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Volume 53, Issue 10 April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 Read us daily at www.city-sentinel.com Ten Cents

Page 5 Page 5 Page 7 Page 10 Lift every voice – Chorus of 168 to remember the Murrah Bombing First Baptist remembers Murrah bombing with musical program, “Shelter” The Color Run, “the happiest 5K on the planet” OCU’s production of Lerner & Loewe classic ‘Brigadoon’ Our city remembers the Murrah Bombing, honoring the victims, their families and local response Staff Report memorate the 20th anniversary ers and family members. of the Oklahoma City bombing. The effort will include Twenty years after the “The Resilience Project” in- screenings and panel discus- bombing of the A.P. Murrah cludes a new documentary that sions across the state, custom- Federal Building in downtown explores the collective memo- ized classroom materials, and Oklahoma City, the communi- ries of those impacted by the a comprehensive project web ty will remember the victims event, a digital story collection site (oeta.tv/resilience and of that day day and their fami- effort and community screen- oklahoman.com/resilience) lies, and honor the community ing events across the state. where users can explore digital response. Produced by The Oklahoman archives, view extended docu- Two influential news orga- and OETA, the documentary mentary interviews and share nizations have planned a ma- premieres Sunday April 19 at stories, images and videos on jor project to coincide with the 6 p.m. on OETA. The produc- the interactive story wall. date. OETA and The Oklaho- tion is a first person account For more information on man newspaper have launched from present day OKC bomb- The Resilience Project, visit a statewide community en- ing survivors, witnesses, first oeta.tv. Oklahoma City University members of the “Bombing Project” cast during a reading of Steve Gilroy’s play about the 1995 gagement initiative to com- responders, community lead- continued on page 2 Murrah Building bombing. Photo provided. TheatreOCU remembers OKC bombing through original play by Steve Gilroy As an emerging form of per- Theatre, in the Kirkpatrick Free Public Per- formance art, TheatreOCU Fine Arts Center at N.W. 24th company has created a new- St. and Blackwelder Ave. formances Set for style production that explores Performances will be held the April 1995 event. The play Thursday through Saturday April 16 - 19 is based on interviews and his- (April 16 - 18) at 8 p.m., and By Darla Shelden torical records from the peo- then 2 p.m. on Sunday, April City Sentinel Reporter ple who experienced it. 19. The production will be an The 11-member cast perfor- It has been two decades emotional, living memori- mances will be based on inter- since the Alfred P. Murrah al and a celebration of the re- views with more than 45 fam- building was bombed and 168 covery, rebuilding and healing ily members of victims, sur- lives were lost. Oklahoma City process of Oklahoma City. vivors, local officials and first University will present “The The event is free to the pub- responders. Oklahoma City Bombing Proj- lic, Thursday through Sunday, OCU commissioned award- ect.” April 16 - 19 at the OCU Burg continued on page 2 COMMENTARY Dank was genial and gentle, friend of seniors Honoring a reporter and a friend and children, challenging in debates tion of godparents for his chil- By Patrick B. McGuigan a Republican” who had a good get one more chance to dine at dren. Publisher policy idea. Grandy’s and discuss the good Buckley, whom I was priv- Former state Rep. Joe Dor- old days. … I will miss working ileged to know, explained Heartfelt were words of col- man, D-Rush Springs, said he with him and the challenge of once, “I am a conservative in leagues mourning the death of was sorry “David and I did not trying to debate him on poli- all things, save my choice of state Rep. David Dank, R-Okla- cies. I have no doubt he has re- friends.” homa City. joined the love of his life.” That is true of me, as well, Response to loss of the feisty House Speaker Jeffrey Hick- and my involvement in the conservative was authentic man, R-Fairview, called Dank event sponsored by the Okla- and bipartisan, with many say- “a talented journalist and a homa Coalition to Abolish the ing they believed he is now re- keen businessman.” He mourn- Death Penalty is fresh proof of united with his beloved wife, ed, “Personally, he became an- By Patrick B. McGuigan it. Darla Shelden can be called and predecessor at the Capitol, other grandfather to me and Publisher many things, but “conserva- Odilia. my family, and every con- tive” is not one of them. House Democratic Leader versation we had about any The late William F. Buckley, However, I appreciate the Darla Shelden Scott Inman, D-Del City, said topic, whether we agreed or Jr., frequently answered criti- liberality of her spirit. Her tive on maters of importance, Dank was “a true gentleman disagreed, began with ques- cisms about his friendships willingness to examine propo- these are the hallmarks of a and a genial colleague. David tions about my three children with people who did not share sitions, her embrace and under- journalist. was an avid advocate for his and ended with something he his views, including his selec- standing of another’s perspec- continued on page 3 constituents, especially for se- wanted me to be sure to tell nior citizens.” them.” Former Republican lead- Services, both at Christ the Mark Rodgers to become sports er Larry Ferguson said that King Church, include Prayer at in this hyper-partisan age, 7 p.m. Wednesday evening, and editor for The City Sentinel “it made him no difference the Mass of Christian Burial at Staff Report to our diverse readership. We whether it was a Democrat or David Dank noon Thursday. will also feature his work in Mark Rodgers has joined our continuing print edition,” The City Sentinel newspaper McGuigan said. as sports editor. Publisher Pat- In addition to his coverage rick B. McGuigan made the an- of high school football teams, nouncement. including summaries of more “Mark is a well-known ana- than 330 teams around the lyst of our state’s robust sports state, Rodgers is affiliated with scene, and in his own right WWLS The Sports Animal, publisher of Pigskin Preview where he hosts a weekday pro- Magazine. He will be a crucial gram. Previously, he worked element in our efforts to be- for Hearst-Argyle Television, come robust online and in cov- Sooner Sports Properties and erage of sports news of interest News9. Mark Rodgers

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Rates available online at: city- sentinel.com/advertise Page 2 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 NEWS Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter TheatreOCU remembers OKC bombing through original play by Steve Gilroy continued from page 1 winning playwright Steve Gilroy, for the play. He is the author of several works in- cluding “Motherland,” which toured the UK in 2009. Gilroy is the director of per- forming arts at Northumbria University in Newcastle, Eng- land. He specializes in the verbatim theatre genre. It is a documentary created for the stage usually based on person- al interviews and transcripts. The personal interviews forming the two-hour play were conducted by OCU stu- dents, faculty, Gilroy and OCU Associate Dean of Theatre Brian Parsons. Our city remembers the Murrah “We have a unique opportu- nity and responsibility to re- spond through art,” Parsons Bombing, honoring the victims, their said. “This work is a living me- morial” intended to honor “the families and local response tenacity, recovery and healing versity (inside the CETES Con- will present the musical “Shel- process of Oklahoma City.” continued from page 1 Members of the “Oklahoma City Bombing Project” cast. Back row, left to right: ference Center), Wednesday ter” at 10:30 a.m., featuring the A portion of the proceeds Benjamin Roberts, BFA acting freshman; Lauren Matheny, BFA acting and English Several community events April 15 at 6 p.m. sanctuary choir, soloists, con- from the play’s publication fol- minor senior; Elizabeth McCreight, BFA acting senior. Middle row: Tanner Brad- have already taken place. Up- • MCALESTER – Eastern gregation singing and Sacred lowing the event will be donat- shaw, BFA acting senior; J.D. Whigham, BFA acting senior; Cody Wimmer, BFA acting senior; Michelle Roselle, BA theatre performance senior. Front row: Amy coming programs include State Oklahoma College (Clark Scripture. ed to the Oklahoma City Na- Fuhrman, BFA acting senior; Emily Hawkins, BFA acting senior. Not pictured: screenings of the documenta- Bass Building), Thursday April First Christian Church of tional Memorial and Museum. Corrinne Mica, BFA acting/theatre for young audiences and directing minor se- ry and panel discussions with 16 at 6 p.m. Oklahoma City, 3700 N. Walk- Gilroy said, “For this proj- nior, and Ian McGee, BFA acting junior. Photo by Josh Robinson. survivors, first responders, er, be welcome back Pastor ect, there is this incredible community leaders and film- Also on April 19, churches Emeritus Don Alexander for a honesty that comes from peo- makers. All events are free and across the city area will hold special worship service at 10:30 ple. I haven’t seen that before open to the public. Seating is special services to remember a.m. in any other project I’ve done. limited and registration is rec- those who died, their families, For additional coverage of the I think that is something about ommended but not required. and the community-wide re- April 19 events, see our stories the people of Oklahoma City. Upcoming locations include: sponse of compassion. in this print edition of The City “They find themselves 20 First Baptist Church of Okla- Sentinel newspaper, and visit us years later where they are no • LAWTON – Cameron Uni- homa City, 1201 N. Robinson, online at city-sentinel.com. longer defined by what’s hap- pened and they are able to open new chapters in their lives.” State Legislature passes death penalty Courtney DiBello, instruc- tor of stage management and measures faculty adviser at OCU, will CapitolBeatOK lethal injection format, and au- direct the production. She not- Staff Report thorize executions of death ed that the student actors and row inmates via nitrogen hy- crew were either not born yet On April 9, legislators ad- poxia. Christian believes it is or were babies at the time of vanced proposals intended, the critical that the Legislature act the bombing. authors said, “the support and to ensure the state can carry DiBello said, “For these stu- defend the death penalty for out the death penalty. dents who are participating in the state’s worst criminals.” “With the current method the production, and to a large Sen. Anthony Sykes, R- of executions under attack and extent the students who will Moore, and Rep. Mike Chris- judicial scrutiny, it is impera- be seeing the production, this tian, R-Oklahoma City, co- tive that we find an alternate is an education as well as a sponsored measures in each way of delivering justice,” said theatrical experience.” chamber of the Oklahoma State Christian, R-Oklahoma City. Parsons hopes that every Legislature. “Through an in-depth interim high school in Oklahoma will Last Thursday at the Capitol, study, we have found that death have access to the play in the the House of Representatives by nitrogen hypoxia is the easi- future. His plan is to create passed Sykes’ Senate Joint Res- Sen. Anthony Sykes est, most humane, and cost-ef- an education package that in- olution 31, which would send fective way of carrying out the cludes scripts, a documentary to a vote of the people a con- death penalty.” produced by OCU about the stitutional amendment that, if Capital punishment in the making of the play, a teacher’s approved, ensures that death United States has been un- packet, and all the materials penalty statutes are in effect, der continuous criticism in re- students will need to research, that methods of execution can cent years. Oklahoma’s pro- rehearse and create their own be changed, and that the death tocols and death penalty pro- productions. penalty is not cruel and unusu- cedures came under intense Gilroy added, “The over- al punishment. scrutiny when a revised lethal whelming message that comes Sykes said it was an urgent drug mixture was used in the from everybody interviewed priority for the Senate to en- execution of Clayton Lockett is how the regeneration of the sure that the state can admin- last year. The execution, wide- city has occurred. But I think ister the death penalty for our ly described as “botched” took in the end, it is going to be most heinous criminals. much longer than anticipated, about these very powerful in- The House approved the and reporters described him dividual stories woven togeth- measure 80-10, with 11 mem- as “writhing” on the gurney er to create a much bigger hu- bers not voting. The Senate had where he was placed before the man story about recovery.” advanced S.J.R. 31 without op- Rep. Mike Christian drugs were injected. Cast member Amy position in early March. The state’s process and im- Fuhrmanm, BFA Acting Senior “We have an obligation to ability to enforce it. This week, plementation of death penalties said, “This show is not for us the people of Oklahoma to en- we will take action to guaran- are under review before the and it’s not for OCU, is is so sure that we can effectively en- tee that the will of the people is U.S. Supreme Court, with argu- we can honor what happened. force the death penalty,” Sykes carried out.” ments scheduled for later this There is no other way to de- said in a prepared statement. The Senate passed without month. scribed what being part of this “Oklahomans strongly sup- opposition Rep. Christian’s NOTE: Publisher Pat Mc- is like except honored.” port the death penalty, and it House Bill 1879, which would Guigan contributed to this re- Emily Hawkins, BFA Acting is critical that we protect our replace the current multi-drug port. Senior, said, “We want to make the play a story of strength of how the city came together. Second Annual PAMBE Ghana Fest, May 8 at The story is tragic, that’s just inevitable, but everyone has St. Paul’s Cathedral been shedding such a positive Staff Report in northern Ghana. kindergarten through fifth light on the strength of the “Last year was such a fun grade, but hopes to expand. city and that’s something real- Want to try new interna- event with support not only “The Cathedral is proud ly cool to see.” tional foods, explore a Fair from friends and supporters to support PAMBE Ghana,” Cody Wimmer, BFA Acting Trade Global Market and of PAMBE Ghana, but from the Rt. Rev. Justin Lindstrom, Major Senior said, “It’s cer- spend an evening outside in members of the large Ghana- dean of St. Paul’s Cathedral tainly about what happened, lovely gardens? Listen to mu- ian community here in Okla- and a PAMBE board mem- but it’s also about what’s hap- sic, dance and learn about a homa,” Board President Su- ber, said. “We are so glad to pened since then. It takes group of Oklahomans who san Kovats said. “We believe be hosting the PAMBE Ghana something that was absolute- are supporting a school in this year will be even better.” Fest again this year and hope ly horrible and comes out the Ghana? PAMBE Ghana is a part- many will come out to enjoy other side better for it. That’s a The second annual PAMBE nership between local com- our beautiful gardens, as well story worth telling.” Ghana Fest is coming up 6 to munities in northern Gha- as the great food and enter- 9 p.m., Friday, May 8, at St. na and supporters in Okla- tainment.” The “20th Anniversary Paul’s Cathedral, N.W. 7 and homa. Together they’ve built Bring folding chairs or Oklahoma City Bombing Proj- Robinson. Admission will be the La’Angum Learning Cen- blankets to enjoy entertain- ect” is recommended for ages $8 a person, $15 a couple and ter, a new model for educa- ment on the grass. In the 13 and up. Tickets are limited free for children 12 and un- tion in Ghana — new because event of rain, the Fest will be to four per reservation and der. Funds from the event it first teaches children in moved indoors. can be reserved by calling 405- will support the La’Angum the language they speak and 208-5227 or visit okcu.edu/ Learning Center, an innova- in a child-centered way. The For more information, visit ticketoffice. tive, Montessori-based school school currently serves pre- PAMBEghana.org. Page 3 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 OPINION/GOVERNMENT Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter COMMENTARY Matters of Choice: Lankford advances education rights, while some OK Fight meth with smart rules, not Republicans dither overreaching laws in the area where I have di- At 23rd and Lincoln Blvd., To the readers: harder for meth criminals to le the issues that most affect rect impact.” Lankford, in his Jolley’s Senate Bill 609 would obtain PSE to turn into meth our state. first term in the Senate after have allowed students to re- Government regulation and the results have been in- four years in the U.S. House, is ceive partial value for tax-fi- can take many forms. Actions credible. chairman of the Homeland Se- nanced education resources, in such as new fees or legisla- Since implementing an- curity and Governmental Af- support of their education in a tion restricting what prod- ti-meth legislation in 2012, fairs Subcommittee on Regula- school of parental (or guard- ucts Oklahomans can buy are Oklahoma has seen a 79 per- tory Affairs and Federal Man- ian) choice. The idea, as with two such examples. cent reduction in meth lab agement – with jurisdiction all school choice programs, is In recent years, there has seizures. These laws demon- over The District of Columbia. to have resources follow chil- been a push for the latter – strate that we can fight some “When it comes to our chil- dren, rather than institutions a call from some to require of the most troubling prob- dren, the American people are or bureaucracies. a prescription for pseudo- lems in our state, not with eager to pursue policies that After he reluctantly pulled ephedrine (PSE) products, in overreaching laws that bur- help kids thrive. Education is S.B. 609 from the 2015 legisla- the name of fighting meth. den law-abiding citizens, but about kids, not political par- tive calendar, Sen. Jolley said Thankfully, legislators, such with smart rules that focus ties. School choice allows par- “Education savings accounts as Rep. David Derby, R- on the source of the problem. By Patrick B. McGuigan ents to get kids out of the small would enable more Oklahoma Owasso, and Sen. Rick Brin- Americans for Prosperi- Publisher number of failing schools. Par- parents to make that choice for kley, R-Owasso, from north- ty Oklahoma commends our ents and local elected officials their child by allowing them to east Oklahoma stood up for Legislature for their success State Sen. Clark Jolley, R-Ed- should create and manage edu- use part of his or her state ed- the rights of our citizens and on the meth issue and I hope Sincerely, mond, a key leader in the Re- cation policy, not Washington.” ucation funding to pursue the instead implemented tar- that going forward our state Hannah Morris publican-run Senate, pressed Ever the conservative states- schooling that best suits a stu- geted tough, but fair, legisla- government representatives Americans for Prosperity – hard for Education Savings Ac- man, he seemed reluctant to as- dent’s needs. tion that made it significantly use the same nuance to tack- Oklahoma Field Director counts (ESAs) this year. But sail his Republican friends at “Public schools would actu- thanks to several fellow Re- the state Capitol in Oklahoma ally see an increase in per-pu- publicans, his best efforts fell City, stressing that state policy pil revenue as a result of this short. should be set by state officials. plan. Other states already offer Meanwhile, U.S. Sen. James But I am a commentator and this option for education, and Lankford, R-Oklahoma City, a journalist, so let me regis- I am convinced this would en- was part of a bi-partisan group ter some reflections and criti- hance our efforts to improve recently chiding the Obama cisms. continued on page 4 Administration for trying to Potholes: They’re back and they’re kill a school choice program helping children in the nation’s capital. bad Along with state Rep. Jason To the readers: handling. Key components If you’ve hit a pothole, it Nelson, R-Oklahoma City, Jol- are shocks and/or struts, the can be difficult to know if ley advocates Education Sav- Potholes have returned, steering knuckle, ball joints, your vehicle has been dam- ings Accounts (ESAs), similar and hitting one with your car the steering rack/box, bear- aged in the process, so have a to a program found constitu- can do a real number on tires, ings, seals and hub units and professional technician check tional in Arizona. wheels, steering and suspen- tie rod ends. out the car and make the nec- Lankford has long support- sion, and alignment. To help Pulling in one direc- essary repairs to ensure safe- ed choice. In an interview with determine if hitting a pot- tion, instead of maintaining ty and reliability. this reporter, he said, “Con- hole has damaged your vehi- a straight path, and uneven April is National Car Care gress has direct oversight over cle, watch for these warning tire wear, are symptoms of an Month and the non-profit Car the District of Columbia, so signs. alignment problem. Proper Care Council offers many free as a Member of Congress, I Loss of control, swaying wheel alignment is important tools on carcare.org to help can advocate for school choice Sen. James Lankford when making routine turns, for the lifespan of tires and you drive smart, save money bottoming out on city streets helps ensure safe handling. and be car care aware, includ- or bouncing excessively on Low tire pressure, bulges ing the popular 80-page car Honoring a reporter and a friend rough roads are indicators or blisters on the sidewalls, or care guide and a custom ser- that the steering and suspen- dents in the wheel rim will be vice schedule and email re- view. I respect those with clear this recognition. continued from page 1 sion may have been damaged. visible and should be checked minder service. perspectives, I ask merely for NOTE: These are McGuigan’s The steering and suspension out as soon as possible, as From the start, she was a de- fairness in reporting. Darla is prepared remarks, announcing are key safety-related sys- tires are the critical connec- Rich White cent reporter. I was drawn to even-handed but not blind to Darla Shelden as winner of the tems. Together, they largely tion between your car and the Executive Director the quality of her press releas- injustice and inequities in our Phil Wahl Award, at the Annual determine your car’s ride and road. Car Care Council es on behalf of various worthy system. Banquet, Oklahoma Coalition causes. She had and has good The Oklahoma Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty writing skills, and an ability to to Abolish the Death Penalty (OK-CADP), University of Cen- take guidance and counsel. (OK-CADP) seeks the abolition CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE tral Oklahoma, Nigh Center, on Now, she is an excellent re- of the ultimate act of govern- www.City-Sentinel.com Saturday, April 4, 2015. porter, skilled and trusted in ment power, something explic- our community. itly contemplated in the Con- Furthermore, she is a friend stitution but not required of and adviser to me, a sure sup- any state. Sentinel Elected Officials Guide port to my dream, that is, the In the end, the American preservation of an indepen- people rule. Take care in your dent voice, a home for commu- advocacy to preserve the arena nity journalism in our city and of democratic choice. state. Whatever differences there She is fair, not necessari- are among us, we all cherish ly objective. “Objective” is an truth, decency and unity. We important word, but it is over- possess it now as we honor our rated. Each of us has a world- friend, our dear sister Darla, in

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(405) 557-7404 Proud Member of web site: www.morrissettelawok.com email: [email protected] facebook: www.facebook.com/richarddmorrissette Page 4 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 OPINION/EDUCATION Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter Matters of Choice: Lankford advances education rights, while some OK Republicans dither continued from page 3 of Sand Springs, Todd Thom- In their letter, the quartet district to attend schools that from this program are African reflect the diversity of support sen of Ada, Dennis Casey of detailed shared concerns over their families otherwise could American, Hispanic and/or La- for school choice in modern education levels in our state.” Morrison, and Katie Henke of Obama’s decision. never possibly afford. “Be- tino. America. Last month, the Jolley-Nel- Tulsa. cause the enrollment wait list “Despite the socioeconom- Put one way, the group in- son bill cleared a Senate com- Despite the support of most Their joint letter read: for D.C. Public Charter Schools ic challenges facing these stu- cludes two while males (Lank- mittee in close vote. Howev- Republicans – including Speak- totals more than 22,000 appli- dents, 90 percent of students ford and Johnson), a black male er, earlier this session in the er of the House Jeffrey Hick- “We were disappointed to cants, disadvantaged Wash- who earn scholarships through (Scott) and a female Demo- House, Common Education man, R-Fairview, and Speaker learn your budget proposal cut ington students have limited the D.C. Opportunity Scholar- crat (Feinstein). Put another Committee chair Ann Coody, Pro Temp Lee Denney, R-Cush- funding for the D.C. Opportu- options in the district’s public ship Program graduate from way, the group includes a Jew R-Lawton, led opposition to ing – the House version failed nity Scholarship Program and schools. For many Washington high school, and almost all of (Feinstein), a Southern Baptist Nelson’s version of the bill. in committee on a tie vote. terminated future funding for students, the D.C. Opportuni- those students go on to attend (Lankford), a Lutheran (John- Her response to questions from Procedurally, the bill can be this life-changing program. ty Scholarship Program is the college. The program’s success son) and an Evangelical (Scott). CapitolBeatOK can be studied looked at again during the 2016 “Public schools in the Dis- only hope for an opportunity to and popularity among Wash- Put still another way, these here. legislative session. trict of Columbia are some of lift themselves out of poverty. ington families is reflected in four represent the future, and Before the House panel’s Still, this year’s result is no- the worst in the nation. The “The average household in- the more than 3,600 applica- a bi-partisan answer to what vote, appeals to Coody to sup- table – it the second year in a high school four-year gradua- come for students receiving tions received for the 2014-2015 many have called the most im- port Jolley, her fellow Republi- row that major school choice tion rate in the district is only scholarships under the pro- school year. Simply stated, this portant civil rights issue of the can, or at least to allow the par- legislation was pulled from the 59 percent. Only half of the gram is below $21,000 – in a program works. 21st Century. ty’s stated position on choice calendar at the Republican- district’s public school chil- city with some of the high- “We therefore urge you to Which side of the argument to get a floor vote, were unsuc- controlled Legislature. dren are proficient in reading. est costs of living in the na- support the full, continuous over school choice will Okla- cessful. At the national level, Sens. This track record is in spite of tion. Two-thirds of these chil- funding of a program that is homa’s Republican elected offi- Coody and four other mem- Ron Johnson, R-Wisconsin, Di- spending almost $30,000 per dren come from families that proven to transform the lives cials choose? bers of the GOP joined Demo- anne Feinstein, D-California, pupil. receive food stamps and/or of thousands of Washington An inclusive future, or a mo- crats on her committee in op- and Tim Scott, R-South Caro- “The D.C. Opportunity aid from the Temporary Assis- children, the D.C. Opportunity nopoly-driven past? position to ESAs. Other Re- lina, joined Lankford in push- Scholarship Program provides tance for Needy Families pro- Scholarship Program.” This analysis is updated from publicans opposing education ing to retain the Opportunity scholarships for children of gram. Ninety-seven percent earlier postings for CapitolBe- choice included Jadine Nollan Scholarship Program in D.C. low-income households in the of the children who benefit The four senators together atOK.com. ASTEC Charter School COMMENTARY students garner notable Is $8,804 per pupil enough? “discovering exactly how much honors taxpayers spend per student is Staff Report and direction from acclaimed more like deciphering a riddle community leaders. These in- than reading a balance sheet.” Oklahoma’s public charter novative public schools are sus- Public school finances schools, funded through public tained through parental choice “make Enron look like a model dollars but operating with inde- and student participation. of transparency,” says Univer- pendent boards and free from Among the best-known char- sity of Arkansas education pro- some regulatory strictures, op- ter schools is ASTEC in the fessor Robert Maranto. “Under erate through accountability state’s capital city. our highly complex systems of school finance and resource al- locations, policy-makers, edu- Young scholars at Oklahoma City’s ASTEC Charter School. Photo provided. cators, and taxpayers simply Carlos Sanchez is the latest among students was so high. do not know what if any strat- senior student from ASTEC Winners will each receive a egy drives particular spend- to earn a Clara Luper Scholar- $3,000 scholarship toward at- ing decisions, or how costs and ship from Oklahoma City Uni- tendance at the college of their By Brandon Dutcher outcomes compare across pro- versity. The scholar program choice in the 20-15-2015 school OKSchoolChoice.blogspot grams. In public education we presents opportunities for ac- year. are all, quite literally, flying complished students from un- Reggie Trevino, another AS- Let me say right up front that blind.” derrepresented areas to attend TEC student, was chosen in the we don’t know how much mon- But for now let’s go with per- OCU. Young Rowing League to teach ey the government spends on pupil funding of $8,804, the lat- Also at ASTEC, Bryan San- members of the Oklahoma City education. “Nobody knows, not est number for Oklahoma pro- doval is a winner of the As- Thunder basketball team about even the principal,” as schol- vided by the National Educa- piring Americans Initiative rowing. The popular joint ven- ars Chester Finn and Michael tion Association. Spring scholarship, one of the ture is held at the Chesapeake Petrilli put it. “That’s how Whether Oklahoma ranks 1st first such awards presented. Boathouse on the Oklahoma opaque our system is.” or 50th in education funding, it The new ASTEC program will River. “Because of the various seems to me that $8,804 per pu- reach four students this year Two films developed by AS- funding streams that feed the pil ought to be enough to deliv- (instead of the originally-envi- TEC students (“Rosa de Gua- system,” adds Jonathan Butch- er a quality education. sioned three) because interest continued on page 5 er of the Goldwater Institute, It certainly seems to be enough in Oklahoma’s private schools, which charge roughly $4,500 on average at elementa- ry schools and $6,900 for high school. NOTE: Dutcher runs ok- schoolchoice.blogspot.com/, and is a vice president at the Okla- homa Council of Public Affairs (OCPA), the state’s largest free- market “think tank.” www.CapitolBeatOK.com

Faith Directory Diesel Mechanic Great Pay / Benefits First Baptist Church of Oklahoma City Sunday Holy Eucharist: 8, 9, 11 a.m. Human Diversity, Christian Unity APPLY “In the heart of our city with a heart for the Christian Education: 10:10 a.m. A light of love in a dark world of hurt Sunday www.durhamschoolservices.com world.” 1201 N. Robinson Saturday Holy Eucharist: 5 p.m. 9:30 am S.S., 10:50 am Worship 2228 E Sooner, Blanchard, OK 73010 Ph. 232-4255 www.fbcokc.org Sunday 6 pm, Wednesday 6 pm activities www. 405-387-3465 Sunday School: 9:15 a.m.; Worship: 10:30 Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help olivetbaptistokc.com a.m. Wednesday: Dinner 5p.m.; 3214 N. Lake Ave., OKC, OK 73118 First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Bible Study 6 p.m. Thurs: SALT (Study & Lunch Ph. 525-2349 Rev. John Malget, Senior Minister Together) 11:45a.m. Pastor: Rev. John Metzinger DRIVERS Weekend Masses: Sat. @ 5 p.m., Sun. @ 8 a.m., 36th & N. Walker, OKC, 73118 St. Joseph Old Cathedral 10 a.m., 11:45 a.m. (V.N.) Phone: 525 -6551 Hiring Event 307 N.W. 4th St., OKC, OK 73101 Sundays: Thurs 4/16 & Fri 4/17 8a-5p Expressions Community Fellowship Ph. 235-4565 Church School- 9:30 Worship- 10:30 $2,000.00 Sign-On Bonus! “A place where you can be who God created Weekend Masses: Sat.Vigil @ 4pm; fccokc.org Excellent Pay! you to be” Sunday @ 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Excellent Comprehensive Benefits! Worship experiences: Sundays Church of the Open Arms NOON - Spanish Service, Weekday Masses: 2yrs CDL-A Exp come see us 11 AM & 5:30 PM at 4010 N. Youngs Blvd in “No matter who you are, or where you are on Mon-Fri. @ Noon, Sacrament of Reconciliation: about Regional Reefer Openings Oklahoma City. (405) 761-1878 life’s journey, you are welcome here!” Mon-Fri. 11:30 a.m. Sat. 3:15 p.m. Oklahoma Employment or visit www.expressionsokc.com United Church of Christ 3131 N Penn, OKC 73112 Security Commission, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral Olivet Baptist Church Fridays, 4pm- Food Pantry 900 West Cherokee, N.W. 7th and Robinson 1201 NW 10 OKC OK 73106 Sundays, 10:45am- Worship Enid, OK 73701 or Call www.stpaulsokc.org Ph. 235-3436 Traditional Worship, Practical Ministries openarms.org Penske Logistics: 855-579-7894 Page 5 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 COMMUNITY Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter Lift every voice – Chorus of 168 to remember those who died in the Murrah Bombing Staff Report cated near where the federal day rehearsal/choral work- building stood. shop with Dr. Armstrong. After weeks of rehears- The choir will be con- The event is underwrit- al, a chorus of 168 voices, ducted by Dr. Anton Arm- ten by the 7-Eleven Founda- drawn from 28 local church- strong of Saint Olaf College tion, Love’s Travel Stops and es, will remember those who in Northfield, MN., one of Country Stores, and The perished in the 1995 bomb- the nation’s leading Oklahoman. ing of the Alfred P. Murrah choral conduc- The Oklahoma Alli- Federal Building. tors. He led ance for Liturgy & the Arts The public concert will a similar (OALA) is a Christian not- be held 20 years after the cho- for-profit inter-denomina- bombing -- Sunday, April 19 tional organization enhanc- -- at 5 p.m. at First Presby- ing communal worship by terian Church, 1001 N.W. 25. promoting the visual and There is no charge for the performing arts in Okla- event and tickets are not homa churches. Rev. required. The doors Stephen Bird, pastor of open at 4:15 p.m. Epiphany of the Lord Presented by the Catholic Church in First Baptist OKC to remember 20 Oklahoma Al- Oklahoma City, liance for Lit- serves as presi- years since Murrah Building bombing urgy and the dent. Arts (OALA), The planning in conjunc- committee for with special musical program, tion with the the April 19th Kemp Con- event is head- “Shelter” cert Series at ed by Nancy Staff Report gers. The songs from ‘Shelter’ and FBCOKC’s Director of First Presby- Krause, direc- encourage us to be still and Creative Worship Arts, Bruce terian Church, the rus in New York City for tor of music at Saint Paul’s The music ministry of First pour out our laments. They Greer, chose it for its appro- event will consist of music the 10th commemoration of Lutheran Church. Other Baptist Church of Oklahoma also give us strength and com- priateness as a response to the paired with inspirational the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on committee members are City will present the musical fort to move past tragedy to ex- tragedy associated with that readings, prayers and reflec- the World Trade Center. Tony Carillo, music direc- “Shelter” on Sunday, April 19, perience God’s perfect peace day. tions. Speaking at the ser- The combined chorus tor of Peace Lutheran; Mi- at 10:30 a.m. at the church, 1201 and healing presence in our “As a downtown church, vice will be former Okla- held its first rehearsal on chael Scott, music director N. Robinson. lives.” First Baptist was directly af- homa City Mayor Ronald March 1 at First Presbyte- at the Cathedral of Our Lady The program will feature Created by Paul Marino fected by the bombing, both in Norick, who was mayor at rian Church. The choir re- of Perpetual Help; Warren the church’s sanctuary choir, and arranged by Phillip Kev- destruction of property and the the time of the bombing, hearsed again on Sunday Puffer Jones, music director soloists, congregational sing- eren, “Shelter was nominated toll it took on the lives of our and Rev. Nick Harris, who (April 12), from 3 - 5 p.m. at First Presbyterian; and ing and scripture in remem- as “best choral collection of members,” said Bruce Greer. was pastor of First United Then, on April 18, the cho- Bob Waldrop, music direc- brance of the events of April 2009” by Worship Leader Mag- “Our city and our country may Methodist Church that is lo- rus will participate in an all- tor at Epiphany. 19, 1995. azine. Keveren arranged the never fully recover from what “Twenty years have passed, musical to encourage listeners happened blocks away 20 years but Oklahoma City residents to break free from the chaos of ago, but as this musical re- are frequently reminded of contemporary life, be still and minds us, God is with us, even the events of that day as they listen for God’s voice. in the worst of times.” go about their lives,” said Kim Although not written spe- Admission is free. For more Greer, FBCOKC minister of cifically for the remembrance, information call the church at music. “The sadness still lin- Kim Greer and her husband 405-232-4266. YOU DON’t HAVE tO BE A Farmer

The English Department at Oklahoma City University will host the inaugural Smokewood Institute for Young Writers this summer. tO EAt LIKE ONE It is an intensive two-week program of writing workshops, craft sessions, creative readings and a culminating anthology of student work. The curriculum consists of a complete Introductory Creative Writing course, which counts as a 3-credit course toward an English major at OCU. It is likely to transfer to other colleges for credit, as well, though it may not fulfill their specific English de- gree requirements. The program will run from July 12 through 25 on the OCU campus at N.W. 23 and Blackwelder. English profes- sors Rob Roensch and Karen Schiler will guide students through a curriculum that consists of a complete introduction to creative writing. To be eligible, students must have completed at least their sophomore year of high school. Certain test scores and GPA levels may be required. Serious students working in any genre, of varying styles, are encouraged to apply. For Darla Shelden’s full report, visit city-sentinel.com. ASTEC Charter School students garner notable honors

continued from page 4 members were honored for gy Schools) is a public charter their support of quality edu- school system based in Okla- camole” and “The Jokester” cation, including Dr. Tom Fri- homa City. Offices are located were selected to be part of the edemann of Francis Tuttle at 2401 N.W. 23 St., Suite 30a, “Clean Shorts Film Festival” Technology Center, Gary Al- Oklahoma City, OK 73107, tele- held at the Eastern Oklaho- lison from Tri-State Industrial phone 947-6272. ma County (EOC) Technology Group and Ann Simank from Jenny Gehay is ASTEC’s Center early this month. the Metro Alliance. communications director. School officials said students ASTEC’s founder, CEO and NOTE: Publisher Patrick B. participated in National Junior superintendent is Dr. Freda De- McGuigan contributed to this Honor Society and Honor Soci- skin. With a new main facility report. In addition to his work ety inductions on April 9. The envisioned in the next couple in journalism, he teaches history annual spring play, “Almost of years, ASTEC is poised for at a public charter alternative Maine” was planned for April further growth. ASTEC (Ad- school. 10 and 11. Skyline Urban Min- vanced Science & Technolo- www.CapitolBeatOK.com istries announced will provide new and “gently worn” Prom dresses and accessories for in- Check out the mouthwatering produce terested senior girls. at your local Farmers Market. ASTEC is one of a handful Tastier, healthier and Oklahoma grown! of innovative Oklahoma pub- lic charter schools that have emerged over the past 15 years in the Sooner State in Tulsa Harvest more healthy tips and Oklahoma City. Legislative and find a Farmers Market near you at authorization for operation of public charter schools remains limited to the state’s two major metropolitan areas, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Public charter schools in Oklahoma emerged in the late 1990s due to a bi- partisan effort guided by then- State Schools Superintendent Sandy Garrett, and state Rep. John Bryant, R-Tulsa, among others. Earlier this year, three AS- CHECK OUT OUR WEB SITE TEC Charter School’s board www.City-Sentinel.com Page 6 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 EARTH DAY Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter “Walk for Earth” planned for Earth Day in Oklahoma City By Darla Shelden or picture about what they love cies that occupy it. City Sentinel Reporter on earth.” He indicated that a Joe Meinhart, Director of large 6-foot inflatable earth OCU’s OIKOS, or World House, America’s 45th Earth Day ball as well as two 3-foot balls Scholars program and OCU will be celebrated with an would be carried during the students are making plans for Earth Walk on the Oklaho- walk. the walk. ma City University campus on Rev. William Tabbernee, Ex- “We teach our students that Wednesday, April 22. ecutive Director of the Okla- living in harmony with nature Walkers will be welcomed homa Conference of Church- is critical to humanity’s fu- with live music beginning at es, another cosponsor, said, ture,” Meinhart said. “There is On Wednesday, April 22, the Tulsa Earth Day Celebrate CommUNity event will be held at Veteran’s Park, 1875 S. Boulder 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the “The earth is our God-given no ‘Planet B’ we can move to if Park Dr., where 800 public school children in pre-K through 2nd grade will participate in STEM (Science, Technology, Engi- United Methodist Church head- home and our most precious re- we mess this one up. Earth Day neering and Mathematics) programs and activities. Photos provided. quarters located at N.W. 24 St. source. We must do all we can is a day for special recognition and McKinley Ave. to protect and care for it re- of humanity’s relationship with Speakers for the event will sponsibly.” nature.” Oklahoma Sierra Club sets dates for include Oklahoma Sierra Club Featured guitarist Bob Cross In a speech on April 3, 2006, director Johnson Bridgwater from Mayflower Congregation- then-Sen. Barack Obama said, 2015 Earth Day events and students from three lo- “All across the world, in By Darla Shelden cal universities. The walk every kind of environment City Sentinel Reporter will step off at 6:45 p.m. and region known to man, “As America’s oldest and increasingly dangerous First recognized in 1970, largest environmental or- weather patterns and dev- Earth Day is an annual event ganization, Sierra Club is astating storms are abrupt- celebrated on April 22. Each proud to cosponsor this ly putting an end to the year since then events have event,” Bridgwater said. long-running debate over been held worldwide to demon- “Earth and all that it en- whether or not climate strate support for environmen- compasses are sacred gifts change is real. Not only is tal protection. Today, coordi- that deserve to be cher- it real, it’s here, and its ef- nated globally by the Earth Day ished and kept clean. Earth fects are giving rise to a Network, Earth Day is celebrat- Day provides an opportu- frighteningly new glob- ed in more than 192 countries. nity to acknowledge that.” al phenomenon: the man- The Oklahoma Sierra Club Bridgwater said that the made natural disaster.” has announced its 2015 Earth organization’s 3,100 mem- Additional sponsors of Day schedule for events bers are encouraged to Earth Walk include the (L-R) Sierra Club members Ann Bornholdt, Martha Holland and Whitney Pearson around the state. Please vis- participate. United Methodist Envi- hand out information pamphlets at an Earth Day event held at the State Capitol. it oklahoma2.sierraclub.org/ Nathaniel Batchelder, Di- al Church said “Our church is ronmental Coalition, Center content/2015-earth-day-calen- sources. ra Club Earth Walk will take rector of the Peace House, and a co-sponsor and we will lift for Conscience in Action, First dar-whats-happening for the Event sponsors include Nor- place on the campus of Oklaho- co-sponsor of the event said, our voices in celebration of life, Unitarian Church, Edmond schedule. man Parks & Recreation De- ma City University. Everyone “Earth Day began in 1970 as love, and hope for the future. Trinity Church, Church of the “Earth and all that it encom- partment, Norman Utilities is invited to gather at 6 p.m. part of a growing awareness Drums, musical instruments, Open Arms, Joy Mennonite passes are sacred gifts that de- Department’s Environmental at the United Methodist Head- that human beings are the and noise-makers are welcome. Church, Mayflower Congrega- serve to be cherished and kept Services Division and Cleve- quarters parking lot at 1501 stewards of nature and all liv- We will make a joyful noise.” tional Church, and Citizens Cli- clean,” said State Chair of the land County Conservation Dis- N.W. 24 at McKinley. The event ing things. People could see Celebrated annually on April mate Lobby of Norman. Oklahoma Sierra Club John- trict. Sierra Club’s Red Earth will feature music, inspiration- that human activity could pol- 22, Earth Day events are held Batchelder said, “Signs and son Bridgwater. “Earth Day Group will participate. For al messages, 6 ft and 3 ft. Earth lute rivers, cause smog, and de- worldwide to demonstrate sup- banners of all groups wanting provides an opportunity to ac- more information contact Nan- Balls to carry and bounce, and stroy animal habitat.” port for environmental protec- to participate are welcome. We knowledge that.” cy Smart at 405-329-8904. a walk through and around the Gaylord Nelson, founder of tion. Coordinated globally by will proclaim earth and nature On Saturday, April 18, from On Tuesday, April 21, from 11 OCU campus. Bring dogs on Earth Day said, “The ultimate the Earth Day Network, the essential to human life.” 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. the Carrie Dick- a.m. - 1:30 p.m. the Green Fes- leash along with baby stroll- test of man’s conscience may events are held in more than erson Foundation and Garden tival, Tulsa’s official Earth Day ers, and your own signs and be his willingness to sacrifice 192 countries each year. It has Additional Earth Day events Deva Earth Day Celebration party, will support Oklahoma’s pictures about things you love something today for future gen- grown each year as more and are listed on the national web- will take place at the Garden green movement by connect- about the Earth. erations whose words of thanks more people around the world site earthday.org. To learn Deva Sculpture Company, 317 ing workers in the downtown Sponsors include The Peace will not be heard.” become aware of the necessity more, contact Nathaniel Batch- S. Trenton Ave., in Tulsa. The area with environmental mes- House, OCU Word House Batchelder said, “Everyone is to care for the earth, its envi- elder at 405-824-2794 or Jody event will feature quilts, art- sages. The event takes place on Scholars & Word House Ini- invited to bring their own sign ronment and the diverse spe- Harlan at 405-326-3600. ists, musicians, crafters, good Main St. between 4th and 5th tiative, United Methodist En- food, environmental groups St. To learn more, contact: Meg vironmental Coalition, Turtle and earth lovers working to- Sutherland, at 918-584-0584 or: Rock Farm, Church of the Open gether and caring for the plan- Bill McClelland at billmc3@ Arms, Social Justice Commit- et. cox.net tee First Unitarian Church and For more information, call On Wednesday, April 22, the Center for Conscience in Garden Deva at 918-592-3382 or from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. the Tul- Action. contact Barbara VanHanken, sa Earth Day Celebrate Com- Contact Peace House direc- Oklahoma Chapter Sierra Club mUNity event will be held at tor Nathaniel Batchelder at Chair at 918-671-6217. Veteran’s Park, 1875 S. Boulder 405-824-2794 or Jody Harlan, On Sunday, April 19, the Nor- Park Dr. The event will feature OK Sierra Club at 405-326-3600 man 2015 Earth Day Festival 800 public school children in to learn more. will be held from 12 - 5 p.m., at pre-K through 2nd grade who On Saturday, April 25, from Reaves Park, 2501 S. Jenkins Av- will participate in STEM (Sci- 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., the 5th annual enue. The event will include ence, Technology, Engineering Green Connection Earth Day family fun for all ages with and Mathematics) programs Festival will take place at Tur- hands-on activities, as well as and activities. Contact Bill Mc- tle Rock Farm near Billings, exhibits and demonstrations Clelland, Sierra Club Green OK. Free and open to the pub- to teach the importance of re- Country Group Chair at 918- lic, the event will feature live specting earth’s air, water, soil, 269-5751 for more information. music, demonstrations, hands- wildlife and all natural re- Also on April 22, the Sier- on learning, prairie labyrinth, animals, straw bale hermitage, high tunnel garden and a cos- mic walk. Buffalo hot dogs and corn on the cob on the grill are provided. RSVP required. To learn more about the Fes- tival, contact Ann Denney at 580-725-3411, Pat Hoerth at 580- 917-6011 or Lynn Cooper at 405- 229-0696 or go to turtlerock- farmretreat.com/earth-day-fes- tival For more information about the Oklahoma Sierra Club, visit oklahoma.sierraclub.org Green Connections plans 4th Earth Day celebration at Turtle Rock Farm By Darla Shelden A time to pause and remem- is a big hit,” said Hoerth. “This City Sentinel Reporter ber the Earth that sustains us, is the second time we’ve of- celebrate and thank the plan- fered the Cosmic Walk at our Green Connections, a non- et, and learn more about this Earth Day Festival. It is a walk profit organization dedicated amazing place we call home, through the story of the cre- to ecological education, will as well as gain some ideas and ation of the universe. We will hold its 5th Annual Earth Day support for living sustainably.” have a ceremony of thanking Celebration on Saturday, April Green Connections’ mis- the Earth.” 25 at Turtle Rock Farm, east of sion is to help people connect Activities will also include Billings, Oklahoma. The free with nature and to learn to live tours of Straw Bale Hermitage event will take place from 11 more sustainably. and High Tunnel Garden, Walk a.m. - 4 p.m. The annual Earth Day event the Labyrinth, meeting the A working farm run by Pat will include eco friendly ac- Alpaca, Goats, Chickens and Hoerth and Ann Denney, Tur- tivities for all ages such as a Guineas, and a visit to the tipi. tle Rock is also a retreat for Drum Circle with Dave Con- A program of Green Con- sustainability, spirituality and rad, Cherokee Weaving with nections, TransitionOKC is healing. Renee Hoover, Alpaca wool planning projects for those “The Earth Day Festival is Spinning and Felting with Lisa participating in the Earth Day an educational event and a cel- Piccolo, and Wild Bee House celebration. ebration,” Hoerth said. “It’s making. Mary Roberts, Transition a chance to be in the natu- “The Earth Drumming Cir- OKC Chair said, “Transition ral world here on the prairie cle is always fun and Bruce OKC will have a table making in north central Oklahoma. Johnson’s solar demonstration continued on page 7 Page 7 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 EARTH DAY/COMMUNITYCheck us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter The Color Run, “the happiest 5K on the planet” comes to the OKC Zoo By Darla Shelden sic, dancing, warmup stretching when they register to volunteer City Sentinel Reporter and giveaways. or run. To learn more about The Tickets for individual run- Color Run, visit thecolorrun. The Color Run™ 5K event, ners cost $45. Team runner com. also known as “the happiest pricing is $39.50 per person. To To pick up a race packet bring 5K on the planet,” is coming to sign up for the run, go to thecol- a printed or digital copy of your Oklahoma City. The Oklaho- orrun.com/oklahoma-city ticket with the bar code. This ma Zoological Society (OZS/ Included in the registration ticket is attached to the con- ZooFriends) has been chosen as fee is a t-shirt, tattoo, and head- firmation email you received the official charity of the run, band distributed at check-in. when you registered. which will be held on Saturday, Runners will receive a Medal, If you need a second email, April 11. SHINE powder pack, and Color please contact support@the- The Oklahoma City Color Pack when they cross the finish colorrun.com with “Oklahoma Run will take place in the Ad- line. Be sure to wear the race City Confirmation Email” in venture District, with partici- bib on race day. the subject line. Runners can pants starting and ending at Race packets will be available also pick up packets for their Remington Park. Start times be- for pick up at the check-in party, friends and teammates provid- gin at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 10, from 10 a.m. ed they have a copy of their bar Green Connections, a non-profit organization dedicated to education about sustaining the health of the planet, will hold its The Color Run is an elabo- to 6:30 p.m. at Kolh’s, 7401 S.E. code. Fourth Annual Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25 at Turtle Rock Farm. Photos provided. rate and energized paint race 29th St., in Midwest City. For ZooFriends is the 501 (c)3 that celebrates healthiness, hap- those who are unable to make it non-profit organization creat- piness and individuality. It has on Friday, packets can be picked ed to support and promote the Green Connections plans 4th Earth more than tripled its growth, on Saturday (race day) at Rem- Oklahoma City Zoo and its pro- hosting more than 300 events in ington Park from 7:30 - 9 a.m. grams in education, conserva- Day celebration at Turtle Rock Farm 50+ countries in 2014. Participants running with tion, zoological research and The start-line window will their children are encouraged recreation. continued from page 6 open at 9 a.m. with waves go- to pick up a wristband for their Volunteers, 16 and older, are ing every few minutes until child at the check-in party. needed to help with event prep- bookmarks with the kids us- 9:45 a.m. The start line is its Participants will be able to aration, set up and clean up. ing pretty plant materials from own pre-race party with mu- make a donation to ZooFriends continued on page 8 the garden. Our desire is to en- courage them to think outside the box about making gifts for Christmas and birthdays rath- er than buying them. “For the adults, we’re team- ing up with the Sierra Club to show how to make toothpaste at home that is healthy, easy and affordable.” A Drum Circle with Dave Conrad will be one of the many activities offered at the 4th Annual Earth Day Celebration. Hoerth added, “At the Green Connections Earth Day cele- bration we spend the day out- doors, appreciating and enjoy- ing Earth and learning ways we can live that help all life thrive. Plus, we make music, dance and enjoy cooking fun food together. It’s one of our fa- vorite days of the year!” The event will showcase Bi- son hot dogs and corn on the cob, which people cook them- selves. There will music by George Davis and Friends. This year OKC ZooFriends has been chosen as the official charity of the The Color Run 5K event, which will be held on Sat- “Celebrating our astonish- urday, April 11. ingly wondrous planet once The Green Connection Fourth Annual Earth Day Celebration will showcase Bison a year seems the least we can hot dogs and corn on the cob along with music by George Davis and Friends. do,” said Hoerth. “Really, we must pay attention to its in- tricacy and its grandeur every day.” “In our modern world, many of us don’t have the opportu- nity to be deeply involved in nature. So we invite people to come to our family farm and spend time paying attention to the natural world.” The Green Connections Earth Day celebration is free and open to the public. Call 580-725-3411, or email patho- [email protected] to make res- a five-course, local food dinner For more information ervations and to get directions. prepared by Chef Barb from about Turtle Rock Farm vis- Save the date for the 7th An- Kam’s Kookery, Woods & Wa- it turtlerockfarmretreat. nual Green Connections Prai- ter Vineyard wine and an eve- com. To learn more about rie Dinner and Concert on Oc- ning of entertainment by musi- Green Connections go to tober 3. Festivities will feature cal artist Kyle Dillingham. greenconnectionsok.org.

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This advertisement sponsored by The City Sentinel newspaper. Page 8 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 COMMUNITY Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter YWCA OKC holds 2 Minute 5K & Kiddie K events to help victims of sexual assault By Darla Shelden City Sentinel Reporter

The YWCA Oklahoma City’s 7th annual 2 Minute 5K and Kiddie K will be held on Satur- day, April 18 starting at 8 a.m. at Stars and Stripes Park, 3701 S. Lake Hefner Dr. and N. Port- land Ave. The event is an annu- al run to align with April, Sex- ual Assault Awareness (SAAM) month. The event will raise aware- ness and funds for YWCA pro- grams assisting victims in the metro Oklahoma City area. The Color Run™ 5K event, also known as “the happiest 5K on the Planet,” is coming to the Oklahoma City Adventure District on Saturday, April 11. “Every two minutes someone During Sexual Assault Awareness month, the YWCA Oklahoma City 2 Minute 5K in the United States is sexually and Kiddie K will be held Saturday, April 18. at Stars and Stripes Park to benefit assaulted,” said Janet L. Peery, programs assisting victims in the metro Oklahoma City area. Photo courtesy of the Women’s Photography Group. The Color Run, “the happiest 5K on CEO of the YWCA Oklahoma City. in five women and one in 71 ceive the 2 Minute 5K shirt, and “The 2 Minute 5K and Kid- men have been raped in their still sleep in on the day of the the planet” comes to the OKC Zoo die K is an opportunity for our lifetime and nearly one in two race. continued from page 7 community to come together to women and one in five men Snooze participants can even spread awareness about the se- have experienced other forms register with teams who are Volunteer shifts go from 6 a.m. rious issue of sexual assault in of sexual violence at some competing on race-day at a dis- - 1 p.m. on race day. Individu- our nation while participating point in their lives. counted rate. als and groups are welcome. All in an exciting event.” Along with the 5K and Kid- For those participating in volunteers will receive the ex- According to the Center for die K, this year YWCA OKC the Snooze, the Y requests that clusive Color Run t-shirt. Disease Control and Preven- will host Snooze for SAAM, a you tweet, Facebook, insta- Volunteer shifts are available tion, sexual violence is a seri- social media recognition gram, or any social media site in three areas. 1) General Race ous public health problem that event. It allows people to sup- of choice about the event with Morning: arrive two hours be- affects millions of women and port the cause of ending sexual the hashtag #SnoozeForSAAM. fore the race to help with set up. men. In the United States, one assault in the community, re- continued on page 9 2) Race Morning Color Zone: work in one of the four on- course color zones. And 3) the Post Race Clean Up: this shift helps with clean up after the event. As the official charity, ZooFriends will receive a do- The Color Run is an elaborate paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness nation from The Color Run for and individuality. More than tripling in size, the Run hosted more than 300 events each person who registers to in 50+ countries in 2014. volunteer. To register as a charity part- Sharing Hometown Recipes, Cooking Tips and Coupons ner volunteer call 405-425-0298 or go to eventbrite.com/e/vol- By Janet Tharpe unteer-oklahoma-city-registra- tion Easy, Fast and Flavorful Baked Spaghetti After registration, Candice Rennels, OKC Zoo’s manager of marketing/PR, will contact vol- “One of unteers with details about their role in The Color Run. my all-time Whether it’s handing out wa- ter, assisting with check-in, rev- favorite ving up the crowd at the finish recipes!” festival, tossing color or clean- ing up confetti, Color Run vol- unteers are a vital part of the event. Position requests will be taken on a first-come first- served basis on race morning. For questions or additional information about the run or volunteering, contact Candice at [email protected] or 405-425-0298. Learn more at ok- atti Smith’s Baked Spaghetti is so easy to prepare... czoo.com. Pand even easier to eat. And the best part? You can make this ahead of time. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a pot luck, you can’t go wrong with this dish! See step-by-step photos of Patti’s recipe plus thousands more from home cooks nationwide at: www.justapinch.com/bakedspaghetti You’ll also find a meal planner, coupons and chances to win! Enjoy and remember, use “just a pinch”... Patti Smith Calhoun, GA (pop.15,650) -Janet

Baked Spaghetti

What You Need 1 can cream of keep from sticking. 16 oz cooked spaghetti mushroom soup • Place 1/2 cooked 1 c chopped onions (use cream of spaghetti in bottom of 1 c green peppers chicken if using greased 9 X 13 inch 1 tbsp margarine chicken) pan. Top with 1/2 of 1 can (28 oz) chopped 1/2 c water veggie/meat mixture. tomatoes 1/2 c Parmesan cheese • Next top with 1 cup 1 tsp oregano mozzarella cheese. 1 clove garlic (or 1/2 Directions • Repeat layers. tsp garlic seasoning) • Saute onion and • Mix soup and water 1 lb cooked ground green pepper in together. Spread over beef (can substitute margarine. casserole. chicken or Italian • Add tomatoes, • Top with Parmesan sausage) oregano, garlic and cheese. 2 c mozzarella cheese beef. Simmer for 10 • Bake uncovered at minutes. 350 degrees for 30 • Stir occasionally to minutes.

Submitted by: Patti Smith, Calhoun, GA 15,650 (pop. 15,650) www.justapinch.com/bakedspaghetti Brought to you by American Hometown Media Page 9 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 COMMUNITY Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter YWCA OKC holds 2 Minute 5K & Kiddie K events to help victims of sexual assault continued from page 8

After the race, participants will divide their racing min- utes by two – this number will reflect how many people were potentially assaulted within the time it took them to run the 5K. Karla Docter, Senior Direc- tor of Sexual Assault Servic- es said, “We want participants to leave with a sense of what is happening around us in our community. We hope the run- The Oklahoma Sierra Club held their 2015 Legislative Lobby Day session on Wednesday, April 8 at the State Capitol in ners learn how they can further Oklahoma City, focusing on issues that are important to Oklahoma’s environmental wellbeing. In attendance were Cynthia help raise awareness in our Armstrong, Oklahoma State Director for the Humane Society; of the United (second from left), State Rep. Cory Williams community.” (4th from left), Norman Mayor Cindy Rosenthal (sixth from left), Peace House Director Nathaniel Batchelder (7th from left), All the 2 Minute 5K and Kid- On Saturday, April 18, registration for the YWCA 2 Minute 5K will be from 7-8 Johnson Bridgwater, Oklahoma Sierra Club director (at podium), and Rep. Emily Virgin (11th from left). Photo provided. die K proceeds benefit the YW- a.m. The Kiddie K race begins at 8 a.m. followed by the 5K race at 8:30 a.m. Photo CA’s efforts to help victims of courtesy of the Women’s Photography Group. Sierra Club Lobby Day advocates for sexual assault, including the ence. For more information, Nearly 3,000 women, chil- Sexual Assault Nurse Exam- contact Rachele Eskridge at dren and men receive help iner (SANE) program, hospital [email protected]. through YWCA programs, in- sustaining the environment advocacy and prevention edu- Dedicated to eliminating rac- cluding emergency shelter for By Darla Shelden tion surrounding wind energy HJR1012 seeks to call for a cation programs. ism, empowering women and battered women and children, City Sentinel Reporter development and eventual de- vote that would amend the The YWCA’s SANE program promoting peace, justice and counseling, support groups, commissioning of wind tur- Oklahoma Constitution. The trains and coordinates volun- dignity for all, the YWCA OKC child care, transitional housing, The Oklahoma Sierra Club bines,” stated Bridgwater. amendment would limit how teer nurses who meet sexu- is best known for being the only financial literacy, batterer’s in- held its 2015 Legislative Lob- “But wind energy has been state government and Oklaho- al assault victims at the hos- shelter for battered women and tervention and other services. by Day session on Wednesday, singled out this legislative ses- ma land owners would interact pital to assess medical needs children in Oklahoma County. Runners and walkers can April 8 at the State Capitol in sion regarding incentives and with farming and ranching en- and provide a forensic register online at yw- Oklahoma City. Members con- other benefits that Oklahoma’s terprises in Oklahoma. exam. YWCA volun- caokc.org/2minute5k. vened at 10 a.m. to focus on oil, gas, and coal industries all At a press conference held in teer hospital advocates Pre-registration cost is issues that are important to receive as well—wind is not the State Capitol Media Room, provide emotional $25 for the 5K, $35 day Oklahoma’s environmental unique in this respect and so Representatives Cory Wil- support and resources of race; $15 for the Kid- well-being. should not be treated as such. liams (D-Stillwater) and Emi- for victims during and die K, $20 day of race; Members met one on one “In light of dramatic earth- ly Virgin (D-OK), and Norman after the exams. and $20 registration for with their Senators and Rep- quake activity in Oklahoma Mayor Cindy Rosenthal spoke The YWCA-OKC Snooze for SAAM. resentatives regarding legisla- in recent years, Oklahoma Si- about the issue of municipal is also sponsoring the Participants can reg- tion related to municipal pre- erra Club believes cities and preemption and surrounding Spoken Word Open ister as a team or indi- emption, wind energy, and towns should be afforded the legislative attempts to change Mic Night at Sauced vidual and set up a per- a joint resolution that would continuing right to regulate oil existing laws and statutes re- on Paseo, 2912 Paseo, sonal fundraising web- call for a vote of the people to and gas activity as they have garding how Oklahoma cities in Oklahoma City on page. Race day regis- amend the Oklahoma Consti- been able to by law for many and towns regulate oil and gas April 30, from 7 - 10 tration for the 2 Minute tution. decades.” in each of their jurisdictions. p.m. Artists are wel- 5K will be from 7-8 a.m. Oklahoma has recently In attendance was Cynthia “Specifically, HB2178 and come to read an origi- Kiddie K race begins at moved into 4th place in the na- Armstrong, Oklahoma State SB809 would limit the rights nal/published uplift- 8 a.m. followed by the tion regarding the production Director for the Humane So- of Oklahoma cities and towns ing poem, perform a 5K race at 8:30 a.m. of wind energy. This business ciety of the United States, who by taking existing authority— musical expression sector is in fierce competition spoke out against House Joint specifically Title 52.137-- out or just come out and For more informa- with neighboring states such Resolution (HJR) 1012. of the Statutes and replacing it be a part of the audi- tion, visit ywcaokc.org. as Kansas and Texas. Armstrong said, “The mis- with new authority under com- According to Oklahoma Si- leading ‘Right to Farm’ bill plete control of the Oklahoma erra Club director Johnson should more accurately be ti- Corporation Commission. Bridgwater, in order to keep tled ‘Right to Harm’ as it seeks The Sierra Club has worked Oklahoma’s expanding wind to shield industrial agriculture to protect the Earth for over energy businesses competi- from the democratic process. one hundred years nationwide tive, the organization opposes It would largely prevent vot- and the Oklahoma Chapter has a set of bills that treat wind en- ers and legislators from mak- existed for over 40 years.” ergy differently than other en- ing reforms that would bene- For more information, con- ergy forms. fit food safety, animal welfare tact Johnson Bridgwater at “Oklahoma Sierra Club sup- and the quality of our land, air 405-902-2288, or visit Oklaho- ports common sense regula- and water.” ma.sierraclub.org.

Oklahoma 4-H Clubs collect more than $20,000 through the Kids Helping Kids Campaign

The Oklahoma 4-H is dedicated to helping Oklahoma youth, families and communities reach their full potential. As the 28th Annual Kids Helping Kids Campaign comes to a close, Oklahoma County 4-H’ers proved their determination, hard work and fundraising skills by raising $20,974.64. The Kids Helping Kids Campaign is one of the longest-running fundraisers in the state. In the campaign, 4-H’ers across the state asked friends, neighbors, local businesses and caring strangers for donations in exchange for a coupon to participating McDonald’s restaurants in Oklahoma. Of the funds raised this year, one third will remain in the Oklahoma County 4-H program, one sixth will be given to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, and one half will go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oklahoma City. Ronald McDonald House is a non-profit that provides “a home away from home” for families with seriously ill or injured children who are being treated in the Oklahoma City area. Since the beginning of the campaign in 1987, $879,354.54 has been raised by Oklahoma 4-H’ers for the RMHC-OKC and county 4-H programs across the state. For Darla Shelden’s full report, visit city-sentinel.com. Page 10 www.city-sentinel.com April 15, 2015 — April 30, 2015 ENTERTAINMENT Check us out every day online, and on Facebook and Twitter OCU’s Paseo Arts Festival needs volunteers! Staff Report production The Paseo Arts Associa- tion is looking for a few dozen of Lerner good women and men. Brooke Rowlands of the Paseo told The City Senti- & Loewe nel, “We’re always looking for more volunteers and the classic help is always appreciated. As you may know the Festival is a three day event, but we are ‘Brigadoon’ looking for volunteers starting on May 22 - 26.” set for April The volunteer jobs are as follows: *Artist Volunteer Hospital- water (*Requires extensive Remove signs, Gather equip- 24-26 ity and Information Services - standing) ment, help the PAA office fin- Staff Report Provide Festival artists breaks (**Must arrive 15 minutes ish loose ends from their booths, Make early for shift change) (*Requires extensive stand- Jaded New York tourists sure artists and volunteers *Festival Merchandise -Sell ing, walking, lifting, and bend- stumble across a mysterious have ample amounts of wa- T-shirts, caps, posters and ing) Scottish town in the roman- ter, Check-in volunteers and other Festival merchandise (**Please wear comfortable tic musical “Brigadoon,” the direct them to their stations (*Requires extensive standing, shoes that cover the toes!) April 24 - 26 finale of Okla- (*Requires extensive walking, lifting, and bending) homa City University’s opera pulling, and standing) *Recycle Rangers -Help For information or to vol- and music theater season. *Music Stage Attendant - with litter pick-up and recy- unteer, visit Paseo Festi- The Bass School of Music Will be providing assistant cling throughout the festival, val Volunteer Application production will feature a cast with the Band Stages and oth- Help sort items for recycling at thepaseo.wufoo.com/ of 38, under the direction of er roles associated with Musi- *Set-Up and Take-Down - forms/2015-paseo-arts-festi- Dr. David Herendeen, and a cians, and bands. Assist in the set-up of Festi- val-volunteer-form and Chil- 34-piece pit orchestra, under *Beverage Sales - MUST BE val areas,Stuff bags and other dren’s Tent Volunteer Applica- the baton of Prof. Jan McDan- 21 YEARS OF AGE, Sell cans miscellaneous tasks tion at thepaseo.wufoo.com/ iel. Walker Degerness as Tommy Albright and Mackenzie Menter as Fiona MacLaren of beer, pop, draft beer, fro- *Assist in the take-down of forms/2015-paseo-arts-festi- “Brigadoon entices us to are among the 38-member cast presenting the romantic musical Brigadoon at zen wine coolers and bottled the Festival on the last day: val-childens-area-volunteers leave our world behind and Oklahoma City University, April 24 - 26. The award-winning show, OCU’s sea- son finale, also features a 34-piece orchestra. Three performances: 8 p.m. Friday fall in love with a dream,” and Saturday, with a 3 p.m. Sunday matinee, in Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N. Herendeen said. “The show Blackwelder. Tickets ($12-25) from 405.208.56227 or okcu.edu/tickets. A Balm in Gilead: The Amish Project proves celebrates the power of love to transcend time. It’s a wonder- when two Americans hunt- 1947 and in London’s West magnificent and astonishing, a blessing on us ful ending to our 63rd season ing in the Scottish Highlands End in 1949. It inspired the By Patrick B. McGuigan — romance, comedy, Scottish stumble upon an enchanted 1954 MGM musical, starring Publisher dancing, great songs — and village that appears out of the Gene Kelly and Cyd Charisse. plenty of tartans!” mist for one day every centu- Classic songs include “The Katherine Michelle Tan- Performances are set for 8 ry. Complications ensue when Heather On The Hill,” “I’ll Go ner delivered a magnificent p.m. Friday and Saturday with the visitors become smitten Home With Bonnie Jean,” and and astonishing performance a 3 p.m. Sunday matinee, at with women of the town and “Almost Like Being in Love.” in the one-woman show, “The Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 when one unhappy townsman Amish Project” at the Civic N. Blackwelder. Tickets ($12- plots his escape, considering A Scottish-themed opening Center last weekend. 25) available from okcu.edu/ the place more prison than night dinner ($25, reservations It seems difficult to put into tickets or 405-208-5227. Her- paradise. required: 405.208.5227) will a couple of hundred words endeen will present a free di- The show, with book and be held 6:15 p.m. Friday, April the moral power and author- rector’s talk 45 minutes before lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and 24, in the Bass Music Center ity of this unusual play, writ- curtain. music by Frederick Loewe, Atrium of OCU’s Bass School ten by Jessica Dickey. Drawn Brigadoon’s plot unfolds premiered on Broadway in of Music. from the horrid events leading to the murder of 10 little girls at Nickle Mines, Pennsylvania in 2006, the story focuses on “The Amish Project” featuring Katherine Michelle Tanner. compassion, faith and forgive- ness. ence is manifested in the best If you can stomach a love As the story began, it was of His creation, and forgive- story about the seemingly im- clear it covered all three as ness for even the most awful possible – forgiveness for the brilliantly as could be imag- among us. worst of crimes – then this ined in a 75-minute telling. Upon further reflection, was the place to be last week- Near the end, one unspo- however, the only word that end. ken word is the center of the envelops all the amazing nar- Coming soon before obser- play, and in the imagination it rative from Dickey is love. vance of the 20 years that have seems that one word must be As for Tanner’s perfor- passed with the bombing of “forgiveness.” mance, a thousand words the A.P. Murray Federal Build- On initial pondering af- could not do it justice. ing in Oklahoma City, “The ter this haunting story end- Suffice to say she is alter- Amish Project” was a stroke ed at Friday’s performance, nately at least two little girls, of genius, and a calming in- it appeared none of the three a teen-aged girl of fatalistic fluence as memories are re- words were adequate to cap- bent, an embittered widow of newed. ture the theme of the tale. a mass murderer, the killer The Oklahoma City Rep- The only word that might himself, and a mature man re- ertory Theatre continues to suffice is love, for it incorpo- flecting on both the inherently lead the way with innovative rates all three: Compassion to- forgiving nature of the Amish and stellar professional per- ward those who suffer, faith people and his own need to re- formances. We are blessed to in an unseen God whose pres- ceive that balm from Gilead. have them working among us.

Sponsored by The City Sentinel “Arts Around the City” Our event calendar of art-related events in and around the Greater Oklahoma City metro area April 23, 2015 May 5 - May 10, 2015 June 4 - June 7, 2015 Men Are From Mars and Women Million Dollar Quartet One-Man Lord of The Rings Are From Venus Elvis, Jerry Lee, Cash, Perkins Presented by City Rep Theatre celebrityattractions.com Civic Center Music Hall cityrep.com celebrityattractions.com