metrofamily magazine may 2011

May 2011

MaryFallinOklahoma’s fi rst femalegovernor on family, faith and politics

Plan your summer

fun now!100’s of easy

travel ideas in Exploring Oklahoma

with Children

Save BIG with Kids Passcoupons to statewide

attractions

Family fun:Over 135 fairs & festivals to enjoy this year!

metrofamilymagazine.com

2 www.metrofamilymagazine.com | May 2011

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DATES for 2011:June 6 - 10June 13 - 17June 20 - 24June 27 - July 1

enroll at francistuttle.edu/summeror call 717-4900

May 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com 3

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What’supatmetrofamilymagazine.com

1WheredoOklahomaCityareaparentsclick for all the family news in the area? It’s our NEW and IMPROVED website, your one source for all things important to your family! Check out the new look and all the convenient features, including

a fully-searchable,customizablecalendar; comprehensivedirectoriesforfamilyresources such as private schools, summer camps and more; fun contests; valuable coupons; and helpful parenting content and resources. Check it out every day at metrofamilymagazine.com.

2You love it and we love bringing it to you.... Our annual, award-winning ExploringOklahomawithChildren

travelguidehas been made a part of this issue as a “pull and save” publication to keep all year. This issues focuses on all things creative, helping you and your family have fun exploring the visual arts, music, festivals and hands-on fun at venues across the state. Plus, save hundreds of dollars by using KidsPasscoupons at the attractions and businesses you love to visit. More Exploring Oklahoma information can be on our online calendar and at metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma. Happy trails!

3Now’s the time to sign up for our soon-to-launch MotherLodedealsprogram. This project will offer subscribers the opportunity to buy the local family

products and services you love or want to love at 50% discounts and more! Subscribe today and you won’t miss a single deal! metrofamilymagazine.com/mother-lode.

4Check out our exclusivewebcontent this month, including a list of Farmer’s Markets, an article “Making Time for Family” by Dr. Susan Bartell, a weekend trip itenerary to nearby Frisco, Texas and a timely series about youth and

alchohol, written by a local drug and alcohol counselor. You’ll also find thoughtful and informative posts by all of our bloggers, including new blogger, Courtenay Sobral of Norman, who posts about all things FREE (or almost FREE) in her blog appropriately titled “FREEforOKCFamilies”(metrofamilymagazine.com/free-for-okc-families).

5Join the MetroFamily community by “liking” us on Facebook (facebook.com/metrofamily), following us on Twitter (twitter.com/metrofamily) and subscribing

to our weeklyE-Update, your family weekend planner (metrofamilymagazine.com/subscribe-to-e-update).

6MetroFamilyrecentlywonthreeawards at the Parenting Publications of America conference in Washington DC. Congratulations to Assistant Editor Brooke Barnett for

winning a bronze award for her story “Plugged In Families” (August, 2010) and to Art Director Mitzi Massie for winning a bronze award for the design of our April, 2010 cover. And for the second year in a row, MetroFamily received the gold award for General Excellence for the Exploring Oklahoma with Children travel guide. The MetroFamily staff continues to strive for excellence in all the content and projects brought to our readers. We appreciate your support and welcome your comments about ways we can improve. Have ideas for us? Please send them to [email protected].

You could win big!

Signuptobeeligibleforthesegreatprizesat

metrofamilymagazine.com/contests• One-year family membership at ScienceMuseumOklahoma plus an upgrade to membership to all five OklahomaMuseumNetworkmuseums and other products, valued at $215. Deadline May 20.

• Our monthly FSGiveaway, featuring helpful family products that you’ll read about in this issue, valued over $450. Deadline May 19.

• Be eligible to win oneofeightfamilyfour-packs to see all 10 “summer fun” movies shown weekdays (one each week) at Harkins Theatre Bricktown. Deadline May 21.

• In honor of Bike Safety Month and thanks to the generosity of Schwinn, we’re giving away a bikesafetypackage, valued at $100. Deadline May 31.

• You can win a 3MShoot’NSharecamera/projector, valued at $300! Have your child create a mosaic of your family’s favorite Oklahoma travel destination (as described on page E7), then upload a photo of the project to enter. Deadline July 1.

• Be eligible to win oneofthreegreatfamilytrips (weekend trip to Tulsa or Oklahoma City or $500 in vouchers to an Oklahoma State Park lodge or cabin). Deadline July 1.

You can save big!

Saveusingthesecoupons,availablethismonthatmetrofamilymagazine.com/coupons

• Enjoy 20% off your tea drinks at tanurbanteahouse, 7518 N. May, OKC.

• Purchase an Open Play card for five sessions at BouncinCraze for only $30; 14901 N Lincoln, Edmond.

• Sign up for four weeks of art, cooking or guitar lessons at CreativeAdventures and get the fifth week free. 10455 N May, OKC.

• Receive $5 off any ceramic or craft purchases totaling $20 or more at Unpluggits, 575 Enterprise Drive, Edmond.

May201121 Calendar

Dozens of events and activities for family fun and enrichment.

6 DearMetroFamilyEditor’s Note

12 FamilyFinancesWomen and retirement savings: how to beat the odds.

8 FamilyShortsCommunity news and parenting resources.

20 FocusonEducationLearn how the Achieving Classroom Excellence legislation can impact your students.

E16 OklahomaReads Book reviews for all ages and interests.

31 PhotoGalleryOur readers share their mother/child photos in honor of Mother’s Day.

18 RealMomsoftheMetroMeet Kara-Kae James, mom and local blogger.

E8 YourHealthyFamilyTicks, mosquitos and insect spray: protecting your family from these summertime bug-a-boos.


14 OklahomaGovernorMaryFallin talks faith,

family and her role as the fi rst female Governor of the state.

On our cover: Governor Mary Fallin. See feature about Governor Fallin on page 14.Cover photography by Randall Green • www.randallgreenimages.com

Yourfamily’ssummertravelplannerishere!

Find it after page 16 and save it for

use all year.

Also included is the money-saving KidsPassincluding

coupons to over 30 Oklahoma attractions.

plannerishere!

money-saving KidsPass

Special 2011 Travel Guide

Kids Pass:Save hundreds with

valuable coupons to

attractions around

the state

Over 100 Oklahoma

festivals perfect for family fun

The BEST places to get

creativewith your kids

in Oklahoma

• Visual arts

• Music history

• Hands-on FUN!

Plus: Meet the

wickedly talented

Kristin Chenoweth

A special

publication bySponsored by


InfoandQuestions: 405-601-2081Tosubmiteventstoourcalendar [email protected]

PublisherSarah L. Taylor

[email protected]

EditorMari M. Farthing

[email protected]

artDirectorMitzi Massie

[email protected]

advertisingSalesAthena Delce, Dana Price &

Amy Lou [email protected]

OfficeandDistributionManagerKathy Alberty

[email protected]

assistantEditorBrooke Barnett

[email protected]

BusinessDevelopmentKathryne Taylor

[email protected]

CalendarEditorSara Riester

[email protected]

SpecialProjectsassistantTerri Fields

ContributingWritersBrooke Barnett, Julie Dill, Shannon Fields,

Karen Mitchell, Sue Lynn Sasser, Danielle WalkerCirculation

35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, YukonAlsoavailableasadigitaleditionat

metrofamilymagazine.com.Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect

the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information.

We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamilyMagazineispublishedmonthlyby Inprint Publishing, Inc.

725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103Fax: (405) 445-7509

E-mail: [email protected]

©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2011, All Rights Reserved.Volume 14, Number 5

Dear MetroFamily reader,

One thing you know about me from reading this letter is that I wear my heart on my sleeve, and this month is no different. I’m writing this note just after a visit to Wisconsin to see my parents, and I fear that it may be the last time I see my dad.

My dad has always been an important part of my life. He’s strong and practical and never far from my mind. Unfortunately, my dad’s health is failing, and while that’s difficult to face, it’s a part of life that we cannot run from. So let me use this space to let you know, Dad: I love you.

When you come to a place in life when you have to say goodbye to a special loved one, it makes you appreciate even more the importance of quality family time. Almost everything we do at MetroFamily is focused on this idea of having fun quality time as a family and our May issue is a great example. Along with a feature about our new first female governor, Mary Fallin, we’ve included our award-winning Exploring Oklahoma with Children issue, inserted after page 16 of this issue. This year’s travel guide celebrates the creativity that is bursting from the seams in Oklahoma—great music, theater and visual art. We encourage you to “pull and save” this annual travel guide and use it often. Great family times await you!

Until next month...

Cheers!

Photos, from top: Dad with his dad; Mom and Dad together in the early 1950s; Dad with his mom in the 1980s; Mom & Dad together in 2009.

P.S. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/mari to read my blog, “Keeping it Real,” about my personal adventures in the ups and downs of parenting.


Celebrating a New Arrivalin Edmond Women’s Health

Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New Arrival Celebrating a New ArrivalWe proudly announce the opening of the Women’s Health

Center of Edmond. Dr. Brant Buchinger and Dr. Michelle Seavey welcome you to their practice. Both offer comprehensive care for all your OBGYN

needs and have a passion for your overall well being. Please call 405-341-1557 for an appointment.

14715 Bristol Park Blvd. • N.E. Oklahoma City

405-840-1686 Blue Cross Blue Shield • Tricare • Soonercare

SensationalKidsOKC.com

Occupational and Speech Therapy Services Available

• Down Syndrome • Autism • ADD and ADHD • Sensory Processing Disorder • Cerebral Palsy • Typical children with handwriting problems

14715 Bristol Park Blvd. • N.E. Oklahoma City 14715 Bristol Park Blvd. • N.E. Oklahoma City

• Cerebral Palsy • Typical children with handwriting problems

Amy Thomas, CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist

Je� Plunkett, MAChild and Family Counselor

WelcomingNow Available

2717 West Hefner Road , OKC • (405) 751-0755CHAPEL HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Mom’s Group at Chapel HillChapel Hill United Methodist Church is starting a New Mom’s Group.

The group will meet weekly to discuss the joys and challenges of being a mom of young children with periodic speakers on special topics.

Our �rst meeting will be

June 16th 9:30-10:30amChildcare will be provided, but feel free to bring your infant with you.

Please RSVP to [email protected] with the number of children for childcare!


Contributing writers: Brooke Barnett, Mari Farthing

Favorite Oklahoma Travel Destination?Summer brings warmer weather, longer days, school vacation—and the chance to get out and explore our great state! From state parks and resorts to world class venues and attractions, exploring all that the Sooner State has to offer is a great way expose your family to the communities, culture and collective history that make Oklahoma unique.

Our April Question of the Month asked you to share your favorite destinations within the state and we discovered some true road warriors among our readers. From the northwest to the southeast, your answers spanned every region of Oklahoma as you shared your favorite regional destinations.

With rising gas prices, there has never been a better time to explore the treasures in our own backyard. Staycations seem to be increasing in popularity, with 22% indicating that your favorite travel locations were found within Frontier Country in central Oklahoma. Not to be outdone, Arbuckle Country in south central Oklahoma ranked high as a favorite landing spot with just over 16% of respondents. The beautiful views of southeast Oklahoma came in third with nearly 11% of our readers heading towards in Kiamichi Country. And more than 10% of you simply couldn’t choose just one destination and opted instead to say that any of our fine parks, lakes, or tourist spots would be a great place to visit this summer.

Erica E. of Oklahoma City enjoys southwest Oklahoma. “Medicine Park has the best views to offer visitors. The town is made up of artists and nature lovers that provide wonderful entertainment, sights and treasures galore.”

Kacy O. of Noble is not one to be fenced in when it comes to naming a favorite travel location. “Anywhere! Our family explores a new state park at least every other month!”

Rhonda M. of Mustang finds Broken Bow in southeast Oklahoma to be just her style. “We split a big cabin with friends one weekend, and enjoy hiking, making s’mores by the campfire, and sight-seeing.”

For Jourdan A. of Edmond, it is all about uncovering local charm (and fare!), no matter where travels may take you. “We love finding out about different small town festivals and making a weekend trip out of them, like the Rush Springs Watermelon Festival and Stilwell Strawberry Festival. Really any festival featuring food is great!”

Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/april-2011-reader-responses to see our readers’ favorite places to visit within the state. Happy travels!

Question of the MonthHow do you celebrate your

kids’ birthdays?Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/fs-giveaway to answer this question and enter your name in our monthly prize package drawing, valued at over $450. Deadline to enter is Thursday,May19.

Your comments may also be used in a future issue of MetroFamily Magazine or on our website.

The full contents of the prize package are listed with the entry form. A winner will be drawn at random and notified by phone or email. The winner agrees to pick up items from the MetroFamily office, 725 NW 11th, Oklahoma City.

Free Summer Camps for Children of Single MothersThe Bethel Foundation’s mission is to provide support for single mothers through mentoring, rehabilitation and quality housing options designed to help struggling single mothers get back on their feet. The Foundation offers assistance through a home ownership program, scholarship funds, cooking classes, access to clothing and food, educational conferences and free summer camps for children of single mothers.

Registration is currently open for two camps taking place this summer:

KidsRockCampprovides hands-on experience in healthy living for approximately 30 students going into 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade. Two sessions of the camps will be held (June 13-17 and July 18-22) with each teaching children how to make healthy food choices, read labels and prepare a complete meal. Each day, campers will take home the necessary groceries and the recipe of the meal they learned to prepare. In addition, the camp provides opportunities for healthy exercise, craft projects, fire safety, basic CPR and more. At the end of the camp, students receive a complete recipe book and a backpack filled with school supplies for the coming year.

CampSonlightis a free camp for boys ages 6-12. Limited to 30 participants, Camp Sonlight offers an overnight experience with outdoor camping. Two sessions will be held (June 3-5 and July 8-10), giving campers an introduction to basic outdoor skills, including fishing, shooting arrows, making s’mores and more.

Enrollment forms for both camps are available at the Bethel Foundation office or can be requested by phone. Online registration is also available and registration is open until all sessions are full. For more information or to register, call 405-286-3700 or visit bethelfoundationusa.com.

22%

4.7% 12.5%

9.52%16.1% 10.7%

Statewide-All over ........................10.7%Other/no response .......................13.7%

Loyalty means nothing unless it has

at its heart the absolute principle of self-sacrifice.

~ Woodrow T. Wilson

Character Corner: LoyaltyBeing loyal means that you stick together with your family, even through hard times. Deep bonds are forged in times of crisis, making relationships stronger.

Topromoteloyaltyinyourhome:• Be thoughtful and surprise each other

with fun outings, even during difficult times.

• Be willing to give up things which may cause the family to struggle or turn away from one another.

Encourage loyalty in your home by committing to the following statements. Say these “I will” statements aloud with your children, and encourage them to apply them to situations in their everyday life.

Iwill:... serve my family and teachers.... encourage others in hard times.... not mock authorities.... point out the good in others.... honor my country.

Contact CharacterFirst! for more character-building resources. To learn more, call 405-815-0001 or visit characterfirst.com.

Problem-SolversWhen we hear about new or helpful products, we like to let our readers know! Here are a few of the interesting items on our radar. Visit the product website for a list of local retailers.

Problem:Youarelookingfornewideastodevelopyourtoddler’sskills.

Solution:The Everyday Play book($13) is filled with ideas for activities that will engage your child and build his fine motor skills. (gryphonhouse.com)

Problem:Your“getupandgo”familyhastostayhome.Whatnow?

Solution:The FamilyPartyFitnessFunfortheWii($20) includes 30 active games that will engage all ages. (d3publisher.us)

Problem:Yourchilddoesn’tliketositstilltolearn.

Solution:The WiggleWordsDVD($25) teaches your child the alphabet with movement by professional dancers. (wigglewords.org)

Problem:Youdon’thavetimeforamassagebutneedsomeserenity.Now.

Solution:The HalsaWellnessMat($50) provides acupressure relief when you sit or lie on it. (mangoenergy.com) The CalmSpaceinhaler($15) provides a portable burst of aromatherapy for when you’re on-the-go. (calm-space.com)

Problem:Youliketostrikeastylishposeinthekitchen.

Solution:Birdkage aprons ($42) are stylish, functional and come with a matching tea towel. (calm-space.com)

Problem:Pottytraining.Enoughsaid.

Solution:The MagicBowlPottyTrainingKit($20) helps parents and children manage the difficulties of this milestone. (cardinalpub.com)

Lyric Theatre to Host Open HouseLyric Theatre of Oklahoma will host a free Open House at Lyric’s Plaza Theater (1727 NW 16th Street) and Lyric’s Thelma Gaylord Academy & Production Center (1801 NW 16th Street) on Saturday, May 21 from noon-5:00pm.

Beginning at noon, a variety of performances will take to the Plaza stage including a 2011 Season Highlights show with songs from Oliver!, Hairspray, Ragtime, A Chorus Line and Altar Boyz. Performances of the organization’s touring show, 1776 Interactive, and other educational programs will also take place.

Throughout the day, Lyric will also offer 40-minute master classes in dance, singing and auditioning taught by professional choreographers, actors and directors at Lyric’s Thelma Gaylord Academy & Production Center. All shows and master classes will be seated on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For those interested in what happens backstage, Lyric will provide opportunities to meet designers, production staff and get a first-hand look at how costumes, sets and props are designed and built. “It promises to be a joyous day filled with lots of wonderful performances, insightful master classes at our Thelma Gaylord Academy, and a unique behind-the-scenes look at how Lyric brings theatre to life,” says Lyric’s Artistic Director, Michael Baron. Baron says the theatre is excited to start this new annual event to help kick-off Lyric’s summer shows at the Civic Center Music Hall.

Lyric Theatre produces an 8-show season of musicals and plays at the Plaza Theatre and the Civic Center. Lyric also offers opportunities for parents and their children to learn about the importance of arts education through theatre classes at its Thelma Gaylord Academy. For more information, call 405-524-9310 or visit lyrictheatreokc.com.

Director, Michael Baron. Baron says the theatre is excited to start this new annual event to help kick-off Lyric’s summer shows at the Civic Center Music Hall.

Lyric Theatre produces an 8-show season of musicals and plays at the Plaza Theatre and the Civic Center. Lyric also offers opportunities for parents and their children to learn about the importance of arts education through theatre classes at its Thelma Gaylord Academy. For more information, call 405-524-9310 or visit lyrictheatreokc.com.


Epsom Salt for Mother’s Day?Looking for a fresh idea for a Mother’s Day gift this year? Try Epsom salt. An all-natural chemical compound (magnesium sulfate), it provides many beneficial uses in the home. Here are six practical and fun uses for Epsom salt:

1. Makeanexfoliatingscrub. Mix 2 cups Epsom salt with ¼ cup petroleum jelly and a few drops of lavender essential oil. You can also massage handfuls of Epsom salt over wet skin to exfoliate (in the shower or tub). Much cheaper than spa treatments!

2. Makebathcrystals. Mix 2 cups Epsom salt with a few drops of fragrance and ½ teaspoon glycerin (if desired). Store in an air-tight container.

3. Makeasoothingcompress.Use 2 cups Epsom salt per gallon of water to soothe sore muscles, splinters and itching due to mosquito bites or poison ivy.

4. Keephouseplantshealthy.Add 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt to a gallon of water and use it to feed plants monthly.

5. Keepyourlawnlush.Apply 3 pounds of Epsom salt for every 1,250 square feet of lawn using a spreader, or dilute and spray on.

6. Giveyourgardenaheadstart.Sprinkle 1 cup of Epsom salt per 100 square feet of soil. Mix in before planting.

Find more tips and information about this versatile mineral compound at epsomsaltcouncil.org.

May is Bike Safety MonthWhy is bike safety important? According to Safe Kids USA, approximately 140 children in the nation are killed in bicycle incidents and over 275,000 children sustain non-fatal injuries each year. It’s also estimated that more than 75 percent of children ages five to 14 ride a bicycle regularly; but only 15-25 percent of them use a helmet.

Helmet use alone is estimated to reduce the risk of injury by 88 percent. Other tips for bike safety:

• It bears repeating: always wear a well-fitting helmet.

• Ensure your bike is ready before you ride. Check brakes, gears, tires and reflectors before you set out on your ride.

• Wear bright or reflective clothing to ensure you will be seen on the road.

• Bikes travel with traffic, not against it. Always stay on the right side of the road.

One of our readers can win a BikeSafetyMonthgiftbasket (including a handlebar basket, light, foot pump, two helmets and a bell, valued at $100) courtesy of Schwinn. Find details on metrofamilymagazine.com/contests.

Pick Your Own Fruits & Veggies This Summer!Looking for a fresh experience this summer? Visit one of Oklahoma’s many pick-your-own farms for a fun family adventure. “Picking your own fruit is a great family activity, especially in today’s world when it seems everything is all about texting and computers,” said Tim Ray, General Manager of Deep Fork Peach Orchard and the Harrah Orchard in Harrah. “It’s great to spend time as a family, especially in this kind of environment. I hear from lots of people who say they remember coming to the same orchard as kids, and now they are sharing the experience with their children. It’s all about getting fresh produce straight off the tree while having fun together.”

Family bonding is only one of the benefits of picking your own produce. The taste of fruit picked locally far exceeds that of produce found in grocery stores, where specific varieties are selected more for shelf life than flavor. Fresh, unprocessed fruits also contain more vitamins and nutrients, especially when you are able to hand-pick pesticide free or organic fruit. Often, local farms offer a better price per pound on fresh fruits and vegetables than what you find in stores, and you can select just the amount that your family wishes to enjoy. Visiting a working farm can also help teach children about where food comes from, give the glimpse into the economics that go into sustaining a working farm, and are an ecologically-friendly way to buy locally-grown food.

“We have a lot of families that come out,” Ray explains. “It is truly an activity for everyone. From the end of June through the end of August, we have different varieties of peaches and nectarines ripening throughout the growing season, so there is always something fun to do.”

With prices beginning at just $15 for a peck bag of peaches or nectarines, it is also a cost-effective way to spend time together and improve the health of your family. Pick-your-own farms and orchards can be found throughout the state. A sampling of metro-area offerings include:

• DeepForkPeachOrchard/HarrahOrchard19400 NE 63rd St, Harrah 405-454-6635, dfpeachorchard.com Open Tuesday-Sunday, 8am-6pm; Sundays, 1-6pm. Features peaches and nectarines from late June-August.

• PeachCrestFarm10219 US Hwy 177, Stratford 580-759-3635, peachcrestfarm.com Call for open dates and times. Features fresh peaches, cantaloupe, tomatoes and herbs.

• CrippleCreekFarms250 Cripple Creek Drive, Guthrie 405-590-2562, cripplecreekfarms.net Watch honey being bottled while seeing a working bee hive, fresh produce.

• SorghumMillChristmasTreeandBlackberryFarm7121 Midwest Lane, Edmond, OK 405-340-5488 Five acres of blackberries in the thorn and thornless varieties; call for availability.

For more information and to locate other “pick your own” orchards and farms, visit agritourism.travelok.com. And don’t forget the numerous farmers markets in the area when you are looking for fresh, local foods! Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/farmers-markets for our updated listing.


Season of Service 2011 Focuses on Children

A project of the Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives and Revive Ministries, the Season of Service campaign is an annual four-month project that focuses on critical topics in our community. The 2011 campaign begins in May and continues through August, with a different focus each month. May’s focus is on foster care.As of January 2, 2011, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) determined that 8,046 children were in state custody. These children are orphans in that their families are not able to care for them due to circumstances such as incarceration, extreme poverty, physical abuse, drug abuse, neglect or abandonment.

In response to this statistic and as a part of the Season of Service, the 111 project launched in April with a goal to recruit 111 foster families from metro area churches. What began as a number goal has evolved into an ongoing focus of 1 church, 1 family with 1 purpose—to leave no Oklahoma child without a father or a family.

Why is it important for us to help? According to national statistics of children in foster care:

• One-half drop out of high school and seven out of eight drop out of college.• One-third have emotional or behavioral problems.• One-half report that they have used illegal drugs.• One in four children that age out of foster care (at age 18) will experience homelessness

within two years.How can you help?

• Visit the Season of Service Campaign website (serveok.org) for a list of ideas about how your family can help. This month’s action items include:

- Participate in the Change a Child’s Forever Campaign. - Mentor a foster child. - Donate diapers, birthday cards, diapers, baby blankets, luggage or time.

• Visit the website 111project.org, for ways to involve your church, family and community. In the continuing months, the Season of Service campaign will focus on homelessness (June), hunger (July) and education (August).

Local Therapist Offers Parenting CourseLocal licensed professional counselor Kevin Tutty is in private practice in Edmond and serves as a therapist at Red Rock Behavioral Services in Oklahoma City. As a result of his experience working with families, Tutty has developed an intensive parenting class to help families achieve their desired results.

“This class will teach you ways to spot their tactics so you will be a step ahead of your children, instead of the other way around,” Tutty explains. “I

have worked with children, adolescents and families for the past five and a half years in the Oklahoma City metro area. During that time, I noticed some recurring themes in family therapy sessions—the need for consistency, stability, predictability and structure. I decided to use my observations, along with various materials from Jim Fay and Foster Cline of Love and Logic, Bill Cosby and James Dobson, to develop a 10-week parenting course.”

Topics discussed in the course include discipline, temper tantrums, sibling rivalry, blended families, anger, peer pressure, bullying, depression, communication, and empathy with both a Christian and secular-based curriculum.

Classes form on a revolving schedule and meet on Saturdays from 9:00-10:00am. The fee for each session is $25 per person, or $40 per couple. For more information or to register, contact Tutty at 405-431-6225 or visit parentingwithboundaries.webs.com.

Best Burger Fundraiser Benefits OK Kids CorralFind out who makes the best burger in central Oklahoma at the 1stAnnualBattleoftheBurger, presented by Marc Heitz Chevrolet and Interurban Restaurant. The event seeks to name the best restaurant, organization and backyard griller in a burger cook-off complete with family-friendly entertainment.

Scheduled for Saturday,May21, the event will be held in the community area of Marc Heitz Chevrolet (1221 Ed Noble Parkway, Norman) from 10:30am-4:30pm. Judging will take place at noon by a panel of local personalities and event sponsors, including Barry Switzer and Miss Oklahoma 2010 Emoly West. Burger competitors will also collect “tip money” for the People’s Choice award, awarded to the competitor with the highest dollar amount at the end of the competition.

In addition to naming the best local burger, the event will raise funds to assist The Toby Keith Foundation in its mission to build the OK Kids Korral which will provide a convenient and cost-free housing solution for pediatric cancer patients and their families while they are receiving treatment at The Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center, OU Cancer Institute and other nearby facilities. This state-of-the-art facility will include a community indoor and outdoor dining area, game room, movie theater, business center, an outdoor play area and garden, as well as many other facilities designed to create a relaxing haven for children and their families.

The Battle of the Burger will allow attendees to sample burgers from all competitors, enjoy music from local bands and children’s musicians at the Marc Heitz Amphitheatre, find valuable nutrition information in the Nutritional Tent, and take part in children’s activities such as inflatables, clowns, face painting and hands-on activities. In addition to burger samples, local eateries and food vendors will sell other food options.

Entry to the event is free, with donations in support of the Toby Keith Foundation and the OK Kids Korral project encouraged and accepted at the gate. An online auction, including a Battle of the Burger apron autographed by Toby Keith, will follow the event.

Learn more at battleoftheburger.com.


Family FinancesWomen & Retirement: Are You Financially Ready?

Some readers may remember the old commercial that proudly proclaimed to women, “You’ve come a long way,

baby.” That statement may be more accurate when measuring the progress made in the workforce and voting booth than when discussing women and money. While many females today are earning an income and are eligible for retirement benefits, it seems that few are adequately prepared for a financially-secure retirement.

The RealityThe following findings from the National Center for Women and Retirement Research should raise concerns:

• Nine out of ten women will be responsible for their own finances at some point in their lives.

• Over 75 percent of the women in the United States are widowed at an average age of 56, and one-fourth of them will be broke within two months of their husband’s death.

• Only 15 percent of the women who are married or living with a significant other assume responsibility for their retirement

planning.• Only about 40 percent of women who

work participate in their employer’s 401(k) retirement plan.

• Almost 90 percent of the elderly living in poverty today are female.

Another study released last summer from Prudential shows that 95 percent of all women are actively involved in making financial decisions for their families, but only 15 percent of them are the primary decision-maker. Interestingly, less than 20 percent of those in the study reported they are “comfortable” making decisions about investments, which is an important part of retirement planning.

Prudential’s report also found that about 50 percent of the women in the study said they did not need to understand their investment portfolio as long as the value was increasing. Other studies show that women are more accustomed to living with less than their male counterparts and that the vast majority of females (92 percent) are not financially prepared to live into their 90s, which is currently the gauge for longevity planning.

What it MeansThese findings are important for two primary reasons: first, women, on the average, live longer than men and second, because they live longer, they tend to incur higher health care costs as they age. The life expectancy for women in the United States today is 81 years, and only 76 years for men. With that in mind, with a very conservative estimate of $2,000 a month for expenses, that is a difference of $120,000 needed to pay for the basics. However, because women tend to be younger than their husbands, it is not uncommon for older women to outlive their spouses by as much as 15 years, meaning that very conservative estimate explodes to $360,000. Based on longevity alone, women tend to need more savings than men to sustain themselves during retirement and prevent a decline in their overall standard of living. And, these estimates fail to consider price changes or inflation rates.

Closely related to greater longevity is health care. Because women live longer, their potential need for health care increases and this type of care can be extremely expensive. For example, women tend to require specialized services such as home health care or care provided by a long-term facility. The demand for these services can also be directly related to monthly income because women with limited funds will be much less likely to pursue preventative health care measures, seek medical care until it is an emergency, or

take their prescriptions as needed. They may also have failing health due to poor nutrition, dental care and a variety of other related issues.

The Society of Actuaries has reported that one third of the individuals between the ages of 45 and 80 either will or currently rely primarily on Social Security for retirement income. Another third have or will have some additional income for retirement, while only the top third will have sufficient income to live comfortably in their retirement years. For women, those numbers are not as promising as other reports show that eight out of ten women plan to work longer than expected because they cannot afford to live on their retirement income.

What is a Woman to Do?Following are a few steps to consider when securing your financial future:

• Stopandthinkaboutyourfuture. While retirement may seem far away, planning today will ensure you have the financial resources needed when the time comes.

• Considerworkinglonger. There is nothing magical about retiring at any specific age. Many older adults enjoy the socialization as well as the income. Preparing now for your future needs will make it easier to decide what to do later.

• Payoffdebt. Reducing your debt level today will make it easier to retire tomorrow.

• Saveearlyandsaveoften. It is never too early to start saving for your retirement years. And, definitely take advantage of any matching programs your company offers for retirement accounts.

Women have traditionally relied on men as providers, often sacrificing their own retirement funds for other family needs. Regardless of gender, age or income, it is important for everyone to consider their own future financial health and well-being and take the steps necessary to ensure financial security today and tomorrow.

Sue Lynn Sasser, PhD, is an associate professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma.


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Governor Mary Fallin is accustomed to fi rsts.

She fi rst made history in 1995 when she was elected the fi rst Republican and fi rst woman to serve as Oklahoma’s Lieutenant Governor. She held that post until 2006, when, rather than seeking re-election, she ran for the 5th Congressional District seat being vacated by Ernest Istook. Later that year she became the fi rst woman elected to Congress from Oklahoma since Alice Mary Robertson in 1921.

This past November, Oklahomans watched another fi rst: two female candidates battling for the Governor’s offi ce. On November 2, 2010, Fallin defeated Democrat and incumbent Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins with 60 percent of the vote and became Oklahoma’s 27th and fi rst female governor.

Oklahoma’s First Female Governor Talks Family, Faith and Politics

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The Fallin-Christensen family in 2010. Clockwise from bottom left: Blake Christensen, Price Fallin, Christina Fallin, Governor Mary Fallin, First Gentleman Wade Christensen, Brittiany Christensen, Alex Christensen, and Adam Christensen.


May 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com 15May 2011 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com 15

Oklahoma RootsBorn in Missouri, Fallin was raised in Tecumseh, a city of 6,500 situated approximately 40 miles southeast of Oklahoma City. One could say that politics run in her family, as both her mother and father served terms as mayors of the small town.

After graduating from Tecumseh High School, Fallin attended Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee, the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond and earned a bachelor of science degree from Oklahoma State University. Before her foray into politics, she worked as the district manager of a national hotel chain, got married and started a family. Divorced in 1998, Fallin married Wade Christensen in November 2009. Their blended family includes Fallin’s two children (Christina, 23 and Price, 20) along with Christensen’s four children (Blake, 29; Adam, 27; Brittiany, 21; and Alex, 18).

Family and FaithAlthough she holds the state’s top elected position, Fallin’s commitment to her family is paramount. She describes her parenting style as loving, and said that the love and support of her children has been as important for her as her love and support has been for them.

“I would never be able to serve as governor without the support, understanding and enthusiasm of my children, stepchildren and husband,” Fallin said. “All of his [Wade’s] support and love have made my job so much easier.”

“When you’re running for public office people don’t always say the nicest things about you, and it’s been very important to have a husband who has always been there to encourage and defend me,” she said.

While Oklahoma’s very first First Gentleman has been a huge emotional support to Fallin, he’s had to make difficult professional concessions. To avoid even the smallest appearance of a conflict of interest, Christensen gave up a significant portion of his legal practice. Having worked all his adult life to build his own firm, giving up a large portion of it was a major sacrifice, said the Governor.

Fallin’s faith is a big part of her life and has helped to define who she is. The importance of faith is something that she’s also instilled in her children. The family attends Crossings Community Church in northwest Oklahoma City, and she said that the most important lesson she has taught her children is to trust in God’s plan.

“My faith has been a big part of who I am and has been a guiding light in both good and bad times,” she said. “I’ve had both, and I believe that faith and trust in God will help my children as it has helped me.”

ChallengesFallin’s gubernatorial election bid corresponded with one of the deepest recessions in United States history, and she’s well aware of the burden that economic troubles have had on Oklahoma’s families and businesses. With a $500 million budget shortfall, loss of businesses and an unhealthy population (Oklahoma was recently ranked 46 out of 50 for overall population health by America’s Health Rankings), Fallin certainly has her work cut out for her.

“To get our economy back on track, we need to ensure Oklahoma has the best business environment possible so that we can bring new jobs and opportunities to the state and retain those jobs and businesses that are already here,” she said.

Her first State of the State address laid out a number of ways to improve Oklahoma’s business environment, including adjustments to the state’s workers’ compensation system, tort reform and a reexamination of the state tax code.

Fallin said the public and private sectors can both help the state overcome its challenges, but only when they work together.

“The public sector must ensure Oklahoma is primed and ready for job growth and retention so that Oklahoma’s entrepreneurs and small businesses can thrive,” Fallin said. “Government can provide an economic climate conducive to job growth—by keeping taxes low and developing an affordable, efficient

workers’ compensation system, for instance—and also plays an important role in helping to create an educated, healthy workforce.”

“When we do those things in the public sector, the private sector is able to do a lot of the heavy lifting and generate real growth and prosperity,” she continued.

Fallin sees raising the bar in education and producing the skilled workforce necessary to compete in the global economy as major components in our state’s economic progress.

“That means constantly improving our schools and raising our standards for administrators, teachers and students,” she said. “We can do that by pursuing a system where good teachers and schools are rewarded for their work while underperforming teachers are held accountable or even asked to move on.”

She and the Oklahoma legislature are working toward eliminating a practice called “trial de novo,” a legal process that makes it nearly impossible to terminate an underperforming teacher. She calls this a step in the right direction and hopes to sign it into law this year.

Another difficulty facing education is the practice of “social promotion”—allowing children to move on to higher grades despite low achievement. A child sent to the fourth grade, for example, who is unable to read and write on a fourth grade level only ensures that he or she will continue to fall behind, she said.

When It’s All Said and DoneIn the end, Fallin hopes that the same determination that helped her meet her early political milestones will be what helps propel Oklahoma to a better economic footing.

“First and foremost, I want to be remembered as a governor who worked every day to move Oklahoma toward a better and more prosperous future,” she said. “That means leaving a legacy of job creation and fiscal responsibility.”

Danielle Walker is a freelance writer and senior account executive with Limelight Marketing Consultants. She and her family live northwest of Oklahoma City.

“The public sector must ensure Oklahoma is

primed and ready for job growth and retention

so that Oklahoma’s entrepreneurs and small

businesses can thrive,” Fallin said.

“First and foremost, I want to be remembered as a governor who worked

every day to move Oklahoma toward a better

and more prosperous future,” said Fallin.

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High School Drama Workshop—June 13-17 “Into the Woods, Jr.”Ages 13-18. Classes in props, music, movement and acting.

Drama Day Camp 1—June 20-24“Jungle Book Kids”Ages 7-12. Classes in acting, makeup, scenery, props, movement and music.

Drama Day Camp II— July 11-15 “Music Man, Jr.”Ages 7-12. Classes in acting, makeup, scenery, props, movement and music.

Drama Day Camp III—July 25-29 “Aladdin, Jr.”Ages 7-12. Classes in acting, makeup, scenery, props, movement and music.

All Drama productions presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.

Flute Camp—June 6-9Ages 11-15. Daily master classes, music theory, flute choir and performance opportunities.

Dance Workshop—June 13-17Ages 8 and up. An intensive workshop with classes in all forms of dance.

Jazz Guitar Workshop—June 14-16 All ages. One year experience, master classes taught by Danny Vaughan.

Strings Chamber Music Camp—July 18-22, Placement Auditions on July 17Ages 9 to18. Daily small group and ensemble opportunities. Young musician, intermediate and advanced tracks available.

Summer Choral Institute—July 12-16 April Auditions – see website for dates/locationsOpen to all high school freshmen—juniors. Invited students receive a scholarship and spend a week at UCO in master classes, rehearsals and performance.

Graphic Design Workshop I & II July 11-19 & 20-29Open to high school juniors and seniors. An intensive overview of graphic design with hands-on projects and professional site visits. Level II participants gain in-depth knowledge and college preparatory skills. Taught by UCO Design Chair and professors. Level I must be completed to enroll in Level II.

Interior Design Workshop—July 11-19Open to high school juniors and seniors. An intensive overview of interior design with hands-on projects and professional site visits. Participants are taught by UCO professors and gain an overview of the profession.

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Open to all high school freshmen—juniors. Invited students receive a scholarship and spend a week at UCO in master classes, rehearsals and performance.

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Feeling better, but not where you want to be? The Depression Outreach Study is evaluating an investigational drug that’s intended to be taken with your current antidepressant (SSRI), to see if it helps to lessen any ongoing symptoms of depression. All eligible study participants will receive investigational study drugs, coverage for their current prescription antidepressant, and study-related care at no cost. If you’re at least 18 years old, have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and are taking a prescription antidepressant, you may be eligible to participate.

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Kara-Kae James is an open book. She is passionate about her family, her faith and sweet tea—all of which you learn

about while visiting her popular “mommy blog,” themomdiggity.com. A married mom of one (a spunky daughter), pregnant with her second and in the stages of planning the adoption of her third, here is a peek into what makes “KK” tick.

Whatareyoupassionateabout?Orphans, my church and sweet tea.

Howhasmotherhoodchangedyou?I fully understand now that it’s really not about me, and everything I do is for my children and my family.

Howdoyoubanishstress?Shopping or taking a break to write alone at Starbucks.

Whatinspiresyou?My husband. He’s the greatest person I know and inspires me to be the best me I can be.

Alongwithyourjobasamom,doyouhaveotheremployment,eitherinoroutsideofthehome?Ifso,whatdoyoudo?

I’m a full time stay at home mom, and love every minute of it!

Whatdoyoulikemostaboutyourjob?That it comes with an afternoon nap!

Whatisonyourwishlist?An unlimited supply of McAlister’s sweet tea.

Whatareyoumostproudof?My kids, of course!

Whatmotivatesyou?Other moms. Sometimes it can get tough and having great mom friends helps motivate me to be a better mom! Especially adoptive mommies, because we are planning to adopt a couple of kids and my friends help me keep my eye on the goal!

Howdoyoufindbalanceinyourlife?Making sure my husband and I get quality time together, and still getting “me time” to keep my head on straight!

Adviceforothermoms?Be flexible.

Whereareyoufromoriginally?I grew up in Oklahoma but moved away for five years. Just recently I moved back to raise my kids close to family.

What’sthebiggestchallengeinyourlife?Pregnancy. But always worth it in the end!

Howdoyouhelpothers?I love to encourage moms and wives. We have a big role, and it’s not always easy!

Whatisyourparentingstyle?Very laid back. I’m protective of my kids, but will always be flexible and do what works for each individually.

Favoritequoteoradviceaboutmotherhood?

To sleep when the baby sleeps!

Real Moms of the MetroKara-Kae James

FiveQuickFactsaboutKara-Kae:

1. Whatare5wordsthatdescribeyou?Wife, mama, loyal, compassionate and sleepy

2. Whatisyourfavoriteindulgence?A big bubble bath and a chick flick

3. What’syourfavoritefamilyouting?Going to the park & feeding the ducks.

4. What’syourfavoritemealtocookfordinner?Roast with carrots & potatoes! Yum!

5. What’salwaysinyourhandbag?Baby wipes & Chapstick.

Mari Farthing is the editor of MetroFamily Magazine.


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I n a recent video web message, State Superintendent Janet Barresi expressed concerns with possible delays in our

state’s Achieving Classroom Excellence Act (ACE). “There are some troubling moves on the horizon to try to water-down or delay ACE,” Barresi said, referring to opposition to the Act. Some educators are pressuring lawmakers to change the ACE legislation due to concerns with the mandates that require students to meet certain standards in order to receive a high school diploma.

What is ACE?Passed in 2005 with Governor Brad Henry’s leadership, the ACE Act is a bipartisan effort bill that raises standards for Oklahoma students. A high school diploma would no longer simply represent attendance and passing grades.

The ACE legistlation was passed in an effort to better prepare Oklahoma students for college and the workplace. The landmark legislation implemented change in three

major areas: curriculum, assessment and remediation or intervention.

CurriculumAll students are automatically enrolled in the ACE College Preparatory/Work Ready Curriculum unless their parents opt out, at which time the student would be enrolled in Core Curriculum. Each curriculum follows a different path of specific course requirements. For example, the College Preparatory/Work Ready Curriculum requires three units of high school math, selected from Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Math Analysis, Calculus, Advanced Placement Statistics or any other math course approved for college admissions. In contrast, the Core Curriculum requires three units of math with more class options, such as contextual mathematical courses, which may be taught at the high school or technology center school. (More information on contextual mathematics and other requirements may be found at sde.state.ok.us/curriculum/ace.)

In addition, ACE requires each student to complete Passport to Financial Literacy, a personal finance curriculum that was developed by Dr. Sue Lynn Sasser, University of Central Oklahoma associate professor of economics and MetroFamily’s Family Finances columnist.*

AssessmentThe ACE Act states that: “Beginning with students who entered the ninth grade in the 2008-2009 school year, every student shall demonstrate mastery of the state academic content standards in the following subject areas in order to graduate from a public high school with a standard diploma.” (70 O.S. § 1210.523)

In further explanation of this new requirement, with an End of Instruction (EOI) assessment, students must score

“Proficient” or “Advanced” in ACE Algebra I and ACE English II, plus two of the following

five areas:

• ACE Algebra II• ACE Biology I• ACE English III• ACE Geometry• ACE United States History However, it should be noted that students with special circumstances such as an out-of-state transfer or IEP (Individualized Education Program) may have alternative or modified tests or special projects to meet this requirement.

Remediation and InterventionIs your child not meeting these standards? Don’t panic. When a student scores “Limited Knowledge” or “Unsatisfactory” on a test, the district is required to offer help, which can come in the form of tutoring, online programs, extra classes or access to special

computer software. Districts are provided with funds to cover these costs, according to the number of students in need of remediation.

When asked about this additional funding, Staci Engles, a Westmoore High School teacher, explained, “We’ve been able to provide more after-school programs for kids who are at risk. We started a summer program for students who didn’t pass the EOI test but passed the class, and we retest at the end of the four-week program. We’ve had a lot of success with those kids.”

Time will tell if the new ACE requirements will result in more Oklahoma students being better prepared for the future. For additional information concerning ACE and Superintendent Barresi’s weekly video message, visit the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s website at sde.state.ok.us.

Julie Dill is a National Board Certified Teacher from Oklahoma City and mother of two.

* Editor’s Note: Find Dr. Sasser’s article written on the Passport to Financial Literacy program at metrofamilymagazine.com/oklahomas-passport-to-financial-literacy.

Focus on EducationThe ACE Act Explained: How it Will Affect Oklahoma Students

Janet BarresiListen to the weekly video web addresses from State Superintendent of Public Education at sde.state.ok.us.

ACE Defined?Passed in 2005 with Governor Henry’s leadership, the Achieving Classroom Excellence Act is a bipartisan effort that raises standards for Oklahoma students. A high school diploma would no longer simply represent attendance and passing grades.

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Baby Names! TheOklahomaCityZoo&BotanicalGarden is celebrating the first elephant birth in the Zoo’s history. Asha, a 16-year-old Asian elephant, delivered a healthy 304-pound female calf on April 15 inside the Oklahoma City Zoo’s new Elephant Habitat. The baby elephant excitement continues as the zoo seeks the public’s help in naming this precious pachyderm. “Ele-fans” may cast their vote by logging on to okczoo.com. Visit the Zoo’s Facebook page at facebook.com/okczoobg for current information about the elephant calf, as well as photos of mom and baby. Also, stay tuned for an announcement about a baby elephant gift registry being organized by the Oklahoma Zoological Society.

Festival of the Child On Saturday, May 7 from 10am-4pm, the City of Yukon, Parks & Recreation Department hosts the 15th Festival of the Child at Yukon City Park (2200 South Holly). The festival will provide more than 50 fun activities designed for children ages 2-13, including kayaking, an art stage, pony rides, crafts and more. Event admission is $7 for children, adults are free. For details, call the Yukon Community Center at 405-354-8442.

Paseo Arts Festival The Paseo Arts Festival will celebrate its 35th Anniversary on May 28-30. Considered to be one of the premiere arts events in Oklahoma, the festival includes more than 80 fine artist booths, two music stages, a children’s hands-on art tent and a variety of food choices. The festival increases art appreciation and culture while raising money for the Paseo Arts Association and its many community programs throughout the year. The Paseo Arts Fesitval is located between NW 30th & Dewey and NW 28th & Walker. Festival hours are Saturday & Sunday, May 28-29, 10am-8pm (with live music until 11pm); Monday, May 30, 10am-6pm. (with live music until 7pm). For more information, visit thepaseo.com.


QuickReferenceAmerican Banjo Museum9 E Sheridan Ave, OKC604-2793, banjomuseum.org

City Arts CenterFair Park, 3000 Pershing Blvd, OKC951-0000, cityartscenter.org

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond27 E Edwards, Edmond340-4481, edmondfinearts.com

Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art555 Elm Ave, Norman325-3272, ou.edu/fjjma

Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum13th & Shartel, OKC235-4458, oklahomaheritage.com

Myriad Botanical GardensClosed for renovations; scheduled to reopen in May. Call for details.297-3995, myriadgardens.com

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum1700 NE 63rd St, OKC478-2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org

Oklahoma Aquarium300 Aquarium Dr, Jenks918-296-FISH, okaquarium.org

OKC Museum of Art415 Couch Dr, OKC236-3100, okcmoa.org

OKC National Memorial620 N Harvey, OKC235-3313, oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org

OKC Zoo2101 NE 50th St, OKC424-3344, okczoo.com

Oklahoma Children’s Theatre2501 N Blackwelder, OKC606-7003, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

Oklahoma History Center800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC522-5248, oklahomahistorycenter.org

Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman325-4712, snomnh.ou.edu

Science Museum Oklahoma2100 NE 52nd St, OKC602-6664, sciencemuseumok.org

Do you have an event for our calendar?

Send an email to [email protected]

Weekly EventsFREE Admission at Norman’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on Tuesdays. 10am-5pm. Activities include Art Adventures for children ages 3-5 with adult (10:30am) & Tuesday Noon Concerts, 30-minute musical performances by the University of Oklahoma School of Music students & faculty (noon).

Toddler Time at the Mustang Recreation Center at Town Center (1501 N Mustang Rd) includes fun for toddlers & young children with parent. FREE with community center membership or $2 per child. Tuesday & Thursday, 9am-noon. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

Family Fun Night at JumpZone (SW 104th & Western) 4:30-8pm every Tuesday & Thursday. 2 adults, 2 children, 1 large pizza, 2 liter pop for $25. For open play hours call 200-1691, JumpZoneParty.com.

Toddler Time at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Discovery Room includes fun & educational activities for ages 18 months-3 years.FREE with paid museum admission. Tuesdays, 4-4:30pm; Saturdays, 10:30-11am.

FREE Wednesday Night at the Movies at the Downtown Library. For all ages. Held every Wednesday, 6-8pm. 231-8650.

FREE Thursday Noon Tunes at the Downtown Library, 11:30-1pm.

Fun Friday Preschool Activities at Mustang’s Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) includes activities, crafts, games & snack each week for children ages 6 & under with parent. $3 per child. 10:30am. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

The UCO Jazz Lab features performances each Friday & Saturday at 8pm. $7 adults, $5 age 12 & under. 359-7989, UCOJazzLab.com.

Oklahoma River Cruises Classic Cartoon Cruises & History Comes Alive Cruises held each Saturday, departing from Regatta Park or the Exchange Landing on the Oklahoma River. Departure times vary. $6 adults, $3 seniors & ages 6-12, under age 6 FREE. 702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

It’s Feeding Time! at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History Discovery Room allows children to observe some local reptiles, amphibians & fish during their feeding time & learn more about these Oklahoma animals. FREE with paid museum admission. Saturdays, 11:30am-noon.

Discovery Saturdays & Sundays at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History in the Discovery Room includes interactive, hands-on activities with stories, crafts & touchable specimens. FREE with paid museum admission. Saturdays, 2pm; Sundays, 2:30pm

Train Rides at the Oklahoma Railway Museum leave the Oakwood Depot at 10am, 11am, noon, 1:30pm & 2:30pm on the first & third Saturday of the month. $10

age 15 & up, $5 ages 3-14, FREE under 3. 424-8222, oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

FREE Build & Grow Kid’s Clinics at Lowe’s stores offers kids an opportunity to complete a wooden project. Each participant also receives an apron, goggles, a project-themed patch, & a certificate of merit. Register required and is available online. Saturdays, 10am. lowesbuildandgrow.com.

FREE Children’s Storytime at Full Circle Bookstore (1900 NW Expressway) each Saturday, 10:15am. 842-2900, FullCircleBooks.com.

FREE Children’s Story Time at Edmond’s Best of Books, Saturdays, 11-11:30am. 340-9202, bestofbooksedmond.com.

FREE Make & Take crafts at Lakeshore Learning (6300 N May, OKC), Saturdays, 11am-3pm. Ages 3 & up. 858-8778, LakeshoreLearning.com.

Drop in Art at the OKC Museum of Art. Saturdays, 1-4pm. Create art inspired by the Museum’s collection, exhibitions, & special occasions. FREE with paid admission.

FREE Green Earth Gang for ages 9-13. The “Gang” works on conservation projects in Martin Park Saturdays from 2-5pm throughout the school year. 755-0676.

Gospel Concert at Inspiration Hill (880669 S 3330, Wellston) are held May-October on the first Sunday of the month. 356-4051.

Ongoing Events May 6-Jun 26Rembrandt Etchings: States, Fakes & Restrikes at the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art explores Rembrandt’s etchings & the history of restrikes & forgeries. 878-5300, mgmoa.org.

Through May 8American Indian Printmakers from The Silberman Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is the museum’s first exhibition to focus solely on the printmaking aspect of American Indian fine art.

George Nelson: Architect, Writer, Designer, Teacher at the OKC Museum of Art celebrates the work of the iconic American designer.

Jill Downen: COUNTERPARTS at OKC Museum of Art is the third installment of the NEW FRONTIERS: Series for Contemporary Art & exhibits ten architectural sculptures combining human anatomy with the constructed environment. FREE D.J. Lafon Exhibit in the Oklahoma State Capitol’s East Gallery honors visual artist D.J. Lafon, a noted member of the Oklahoma Arts Community who passed away in January. Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm; Weekends, 9am-4pm. 521-2931, arts.ok.gov/capitol.


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15 16 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25 26 27 2829 30 31 1 2 3 45 6 7 8 9 10 11

May S M T W T F S

MetropolitanLibrarySystemmetrolibrary.org

Belle Isle ................5501 N Villa ..........843-9601 Bethany ...............3510 N Mueller ........789-8363 Capitol Hill ........... 334 SW 26th ..........634-6308Choctaw ................2525 Muzzy........... 390-8418Del City .................4509 SE 15th ..........672-1377 Downtown ............300 Park Ave ......... 231-8650Edmond .............. 10 S Boulevard ........ 341-9282Midwest City ........ 8143 E Reno .......... 732-4828Ralph Ellison ...... 2000 NE 23rd ..........424-1437Southern Oaks ...6900 S Walker ........ 631-4468The Village .......... 10307 N Penn ......... 755-0710Warr Acres ..........5901 NW 63rd ..........721-2616 Harrah ..............1930 N Church Ave..... 454-2001 Jones ......................111 E Main ........... 399-5471Luther .....................310 NE 3rd ........... 277-9967 Nicoma Park ..... 2240 Overholser .......769-9452Wright Library ... 2101 Exchange ........235-5035

PioneerLibrarySystempls.lib.ok.us

Blanchard .............. 300 N Main ........... 485-2275McLoud ...................133 N Main ...........964-2960Moore ................... 225 S Howard ......... 793-5100Newcastle ............ 705 NW Tenth ......... 387-5076Noble .......................204 N 5th .............872-5713Norman ................225 N Webster ........ 701-2600Purcell ................... 919 N Ninth ........... 527-5546Shawnee ...........101 N Philadelphia .....275-6353Tecumseh ...........114 N Broadway .......598-5955

Oklahoma Festival Ballet at the Rupel Jones Theatre in the OU Fine Arts Center (563 Elm, Norman) presents an evening of 4 ballets. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm. 325-4101, ou.edu/finearts/dance.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre is Mark Twain’s classic depiction of a happy-go-lucky boy on a voyage of growth and discovery. Wednesday & Friday, 11am-12pm; Saturday & Sunday, 2-3pm. $7 adults, $5 children.

Through May 11Respect Diversity Symbol Exhibit at the Science Museum Oklahoma includes colorful collaborations by students. See page E30 for details. FREE with paid museum admission. 359-0369, respectdiversity.org.

Through May 14Maggie Casey: Bearing the Echo of Proving Ground at the City Arts Center features the work of a leading contemporary fiber artist/sculptor.

Through May 15Stare Stare Stereo at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is a student-curated exhibition featuring items from the museum’s permanent collection.

Mediterranea: American Art from the Graham D. Williford Collection at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art explores the major cultures & monuments of the Mediterranean.

Tea & Immortality: Contemporary Chinese Yixing Teapots is a selection of contemporary Yixing teapots from the James T. Bialac collection created using Yixing clay to create teapots.

To Picture the Words: Artist-Illustrators from the Permanent Collection at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum highlights the museum’s rich collections of original and published works by western illustrators.Allen True’s West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum focuses on life and work of the Colorado artist, illustrator, and muralist.Images of the Upper Missouri: Aquatint Engravings After Karl Bodmer at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features 22 images from the Museum’s permanent Western art collection.

Through May 22The 38th Annual Symphony Show House & Gardens (1701 Drury, Nichols Hills) opens for visitors to tour, benefitting the OKC Philharmonic. Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. $12 before 5/1, $15 during the show. 232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

May 26-Aug 211934: A New Deal for Artists at the OKC Museum of Art celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Public Works of Art Project by drawing on the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collection of vibrant paintings created for the program.

Through June 18Living Legacy at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum features wood & bronze sculpture by the father/son duo, Willard & Jason Stone. Most pieces for sale.

Through June 30Silver Anniversary Red Earth Master Artist Show at the Red Earth Museum in OKC features award-winning artists from the past 25 years of the Red Earth Festival Competition. 427-5228, redearth.org.

FREE Jacobson House Powwow Singing Sessions at the Jacobson House Native Art Center (609 Chautauqua, Norman) feature Kiowa singer John Hamilton & revered Ponca elder John Kemble alternating as lead singer. Wednesday evenings, 7-9pm. 366-1667, jacobsonhouse.com.

FREE Kiowa Language Learning at the Jacobson House Native Art Center (609 Chautauqua, Norman). teaches specific aspects of the Kiowa language through sign language, storytelling, songs, writing & immersion techniques. Children’s session held 6-6:15pm. Thursdays, 6-8pm. 366-1667, jacobsonhouse.com.

Through September 5Art and the Animal at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History features more than 100 works of art from the annual Art and the Animal international juried show organized by the Society of Animal Artists.

Through November 13The Art of the Tool Exhibit at Science Museum Oklahoma combines form with function by examining the tools that creative professionals use. FREE with paid museum admission.

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Through November 20The Bowie Knife: Icon of American Character at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum looks at the history, art & legacy of the Bowie Knife.

Through 2011The Uncanny Adventures of Okie Cartoonists at the Oklahoma History Center explores how Oklahomans have played a major role in the evolution of comic books, comic strips, & editorial cartoons.

FREE Oklahoma City! Sooner or Later on the second floor of City Hall (200 N Walker) presents the history of city government from 1889 to the present. Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. 297-2391.

Oklahoma Driven: Car Collectors & the Birth of the Oklahoma Highway Commission at the Oklahoma History Center spotlights the exciting cars & new roads that accelerated the shaping of a young state.

May 2011Important Note: Find many more local and statewide festivals held in May listed on page E38 of the Exploring Oklahoma with Children travel guide, a pull-out supplement to this issue.

2 • MondayOKC Redhawks vs. Nashville Sounds baseball at the Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, okcredhawks.com. Other home games this month: 5/3-5, 10-17, 31.

3 • TuesdayFREE Monthly Mini Model Build at Penn Square Mall’s Lego Store. Build a new model every month. Held the first Tuesday of the month, Quantities are limited. For ages 6-14. 5pm. 840-9993, Stores.Lego.com.

FREE Family Night Out at Quail Springs Mall in the Food Court includes entertainment & prizes. 5:30-7:30pm. 755-6530, quailspringsmall.com.

4 • WednesdayFREE Mother’s Day is Here at the Belle Isle Library celebrates Mother’s Day with a project to give to Mom and stories about Spring. 10-11am.

5 • ThursdayCinco de Mayo Sunset Cruise departs from & returns to Regatta Park Landing on the Oklahoma River. Includes 90 minutes of cruising, themed music, hors d’oeuvres & soft drinks. Must be 21 & older. Preregister. $35. 7:30-9pm. 702-7755, okrivercruises.com.

Kyle Dillingham & Horseshoe Road at the Sooner Theatre (101 E Main, Norman) features a unique blend

of eclectic musical styles expressed in an acoustic setting. $15 & up. 8pm. 321-9600, soonertheatre.org.

5-7Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow at the Lyric’s Plaza Theater features songs from Academy shows over the past 10 years as well as hits from the upcoming Lyric Season. $7 in advance, $10 the day of the show. Thursday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

6 • FridaySpace Day 2011 at Science Museum Oklahoma explores the science behind flight, robotics & space exploration through hands-on activities & live demonstrations. 9am-5pm.

FREE Art After Hours at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art features a 45-minute talk, William Gropper: Art as Social Commentary. Light refreshments will be served. 6-7pm.

6-7FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District features more than 60 artists in 17 galleries. Friday, 6-10pm; Saturday, noon-5pm. 525-2688, thepaseo.com.

6-8Heart of America Youth Rodeo Finals at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie is a PRCA sanctioned event featuring children 6-18 year olds competing in a variety of rodeo events. 834-4528, hoyra.com.

Citywide Garage Sale in Moore. To register your garage sale, call 793-5000. cityofmoore.com.

7 • SaturdayFREE Comic Book Day at participating retailers across the country provides a FREE comic book to introduce new readers to the comic book medium.freecomicbookday.com.

March for Babies at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds is a two-mile walk benefitting the March of Dimes. Registration 8am, walk 9am. See website for fundraising information. 943-1025, marchforbabies.com. Also held in Norman 5/21.

Ostrich Egg Breakfast at the OKC Zoo includes food, fun & Zoolympics. $10 adults, $6 children for members; $12 adults/$8 children for non-members. 8-11am.

2011 Oklahoma Autism PieceWalk & 5K presented by the Oklahoma Family Center for Autism at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark features a resource fair, bounce houses, OKC Philharmonic Instrument Playground & more. Preregister. PieceWalk is FREE. 5K is $30 online, $35 at the event. Opening Ceremony, 8am. piecewalk.org.

L’Alliance Française d’Oklahoma City

French ImmersionSummer Camp

Elementary School Students entering grades 3-5

brought to you by native French speakers associated with

offered to

July 11- July 15 9 am – 12 pm

Register & Infocall

e-mailvisit

[email protected] www.afdokc.org

Come and join the fun of learning a new language! Through games, songs and films you will take some beginning steps on your way to speaking and understanding French. No prior exposure to French is necessary.

If you have had some French, you are welcome too!

Middle School Studentsentering grades 6-8

Volleyball skills training for ages 7-18

Private, small group lessons and clinicsSpecial programs for homeschoolers

Strength • PrecisionQuality • Respect

[email protected]

Introducing the NEWColiseum Sports Academy

"All it takes is all you've got"


Touch A Truck at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson, Norman) is presented by the MOMS Club of Norman-West benefitting the children’s section of the Norman Public Library. 9am-noon, special quiet hour 8-9am. $2 suggested donation. 701-0161.

FREE Moore Heath & Safety Fair at the Moore Community Center & Moore Public Library features a bicycle rodeo, safety information, summer program information, storytelling & bicycle giveaways. FREE youth bike helmet for bicycle rodeo participants. 10am-2pm. cityofmoore.com.

FREE Admission at the Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum includes family-friendly activities in honor of the museum’s fourth anniversary. 10am-5pm.

Marvelous Mother’s Day at the Orr Family Farm provides FREE admission for mom and souvenir photo. 10am-6pm. 799-3276, orrfamilyfarm.com.

Ostrich Egg Painting at the OKC Zoo invites guests to paint their very own ostrich egg with local artist Lance Kelly. Ages 10 & up. Preregister. $40 members, $45 nonmembers. 10:30am-12:30pm or 1-3pm.

FREE Spaghetti Eddie at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen). This local children’s rock band will have your little one dancing up a storm. 10:45am. 418-8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

Live Banjo Performance at the American Banjo Museum (9 E Sheridan) features the music of Johnny Baier. 3-5pm. 604-2793, americanbanjomuseum.com. FREE with paid admission. Also held: 5/21 & 28.

Canterbury Youth Chorus Spring Concert at OCU Petree Recital Hall (2501 N Blackwelder) features all Canterbury Youth Choruses. 5pm. 232-7464, canterburyokc.com.

Great Escape “Camp Out” at Mustang Parks & Recreation (1201 N Mustang, Mustang). Games, pizza, crafts, movies & more. For ages 5-12. Space is limited. Preregister. $15. 6-11pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org.

Bricktown Brawlers vs. Wichita Wild at the Cox Center celebrates Susan G Komen Foundation Night. $12.50 & up. 7:05pm. 602-8557, bricktownbrawlers.com. Other home game this month: 5/28.

7-8Museums on Us: Bank of America Free Weekend at the OKC Museum of Art & the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum provides FREE admission for Bank of America credit/debit card holders. museums.bankofamerica.com.

8 • SundayFind a complete list of Mother’s Day activities around the Oklahoma City area including a list of museums with FREE admission and more at metrofamilymagazine.com/mothers-day. Happy Mother’s Day from MetroFamily Magazine

Mother’s Day Brunch at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum includes museum admission. Reservations required. 11am-3pm.

FREE Mozart for Mother’s Day at the Downtown Library features pianist Wayne McEvilly. Seating opens at 1:30pm, concert 2pm.

9 • Monday“Juicy” Paint Night presented by Paint Your Art Out at Eskimo Sno in Norman (1228 N Interstate Dr)includes painting session plus Norman’s Best Sno Cones. Preregister online. $40. 7pm. 513-5333, paintyourartout.net.

10 • TuesdayStorytime Science at the Science Museum Oklahoma invites guests to join the museum’s performer-puppeteer extraordinaire. FREE with paid admission. 10:30am & 2:30pm.

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On Broadway: the Musical RevueJune 13-17, 2011 / Rising 3rd - 7th Grades

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FREE Baby Signs at The Village Library teaches how to include signs naturally while interacting with your child through daily routines & play. For parents & children up to 22 months. Preregister. 6-7pm.

12 • ThursdayFondue Fandango annual fundraiser at the Harn Homestead Museum. $50 in advance, $60 at the door. 6-10pm. 235-4058, harnhomestead.com.

12-14Henry V presented by Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at OCU’s Black Box Theatre features Shakespeare’s classic tale performed by a cast of 10 women. $10. Friday-Saturday, 8-10pm; Sunday, 2-4pm & 8-10pm. 235-3700, oklahomashakespeare.com.

12-28Hair presented by the Reduxion Theatre at the Broadway Theater (1613 N Broadway), a 1960s-era musical about peace, love & understanding. Mature audiences. $15. Thursday-Saturday, 8pm. 651-3191, reduxiontheatre.com.

13 • FridayMom & Me Ceramics. Dads Too! at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond). Capture those wiggly handprints & footprints with fun seasonal themes. 10:30am-12pm. $17 with paint ’n play admission, $15 without. 340-7584, unpluggits.com. Also held: 5/22.

FREE Art a la Carte at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art provides live music, short films & an art activity in connection with Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art. 6-9pm.

FREE Norman’s 2nd Friday Circuit of Art is a monthly celebration of the arts connecting the

downtown arts district with galleries, performance halls, & Campus Corner. Trolley service between venues available at minimal cost. 6-10pm. 360-1162, 2ndfridaynorman.com.FREE LIVE on the Plaza held in the Plaza District (NW 16th between Classen & Penn) on the 2nd Friday of the month includes artwalk, local artists, live music & shopping. 7-11pm. plazadistrict.wordpress.com.

14 • SaturdayLetter Carriers Food Drive is the largest single-day food drive in the country. Plastic bags will be distributed by letter carriers & residents are to fill these bags with canned goods & leave them by their mailboxes by 7am. 604-7109, regionalfoodbank.org.

FREE Coping With Deployments: Psychological First Aid for Military Families at the American Red Cross Central Oklahoma Chapter in OKC addresses the stress & strain of deployments on military families & provides helpful tools for managing these challenges. FREE to military members & their families. Preregister. 8am-5pm. 228-9510, okcredcross.org.

2011 Walk From Obesity at Earlywine Park in South OKC will benefit the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery Foundation & the Obesity Action Coalition. Preregister online. $25, FREE children 12 & under. 9am-noon. 735-2049, walkfromobesity.com.

4th Annual Touch A Truck Fundraiser hosted by the MOMS Club of Edmond at UCO parking lot (2nd & Baumann) benefits the Oklahoma Regional Food Bank: Food 4 Kids program. $2 suggested donation. 9am-1pm. edmondtouchatruck.com.

FREE Ladies Day at the Westside Church of Christ (726 S McGee, Norman) includes a keynote speech by Coach Sherri Coale (OU women’s basketball coach). $5 lunch available. Preregiser. 9:30am-12pm. 329-0392, westsidechurchofchrist.org.

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Rokademy at the Lyric’s Plaza Theater is a rock musical created & performed by Lyric Theatre & Thelma Gaylord Academy students ages 12 & up. 2pm & 7pm. 524-9312, lyrictheatreokc.com.

Canterbury Choral Society: Music from Two Shores at the Civic Center Music Hall features choral music by British & American composers. $20 & up. 7pm. 297-2264, canterburyokc.com.

Fort Reno Candlelight Tour at Fort Reno invites guest to travel around Fort Reno’s historic parade grounds by candlelight while re-enactors portray people of the fort’s past in scenes from various time periods. Arrive early. $8 adults, $6 seniors, $5 kids. 8pm. 262-3987, fortreno.org.

15 • SundayFREE Family Day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art invites guests to explore the museum’s permanent collection & temporary exhibitions & enjoy a variety of hands-on art activities for the entire family. 1-4pm.

FREE Hershey Track Meet sponsored by the City of Yukon Parks & Recreation Department at Yukon High School (1029 Garth Brooks, Yukon) invites metro area students to compete in track & field games. Ages 9-14. Preregister at Jackie Cooper Gym. 1-5pm. 350-8920, cityofyukonok.gov.

Jazz Concert at the Performing Arts Studio (200 S Jones, Norman) features Travis Fite, Cory Mauser, Arthur Thompson & Mike Rigney. 307-9320, pasnorman.org.

17 • TuesdayTuesdays at Sundown at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features a lecture by William Worthen in conjunction with the exhibition “The Bowie Knife: Icon of American Character.” FREE for members, $5 for nonmembers. 6:30-8pm.

18 • WednesdayFREE International Museums Day at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History celebrates museums around the world with FREE admission. 10am-5pm.

19 • Thursday.FREE Family Game Night at Mustang’s Town Center (1201 N Mustang Rd) held the third Thursday monthly. Children 10 & under must be accompanied by adult. 6:30-8:30pm. 376-3411, cityofmustang.org. Edmond Historical Society & Museum’s 25th Heritage Dinner at Oak Tree Country Club (700 Country Club, Edmond). $50 members, $55 non-members. 6-8pm. 340-0078, edmondhistory.org.

FREE 3rd Thursday at the Oklahoma History Center presents The Road to War: the Missouri Compromise, Kansas-Nebraska Act & John Brown’s Raid to kick off the celebration of the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War in Oklahoma. For teens and adults. 7pm.

20 • FridayFREE Spinning Your Wheels 5-mile bike ride begins & ends at Moore City Hall. Individuals & Families are invited to participate. 5:30pm. Details, 793-5053, cityofmoore.com.

Bright Night of Arrgh at Science Museum Oklahoma includes an overnight stay in the museum, breakfast, admission to exhibits, Dome Theater movie, Planetarium show, Science Live theater production & hands-on activities. One adult for every six children required. Preregister. $45 adult/child participant, $20 adult non-participant (excludes hands-on activities). 6pm-8:30am. 602-3760.

Central Oklahoma Hemerocallis Society (Daylily Club) Meeting at the Will Rogers Garden Center. 6pm. 603-2225.

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Raise Your Voice for Autism Reunion Concert at UCO Mitchell Hall Theater (100 N University) features Emmy Award winning singer Bryan White. Benefits Oklahoma Family Center for Autism. $25 in advance, $30 at the door. 7pm. okautism.org.

Movie Night at the Museum at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History screens We’re Back! A Dinosaur’s Story. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 ages 6-17, children 5 & under are FREE, $1 discount per ticket for members. Galleries open, 5:30pm; Movie, 7-9pm.

20-22Lazy E Tri-K Barrel Racing at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie. 340-5300, lazye.com.

21 • SaturdayAquarium Run at the Oklahoma Aquarium features a half-marathon, 5K and 1 mile fun run/walk plus a post-race cook-out on McGraw Beach, a kids zone & free race-day admission. 918-528-1515, [email protected].

2011 National Alliance on Mental Illness Oklahoma 5K Walk at Stars & Stripes Park supports mental illness advocacy, research, education & support programs. Registration 8am, walk 9am. 230-1900, nami.org/namiwalks/ok.

Call to Arms at the Oklahoma History Center invites guests to explore the military through the ages via dozens of interpreters portraying soldiers from the American Revolution through WWII. $10 per vehicle at the gate. 10am-3pm.

1st Annual Battle of the Burger at Marc Heitz Chevrolet in Norman (I-35 & Lindsay) includes a burger grilling contest, kids’ activities, live music & more benefitting Toby Keith Foundation OK Kid’s Korral. 10:30am-4:30pm. 321-7150, battleoftheburger.com. See page 11 for details.

FREE StoryTime with Belle at Uptown Kids (5840 N Classen). 10:30am. 418-8881, uptownkidsstyle.com.

White Water Bay Opening Day for the 2011 Season. 10:30am-6pm. 943-9687, WhiteWaterBay.com.

FREE Lyric Theatre Open House at Lyric’s Plaza Theater & Production Center. Noon-5pm. 524-9310, lyrictheatreokc.com. See page 9 for details.

Family Fun Night at KickingBird Golf Club (1600 E Danforth, Edmond) gives families a chance to play 9-holes with special junior tees & a FREE putting course. $6 green fees, $6 cart, $2 range tokens. 5pm. 341-5350, kickingbirdgolf.com.

Fort Reno Ghost Tour at historic Fort Reno (7107 W Cheyenne, El Reno) invites guests to hear the stories of the restless spirits of the old post align with some of the unsolved mysteries & murders that have occurred there. Preregister. 7:30pm. 262-3987, fortreno.org.

OKC Philharmonic: Philharmonic Showcase at the Civic Center Music Hall features music by Copland, Wagner, Ravel & more. $12 & up. 8pm. 232-7575, okcphilharmonic.org.

22 • SundayFREE Luncheon on the Grass presented by the Firehouse Art Center, The Jacobson House, the Norman Arts Council & the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at Lions Park in Norman invites visitors to bring picnic lunch & enjoy hand-on art activities, live entertainment & desserts. 1-3pm.

26 • ThursdayFREE McLoud One World, Many Stories Kick-Off at the McLoud Public Library begins the 2011 summer reading program with popcorn, lemonade, hair & face painting & a multi-lingual story reading. 11am-noon.

27 • FridayFREE Moore Library Summer Reading Program Kick-Off celebrates the beginning of the summer reading session. Parade begins at City Hall & ends at the Moore Public Library where kids can sign up for the Summer Reading Program & enjoy a celebration. 10am-noon.

Last Day of Edmond Schools at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) includes face painting from 6-7:30pm & dancing from 7:30-8pm. Activities are FREE with paid admission. 6-8pm. $5. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

28 • SaturdayRhythm Q’s & Blues BBQ Cook-Off at Hafer Park (1034 S Bryant, Edmond) includes musical entertainment, muscle cars, activities for kids & food benefitting the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond. $10. 10am. 340-4481, rhythmqsandblues.com.

Late Night Parents Night Out at Unpluggits Playstudio (575 Enterprise, Edmond) provides crafts, games & pizza for kids ages 5 & up while parents enjoy a night out. 6:30-10pm. $25, $20 sibling or friend. Reserve your spot. 340-7584, unpluggits.com.

28-29Switcheroos Children’s Consignment Sale at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson, Norman). Friday, 10am-5pm; Saturday, 10am-5pm. 596-1687, montagefestivals.com.

FREE 10th Annual Oklahoma City Holistic Health Fair at India Shrine Center features lectures, workshops, labyrinth, holistic practitioners, educational info, demos, products & more. Saturday, 11am-7pm; Sunday, noon-6pm. 943-2741.

31 • TuesdayFREE Spring Fling Game Fest at the Ralph Ellison Library includes a night of dancing fun for teens playing games such as Dance Dance Revolution & Just Dance. 5:30-7pm.

June 1OKC Redhawks vs. Round Rock Express baseball at the AT&T Bricktown Ballpark. 7:05pm. $5 & up. 218-1000, okcredhawks.com. Other home games in June: 6/2-7, 13-20.

June 42nd Annual Scleroderma Foundation Fun Walk at Little River Park in Moore includes walk & silent auction. benefitting Scleroderma in Oklahoma’s research for a cure. $20, includes t-shirt. Registration 7:30am, walk 8am. 213-9230, firstgiving.com/scl-ok.

FREE Arcadia Lake’s Kids Fishing Derby for ages 5-15. Registration from 7:30-9am, fishing begins at 8am, final weigh-in for prizes at 11am. Children must be accompanied by adult. 216-7471.

FREE Hooked on Fishing Clinic presented by the OKC Parks & Recreation Dept at Edwards Park Lake (1515 NW Bryant). For ages 5-15 (adult must accompany children under 13). Equipment and trainig provided. Call 316-FISH to register. 8-10am. 297-2211, okc.gov/parks. Also held: 6/11 at MetroTech Springlake & 6/18 at Dolese Youth Park Pond.

June 4-5Route 66 Triathlon at Lake El Reno includes sprint distance & international distance triathlons & an aqua bike. Discounts for early registration. 640-5304, triokc.org.

Fort Reno Reunion at Fort Reno is a reunion for anyone who has lived or worked or had relatives who lived or worked at Fort Reno in the past. 262-3987, fortreno.org.

Looking for more great events? Check out our fully-searchable calendar on our

NEW website, metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar. Search by key words or by categories such as free events, date night, teen, Exploring

Oklahoma, support groups, volunteering and many more.

It’s comprehensive and fully customizable for your needs. You’ll always have dozens of family

fun ideas at your fingertips. Enjoy!


Meghan D. of Moore meeting her newly

adopted daughter Mia Grace, age 4, in the

Ukraine for the fi rst time.

Adeline H, age 1, of Moore with mom Dorothy at Buck Thomas Park in Moore.

Stacy P. of Oklahoma City holds son Micah,

age 4 months, on the beach in San Diego.

Gabriella M. age 2 months, of Guthrie with mom Rebekah. Murphee, age 1, of Moore and

mom Shannon.

Angi G. and Onesimus G., age 2, of Oklahoma City, on the Oklahoma City University campus.

Karlee G., age 2, of Edmond with mom Susan in Hafer Park.

Ella S. of Edmond with mom Katie at Sesame Street Live.

Happy Mother’s Day!In honor of moms on their special day, we asked you, our readers, for mother/child photos and you responded with some of the most touching images.

Enjoy! Find all of the submitted photos at metrofamilymagazine.com/

april-2011-photos.

For our June issue, we’d love to see your best father & child photos in honor of Father’s Day. Send us your favorite photos showing awesome dads and

kids and we’ll feature them all online and select a few to print in our June issue. Deadline for photo submission is Friday,May20. Photo submission

guidelines and a form to submit your photos can be found at metrofamilymagazine.com/

mfm-photo-galleries.

Time toRefresh.The best online resource for Central Oklahoma parents just got even better!

Visit the newly-redesigned

metrofamilymagazine.com• Looking for FREE events, a mom's support group or a music event for your toddler? You'll find all that and more on our searchable calendar!

• Our directories are your one-stop source for the best summer camps, birthday party resources, after-school activities and more.

• Check out our blogs to join the conversation or find inspiration—featuring new daily posts from local moms, dads and educators.

• From parenting advice to practical information, our award-winning exclusive content features parenting advice, practical information, features, columns and news to make parenting easier and more enjoyable.

• Stretch your budget with our money-saving Kids Pass, online coupons, list of family restaurant nights and weekly Friday Freebies.

• Our interactive digital edition allows you to access your favorite MetroFamily articles online, 24/7.

• You could win BIG! Our contests feature family-friendly products, tickets to local events and fun vacation destinations.

Visit daily and don't miss out on the family fun!

metrofamilymagazine.com

metrofamily magazine may 2011

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