatrecompany.org.

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events this MAY 9 • FRIDAY

FREE Admission to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory at the Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno) in honor of Public Garden Day. 9am-5pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

Lilyfield Tot Trot 5K at Oklahoma Christian University (2501 E Memorial) includes a 5K race, kid’s dash, train rides, inflatables & other activities to benefit Lilyfield Christian Adoption & Foster Care. $30 adults, $15 students/children. 5:30pm. 216-5240, www.lilyfield.org/tottrot. Parents Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond). Kids ages 4+ enjoy crafts, playground games & pizza while parents get the night out. Preregister. $25/child. 6:30-10pm. 340-7584, www.unpluggits.com. FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes live music, films & an art activity. 6:30-8:30pm. 325-3272, www.ou.edu/fjjma. FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls & Campus Corner. 6-10pm. 360-1162, www.2ndfridaynorman.com. FREE LIVE on the Plaza in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the second Friday of each month includes art walk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. www.plazadistrict.org.

MAY 9–18

The Secret Garden at the Myriad Gardens transforms the Children’s Garden into the magical setting from the classic children’s book The Secret Garden, including crafts, activities & displays. On 5/10, a screening of The Secret Garden movie will be held at the Water Stage at 8:30pm. On 5/10-11 and 5/17-18, performers from Lyric Theater will entertain from 11am-noon & Oklahoma Children’s Theatre will perform an adaptation of the story at 1pm. Admission is FREE for members, $5 nonmember

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children, $3 nonmember adults. Daily, 10am6pm; Saturday 5/10, 10am-8pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

MAY 10 • SATURDAY

OKC Promise Walk for Preeclampsia at Earlywine Park (3033 SW 119) features a two-mile family-fun walk, refreshments, raffle/silent auction & a children’s area with clowns, balloon creations, face painting & games. Proceeds benefit the Preeclampsia Foundation. $20 adults, $10 children 12 & under. 8am. 3430395, www.promisewalk.org/oklahomacity. 28th Annual Ostrich Egg Breakfast at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, waffles & omelets cooked to order. Tickets must be pre-purchased. $10 adult members, $7 children members ages 3-11, $12 adult nonmembers, $9 children nonmembers, children 2 & under FREE. 8-11am. 4272461, www.zoofriends.org. FREE Route 66 Oklahoma Corvette Club Car Show at Hafer Park in Edmond. 9am. 721-5616, www. centralokcorvetteclub.org. FREE Academy of Fine Arts & Character’s Spring Fling at Crossings Community Church (14600 N Portland) features live music by the Stringents & activities for children including arts & crafts, painting, cookie decorating, instrument making & more. 10am-2pm. 755-2227, www. crossingsokc.org. FREE Anniversary Celebration at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum (1400 Classen) celebrates with FREE admission, family-friendly activities, artist talks & birthday cake. Ages 5+. 10am5pm. 523-3211, www.oklahomaheritage. com. Mother’s Day Celebration at Orr Family Farm (14400 S Western) features the zip line, train rides, petting zoo, mining for gemstones & more. Moms FREE. $10.50/person. 10am-6pm. 799-3276, www. orrfamilyfarm.com.

(MAY 9–MAY 11) OKC Energy Soccer vs Orange County Blues at Bishop McGuinness Catholic HS Stadium (NW 50 & Western). $1 discount in advance. $8+. 7pm. www.energyfc. com. Other home games this month: 5/16, 31. In June: 6/14, 22, 28, 12, 17, 19. OKC Philharmonic Classics—1812 Overture Finale at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features the Canterbury Choral Society. $15+. 8pm. 8425387, www.okcphilharmonic.org.

MAY 10–11

FREE Central Youth Rowing Championship on the Oklahoma River

features junior crews from several states in two days of racing. See website for schedule. 9am. www.oklahomariverevents.org. FREE Love is Mother & Orchids Oklahoma Orchid Society Show & Sale at the Will Roger’s Expo Center (3400 NW 36). FREE admission & parking. 10am4pm. 478-5789, www.oosorchids.org. Mother’s Day Dessert Cruise on the Oklahoma River departs from Regatta Park Landing (725 S Lincoln) features champagne, desserts & cash bar. Preregister. $25/ person. 1:30pm & 4pm. 702-7755, www. okrivercruises.com.

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MAY 11 • SUNDAY

FREE Admission for Moms on Mother’s Day at the following venues (please check each venue for specific policies): • OKC Zoo (2000 Remington), 9am-5pm, 424-3344, www.okczoo.com. • Oklahoma Aquarium (300 Aquarium, Jenks), 10am-6pm, 918296-FISH, www.okaquarium.org. • Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory at the Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno), 11am-5pm, 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org.

may

events this DAILY EVENTS

• OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch), noon-5pm, 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com. • Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (620 N Harvey), noon-6pm, 235-3313, www. oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org. • Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) 1-5pm. 3254712, www.samnoblemuseum.org. Mother’s Day Brunch at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) at the museum’s Dining on Persimmon Hill restaurant includes museum admission. Preregister. 11am-3pm. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Mother’s Day Brunch at the Myriad Gardens Park House Restaurant features a buffet from the Park House Restaurant. Preregister. $39.95 adults, $13.95 children 12 & under, children ages 3 & under FREE. Noon. 232-PARK, www. myriadgardens.org. FREE Mother’s Day Tea at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) features tea & biscuits in the pavilion as participants learn about animal mothers in nature. 3pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park. Mother’s Day Dinner at the Myriad Gardens Meinders Terrace features a four-course dinner under the stars with live music. Preregister. $35 adult members, $15 children under 12, $45 adult nonmembers, $20 under 12. 7pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

MAY 14 • WEDNESDAY

FREE Creating Comic Books with Scott Delsigne at the Midwest City Library (8143 E Reno, Midwest City) for teens. Preregister. 6:308pm. 732-4828, www.metrolibrary.org. Full Moon Bike Ride at the Myriad Gardens meets at the Ice House Restaurant for an hour-long ride through various downtown-area routes planned by Schlegel Bicycles with a drink & snack at the end. Lights & helmets required. $5 suggested donation/ rider. 7pm. 445-7080, www.myriadgardens.org.

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MAY 15 • THURSDAY

FREE Yappy Hour at Bickham-Rudkin Dog Park in Edmond features live music, food vendors, entertainment & more. 4-7pm. 216-7636, www. edmondok.com.

Fandango at the Harn: A Night on the Prairie at the Harn Homestead Museum (1721 N Lincoln) benefits the Harn Homestead Museum. $50. 6-10pm. 235-4058, www. harnhomestead.com.

MAY 15–18 Once Upon a Mattress at Upstage Black Box Theatre (844 W Danforth, Edmond) tells the story of the Princess & the Pea performed by K-12 students. $12 adults, $6 students, Kids under 4 FREE. 7:30-9pm. 285-5803, www. upstagetheatreok.com.

MAY 16 • FRIDAY

FREE Yukon Bike to Work begins at Yukon City Hall (500 W Main, Yukon) & ends at the Yukon Community Center. Includes refreshments & door prizes. 7:30am. 350-8937, www. cityofyukonok.gov. Endangered Species Day at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) features interactive stations to teach about the past, present & future of endangered animals. FREE with admission. 10am2pm. 425-0262, www.okczoo.com.

MAY 17 • SATURDAY

Youth Triathlon Series at Earlywine Park YMCA (11801 S May) for ages 15 & under offers competitive events featuring swimming, biking & running. $35-$40 members, $50 nonmembers. 7am. 297-7770, www.ymcaokc.org. Oklahoma Strong 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run in Moore features a 5K run & 1-mile fun run benefitting the Oklahoma Strong Monument Project. $35/5K, $30 fun run. 8am. www. oklahomastrongmonument.com. Touch-a-Truck at UCO parking lot off of 2nd in Edmond provides children with an opportunity to experience life-size vehicles & interact with the people who operate them. $2 suggested donation to Edmond HOPE Center. 9am-1pm. 216-7671.

(MAY 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;MAY 18) FREE Be Moore Healthy! Bike Ride & Health Fair at Buck Thomas Park features a 2- or 4- mile family bike ride, information from health & wellness organizations & more. 10am-1pm. www. cityofmoore.com. Opening Day at White Water Bay (3908 W Reno). 943-9687, 10:30am. www. whitewaterbay.com. Take Home Your Own Secret Garden at the Myriad Gardens. Children ages 5+ create a Secret Garden mural from materials found in the garden. Preregister. $5 members, $7 nonmembers. 1-2pm. 4457080, www.myriadgardens.org.

English Tea on the Terrace at the Myriad Gardens Meinders Terrace. Mothers & daughters enjoy high tea in proper British tradition. Preregister. Members: $22 adults, $10 kids under 12, Nonmember: $28 adults, $15 nonmember kids under 12. 3pm. 445-7080, www. myriadgardens.org. Golf Family Fun Night at Kickingbird Golf Club (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) including special junior tees, FREE putting course, $2 range tokens. $7 green fees. 5pm. 341-5352, www.kickingbirdgolf.com. Summer Jam Concert Series at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) features Angie Stone & Mint Condition.

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$49+. 8pm. 297-2264, www.okcciviccenter. com.

MAY 18 â&#x20AC;˘ SUNDAY

FREE Hershey Track Meet at Yukon Middle School Track (1029 Garth Brooks, Yukon) is open to all youth. Preregister at Jackie Cooper Gym. 350-8920, www. cityofyukonok.gov. FREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) features hands-on family activities drawing inspiration from Allan Houser Drawings: The Centennial Exhibition. 1-4pm. 3253272, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

COME SPLASH

AT THE WATER-ZOO!

82°

EVERY DAY!

events this

may DAILY EVENTS

MAY 20 • TUESDAY

Tiny Tuesdays—Allan Houser Sculptures at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features a come-and-go, openended art-making activity geared towards ages 2-5 with parent or caregiver. FREE with museum admission. 10am-noon. 2363100, www.okcmoa.com. Baby Food Fun at Francis Tuttle Technology Center (12777 N Rockwell) teaches parents how to make your own baby food, when to introduce solid foods & what first meals should be. Preregister. $29. 6-8pm. petra@happilives.com.

MAY 20–25 JOIN OUR E-CLUB! www.WATER-ZOO.com

Sister Act presented by Celebrity Attractions at the Civic Center Music Hall (201 N Walker) tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a crime & is hidden in a convent. Ages 9+. $25+. Tuesday-Thursday, 7:30pm; Friday, 8pm; Saturday, 2pm & 8pm; Sunday, 2pm & 7pm. www.celebrityattractions.com.

MAY 22 • THURSDAY

Sonny Bright Kiwanis Duck Race at White Water Bay (3908 W Reno) benefits Children’s Hospital Foundation. Watch as hundreds of ducks race around the lazy river. Includes a children’s carnival, food, raffle & fun prizes. Park not open for general admission. Winner receives a $1000 grand prize. $5/duck, $20/five ducks. 7pm. 2719043, www.okchf.org.

MAY 23 • FRIDAY

FREE Don’t Fry Day at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) features activity stations in the zoo’s Global Plaza, sunscreen samples & UV bracelets to help reduce rising rates of skin cancer & to promote sun-safe behaviors. Admission required to enter the zoo. 10am2pm. 425-0262, www.okczoo.com.

Hotel Packages Available at Holiday Inn Express and Hampton Inn at Clinton, OK

Just 75 minutes west of OKC & a lot less expensive than Texas!

(580) 323-9966

Le Festa Bianca at Dunlap Codding on Film Row features an evening of wine, Italian inspired hors d’oeuvres & music benefiting

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

(MAY 20–MAY 26)

Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. $45 in advance, $55 at the door. 6:30-9pm. 2353700, www.oklahomashakespeare.com.

MAY 24 • SATURDAY

Kidathlon & Summer Kickoff at Will Rogers Park (3201 N Grand) includes a swim/bike/run event for ages 5-14, plus a FREE carnival & special $3 admission rate at the Earlywine & Will Rogers Aquatic Centers. $30 to participatye in Kidathalon. Kidathalon, 7-10am, Kickoff, 11am-2pm. 2972211, www.okc.gov/parks Swamp Stomp 5K at Andy Alligator’s Water Park (I-35 & Indian Hills, Norman) features a 5K & 1K fun walk/run benefiting the Give Kids the World Foundation. Registration includes FREE Water Park admission. $40/5K, $30/1K (increases $5 race day). 8:30am. www.runandys.com. Opening Day at Pelican Bay Aquatic Center (1034 S Bryant, Edmond). 11am6pm. 216-7649, www.edmond.com/parks/ pelicanbay.

MAY 24–25

24th Annual Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) features campfire-cooked foods, children’s educational hands-on activities, western stage entertainment, stagecoach & pony rides. $14 adults, $12 students & seniors, $5 ages 6-12, children 5 & under FREE. 10am-4pm. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org. FREE Edmond Jazz & Blues Festival at Stephenson Park in Edmond features live music, vendors, food, drink & entertainment. Saturday, 4-10pm; Sunday, 2-10pm. 341-3321, www.edmondjazzandblues.org.

MAY 26 • MONDAY

FREE OKC Hot Wheels Association Show at The Crown Center (13300 S Western) features 40+ tables of collectables for sale or trade, plus raffles,

may

events this DAILY EVENTS bid sales, pizza, downhill races & more. 9am. www.greaterokchotwheels.com.

MAY 28–JUNE 1

One-Man Star Wars Trilogy presented by Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall features Canadian actor Charles Ross as he single-handedly plays all the characters, sings the music, flies the ships, fights the battles & condenses the plots into just sixty minutes. Rated G. $30 matinee, $35 evening. Wednesday-Friday, 7:30pm; Saturday-Sunday, 1:30pm & 7:30pm. 297-2264, www.cityrep.com.

MAY 29 • THURSDAY

FREE 2014 Summer Reading Program Kickoff at the Moore Public Library features fun activities & introduction to the offerings of the Summer Reading Program as well as sign up opportunities. 10am. www.pls.lib.ok.us. Also held: 5/29 (Tecumseh at 1pm) & (Southwest OKC at 2pm), 6/1 (Norman at 2pm), 6/2 (Newcastle at 2pm) & (Noble at Noon), 6/3 (Purcell at 10:30am), 6/4 (McLoud at 10am).

MAY 30 • FRIDAY

FREE Hot Dog Kickoff to Summer

at the Del City Library (4509 SE 15, Del City) includes hot dogs, summer reading lists & a preview of summer offerings. 4-5pm. 672-1377, www.metrolibrary.org. FREE H&8th Night Market (Hudson & 8) features a family- & pet-friendly street festival built around gourmet food trucks, live music & more. 7-11pm. www.h8thokc.com.

MAY 31 • SATURDAY

The Dirty 30 Mud Run Obstacle in Mulhall features a 5K with extreme obstacles including crawling through mud. $45-$75 depending on registration date. 8:30am. www.dirty30race.com.

$10 off your purchase! .

(minumum purchase of $50. Expires 5.31.14 In store only. Code:”MetroMay10”.)

15th & Bryant

Edmond/OKC

www.thevintagepearl.com METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

(MAY 28–JUNE 2) Pets in the Park at the Fine Arts Institute (27 E Edwards, Edmond) features an art contest, pet parade, art activities, photos with your pets, performances by FAI theatre students, food & more. $5 entry fee/pet. 11am-2pm. 340-4481, www. edmondfinearts.com.

JUNE 1 • SUNDAY

FREE Plaza Sunday in the 16th Street Plaza District features sidewalk chalk, crafts, art demonstrations, food trucks, live music, church service, shopping & more. Held the 1st Sunday of every month. 1-4pm. www. plazadistrict.org.

FREE Block Party & National Medal Celebration at the Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) includes complimentary admission, live music & refreshments. 1-5pm. 325-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

JUNE 2 • MONDAY

FREE Admission at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) on the first Monday of each month. 10am-5pm. 3254712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

JUNE 2-6

FREE Healthy Kids Days at two metro Panera Bread locations (1472 S Bryant, Edmond & 10600 S Penn) focuses on exercise, fitness, healthy eating, nutrition, & fire safety. Parents receive a free baguette & recipes, kids receive free gift. The first 20 kids each day receive special prize. 2pm daily. 627-1417, www.panerabread.com.

JUNE 2–13

FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: The Sugar Free Allstars—Dance Party Equation at the Metropolitan

EXPLORING OKLAHOMA

(JUNE 2–JUNE 7) Library System Libraries. See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org. FREE Neighborhood Arts Presents: Reduxion Theatre— Classics for Kids at the Metropolitan Library System Libraries includes fun with the classics for ages 3+. See website for schedule. www.metrolibrary.org. Toddler Programs at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington) includes crafts, activities, discovery stations, presentations &/or guided zoo excursions for age 2-3 with parent. Preregister. $12 member child, $15 nonmember child. Lovable Lions for age 2, 9:30-10:30am; Terrific Tigers for age 3, 11am-noon. 425-0218, www.okczooed. com. Also held: 6/7.

JUNE 2–27

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! DISNEY’S #1 SUMMER ATTRACTION!

FREE Safety Town at Sooner Mall (3301 W Main, Norman) educates ages 5-6 about bicycle, street & personal safety. Preregister. Monday-Friday, see website for schedule. 360-0341, www.soonermall.com.

JUNE 5–7

Red Earth Festival at Remington Park (1 Remington) features American Indian artists & dancers from throughout North America with events including a dance competition, parade on 6/6 in downtown OKC, marketplace & more. See website for schedule. $10 adults, $7.50 ages 6-17, children under 6 FREE. 427-5228, www. redearth.org.

JUNE 5–8

Endeavor Games at UCO (100 N University, Edmond) allows all athletes with physical disabilities to participate in a multi-sport event. 974-3160, www. ucoendeavorgames.com.

JUNE 7-8

2014 Family Outdoor Expo at Crystal Lake (6615 SW 15) provides an opportunity for families to experience hands-on outdoor activities, clinics & seminars on archery, fishing, kayaking & more. $10 per vehicle, benefits City Care. Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sunday, 12-5pm. 6092400, www.citycareinc.org.

WE’RE BACK Fri. & Sat. Nights – JUNE 20 – 28TH and JULY 18 – 26TH, 2014

PERFORMED LIVE AT THE PICTURE IN SCRIPTURE AMPHITHEATER IN DISNEY, OK

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Festivals Guide! METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

COMING SOON

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METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

Special thanks to the sponsors that made our Kids Fest event such a success!

events this

may WEEKLY EVENTS

FREE Discovery Room programs at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (2401 Chautauqua, Norman). See website for details. 325-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org. FREE Art Adventures at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) includes hands-on art fun for children ages 3-5 with adult. Tuesdays, 10:30am. 325-3272, www. ou.edu/fjjma. FREE Story Time at Norman Public Library West (3000 Norman Center Court, Norman) for ages 2-PreK. Tuesdays, 10am. www.justsoyouknow.us. Baby & Me Classes at Abrakadoodle (113 W Main, Moore) for ages 2-5 with parent or caregiver. Toddlers will explore art & develop fine motor skills. $75/month or $25/ drop-in nonmembers. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10-11am. 759-7977, www.facebook.com/ abrakadoodleokc.

Silver Sponsor

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 Story Time at Cuppies & Joe (727 NW 23) features stories & a treat. Held the 1st & 3rd Saturday of each month. 9am. 5282122, www.cuppiesandjoe.com.

Education Expo Sponsor

STEM Safari Sponsor

FREE Nature Story Time at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial) for ages 2-6 features stories to help children discover nature, followed by an activity or outdoor hike. Saturdays, 10am. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks. Saturday Kids at Abrakadoodle (113 W Main, Moore) features a creative activity for children ages 7-14. $20 members, $30 nonmembers. Saturdays, 10am-noon. 7597977, www.facebook.com/abrakadoodleokc. FREE Children’s Story Time at Full Circle Books (1900 NW Expressway). Saturdays, 10:15am. 842-2900, www. fullcirclebooks.com. FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books (1313 E Danforth, Edmond). Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202, www.bestofbooksedmond.com.

Save the date for next year— April 18, 2015

METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

FREE Crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May) features a new craft each Saturday for ages 3+. Saturdays, 11am3pm. 858-8778, www.lakeshorelearning.com. FREE Skating Lessons at Skate Galaxy (5800 NW 36) for all skill levels. $2 fee for skate rental. Saturdays, noon-12:45pm. 6052758, www.skategalaxyokc.com. Drop in Art at the OKC 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. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com. All-Star Bowling for DifferentlyAbled Individuals at AMF Yukon Lanes (500 E Main). $8/week includes 3 games & shoes. Saturdays, 1pm. Email dbrakefield@ yahoo.com to verify schedule. 354-2516. FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13 works on conservation projects at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Preregister. Saturdays, 10:30-12:30am. 7550676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park. FREE Green Earth Rangers for ages 13-18 work on conservation projects at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial). Preregister. Saturdays, 2-4pm. 755-0676, www.okc.gov/parks/martin_park. Saturday Night Movies at the Chickasaw Cultural Center (867 Cooper Memorial Blvd, Sulphur) features a movie on the four-story screen in the Anoli’ theater. See website for titles. $2 children, $3 adults, $5 combo package including popcorn & bottled drink with ticket. Saturdays, 6:30pm. 580-622-7130, www. chickasawculturalcenter.com. Big Band River Cruises on the Oklahoma River departs from Meridian Landing features snacks, cash bar & big band music. Ages 21+. Preregister. $30/ person. Saturdays in May, 7:30-9pm. 7027755, www.okrivercruises.com. Stay Late & Play on Saturdays at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington). The zoo will remain open until 8pm on Saturdays through August. 425-0262, www.okczoo.com.

events this

may ONGOING EVENTS

THROUGH MAY 11

THROUGH AUG 31

Walter Ufer: Rise, Fall, Resurrection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum includes 50 works by the famed American painter & works by his contemporaries. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Hungry Planet: What the World Eats at the Sam Noble Museum (2401 Chautauqua, Norman) explores food & nutrition around the world. 325-4712, www.samnoblemuseum.org.

Allan Houser & His Students exhibit at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63) presents a look at Houser as teacher & mentor. 478-2250, www. nationalcowboymuseum.org.

THROUGH MAY 16

FREE Chuck Webster: Untitled at Oklahoma Contemporary (3000 General Pershing) features quasi-abstract paintings & drawings referring to animals, plants, architecture & human bodies. 951-0000, www.oklahomacontemporary.org.

THROUGH MAY 18

FREE Allan Houser Drawings: The Centennial Exhibition at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art (555 Elm, Norman) celebrates the distinguished Chiricahua Apache artist, with 100 of his drawings. 325-4938, www.ou.edu/fjjma.

THROUGH JUNE 1

Ansel Adams: An American Perspective at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features nearly 60 photographs by the iconic photographer. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com. Brett Weston: Land, Sea & Sky at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) includes 150 photographs of mud, rock & ice abstractions. 2363100, www.okcmoa.com.

THROUGH JUNE 22

Barbara Cleary: Natural Journey at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art (1900 W MacArthur, Shawnee) features landscapes by the famous Oklahoma artist. 878-5300, www.mgmoa.org.

Oklahoma Society of Impressionists Exhibit at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi) depicts Oklahoma’s historic landmarks, landscapes & items from Oklahoma heritage. 522-0765, www.okhistory.org.

THROUGH SEPT 15

Totemic Taxonomy at Science Museum Oklahoma Satellite Galleries (2100 NE 52) features art by Peter Froslie & Cathleen Faubert that explores totems within the context of the 21st century. FREE with museum admission. 602-6664, www. sciencemuseumok.org. Brandice Guerra: Wunderkammer at Science Museum Oklahoma Satellite Galleries (2100 NE 52) features a display of art & natural history curiosities in paintings that include natural history objects such as preserved specimens, species of taxidermy, old scientific devices & antique anatomical models. FREE with admission. 602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org.

THROUGH OCTOBER

Stingray Bay at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington). See & touch live stingrays. $3 entry fee, plus regular Zoo admission. 424-3344, www.okczoo.com.

THROUGH DEC 31

Born to Freedom: Allan Houser Centennial at the Oklahoma History Center (800 Nazih Zuhdi) features sculptures composed of a variety of artistic media, watercolors, sketchbooks & culturally significant historic treasures. www.okhistory.org.

THROUGH JULY 27

Allan Houser: On the Roof at the OKC Museum of Art (415 Couch) features six abstract bronze sculptures by Allan Houser. 236-3100, www.okcmoa.com. METROFAMILY MAGAZINE

MAY 2014

specialty

guides

54 55

THE BEST FAMILY RESOURCES, SHOPPING IDEAS, RESTAURANTS AND MORE

56 57 58 61

Find what you need here in MetroFamily’s Specialty Guides—and find even more online at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/directories.

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE RETAIL GUIDE PARTY GUIDE FAMILY SERVICES GUIDE SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE FAMILY FUN GUIDE

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MAY 2014

RETAIL GUIDE

SPECIAL NEEDS GUIDE

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METROFAMILY METROFAMILY MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

JANUARY MAY 20142014

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MAY 2014

FAMILY SERVICES GUIDE

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MAY 2014

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MAY 2014

SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE

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SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE

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MAY 2014

SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE

FAMILY FUN GUIDE

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MAY 2014

FAMILY FUN GUIDE ARCADIA LAKE’S

KIDS FISHING DERBY SAT. JUNE 7, 2014 7:30 A.M.– NOON SPRING CREEK PARK KIDS AGES 5–15 FREE EVENT Registration from 7:30–9 a.m., fishing at 8 a.m. and final weigh-in at 11 a.m. Concessions and worms will be for sale at the event site. Parents must accompany children.

216-7471

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MAY 2014

6th Annual Friday • June 27, 2014 Arcadia Lake • Edmond Park

Kick-off your LibertyFest activities with a trip to Arcadia Lake. Whether you’re a seasoned boat designer or just getting started, our Cardboard Boat Regatta is fun for all. Registration begins Tuesday, April 1st and applications can be found online at edmondparks.com. Food will be available for purchase.

$35-65 Entry fee depending on category. $5 Event fee (to watch) • Races begin @ 6:30p Follow us on