Enes Kanter Freedom comes back, gives back Former Oklahoma City Thunder star Enes Kanter Freedom returned to Oklahoma City, dedicating his visit to supporting local nonprofit organizations and serving those in need across the Oklahoma City metro. His first stop was the Giving Machine in Bricktown — an interactive vending machine that allows visitors to purchase essential items for local charities. The following morning, Freedom was up bright and early to volunteer at the 79th Annual Red Andrews Christmas Dinner, a longtime Oklahoma City tradition that brings holiday meals, warmth and fellowship to members of the community. He is pictured here with George, Maggie and OKC Mayor David Holt, Freedom and Mary Blankenship Pointer.
okcfriday.com • facebook.com/okcfriday Vol. 59, No. 35
January 9, 2026
1 Section • 12 Pages
Cell phone use outlawed in Village school, work zones
People you should know
By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
Sharae Leache Director of Operations Oklahoma Sleep Institute Where did you grow up, and do you have a favorite childhood memory? I grew up in Southeastern Oklahoma in the small town of Valliant, and my favorite childhood memory is of my grandpa teaching me how to drive when I was 9-years-old. He let me drive his old beatup Ford Ranger to church on Sundays. He said, “If you’re going to wreck a car, it’s ok for it to be this one.” What are you most passionate about professionally? I am deeply passionate about serving and mentoring. I have had some fantastic mentors in my life who guided me and taught me many lessons. My career growth over the past 20 years has been a direct result of having great mentors professionally. I have learned it’s not what’s going to happen to you, but how you are going to respond and learn from the challenges you are going to face. I have a desire to give back to others, most importantly, the individuals who work for me and help them grow professionally. Has your definition of success changed as you’ve developed your career? Yes! When I was younger, success meant reaching visible milestones such as promotions or accolades. Today, I See PYSK, Page 3
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Gorilla trekking A highlight of Chris Keesee and Larry Keigwin’s 2025 was gorilla trekking in Central Africa where they came across this female and her troop of 18. “While we wore masks to protect the animals from potential illness, we observed how curious they were about us, how they enjoyed swinging in trees, playfully shaking the bushes and caring for their young,” the travelers said. “After a while, boredom set in and they wandered off into the forest, giving us the memory of a lifetime.”
Motorists in The Village are now prohibited from using their hand-held cell phones and electronic communication devices in school and work zones or they could face up to a $149 fine following City Council approval of an ordinance restricting their usage. The Village, along with many other municipalities in Oklahoma, has adopted the new section of law passed by the Oklahoma legislature restricting the use of hand-held devices in school and work zones. The ordinance does not apply when calling an emergency response operator, hospital, physician’s office, ambulance service, firefighting service or law enforcement agency. “The protection and safety of children is one of our highest priorities,” said Village Police Chief Russ Landon. “I believe there was a similar emphasis from public safety leaders given to the legislators which led to this state law being enacted. The law now gives law enforcement, particularly county deputies and state troopers, a tool to keep kids in school zones safer.” Although encompassing only 2.5 square miles, there are several school zones in The Village including two at Casady School — one on Pennsylvania and the other off Britton Road. There is also a school zone at Andrew Johnson Elementary on Sheffield Road, one at Ridgeview Elementary on Ridgeview Drive and See VILLAGE, Page 7
Rand Elliott design at OSU wins national award The sweeping renovation of Oklahoma State University’s Engineering South has earned national recognition, winning first place in the Whole Building category of Retrofit Magazine’s 2025 Metamorphosis Awards.
The project was a collaboration between Rand Elliott Architects – an Oklahoma City-based nationally, recognized firm by OSU alumnus Rand Elliott, FAIA – and OSU’s College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology (CEAT).
‘Tango’ is coming to OKCPHIL Prepare to be swept off your feet as the Oklahoma City Philharmonic presents “Tango Caliente!” on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30-31, at 7:30 p.m. at the Civic Center Music Hall. This exhilarating performance is part of the Chickasaw Nation Pops Series. From the first downbeat to the final bow, “Tango Caliente!” is a celebration of passion, elegance, and fiery
The national award recognizes projects that transform existing buildings into modern, highperforming spaces while preserving their historic character. The magazine’s November-December issue features all 14 award winners.
“This renovation has exceeded my expectations in breathing new life into one of our heritage buildings,” said OSU University Architect Jana Phillips. “The exterior refurbishments See ELLIOTT, Page 2
FRIDAY’s Dog of the Week
Mira Highley’s weiner dog Ollie loves his yellow squeaker toy more than life itself, you know he’s excited for you if he pees a little. Both 2-years-old, his best friend is a German Shepherd named Cappuccino. They love playing together, chasing each other around the backyard and eating pup cups. Email Pet of the Week submissions to rose@okcfriday.com.
See OKCPHIL, Page 3
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