2 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
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Letter
VOL. 24 • NO. 11 • Nov 2026
COVER STORY
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO BLACK FRIDAY?– It wasn’t that long ago that shoppers across the country were gearing up for the kill-or-be-killed shopping experience known as “Black Friday.” That midnight madness and lust for bargains has all but disappeared.
6
from the
Editor
OLD TOWN PROJECT
PAINT THE TOWN — A new public art program could be one of the catalysts in breathing new life into Old Town Moore.
39 VETERAN'S SPOTLIGHT
42
SKY’S THE LIMIT — A Moore High School graduate’s dream of working in the space program led him to astounding heights and a career that is literally sky high.
BAM - SPORTS
BANDS ON THE RUN — While most people don’t think of
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I’m old enough to remember Black Friday. The crowds of people lining up at the doors of big-box stores on Thanksgiving Day, huddling together in the cold and hoping they would be nimble enough to beat the hordes of shoppers to the biggest deals of the year. The doors would swing open at midnight, and the madness would begin. Those days are gone now. Distant memories, to be sure. But how did Black Friday fade into the dark? And what has replaced it? We go looking for answers in this month’s Moore Monthly.
marching band as competitive, you might be surprised to learn that fall brings out the beast in Moore’s three high school bands as they battle to be Numero Uno.
4 Letter from the Editor 12 Senior Living
ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
32 Pioneer Library System Calendar 33 Book Review
Editor Moore Monthly
Theo of Golden
13 Brand Senior Center Activies 35 Calendar of Events 23 The Station Schedule
43 Sports Calendar
Publisher Brent Wheelbarger Writer/Editor Rob Morris Designer Deanna Parton
PO Box 6936 Moore, OK 73153 trifectacomm.net
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Moore Monthly is a monthly publication by Trifecta Communications, serving Moore, South OKC & Norman. Moore Monthly is free to the public. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Moore Monthly is not responsible for the care and/or return of unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, photography, books, or any other material that is submitted for possible publication.
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We proudly offer discounts to our valued service members, veterans, and their spouses.
MILITARY DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE mntc.edu | 405.801.5000 Discounts are for eligible students and do not apply to books, materials, supplies, etc. Some courses, such as online classes, may not be eligible for this discount.
Ask about Veteran Education Benefits.
MOORE CHAMBER REBATE PROGRAM
STARTS
NOV 27
ENDS
DEC 13
R ER EE HE H C C Y Y A A D OLLIID HO H E RE ER H HE S S T T R R A A T ST S
How It Works: Spend $50+ at participating Chamber member retailers or restaurants Earn a $10 gift card for every $50 spent (up to $50 per household) Support local businesses & save this holiday season! RESTRICTIONS DO APPLY SCAN QR CODE FOR DETAILS
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 5
For folks who remember the mid-1980s well, you might recall leaving the family Thanksgiving gathering in the middle or late afternoon and heading over to local stores to join hundreds of others in line. Huddled together beneath blankets, crowds of people were waiting for that magical moment when store doors slid open at midnight, and the race began to grab anything from Tickle Me Elmo to big-screen TVs, with prices slashed to the bone. Some families even dressed as teams and had game plans, with each family member targeting specific items.
Black Friday.
“As I grew up, the majority of my jobs were in retail,” said Brown, “So, I had to work on Black Friday. I never really participated as a shopper, but I remember the crowds and the families who dressed in matching outfits and made it an event.” Brown’s counterpart over at the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, President and CEO Elaine Lyons, was on the shopping side of the crowd. “I am a Black Friday girl,” said Lyons, “My mom and I would always get to the shopping malls by 5 a.m. and close them down. And you had to see the newspaper ads to know which stores had which items. So, on Friday we had a plan, we had a map, and we knew where we were going.” But long before Black Friday became associated with forsaking one more slice of pumpkin pie in favor of mad sprints from just-opened doors to the electronics and toy sections, it had a slightly darker history.
The mention of the day after Thanksgiving sparked everything from giddy elation for shoppers to sweaty dread for The first recorded use of the term “Black Friday,” retail workers. historians say, was tied Kim Brown, President and CEO of the Moore Chamber of to the crash of the U.S. Commerce, remembers the rise of Black Friday from the re- gold market in September 1869. But the real tail side. 6 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
history of Black Friday as a shopping event began in the 1950s in Philadelphia. It was a term used by police in the City of Brotherly Love to describe what happened on the Friday in November between Thanksgiving and Saturday, the day of the annual Army-Navy football game. Tourists and out-oftown shoppers flooded the city’s stores on that Friday, Thanks to Westmoore's Inara Rasco and Sophia creating traffic madness and Ky for the extra graphics help. chaotic crowds. Shoplifters took advantage of the chaos. All of that meant police had to work extra shifts to deal with the problem.
It also led many arlook for ways to supsmall businesswhich are such an essential part of every community. That gave rise to “Small Business Saturday.”
eas to port es,
Lyons said, “Small businesses are the backbone of a community. That’s not a knock on big box retailers, because they are also important. But there’s something special about going into a small store and finding those unique items, the Made In America things that aren’t mass-produced.”
It wasn’t until the 1980s that retailers found a way to rebrand “You’re going to find the stuff in small businesses that noBlack Friday as a major shopping event. body else has,” said Brown. “You’re also not spending 30 minutes to an hour in a store. It’s 10 minutes or 15 minutes, “It was major,” remembers Brown. “For some families it be- you’ve got a unique Made In Oklahoma or Made in America came something of a tradition for a time. Also, a lot of Christ- gift, and you’re out the door.” mas shopping items weren’t out on shelves yet. But over the past decade or so, Black Friday has become less of an Both Lyons and Brown agree that big box stores are importevent, mostly because of the impact of things like Amazon ant to the health of a city or community, but hope that shopand the ability to buy whatever you want, whenever you pers will find a balance between those stores and supportwant.” ing small, local businesses. Lyons says she still shops on Friday and Saturday after “There’s a time and a place for the larger stores, and that’s a Thanksgiving, but agrees with Brown on how the landscape good thing,” said Lyons, “but I think people need to do their has changed. due diligence, have patience, and shop the smaller stores that may not have a big online or social media presence.” “The rise of Amazon and other competition really changed things,” said Lyons. “You had items that weren’t available “Small businesses are the places where you’re not going until Black Friday, but suddenly you could get those things to get mass-marketed,” said Brown, “But you’re going to two weeks before Thanksgiving. You might have to do a lit- find those unique gifts for somebody. And those are the tle more homework to get the absolute best businesses that really are the lifeblood of the comdeal, but it benefited the shoppers.” munity.” And so stores adapted to the rise of Amazon and other online shopping options. “Cyber Monday” became a new catchphrase as stores pushed out holiday merchandise earlier and earlier, matching that push with low prices. All in hopes of luring shoppers away from their computers and back into stores. NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 7
Campbell said the success of Showplace Market is due to those vendors and their products. “Our local vendors are so talented,” said Campbell, “And we curated them so that there was a lot of variety for everyone. That meant a grandma could come in and get gifts for all of her family: daughters, sons, in-laws, and grandkids.” Campbell says another great thing about the Showplace Market concept is that it’s much more stress-free. One of the more unique small-business stories in Moore actually looks more like a big-box retailer these days. That’s Showplace Market, which recently moved into the large building on Southwest 19th Street that origPhotos courtesy of Showplace Market inated as a 50,000-square-foot Hemispheres Furniture store. Campbell opened its doors “I think our shopin 2010. Founder and owner Jenny Campbell was 26 years pers are able to old when she began chasing a dream. enjoy shopping at their leisure, “I was born and raised in Moore,” said Campbell. “I al- no matter what day it is,” said Campbell. “For us, the Friday ways loved finding those unique shopping items, but there after Thanksgiving is just another day that we can offer the wasn’t really a local place to do that.” biggest selection of local shopping here in town.” Campbell says that in 2010, she decided to open up a store on a piece of the land she grew up on. Her concept was for a boutique vendor marketplace designed to help small businesses grow. It was, and still is, one of the more unique shopping experiences in Oklahoma. “My family owned that corner,” said Campbell. “It was popular right from the start. We had around a hundred vendors and a wait list of people wanting to get in.” 8 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
While things were stress-free for shoppers, Campbell says the arrival of a bigger, national direct competitor was a difficult thing to deal with. “I have to say humbly that when The Painted Tree came to town, it was a gut punch,” said Campbell. “I really had to say some strong prayers. I felt that
God had given me Showplace and I didn’t know if this was “He completely derailed our plans and gave me something going to be the end of Showplace.” so much better,” said Campbell. “When I was 20 years old, nowhere on my radar was the idea of being a local shop Painted Tree opened their doors in the old Hemispheres owner. And here we are now, 20 years later, knowing that space on SW 19th Street, barely a mile from Showplace Mar- I’m right where God wants me ket. It was a national chain, apparently with a lot of momen- and what a blessing that is.” tum behind it. Campbell admits to being stressed, but turned to her faith in God to deal with it. While the change from Showplace Market’s former location “When they first arrived, it to the new one right across was nerve-wracking,” said the parking lot from Chick-fil-A Campbell. “I remember pray- is a big one, one thing hasn’t ing, ‘God, You’ve opened changed. While the roster of and closed doors. If this is Showplace Market’s vendors what You want…” has jumped from around 100 to 200, Campbell says there’s As it turned out, the small- still a waiting list of vendors er local business with deep wanting to get in. roots in the community easily outlasted the flashier, larger business with a bigger national “It’s humbling, for sure,” said Campbell. footprint. Without “I don’t think I’ve ever been prouder of any warning, Painted Tree shut down nationwide Showplace, of my girls, of my vendors, in April 2026. That included their stores in Moore, and of the town I grew up in who support Edmond, and Tulsa. us so well.” In the wake of that surprise closing, Campbell made the bold decision to step up from her 16,000-square-foot location and move into the 30,000-square-foot space vacated by Painted Tree. She says it’s clear that God has a sense of humor.
Photos courtesy of Showplace Market NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 9
Perhaps one of the more emotional moments for Campbell came recently when the new Showplace Market sign was installed. “I had a senior graduating from high school and was celebrating Showplace Market’s 16th anniversary,” said Campbell. “I was sitting at home with little sleep, and I got a text from Mayor Hamm, who I grew up with. Then I heard from several other Moore Cham-
ber members and business owners about getting pictures of the sign lit up. It was just one of those “God wink” moments that made me so proud of my vendors and my hometown.” And Campbell ends with this reminder to the community.
10 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
Photos courtesy of Showplace Market
“We may be in a big building now,” said Campbell, “But we will always be a small business. And I would just say to all those other small businesses out there: it doesn’t matter what your size, just stay on your vision. Don’t be distracted by outside things, just stay focused on whatever gave you the passion and vision to start with.”
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 11
SENIOR LIVING BY TAMMY C. VAUGHN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AGING SERVICES INC.
ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE The Holidays are here! While it’s easy to get caught up in all the hustle and bustle, especially at this time of year, it is very important to seek the many benefits of practicing gratitude.
Emotional benefits: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
you will feel more relaxed, more optimistic, able to dwell on happier memories, feel good more often, feel less envious of others, and be less depressed.
So when you find yourself grumbling about the good old days, consider these six blessings and compare them to days past: 1.
You have your health. Advances in healthcare technologies and settings mean disease is being detected earlier, and treatment is becoming more effective.
Social benefits:
2. You keep in touch with family. No matter where you are in the world, today’s innovations in communications make it possible to talk with those you love anytime, anyplace. You can even read the newspaper and get the weather forecast through wireless de vices.
Health benefits:
3. Entertainment is accessible 24/7. The accessibility to movies, live theater, church services, concerts, and literature is unprecedent ed. Think about it. If you want to show your grandchildren how awesome Elvis Presley moved, all it takes is a quick search on YouTube.
1. 2. 3. 4.
able to be more social, be friendlier and more likable to others, able to have deeper relationships and more friendships, people are kinder towards us.
1. improved sleep quality, 2. increased energy, 3. being less sick and having less physical pain So how do we get an attitude of gratitude – it starts with kindness, kindness to others, as well as kindness to ourselves. Kindness is defined as the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. Sometimes kindness has a connotation of meaning someone is naïve or weak, that is not the case. Being kind often requires courage and strength.
There are many ways to practice kindness. 1.
One way to be kind is to open your eyes and be active when you see people alone or in need. Opening your eyes means noticing when others are suffering.
2.
Other ways are: • a kind word • a smile • opening a door • asking a stranger to sit by you • celebrating someone you love • giving honest compliments • sending an email thanking someone • telling someone how they are special to you • inviting someone you know who is alone or new to be a part of your group
• • •
refusing to gossip donating your old clothing and home goods sharing homemade food
When you reach that point in your life when it seems you’ve seen it all, and done it double that amount, it’s hard to stay full aware all the time of the amazing blessings in our life. But when you stop to think about it, we live in an exciting time where we can compare the knowledge of our lives in the past and marvel at the advancements we enjoy today.
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4.
Healthy food is on every shelf. People have more options now than they ever did including congregate meal sites, home delivered meals, having someone else shop for you and bring it to your car, and drive through meals.
5. It’s never too late for a change of attitude. Life shows us that it’s never too late to pattern our behavior after role models or asso ciate with peer groups that reflect the attitude we want for our selves. Finally – remember: 6.
People love you. Think about how much you enjoy visiting with your neighbors or talking with your grandchildren on the phone; or think about how much you appreciate your favorite grocery cashier’s smile. Chances are… they enjoy those things about you.
During this Holiday season and for every season, make an effort to embrace an attitude of gratitude for the comforts of life we enjoy every day.
BRAND SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES
NOVEMBER 2026
November 2
9:00 a.m.
November 3
10:00 a.m. Wii Sports
November 4
12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.
Board Games Afternoon Movie
11:00 a.m.
Speaker Jeremey Bridges w/ Global Health & Root Beer Floats!
November 5
12:30 p.m.
Classic Movie “Around the World in 80 Days”
Corn Hole
November 6
11:00 a.m . November Birthdays 12:15 p.m. Bingo w/ Adam from Trademark Exteriors 2:00 p.m. Table Tennis
November 9
9:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m.
November 10
10:00 a.m. Wii Sports 10:00 a.m. Library 12:00 p.m. Veterans Day Recognition & Performance
November 11
CLOSED
November 12
12:00 p.m. Singo w/ Jeff from Archwell 12:30 p.m. Corn Hole
November 13
12:15 p.m. 2:00 p.m.
Bingo w/ Flora Table Tennis
November 16
9:00 a.m.
Classic Movie “Chisum”
November 17
10:00 a.m. Wii Sports 10:00 a.m. Arts & Crafts w/ Dustin
November 18
11:45 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.
Fresh Cobbler Board Games Afternoon Movie
11:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.
Speaker Shyla w/ First Light Home Care Corn Hole Crafting w/ Linda (*Sign-Up Required*)
November 20
9:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m.
Basket Weaving (*Sign-Up Required*) Table Tennis
November 23
9:00 a.m.
Classic Movie “The Pink Panther (1963)”
November 19
November 24
10:00 a.m. Wii Sports 10:00 a.m. Library
November 25
12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.
November 26
CLOSED
November 27
CLOSED
November 30
9:00 a.m.
Board Games Afternoon Movie
Classic Movie “The Father”
Classic Movie “The Deer Hunter” MCOA Board Meeting
Exercise: Mon, Wed, & Fri 10:15 Stretch, Strengthen and Health: Tues. 9:30 Open Art Studio: Tue. 8:30 & Fri. 9:00 Arm Chair Travel: Wed. 9:00am Woodcarving: Wed. & Thurs. 9:00 – 11:00 Dominos, Card games, Jig-Saw Puzzles, Pool, Quilting, & Volunteer work to assist the homebound or work is available at the Brand Center. Moore Council On Aging Bus Service: 799-3130 Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments 8am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday Aging Services Monday through Friday Call & make reservation by 1:00pm. Reservations for meals: 793-9069 Donation for a meal for seniors 60 & above: $3.00 Required cost for guests under 60: $6.00
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 13
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NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 17
200 SE 19TH ST SUITE B MOORE, OK 73160
405.676.6674 NOSHINMOORE.COM
MAKE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON DELICIOUSLY STRESS FREE! THE HOLIDAYS ARE MEANT FOR CELEBRATING, NOT STRESSING OVER THE FOOD! LET US TAKE CARE OF THE CATERING WHILE YOU ENJOY THE FESTIVITIES. FROM OFFICE PARTIES AND FAMILY GATHERINGS TO ELEGANT HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS, WE OFFER DELICIOUS CATERING OPTIONS TO MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY TRULY SPECIAL. BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY TODAY! DATES FILL QUICKLY, SO RESERVE YOUR DATE NOW! 18 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
The Sooner Theatre Presents
Dec. 11-13 & 18-20, 2026
Book by Thomas Meehan, Bob Martin Music by Matthew Sklar Lyrics by Chad Beguelin Based on the New Line Cinema film by David Berenbaum.
www.soonertheatre.org | 405.321.9600 101 E Main St. | Norman, OK
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 19
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Grateful For
EVERY STEP Pain can make us forget the simple joys of movement. Whether it is walking pain-free after Thanksgiving dinner, playing with your grandchildren, or getting back to your favorite sport, physical therapy central is grateful to help you get back to doing the things you love.
SCHEDULE TODAY!
PTCentral.org
Moore East Moore West OKC South OKC SE OKC SW
405.676.6030 405.809.8655 405.297.4040 405.610.6320 405.286.9605
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 21
Arise &
Shine
RealEstate
Isaiah 60:1
405.413.4665 Real Estate. Real Life. Real Answers.
New Home or Pre-Loved? Finding the Right Home for Your Family A look at new construction, financing and the new opportunities in Moore & South Oklahoma City
For some Buyers, an existing home in an established neighborhood might be the right place to call home. For others, new construction may offer an exciting opportunity worth consideration. This depends on the needs of your family, the stage of life you are in, how quickly you need to move, and the amount and structure of your financing needs.
Before talking about houses, let’s talk about Real Estate jargon. Here are a few terms you may have heard: Earnest Money, Down Payment, Pre-Qualification, Lenders, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Closing Costs. The two terms I would like to explain are Earnest Money and Down Payment. According to Oklahoma Real Estate Commission Earnest Money is defined as “A deposit paid (usually in escrow) by a prospective Buyer … to show a goodfaith intention to complete the transaction.” Down Payment is described as “the portion of the purchase price the Buyer contributes toward the property rather than borrowing from the lender.” Earnest Money is given at the beginning of the transaction to be held in a trust account managed by either the title company or the Listing Broker’s Trust Account. Once all the terms of the contract are completed the Earnest Money becomes part of the Down payment to contribute to the cost of the home. Knowing the difference can take some of the mystery and stress out of buying a home. Most Buyers assume they will need 20% of the purchase price for their down payment, which can discourage them from taking the first step toward the American Dream of owning their own home. This is not a hard-and-fast rule for var22 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
ious loans. There are different types of home loans including FHA, Conventional, USDA and VA. Each of these loans will have a different required amount of Down payment. For instance, an FHA home loan only requires 3.5% of the purchase price as a down payment.
WWW.ARISEREALTYGROUPOKLAHOMA.COM Glenda Slusser is the Broker/Owner of Arise Realty Group, proudly born and raised in Oklahoma. Her deep roots and love for the community give her a unique understanding of what makes Oklahoma a special place to call home. A happily married mother of two and GiGi to six grandchildren, Glenda brings that same heart for family to her real estate clients. With integrity, honesty, and personal service, she is dedicated to helping buyers and sellers find A Place to call HOME, a Place fits their Lifestyle!
Another term that needs some clarification is “Closing Costs”. This gets confused with earnest money and down payment because all three of these ‘costs’ will be due at closing for the finalization of the purchase. Closing Costs are the actual expense associated with lender fees and the title work. Depending on the title company, the title fees range anywhere from $1500 up to $3000 and the Loan fees are the amount the lender charges for loan processing. Back to the original question: “Should you buy New Construction or a Pre-loved home?” Let’s look at new construction homes. The builder may offer valuable Buyer incentives to help make the purchase more attainable. Sweetwater and Cypress Creek both in the Moore School district are offering to “Buy Down” your interest rate.
GLENDA SLUSSER, BROKER|OWNER The Big Comparison of New vs. Existing is: New Construction ✓ Builder incentives ✓ Potentially lower introductory payments ✓ Brand-new appliances and systems ✓ Builder warranty ✓ Less immediate maintenance Existing Home ✓ Established neighborhood ✓ Mature trees and landscaping ✓ Often more room for price negotiation ✓ Potentially faster closing
3/2/1 Temporary Buydown means the first year your interest rate will be reduced, then each year it will rise a full point. Starting the 4th year, your interest rate will be at the levThe question isn’t “Is new better?” The question is “Which option is el of the market interest rate at the time of purchase. Builders better for you?” You may have been intimidated by the terminology or may offer to roll down payment and closing costs into the loan the amount of money you thought you needed. There may be more opby adding it to the purchase price if you choose to hire their tions than you realized. And you don’t have to figure it out alone. preferred lender and title company. Just keep in mind this will Before you walk into a new or pre-loved home purchase, call your make your payment slightly higher and may continue to rise REALTOR®. higher each year as the interest rate increases. Buying a HOME is about finding a home and financing that fits your family’s goals and lifestyle.
THE STATION SCHEDULE • NOVEMBER 2026
ACTIVITIES & CLASSES
TOGETHER WE ARE MOORE The Station Recreation Center This is a partial list of schedules, activities, and classes available through the strives to be a place where Moore Parks & Recreation department. all are welcomed. "Together You can find something of interest for We Are Moore" is specifically everyone by visiting Moore Parks and THANKSGIVING BREAK PICKdesigned for those with special Recreation website at: cityofmoore. com/parks or by calling The Station front LEBALL CAMP needs in our community and desk at (405) 793-5090 provide them with a safe and Get ready to serve up some FUN! welcoming environment where Kids ages 8–12 will learn the fastthey can create fun projects est-growing sport in the country CAMPS and explore their creative side. with three days of exciting drills, rallies, and games. From beginners Come and join us for some fun THANKSGIVING BREAK BASto budding pros, everyone will have as we create memories and KETBALL CAMP a blast learning skills, building team- make new friends! Participants of Calling all future all-stars! Join us work, and making new friends. Let’s all ages must be accompanied by a for three action-packed days of parent, adult participation required. dribbling, shooting, teamwork, and hit the court and play pickleball! When: November 13 – Things of FUN! Kids ages 6–12 will learn new When: November 23-24 Thankfulness skills, play exciting games, and build Time: 1pm-4pm Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm Ages: 8-12 years confidence on the court—all while Ages: 6 - 17 years (Adult Participamaking new friends. Don’t miss your Fee: $40 tion Required) Where: The Station Recreation chance to level up your game! Fee: Free (advance registration Center When: November 23-24 required) Registration: Through November Time: 9am - Noon Where: The Station Recreation 22 at The Station Front Desk or at Ages: 6-12 years Center cityofmoore.com/fun. Fee: $40 Register: Online at cityofmoore. Where: The Station Recreation com/fun Center CLASSES AND EVENTS This particular activity is specifically Registration: Through November designed for children with special 22at The Station Front Desk or at needs. Those who do not meet this cityofmoore.com/fun VETERAN’S DAY KID CRAFTS requirement are encouraged to Come and join us for a time of enroll in another exciting activity. THANKSGIVING BREAK EXcrafting and fun! Kids will be able to express their creative side with TREME ANIMALS CAMP DOING MOORE FOR KIDS Come celebrate Thanksgiving break several themed projects along the Moore Parks and Recreation would way. with us here at The Station Recrelike to do more for your kids! This When: November 11 ation Center! Kids will get up close fun and free Saturday afternoon and personal with extreme animals, Time: 6pm-7pm class is sure to get your kids' exciteAges: 4-8 years creepy crawlies and more. Plus ment going! In each class we will ofFee: Free (advance registration they will also be able to explore fer up a fun and exciting project that required) their creative side as they create you and your kids can do together! fun animal crafts. Spots are limited, Where: The Station Recreation Come and join us for the fun! This Center so don't miss out on this EXTREME particular activity will require a parRegister: Online at cityofmoore. adventure. ent/guardian to be present and help com/fun When: November 23-25 assist your child with the activity Time: 9am - Noon When: November 14 – Things of Ages: 6-12 years Thankfulness Fee: $60 Where: The Station Recreation Center Registration: At The Station Front Desk or at cityofmoore.com/fun
Time: 1pm-2pm Ages: 5 – 10 years Fee: Free (registration required) Where: The Station Recreation Center Register: Online at cityofmoore. com/fun or at The Station Front Desk
MOMMY & ME Come and join us for a time of creativity and early learning as we introduce little ones to the world of arts and crafts, music, and movement! Mommy + Me will help encourage early development and social interaction while also providing a special bonding opportunity for you and your child. Spots are limited, so don't miss out on this low-cost opportunity for fun memories with you and your little one! When: November 21 – Traveling Turkey Time: 10-11am Ages: 2-5 years Fee: Free (registration required) Where: The Station Recreation Center Register: Online at cityofmoore. com/fun or at The Station Front Desk
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 23
Read the Book
Join the Conversation
24 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
RIVERWIND SHOWPLACE THEATRE PRESENTS
Showcasing:
Prince Again And
Q the Band Thursday December 31, 2026
DOORS 7:30PM | SHOW 8:30PM GA | $50
Get Tickets @ Box Office 405-322-6464 – Riverwind.com – SeatGeek.com
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 25
PIE STOP BY FOR OUR
WE’RE WHEREVER YOU ARE
&
PIE TASTING
At
SOUTHWEST MANSIONS!
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH FROM 2:00 - 3:30 PM
Grab a fork and a healthy appetite for our pie tasting and a tour! Sample some pies, take a tour, and grab a pie to bake at home!
You’ll also be entered to win a $250 gift card to Cracker Barrel (you must be present to win) so RSVP by November 13th with Sabrina at (405) 266-5851 Life doesn’t happen at a bank branch. With Armstrong Bank, you can bank wherever you are with modern tools and real people ready to help along the way. Armstrong.Bank
26 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
EQUAL HOUSING LENDER
MEMBER FDIC
SOUTHWEST MANSIONS SOUTHWEST MANSIONS
9900 S WESTERN AVE,73139 9900 S WESTERN AVE, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73139 ( 4 0 5 ) 2 6 6( 4- 05 58)5216 6 - 5 8 5 1 w w w. M a n s iwownw. s SMeannisoi or nL si vS ienn gi o. rcLoi vmi n g . c o m
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 27
2027
Best of Moore & South OKC
Nominations are still open for the 2027 Best of Moore & South Oklahoma City awards. Each year we reevaluate our categories based on community input and voting interest. Once again, there are a few changes, so be aware that some categories are no longer a part of the voting. This is our attempt at keeping the BOM awards as relevant as possible to our community. And not just relevant, but fun! The response to the addition of a “Best Vocal Talent” category was pretty spectacular, so it’s back again this year. Make sure you check out the special nomination procedures for this category.
is considered to begin along the I-240 corridor and extend south into Moore-essentially, the borders of the Moore Public School District). The same is true for vocal talent – your living address must be within these borders. Nominations can be submitted by email to rob@mooremonthly.com or michael@mooremonthly.com. They can also be submitted by commenting with the business's name on the BOM posts we place on the Moore Monthly Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram pages. ANY BUSINESS THAT IS NOMINATED WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR VOTES.
Also, we listened to your comments about last year’s BOM dinner & awards ceremony and have THERE WILL BE ONLY ONE ROUND OF made changes to the order of events that address VOTING. your thoughts. Thanks so much for caring and Voting will begin at 12:01 a.m. on January 1, commenting! 2026, and end at midnight on February 28th, 2026. You may vote multiple times each day, Here’s what you need to know about nomina- but our voting system will not allow you to cast tions and voting for the rest of the categories this consecutive votes within a short time span. year. WINNERS
NOMINATIONS
The nomination period runs through December 15. Keep in mind that nominations are not votes. You don’t need to re-nominate a business that’s already been nominated. Check our website for a list of nominees so far.
The top three finishers in each category will be invited to our festive Best of Moore Awards Show at the Riverwind Casino on Tuesday, March 9, 2026, where the winner will be revealed. The runners-up will also be recognized at the "Bommie's" so that everyone goes home a winner. A complete list of winners and runners-up will be featured in the March edition of the Moore Monthly along with a photo gallery from the gala event.
Also - we’ve extended the nomination period to accommodate the new “Best Vocal Talent” category. Anyone can submit a nomination in any category. That means you CAN nominate HERE ARE THE 2026 BEST OF MOORE your own business. Check out the categories & SOUTH OKC CATEGORIES below. The categories have been changed 1. Best Attorney this year, so check closely! 2. Best Bank Businesses must be within the immediate area of Moore and South OKC to be eligible (for the purposes of these awards, South OKC 28 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
3. 4. 5. 6.
Best BBQ Best Breakfast/Brunch Best Burger Best CBD/Cannabis Store
7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50.
Best Children’s Party Spot Best Chiropractor Best Coffee Shop Best Cold Beverage (non-alcoholic) Best Credit Union Best Dental Care Best Dog Grooming Best Doggie Daycare/Boarding Best Dog Trainer Best Donuts Best Electrician Best Fitness Center Best Funeral Services Best Hair Salon Best Health Food/Drink Store Best Heat & Air Best Hospital Best Insurance Agency-Home/Auto Best Insurance-Health Best Landscaper/Lawn Care Best Liquor Store Best Massage Therapy Best Meal Prep Best Medical Spa/Skin Care Clinic Best Mexican Dining Best Orthodontist Best OB/GYN Best Pediatrics Best Pharmacy Best Photographer – Personal, Sports, Wedding Best Physical Therapy Best Pizza Best Place to Watch the Game Best Plumber Best Real Estate Agency Best Roofing Company Best Sandwich/Sub Shop Best Senior Living-Assisted/ Memory Care Best Senior Living-Independent Best Social Media Account Best Travel Agency Best Urgent Care Best Veterinarians Best Wings
NEW CATEGORY WITH SPECIAL RULES Best Vocal Talent We keep running into some very gifted and talented singers in the Moore & South OKC area, so this year we’re including this very special category. The top three finalists in this category will perform live during the 2026 Best of Moore & South OKC Awards dinner at the Riverwind Casino in March. Because this category is a completely new approach, it requires some special rules:
1. The category is for solo acts only. No bands will be accepted. 2. Contestants will need to submit a 2-to-4 minute video tape of a vocal performance. You are allowed to use an instrument. 3. Video can be submitted to Moore Monthly via social media posting (Facebook, X, Instagram, or YouTube) or by thumbdrive. 4. We HIGHLY suggest that you DO NOT use autotune or any AI assistance. A live rehearsal will be conducted prior to the Riverwind event and if your live performance
doesn’t match your video, we will consider replacing you with another candidate. 5.
Videos will be posted on the MooreMonthly.com website. Voting will take place on the regular Best of Moore & South OKC voting page.
6. Past Winners are Ineligible 7. All other deadlines and voting rules will apply.
Thanks to our Sponsors! Terry Cavnar State Farm Insurance
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NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 29
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Preparing for Success, Changing Lives, Building Better Tomorrows.
(405) 801-5000 • mntc.edu
MNTC'S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT We seem to be living at a time when economic upheaval is taking place all around us. How do you see things in the local landscape and what role does MNTC play in helping businesses and individuals thrive in the current environment?
Tim Burg Tim Burg currently serves as the Economic Developer for the Moore Norman Technology Center. Prior to joining the MNTC staff, Burg was the Economic Development Director for Shawnee Forward, a business alliance formed by the merger of the Shawnee Economic Development Foundation and the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce. Burg also has more than 25 years of experience in the construction and engineering field, including owning his own business. He is a 2005 graduate of the University of Oklahoma and one of only 1200 Certified Economic Developers (CEcD) in the world.
30 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
This area is blessed to have an extremely robust economy and remains a critical part of the region's growth. It's wonderful to be associated with a Career Tech that is an important community and regional asset, which is engaged in workforce development, business support services, customized skills training, and so much more. Most of the time our core responsibilities are focused on BR&E (Business Retention and Expansion), which starts with us learning and understanding more about a existing business's goals, challenges, and potential opportunities. How does MNTC’s Economic Development program work with businesses to equip them to navigate the challenges they face? Once we have a better understanding of the businesses we are engaged with, we can provide them with workable solutions or resources to help them expand their operations, and assist them in sustaining and strengthening what is already working well for them. Oftentimes we provide information on existing resources that a business may be unaware of or provide them access to business contacts that we have worked with over the past 30 + years. Can you give us more information regarding how the power of 30+ years of working with local businesses can be leveraged today? Economic development is a "team effort," and the stronger the team, the greater the results. MNTC can provide information about state incentive programs, market data, grants, or other solutions that can assist the business community. It is not unusual for our conversations about available resources to include the programs that our economic development partners in Cleveland County, the University of Oklahoma, the Department of Commerce, and the area’s Chambers of Commerce have to offer.
Moore Norman Career Tech offers our business partners the benefit of years of business insight, a greater understanding of how to best access workforce development resources, and the ability to use our relationships to act as a bridge between the private sector and local, state, and federal government contacts. What role does training and deploying skilled workers play the area of economic development for MNTC? More often than not, without an available skilled workforce, a business will look elsewhere to find the talent they need to build their business. Whether it is an existing business or a new business prospect, Moore Norman Career Tech takes their workforce development role in this area very seriously. How can business owners find out more about MNTC’S Economic Development opportunities? By contacting Tim Burg, tim.burg@mntc.edu, or by phone, 405-801-5896.
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 31
PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM —NOVEMBER CALENDAR VIRTUAL PROGRAMS
SOUTHWEST OKC LIBRARY, 2201 SW 134Th Street, OKC
Tuesday, November 3, 1 p.m. – Behind the Story: Author Talk w/Asha Frost
Sunday, November 1, 2:30 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Digital Draw Along-Beginner
Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m. – Learn It! Microsoft Excel – Pivot Tables
Procreate
Thursday, November 5, 6:00 p.m. – Behind the Story: Author Talk w/E. Lockhart
Thursday, November 5, 10:30 a.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Morning Menu
Tuesday, November 10, 6:00 p.m. – Book Discussion on All Good People Here
Monday, November 9, 10:30 a.m. – Bilingual Family Story Time (All Ages) Farm Granja
Thursday,November 11, 1:00 p.m. – Beyond the Story: Author Talk w/Paul Vigna
Monday, November 9, 6:00 p.m. – Connection Corner: Pokemon
Thursday, November 19, 6:00 p.m. – Beyond the Story: Author Talk w/Rebecca Roan-
Tuesday, November 10, 17, 24, 10:30 a.m. – Rhythm Babies (0-18 months)
horse
Tuesday, November 10, 24, 1:00 p.m. – Connection Corner: Craft and Swap Tuesday, November 10, 2:00 p.m. – Information Investigation: Genealogy Club
IN-PERSON PROGRAMS
Thursday, November 12, 4:30 p.m. – Eat Smart: Books & Bites (6-11 years) Thursday, November 12, 6:30 p.m. – Book Discussion with SOKC Library
MOORE PUBLIC LIBRARY, 225 S. HOWARD AVE.
Friday, November 13, 20, 10:30 a.m. – Toddler Story Time (1-3 years)
Monday, November 2, 4:30 p.m. – Build It (5-11 years) Lego Bricks Challenge Wheel
Saturday, November 14, 10:30 a.m. – Early Explorers (2-6 years)
Tuesday, November 3, 10, 17, 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
Sunday, November 15, 2:00 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Mini Book Keychains
Tuesday, November 3, 6:00 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Photography Club
Wednesday, November 18, 10:30 a.m. – Early Explorers: Trick or Treat
Wednesday, November 4, 18, 10:30 a.m. – Rhythm Babies (0-24 months)
Wednesday, November 18, 6:30 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Linocut Printmaking
Wednesday, November 4, 4:30 p.m. – Connection Corner (Ages 10-13)Direct to Film
Thursday, November 19, 6:30 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Woodburning
Printer
Monday, November 23, 2:00 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Mosaic Magic
Thursday, November 5, 19, 10:30 a.m. – Music Connection (0-5 years)
Tuesday, November 24, 6:00 p.m. – STEAM Kids (8-11 years): Mini Waffles
Thursday, November 5, 12, 6:30 p.m. – Get Moving with All Levels Zumba Friday, November 6, 4:30 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Zine Making Monday, November 9, 4:30 p.m. – STEAM Kids (8-11 years): Vinyl Cutting Tuesday, November 10, 2:00 p.m. – STEAM Kids: Homeschool Hub Tuesday, November 10, 6:00 p.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Holiday Gnomes Thursday, November 12, 10:30 a.m. – Early Explorers (2-6 years) Friday, November 13, 6:00 p.m. – Let’s Get Gardening: Garden Club Saturday, November 14, 10:00 a.m. – Autumn Connections Fair Monday, November 16, 4:30 p.m. – Build It (5-11 years) Sphero Indies Tuesday, November 17, 4:30 p.m. – Sensory Explorers Tuesday, November 17, 5:00 p.m. – Connection Corner: Knitting & Crochet Wednesday, November 18, 6:30 p.m. – Connection Corner: Textile and Fiber Art Thursday, November 19, 6:45 p.m. – Eat Smart: Cookbook Club Saturday, November 21, 10:30 a.m. – Creativity Unleashed: Family Art Monday, November 30, 10:30 a.m. – Early Birds (4-5 years) Monday, November 30, 4:30 p.m. – Build It (5-11 years) Big Blue Blocks
Pioneer Library System Contact: Marketing & Communications Office Telephone: 405.801.4530 Email: mc@pioneerlibrarysystem.org
32 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM — BOOK REVIEW
BOOK REVIEW Theo of Golden Author : Allen Levi Reviewed: Donna Houck ; Customer Experience Library Associate ; Moore Public Library Theo of Golden is a #1 New York Times bestselling contemporary novel by Allen Levi. Self-published, it is Levi’s debut novel. The story begins when an elderly man named Theo arrives in the small Southern town of Golden. His reasons for choosing this particular town are a mystery. One of his first stops is a local coffee shop, where nearly 100 portraits, drawn by a local artist, are displayed on the walls for sale. Always eager to appreciate and celebrate the beauty of the world around him, Theo is captivated by the artwork and begins purchasing the portraits to support the artist.
Through these heartfelt conversations, Theo forms meaningful connections with the townspeople and makes a lasting, positive impact on their lives. Yet there is more to Theo than meets the eye. Why did he choose Golden, and what is the real motivation behind his visit? These questions unfold as the story progresses, adding unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
I highly recommend Theo of Golden to anyone looking for a heartwarming, feel-good story. Its themes of kindness, human connection, and the power of truly listening to others make it a memorable read. With an engaging plot, surprising revelations, and a satisfying ending, this novel is a wonderful reminder of But Theo’s generosity doesn’t how one person can make a difference in others' lives. end there. He sets out to find the Theo of Golden is available through the Pioneer Library Syspeople depicted in each drawing. Meeting with them individually, he tem in print or as a downloadable eBook or audiobook. For gifts each person their portrait and more information on this title or other recommendations, call invites them to share their life story. As he listens to their experi- the Moore Public Library at 405.793.5100, or visit us in person or ences, he learns about their struggles, grief, loneliness, and joys. online at pioneerlibrarysystem.org.
Get more recommendations by watching this series on YouTube. With weekly uploads, you'll never be short of book recommendations and library insights!
SCAN HERE to watch this video on YouTube
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 33
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250 SE 4th St, Moore | (405) 793-1572
Terry Cavnar
State Farm Insurance Agent
F I R S T R E S P O N D E R S P OT L I G H T Early Tragedy and Challenges Spur Dooling to Firefighting
34 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
Moore firefighter Conor Dooling says he learned a lot about adversity growing up. It was one of those hard moments when, as a 12-year-old, he realized that he wanted to be a firefighter. “I had a teammate named Ian Hudson in sixth grade,” said Dooling. “We played baseball and football together. We were at the sixth-grade dance, and the next day we were going to hang out at the movie theater together. But he got hit by a car that night and died two days later.” Dooling, who had seen firefighters in action on a recent Mother’s Day out trip, couldn’t help but think that firefighters were usually the first on the scene of those kinds of tragedies. “I wondered if I could’ve helped him, if I were a firefighter,” said Dooling. “I learned later that his injuries were too much, but I never stopped thinking about the idea that fire trucks always get there first.” Dooling excelled as a high school wrestler at Southmoore and had college scholarship opportunities. But he decided to train as an EMT after graduating from high school. His early attempts at joining the Oklahoma City Fire Department fell short, but once again Dooling says the challenge of improving motivated him to continue chasing his dream.
“I decided to go to work for EMSA and get more experience on medical calls,” said Dooling. “I tried to get hired at OKC two more times and didn’t make it. Then, after three years, in 2018, I decided I was going to pursue Moore and make it…no matter what it took.” Now, eighteen years after he lost his friend in that tragic accident, Dooling says he’s more certain than ever that being a firefighter is what he’s called to do. “Being able to help people is such a powerful and fulfilling thing,” said Dooling. “And there’s also the team aspect of being a firefighter. It’s such a powerful thing to be a part of a group of guys who are focused on the important tasks we face.” Dooling says the fire that burned in his heart over the loss of his friend when he was twelve burns even brighter today. “When it matters most for somebody’s family, and they’re having their worst day ever,” said Dooling, “You just set aside your personal things and flip the switch that lets you perform at your best, at your highest level… no matter how you feel. And you do that as a team.” Away from work, Dooling spends his time with his wife of seven years and their four children. That includes a newborn who is just over a month old. He also runs a pest control business. “I have four kids and Abigail, my wonderful wife,” said Dooling. “My oldest son plays coach pitch, and my daughter plays T-ball, and I coach two teams. So, life is very full and fulfilling.”
CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • NOVEMBER 2026
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
cert Series is a weekly collaboration FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART with the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, coordinated with OU’s School of 555 Elm Avenue, Norman Music, featuring OU music students and faculty. FRED READS These 30-minute concerts occur Thursday, November 5, 1:30 p.m. during the semester in the Sandy – 2:30 p.m. Bell Gallery, located in the museum’s Explore connections between art and literature during Fred Reads, the lower level. Admission is complimuseum’s new book club. Join us in mentary for OU students, faculty, the Adkins Gallery to discuss Tommy and staff with an OU ID. General admission is $12 for adults (18+). Orange’s bestselling novel There There, Cannupa Hanska Luger’s OCCC VISUAL AND PERFORMING mixed media sculpture Stereotype: ARTS CENTER The Luger, and their shared themes related to contemporary Native iden- 7777 South May Avenue, OKC tity, representation, belonging, and THE SUNKICKS: HOME FOR THE community. Through Orange’s acHOLIDAYS claimed portrait of urban Native life Tuesday, December 15, 7:30 p.m. and Luger’s examination of stereotypes and cultural resilience, partic- Experience The Sunkicks: Home for the Holidays — The High-Kicking ipants will consider how artists and Christmas Sensation! Featuring preauthors challenge misconceptions cision kickline dancing, powerhouse while celebrating the complexity of vocals, stunning costumes, holiday Native experiences. Please bring your own copy of the book, which is favorites, and an unforgettable available at local bookstores, public original Christmas story, this Broadway-style event delivers Christmas libraries, and through bookshop. magic for audiences of all ages. org. Participation included with Follow Kris and Carol, two devoted museum admission. Due to mature Christmas lovers determined to themes in the book, this program is recommended for ages 18 and over. bring their busy grown children back home for one unforgettable holiday Admission is complimentary for OU celebration. Along the way, audiencstudents, faculty, and staff with an es are treated to beloved Christmas OU ID. General admission is $12 for classics, contemporary holiday adults (18+). favorites, breathtaking choreography, and a few Christmas surprises. TUESDAY NOON CONCERT Performed by a world-class cast of Each Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. singers and dancers, The Sunkicks: November 3 – Burcham Voice Home for the Holidays blends the Studio excitement of grand holiday enterNovember 10 – OU Violin Studio November 17 – OU Clarinet Studio tainment with the warmth and heart of family traditions. Big-city holiday November 24 – Flanagan Voice kickline productions like this rarely Studio tour anymore, making this a unique Enjoy live music and fine art on the opportunity to experience this cherUniversity of Oklahoma campus ished Christmas tradition live in your every Tuesday at the Fred Jones Jr. community. Whether you're continuMuseum of Art. Tuesday Noon Con-
ing a treasured family tradition, planning a festive date night, or creating new holiday memories together, this joyful celebration will stay with you long after the final kick. Call 405682-7579 or email BoxOffice@occc. edu for tickets or more information.
CHURCH & SPIRITUAL CONNECTION FIVE LOAVES FOOD PANTRY Wednesday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. 291 W. Main Street – the Northeast Door. Or by appointment: call 405794-6671 (Moore First United Methodist Church). FRESH START COMMUNITY CHURCH FOOD PANTRY Open the third Thursday of each month, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 309 N Eastern Avenue, West Campus-Family Life Center. Canned and dry goods available. Must be a resident of Moore (please bring an ID).
CITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 2 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore
Trophies awarded for People’s Choice & Best Overall Chili. For more information, call 405-321-3200. BREWS & BRUSHES: CHRISTMAS THEME PAINT CLASS Friday, November 6, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. The Station Recreation Center, 700 S. Broadway. Cost: $45 per person. Featuring Oklahoma’s very own Tipsy Artist! 18+, an adults-only paint-and-sip night! ID’s will be checked at the door. Two designs to choose from to paint! Local beer and wine available for purchase on-site! Great way to spend a Girls Night Out or have a Date Night! Register online at cityofmoore.com/fun. URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY Monday, November 9 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MEETING Tuesday, November 10 at 5:30 p.m. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Tuesday, November 10 at 7:00 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore.
PARKS BOARD MEETING Tuesday, November 3 at 6:00 p.m. The Station at Central Park, 700 S. Broadway.
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY 2026 Wednesday, November 11, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Veterans Memorial Park, 1900 SE 4th Street. Honoring all who have AGING SERVICES CHILI COOK-OFF served. Friday, November 6, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. CDBG ADVISORY COMMITTEE Moore Community Center, 301 S. MEETING Howard Ave. All proceeds go toward Thursday, November 12 at 5:30 Moore Senior Meals. $5 per ticket p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadincludes chili, drink, and dessert. way, Moore. Contestants pay only $5 to enter. NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 35
CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • NOVEMBER 2026 continued TURKEY SHOOT FREE THROW CONTEST Friday, November 13, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Station Recreation Center, 700 S Broadway. CONTEST STARTS AT 6:15 P.M. Here’s your chance to win a Thanksgiving Turkey for the family’s holiday dinner! You can sign up in one of the 6 age categories to compete in a free-throw contest to see who will be the Turkey Winners! Contestants will shoot 10 free-throws, the one who makes the most in each age division will win a Thanksgiving turkey! ONE TURKEY PER FAMILY! Ages: 5-8; 9-12; 13-17; 18-29; 30-49; 50+. Registration: Online Only at cityofmoore.com/fun. CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 16 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore INDOOR MOVIE AT THE STATION Friday, November 20, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Station Recreation Center, 700 S. Broadway. Come and enjoy The Santa Clause, a classic Christmas movie with us! Free movie, free cookies, and free cocoa. Concessions on site at The Station’s Concession Stand. Bring your blankets and wear your favorite PJ's as we kick off the holiday season with the best Christmas movie of all time... The Santa Clause Movie! Advanced registration is required to attend. EACH PERSON ATTENDING THE MOVIE MUST REGISTER. Register at cityofmoore.com/fun. SASQUATCH HUNT Saturday, November 21 – Sunday, November 22. All Day. Are you ready to catch some 36 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
‘Squatch? These critters have told some of the Parks & Recreation staff they plan on checking out Moore Central Park in Moore. We don’t want them to get too wild and take over the parks, so if you want to help hunt them, feel free to join the fun and become an official ‘Squatch Hunter! Find a hidden Sasquatch on the playground, along the walking trails, or hiding in their special places, and then bring the critters to The Station to win a special Sasquatch prize. FALL RECYCLE EVENT Saturday, November 21, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. City of Moore Recycling Center, 220 N. Telephone Road. Paper Shredding, Electronics – 8 a.m.– Noon (Drive-Thru Time – 8 a.m.– Noon). Acceptable electronics include: Televisions, printers, fax machines, copiers/scanners, laptops/tablets, smoke detector alarms, iPods, MP3 players, audio and video equipment, VHS tapes, PC speakers, keyboards, VCR/DVD/CD players, modems and hard drives, cell phones, telephones, and computer monitors. For more information call 405-793-4373. CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW AT THE STATION Beginning daily on Friday, November 27 – January 1, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.(Final 20-minute show starts @ 9:40 PM) The Station Recreation Center, 700 S. Broadway. Free event! Come to The Station at Central Park (700 S Broadway Ave.); Park your car in front of The Station Recreation Center Turn off your headlights; Tune your radio to 89.7 FM and enjoy a spectacular 20-minute light show. Bring the whole family out to celebrate the holidays!
BIG TRASH PICK UP Moore residents will be allowed two SANTA’S MAILBOX FREE big trash pick-ups a year and Monday, November 30 – Friday, one free voucher to the city landfill December 18, All Day – Normal for each physical address in Moore. Business Hours The Station Recreation Center Lobby, Call (405) 793-5070 to schedule your trash pick-up. 700 S. Broadway. Holiday elves are installing a special mailbox at The DEPRESSION AND BIPOLAR SUPStation Recreation Center, where PORT ALLIANCE children can drop off letters to Santa starting Nov. 30! When writing Moore Public Library, 225 S. Howard Ave. letters, children must include their first and last name, age, mailing ad- Meetings on Thursdays from 6:30 dress, and holiday wish list. Parents p.m. – 7:30 p.m. For more information email Josh are encouraged to glance over the Turzanski at josh@dbsaok.org. letters before bringing them to The Station for mailing. Santa especially enjoys hand-drawn holiday pictures NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM on the letters! Place your letter and Moore Police Dept. is starting a self-addressed stamped envelope inside Santa’s Mailbox. Make sure a Neighborhood Watch Program. If Return Address is included so Santa you’re interested in helping your neighborhood reduce crime, contact can answer your letter. Sgt. Jeremy Lewis, (405) 793-4448.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION ADOPT-A-PET Moore Animal Shelter, S-I35 Service Road. Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., closed on holidays. For additional information call (405) 793-5190.
OKLAHOMA PARKINSON’S ALLIANCE SUPPORT GROUP First Tuesday of each month (no meeting in July) 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 13200 S. May Ave. For more information contact the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance at 405-810-0695.
MOORE ROTARY CLUB MEETING AMERICAN LEGION MOORE POST Weekly on Wednesdays, 12:00 184 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. 207 SW 1st Street, Moore, OK. 73160. First United Bank, 420 SW 6th Monthly Membership Meetings: Street. Moore Rotary Club meetings 7:00 p.m. (Every 2nd Tuesday are held weekly. At our meeting, of every month). Post is open we aim to have fellowship and fun, for business Tuesday and Thursenjoy a good meal and listen to an day afternoons 12:30- 3:30 p.m. interesting speaker as well as comVA Certified VSO on-duty to serve all municate activity updates to memveterans and their families with VA bers. There are membership fees Claims. 'No Veteran Left Behind' Tel: associated to Rotary International. (405) 794-5446 Come visit at least once and we’ll be happy to discuss membership options. Rotary International is an inter-
CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • NOVEMBER 2026 continued national service organization whose stated purpose is to bring together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service and advance goodwill and peace around the world. It is a non-political and non-religious organization. For more information, contact Dee Ann Gay at 405-300-6202. 405 BUSINESS CLUB Weekly on Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Toby Keith’s “I Love This Bar & Grill”, 1199 S. Service Road. Here members learn more about each other's businesses and pass referrals between members of the group, all while building friendships, camaraderie, and eat lunch. Meetings are open to visitors looking to find a networking group to join, however; we only allow one business per business category. So before you choose to come, please check out our membership and determine if there is an open seat for you & your business in our group. NORMAN NEWCOMERS MEETING Second Monday of the month, 10:00 a.m. First Christian Church, 220. S. Webster. You don’t have to live in Norman to join in. For more information, contact Susie Orsenigo at 561-914-0771. THE MOORE TIPS CLUB, BUSINESS AND NETWORKING MEETING Every Thursday, 12:00 p.m. Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill, 1199 SS I-35 Service Road. A small but effective business networking group, empowering others through valuable and trusted recommendations. We strive to build each member’s business. Do you have a question about our business referral group, or do you want
to see if we match your specific needs? Join us on Thursdays from 12pm – 1pm in Moore, Oklahoma @ Toby Keith’s. See the map for location! Send us a message or call one of our members! We're always happy to connect with new businesses! For more information visit mooretipsclub. com.
Networking, one of the South OKC Chamber’s most relaxed and engaging networking groups. We meet for happy hour on the first Thursday of each month at a Chamber-member business, giving you the perfect opportunity to build connections, share ideas, and unwind with fellow professionals. Come grow your network, strengthen relationships, and have MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE some fun while doing business. Free COMMUNITY COFFEE to participate, only cost is food or Wednesdays, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 beverages that you choose to order. a.m. For more information contact Jamie November 4 – McDonald’s, 350 S. Crowe at 405-634-1436 or email Eastern Ave. Jamiecrowe@southokc.com. November 18 – Westmoore High School, 112613 S. Western MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE November 24 – Legend Memory NETWORKING LUNCH Care, 2800 SW 131st Street Tuesday, November 10, 11:45 a.m. Start your day with a cup of coffee – 1:00 p.m. and great company at our CommuThe LoKal, 12501 S. Western. Join us nity Coffees! These informal gathfor a Networking Lunch, a casual and erings are the perfect opportunity engaging opportunity to connect with to connect with fellow community fellow professionals while enjoying a members, business professionals, delicious meal at a local restaurant. and local leaders in a relaxed and These lunches are designed to help friendly atmosphere. What to Expect: you expand your network, share your Networking: Build meaningful relabusiness highlights, and discover tionships and grow your connections new opportunities. Spotlight Opporwithin the community. Conversation: tunity: Each attendee has up to one Engage in casual discussions about minute to introduce themselves, their local initiatives, business updates, business, and share a highlight or tidand upcoming events. Community bit about their company. Should you Spotlight: Learn about local business- need or want more than one-minute, es, nonprofits, and key projects shap- additional opportunities are available ing our area. Community Coffees are to increase your exposure at this a great way to stay connected, share event. Contact Tish Norman, Director ideas, and start your day with posiof Development and Engagement, tive energy. For more information call for more details. Bring your busi405-794-3400 or email info@moore- ness cards and get ready to share, chamber.com. connect, and grow your network in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. SOUTH OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMContact Tish Norman at 405- 794BER SERIOUSLY FUN NETWORK3400 or email info@moorechamber. ING com for more information. Thursday, November 5, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. SOUTH OKC CHAMBER BUSINESS Bill’s Steakhouse & Saloon, 1013 SW NETWORKING LUNCH 89th Street. Join us for Seriously Fun Wednesday, November 11, 11:30
a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Freddy’s Frozen Custard, 9000 S Western Ave. Business Networking Lunch is a casual, efficient way to connect with fellow South OKC Chamber members during the workday. This group meets for lunch, offering a relaxed setting to build relationships, exchange ideas, and expand your network — all without taking too much time out of your schedule. Join us to make meaningful connections, share conversations, and enjoy great company over lunch. For more information contact Jamie Crowe at 405-634-1436 or email Jamiecrowe@southokc.com. MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Closed for Veterans Day Wednesday,November 11. SOUTH OKC CHAMBER BOWLING TOURNAMENT Monday, November 16, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Sooner Bowling Center, 550 NW 24th Avenue, Norman. Join us for an afternoon of fun, friendly competition, and networking at the 2026 South OKC Chamber Bowling Tournament on Monday, November 16! Gather a team of four and head to the lanes for a fun opportunity to connect with fellow Chamber members, enjoy some friendly competition, and spend time with your team outside of the office. Whether your team is full of seasoned bowlers or you are simply looking for a fun afternoon together, everyone is welcome. Each team will receive a large one topping pizza, a pitcher of soda or beer, team signage, and goodie bags to take home. Spots are limited, so be sure to register your team early. To register, contact Destanee Ratley at destaneeratley@southokc.com or call (405) 634-1436. NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 37
CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • NOVEMBER 2026 continued
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WIN NETWORKING HOUR Tuesday, November 17, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Moore Funeral and Cremation, 716 Wall Street, Norman. Free to attend! Join us for the Women's Impact Network (WIN) Networking Hour, a dynamic and engaging event hosted at our member businesses! This is your chance to connect with inspiring women professionals, exchange ideas, and foster meaningful relationships in a supportive and welcoming environment. What to Expect:Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, find mentorship, or simply enjoy great company, the WIN Networking Hour is the perfect opportunity to make lasting connections. Let’s empower, engage, and elevate each other! For more information call 405793-3400. SOUTH OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Tuesday, November 17, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Communication Federal Credit Union, 3401 SW 104th Street. Make plans to join us for Business After Hours at Communication Federal Credit Union! Wrap up your workday with great conversation, new connections, and a fun, relaxed evening with fellow Chamber members. Enjoy light appetizers and wine, plus a gift card giveaway! Bring a coworker, invite someone you’ve been meaning to connect with, and come enjoy an evening of networking and good company. We’ll see you at Communication Federal Credit Union!For more information contact Elizabeth Fox at 405-634-1436 or email ElizabethFox@southokc.com. 38 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
SOUTH OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMBER COFFEE & COMMERCE Friday, November 20, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Whataburger, 2925 SW 104th Street. Start your morning with Coffee & Commerce, a welcoming South OKC Chamber networking event designed to spark connections and conversations. Enjoy a round of self-introductions followed by relaxed, free-style networking with fellow business professionals. It’s a great way to build relationships, share what you do, and connect with the local business community. Join us on the third Friday morning of each month — we’d love to see you there. For more information contact Jamie Crowe at 405-634-1436 or email Jamiecrowe@ southokc.com. Moore Chamber of Commerce Closed for Thanksgiving, November 24-27.
made during the program. Program funds are limited, so submit your receipts promptly to ensure your rebate. This is the perfect opportunity to shop local, support the community, and enjoy some extra savings this holiday season. For more information, visit our website.
SENIOR CONNECTION TRANSPORTATION: Metro Transit will provide van service for age 60 and older on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the Moore area to Oklahoma City for medical appointments. Call Jackie at (405) 297-2583. MOORE COUNCIL ON AGING. Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Call (405) 799-3130 at least one day in advance.
MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JINGLE & SAVE REBATE PROGRAM “SHARE-A-FARE” for age 60 and over or disabled. Purchase taxi fare November 27-December 13, Reat 40% off. ceipt Submission Deadline: Monday, December 8 (End of Day). Celebrate the season of giving while supporting local businesses with the Jingle & Save Rebate Program! This holiday initiative by the Moore Chamber of Commerce rewards shoppers and diners for spending locally at Chamber member restaurants and retailers.Here’s How It Works: Spend $50 or more at participating businesses between November 27 and December 13. Submit your receipts to earn a $10 gift card for the business you supported (up to $50 per household). Receipts can total up to $250, and gift cards will be mailed out by December 18. Important Details: Final receipts must be submitted by Monday, December 14 for purchases
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Old Town Mural Project Looks to be a Gamechanger There has long been a desire through out the Moore community, backed by extensive ongoing discussion and brainstorming, to breathe new life into Old Town. Those discussions are bearing fruit as the City
It just so happened that Assistant City Manager Deidre Ebrey and Elizabeth Weitman were talking with consultants on ways to revitalize Old Town. One of the ideas that attracted their attention was a public arts project. “Our first conversation was supposed to last about 30 minutes, but it probably lasted close to two hours,” said Cron. “I said, ‘If you guys have some event coming up that we could attach this to, it would be great because of all the people and traffic.’ They said, ‘We have these huge events coming up in October.” And so it happened pretty quickly.” Artists began working on the murals at nine Old Town locations at the beginning of the last week of October with the goal of completing them by the Haunt Old Town event on Saturday, October 31st. The city covered all project funding, with no cost to business owners. The business owners who signed on to the project agree to keep the murals on their walls for three years.
kicks off a public art project, similar to the Plaza Walls project in Oklahoma City, that has everyone excited. Melanie Cron is one of a group of artists who worked in October to paint murals on nine walls or fences across Old Town. She’s also curating the project for the City of Moore. Cron says that it was one of those “destined moments” that led to her involvement. “I’m working on my dissertation on public art in spaces, and Plaza Walls is my case study,” said Cron. “I live in Moore, and I drive through Old Town all the time, and a couple of months ago I got this weird idea to contact the city and see if they would be interested in something like that.”
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 39
Cron, who will be painting one of the murals herself, has curated the selection of the artists who will also be working on the project. “The whole idea is to have a more walkable district, so I wanted a group of eclectic artists that would appeal to different tastes, but have a very Oklahoma feel,” said Cron. “When you’re walking from one end of Old Town to the other, you’re experiencing different styles.” One of those artists is Kris Kanaly, who heads up the Plaza Walls project. Kanaly is known in art circles as “The Pyramid Guy,” with a unique style dubbed “Galactic Adobe.” Kanaly has been deeply involved in art since he was a kid. “My dad was an artist, and he taught me how to airbrush as a kid,” said Kanaly. “He really encouraged me with any creative tool I could find. I loved graffiti and grew from spray paint art as a teenager to people asking me to do murals inside their businesses.” That passion led Kanaly to launch the Plaza Walls project in 2015 and to create a non-profit that has helped raise awareness of public art across the state. “Since we started, we’ve been able to paint over 500 murals throughout the state,” said Kanaly. “And collectively we’ve raised over one million dollars for public art.”
As to the Old Town project, Kanaly says he’s looking forward to adding his own unique touch to his wall. When asked to describe “Galactic Adobe”, Kanaly traces it to his obsession with outer space. “If I hadn’t become an artist I probably would have been some type of physicist,” said Kanaly. “I love quantum physics, unified field theory, and what that could mean. So my style includes painted little portals, mixed in with mythology, foreign planets, and otherworldly creatures.” That explains the “Galactic” part. But what about “Adobe?” “I really like the sloping shape and rounded corners of adobe-style homes,” said Kanaly. “So, I think it gives character to my paintings in that it’s like on another planet, but built with adobe architecture.” Be sure to visit Old Town and check out all the walls. You’ll find a map of their locations and other information about the project at cityofmoore. com/art.
40 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS FROM TWO CENTENARIANS
Mr. Almack was a diligent worker, putting in long hours on the job. He knew everyone in Moore and their address. For ten years, he met the mail train at 5:00 am every day. The only incident happened one morning when he was awakened by the train, leaped out of bed to hit the dresser and break a rib. Nonetheless, he ran to meet the train only to find it was the 1 o’clock train, not the 5 o’clock. He became actively involved in the Boy Scout movement in 1937, serving in all capacities from Cub Master to Assistant District
Sallie worked as a Red Cross volunteer and was given a certificate of appreciation from President Roosevelt for over 2,000 hours of service. She volunteered for 20 years in the school’s health program. In later years, she, along with other Senior Citizens, worked diligently to raise money for the new Senior Citizens Center. Her main contribution was hours and miles of tiny, perfect stitching on quilts. She went daily to the center to quilt even until she was 98 years old. She lived until just shortly before her 100th birthday. These are only two of the multitudes of people in Moore who have found that concern and interest in the well-being of others have been an important part of their successful “pursuit of happiness.” One poet wrote, “I have wept in the night for the shortness of sight that to another’s needs made me blind. But I never have yet had one single regret for being a little too kind.”
Tomlinson Insurance Agency
Dennis Almack was a native of Kansas who came to Moore in 1925 after meeting and marrying the daughter of Cleveland County Commissioner R.F. McBride. They later settled on a farm outside Moore, and then Dennis became a traveling agent for an insurance company. In 1934, he took the examination for the postmaster position and, on May 29, 1934, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed and commissioned him as postmaster in Moore. He served in this position for 25 years.
Sallie Dyer was born in Missouri in 1900, but her family moved to Moore the next year and settled in the Moore area. She was only nine when her mother died, but a neighboring family, the Samuel Dyers, befriended the family. Eventually, when she was 17, Sallie married their son, Melvin. When they moved to Moore, Mel built the first brick house there for his wife. The house where they spent the rest of their lives still stands on West Main.
405-794-9977 1324 NW 12th street Moore,OK 73170
Our town has been the stage for every possible effort, plan, dream and desire to fulfill the great American dream—happiness. Among the multitudes who lived, worked, and “pursued” are two very distinctive former residents who each found satisfaction and fulfillment by reaching beyond their own needs to help make life more pleasant and meaningful for others. Both lived to a grand old age, never losing zeal for helping others.
Commissioner, and finally won the Silver Beaver Award for volunteer work. He was a charter member of his church in 1961, serving as elder, trustee, treasurer, and in other positions. His motto was, “I try to live by the Golden Rule. I always try to find some good in everyone. It is there, if you look for it.” Dennis lived far past 100 years of age.
Commercial, Workmans Comp, Bonds
have joined that pursuit in our fair land.
On July 4th, 1776, the signatures of 56 men from the 13 United States notified the world that “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” These men did not presume to promise Happiness, but the Pursuit of Happiness. In the 232 years since that day, thousands of citizens, residents, immigrants and hopefuls, each in his own way,
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 41
STORY BY ROB MORRIS, PHOTOS COURTESY REED TIMMER
VETERAN'S SPOTLIGHT From Moore to Infinity... and Beyond Retired Air Force General William Shelton remembers
goldstar@goldstarokc.com
your glee. I managed to say something like, ‘Yeah, that would be nice.’ But really I was jumping around thinking what a great privilege this was.”
“My parents used to get me up for those early Mercury and Gemini space launches,” said Shelton. “I was hooked
It’s safe to say the career that followed fulfilled his childhood dreams. He worked
from that early age, and I knew that I wanted to do something
in Mission Control during the 18 U.S. space shuttle missions. Following his assignment
in the aerospace industry.”
with NASA at the Johnson Space Center, Shelton served at a series of Air Force posts, each rewarding in its own way. One of his favorite assignments during this period was
Around his 7th-grade year, he discovered the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
running the Global Positioning System (GPS) squadron in Colorado from 1990 to 1992. Shelton and his team helped build the system that has become an everyday part of life.
“I don't know if I just saw pictures or what,” said Shelton, “But
“It’s a utility everybody takes for granted now,” said Shelton. “In those days, we had
I decided that's where I want to go to school, and as it worked
no idea how fast this was going to take off and the implications and impact it would
out, that’s where I was able to go.”
have on life around the world. It’s just embedded in daily life for everybody these days.”
He arrived at the Air Force Academy in the ear-
His next memorable stop was at Vandenberg Air Force Base from
ly 1970s, when the Vietnam War was in full swing,
2005 to 2008, where he oversaw all Department of Defense space op-
and the world was dealing with terrorism during
erations. Shelton said even though he was an Air Force officer, he wore
the 1972 Summer Olympics massacre in Munich.
what’s called a “joint hat” and was in command of Army, Navy, and Air
At home, America was dealing with racism, Water-
Force space operations.
gate, and the oil crisis. Shelton learned that many of his Academy classmates were dealing with some
It was during a stretch between running the GPS squadron and his
of these issues on a personal level. As he listened
tenure at Vandenberg that Shelton attained his first general’s star as a
to their stories, he gained an understanding of the
Brigadier General. The ceremony awarding him his first star was held in
depth of these problems and his need to catch up in
2001, which turned out to be a bittersweet moment.
his understanding of those issues; it also gave him a deep appreciation for his life in Moore.
405-641-8804
GOLDSTAROKC.COM
being captivated by space travel growing up in Moore.
ter?’” said Shelton. “It was one of those moments when you can just hardly contain
“My dad passed away in 2000,” said Shelton. “He lived long enough to know that I was selected for brigadier general, but he passed a month before I pinned on my first
“I feel pretty blessed to have grown up where I did,” said Shel-
star, so that was a bittersweet ceremony, to say the least.”
ton. “I grew up in a very peaceful environment and a very loving, caring community. I just didn’t have any of that history that I was
After serving at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. from 2008 to 2011, Shelton moved
burdened with. I’m grateful that I didn’t have to go through all
to his final Air Force assignment as Commander of the Air Force Space Command at
of that until I was mature enough to really take it in and think
Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Air Force Space Command
about it on the right level.”
(AFSPC) supports U.S. military operations around the world through a range of satellite, launch, and cyber operations. Shelton said it is a complex and critical part of the modern
Shelton pursued a degree in astronautical engineering,
military.
followed by a Bachelor of Science degree with a Master’s in Astronautical Engineering at the United States Air Force In-
Shelton retired from the Air Force in 2014. He and his wife Linda, who was his high
stitute of Technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in
school sweetheart in Moore, moved to a home near Colorado Springs. He understands
Ohio. It was while he was in graduate school, rising in rank
the accolades that come with his military career and postings, but he wants everyone
from Second Lieutenant to Captain, that he received a call
to know that his wife is the real hero of the family.
that was so exciting he could hardly believe it. “She has been the glue that holds our family together,” said Shelton. “She’s a devot“NASA called and asked, ‘How would you like to work on the space shuttle at the Johnson Space Cen42 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
ed and kind Christian woman who was an outstanding mother and is now an outstanding Nana to our two grandsons.”
NOVEMBER SPORTS CALENDAR (All scheduled events are subject to change)
FOOTBALL November 6 BASKETBALL November 27-28
SWIMMING November 3 November 12 WRESTLING November 7 November 14 November 19 November 21 November 25 November 28
MOORE Yukon (Senior Night)
Thanksgiving Hoopfest (Duncanville, TX)
Norman@Norman YFAC Shawnee@Shawnee YMCA
@Yukon @Yukon Open Red & Blue Duals @Southmoore Preseason @Tuttle Open @Tuttle Pre-Turkey
FOOTBALL November 6
SOUTHMOORE Bixby
FOOTBALL November 6
WESTMOORE @Mustang
BASKETBALL NO GAMES SCHEDULED
BASKETBALL NO GAMES SCHEDULED
SWIMMING November 3 November 12
SWIMMING November 3 November 12
Norman@Norman YFAC Shawnee@Shawnee YMCA
WRESTLING November 5 November 14 November 21 November 25
Wrestle-A-Thon Westmoore Open @Southmoore Preseason @Perry Round Robin
WRESTLING November 14 November 21
Norman@Norman YFAC Shawnee@Shawnee YMCA
@Yukon Open Southmoore Preseason
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 43
POWERED BYROB MORRIS SPORTS BY ROB MORRIS SPORTS BY STORY BY ROB MORRIS, PHOTOS COURTESY REED TIMMER
BANDS ON THE RUN
Moore, Southmoore, and Westmoore March to an Elite Beat It doesn’t matter where in Moore you live; there’s a familiar sound that floats across the city every morning: the sound of marching bands perfecting their craft. The bands from all three high schools are hard at work on an 8-to-10 minute display of artistic magic that is marvelous to behold. Those who support their Lion, Sabercat, and Jaguar football teams each week witness those performances at the games they attend and are, rightly, enthusiastic in their applause and appreciation. But what many people don’t know is that those hundreds of students, guided by staff and volunteers, have worked as hard (if not harder) as any of the school’s athletes to fine-tune those programs and prepare for competition with other bands across the state, region, and nation.
competitive side. And it’s different than sports because that’s objective: you have a score and a clearly defined winner. We’re competing against anywhere from 12 to 100 bands, with judges making the final decisions.” Those outside of the band programs might also be surprised to hear just how much work goes into these somewhat brief performances. Westmoore’s Ari Taylor says their team is already working on their 2027 program, even as the bands prepare for the OSSAA and OBA state marching contests in October and November. “Over the last couple of weeks we’ve already started thinking about next year,” said Taylor. “Especially when November hits, we hit the ground running with what our show ideas might be.” The timetable holds true at Southmoore and Moore as well. Discussions are already underway about music and themes, which will later be honed into precise choices, color palettes, and choreography.
Adam Mewhorter (Southmoore), Ari Taylor (Westmoore), and Braden Wolf (Moore) are the band directors for the three high school programs. They are deeply invested in the kids under their leadership, and all three “appreciate being appreciated” by the crowds at football games. But they also REALLY enjoy band competitions. “We go to the band competitions not just to perform and compete, but because the people who are there come to watch the bands,” said Mewhorter. “Halftime crowds at games are great, but this is a celebration of band and the work that kids do.” Moore’s Braden Wolf says, “It’s unique because it brings a lot of enjoyment and energy to our kids and allows them to embrace their 44 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
“Right now, we’re talking about things like, ‘Do we want the show to be pretty or intense?’,” said Mewhorter. “So, it’s broad strokes right now, and once we get that established, we’ll choose our music and then move on to a visual colorscape.” Wolf says, “We have a team of at least seven or eight people that create the art you see on the field. It’s a lot of fun putting your show together over the year.” The kids in the bands get their first full look at the show at the end of the previous school year, and begin working on it over the summer. So, in reality, what you’re witnessing when you watch the Lion, Sabercat, and Westmoore marching bands in action right now began in October of 2025.
continued...BANDS ON THE RUN All three high schools have played in prestigious band competitions locally and across the country. All three high schools have done extremely well. Oklahoma has developed a reputation as a “band state” with programs that are regularly acknowledged as among the nation’s best. That kind of excellence is the result of commitments that extend from the leadership and band directors all the way through the volunteers and parents of the kids involved. Ultimately, it’s hard to understate the positive impact on Moore Public Schools students who participate in the district’s top-tier music programs. “There’s no better place for kids to get a rich emotional development than the band program,” said Mewhorter. “Everyone who knows the research that goes with music and academics and things like time management and skills that will transfer to the job market. But I think more than that is the challenge of learning to work alongside people of all stripes and character for a greater good and a better purpose.” Ari Taylor says, “Kids are learning discipline and dedication. They’re learning problem-solving. They’re learning teamwork. We have 190 kids in our band and not all of them are alike, so it’s kind of like living and working in a big family to create something great.” “The positive impact for kids in band programs on test scores and academics is so validated that it’s not even brough up anymore,” said Wolf. “But I tell my kids, ‘You join band because you like music. You stay in band because of the people.’ I think the biggest factor isn’t performance or practice. It’s the relationships.” All three band directors agree that relationships, music, and hard work combine to build students into the great people you see performing those splendid on-field spectacles that entertain and elevate.
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 45
46 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOV 2026
Photos courtesy of Barry Williams, Dwayne Avery, and Torrance Young.
NOV 2026 | MOORE MONTHLY | 47
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