Dean A. McGee Awards
At left: Edie Roodman, Glenna Tanenbaum, Whitney Cross and Dr.
at the Dean A
Awards. At right: Event Co-Chairmen Deborah
and Jim Couch. For more photos, see Pages 2 & 11.
Heart health takes center stage during Go Red
Oklahoma City will turn red on Thursday, Nov. 6, as the American Heart Association-OKC hosts its 2025 Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Meinders Hall of Mirrors, Civic Center Music Hall.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., guests gather for an afternoon of inspiration, education and advocacy—all in support of women’s heart health. Now in her third
See RED, Page 3
Two-and-a-halfyear-old Harper Choudhry slides out of summer at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club. Metro country clubs and swimming pools were full on Labor Day as people enjoyed the last of summer. Harper is the daughter of Victoria Ball and Farooq Choudhry.
Classroom wing to provide space for new programming
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
A new classroom wing under construction at John Marshall Enterprise High School, 12201 N. Portland Ave., is to help with efforts to provide new educational programming in aviation and health sciences.
The new wing at JMEHS will provide classroom and lab space for the new programs offered to the nearly 800 students who attend the school. Nabholz is the contractor of the class-
room wing designed by Studio Architect and funded through an Oklahoma City Public School Bond Issue. The project has a projected completion date for the 2026-2027 school year. Upon graduation students who have completed the new programming are ready to pursue careers in aviation including piloting, air traffic control, and drone operation. Students in a new health science program are prepared for careers
See JM, Page 3
Town Hall Lecture series speakers are announced
By Rose Lane Editor
Tickets are now on sale for the 92nd Annual Town Hall Lecture Series. In 1933, the Junior League of Oklahoma City decided to sponsor a cultural lecture
series called Town Hall.
Since members of the league wished it to be a city-wide artistic venture, they asked 20 local women to be on the Board of Advisors.
This board was responsible for the selection of the speakers. 370 women joined
Storm debris collections are set
Residential solid waste customers in northwest Oklahoma City who experienced tree and limb damage during recent sudden rain downbursts are asked to set their debris at the curb so it can be collected during their next regular bulky waste day in September.
Crews have assessed areas where the downbursts were most severe and have put together a map of impacted areas. Neighborhoods impacted are located generally south of Lake Hefner between
• Those who live in one of the neighborhoods identified on the map and have tree or limb debris, set all debris at the curb for collection by 6 a.m. on the next regular bulky waste day in See DEBRIS, Page 3 www.okcfriday.com facebook.com/okcfriday OKC’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with
Northwest 10 and Wilshire Boulevard and North MacArthur Boulevard and May Avenue. See map at okc.gov/ debrismap for specific impacted areas.
What to know:
and the series was enthusiastically received by the group.
As was the custom with all projects, after three years the Junior League turned over the entire supervision of this project to the communitywide Board of Advisers who were then fully responsible for its direction. Today, the lectures are to begin at 11 a.m., the third Thursday of the month at the Church of the Servant, 14343 N. MacArthur Blvd. Lunches with the speaker are offered
FRIDAY’s
Stewart is a standard poodle rescued from a puppy mill when he was 5-1/2-months-old. He is extremely intelligent and learns words and sentences very quickly. And, he loves to be loved! His mom and dad are Bill Blair and Nancy Miller, husband and wife. Email Pet of the Week submissions with complete descriptions to: rose@okcfriday.com.
See LECTURES, Page 7
Brian Wolfe
McGree
Senner
MARY POINTER
- Photo by Rose Lane
Kim Brookshire and Chad Huntington celebrate receiving the Stanley Draper Award. Huntington was honored for his outstanding contributions to enhancing the visitor experience and cultural vitality of the Bricktown area.
Julie Beffort celebrates with Mark Beffort on receiving the Dean A McGee Award, in recognition of his lifetime of transformative leadership and investment in downtown Oklahoma City.
Frank Hill, center, presents President's Award to Leslie Rainbolt Forbes and David Rainbolt honoring Gene Rainbolt posthumously, celebrating his lasting legacy of civic and economic leadership.
Richard McKown and wife Liz celebrate receiving Neal Horton Award for his visionary role in driving downtown revitalization.
Presenters Richard Tanenbaum and Meg Salyer at Dean McGee Awards. For more photos, see Page 11.
vinced it is for them.
in pre-nursing, dentistry, or to pursue careers as an emergency medical technician or certified nurse aide.
“Within the next four years, our graduates will be qualified experts or on their way to gainful employment or educational opportunities,” said third year JMEHS Principal Rachelle’ Conner. “They will be lifelong learners that are contributing to a vibrant community.”
Principal Conner said JMEHS parents are excited about the opportunities the new programs for their children.
“Our students will be able to graduate high school with a student pilot license, drone certification or on track to enter an 18-month program with some amazing benefits and immediate employment upon successful completion,” said Principal Conner. ‘The idea of students becoming pilots is far reaching for many of our students, so they aren’t all the way con -
DEBRIS
From Page 1
“Our goals include showing students they can fly the plane or work on the plane through Metro Tech. They can operate drones for the military, marketing, real estate and other types of companies,” she said. “We are thrilled that parents are asking a lot of the right questions to advance the trajectory of excellence for their children.”
Conner said school leaders surveyed the needs in the state along with families and other stakeholders for their input.
“We did our own research about shortages that exist and how we could create resources for those needs,” she said. “As it turns out, the University of Oklahoma has one of the top-rated colleges for aviation. They’re expanding their program to meet the needs of our society.
“Health Science occupations are in demand as well,” she added. “The most recent medical scare clearly indicated to us the importance of people with the skills and knowledge best to
September. Residents will not be fined for early setout, nor will you be charged excess bulky waste fees due to the size of your storm debris pile.
• Separate storm debris like tree limbs and fencing from regular bulky waste such as carpeting, furniture or appliances. If a bulky waste pile is commingled and includes both storm debris and regular bulky waste, residents will
RED
From Page 1
term as event chair, Mary Blankenship Pointer brings both professional leadership and personal passion to the cause. A former senior bank executive and longtime member of the Circle of Red giving society, Blankenship Pointer’s commitment is rooted in loss — her father died of a heart attack at age 43.
support our community at large.
“We can’t afford to have another drought of expertise again,” she said. “We’re learning and predicting or forecasting how to be ahead of things that may significantly impact our community. We’re committed to being on the cutting edge of greatness.
“It is exciting to create a career path that supports our students. We have many students that want to be nurses, so it’s exciting to create a career path that supports that outcome,” she said. “Students can earn their CNA certification before graduating high school.
“Hopefully our students will opt to consider other options like dentistry, premed, audiology and so on,” she continued. “The opportunities for young people are unlimited whether they choose college, trade school or entrepreneurship and we want to be a part of that amazing journey.”
Connor says there are no prerequisites to participate in the new Aviation and Health Sciences programs at
be subject to excess bulky waste fees. Visit okc.gov/mytrashday to confirm the next bulky collection date.
• Tree limbs should be cut into sections of 10 feet or shorter.
• Do not set any bulky items near mailboxes, gas meters, under trees, under overhead lines or near other obstructions.
• Do not set bulky items on top of water meter tiles or block sidewalk access.
• Do not set any bags out with your bulky waste. Bagged items
“That loss shaped my life,” she said. “This event is about saving lives. It’s a chance to educate and empower women to take control of their heart health.”
The luncheon is to feature survivor stories, expert insights and opportunities to support lifesaving research. Robin Marsh, veteran anchor with News 9, is the emcee the program, guiding attendees through a powerful lineup focused on awareness and action. Marsh
JMEHS.
“Unlike other schools, we want to open the doors to all that are interested,” said Conner. “There may be students that don’t even realize they have an aptitude for any of these offerings.”
Although the new classroom space is not scheduled to open until next year, the school has already started offering the new curriculum to students.
“Last year we offered introductory classes in health science through Career and Technical Education (CTE),” said Conner. “This year we are offering classes through the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and supporting that with an OU Pilot Program Senior in Aviation.
“The opportunities for young people are unlimited whether they choose college, trade school or entrepreneurship, and we want to be a part of that amazing journey.” she added. “We believe, the more our student see, they more they will believe and the more they will achieve.”
are not part of the bulky waste collection program.
Commercial properties:
• Commercial properties –including businesses, churches, schools, nonprofits and other organizations – are not eligible for curbside pickup by the City and are responsible for their own debris collection and disposal.
Learn more about regular bulky waste collection at okc.gov/utilities.
For questions, call OKC Utilities Customer Service at (405) 2972833.
will also create a one-ofa- kind painting at the luncheon.
Sydney Ore, development director of the Go Red for Women campaign in OKC, said the event is more than a luncheon—it’s a movement.
“We’re bringing together women from all walks of life to stand up for their health and for each other,” Ore said. “It’s a celebration of strength, resilience and the power of community.”
This year’s event is to spotlight the unique cardiovascular risks women face during pregnancy, menopause and other life stages. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in women, claiming more lives than all cancers combined.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and presented locally by OU Health.
To learn more or reserve a seat, visit heart.org/OKCGoRed.
Taste of the Northwest
Thursday, Sept. 18
Cantera Event Center North 3701 N MacArthur Blvd.
Our 15 Taste of Northwest will feature the flavors of more than a dozen Northwest Oklahoma City Restaurants and Caterers, as well as casual mingling with more than 300 guests. For tickets, see nwokc.com.
A new wing under construction at John Marshall Enterprise High School, 12201 N. Portland Ave, will provide classroom and lab space for new programming in aviation and health science.
FOOTBALL | WEEK 1 PREVIEW: OCS AT CASADY • FRIDAY, 7 P.M.
Cyclones host Saints to kick off 2025 campaign
As one of three Fridayland teams not participating in Week 0 contests, the Casady football team opens its season this Friday against Oklahoma Christian School (OCS).
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Hoot Gibson Field.
The Cyclones hope to improve on their 3-7 record in 2024 with a combination of experienced skill players and a young line to make a run at the Class 2A-II playoffs.
The offense boasts a number of 4-year starters mixed in with younger, talented athletes. Senior Andrew Fitzpatrick is one of those starters at running back and a major compliment to Casady’s wide-open offensive attack.
David Lawler, also a senior and transfer from Edmond North, is a legitimate dual threat at quarterback and can make plays on the edge.
PC North also opens
OKLAHOMA CITY FRIDAY
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its season on Friday with a road game at Shawnee.
Six offensive starters return to a unit which relies on mixing personnel packages to confuse opposing defenses.
Senior Mason Jones returns for a second season as the starting quarterback for the Panthers, after passing for nearly 1,300 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2024.
Mount St. Mary marks the second of three road games for
WEEK 1 SCHEDULE
Friday, September 5
OCS at Casady
Greenhill Academy at Crossings Christian
Edmond Memorial at Deer Creek
Heritage Hall at Lincoln Christian
Bishop Kelley at McGuinness
Mount St. Mary at Community Christian PC North at Shawnee Note: All games kick off at 7 p.m., unless noted.
Fridayland teams. The Rockets travel to Community Christian in Norman.
Heritage Hall, com-
ing off a 30-0 win at Clinton last week, visit Tulsa-Lincoln Christian in a rematch from last year’s playoffs.
FOOTBALL | WEEK 0 ROUNDUP
McGuinness looks for a strong 2-0 start to the season, when the Irish host in-state rival Tulsa-Bishop Kelley. The Irish (1-0) squeaked past Deer Creek in a 17-14 victory in Week 0.
Deer Creek (0-1) tries to get back on track by hosting Edmond Memorial.
Crossings Christian (1-0) entertains DallasGreenhill, following a dominating 65-0 triumph at KIPP-Tulsa. –
By Jason Jewell
Irish edge Antlers on last-second FG
Contrary to last season’s contest, the Fridayland Week 0 football battle between McGuinness and Deer Creek came down to the final quarter.
Kicker Robert Lehr connected on a 21-yard field goal with six minutes left in regulation to help the Irish (1-0) to a 17-14 win over the Antlers last Friday at
Deer Creek Stadium.
McGuinness got on the board first when Junior Harris rumbled for a 99-yard kickoff return. Gage Chance scored on a 38-yard run in the second quarter to give the Irish a slim lead.
Deer Creek (0-1) got a 9-yard TD run from Alex Nkepang and tied the game at 14-14 on quarterback Dax Chancey’s 65-yard strike to receiver Jalen Davis in the third quarter.
The Antlers cruised to a 53-17 victory in 2024 at McGuinness’ Pribil Stadium.
Knights run over KIPP Tulsa
Dominating from the start, Crossings Christian cruised to a 65-0 victory at KIPP Tulsa
John Marshall’s Ja'Vontae Holmes breaks free for a long touchdown run during last Saturday’s football game against Star Spencer.
last Friday night in the season opener.
Hudson Holloman collected two receiving touchdowns for the Knights (1-0). Noah Pierce, James Graham and Jack Weisgarber any for scores, while Drake Manuel and Hudson Terrell added two receiving TDs. Grayson Danner and Watt Dalton provided special teams scores, as Danner returned a blocked punt for a TD and Dalton scored on a kickoff return. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Deer Creek’s Jalen Davis (5) tries to avoid McGuinness defensive back Braydon Split.
Photo by Michael Mayberry, definingmomentokc.com
- Photo by Richard Clifton, rtcditigalimages.zenfolio.com
Carl Albert runs over Antlers
Falling behind early, the Deer Creek softball team managed just four hits on the way to an 81 loss to Carl Albert last week.
Isabella Hernandez batted 2-for-3, while Aspen Mahan recorded a double and scored a run to lead the Antlers (5-4).
Kamryn McGaugh accounted for Deer Creek’s other hit.
Pitcher Makalyn Hamilton got roughed up for eight runs on 10 hits over seven innings in the setback.
The Antlers visit Edmond North this Monday and host Mustang on Tuesday.
WASHINGTON SWEEPS KNIGHTS
Hampered by more than a half-dozen errors, Casady endured a doubleheader loss at defending state champion Washington.
The Cyclones (1-5) were held without a hit and committed four errors in a 11-0 loss in Game 1. Pitcher Brooklyn Wells allowed nine run on six hits over 1
2/3 innings.
Casady recorded six hits in a 16-6 setback in the night cap, led by Grace Robey with a single, two RBIs and a run scored.
Wells, Alice Sun and Deede Douglass combined for three hits, drove in three runs and scored three more.
Sun took the pitching loss, surrendering 10 runs on 11 hits over two innings.
The Cyclones travel to Jones this Monday for a doubleheader and host Midwest City on Tuesday.
MEMORIAL DOWNS PANTHERS
PC North fell behind early and never recovered in a 17-6 loss to Edmond Memorial.
Six different batters recorded hits, as Jayda Stevenson led the way with a solo home run in the third inning.
Savannah Martinez collected two RBIs, while Kayleigh Andrews collected a double and scored a run and Kamryn Staden drove in two more runs.
Stevenson also took the pitching loss, allowing six runs on five hits and striking out three over 2 1/3 innings.
PC North hosts Southeast this Monday and Norman North on Tuesday.
IRISH RALLY FALLS SHORT AT ELK CITY
McGuinness trailed in the early innings, rallied for four runs in the middle frame but ultimately fell in a 9-5 loss at Elk City.
Maya Madu batted 3-for-4 and scored twice to lead the Irish (2-10). Lainey Waldo and Grace Grimes recorded doubles and Waldo drove in a run. Lexi Cook also added a single.
Pitcher Mila Breslin allowed six runs on six hits over four innings in the setback.
McGuinness is set for a busy week, with home games against Tulsa-Bishop Kelley this Friday and Weatherford on Monday, followed by a road trip to Weatherford on Tuesday.
Touchdown, Antlers!
CROSS COUNTRY ROUNDUP
Knight boys run to Watonga Invitational championship
With all five runners in the top 10, the Crossings Christian boys cross country team collected the Watonga Invitational championship last weekend.
Asher Greer headlined a trio placing in the top 6 in fourth place, followed by Chase Brown in fifth place and Stacy Harris in sixth.
Zac Roberson and Owen Hoyle rounded out the group in eighth and 10th places, respectively.
Megan Bond paced the Knight girls in 51st place.
IRISH’S HARPER WINS AT MUSTANG
A pair of McGuin-
ness athletes grabbed spots in the top 10, including the individual champion at the Mustang Harrier Invitational.
The Irish’s Sylvia Harper completed the 5-kilometer course at Wild Horse Park in 18:44.98 to beat the field by nearly one minute and help the McGuinness girls to fourth in the team standings.
Luke Worthington finished in fifth place in leading the Irish boys to fourth place.
Four other runners placed inside the top 25, including Luke Bryan in 15th, James Schultz in 22nd, Vincent Desrochers in 23rd and Kade Taylor in 25th place.
Camryn Kanaly was the only other Irish girl in the top 25 in 17th position.
ANTLERS TAKE 4TH AT WESTMOORE
Buoyed by a combined six runners in the top 25, the Deer Creek boys placed fourth and the girls took fifth last weekend at the Westmoore Invitational.
Nnia Moore led the group in eighth place for the Antlers, followed by teammate Graycie Lucas in 13th place. Landon Gilmore garnered 18th place for the Deer Creek boys, with Heath Poppe in 19th place, Brice Howard in 20th and Jocelyn Elder in 21st place.
Cyclones sweep The Academy
Not losing a set in two matches, the Casady volleyball team rolled to a pair of sweeps last week.
The Class 3A No. 2 Cyclones (105) posted a 3-0 victory against No. 12 The Academy.
They also secured a 3-0 triumph over 3A No. 10 Oklahoma Christian Academy and 4A No. 11 Crossings Christian to open the week.
Casady hosts 4A No. 3 Community Christian this Tuesday and 3A No. 9 Heritage Hall on Thursday. Crossings hosts Christian Heritage this Tuesday and Bethany on Thursday.
CHARGERS DOWN KNIGHTS
In a battle of Fridaylanders, the Heritage Hall volleyball team came out on the positive side of a 3-0 sweep over Crossings Christian in last week’s action.
The 3A No. 9 Chargers (7-4) also
cruised to a 3-0 win against North Rock Creek. Heritage Hall entertains 5A No. 3 OCS and visits Casady on Thursday.
PANTHERS TOP PUTNAM CITY
PC North salvaged a split from last week’s action, including a 3-0 sweep at Putnam City and a 3-1 loss to Ponca City. The Panthers (7-4) travel to Choctaw this Thursday.
IRISH FALL AT COMMUNITY CHR.
Top-ranked McGuinness suffered just its second loss of the season in a 3-0 setback at 4A No. 3 Community Christian last week.
The 5A No. 1 Irish (14-2) opened the week with a 3-2 win over the OKC Storm. They compete at the Claremore Classic this weekend. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Deer Creek tailback Alex Nkepang dives across the goal line as he scores on a 9-yard touchdown run last Friday night against McGuinness.
Photo by Michael Mayberry, definingmomentokc.com
CALENDAR
FUNDRAISERS
Sept. 18 • Impact Oklahoma Luncheon
Celebrate 20 years of Impact at the seated luncheon with a panel of $100,000 grant recipients, table hosts from past grantees, and a chance to reconnect over lunch as we honor the legacy and look ahead to the next chapter of collective giving. Luncheon is from 11:30 am to 1 pm at St. Luke’s Methodist Church. Visit impactok.org to reserve a seat.
Oct. 16 • Beans & Cornbread
2025
Enjoy a free lunch of specially crafted beans and tasty cornbread while supporting OKCMA’s programs — Men’s Firstep, Women’s Firstep, and PIA. The program will highlight a powerful message: when one person reaches for recovery, their impact ripples out to their family, their community, and beyond. Your involvement is crucial in helping the OKC Metro Alliance continue its mission to increase sobriety, decrease incarceration, and recover lives. Call 4055684515 for information.
BALLET
Sept. 13 • Dance Day
Oklahoma City Ballet will host its annual Dance Day, a free, allday celebration of
Paycom Center Events/Shows: Lil Wayne
movement and creativity Saturday. Sept. 13. From 9 am to 3 pm, classes, performances and interactive activities will welcome participants of all ages and abilities. Attendees can enjoy indoor and outdoor experiences, with activities ranging from dance classes and live performances to face painting and crafts for children. No registration or special attire is required — all classes and events are accessible and welcoming to the community. Susan E. Brackett Dance Center, 6800 N. Classen Blvd.
THIS WEEKEND
Sept. 6 • Help Support Special Olympics Local law enforcement agencies will be bagging groceries at
Uptown Grocery for tips for Special Olympics Oklahoma athletes from 10 am to 2 pm. 100% of donations to officers will directly benefit 12,400 Special Olympics Oklahoma athletes.
Sept. 6 • Haus On the Courts
Join us for a night of house music and dancing on the courts — also known as Neufs for Oklahoma Autumn by Edgar Heap of Birds. Haus Lab brings you a stacked lineup of Oklahoma City’s favorite DJs for an unforgettable evening, featuring highenergy house music, great vibes and delicious cocktails from 8 pm midnight. Don't miss this celebration of art, sound and community at Oklahoma Contemporary, 21+.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com
Sep. 22 Ice Cube
Oct. 4 Stevie Nicks
Oct. 15
Oct. 16
Nate Bargatze
Bert Kreischer
Ron Howard
Oklahoman Ron Howard is nominated for his first ever acting Emmy at the 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards. Howard has been nominated for 13 Emmy Awards as a producer or director, winning three times for Jim Henson: Idea Man, 2024 Outstanding Documentary; Arrested Development, 2004 Outstanding Comedy Series; and From the Earth to the Moon, 1998 Outstanding MiniSeries. This acting nomination is a fun feather in the cap of a Hollywood legend who has been acting on television since 1959.
Ron Howard was born in Duncan, Oklahoma in 1954. His mother Jean Speegle Howard was from Duncan. His father Rance Howard was from Newkirk. They met at the University of Oklahoma studying drama and set out to Hollywood to make it in entertainment. Both had successful careers in theater and film. Rance appeared in the classic films Cool Hand Luke and Chinatown before being cast by his son in several films. In 2020, Ron Howard established a scholarship at the University of Oklahoma’s Helmerich School of Drama in honor of his parents and the role OU Drama played in their family’s lives.
Howard entered the
world of pop culture as an actor playing Opie Taylor in 243 episodes of The Andy Grffith Show from 19601968. He had several follow up roles in tv and film. But his next giant leap of fame was playing Richie Cunningham in 170 episodes of Happy Days from 1974 -1984.
These days, Howard is far better known for his work behind the camera as an acclaimed director and producer. He has helmed several enduring classics like Cocoon, Apollo 13, and The DaVinci Code. And, he has been honored with two Oscars for producing and directing A Beautiful Mind At this year’s Emmys, Howard is nominated for Best Guest Actor in a Comedy for playing a fictionalized version of himself in the new hit sitcom from Apple called The Studio The Studio stars Seth Rogen as a newly hired studio boss navigating the craziness of Hollywood. It is tense, hilarious, and offers a great inside view of Hollywood behind the scenes. Surprisingly, five of the six nomi-
nees in this same category all played fictionalized versions of themselves in The Studio: Ron Howard, Martin Scorsese, Bryan Cranston, Anthony Mackie, and Dave Franco. I have a fun personal tie to The Studio. A Hollywood writer named Alex Gregory, who is the co-creator and lead writer for the show, lived down the hall from me in my freshman dorm at Stanford. Gregory has been nominated for eleven Emmy’s as a writer for Late Night with David Letterman, The Larry Sanders Show, King of the Hill, Veep, and two this year for The Studio. His two Emmy wins were for writing Veep. When I lived in Los Angles, Alex and his posse of writers were always the most hilarious people to hang out with at parties.
The Studio has been a giant hit for Apple. With 23 Emmy nominations, it is the most nominated comedy of the year. Other major nominees to check out before showtime include the dramas Severance with 27 nominations, The Penguin with 24, and The White Lotus with 23. Watch a few episodes this week and then tune in for The Primetime Emmy Awards a week from Sunday, Sept. 14, at 7:00 pm on CBS and Paramount Plus.
OIC Prepares for 2025 Black & White Ball
The Opportunities Industrialization Center of Oklahoma County, Inc. (OIC) is thrilled to announce its highly anticipated Black and White Ball 2025, an unforgettable evening of elegance, camaraderie, and celebration! The Ball is set for Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, at the Oklahoma History Center Museum, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., Oklahoma City. This year’s event will be especially spectacular as it falls on Halloween night, bringing a festive twist to tradition. Guests are invited to embrace the timeless blackand-white theme, accented with a touch of orange, for a glamorous evening of celebration and reflec-
tion. Elegant masquerade masks will also be provided.
The evening begins with a Cocktail Hour at 6:00 pm, followed by the main event at 7:00 pm. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, a plated dinner, a cash bar, dancing, and an electric atmosphere that only OIC can deliver.
The OIC Black and White Ball is more than a celebration—it’s a chance to create lasting impact. True to every OIC tradition, this elegant evening blends philanthropy with community, all in support of our mission: inspiring and empowering adult learners through academic and career edu-
cation. For 59 years, OIC has led the way in ‘gap education’—bridging the distance between where learners are today and where they aspire to be.
“This event is the highlight of our year,” says DesJean Jones, OIC President & CEO. “Not only do we get to celebrate our incredible supporters and learners, but we also get to do it in style—with a little Halloween magic thrown in this year!”
Tickets are just $100 per person—less than a typical date night, and for a cause that changes lives. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
To purchase tickets or secure a sponsorship, visit: oicokc.org, or stop by OIC at 3033 N. Walnut Ave., Building East, Oklahoma City, OK.
For questions or more information, call (405) 235-2651.
Founded in 1966, OIC of Oklahoma County has empowered more than 50,000 individuals through education and workforce development. OIC specializes in helping adults overcome barriers and achieve their academic and career goals—because at OIC, we meet you where you are and take you where you want to be.
Lance McDaniel and Ron Howard
LECTURE
From Page 1
following the lectures.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit okctownhall.org.
This year’s series includes:
• Kris Martin, hearing impaired race car driver, Sept. 18. Ask Kris Martin to do something for you and his standard response is “Not a problem.” Stepping in a race car that reaches speeds of over 200 miles per hour. Not a problem. Speaking to over 300 hundred students who look at him as a role model. Not a problem. Being born profoundly deaf. Not a problem.
In fact, being born hearing impaired may have helped Kris. Today Kris is actually able to receive partial hearing through the use of an implant he had surgically implanted when he was 8-years- old.
• Shannon Bream, anchor and chief legal correspondent at Fox News, Oct. 16. Shannon Bream is the anchor of Fox News @ Night and chief legal correspondent for the Fox News Channel. In that role, she has covered numerous political campaigns, landmark Supreme Court decisions and Washington scandals. Shannon is also the author of two bestselling books, Finding the
Bright Side: The Art of Chasing What Matters and The Women of The Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and Their Lessons for Today, which debuted at #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list.
• Tony Perkins, pro-family advocate and political pioneer, Nov. 20.
Tony Perkins is Family Research Council’s fourth and longest-serving president, joining the organization in August of 2003. Described as a legislative pioneer by the national media, Tony has established himself as an innovative pro-life and pro-family policy and political leader since first being elected to the office in 1996. In an effort to address the growing social problems brought about by the instability of marriage and no-fault divorce, he authored and passed the nation’s first Covenant Marriage law in 1997, which captured the attention of policymakers across the country.
• Reed Timmer, storm chaser and extreme meteorologist, Feb. 19, 2026.
Dr. Reed Timmer is an extreme meteorologist and storm chaser who specializes in intercepting the most powerful storms ont he planet to collect valuable scientific data.
Graduating with a Ph.D. in meteorology from the University of Oklahoma, Timmer is not only a hardcore storm chaser, but also a scientist driven to unravel the mys-
teries behind these destructive storms and how they are changing over time.
• John Bramblitt, blind painter and muralist, March 19, 2026.
After losing his sight in 2001, John decided to pick up a paintbrush. It was his way of reconnecting with the visual world he had lost. Since then John’s work has been featured in major news outlets and sold all over the world. He has worked with celebrities, named cultural ambassador to the United States, and partnered with Delta to paint a Boeing 737 promoting the Rock-in-Rio concert. Not only is John a recognized painter, but he is also now the only blind muralist having completed projects in New York, Dallas, Fort Worth, and other cities.
• Nicole Malachowski, first female Thunderbird pilot, April 16, 2026.
Col. Nicole Malachowski, USAF (Ret.) was a jet fighter pilot, but if you think you know her based on that, you’d be wrong. A leader, a combat veteran, the first woman pilot on the Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Squadron, a White House Fellow, and an inductee into both the National Women’s Hall of Fame and the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame. An indomitable spirit, Nicole fought back against overwhelming odds and prevailed.
MARTIN BREAM PERKINS TIMMER BRAMBITT MALACHOWSKI
hearing said application, before Judge Oakes, Judge of the District Court in the District Court Room Probate Division Room 217, Oklahoma County Courthouse 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, when and where any person interested in said estate may appear and contest said petition by filing written opposition thereto on the ground of incompetence of the applicant, or may assert his/her own right to the administration and pray for Letters to be issued to Adam Abbo.
Dated this 20 day of August, 2025. MARTHA F. OAKES Judge of the District Court Rick Warren Court Clerk Oklahoma County, Oklahoma By: /s/J. Pulley (SEAL)
Nichols hills
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, September 5, 2025)
PUBLIC NOTICE
All persons having an indebtedness or claim against the City of Nichols Hills and/or Nichols Hills Municipal Authority are hereby notified that all invoices and documentation pertaining to said purchase order or contract must be recorded in the office of Nichols Hills City Clerk on or before September 30, 2025, covering all debts now unpaid and incurred during the period beginning on July 1, 2024, and ending on June 30, 2025, or said account shall be void and forever barred.
Amanda Copeland Assistant City Manager
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, September 5, 2025; Friday, September 12, 2025)
IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
PB-2025-1019 Judge Michelle C. Harrington IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ) DONALD H. HELBERG, Deceased ) ) )
AMENDED COMBINED NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR SUMMARY ADMINISTRATION, FINAL ACCOUNTING, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, DISTRIBUTION AND DISCHARGE
To: All persons interested in the Estate of Donald H. Helberg, Deceased
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 12th day of August, 2025, Sara Helberg (“Petitioner”), a resident of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, filed in the District Court of Oklahoma County, a Petition for Summary Administration of the above-referenced Estate pursuant to 58 O.S. § 245-46, in which Petitioner alleges and states that Donald H. Helberg died on February 18, 2025 as a resident of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma; that at the time of his death, the Decedent was 92 years old; that Petitioner has diligently searched for and located a document purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of the above-referenced individual, and that said Decedent died testate; that the probable value of the Decedent’s Estate is less than $200,000.00; and that the names and addresses of the heirs of Donald H. Helberg, Deceased, are as follows: Name Age Relationship Address Lisa Helberg Adult Daughter 111 Barnacle Ct Middletown, DE 19709 Sara Helberg Adult Daughter 900 E 11th St Edmond, OK 73034
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a hearing on the Petition for Summary Administration and a Final Accounting, Determination of Heirship, Distribution and Discharge of the Estate of Donald H. Helberg will be held on the 13th day of October, 2025 at 9:30am, in the courtroom of the Honorable Michelle C. Harrington of the District Court of Oklahoma County, State of Oklahoma. You may file objections to the Petition at any time before the final hearing and send a copy to the attorney of record for Petitioner at the following address: Erick W. Harris, Harris Law Group, PLLC., P.O. Box 32391, Edmond, OK 73003. If you have no objections, you need not appear at the hearing or make any filings with the Court. In the absence of any objections, you will be deemed to have waived any objections to the Petition. At the hearing, the Court will determine whether summary proceedings are appropriate and, if so, whether the estate of the Decedent will be distributed and to whom the estate of the Decedent will be distributed.
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that in accordance with the provisions of 58 O.S. §246, the claim of any creditor will be barred unless the claim is presented to the Special Administrator, Sara Helberg, by and through her attorney of record at the above-stated address, no more than thirty (30) days following the granting of the order admitting the petition and combined notice, or the same will be forever barred. Dated this 29th day of August, 2025.
Respectfully submitted, /s/Erick W. Harris, OBA #32004 HARRIS LAW GROUP, PLLC. P.O. BOX 32391 Edmond, Oklahoma 73003
Telephone: (405) 804-1476
Email: HarrisLawGroupOK@gmail.com
Attorney for the Petitioner, Sara Helberg
08-20-2025
“Action” means any of the following: amending, approving, approving as amended, deferring, denying, giving instructions to staff, making a recommendation to another public body, receiving documents or presentations, referring to committee, reconsidering, re-opening, returning, or striking the item. Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance Approval of Minutes Discussion and possible action regarding the minutes of the meeting held on August 13, 2025 prepared by the County Clerk as authorized by statute 19 O.S. §243, 244, and 445 subject to additions or corrections by the Board of County Commissioners. Lowe moved, Davidson seconded, to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson, Maughan and Lowe Recurring Agenda Items: Discussion and possible action regarding all claims; list is attached and available for inspection in the Office of the County Clerk, Room 203. Item requested by the Oklahoma County Accounts Payable Department, Office of the County Clerk. Maughan moved, Lowe seconded, to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson, Maughan and Lowe Discussion and possible action regarding Resolution No. 2025-3293 for Blanket Purchase Orders as submitted by each department, list available for inspection in the office of the County Clerk, Room 203. Item requested by Oklahoma County Purchasing Department, Office of the County Clerk. as amended 126012834 40000.00 12600674 7250 Lowe moved, Maughan seconded, to approve as amended. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson, Maughan and Lowe Consent Agenda Items on the consent agenda are routine in nature and approved with a single vote. However, any item on the consent agenda is subject to individual consideration at the request of a member of the body. The following items are Consent Items and are routine in nature: Lowe moved, Maughan seconded, to approve. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 3 - Davidson, Maughan and Lowe Assessor’s Revolving
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.
Let’s keep The Vista in print
By Amy Hall Special to OKC FRIDAY
Forty-five years ago this September, the Central State University administration sought to control the student newspaper, The Vista, through various tactics, verbal threats and intimidation. It forced my father, Dennie Hall, to resign as The Vista adviser. His reason: The administration’s quest for control was a “code word for censorship.”
I remember my father telling me that then-President Bill Lillard said to Dr. Ray Tassin, then-Chairman of the Department of Journalism, “If you don’t make
him (Dennie Hall) silence the student journalists working for The Vista, I will!”
The Vista is an institution that has served the university for 122 years, longer
Amy Hall and her father, the late Den-
than any other student publication. My father, a longtime, tenured and beloved UCO faculty member, fought to protect the First Amendment until he died in 2020. That included the
Dear Wise Elder: My wife and I are 54 years old; both of us are working and have two sons who are doing well in college. We are having serious concerns about both our parents’ futures, a lot more concern than for our sons. Both parents live in our city and we would be happy to help. But, the challenge is communication. Her parents are very secretive about their affairs. My parents want to take charge of every decision, but then call when they are in trouble. How can we start these hard conversations?
Dear Start Talking: You take the initiative. Role reversal may
rights of student journalists to serve as watchdogs of government, which includes a university’s administration.
I recently sat in a meeting in which UCO’s Student Media Advisory Board was intimidated into approving a budget without the printing costs. The administration threatened loss of funding and regents’ mandates about “more efficient use of our resources.”
Then they claimed the department and its faculty made the decision. I personally know many of the journalism staff and faculty at UCO. They taught with my father, and I was present at
feel awkward at first, so make the issue FIRST about your need, your questions to help get them involved: “Mom, we need your help. Jane and I are making decisions about our insurance beneficiaries and who should be on our bank accounts. Would you take a look at what we are thinking and give your input? How have you and dad made these decisions?” This approach seeks to put you and your parents in the same situation, in the same boat. This can help relieve the tension.
Courtesy VillagesOKC, VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
many university and nonuniversity gatherings with them. I don’t know a single member of the faculty that taught alongside my father that would have made that decision.
They then claimed it was about moving toward a digital future where print newspapers are no longer needed. That’s laughable when considering 155 Oklahoma newspapers, including in many of the regents’ hometowns, and 17,000 news organizations worldwide still print at least weekly. The board had to make the difficult decision See VISTA, Page 11
Author
nie Hall.
VISTA
to approve the budget without printing so students working for The Vista would be paid during the 2025-2026 school year.
The administration didn’t just say they didn’t have the money to print The Vista, they said it wouldn’t be printed even if there was funding from other sources, i.e. The Dennie Hall Endowment Fund. Today, by banning printing of The Vista, the University of Central Oklahoma administration is in clear violation of the Freedom of the Press guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
The Vista’s print version is and will be a useful learning tool for aspiring journalists as it was 45 years ago. It continues that way despite UCO seemingly abandoning journalism, too.
On UCO’s “Mass Communication” web pages, UCO still has a journalism minor and an endowed chair for journalism ethics funded by a grant. That’s about it. When my father was teaching, the department had a powerful journalism department led by Dr. Ray Tassin in which The Vista was a centerpiece and had 900 students with two baccalaureate and two master’s degrees. It was fostered up until Dr. Terry Clark left as department chair in 2009.
This points to administrative neglect and reckless decisions that affect the futures of many Oklahomans. What was once a proud program was cut so much that it no longer has a full-time The Vista adviser, no longer has summer editions, and fails to publish a story the first two weeks of this semester.
It especially points to a current president who spends tens of thousands of dollars on a new mascot named Buck and a rebranding campaign with a theme of “Where the Movement Is” while his administration
rejects donations for the $12,000 to print one year of The Vista.
Students, faculty and the rest of us receive flashy public relations newsletters and selfies of a president working out more than spending time supporting students’ First Amendment rights as past presidents Don Betz, Roger Webb and former Gov. George Nigh did. This current administration is more about flash than substance. Thus, the only reason they offered to allow donors’ funding for The Vista student journalists is to publish a print propaganda magazine instead of a print weekly newspaper.
Don’t let anyone fool you: It’s about administration control of the message, that code word for censorship. It was that way 45 years ago when my father stood up to them. This time, however, what’s at stake is the very existence of a student newspaper, protected by the free speech and press clauses in the First Amendment.
The history of journalism, which UCO also fails to teach, shows us that these types of tactics eventually will backfire. It did in 1980. They should in 2025, too.
Amy Hall is one of the top account managers at one of the largest commercial printing and direct mail companies in Oklahoma. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oklahoma and a minor in history. She started her career as a proofreader at Ackerman McQueen in 1999 and worked her way up to broadcast creative service manager before moving on to further her career. Today, she is her company’s political mail specialist, the head of software and development and even a proofreader for the companies various marketing strategies.
Her father, Dennie Hall, helped establish the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame under Dr. Ray Tassin and was director until his retirement in 1997. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1999. He also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Oklahoma Society of Professional Journalists, among many other awards and accolades.
Dean A. McGee Awards
The best table of them all at the Dean A. McGree Awards. From left: Front row, Marnie and Clayton Taylor and Jim and Kathy Couch; and back row, Downtown OKC Inc. President and CEO Jennifer Nakayama, Brian Bush, Bob Lane and Debbie and Mark Stonecipher.
- Photos by Rose Lane
Above: Valentina Gutiernez and Melissa Thomas. At left: Retired Downtown OKC Inc. President and CEO Jane Jenkins and her husband, Howell Felsenthal.
