OKC Friday
People You Should Know
What’s the one thing you are deeply passionate about?
My faith. Jesus died on a cross to pay for my sins, so that I can have eternal life with the Creator of the universe!
What does a perfect day look like?
A perfect day is one that I get to spend with my family, sharing life.
How do you define success differently today than when you were younger?
When I was a young man, I was driven by the pursuit of money. Because I came from absolute poverty, I mistakenly thought that “if I only had more money …” Now I know that the success will be measured in my legacy of how I affected the lives of those in my circle.
What do you enjoy most about being an entrepreneur?
I really enjoy planning for a successful enterprise, committing to that plan, learning from my failures, and then ultimately seeing the benefit of attaining the goals and objectives.
See PYSK, Page 3
(405) 606-2727
Village voters to decide term, pay for council
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
A proposal to change the terms of office for the five members of The Village City Council is set to go before voters during an Aug. 25 Special Election.
The ballot also includes a proposal to raise monthly compensation for City Council members from $25 to $100.
The charter revisions have been a two-year process as the city has identified 26 updates, primarily driven by changes from 1959 to 2026. The city charter updates are a first for the city and require a vote of the people.
Governor Anoatubby to retire
By Rose Lane Editor
Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby announced his retirement following nearly 40 years as Governor of the Chickasaw Nation and more than 50 years serving the tribe.
A champion of many Oklahoma City organizations, Governor Anoatubby has been honored with many awards, including Upward Transitions’ 2025 centennial Inspiring Hope Award and the Last Frontier Council of Scouting’s E.C. Joullian Distinguished Citizen Award, among others. He was also named OKC FRIDAY’s Most Powerful Oklahoman numerous years, as well as the newspaper’s OKCityan of the Year in 2024.
Voters are to decide the fate of 11 city charter amendments, along with questions to
approve a lodging tax and a franchise renewal with OG&E for electric services.
The city plans to place an additional 11 city charter update questions before voters
See VILLAGE, Page 7
Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby and Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby.
“After much thought and prayer, it is time to transition to the next generation of capable Chickasaw leaders,” Governor Anoatubby said. “Serving the Chickasaw people has been one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. I am deeply grateful for the trust and support our citizens have placed in our administration as we worked to strengthen opportunities and enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people.
“Together, we have accomplished much. Those achievements happened through the dedication
FRIDAY’s
Trained by her dad, Travis Brorsen, Clara Brorsen, the 9-month-old Goldendoodle, is ready to steal hearts as she makes her stage debut this month as Sandy in Lyric Theatre’s “Annie.” Email Pet of the Week submissions to rose@okcfriday.com.
of our citizens and the valued partnerships we have built with local businesses and with state, federal and fellow tribal governments.”
Governor Anoatubby began his career at the Chickasaw Nation in 1975 as health services director and quickly advanced. In 1979, he was elected as the first Lt. Governor of the Chickasaw Nation and was elected to his first term as Governor in 1987.
See ANOATUBBY, Page 10
OKC FRIDAY brought home two first place awards, three second place certificates and three third places at last weekend’s Oklahoma Press Association Convention.
First place plaques were presented to the newspaper in Digital Media and Sales Promotions.
Advertising, feature story and front place design produced three second-place honors.
And in third place, OKC FRIDAY won in the Layout & Design, Sports Coverage and Front Page Design categories. The publication was second overall for the Sequoyah Award in its weekly newspaper division.
TIM LEWIS Co-Founder, Owner Lewis Jewelers
An Ode to “Lulu”: A nephew remembers his aunt, Kathy Walker
By Grayson P. Walker
My Aunt Kathy has died. She was 79. Affectionately known by my cousins’ kids as “Lulu,” I knew Katherine Wal-
bert Walker only as “Aunt Kathy.” Although we only saw each other a few times a year, I can’t remember a time I didn’t know and love Kathy.
As her Smith & Kernke obituary makes clear, Kathy Walker lived an extraordinary life of “purpose, grace, and generosity.” She received many accolades and held elected public office. Anchored by her Christian faith and commitment to her local church, she was also a lifelong volunteer, community servant, and leader.
She was a devoted wife to my Uncle Russ, and a celebrated mother to my cousins Katherine, Lizzy, Rosie, and Russell. Each of the kids eulogized her beautifully at the funeral service celebrating her life.
As her nephew of nearly forty years, I will not remember Kathy because of the roles that led to the awards or the appellation “Madam Mayor.” Rather, I will remember Kathy because she excelled in those roles that allowed her to be with the family and friends she cherished so deeply, namely: hostess and gatherer.
My mother and father (who is Kathy’s husband’s brother) divorced more than thirty years ago. In the wake of the divorce, I suppose I wouldn’t have faulted Kathy if she had opted to keep us on the outside looking in, opting for a kind of familial “social distancing” long before it became part of our
common parlance on account of COVID-19. But she never did. Despite my parents’ divorce, for more than forty years we were always welcome at Kathy’s place—my mother and my father, my brother and my sister, and, of course, me.
Kathy’s hospitality grew as our families did. In 2015, I got hitched to Abby. Abby hails from south of the Red River and earned her undergraduate degree in Austin, from the School That Shall Not Be Named. But not even a proud Longhorn could deter Kathy.
No, Aunt Kathy lovingly welcomed Abby into the fold right from the get-go. Abby and I never talked about it, but I know Kathy’s kindness and warmth meant something to her. Upon learning of Kathy’s death, Abby immediately texted the family: “I am so sad to hear this. Kathy was always so kind to me, she will be missed!” For this Sooner Born and Bred family of ours, Kathy’s willing embrace of Abby was as compelling an argument for the existence of God as Anselm’s is in the Proslogion.
Starting seven years ago, Abby and I poisoned the bloodline with offspring born of the womb of a Texas Ex, and we’ve spawned several additional little Bevo fans since then. Not even that altered Kathy’s disposition toward us, and she graciously threw— and hosted—a baby shower for our firstborn, and she remained interested in all our children’s lives. If that doesn’t epitomize true love, nothing does.
But it wasn’t just a family thing. Over the years, the Walkers often dined with Mère (Kathy’s mother), Cousin Tom, Nat, Marilyn Meade, and Dee Colley. The Conroys and Buxtons and Berklacys always had seats and placards, assuming they were in town. Various members of the Bob and Nancy Anthony family were wont to join us, and I have faint memories of oc-
terfamilias, first by Barth (my grandfather), then by Russ—worthy of collection and publication in a volume all their own. All this and more. These are things I won’t soon forget.
casional sightings of the Schonwalds, the Sullivans, and the Weirs. There were countless others. One time Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman even stopped by. (For Parks and Recreation fans: No, Mr. Offerman didn’t demand all the bacon and eggs Kathy had, but I digress.)
Whether for Thanksgiving dinner, Easter brunch (epic Easter egg hunts included!), or assorted special events, truly all were welcome at Russ and Kathy’s. Always on account of Kathy’s gracious, and nearly always late, invitation. Kathy really was the most gracious host, an exemplar of hospitality on the order of Abraham. Genesis 18 recounts Abraham’s encounter with three strangers. After making sense of their approach, Abraham immediately rushes to welcome them, offering rest, refreshment, and a feast. The lesson, as my pastor has described it, is that guests, especially unexpected ones, are not merely folks to accommodate but gifts to treasure and receive. Abraham treated hospitality not as a chore but as a privilege and joy. Kathy did too.
At Kathy’s place, meals were often served on fine China on top of crisp ivory tablecloths, and they were accompanied by gleaming flatware (including the tiniest little condiment spoons!) and lavish table settings. At Kathy’s place, Thanksgiving football games were caught by dipole antenna (into the early aughts, mind you). At Kathy’s place, guests tended to dress to the nines (apart from my father). Spring and summer called for bright pastels and seersucker, cashmere and khaki if the leaves or snow had already fallen. At Kathy’s place, craft beer and homemade cocktails were served in slightly frosted KAΘ-stamped glasses, a beverage napkin always clinging to the condensation. At Kathy’s place, we heard holiday prayers—always delivered by the pa-
Even after Kathy and Russ moved into a condominium following the sale of the Hillcrest house they called home for more than 50 years, we continued to find ourselves at “Kathy’s place.” Just this spring Kathy hosted a reception at The Commons #1 for no reason other than to “give us all a chance to visit with family and remember” Barbara, Russ’ cousin’s late wife, whom the extended family laid to rest on a windy day last March. Of course, things weren’t perfect— even at Kathy’s place.
Very often there was heated political debate, sibling rivalries, and overindulgence of all kinds. Meals were rarely served on time, and they often featured gourmet items my ten-year-old self could have done without. (I have vivid memories of being particularly terrified of one Thanksgiving’s chilled butternut squash soup.)
Over the decades there was also an overcooked turkey or two, one of which my Uncle Russ audibly described as “tougher than an old boot” as he tried, but totally failed, to delicately carve it. But who cares. Imperfection is part and parcel of our lot till the Lord calls us home. Besides, it’s always the imperfections that make for the best stories, isn’t it?
My Uncle Russ, my cousins, and our extended family are still grieving. But what a joy it is to know that after nearly 80 years of life — vivid life — marked out by marriage, parenting and grandparenting, friendship, worship, service, and yes, much hostessing, “Lulu,” my hospitable Aunt Kathy, has been called home. In the Lord’s providence, I trust her happiest moments in this life — gathered around a table with family and friends— will come to fruition again in the next. She’ll have to wait for now, but one day soon she’s going to be welcomed bodily into her eternal home. Then and there, she’ll be seated at Someone else’s table and invited to feast on a meal prepared not by her, but for her. Rest easy, Aunt Kathy. We’ll all sup together again soon.
Grayson P. Walker is an attorney, former chief of staff to Governor J. Kevin Stitt, and a Ruling Elder in the Presbyterian Church in America. He and his wife, Abby, along with their four daughters, live in Oklahoma City and belong to King’s Cross Church.
The late Katherine Walbert Walker with a great niece.
For 50 years, Lewis Jewelers has helped people celebrate
Lewis Jewelers is celebrating 50 years of being in business this year and has been helping Oklahomans celebrate life's most treasured moments.
From engagement rings and wedding bands to custom-designed heirlooms, the family-owned company has built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and service. But the story of Lewis Jewelers is about much more than jewelry — it is a story of perseverance, entrepreneurship and the enduring values that have shaped one Oklahoma family for generations.
The story begins long before the first jewelry store opened its doors.
Co-Founder, Tim Lewis, and his brother Glenn grew up in a family where hard work was not optional — it was a way of life. His father, John Lewis, overcame tremendous hardship as a young man, leaving home at the age of 12 to work on a dairy farm because his family could not afford to feed him.
Through determination and perseverance, John, who was 18-years-old at the time, married his sweetheart, Ruth, who was 14, and began to build a better life for their family, while instilling in their sons the values of hard work, personal responsibility, and entrepreneurship.
"Both of our parents had incredible work ethics," said Lewis. "My brother Glenn and I learned early that if you wanted something,
PYSK
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you worked for it.
“Our family was extremely poor and had outdoor plumbing when I was a child. My dad built us a 900-squarefoot home east of Moore after he got a job at Tinker Air Force Base. I remember being so excited that I didn’t have to leave the house to use the bathroom anymore!,” he said.
That entrepreneurial spirit surfaced early. As a young boy, Tim planted and sold tomatoes from his mother's beauty shop, earning his first business profits.
Later, he and his brother operated a successful hay-hauling business while helping their father on the family farm.
During those years, a fascination with gemstones and jewelry making began to emerge, setting the stage for a future neither brother could have imagined.
“I aspired to be a coach growing up because my school and summer league coaches always had a positive influence on me. Little did I know where God’s favor would take me,” Lewis said.
An uncle introduced the brothers to lapidary — the art of cutting and polishing gemstones — which quickly evolved into an interest in jewelry making. Glenn became an apprentice bench jeweler at age 16, while Tim took a parttime job selling jew-
How important is a formal education for young people?
I think a formal education is extremely important for most young people. However, there are probably far more very successful entrepreneurs that never had a formal education and simply learned from the University of Hard Knocks.
What’s number one on your bucket list?
Travel with my wife Julie and enjoy my golden years. Who do you consider one of your most important mentors?
I had several. Two that come to mind are Denver Mills and Marvin Hambrick. I’m grateful for the way they poured into me and the wisdom I received from them.
What philanthropic activities are you involved in and why?
My wife and I support several Christian missionaries. The great commission is to “Go.”
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Do the best job you can
elry behind the counter of a local jewelry store.
Using money they earned hauling hay, the brothers purchased tools and equipment and began making jewelry of their own, selling pieces through their mother's beauty shop. Before long, they realized jewelry offered a future far beyond summer farm work.
In 1976, while both attending the University of Oklahoma, the Lewis brothers opened their first jewelry store. What began as a way to pay for college quickly evolved into a thriving business. Within just three years, annual sales exceeded $1 million, and the brothers realized they had discovered more than a side business — they had found their calling.
Like many Oklahoma businesses, Lewis Jewelers faced significant challenges along the way. The oil bust of the mid1980s brought economic uncertainty throughout the state and tested the company's resilience.
Rather than retreat, Tim and Glenn adapted. They expanded into wholesale manufacturing and developed innovative products, including the Coin Class Ring, eventually supplying jewelry to retailers across thirteen states.
Their willingness
with the greatest integrity for your customer and you will never be out of work.
Do you have a favorite Bible verse?
Proverbs 22:1 — A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver and gold. What is your favorite food?
Italian
Growing up, what did you aspire to become?
A coach. Little did I know where God’s favor would take me!
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Hunting for arrowheads with my uncle and my brother, usually with great success. Did you have any sports heroes when you were growing up? Why was he/she your hero?
Playing baseball was a passion of mine growing up, and Johnny Bench was one of my childhood heroes. He worked hard, won a World Series MVP award, became the greatest major league catcher of all time and always spoke highly of his Oklahoma roots. He grew up in Binger, Okla., and was also the valedictorian of his
to reinvent themselves became one of the defining characteristics of the company.
As the company continued to expand, Lewis Jewelers moved to larger locations to accommodate growing demand. The company built its flagship store in 2009 in Moore, the hometown of both brothers.
The new location provided room to grow while serving a loyal customer base that stretched south from Moore to Norman and north to Oklahoma City and Edmond. The move proved transformative, and the business flourished once again. The company has built deep loyalties in Oklahoma City and statewide.
Just four years later, disaster struck. The devastating 2013 Moore tornado destroyed the company's manufacturing facility, along with decades of equipment, molds, and tooling. Instead of viewing the tragedy as a setback, Lewis Jewelers embraced innovation.
The company invested in cuttingedge CAD/CAM technology, 3D printing and inhouse casting capabilities, becoming one of the early retail jewelers in the nation to offer advanced custom jewelry design and manufacturing.
That commitment to excellence led to national recognition. Lewis Jewelers was selected as a retail partner for De Beers Forevermark Diamonds, representing some of the finest natural diamonds in the world. The com-
high school. The other was Roger Staubach. Roger Staubach was known for his integrity, work ethic, amazing athleticism, and leadership. He won the Heisman Trophy while playing for Navy after first fulfilling his military commitment to serve our country.
Where is your vacation spot?
The White River in Arkansas. What question have I not asked you that you would like others to know?
Other than my faith and family, what is most important to me? My customers’ trust and satisfaction have always been our focus at Lewis Jewelers. The most rewarding thing about being a family-owned jewelry business is knowing we are involved in some of the most important expressions of love people make toward others in their lives. We feel blessed and grateful for the opportunity to serve others. What would you like people to remember about you?
I hope to be remembered as a man who never compromised his integrity.
pany went on to become the number one single-location Forevermark retailer in North America for three consecutive years.
Multiple Lewis Jewelers team members were also recognized among the top diamond sales professionals on the continent, reflecting the expertise and dedication that have become hallmarks of the company.
Today, Lewis Jewelers remains committed to providing exceptional service, custom craftsmanship, and meaningful experiences for customers celebrating life's most important milestones. Whether helping a young couple select an engagement ring, redesigning a treasured family heirloom, or creating a one-of-akind custom piece, the company continues to honor the
values on which it was founded.
“We remain grateful for our customers,” Tim Lewis said. ”The best advice I ever received was, do the best job you can with the greatest integrity for your customer, and you will never be out of work.”
The company remains rooted in the same principles that guided its founders from the beginning as they celebrate their 50th anniversary: hard work, integrity, innovation, and a commitment to treating every customer like family. What started as a small venture between two brothers with humble beginnings has become one of Oklahoma's most respected jewelry destinations — a legacy built one relationship, one celebration and one generation at a time.
Sports Weekly
Hefner club house getting rave reviews
By Jason Jewell Sports Editor
Having been open for just over two months, the new club house at Lake Hefner golf course brought new life and fostered a new attitude among patrons and staff members.
“It has been wonderful,” said club pro Brad Sliauter. “It has definitely increased the volume of traffic and brought a bunch of new features.”
The facility brought a sense of
camaraderie among the employees.
“There has been an upswing in everyone’s attitude,” Sliauter said. “It’s been a blessing. Things aren’t falling apart. Many of the stresses of the older facility are gone but we’ve also added some newer systems and procedures.
“The newness and cleanliness (of the new club house) has made everything 10 times better,” the pro added.
The addition of a new club house also
OKC 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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helped continue a resurgence of golf at Lake Hefner and around the metro area. Courses throughout the United Stats trace an increase in yearly golf rounds since the COVID pandemic.
Lake Hefner has reported record numbers in rounds played and overall revenue.
“We’ve exceeded last year’s numbers by significant margins,” Sliauter told FRIDAY. “The course is in as good a shape as it’s ever been.”
All five OKC public courses – comprising Lake Hefner, Lincoln Park, Earlywine in south OKC, Trosper Park in Del City and James E. Stewart just east of downtown – reported an increase of 41,000 rounds this year.
Golfers who might not have time for a full round or can’t deal with the hot summer temperatures can rent one of two simulators located on the second floor next to the restaurant.
Simulators rent
for $20 per half-hour and $40 per hour and feature a more traditional drivingrange program or play holes at the top courses from around the world.
In addition, the new club house helped establish a new presence for Lake Hefner in the community.
“We’ve been able to create a brand outside of the golf course,” the pro said. “It’s been challenging and exciting.”
The course continued and expanded its restaurant and other food services.
The restaurant offers a full breakfast and lunch menu, with dinner being added this month on Friday and Saturday nights. An outdoor patio, serving 24 people, adds striking views of the course and the lake beyond.
“The views are outstanding,” Sliauter said. “You can look out over the lake.”
A second phase of the club house features a new cart barn, banquet hall with seating up to 250 people, a covered hitting range on the east side of the course, along with a lighted hitting range.
Officials hope to begin working on plans for the cart barn and banquet hall by next summer, while construction on the hitting range could begin in the next year.
Club house staff members, from left, Connor Boyd, Lucas Shirkey and Darren Watts, who has been working at the golf course for 18 years.
- Photos by Jason Jewell
Golfers at Lake Hefner can rent a golf simulator, above, or take a turn on
greens
areas, right.
All-City Teams
Fridaylanders dominate 1st teams in tennis, soccer
Editors Note: This is the first in a series of stories highlighting Fridayland athletes on AllCity teams.
• •
•
Nearly two dozen Fridayland athletes earned spots on The Oklahoman’s All-City first teams for the spring season, including tennis, soccer, track, baseball and golf.
TENNIS
Eight different Fridaylanders picked up spots on the All-City tennis first team, highlighted by two Player of the Year finalists and a pair of Coaches of the Year.
McGuinness senior T.J. Shanahan was named a Player of the Year finalist, after finishing runner-up in Class 6A No. 1 singles.
The state’s top ranked tennis player captured two consecutive 5A state titles, while going 32-2 this season to cap off a four-year dominant career at McGuinness.
Casady’s Larissa Goodman garnered a nod as another Player of the Year finalist. The freshman defeated Heritage Hall's Ella
Jacob 6-0, 6-2 to win a 5A singles state championship in her first ever state appearance. Multiple state champions Gray Dillon and Sumner Shapard from Crossings Christian earned spots on the first team. The duo helped the Knights collected their fourth straight state title after beating Carl Albert's Carter Reese and Kyle Sparks 6-0, 6-4 for the No. 1 doubles individual title.
Heritage Hall’s Tokara Henderson and Leila Williams beat Tulsa Booker T. Washington's Hannah Barki and Maya Barki 6-3, 6-1 for the No. 1 doubles title and finished the season 25-1. Their win helped propel the Chargers to their second straight title.
Heritage Hall’s Ella Jacob and Crossings Christian’s Macy Hays rounded out the first-team honorees.
Jacob, a freshman, competed all the way to the No. 1 singles state title match, as did Hays who grabbed a runner-up in No. 1 singles as a sophomore.
A pair of Fridayland coaches, Jamie Wheat
from Crossings Christian and Jenny Ferguson from Heritage Hall received Coach of the Year honors.
Wheat led the Knights to the program's fourth straight team state title after finishing with 31 points, while Ferguson guided the Chargers to the program's second straight team state title and marked its 25th in program history dating back to 1980.
Four other Crossings Christian players made the second team, including Campbell Cryer, John Paul Dillon, Joel Lauw and Kate Lovelace.
Honorable mention selections included: Casady – Lila Garabelli, Parker Johnstone, Jonah Landis, Ruby Ridley, Hayden Shriner, Harper Sill, Bailey Washburn; Crossings Christian – Nina Asagun, Ben Baker, Riley DeMunbrun, Ben Baker, Lauren Henglein; Heritage Hall – Max Blasdel, Hattie Bradford, Camryn Cunningham, Ellie Nasr, Braver Reineke, Charlie Zeiders; McGuinness Carl Amaya, Noah Dell'Osso, Braley Griffith, Harry Loeffler, Kate
Program offers free play for young golfers at city courses
Oklahoma City
Parks & Recreation and Youth on Course have partnered to increase affordable golf access for young players at the city’s five municipal golf courses. Through this partnership, Youth on Course members can play for free at Oklahoma City municipal courses anytime Monday through Thursday and after noon on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Memberships are $40 per
year for people 18 and younger and can be purchased at youthoncourse.org/join, with discounted memberships available for those in need. Golf cart rentals are not included. Golf rounds can be scheduled online at okcgolf.com or by calling individual courses. This collaboration highlights the role of municipal golf courses in providing equitable access to the game. With the addition
of the OKC municipal courses, Youth on Course members now have access to courses throughout Oklahoma, furthering efforts to make the game more accessible and inclusive. Youth on Course is a nonprofit dedicated to providing young people with life-changing opportunities through golf by offering rounds for $5 or less at thousands of courses across the U.S., Canada and Australia.
Thomas, Ellie Warren. SOCCER
Five Fridaylanders garnered spots on the All-City soccer first team, highlighted by a quartet of state champions.
McGuinness’ Seth Lucky and Nick Pitman played key roles in helping the Irish to the 5A state championship and their first since 2007.
Lucky, a senior, scored seven goals and an assist this season, while Pitman, a junior, added eight goals and five assists.
Heritage Hall seniors Jonathan Carter and Noah Ragozzino also helped lead the Chargers to the 4A title game.
Carter, set to continue his career at Vassar College in New York, anchored a Heritage Hall defense that recorded seven shutouts.
Ragozzino, an Oklahoma City University signee, netted 17 goals and three assists in his final campaign.
Deer Creek’s Riley Ross rounded out the first-team selections. Ross scored 13 goals and 10 assists as a
sophomore, as the Antlers won the District 6A-2 title and advanced to the state quarterfinals.
Six other Fridaylanders grabbed spots on the second team, highlighted by Audrey Moncho and Elle Salami from Casady, Macy Phelps from Deer Creek, David Griffin from Heritage Hall, Molly Strope from McGuinness and Landri Ward from Mount St. Mary.
Honorable mention selections included: Casady – Nolan Geib, Suleiman Mansoor, Audrey Moncho, Seren Phillips, Frank Ross, Edie Tucker; Crossings Christian – Isaac Crocker, Rhett Featherstone, Tyson McGraw; Deer Creek – Ty Cowan, Ari Kingsberry, Ryan Mendiola; Harding Charter Prep – Evan Castellanos; Heritage Hall – James Berrong, Mia Berrong, Landon Gaske, Sloane Travis, Anna Walker, Tobi Yokohori; McGuinness Cesar Fierro, Olivia Koktavy, Robert Lehr, Louisa Nichols, James Schultz; Mount St. Mary Sydnee Allen, Lila Creel, Nayib Hauman, Soren Lawson, Pace O'Shields.
Comets open series against Sacramento this Tuesday
The Oklahoma City Comets welcome Sacramento to town this Tuesday to open a 6-game series at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. First pitch for Tuesday’s opener against the River Cats is set for 7:05 p.m., followed by a 6:05 p.m. start on Wednesday and a 12:05 p.m. start on Thursday. Weekend games on Friday and Saturday open at 7:05 p.m., with a 6:05 p.m. start on Sunday.
Promotions for the series include $2 Tuesday, featur-
ing $2 for Miller, Coors and all Pepsi products.
On Friday, fans can enjoy a post-game fireworks show followed by Video Game Night on Saturday and Family Sunday.
Family Sunday features player autographs on the concourse before game time and kids run the bases after the game. Single-game tickets start at $9 and are available at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark box office and online at okccomets.com.
THEATRE
July 1026 • Sordid Lives
A black comedy about white trash! The author brings you a comedy that was nominated for over 30 awards during its long run in LA. When Peggy, a good Christian woman, hits her head on the sink and bleeds to death after tripping over her lover’s wooden legs in a motel room, chaos erupts in Winters, Texas. Showing at Carpenter Square Theatre, 1109 W. Reno, carpentersquare.com
Aug. 2530 • The Outsiders
Adapted from S.E. HINTON’s seminal novel and Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film OKC Broadway presents The Outsiders at the Civic Center Music Hall. Set in Tulsa, Oklahoma, 1967, Ponyboy Curtis, his best friend Johnny Cade and their Greaser family of ‘outsiders’ battle with their affluent rivals, the Socs. Eight performances of this Tony Awardwinning musical. Visit okcciviccenter.com for tickets.
FESTIVALS
June 12 • PRIDE! On the Plaza PRIDE! On the Plaza returns to bring you
Calendar / Booster
June 22 • The Great Race Car Rally
On Monday evening, June 22, the Great Race will make an exciting stop in Stockyards City. The Great Race is the nation’s premier time, speed, and endurance rally for vintage vehicles built in 1974 and earlier. This year, 130 classic cars will roll into Stockyards City, arriving one minute apart and lining Exchange Avenue in a moving display of automotive history. From brassera machines to midcentury classics, spectators will experience more than a century of motoring heritage up close. This event is free and familyfriendly and begins at 4:30 pm.
one of the fiercest block parties of the year celebrating pride and embracing its community from 311 pm, 16th Street.
July 25 • National Day of the Cowboy Honor cowboy culture and pioneering heritage while embracing your inner cowboy/girl at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Enjoy a presentation from Cowboy Cook Kent Rolins, as well as familyfriendly activities and crafts while exploring Prosperity Junction and Liichokoshkomo’. Visit nationalcowboymuseum.org for details.
THIS WEEKEND
June 1214 • Affair of the Heart Find something you love at Oklahoma’s favorite shopping event, when Braum’s Affair of the Heart returns June 1214 at OKC State Fair
Park 9 am – 6 pm Friday/Saturday and 11 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Explore more than 275 local artists, makers, and small retailers to find everything from home goods & seasonal décor to unique crafts, Valentines gifts, tasty treats & boutique clothing. Visit okcsummeraoth.com for details.
June 13 • Oklahoma on the Move
The Harn Homestead Museum hosts Oklahoma on the Move, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a hands on look at Oklahoma’s transportation history from 10 am – 3 pm. Guests can explore a horse drawn wagon, vintage cars, Oklahoma County Mounted Patrol, modern fire truck, local vendors, food trucks as well as tour its historic buildings and hands on activities for children.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Paycom Center Events/Shows: Jason Aldean
July 24 Parker McCollum Sept. 25 Brooks & Dunn
deadCenter Weekend
This weekend is deadCenter weekend. Even if you don’t have passes, you can go see movies by buying a ticket or pass at the door at venues all over town. There are also free events, from panels to concerts to special screenings. Please visit deadcenterfilm.org for a full schedule, list of locations, film descriptions, passes, and more.
Oklahoma Contemporary is the official headquarters. That is the best place to register for a pass, buy merchandise, and attend a free panel or class in the Te Ata Theater. On Saturday night at 7:00 pm, Oklahoma Contemporary will host the awards ceremony.
Harkins Bricktown shows the most deadCenter movies. If you want to watch multiple movies or have a wide selection to pick from, that is your best option. Several short programs featuring the award-winning shorts that are vying for the Oscars will play here throughout the weekend.
First Americans Museum will offer films every day of the festival in their Five Moons Theater. Many of those films will have a Native or indigenous connection. Friday night at 5:30 pm FAM will premiere the documentary Medicine Ball, which follows Native college basketball players who uncover their university’s dark history as a former Indian boarding school. Then on Saturday, FAM will host two short film programs related to the LGBTQ+ experience: Pride & Prejudice at 6:00 pm and Queer Intentions at 8:45 pm.
On Sunday, Oklahoma Contemporary will offer three free film screenings: The Oklahoma City Thunder Films Double Feature: Baseline about the development of Thunder players Chet Holmgren Cason Wallace and Jalen Williams and The Oklahoma Standard from Isaiah Hartnestein at 12:00 pm; Music Videos including Oklahoma artists Kalyn
Fay and Stepmom at 1:30 pm; and Family Fest Shorts filled with several different styles of animation at 3:00 pm. As always, the gorgeous Noble Theater inside the Oklahoma City Museum of Art will host a great range of intense, prestigious, important films all weekend. Their Sunday line-up looks like a fascinating mini film festival of its own. A restored version of Buster Keaton’s 1926 masterpiece The General plays at 11:15 am. Patty is Such a Girly Name, a Greek film from writer/director Giorgos Georgopoulos about a teenage judo athlete whose life is transformed when she moves to Athens to pursue her Olympic dreams, screens at 2:00 pm. And What Will I Become?, a documentary from multimedia artist and author Lexi Bean about the trans community navigating mental health rounds out the set at 5:00 pm.
Also on Sunday, Rodeo Cinema in the Stockyards will host two Best of Fest screenings and a Flashback of a deadCenter classic. The award-winning shorts will screen at 12:00 pm and the feature will screen at 12:30 pm. Sunday at 3:45 pm, Rodeo Cinema will welcome back deadCenter favorite, writer and director Jacob Burns. Burns will host a 10th anniversary screening of his Best Oklahoma Film winning, science fiction classic Electric Nostalgia. He will be joined by his dynamite filmmaking partners at Planet Thunder Productions, Zachary Burns and Vinnie Hogan. Those three were part of the wildly talented group of filmmakers who helped launch Oklahoma City University’s film program under the director of founder Fritz Kiersch
Go check out a screening or spend the day watching fascinating films at the 26th annual deadCenter film festival. This weekend only in glorious downtown OKC.
OKC Zoo’s Read for Adventure library program fosters literacy
Read for Adventure highlights 28 new wildlife books for young readers and free OKC Zoo tickets!
Read for Adventure is a literacy-focused program that inspires interests in animals and nature while rewarding participants with the unique opportunity to explore the OKC Zoo for free. Thanks to the popularity of the program over 100,000 Oklahomans have been able visit the Zoo at no cost in the last ten years.
New this year, the OKC Zoo collaborated with the Oklahoma Department of Libraries to expand the program to feature 28 book titles for readers to
choose from. The featured book list includes a variety of animal, dinosaur, and nature themed titles for young readers, with books ranging from picture books and nonfiction to favorite popular book series like Who Would Win by author Jerry Pallotta. Families can check out any book title from the list and upon returning it will receive a voucher redeemable for free general admission to the OKC Zoo for up to four people (child, adult, or senior).
“We’re delighted to launch this next chapter of Read for Adventure and continue to share this opportunity to visit the Zoo for free with Oklahoma
families,” said OKC Zoo’s Executive Director and CEO, Dwight Lawson. “Programs such as this are an important part of our mission and have the power to inspire wildlife connections and build relationships as families enjoy time together exploring the Zoo.”
“This program encourages families to explore, learn, and create lasting memories together by connecting young readers with stories about animals, nature, and dinosaurs,” said Natalie Currie, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. “We’re proud to partner with the Oklahoma City Zoo to help make lit-
eracy and lifelong learning accessible and engaging for communities across Oklahoma.”
More than 200 participating Oklahoma public or tribal library locations support Read for Adventure. Zoo admission vouchers are limited to one per family and available while supplies last. Vouchers are valid through June 30, 2027 and can be redeemed at the Zoo’s ticket windows. Additional details about Read for Adventure including this season’s featured books, a coloring page, and list of participating libraries can be found at okczoo.org/readforadventure.
From Page 1
in a special election next year.
During the Aug. 25 special election voters will be asked to approve Proposition No. 9 as it relates to the terms of office and qualifications for City Council members.The amendment proposes changes to the term of office for elected City Council members from two to three years, with a staggered implementation.
The Village is currently the only municipality in the area with two-year terms. If approved by the voters, Village council members join Nichols Hills and Piedmont with elected officials serving three-year terms of office. Council members in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Yukon and Midwest City currently serve four-year terms.
Council members in The Village have served two-year terms since the city
was incorporated in 1959.
“The council decided to propose three-year terms of office to the voters because two years is a very short period of time,” said City Manager Dave Slezickey. “Mayor Braxton Banks summed it up best during the May council meeting when he said, ‘I was just beginning to feel comfortable and understand everything at two years.’”
Slezickey said changing terms of office for council members in The Village sustains consistency and reduce turnover while allowing for elected officials more time to serve the community.
The Village has seen a higher-thannormal turnover of elected officials during the past three years.
“We have been very fortunate to have some tenured and experienced council members mixed in with new ones,” said Slezickey. “They work
very well together, and it is a nice balance of experience and new ideas that has led us to pursue many projects and quality of life enhancements in the community.”
The length of service on the council ranges from over 20 years to under one year. Ward 1 Councilman David Bennett has served two nonconsecutive terms on the council with nearly 20 years of service to the city, while Bubba Symes, who represents Ward 2, boasts over 23 years of continuous service.
Ward 3 Councilman and Vice Mayor Keith Spangler is currently serving his second year on the council and Mayor Braxton Banks, who represents Ward 4, is now in his third year. Ward 5 council member Kara Tam-Walts ran unopposed and was sworn into office in May.
While Proposition NO. 9 changes terms of office, the mayor
and vice mayor are to continue as annual appointments and rotate through the council.
In Proposition No. 1, Village voters decide the monthly compensation for elected members of the city council. The amendment changes the monthly salary from $25 to $100 and provides for adjustment of those monthly salaries every five years beginning in 2031.
“City councilmen in The Village have been paid $25 per month since 1959,” said Slezickey. “Our councilmen do not serve for the $25 or $100, but they do put a lot more time in than one meeting a month. They expend energy and effort on a regular basis in representing the city and working with community members.”
Council members in Nichols Hills are compensated $20 per month, while council members in Edmond receive $700 per month. Oklahoma City council members
Owen Fellrath named to Rhodes Honor Roll
Owen Fellrath, of Nichols Hills, was named to Rhodes College's Spring 2026 Honor Roll.
To qualify for the Honor Roll, a student must be enrolled in at least 16 credits of academic work and achieve a semester grade point average of 3.85 or better. Those students who choose to take a course under the Pass/Fail
option must have a minimum of 12 additional graded credits of work to be considered for this honor. Students who are enrolled in the Honors Program or independent Research and receive a grade of IP for that work will have their qualifying grade point average determined on all other graded work. Founded in 1848, Rhodes
College is a nationally ranked liberal arts and sciences college in Memphis, Tennessee, and one of the few liberal arts colleges located in an urban setting. Its students have myriad ways to immerse themselves in a major metropolitan area through service and internship opportunities in addition to exploring the world through study abroad.
CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK FOR MORE INFO CALL
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(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 12, 2026)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2026-1315
IN RE: The Name of: ) Mikah Dollena Kemp )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 5, 2026; Friday, June 12, 2026; Friday, June 19, 2026)
The vehicle is in possession of John Truong DBA Car’s Storage 1013 N Holly Ave OKC, OK 73127 1976 Ranger VIN #RNG5629205-76 John Truong 405-922-4012
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 5, 2026; Friday, June 12, 2026; Friday, June 19, 2026)
The motorcycle is in the possession of Sean O’Neil Southerland 840 SE 70th St, OKC, OK 73149 2003 Suzuki VIN #JS1GN7BA132107561 Phone 405-534-9331
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 5, 2026; Friday, June 12, 2026; Friday, June 19, 2026)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No. FD-2025-2838
In Re the Marriage of: ) Jaimee Lacey, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Christina Mendoza, ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA
TO: Christina Mendoza You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage. You must answer the Petition on or before the 27 day of June, 2026, or the Petition will be taken as true and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner.
WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 27 day of May, 2026.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/K. Shoults (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 5, 2026; Friday, June 12, 2026; Friday, June 19, 2026)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Case No. FD-2026-596
In Re the Marriage of: ) Tamara Jackson, ) Petitioner, ) and ) Anthony Jackson, Sr., ) Respondent. )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA
TO: Anthony Jackson Sr.
You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage. You must answer the Petition on or before the 11 day of July, 2026, or the Petition will be taken as true and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner.
WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 27 day of May, 2026.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/C. White (SEAL)
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Mikah Dollena kemp has petitioned to change his/her name to Navvy Dollena Kemp.
A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 2 day of July, 2026, before Judge Stinson in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Jamie Houston BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 12, 2026)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2026-1250
In the Matter of the Application ) of Yousef Niya ) as next of friend of (child) ) Marjan Moghadamniya ) to Change Her/His Name )
NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Yousef Niya, as next of friend of Marjan Moghadamniya has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Marjan Moghadamniya to (b) Marjan Moghadam Niya; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Bonner of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 30 day of June, 2026 at 9:00 o’clock a.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/illegible signature Deputy CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, June 12, 2026)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2026-1297
IN RE: The Name of: ) Particia Lynnette Reeves ) Neeley )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Particia Lynnette Reeves Neeley has petitioned to change his/her name to Particia Lynnette Reeves.
A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 10 day of September, 2026, before Judge Andrews in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/A. Ward BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
OCCC wins top national award for Student Support Success
Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) has been named a recipient of the inaugural Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) Award for Institutional Effectiveness, a national honor recognizing colleges that have successfully scaled TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) practices across their campuses to improve student outcomes.
“This recognition embodies OCCC’s commitment to building systems that support not just student success, but statewide economic growth,” said Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, President of Oklahoma City Community College.
Supported by ECMC Foundation, the award includes a $10,000 grant and recognizes institutions that have transformed proven TRIO strategies—mentoring, academic coaching, and holistic advising—into institution-wide systems that drive measurable student success. Additionally, OCCC will present at the COE National Convening in September.
At OCCC, these TRIO-informed practices are embedded into the college’s core student success model, reaching thousands of students annually through structured academic support, personalized advising, and workforce-aligned learning pathways.
“Institutions like Oklahoma Community College exemplify what it means to move from access to impact,” said COE President Kimberly Jones. “By embedding TRIO Student Support Services practices campuswide, OCCC is improving outcomes for its students and strengthening economic mobility across the Oklahoma City region.
OCCC’s approach has deliv-
ered strong outcomes, particularly among first-generation and low-income students, including improved retention rates, increased course completion, and expanded transfer and workforce opportunities.
More than half of OCCC students are first-generation college students, many balancing work, family responsibilities, and financial barriers. By integrating proactive advising, mentorship, and academic coaching across the institution—not just within a single program—OCCC has created a scalable model that supports persistence, completion, and long-term success.
What This Looks Like in Action
At Oklahoma City Community College, TRIO-informed practices are embedded into the full student journey—not just one program.
Students receive proactive advising from the start, ongoing academic coaching and tutoring, and access to mentorship and support networks that help them stay on track. At the same time, OCCC connects students to workforce-aligned pathways, including internships, microcredentials, and transfer opportunities.
The result is a coordinated system that supports persistence, improves completion rates, and prepares students for long-term success.
“Our goal was to take the proven TRIO blueprint—mentoring, academic coaching, and proactive advising—and make it the standard for every student at OCCC,” said Crystal Mohamed, Director of TRIO Grant Programs “This work ensures that these life-changing strategies are part of the everyday student experience.”
UCLA,
grams, Dr. Aaron
and Education,
Oklahoma Shakespeare stirs up
a
serious storm in The Paseo this month
Summer at Oklahoma Shakespeare begins this week with one of Shakespeare’s most imaginative works — The Tempest, running June 11–28 in the Shakespeare Gardens.
Directed by David Weber, this outdoor production embraces everything that makes Shakespeare under the sky unforgettable: movement, music, magic, and the natural world becoming part of the story. Wind, dusk, and the sounds of the park shape Prospero’s island in real time, creating a
vivid, playful experience that can only happen here.
Often considered Shakespeare’s final solo play, The Tempest is a story of storms and spirits, of forgiveness and transformation, and of the courage it takes to make things right. Under the Oklahoma sky, the play breathes with a sense of wonder that invites audiences of all ages.
Performances run Thursdays–Sundays at 8:00 pm, June 11–28, 2920 Paseo, okshakes.org.
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
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
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
Thrifty Pharmacy
10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852 230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 Thriftypharmacyokc.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, Okla. 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
Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126
All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 NW 63 St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.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
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 & Gift Shop 11521 N. MacArthur Blvd. Okla. City, OK 73162 (405) 720-7779 Fri. 1-5 pm, Sat. 10-5 pm, Sun. 2-5 pm FB. Strebel Creek
Navigating Medicare 2232 W. Hefner Road Suite A. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 842-0494 navigatingmedicare.com
First Liberty Bank 9601 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 608-4500 myfirstliberty.com
Robert Don Gifford GIFFORD LAW, PLLC P.O. Box 2682 Oklahoma City, OK 73101 (405)778-4647 giffordlawyer.com Robert.Gifford@ GiffordLawyer.com
Cross Timbers Arborist 3500 S. Brunson St. Oklahoma City, OK 73119 (405) 682-4777 crosstimbersarborist.com
Lewis Orthodontics Edmond - MWC (405) 330-5095 lewisbraces.com
Women's Health Boutique 12062 N.May Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 936-0030
Midfirst Bank (888) 643-3477 midfirst.com
OCCC 7777 S. May Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73159 (405) 682-1611 occc.edu
Mountain Smoke Band Hal Clifford 1004 N 80th Oklahoma City, Ok 73114 (405) 818-5591
Left to Right: Dr. Alfred R. Herrera Director Emeritus, Center for Community College Partnership
Crystal Mohammed—Director of TRIO Grant Pro-
Brown—Executive Vice President for Council of Opportunity
Dr. Mautra Staley Jones—President of Oklahoma City Community College, Jeffrey Kahlden—Board Chair for Council of Opportunity and Education, and Dr. Melissa Brevetti—Director of Grants.
in 2027.
ANOATUBBY
When Governor Anoatubby first took office, the Chickasaw Nation’s programs and services were largely dependent on funding from the federal government. Through careful investments and planning, his administration charted a course to financial independence, through which the Chickasaw Nation could utilize return on investments to support tribal education, housing, jobs, healthcare, culture, elder care, and other programs and services.
In a career marked by growth and progress, the Chickasaw Nation has thrived throughout Governor Anoatubby’s leadership, growing from approximately 250 employees and an $11 million operating budget in 1987 to nearly 15,000 employees and a national economic impact that exceeds $8 billion.
Through careful and diverse investments made early in his administration, the Chickasaw Nation now operates more than 100 businesses in the fields of manufacturing, energy, healthcare, media, technology, hospitality, retail and more. These business revenues now provide the majority of funding for nearly 400 programs and services.
A focus on expanding services and accessibility for the Chickasaw people, tenacity coupled with temperance, along with an open ear and a proclivity for collaboration are key components of Governor Anoatubby’s leadership style and legacy. He has received numerous awards and honors across the state and nation.
Governor Anoatubby retires after serving an unprecedented 10 consecutive terms. His 10th term is set to expire
Governor Anoatubby’s resignation is effective June 26, 2026, at noon, at which time the Lt. Governor of the Chickasaw Nation takes his oath of office as Governor, in accordance with Article XV, Section 1 of the Chickasaw Constitution.
Governor Anoatubby expressed confidence in the ability of Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby and the tribe’s leadership team to guide the Chickasaw Nation to further success, citing Lt. Governor Anoatubby’s leadership over the COVID19 response team during the pandemic and expansion of the tribe’s criminal justice infrastructure following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2020 ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma and the ensuing ruling in 2021 by the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals.
Lt. Governor Anoatubby has served the Chickasaw Nation for nearly 30 years.
A graduate of Byng High School in 1990, Lt. Governor Anoatubby pursued a degree in pharmacy from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, which he earned in 1997. He also holds a master’s degree in business administration from Southeastern Oklahoma State University.
He began his career with the tribe in 1997 and has served as Chief Pharmacist, Sovereign Medical Solutions Chief Medical Solutions Officer and President, under secretary of the department of commerce and deputy secretary of the department of health.
He was elected to his first term as Lt. Governor in 2019 and was reelected in 2023.
Lt. Governor Anoatubby has served on multiple boards during his career, including as Chairman of the Ada Area Chamber of
Commerce, and adjunct faculty at Southwestern Oklahoma State University College of Pharmacy and the University of Oklahoma College of Pharmacy.
He was honored as Outstanding Young Pharmacist of the Year by the Oklahoma City Indian Health Service in 2007, was in Class IX of The Journal Record’s Achievers Under 40 in 2012, received the 2023 Distinguished Alumni award from Southeastern Oklahoma State University and was inducted into the Oklahoma City University Oklahoma Commerce and Industry Hall of Honor in 2024.
In many of the institutions and programs he guided, he led the way in instituting cutting-edge technological solutions, simplifying service access and diversification.
Governor Anoatubby said he believes Lt. Governor Anoatubby and the Chickasaw Nation’s leadership team are capable, and he anticipates a smooth transition with a commitment to the tribe’s vision and core values.
“The leadership of our tribe is strong and extensive and I look forward to celebrating the many milestones achieved by the Chickasaw Nation in years to come,” he said.
OKC Friday
Dear Wise Elder: My spouse has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. To our world of occasional friends who greet her, she is “the same as she has always been.” But when the conversation extends, when she is asked to recall, or play the piano for the group as she always did, or play a table game, it becomes evident to everyone, everyone but my spouse, that “she no longer has the same capability.” Even in the restaurant, she tries to engage with the waiters, but it is inappropriate. I am sad, embarrassed and don’t know what to do.
Dear Embarrassed: Talking about how you feel, expressing the raw emotions can help. You can call the Alzheimer’s Associ-
Editorial Policy
ation helpline at (800) 272-3900 any time of the night or day. You can talk with someone who has been there, who understands and will listen. There are 100 counselors spread across the country who have been educated in cognitive diseases, trained about this terrible disease. They have heard about everything you can imagine. When you call, request a copy of the 25 Rules for Alzheimer's Caregivers. These steps won’t change your spouse, but it will give you the strength to endure another day. Knowing you are not alone helps soften the sting of disease.
VillagesOKC, VillagesOKC.org
990 6637
CAUCUS
Luncheon
More than 300 attendees gathered at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center for the 11th Annual Faces of ReMerge Luncheon.
The event raised $225,000 to benefit mothers participating in ReMerge, a pre-trial diversion program for high-risk, high-need mothers in central Oklahoma.
Chaired by Charlotte Sutton and Trisha Koelsch and emceed by News 9 Anchor Robin Marsh, the luncheon featured moving stories from ReMerge graduates and their families. Special guests included Kourtney Hartenstein, wife of OKC Thunder player, Isaiah Hartenstein. Guests also enjoyed shopping at a Kendra Scott “give back” sale and entered a raffle for donated items, including a custom painting by Robin Marsh.
“Our Faces of ReMerge Luncheon was deeply meaning-
ful, not just because of the success stories shared, but because of the courage it took for our mothers and their families to be vulnerable enough to tell them,” said Erin Engelke, CEO of ReMerge. “I’m incredibly grateful for the community members who showed up in support of this mission and who share our belief in the power of second chances.”
Devona Whitfield, Erin Marshall and Debbie Marshall.
Above: ReMerge CEO Erin Engelke and Kourtney Hartenstein at the luncheon. At right: Cathy Costello and emcee Robin Marsh.
- Photos by Rose Lane
Ariel O’Shields and Tyler Tokarczyk support the mission of ReMerge.