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Serving affluent far north Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills and The Village for 51 years
Brightmusic to present music festival
Guest violinist Elissa Cassini and Brightmusic are to perform the annual summer music festival June 15, 17, 19 and 20 at First Baptist Church in midtown Oklahoma City, featuring music created and inspired by Hungarian and Bohemian (Czech) composers like Bartók and Dvořák.
A “Truly communicative” (New York Times) and “impeccable and powerful soloist” (Neue Musik Zeitung), FrenchAmerican Elissa Cassini explores the full expressive
range of the violin through her captivating tone and charismatic performances. Cassini performed her Carnegie Weill Hall debut recital as a recipient of the Artists International prize, the same year she received her masters degree from the Juilliard School. An avid chamber musician, Cassini was invited as artistic director of the 2016 Musiquedans les Vignes” festival in Anjou, France, performing with cellist Gary Hoffman. Cassini also created “Duplexity Concerts,” an international
series of virtuoso instrumental duos transcending the traditional recital format.
The festival program includes:
• Concert No. 1, 3 p.m., Sunday, June 15 – Artistic Directors’ Recital
Bohuslav Martinů, “Sonatina for Clarinet and Piano” Ferdinand Ries, “Sonata in G Minor for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 29”
Michele Mangani, “La Bohème Fantasia su Concerto
See FESTIVAL, Page 10
Summer at the Civic opens with ‘Joseph’
This summer, joy takes center stage as Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma presents Summer at the Civic—a dazzling lineup of three must-see musicals at the Civic Center Music Hall. From the wonder of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” to the soul-stirring hits of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and the
rousing return of our official state musical “Oklahoma!,” this season promises unforgettable moments for the whole family. Whether you're reliving beloved classics or discovering them for the first time, there's joy and magic waiting for everyone at Lyric Theatre. Tickets are on sale now at LyricTheatreOKC.org or by calling (405) 524-9312,
The 2025 Oklahoma Senior Follies revue takes place on June 14 and 15 at Mitchell Hall on the campus of the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond.
The show is again under the direction of Gina Bramlett and Michael Pone.
“Our commitment to celebrating the vibrancy and creativity of our senior community is at the heart of everything we do,” organizers said. Oklahoma Senior Follies,
Monday–Friday, 12–5 p.m.
“This summer’s lineup is truly something special,” said Producing Artistic Director Michael Baron. “Audiences will fall in love with the joy and heart of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,’ be moved by the powerful, uplifting journey of ‘Beautiful: The Carole King Musical’ and feel
Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of Oklahoma Seniors. The organization’s goal and mission are to promote, encourage and stimulate the social and active lives of senior citizens.
Each year, the Follies raises funds and donates to the Oklahoma Alzheimer’s Association through varied activities, including the Follies’ extravaganza. For tickets, visit okseniorfollies.org.
Social media, technology of concern to the Class of 2025
Editor’s note: This is the first in a two-part series about the major concerns of 2025 graduating seniors. Next week, students voice concerns over financial stability and the future
By Rose Lane Editor
Forty of the some 105 all-stars featured in our May 30 Salute to the Class of 2025 said that the rise of social media and technology is the greatest concern to their generation.
“If left unchecked, social media will topple our society,” Casady School graduate Isabella Cope said. “The current version of social media spreads fake news, polarizes the public, diminishes self-esteem, especially that of adolescents and demands our attention, taking us away from meaningful activities and experiences that enrich our lives and boost our mental and physical well-being.”
Many cited the effect social media can have on mental health.
“There are constant comparison, misinformation and the overall addiction to apps as it begins to distort time, reality and mental health,” Heritage Hall All-Star Jessica Bullock said.
Bishop McGuinness All-Star Bryce Shwarz said the impact of social media on mental health and overall personal well-being is concerning.
“Social media plays an impact on all areas of our lifes, often creating farfetched expectations,” he said. “Constant exposure to social media, online news and the rapid ability to access technology can enable a sense of stress and anxiety.”
A lack of empathy is driven by social media, John Marshall’s Sophia Macy Ojerio Reyes said.
immense pride in ‘Oklahoma!,‘ brought to life in a way that deeply honors our Oklahoma roots. Each production offers its own unique magic.
“And this year, we're thrilled to partner with the Oklahoma History Center to showcase historical artifacts from past productions of ‘Oklahoma!’ in our
See LYRIC, Page 2
FRIDAY’s
Birdie Fowler is David and Crystal Fowler rescue lab that turns out to be part great pyrenees. She loves to be outside; playing fetch, looking for/chasing rabbits, squirrels or just chillaxing on the patio. She’s so very gentle, so very large and so very loved. Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@okcfriday.com.
“Many online interactions normalize bullying and dehumanize others, making it easy to judge without understanding,” she said. “This digital disconnect weakens real-world relationships, emphasizing the need for greater compassion and accountability in how we engage with others.”
Putnam City North All-Star Lamar Schmidt called social media “an utterly addicting time consumer.
“Personally, I’ve lost days or even weeks to these apps and I’m sure many other in my generation have faced the same struggle,” he said.
Due to screens, Putnam City North’s Christina Truong said time “escapes like sand through our fingers in the automated reality of today.”
See CONCERNS, Page 2
Amy I-lin Cheng and Chad Burrow performing at First Baptist Church, Oklahoma City. They are to be a part of Brightmusi’s annual summer festival June 15, 17, 19 and 20 at the church in midtown.
- Photo by Malcolm Zachariah
lobby—all summer long, for audiences to explore and enjoy.”
• • • “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”
Directed by Michael Baron
June 17-22 | Civic Center Music Hall
The beloved musical returns to Lyric’s stage for the first time in 15 years! This vibrant retelling of the biblical story of Joseph and his fabled coat of many
colors is a joyful, genre-blending adventure filled with humor and heart. From country-western to calypso and even Elvis-inspired rock, this energetic production will have the whole family singing along long with songs after the curtain falls. A perfect summer night for theatregoers of all ages!
Join the Lyric 40 minutes before curtain for an interfaith conversation exploring the enduring impact of Joseph’s story across religious traditions.
Tuesday: Father Joseph Alsay, St.
Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church and Rabbi Vered Harris, Temple B'nai Israel.
Wednesday: Pastor Kyle Anderson, Church of the Servant and Rabbi Abby Jacobson, Rabbi of Emanuel Synagogue and Immediate Past President of the Interfaith Alliance of Oklahoma.
Thursday: Father Youmans, head chaplin, Casady School.
Friday: Rev. Dr. Lisa M. Wolfe, professor of Hebrew Bible, Oklaho-
ma City University.
Saturday Matinee: Pastor Jared Chambers, Crossing Community Church, Mayfair location.
Saturday night: TBD.
Sunday matinee: Dr. Alan Levenson, Schusterman/Josey Chair of Jewish History, University of Oklahoma.
“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”
Directed by Ashley Wells
July 8–13 | Civic Cen-
ter Music Hall
Discover the inspiring true story of Carole King’s meteoric rise from teenage songwriter to chart-topping solo artist in this Tony and Grammy Awardwinning hit. Featuring over two dozen iconic songs—like “You’ve Got a Friend,” “Natural Woman,” and “One Fine Day”— “Beautiful” is a celebration of the power of music, resilience, and finding your voice. “A joyous celebration!” – Entertainment Weekly
“OKLAHOMA!”
Directed by Michael Baron
July 29 – August 3 | Civic Center Music Hall
The Official State Theatre of Oklahoma proudly presents a tra-
ditional production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!
Crafted especially for Oklahoma audiences, this timeless classic follows cowboy Curly and farm girl Laurey as they navigate love, land, and laughter on the American frontier. With unforgettable songs like “Oh, what a Beautiful Mornin’,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” and the rousing title number “Oklahoma!”, this production is a proud salute to our state. Partnering with the Agnes DeMille trust, the original choreography of the Dream Ballet are to be included, along with “Oklahoma! “ artifacts from the Oklahoma History Center displayed in the Civic Center Lobby all summer long.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” takes the Civic Center Music Hall stage June 17-22.
In D.C.
Chris Lawson, Trung Nguyen and Mary Blankenship Pointer visit Washington, D.C. for Mary’s birthday. Be sure to pack your newspaper when you travel. Email photos to rose@okcfriday.com.
CONCERNS
From Page 1
“We spend so much time on our screens, which are inescapable, but one day I will wake up in a 60-year-old body and realize time is truly priceless.”
Technology is leading to the deterioration of relationships, some all-stars believe.
“My greatest concern with my generation is our ability to have meaningful and lastings relationships with other that aren’t on a screen,” Crossings Christian School’s Derek Reedy said. “I think it is easy to get distracted by our phones and social media, instead of spending time face-toface, with one another. I fear this could affect us later on in life, whether it be with future employers or even family members.”
Mount St. Mary’s Brian Boekman said the growing use of technology as a way of communicating instead of in person is worrisome.
“People also take advantage of technology by letting it run their lives,” he said.
Artificial intelligence is another concern with technology.
“Artificial intelligence, while beneficial
In London
Mari Cook Medley, Betty C. Cook and Tanner Jeffers travelled on Holiday through Scotland and the UK. OKC FRIDAY travelled right along with them as they searched for Nessie, confirmed the Stone of Destiny to be safe at the Perth Museum, viewed the VE Day 80 Poppies at the Tower of London while walking in Anne Boleyn’s footsteps, visited Hever Castle choosing it as the most beautiful garden along the way and celebrated an 85th Birthday at The Ritz London as did Queen Elizabeth ll. The Chelsea Flower Show, in its 116th year, provided a perfect family travel picture location.
Happy birthday “Queen” Betty.
in many aspects, is being utilized incorrectly by my generation and thus stripping away experiences led by pure hard work and duty that build our morale, intellect and character,” Valeria Arrizon Nunez, a John Marshall graduate, said. “My generation is overreliant on artificial intelligence.”
The ease of access to
an abundance of information via technology should be monitored.
“With the creation of AI, it’s concerning that individuals may become lethargic and lose understanding of the value of hard work,” Mount St. Mary’s Michael Lynch said. “Our reliance on technology can’t become our destruction.”
ALL-CITY TEAMS | TRACK, GOLF & TENNIS
Fridaylanders earn 1st team spots
Following successful seasons, more than a dozen Fridayland athletes received selections to the first team on The Oklahoman’s All-City teams for track, golf and tennis.
TRACK
Brothers Harrison and Graham Murphy joined Heritage Hall teammates Zeffie Ellenburg and Addy Washington, along with Micah White and Ayden Kerr of Casady in making the Little
All-City track first team, while Deer Creek’s Gage Gibbons and McGuinness’ Sylvie Harper earned spots on the Big AllCity first team.
Harrison Murphy won a gold medal in the 300-meter hurdles and Graham Murphy took the high jump title for the Chargers in the Class 4A state meet.
Gibbons also collected a 6A state championship in the 100 meters for the Antlers.
Washington, White and Harper were silver
OKLAHOMA
CITY FRIDAY
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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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medalists at state, as Washington took runner-up in the long jump, White in the 100 meters and Harper in the 1600 and 3200 meters.
Kerr garnered third in the 800 meters, while Ellenburg took fourth in the high jump.
Deer Creek’s Arabella Allo and John Marshall’s James Allen received second-team honors in the long jump and 100 meters, respectively.
Honorable mention selections included (by event): 100 Meters –Chloe Threatt, John Marshall. 200 Meters –Emmory Carter, Deer Creek; Aaliyah Lucas, John Marshall; Tristan Yi, Deer Creek. 800 Meters – Stacy Harris, Crossings Christian; Caroline Olszewski, Casady; Sam Rhoades, Casady; George Simon, Deer Creek; London Tietsort, McGuinness; Luke Worthington, McGuinness. 1600 Meters – Abby Buckelew, McGuinness; Maddie Cottier, Deer Creek; Hope Fahler, Casady; Joseph Hoch, McGuinnesss; Micah John, Deer Creek; Zac Roberson, Crossings
Christian; Mason Storozyszyn, Deer Creek; Ethan Stuart, Deer Creek. 3200 Meters – Luke Bryan, McGuinness; Coral Grimmett, Heritage Hall; Camryn Kanaly, McGuinness; Billy Mathis, Casady; Eva Scheer, Casady. 100M Hurdles –Kinsley Brown, McGuinness. 300M Hurdles – Vontae Holmes, John Marshall; Anna Willis, McGuinness. High Jump –Emma Meisman, McGuinness. Long Jump – Clara Bebee, Crossings Christian; Jalen Davis, Deer Creek. Pole Vault Kennedy Brown, McGuinness; Rachel Carr, Harding Charter Prep; Landon Gaske, Heritage Hall; Cameron Mayberry, McGuinness; Ben Schoeffler, McGuinness. Shot Put – Nick House, McGuinness; Alex Nkepang, Deer Creek. Discus – Landon Mays, Deer Creek.
GOLF
Heritage Hall duo Ben Lathrop and Gabriella Gross earned spots on the All-City golf first team. Lathrop posted a 1under 209 over three rounds at Dornick Hills in Ardmore to claim the Class 4A state individual championship. The junior tied the course record with a 64 in the second round, and was second in the state with a 68.8 scoring average.
Gross carded a 4over round of 75 at Shawnee Country Club to finish runner-up in the individual standings of the weathershortened 4A state tournament. Also a junior, Gross competed in 10 tournament this season, with three wins, four second-place finishes and three thirdplace trophies. Three others garnered second-team nomina-
ALL-CITY 1ST TEAM
Track
100 Meters: Gage Gibbons, Deer Creek
100 Meters: Micah White, Casady
800 Meters: Ayden Kerr, Casady
3200 Meters: Sylvie Harper, McGuinness
300M Hurdles: Harrison Murphy, Heritage Hall
High Jump: Zeffie Ellenburg, Heritage Hall
High Jump: Graham Murphy, Heritage Hall
Long Jump: Addy Washington, Heritage Hall
Golf
Gabriella Gross, Heritage Hall
Ben Lathrop, Heritage Hall
Tennis
Jasmine Crain, Heritage Hall
John Paul Dillon, Crossings Christian
Graham Link, Crossings Christian
Lilly Ross, Casady
T.J. Shanahan, McGuinness
Sumner Shapard, Crossings Christian
Coach Jamie Wheat, Crossings Christian
tions, including Deer Creek’s Lana Bowen along with the McGuinness’ duo of Ben Jones and Ryan McClanahan.
Honorable mention selections included: Casady – Jack Barber, Chloe Kim, Lauren Kim, Jack Lee, Drue Love; Crossings Christian – William Bishop, Eloise Coulter, Jackson Magness, Harper Nance, Jake Strickland; Heritage Hall – Nate Seres, Everett Strickland; McGuinness –Taylor French, Aiden Lozano, Grace McDaniel, Caroline Regier, Brianna Rivera.
TENNIS
Six Fridayland state champions, along with Crossings Christian coach Jamie Wheat, received first-team selections on the AllCity tennis squads.
McGuinness’ T.J. Shanahan, regarded as one of the top players in the state regardless of class, highlights the list after recording his second straight state championship at No. 1 singles. Shanahan outlasted Heritage Hall’s Owen Fellrath in the 5A final.
Crossings Christian John Paul Dillon and Sumner Shapard earned the No. 1 doubles state title over McGuinness’ Carl Amaya and Matthew Dell’Osso.
Teammate Graham Link also took the No.
2 singles state title in his freshman campaign. Crossings Christian’s Jamie Wheat received Coach of the Year honors after leading the Knights to their third straight state title. Heritage Hall state champion Jasmine Crain and Casady’s Lilly Ross round out the group. Crain won the 5A No. 1 singles crown, and Ross took the No. 2 singles title in 4A. Amaya and Dell’Osso, along with Fellrath, joined five others on the second team, including Hattie Bradford, Tokara Henderson and Elli Nasr from Heritage Hall and Lila Garabelli and Harper Sill from Casady. Honorable mention selections included: Casady – Daniel Johnson, Parker Johnstone, Ali Rizvi, David Ruffin, Ava Sachdev, Aryan Singh, Hayden Shriner, Leela Walia, Bailey Washburn; Crossings Christian – Macy Hays, Kate Lovelace, Chloe Minihan, Ben VanLandingham; Deer Creek Emma Evans, Cambelle Harris, Claire Hopkins, Aubrey King, Rowan Ochs, Addison Parises; Heritage Hall – Max Blasdel, Praneel Gottipati, Avery Shouse, Ainsley Trice, Spence Wadley, Roman Welch; McGuinness – Juli Abbott, Noah Dell’Osso, Joseph Dickerson, Paige Griffith, Julien Vann; Mount St. Mary – Kallie Jeffrey.
The Greens Country Club Racquet Member of the Week VIVIANNA RIGAU
Vivianna Rigau is a longtime and cherished member of our Racquet Community!
Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Vivianna is a proud Boston University graduate who has a true passion for all racquet sports.
She's raised two amazing children – now accomplished adults – and is a proud "Gi Gi" to two wonderful grandchildren!
On the court, Vivianna is a fierce USTA team tennis competitor, having advanced to the playoffs multiple years across several different teams.
She's also made her mark in the world of pickleball as a competitive player!
Fun fact: Vivianna is also a gifted artist! Be sure to check out some of her beautiful pieces showcased in the stairwell at the Racquet Club.
Crossings’ Minihan named Jim Thorpe HS Player of the Year in tennis
Crossings Christian’s
Chloe Minihan has been selected as the 2025 Jim Thorpe High School Player of the Year in girls tennis by the Oklahoma Coaches Association in partnership with the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame.
Minihan joins other winners at the annual All-Sports and Scholar Athlete Awards Ceremony on Thursday, June 26, at the Petroleum Club Event Center, 4040 N. Lincoln.
Minihan graduated from Crossings Christian School where she competed on the varsity tennis team all four years. She was named to the All State team by the Oklahoma Coaches Association and placed
second as a freshman, fourth as a sophomore, sixth as a junior and third in her senior campaign at the state tournament.
In addition to tennis, Minihan competed on the varsity pom squad, earning nine state championships.
She was a member of the Executive Board of CCS Student Council and president of the Hope Squad. She was on the honor roll and National Honor Society throughout high school.
Minihan received both the Heart of the Knight Award (academic achievement) and Knights of the Round Table Award (athletic achievement) from Crossings. She also served on the Citizens Caring for Children Teen Board and on the Executive Committee her senior year.
Minihan founded and led a non-profit organization called Attire for a Smile where she raised over
$12,000 for hundreds of new children’s outfits to the Hope Center of Edmond. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University in the fall.
CHLOE MINIHAN
CALENDAR
COMEDY
July 18 • Shane Gillis Gillis is one of the industry’s leading touring comics, as well as an actor and writer. He takes over the Paycom Center with his sharp wit and noholdsbarred style at 8 pm.
FESTIVALS
June 13 • PRIDE! On the Plaza PRIDE! On the Plaza returns to bring you one of the fiercest block parties of the year in the Plaza District from 3–10 pm. This celebration of love, diversity, and unapologetic selfexpression is the place to be. Witness captivating drag performance and dance along with your loved ones.
June 1921 • Juneteenth on the East
This festival is a multiday event on NE 23rd St. in the heart of the East End District. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere, live performances, food trucks, and car show. Juneteenth On the East 5K Run / Walk is a free event that takes place during the Juneteenth on the East festival on Friday, June 20. See more details at withloveokc.org/Juneteenth.
THIS WEEKEND
June 78 •
Free Fishing Weekend As part of National
June 7 – Sep. 28 • Ansel Adams Exhibit
Discovering Ansel Adams features over 100 photographs that share Adams’s most celebrated works while revealing aspects of his development that are frequently overlooked at the OKC Museum of Art. Photographs in the exhibi ti on span Adams’s en ti re career, from small, one of a kind prints from his teenage years to a set of muralsized prints showcasing some of his most famous views. Rare, original archival documents only available from the Center of Creative Photography, including correspondence, unpublished manuscripts, snapshots, personal possessions, book drafts, and photographic working materials, illuminate Adams’s rich life and fascinating experiences.
Fishing and Boating Week, Oklahomans 18+ can fish without a license on Saturday and Sunday in state waters. Some citymanaged lakes may require separate permits, so doublecheck local rules before you go at the Okla. Dept. of Wildlife Conservation website.
June 7 • PopUp Market
The PopUp Market is a oneday openair market featuring local small businesses. For one day only, come visit the PopUp Market on the corner of NW 10th & Hudson to shop from 60+ local shops and makers. From vintage finds to women’s clothing, leather goods and books, the PopUp Market will have something unique for everyone from 10 am to 4 pm.
June 7 • Kite Festival Wind and Kite Festival 2025 is at the Loves Travel Stops & Great
Lawn in Scissortail Park from 10 am to 2 pm. This event is free and open to the public. Come out to fly a kite with us! First 100 guests will receive a FREE kite. Kites will also be available to purchase.
June 7 •
Make Ready Market
Make Ready Market is a quarterly market in Midtown promoting local makers and vintage collectors. Make Ready features locally made clothing, jewelry, plants, art, vintage, pottery, and more. Market address is 220 NW 13th St. from 11 am to 3 pm. Make Ready focuses on shar
ing the work of local makers and artists. They welcome local businesses who make their own products, art, or sell curated vintage items.
June 8 •
OKC Thunder Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the Indi
ana Pacers is 7 pm at the Paycom Center.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
2025 deadCenter Film Festival
The deadCenter Film Festival, Oklahoma’s largest and only Oscar-qualifying film festival, kicks off next Wednesday, June 11, at Harkins Theater in Bricktown. The festival will feature more than 200 movies for five days until the closing night film outside on the lawn at The OAK on Sunday, June 15. Passes are still available for purchase at deadcenterfilm.org and can be picked up at the deadCenter headquarters at Oklahoma Contemporary next week. Counting Crows Film. The band that exploded overnight with “Mr. Jones” and became the soundtrack to the early nineties with their album August and Everything After, finally gets spotlight thanks to Oklahoma native and 2025 Oklahoma Film ICON Amy Scott in with her latest film Counting Crows: Have You Seen Me Lately?
Amy Scott is a Lawton native and University of Oklahoma graduate who came to deadCenter in 2018 with her directorial debut Hal, about 1970s film auteur Hal Ashby, director or Harold and Maude. Since then, she has directed the 2022 film Sheryl, about nine-time grammy winner Sheryl Crow, and the 2024 film Melissa Etheridge: I’m not Broken, about rocker and Grammy winner Melissa Etheridge Counting Crows: Have You Seen Me Lately? screens Friday, June 13,
8:00pm, and Sunday, June 15, 12:00pm, both times at Harkins Bricktown Theaters. Film ICON Panel. Actress Hayley McFarland and filmmaker Adam Hampton are also being honored with 2025 Oklahoma Film ICON Awards for their brilliant work in film in television. deadCenter will host a conversation about their careers as part of the deadCenter panel series on Thursday, June 12, at 3:30pm. McFarland, from Edmond, has balanced success in Hollywood, earning roles in The Conjuring, Lie to Me, and Sons of Anarchy, with starring roles in Oklahoma productions, including Agnes, Out of Exile, and Anywhere, which screens at deadCenter this year.
Adam Hampton has succeeded as screenwriter (winning a million-dollar contest and writing a movie for Mel Gibson), director (winning multiple Emmy’s for directing the Play It Loud series) and actor (starring in three films at deadCenter this year). He is a film journeyman from Dale, Oklahoma, who has inspired the entire Oklahoma film community through his steady
rise to success on his own terms.
Flaming Lips Film. Mayor David Holt and rockstar Wayne Coyne will host a FREE outdoor screening of UFOs at the Zoo on Sunday, June 15, 8:00pm, at Heartwood Park at The OAK. UFOs at the Zoo is a high energy concert film of The Flaming Lips 2006 concert at the Zoo Amphitheater, codirected by Wayne Coyne, Bradley Beesley (Okie Noodling) and George Salisbury Mayor Holt is being honored with the Community ICON Award and Coyne is being honored with an Oklahoma Film ICON Award for their impact on the festival and the film industry in Oklahoma. The official after party for the film will be at Angles Nightclub just down the street at 39th and Penn. Free Film Panels. If you are interested in learning more about writing, acting, producing, directing, editing, sound mixing, funding, or distributing movies, be sure to check out the deadCenter panel series at Oklahoma Contemporary. All the panels are free and open to the public. They will take place on Thursday, June 12, from 11:00am to 5:00pm, and on Friday, June 13, from 11:00am to 6:30pm inside the Te Ata Theater on the third floor at Oklahoma Contemporary. The list of speakers is available on the festival schedule at deadcenterfilm.org. See you at deadCenter!
OKC Zoo’s Read for Adventure Library Program
The program spreads an important conservation message and brings families to the OKC Zoo for free!
The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden’s statewide literacy and conservation program, Read for Adventure, is returning for its ninth year of inspiring a love of reading and nature in young Oklahomans.
“Through the life of the program, Read for Adventure has brought more than 70,000 Oklahomans to the OKC Zoo with free general admission vouchers,” said Dwight Lawson, OKC Zoo’s executive director and CEO. “It’s also an important part of our mission to inspire conser-
vation action, because kids and their families get to enjoy a wonderful book about bettering the world, with a message that resonates with all of us.”
Library members who check out and read Juniper’s Butterfly Garden— A Small Start for a Better World from one of the more than 200 participating Oklahoma public or tribal library locations will receive a voucher redeemable for free general admission to the OKC Zoo for up to four people when they return the book.
Juniper’s Butterfly Garden was written by Oklahoma City resident Autumn Heigle, who previously worked as the OKC Zoo’s creative
services manager. Heigle said she was inspired by the Zoo’s commitment to monarch conservation when writing the story about a child’s passion and determination to help butterflies by creating a pollinator habitat. Readers will find resources in the back of the book about planting a garden for monarchs and other pollinators along their migratory path through Oklahoma.
The monarch butterfly population has declined by 90 percent in the last 30 years because of habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. Generations of migrating monarchs travel through Oklahoma in the spring and fall. Their lengthy journey is made
easier when people plant pollinator gardens where the butterflies can rest, eat, and lay eggs. Discover the OKC Zoo’s pollinator activities and learn more about how to help monarchs and other pollinators at okczoo.org/pollinator-activities
The new Read for Adventure season begins Monday, June 2. Read for Adventure Zoo admission vouchers are valid through June 30, 2026 and can be redeemed at the Zoo’s ticket windows. For additional details about Read for Adventure including a downloadable coloring page and list of participating libraries, visit okczoo.org/READFORADVEN TURE
OPINION OPINION
“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.
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Our founder, J. Leland Gourley, was a cheerleader. From our very first publication of OKC FRIDAY in 1974 Mr. Gourley cheered for the city he loved. That’s why we’re still cheering for Oklahoma City, because Mr. Gourley loved it and so do we.
We can’t help but be excited for our hometown right now. For weeks now the NBA Western Conference championship games on ESPN and ABC have broadcast thrilling Thunder basketball, the league’s MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and
stunning images of our Capitol City to viewers throughout the nation and globe.
And just as the Oklahoma City Thunder has reached the NBA Finals series, the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park in OKC’s Adventure District joins in the mix to welcome the best collegiate softball teams in America to town for the 35th year. Devon Park has a capacity of 13,000 which makes it the largest softball venue in the world. It has hosted the Women’s College World Series since 1990, except for one year in Athens, Georgia, during the 1995 Atlanta Summer
Games. Now Oklahoma City is to be the home of Olympic softball during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. We’ve come a long way.
These amazing women athletes have been hitting home runs to sold out stadiums of softball fans and millions of TV viewers as they duke it out for NCAA softball champi-
onship title.
All the while showcasing Oklahoma City to millions of television viewers. How awesome is that!
Our mayor, David Holt, is also a huge cheerleader and obviously loves our Hometown as much as we do. If you don’t already follow him on Facebook, we suggest you do.
Dear Wise Elder: After a difficult diagnosis, my friend said to me, “I should be able to die like I want to, shouldn’t I?” So when is hospice appropriate?
Dear Friend: Yes, you should be able to die with those you love around you and in the setting where you feel at peace. Hospice is available at least six months in advance. Hospice should be considered when the patient and caregiver are tired of multiple trips to the ER. Hospice should be con -
“When I’m talking to someone outside OKC, I invariably ask if they have been to OKC,” he recently posted. “Even if they have, if they haven’t been in the last decade, I might observe that they really haven’t been to OKC. The list of attractions that have opened in the last 15 years is very long. Even our skyline is dramati-
sidered when pain is out of control because no one is better at pain management than a hospice team. Hospice should be considered when families need support with equipment, supplies and the cost. Hospice is fully covered by insurances. Hospice means the focus is on quality of the life that remains rather than on a frantic and often desperate search for a cure.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, www.VillagesOKC.org (405) 990-6637
cally different.
“And just looking at this image from last night’s ESPN/ABC broadcast of the Western Conference Finals, I was struck by how virtually everything in the image did not exist when we hosted the NBA Finals in 2012,” he continued. “However long this journey lasts, we are very excited to welcome the eyes of the world once again to OKC. We have a lot to catch you up on.” Oklahoma City is a great American city. It’s now the nation’s 20th largest and continues a steady, healthy growth pattern other cities can only dream of. We’re proud of Oklahoma City, our cheerleader Mayor, and the sporting events that make our growing city a great place to live.
Mr. Gourley would be so proud. Let’s go THUNDER!
OKC Mayor David Holt recently posted this image of downtown OKC on his Facebook Page. Our skyline has significantly changed in 13 years.
July, 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.
/s/illegible signature (SEAL) CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 6, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-1293
In the Matter of the Application ) of Christopher McKinnis ) as next of friend of (child) ) Saige Lorrell McKinnis ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Christopher McKinnis, as next of friend of Saige Lorrell McKinnis has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit: From (a) Saige Lorrell McKinnis to (b) Cyrus Lorrell McKinnis; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Mai of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 23 day of July, 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/Bryan Glenn Deputy (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 6, 2025) DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-1292
IN RE: The Name of: ) Allyson Hunter Wilt ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Allyson Hunter Wilt has petitioned to change his/her name to Allyra Hunter McKinnis. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 10 day of July, 2025, before Judge Ogden 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.
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, May 30, 2025; Friday, June 6, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA COUNTY, STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No.: PB-2025-554
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ) )
JOHN CHARLES MANNAHAN, Deceased. )
COMBINED NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE OF HEARING
TO: All persons interested in the Estate of JOHN CHARLES MANNAHAN, Deceased:
You are hereby notified that on the 2nd day of May, 2025, the Petitioner, HARRIS
BENNETT MANNAHAN (the “Petitioner”), whose address is 100 Tolomato Trace, St. Simons Island, GA 31522, filed in the District Court of Oklahoma County, a Petition for Summary Administration, Appointment of Special Administrator and Admission of Last Will and Testament to Probate (the “Petition”).
The Petitioner has alleged that JOHN CHARLES MANNAHAN, died on July 2, 2021, domiciled in and residing at 1700 Yosemite Place, Edmond, Oklahoma 73003 and that the total value of the Decedent’s property in Oklahoma is Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00) or less. Attached to the Petition is a copy of the Last Will and Testament of the Decedent dated May 20, 2014. The Petitioner has asked that this Court admit the will to probate and order summary proceedings pursuant to 58 O.S. § 245, et seq.
In an Order for Combined Notice entered herein, the Court found that it should dispense with the regular estate proceedings prescribed by law and order notice to creditors and issue an order for hearing upon the Petition, the final accounting and petition for determination of heirs, legatees and devisees and distribution.
Pursuant to the Order for Combined Notice, all creditors having claims against JOHN CHARLES MANNAHAN, Deceased are required to present same, with a description of all security interest and other collateral, if any, held by each creditor with respect to such claim, to the Petitioner, HARRIS BENNETT MANNAHAN, C/O his attorney, Lorenzo T. Collins, P.O. Box 1781 Ardmore, OK 73402, on or before the 21st day of June, 2025, or the same will be forever barred.
Notice is hereby given that a hearing will be held on the 24th day of July, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at the Oklahoma County Courthouse, 320 S. Robert S. Kerr Ave., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, before Judge Michelle Harrington. At the hearing the Court will decide whether to approve the Petition and the final account and petition for determination of heirs, legatees and devisees and distribution of the Petitioner. The final account and petition for determination of heirs, legatees and devisees and distribution will be filed herein on or before the 20th day of June, 2025.
You are hereby advised that you must file objections to the Petition and the final account and petition for determination of heirs, legatees and devisees and distribution at least ten (10) days before the hearing and send a copy to the Petitioner’s attorney at the address set forth above, or you will be deemed to have waived any objections. If you have no objections, you need not appear at the hearing or make any filings with the Court.
If an objection is filed at least ten (10) days before the hearing, the Court will determine at the hearing whether the Will attached to the Petition shall be admitted to probate, whether summary proceedings are appropriate and, if so, whether the estate will be distributed and to whom the estate will be distributed. DATED the 27th day of May, 2025.
LORENZO T. COLLINS, P.C. By: /s/Lorenzo T. Collins LORENZO T. COLLINS OBA#1808 16 Stanley, S.W. P. O. Box 1781 Ardmore, OK 73402-1781 (580) 223-8350 Attorney for Petitioner
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/Bryan Glenn Deputy (SEAL) LPXLP
Name ChaNge
Email updates for the birthday list to rose@okcfriday.com.
FESTIVAL
From Page 1
du Temi Giacomo Puccini”
Béla Bartók, “Three Folk Songs from the County Csik”
Béla Bartók, “Romanian Folk Dances”
• Concert No. 2, 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 17
Antonín Dvořák, “Slavonic Dances, Op. 46, “(for piano four hands)
Franz Krommer, “Quartet in B-flat
Major, Op. 83” (for clarinet, violin, viola and cello)
Ernő Dohnányi, “Sextet, Op. 37” (for violin, viola, cello, clarinet, horn and piano)
• Concert No. 3, 7:30
p.m., Thursday, June 19
The Mae Ruth Swanson Memorial Concert
Vítěslava Kaprálová, “Ritornello” (for cello and piano)
Antonín Dvořák, “Silent Woods and Rondo” (for cello and piano)
Béla Bartók, “Contrasts” (for violin, clarinet and piano)
Zdeněk Fibich, Quintet in D Major, Op. 42 (for clarinet, horn, violin, cello, and piano)
• Concert No. 4, 7:30 p.m., Friday, June 20
Gustav Mahler, Quartet for Piano and Strings in A Minor
Josef Suk, Quartet for Piano and Strings in A Minor, Op. 1
Antonín Dvořák, Quartet for Piano and Strings in E-flat Major, Op. 87
Musicians: Elissa Cassini (violin); Chad Burrow (clarinet); Kate Pritchett (horn); Marat Gabdullin and Katrin Stamatis (violins); Shahong “Betty” Yuan and Samuel Formicola (violas); Kevin Flynn and Emily Stoops (cellos); and Amy I-Lin Cheng, Sallie Pollack and Hyunsoon Whang (pianos).
More information on the composers and musicians can be found at brightmusic.org/concert/2025-summer-festival-hungarian-andbohemian-rhapsody.
Tickets for each concert are $20 and free for students and activeduty military with ID.
Festival passes are available for $50 (a savings of $30 off all four concerts). Tickets can also be purchased online: www.brightmusic.org/ tickets
First Baptist Church is located at 1201 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73103. Free parking is available north and southwest of the building. Handicap access is available through the door under the awning on the south side of the building. The elevator is just inside around the corner to the left. Go up one level to the sanctuary. The Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble is Oklahoma City’s foremost presenter of classical chamber music. For more information, visit us at brightmusic.org
Our three students named to President’s List
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) congratulates the following students on being named to the Spring 2025 President's List:
Katherine Covington, Austin Droit and Laquinasey Knight of Oklahoma City, all of Fridayland
The spring terms run from January to May.
Full-time undergraduate
students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.700 and above for the reporting term are named to the President's List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/spring, and summer.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a pri -
vate, nonprofit, accredited institution with a 92-year history of educating traditionalaged students and working adults. Now serving more than 200,000 learners worldwide, SNHU offers approximately 200 undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs, available online and on its 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH.
Angels and Friends
At right: The 59th Annual Festival of the Arts Co-Chairmen Meg Salyer at the Angels and Friends party at Bicentennial Park. The Arts Council OKC event offers attendees early access to the Festival of the Arts the evening before it opens. The Festival of the Arts is a community celebration of the visual and performing arts, bringing a variety of talented artists together in downtown OKC’s Bicentennial Park. The Festival has been an OKC tradition since 1967, considered a rite of spring and ACOKC’s signature event.
‘Drill Baby Drill’
Billie Joe Johnston, front, painted this picture of the oil well. She was inspired to do this after Trump took office and said “Drill Baby Drill.” She sent it to President Trump. In the picture with her are her daughter Pamela Bagley with the glasses on and Betty Catching.
Above, from left: Kathleen Lienke, Jean Hendrickson, Walt Hendrickson, Susan Gabbard, Kori Parker and Keith Parker. At left: Lean Roper, Janelle Archer and Mason Maidt.
- Photos by Rose Lane
Above, from left: David and Brittany Gaskill, Stay Schuch and Cait Graham. At right: Farooq Karim and Blossom Crews.
