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JACLYN COSGROVE Program coordinator NATE BILLINGS Assistant coordinator GRAHAM LEE BREWER JENNI CARLSON KYLE FREDRICKSON SARAH HUSSAIN ADAM KEMP ANDREW KNITTLE BEN LUSCHEN LEIGHANNE MANWARREN JAY MARKS JENNIFER PALMER Jacob Bishop, a senior at Edmond Memorial High School, chats and laughs with a friend during an Mentors AP government class. PHOTOS BY LUCILLE SHERMAN, EDMOND MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL CAROLINE DUKE Right: Cameron Aus- tin, a senior at Ed- About the program Publication designer mond Memorial, plays on his phone and Newsroom 101 is presented THE OKLAHOMAN AND talks to a senior office by the News and Information NEWSOK.COM aide while waiting in Center staff at The Oklaho- the counseling office, man, in conjunction with the where students can Oklahoma Publishing Compa- KELLY DYER FRY drop by at any time in ny’s Newspapers in Education Editor and vice president of between classes or if service. the News and Information Center they have a pass from The 11-week program is for their teacher to speak high school students interest- with their counselor ed in different areas of jour- MIKE SHANNON about anything from classes to home life. nalism and is designed to Managing editor cultivate the skills needed to be a good journalist. ALAN HERZBERGER This publication contains content produced by the 2014 Managing editor of digital program participants and will content be distributed to Oklahoma high schools and other loca- ROBBY TRAMMELL tions. News director Newsroom 101 publications have won the National Asso- ciation of Educational Publish- CLYTIE BUNYAN ers awards twice, most re- Director of business cently in 2006. and lifestyles The program also works in cooperation with NewsOK- .com, which carries the con- tents of this publication at Student council members count ballots for Mr. and Ms. All- www.NewsOK.com/HotInk. Sport Court at Edmond Memorial High School. OKC DISTRICTS KEEP GROWING, ENTERTAINING

BY CERA GREWELL | EDMOND NORTH HIGH SCHOOL

ROWDS are becoming distance of a huge aquarium, all more commonplace in with easy parking and easy ac- COklahoma City as the cess to and from the highway.” city’s growth has created a With an expanding city, wealth of new entertainment maintenance and construc- and dining options. tion are guaranteed. A maze of The influx of people attend- detours and construction sites ing events like Oklahoma City is a price commuters and tour- Thunder games or the month- ists are forced to pay. ly H&8th Night Market often Oklahoma City is growing leaves many struggling to find as a tourist attraction, with a place to park. events and attractions in many More than 15,000 people parts of the city. braved frigid temperatures at “I think all of the districts March’s H&8th, a gathering of truly enhance each other,” said food trucks, live music and Elizabeth Newton, event coor- shopping opportunities, but dinator for Downtown Oklaho- many had to walk several ma City Inc. “I can’t tell you blocks to get there. how many stories I’ve heard that “I would say the biggest thing go a little something like this: missing in downtown are fam- the person was in Midtown ily-friendly activities and shop- shopping and one of the em- ping — and along with that ployees suggested they go to comes a need for easy parking Automobile Alley to visit a few and walking access,” said Bobbie of the shops there, then head to Earles, director of business de- Film Row for pizza at Joey’s. velopment at Insight Creative “...We truly have a commu- Group. “If you go to somewhere nity mindset in downtown and like Dallas, there is a four-story the various districts value the science museum in the middle importance of supporting one of downtown, within walking another.” People mingle during a recent H&8th Night Market food truck festival in downtown Oklaho- ma City. The festival is held monthly for part of the year. PHOTO BY NATHAN POPPE, THE OKLAHOMAN BY JORDAN EVANS | YUKON HIGH SCHOOL

GROWING Preston Northcraft started high school off well, taking honors courses and making straight A’s. But by his sophomore year, Northcraft’s grades started to slip, and his STRONGER attitude changed. At 15, Northcraft was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood and energy. Man overcomes obstacles after However, unlike the staggering 40 percent of Oklahoma youth with bipolar disorder diagnosis at 15 mental illnesses who didn’t receive treatment in 2013, Northcraft was

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION/GETTY IMAGES diagnosed and began treat- Unearthing talents ment. “ONE THING I’VE LEARNED IS NO MATTER Northcraft dropped out but later moved “One of the things we talk to the University of Central Oklahoma. In about is that early intervention is key,” WHAT YOU’VE GONE THROUGH IN LIFE, college, he began to unearth his passion said Jeff Dismukes, spokesman of the IT DOESN’T MATTER IF YOU’VE GONE for writing. Oklahoma Department of Mental THROUGH REALLY TOUGH TIMES, AS LONG Northcraft is now a published novelist Health and Substance Abuse Services. with his second book scheduled for release “The earlier we identify an illness, the AS YOU REALLY WORK AT LIFE AND TRY in September. Both works discuss his per- earlier we can give the appropriate care, TO GROW EVERYDAY AND GROW son struggles with his mental health and and the more successful we are on help- the ways he overcame them. Writing the ing them to that road to recovery.” STRONGER.” novel was a form of therapy itself, he said. With half of all mental illnesses oc- PRESTON “One thing I’ve learned is no matter what curring by 14 and three-fourths by 24, NORTHCRAFT you’ve gone through in life, it doesn’t mat- Northcraft was not out of the norm ter if you’ve gone through really tough when the diagnosis was given. times, as long as you really work at life and Bipolar disorder often develops in a try to grow everyday and grow stronger,” person's late teens or early adult years, Northcraft said. “I think that you’ll be a and at least half of all cases start before 21 PERCENT better person because of it.” age 25, according to the National Insti- When he was 21, Northcraft fulfilled his tute of Mental Health. Some people Oklahomans who report having a mental illness in the past year desire to give back by starting Flashpoint, have their first symptoms during child- a non-profit organization that he began hood, while others may develop symp- with his father. The organization aims to toms late in life, according to NIMH. support people with mental illness and al- But a majority of the time, people so help their families understand what don’t receive treatment until well into 70 PERCENT/ their loved ones experience through their adulthood for a disease they developed illness. in adolescence, according to NIMH. He works as a young adult coordinator 40 PERCENT and has played a role in implementing Getting help Adult Oklahomans and Oklahoma multiple programs geared toward bringing Northcraft’s treatment plan began youth, respectively, who need mental awareness about mental disorders to with bi-monthly therapy, and then health treatment and do not receive it young adults. changed to seeing a counselor once a One of these programs is a support month. He now goes to a psychiatrist group for young people ages 16 to 29 who every three months for a check-up and either have been diagnosed with a mental continues the medication regiment pre- NO. 3 health disorder or have a family member scribed to him at 15. In Oklahoma, mental health disorders are or friend who has been diagnosed. Anoth- “An essential piece of treatment is the third-leading cause of er program will focus on education, with helping people understand their own chronic disease Northcraft and other advocates traveling lives,” said Teresa Capps, executive di- to schools across the Oklahoma City met- rector of the Children’s Recovery Center ro to speak about topics like suicide pre- in Norman. “Helping them understand vention. what pressures have a negative outcome 58 “I’ve had friends that have told me they on their recovery, helping understand Age, on average, to which Oklahomans struggle with depression or anxiety,” what triggers exist, and teaching coping with mental illness live Northcraft said. “I’ve even had a friend skills is really helpful. Education is key.” who said he’s bipolar just because I talked After graduating from high school, OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE to him and told him about that. So I think Northcraft went on to college at the SOURCE: THE OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH once you open up and start talking to peo- University of Oklahoma, but found the AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES ple, people will really open up to you about large campus life overwhelming. issues they have.” SILENT SIGNALS

BY ASHLEY MURDOCK | BETHEL HIGH SCHOOL

STARTED cutting myself last March. I can Also, children and teens cut themselves in the ignores you. honestly say I have changed since then. privacy of their bedroom and in locations on People would just walk by me and not ask me I I thought cutting could help me through a their bodies that are usually covered when what’s wrong — when it’s obvious I’m sad and lot of emotional pain. they’re around their parents. about to cry. I never knew how to open up to people. I And sometimes parents don’t know because Usually, I would have a break down and stay couldn’t explain my feelings in words — and it they have a hard time believing that their kids in the school bathroom so that no one could felt like when I tried to open up to someone, it would have trouble talking to them. bother me. would always end up with the other person In actuality, cutting is a sign of a person suf- I’ve thought about suicide but never attempt- talking about themselves. fering, oftentimes in silence. ed it. I would wonder if everyone would be hap- I had always felt like no one understood me or There's no one single or simple cause that leads py without me. what I was going through. Adults and friends someone to self-injure, according to the Mayo I’ve been called terrible things. would make assumptions and assume they Clinic. I’ve been called worthless, a waste of time or could answer my “problems.” For me, my main problem was being alone. I stupid. I acted like it didn’t offend me, but hon- All they would say is — “Try using something always knew I wasn’t good at making friends. estly, it did and still does. It hurts me knowing else besides cutting.” Their conversations led I’m very quiet, but I am kind to others. Dur- that’s what others think of me. nowhere. ing my depression, I would smile often, hoping In talking with one of my mentors, B.J. Trou- Although the most common type of self harm no one would know how messed up I felt inside. sdale, I asked her how people can help teens involves cutting oneself with any sharp or I thought negatively about myself, and I struggling. jagged object, self-injury encompasses a range would put myself down. “The most important thing is that we don’t of other destructive behaviors, such as burning, Music and cutting was my way to release my judge them,” said Trousdale, the coordinator at hitting, hair-pulling and even breaking bones, pain until the day was over. I wanted to be alone the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Tribal Youth according to the National Alliance on Mental and be myself and try to be happy for who I am, Program. “I think about how parents think Illness. but I always would end up crying, feeling ter- about cutting — they’re worried about the safe- Self-injury can become a pattern of behaviors rible about who I was. ty of it, the danger. ... A lot of times, I think it’s that are ritualistic, and the individual must use When you’re depressed, it feels like everyone just that teenager’s way of communicating be- the same tool and cut in the same places, ac- cause they don’t have the words. They don’t cording to NAMI. have the ability to say or don’t know what My parents found out a few months after I they’re really fearful of.” started. HOW TO GET HELP In sharing my story, I must admit that I’m Often times, as teens mature, their person- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24- afraid people will just think “She’s just another alities are changing, and parents might miss the hour, toll-free, confidential suicide prevention crazy teenager who cuts herself.” But more im- hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or warning signs of cutting. They might not think emotional distress. If you or someone you know is portantly, I hope my story can help others so much of their teen wearing long sleeves or long having suicidal thoughts, you can call the lifeline they don’t have to go through what I’ve been pants, even in hot weather, or claiming to have at 1-800-273-TALK(8255). The call is routed to through. the nearest crisis center in a national network of frequent accidents. more than 150 crisis centers. Cutting isn’t the answer. Asking for help is. GETTING HELP Look for changes in the child. However, be aware STOPPING that not all children who are bullied exhibit warning signs. If you know someone in serious distress or danger, don’t ignore the problem. Get BULLYING help right away. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential sui- cide prevention hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. By dialing A SIGN (800) 273-TALK (8255), the call is routed to the nearest crisis center in our national network of AT A TIME more than 150 crisis centers. SIGNS A CHILD IS BEING BULLIED FROM STAFF REPORTS • Unexplainable injuries • Lost or destroyed clothing, books, electronics, or jewelry • Frequent headaches or stomach aches, feeling sick or faking illness • Changes in eating habits, like suddenly skipping meals or binge eating. Kids may come home from school hungry because they did not eat lunch. • Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares • Declining grades, loss of interest in schoolwork, or not wanting to go to school • Sudden loss of friends or avoidance of social situations • Feelings of helplessness or decreased self There are many warning signs esteem that may indicate that someone • Self-destructive behaviors such as running is affected by bullying—either away from home, harming themselves, or talking being bullied or bullying others. about suicide Recognizing the warning signs is an important first step in taking action against bullying. SIGNS A CHILD MAY BE Not all children who are bullied or BULLYING OTHERS are bullying others ask for help. • Gets into physical or verbal fights It is important to talk with chil- • Has friends who bully others dren who show signs of being • Is increasingly aggressive bullied or bullying others. These • Gets sent to the principal’s office or to deten- warning signs can also point to tion frequently other issues or problems, such • Has unexplained extra money or new as depression or substance belongings abuse. Talking to the child can • Blames others for their problems help identify the root of the • Doesn’t accept responsibility for their actions problem. • Is competitive and worries about their reputa- tion or popularity

SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

THINKSTOCK STEPHANIE MEYER SUZANNE COLLINS VERONICA ROTH

FOR TEEN AUTHORS, GETTING PUBLISHED IS RARE — BUT IT’S NOT UNHEARD OF

BY JESSICA PIRKLE | COYLE HIGH SCHOOL

LTHOUGH teen fiction is a flourish- isn’t up to par with their adult counter- with the written word.” ing genre, many of the books writ- parts. Kenzie Williams, an Oklahoma high Aten for teens aren’t by teens. “Writing is tricky thing, because every- school student who is writing a book, said The Twilight book series about Edward one assumes that the act of writing to move she encouraged her fellow teens to not “... GET AN EDUCATION. and Bella’s love affair? Author Stephanie and amuse people with words is somehow give up. MOST OF US NEEDED Meyer is 40. only slightly more difficult than the act of “You should write about what you like SOMETHING TO And The Hunger Games author Su- writing to place words into vaguely coher- and what you know,” Williams said. zanne Collins is 51. ent sentences,” Scalzi wrote. “This is like Oklahoma author Anna Myers, who SUPPORT OURSELVES The closest is Veronica Roth, author of saying that playing professional baseball is writes young adult novels, said teens WHILE WE WERE the best-selling novel Divergent, who is 25. only slightly more difficult than hitting a should read as much as possible and save Although their work might not be pub- beach ball with a stick. Most everyone can whatever they write. TRYING TO MAKE IT lished, teen authors abound — many hit a beach ball with a stick, but very few “You might never use it exactly as it is, IN PUBLISHING.” adult authors started to write seriously in people would think that means they’re but looking back on it will be valuable to their teens. ready to play in the World Series. Given you some day,” Myers said. “Also, get an ANNA MYERS OKLAHOMA AUTHOR John Scalzi, a science fiction author, that, it’s funny that people think that education. Most of us needed something wrote in a blog post encouraging teen au- they’re going to be really excellent writers to support ourselves while we were trying thors that it’s OK that a teenager’s writing from the first time they try to tell a story to make it in publishing.” A common fight for library CENSORSHIP and free speech advocates

BY CLAIRE OLSON | EDMOND NORTH HIGH SCHOOL

O MANY, the practice of supports the freedom of indi- recently recorded book to be some of the ideals or themes construed 'in light of the special censoring books and oth- vidual reading. challenged is “The Kite Run- portrayed in books. characteristics of the school Ter media may seem like The Oklahoma Library Asso- ner” by Khaled Hosseini, a nov- In the 1982 U.S. Supreme environment.' … But the spe- something only done by op- ciation, a group dedicated to el about two boys who grow up Court case Island Trees Union cial characteristics of the pressive dictator-led govern- intellectual freedom, agrees. in Afghanistan in the 1970s. The Free School District v. Pico, the school library make that envi- ments. “Children and teen materials book is required for sophomore Supreme Court determined ronment appropriate for the In reality, books are challenged are challenged the most,” said English classes in Edmond that schools and libraries could recognition of the First and banned in schools and librar- Leanne Cheek, committee chair Public Schools, Lawton Public not ban books based on opinion Amendment rights of stu- ies across the country every year, of the Intellectual Freedom Schools and Deer Creek Public alone. dents.” including Oklahoma. Committee of the Oklahoma Schools, among others. “In sum, just as access to Numerous studies have Most books are challenged Library Association. “We try to A parent who believed “The ideas makes it possible for citi- shown the importance of read- because of offensive language always be respectful of the con- Kite Runner” was too sexually zens generally to exercise their ing. Researchers Keith Stanov- or sexual explicitness or be- cerned person while trying hard explicit and violent for their rights of free speech and press ich and Anne Cunningham cause their content is deemed to protect everyone's right to child challenged the book, and in a meaningful manner, such found that the amount a child unsuitable for an age group, ac- have materials they are inter- thus did not want any student access prepares students for reads significantly contributes cording to the American Li- ested in, which includes reli- to read it. active and effective participa- to that child’s vocabulary brary Association, a group that gion, sexual orientation (and) Some action has been taken tion in the pluralistic, often knowledge. Other studies have teen issues.” to ensure that schools and li- contentious society in which found that students’ reading The Oklahoma group’s most braries cannot ban books sim- they will soon be adult mem- abilities directly correlate to ply because those on the school bers,” Justice William J. Bren- success in school. Additional or organization’s boards dislike nan Jr. wrote. “Of course, all research shows reading in- First Amendment rights ac- creases one’s vocabulary, world corded to students must be awareness and understanding. “Independent reading builds background knowledge,” Ber- nice E. Cullinan, professor emeritus of New York Universi- ty, wrote in an essay about the effects of independent reading on school achievement. “It contributes to knowledge of text content and familiarity with standard text structures. Independent reading contrib- utes to vocabulary growth. Readers with a rich vocabulary understand content and appre- ciate the language used in well- written texts.” Women earning STEM degrees <1/3 in Oklahoma < 1/3

BY DEFNE ALTAN | CASADY SCHOOL

N OKLAHOMA, women make up neering and senior associate dean for nearly half of the college-age pop- undergraduate programs at the OU Iulation but earn only 31 percent of College of Engineering. “There is a the degrees and certificates in STEM problem in retaining men as well in fields — science, technology, engi- STEM fields. Specifically, the attri- neering and math, according to a re- tion rate for women is higher than cent report. men.” And in fields such as computer sci- The topic has been widely contest- ence, engineering and engineering ed, and numerous theories try to ex- technology, the percentages are even plain the high male-to-female ratio lower, according to reports from in STEM fields. Change the Equation, a nonprofit In traditionally male-dominated STEM education awareness group. fields, women might feel isolated or Experts say that tackling these is- lose confidence in themselves, or per- sues might include initiatives to raise haps they suffer from social stereotypes the percentage of women who enter or an overly macho environment. science, math and engineering in col- Other theories include that long lege. However, another challenge is hours and competitive atmospheres retaining women in those fields. push away female students who might “For my undergraduate class, I grad- plan to work in science or math. uated with a class of 16, and only three “We’ve got more women doctors of us were female,” said Jennifer New- than men,” said Camille DeYong, an man, a meteorology doctoral student at associate professor in industrial engi- the University of Oklahoma. neering at Oklahoma State Universi- Newman said that a lot of women ty. “It’s not that women can’t do it.” dropped out of the program, even in Pulat said the drop-off is greatest sophomore and junior year, and the in the first year, after which most stu- same phenomenon happened in dents will go on to graduate in STEM. graduate school. The first year of college “There is attrition from STEM is often more difficult for fields, period, in college,” said Simin freshmen who face new Pulat, a professor in industrial engi- demands as they transi- tion from high es at OU. school to col- She has seen mentors ac- lege. tively discourage women from Freshmen who might have having children because their come out of high school with productivity will go down. perfect GPAs find themselves “I think that’s a decision COMMON CORE with grades lower than antici- that most women end up hav- pated, Pulat said. ing to make,” Leehan said. However, men and women Attrition of female students COULD BRING react differently to these affects engineering in partic- grades. ular. “Men, when they don’t do With preconceived ideas so well, they might just say, that surround the field, engi- BIG CHANGES next time I’ll study a little har- neering might appear inac- der, and I’ll get an A,” Pulat cessible to female students. BY KAYLA LEINNEWEBER | CHRISTIAN HERITAGE ACADEMY said. “Women in college, The notion that engineering is they’re a lot more quickly dis- only for the gifted and talented S THIS school year begins to are just entering high school, older couraged.” is discouraging to students slowly fade into summer, students who soon hit college could After getting a B or C in who might not consider Athousands of high school be overlooked through this transition freshman year, some women themselves on that level. students are touring colleges and stage. project that they might not be But why should educators thinking about their future. Levi Patrick, the secondary math so successful in STEM fields, emphasize retaining women While they prepare for their next director at the state Education De- and they leave. in STEM fields? step in education, many educators partment, said this is exactly what Later in their careers, many DeYong said diversity in are preparing for the changes that teachers and students should be STEM students apply for com- STEM fields allows the cre- are coming for the fall of this year. thinking about. petitive scholarships and ative interplay of ideas from Reforming education is a daunting “This is something where we have grants, but rejection is com- varying viewpoints, spurring task; however, adjusting to changes a lot of working parts and, as the mon. innovation. Women are an is not a new concept. state Department of Education, we’re Newman said her female important part of this diversi- This year, with Common Core not intending to tell a teacher how to adviser had observed that ty. coming in, the reforms might have a change their curriculum for next women don’t take as many “We all see the world a bit larger impact than usual. year,” Patrick said. “We are focused chances for those scholarships differently,” DeYong said. State education chiefs and gover- on the standard, but it’s still and because they are more worried “When you’re trying to come nors in 48 states developed the always will be up to the teacher to about being turned down. up with the solution to a diffi- Common Core, a set of “college- decide how to make those changes “Females tend to take rejec- cult problem, it helps to have and career-ready standards for kin- because they are the ones who know tion harder,” Newman said. “I different perspectives.” dergarten through 12th grade in En- what to change in their classroom.” know that I do, personally.” And innovation and technol- glish language, arts/literacy and The Education Department is Flexibility and understand- ogy are significant factors in mathematics,” according to the trying to keep students, teachers and ing, especially from mentors, maintaining economic advan- Common Core State Standards Ini- administrations in mind as changes can go a long way in retaining tage. tiative. are implemented because of Com- women. “Innovation in new busi- Forty-four states, the District of mon Core. “There’s this idea that the nesses brings new jobs,” Pulat Columbia, four territories and the However, that comes with chal- career can’t happen at the said. “Jobs increase the qual- Department of Defense Education lenges, department spokeswoman same time as your life, that ity of living. You can’t really Activity have adopted the Common Tricia Pemberton said. one can’t gracefully trade off increase the number of STEM Core State Standards, according to “There is never a good jumping in with the other,” said Kerry graduates by focusing on a the initiative. point,” Pemberton said. “There are Leehan, a graduate student specific gender. It has to be ev- Although the changes from Com- always [new] students in school at studying autoimmune diseas- eryone.” mon Core might help students who some level.” A SHIFT TO THE LEFT? MAYBE WITH GROWING IMMIGRANT POPULATION

BY ANNA MAYER | EDMOND NORTH

Oklahoma has been hailed sions persist between foreign- by many as the reddest state in born citizens and natives, the U.S., with President Ba- particularly in historically rack Obama not winning a conservative states like Okla- single county in the state in homa. either of his elections. Specialists like Craig St. But as the state’s immigrant John, a sociology professor at population continues to grow, 5.6 the University of Oklahoma, experts say Oklahoma could PERCENT OF said that though there could see a political shift to the left. FOREIGN-BORN be initial conflict between “Generally speaking, it is CITIZENS IN STATE immigrants and natives, the true that recent immigrants IN 2012 increase of more foreigners are more likely to align with should in the end create a the Democratic Party than the balance between the two Republican Party,” University Currently in Oklahoma City, groups as they learn to work of Tulsa political science pro- there are several different eth- together. fessor Matt Hindman said. “As the foreign-born have nic communities, including a changing Oklahoma culturally. Oklahoma, with a pop- children in the U.S., the chil- growing Latino population and According to several studies, Democrats. ulation of around 3.8 million, dren will be U.S.-born, and also the Asian District. The many immigrants tend to lean This news is significant in has more than 200,000 for- thus the population of for- spread of cultures is already in the same direction when it Oklahoma, considering that eign-born citizens. The per- eign-born and the population motion. New foods and styles comes to politics -- left. those two groups combine to cent of foreign-born citizens of U.S.-born will become are being introduced to Okla- A 2012 National Survey of make up a rather large percent in Oklahoma was about 5.6 more similar, improving rela- homa, where foreign influen- Latinos by the Pew Research of Oklahoma’s total popula- percent, according to the 2012 tions between them,” St. John ces used to be few. New res- Center said that 54 percent of tion. Latinos make up 8.9 American Community Survey. said. “The values and attitudes taurants are opening with foreign-born Latino citizens percent of the state’s pop- In comparison, Louisiana, a of the foreign-born will likely various cuisines. Thai. Argen- now living in the U.S. were ulation, Asians 1.7 percent. state of 4.6 million, had only change as they adapt to living tinian. German. Democrats, another 15 percent “Today's immigrants arrive 3.7 percent. in Oklahoma, but they should Perhaps due to the inspira- leaned left, and 14 percent predominantly from Latin “I definitely think more and also cause the overall values tion of new cultures, a growth were undecided. That far out- America and Asia,” Hindman more immigrants are and will and attitudes of the Oklahoma in art has burst through Okla- weighed the 11 percent who said. “Both tend to align with move to Oklahoma,” Dream population to shift toward homa. Stroll through the art were Republicans and the 6 the Democratic Party over Act OK leader Judith Huerta their own values and attitudes districts in Oklahoma City, percent who leaned right. Republicans. This is true not said. “Oklahoma is slowly as well.” and you will not only see more Latinos are not the only only for immigrants born out- progressing.” So, with a state immigrant pieces by Oklahoman-born ethnic group that has been side of the U.S., but for the But what type of progress is population that is already one citizens but also more cre- proven to be liberal. In 2009, first and second generation Oklahoma experiencing? of the largest in the South and ations by immigrants. They Gallup conducted a survey born in the U.S. as well.” The sort that spreads new is ever-increasing in numbers, have brought art to Oklahoma among 4,000 Asian-Amer- To some, this news is not cultures, ideas, foods and arts, it seems Oklahoma is already that represents their home icans across the U.S., and 61 welcome. Although America is which will all have a hand in heading down the road to countries. percent stated that they were a “land of immigrants” and shaping Oklahoma’s future. But immigrants are not only was built by immigrants, ten- change. Iranian painter chooses U.S. for freedom

BY ANNA MAYER | EDMOND NORTH

Just like the vibrant colors in her paintings, Behnaz Sohrabian is full of variety and contrast. She likes making determined points with her artwork, but enjoys the seren- ity of it as well. Sohrabian said the art she creates is just a reflection of herself and the way she views the world around her. “My work is about me, my life, being a woman,” Sohrabian said. “What I have encountered throughout my life inspires my artworks.” Sohrabian moved to Oklahoma in 2010 from Tehran, Iran. In Tehran, she received not only a bachelor’s degree in painting and a mas- ter’s degree in art studies, but also earned a bachelor’s degree in applied chemistry. After graduating, Sohrabian decided to move somewhere where she could paint without having to worry about her exhibitions being controlled by the government. Having a sister already in Oklahoma made the choice an easy one. “What I love about Oklahoma is the peace and quiet,” Sohrabian said. “I Painter Behnaz Sohrabian, who moved to Oklahoma from Iran in 2010, poses for a photo at her Edmond home. also like the freedom and opportunities PHOTO BY NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN that are offered here. I came here be- cause I wanted to paint freely with no limitations or censors.” “WHAT I LOVE ABOUT OKLAHOMA IS THE PEACE AND QUIET. I ALSO LIKE THE As an artist, Sohrabian is inspired by FREEDOM AND OPPORTUNITIES THAT ARE OFFERED HERE. I CAME HERE the allure of women and tries to en- BECAUSE I WANTED TO PAINT FREELY WITH NO LIMITATIONS OR CENSORS.” compass that in her work. “Historically, men have depicted BEHNAZ SOHRABIAN women as possessions, either as moth- ers or lovers,” Sohrabian said. “I paint has Sohrabian been motivated by the have changed from abstract figurative Sohrabian hopes to connect with more woman as people — strong people with freedom of expression found in the to realistic figurative,” Sohrabian said. people by producing more and more depth and power. I paint them as del- U.S., but she has also seen a change in “My paintings are also more colorful artwork — all with the influence of icate and sensitive, but not weak.” her art. than before.” Oklahoma shaping her perspective. Since coming to Oklahoma, not only “I can see that most of my works As her life in Oklahoma continues, FROM ITALY TO EDMOND

BY ANNA MAYER | EDMOND NORTH

EDMOND — The ecstatic voice of Angelo make great gelato.” Caprilli is one of the first things a customer Caprilli and his family have lived in Okla- will hear as they walk into his cafe. homa for nearly two years now. He thinks Caprilli, owner of Roma’s Gelato in Ed- the people in Oklahoma are incredible, but mond, welcomes everyone in as if they are he is not so fond of other aspects of the already old friends. state. He is the type of character that writers “(Oklahoma) is an odd state because I dream about meeting, complete with a don’t like too many tornadoes,” Caprilli booming laugh and large hand gestures. said. “I don’t think anybody likes them. And He speaks with a thick Italian accent, then the ocean is pretty far away from here. wears an apron with spots of whatever he These are two major issues. But everything was just cooking, and can be seen pacing else is fine. I like the people.” around fixing every imperfection in his shop Although he has enjoyed living in Okla- — such as a crooked picture frame. homa thus far, to him the state, and America “My nickname at home is Monk, like the in general, has room for improvement. TV detective,” Caprilli said. “I shake hands “Being from Italy has a certain influence,” and stuff, but I’m OCD. Everything must be Caprilli said. “Europe is a totally different in the right place.” world. In Europe there’s a different idea Caprilli was born and raised in Milan and about everything. For us, if you’re gay, well later moved to Rome. ... so what? LBGT doesn’t bother me. Italy is In Italy, he met his wife, an Oklahoman very liberal compared to here.” opera singer. He also enjoys the thought of more im- Together they moved to North Carolina, migrants moving to Oklahoma and America. where they lived for eight years, then con- “America is built on immigration,” Ca- tinued to Nova Scotia, Canada, for a year. prilli said. “Even Native Americans were at After his wife received a job offer to teach one point immigrants a long time ago. And I at the University of Central Oklahoma, the believe that diversity helps because we are couple moved to the state. not standardized. We can have different Although he originally worked in infor- races, different mentalities, different points mation technology, Caprilli decided to open of view. I think immigration is a positive up his own gelato restaurant with the help of thing, of course should be regulated some- his family and friends. how. I’m impressed with the all the immi- “My friend in Italy owns a gelato restau- grants in Oklahoma.” rant, and he told me I could go learn how to Caprilli’s goals are to present Oklahoma make good gelato anywhere. I could do it with authentic, quality Italian food. He be- Italian immigrant Angelo Caprilli poses for a portrait over the gelato at his here in America,” Caprilli said. “Then he lieves there is nothing like the experience of store, Roma's Gelato in Edmond. Caprilli has lived in the United States for 10 years and holds dual citizenship. said to come to his shop in Italy for two or trying new good food and feels like that is PHOTO BY K.T. KING, THE OKLAHOMAN three weeks, and he would teach me how to something Oklahoma could benefit from. THE (INTER)NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION

BY ALEX MCLOUGHLIN | EDMOND NORTH The NBA is an American league, but it has many people from outside the U.S. playing in it. There were a record high 92 players from 39 countries and territories to start this season. That comes out to be roughly 20 percent of players in the entire league. The Thunder has four international players currently on its roster. Let’s get to know them.

STEVEN ADAMS SERGE IBAKA THABO SEFOLOSHA HASHEEM THABEET Home country: New Zealand Home country: Republic Home country: Switzerland Home country: Tanzania Birthplace: Rotorua, population of Congo Birthplace: Vevey, population Birthplace: Dar es Salaam, 68,900 Birthplace: Brazzaville, 17,676 population 3.2 million Fun fact about Steven: Grew up population 1.6 million Fun fact about Thabo: He is the Fun fact about Hasheem: At playing rugby and is the youngest Fun fact about Serge: He speaks first Swiss-born player in the 7-foot-3, he is the tallest player of 18 siblings. five different languages — Linga- NBA. currently in the NBA. Fun fact about New Zealand: la, French, Spanish, Catalan and Fun fact about Switzerland: It Fun fact about Tanzania: It is Organized commercial bungee English. has one of the world’s highest home to Africa’s tallest mountain, jumping originated in New Zeal- Fun fact about the Congo: En- life expectancies. Mt. Kilimanjaro. and. dangered species, including Impact on the Thunder: Thabo Impact on the Thunder: Hash- Impact on Thunder: Steven is a chimpanzees and gorillas, live is one of the best perimeter de- eem brings energy to the game in tough and physical center who here. fenders in the NBA and regularly every situation. He’s worked hard doesn’t mind the extra contact. Impact on the Thunder: Serge is shuts down the shooting guards on his jumper, and his size makes He helps the Thunder get offen- widely regarded as the best shot- opposing him. every opponent think twice about sive rebounds that lead to easy blocker in the NBA. He is also the trying to shoot over him. layups and dunks. third-leading scorer on the team. DON’T THINK — JUST JAM A ROLLER DERBY GIRL’S MOTTO

F YOU THINK it's tough making your way through a crowd on the BY CAMILA GONZALEZ | HARDING CHARTER PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL Istreet, just try to make your way through a pack of women on roller skates — especially when their aim is to knock you as far as they can. “Your body goes into a fight or flight response,” said Elizabeth Quin- lan, a member of the Oklahoma City Roller Derby league. Quinlan, also known as ‘Eliza Jukes You,’ plays for the Tornado Alley Rol- lergirls, one of the teams in the Okla- homa City Roller Derby league. From the mid-2000s, roller derby in the Oklahoma City metro has continued to grow. In the Oklahoma City metro, roller derby leagues include not only the OKC Roller Derby league but also the Oklahoma Victory Dolls; the OKC Wolf Pack, a men’s roller derby team; and the OKC Outlaws, a banked track team. Outside of the OKC metro, there are leagues in Tulsa, Enid, Ada and Lawton, among other cities. The term “roller derby” dates to the 1920s, originally used to describe roller skate races, according to the Women’s Flat Track Derby Associ- ation. In the late 1930s, Leo Seltzer’s touring competition, Transcontinen- tal Roller Derby, began to evolve from Elizabeth Quinlan, known as “Eliza Jukes You,” is a member of the Oklahoma City Roller Derby league. She’s shown after a marathon skating race on a raised practice April 26 at Skate Galaxy in Oklahoma City. PHOTO B NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN track to a more physical competition emphasizing skater collisions and falls, according to the organization. This became the foundation of the team Quinlan’s first injury was a bruised rib. She once sport that still exists today: two teams of was out for six weeks because of a separated shoulder. five skaters who score points by passing Other teammates have broken arms and ankles and members of the opposing team. gone home with a multitude of bruises. In the early 2000s, modern women’s roller derby “I've been pretty lucky,” Quinlan said. got its start in Austin, Texas. Although it’s a physical game, modern-day roller The flat track version of the sport — different from derby has an extensive set of rules and a structure to the banked track roller derby of the 1970s — spread the way its played. like wildfire in subsequent years, as the ability to mark Each roller derby game, or bout, is made up of track boundaries on a skating rink floor or other ven- about 40 jams, which each lasts for up to two min- ues, rather than building and storing a large banked utes. track, made it possible to play the game just about Four blockers from each team create the pack. One anywhere, according to the Women’s Flat Track Derby player, the jammer, passes through the pack once. Association. When the jammer comes back around, every player By 2011, there were nearly 500 flat track roller derby she passes gets her team a point. There is one jammer leagues worldwide. for each team per jam. Quinlan started playing roller derby about three People might think that roller derby is “fake” or years ago. that the players are mean. For example, people might Her mom was supportive from the start, but at first, assume, while attending a roller derby bout, they Quinlan’s dad didn't understand. However, once he might see a lot of elbows thrown and players beating went to a bout, he changed his mind about the sport. each other up. However, that’s largely not the case. Because it’s a physical sport, injuries can happen. “It's just a normal sport,” Quinlan said.

PHOTOS BY NATE BILLINGS, THE OKLAHOMAN Bad Granny’s Bazaar has a variety of unique items for sale, including mannequins with hats and head pieces, records and masks. The bazaar, located in Oklahoma City’s Plaza District, feels both like a store and a museum. ‘SOMEWHERE BETWEEN a thrift shop and a boutique’

BY DESTINY WASHINGTON | CLASSEN SCHOOL OF ADVANCED STUDIES

PAINTING OF a woman in a purple For Harris, a stay-at-home mom for 16 sale she bought it. and white dress and cat-eye years, Bad Granny’s just “landed right in When Harris bought the bazaar, only Aglasses greets you, her bright red her lap.” six vendors sold there. Four years later, lipstick and sunset orange hair hard to While her son was off at school, she she has 50 vendors and a three-page miss. wanted to find a hobby, and garage and waiting list. In bold white letters, the sign reads, estate sales seemed like a good fit. “My vendors just kind of found me,” “Bad Granny’s Bazaar.” When a booth space opened up at Bad Harris said. “I use no judgment and am Inside this popular Plaza District shop, Granny’s, she seized the opportunity and open to just about everything.” owner Diana Harris stands among racks began her own booth. She fell in love The vendors inside of Bad Granny’s of clothes, the shelves of shoes, comic with Bad Granny’s. It was only natural make the store truly a bazaar. books or records in the back room. when the owner put the bazaar up for It’s full of individuality, with things “MY VENDORS JUST KIND OF FOUND ME. I USE NO JUDGMENT AND AM OPEN TO JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING.” DIANA HARRIS OWNER, BAD GRANNY’S BAZAAR

Diana Harris, the lone worker and owner of Bad Granny’s Bazaar, poses for a picture inside her store in Oklahoma City’s Plaza District. PHOTO BY K.T. KING, THE OKLAHOMAN from every corner of the state packed shop and a vintage boutique.” fashion world. under one roof. More and more bazaars and vintage Miller said she sees a lot of her stu- “It is not a thrift shop,” Harris said. “It stores have popped up across Oklaho- dents as well as the fashion industry is truly a bazaar. My vendors do the ma, with the concept of thrifting con- embracing the art of “thrifting,” and thrift store shopping for you. Although tinuing to thrive in popular culture. predicts that thrifting will not be going it’s not a vintage boutique because the Susan Miller, associate Professor of out of style anytime soon. prices aren’t too high and not a thrift fashion marketing at the University of “Thrifting is all about the mystery of shop because it’s more organized, but Central Oklahoma, said she sees bazaars finding something unique,” Miller said. it’s just somewhere between a thrift and thrift shops as a compliment to the “It’s all about the search.” FINDINGFINDING AA ‘SECOND‘SECOND CHANCE’CHANCE’ VOLUNTEERS HELP NORMAN SANCTUARY SAVE LIVES

BY BRITTANY REYES | NORMAN NORTH HIGH SCHOOL

NORMAN — True to its name, Second Chance Ani- One of those volunteers is 19-year-old Elizabeth mal Sanctuary saves more than 700 dogs and cats Armstrong. from euthanasia each year by picking them up from Armstrong started volunteering once a week about animal control offices across the Oklahoma City three months ago. She grew up around animals and metro. wanted to find a way to be around them. “We want (the stray problem) to get better,” Cindy “I was just like ‘Second Chance? That sounds Adams, Second Chance office manager, said. “We fantastic!’” Armstrong said. “And then I found out it want to educate people to be responsible for the was no-kill, and that was the selling point because I animals that they have, spay and neuter their pets so don’t agree with killing shelters.” that no unwanted litters end up in pounds, and Adams said if animal sanctuaries did not exist, the hopefully we won’t need to save animals because animals they take in would not ever make it to a they all would have homes.” permanent home. Second Chance Animal Sanctuary, 4500 24th “Unfortunately there would be a lot of animals Ave. NW, has been open since 1989. that would be euthanized because there would be The non-profit “no-kill” shelter takes in about nowhere else for them to go,” she said. “We adopt 700 dogs and cats a year and cares for up to 75 ani- out 700 to 800 a year, so that’s from our sanctuary mals at a time. alone 700 to 800 animals that would’ve probably Adams and other employees work daily to make been euthanized.” sure their pets are in good care and go to good Adams finds that some pets that they retrieve homes. It takes a lot of help to take care of the ani- from shelters have many behavioral and medical mals that are brought in. That’s why Second Chance problems when they arrive. Second Chance, which is actively recruits volunteers. funded solely from private donations, takes care of “Volunteers at Second Chance work to help with the expenses of caring for pets who come in sick or whatever needs to be done,” Michelle Herrin, staff injured. member at Second Chance, said. “We have dogs “When they come in they have to go through quar- that need walking, cats that need to be played with, antine, for two weeks at least, in the back so we can get help with giving the pet’s baths, nail trimming, and all their vetting finished. We actually have a lot of ani- over all just cleaning up the sanctuary so that it look mals that are sick right now, ’cause unfortunately ... nice.” they're coming from shelters. They are exposed to ill- Each day, between 10 and 15 volunteers — often ness and disease, so until they are cleared by our vet times students from the University of Oklahoma — they are not available for adoption, so we probably have come to help. another 30 dogs in the back.”

These cats and dogs are among the pets that have been available for adoption from Second Chance Animal Sanctuary in Norman. Find current pets up for adoption by going to www.secondchancenorman.com/ adopt.htm. OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE PHOTOS TILL DEATH DO US PART ... HOW MARRIAGE HAS CHANGED OVER THE PAST 50 YEARS

BY HAYLEY BLEDSOE | MUSTANG HIGH SCHOOL

Society is changing, and so is marriage — Both the McNabbs and the Amayas had from the age people get married to how many quick courtships — but the couples had very people will get to celebrate a 50th wedding different weddings. anniversary with the people they love. The McNabb’s wedding was traditional and Some couples may never even marry, held in their church with the reception on-site. which is a more widely accepted concept Meanwhile, the Amaya's wedding was held than ever before. outside in the Myriad Botanical Gardens In the 1960s, the American Dream was to downtown. They used their own vows during have a successful, picturesque family within the ceremony. Afterward, the couple and the bonds of matrimony. their guests had dinner reservations at a res- It was not uncommon for girls to marry taurant. soon after high school. Marriage was the next “Our wedding was very special,” Jorgie step in life. Amaya said. The Revs. Jim and Linda McNabb, pastors Another factor in these delayed commit- at The Bridge in Mustang, have been married ments is money. for 42 years. According to the Cost of Wedding, in Ok- The couple starting dating when they were lahoma County the average cost of a wedding 17 and 15 years old. is anywhere between $17,000 and $28,000, The McNabbs had their first date at a whereas 40 years ago, it was only about church bowling party. Jim called Linda soon $7,800. after for a second date, and they never looked Often times, people choose to wait until back. they have graduated college or have a steady Things have changed since then. income. As a result, an estimated 60 percent “I’m not seeing any 18- (or) 19-year-olds of couples live together before they are mar- getting married like I used to,” Jim McNabb, ried. who has officiated countless weddings in his Meanwhile, an estimated 40 percent of all 35 years at The Bridge. first-time marriages end in divorce, accord- In 2014, the average age for a woman to get ing to the American Psychological Associ- married is 28 and for men, it is 26, both all- ation. time highs, according to the 2010 U.S Cen- Despite this, a survey that Stage of Life sus. conducted in 2006 showed that most high Jorgie and Isais Amaya were 42 and 29 school seniors expect to get married, and 90 when they got married. percent of those students want to stay mar- The couple met one night at Remington ried to one person. Park, and Jorgie knew from that night on that Every student who participated agreed that Isais was the man for her. marriage, regardless of whether it was for When talking about how she and her hus- better or worse, is a serious commitment. band met, Jorgie Amaya said, “To you, your It looks like the quest for true love never story is the best because it's yours. It's the will go out of style — even if your wedding one you write. It's our story.” colors do. GETTY IMAGES DIVORCE LEAVES LASTING EFFECTS

BY ZILLE HUMA | MERCY SCHOOL INSTITUTE

The moment Sarah saw her family move out of their house, she knew things would never be the same. When Sarah was 5, her parents told her they were getting a divorce. She was confused. “I did not fully understand what di- vorce was,” said Sarah, who asked that her last name not be used. “All I knew watching my family leave the house was that things would never be the same GETTY IMAGES again.” Many Oklahoma children and teens go ‘There was something missing’ “They deserve both role models to be made me stronger,” she said. “And I felt through struggles similar to what Sarah Jessica, who asked that her last name present before them,” Schultheis said. sad for my parents, not angry, because I experienced. not be used, takes marriage classes in No more family dinners knew how hard it was for both of them. I remember watching them both break About 12 percent of Oklahomans were Oklahoma. Allison was 17 when her parents “offi- down in the middle of conversations and divorced in 2000, according to the U.S. She said when her parents were di- cially” separated. letting the stress pour out in the form of Census Bureau. In 2012, that number vorced, she felt empty inside. Allison, who asked that her last name tears.” grew to 14 percent. “There was something missing,” Jes- not be used, said that signing the divorce Pokorny said people who aren’t mar- Lois Pokorny, a child psychologist, sica said. “When my parents were to- papers was just a legal process. ried and haven’t been through a trau- said divorce occurs for a variety of rea- gether, I felt like there was hope. I never “I felt they separated the day they matic event in life should be be sympa- sons, including couples who become actually accepted the fact that they have stopped talking, sleeping, or even stand- thetic toward those who have. distant from one another or who grow divorced each other.” ing in the same rooms,” she said. “I think someone who might come unforgiving or less accepting. Jessica said she still misses the rela- After the divorce, there were no more across this article and isn’t married and “They stop remembering the good tionship that her parents had. family dinners. Allison saw her family is also not a child whose parents were di- times and remember all of the negative “To this day, I get dreams that they are tear apart when she saw them arguing. vorced should become more sympathet- things about each other,” Pokorny said. together,” Jessica said. “I miss sitting The divorce was difficult for her, but ic toward the children who do,” Pokorny Pokorny said couples should spend with them like a complete family.” overall, it made her a stronger and more said. more time with one another and live in Jaime Schultheis, a trained divorce compassionate person. “...As for those couples who are hap- the real world. mediator, said no child should have to go “I was much more compassionate for pily married and read this article, (they) “There’s no way you will love your through the traumatic experience of di- people who go through any traumatic should be more appreciative of one an- husband or wife every day — that’s just a vorce and they shouldn’t have to choose events in life, and the fact that I had to other and stay that way.” silly fantasy,” Pokorny said. between their parents. grow up faster than the kids around me What’s your obsession? The Newsroom 101 staff polled their fellow high school students ...

“My obsession is "Drums because it's just my passion." Vine because there DANTE LALLI, EDMOND MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL are tons of funny things to watch on there.” SKYLAR HAMLETT, HERITAGE HALL “Cowboy boots." “Taco cats.” SAVANNAH MAYO, CHONG DOOLIN, HOME SCHOOL HARDING CHARTER STUDENT PREP HIGH SCHOOL

“I suppose my latest obsession is the Ender’s Game series. I’ve read all of them since the movie’s premiere. They’re philosophically interesting “These pelicans that have been living down at the boathouse. They’re and adventurous in a way unique to huge and pure white, and they do everything in sync. When they fly, you anything I’ve read before.” can see the black tips of their wings. It makes me think ‘Their dark side is only visible when they’re up in the sky, exposed, and doing their own SYDNEY GIBSON, thing.’” CASADY SCHOOL GRACE GLIVA, CASADY SCHOOL

“Shoes, all sorts "Poetry." “A book series that I really like ... of them.” called Mortal Instruments. I EMILY STEELE, watched the movie and then I HIBA CHEEMA, EDMOND NORTH was like ‘What?!’ at the end.” MERCY SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL INSTITUTE SUPRIYA SRIDHAR, NORMAN NORTH HIGH SCHOOL “Classy things are my "Death Note, because of the character L." latest obsession, like elegant parties and suits.” TORI TEMPLIN, COYLE HIGH SCHOOL JANNIK VOELLINK, EDMOND SANTA FE

“Mine would have to be painting “Classic rock. I've listened to it and drawing because I feel a sense for all my life and my parents of calmness come over me when have cultured me in that genre “I'm not an I’m in front of a canvas. It’s really of music, and that really helps obsessive person.” hard to describe what makes me me on a daily basis." DAILY WILSON, want to paint. I guess you could say WELLSTON HIGH that every teenager finds their click RICHARD WOLCOTT, and painting became mine.” NORMAN HIGH SCHOOL BRITTANY HORN, JENKS HIGH SCHOOL

“My biggest obsession is music because it’s one thing “I am currently obsessed with Downton Abbey ... It's interesting how much we that’s always defi- relate to the issues they had even today." nitely there. When KATIE CAROLLO, TUTTLE HIGH SCHOOL everything’s gone bad, music is the thing that under- stands me and the thing I understand most.” CHRIS PEREZ, YUKON HIGH SCHOOL Runners sprint past the 9:03 Gate of Time on April 27 at the beginning of the 14th annual Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon. PHOTO BY K.T. KING, THE OKLAHOMAN

All Leora Lee Sells was doing thon, remembering Sells, one man life is,” Lynes, an OKC WHAT IT TAKES that day was going to work, just of the 168 people who died on Landrunners board member, like so many others. April 19, 1995, when a massive said. “All the victims did that Sells, a legal secretary for the explosion removed the entire day was go to work as any other RUNNING U.S. Department of Housing north side of the Alfred P. Mur- day.” and Urban Development, was rah Federal Building. When asked of his favorite TO REMEMBER later remembered for her frien- Sells was close friends with memory of Sells, he started to dliness when answering the tel- Lynes and his family. laugh. ephone. He said it was an honor to run “I don’t think I should even A FRIEND That’s who Kevin Lynes ran in her honor. tell you this,” he said, in honor of at this year’s Okla- “(The marathon) reminds me laughing. BY KATELYNN MCLAUGHLIN | HARDING CHARTER PREP homa City Memorial Mara- of how precious and fragile hu- “She thought the Marathon participants run in downtown Oklahoma City at the start of the 14th annual marathon. PHOTO BY K.T. KING, THE OKLAHOMAN

dog was about to die so she runners at the memorial run do, over- gave it mouth-to-mouth come with emotion. “I JUST FOUND SOMETHING TO EAT, SAT DOWN resuscitation.” “I just found something to eat, sat Lynes has been running for almost 10 down and thought about what I had just AND THOUGHT ABOUT WHAT I HAD JUST DONE. years, running in the OKC Memorial Mara- done.” he said. I COULDN’T BELIEVE I HAD DONE IT.” thon six times. In total, he has participated After finishing the marathon, Lynes KEVIN LYNES in 17 other marathons and three ultra-mar- said he felt a sense of accomplishment athons. and disbelief. After his first marathon in 2008, “I couldn’t believe I had done it,” he Lynes didn’t break down, which some said. Pope Francis makes an impact — even as far away as Oklahoma

BY LUCILLE SHERMAN | EDMOND MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

Pope Francis has yet to make dict the views of the church. a trip to the United States, but “Francis has expanded the Pope Francis blesses a child his kindness and charisma has a July 28 in Rio de Janeiro, embrace of the Church,” said far-reaching impact, including Brazil. Hundreds of thou- Michelle Blasquez, a Catholic among Oklahoma City’s young sands of young people slept sophomore at the University of under chilly skies in the Catholic population. white sand of Copacabana Oklahoma. “He has changed Becky Ortman, a 17-year-old awaiting Pope Francis’ final the delivery of Catholic beliefs, Mass for World Youth Day. Oklahoma City Catholic, said however he has not changed the AP PHOTO Francis has drawn her toward beauty and constancy of the the faith and inspired her to do doctrine.” research on what the Catholic He has deviated from the tra- church believes. dition of the papacy, refusing to “He’s focusing on different wear the red slip-on shoes that things than previous popes popes before him have worn, have,” Ortman said “... He and instead of staying in the of- makes me excited about the “After World Youth Day, he said the Most Rev. Paul S. Coak- humbled himself when it comes ficial papal apartments, mod- faith.” was a hit with the youth,” said ley, archbishop of the Archdio- to these issues saying, “Who am estly living in the Vatican’s San- Pope Francis was elected su- Sister Barbara Joseph Foley, a cese of Oklahoma City. I to judge?” and “We cannot in- ta Marta hotel. preme pontiff on March 13, 2013. Carmelite nun in Oklahoma The innovation and “youth- sist only on issues related to It is thought that Francis Since then, the Catholic leader City who worked with high fulness” Francis brings to the abortion, gay marriage and the sneaks out into the city at night has grown in popularity, receiv- school youth for 13 years. “I church is welcome to many, in- use of contraceptive methods.” with Archbishop Konrad Kra- ing TIME Magazine’s Person of think that’s because the youth cluding some of the adults of “It seems to me that Francis jewski to give alms to the poor the Year in 2013. want truth — and he speaks the church. embodies in a very attractive and meet with the homeless. During World Youth Day, a truth, both in word and by ex- “He brings a youthfulness to way ‘the joy of the Gospel,’” He kissed a man in Saint Pe- worldwide encounter celebrat- ample. Our youth will be able to something that used to be very Coakley said. “He has been gift- ter’s Square at the Vatican who ed with the pope every three relate to him because of his sim- traditional and somewhat ed by the Holy Spirit with the suffered from neurofibromato- years, Francis told the crowd of plicity.” ‘adult,’” said Matt Bond, a charism — or power — of evan- sis, a genetic disorder that had young people: “The Church Because of Francis’ simplicity youth minister at St. John the gelization, of sharing the good caused the man to develop se- needs you, your enthusiasm, and humility, he has been able Baptist Catholic Church in Ed- news of Jesus Christ in a way vere deformities. your creativity and the joy that to adapt Catholic teachings to mond. that attracts and intrigues those “He reminds us that even the is so characteristic of you.” current times, further capturing Unlike past pontiffs, Francis who previously might have had best of us are still not exempt Francis exhibits an invest- the attention of the youth. has taken a nonjudgmental the wrong idea of who Jesus is from the pull of sin, but that ment in the youth of the church, “Francis has an ability to stance on controversial issues or why the Church exists.” shouldn’t stop us from perse- causing them to reciprocate in- speak in parables and meta- within the church, such as Although Francis has spoke vering in our love and compas- terest in him, as well as the Ca- phors just as Jesus did, which abortion, contraception and out on heated issues within the sion,” said Nate Yokell, a tholic Church, church leaders also enhances his effectiveness homosexuality. church, and even within the Catholic sophomore at the Uni- say. with youth and young adults,” As a world leader, he has world, his views do not contra- versity of Oklahoma. UNITS OFFER SPECIAL TOUCH FOR NEWBORNS IN NEED

BY JIM ZHANG | HERITAGE HALL

An effort is underway in Oklahoma to to reduce the rate of premature birth to Nurse Beverly McCoy injects milk 9.6 percent or less by 2020, a goal set by into a feeding tube for an infant in the March of Dimes’s prematurity cam- an incubator at the Mercy Hospital neonatal intensive care unit in paign. Oklahoma City. Such units provide Oklahoma has a premature birth rate care for premature infants who are of 13 percent, according to the March of born at least 3 weeks before his or her due date. Dimes premature birth report card of PHOTO BY CHRIS LANDSBERGER, 2013. THE OKLAHOMAN ARCHIVE Nationwide, 1 out of every 8 baby is born prematurely due to many different circumstances. support to the families at the NICU. Many of those babies end up at a hos- Lecercq said NICU infants are attend- pital’s neonatal intensive care unit, or ed by nurses during the “touch sched- NICU. ule” for medical intervention, temper- Ashlie Wilhelm remembers her time ature checkup, or diaper changes. in the NICU when her son John was born The babies will spend most of their at 23 weeks and weighed only 1.5 pounds stay at the NICU sleeping in a contained in 2011. position with adequate humidity and “The NICU experience is difficult and darkness that’s similar to a mom’s every family’s journey is different,” Wil- womb, an ideal environment for preterm helm said. The Wilhelm family is currently in- Cigarette smoking, alcohol use, illegal infants to grow, and to learn how to sur- During the family’s three-month stay volved in many of Mercy Hospital’s NI- drug use and extreme physical activities vive. at the NICU, John received a heart valve CU activities and is active in March of during pregnancy are all known risk fac- Each nurse at NICU has two to three surgery and several blood transfusions Dimes events, in hopes that they can give tors to having a premature infant. babies on service during their 12-hour before he returned home with stable back to the organizations after “receiving Overall, premature birth has become shifts. health conditions. such an outpouring of love and support” an increasingly serious issue across the The nurses also will teach the infant’s “Our family’s time at the NICU was during such a special time, Wilhelm nation. parent, or parents, how to take better very unusual since we lost baby John’s said. In an average week in Oklahoma, 1,039 care of their babies by handing over some twin sister at 22 weeks and me staying Inside the NICU, a team of neonatol- babies are born, according to the state tasks, such as temperature checking, pregnant with John for another 9 days in ogists, pediatricians, nurses, physician Health Department. Of that, 144 babies diaper changing, and kangaroo care: a labor,” Wilhelm said. assistants, respiratory therapist and so- are born preterm. Eight die before reac- skin-to-skin contact with the infants to Today, John does not have any major cial workers provides nurturing care to hing their first birthday. stimulate better recovery. health issue besides a scratchy voice the premature infants, who are born at Julie Leclercq, the March of Dimes The NICU does not just simply make from a slightly damaged vocal chord least 3 weeks before their due date. NICU family support specialist, is in sure that these babies can go home with during his medical procedure and is The earlier the baby is born, the more charge of weekly craft sessions, parent the families — it’s also preparing them about to enter school with children who severe his or her health problems are education classes and discharge meet- for the rest of their life with all of their are his age. likely to be. ings as part of her routine to provide efforts, Leclercq said. The Hot Ink TIME TRAVEL staff polled their fellow high

“I probably want to live in the 70s be- school students cause it was the birth of all sorts of "(The) 80's be- and asked — great music, especially the Beatles. I cause it seems think it would be interesting to live dur- really cool, and I've if you could choose ing the 70s since it was basically the always liked the beginning of standing up for what you 80's." another century, believe in and protesting against it.” KENZIE WILLIAMS, which one would ADAM SCHIFFERDECKER, COYLE HIGH HERITAGE HALL SCHOOL you live in?

"I feel like the 1980s "The 20's because I would love to "Medieval time era because was just a simpler time. dress like a flapper and enjoy all that it was the time of kings, It was an age that kids stuff and the jazz — jazz is where queens, knights, ponies, played outside and we it's at!" Shetland ponies, royalty, magic and wizards." didn't have out eyes EMILY STEELE, constantly glued EDMOND NORTH HIGH SCHOOL COLTEN LOBB, NORMAN NORTH HIGH to a phone.” SCHOOL ALLISON SMITH, EDMOND NORTH HIGH SCHOOL "I'd live in England, in the 1500's." MALLORY WYATT, "The future, like the year “(The) 1960s cause that just sounds like a rad time." HARDING 3000" CHARTER NICOLE MACLEAN, PREP HIGH CHONG DOOLIN, EDMOND NORTH HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL HARDING CHARTER PREP HIGH SCHOOL WhatWhat century century would would youyou want want to to live live in? in?

"Woodstock was the great- “I would like to live in the Renaissance period, because there are so many est event in human history different art works being created at this time.” in the 1900's so I would go JONATHAN CONLEY, to that time period." HARDING CHARTER PREP CAMERON FLETCHER, NORMAN HIGH SCHOOL

“If I could choose any time to live I would choose now be- “I’d prefer to have lived during the Renaissance cause I’m quite happy with my current life.” because of the blooming of culture. The fine arts were at the peak of their blossoming and SABA SANDHU, were incorporated into everyday life.” MERCY SCHOOL INSTITUTE RYAN HERNANDEZ, YUKON HIGH SCHOOL

"1920s because of the “The 1920’s outburst of music art because of all the big, beautiful and literature and just "I like the era I live in because I'm not the type culture and it seems parties and glamorous dresses of person to whine about when, where, and like a really cool time how I live if I can't control it. So I refuse to be- period to be a part of." that embodied the extravagance of lieve living in another time was better than liv- LINDSEY SHOWN, the Jazz Age.” ing now." MUSTANG HIGH DAILY WILSON, SCHOOL MEGAN CARMAN, THOMAS FAY WELLSTON HIGH SCHOOL CUSTER HIGH SCHOOL HOTHOT INKINK STAFFSTAFF Read more about Newsroom 101 online at NewsOK.com/hotink.