OKC FRIDAY
Student life to be enriched by Sias Family Center for Performing Arts
Casady School announces the renovation and expansion of its current performing arts facilities into the new Sias Family Center for Performing Arts.
This $9.5 million project transforms the existing theater, as well as the band,
orchestra and choir rooms, into a state-of-the-art complex that includes practice space, enhanced acoustics, expanded community gathering areas and improved stage technology. Casady’s strategic enrollment growth, arts programming and current performing arts facility underscore the need for renovation and expansion, and this exciting project aims to elevate the Casady community’s performing arts experience in a premier venue.
“The performing arts have long been a vital part of a
Casady education, offering students opportunities for creative expression, collaboration and personal growth,” said Head of School Nathan L. Sheldon. “I am honored to share an exciting investment in the future of the arts at Casady, made possible
through a lead gift from the Alice and Phil Pippin family in honor of Alice’s parents, Jeannette and Dick Sias.
“The Siases believed deeply in the power of the arts to enrich students’
See CASADY, Page 9
Nichols Hills, Village police take the plunge for Special Olympics
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Police officers in both Nichols Hills and The Village raised nearly $8,000 for Special Olympics by participating in the Polar Plunge held recently at Hurricane Harbor.
Law enforcement agencies from throughout the metro and state took part in the fundraising event, including
the Oklahoma City Police Department, OSBI and the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Department. The event featured more than 600 registered plungers, far more than the 360 individuals who participated last year. The Nichols Hills Police Department had 21 participants, while The Village Police Department had 14 officers and staff who took the plunge.
“Our personnel do an incredible job of dispatching, responding to and investigating crimes, not to mention helping resolve a large amount of non-criminal matters,” said Village Police Chief Russ Landon. “Doing this can take a toll on a person. I encourage our people to participate in as many of our community policing efforts as possible to see the other side of the difficult
‘Empowered’ coming to McGuinness
“Empowered,” an educational television series hosted by acclaimed actress Meg Ryan, has partnered with Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School to produce an upcoming segment on faith-based education. The production team is to be on campus in early May to film the segment.
The Rev. Rick Stansberry, BMCHS school president, described the upcoming segment as a winwin situation.
“The people at ‘Empowered’ contacted me last fall because they were planning an episode on faithbased schools, and they wanted to feature a school in the central part
of the United States,” Stansberry said. “We’re excited to have the opportunity to share who we are and to explain the value of a Christ centered education.”
In the segment, members of the Bishop McGuinness community are to share their experiences with faith-based education.
“Empowered” focuses on providing valuable information and insights into topics that matter to consumers today.
Each episode features industry experts and thought leaders who bring clarity and inspiration to important financial and lifestyle topics.
things we see.
“Raising awareness and funds for Special Olympics allows us to interact with the precious athletes, families and other law enforcement personnel in settings that we don’t normally find ourselves in,” he said. “We are grateful to be able to participate.”
Both the Nichols Hills and Village police departments take part in fundraising events throughout the year.
“The Nichols Hills Polar Plunge group consisted of officers, family members and other city employees and their family members who wanted to support us in our effort to raise money for such a great cause,” said Nichols Hills Police Chief Steven Cox. “We even had city managers and the IT department jumping with us!
See PLUNGE, Page 7
FRIDAY’s
Cats of the Week
Persophne (orange), Mr Bean (brown) and Sapphron (white) are 4-month old Maine Coone kittens whose family is Jones’ — Ryin, Jen, Margot (10-years-old) and Milla (6-years-old). They love to romp and play with each other but also find time to nap and be very cuddly!
Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@okcfriday.com.
Members of The Village Police Department plunged into freezing waters to raise funds for the Special Olympics during the Polar Plunge held recently at Hurricane Harbor. Pictured, from left, back row, are Deputy Chief Matt Butcher, Captain Ryan Jacobson, Officer JP King, Officer Trent Grines, Officer Caleb O’Toole, Officer Sam Ellis, Chief Russ Landon, Corporal Luke Davidson and Lieutenant Vernon Green. Front row plungers include Dispatcher Samantha Roberts, Detective Taylor Harrill, Sergeant William Maddex and Dispatch Supervisor Jaylen Garcia.
Bundled up after their Polar Plunge for Special Olympics are Nichols Hills Police Department members, from left, front row, IT Department staffer Scott Johnston, Records Clerk Michael Puckett and Sergeant David Eischeid. Second row, from left, are Cohen Copeland, Assistant City Manager Amanda Copeland, Officer Evelyn Morales, Officer Marliny Lopez, Lieutenant Brandon Ridgeway and City Manager Shane Pate; and back row, Cooper Hollingsworth IT Department, Police Chief Steven Cox, Officer Frank Stancampaino, Lieutenant Taylor Greenwood and Sergeant Jarred McHenry.
Leadership in Arts & Education
The Harding Fine Arts Academy Foundation hosted its 12th Annual Leadership in Arts and Education reception. At right, the award winners, from left: Kenyon Morgan, Outstanding Harding High School Alumni Award; Susan Gabbard, Innovation in Education Award; Aimee Harlow, John and Joy Reed Belt Award; and Nok Thatvihane '09, Outstanding Alumni Award.
- Photos by Fran Kozakowski
Joy Reed Belt, Ph.D. LPC and David Harlow.
Ford Austin, Sara Davis and Lauree Dash Austin support the mission of Harding Fine Arts Academy.
Bob Davis and Sally Bentley, event co-chairman.
Carol McPheeters, Charles Watts, and Kaye Adams. Harding Fine Arts Academy is a student-centered, arts integrated, all-inclusive learning institution that fosters an atmosphere that prepares students for life.
Sunny Cearley, president and CEO of Allied Arts; and Jane Sutter, board president of Harding Fine Arts Academy Foundation.
City wouldn’t be what it is today without young people
MARK STONECIPHER Ward 8 City Councilman
Editor’s note: This article ran in the April 25 edition of OKC FRIDAY under the headline City wouldn’t be what it is today with young people. The newspaper regrets the error.
By Mark Stonecipher Ward 8 OKC Councilman
Oklahoma City wouldn’t be where it is today without the energy and hard work of the
people on this year’s 50 Most Powerful Young Professionals Under 50 list. These emerging leaders are building businesses, leading teams and finding smart, creative ways to push our city forward.
This recognition isn’t just about titles or resumes. It’s about real impact. These professionals are staying local, showing up, putting in the work, and driving change whether that’s
in the boardroom, the classroom, the courtroom, or out in the community. They’re not just thinking about what’s next, they’re building it. And they’re doing it with vision, commitment, and a deep love for this city.
So, here’s to the 50 under 50 of 2025. Oklahoma City is blessed to have such great leadership; our future is in good hands. OKC OLYMPICS 2028!
Cox makes $200,000 grant to Sunbeam Family Services
Sunbeam Family Services has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation. The foundation is the charitable arm of Cox Enterprises, the parent company of Cox Communications and is named after the company’s founder.
The funds support the creation of the Sunbeam Early Education Center (EEC), which increases access to early education and wraparound services for under-resourced families. Sunbeam EEC is to serve as a demonstration school, providing onsite job training to support teacher development and address the national childcare workforce shortage.
“Sunbeam Family Services is honored to
be the recipient of a James M. Cox Foundation grant. With this generous gift, we will provide high-quality Early Head Start services for children from birth to age 3. Early Head Start provides a holistic approach to early childhood education, addressing not only educational needs but also health, mental health, nutrition and family well-being,” said Sunbeam CEO Sarah Rahhal, LCSW. “Our comprehensive support helps children develop in all areas, ensuring they are ready for school along with strengthening families.”
With this grant, Sunbeam can serve 32 Head Start families each year. In areas of
See COX, Page 10
Sports
OKLAHOMA
CITY
FRIDAY
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SOCCER ROUNDUP
Eagles run over Douglass in finale
The Harding Charter Prep boys soccer team ended the regular season on a positive note with a dominating 11-1 victory at Douglass last Monday.
Giovanni Valaro and Brandon Flores recorded 3 goals each to lead the Eagles (7-5). David Rojas chipped in a pair of goals, while Josue Rivas had a goal and 3 assists.
Harding Prep endured a 3-0 loss against Fridayland rival Heritage Hall and a 2-1 overtime setback to Elk City. Evan CastellanosBui scored a goal against the Elks.
The Eagle girls ended their season with a 10 win at Douglass on Monday. Harding Prep (2-9) also endured losses to Blanchard, Heritage Hall and Elk City.
CHARGERS FALL AT CLINTON IN OT
Heritage Hall’s perfect season got spoiled in the final game, as the Chargers suffered a 3-2 overtime loss at Clinton on Monday.
Tucker Austin and
Alex Alspaugh recorded goals in regulation for The Hall (8-1).
Austin joined David Griffin and Jonathan Carter with goals in 3-0 win over Harding Prep, while Griffin netted a pair of scores and Austin added a goal and 2 assists in 4-0 triumph over Newcastle.
In addition, the Heritage Hall girls (7-2) escaped with a 1-0 win over the Red Tornadoes on Monday. The Chargers also cruised to victories over Douglass, Harding Prep and Newcastle to close out the regular season.
ANTLERS DOWN PUTNAM
CITY
Deer Creek recorded a pair of victories in last week’s action, including a 4-2 win over Putnam City and a 1-0 overtime triumph at Edmond North.
Paxton Martens and Ty Cowen netted goals for the Antlers (9-4) against Putnam City. Goalkeeper Declan Brewer recorded 5 saves including an important one in the
shootout to secure the win at Edmond North.
The Antler girls (8-2) cruised to a 10-0 victory over the Pirates but suffered a 3-0 loss to the Huskies.
CYCLONES
TOP PATHWAYS
Casady escaped with a 3-2 win at Pathways, behind Eduardo Parra with 2 goals and Suleiman Mansoor added another for the Cyclones (10-3). They also cruised to a 10-0 victory against Atoka.
The Cyclone girls (13-1) posted identical 10 triumphs over Pathways and Atoka in last week’s action.
ROCKETS CRUISE PAST ARDMORE
The Mount St. Mary girls got a mixed bag from the final week of the season.
The Rockets (5-9) cruised to a 6-1 win at Ardmore but fell at Bethany in a 10-0 loss.
Lila Creel recorded 2 goals and Josie Peterson added a goal and 3 assists against Ardmore.
TENNIS ROUNDUP
Sydnee Allen, Emma Floyd and Suri Huaman accounted for the other goals, as Floyd also had an assist.
The Rocke boys (8-3), meanwhile, suffered a pair of shutout losses last week, including a 4-0 setback against Crooked Oak and a 1-0 defeat to Crossings Christian.
KNIGHTS GIRLS BLANK ASTEC
The Crossings Christian girls cruised to a 10-0 shutout against ASTEC Charter. Grace Mazza netted 3 goals for the Knights (11-2). They also posted a 4-1 victory over the OKC Storm homeschool team.
The Knight boys (113) also captured an 8-3 win over ASTEC and a 1-0 triumph over Mount St. Mary.
OTHER RESULTS
Panthers split with NW Classen: PC North split against Northwest Classen last week. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Girls’ teams play regionals
Eight Fridayland girls tennis teams begin their quest for a state championship as the compete in regional tournaments this Monday.
Deer Creek and PC North take part in a Class 6A regional hosted by Edmond Santa Fe.
Heritage Hall, McGuinness and John Marshall participate in 5A regionals, with the Chargers hosting their tournament and the Irish and Bears at a regional hosted by Guthrie at OKC Tennis Center.
Four others have been assigned to 4A regionals.
Casady, Harding Charter Prep and Mount St. Mary stay close to home for a tournament hosted by Tecumseh at Earlywine in south OKC, while Crossings Christian travels to Ada.
The girls state tournament is set
Monday
for May 9-10 at OKC Tennis Center. Meanwhile, boys regionals take place May 12 with state on May 16-17.
CYCLONES NET 3RD AT ADA INVITATIONAL
Taking second or better in two divisions, the Casady boys tennis team finished third at the Ada Invitational last week at Oak Hills Country Club.
Parker Johnstone and Aryan Singh teamed up for second place in No. 2 doubles after a loss to Duncan in the championship match.
Ali Rizvi placed fourth in No. 2 singles following a 6-4, 6-4 setback against Norman’s Milan Szendel. Hayden Shriver collected sixth place as did Daniel Johnson and David Ruffin in No. 1 doubles.
PC North’s Miaya Das attempts a pass to a teammate during last week’s soccer game against NW Classen.
- Photo by Richard Clifton, rtcditigalimages.zenfolio.com
3A, 4A teams open postseason
Six different Fridayland baseball team open the playoffs with regional tournaments this weekend across the state.
Heritage Hall traveled to Byng for a Class 4A regional last Thursday and Friday. The Chargers opened against Ardmore with the winner to take on the victor between host Byng and Clinton.
The regional final is set for 6:30 p.m. this Friday, with the “if necessary” game at 2 p.m. Saturday.
McGuinness headed to Newcastle for its 4A regional, where the Irish opened against Tecumseh on Thursday and faced host Newcastle later in the day.
The championship game takes place at 4 p.m. Friday and the “if necessary” game following at 6:30 p.m.
Harding Charter
Prep and Mount St. Mary round out the Fridayland teams in 4A regionals on Thursday. The Eagles faced host Elk City on Thursday, while the Rockets took on Bridge Creek in a regional opener at Bethany.
The regional final is set for 6:30 p.m. this Friday, with the “if necessary” game at 2 p.m. Saturday. In addition, Casady and Crossings Christian competed in a pair of 3-team 3A regionals.
The Cyclones opened Thursday against Prague and followed with a contest against host Marlow.
The Knights also took on Marietta and host Community Christian on Thursday.
The championship game takes place at 4 p.m. Friday and the “if necessary” game following at 6:30 p.m.
Complete brackets are available at ossaa.com.
ROCKETS TOP IRISH IN FINALE
Mount St. Mary broke open a close game with 5 runs in the fifth inning and held off a late McGuinness rally to claim a 65 win over the Irish last Monday in the regular-season finale for both teams.
Sam Grayson batted 2-for-3 and drove in a run to lead the Rockets (22-9).
Jefferson Hodge and Will Grayson recorded doubles, as Hodge drove in a run and Grayson scored 2 more.
Hodge also picked up the pitching victory, not allowing a run or hit and striking out one over an inning.
Seven different Irish players recorded at least a hit, led by Sam Bass with a 2-run double. Kaleb Anderson and Maddox Cotton drove in runs.
Pitcher Waite Swanson allowed a run on 2 hits over 1 inning to take the loss as both teams combined to use 14 different pitchers. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Small school regionals Saturday
Five Fridayland track teams open their postseason this weekend as they compete in Class 3A and 4A regionals.
Harding Charter Prep, Heritage Hall and Mount St. Mary join the Crossings Christian girls in 4A regionals, with the Chargers and Knights at Chisholm in Enid and the Eagles and Rockets at Madill.
Both Casady squads, along with the Crossings Christian boys, take part in a 3A regional at Chisholm.
The 3A and 4A state meets are set for May 9-10 at Plainview.
BEARS RUN TO 2ND AT PUTNAM CITY
Keyed by multiple event winners, the John Marshall boys finished second and the Heritage Hall girls took third at the Putnam City Invitational . James Allen paced the Bears with a pair of gold medals in the sprint
Cyclones, Knights swing to 2nd at regionals
Buoyed by all five players in the top 15, the Casady girls golf team finished second in a Class 3A regional tournament last week.
Crossings Christian also boasted four players in the top 15 on the way to a runner-up finish in a 3A regional.
Both teams qualified for the state tournament this Monday and Tuesday at Muskogee Country Club.
Casady’s Lauren Kim fired a round of 86 at Boiling Springs in Woodward to capture the individual champi-
onship by 2 shots.
Teammate Drue Love recorded a 93 in fourth place and Chloe Kim came in 2 shots back in sixth place.
Mattingly Bird and Emory Hill rounded out the group, as Bird placed eighth and Hill grabbed 14th for the Cyclones.
Eloise Coulter paced Crossings Christian with a sixth-place finish, after firing a 91 at Rock Creek in Sapulpa.
Elli Smith carded a 96 in 10th place, while Hadley Holloman and Sophie Starke tied for
14th place.
IRISH TAKE 3RD IN 5A REGIONAL
McGuinness traveled to Tulsa for its Class 5A regional where the Irish took third to qualify for state this Monday and Tuesday at Lincoln Park in Oklahoma City.
Caroline Regier recorded a round of 81 at LaFortune Park to finish third in the individual standings.
Three other Irish cracked the top 25, including Taylor
French in 14th with a 91, Abigail Edwards in 22nd and Brianna Rivera in 25th place. Grace McDaniel also came in 27th for McGuinness.
CHARGERS 4TH IN 4A TOURNEY
Heritage Hall’s Gabriella Gross continued her strong season with a runner-up finish and helped lead the Chargers to fourth place in a 4A regional tournament. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
events, capturing the 100 meters by just over a quarter-second in 10.88 seconds. Allen outdueled Casady’s Micah White for the 200-meter title by nearly a half-second in 22.36 seconds and White crossed in 22.72 seconds.
Derek Shaw earned a gold medal for the Bears, taking the 400 meters in less than a second in 51.15 seconds and teammate Elijah McNeal came in third.
Four other Heritage Hall athletes also picked up event championships, led by Addy Washington.
Washington won the 100-meter hurdles by a quarter-second in 16.02 seconds and cleared 16 feet, 4 inches to take the high jump title.
Graham Murphy and Zeffie Ellenburg continued the Chargers’ dominance in the field events as Murphy cleared 6-foot-7 for gold in the high jump and added a silver medal in the long jump.
Ellenburg and Casady’s Hope Fahler posted identical leaps of 5 feet to tie for first in the high jump.
Coral Grimmett posted a gold medalwinning time of 5:46.29 in the 1600 meters to beat the field by about 2 seconds.
In addition, the John Marshall boys won the 4-by-100 relay by a tenth-second in 42.64 seconds and the 4-by200 relay in 1:28.11.
Both Heritage Hall squads captured the 4by-800 relay titles, with the girls winning in 10:20.34 and the boys posting 8:51.14 for a gold medal.
John Marshall’s Kameron Marshall placed second in the 300 hurdles, while Heritage Hall’s Miya Waggoner took third in the 400 meters and John Marshall’s Khanaya Battle-Smith completed a third-place effort in the high jump.
Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Bad weather forces changes to boys regionals
Heavy thunderstorms across the state last week forced changes to the schedule for boys golf regional tournaments which were originally to take place last Wednesday.
Deer Creek and PC North are set to play this Wednesday in a Class 6A regional at Earlywine in south OKC.
McGuinness and John Marshall compete this Friday in 5A regionals, with the Irish at McAlester Country Club and the Bears at Meadowlake in Enid.
Class 4A regionals moved to last Thursday, as Heritage Hall and Mount St. Mary traveled to Prairie West in Weatherford and Crossings Christian went to Kingfisher Country Club.
Casady also took part in its 3A regional last Thursday at Boiling Springs in Woodward. State tournaments are set for May 12-13, with 6A at Forest Ridge in Broken Arrow, 5A at Muskogee, 4A at Dornick Hills in Ardmore and 3A at Shangri-La near Grand Lake.
CALENDAR
OKC ZOO
Saturdays In May
Breakfast with Animals
The WILDEST Meal of the Month is at the OKC Zoo. Breakfast with the Animals is at the Love's Pachyderm Building every Saturday morning in May as the Zoo's latest hit event returns. Feast on a loaded pancake bar with bacon, potatoes, and eggs while learning from OKC Zoo caretakers and ambassador animals from 9 to 11 am. Breakfast also includes a private giraffefeeding experience starting at 10 am. Tickets are $36 each for ZOOfriends members ages 12+ ($56 for nonmember adults) and $30 each for members ages 311 ($46 for nonmem
bers). And $2 from every ticket sold supports monarch butter
fly conservation, okc
zoo.org.
FUNDRAISERS
June 6 • Broadway Bash
Dress in your technicolor cocktail attire and enjoy a night of crafted cocktails, delicious bites, and remarkable performances from some of Oklahoma’s most talented artists at Lyric’s Broadway Bash fundraiser at the Skirvin Hilton from 711 pm. For more information and tickets visit lyrictheatreokc.com.
SPORTS
Camp Contemporary: Summer Break • Oklahoma Contemporary’s weeklong summer camps provide fun and creative studio experiences for 5 to 12 year olds. Each camp is created by local teaching artists and arts edu cators. From pain ti ng, drawing, sculpture, ceramics and performance, experienced art educators facilitate camps inspired by contemporary art and the exhibitions on view at Oklahoma Contemporary. Eight weeks of camp to choose from June 2 – Aug. 8. Registration closes one week in advance of the start of each camp. Visit oklahomacontemporary.org for camp details and descriptions.
May 710 • Big 12 Softball
The 2025 Phillips 66 Big 12 Softball Championship returns to OKC’s OGE Field at Devon Park, the home of the Women’s College World Series, from May 710. All 11 teams will compete in the singleelimination format with the top five finishers in the regular season receiving a firstround bye. Allsessions tickets and schedules are available for purchase at seatgeek.com/usasoftballdevonparktickets.
THIS WEEKEND
May 2 • Cinco de Mayo Fest
Come enjoy a series of music and dance performances, together with the most delicious food the Oklahoma City Hispanic community has to offer at Scissortail Park from 3 – 10 pm. Free admission with vendors, food, live bands, folklore, dancers, cultural entertainment and much more.
May 3 •
ThriftCon ThriftCon, the nation’s premier vintage clothing and collectible convention debuts in OKC at the Convention Center from 10am to 5 pm. ThriftCon is a vintage shoppers’ dream. Featuring 100+ vendors as well as multiple activations and installations celebrating vintage and retro culture with thousands of products ranging from valuable vintage Men's and Women's clothing, classic collectibles, furniture and home goods, and so much more. Visit tickets.thriftcon.co for details. Children under 13 are free.
May 34 & 10 • Strawberry Fest
Get ready for a berry sweet time at the Orr Family Farm from 10 am to 5 pm. Enjoy strawberrythemed treats, spring photo ops, delicious shakes, friendly farm aminals, 25+ attractions and more. Get event details and tickets at orrfamilyfarm.com.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Science Museum Oklahoma will host a full day of space-themed discovery on Friday, June 13, beginning with Space Day from 10 am to 2 pm and concluding with Sally’s Night from 7:30 pm to 10 pm. For the first time, Science Museum Oklahoma will merge Space Day and Sally’s Night into one full day celebration. Guests can explore astronomy through hands-on workshops throughout the day, then return at night for astronomy experiences under the stars. Community partners will be on hand to share resources and spark space-related curiosity for
families of all ages.
With regular museum admission, Space Day activities will take place in the Love’s Planetarium, Marshall Gallery, and Gardens. Guests of all ages can:
• Make telescope observations of the sun and sketch celestial details
• Operate a robotic arm to place a payload on a target
• Explore authentic shuttle-era
NASA artifacts
• Launch reaction rockets and measure flight height
• Measure star brightness using glass plate astronomy
• Create nebula-inspired spin art
Sitcoms and Live Entertainment
M*A*S*H was my favorite television show growing up. It did not come on until after the local news, which was way past my bedtime. So, after mom and dad put my two brothers and I to bed, I would fake being asleep for as long as I could, then I would crawl out of bed and sneak back to the living room.
At the time, we had a couch that was on wooden legs tall enough for me to fit underneath. I would crawl under the couch and hide until I heard the intro music, then I would lift the fabric flap and watch the show for 30 minutes, trying my hardest not to laugh out loud.
As I got a little older, I loved The Jeffersons, Happy Days, and Laverne & Shirley. The local PTA sent a letter asking all parents to avoid watching Three’s Company since it showed three young adults living together without being married. My mom posted the letter next to the television. My brothers and I never missed an episode.
In college, my fraternity showed Cheers and The Simpsons every Thursday to a full, rowdy crowd of fraternity guys. After college, big groups of friends would gather on Thursdays to watch Friends, Seinfeld, and Melrose Place. Later, work groups would
host dinner parties to watch Absolutely Fabulous, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Will & Grace
Sitcoms have been a fantastic part of my life for as long as I can remember. There is nothing quite as satisfying as laughing out loud with a group of people. So, recently, I have been very intrigued by a new sitcom bill making its way through the Oklahoma state legislature.
House Bill 2110, introduced in February by Representatives Mike Osburn and Scott Fetgatter, and Senator Bill Coleman, is called the “Bringing Sitcoms Home from Hollywood Pilot Program Act” or for short, the “Sitcom Bill.” The “Sitcom Bill” establishes a pilot incentive program specifically for live audience episodic television production (sitcoms, game shows, talk shows), carving out a niche in the entertainment industry that Oklahoma can potentially own.
Currently, the biggest champion of the “Sitcom Bill,” is Rachel Cannon, Founder and CEO of Rock Paper Cannon. Cannon is the most
• Handle genuine meteorites
• Design and test an egg-drop landing craft
Presented in conjunction with the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Sally’s Night is brought to guests by Bank of Oklahoma. Because of their generosity, the event is free to the public. Sally’s Night will be held in the Love’s Planetarium, Marshall Gallery, and the east lawn at Science Museum Oklahoma. Evening-only experiences include:
• Outdoor rocket launches throughout the night
• Drone-powered super egg-drop demonstrations
successful Oklahoman to work in network comedy television since two-time Emmy winner Megan Mullally During her time in Hollywood, Cannon co-starred on more than twenty different comedy series, including Two and Half Men and The Big Bang Theory, before landing a sixyear run on ABC’s Fresh Off the Boat. Cannon’s passion for sitcoms is at the heart of her latest venture, Rock Paper Cannon. Cannon wants to bring the thrill of watching actors perform in front of a live studio audience home to Oklahoma City. And she wants to create television sitcoms here that are fun, funny, and family appropriate by pairing seasoned Hollywood writers and stars with local writers, actors, and crew members.
I personally support HB 2110 because sitcoms offer the best opportunity for long term employment in the entertainment industry. I have worked on twenty-two feature films in Oklahoma. Only two of those films employed me longer than 6 months. Sitcoms will provide longer employment opportunities for seasoned film industry veterans like me and jobs for executives and writers that are simply not available on visiting film productions. Good luck HB 2110.
• Hands-on women in STEAM comic-making stations
• Community partner activity tables
• Special women-in-astronomy planetarium shows
• Telescope observations under the night sky
This event comes just eight months after the grand opening of the world class Love’s Planetarium at Science Museum Oklahoma which has already taken more than 90,000 guests on a journey through our galaxy and beyond.
For more information, visit sciencemuseumok.org/sallysnight.
At the Clinton Presidential Library
PLUNGE
From Page 1
“During the months of November and December
we allow officers to grow beards if they buy a $50 policy violation exemption for beards,” said Cox. “We then find an individual that is facing difficult times and gift the funds to them. Recipients are discussed and we decide as a group where to send the money.
“In January we participated in the Law Enforcement Torch
Run’s Baristas and Badges event at Starbucks,” said Cox. “We raised $1,280 that day and wore aprons while assisting the Starbucks employees in handing out drinks.”
Village Police Chief Russ Landon said their fundraising efforts date back to the early 2000s when former Chief Mike Robinson camped out on a semi-trailer for days in all types of weather to raise money.
“We’ve held auctions and TipA-Cop events at restaurants and grocery stores and are regular
attendees at the opening ceremonies of the Summer Special Olympic Games in Stillwater,” said Village Chief Landon. “We’ve raised tens of thousands of dollars over the years.
“This year’s opening ceremonies will be on May 14 and will be attended by hundreds of Special Olympic athletes, their coaches and representatives from dozens of law enforcement agencies from around the states,” he said. “It’s an incredible event and should be attended by every cop at least once in their career!”
A group from OKC traveled to Little Rock, Ark., to be on a panel at the Clinton Presidential Library. From left: Mike Turpen, Kari Watkins, Stephanie Street (executive director of the Clinton Library), Dr. Jay Barth (director of the Clinton Library), Dr. Susan Chambers (OKC National Memorial board chairman), Frank and Cathy Keating, Don Baer (Clinton speech writer), Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater (Clinton administration) Mayor David Holt and Ron Norick.
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, May 2, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No: PG-2024-847
In the Matter of the Guardianship of ) Naomi Gordon, Deceased. ) NOTICE OF HEARING NOTICE is hereby given that the Court has set a hearing on the Extension of Temporary Letters of Guardianship issued to Chelsy Gordon. The hearing is set on the 22nd day of May, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. before District Court Judge Martha Oakes in Courtroom 217, at the Oklahoma County District Courthouse.
Dated this 28 day of April, 2025.
MARTHA F. OAKES JUDGE OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/J.Pulley, Deputy (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, May 2, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No. CV-2025-958
IN RE: The Name of: ) Sheryl Lynn Hayt )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Sheryl Lynn Hayt has petitioned to change his/her name to Sherry Lynn Hayt. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 29 day of May, 2025, before Judge Ogden in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should
1509 W. Wilshire Blvd. Fri./Sat. 9am to 6pm pickup Sun. 11am – 4pm Vast amount of furnishings, office, dining, antiques, sterling, art, baby grand, china, quilts, Murano, crystal, lawn mowers, bikes and so much more Edmond Antiques and Estate Sales For pics see estatesales.org
/s/Darren W. Barr, OBA #33832 Hohenheim Legal, LLC 7500 Wegner Way Oklahoma City, OK 73162 Phone (828)851-2963 Attorneys for Personal Representative
ChaNge
In a celebration brimming with joy, blooms, and elegance, Maria Kolanowski and Brandon Clark were united in marriage April 4, 2025 at the enchanting Ed Lycan Conservatory in Will Rogers Gardens, Oklahoma City. Their springtime ceremony unfolded on a serene afternoon, bringing together family, friends, and even a dapper pup for a day to cherish.
The Ed Lycan Conservatory, with its glass walls and vibrant garden surroundings, provided a luminous and intimate setting— perfectly aligning with the couple’s vision of a whimsical, garden-inspired wedding. The ceremony took place under an arbor adorned with lush greenery and soft pink roses, creating a picture-perfect backdrop as the couple exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by love and laughter. Maria wowed guests in a
CASADY
From Page 1
lives and to prepare them to live with balance, purpose, and joy.”
This project represents more than just an upgrade; it is a commitment to ensuring Casady students have the facilities and resources to match their talent and passion, Sheldon said.
“When Phil and I attended our oldest child’s first middle division orchestra performance, I knew that Casady had tapped into something magical,” said Alice Pippin. “The way the students organized themselves in their chairs, picked up their instruments, and with only the slightest of cues began to produce amazing music, highlighted how musical instruction can teach discipline, cooperation, and encourage creativity all at the same time. Dur-
Clark - Kolanowski
breathtaking A-line gown featuring a deep V-neck bodice, delicate floral appliqués, and cascading tulle layers. She carried a graceful bouquet of ivory and blush blooms, hand-tied with flowing silk ribbon. Brandon looked effortlessly stylish in a navy blazer, open-collar shirt, and crisp white sneakers—striking the perfect balance of relaxed charm and classic elegance.
Maria’s bridal party included maid of honor Arlyn O’Barr, and bridesmaids, Marifer Myers and Lyn Lim, who wore complementary blush-toned gowns. They brought grace and warmth to the ceremony, each carrying bouquets that mirrored the bride’s floral palette.
Brandon is the son of OKC FRIDAY publisher Vicki Clark Gourley. Standing proudly by Brandon’s side were his grooms-
men: best man Jason Trice, his sons Graham and Gavin Clark, and stepson David Kolanowski Jr., who sweetly held the couple’s adorable dog, Wallace wearing a black bow tie. The groomsmen embraced the day’s relaxed yet refined style in tailored jackets paired with casual footwear, complementing the joyous and laid-back atmosphere.
Cheers filled the conservatory as Maria and Brandon walked down the aisle, hand in hand and beaming with happiness.
As the evening unfolded with heartfelt toasts, joyful dancing, and meaningful moments, it was clear that Maria and Brandon’s wedding was more than just a ceremony—it was a celebration of deep love, family, and the journey ahead. Their union reflected their shared spirit: grounded, joyful, and ready for every chapter to come.
ing the journey of our three sons through the Casady Orchestra program, it became apparent that the musical arts program is Casady’s hidden gem."
Like all great endeavors at Casady, this expansion and renovation is made possible by the generosity of the school community, with additional principal gifts from the Lynette and Pete Wert family and the Kristine and Web Browne family.
“All our grads were active in the arts at Casady, either
on stage or in the technical production areas,” said the Werts. “We hope Casady will consider the underwriting of the ‘Wert Family Performance Hall’ as a return on investment for what the arts program provided our family in literary, dramatic, stagecraft, lighting, musical, ISAS performance, and international travel experiences.”
Casady School’s strategic focus on growth and sustainability through its people, places, and programs, is
Sias Family Center for Performing Arts west elevation.
grounded in the mission of the School over its more than 75-year history. As the school embarks on this next era through strategic planning and master campus development, there will always be a vigilant eye on the foundation and history of the institution to inform the future.
“Casady’s Performing Arts complex is more than a centerpiece of our campus, it houses the performing arts programs that touch every Cyclone in every division,”
said the Brownes. “To give to performing arts is to fuel the passion of the many artistic students at Casady as well as the curiosity of all Cyclones.”
Features of Sias Family Center for Performing Arts include:
● Redesigned modern exterior.
● New sidewalks and pedestrian flow.
● Redesigned interior with a total increase of 5,200 square feet to include:
● New orchestra room (2,185 square feet), renovated choral room with sound isolation, renovated band room with sound isolation, renovated black box, additional practice rooms, renovated and expanded lobby, additional restrooms, additional storage and office space, refreshed theater sound and light systems and music recording studio.
● Fire suppression system.
● General building improvements.
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
Strebel Creek Vineyard &
navigatingmedicare.com
business listings are only $25 a month. Email rose@ okcfriday.com for more information.
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.
COX
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Oklahoma City, childcare and developmental resources are very limited. In the 73106 ZIP code, there are no options for young children to find quality, subsidized childcare services.
With this grant, Sunbeam will provide lifechanging services for children to have the opportunity to learn during the crucial stage of development when 90% of their brain is developed.
Sunbeam, a long-standing nonprofit in Oklahoma, is a leader in early care and education. The nonprofit prepares young children to enter school by providing
high-quality Early Head Start and Head Start education programs through fullday, full-year center-based services across Oklahoma
future success of babies, toddlers, and their families.
Katy Boren, market vice president for Cox Communications in Oklahoma City, and Sunbeam CEO Sarah Rahhal, LCSW, at the grant presentation ceremony.
County and through Sunbeam’s Home Visitation program. Access to highquality early childhood education is crucial for the
Dear Wise Elder: Because my home was a tri-level, I decided to make the move to a home with services. What are the benefits? Dear Services: he biggest benefit is that you have opportunity for daily contact with other people, and that will add to your longevity and quality of life. You have more energy when “decision fatigue” is reduced. Everyone has only so much energy in a day. In a community, someone else is handling much of the “have to do tasks” allowing you to use the energy you have on priorities, not tasks. In addition, there is reduced stress of arrang-
This is especially true for families who earn low wages and live in underresourced communities. Research shows that relationships with adult caregivers help build important brain connections by age 3. These connections affect health, education and other outcomes throughout life. Children who aren’t ready for school at age 5 may struggle to catch up, leading to an achievement gap that can persist throughout their lives.
“At Cox, we are committed to empowering our employees and communities to build a better future for the next generation. We are thrilled to do just that
ing for and verifying services. Another benefit is increased safety. You manage one payment a month instead of insurance, transportation, shopping, personal care, housework, lawn, and on and on. Support for health is readily available, eliminating the temptation to wait to see a professional. It is wise to immediately get on the waiting list for one or two locations you prefer. Usually, you are not obligated, but it gives you the right of first refusal.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, VillagesOKC.org (405) 990-6637
and support the transformational work of Sunbeam Family Services through this generous gift from the Foundation,” said Katy Boren, market vice president for Cox Communications in Oklahoma City. This is not the first time Cox Communications has partnered with Sunbeam. Over the last two decades, Cox has proudly contributed to many programs and events that benefit the nonprofit and reinforce the company’s commitment to the community. Cox employees have also contributed their own dollars and volunteer time to Sunbeam through Cox Charities, a charitable foundation funded and guided by frontline Cox employees.
Casady grad attends prestigious conference
For the second year in a row, two Army ROTC cadets represented Colorado State University at one of the country’s top student conferences on national affairs.
CSU students Nathaniel Bigelow and Parker Dobbins, a Casady School graduate, were among a select group of ROTC cadets from across the country to attend the annual MSC Student Conference on National Affairs in February. The SCONA conference attracts more than 200 students from the nation’s military academies, such as West Point, as well as senior military colleges, like The Citadel.
Parker is the son of Jill and Chris Dobbins, of Oklahoma City.
Bigelow and Dobbins spent a week at Texas A&M University, participating in roundtables developing public policy proposals to solve major issues.
Bigelow was part of a group that earned an award from a panel of policy experts for their proposal that focused on media literacy in secondary education to combat information warfare.
Dobbins, a first-year student
majoring in computer engineering in the Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering, was part of a group whose policy paper focused on migrant issues in the United States.
“It was a great experience,” said Dobbins, who plans to be a part of the U.S. Army’s Cyber Corps or Signal Corps when he graduates. “If writing the policy paper wasn’t already a great learning experience, getting to listen to the guest speakers made it even better.”
Speakers included Air Force Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., who recently served as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Air Force Gen. Anthony J. Cotton, among others.
The two Ram Battalion cadets’ participation was made possible by alumnus Bob Halverson — a 1963 CSU graduate who rose to the rank of major general in the Army National Guard — who helped foster the relationship with SCONA in 2024.
This year marked the 70th anniversary of SCONA, which fosters collaboration on issues ranging from military strategy and cybersecurity to global
diplomacy and emerging threats. Maj. Matthew Chase, who serves as commander of Ram Battalion, explained that SCONA is a rare opportunity for Army ROTC cadets to enhance their critical thinking and teamwork skills.
The SCONA Conference is just the latest in a string of honors, underscoring CSU’s trajectory as a leader preparing the next generation of military officers. In February, Ram Battalion was honored by the U.S. Army with the region’s Best Medium Program Award.
Chase attributed the success to CSU’s strong commitment to its ROTC programs, his predecessor retired Lt. Col. Matthew Tillman’s leadership, the work of non-commissioned officers and the hard work of the Ram Battalion cadets.
“It really speaks to critical thinking and teamwork that is instilled in our cadets at CSU,” Chase said. “We’re preparing these folks to solve real world problems, and they’re showing what they’re learning at places like SCONA.”
CSU Army ROTC cadets Parker Dobbins and Nathaniel Bigelow took part in the prestigious MSC Student Conference on National Affairs in February.
Little Copelyn Snow grabs a gold egg, provided by signature sponsor Quail Creek Bank, during the Quail Creek Homeowners Association’s Easter egg hunt.
Above: And they are off! Children race to find eggs during the Quail Creek Homeowner Association’s annual Easter egg hunt. The event included photos with the Easter Bunny, left, which Mark and Indy Augsburger took advantage of. Adult sack races, face painting and live music from Jeff Nokes was included in the fun at Quail Creek Park.