11-07-25 Print Replica by okcfriday

Antlers celebrate 3rd straight title

With all five runners in the top 25, the Deer Creek boys cross country team cruised to its third straight Class 6A state championship last Saturday at Edmond Santa Fe. Sports, Page 5

OKC

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

Pavers at Capitol honor patriots, veterans, heroes

At the state Capitol in Oklahoma City, the artwork and artifacts are cared for by the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Friends of the Capitol.

Friends of the Capitol is a nongovernmental organization of volunteers and benefactors who give their time and money to help the State of Oklahoma. While the Oklahoma legislature provides funding, it is not always sufficient to fund all required activities and maintenance related to maintaining the artwork and treasurers enshrined at the Capitol.

Thus, the Arts Council and Friends of the Capitol have developed a program by which citizens can help in honoring our veterans and Oklahoma heroes. On sale now are 15-inch-by15-inch square pavers that can bear the name of

See PAVERS, Page 7

Thousands gather to celebrate Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer

Downtown Oklahoma City was alive with energy last weekend as thousands of Oklahoma Citians from all walks of life attended dedication ceremonies for the Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza, a permanent tribute to the Oklahoma youth and teacher who ignited the nation’s sitin movement for the advancement of civil rights.

The plaza, located at the site of the former Katz Drug Store near the intersection of Main Street and Robinson Avenue, commemorates the historic moment in August of 1958 when 13 student members of the local NAACP Youth Council, led by schoolteacher Clara Looper, participated in America’s first sit-in at the segregated lunch counter in downtown Oklahoma City.

The peaceful actions of the

children led to the desegregation of 38 Katz Drug Stores, setting a powerful precedent for civil rights demonstrations across America. Ten of the 13 original sit-inners participated in the dedication ceremony.

The act of courage by the children ignited a wave of civil rights demonstrations across the nation. The Oklahoma City sit-in predates the Greensboro sit-ins by nearly two years.

The multi-million-dollar, 12,000 square foot installation features a four-ton, 16foot bronze lunch counter with realistic, life-sized bronze depictions of the original 13 student “sit-inners,” Luper and a Katz Drug Store employee.

“For so long, this moment in Oklahoma City has been overlooked in the history books, yet it helped change

See PLAZA, Page 12

NHills police tight-lipped on Gilgeous-Alexander burglary

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer

Nichols Hills Police are keeping a tight lip as little information was released on the Oct. 30 burglary at the Nichols Hills home of Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Nichols Hills police were called at 7:45 p.m. on Oct. 30 to a residential burglary at the home of the NBA’s 2024-25 Most Valuable Player near the 6600 block of Hillcrest Avenue in Nichols Hills. Gilgeous-Alexander was playing a home basketball game.

See BURGLARY, Page 7

Red Andrews Dinner is back

The Red Andrews Christmas Dinner Foundation has announced the return of its in-person, seated Christmas dinner for the first time since 2020.

This long-standing Oklahoma City tradition once again brings together thousands of Oklahomans to share a warm holiday meal, fellowship and goodwill.

This year’s dinner is set for Wednesday, Dec. 24, beginning at 9 a.m., at Santa Fe South Charter School in Crossroads Mall, located at 6921 Plaza Mayor Blvd. Event organizer Mary Blankenship Pointer said the timing of this year’s celebration is especially vital due to the government shutdown and economic conditions.

For decades, the Red Andrews Christmas Dinner has represented far more than a holiday meal — it has become a cornerstone of community unity and generosity, Pointer said. The event provides food, toys, and coats, See DINNER, Page 2

FRIDAY’s

Dog of the Week

Jalisco is a 16-month-old male Labrador Retriever and future service dog being raised and trained by Jamie and Tom Kilpatrick of Nichols Hills. Jalisco, owned by Californiabased Canine Companions, will enter advanced training today, Nov. 7, in Dallas.

The Kilpatricks are volunteer “puppy raisers” who received Jalisco when he was eight weeks of age, and they have taught him over 30 commands, which will help him serve as a service dog when placed with one of Canine Companions’

clients about one year from now. Jalisco is the sixth puppy raised by the Kilpatricks on behalf of national service dog organizations. During his puppy phase, Jalisco has logged countless miles in Nichols Hills’ parks, paths and shopping areas, and has made countless new friends, both human and canine. We wish him well as he begins advanced training.

of the Week

For photos of Fridayland veterans, see Pages 12 & 13.

Above, Bill Coultrip, and below, Don Powers, visit the South Plaza of the Oklahoma Capitol building where people are honored with pavers, a program of the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Friends of the Capitol.

but also offers a welcom-

From Page 1

ing place for individuals and families to gather, connect and celebrate the true spirit of Christmas.

“The dinner provides more than food and toys,” said Pointer. “It provides a place for people to gather, form new friendships and celebrate Christmas.”

The success of the event depends on the dedication of its volunteers, who often describe the experience as deeply fulfilling.

“The volunteers leave saying they received more than they gave — and that they will see us again next year,” Pointer added.

This year’s dinner is to feature a traditional holiday feast, including turkey, pie, and all the seasonal favorites. Guests also have access to coats and toys for children. Continu-

ing a beloved tradition, Santa Claus makes a special appearance to greet children before his busiest night of the year.

Monetary donations to support the event may be mailed to:

Red Andrews Christmas Dinner Foundation, c/o Mary Blankenship Pointer, 2513 SW 124, Oklahoma City, OK 73170.

Toy and coat donations may be delivered to the following locations:

• Great Plains Bank Locations

601 NW 13, Oklahoma City 1489 NW 15, Edmond

4300 Grant, Yukon

2850 S. Telephone Road, Moore

• Goldman Law Firm, 222 NW 13

• Cort Furniture, 4300 NW Expressway, Unit B

• Jackie Cooper BMW, 14145 N.

Broadway Extension

• Property Center, 2905 NW 156 St.,

Edmond

For additional information, please contact Mary Blankenship Pointer at (405) 886-2886

Art League is 115!

Oklahoma Art League received a Certification of

tion’s commitment to education, community engagement and

has enriched the community and created a lasting impact. Cited on the certificate, “We honor your continued commitment as a beacon of knowledge and celebrate this accomplishment.” From

Sally

Board Secretary/Treasurer of the Red Andrews Christmas Dinner Foundation Mary Blankenship Pointer, Misti McClellan, Santa, Mrs. Claus and Tara Burnett during the 2024 Red Andrews Christmas Dinner, which provided food for approximately 7,896 people, as well as coats for 1,000 and toys for 5,892 kiddos.

The

Recognition from the Oklahoma Museums Association in honor of its 115th anniversary. The organiza -

the museum field

left: Diana Harden, Ann Costello, Oklahoma Museum Association President presenting award Delaynna Trim, Patti Bray Birchall,

Townley and Dorothy Gray.

Track & Field Gamechangers

During its fundraising luncheon, C4K honored Volunteer of the Year Bill Condon, left, and new Hall of Fame inductees Shellie and Don Greiner, right. Below, the Southeast High School cheerleaders welcome guests to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Oklahoma Cleats for Kids collects, recycles and distributes sports shoes, balls and equipment to kids in need.

Above: Mark McDaniel, co-founder of C4K welcomes the crowd.

Above: Stacy McDaniel, C4K executive director and cofounder. Center: Keynote speaker Nick Gallo, OKC Thunder broadcast reporter. At far left: Event Chairman Jennifer Lewis.

- Photos by Rose Lane

FOOTBALL | WEEK 10 PREVIEW: LAWTON MacARTHUR

Irish battle Lawton MacArthur for district title

By Jason Jewell Sports Editor

Coming off a big road win last week, the McGuinness football team faces Lawton MacArthur this Friday for a chance to win a district title.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Pribil Stadium.

“We’re really excited for this opportunity,” said coach Ryan Stringer. “This is a pretty young team so I don’t think people expected a lot from us.

Our guys have put in a lot of work to get here.”

The Irish (9-0, 5-0 District 5A-1) rallied from a 4-point deficit at halftime to claim a 2414 victory at Newcastle last Friday.

Quarterback Gage Chance scored on a pair of 2-yard runs and tailback DreAndre Burton added a 21-yard run.

A win, or a loss by fewer than nine points, this Friday would give McGuinness its first district title since 2017 and first undefeated

OKLAHOMA

CITY FRIDAY

Publication No. (USPS 893-600)

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.

Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FRIDAY, P.O. Box 20340, Okla. City, OK 73156.

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season since 2007.

Second place Lawton MacArthur (7-2, 4-1) cruised to a 45-6 win against Southeast last week.

The Highlander’s uptempo offense should provide a big test for McGuinness’ defense.

“This will be a big test on our defense,” Stringer told FRIDAY “They have a really talented offense that can stretch the field.

“We need to limit their big plays and force them to go on

WEEK 10 SCHEDULE

Friday, November 7

Casady at Hennessey Crossings Christian at Dixon Deer Creek at Mustang Star Spencer at Heritage Hall

Noble at John Marshall Lawton MacArthur at McGuinness OCS at Mount St. Mary PC North at Muskogee Note: All games kick off at 7 p.m., unless noted.

longer drives,” the coach added.

A trio of sophomores, including safety

Carter Akin, along with linebackers Malachi Darby and Marcellous Tyner, lead the way on

FOOTBALL | WEEK 9 ROUNDUP

defense as the Irish’s leading tacklers. Chance and Bruton continue their strong leadership for McGuinness’ offense.

Bruton has rushed for 100 yards in the last three games. In other action on Friday, Heritage Hall could wrap up the District 3A-1 title with a win over Star Spencer. Mount St. Mary and Casady, along with Deer Creek and PC North could solidify playoff spots with wins.

Big 2nd quarter keys Bears to win

By Jason Jewell Sports Editor

After struggling through the first quarter, the John Marshall football team regained its momentum in the second period and erupted for four touchdowns on the way to a dominating 50-7 victory over Western

Heights last Thursday night at Taft Stadium.

“There was a lot of excitement about homecoming and our guys played hard,” coach Tarrion Adams said after the game. “We were able to put the pieces together to overcome some adversity.”

The Bears (2-7, 1-5 District 5A-2), keyed by quarterback Andre Blake and tailback Quincy Jones, put up 350 yards on the ground, with nearly 90 of it in their big second quarter.

Blake, taking over for starting quarterback Malcolm Edd, ran for four total touchdowns, covering 42, 28 and one yards in the second quarter as John Marshall built a 36-7 lead by halftime.

Jones also scored on 15- and 25-yard TD runs, along with a pair of 2-point conversions.

Edd got the Bears on the board in the first quarter on a 44-yard pass to Jaden Abdullah and Blaken ended the night with an 18-yard jaunt in the fourth quarter.

IRISH RALLY PAST NEWCASTLE

McGuinness used a pair of late touchdowns over the final two quarters to pull away for a critical 24-14 district win at Newcastle last Friday night.

The Irish (9-0, 6-0 District 5A-1) trailed 14-10 at halftime, before tailback DreAndre Bruton scored on a 21-yard run in the third quarter.

Quarterback Gage Chance put the game away on a short 2-yard

plunge with a minute left. Chance also opened the scoring with a 2-yard dive.

Kicker Robert Lehr nailed a 35-yard field goal in the second quarter and hit all three extra-point attempts.

CHARGERS RUN OVER PURCELL

Heritage Hall got one step closer to an outright district title with a 48-13 victory at Purcell on Friday night. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

John Marshall’s Andre Blake (1) ran for four touchdowns in helping the Bears to a dominating 50-7 victory over Western Heights last Thursday night.

- Photo by Richard Clifton, rtcditigalimages.zenfolio.com

Local teams eye playoff spots

With one week remaining in the regular season, six Fridayland football teams look likely to secure spots in the playoffs. Here are playoff scenarios involving local teams.

CLASS 6A

Deer Creek (3-6 overall) currently occupies fifth place in the District 6A-I-1 standings at 3-3. The Antlers face third-place Mustang this Friday in the season finale.

PC North (2-7, 2-4 6A-II-2) is sixth in the district standings and has enough district points ahead of PC West to slip in the sixth spot in the expanded 6A-II field.

CLASS 5A

McGuinness plays Lawton MacArthur for the District 5A-1 title this Friday. The Irish (9-0, 5-0) need a win or a loss by less than nine

points to secure the district and two home playoff games.

CLASS 3A

Heritage Hall (8-1, 5-0) takes on winless Star Spencer to secure the District 3A-1 title, along with two playoff home games.

CLASS 2A

Mount St. Mary sits on the cusp of its first playoff berth in nearly five decades. The Rockets (7-2, 3-2) are virtually locked into third in District 2A-I-1 and host OCS on Friday.

Casady (4-5, 4-2), playing just its second season in OSSAA, is third in District 2A-II-1 with a road trip to second-place Hennessey on Friday.

Meanwhile, John Marshall (2-7, 1-5 5A-2) and Crossings Christian (4-5, 1-4 2A-I-2) have been eliminated from playoff contention.

Antler boys run to 3rd straight 6A state crown

By Jason Jewell Sports Editor

Keyed by all five runners in the top 25, including three in the top 10, the Deer Creek boys cross country team claimed its third straight Class 6A state championship last Saturday in Edmond.

The Antlers recorded 60 points, followed by Edmond North (93 points) in second and Mustang (118) in third.

“This was a pretty crazy season,” said coach David Riden. “Leading up to state,

we had one of our runners with a high fever just 36 hours before race time and another got bitten by a spider.”

Junior Dominic Trupiano paced the Antlers with a fifth-place finish. He completed the 5kilometer course at Edmond Santa Fe in 15:44.1 just about 40 seconds off the winning pace.

Colson Robertson, the lone senior among the top 5 runners, claimed seventh place and Mason Storozyszyn grabbed ninth place.

Deer Creek, which also cruised to a regional title late last month, came into state among the favorites to win a title.

“We really felt good about our chances,” Riden said. “You never want to take things for granted but we felt confident in what this group could do.”

Sophomore Will King and junior Lucas Antonelli rounded out the team in 18th and 22nd places, respectively.

Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

Irish’s Harper claims 5A title

A combined five athletes in the top 25 helped both McGuinness boys and girls cross country teams to second place in Class 5A last Saturday.

Sophomore Sylvie Harper captured an individual state championship to lead the Irish. Harper completed the 5-kilometer course at Edmond Santa Fe in 18:17 to win by 40 seconds.

Teammate Camryn Kanaly, also a sophomore, came in ninth place.

Senior Luke Worthington made

the most of his final state meet with a third-place finish, completing the 5K course in 16:04.6, just under 30 seconds off the pace.

Junior Luke Bryan claimed 10th place for the Irish, while Henrik Garcia came in 25th place.

Others in the top 50 included: sophomore London Tietsort in 27th, freshman Ellie Warren in 37th, sophomore Franny Santos in 40th, senior Kade Taylor in 42nd and sophomore Vincent Desrochers in 43rd place.

Deer Creek’s Dominic Trupiano, left, along with teammates Mason Storozyszyn and Colson Robertson, run the course at Edmond Santa Fe.

- Photo provided by coach David Riden

CALENDAR

OKC ZOO

Nov. 11 • Zoo SingAlong Oklahoma City native Gayla Peevey, original singer of “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” visits the OKC Zoo with a singalong and autograph session at the Love’s Pachyderm building in Expedition Africa. The classic Christmas tune was used to raise money to purchase a Nile hippopotamus, which was then donated to the Zoo on Christmas Eve 1953. The event is Tuesday, Nov. 11, from 11 am to 1 pm, and is included free with general Zoo admission. Commemorative hippo shirts and more will be available for purchase at this event and in the Zoo’s Safari Gift Shop located in the entry plaza throughout the holiday season.

SAVE THE DATE

Jan. 13 • ‘Afrique En Cirque’ Step into the world of Africa in Circus, a spectacle that seamlessly blends captivating sets with aweinspiring acrobatics and gravitydefying human pyramids. Whether it’s an intimate indoor venue or a bustling outdoor festival, our productions promise to captivate audiences of all ages. Join us on this exhilarating journey and let's create unforgettable moments together. Welcome to a world where culture

meets circus, and dreams take ﬂight at the OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center, occc.ticketsage. net.

THIS WEEKEND

Through Nov. 19 • Quarter Horse Show Watch the world’s best American Quarter Horses compete at the Markel AQHA & Adequan Select World Championship Shows and shop the Trade Show in the Bennett Event Center at the State Fair Park. Free admission, free parking, okcfairpark. com.

Nov. 8 • Fall Festival Visit the Orr Family Farm for hay rides, pumpkin patch, fall maze, farm animals, treats, carnival rides and much more, 10 am – 5 pm, orrfamilyfarm.com

Nov. 9 • All Access OKCMOA

Thanks to the generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program, visitors of all

ages will receive FREE access to the OKC Museum of Art galleries on the second Sunday of each month for the next three years. Reserve your tickets: Free tickets will be available at okcmoa.com. Note: Your total will show $0 at checkout.

Nov. 13 • Tree Lighting Kick oﬀ the holiday season and Downtown in December at the annual OKC Tree Light

ing Festival. The festival will take place in Bricktown on the Mickey Mantle Plaza of the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark from 5:308 pm.

HOME GAMES

Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com OKC THUNDER

Paycom Center 100 West Reno Ave.

Tuesday, Nov. 11 • Golden State Warriors 7:00 pm Wednesday, Nov. 12 • Los Angeles Lakers 8:30 pm Wednesday, Nov. 19 • Sacramento Kings 7:00 pm

Oklahoma Latin American Film

Oklahoma City has an exciting new film festival. The Oklahoma Latin American Film Festival launches this Saturday at Rodeo Cinema in Stockyards City and wraps up Monday evening at the University of Central Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Latin American Film Festival, called OLA for short, will feature 26 films from across America and around the world. The program includes three documentary features, one narrative feature, and twenty-two short films. The films come from the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and Spain.

The OLA Film Festival kicks-off Saturday evening with two short film blocks at 6 pm and 7:30 pm, an Oklahoma film block at 8:30, and a feature length documentary at 10 pm about the Michigan agriculture industry called Did You Guys Eat? All the films look great, but the Oklahoma film block will draw the most enthusiastic crowd and feature the most filmmakers at the Q&A that follows the screening.

The Oklahoma short films being presented on Saturday night include Clandestina, a 10-minute narrative about creative passion directed by Gray Stringer, produced in partnership with the

deadCenter Film Institute and Oklahoma City Community College; Until We Weren’t, a 12-minute personal portrait about connecting with the past, directed by Victor Caballero, co-founder of OLA; and Half and Half, a 10-minute family drama created by the high school students at the OLA Film Institute.

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History invites Oklahomans from across the state to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its construction with a special free admission event, Curiousiday: Celebrate Oklahoma, on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 10 am to 4 pm.

In 1991 the citizens of Norman, Oklahoma voted to pass an $85 million bond to support the construction of a new building for the Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. Subsequently in 1992, the state of Oklahoma passed its own Higher Education Bond Issue which allocated $350 million for the museum building’s construction. This free

day celebration serves as a heartfelt thank-you to the people of Oklahoma, whose tax dollars we’re vital towards this effort to preserve and share the history of the state.

The event is hosted as part of the museum’s monthly Curiousiday series, which features hands-on science and S.T.E.A.M. activities, museum specimens, and behind-the-scenes collection chats. Guests will have the opportunity to explore Oklahoma’s rich natural

and cultural history, enjoy visiting food trucks for lunch, and engage in interactive activities hosted by museum scientists and staff from the institution’s research collections.

The OLA Film Festival moves to UCO on Monday evening with a screening of IMCINE short films at 6 pm at the College of Liberal Arts Lecture Hall (LAS 101). IMCINE is the Mexican Institute of Cinema. They package the best short films made in Mexico each year and present them at festivals around the world.

The OLA Film Festival is founded by Rogelio Almeida, an award-winning filmmaker and Army combat veteran who works full time at UCO, and Victor Caballero, Director of Education for the deadCenter Film Festival. Almeida and Caballero created and ran the Oklahoma Cine Latino Film Festival and Film Institute for eleven years before stepping down to launch this new venture. No two people have been more influential and instrumental in growing and developing the Latino film community in Oklahoma.

Please join me this weekend in celebrating this new film festival. Visit olafilm.org for the full schedule, addresses, and a complete list of films.

On Sunday at Rodeo Cinema, the slate of films starts at 1 pm with Boundless Borders, a 60-minute documentary directed by Alessandro Gentile about a Guatemalan immigrant pursuing his dream of a college education in America. That film is followed at 2:30 pm by Public Phone, a 77-minute narrative feature from director Mois Rodti Haydenblit about the aftermath of an earthquake in Mexico City when all the phone lines go down. The rest of the schedule includes a Short Film Block at 3:30 pm, a Filmmakers Panel at 5:30 pm, and a feature documentary at 6:30 pm. The documentary is Ayahuasca Now, Voices of a Silent War, directed by Carlos Bruno Cejas about a group of war veterans with PTSD from Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq who travel to the Peruvian Amazon to participate in shamanic ceremonies and heal their traumas.

If they choose, guests are also welcome to bring a toy in support of the Fill the Trolley holiday toy drive organized by the University of Oklahoma.

“We’re thrilled to welcome the community for a day of discovery, exploration and appreciation,” said Dr. Janet Braun, museum director.

“This celebration is meant to honor our state’s heritage as well as the incredible people of Oklahoma who made this museum possible.”

In addition to free admission, guests can enter to win a free family membership for a full year of free admission, special programming discounts, and other benefits.

Cofounders of the OLA film festival, Rogelio Almeida and Victor Caballero with Lance McDaniel.

Village Animal Shelter faces overcrowding after rescuing 30 dogs

By Eric Oesch Staff Writer

Officials at The Village Animal Welfare shelter say few of the 30 dogs rescued from a hoarding situation over a month ago have been adopted after they were taken in by the city.

The dogs were removed from a home on Churchill Way where they were found living in deplorable conditions.

According to the city’s ordinance on dog ownership, only four adult dogs can be owned by a resident.

Kevin Reber, City of The Village Public Works director, said the dogs are being socialized as best as possible.

“This was not a puppy mill or breeding situation,” said Reber.

BURGLARY

From Page 1

“This situation was people who had too many dogs that weren’t spayed or neutered and the situation got out of hand fast. This was definitely a hoarding situation.”

Village Police were dispatched to the 2000 block of Churchill Way on an animal cruelty call on Oct. 1. Upon arrival, officers found 30 dogs in various states of health and age, ranging from puppies to older dogs. The dogs had no access to food or water.

According to police some of the animals appeared to be somewhat healthy while others looked as if they had been fighting, were malnourished and sickly. Police said the interior of the home was in deplorable condition.

“We had to keep all

against the Washington Wizards at the Paycom Center in downtown Oklahoma City during the break-in.

Police maintained an enhanced presence across the area during Halloween festivities and plan to continue to do so in the coming weeks. The suspects fled the area prior to police arrival, and while no arrests have been made the NHPD said there is no reason to believe the

PAVERS

From Page 1

anyone you want to honor.

Several Oklahoma Medal of Honor recipients have pavers that were donated by public. Any person with a paver will have not only their name engraved in granite at the state Capitol, but a bio posted on a website. These pavers with the engraving require a $450 donation to Friends of the Capitol.

Pavers are available for people who want to honor their family members who have served or for those who wish to recognize their support for the state’s paver program on the South Plaza of the Capitol as well. For those special birthdays, Veterans Day, Father’s Day, what could be better than putting a loved

dogs in our shelter until we received proper paperwork and could ensure they were healthy enough to go to other places,” said Reber. “We have had only two to three dogs that have been adopted by individuals. Rescues have pulled 12 so far.

“OK Humane took a few, Bethany Animal Welfare took some and Mustang Animal Welfare took some as well,” he said. “We have not had to euthanize any at this point. We are still overloaded with animals and want to encourage people to come and adopt.”

The shelter has seven dogs that are currently adoptable and are to be completely vetted once they have a potential adopter ready for them.

“Our volunteer

public is in any danger.

Nichols Hills Police have not said if the burglary could be related to other break-ins by a South American theft group who were charged in February in connection to a string of thefts targeting professional athletes, including Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce, whose homes were burglarized while they were on the field.

The defendants, charged with conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property, are accused by federal prose-

one’s name on the Plaza at the Capitol.

“As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the birth of our republic, you could feel great by participating in this program,” Jerry Burger, Friends of the Capitol chairman, said. “It would also be an excellent opportunity for fundraising by the local VFW or American Legion post, or other civic organizations in your area. To participate in this program, call Burger at (572) 8467051. He can discuss all the details of the Paver Project. The website is being updated so please leave a message on the phone.

In the early part of the 18th Century, there was quite a patriotic fervor in this republic.

“There are indications that this is happening again. Join us as we celebrate 250 years of the greatest republic the world has seen,”

group has been diligently working to help the dogs overcome their social anxiety,” he added. “The easiest way to adopt is to set up an appointment to come see the animals. You can also view the animals on our Village Animal Welfare Facebook page.”

The shelter has a volunteer program and is always in need of good volunteers. Volunteer duties include socialization, grooming, walking, training, housekeeping and helping with adoptions. The shelter is in need of donations, including money, blankets and food.

The shelter, located at 1701 NW 115 St., is open Monday through Thursday 8-5 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

To schedule an

cutors of allegedly stealing valuables worth more than $2 million.

“This is an active investigation and Nichols Hills Police Department will provide an update once more information becomes available,” said Nichols Hills City Manager Shane Pate. “We appreciate the cooperation of our residents and the assistance of surrounding agencies. This investigation remains active, and we encourage anyone with information to contact the Nichols Hills Police Department at (405) 843-5672 or the anonymous tip line at (405) 879-8878.”

Burger said. “Let us celebrate the people who made it possible.

“Where would we be without our patriots, veterans and heroes?”

He urged those with a free afternoon to go to the Capitol and tour the Hall of Heroes where there is a plaque to honor those Okla-

homans who were awarded the Medal of Honor. Located on the South Plaza are the pavers of 13 of those recipients.

“We are working to have all the Medal of Honor recipients have a paver in the future,” Burger said. “They all have amazing stories!”

appointment, call the Village Animal Welfare at (405) 751-9518 or The Village Public Works at (405) 751-4933. Adoptable pets are

fully vaccinated and spayed/neutered. Normal adoption fees are $95, but are currently waived due to overcrowding.

Regional Executive Director for Rain Drop Foundation, Inc. in Oklahoma City, OK: Plan, direct, or

Req’s:

Mail CV: 4444 N. Classen Blvd., Okla. City, OK 73118.

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 7, 2025)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV20252680

IN RE: The Name of: ) Fred Joseph Shelton )

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Fred Joseph Shelton has petitioned to change his/her name to Freddy Joseph Chavez.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 25 day of November, 2025, before Judge Palumbo 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.

COURT CLERK/BAILIFF

/s/illegible signature BY DEPUTY

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 7, 2025)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, October 24, 2025; Friday, October 31, 2025; Friday, November 7, 2025)

NOTICE OF SALE OF BONDS

the 4 day of December, 2025, or the Petition will be taken as true and a divorce and other relief sought will be granted to the Petitioner. WITNESS MY HAND AND SEAL this 20 day of October, 2025.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/A.

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV20252694

In the Matter of the Application ) of BAO CHAU TRAN ) as next of friend of (child) ) GIA HAN TRAN ) to Change Her/His Name )

NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME

To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) BAO CHAU TRAN, as next of friend of GIA HAN TRAN has ﬁled in the above court a Pe titi on to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, towit: From (a) GIA HAN TRAN to (b) HANNAH TRAN; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Palumbo of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 320 Robert S. Kerr Ave., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on the 02 day of December, 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.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk(SEAL) By /s/illegible signature Deputy CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 7, 2025)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV20252697

IN RE: The Name of: ) Sophia Marie Post ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME TO: All

a.m.,

at the City Clerk’s office at 6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, for the sale of $6,000,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2026, dated January 1, 2026, of said City, which Bonds will mature $500,000 on July 1, 2028 and $500,000 annually each year thereafter until paid, with the last maturity on July 1, 2039 to be $500,000. The General Obligation Bond, Series 2026 maturing in the years 2028 through 2032 are not subject to redemption prior to maturity. The General Obligation Bonds, Series 2026 maturing in the years 2033 through 2039 are subject to redemption at the option of the City on any date on or after July 1, 2032, at the principal amount thereof, plus accrued interest to the date of redemption. Bids filed with the City Clerk shall be opened and read in the City Clerk’s Office at the time stated above and shall be awarded thereafter on said date by the City Council of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma in Council Chambers, 6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma provided, however, the City Council reserves the right to change the date, time, and location for award of the Bonds in a manner consistent with the Oklahoma Open Meetings Act. Bids received after 11:30 a.m. on the above mentioned date will not be accepted and will be returned to the bidder unopened. There will be no exceptions to this policy.

The General Obligation Bonds, Series 2026 shall be sold to the bidder bidding the lowest interest cost which the Bonds shall bear and agreeing to pay par and accrued interest for the Bonds. Each bidder shall submit with its bid a sum in cash, cashier’s check, or electronic (wire) transfer payable to the Treasurer of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma

reserved to reject all bids. The General Obligation Bonds, Series 2026 is a combined purpose bond issue composed of $4,000,000 Streets Bonds, $1,415,000 Water System Bonds, $250,000 Sanitary Sewer System Bonds, $100,000 Technology Improvements Bonds, $100,000 Parks Bonds, and $135,000 Police Bonds, from an October 10, 2023 election authorization, all of which shall be sold together as one unit, and bids will be received for

combined purpose bond issue as one unit only.

WITNESS my oﬃcial hand and seal on October 14, 2025. Amanda Copeland (SEAL) City Clerk

Mai in his/her courtroom in the

on for change of name will be granted as prayed.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/illegible signature BY DEPUTY (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, November 7, 2025)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

titioned to change his/her name to Kenya LaShawn Smith. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 04 day of December, 2025, before Judge Ogden in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse.

Name ChaNge

NYE Party in the Park coming to Scissortail Park

Start the Countdown Downtown! Oklahoma City will ring in the New Year at Scissortail Park during the NYE Party in the Park on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025. The community is invited downtown to the Love’s Travel Stops Stage from 9:30 pm to 12:30 am to enjoy live music, food and beverage trucks, holiday vendors, and the official downtown New Year’s Eve countdown.

The family-friendly event is free and open to the community. Drive, Oklahoma’s Party Band, will perform live on the Love’s Travel Stops Stage and lead the official countdown to midnight. NYE Party in the Park is a collaborative celebration presented by the Inasmuch Foundation, Scissortail Park Foundation, Visit OKC, Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership, and Legends Global.

Veterans and performing artist unite on stage

Ditty Bops 2025 brings stories of creativity, courage and belonging to life at Oklahoma Contemporary.

Veterans will take center stage this November in Ditty Bops 2025, a production from SPARK! Creative Lab that brings veterans and artists together to transform real stories of service, struggle and survival into art. Through music, movement, film and visual storytelling, the performance blurs the boundaries between personal experience and creative expression.

Ditty Bops 2025 is the culmination of months of creative workshops that brought together more than 70 veterans, their families and artists across Oklahoma City. The production showcases 16 collaborators, including four veteran artists performing their own original works

“What started as an unlikely pairing has become a true partnership,” said SPARK! Founder and Executive Director Nicole Poole. “Veterans and artists may come from different worlds, but they share the same

Creative Oklahoma welcomes Arshay Cooper as featured speaker

Author to inspire youth through story of resilience and opportunity

Creative Oklahoma and RIVERSPORT

OKC are proud to welcome rower and national speaker Arshay Cooper, renowned author of USA Today’s No. 1 best seller Let Me Be Real with You and the acclaimed memoir A Most Beautiful Thing, as the featured speaker on Nov. 13, 2025, at 6 pm at the Devon Boathouse, 608 Riversport Drive in Oklahoma City. The event is part of the Imagine & Inspire Speaker Series. Attendance is free and open to the public; no registration is required. Cooper’s presentation, “Beyond Rowing: How Belief and Opportunity Transform Lives,” reflects on his journey from a challenging upbringing to joining the first all-Black high school rowing team. His story highlights the transformative power of education, mentorship, and opportunity—encouraging youth to break barriers, embrace learning, and realize their full potential.

In Let Me Be Real with You, Cooper explores how living

with courage—even amid self-doubt—can change everything.

“My story is messy. Yours might be, too,” said Cooper. “But when I stopped running from those messy parts and started owning them, everything changed.”

Arshay’s story will resonate with everyone,” said Mike Knopp, founder of the RIVERSPORT OKC Foundation and board member of Creative Oklahoma. “His message invests in Oklahoma’s youth, inspiring teamwork, discipline, perseverance,

and new opportunities in rowing and paddlesports—all to promote positive youth development across the state.”

Oklahoma City is one stop on Cooper’s nationwide book tour. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event. This event is sponsored by the Oklahoma Business Roundtable and RIVERSPORT OKC. Organizations interested in sponsoring may contact Creative Oklahoma at 405-540-0358 or info@creativeok. org

creative drive to make meaning out of chaos. When they build together, they remind us that community is a creative act — and one our world needs more of.”

Performances of Ditty Bops 2025 run Nov. 7–9 at Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, 11 NW 11th St., Oklahoma City. Showtimes are Friday and Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Sunday’s matinee will be followed by a talkback with the veterans and artists of SPARK!. For tickets and more information, visit okcontemp.org.

Santa’s Wild Breakfast

A new holiday experience kicks off this winter as the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden introduces Breakfast with Santa. Santa is taking time out of his busy schedule to meet friends and fans for breakfast at the wildest place in town, the Oklahoma City Zoo. Breakfast with Santa is hosted in the OKC Zoo’s Canopy Restaurant which will be transformed into a gingerbread wonderland on select Saturdays in November and December from 9 to 11 am. Guests will enjoy a delicious buffet of mouth-watering and eye-popping dishes and little ones will be delighted to write their own letter to Santa at the Zoo’s exclusive North Pole writing station and deliver it to him in-person. Attendees will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa for an additional cost. Event dates for Breakfast with Santa: Saturday, Nov. 29

Saturday, Dec. 6

Saturday, Dec. 13

Saturday, Dec. 20

Breakfast with Santa tickets are $56 per adult and $46 per child and include general admission to the Zoo. Discount prices for ZOOfriends members are $36 per adult and $30 per child. Seating for the breakfast will be first-come, first serve, reservations will not be available. Learn more about Breakfast with Santa and purchase tickets at okczoo.org/

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.

Bedford, his father and brother share a love of country

By John Bedford Special to OKC FRIDAY

Here is a photo of me when I was a sailor serving in United States Navy during the Vietnam War. The photo was taken when I was serving in 1968 and 1969 at a Naval Ammunition Depot which provided munitions for the Pacific Fleet's missions in the South China Sea and western Pacific Ocean.

The photo was taken by a sailor friend of mine with a Kodak Brownie, in our barracks which had dimmed lighting. Film speeds were slow at that time and the film was usually grainy.

All the males in my family served in the Navy: Commander Thomas J. Bedford, USN (deceased), truly valiantly in WWII and Korea; Lt. T. Jackson Bedford, USN, serving as an aviation officer flying over 100 mis-

sions during Vietnam, and me. Collectively, we have served in uniform in over 12 years of war.

My brother Jackson graduated from John Marshall High School. My father served from 1958-1961 as the commanding officer of four Naval Reserve Training Centers in Oklahoma, headquartered at the Naval Training Center that was located where now Interstate 235 crosses NE 23rd Street.

While serving in Oklahoma City, he worked with Rear Admiral John E. Kirkpatrick, USN Reserves, to bring the anchor of the USS Oklahoma, which was sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, home to Oklahoma.

The anchor has been a memorial in Oklahoma City since 1960.

My father, my brother, and I share a strong love of country as conceived in the Constitution by our nation's

founding fathers and rededicated by Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg. We are all-in for government committed to democracy, balance of power of its three branches, due process of law and rule of law with an impartial and non-political judiciary, where no per-

Dear Wise Elder: I’m at my wits end trying to make my mother happy and care for her needs. She has a large beautiful home, but all I do is clean the messes caused by mother’s incontinence and her dogs. She only drinks diet Dr Pepper and won’t eat properly. I teach music at the school and try to please her, but nothing works. She is paranoid and can’t trust anyone. She has plenty of savings that could be used for her care, but doesn’t want to spend the money and doesn’t want any “stranger” coming.

Dear at Wits End: Stop trying to make her happy; it's not possi-

son is above the law, and where all branches of government and their employees work selflessly to benefit all Americans to draw us closer to Thomas Jefferson's vision of a nation where all citizens are entitled to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

ble. Instead, work toward keeping her safe, yet keeping your sanity. Hire private duty help three times a week, four hours a day, to give you a break. Tell mom you are bringing a friend to help with the housework and you are paying for this because you cannot come everyday any longer. Over time, she will relax and the help will become her good friend. Then you can have a life too. Make sure your siblings are in agreement for you to be repaid from the proceeds of her estate later on.

- Courtesy VillagesOKC, VillagesOKC.org (405) 990-6637

John Bedford, serving at a Naval Ammunition Depot which provided munitions for the Pacific Fleet's missions in the South China Sea and western Pacific Ocean.

Casady students perform with OKCPHIL

The Oklahoma City Youth Orchestra joined the Oklahoma City Philharmonic for “Oklahoma Stories: Celebrating Our Future.”

Four Casady students represented their school in the youth orchestra: Danzel Chen and Clara Ripka on

violin, Fahim Nazir on cello, and Mason McAllister on bass. Together, they performed “Sibelius’s Finlandia” with great skill and passion.

The Casady community was also represented by Erin Ripka and Casady's Orchestra Director Larry Moore,

both performing with the Philharmonic. Ripka, who now serves as Casady’s Lower Division violin instructor through the Enrichment Program, continues to inspire the next generation of musicians.

“It is remarkable to see how far these students have come since

their first lessons. They have grown into confident, talented musicians who represent our school with pride,” Erin Ripka said. “The evening was filled with excitement and gratitude, reminding us of the supportive community that surrounds Casady.”

Representing Casady School for “Oklahoma Stories: Celebrating Our Future,” are, from left: Erin Ripka, Larry Moore, Mason McAllister, Fahim Nazir, Danzzel Chen and Clara Ripka.

PLAZA

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the nation,” said Clara Luper’s daughter, Marilyn Luper HiIlreth, who sat at the Katz counter at just 10-years-old. “Seeing it honored in bronze, with such care and collaboration, would have meant the world to my mother. This sculpture ensures that future generations will remember that ordinary young people, acting together, can create extraordinary change.”

CARROLL MAYFIELD Army Transportation Unit Vietnam War

COMPTON

HAROLD A. STEELE

Original participants in the Katz Drug Store sit-ins include, from left, Gwendolyn Fuller Mukes, Barbara Posey Jones and Ayanna Najume.

- Photos by Eric Oesch

Fridaylander and cochairman of the project

John Kennedy, left, and Reverend Dr. Kenneth Morgan with the Church of the Living God.

Thousands gather in downtown Oklahoma City for the dedication of the Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza. The Clara Luper National Sit-In Plaza features a fourton, 16-foot bronze lunch counter with realistic, life-sized bronze depictions of the original 13 student “sit-inners,” Luper and a Katz Drug Store employee.

- Photo by Todd Scott