OKC Friday okcfriday.com • facebook.com/okcfriday
Vol. 60, No. 16
People You Should Know
AMANDA HESS Chief Progress Officer Our Blood Institute Where did you grow up, and do you have a favorite childhood memory? I grew up in Davenport, Iowa, along the Mississippi River where it runs east to west instead of north to south. Davenport is home to a modest population of around 100,000 people but is part of a larger bi-state metropolitan area of around 460,000 residents. I have a large extended Midwest family and enjoyed childhood holidays and summers with my grandparents and cousins. Fishing, camping and holidays are important childhood memories and family traditions. What did you want to be when you grew up? I gravitated towards health sciences as I grew up. I did not have one profession that I wanted to explore, and I am constantly amazed at how my career path has developed. I always knew I wanted to help people and serve an important mission. That sentiment drove me to seek opportunities in the healthcare sector. What are you most passionate about professionally? I am privileged to work for a 501(c)3 in the biologics industry that saves hundreds of lives every day by turning volunteer blood donations into treatments for patients who depend on the generosity of others.The blood products we produce and distribute to emergency medical service providers, hospitals, clinicians and medical researchers cannot be created from synthetic materials. Most of us who work in this industry have personally experienced the impact of life-saving blood transfusions for ourselves and our loved See PYSK, Page 3
(405) 606-2727
August 28, 2026
Evans to retire
Oklahoma City University President Kenneth R. Evans announced his intention to retire at the end of the academic year, ending a six-year tenure that saw the university grow in prestige and prominence. See EVANS, Page 11
2 Sections • 32 Pages
Howes are honored for contributions to OU A guitar player strummed 1950s and 60s music at the University of Oklahoma Heisman Park recently where Don and Helen Howe were honored for their contributions to OU. Family members and friends gathered for a dedication ceremony and for some special speeches. Jill Hughes from the OU Foundation introduced the Howes. The OU Water Tower near Wagner Hall was named the “Donald G. Howe Water Tower.” Don liked to say that the tower was built as he graduated in 1963 as a monument to his finally completing his degree. Don, a chemical engineer student, watched the workers building the tower outside the chemical engineering building where he took most of his classes. See HOWES, Page 3
- Photo by Mia Ledbetter, OU Foundation
Don and Helen Howe, left, with Sandi and David Howe at the Water Tower dedication.
Grant cycle to open for Sam the I Can Man By Rose Lane Editor
- Photo by Jason Jewell
Football season kicks off New Casady quarterback Andrew Kos, above, throws a pass during last Tuesday morning’s practice. The Cyclones kick off the 2026 season this Friday against Christian Heritage. Also, inside this week’s edition of OKC FRIDAY is our 2026 Pigskin Preview, inset. It features stories on all Fridayland football teams, along with schedules, team photos and rosters. See Sports, Page 4
Hall of Fame to induct Jones Oklahoma City Community College President Dr. Mautra Staley Jones is among 12 individuals to be inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Heritage Society Hall of Fame in 2026. Inductees are distinguished representatives of colleges, universities, and higher education organizations across Oklahoma. Dr. Jones serves as president of Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC), one of Oklahoma’s largest and most influential institutions of higher education, educating more than 23,000 students See JONES, Page 12
The Sam the I Can Man Foundation’s final granting cycle of 2026 opens on Sept. 1 and continues through Sept. 30. The foundation was founded by his family after the passing of Sam Weyrich. He was a vibrant, fun, young man who had significant disabilities due to a demyelinating disorder called Aicardi Goutieres Syndrome (AGS). Sam lived each moment of each day fully. He sported a huge smile, never complained and inspired all to live. The Sam the I Can Man Foundation seeks to enhance the lives of individuals with differing abilities by supporting inclusive opportunities and experiences. Lydia Cascaldo, the foundation’s marketing and PR director, as well as a board member, said the organization fulfilled every qualified application it received since the launch in March 2025. It has made 99 grants, totaling more than $200,000. In 2025, grants included 18 activities, 14 experiences and 22 pieces of equipment. Some local examples of grants funded so far include experiences like OKC Thunder games, purchases of adaptive swim equipment, job skills and coaching, various therapies, travel See SAM, Page 7
FRIDAY’s Dog of the Week
Franklin Bear Allison’s mom is Andrea Allison. He has permanent nerve damage in one of his legs, but does not let it slow him down! He loves car rides, Elmo, cuddling on the couch, and eating bananas. He is in the process of becoming a therapy dog! He is 3.5-years-old and was adopted from a local shelter last year. Email Pet of the Week submissions to rose@okcfriday.com.
Oklahoma City’s only locally-owned legal newspaper with all local news Serving far north OKC, Nichols Hills and The Village for 52 years • $1 per copy
Page 2 | Oklahoma City Friday
Obituary/News
Margaret Leigh Reece 1969-2026
ades. First a student, then a teacher, she continued her post graduate studies and becoming a licensed teacher trainer to instruct other teachers. As she learned, she moved to Steamboat Springs, Colo. in 2010, and opened her own pilates studio there. Again, she would return home and reopen Pure Pilates in Oklahoma City. Her gift of teaching and her delicate eye for the language of the moment, she passed on to her son, who taught Pilates with her. When her children left for college, she spent hours on the road with her husband, David, present at her children’s collegiate sports; her daughters’ soccer games in North Carolina and Shawnee, Okla. and her son’s football games in Iowa. She was her daughter’s first soccer coach and pursued her passion
Margaret Leigh Reece, 57, passed away peacefully on Aug. 16, 2026, early in the morning, surrounded by her loving family. Born in 1969, Leigh grew up in Oklahoma City, where she played soccer, modeled, and enjoyed hanging out with her friends. She graduated from Bishop McGuinness High School in 1987. After she spent two years at the University of Oklahoma, she pursued her love of Fine Arts instilled in her by her parents and graduated from New York University with a bachelor's in art history in 1991. While in New York, she interned for Elle magazine and the “Sally Jesse Raphael TV Show” and, postgraduation, spent her next few years in Dallas, with Dallas Fanfares as a meet-
MARGARET LEIGH REECE ing and event planner. When she moved home to Oklahoma City, she began teaching aerobics at the YMCA and soon, with a passion and love for teaching, continued her fitness education with the Pilates Center in Boulder, Colo., for nearly two dec-
August 28, 2026
of soccer through them from childhood to the college pitch to the professional ranks in Australia. Her dreams were her children’s dreams, and she sacrificed so they could achieve them. David was more than her husband; he was Leigh’s best friend, traveling companion, Sooner fanatic, and lifelong Bible study partner. It was rare to ever see David and Leigh apart for more than a few hours. They were joined at the hip, or as David said, to his rib. Wherever her treatments led them — MD Anderson, or Sanoviv Medical Clinic, or Integris Hospital — David and Leigh were at each other’s sides until the end. Leigh was a pillar of a community she built through her care and healing of hurting people. With the focus she gave to each person, she made
them feel seen, mentored, and understood. She loved through teaching and brought the comfort and peace she loved so much into her studio, her family, her friends, and each person in the world she touched. Leigh was preceded in death by her father, Andrew Haswell, and her mother, Martha Baldwin Beveridge. She is survived by her husband David, her three children — her two twin daughters, Holland and Eden, and her son Canon — her sisters Lucie Voves and Susan Shields, and her second mother, Dr. Barbara Bonner. Her ceremony will be held Sept. 8 at 1 p.m. at All Souls Episcopal Church in Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers or food, please help save a life by donating to Free to Live Animal Sanctuary (freetoliveok.org) and/or wildkittykrew.org.
OKCPHIL to present ‘America the Beautiful: A 250 Celebration’ The Oklahoma City Philharmonic invites audiences to come together for a powerful musical celebration of our nation with “America the Beautiful: A 250 Celebration,” performed Saturday,
Sept. 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at Civic Center Music Hall. Led by OKCPHIL Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the special evening also features artist Marat Gabdullin on electric
guitar, adding an electrifying dimension to this celebration of America’s rich and diverse musical story. Presented as part of the nationwide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, this special concert brings the community together through the extraordinary power of live orchestral music. The evening honors America’s rich history, diverse voices and enduring spirit while looking with optimism toward the
nation’s future. “Growing up in Germany, I was always completely fascinated by America. But it wasn’t until I was 18 that we could afford to have me come over. Since then, I have made America my home and couldn’t imagine ever living anywhere else,” said Mickelthwate. “Americans are still the most generous, creative, and free-thinking people. And we are celebrating that, 250 years: our courage and humanity, our humor and trust in
God, through music. Through symphonic music that offers a moment of introspection and joy, the magnificent sounds of a symphony orchestra. Right in the middle of Oklahoma City at the Civic Center.” “America the Beautiful: A 250 Celebration” will showcase music that captures the richness of the American experience, from sweeping orchestral works and beloved patriotic traditions to music reflecting the creativity, cou-
rage and cultural diversity that have defined generations of Americans. More than a commemoration, the concert is designed as a shared community experience. Through music, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic will explore themes of freedom, resilience, hope and unity, offering audiences an opportunity to celebrate the nation’s milestone anniversary together. “America’s 250th See PHIL, Page 3
From Page One
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PYSK From Page 1 ones. These full-circle moments are precious reminders that the work we do is on behalf of those who cannot help themselves. Our work in cellular research and therapies is foundational to advancing medicine and finding new treatments for conditions like cancer, rare genetic conditions and auto immune disorders. Has your definition of success changed as you’ve developed your career? I am living proof that the more you give, the more you receive. Success is when you look back and are proud that the work you did improved the lives of
HOWES From Page 1 Don established the Donald Gene Howe Endowed Scholarship for freshman engineering students who work while putting themselves through school as he did. In recognition of this generosity, OU named the water tower and a picnic table near Heisman Park in his honor. Don’s wife, Helen Ford Howe, also an OU graduate, and his high school classmate, has an endowed scholarship through OU’s Gaylord College of Journalism and
PHIL From Page 1 anniversary is an important moment to celebrate our shared history while also looking forward,” said Executive Director Brent Hart. “As Oklahoma City’s orchestra, we are proud to create an experience where our community can gather, reflect and celebrate through music.” A pre-concert talk with Mickelthwate begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at tickets@okcphil.org or by calling (405) 842-5387. Today Marat Gabdullin is one of the foremost violinists of Oklahoma. As honorary concertmaster of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Concertmaster of the Lawton and Norman Philharmonic, Dr. Gabdullin is involved in nearly every music event around the state of Oklahoma, performing with orchestras and chamber ensembles. An award-winning video producer, Dr. Gabdullin also regularly records for movie productions. Marat Gabdullin has won many international competi-
others. What I did not realize is how much volunteerism would shape my career and my life. My closest friends are people that I volunteered and worked with early in my career and each career advancement came from the relationships I built by serving others. Giving back is in my blood. What is a perfect day for you? A perfect day for me begins with coffee and watching “Spong Bob Square Pants “with my son. A perfect morning would also include some outdoor time with my dog admiring the trees and nature. My team at Our Blood Institute would reach out to let me know about a successful initiative that resulted in
ample volunteer blood donations to sustain us through the holidays. And my parents would arrive from out of town for a long-awaited visit. What is some of the best advice you’ve received in your life? In his book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey said, “Begin with the end in mind.” I think about that advice nearly every day. It is a good business strategy when making important decisions. It is also an important life strategy. What is No. 1 on your bucket list? More than anything, I want my son to travel and experience this world’s beauty and diversity. I hope to take him to as many national for-
Mass Communication, established by friends in honor of her career at The Oklahoman. The Rotunda at Gaylord College is named in her honor and a bench is set up in the school courtyard. Guests at the dedication also got a tour of the jschool given by Dr. Andrea Miller, dean of the school. Party favors included OU fans, some history about the honoree, and cookies with the water tower logo. Red and white roses, white lilies, red Gerber daisies, white berries and white chrysanthemums decorated the tables at the
Park and were arranged around the plaque set up at the Water Tower.
tions and also holds a gold medal of the Delphic Games. In addition to his career as a classical violinist, Marat is also an entrepreneur and inventor. He is a founder of Volta Strings Inc. and also holds a patent for his invention of a new type of hybrid electric violin, the Violinatron. About the OKCPHIL: Founded in 1988, the Oklahoma City Philharmonic has inspired audiences for more than three decades through exceptional
orchestral performances, innovative programming, and meaningful community engagement. Under the direction of Music Director Alexander Mickelthwate, the orchestra presents Classics, The Chickasaw Nation Pops, Discovery Family Concerts and a wide range of educational and community performances. For more information, contact us at okcphil.org, 501 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73102.
ests as possible and take a train ride through Europe. I want the world to experience his kindness. Oklahoma has had an amazing sports history, which has featured a lineup of individuals such as Mickey Mantle, Shannon Miller, Jim Thorpe, Patty Gasso, etc. Did you have any sports heroes growing up? I did not watch a lot of sports growing up but I always like Andre the Giant, likely because he was a lovable character in one of my favorite movies, “The Princess Bride.” How would you like to be remembered? I want to be remembered for my
- Photo by Mia Ledbetter, OU Foundation
Helen Ford Howe and Lillie-Beth Brinkman at Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Oklahoma City Friday | Page 3
kindness, my gratitude for life, my resilience, and my faith over fear. What is one question I haven’t asked you that you would like to answer? Why should people donate blood? Because only 60% of the adult population is eligible to give and 3% do. Because blood is
another moment, another year, even a second chance at a lifetime with someone you love. If it is not there when it is needed, it is too late. Most of us will need blood or have a loved one who needs blood at some point in our lives. It is one of the simplest and most direct acts of kindness that saves lives.
OKC Friday
Sports Weekly August 28, 2026 | Page 4
Football Preview | Week 0: PC North at McGuinness, 7 p.m. Friday
Irish host Panthers in season opener for 1st time By Jason Jewell Sports Editor For the first time ever, Fridayland rivals McGuinness and PC North face off in a non-district football game to kick off the 2026 season. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Prible Stadium on the McGuinness campus. Connections between the teams run deep as Irish coach Ryan Stringer’s father
Week 0 Schedule Friday, August 28 Christian Heritage at Casady KIPP-Tulsa at Crossings Christian Deer Creek at Sand Springs Heritage Hall at Shiloh Chr. (Arkansas) John Marshall at Star Spencer PC North at McGuinness Mount St. Mary at Legacy Christian (Texas)
teaches at North and Stringer has a good relationship with Panthers coach Brian Lockart.
OKC 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. MEMBER: Oklahoma Press Association, National Newspaper Association, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Northwest OKC Chamber of Commerce. Represented nationally by USSPI, New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Detroit, Dallas.
“We really enjoy playing new opponents,” Stringer said. “It just worked our for us
to play each other.” PC North, which is supposed to host next year’s contest, also needed an extra non-district contest, with just six district games to play in a 10-game regular season. “It’s getting more and more difficult to find teams to play,” Lockart said. “We talked about it in the offseason and set up the 2-game series.” McGuinness enters this season
with a loaded lineup of skill players, coming off an 11-2 record in 2025 and a berth in the Class 5A state championship game against lCarl Albert. The Irish are ready for a tough test against PC North on Friday. “They have a lot of athletes up front,” Stringer said. “They’re talented on both sides of the ball. We expect them to fly
around and be aggressive.” McGuinness brings back nearly all its offensive skill players, led by senior quarterback Gage Chance, senior receivers Braydon Splitt and Nick Pitman, along with senior tailback DreAndre Bruton and junior Sam Randolph as the only returning starter on the offensive line. See WEEK 0, Page 5
Volleyball Roundup
Irish, Rockets net No. 1 rankings As the 2026 season gets fully underway, McGuinness and Mount St. Mary grabbed No. 1 spots in the first poll. The defending Class 5A champion Irish are ranked No. 1 in 5A with 15 firstplace votes, followed by Claremore (10 first-place votes) and El Reno. The Rockets,
which lost to McGuinnes in the 5A final last year, drop down to 4A and emerged as the overwhelming No. 1 squad with 14 firstplace votes. No. 2 OCS garnered just three first-place votes, followed by Bethany at No. 3 in the survey. Heritage Hall also cracked the top 10 at No. 6 in 4A. Meanwhile, Crossings Christian and Casady picked up top-5 selections in 3A. The Knights are ranked No. 2 with 5 first-place votes, while the defending state champion Cyclones come in at No. 5. Rockets win Broken Arrow title The Mount St. Mary volleyball team avenged an earlier loss to Jenks with a 3-1 victory over the Trojans to secure the Broken Arrow Classic championship last weekend. The Class 4A No. 1 Rockets (10-5) cruised to a 3-0 sweep over Edmond Memorial in the semifinals. They also
- Photo by Johnny Holland, jhollandphotography.com
Casady’s Amelia Mullen passes to a teammate during last week’s match against Fridayland rival Harding Charter Prep. collected wins over Moore and Bixby in pool play but lost 20 to Jenks. Blair Smith led the way with 47 kills, three aces and 35 digs in the tournament. Jentri Denwalt added 16 kills and 37 digs, while Sophia Bass had 46 digs and 13 assists. Mount St. Mary competes at the VolleyPalooza tournament this weekend
in Austin, Texas and hosts OCS on Thursday. Knights down SW Covenant Despite losing the opening set, Crossings Christian regrouped to win the final three frames in a 3-1 match victory against Southwest Covenant last week. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Sports Weekly
August 28, 2026
Softball Roundup Blanchard too much for Rockets Facing an early double-digit deficit, the Mount St. Mary softball team never recovered in a 17-2 loss to Blanchard last Monday afternoon. Jayla Daniels paced the Rockets (5-2) with two doubles, a run batted in and a run scored. Lena BokhariBrewer also added a double and Madelyn Jones drove in a run. Jones got tapped for 17 runs, just five earned, on 12 hits but recorded four strikeouts over five innings. Mount St. Mary makes the return trip to Blanchard this Monday. Stillwater downs Antlers Limited to just one hit, Deer Creek endured a 12-1 loss at Stillwater last Monday. Reagan Lykes provided the only single for the Antlers (4-6), as Chaynie Stoner scored after Kenzie Young was hit by a pitch with the bases
WEEK 0
Cross Country Roundup
loaded. Pitcher Bella Owens got roughed up for 10 runs on 11 hits but struck out four over 5 2/3 innings. Deer Creek entertains Perkins-Tryon this Monday. Hennessey sweeps Chargers Facing early deficits in both games, Heritage Hall suffered a doubleheader loss at Hennessey last Monday. Callie Fielding and Reagan Duguay collected two hits each and Duguay drove in two runs for the Chargers (46) in a 6-3 setback to Hennessey in Game 1. Pitcher Kenzie Wells allowed six runs on 10 hits with a strikeout over six innings. Emerson Callahan belted a 2-run double to lead Heritage Hall in a 7-2 defeat in the nightcap. Jasey Hernandez and Berkley Stewart accounted for the other hits. Pitcher Kam Woods gave up five runs on three hits and struck out two over three innings. Heritage Hall
Marcellus TynerWalker From Page 1 leads the defense, joined by juniors Carter Akin and Malachi Darby and senior Jackson Blackburn in plugging the middle from their linebacker positions. Meanwhile, PC North returns just 10 seniors from a squad that went 2-9 and lost in the first round of the 6A-II playoffs. “I love the relentlessness that our players are showing,” Lockart said. “They want to be out there.” The coach hopes his squad can withstand the first few minutes against McGuinness.
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heads to Blackwell this Monday and Millwood on Tuesday. Irish fall at Woodward Hampered by five errors, McGuinness suffered a 16-4 loss at Woodward last Monday afternoon. Mya Madu belted a 2-run home run in the third inning to lead the Irish (3-8). Mila Breslin, Molly Milligan and Nina Damitsian accounted for the other hits, as Breslin and Damitsian scored runs and Milligan drove in another. Breslin also allowed six runs on three hits over 1/3 inning in the circle. McGuinness hosts Elk City this Monday. Claremore tops Knights Crossings Christian plated four runs in the second inning but Claremore responded with 13 runs in the third inning to pull away for a 19-4 win over the Knights in the Rogers State Invitational. Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
“Hopefully, our guys can get their jitters out early and just go play,” the coach said. “They are well-coached and have a great culture. We just want to match their intensity.” Senior receiver Gavin Davis comes back for his final year, after leading the Panthers in catches in 2025. The Panthers also must replace their starting quarterback, as Edmond North transfer Owen McMahan, a junior, and sophomore Vai Toles competing for the job. Senior linebacker Stephen Brown serves as the centerpiece of the PC North defense, leading the team in tackles last year.
Antler boys begin quest for 4th straight state title By Jason Jewell Sports Editor Despite coming off three straight Class 6A state championships, the Deer Creek boys cross country team isn’t resting on its laurels. “We just want to be in a position for a chance to win (state),” said longtime coach David Riden. “We’re focusing on being the best version of ourselves each day.” A trio of seniors – Dominic Trupiano, Lucas Antonelli and Micah John – leads the Antlers as they embark on the 2026 season. Trupiano finished in the top 10 at state. Antonelli cracked the top 15, while John missed all of last year with an injury. “The guys are vocal leaders for our team,” Riden said. “They bring a lot of experience and do a good job of racing together.” Meanwhile, the Antler girls bring a good mix of seniors
and younger talent as they compete for a spot at state. “I really think our girls have a chance to be in the hunt,” Riden told FRIDAY. “They need to learn how to run with each other.” Seniors Lexi Milam, Hailey McKenzie, Riley Woodcock and Nnia Moorer headline this year’s squad. “These girls have impressed me with their maturity and consistency,” the coach added. In addition, Deer Creek boasts a difficult schedule which includes trips to Edmond Pre-State, the OSU Jamboree in Stillwater and the prestigious Chile Pepper Festival in Fayetteville, Ark. “Each race has its own feature,” Riden said. “We learn a lot of different things from every event.” Last weekend, the Antlers hosted the Deer Creek Invitational. Four different runners placed in the top 10, as Deer
Creek won the boys event. Micah John led the way in second place, finishing the 5-kilometer course in 15:35.35. Mason Storozyszyn grabbed fifth place, followed by Will King in sixth and Blake Webb in ninth place. Jaxon Jones rounded out the team in 13th position. The Deer Creek girls placed eighth in the season-opening meet, with three in the top 50. Chloe McCall led the way in 33rd place, while Alexandrea Womack finished 36th and Emily Clark came in 45th place. Crossings Christian boasted three runners in the top 25 to finish fourth at Bridge Creek. Asher Green placed seventh, with Caleb Bryant in 11th and Chase Brown in 23rd place. Dylan Orcutt led Heritage Hall in 15th place, as the Chargers took 10th in the standings.
OKC Friday
Calendar / Booster August 28, 2026 | Page 6
BALLET Sept. 11 • Ballet Under the Stars Oklahoma City Ballet presents its seventh annual Ballet Under the Stars on Friday, Sept. 11, at 7 pm at Scissortail Park’s Love’s Travel Stops Stage & Great Lawn. The event is entirely free to the community and re quires no tickets or re servations. Attendees can enjoy classical and modern dance ex cerpts from Oklahoma City Ballet’s profes sional dancers, OU School of Dance stu dents, and students from the Oklahoma City Ballet Yvonne Chouteau School, along with preview performances from the upcoming 2026/27 season. Pre show family activities and warmup viewings begin at 5:30 pm.
EXHIBITS Sept. 4 • Paseo Exhibits The Paseo Arts Asso ciation is opening three exhibitions starting on Sept. 4, during First Friday Gallery Walk. These shows will be on dis play at the Paseo Arts and Creativity Center, 3024 Paseo through Sept 26. Exhibits in clude Symbiotic Stripes in Gallery I, Paseo Photofest in Gallery II and Rhythm of Patterns in Gallery III. For more infor mation, call the Paseo Arts Association at
Oct. 29 • ECO Celebration Keep Oklahoma Beautiful will host its annual ECO celebration Thursday, Oct. 29, at 5:30 pm, bringing together Oklahomans who are working to make the state cleaner, greener and more beautiful. The evening will rec ognize environmental leaders and award winners from across the state, including Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, Principal Chief Chuck Ho skin Jr. and Jennifer Wasinger, as well as leaders representing tribal nations, city gov ernments, nonprofits and businesses. Guests can enjoy cocktails, dinner, a silent auction and raffle drawing. The popular whiskey pull will return by demand, and exclusive ECO Celebration sweatshirts will be available for purchase. Proceeds from the event directly support Keep Oklahoma Beautiful programs. Additional details about raffle and silent auc tion items will be announced in followup communications. Tickets are available through Keep Oklahoma Beautiful at kee pok.org. (405) 5252688 or visit thepaseo.org/ join for membership information.
COMMUNITY Sept. 5 • Community Clean Up Tackle the Trails is an annual OKC Beautiful communitywide clean up, returning to the Oklahoma City Trails System on Sept. 5. This event aims to inspire volunteers to clear litter and debris from the over 100 miles of recreational trails that make up the Oklahoma City Trails System. Partici pating groups are able to choose up to three trail segments across the metro area to clean up and pick up free litter cleanup kits from the OKC Beautiful office, lo cated at 1404 NW 1st
St., on Sept. 5 from 8 10 am. Following the morning’s cleanup ac tivities, volunteers are invited back to the OKC Beautiful office for a postevent cele bration. Learn more about the event at okcbeautiful.com/eve ntdetails/tacklethe trails1.
THIS WEEKEND Through Aug. 30 • The Outsiders This classic coming ofage story takes you to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1967, where Ponyboy Curtis, and a family of Greaser “outsiders” dream about who they want to become in a world that will never accept them. The Outsiders is pre sented by OKC Broad way at the Civic Center, okccivic center.com.
Send calendar events to jennifer@okcfriday.com Paycom Center Events/Shows: Parker McCollum Brooks & Dunn Sombr Smashing Pumpkins MercyMe Zoo Amphitheatre: Role Model
Sept. 25 Oct. 1 Oct. 16 Oct. 24 Nov. 8 Oct. 10
Civic Center Music Hall: The Outsiders Bluey’s Big Play America the Beautiful Sound of Music Jones Assembly: My So Called Band Black Country/New Road
Aug. 2530 Sept. 89 Sept. 19 Sept. 2227 Sept. 21 Oct. 19
Father Stanley Rother American Martyr: The Stanley Rother Story was released this week in theaters nationwide. The feature length documentary is the first major film about Father Stanley Rother since his beatification in September of 2017. He is the first American-born priest to be recognized as a martyr by the Catholic Church. And he is in the process of being canonized as a Saint. American Martyr is directed by Derek Watson, founder of Lampstand Story Company, produced by Michael Scaperlanda, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, and narrated by legendary actor Martin Sheen. The team at Lampstand Story Company produced and filmed the documentary in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City led by Archbishop Paul Cloakley. Derek Watson moved to Oklahoma to attend Oklahoma Baptist University, got a job at OETA immediately after college, and decided to stay in Oklahoma to launch his documentary production company in 2010. In the sixteen years since he launched Lampstand Story Company, they have produced award winning films, commercials for everyone from Walmart to Visit OKC, and awesome campaigns for local nonprofits and schools like Cleats for Kids, Fields & Futures, Oklahoma State University, and Cristo Rey. Lampstand Story Company’s first two films were Sewing Hope about Sister Rosemary’s school for African girls, and This Is Normal about Water4’s mission of helping communities in Africa build and maintain their own water wells. Both films premiered at the deadCenter Film Festival while I was serving as Executive Director. Both won top prizes for feature and short documentary. I have been a giant fan and advocate of Derek and Lampstand ever since. I first heard about Father
Rother in 2005 from Christine Houk. I am a lifelong friend of her daughter Georgia Houk Downs, and the Godparent of her granddaughter Julia Downs. I was living in Los Angeles when Chris called me to tell me about a priest named Stanley Rother who was born in Okarche but found his spiritual home in the small village of Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala. When I was home for Christmas, we met, and she gave me several boxes of VHS tapes, letters, Sooner Catholics, and research she had done about Father Rother. Chris Houk and I travelled to Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala in July of 2006 for the 25th anniversary of his death. We worked with Peace Corp volunteers who knew the Mayan dialect to interview people who had known Father Rother. We attended services with hundreds of Mayan people and dozens of Oklahomans who had made the pilgrimage as well. The trip to Santiago was the one of the most intense, intriguing, and spiritually uplifting experiences ever for me. For Chris, it was more complicated. When we left the service, Chris was heartbroken because they had not worn the vestments, meaning the church had not yet acknowledged Father Rother as a martyr. Skip forward to 2026. Everything Chris Houk told me would happen, happened. Father Rother was acknowledged as a martyr. He was celebrated as a soldier for Christ. And now, his story is finally being told to the world at large. I recently finished re-writing a narrative screenplay about Father Stanley Rother that I started back in 2006. For the past few months, I have been putting together a team to produce the movie. I hope that the amazing life of Father Stanley Rother and this awesome new documentary film inspire filmmakers, musicians, writers, and artists across Oklahoma and around the world to share the story of this amazing Oklahoman.
Old Crow Medicine Show Shakey Graves Tower Theatre: Cannons The Criterion: Tig Notaro Amy Grant Indigo Girls
Other Events/Shows/Awards: Red Shoe Rendezvous Aug. 29 Ballet Under the Stars Sept. 11 King James Sept. 1127 Bricktown Music Fest Sept. 12 Luxe Affair Sept. 24 ZOObrew Sept. 25
Oct. 30 Nov. 2 Oct. 2 Sept. 12 Sept. 20 Oct. 17
OCUPerforms unveils mix-and-match season Anchored by an eclectic lineup ranging from jazz-age pirates to electropop Tolstoy, Oklahoma City University is announcing its primary shows for the upcoming 2026–27 performing arts season. The lineup includes a mix of new premieres and beloved classics, all performed by the talented students of OCU’s Wanda L. Bass School of Music, School of Theatre and Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment. The operetta comedy “Pirates! The Penzance Musical” opens the mainstage schedule the first weekend of October. Later this year, OCU goes all out for the holiday season with a festive choir and orchestra tradition (Christmas
Vespers) and dance show (Holiday Spectacular). A Shakespeare classic (“Much Ado About Nothing”), dance extravaganza (“MOVE!”) and innovative opera (“Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812”) will close out the academic year in the spring. “This year’s lineup is a celebration of storytelling, spanning classical grand opera, fresh adaptations of literary masterpieces, and groundbreaking contemporary theatre,” said Julia Montag, dean of the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and School of Theatre. “Between our 75th-anniversary opera celebration and collaborative productions alongside regional icons like Oklahoma Shakespeare, we’re offering the
community a front-row seat to the future of the performing arts.” New this year, OCU’s dance, music and theatre schools are teaming up for a collaborative performing arts schedule (okcu.edu/ocuperforms) and the OCUPerforms Pick Four seasonticket bundle, giving arts lovers the freedom to mix, match and curate their own cultural calendars across dance, theatre, opera and musical theater. Pick Four purchases also give arts supporters an advanced opportunity to select their preferred seats, with singleshow tickets going on sale later. Melanie Shelley, dean of the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment, said the new ticket package provides
an opportunity for patrons to explore a variety of productions at an affordable rate. More information about OCU’s 2026-27 performing arts season and the Pick Four ticket bundles are available now at okcu.edu/ ocuperforms. The season also features smaller productions including “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Amelie” and “Octet” in addition to almost a dozen theatrical plays. For specific dates, times and ticket information, visit the OCUPerforms website. For information on the many choir, orchestra and band concerts, including faculty and student recitals, please visit the performing arts calendar on the OCU website.
T HIS M ESSAGE S PONSORED B Y T HESE L OCAL B USINESSES :
From Page One
August 28, 2026
- Photos courtesy of the Sam the I Can Man Foundation
Gentry, age 5, from Mustang, has Down syndrome and enjoyed a Thunder game with her parents, where she saw some of her favorite players, and attended Recess with Rumble, where she met Rumble and the Thunder Girls.
Jack, age 7, from San Antonio, Texas, has Cerebral Palsy and received adaptive horseback riding and skiing experiences during his family’s trip to Colorado.
SAM From Page 1 to adaptive sports competitions and a lot more, Cascaldo said. Nearly half of the grantees have been local to Oklahoma
City, she said. “We have had a bigger response than we ever could have imagined, and it’s shown us there is a real gap that the foundation is filling in this community and beyond,” said Sarah Weyrich, president of Sam the I Can Man Foundation. “We are so
grateful to have been able to fulfill every qualified application we’ve received so far and we are excited to continue that momentum this September.” Applications can be submitted on the webiste at samtheicanman.org/i-can-tooapplication.
Oklahoma City Friday | Page 7
August 28 Kathleen Abshere Sherri Blevins Herman Crowley Helen Harrison Jerry Hill Bob May Rick R. Moore Diane Palm Jane Weatherly August 29 Patrick Carver Chris Cleburn Nancy Ellis Randy Everest Jennifer Hasel Elizabeth Kanoski Stephanie Lewis Sherri Renee Nichols Megan Ryan Norma Jean Simpson Barbara Jo White August 30 Bob Benson Jan Clark Debbie Felder Joyce Griffin Mary Guest Nancy Guillot Dylan Lepak Marc Mears Elizabeth Portman Jim Rapp Sally Royse Bill Trautman Mackenzie P. Walker Brian Wolfe August 31 Jane Aitken Carolyn Bell Mackenci Bullard Kent Carlin, Jr. Cathy Cross Chelsea Durrett
Vicki Gourley Gil Mitchell Kenneth Nash Joel Pardue Judy Remis Dean Smith Chelsea Stoughton September 1 Les Basset John Cowan Luke DeFehr Sandy Ellis Rebecca Fisbeck Steve Garrett Courtney Green Sandy Meyers Eric Roberts Mark Selvidge Peggy Smith DeNean Tkach September 2 Jeff Bragg, Sr. Brandy Bullard Tim Berney Kevyn Colburn John Gabe Cina Gailey Billie Hughes Julie Jones Sally Limber Phillip O’Hare Anna Maud Roberts Dana Tryon Dale Tryon September 3 John Bruza Jan Culver Martha Garvie Christy Johnson Blair Keso Barbara Latham Roy Love III Clay Stoldt
OKC Friday
Legal Notices & Classifieds
Deadline: Friday 3:00 p.m. the week before publication 405-755-3311
August 28, 2026 | Page 8
LEGAL NOTICES
OKLAHOMA CLASSIFIED AD NETWORK
CLERK/BAILIFF OF THE DISTRICT COURT
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 28, 2026) DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA
WANT TO BUY OLD GUITAR$ WANTED! LARRY BRING$ CA$H for vintage USA guitars, tube amps, banjos, mandolins, etc. Fender, Gibson, Martin, Gretsch, others. Call or text 918-288-2222. www.stringswest.com
IN RE: The Name of: Josefina Gastelum Nolasco
) )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME
Put your message where it matters most – IN OKLAHOMA NEWSPAPERS. We can place your ad in 132 newspapers. For more information or to place a statewide ad, call (405) 499-0022.
DIVORCE (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 21, 2026; Friday, August 28, 2026; Friday, September 4, 2026) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA Case No. FD-2026-1410 ) ) ) ) ) )
NOTICE BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA TO: Kevin Lamont Pearson You are hereby notified that the Petitioner has sued you for Dissolution of Marriage. You must answer the Petition on or before the 17 day of September, 2026, 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 6 day of August, 2026. RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/ C. White (SEAL)
PUBLIC NOTICE (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 28, 2026)
We’re excited to announce the opening of Onyx Rising Tattoo, at 1520 N May Avenue. Opening October 1st! Specializing in custom tattoos: fineline, blackwork, illustrative and more. Se habla español.
PROBATE (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 28, 2026) IN AND FOR THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA No: PB-2026-978 IN THE MATTER OF THE ) ESTATE OF ) THOMAS JEFFREY LEACH, ) Deceased. ) NOTICE AND ORDER OF HEARING PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE, DETERMINATION OF HEIRS, DEVISEES, AND LEGATEES AND ISSUANCE OF LETTERS TESTAMENTARY NOTICE is hereby given to all persons interested in the Estate of Alfred Cunningham, Deceased, that on July 31, 2026, Kadin Selmon, the adult son of Mr. Leach, (“Petitioner”), filed in the District Court of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma a Petition for Letters of Administration, Immediate Appointment of Personal Representative and Determination of Heirs. Pursuant to 58 O.S. Section 413, all persons interested in the estate are ordered to appear before the Court, at the time and place specified, not less than ten (10) days nor more than four (4) weeks from the time of making this Order, to show cause why and order should not be made. It is therefore Order and Notice is hereby that on the 10 day of September, 2026, at 1:30 pm (Or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard,) the Petition will be heard in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Monks, located at the
Oklahoma County Courthouse, 320 Robert S. Kerr, OKC, Oklahoma, 73102, when and where all persons interested my appear and contest the same. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 31 day of July, 2026. H. TERRELL MONKS JUDGE OF THE DISTRICT COURT RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By: /s/ J. Pulley Deputy (SEAL) APPROVED FOR ENTRY: /s/ Redmond P. Kemether OBA No. 10872 500 N. Walker, Suite I Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 235-7639
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 28, 2026) DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2026-1958
CV-2026-1968
ADVERTISE STATEWIDE
In Re the Marriage of: Amber Rae Pearson, Petitioner, and Kevin Lamont Pearson, Respondent.
AUCTIONS
TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Josefina Gastelum Nolasco has petitioned to change his/her name to Josefina Vega. A Hearing on said petition is set for 1:30 o’clock P.M. on the 10 day of September, 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/Diane Watson By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
IN RE: The Name of: Makeah Cooks
) )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Makeah Cooks has petitioned to change his/her name to Makeah Willis. A Hearing on said petition is set for 10:00 o’clock A.M. on the 10 day of September, 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.
PUBLIC NOTICE A public notice is information intended to inform citizens of government activities. The notice should be published in a forum independent of the government, readily available to the public, capable of being securely archived and verified by the publisher. This newspaper carries public notices and is proud to serve the public in this way.
www.oklahomanotices.com for free access to public notices in Oklahoma newspapers
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk /s/ J. Pulley BY DEPUTY (SEAL)
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Marilyn’s Sudoku
redmondpkemether@gmail.com
NAME CHANGE (Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 28, 2026) DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2026-1979 In Re: The Name of: Kyleigh Evelyn Goodyear
) )
NOTICE OF HEARING ON CHANGE ON PETITION TO CHANGE NAME TO: All interested parties. Take notice that Kyleigh Evelyn Goodyear has petitioned to change his/her name to Kyleigh Evelyn Garner. A Hearing on said petition is set for 2:00 o’clock P.M. on the 8 day of September, 2026, before Judge Dishman at 2:00 o’clock in courtroom 315 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/ J. Pulley By: DEPUTY (SEAL)
Sudoku Answers
(Published in OKC Friday, Friday, August 28, 2026) IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY STATE OF OKLAHOMA CV-2026-1520 In the Matter of the Application ) of Margarita Gutierrez ) as next of friend of (child) ) Bella Marie Trejo ) to Change Her/His Name ) NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Road projects, public contract bids, eminent domain, tax seizures and more can be found as public notices in your newspaper. It’s the law. Oklahomans want to keep it that way.
68% of Oklahomans believe government legal
To Whom It May Concern: Take notice that (a) Margarita Gutierrez, as next of friend of Bella Marie Trejo has filed in the above court a Petition to have the minor child’s name changed as follows, to-wit: From (a) Bella Marie Trejo to (b) Bella Marie Trejo Gutierrez; and that the same will be heard by the Honorable Judge Mai of Oklahoma County, in the County Courthouse, located at 321 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102, on the 9 day of September, 2026 at 1:30 o’clock p.m.; and that any person may file a written protest in the case, prior to the date set for hearing.
notices should be printed in newspapers.*
RICK WARREN, Court Clerk By /s/illegible signature Deputy (SEAL)
Email: jennifer@okcfriday.com or visit okcfriday.com
70% think legal notices should not be
posted only on government websites.*
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August 28, 2026
Artists bring Hope to the Paseo Oklahoma artists are invited to help Inspiring Hope shine a little brighter at the 2026 Inspiring Hope Art Show, benefiting the Friends of the OU Health Breast Health Network. The exhibit runs Oct. 231 at the Paseo Arts and Creativity Center, 3024 Paseo, in Oklahoma City. Artists have until 11 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31, to submit digital entries for consideration. Selected artists will be notified by email by 5 p.m. Sept. 11. This year’s guest juror is Kimberly Pagonis, artist, owner and curator of Terra Rosa Gallery. The show will award a $500 first prize and two $250 merit awards. Selected artwork
should be delivered Sept. 26, with a special preview reception for Friends of the OU Health Breast Health Network supporters from 4-6 p.m. Oct. 1. The public opening reception takes place from 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 2 during the Paseo’s First Friday Gallery Walk. The exhibit continues through Oct. 31, with artist pickup of unsold artwork from noon to 5 p.m. that day. Artists interested in participating can submit their work through the online application at forms.gle/e1XdPo7D 9GR3q65n7. The Aug. 31 deadline is firm, so artists are encouraged to get their entries in before the final brushstroke of the clock.
Science Museum Oklahoma offers Fall & Thanksgiving Break Camps Science Museum Oklahoma is accepting registration for its award-winning Fall and Thanksgiving Break Camps for curious Pre-K through sixth-grade students. Campers will explore topics including weather, engineering, kitchen chemistry, Mars missions, geology and forest exploration through hands-on activities designed to make science fun and engaging. Fall Break Camps are Oct. 15-16, with Thanksgiving Break Camps set for Nov. 2324. Space is limited, and many camps fill before the school breaks begin, so early registration is encouraged. For registration and more information, visit sciencemuseumok.org.
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 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 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 Thrifty Pharmacy 10904 N. May Ave. L Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 751-2852 230 S. Santa Fe Ave. Edmond OK 73003 Thriftypharmacyokc.com
Oklahoma City Friday | Page 9
Visionary women behind Double D Ranch earn Annie Oakley Award The Annie Oakley Society will honor Audrey Franz, Cheryl McMullen and Hedy Carter, the visionary sisters who transformed Double D Ranch into one of the most distinctive and influential brands in contemporary Western fashion, along with their mother, Margie McMullen, with the prestigious Annie Oakley Award at its annual Luncheon & Awards on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Linsay Rosser Sumpter is to receive the Annie Oakley Society’s Trailblazer Award. Courtenay DeHoff, known as the Fancy Lady Cowgirl and the 2025 recipient of the Trailblazer Award, will serve as emcee. The Annie Oakley Award recognizes extraordinary women whose character, leadership, determination and accomplishments have made a lasting difference. Franz, McMullen and Carter will join a distinguished roster of honorees that includes Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, Reba McEntire, Admiral Michelle Howard, Kristin Chenoweth, Mary Higgins Clark, Susan Goldberg, Kathie Lee Gifford and most recently, Sharen Jester Turney. Born and raised in South Texas, the sisters grew up with deep Western roots shaped by generations of farming, working dude
ranches and raising and racing quarter horses. In 1989, they “rubbed two nickels together” and launched Double D Ranch with a single blanket coat. More than three decades later, their bold creative vision, entrepreneurial courage and unmistakable esthetic have built Double D Ranch into a Western fashion powerhouse whose designs are recognized and celebrated across the country. “Double D Ranch is an extraordinary American success story rooted in family, fearless creativity and the independent spirit of the West,” said Cathy Keating, national chair of the Annie Oakley Society. “Audrey, Cheryl and Hedy began with little more than a bold idea and the determination to make it succeed, and together they built one of the most admired and recognizable brands in Western fashion. We are also pleased to honor their mother, Margie, alongside them as part of this remarkable family story. Their vision, perseverance and influence make them exceptional recipients of the Annie Oakley Award and inspiring role models for women and girls everywhere.” Sumpter receives the Annie Oakley Society’s Trailblazer Award in recognition of her transformative work to advance women in rodeo. As commissioner of Premier Women’s Rodeo, she is open-
ing doors for female athletes through expanded professional opportunities, increased prize money and unprecedented national visibility. A third-generation rodeo professional, Sumpter is the granddaughter of legendary stock contractor Cotton Rosser, who received the Museum’s Ben Johnson Memorial Award in 2006 and was inducted into its Hall of Great Westerners in 2015. An accomplished breakaway roper, longtime collegiate rodeo coach and agricultural educator, Sumpter is a powerful force in Western sports and an inspiring champion for the cowgirls who will follow in her footsteps. The Annie Oakley Society brings together women leaders and philanthropists committed to honoring the character, perseverance and values of its namesake. Through their support of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Society members help build and sustain world-class educational experiences that introduce children and families to the rich and diverse history of the American West. Proceeds from the luncheon benefit educational programming for children and families at the Museum. For reservations, sponsorship opportunities or more information, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org/a nnie-oakley-society/luncheon/.
BancFirst 6200 Waterford Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 270-1622 Bancfirst.bank
Denner Roofing Co. LLC 6608 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 848-4411 dennerroofing.com
Niroula Law 511 Couch Dr., No. 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 496-9250 niroulalaw.com
Cross Timbers Arborist 3500 S. Brunson St. Oklahoma City, OK 73119 (405) 682-4777 crosstimbersarborist.com
First National Bank of Oklahoma 10900 Hefner Pointe Dr., No. 300, Okla. City, OK 73120 (405) 848-2001 | fnbok.com
The Adult Clinic at Hearts for Hearing 11500 N. Portland Ave. OKC, OK 73120 (405) 548-4335
OKC FRIDAY P.O. Box 20340 Oklahoma City, OK 73156 (405) 755-3311 okcfriday.com
Lewis Orthodontics Edmond - MWC (405) 330-5095 lewisbraces.com
Quail Creek Bank 12201 N. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 755-1000 quailcreek.bank
Christian Science Reading Room 6490 Avondale Drive (Nichols Hills Plaza North) Nichols Hills, OK 73116 (405) 843-5334 christianscienceokc.org
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
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 First Fidelity Bank 6404 Avondale, Oklahoma City, OK 73116 (405) 416-2222 Website: ffb.com
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
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 Grand Dental Studio Michael Kirk, DDS 1057 N.W. Grand Boulevard Oklahoma City, OK 73118 (405) 848-3719 DentistOKC.com Robert Don Gifford GIFFORD LAW, PLLC P.O. Box 2682 Oklahoma City, OK 73101 (405)778-4647 giffordlawyer.com Robert.Gifford@ GiffordLawyer.com
Women's Health Boutique 12062 N. May Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 936-0030 Midfirst Bank (888) 643-3477 midfirst.com OCCC 7777 S. May Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73159 (405) 682-1611 occc.edu Mountain Smoke Band Hal Clifford 1004 N. 80 Oklahoma City, Ok 73114 (405) 818-5591 Brad Sullivan Tag Agency 2511 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73106 (405) 524-8247 Full Service Tag Agency Since 1985 Southwest Builders Inc. 4508 NW 50th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73122 (405) 789-1022
OKC Friday
Opinion August 28, 2026 | Page 10
Heroes Ball supported by those who want to protect Oklahoma kids By Joe Dorman President & CEO Oklahoma Institute for Chid Advocacy More than 400 people attended the 10th Annual OICA Heroes Ball to celebrate the champions for children honored at the event. The room was filled with people from all backgrounds, retired and active child advocates representing many organizations, past and current elected officials who we are pleased to work with through mutual endeavors and individuals who all share a drive to help Oklahoma’s children. Our keynote panel was a treat. The NAACP Youth Council, under the tutelage of civil rights icon Clara Luper in the 1950s and 60s, led the way for desegregation in Oklahoma City and started a movement that changed a nation. On Aug. 19, News 9 in Oklahoma City and News on 6 in Tulsa aired a special by Bobbie Miller honoring their efforts on the anniversary of the sit-in. Hosting many of the living participants
and the members of their Legacy Committee was an honor for OICA. We also heard from our other award winners, which included Labor Commissioner Leslie Osborn, who will finish her time in office in January; she is a key partner, working with OICA to protect child labor laws in our state. The family of the late U.S. Sen. Fred Harris joined us, allowing us to remember the senator’s many works in both Oklahoma and New Mexico, along with his leadership in Washington, D.C. The family and coworkers of Carmelita Skeeter helped us recognize and celebrate her 50th year with Indian Healthcare Resource Center of Tulsa, a remarkable accomplishment for a true leader in her field. Pivot, an Oklahoma City nonprofit which leads efforts to curb homelessness for young people in the metro area, received our organizational award. We are pleased to continue
working with them to elevate policies to help reduce the unhoused population. We also announced the winners of our Anne Roberts People’s Choice Award for individuals and organizations. Anne was our longest serving executive director and a recognized leader nationally in children’s policy work. Trisha Koelsch from Calm Waters was the individual people’s choice award winner and Hearts for Hearing was our organizational selection by the more than 17,000 Oklahomans who voted. In truth, all 13 finalists are exceptional, and we appreciate each of them for allowing us to help elevate their work through this competition. Individuals who donated auction items for our live auction, silent auction, and our game prizes were very generous this year. I had the winning bid on the dinner with Mark Rodgers of the Sports Animal and KOCO Sports; I am looking forward to discussing all things in Oklahoma sports with him and some of my friends at the Goat Sports Bar in Bricktown. We also auctioned off dinner with Inzinga and Spinozi from the Sports Animal at Bush League Sports Tavern, a lunch with Barry Switzer at Midway Deli and four suite tickets to an OU football game donated by Dr. Martin Lopez. This is just a small sampling of the graciousness of our donors. We have a listing of all our sponsors who allowed us to brag about them on our See HEROES, Page 12
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Dear Wise Elder: I'm facing the choice of having my mother be fed or not as she is barely feeding herself. I need facts to share with my sister on allowing her to go without prolonging life through feeding. Dear Facing A Choice: Always offer; never force. As a person enters the dying process -- months before death occurs – they will gradually stop eating. Months before death, they will stop eating meats, then fruits and vegetables, then soft foods, then liquids, and finally, in the days before death, they will not even take water. THIS IS NORMAL. This is how people die. Dying is a natural part of living. When not interfered with by medical procedures,
a person will gradually stop eating, slowing their withdrawal into themselves and sleep more and more. This is how people and animals have always died. It is natural. Hospice is best at coaching through the dying process. Start educating yourself before you need it. Find a locally owned hospice with professionals you trust. — Courtesy VillagesOKC.org (405) 990 6637
YOUR FRIDAYLAND CAUCUS
From Page One
August 28, 2026
EVANS From Page 1 Evans began as the university’s 19th president on July 1, 2021, shepherding in an era of growth in key enrollment areas, fundraising success and expanded community partnerships. Under his guidance, the university has reached record highs in nursing and online program enrollment, set singleyear fundraising records, secured the right to serve as a satellite village site for the LA28 Olympic Games, and announced a $25 million renovation of the Kirkpatrick Auditorium and Fine Arts Center. “It may be some time before we fully realize the profound impact of President Evans’ tenure at Oklahoma City University,” said Jane Jayroe Gamble, chair of the OCU Board of Trustees. “Thanks to his vision and confidence in our university, we have grown and evolved in so many ways.” While many private universities have struggled to adapt in a turbulent window of higher education, Evans led OCU to modernize and diversify its enrollment approach. Before his arrival, OCU had no fully asynchronous online programs. Now there are hundreds of online students enrolled, comprising a sizable chunk of the school’s total population. Evans helped introduce several online
KENNETH EVANS degrees and various other programs aimed at addressing key hiring and workforce trends. The brightest example is in the area of nursing and healthcare. Under Evans’ leadership, the university launched its online RN-BSN and in-person accelerated BSN programs. Both have experienced rapid growth and pushed OCU’s nursing enrollment for the fall 2026 semester to near alltime-record levels. OCU’s Kramer School of Nursing has consistently been ranked as one of the top nursing programs in the state and nation during Evans’ tenure. In recent years, the university also rolled out a suite of online graduate programs in business and arts and sciences. The result: OCU has set successive records for online enrollment during each of Evans’ years as president. The push for enrollment success has mirrored university accomplishments across a number of areas, said Nick Harroz, vice chair of the
OCU Board of Trustees. “Within our community, our university has always been regarded as a local gem,” Harroz said. “President Evans has allowed us to dream bigger about the role we play and about where we can go. Thanks to his work and leadership, we’re in conversations about even more exciting things, and we are firmly established as a key player.” There may be no better example than the LA28 Olympic Games. Evans guided a team of OCU staff and administrators to bid for and succeed in winning the right to serve as a satellite village for the Games during the summer of 2028, ensuring the global spotlight will find its way to the OCU campus during the Games. Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, who is also dean of the OCU School of Law, said that a vibrant and growing city needs a dynamic university as a partner, and Evans has ensured OCU is able to play that role. “As mayor, I’ve appreciated that President Evans has focused on making sure that what is good for OCU is also good for OKC,” Holt said. “For example, I’ve seen up close the support he gave us at the Law School to focus on American Indian law and public service, two things that resonate in our capital city and in our state that is the home of 39 tribes.” Story continued at OKCFRIDAY.com.
Oklahoma City Friday | Page 11
News/From Page One
Page 12 | Oklahoma City Friday
August 28, 2026
Heroes Ball celebrates child advocacy At left: Sierra Verdicchio, Darcy Stowe and Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy President and CEO Joe Dorman and Kris Hopper.
Dr. MAUTRA JONES President, OCCC
JONES From Page 1 annually. Under her leadership, OCCC has expanded access, strengthened workforce and community partnerships, increased enrollment, and advanced student success through innovation and strategic leadership. The Oklahoma Higher Education Heritage Society was established in 1991 as a nonprofit organization to promote awareness of higher education’s vital role in Oklahoma's history and to honor individuals, both living and deceased, for their outstanding service to higher education in Oklahoma. Since its establishment, the society has inducted more than 350 educators, administrators, and others into the OHEHS Hall of Fame for their distinguished contributions to higher education. A kiosk in the Oklahoma History Center documents the outstanding work of colleges, universities and Hall of Fame members.
- Photos by Rose Lane
Above: Chante Gilmore and Lisa McConnell. At left: Aiya and George Kelley. The Heroes Ball is an annual benefit for the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy.
Above: Katelyn and Robert Talley. At right: Blossom Crews and Farooq Karim.
HEROES From Page 10 website and our social media accounts for the Oklahoma Institute for
Child Advocacy. You will also be able to view the video segments prepared by our intern about each of our award winners there. I especially want to thank our staff, board members, youth governors and volunteers who made
the event our best yet. Their hard work preparing and breaking down after was appreciated. Thanks also to my former legislative colleague, Don Armes, for serving as our auctioneer and Randy Cassimus for playing music
and recording our keynote so others will be able to hear their story online. Team OICA appreciates all who made our event a success! Please mark your calendars for the final Saturday in July 2027 for our next gala.