OKC FRIDAY
Vol. 58 No. 44 • One Section • 14 pages • April 4, 2025 $1 per copy
www.okcfriday.com facebook.com/okcfriday
OKC’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with all local news Serving affluent far north Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills and The Village for 51 years
system
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
The Village Fire Department plans to purchase a new $65,000 ComputerAided Dis-patch (CAD) system with the help of a grant from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management. The federal share of the project is $32,500 and the remaining cost of the project is to be paid by the VFD.
The City Council approved a resolution to add the CAD system during its March meeting. The project will facilitate the integration of Automatic Aid with The Village Fire Department and Oklahoma City Fire Department without compromising operations for the Village Police Department.
The system was not projected in the FY 2024-25 Budget for Capital Outlay in the Fire Department; however, City Manager Dave Slezickey ensures there is adequate funding in the city’s Capital Improvement Fund for the $67,960 CAD project. In the Feasibility Study submitted to the
See FIRE, Page 13
Cyclones sweep Irish in soccer twin bill
Casady’s Eddie Parra (11) tries to hold off McGuinness’ Robert Lehr (6) during last Friday’s soccer game. Parra and Jaxon Hutton scored goals in the second half to help the Cyclones to a 2-1 win. See Sports, Page 4.
Village begins $1.3 mil update to city parks
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
The Village intends to spend over $1.3 million to improve five of the city’s seven public parks after the City Council approved plans presented by LAUD Design at the recent council meeting. LAUD Design also created the plans for the city’s new Civic Plaza Area that won the Outstanding Public Initiative Award at the recent Impact Awards presented by the Urban Land Institute Oklahoma.
In February of 2022 voters approved $13.2 million for General Obligation Bonds with $9.9 million for streets, sidewalks and drainage and $3.3 million for park improvements. The city is now deciding how to allocate funds for city park improvements.
With the council’s vote of approval, the city will now turn design plans presented by LAUD Design into bid specifications and include alternative bid options to distribute all of the funding for park improvements.
A study done by LAUD Design to determine
See VILLAGE, Page 13
Four servant leaders to be honored by OCU Societies
Four Oklahoma women are to be recognized for their service to the community next month as new members of The Societies of Oklahoma City University.
The 37th annual Awards of Excellence luncheon honor Charlotte Lankard with the Distinguished Philanthropist Award; Jill Trauschke with the Dulaney-Browne Library Society Award; Myrla Pierson with the Norick-Hulsey Gallery Society Award; and Peggy Kates with the KirkpatrickPetree Music and Performing Arts Society Award. A luncheon ceremony, chaired by Ashley Bowen Murphy, is set for 11:30 a.m. April 16 at the Oklahoma City Golf
OKC to host special collection of waste
Oklahoma City is to host a special collection of unwanted computers, tires, ammunition and prescription medications from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 12, at the OKC Fairgrounds.
The drop-off site is on the south side of the fairgrounds, east of the Jim Norick Arena. Enter the fairgrounds from May Avenue at Gate 5 on Gordon Cooper Boulevard.
The collection is open to Oklahoma City residents only. To prove residency, residents must bring their current City of Oklahoma City water bill.
Syringes, liquids, inhalers, tire rims, televisions and wheels will not be accepted.
See OKC, Page 13
FRIDAY’s
Animals of the Week
Join the Oklahoma Zoological Society and OKC Zoo for Zoo Lovers Day on April 8 and show your support for Team Dog (African painted dogs) or Team Cat (cheetahs) while unlocking awesome incentives along the way! All donations will be matched up to $10,000, doubling your impact for wildlife conservation and the OKC Zoo. Visit donate.ozsgiving.org/ campaign/657206/donate to learn more. Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@okcfriday.com.
& Country Club with featured diamond sponsor Gerald and Jane Jayroe Gamble. Registration to attend can be made
LANKARD TRAUSCHKE PIERSON KATES
- Photo by Johnny Holland, jhollandphotography.com
Cindi hosts private party at ballet
Cindi Shelby hosted a thank you party for her clients at the Susan E. Brackett Dance Center. The group was treated to a private rehearsal of a piece choreographed by Alex Schooling for the upcoming show “Future Voices.” From left: Wendy Simpson, Caitlin Mazaheri, Cindi Shelby, dancer Alex Schooling, Cathy Dempsey and Donna Rosino.
Above: Artistic director Ryan Jolicoeur-Nye, Cindi Shelby and Executive Director Jo Jones. At left, from left: Paige Sheller, Becky Johnson and Marilyn Meade.
Art show benefits animal rescue
Above, from left: Past and present board members Keith Ball, Jacqueline Odgers, Jack Markmiller, Marti Jourdan and John Odgers. At right: Board members Vicki Payne, President Dan Martel, Jeff Curran and Gina Nichols. Free To Live is a non-profit sanctuary for stray, abandoned and mistreated dogs and cats. It is the largest no-kill sanctuary in Oklahoma.
On the chamber calendar
Local Leadership Reception & After Hours Mingle
Thursday, April 10
4:30 - 6 p.m.
Recognition at 5:15 p.m.
Slate Venue - atop the Founders Tower
5900 Mosteller Drive, 20th Floor
Meet and talk with municipal leaders from Bethany, Warr Acres, The Village, Nichols Hills, and NW Oklahoma City, as well as Oklahoma County.
Please register by April 8. NWOKC Chamber members $15, non-members $20; attendance at the door, chamber members $20, non-members $25.
- Photos by Gina Nichols
Free to Live Animal Sanctuary hosted an art show and sale, featuring the work of local artists.
Sports
OKLAHOMA CITY FRIDAY
Publication No. (USPS 893-600)
PHONE 405-755-3311 • www.okcfriday.com
Official Legal Newspaper For OKLAHOMA, OKLAHOMA CITY and OKLAHOMA COUNTY, including NICHOLS HILLS and THE VILLAGE Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Office of publication, 10801 N. Quail Plaza Drive, P.O. Box 20340, Oklahoma City, OK 73156. FRIDAY is published each Friday by Nichols Hills Publishing Co., Inc. It is an official, legal newspaper, under Oklahoma law, published in Oklahoma County, primarily serving Oklahoma City but also The Village and Nichols Hills. Mail subscription price in county $35. elsewhere in Oklahoma $45, elsewhere U.S. $45. Newsstand price $1.
Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FRIDAY, P.O. Box 20340, Okla. City, OK 73156.
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SOCCER ROUNDUP
Antlers capture Stillwater Cup title
Thanks to three shutout victories, the Deer Creek boys soccer team captured the Stillwater Cup championship last weekend with a 5-0 win over the host Pioneers.
Paxton Marten netted a hat trick with 3 goals to lead the Antlers (3-2) against Stillwater.
Deer Creek also secured a 2-0 triumph over Holland Hall and opened with a 1-0 decision against Ponca City.
Cade Lorenz and Luke Sullivan scored 2 goals each in the tournament for the Antlers.
Earlier in the week, the Deer Creek boys suffered a 5-4 loss at Southmoore but the Antler girls (2-1) came away with a 2-0 victory over the SaberCats.
Both teams host Edmond Santa Fe this Friday and visit Fridayland rival PC North on Tuesday.
The girls kick off at 6 p.m. followed by the boys around 8 p.m.
CYCLONES RALLY PAST IRISH
After surrendering an early first-half goal, the Casady boys rebounded with a pair of scores in the second half to emerge with a 21 victory at Fridayland rival McGuinness last Friday.
Eddie Parra and Jaxon Hutton netted a goal each for the Cyclones (3-2).
Meanwhile, the Casady girls took control early and cruised to a 4-0 win over the Irish on Friday.
Casady opened the week with a pair of 100 victories against Purcell, while McGuinness swept Southeast. The Irish boys (2-2) won 2-0 and the girls (3-2) dominated in a 4-1 decision.
On Friday, both Casady squads host Christian Heritage and visit Cordell on April 10. The Irish travel to Guymon on Friday and entertain Western Heights on Tuesday.
TENNIS ROUNDUP
EAGLES HOLD OFF DURANT
Harding Charter Prep posted a pair of victories last week, including a 2-1 win over Durant on Friday and a 1-0 overtime triumph against Clinton.
Sebastian Silva and Brandon Flores netted goals for the Eagles (42) against Durant and Silva also provided the game-winning goal in penalty kick-overtime period against the Red Tornadoes.
Meanwhile, the Harding Prep girls (2-3) suffered a 2-1 loss to Durant and an 8-0 setback against Clinton.
The Eagles host Heritage Hall this Friday and visit Woodward on Tuesday.
ROCKETS TOP ASTEC CHARTER
The Mount St. Mary boys outlasted ASTEC Charter in a 4-2 victory last Friday night. Aiden Zeckser and Cristian
Cerna scored 2 goals each for the Rockets (21).
Josie Peterson hit the back of the net twice as the Mount St. Mary girls (1-2) posted a 2-0 triumph at Community Christian last week. Both squads host McLoud this Friday and visit Harding Fine Arts on Tuesday.
CHARGERS RUN OVER WOODWARD
Defending state champion Heritage Hall continued its undefeated season with a 4-1 win over Woodward last week.
Tucker Austin recorded 2 goals to lead the Chargers (3-0). Noah Ragozzino and Alex Alsphaugh added a goal and an assist each.
The Charger girls (21) also escaped with a 3-2 overtime win over the Boomers.
Both squads travel to Harding Charter Prep this Friday and Elk City on April 10.
Knights show well at HHall Tournament of Champions
Crossings Christian placed fourth or better in all four divisions last week at the Heritage Hall Tournament of Champions.
Kellen Hays and Graham Link paced the Knights with a runner-up finish at No. 2 doubles.
The pair suffered a 7-6, 6-2 loss to Edmond Memorial in the championship match.
John Paul Dillon and Sumner Shapard picked up a third-place trophy in No. 1 doubles following a straight-set win over Carl Albert.
Ben Vanlandingham and Maddox McIntyre placed fourth in singles.
Vanlandingham suffered a loss to Heritage Hall’s Owen Fellrath in No. 1 singles, while McIntyre fell to Carl Albert’s Jake Farley in No. 2 singles.
Heritage Hall’s Ryan Johnson grabbed eighth in No. 2 singles.
KNIGHT GIRLS TAKE 4TH AT DUNCAN WEST TOURNEY
The Crossings Christian girls placed at least fifth in all four divisions to take fourth at the Duncan West Invitational last week.
Campbell Cryer and Riley DeMunbrun cruised to a 6-4, 6-3 victor over Ducan’s Howard/Theibaud for third place in No. 1 doubles.
Kate Lovelace and Chloe Minihan also took third in No. 2 doubles with a marathon, 3 set (6-3, 6-7, 11-9) win over Miller/Rogers from Duncan.
Maddie Brown suffered a 6-0, 6-2 loss to Duncan’s Ava Miller to finish fourth in No. 2 singles, while Macy Hays grabbed fifth place with a 6-2, 6-1 victory against Guthrie’s Lola Brown in the consolation final in No. 1 singles.
- Photo by Johnny Holland, jhollandphotography.com
Casady’s Caroline Heaslet nails a free kick during last Friday’s soccer game against McGuinness.
TRACK ROUNDUP
Charger girls run to title, boys take 2nd at Stroud Invitational
Dominating the distance and field events, the Heritage Hall girls track team earned the title and the boys took second last weekend at the Stroud Invitational.
Coral Grimmett and Zeffie Ellenburg collected gold medals for the Chargers.
Grimmett outdueled teammate Ellenburg for a gold medal in the 3200 meters, finishing in 12:40.65 compared to Ellenburg who crossed in 12:43.01. Grimmett also grabbed fourth in the 1600 meters behind Sloane Travis in third.
Ellenburg cleared 4foot-10 to win the high jump crown in addition to her runner-up finish in the 3200 meters.
Addy Washington picked up a pair of silver medals at Stroud.
Washington came up just under a second short of victory in the 100-meter hurdles to
finish second in 12.31 seconds, and also secured second place in the long jump with a leap of 16 feet, 2 1/2 inches.
In addition, the Charger girls took second in the 4-by-200 relay and third in the 4by-400 relay.
Three other Heritage Hall boys earned silver medals at Stroud.
Harrison Murphy paced the group with second-place finishes in the 110 and 300 hurdles.
Kline Reuter came just over a half-second from victory but settled for runner-up in the 100 meters.
Boston Fuller rounded out the trio with a second-place effort in the long jump.
Caysen Argo grabbed third in the 800 meters, as did Dylan Orcutt in the 1600 meters and Den-
GOLF ROUNDUP
Irish girls swing to 3rd at Guthrie
Keyed by all 5 players in the top 25, the McGuinness girls golf team finished third at the Guthrie LadyJays Invitational last week.
Caroline Regier carded an 89 at Cimmaron National in Guthrie to place seventh in the individual standings. Taylor French tied for 11th with a 95, while Grace McDaniel and Brianna Rivera tied for 14th for the Irish.
Abigail Edwards shot 97 in a tie for 17th place, along with Crossings Christian’s Eloise Coulter and Elli Smith. Sophie Starks also finished in a tie for 22nd for the Knights.
CHARGERS TAKE 5TH AT DICKSON INV.
The Heritage Hall girls boasted
ton Suthers in the 300 hurdles.
The Charger boys also finished second in the 4-by-100 relay and third in the 4-by-800 relay.
Several other Chargers cracked the top 10.
Travis finished seventh in the 800 meters along with Addie Plumlee in the 3200.
Murphy took sixth in the long jump.
Crossings Christian also competed at Stroud as both squads finished in the bottom half of the standings.
Zac Roberson led the way with a fourthplace finish in the 1600 meters.
Carla Bebee also finished fourth in the long jump and cracked the top 10 in ninth place in the 100 meters.
In addition, Harding Charter Prep’s Andy Sac ran to eighth place in the 3200 meters.
three players inside the top 25 on the way to a fifth-place finish at the Dickson Invitational.
Gabrielle Gross carded an 82 at Lake Murray in Ardmore to place third in the individual standings.
Leah Smith shot 96 in a tie for 20th and Lilly Stanley tied for 25th place for the Chargers.
ANTLERS SHOW WELL AT COAC TOURNEY
Both Deer Creek squads competed at the Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference tournament last week, as the girls tied for ninth and the boys took 11th place.
Lana Bowen paced all Antlers players with a sixth-place finish after shooting a round of 78 at The Greens Country Club.
Duncan Caldwell shot an 80 at The Greens to finish in 27th place for the Deer Creek boys.
BASEBALL
Knights hold off Blackwell
Crossings Christian broke open the game with 4 runs in the fifth inning and held off a late rally to escape with a 7-3 victory at Blackwell last Monday.
Maddox Turner belted a double and drove in 4 runs to lead the Knights (2-5). Brayden Ayala, Carson Baugh and Benjamin Staton accounted for the other 3 hits, as Ayala and Baugh scored runs.
Pitcher Kade Weinstroer recorded 8 strikeouts and allowed 3 runs on 7 hits over 7 innings for the complete-game win.
Crossings Christian hosts Hennessey this Monday and visits Hennessey on Tuesday.
ROCKETS SWEEP MADILL
Mount St. Mary cruised to a dominating doubleheader sweep over Madill on Monday.
Miles Stanley batted 4-for-4 with a double and 2 RBIs to lead the Rockets (14-4) in a 10-0 victory in Game 1.
Cord Brown recorded a pair of hits, including a 2-run home run in the bottom of the third inning.
Jefferson Hodge and Wyatt Neeley collected 2 hits each, with Neeley driving in 2 runs and scoring 2 more.
Pitcher Jackson Miller struck out 5 and allowed just 3 hits over 5 innings in the win.
Neeley also went 3for-4 with 2 RBIs during a 14-1 triumph in the nightcap. Miles Stanley and Wade Webb had 2 hits each as the pair combined for 5 runs and Stanley
drove in 2 runs.
Pitcher Ryder Blankenship allowed a run and a hit and struck out 3 in 5 innings.
Mount St. Mary hosts Piedmont this Friday before entertaining Newcastle on Monday.
BEARS SHUT OUT U.S. GRANT
John Marshall plated 3 runs in the third inning and held on for a 2-0 win over U.S. Grant last week.
Arturo Banuelos batted 2-for-2 with a double and drove in a run and Andre Caldwell scored a run for the Bears (2-10).
Pitcher Malcolm Edd recorded 8 strikeouts and didn’t allow a run in the complete-game victory.
LITTLE AXE GETS PAST CYCLONES
Holding a 6-run lead through the first 5 innings, Casady saw its advantage quickly dissipate as Little Axe
plated 7 runs in the seventh inning to hand the Cyclones an 8-6 loss last Monday.
Max Geib and Davis Currie recorded 2 hits each to lead Casady (35). Geib singled twice and drove in 2 runs, while Currie belted an RBI double and scored another run.
Five others had at least one hit, highlighted by Canon West with a double and Henry Lewis drove in a run.
Lewis also allowed 6 runs on 1 hit over 2 1/3 innings to take the pitching loss.
The Cyclones travel to Star Spencer this Monday for a doubleheader starting at 5 p.m.
MOORE TAKES DOWN ANTLERS
Trailing in the late innings, Deer Creek rallied for a pair of runs in the top of the seventh inning on Monday but ultimately fell in a 4-3 loss at Moore.
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
CALENDAR
FESTIVALS
April 1213 •
Festival of Trains
Kids 12 and under are free at the Festival of Trains and Model Train Show at the OKC Fairgrounds, The Pavillion. Saturday 9 am – 5 pm and Sunday 9 am to 4 pm, featuring an incredible array of model train displays, interactive exhibits, and educational workshops.
April 19 • Earth Fest
OKC Beautiful presents its Earth Fest from 10 am to 3 pm at Scissortail Park. Celebrate our planet with live music, vendors and classes. Get more info at okcbeautiful.com/earthfest.
COMEDY
April 10 • Kevin Hart
Emmy and Grammynominated comedian Kevin Hart comes to the Paycom Center with the Acting My Age Tour 2025. Event starts at 7:30 pm and is a phonefree experience using Yondr pouches. Get tickets at paycomcenter.com.
ART SALE
June 2021 • Prix de West
The 53rd annual Prix de West Invitational Art Exhibition & Sale will be on exhibit and open to the public from June 6 to Aug. 3, with the Art Sale Weekend held June 2021 at the National
From April 11 to May 5, several streets near Bicentennial Park will be closed to accommodate Festival of the Arts preparations. Please be aware of the following road closures:
Walker Avenue:
• Northbound from Colcord Dr to Robert S. Kerr
• Southbound from Robert S. Kerr to Main St
• The Arts District Parking Garage will remain accessible from Walker Ave and Latting Cir
Lee Avenue:
• North and southbound lanes from Couch Dr to Main St
Colcord Drive:
• Closed from Shartel Ave to Walker Ave
Couch Drive:
• From Walker Ave west to Lee Ave, east to Hudson
• Couch Dr to Walker (closed April 23 – 29)
Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
The Art Sale Weekend features a fixedprice art sale, art seminars, workshops, cocktail receptions and an awards dinner on Saturday, June 21. For more information on the 53rd annual Prix de West, to make reservations, see a full schedule of events, or arrange to bid by proxy, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org/prixdewest.
MARATHON
April 2527 • Memorial Marathon On April 2527, runners and spectators from across the globe will make their way to downtown OKC for the 25th OKC Memorial Marathon. A tribute to those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever by the Oklahoma City bombing, the marathon unites locals and visitors in a hopeful mission to cele
brate life, reach for the future and honor all who were affected on April 19, 1995.
THIS WEEKEND
April 4 • Tom Segura Comedian brings his Come Together tour to the Paycom Center, 7:30 pm.
April 4 • Josh Johnson
Comedian brings his show to The Criterion, 6 pm.
April 5 • Ballet Ball OKC Ballet fundraiser at the OKC Convention Center, 6:30 pm.
OKC
THUNDER
HOME GAMES
Paycom Center 100 West Reno Ave. Sunday, April 6 • LA Lakers 2:30 pm Tuesday, April 8 • LA Lakers 7:00 pm
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Film & Music Day at the Capitol
The Oklahoma entertainment industry was out in full force this week to support Film & Music Day at the Oklahoma state capitol. The event featured hundreds of filmmakers and musicians from across the state and more than 55 exhibitors in the rotunda with booths representing every aspect of Oklahoma’s film and music industries.
The goal of Film & Music Day is to highlight the importance of the film and music industries, which infused the Oklahoma economy with $484 million in incentivized spending from 2021 to 2023, to legislators and leaders from the executive branch. The goal is accomplished by inviting a wide assortment of thriving businesses, nonprofits, schools, and festivals from every corner of the state to show up and share their success stories. The side benefit is that all of those industry people spend the day reconnecting, sharing stories, meeting new filmmakers, and creating an actual network that bonds the industry together.
Film & Music Day is organized by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO). That is a state office within the Department of Commerce that promotes filming in Oklahoma, administers the film rebate program, and connects visiting and local filmmakers with skilled crew, on camera talent, production services, and location resources in different areas of Oklahoma. They are the front door for nearly every out-oftown production. And, they are an invaluable
resource for supporting the growth of the local film industry through partnerships, sponsorships, and education initiatives.
The OF+MO is led by Director Jeanette Stanton, with a fantastic staff that includes Incentive Specialist Amanda Roberts, Film and Music Production Specialist Jenn Easley, and Incentive and Administrative Coordinator Wendi O’Conner. The longest serving member of the OF+MO team is Production Manager Yousef Kazemi. Kazemi was honored last weekend with the Oklahoma Film Trailblazer Award at the 26th Annual Bare Bones Film Festival in Muskogee. In addition to his years of service to the OF+MO, he is also an award-winning filmmaker.
In order to ensure the success of the event, the OF+MO partners with the three most significant film offices around the state. Cherokee Film led by Jen Loren, the Oklahoma City Film & Creative Industries Office led by Jill Simpson, and the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture led by Meg Gould, all offer film rebate programs and provide production services, but they frequently collaborate throughout the year to combine their voices to support the industry at large.
Lieutenant Governor
Matt Pinnell and Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. provided opening remarks to kick off the event. Then a series of musicians from around the state entertained the massive crowd and they networked and lobbied. Cooper Anderson, my favorite young entrepreneur, was at the capitol promoting his company, Catapult Recordings. Catapult Recordings is an Oklahoma City based record label and distributor assisting US and Canadian labels with marketing and distribution. Cooper founded Catapult Recordings in 2019 when he was 14. Now he attends ACM@ UCO and has twelve bands signed to his label, with more on the way. Find out more on his website catapultrecordings.com. Award-winning producer Dylan Brodie took the day off from producing the Sterlin Harjo, Ethan Hawke series The Sensitive Kind to represent their wildly successful production team at the capitol. Brodie is a producer, production manager, and location manager on some of the biggest, most awarded shows filming in Oklahoma, including Reservation Dogs, Fancy Dance, Killers of the Flower Moon, and Oscar winner Minari This is my twentieth year working in the Oklahoma film industry. I am grateful for everyone who laid the ground work to get us where we are. And I am thrilled to see the state capitol packed with Oklahomans from across the state that are able to make a living working in the entertainment industry here today.
2nd Annual Mitchell’s Shade for Everyone Community Tree Giveaway
Following the success of its inaugural event in 2024, Scissortail Park and the Burns family of Oklahoma City are proud to announce the 2nd Annual Mitchell’s Shade for Everyone Community Tree Giveaway, taking place Saturday, April 12, beginning at 9 am at Scissortail Park.
Established by the Burns family in honor of their beloved son, John Mitchell Burns, Mitchell’s Shade for Everyone celebrates his passion for trees and parks. As a junior in high school, Mitchell participated in the Youth Leadership Exchange, where he worked with city officials on the creation of Scissortail Park. His family saw no better way to honor his legacy than by launching a community pro-
gram dedicated to bringing people together, commemorating loved ones, and enhancing the environment with free trees.
At the 2024 event, approximately 1,000 trees were distributed to families across the community. This year, thanks to the support of the Burns family and the Mitchell’s Shade Endowment Fund through the Oklahoma City Community Foundation, 1,200 three-gallon trees and 300 18inch seedlings will be available. The endowment ensures ongoing support for the giveaway and tree-related educational programs.
As of March 5, 2025, more than half of the $600,000 fundraising goal has been achieved. The fund launched
with an initial investment of $49,520, and through donations ranging from $5 to $100,000, an additional $252,370 has been raised to date.
“In addition to the tree giveaway, we encourage the community to visit the Colonnade at Union Station to view Seeds for Hope, a gallery exhibit featuring artwork and essays about trees and their meaning from 350 students at John Rex Elementary School,” said Michelle Furrer, president and CEO of Scissortail Park Foundation and Myriad Gardens Foundation.
Seeds for Hope is a Mitchell’s Shade scholarship program supporting Oklahoma City students. Scholarships are awarded to third through
eighth graders enrolled in Title I schools. This year’s winners will be announced at the event on April 12 at 9 am, and all 350 student submissions will be displayed at the Colonnade. For more information about the tree giveaway at Scissortail Park visit scissortailpark.org/mitchellshade.
• Giveaway starts at 9am on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
• Line forms at the tent located on the sidewalk west of Union Station (near S. Hudson and SW 7th St.)
• Trees available while supplies last.
• One (1) tree per adult.
• FREE Mitchell’s Shade T-shirts available while supplies last.
• Must be present on Saturday, April 12 to pick up tree.
• Donations accepted on site, suggested $20
• Event Rain Date: Sunday, April 13 or 19.
Contest Rules :
1. Contest open to kids ages 3-10, color any or all of the images.
2. Enter by mailing this page to our office by April 11: 10801 Quail Plaza Dr., OKC, 73120, or drop it off.
3. Submissions are considered property of the newspaper and may be printed in this publication and online.
4. VOTE for People’s Choice by visiting our Facebook page. “Like” your favorite artwork beginning Friday, April 11. Entry with the most likes will win the People’s Choice award.
5. The winning coloring entries will be featured in our Easter issue on Friday, April 18, 2025. Gift Cards will be mailed.
Best Sylvester Eye Care: $20 gift card
Best Casady School: $20 gift card
Best Learning Tree: $20 gift card
Best Thrifty Pharmacy: $20 gift card Best Lewis Orthodontics: $20 gift card
RIVERSIDE, IMPULSE, PRESTIGE LABELS
pre-1970 Vinyl
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Teresa Becker By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA
IN
his/her name to Krystal Lee Lanier Stiles. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 17 day of April, 2025, before Judge Andrews in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
WARREN, Court Clerk By: /s/Illegible Signature (SEAL) Court Clerk
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-613
In the Matter of the Application ) of Brandyann Hernandez) as next of friend of (child) ) Gabriela Elisann Violetta Llanto ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Brandyann Hernandez, as next of friend of Gabriela Elisann Violetta Llanto has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit: From (a) Gabriela Elisann Violetta Llanto to (b) Gabriela Elisann Violetta Hernandez; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Stinson of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 17 day of April, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing. RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/illegible signature Deputy (SEAL) CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-624
In the Matter of the Application ) of Kyonia Carter ) as next of friend of (child) ) Akilah Dasie Lorraine Grundy ) to Change Her/His Name )
NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Kyonia Carter, as next of friend of Akilah Dasie Lorraine Grundy has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit: From (a) Akilah Dasie Lorraine Grundy to (b) Akilah Dasie Lorraine Milligan; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Stinson of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 17 day of April, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/Jamie Houston Deputy (SEAL) CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-629
In RE: The Name of: ) Keith Eugene Choate ) NOTICE
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/R.Shoults By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-659
In the Matter of the Application ) of Jessica Reitz ) as next of friend of (child) ) Jerimiah Alexander ) to Change Her/His Name )
NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Jessica Reitz, as next of friend of Jerimiah Alexander has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Jerimiah Alexander to (b) Jerimiah Reitz; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Ogden of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 17 day of April, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature (SEAL)
CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-687
In Re: The Name of: ) Maria Teresa Martinez )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Maria Teresa Martinez has petitioned to change his/her name to Barbara Jean Finch. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 17 day of April, 2025, before Judge Ogden at 1:30 o’clock in courtroom 325 at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Diane Watson By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-708
IN RE: The Name of: ) Nieisha N. Cray )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Nieisha N. Cray has petitioned to change his/her name to NiaEshia N. Cray. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M.
/s/Teresa Becker BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025) DISTRICT COURT
OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-638
IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: | KERRY LYNETTE CANADY, | Petitioner | NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that KERRY
by the District Court of Oklahoma County before Honorable Judge Ogden on May 1, 2025 at 1:30 P.M. in the Oklahoma County Courthouse (Room #325), Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Any Person may file a written protest in the case prior to the date set for hearing.
DATED: March 17, 2015
/s/Vivid Niroula, OBA #35188 NIROULA LAW PLLC 511 Couch Dr. Ste. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 405-456-9250 vivid@niroulalaw.com Attorney for Petitioner
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-680
IN RE: The Name of: ) John Bridges Jr ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE OF NAME TO: All interested parties. Take notice that John Paul Bridges Jr has petitioned to change his/her name to Yahn Zurriah Israel. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 14 day of May, 2025, before Judge Mai in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Homer Claster BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, April 4, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-593
In the Matter of the Application ) of Efrain Reyes Ramos ) and Maria Flores ) as next of friend of (child) ) Ezra Mathias Flores ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Efrain Reyes and Maria Flores, as next of friend of Ezra Mathias Flores has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit: From (a) Ezra Mathias Flores to (b) Ezra Mathias Reyes-Flores; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Andrews of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 12 day of June, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any
Name ChaNge
DRUMLine Live , a synchronized musical showcase
OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center presents DRUMLine Live, Wednesday, June 18 at its VPAC Theater, 7777 S. May Ave.
DRUMLine Live is an international tour based on the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band tradition. With riveting rhythms, bold beats and ear-grabbing energy, this stage show is a synchronized musical showcase of the HBCU experience.
Incorporating original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of Top 40 hits, DRUMLine Live performances range from colorful, choreographed routines to heavy doses of drum riffs and cadences.
You will be blown away by the athleticism and talent of these energetic musicians and dancers. For tickets, please visit occc.ticketsage.net.
OKC ZOO and SSA welcome new Executive Sous Chef
As more couples, families, and groups choose the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden as the venue for their events, the Zoo’s food service partner, the SSA Group, has hired Executive Sous Chef Greg Richey to expand and refine its catering arm.
Before joining the Zoo, Richey recently helped open the Ramsey’s Kitchen location in Oklahoma City, worked as executive chef at the Stillwater Country Club, and worked as a caterer at Oklahoma State University.
“As exciting as restaurant work can be, I found myself missing catering,” Richey said. “And the fact that I’m a big animal lover played a part, too. In my brief time at the Zoo, everyone has been super friendly and helpful.”
Another positive of working with SSA and the Zoo is the balance of creativity and customer service, he said. Unlike working in an established restaurant system, Richey is able to do research and development on new recipes and dishes to make events held at the Zoo even more memorable.
SSA General Manager Travis Byrd said Richey will bring new levels of culinary excellence to events in the Zoo’s Lotus Pavilion, Canopy Café, the new Love’s Pachyderm Building, and other venues.
“The best meal I had in Oklahoma City in 2024 was the tasting menu Chef Richey prepared during the interview process,” Byrd said. “I could feel a genuine love of cooking in his food, and I knew that his balance of flavors and thoughtful plating would exceed the standards we strive for with our catering operations. I hired Chef Richey in my mind before he served the fourth course.”
Groups looking to host events at the OKC Zoo can find more information about facilities and catering options at okczoo.org/privateevents
Guests exploring the park will find several dining options to choose from, including burgers at Canopy Café, Asian-inspired salads and sandwiches in Lotus Café, and hand-breaded chicken strips and chicken-fried steak sandwiches from Scratch Kitchen.
First migrating Monarch Butterfly of 2025 arrived from Mexico
On March 18, Donna Griffin Mays, a passionate butterfly enthusiast, was chasing two black swallowtail butterflies in southern Oklahoma, just outside of Marlow. During her pursuit, she spotted the first monarch butterfly in Oklahoma this year, Donna remarked, “This sighting is about 10 days ahead of my usual first monarch sighting, which is around the 28th of March each year.” The monarch traveled over a thousand miles from the oyamel fir forests in Mexico in search of milkweed to lay eggs for the next generation. It was found fueling its wings and feeding on henbit, a low-growing, early-blooming plant with small purple flowers.
In early spring, nectar resources are minimal for pollinators in Oklahoma and this year, wildfires are leaving less for migrating monarchs to feed
on. Early-blooming plants like henbit, clover, dandelions, and spring beauties—often considered “weeds”— can provide vital nectar.
Marci Hawkins, Conservation Specialist at Monarch Watch, emphasized the importance of these “weeds” for monarchs: “There’s a lot of value in the purple patches in your yard. If people can allow these plants to thrive by refraining from mowing them until other nectar sources become available, these spots will provide a welcoming carpet of flowers for the monarchs when they arrive.”
The tattered wings of these remigrant butterflies are a testament to the long and challenging journey they’ve endured. After traveling south to Mexico for the winter, then migrating back north, monarchs rely on early-blooming nectar
plants to fuel their search for milkweed, where they will lay eggs to continue the migration.
“Many of these plants are not native, but they are nevertheless sources of nutrition for pollinators during a time of need. Allowing them to bloom during this early spring time will help provide monarchs with a much-needed fueling station,” said Katie Hawk, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Monarch Society. “Be mindful of your HOA and municipal regulations. We are not encouraging anyone to forego mowing. But rather, give these plants a bit more time between mowing to put up their flowers. Whether it’s a small, medium or large portion of your yard, native pollinators will thank you.”
Get tips on mowing for monarchs at okiesformonarchs.org
Locally-owned Business Directory
Debbie South Metro First Realty @ Lake Hefner
3232 W Britton Rd, 277 Oklahoma City, OK.73120 (405) 706-9077
Full Circle Bookstore
1900 NW Expressway
Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 842-2900 (800) 683-READ
Junior’s Supper Club
2601 NW Expressway Oil Center Building (405) 848-5597 juniorsokc.com
Boutique One
7636 N. Western
Wilshire Village
Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 888-9822
boutiqueone.store
The Learning Tree 7638 N. Western Wilshire Village (405) 848-1415 learningtreeokc.com
Nancy Farha’s 9205 N. Pennsylvania
Casady Square
The Village, OK 73120 (405) 775-0404 nancyfarha.com
23rd Street Antiques
3023 NW 23rd. (405) 947-3800 Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Antiques23.com
Coyle Law Firm 125 Park Ave. No.100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 583-3909 coylelaw.com
Gulfport Seafood Market 8016 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-3468 Gulfportseafoods.com
Moorman's Distinctive Carpets and Area Rugs 3835 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4888 moormanscarpetsoklahoma city.com
Naifeh Fine Jewelry 6471 Avondale Dr,. Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 607-4323 Naifehfinejewelry.com
Retirement Investment Advisors 2925 United Founders Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-3443 theretirementpath.com
Thrifty Pharmacy 10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852 230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 thriftypharmacyedmond.com
BancFirst 6200 Waterford Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 270-1622 Bancfirst.bank
First National Bank of Oklahoma 10900 Hefner Pointe Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 fnbok.com
CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com
Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank
Covenant Brothers 5900 Mosteller Dr. No. 7 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-4671 covbros.com
Justin Beasley, DDS 4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com
Cindi Shelby, Stylist
Lela Rose & Pearl by Lela Rose 333 W. Wilshire Blvd., Ste. F Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 830-1138
Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126
All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 Northwest 63 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.com
Papa Dios 10712 N May, Suite D Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-2255 papadiosokc.com
First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com
Denner Roofing Co. LLC 6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com
First Source Real Estate
Residential Sales 12020 N. Penn Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747
Michael Biddinger Real Estate
Commercial Sales, Management 12020 N. Penn Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 236-4747
The Adult Clinic at Hearts for Hearing 11500 N. Portland Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 548-4335
Christian Science Reading Room 6490 Avondale Drive (Nichols Hills Plaza North) Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 843-5334 christianscienceokc.org
Steam It Klean It LLC Carpet Cleaning PO Box 20232 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 602-4960 Steamitkleanit@gmail.com
Krista Anne’s Boutique 7602 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 310-5500
Paul Seikel Pearls Oyster Bar 5641 N. Classen Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 848-8008 pearlsokc.com
Basey's Roofing Gary Basey 2700 S. May Ave. Okla City, OK 73109 (405)755-8717 baseysroofingjs@gmail.com
Niroula Law 511 Couch Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 496-9250 niroulalaw.com
OKC FRIDAY P.O. Box 20340 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 755-3311 okcfriday.com
OPINION OPINION O O UR UR S S TAND TAND
“And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32 (quoting Jesus). The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” – Edmund Burke paraphrase, 1767. If you want it in the paper, it’s advertising. If you don’t want it in the paper, it’s news.” – Ancient Chinese Proverb
“Without, or with, offense to friends or foes, We sketch your world exactly as it goes.” – Byron, 1818.
“Every violation of truth is a stab at the health of human society.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1878.
“We must always stand – alone if necessary – as the conscience of this community.” – J. Leland Gourley, 1959.
Tips to drive down auto insurance costs
By Glen Mulready Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
I hear from many Oklahomans who are concerned about the rising costs of insurance, including auto insurance.
Americans are facing this challenge nationwide. Many factors go into determining rates, and we may be unable to change some aspects, like inflation, insurance market conditions and disasters. Still, Oklahomans can save on auto insurance in several ways, for exam -
ple, by driving safely and distraction-free –consider this your lighthearted reminder to put down your cell phone!
Let's look at what's happening and what you can do to lower your costs.
Auto rates are influenced by many factors, both on an industry-wide and an individual level. The increased number of natural disasters, the rising cost of repairs, higher inflation and interest rates, and more significant reinsurance costs go into these determinations.
In Oklahoma, frequent and severe hail and windstorms are considerable risks, as is the number of uninsured motorists. In 2022, the Insurance Information Institute estimated that 11.8% of drivers in Oklahoma were uninsured. Still, you, the individual, can take steps to save.
Several different aspects impact your rate on a personal level. Insurers consider the type of vehicle you drive, your driving record, credit score, vehicle use, and where you live and garage your vehicle when determining the number. When you can present less financial risk, you'll save more money. Driving safely is
one of the biggest and easiest ways to reduce costs. You cannot control how others drive, but you can control your driving. Obey traffic laws, avoid collisions, eliminate distractions (Put down your cell phone!), and maintain a clean driving record.
Insurance companies offer lower premiums to drivers who demonstrate safe driving habits. Driving safely and responsibly reduces your risk and protects yourself and others.
Here are some additional ways you can save on insurance:
• Shop around. Rates can vary significantly from insurer to insurer. Compare quotes to find affordable coverage that
Dear Wise Elder: When is a good time to begin claiming Social Security?
Dear When: Now. Go to SSA.gov and register to double check those records for accuracy. It should record each quarter you have worked and paid into the system and indicate from which company. The amount of your Social Security benefits are determined by the amount of “quarters” of the year which you have worked and input into the system. You are eligible to receive benefits when you are at full retirement age, which varies depending on what year you were born. If you begin accepting social security prior to that age, there is a penalty. If you
meets your needs. In Oklahoma, we have over 100 companies licensed to offer auto insurance.
• Ask about discounts. Most insurers offer discounts for bundling, completing defensive driving courses, military service, and being a good student. Don't be afraid to ask your insurer about these savings opportunities.
• Ask your agent about telematics.
Some insurers now offer usage-based insurance programs that track your driving habits. Safe drivers can earn significant discounts this way. Insure U’s DriveCheck can help determine if usage-based insurance is right for you.
delay accepting Social Security past your full retirement age, there are some benefits but also some risks. You should seek qualified professionals to give you the most current information so you can make the best decision. In general, by age 70, everyone should apply for and be receiving their Social Security benefits. Remember this is your own money being held for your benefit; this is not an entitlement so become informed. VillagesOKC online calendar –LoveYourAge.org – is a great place to watch for a quarterly presentation on Maximizing Your Social Security. - Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org
• Raise your deductible. If you can afford a higher deductible, adjust your coverage to save.
• Reduce coverage on older vehicles. If your car is worth less than 10 times your premium, consider dropping comprehensive and collision coverage. Rising auto insurance premiums pose challenges to Oklahomans. Some of the factors you cannot change, but there are some things you can do to save money. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is here to assist you in navigating auto insurance and understanding your coverage choices. Contact us at 800-5220071 or oid.ok.gov.
Adventurous Cyclones visit nation’s Capital as a capstone to eighth grade curriculum
Casady School eighth grade students participated in a signature experience trip to Washington, D.C.
This formative and summative program explored the epicenter of our country’s democracy—both its foundational institutions, as well as its societal resources for education and civic engagement.
“This experiential learning trip for all our eighth grade students to our nation’s capital was designed as a capstone Middle Division experience and part of our curriculum,” said Head of School Nathan L. Sheldon. “As our students continue to engage in durable learning through our programming, this curricular design is fundamental to the eighth grade experience. Fur-
thermore, travel and exposure to worlds beyond our own are vital pieces of our students’ social development, community-building, and personal growth.”
The adventurous Cyclones enjoyed a packed itinerary, visiting many important locations throughout the nation’s Capital, including: Library of Congress, National Portrait Gallery, U.S. Capitol, National Gallery of Art, National Archives, National Mall, National Cathedral, American History Museum, Smithsonian Museums and a comedy show at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Using Casady’s Portrait of a Graduate as the primary lens for inquiry and exploration, the groundwork for this trip began in eighth grade classrooms, and
continued in the field as the students reflected on what it means to be emerging citizens in the American story. This experience serves as a capstone to our eighth grade curriculum and their overall progress as Middle Division students.
To facilitate the program on the ground in Washington, D.C., Casady School partnered with Envoys, an educational travel consultant company that ensured a safe, smooth, and engaging program for our students. Together with eighth grade faculty and Middle Division Director Sara Zedlitz, Assistant Middle Division Director Jake Staats, Sheldon and members of the Envoys educational staff served as guides for students during the trip.
Casady eighth graders show off the Cyclone banner as they visit Washington, D.C.
50 Most Powerful Young Professionals
VOTE
Please VOTE and return to our office at 10801 Quail Plaza Dr. 73120 by Tuesday, April 15
o
ROB ALLEN
Pres./CEO Sage Sothebys
o JANELLE ARCHER
Sr. Level Market, Strategies,CoreLogic
o BRITTANY ATTAWAY
Strategic Comm., Sr. Mgr., Public Strat.
o J.D. BAKER
Entrepre. Ecosystem Dr., NE OKC Ren.
o ANGELA BEATTY
VP Programs & Engage., YWCA of OKC
o ARILLA BROADUS
Catering Dir./Mgr., Running Wild Cater.
o BRIAN BUSEY
CEO, Delaware Resources
o PHILIP BUSEY JR.
President, Delaware Resources
o ANDRE CALDWELL
Senior Counsel, Mobility, Boeing
o JEFFREY CARTMELL
Exec. Dir., Depart. of Human Services
o GRAHAM COLTON
Musician, Partner, Social Order
o JAMES COMPTON
Super. of IT Portfolio Manage., Love’s
o JAMES COOPER
OKC Councilman, Ward 2
o CASEY CORNETT
President, Partner, Flight
o MAREK CORNETT
Owner, Alaine Digital
o RACHAEL CRAWFORD
Exec. Dir., Plaza District Assoc.
o MARGARET CREIGHTON
CEO, Positive Tomorrows
o DUSTY DVORACEK
College Football Analyst, ESPN
o TIM DOTY
Vice President, Loves Travel Stops
o PERRIN DUNCAN
Program Officer, Arnall Family Found.
o DENISE DUONG
Artist/Muralist, Little D Gallery
o KELLI DUPUY
Dir. of Market. & Develop., Special Care
o DARCI LYNNE FARMER
Ventriliquist, ‘America’s Got Talent’ winner
o TAYLOR FUDGE
Manag. Partner, Claims Mgmt. Resources
o BAILEY GORDON
Founder., Bailey Gordon Consulting
o ALEX GRAY
CEO, American Global Strategies
o ELIZABETH GRAY
Exec. Dir, Civic Center Foundation
o JONATHAN HAMPTON
Associate, Infinity Capital Partners
o JoBETH HAMON
OKC Councilwoman, Ward 6
o TANNER HANSTEIN
President, Ozarka Water & Coffee
o DAVID HARDY
President/CEO, Prism Bank
o MANDY HEAPS
Exec. Director, OK Zoological Society
o SHEENA KARAMI HOLLANDER
Internatl. Spokesperson, Express Internatl.
o ALANA HOUSE
Assist. Dean for Student Services, OCU Law
o DAVIS HUDIBURG
OMRF Ambassador
o CAROLINE IKARD
AVP/Oper., Tech., American Fidelity
o GABE IKARD
Oklahoma Breakdown Podcast Host
o KYLE IMPSON
Chief Market. & Outreach Off., AETNA
o MARK IVY
Financial Development, NewView
o LAUREN OTTAWAY JOHNSON
Director, Crowe & Dunlevy
o RACHEL JOHNSON
Executive Director, Jewish Feder.
o RICHARD JOHNSON
Shareholder, McAfee & Taft
o TOMMIE JOHNSON III
Oklahoma County Sheriff
o ALEX KAISER
VP, JP Morgan Private Bank
o TAYLOR KETCHUM
Vice President, Jones PR
o LINDSAY LAIRD
VP Philan. Services, OKCCF
o SKYE LATIMER
Senior Analyst, Writer, AETNA
o AMANDA KIRKPATRICK LAWLER
Owner, Metro Mark Realtors
o SETH LEWIS
Festival Director, Arts Council OKC
o RYAN JOLICOEUR-NYE
Artistic Director, OKC Ballet
o CHRISTOPHER LLOYD
CEO, Partner, Flight
o SHANNON LOCKWOOD
Develop, Off., Regional Food Bank
o AUSTIN MANGER
Senior Director, Hall Capital
o RACHEL MANN
AVP, Mktg., Customer Exper., Amer. Fidel.
o TRAVIS MASON Director, Cushman and Wakefield
o JACK McCLENDON CEO, Siena Natural Resources
o MOLLIE BENNETT McCURDY
Community Volunteer
o KINDT STEVEN MYERS
VP, People, The Social Order
o ARIEL MOORE
Sr. Dir., Center for Social Innov., OSU/OKC
o MEGHAN MUELLER President, CEO, Homeless Alliance
o CONSTANZIA NIZZA Chief of Operation. Excel., Juvenile Affairs
o VIVID NIROULA Founder, Niroula Law
o PHI NGUYEN COO, Downtown OKC
o ABIGAIL OGLE News Anchor, KOCO TV
o ANDREW OUSLEY Funeral Director, Hahn-Cook
o ALLY GLAVAS
President, Candor PR
o DANIEL PAE
Exec. Dir., Asian Chamber, State Rep.
o ALLISON PARKER Dir., Develop., Commun., Infant Crisis
o SHANE PATE City Manager, Nichols Hills
o COLLINS PECK Project Manager, Lingo Construct.
o CASSI PETERS Regional Political Dir., DLCC
o ALYX PICARD
Executive Director, PC Schools Found.
o SHANNON PRESTI Coord. Teen Leader. Initiatives, YMCA
o WHITNEY RAINBOLT
o ADAM RAINBOLT
Principal Broker, Medallion Group
Sr. VP, BancFirst Insurance Services
o LEAH ROPER Found. Partner, Center for Employ. Law
o ERIK SALAZAR Manager, Budget Execution, FAA
o JENNIFER SCHULTZ
Chief Market. & Growth Officer, OU Health
o PAIGE WILLIAMS SHEPHERD
o TAYLOR SHINN
Dir. of Tourism, Chickasaw Nation
Global VP, Baker Hughes
o ASHLEY SIMPSON
Exec. Director, Cavett Kids Found.
o BLAIR SIMS
Blair Sims Events
o SELENA SKORMAN
OKC Director, gener8tor
o MACKENZIE SMITH
Senior Attorney, Devon Energy
o ADAM SOLTANI
Executive Director, CAIR
o SARAH STAFFORD
Chief Accounting Officer, OGE
o KRISTI BIRK STEINBERG Dir. Philan., Commun. Engage, EPS Found.
o SAMANTHA STREALY
Business Develop. Officer, TFCU
o LACY SWOPE
Meteorologist, News 9
o JOHN SYMCOX
Director/Innovation, First Fidelity
o BECKY TAYLOR
Community Volunteer
o CLAY TAYLOR
Lobbyist, The Taylor Group
o JENNIFER THURMAN
Sr. Program Officer, Kirkpatrick Fund
o TYLER TOKARCZYK
Sr. Program Officer, Inasmuch
o KRISTEN TORKELSON
Sr. Project Manager, EMBARK
o BRIANNE WEBB
Dir. Corp. Work Study, Cristo Rey
o TRAVIS WEEDN
Policy Mgr., Legis. Liaison, Corp. Comm.
o KEELEY WHITE Dir. of Comm. Health Prog., Food Bank
o SONNY WILKINSON
Sr. Dir. of Philanthropy, OMRF
o KIMBERLY WORRELL
o BAILEY PERKINS WRIGHT
Chief Develop. Officer, OKCMOA
Community Investor, Boeing
o KRYSTAL YOSEPH Founder, Konjo Concepts
VILLAGE
From Page 1
the state of parks in The Village based upon 190 different categories found that overall, the parks scored a 3.2 out of 5 with a score of one being awful and five being perfect. Respondents rated the Splash Pad at Duffner Park as the best park amenity in the city.
Slated for improvements throughout the city are Bumpass Park, 10015 N. Pennsylvania; Harrison Park, Oxford Way at Britton Road; Johnson Park, Sunnymeade at Carlton Way; Meeker Park on Meeker Drive east of Pennsylvania; and Duffner Park, 2721 Winston Road. Wayne Schooley Park, on the shore of Lake Hefner at Britton Road was not included as its allocated funding was completed last summer.
Now the city will take the approved design plans and turn them into bid specifications. City Manager Dave Slezickey said, in addition to the base bids, the city will include alternative bid options to distribute all of the funding for park improvements.
The base bid design plans approved by the city council include a new pavilion, trail/bridge, bike rest stop and lighting for Harrison Park; a new pavilion, bike rack, swings and sidewalk at Bumpass Park; a new pavilion, walking loop, hammock posts and precast concrete game boards for Johnson Park; and a
FIRE
From Page 1
Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management to purchase the new CAD System Fire Chief Chris Brigan wrote, “The system will significantly improve disaster response capabilities, enhance interoperability with surrounding agencies, and reduce response times during all-hazards incidents.
“We currently use an outdated and non-integrated CAD system, limiting real-time communication and coordination during emergency and disaster response,” he said. “This lack of integra -
OCU
From Page 1
walking path, soccer goals, benches and tetherball at Meeker Park.
Alternate options for the city parks could include a $130,000 precast modular concrete pump track and plaza for Harrison Park; a $121,000 zip track, $83,000 pickleball court and parking expansion for Bumpass Park; added parking for Johnson Park; and a $101,000 half basketball court at Meeker Park.
“We will now be looking at the alternate projects to see which may fit into the budget,” said Slezickey. “A lot of it depends on how the projects are bid, and what the costs are. We also have the option to fund some of the alternatives out of the capital improvement fund if there is not enough GO Bond revenue to do them.”
Slezickey said it is hard to tell what the timeline for this parks improvement project.
“It will depend on some manufacturing lead times for equipment that is hard to guess,” he said. “I do know that we’re hoping to start this summer.
Following completion of this project Slezickey sees added improvements on the horizon, saying, “We will continually invest in parks improvements to enhance the quality of life in the community.”
Duffner Park, which received extensive updates last year, will receive small updates totaling just over $65,000 to include drainage and added shade options for the splash pad play area.
tion creates challenges including delayed response times inefficient resource allocation and limited interagency collaboration.
“The VFD does not currently have a CAD System in place,” he wrote. “A new system will support real-time data sharing, live tracking, faster response times, improved coordination and enhanced disaster preparedness through simulations.
“The new CAD system will enhance disaster response and strengthen the interoperability with surrounding fire departments and emergency agencies,” he said. “The system will enable coordinated
The Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center at 1621 S. Portland Ave. accepts a variety of hazardous materials from residents’ homes year-round.
Products accepted at the center include gasoline, automotive fluids, batteries, pesticides, weed killers,
responses to emergencies and disasters, ensuring that critical resources are deployed effectively across multiple jurisdictions including Nichols Hills and Oklahoma City.”
Financial considerations facing the city include software, hardware and annual maintenance fees. The VFD annual budget is expected to increase by approximately $20,000 annually.
“While the initial investment is substantial, the long-term benefits in terms of efficiency, improved public safety and potential cost savings make the project a viable and strategic investment,” Brigan said.
swimming pool chemicals and paintrelated products.
The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Saturdays. It’s operated by the Storm Water Quality Division of the Public Works Department. Visit okc.gov/hhw for a list of accepted materials, or call (405) 6827038 for more information.
OCU
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“Members of The Societies of Oklahoma City University have a reputation for their tireless and selfless work to improve our community,” OCU President Kenneth Evans said. “These exceptional leaders are role models to our students, and changemakers within our network of alumni and friends. We are proud to work with them and congratulate each on their welldeserved honor.”
About the honorees:
Charlotte Lankard is a marriage and family therapist with a wealth of experience in her field. Since moving to Oklahoma City in 1992, she served as the associate director of Outpatient Counseling Services at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center.
As the founder of Calm Waters, a center providing support for grieving children, Lankard’s commitment to mental wellness has been unwavering. She also played a pivotal role in establishing the James Hall Jr. Center for Mind, Body, and Spirit, where she served as director for eight years.
Lankard wrote the book “It’s Called Life: Living, Loving, Hurting, Changing,” and she has contributed to other works such as “Powerful Single Parent Wisdom,” “Blending Families” and “Devote 40 Days.”
Jill Trauschke is a community volunteer for nonprofit agencies in the Oklahoma City area, with a focus on addressing the educational and health care needs of underserved and homeless populations.
Originally from North Carolina, Trauschke relocated to Oklahoma City in 2009 with her husband, Sean, and their children.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Trauschke worked as a registered nurse in various capacities throughout the Carolinas.
Currently, she serves on several boards, including Allied Arts, where she was a 2024 campaign co-chair-
man, and the Friends of the OU Breast Institute advisory board. She is also involved with the Library Endowment Trust of the Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County and the Oklahoma Single Parent Scholarship Program.
Myrla Pierson was born and raised in Oklahoma City. She earned a degree in marketing and public relations from the University of Oklahoma.
Pierson worked as a travel consultant for 28 years, managing an agency for five years. She also taught travel courses at OCU and Draughon Business School.
Her journey of volunteering began at the age of 12 when she served as a candy striper at Baptist Hospital, sparking her passion for helping others. She has been involved in several civic and cultural initiatives. She served five years in the Junior Hospitality Club. She became a member of the Junior League of Oklahoma City in 1988 and held numerous leadership roles. She served on the St. Anthony Foundation, where she co-chaired Saint Babies, which planned and raised funds for maternal health.
Pierson volunteered at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and co-chaired the Reflections of Hope dinner for two years. She has also supported the Girl Scouts in a variety of ways.
Peggy Kates was the CFO and co-founder of Midwest Wrecking.
She has extensive experience in board service across a variety of organizations. Currently, Kates serves on the boards of the Science Museum Oklahoma, Mercy Foundation, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Focus on Home, Civic Center Foundation, Leadership OKC Alumni, Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits, University of Central Oklahoma Foundation and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.
Kates was recognized for her past contributions as a board member for the YWCA, Allied Arts, Oklahoma Zoological Society and Infant Crisis Services.
Trinity’s summer programs help students shine
Read Up! and Summer Up! offer support and enrichment
For many students, summer is a break from the school routine, but for those in Trinity School at Edgemere’s Read Up! and Summer Up! programs, it’s a chance to grow academically and build confidence in a supportive environment.
Designed for students who learn differently, these programs reinforce foundational skills while keeping learning engaging and fun. They also help prevent summer learning loss, which can be especially challenging for students with learning differences.
Tailored summer learning
Read Up! strengthens literacy skills with evidence-based, multisensory instruction tailored to different learning styles. Small group lessons build fluency, comprehension, and reading confidence.
Summer Up! offers enrichment activities that support executive
functioning, social-emotional learning, and academic readiness. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on projects, interactive lessons, and movement-based learning. Why summer learning matters
Students with learning differences often experience greater setbacks over the summer. Read Up! and Summer Up! bridge this gap by providing structured, low-stress environments where students maintain and advance their skills.
“The impact of summer learning extends beyond academics,” said Trinity’s CEO, Lisa Schade.
“Students enter the new school year with renewed confidence, a stronger foundation, and a greater love for learning.”
Trinity School at Edgemere remains committed to helping students unlock their potential.
For more information, visit TrinitySchoolOKC.org or call (405) 525-
Designed for students who learn differently, Trinity’s summer programs reinforce foundational skills while keeping learning engaging and fun. They also help prevent summer learning loss, which can be especially challenging for students with learning differences.
