01-23-26 OKCityan of the Year

OKC Friday

People you should know

KERRY TRAMEL

President Lady Americana

Do you have a favorite childhood memory? I grew up in Norman, a mile from Owen Field. My father was the first in his family to graduate from college. OU was special, and nothing was more special than attending games with my father and two brothers. Irreplaceable times!

What’s the one thing you are deeply passionate about? Exceptional products. I have been fortunate to be in a position to design mattresses for over 25 years. Being able to bring great options to our Mathis Home and Mathis Sleep customers across all price points has always been a thrilling proposition. The mattress industry is an extremely competitive market space, and I am immensely proud that both our value propositions and the quality of our products are best in class.

What does a perfect day look like? Any day I get to spend with my wife and two sons is special. Spending all day with my wife and two sons at the lake is an even more perfect day!

See PYSK, Page 7

(405) 606-2727

OKCityan of the Year

ANN

FELTON

GILLILAND Chairman & CEO

Central OK Habitat for Humanity

For former OKCityans, see Page 3

Gilliland builds

better

futures through affordable homeownership

OKC FRIDAY named Ann Felton Gilliland, who has dedicated decades to affordable housing and community development in central Oklahoma, as its OKCityan of the Year for her exceptional leadership as Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity chairman and CEO. Felton Gilliland has spent more than 36 years helping shape the future of affordable housing across the Oklahoma City metro, pairing long-term vision inspired by faith with steady, disciplined leadership that continues to transform neighborhoods and strengthen families throughout the region.

Under Gilliland’s leadership, Central Oklahoma Habitat has built 1,155 new homes since 1990, helping to provide long-term housing stability and an improved quality of life for thousands of Oklahoma City families — and creating generational opportunities through homeownership. Her work for Habitat spans several programs: New home construction of energyefficient homes; and critical home repair which has helped over 800 low-income homeowners improve and weatherize their homes. The organization also operates two ReStores and has launched Cornerstone Creek, a new affordable housing development. These initiatives continue to strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunity throughout Central Oklahoma.

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt and other civic leaders were featured in a video

See OKCityan, Page 2 January 23, 2026 1 Section • 14 Pages

Herzel lauded for service to Nichols Hills

Larry Herzel was presented a Proclamation from the City of Nichols Hills by Mayor Steve Goetzinger, and Councilman Colin FitzSimons recognizing his many years of service to the city. Herzel is a principal architect with HSE Architects and has served on the Nichols Hills Board of Adjustment, Building Commission and the Building Code Committee

See HERZEL, Page 11

FRIDAY’s Dog of the Week

Standley Bear Paden Sargeant is the newest member of Marion Paden and Rowell Sargeant’s family. He is both nice and naughty and sweet and willful. Email Pet of the Week submissions to rose@okcfriday.com.

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt with Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity Chairman and CEO Ann Felton Gilliland.

OKCityan

From Page 1

honoring Felton Gilliland for receiving a “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the COHFH Board of Directors during Habitat’s 2025 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner held in late fall. The mayor said that providing affordable housing is a high-priority issue, both locally and nationwide.

“Ann has worked for decades to meet that challenge, and it’s made a real difference,” Holt said. “Think of all the lives that have been positively changed and affected through

that work. Congratulations, Ann, this is incredibly well-deserved and we are so grateful on behalf of the people of Oklahoma City for your service to our community.”

Felton Gilliland’s volunteer involvement with Habitat began in 1990, when she was recruited to the organization’s board to chair the Finance Committee and lead fundraising efforts. At the time, Habitat was a small organization with limited resources, but a clear mission: Helping families achieve safe, affordable homeownership. She soon stepped into a larger leadership role, serving as the nonprofit’s volunteer executive director from 1990 to March 2002.

In 2002, the Habitat board hired Felton Gilliland as the full-time chairman and chief executive officer, a role she has held for over two decades.

“If you look at the history of Habitat for Humanity and where it is today, it’s really all about Ann Felton and the community she brings together,” said Dr. Andrew Weyrich, president of the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. “Without her leadership, Habitat simply wouldn’t be where it is now.”

During that time,

See OKCityan, Page

Cathy Keating and Ann Felton Gilliland

Ann: In the words of Frank Keating

It is argued that nature abhors a vacuum. Few people fill the spaces they occupy.

Some complain that their place in the sun is too shaded or too hot. Their geography is never just right. Or that they prefer another venue. That would fit them just right.

Perhaps their day is too long. Or too short. Perhaps their day needs more order. Or less confusion or disorder. Or more sharing and caring or fun. Nothing quite fills them or satisfies their heart.

Oh really. Isn’t it easier and more of a focused joy just to rise and smile and do good? To assist another. To solve another’s problem. Like finding him a home. Or providing her a shelter from the buffeting wind or rain or heat or cold.

That would be the full boat. That would be filling a vacuum big time.

Who possibly could do that? Look up Ann Felton Gilliland.She has spent her life embracing the needy. Building a house. Constructing a home. Putting roofs over heads. And bringing comfort and joy to those desperate for comfort and joy.

Ann is the symbol. She is the exemplar. The living symbol of helping others. She does it selflessly and every day.

We are honoring her because she is the indispensable neighbor. Friend. Helpmate. Citizen. Brother. And sister. She is the best that we have and we love and honor her for that.

OKCityan of the Year

OKCityan

From Page 2

Central Oklahoma Habitat grew from having no staff members to employing 41 people and expanded its operating budget from $160,000 to approximately $18.8 million, with total assets of $18.6 million as of June 30, 2025.

In addition to home construction, the organization operates two Habitat ReStores, which generated $3.85 million in gross sales in fiscal year 2025. Those proceeds help offset Habitat’s administrative and operational costs, allowing more donor dollars and grant funding to be directed toward home construction and program services.

Larry Ball, COHFH Board of Directors vice chairman and an attorney with Hall, Estill, said he believes Felton Gilliland wakes up each morning thinking about how she can make both Habitat and Oklahoma City better.

“We’re one of the larger affiliates in the country,” Ball said. “We build more houses than most other affiliates, and none of that would have happened without Ann — without her force of will and dedication to the mission,” Ball said.

When the need for affordable land grew urgent in recent years, Felton Gilliland and Habitat didn’t wait. She sought out and bought 160 acres near Piedmont, on faith, launching what would become Cornerstone Creek. Cornerstone Creek is COHFH’s largest and most ambitious affordable housing development yet and it will eventually have 450 homes, three parks and access to top-rated Piedmont schools.

Cornerstone Creek’s construction plan includes Phase I’s 91 homes and over 45 families have already moved into the booming affordable housing neighborhood. Felton Gilliland said Habitat is now raising funds for Phase II to build infrastructure supporting an additional 210 homes, further expanding access to affordable homeownership in Oklahoma City.

“No one works harder or longer than Ann does,” said Thomas Hill III, CEO of Kimray, and a longtime supporter of Habitat. “She can dress up and go to a banquet or a gala. She is an elegant woman, but on framing day, she puts on her jeans and her boots, and she’s right out there with you.

“That’s really what leadership is about, is the willingness to roll up

Former OKCityans of the Year

2025-Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, President, Oklahoma City Community College

2024-Bill Anoatubby, Governor, Chickasaw Nation

2023-Sun Ann Arnall,President and Board Member, Arnall Family Foundation

2022-Chris Keesee, Chairman, Kirkpatrick Bank, Kirkpatrick Foundations

2021-Healthcare Heroes

2020-Debby Hampton, President and CEO, United Way of Central Oklahoma

2019-Bob Ross, President and CEO, Inasmuch Foundation

2018-Kari Watkins, Executive Director, OKC National Memorial and Museum

2017-David Holt,District 30, State Senator

2016-David Rainbolt, CEO, BancFirst Corporation

2015-Judy Love, Philanthropist, Volunteer, Love’s Travel Stops

2014-Dick Sias, Oilman, Vinter, Philanthropist

2013-Robert Henry, President, Oklahoma City University

2012-Carl Edwards, Chairman, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce

2011-Mary Fallin, Oklahoma Governor

2010-Mick Cornett, Mayor, OKC

2009-Clay Bennett, CEO, Dorchester Capital; Owner, Oklahoma City Thunder

2008-Michael Anderson,

President, CEO, Presbyterian Health Foundation

2007-Marty Grubbs, Senior Pastor, Crossings Community Church

2007-Lee Allan Smith, Man of the Decade, Oklahoma Events

2006-Luke Corbett, CEO, Kerr-McGee

2005-Tom McDaniel, President, OCU

2004-Burns Hargis, BOK, Chamber Chairman

2003-Christy Everest, The Oklahoman

2002-Larry Nichols, CEO, Devon Energy

2001-Ed Farrell, President, ONG

2000-Dave Bialis, VP, Cox Communications

1999-Marvin Crawford, OKC Schools Superintendent

1998-Kara Gae Wilson, Metro Tech Superintendent

1997-Dave Lopez, Oklahoma President, SBC

1996-Chas Van Ryselberg, President, Greater OKC Chamber

1995-Bruce Buchanan, CEO, Mercy Hospital

1994-Drew Roy, Oklahoma President, SBC

1993-Barry Herr, General Manager, General Motors plant

1992-Stan Hupfeld, CEO, Integris Medical AND J.B. Ellis, Oklahoma President, SBC

your sleeves and get in there and get dirty with everyone else. And it was just a real encouragement to me to always remember I’m never too big to put on my jeans and boots and get dirty.”

While housing has been her professional focus, Gilliland’s civic service extends well beyond Habitat. She has served in leadership and board roles across education, health care, the arts and public affairs, earning a reputation as a thoughtful, steady leader committed to the long-term health of the community.

Felton Gilliland said that the moment she hands keys to new homeowners and welcomes them into the Habitat family remains one of the most meaningful aspects of her work.

“It’s about dignity, it’s about hope, it’s about honoring the worth of

See OKCityan, Page 13

Sports Weekly

Boys Basketball Roundup

Knights hold off Rockets for win

In a battle between Fridayland teams, the Crossings Christian boys basketball team came out on top with a 6352 victory at Mount St. Mary last Friday night.

Three players scored in double figures for the Class 4A No. 5 Knights (10-6), led by Braden Buckingham with 23 points. His brother Beckett Buckingham collected 17 points and Bo Barber chipped in 10 points.

On Monday, Crossings Christian also avenged an early-season loss with a 62-56 win at Piedmont. The Wildcats downed the Knights by a count of 65-56 in mid-December.

Meanwhile, 4A No. 11 Mount St. Mary (10-5) opened the week with a dominating 61-50 triumph over No. 19 McLoud.

The Knights host 3A No. 9 Community Christian this Tues-

OKC Friday

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day, while the Rockets entertain Harrah.

Del City too much for Irish

McGuinness split a pair of games last week, including a 73-57 loss at Del City on Friday and a 68-36 win against Santa Fe South on Tuesday.

Andrew Harris and Riley Sneller led the Irish (7-7) at the Eagles with 12 points each, as Harris secured seven rebounds and Sneller had six boards.

Against Santa Fe South, Brody Parks finished with a teambest 15 points, while Harris netted nine points and Sneller added eight points. This weekend, the Irish compete in the Bruce Gray Invitational at Deer Creek and host Casady on Tuesday.

Milwood runs over Cyclones

Casady endured a pair of difficult losses last week, highlighted by a 63-

29 setback at Jones and an 89-49 defeat at 3A No. 1 Millwood.

Kuba Malecki collected a team-high 14 points against the Falcons. James Elder grabbed 12 points and eight rebounds, while Collin Stanton and Beckham Kerr added seven points each.

The Cyclones (49) compete at a tournament in Washington this weekend.

Antlers fall at Edmond North

Falling behind early, Deer Creek never recovered in a 80-44 loss to Edmond North last Friday night.

Cooper Witte and Jaleel Shyne scored eight points each for the defending state champion Antlers (39) and Colin Westfahl added seven points.

Deer Creek opened the week with a 7259 setback against Southmoore, behind Witte’s 23 points. Shyne recorded 11 points, while Ayden Mayo chipped in seven points.

John Marshall’s Deion Robinson (3) puts up a fadeaway jumper against Elgin. The Bears cruised to a 72-52 victory over the Owls.

The Antlers host the Bruce Gray Invitational this weekend.

Other Results

Panthers cruise to wins: PC North rolled to a pair of double-digit victories last week, as the Panthers (15-1) posted a 98-77 win at Capitol

Hill and a 76-47 triumph over Jenks. They travel to Stillwater this Tuesday.

Chargers

trounce Purcell: After opening the week with its first loss of the season, Heritage Hall rebounded with a 6343 win at Purcell. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

Friday Fumble

McGuinness' Kaylie Fedor was inadvertantly misidentified as Brady Mitchell in the Jan. 16 edition of OKC FRIDAY. Fedor helped the Irish girls to fifth in the 200-yard medley relay at the Casady-McGuinness Invitational swimming meet earlier this month in Edmond. FRIDAY regrets the error.

Swimming Roundup

Antler girls swim to 2nd at Edmond SPRINTeenth

Backed by four individual event champions and a relay title, the Deer Creek girls swimming team finished second and the Antler boys were fourth last week in the 4th Annual SRINTeenth meet at Edmond Schools Aquatic Center.

Three athletes earned multiple gold medals, led by Harper Husbands and Owen McCall with three each.

Husbands won the 50-yard freestyle by a second over teammate Chapel McCollumn in 25.95 seconds, 50 breaststroke in 31.93 seconds and outdueled another teammate Phoebe Little to claim the 200 freestyle in 2:02.70.

Owen McCall also captured three event titles, including the 50 freestyle in 22.03 seconds, 100 freestyle in 47.72 seconds and the 50 butterfly in

23.83 seconds. Beckham Shields captured the 50 backstroke title by just under a second in 25.74 seconds and touched the wall just ahead of McGuinness’ John Nguyen (58.67) in the 100 individual medley in 57.97 seconds.

Ashlyn Bucy rounded out the Deer Creek gold medalists with a win in the 50 backstroke.

Bucy finished just over a half-second ahead of McGuinness’ Camryn Kanaly in 29.17 seconds and was runner-up in the 50 freestyle.

In addition, McCall and Shields added two more relay gold medals as the Antlers captured the 200 medley title in 1:43.34 (with Landon Gilmore and Dakota VanBerschot) and the 200 freestyle relay in 1:32.75 (with Gil-

Wrestling Roundup

more and Kaeson Parton) titles.

They collected third in the 200 butterfly relay, and the Casady boys were fourth in the 200 breaststroke relay.

Husbands, Bucy and McCollum teamed up with Keira Nguyen to win the 200 medley relay in 1:55.03 for the Deer Creek girls.

The Antler girls also finished second in the 200 breaststroke relay and third in both the 200 freestyle and 200 butterfly relays.

Other Fridaylanders in the top 10 (by event) included: 50 freestyle – Max McAllister, Casady, 4th; Aiden Taylor, DC, 6th; Nguyen, DC, 7th; Thomas Gillenwater, Casady, 9th; Beckham Kerr, Casady, 10th. 100 freestyle – Aven Burkhead, DC, 9th; Gilmore, DC, 10th.

Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

PC North’s Kiana Gray (23) sets up the offense during last week’s basketball game against Jenks. The defending state champion Panthers cruised to a 69-40 victory over the Trojans.

- Photo by Richard Clifton, rtcditigalimages.zenfolio.com

Del City too much for Irish

Unable to generate much offense in the early going, the McGuinness girls basketball team suffered a 52-37 loss at Del City last Friday night.

Kashlynn Cooper posted a team-best 16 points for the Irish (11-3). Mariah Connaly and Megan Milligan added seven points each.

McGuinness opened the week with a dominating 76-5 victory over Santa Fe South.

The Irish compete this weekend at the Bruce Gray Invitational hosted by Deer Creek.

Panthers run over Capitol Hill

PC North ran its winning streak to 10 games with a pair dominating victories last week.

The defending state champion Panthers (16-1) cruised to an 848 win at Capitol Hill and a 69-40 triumph over Jenks.

PC North travels to Stillwater this Tuesday.

Knights get past Rockets

Jumping out to an early lead, Crossings Christian cruised to a 44-23 win over Fridayland rival Mount St. Mary last Friday.

The Knights (8-4) also posted a 60-11 victory at Harding Fine Arts earlier in the week.

Meanwhile, the Rockets (3-11) also endured a 77-32 setback at McLoud. Crossings Christian competes at the Checotah tournament this weekend.

Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.

Antlers boast 7 wrestlers on podium at COAC tournament

Keyed by seven athletes finishing fourth or better, the Deer Creek wrestling team finished fifth last weekend at the Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference (COAC) tournament hosted by Southmoore.

The duo of Garon Kaiser and Graeden Demario led the Antlers by claiming runner-up trophies. Kasier endured a 6-3 loss to Stillwater’s Jaeden Adams at 157 pounds, while Demario fell to Isaac Sensintoffer of Stillwater at 175 pounds.

Easton Witters grabbed fourth place at 126 pounds, as did Nash Neeley at 132 pounds, Hayes McNeill at 150 pounds and Ethan Frasier at 285 pounds.

Zeke Groom and Dylan Hamilton rounded out the Deer Creek squad, as Groom placed fifth at 215 pounds and Hamilton sixth at 144 pounds.

Three Antler girls also placed at the COAC tournament.

Jersey Yanes led the way with a third-place finish at 125 pounds, followed by Isabella Fonseca

in fourth in 105 pounds and Brilynn Montana in fifth at 235 pounds.

Deer Creek competes in a dual at Tuttle this Friday and hosts Edmond North on Tuesday.

Charger duo win titles at Kingfisher

A pair of Heritage Hall wrestlers claimed individual championships and three others made the podium last weekend at the Wester Conference tournament in Kingfisher

Owen Burns cruised to a 6-0 win over Clinton’s

Tristan Cardenas to win a gold medal in the 132pound division.

Gannon Sanders captured a title at 157 pounds with a 4-2 victory against Aiden Marquez from Pawnee.

Carter Harris (126 pounds), Walker Wedel (175) and Canon Bronson (215) secured third place finishes in helping the Chargers to 11th in the team standings.

Casady’s Andrew Fitzpatrick collected sixth place at 190 pounds.

Heritage Hall competes at district duals

this Tuesday at Lexington, while Casady is at the Hennessey Dual tournament this weekend.

Irish’s Thompson nabs gold at Carl Albert McGuinness’ Nora Thompson earned a gold medal last weekend in the Malcolm Wade Titan Classic at Carl Albert. Thompson pinned Preslea Wilkerson from host Carl Albert to win the 105-pound championship. The Irish take part in the Yukon tournament this weekend.

BALLET

Jan. 29 • Giselle

Step into the hauntingly beautiful world of Giselle — one of the most beloved and enduring masterpieces of classical ballet. The Grand Kyiv Ballet brings this timeless story of love, betrayal, and redemption to life on the OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center stage at 7:30 pm. Visit occc.ticketsage.net for tickets.

Feb. 20­22 • Romeo & Juliet

Colorful and opulent, OKC Ballet’s Romeo & Juliet will swell your heart with beautiful scenery, timeless music, and incredible dancing at the Civic Center.

THEATRE

Through Jan. 31 • Pictures From Home

Playwright Sharr

White transforms photographer Larry Sultan’s landmark photo memoir for the stage in this new three­character play at Carpenter Square Theatre. For more information visit, carpentersquare.com.

March 3­8 • Neil Diamond Musical A Beautiful Noise

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of

Calendar / Booster

The Oklahoma Zoological Society (OZS) is hosting the second phase of their specialty License Plate Contest to establish an official Oklahoma license plate for the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, and inviting the public to select the their favorite design at ozsgiving.org/platecontest now through Jan. 27. There are two options created by Oklahoma­based artists. Both designs feature original art inspired by the Zoo and its wondrous wildlife. The selected artists and their titled designs are Rhys Riley of Oklahoma City, “Penguin” and Rick Sinnett of Mustang, “Elephant.”

how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart

busting, showstopping American rock icon. It is an inspiring, exhilarating energy filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America's greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career. Produced by OKC Broadway and showing at the Civic Center Music Hall, okcciviccenter.com.

COMEDY

Jan. 29 • Jeff Dunham Comedy superstar and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham is bringing his hilarious cast of characters back to Oklahoma City and the Paycom Center with the Artificial Intelligence Tour. Get tickets at paycomcenter.com.

THIS WEEKEND

Jan. 23­25 • OKC Home + Garden The 44th annual Okla

homa City Home + Garden Show will be at the OKC Fairgrounds Jan. 23­25. The show is will offer guests a myriad of ideas on everything for the home and gar

den spaces land fea

tures guest speaker Jenn Nawada, Landscape Contractor for This Old House on Fri

day, Jan. 23 and Saturday, Jan. 24. Show hours are Friday 12 ­ 8 pm, Saturday 10 am to 8 pm and Sunday 11 am to 5 pm in the Bennett Event Center at the OKC Fair Park.

OKC THUNDER

Friday, Jan. 23 • Indiana

pm Sunday, Jan. 25 • Toronto Raptors 6:00 pm Tuesday, Jan. 27 • New Orleans Pelicans 7:00 pm Tuesday, Feb. 3 • Orlando Magic 7:00 pm

Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com

Oscar Contenders

The 98th annual Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, March 15, live on ABC and streaming on Hulu. The nominees were announced on Thursday, after this column was written. Instead of predicting that list, I am going to highlight the front runners in the major categories, so you can narrow down which films to watch before the Oscar telecast.

One Battle After Another (HBO Max) is going to compete in every major category, including Best Picture. According to Gold Derby, the premiere award show prediction website, the film is the current frontrunner for Best Director Paul Thomas Anderson, Actor Leonardo DiCaprio, Supporting Actress Teyanna Taylor, and Adapted Screenplay for Anderson and novelist Thomas Pynchon Supporting actors Sean Penn and Benicio Del Toro are also likely contenders.

Sinners (HBO Max, Amazon), the blockbuster vampire movie from the director of Black Panther, is another film with the potential to win in multiple categories. Creator Ryan Cooglar is predicted to win Best Original Screenplay and is neck and neck for Best Director. Lead actor Michael B. Jordan is bouncing around the top three for Best Actor. With great music, costumes, and produc-

tion design, this film could sneak in and upset the pack as Best Picture.

Marty Supreme (in theaters), the surprisingly dramatic and exciting ping pong movie, has landed on several lists for Best Picture. Lead actor Timothee Chalamet is annoying but magnetic in the lead role, which should push him past prior winner Leonardo DiCaprio to capture his first Oscar as Best Actor.

Frankenstein (Netflix), the modern interpretation of the monster classic from Oscar winner Guillermo del Toro, should take home several creative awards, from makeup and costume to production design and cinematography. But it could also sneak into the Best Picture race because of the well-regarded direction from del Toro and the strong supporting performance by Jacob Elordi as the monster.

Hamnet (in theaters), the heart wrenching, emotionally fulfilling drama about the woman married to William Shapkespeare, has been a slow burn this awards season. Lead actress Jesse Buckley has taken home several Best Actress prizes. But director

Chloe Zhao, the Oscar winning director of Nomadland has more recently emerged as a potential nominee. Either way, it is worth seeing. In the actress races, Rose Byrne looks like the only one who could possibly upset Buckley for Best Lead Actress for her intense performance as a mother pushed to the brink in the offbeat drama If I Had Legs I’d Kick You. Similarly, Amy Madigan, the stand out from the horror film Weapons, appears to be the only one who can stop Teyana Taylor from One Battle After Another KPop Demon Hunters (Netflix) looks likely to take home Best Animated Feature as well as Best Song for “Golden.” This Korean sensation is worth seeing because of its pop culture dominance and the traditional story underlying this wild animated musical.

Finally, the Norwegian drama Sentimental Value is surging in the international film category thanks to the outstanding supporting performance from Stellan Skarsgard. But it will have stiff competition from the Iranian film It Was Just an Accident, which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and has a director Jafar Panahi who is under a warrant for his arrest back in Iran. Lots of interesting stories ahead. See you at the Oscars.

Collaboration to headline Oklahoma Speaker’s Ball

In a powerful celebration of unity and civic pride, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Canterbury Voices will come together for a special musical collaboration at the Oklahoma Speaker’s Ball on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. This distinguished performance takes place during a landmark year, as the nation commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.

Presented before an esteemed audience of elected officials, business leaders, and community advocates from across the state, this collaboration reflects the en-

during role of music as a unifying medium. The patriotic program honors America’s past, celebrates its present, and looks ahead to its future, aligning seamlessly with the Speaker’s Ball’s long-standing mission of fostering camaraderie beyond political and cultural divides.

“We are honored to be featured in front of this distinguished audience and are excited to participate in this nonpartisan tradition. It is a privilege to be a part of this event during such a monumental year,” said Brent Hart, Executive Director of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. “We are grateful to the

Oklahoma Speaker’s Ball and the event organizers for including us in the event and for the work they do to raise funds for worthy causes across Oklahoma.”

The Oklahoma Speaker’s Ball was created to encourage collegiality among newly elected legislators ahead of each legislative session. Over the decades, the event has grown into one of Oklahoma’s most anticipated civic gatherings, welcoming leaders from across the political spectrum and all corners of the state. Since 2005, the organization has donated nearly $1 million to impactful charitable causes throughout Oklahoma, re-

inforcing its commitment to service and community investment. The evening’s festivities include a 4:30 pm private VIP reception, 5:00 pm cocktails, and 6:30 pm dinner, set against the backdrop of elegant décor, exceptional cuisine, and worldclass entertainment. Past Speaker’s Ball performers have included icons such as Diana Ross, Ronnie Dunn, Alabama, Kelli O’Hara, and Giulina Rancic, earning the event its reputation as one of the hottest tickets in town.

For more information about the Oklahoma Speaker’s Ball, visit okspeakersball.com

Improving sleep comfort and sleep health

In 1960, two brothers, Don and Bud Mathis, changed the furniture industry by opening the first Mathis Brothers Furniture location.

The concept provided customers the opportunity to buy the furniture they needed at low prices without having to wait for a sale. It revolutionized the furniture business and helped make Mathis Brothers Furniture one of the largest independent furniture retailers in America.

“We charged a little less, so our neighbors could have a little more,” Don Mathis said.

Today, Mathis Home remains a family-owned business with Don’s sons, Bill and Larry, and Bill’s children, Rit Mathis and Kerry Pacillio, working together to continue to innovate the way you shop for furniture. Their commitment to creating value for their neighbors remains strong as ever.

As the company continued to evolve, it launched Mathis Sleep in 2011 and has remained committed to its roots and culture by focusing not only on value, style and comfort, but is now helping its

PYSK

From Page 1

How do you define success differently today than when you were younger? Being a catalyst for helping others achieve their dreams and goals defines my success. My younger self was more centered on individual accomplishments. While certainly gratifying, those accomplishments pale in comparison to the satisfaction and sense of purpose I receive when serving others. I have been very fortunate to have so many special people who invested in me. I wish I had learned earlier in my life what joy there is in championing others. Helping others achieve their personal goals and dreams is far more satisfying and truly is the very definition of success. What’s No. 1 on your bucket list? Traveling to the hallowed ground of Normandy is No. 1 on my bucket list. I’m very much a history wonk and I look forward to visiting there during my lifetime. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Be impeccable with your word. What would you like people to remember about you? That every day has been a gift and that I never took a single day for granted.

customers across Oklahoma to achieve their best sleep ever.

Mathis Sleep has 18 convenient locations statewide and offers the best selection of mattresses.

The company is now poised to provide its customers a choice to potentially explore whether they can improve their overall sleep health with the help of experts in the sleep field.

“Crafting exceptional mattress products really fuels my fire! I have been designing mattresses for over 25 years, and I still get excited when we at Lady Americana, a Mathis Home company, create Best-In-Class products,” stated Kerry Tramel, president of Lady Americana. “Your comfort when struggling to achieve a good night's sleep begins with your mattress choice. At Mathis Sleep, we offer the largest and finest selection of Lady Americana and other brand mattresses available

When I was a kid, I wanted to ... play in the NBA. Did you have any sports heroes when you were growing up, and why was he/she your hero? Lots of childhood sports heroes! Reggie Jackson was one of my heroes. His confidence had no limits. The bigger the stage, the better he did. I still believe that it was that confidence that made him “Mr. October” and a legend to this day. I have had the opportunity to get to know him a little and he still has that same confidence to this day. A special guy! Billy Sims was also someone I admired. Growing up in Norman, I would often see Billy. Every time I ran into him, he was so positive. Always smiling and ap-

on the market today.

“In addition to a quality mattress, a good, healthy night’s sleep is also dependent on making sure you aren’t one of the silent sufferers who experience a sleep disorder, which is why we’ve recently announced an affiliation with the Oklahoma Sleep Institute. When you sleep better, you live better,” he said.

“That’s why Mathis Sleep has aligned with the Oklahoma Sleep Institute to help you achieve your best-ever sleep.”

Approximately 42 million Americans have sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and more than 75% of severe sleep-disordered breathing cases remain undiagnosed. Many sufferers are unaware that they have this condition.

The prevalence of moderate-to-severe sleep disordered breathing is 23.4% in women and 49.7% in men. It is estimated that 90% of women with sleep apnea,

proachable for me and every other kid in town.

What is something else you’d like others to know about you? A major part of my life and joy was coaching over 1,000 games of AAU basketball and leading the Norman Optimist Club for five years. Our team grew the program from 350 kids to over 1,400 and had 23 club-level teams, the most in the state. I absolutely love being around kids! What is the best decision you’ve ever made? Outside of asking my wife to marry me, going to work for Mathis Brothers. I have never considered working anywhere else. Almost from day one, I recognized that Mathis Brothers was a place that could make all

especially obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains undiagnosed. This is primarily because women’s symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, menopause and stress while balancing family life activities, may differ from the classic male presentation, which is snoring.

Mr. Tramel explained, “Mathis Sleep’s 58-member professional sales team is focused not only on presenting a wide selection of mattress options for our customers to achieve their most comfortable night’s sleep, but we are also helping to facilitate and educate our customers, if they are interested, in potentially seeking the advice of a Board Certified Sleep Physician or other medical provider to help them rule out the possibility that they may be suffering from a sleep disorder. Our commitment to all Oklahomans at Mathis Sleep is to do everything possible to help our customers achieve their best sleep ever.”

He continued, “Mathis Sleep is the mattress expert for your sleep comfort, but the Oklahoma Sleep Institute offers clinical support and expertise to assist individuals

my dreams come true. Thirty-six years later, it has been that and so much more!

who may suffer from a sleep disorder. Our 18-location Mathis Sleep store footprint across Oklahoma aligns with the Oklahoma Sleep Institute’s 11 statewide sleep lab locations and six sleep clinic locations, which provide all Oklahomans with greater access

to improve their sleep comfort and sleep health. Mathis Sleep is proud of our collaboration with the Oklahoma Sleep Institute. Both organizations are passionate about improving the comfort and sleep health of all Oklahomans,” Mr. Tramell said.

Legal Notices & Classifieds

January 16, 2026 | Page 8

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2026-156

IN RE: The Name of: ) Trinity Haley )

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Trinity Jane Haley has petitioned to change his/her name to Tristan James Haley.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 19 day of February, 2026 , before Judge Ogden in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

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

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2026-62

IN RE: The Name of: ) Adam Christopher Hutchinson ) NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Adam Christopher Hutchinson has petitioned to change his/her name to Adam Christopher Hutchison.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 11:00 o’clock A.M. on the 13 day of March, 2026, before Judge Dishman in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/Misty Zaragoza Deputy (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2026-81

In Re: The Name of: ) Eloise Cline Powell-Jacobs )

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Eloise Cline Powell-Jacobs has petitioned to change his/her name to Eloise Cline Jacobs.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 9:00 o’clock P.M. on the 17 day of March, 2026, before Judge Bonner at 9:00 o’clock in courtroom 304 at the Oklahoma

County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

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

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2026-83

IN RE: The Name of: ) Infant Miller )

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Infant Miller has petitioned to change his/her name to Michael Miller.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 17 day of March, 2026, before Judge Bonner in courtroom 304 in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/Misty Zaragoza BY DEPUTY (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2026-90

IN RE: The Name of: ) Vickie Lynn Nolan )

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Vickie Lynn Nolan has petitioned to change his/her name to Vickie Lynn Wherry.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 5 day of March, 2026, before Judge Andrews in his/her courtroom 359 in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

RICK WARREN, Court Clerk

/s/illegible signature BY DEPUTY (SEAL)

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA

CV-2026-160

IN RE: The Name of: ) Aubrey Lauren Adams )

NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME

TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Aubrey Lauren Adams has petitioned to change his/her name to Aubrey Huntley Adams.

A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 19 day of March, 2026, before Judge Bonner in his/her courtroom in the Oklahoma County Courthouse. Should you know of some reason why this change of name should not be allowed you must file a written protest in the above styled and numbered cause prior to the above date with the Clerk of this Court. Should you fail to do so, the petition for change of name will be granted as prayed.

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

CITYOF NICHOLS HILLS

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Notice is hereby given that the City of Nichols Hills will receive sealed bids in the Office of the City Clerk, located at CITY HALL 6407 Avondale Drive, Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, until 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 9thth, 2026 for the construction of:

2025 G.O. BOND ISSUE PAVING IMPROVEMENTS

PROJECT NO. PC-2501

1700 & 1800 Blocks of Westminster Place

Bids will be publicly opened at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 9th, 2026 at Nichols City Hall.Bidders shall be pre-qualified in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. Bids shall be made in accordance with the Notice to Bidders, Requirements for Bidders, Plans, Specifications, and Bidder’s Proposal, which are on file and available for examination at the Office of the City Clerk in the Municipal Building and are made a part of this notice as fully set forth herein and copy of which may be obtained on a flash drive from Smith Roberts Baldischwiler, LLC, 100 N. E. 5 th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104 upon a non-refundable payment of $10.00 per Flash Drive. All bids shall remain on file at least forty-eight (48) hours thereafter before a contract shall be made and entered into thereon.

A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Nichols Hills Public Works, located at 1009 N.W. 75 th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73116, at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026. (See INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS for mandatory prebid conference requirements.)

Additional information is contained in the Bidding Documents. Bidders must carefully read the Bidding Documents (and addenda, if any) prior to bidding this project.

Dated this 13th day of January , 2026.

Amanda Copeland CITY CLERK

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026)

ORDINANCE NO. 1297

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE NICHOLS HILLS CITY CODE REGARDING THE PROXIMITY OF PERSONAL PROPERTY TO GARBAGE RECEPTACLES; REPEALING ALL CONFLICTING ORDINANCES OR PARTS OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.

EMERGENCY ORDINANCE

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA:

Section 1. Section 36-26 of the Nichols Hills City Code is hereby amended, with new language underlined, to wit: Sec. 36-26. Garbage receptacles. *****

(d) Proximity of personal property to Garbage, Refuse, and Rubbish placed for collection. Personal property that is not intended for Garbage collection, whether in ordinary receptacles or in Large-Scale Receptacles, must be separated by a minimum of four feet from all Garbage, Refuse, and Rubbish placed for collection to avoid any confusion between what is intended for Garbage collection and what is not.

Continued on Page 9

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 16, 2026; Friday, January 23, 2026) OKLAHOMA ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LAWS ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION NOTICE OF INTENTION TO APPLY FOR AN ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE

In accordance with Title 37, Section 522 and Title 37A, Section 2-141 Fox & Forage, 724 W. 15th St., Edmond, OK 73013, an LLC hereby publishes notice of its intention to apply within sixty days from this date to the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement

Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, 73013 under the business name of Fox & Forage.

Dated this 12 day of December, 2025. /s/Corbin Wyatt County of Oklahoma, State of Oklahoma. Before me, the undersigned notary public, personally appeared: Corbin Wyatt to me known to

Legals

CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS

Section 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are, to the extent of such conflict, hereby repealed.

Section 3. The provisions of this ordinance are severable and if any part or provision hereof shall be adjudged invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such adjudication shall not affect or impair any of the remaining parts or provisions hereof.

Section 4. EMERGENCY SECTION. WHEREAS, in the judgment of the Council it is necessary for the immediate preservation of the peace, health, welfare, and safety of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, and of the inhabitants thereof that the provisions of this ordinance be put into full force and effect immediately, and therefore an emergency is hereby declared to exist by reason whereof this ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage as provided by law.

PASSED by the Council of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, on the 13th day of January, 2026.

APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, on the 13th day of January 2026.

CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA

ATTEST: Steven J. Goetzinger Mayor

Amanda Copeland

City Clerk REVIEWED as to Form and Legality [Seal]

John Michael Williams City Attorney

(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, January 23, 2026) From Page 8

ORDINANCE NO. 1296

AN ORDINANCE FOR THE PURPOSE OF REMOVING DISCRIMINATORY LANGUAGE AGAINST CERTAIN RACES CONTAINED IN EXISTING PLATS DEDICATED TO THE CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA, AND FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE OKLAHOMA COUNTY CLERK; AMENDING THE FINAL PLAT OF WILSHIRE SECTION OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA COUNTY, OKLAHOMA, RECORDED MAY 16, 1946, IN BOOK 25 OF PLATS, PAGE 44; AND AMENDING THE FINAL PLAT OF WILSHIRE SECTION, NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA, RECORDED FEBRUARY 11, 1948, IN BOOK 26 OF PLATS, PAGE 23; AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN ANY DOCUMENTATION NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THIS ORDINANCE; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.

EMERGENCY ORDINANCE

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA:

Section 1. The purpose of this Ordinance is to remove discriminatory language against certain races from all platted subdivisions to the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma (individually a “Plat” and collectively the “Plats”) containing such language. The Plats subject of this Ordinance are as follows: (a) Wilshire Section of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma recorded May 16,1946, in Book 25 of Plats, Page 44,, and (b) Wilshire Section Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, recorded February 11, 1948, in Book 26 of Plats, Page 23. For purposes of this Ordinance the discriminatory language, whether identical or different between plats, is individually and collectively referenced herein as the “Discriminatory Language.”

Section 2. The Discriminatory Language prohibits the sale, rental,

or occupancy of real property subject of each Plat. Although the Discriminatory Language is no longer legally enforceable pursuant to the United States Supreme Court ruling in Shelly v. Kraemer 334 U.S. 1 (1948), the provisions of the Fair Housing Act, 42 U.S.C., Section 3601 et seq and 11 O.S. § 42-106.1(E), it remains part of the Plats Title 11 O.S. § 42-106.1(E) provides a process for the removal of the Discriminatory Language by means of the amendment (the “Amendment”) of the Plats.

(a) The Discriminatory Language contained in the final plat of Wilshire Section of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma County Oklahoma, filed of record May 16, 1946, in Book 25 of Plats, Page 44, is as follows: OWNERSHIP OR OCCUPANCY BY ANYONE OTHER THAN THE WHITE RACE: No lot or lots herein platted shall ever in any manner be held or owned by or for or the improvements thereon occupied (except necessary occupancy of servants quarters by a servant employed by white occupant of the main improvements thereon), any person of African decent, commonly known as Negroes and hereinafter called Negroes.

This is a reversion clause in this dedication and upon the violation of said condition, last above set out, the lot or lots and the improvements thereon shall immediately revert to the Company or its assigns and it shall be entitled to immediately reenter and take possession of said lot or lots and improvements thereon; provided, however, the reverter shall not affect the lien of any mortgage or deed of trust placed on any lot in said addition prior to the violation of the restriction in this clause if the same is placed thereon in good faith and so long as such lien is not held or owned by and for a person not a Negro.

Provided, further, any person not a Negro who shall obtain a valid sheriff’s deed to any lot in said addition under the foreclosure of the lien of any mortgage described above, and shall obtain rightful and lawful possession of said property under said sheriff’s deed, shall take the same free from any violation of this condition accruing prior to the sale under which said sheriff’s deed is issued but shall, in all other things, take same subject to this condition and right of reverter.

(b) The Discriminatory Language in the final plat of Wilshire Section Nichols Hills, Oklahoma filed of record February 11, 1948, in Book 26 of Plats, Page 23, is as follows:

OWNERSHIP OR OCCUPANCY BY ANYONE OTHER THAN THE WHITE RACE: No lot or lots herein platted shall ever in any manner be held or owned by or for or the improvements thereon occupied by (except necessary occupancy of servants quarters by a servant employed by white occupant of the main improvements thereon), any person of African descent, commonly known as Negroes and hereafter called Negroes.

This is a reversion clause in this dedication and upon the violation of said condition, last above set out, the lot or lots and the improvements thereon shall immediately revert to the COMPANY or its assigns and it shall be entitled to immediately re-enter and take possession of said lot or lots and improvements thereon; provided, however, that the reverter shall not affect the lien of any mortgage or deed of trust placed on any lot in said addition prior to the violation of the restriction in this clause if the same is placed thereon in good faith and so long as such lien is not held or owned by and for a person not a Negro; provided, further, that any person not a Negro who shall obtain a valid sheriff’s deed to any lot in said addition under the foreclosure of the lien of any mortgage described above, and shall obtain rightful and lawful possession of said property under said sheriff’s deed, shall take the same free from any violation of this condition accruing prior to the sale under which said sheriff’s deed is issued but shall, in all other things, take same subject to this condition and right of reverter.

Section 3. The real property which individually comprises each Plat subject of this Ordinance is as follows:

(a) The real property which comprises the final plat of Wilshire Section of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, recorded May 16,1946, in Book 25 of Plats, Page 44, is located, in part, in the S/2 of Section 31, T13N, R3W of the Indian Meridian and, in part, in the N/2 of Section 6, T12N, R3W of the Indian Meridian, all in Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. The Lots and Blocks which comprise the final plat of Wilshire Section of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma recorded May 16,1946, in Book 25 of Plats, Page 44, are Lots 1 to 9, both inclusive, Block 95, Lots 1 to 35, both inclusive, Block 96, Lots 43 to 69, both inclusive, Block 97, Lots 1 to 19, both inclusive, Block 99, Lots 1 to 36, both inclusive, Block 100, Lots 1 to 81, both inclusive, Block 101, Lots 40 to 78, both inclusive, Block 102, Lots 1 to 6, both inclusive, Block 103, and Lots 1 to 8, both inclusive, Block 104.

(b) The real property which comprises the final plat of Wilshire Section Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, recorded February 11, 1948, in Book 26 of Plats, Page 23, is located in the S/2 of Section 31, T13N, R3W of the Indian Meridian, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. The Lots and Blocks which comprise the final plat of Wilshire Section Nichols Hills, Oklahoma recorded February 11, 1948, in Book 26 of Plats, Page 23, are Lots 1 to 43-A, both inclusive, Block 97, Lots 1 to 39-A, Block 102, Lots 1 to 53, both inclusive, Block 105, Lots 50 to 100, both inclusive, Block 106, Lots 44 to 87, both inclusive, Block 109, Lots 1 to 91, both inclusive, Block 110, and Lots 1 to 90, both inclusive, Block 111.

Section 4. Each individual plat identified herein which collectively comprise the Plats are hereby amended to delete, remove and strike in their entirety the Discriminatory Language. The provisions of this Amendment shall supersede and control over any conflicting provision contained in an individual plat identified herein which collectively comprise the Plats. Except for the Discriminatory Language, the remainder of each plat identified herein shall remain enforceable and effective.

Section 5. The Mayor is hereby authorized to sign any documentation necessary to effectuate this Ordinance.

Section 6. Emergency Section. In the judgment of the Council it is necessary for the immediate preservation of the peace, health, welfare and safety of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, and of the inhabitants thereof that the provisions of this Ordinance be put into full force and effect immediately, and therefore an emergency is hereby declared to exist by reason whereof this Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage as provided by law.

PASSED and ADOPTED by the Council of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, on the 13th day of January, 2026.

APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma, on the 13th day of January, 2026.

CITY OF NICHOLS HILLS, OKLAHOMA

ATTEST: Steven J. Goetzinger Mayor

Amanda Copeland City Clerk REVIEWED as to Form and Legality [Seal] John Michael Williams City Attorney

STATE OF OKLAHOMA ) ) ss: COUNTY OF OKLAHOMA )

This instrument was acknowledged before me on the 13th day of January 2026, by Steven J. Goetzinger, Mayor of the City of Nichols Hills, Oklahoma.

Sherry Dickson (Seal) Notary

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, Okla. City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 | fnbok.com

CK & Co. 6429 Avondale Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 843-7636 ckandcompany.com

Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank

Covenant Brothers 5900 Mosteller Dr. No. 7 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 842-4671 covbros.com

Justin Beasley, DDS

4600 W Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73142 (405) 755-5400 drbeasley.com

Quail Plaza Barber Shop 10940 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (495) 751-2126

All About Travel, Ltd. 6104 NW 63 St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 384-3880 www.allabout-travel.com

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 N. MacArthur Blvd. Okla. City, OK 73162 (405) 720-7779 Fri. 1-5 pm, Sat. 10-5 pm, Sun. 2-5 pm FB. Strebel Creek

Navigating Medicare 2232 W. Hefner Road Suite A. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 842-0494 navigatingmedicare.com

First Liberty Bank 9601 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 608-4500 myfirstliberty.com

Robert Don Gifford GIFFORD LAW, PLLC P.O. Box 2682 Oklahoma City, OK 73101 (405)778-4647 giffordlawyer.com Robert.Gifford@ GiffordLawyer.com

Government was designed to protect our rights as Americans

To the Editor:

The framers of our Constitution designed a government that supported and protected those “unalienable rights of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness” found in the Declaration of Independence.

The First Amendment guarantees our rights of free speech, to peaceably assemble and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. Under that First Amendment umbrella is the ability to publicly protest so the “little person” can make their voice heard.

The danger in any society comes when those in authority respond with an abuse of power. Public protesting is not chaos or destruction; it is a powerful

tool in a democracy. It has achieved changing the law as society evolves and matures. It is how injustice is exposed. When protest is met by authoritarian violence, it is telling.

The acts of civil disobedience through peacefully assembling in protest have long been recognized by those like Thoreau, Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Oklahoma City’s Clara Luper during the birth of the civil rights movement in the 1950s.

When our elected leaders respond with silence, that is a warning flag. Their fear is what most protestors seek, change. It is also who the fear the most, us.

Robert Don Gifford Quail Creek Resident

“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.

OKC Friday

Dear Wise Elder: Recently, I said to my husband, we are going to have a mess, because until my folks are dead and gone, we won’t know anything about their health, assets, finances, insurance, or needs. Dad is close to the chest, not transparent and won’t talk about any of these specifics. What can we do?

Dear What to do?: Make the issue about you, not them. Ask for their advice as you renew insurance, select investments, or face a doctor visit. Ask them to go with you to free educational seminars on any of the issues of planning and aging.Talk about options and ask their opinions on issues. Use situations in the news, or crises of families at church or clubs as opportunities to discuss what you would do, what they would do? Consider taking The GIFT workshop together. VilllagesOKC.org has online and in-person options that cover many issues in a non-threatening, friendly environment. - Courtesy VillagesOKC, VillagesOKC.org (405) 990-6637

HERZEL

for many years.

From Page 1

“Larry Herzel’s service to Nichols Hills reflects the very best of what it means to give back,” said Nichols Hills Mayor Steve Goetzinger. “We are deeply grateful for the time, care and commitment he has shared with us.”

Herzel was recognized at the January meeting of the Nichols Hills city council.

“Larry Herzel has gone above and beyond in his service to the City of Nicho9ls Hils, all to the betterment of City government and to the great benefit of the citizens of Nichols Hills,” the Proclamation states. “Through his service in these roles, Larry Herzel has made numerous significant and valuable con-

tributions to the City’s governance of building and building construction.”

Casady at OKCDA

Eight talented seventh, eighth, and ninth grade students recently represented Casady at the Junior High All-State (OKCDA) Choir Convention held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. These students earned their spots through three rigorous blind auditions after months of preparation, including studying high-level choral repertoire since the summer and working with private voice instructors. Out of more than 2,000 students from across the state, only about 200 singers were selected for this prestigious honor, and we are incredibly proud of our Casady musicians for their dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence. From left: Nirvan P., Leilah N., Eleni T., Emsley S., Shirley S., Robert T., Charlotte S. and Henry B.

OKIE brings sounds and lights of Jerusalem to OKC

Bringing a little bit of Israel to Oklahoma has been the mission of the OKlahoma Israel Exchange (OKIE) for over three decades, but this fall OKIE imported something completely unexpected!

More than 250 OKC VIPs met at Convergence OKC for a sound and light experience never before seen outside of Jerusalem — A Night Spectacular — the result of a unique collaboration between the Tower of David Museum in the Old City of Jerusalem and OKIE. The high energy crowd enjoyed a cocktail reception that included Israeli boutique wines in sight of a stunning view of the city skyline prior to the program. Guests entered under an arched truss lit by the neon signs of OKIE to a breathtaking room reminiscent of New York chic.

Attendees were exceptional and influential, starting with Honorary Co-chairmen Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby and Lieutenant Governor Chris Anoatubby and Co-Chairs Major General Larita Aragon Watson and Gary Watson, Major General Lee and Rhonda Levy, and Major Eli and Orly Goldschmit, who all hold Oklahoma and Israel dear to their hearts.

Those gathered to mark the occasion included Governor David and First Lady Rhonda Walters; Israeli Consul General Livia Link-Raviv; Senators Carri Hicks and Kristin Thompson; Representative Ellyn Hefner; Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond; Chickasaw Secretary of State Bill Lance; Chickasaw Secretary of Education Nathan Elliott; Chickasaw Nation Cabinet Executive Officer Tammy Gray; Chickasaw Nation Legislators Lisa Impson and Nancy Elliott; former OSU President Burns and First Cowgirl Ann Hargis; and Founding Chairman of the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum Bob Johnson. If you scanned the room, the diversity of the esteemed crowd certainly impressed!

To begin the program, University of Oklahoma professor Jacob Pleasant played guitar while chanting the traditional havdallah blessings that end shabbat and wish all sweet week ahead. Co-chairman Rhonda Levy greeted the crowd and drew their attention to the big screen where a video highlighted the work of OKIE. Then Edie Roodman, OKIE’s executive director, read an analogy of honorary co-chairman Governor Bill Anoatubby as Shel Silverstein’s Giving Tree and presented him with a certificate announcing that a grove of a thousand trees planted in his name in Israel.

She then recognized the steadfast support of honorary co-chair Lieutenant Governor Chris Anoatubby with a gift of a hamsa in the traditional Chickasaw colors of red and white. Following her to the stage was OKIE President Jonna Kirschner, who provided a warm introduction for the President’s Award recipient and long-time friend of OKIE, Michael Pone. Israeli Consul General Livia Link-Raviv shared a few remarks and led the motzi, the traditional blessing over bread, before inviting attendees to dine.

Guests experienced a specially crafted culinary fusion incorporating elements of Oklahoma and Israeli traditional cuisine with a modern twist. Kam’s Kookery’s chefs received rave reviews about the fresh spin on gourmet fare, which was complimented by carefully selected boutique Israeli wines. The Israeli touches were enhanced by the table centerpieces — miniature olive trees, the fragrant herb hyssop, and the colorful national flower anemones — that are all abundant in Israel. Wrapping up the meal was that quintessential OKC favorite, brandy ice.

As the meal ended, Major General Larita Aragon Watson and Major Eli Goldschmit read prayers in English and Hebrew for safety and wisdom of those in the armed forces of the U.S. and Israel. Governor David Walters, who signed the original memorandum of understanding between Oklahoma and Israel over 20 years ago, related stories (and shared a few jokes) about Reverend Dr Bob Long, the recipient of the LIGHT LEADERSHIP LEGACY award for his steadfast commitment to combating antisemitism. His words of thanks deeply moved the crowd.

OKIE board member Joy Hofmeister gave a shout out to lead donors Premiere Chickasaw Nation and Primary Convergence, Bill and Sherri Lance, and Patti and Rob Lewis. She then hyped up the crowd as she introduced A Night Spectacular. Its powerful music was the perfect accompaniment to the artistic panoramic projection of lights and poignant storytelling of the program. The crowd left inspired and awed, feeling they had just been transported into the heart of the Old

surrounded by its ancient and majestic walls.

Ann Felton Gilliland and her granddaughter Mary George. She has three other grandchildren, John George and Margaret and Georgia Thompson.

OKCityan

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every neighbor, their respect, their compassion and an unwavering belief in what is possible,” she said. “We build not because we can, but because we believe every family deserves the stable foundation we would wish for our own.”

In addition to COHFH’s Lifetime Achievement Award, Felton Gilliland has been honored with dozens of awards, including REI Oklahoma’s Wes Watkins Vision Award and the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs’ 2023 Citizenship Award. She said she’s been supported by her family, friends and mentors, including Habitat’s thousands of volunteers, donors and supporters.

“All these people hold a special place in my heart, but there have been so many who have invested in me, promoted me, helped and supported me,” Felton Gilliland said. “I’ve been held close by a loving family, including my two daughters, Christina Thompson and her husband, Mat, and Alecia George, Alecia’s husband, Kevin, and my grandchildren, John and Mary George and Margaret and Georgia Thompson.

“My heart is full of gratitude and the quiet assurance that our work matters. We’ve built something greater than homes; we’ve built a movement.”

Ann and Jerry Thomason, the former president of Maxwell Supply Company.