QC ladies tourney
Linda Dunn, far left, with her guests Carol Fisher, Pat Edwards and Carol Stewart at the Quail Creek Member-Guest tournament. Page 4
Make A Wish
Deborah McAuliffe Senner is the new president and CEO of Make A Wish Oklahoma. Page 11
OKC FRIDAY
www.okcfriday.com facebook.com/okcfriday
OKC’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with all local news Serving affluent far north Oklahoma City, Nichols Hills & The Village for 51 years
Four to be honored at Kennedy Awards
University of Oklahoma coaching legend Sherri Coale, OU Athletic Director Joe Castiglione and legendary philanthropists Liz and Tim McLaughlin are the honorees for the 2025 John F. Kennedy Community Service Awards.
The gala event is set for 7 p.m., Sept. 25 in the Meinders Hall of Mirrors at the Civic Center, 201 N. Walker Ave. A VIP cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m.
The John F. Kennedy Awards celebrate Oklahomans whose philanthropy has served the community in impactful ways. Proceeds from the gala support the Santa Fe Family Life Center (SFFLC) in its mission to provide inclusive and accessible athletic programs for individuals with disabilities, See AWARDS, Page 2
was “western” so everyone got a hat.
Ladies sew up meaning, purpose for young cancer patients
By Rose Lane Editor
The Stitches of Love seamstresses are translating their hobby into something meaningful and purposeful for the children at the Jimmy Everest Cancer Center at OU Children’s Hospital.
Beth Thomas said the sewing
group began in 2008 after Kay Tangner share her story about volunteering at the center.
Stitches of Love is based out of Crossings Community Church, but being a member there is not required for someone to turn on a sewing machine.
Since its inception in 2008, SOL (Stitches of Love) has made 2,533 quilts, 997 pillowcases, 436
bead bags and sleeping bags for baby dolls, Beth said.
“The bead bags are part of a national effort for the children to collect beads of courage. Beads tell the children’s stories of resilience and pain,” Beth said.
“They represent unique moments in a patient’s journey; chemo,
See STITCHES, Page 2
Village Community Partners to be introduced
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Ron Butts has longstanding ties to The Village although he now lives in Edmond. Butts is
Upward Transitions’ ‘civic bravery’ is touted by The Courage Project
Local nonprofit organization, Upward Transitions, has been recognized by The Courage Project, a new national initiative that aims to recognize and inspire actions at the community level bolstering civic engagement and inclusive community values, as well as to honor and celebrate everyday acts of civic bravery.
United Way Worldwide is one of the founding partners of The Courage Project, along with the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Freedom Together Foundation, McKnight Foundation, Marguerite Casey Foundation, Public Welfare Foundation, Surdna
Foundation, the James Irvine Foundation, and the Skillman Foundation. The Courage Project is backed by an initial $10 million commitment with additional funding and partners expected in the future.
Upward Transitions is part of a small group of awardees announced earlier this summer. The award comes with a grant of $20,000 to honor the 100-year-old Oklahoma City organization’s actions and to help continue the vital work during a challenging time for so many civic groups and those they mean to help.
See BRAVERY, Page 3
a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church and has attended regularly since his teens, in fact it’s where he met his wife, Julie. He has identified a need in the com-
munity to help local organizations “get the word out” about their programs, projects and resources and is acting upon it. Butts and other mem-
FRIDAY’s Dog of the Week
Sadie’s family is Mark Fisher and Julia Phillips. She is a 15-month-old 60-lb pound adoptee.
She’s from all over: Roughly equal parts German shepherd, American pit bull terrier and Australian cattle dog. She loves everybody, but has a scary bark.
bers of his church community are spearheading a new organization they call Village Community Partners.
See VILLAGE, Page 7
Her favorite things are treats, squeaky toys, playing tug-of-war, walks, the dog park – she is usually the fastest dog there — napping on her people’s bed and stealing their socks. Certain things have to be spoken in code, because she’s learned the words; e.g., “treat,” “walk,” and “dog park” She’s even learned to recognize them when we spell them. Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@ okcfriday.com.
From left: Back row, Denise Robinson, Betty Ensz, Glenda Webster, Ellen Kramer, Jackie Hill, Gayla Thompson, Beth Thomas, Amy Rose, Kim Keller, Karen Land, Kathy Shannon and Sherry Gibson; middle row, Diana Lewis, Vicki Swigert, Maria Newman, Cheryl Neufeld and Jan Wood; and center, Jackie Folgar-Ellis. Twice a year, the group meet swith Kay Tangner and Scarlett Shepherd, liaisons to the hospital and have a theme. This theme
TIM and LIZ McLAUGHLIN
JOE CASTIGLIONE SHERRI COALE
STITCHES
From Page 1
blood transfusion, etc.”
Approximately 12 ladies meet 6-8:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month in the Pavillion at Crossings Community Church, January through October.
“Throughout the years, we have been a combination of life-long seamstresses to beginners. We bring portable sewing machines and our projects,” Beth said. “We try to keep our projects fun and bright for the children. Helping each other with patterns and advice, we have formed long-lasting friendships.”
Over the years, the ladies have discovered that some children undergo chemo or a difficult test or treatment on their birthday.
“So each year we make some special birthday pillowcases for the nurses to have ready,” Beth said.
All of these women give of their time and resources to create something for these children who are walking through some of the toughest days of their lives, she said. Each project has a label that includes the name of the person who made the project and an area for a short note of encouragement.
Twice a year (June and October), the seamstresses meet with Kay Tangner and Scarlett Shepherd, liaisons to the hospital.
“We display all our quilts, pillowcases and bead bags we have made,” Beth said. “We have dinner together and play games.
“Kay and Scarlett always have a fun theme. It could be a Winnie the Pooh theme, patriotic or our most recent, a western theme. Then the quilts, pillowcases, and bead bags are distributed at the cancer unit at OU Children’s Hospital.”
Stitches of Love is accepting donations of 100 percent cotton, kidfriendly fabric. The ladies also watch for fabric at garage sales.
Those wanting to be a part of Stitches of Love or to donate fabric, contact Beth Thomas at (405) 306-5363 or Sherry Gibson at (405) 642-4534.
AWARDS
From Page 1
veterans and under-resourced youth.
Sponsorships and tickets are available by contacting Josh Norman at (619) 726-9823, and more information is available at sfflc.com/jfkaward.
“This year’s honorees understand the power of sports and the impact access to athletics can have on a person’s life,” said Josh Norman, executive director of the Santa Fe Family Life Center. “Coach Coale, Joe C. and, of course, the McLaughlins through their work at Fields and Futures, have given of their time and resources to support athletic endeavors for the less fortunate. I am very proud to get to honor them at this year’s John F. Kennedy Awards ceremony.”
About the honorees:
Liz and Tim McLaughlin are the founders of Fields & Futures, an Oklahoma City nonprofit created in 2012 to help Oklahoma City Public Schools grow student participation in and access to sports. The organization was established on the principle that every child deserves the opportunity to play a sport they love on a quality, maintained field with proper resources and support. Fields & Futures has completed more than 70 projects to date across the school district, providing access to sports including soccer, basketball, football, track and golf. The McLaughlins will receive the Mark Ruffin Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s gala.
In his 28th year at the helm of the University of Oklahoma athletics program, Joe Castiglione leads a department that hardly resembles the one that welcomed him in July 1998. From conference realignment — now in the Southeastern Conference after 28 years in the Big 12 — to fundraising records and significant growth in capital projects, Castiglione has shaped the department’s widespread and longstanding success, but it’s his dedication off the
field of play that makes him worthy to receive this year’s John F. Kennedy Award for Community Service. Castiglione is an avid supporter of Fields & Futures, the OU Food Pantry and the United Way. He is also a proud advocate for public and higher education, and he believes in serving others whenever he can, saying, “Financially supporting or volunteering for countless special projects is something I have done my entire life. I believe serving others is a true privilege. We get more out of serving others than we could ever put into it.”
University of Oklahoma former women’s basketball coach Sherri Coale learned service early. “I grew up in a small town where everyone had to pitch in to do everything or nothing would get done--there weren't enough people to go around. I learned from my Granny, early, that giving has an ROI you can neither calculate nor escape.” Throughout her legendary coaching career, Coale has invested in young women through the sport of basketball. She served as head coach for the Sooners from 1996-2021 and was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016. She continues to serve women as an author, motivational speaker and frequent supporter and volunteer for OU Children’s Hospital, Stephenson Cancer Center and Norman Regional Hospital.
The Santa Fe Family Life Center is a 501c3 non-for-profit organization with the mission of improving the lives of Oklahomans by providing sports and fitness programs for all abilities. Founded in 2007 by the Knights of Columbus Council 1038, the organization seeks to provide individuals and organizations with access to sports and physical improvement opportunities that result in healthier, happier citizens. The SFFLC offers and promotes programs designed to empower individuals with disabilities, veterans, and under-resourced youth to achieve improved fitness and well-being. More information about the Santa Fe Family Life Center is available at sfflc.com/.
The latest display of quilts sewn by the ladies of Stitches of Love for the young cancer patients at the Jimmy Everest Cancer Center at OU Children’s Hospital.
BRAVERY
From Page 1
“The work that you are doing to prevent families with minor children and seniors from losing their housing through eviction is noteworthy and demonstrates how Americans can support their communities to ensure everyone thrives,” said Shital C. Shah, Senior Advisor of Special Initiatives of United Way Worldwide.
Upward Transitions was founded as Travelers Aid in 1925 and is celebrating its centennial this year. Known as the “go-to” agency for retrieving State IDs, birth certificates, and other identifying documentation for people experiencing homelessness in Oklahoma County, Upward Transitions has expanded in the last 100 years and branched out into more areas of community service. The Courage Award recognizes the work of its Community Outreach Program which assists
families in need with paying rent and utilities to avoid eviction and thereby the risk of homelessness.
With a staff of only 11, Upward Transitions assisted more than 4,000 individuals in need last year. The organization’s homeless services case managers hold office hours at local partner organizations weekly making the organization’s services and resources more easily available to people with transportation barriers. The organization partners with more than 50 other local agencies and has been a United Way of Central Oklahoma Community Partner for 100 years. Its mission is to prevent generational poverty through community collaboration, emergency relief and empowerment, therefore inspiring hope with our neighbors experiencing housing instability.
“We are overwhelmed by this award,” said Upward Transitions’ CEO, Periann Pulliam. “We do this work because it is critical to preventing families with children
and seniors from becoming homeless and to help remove barriers to employment, housing, and other services for those who are currently unhoused. To be recognized for our work and mission in the company of the other amazing recipients is an honor.”
For information about Upward Transi-
tions and its programs and services, visit upwardtransitions.org, or contact Conna Dewart, Development and Public Relations Manager at (405) 2325507 or cdewart@upwardtransitions.org.
Information about The Courage Project can be found at the project’s website thecourageproject.org
Knights blank Hinton in opener
Thanks to a big third inning, the Crossings Christian softball team cruised to a 12-0 win at Hinton last Monday in the regular season opener for both teams.
The Knights (1-0) plated three runs in the second inning before blowing the game open with nine runs in the next frame.
Emmy Rouse and Shelby Kelm collected two hits each, as Rouse drove in a run and
score another and Kelm scored twice.
Elizabeth Porter and Clara Bebee added triples and combined for five RBIs for Crossings. Audrey Martin also recorded a single and three runs scored.
Pitcher Addison Martin allowed just two hits and struck out four over four innings for the shutout victory.
The Knights travel to Washington this Monday for a doubleheader,
OKLAHOMA
CITY FRIDAY
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PHONE 405-755-3311 • www.okcfriday.com
Official Legal Newspaper For OKLAHOMA, OKLAHOMA CITY and OKLAHOMA COUNTY, including NICHOLS HILLS and THE VILLAGE Oklahoma City FRIDAY, Office of publication, 10801 N. Quail Plaza Drive, P.O. Box 20340, Oklahoma City, OK 73156. FRIDAY is published each Friday by Nichols Hills Publishing Co., Inc. It is an official, legal newspaper, under Oklahoma law, published in Oklahoma County, primarily serving Oklahoma City but also The Village and Nichols Hills. Mail subscription price in county $35. elsewhere in Oklahoma $45, elsewhere U.S. $45. Newsstand price $1.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FRIDAY, P.O. Box 20340, Okla. City, OK 73156.
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followed by a home game against Fridayland rival Heritage Hall on Tuesday.
PANTHERS FALL TO PIEDMONT
Falling behind early, PC North never recovered in a 9-1 road setback at Piedmont last Monday in the season opener.
Presley Standridge batted 2-for-3 and scored a run to lead the
Panthers (0-1). Savannah Martinez and Kaelyn Staden recorded a single each and Martinez drove in a run.
Pitcher Jayden Stevenson allowed six runs on two hits with a strikeout over two innings in the loss.
PC North is scheduled to compete in the Broken Arrow tournament this weekend, host Classen and Grant on Monday and visit El Reno on Tuesday.
‘Nashville’ western theme for tourney
Quail Creek Country Club’s member-guest tournament featured a “Nashville” western theme, as more than two dozen players, above, participated in the golf tournament and luncheon.
Donned in their finest cowboy hats, Quail Creek member Linda Dunn, far left, brought guests Carol Fisher, Pat Edwards and Carol Stewart to the club’s annual member-guest tournament. Jennifer James and her guest Teresa Ledlow, along with Becky Burgess and her guest Carolyn Thompson, recorded a first-place finish.
What young athletes can do to reduce injury risk
Exercise is great for the body. Scholastic and recreational sports are one of the primary ways children and adolescents get the exercise they need. Even though sports participation is relatively safe, there’s no guarantee athletes won’t suffer an injury.
However, there are ways for student athletes to reduce their risk of getting hurt while playing the games they love.
• Maintain flexibility. INTEGRIS Health says it is extremely important for athletes to perform dynamic stretches before starting any activity. Cold muscles are vulnerable to injury, so it’s best to do some sort of physical warm-up, including jumping jacks, butt kicks, running in place, or arm circles.
• Practice proper
technique. Athletes should learn and implement the proper techniques for whatever sport they are playing to lower their injury risk.
• Don’t push through pain. Pain is one way the body communicates that something isn’t right. At the first sign of pain, an athlete should take a break and be assessed by a medical professional. Playing through pain can make an injury worse and sideline athletes for longer than expected.
• Wear the right gear. INTEGRIS emphasizes using proper, well-fitting gear. Certain gear may be cumbersome and athletes may be tempted to forego it, but that can result in greater injury risk.
• Get a sports phys-
ical. Most programs mandate an updated sports physical examination. This pre-participation physical allows for the screening, prevention and treatment of any conditions that can affect play and contribute to injury.
• Gradually increase training intensity. The American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine indicates athletes should always build up their training gradually. One way to do so is to follow the 10 percent rule, which advises against increasing training activity, weight, mileage, or pace by more than 10 percent per week.
• Rest and take breaks. Athletes who play sports year-round have a greater tendency than others to suffer overuse injuries
Jones named top pitcher at USSSA tourney
Maddie Jones, who starts her sophomore year at Mount St. Mary this week, struck out 26 batters and gave up just 1 earned run against 75 batters faced at the USSSA Southern Nationals, where her team won their division. Jones was named Most Outstanding Pitcher. Last season, she had 186 strikeouts as a freshman.
Comets host Armed Forces Night
The OKC Comets host two special nights of baseball this weekend at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.
On Friday, OKC presents Salute to Armed Forces Night to honor all of past and current military personnel.
The Comets are scheduled to honor the Girls Scouts and pay homage to the OKC 89ers during Saturday’s game.
Girl Scouts and leaders in uniform will be invited to participate in an on-field, pregame parade to recognize all Scouts in attendance.
To honor the 89ers, OKC’s first minor league team, the team offers throwback jerseys and features music from when the 89ers played.
because their bodies are not given an opportunity to rest and recover. Athletes should take at least one season off per year.
• Play different sports. By participating in different sports, an athlete can avoid using the same muscle groups all the time. For example, the muscles used for swimming may be different from those used for playing field hockey. Utilizing different muscles reduces the risk for overuse injuries.
• Strengthen the core. INTEGRIS notes a strong core, which is the abdominal area of the body, can help athletes avoid injuries. Exercises that strengthen the core can improve balance, stability and strength.
CALENDAR
CONCERTS
Aug. 20 • Big Time Rush Get ready for an epic night as Big Time Rush takes the stage at The Zoo Amp, delivering unforgettable performances and all the energy you’ve been waiting for with their In Real Life Worldwide Tour. Visit okczooamp.com for tickets.
Aug. 24 • Teddy Swims Teddy Swims brings his I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Tour to the Zoo Amphitheatre performing with Freak Freely and special guest Cian Ducrot. Visit okczooamp.com for tickets.
FUNDRAISERS
Sept. 19 • Flight for Futures Flight for Futures, is a firstclass night hosted by the Young Professionals Committee. Enjoy premium tastings, craft beer and spirits, exciting raffle prizes, a punch wall, poker run and beats by DJ LiTEBRiTE — all in support of Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County. Fundraiser is at Jet Sets Hangar from 7 – 10 pm. Visit bgcokc.org for details and tickets.
OKCMOA
Aug. 21 • Salsa Nights In collaboration with The SoundBar OKC and Latin Fusion Oklahoma, OKCMOA brings
Oct. 13 • Limbs for Life Golf Tournament
This October, the Limbs for Life Benefit Golf Tournament returns for its 22nd year and this time, it’s part of something even bigger: the 30th anniversary of changing lives. What began as a small fundraiser has grown into its largest and longestrunning event, helping to provide prosthetic limbs to amputees across the country. It’s a day full of people coming together for this lifechanging tradition. Every player, volunteer, sponsor, and donor helps create a lasting LEGacy! Want to be part of this lifechanging day? Mark your calendar for Monday, Oct. 13 at Rose Creek Country Club. To register or for more information, contact randytitony@limbsforlife.org or rachelsmith@limbsforlife.org to get involved.
rhythm to the Museum Patio with Salsa Nights— an upbeat evening of music and dance happening every third Thursday. Join professional salsa dancers for an evening of fun, movement, and community. This beginnerfriendly event welcomes everyone and is free and open to the public from 6 – 8 pm.
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL
Sept. 1114 • Cirque du Soleil OVO Cirque du Soleil returns to the Paycom Center with OVO, an immersive journey into the vibrant world of insects. OVO brings the beauty of biodiversity to life with breathtaking acrobatics, highenergy performances, and dazzling visuals that transport audiences into a colorful ecosystem teeming with movement. From fluttering butterflies to crawling beetles, this nonstop spectacle showcases the secret world at our feet in a
way only Cirque du Soleil can. Visit paycomcenter.com for tickets.
MIXER
Aug. 21 • Community Mixer
Covenant Presbyterian Church hosts mixer from 68 pm. Discover opportunities, (405) 2095206.
THIS WEEKEND
Aug. 16 •
New World Comic Con New World Comic Con is a family friendly comic convention at the OKC Fair Park, putting a spotlight on local talent, community, creators, and artists in and around the metro. There will be a huge selection of comics, art, and memorabilia, cosplay contest, pics with your favorite superheroes roaming the convention floor and more. Event is from 10 am to 8 pm. Tickets are $15, $8 for teens and free for kids under 12. Paycom Center Events/Shows:
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Blonde Ambition
The Naked Gun remake starring Pamela Anderson and Liam Neeson is a hit. The slapstick comedy based on the 1982 television series Police Squad! has stirred up $60 million at the global box office and an 89% critical reception on Rotten Tomatoes since its debut at the beginning of August.
The original Police Squad! series was created by brothers David Zucker and Jerry Zucker, and childhood friend Jim Abrahams Their careers had just exploded with the success of their 1980 comedy Airplane!, which earned a whopping $171 million. ABC hired them to create a television show, Police Squad!, then cancelled it after airing only four episodes.
The trio took the characters, jokes, and lead actor Leslie Nielson from the series and created a feature film, The Naked Gun. It was a hit and ultimately became a trilogy of feature films from 19881994, earning $215 million all combined.
In the latest iteration, Liam Neeson is the perfect heir to Leslie Neilson. He provides a similar balance of serious dramatic acting amid absurd comedy. Neeson was Oscar-nominated for playing Oskar Shindler in Shindler’s List, so his dramatic acting chops are less surprising than his great comedic timing. The wonderful CCH
Pounder, Emmy nominee for X-Files, E.R., and The Shield, is a joy as Neeson’s boss. But the highlight of the film for me is Pamela Anderson.
Anderson is a Canadian actress who is enjoying a mid-life career renaissance since starring in Chicago on Broadway in 2022. She was the subject of the 2023 Netflix documentary Pamela, A Love Story, produced by her son Brandon Thomas Lee. In 2024, she starred as an aging dancer in the independent film The Last Showgirl, earning rave reviews and first-time nominations at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards. The Naked Gun becoming a theatrical hit in the summer of 2025 feels like a well-deserved victory lap.
Anderson was raised is a small town on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. She was discovered at a pro sports game, recruited to Los Angeles to model, and auditioned and earned her first television role in 1991, Tim Allen’s smash hit series Home Improvement
In 1992, Anderson got her big break, win-
ning the role of C.J. Parker in the lifeguard drama Baywatch. The show was dropped by NBC after the first season, but exploded in syndication for ten more seasons, becoming the most watched television show in the world, with 1.1 billion weekly viewers worldwide. She became one of highest paid actresses on television and one of the most recognized and photographed women in the world.
A month ago, I saw Pamela Anderson on stage at the Williamstown Theatre Festival. She starred as Marguerite in the surrealist comedy Camino Real written by Tennessee Williams. It was an over-the-top role that required her to be big and bold and ridiculous. She lit up the stage. It felt like you were watching someone re-discover their love of acting right in front of you. It was electric.
For most of her life and career, Pamela Anderson has been defined by what other people want you to see, think, and feel about her. It is inspiring to watch her step back into the light on her own terms and discover that she is more talented than she ever imagined.
I highly recommend you watch The Last Showgirl on Hulu, Pamela, A Love Story on Netflix, and The Naked Gun at your favorite local movie theater.
Oklahoma Contemporary launches ARTS LAB
Oklahoma Contemporary is proud to announce the launch of ARTS LAB, a newly unified education platform that delivers arts-integrated, futureready programming to students, teachers and schools across the state. Grounded in contemporary visual and performing arts, ARTS LAB includes reimagined field trips, hands-on educator workshops and a redesigned high school event focused on creative careers.
The result of extensive feedback from educators and community partners, ARTS LAB is designed to make the arts more accessible, interdisciplinary and relevant to today’s classrooms. With programs that connect directly to academic standards and
real-world creative fields, ARTS LAB serves as a bridge between classroom learning and professional artistic practice.
Responding to a statewide call for more impactful, cross-curricular learning, ARTS LAB replaces Oklahoma Contemporary’s previous arts education formats with a flexible, standards-aligned structure that supports Oklahoma Academic Standards, integrates STEAM priorities and prepares young people for creative futures.
“ARTS LAB at Oklahoma Contemporary will be a dynamic hub for creative exploration, where young people will engage deeply with contemporary art, discover their voice and
build real-world skills through hands-on, project-based learning,” said Trent Riley, executive director at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. “It is where curiosity meets craft, and where the next generation of thinkers, makers and leaders begins to take shape.”
ARTS LAB: Field Trips immerse grades 3–12 students in gallery experiences and studio projects that connect art to real-world STEAM concepts.
ARTS LAB: Educator Workshops offer teachers studio-based professional development focused on creative strategies and reflective practice.
ARTS LAB: Creative Careers, Oklahoma Contemporary’s updated high
school event, introduces students to real-world pathways in the arts.
Oklahoma educators and district leaders, including Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS), are asking cultural organizations to provide more rigorous, cross-disciplinary learning opportunities. ARTS L AB is built in direct response to this call, offering programs that connect creative exploration with core academic goals and workforce readiness.
The program underscores Oklahoma Contemporary’s commitment to long-term partnerships with schools and a belief in the transformative power of art across disciplines, communities and futures.
From Page 1
The group has scheduled a Community Mixer on Thursday, Aug. 21, 6-8 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 10100 Ridgeview Dr. The public is invited to attend.
“This was just the germ of an idea, and as I talked to people who I felt would be interested, it just grew,” said Butts who is the unofficial director of the new group. “We volunteered our church for the first event, and I can see this going on as a monthly or semi-monthly event hosted by members of this partnership.”
Butts envisions Village Community Partners as an organization for sharing ideas and resources and a communication tool for groups looking to build a more robust sense of community in The Village. He calls it a “quasi-chamber of commerce.”
He thinks it’s possible that The Village needs a chamber of commerce, but said, “a proper chamber may be cost prohibitive and joining one of the larger chambers of commerce may leave the smaller groups lost in the woods.”
Butts envisions Village Community Partners as a more costeffective and intimate organization.
“We want local retail, area businesses, schools, churches
and area non-profits to join us for our initial meeting, but particularly the non-profit and small business sectors,” he said. “There are already a few organizations that I’ve spoken to who would be willing to sponsor one of the monthly meetings. These groups provide services that directly impact the audience we are trying to recruit.
“At the risk of mentioning their names without permission, we have the city council’s support, a local bank with a non-profit focus, the YMCA and The Village Library, along with a number of non-profits and local businesses,” he said.
Butts wants to ask those who attend the Community Mixer four questions:
1. What need do you see affecting The Village?
2. What need do you have in your organization that a partnership like this would fill?
3. What does your organization bring to the table that would help others”
4. What gift, skill or re=source do you bring personally that could be of help to other organizations?
“Braxton Banks, the city councilman that represents the ward in which my church is located, is all-in and has added our information for the Community Mixer to The Village’s social media pages,” said Butts. “If we draw 100 people or 25 organizations to our first meeting, that would be a great start
and send a message that this is needed.”
Butts sees Village Community Partners starting as an informal organization first with intentions that the group becomes a 501(c)3 organization soon.
The Community Mixer scheduled for this Thursday is primarily open to Village businesses and organizations but, “we know that some entities are ‘Village adjacent’ and may have needs or something to share,” he said. “A good example is The BritVil Food Pantry. Technically, they are outside The Village office boundary, but obviously they serve The Village.
“Right now, our plans are for Village Community Partners to be membership by name and participation only with no dues at this point,” he said, “We want Village Community Partners to not only assist the local organizations mentioned, but how they support the community as a whole. We want to share low or no cost services and a compendium of resources available in the area.”
The Community Mixer is open free to the public at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Butts says the mixer provides guests with the opportunity to meet other community groups, ask questions, discover opportunities and learn about the host. For more information call (405) 209-5206.
Deceased: All creditors having claims against Delores Michaels, Deceased, are required to present the same with a description of all security interests and other collateral, (if any), held by each creditor with respect to such claim, to Bronson Tucker, Administrator, at the offices of Kevin Calvey, Attorney at Law, PO Box 20443, Oklahoma City, OK 73156, addressed to Kevin Calvey, Attorney for Administrator of the Estate of Delores Michaels, on or before the following presentment date: September 30, 2025, or the same will be forever barred. DATED this 30 day of July, 2025.
/s/Kevin Calvey Bronson Tucker, Administrator, by Attorney
APPROVED: /s/Kevin Calvey OBA #16190 Attorney for Administrator PO Box 20443 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405)808-0041
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 8, 2025; Friday, August 15, 2025) IN THE DISTRICT COURT WITHIN AND FOR OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case #: PB-2025-617 In the Matter of the Estate of ) Kathryn Michaels Seiter, ) NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Attorney for Personal Representative
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-1888
In Re: The Name of: ) Miguel Jayryan Rodriguez ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Miguel Jayryan Rodriguez has petitioned to change his/her name to Miguel Jayryan Ramirez-Rodriguez. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 4 day of September, 2025, before Judge Ogden at 1:30 o’clock in courtroom 325 at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/J.Pulley Deputy (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-1899
In the Matter of the Application ) of Ishmael Kissinger ) as next of friend of (child) ) Everly Kissinger ) to Change Her/His Name )
NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Ishmael Kissinger, as next of friend of Everly Kissinger has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Everly Kissinger to (b) Liyah Lynn Edwards; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Palumbo of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 18 day of September, 2025 at 11:00 o’clock a.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
/s/illegible signature CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/illegible signature Deputy (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-1918
In Re: The Name of: ) Kaleb Charles Cordero ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Kaleb Charles Cordero has petitioned to change his/her name to Kaleb Charles Guidry. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 17 day of September, 2025, before Judge Mai at 1:30 o’clock in courtroom 709 at the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025) DISTRICT COURT OF
ESTATE OF Raymond Edward Haggy, Deceased NOTICE OF HEARING PETITION FOR ORDER ALLOWING FINAL ACCOUNT; DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP; FINAL DECREE OF DISTRIBUTION AND DISCHARGE Notice is hereby given that Janna Michelle Vear, Personal Representative of the Estate of Raymond Edward Haggy, Deceased, has filed in this Court the Petition for distribution of the estate. The hearing of the same has been fixed by the Court for the 22 of September, 2025 at 1:30 o’clock P.M., at the Oklahoma County Courthouse in Oklahoma City, State of Oklahoma, and all persons interested in the estate are notified to appear and show cause, if any, why the heirs of Raymond Edward Hagy, Deceased, devisees, and legatees should not be fully determined and the estate by distributed. WITNESS my hand this 8 day of August, 2025. KAREN AGUILAR Judge of the District Court RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By: /s/illegible signature Deputy (SEAL) /s/Vivd Niroula, OBA#35188 Niroula Law, PLLC 511 Couch Dr. Suite 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 456-9250 vivid@niroulalaw.com
Dated this 6 day of August, 2025. /s/Ezequil
the same as his free act and deed.
/s/Dana Andrews, Notary Public (SEAL) State of Oklahoma #15008044 My commission expires 08/31/2027
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025; Friday, August 22, 2025) OKLAHOMA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LAWS ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE
In accordance with Title 37, Section 522 and Title 37A, Section 2-141 Smriti Kunwar 17336 Old Pond Rd. Edmond, OK 73012 an Individual, hereby publishes notice of her intention to apply within sixty days from this date to the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission for a Retail Spirits Store License under authority of and in compliance with the said Act: That she intend(s), if granted such license to operate as an Retail Spirits Store establishment with business premises located at 10900 N Pennsylvania Avenue in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, 73120 under the business name of Nova Liquor & Smoke.
Dated this 6 day of August, 2025.
/s/Smriti Kunwar County of Oklahoma, State of Oklahoma.
Before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared: Smriti Kunwar to me known to be the person(s) described in and who executed the foregoing application and acknowledged that she executed the same as her free act and deed.
/s/Roshis Paudel, Notary Public (SEAL) State of Oklahoma #23008770 My commission expires 06/29/2027
OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-1825
IN RE: The Name of: ) LaTasha Emelda Jean Shaputis ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that LaTasha Emelda Jean Shaputis has petitioned to change his/her name to LaTasha Emelda Jean Walker-Shaputis. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 2 day of October, 2025, before Judge Bonner 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 By /s/J. Pulley Deputy (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
CV-2025-1830
IN RE: The Name of: ) Jamie Bartley )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Jaime Beasley has petitioned to change his/her name to Jamie Beasley. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 3 day of October, 2025, before Judge Bonner 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/illegible signature BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-1878
IN RE: The Name of: ) Sonya Wright ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Sonya Wright has petitioned to change his/her name to Sonya Sharp. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 3 day of October, 2025, before Judge Bonner 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
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Jamie Houston BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 15, 2025)
DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2025-1873
IN RE: The Name of: ) Gabriela Perez ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Gabriela Perez has petitioned to change his/her name to Gabriela Ayala. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 16 day of October, 2025, before Judge Andrews in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.
Name ChaNge
Oklahoma City Community College hosts exhibit and tribute honoring Grammy Award–winning soprano Leona Mitchell
OCCC, in partnership with the SHINE Foundation, will present the Leona Mitchell Exhibit and Tribute, celebrating the life and career of Oklahoma Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy Award–winning soprano Leona Mitchell. The community event will feature a special reception, live tribute program, and guest performances.
When: Tuesday, Aug. 19, starting with a reception at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Tribute program at 7 p.m. The public is invited to experience the exhibit from Aug. 19 to Aug. 31.
Where: OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center Atrium and Theatre, 7777 S. May Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73159.
Schedule:
• Reception in the Visual and Performing Arts Center Atrium
• Tribute in the Visual and Performing Arts Center Theatre.
• Welcome by Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, OCCC president, and Brian Maughan, Oklahoma County commissioner, SHINE Foundation founder
•Remarks: Leona Mitchell
• Musical Artist: Mr. J. Warren Mitchell
Who: Leona Mitchell, a native of Enid, Oklahoma, is an internationally acclaimed lyric soprano who spent 18 consecutive seasons as a leading spinto soprano at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She has performed for four U.S. presidents and appeared on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including in Paris, Vienna, Sydney, and Buenos Aires.
Mitchell’s celebrated career includes iconic roles such as Aida, Madame Butterfly, and Leonora in “Il Trovatore.”
Mitchell has received numerous honors, including induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, and Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame, and has served as Oklahoma’s Cultural Ambassador.
The tribute is hosted by OCCC President Dr. Mautra Staley Jones and SHINE Foundation founder and Oklahoma County Commissioner Brian Maughan. For information visit occc.edu/events/exhi bit-and-tribute-withleona-mitchel/.
Preserving Oklahoma: Past, Present, and Future
Join OKCMOA for an engaging panel discussion on the history of conservation in Oklahoma—from early wildlife protection efforts to today’s initiatives to preserve our state’s natural beauty.
Inspired by the Discovering Ansel Adams exhibition, this conversation explores the evolution of conservation from Adams’ era to the present day. Panelists from leading environmental organizations will highlight key milestones in Oklahoma’s conservation journey, discuss current challenges, and share how individuals can take action to protect our diverse ecosystems.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with experts, gain insights into the ongoing work to safeguard Oklahoma’s landscapes, and discover how you can help ensure a sustainable future for generations to come! Event Itinerary — Thursday, Aug. 21 OKC Museum of Art Noble Theater
5:30-6:30 pm | Panel Discussion
6:15-6:30 pm | Audience Q&A
6:30-7:00 pm | Light bites and drinks Tickets — $5 for Members, $25 for Non-Members Register at okcmoa.com. Your registration includes admission to the galleries!
City of NiChols hills
Notice
Applicant: Pat & Kristine Bates BC-2025-12
Proposed
The Application and supporting documentation may be inspected in the office of the City Clerk during regular business hours. No later than the Friday preceding the hearing, the full application and supporting documents will be posted at www.nicholshills-ok.gov.
This Application will be considered at a public hearing to be held by the Nichols Hills Building Commission on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. This public hearing will be held in the Council Chambers at Nichols Hills City Hall, 6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, 73116.
Any person objecting to or supporting this Application may appear before the Nichols Hills Building Commission on the above public hearing date and show cause why the proposed Application should be approved or disapproved. Further, written support or protest regarding the Application may be filed with the City Clerk at 6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, 73116, provided it is received by the City Clerk not less than three days before the public hearing.
Dated this 5th day of August 2025
Amanda Copeland, City Clerk City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma
Notice is
Locally-owned Business Directory
Debbie South Metro First Realty @ Lake Hefner
3232 W Britton Rd, 277 Oklahoma City, OK.73120 (405) 706-9077
Full Circle Bookstore
1900 NW Expressway
Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 842-2900 (800) 683-READ
Junior’s Supper Club
2601 NW Expressway Oil Center Building (405) 848-5597 juniorsokc.com
Boutique One
7636 N. Western Wilshire Village Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 888-9822
boutiqueone.store
The Learning Tree 7638 N. Western Wilshire Village (405) 848-1415 learningtreeokc.com
Nancy Farha’s 9205 N. Pennsylvania Casady Square
The Village, OK 73120 (405) 775-0404 nancyfarha.com
23rd Street Antiques 3023 NW 23rd. (405) 947-3800 Oklahoma City, OK 73107 Antiques23.com
Coyle Law Firm 125 Park Ave. No.100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 583-3909 coylelaw.com
Gulfport Seafood Market 8016 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-3468 Gulfportseafoods.com
Moorman's Distinctive Carpets and Area Rugs 3835 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4888 moormanscarpetsoklahoma city.com
Naifeh Fine Jewelry 6471 Avondale Dr,. Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 607-4323 Naifehfinejewelry.com
Retirement Investment Advisors 2925 United Founders Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-3443 theretirementpath.com
Thrifty Pharmacy 10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852 230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 thriftypharmacyedmond.com
BancFirst 6200 Waterford Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 270-1622 Bancfirst.bank
First National Bank of Oklahoma 10900 Hefner Pointe Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 fnbok.com
CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com
Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank
Covenant Brothers 5900 Mosteller Dr. No. 7 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-4671 covbros.com
Justin Beasley, DDS 4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com
Cindi Shelby, Stylist Lela Rose & Pearl by Lela Rose 333 W. Wilshire Blvd., Ste. F Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 830-1138
Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126
All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 Northwest 63 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.com
Papa Dios 10712 N May, Suite D Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-2255 papadiosokc.com
First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com
Denner Roofing Co. LLC
6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com
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 North 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
OPINION OPINION O O UR UR S S TAND TAND
“And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32 (quoting Jesus).
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” – Edmund Burke paraphrase, 1767.
If you want it in the paper, it’s advertising. If you don’t want it in the paper, it’s news.” – Ancient Chinese Proverb
“Without, or with, offense to friends or foes, We sketch your world exactly as it goes.” – Byron, 1818.
“Every violation of truth is a stab at the health of human society.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1878.
“We must always stand – alone if necessary – as the conscience of this community.” – J. Leland Gourley, 1959.
Essential vehicle theft prevention tips to steer clear of thieves
By Glen Mulready Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
July is National Vehicle Theft
Prevention
Month. In 2024, almost 851,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). That’s averaging a theft every 37 seconds!
The NICB also reported that the Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 were the most stolen vehicles nationwide. Vehicle theft is a distressing experience,
but there are some steps you can take to minimize your risk and protect yourself. First, review your auto insurance coverage and know precisely what it covers. Not all coverage types include theft. Collision coverage covers damages caused when you’re in an accident with another vehicle or object.
Comprehensive coverage includes other kinds of physical damage like theft, vandalism and hail. If you finance or lease a vehicle, your lender will likely require you to have both. When you own
your vehicle, it’s your discretion to carry Comprehensive coverage. Talk to your insurance agent to decide if you should purchase Comprehensive coverage based on your vehicle’s value, age, condition and where you drive and park it.
Next, let’s look at some tips to prevent theft. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urges vehicle owners to: Park in well-lit areas. Close and lock all windows and doors when parked. Hide or remove valu-
ables.
Do not leave keys in the vehicle. Do not leave the area while the vehicle is running.
Consider purchasing extra layers of protection for a vehicle if the vehicle’s manufacturer does not provide an anti-theft system. These can easily be purchased online or in a store.
Lastly, what should you do if your vehicle is stolen? The most important thing is to remain calm and alert the authorities immediately. Call the police and file a report, providing as much information as
Dear Wise Elder: My mother is a smart woman who spent her career in healthcare. She is now a widow. I love her and want the best for her, but things have changed. Although cognitively clear, she sees herself as she was decades ago. She constantly calls me, my uncle and her sister-in-law for assistance. We respond, but she only accepts help on her terms and refuses solutions that actually resolve the problem. We're exhausted and feel manipulated. After a car accident and hospitalization, she left rehab early and refused home care, insisting she knows what she needs. What do you suggest?
possible, such as the make, model, color, license plate number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Next, you will want to contact your insurer within 24 hours, as well as your lender, with your report to let them know about the theft.
Finally, if you left any credit or debit cards in the vehicle, contact your financial institutions to cancel them. Also, consider freezing your credit or placing fraud alerts to prevent thieves from using your personal information to borrow money or open accounts in your name.
Dear Manipulated: Reward the behavior you want to see. Do not respond to manipulation. The three caregivers must unite and set firm boundaries. She must be willing. Establish a schedule for checkins and define your limits. You are not required to fulfill every wish, and she will eventually learn what she can manage alone. As caregivers, you must pace yourselves. This is a long journey. If you burn out now, she may face serious consequences. Stand strong, be loving, and prioritize what's best for her, even when it's hard.
- Courtesy VillagesOKC, VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
If you find your vehicle before the police do, notify them and your insurer at once. Vehicle theft happens daily, but you don’t have to be unprepared! By reviewing your insurance coverage and taking practical steps, you can avoid the headache of a stolen vehicle. If it does happen, know what you need to do and whom you need to contact. To find helpful information about auto insurance, visit oid.ok.gov/auto or call the Oklahoma Insurance Department at (800) 522-0071.
Leadership Oklahoma names officers, Board of Directors
Leadership Oklaho-
ma, a statewide nonprofit committed to identifying, educating, and connecting leaders to positively impact Oklahoma, recently announced the election of Kathy Banks-Monroe as chairman of its Board of Directors.
Banks-Monroe succeeds Chris Benge, vice president of operations at OSUIT, who served as chairman in 20242025.
Kathy Banks-Monroe is a retired director with the Department of the Army/Network Enterprise Center and resides in Lawton.
Banks-Monroe is a graduate of Leadership Oklahoma Class XXIX and a Lifetime Member.
“It is an honor to have been elected as Chair of Leadership Oklahoma’s Board of Directors,” said BanksMonroe. “Leadership Oklahoma is committed to identifying and encouraging leaders to learn how they can bring their energy and vision for the benefit of the state. As we welcome our next class of adult and youth leaders, I look forward to watching their growth and working with the board to strengthen our commitment to Oklahoma.”
Elected to the executive committee for the 2025 – 2026 term, alongside Kathy Banks-
Monroe are the following: Vice Chairman/ Chairman-Elect/ChairAdministration Steve Smith, Porum; Secretary/Treasurer/ChairFinance Committee Wes Knight, Edmond; Chairman-Adult Program Committee Lyle Roggow, Duncan; Chairman Elect-Adult Program Committee Greg Elliott, Chickasha; Chairman-Development Committee Stephanie Regan, Tulsa; Chairman-Marketing/PR Committee: Farooq Karim, Norman; Chairman-Membership Committee Rachael Melot, Shawnee; Chairman Elect-Membership Committee Kimber Shoop, Oklahoma City; Chairman-Youth Program Committee Taylor Burnett, Woodward; Chairman ElectYouth Program Committee Tyler Bridges Stillwater; and, Immediate Past Chairman/ Chair-Nominating Committee: Chris Benge, Sand Springs. At-large Fridayland members of the 2025 –2026 executive committee are: Millicent Newton-Embry, Edmond. Additional members of the 2025 – 2026
board include: Richard Cudjo, Oklahoma City; Jennifer Pham, Oklahoma City; Trae Rahill, Oklahoma City; and Rob Reynolds, Oklahoma City.
Those serving as advisors to the board for the next year are: Brian Byrnes, Edmond; Lincoln Ferguson, Oklahoma City; Thomas Lewis, Oklahoma City; and Dan Martel, Edmond.
“This extraordinary group of leaders is committed to growing the dynamic network of Oklahomans who are energized and focused on shaping Oklahoma’s future,” said Jodi Lewis, president and CEO of Leadership Oklahoma.
“Under the leadership of Chair Kathy BanksMonroe, I am confident Leadership Oklahoma will continue to make a positive and significant impact in our state and on the people we serve.”
Senner is Wish CEO
Make-A-Wish Oklahoma announced the appointment of Debo-
Friends and Family
rah McAuliffe Senner as its new statewide president and CEO, effective immediately. Senner brings over 30 years of nonprofit leadership experience as
well as a proven track record in fundraising and board development to the role.
“Deborah came to Make-A-Wish as an interim CEO in February of 2024 for a 3-6month assignment while a national firm conducted a search for the new CEO. However, as we launched the process to identify a new CEO it was evident to everyone on the search committee that the ideal candidate was Senner. So now we are thrilled to welcome Deborah to Make-AWish officially!” said Ron Hardzog, current
Make-A-Wish Oklahoma Board chairman.
“While operating in the interim CEO capacity, we all witnessed what a positive impact Deborah had not only with our constituents but the team at MakeA-Wish and the community as well. Her experience and vision will be invaluable as we move forward in our mission to grant wishes for Oklahoma’s critically-ill children. We are confident that under Senner’s leadership, Make-A-Wish Oklahoma will see
See BUSINESS, Page 12
- Photo by Rose Lane
The Giles sisters, plus their uncle, showed up to help dad, Steven Giles, with a special Friends and Family event at the store on Broadway, across from Oklahoma Contemporary. From left: Uncle J.P. O’Brien, Catherine Sikes, Liz Giles, Becca Giles and Steven Giles.
DEBORAH SENNER
BUSINESS
From Page 11
tremendous growth!” commented Hardzog.
“I am honored to join Make-AWish Oklahoma and eager to work with the talented team to advance our mission," said Senner. “My focus
FRIDAY in Canada
The Quail Creek Bank Travel Club recently returned from a weeklong adventure through the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park. Highlights included Calgary, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park, Going-tothe-Sun Road, Banff, Athabasca Glacier, Ice Explorer Glacier Tour, Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Lake Louise. This picture was taken outside the Athabasca Glacier in Jasper. Travelers pictured are: Mark Warner, Tom and Linda Gulley, Diane Tunnell, Patricia Austin, Jeanie Mills, Kathy Cleaver, Susan Medina, Sherri Bradford, Gracie Moyers, George and Claudia Verstraete, Dan and Carolyn Chandler and Lacey Biffle.
will be on creating a vision for the chapter, building strategic partnerships, increasing donor support, and serving Oklahoma’s critically-ill children. I am excited to collaborate with the board to increase our statewide presence. This organization has taken hold of my heart. I get to experience first-hand the magic that a wish brings to the child, the family and the entire community.
