OKC Friday okcfriday.com • facebook.com/okcfriday Vol. 59, No. 44
People you should know
March 13, 2026
1 Section • 12 Pages
City to open $11.8 million clubhouse at Lake Hefner By Eric Oesch Staff Writer
DR. DWIGHT LAWSON Executive Director, CEO Oklahoma City Zoo Where did you grow up, and do you have a favorite childhood memory? I was an Air Force brat bouncing around a variety of places from Louisiana to Pakistan to Mississippi to Virginia etc. until the age of 11 when my father retired and we settled in Winston Salem, North Carolina, through my college years — then on the move again from college on. Moving so often, my childhood is a happy blur, but one of the best aspects of living on an Air Force base was that there was always a ton of other kids around. What did you want to be when you grew up? Not surprisingly, I’ve always liked animals and have been fascinated by amphibians and reptiles. Once I learned that such a thing actually existed, I wanted to be a herpetologist (someone who studies amphibians and reptiles). What are you most passionate about professionally? Increasing the reputation of the Oklahoma City Zoo internationally among our peers. The OKC Zoo is a world-class destination that See PYSK, Page 10
(405) 606-2727
A 19-month construction project on the southern shores of Lake Hefner comes to fruition on Friday, April 10, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new $11.8 million clubhouse at Fridayland’s Hefner Golf Course. The modern 18,000-square-foot, two-story building showcases panoramic views of the 75-year-old golf course. The 36-hole golf complex at Lake Hefner is considered by city leaders to be one of the most popular golf The second story of the new $11.8 million clubhouse at Lake destinations in the region. Hefner Golf Course features a full-service restaurant and bar The clubhouse’s first floor includes open to the public. a golf shop, locker rooms, office and meeting space and a grab-and-go food and beverage area for lunch, “This clubhouse is different from traditional dinner and snacks on the course. The second golf clubhouses as it caters to both golfers and story features a full-service restaurant and bar the public,” said Parks and Recreation Director open to the public featuring panoramic views over the north course of Lake Hefner. See HEFNER, Page 2
2026 HEART BALL
A night of impact, elegance and heart
DR. ROBIN SINGH
For one unforgettable night each spring, the heartbeat of Oklahoma City seems to move in unison — a rhythm shaped by hope, resilience and a shared determination to save lives. That spirit returns Friday, April 10, as the 2026 OKC Heart Ball welcomes guests to an evening that blends sophistication with lifesaving purpose. This year’s event is led by Dr. Robin Singh,
Hudsons named ball co-chairmen Hannah and Stuart Hudson are co-chairmen of the Oklahoma City Museum of Art’s 50th annual Renaissance Ball: A Golden Anniversary Celebration. The black-tie gala is set for Friday, Oct. 2, at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, 6:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. The Hudsons are active members of OKC’s cultural scene. Renaissance Ball has served as one of the premier events in Oklahoma City for the last 49 See BALL, Page 3
a cardiac electrophysiologist with Norman Regional Health System and chair of the Heart of OKC campaign. Singh, who also serves on the American Heart Association OKC board of directors, brings a deep commitment to advancing heart health across the region. A graduate of Duke University and Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, he has dedicated his ca-
reer to improving cardiovascular outcomes and strengthening community wellness. The ball’s executive leadership team includes Singh, Dr. Susan Chambers, Tim Haley and Robert Angelo; their mantra is “Purpose. Resilience. Heart. The Oklahoma Standard.” The OKC Heart Ball has long been one of the See HEART, Page 2
FRIDAY’s Dog of the Week Teddy is a 15-year-old Yorkie. His mom is Noemi Sigcho and he is literally her best friend. He has one daughter, Candy, and she takes care of him. Because he is older, he can’t hear anymore but he still has a young spirit. He is sweet and walks twice a day. That’s the only reason he isn’t fat because he loves eating! Email Pet of the Week submissions to rose@okcfriday.com.
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