MetroFamily Magazine. OKC Family Fun & Resources. Local events calendar.
JULY/AUGUST 2023
25! MetroFamily celebrates a quarter century serving OKC Let’s Fly Updates to Will Rogers World Airport enhance family travel
Screen Time Scrutiny The no-guilt guide to finding balance and fun alternatives
A w rld f imaginai n
Integrated Brain Health
Occupational Therapy Applied Behavior Analysis, ABA Individual and Family Therapy
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The BEST Choice for a Brighter Future
Features 18 TURNING 25!
MetroFamily celebrates a quarter century serving local families
34 PEEP OKC’S PUBLIC ART
Use our scavenger hunt to explore the metro’s best street art
50
36 FAMILY FAVORITES
Your annual list of the top parent- vetted resources in the metro
PHOTO BY C.DRESEL PHOTOGRAPHY
50 DISC GOLF 101
Learn the basics and best places to play as a family PARTY PEOPLE! Local event planners answer timely parent questions
52
54 GRANDPARENT GUIDE
Nature + make-believe = magical childhood adventures
34
Departments
10
NEW & NOW Must-see exhibits around the metro
12 FAMILY MENTAL WELLNESS
The no-guilt guide to balancing screen time with family mental health
14 LOCAL FAMILY FUN
Updates to Will Rogers World Airport enhance family travel 24 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Family festivals, frivolity and frugal fun 56 REAL PARENTS OF THE METRO Community members share seasonal things to do, address top local issues 58 EXPLORING BEYOND OKLAHOMA
PHOTO COURTESY OF OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART
Sightsee in St. Louis, Mo. with a 3-day itinerary perfect for the entire family LAST LOOK 5 ways to celebrate the end of summer
62
PHOTO BY LORI DUCKWORTH, OKLAHOMA TOURISM
From the Cover 18 TURNING 25! 14 LET’S FLY 12 SCREEN TIME SCRUTINY 36 FAMILY FAVORITES
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Where were you 25 years ago? I was sitting in summertime drivers ed classes, gathering my favorite CDs and mixed tapes for practice drives and planning trips to the mall with my then-boyfriend, now husband (where the clothes on sale then resemble what our 11-year- old and her friends are wearing now). 1998 is also the year MetroFamily Magazine made its debut and was named “Best New Publication” by Parenting Publications of America. We are taking a look back at all the milestones (and fashion choices!) from the past 25 years, as well as sharing reader memories and experiences in a special section in this issue. While a lot has changed in the past quarter century (my taste in music and clothing trends included!), MetroFamily has remained focused on providing local parents the best in family fun and resources. In this issue, you’ll find the winners and finalists in our annual Family Favorites Awards, nominated and voted upon by you, our readers. You’ll want to hang on to this issue all year long as you’re making decisions about healthcare providers, kids’ extracurricular activities, locations for family fun and much more. Happy anniversary, MetroFamily — and thanks to all of you in our parent community for
1998
2022
2023
2022
2022
Publisher Sarah Taylor Managing Editor Erin Page
MetroFamily Magazine is published bimonthly. Copyright 2023 by MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or MetroFamily HoldCo, LLC. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Assistant Editor Lindsay Cuomo Art Director Stacy Noakes Senior Project Manager Kirsten Holder Director of Events Casey Shupe Editorial Assistant Emiley Bainbridge Account Executive Dana Price Contributing Writers Debbi Marshall Debbie Murnan Contributing Photographer Bridget Pipkin Contact us Mailing address: 6608 N. Western Ave., #458 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Phone: 405-601-2081 tips@metrofamilymagazine.com www.metrofamilymagazine.com
your support along the way. Cheers to the next 25 years!
PHOTO BY 3 BLESSINGS PHOTOGRAPHY
Erin Page Managing Editor
ON THE COVER Cason is the winner of MetroFamily’s 2023 Cover Kids Search in the 8-9 age category! Cason’s family calls him Bear, and he is a kind-hearted, fun-loving, soon-to-be third grader in Oklahoma City. His favorite subject in school is math. Cason also enjoys gaming, playing football, going to Jump Zone, dancing, listening to music, hanging out with friends and family and playing with his dog, Jazz. He loves learning about and celebrating his heritage as a member of the Sac and Fox Nation, and he also loves being uncle to his 1-year-old niece. Cason is the son of Carey. Together with their extended family, they enjoy playing card games and participating in powwows.
Proud member of
Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce & Edmond Chamber of Commerce
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 5
OFF THE PAGES
Picture your child on MetroFamily’s cover! Enter our Cover Kids Search July 17 - Aug. 31 We are looking for local kids ages 4 to 12 with big smiles and bright personalities to feature on a MetroFamily cover in 2024! Entering is easy: upload a photo of your child, answer a few “about me” questions and submit a $10 fee per entry, which provides your whole family access to a virtual swag bag with prizes, activities and coupons, valued at $150. Readers will vote on their favorite Cover Kids submissions in early September, and the top five finalists from each age category will be
interviewed virtually by a panel of local judges. We can’t wait to meet your Cover Kid hopefuls! Enter beginning July 17 at metrofamilymagazine.com/coverkidssearch!
NEW this year: • 5 categories: ages 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-12 and siblings. Ages 2-3 have been moved to our Cutest Baby Photo Contest, which takes place in February 2024. • Contest dates are July 17-Aug. 31. Entries, voting and interviews are all scheduled earlier this year.
THANKS TO SPONSOR:
6 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023
WE GUIDE, ART INSPIRES FREE gallery tours every Saturday at 1 p.m.
11 NW 11th St., OKC | @okcontemporary | okcontemp.org
Tour of the Eleanor Kirkpatrick Main Gallery.
OFF THE PAGES
Back to School Guide School will be back in session before we know it, and we've got all the resources your family needs to make the transition from summer to school days a breeze in our online Back to School Guide. Savor Summer
Plan Family Eats The start of school means the return of lunch- packing, after-school snacking and quick dinner prepping. Get ahead on planning kid-friendly lunches and snacks, plus family dinners, with creative ideas and recipes.
Before your kids head back to the classroom, enjoy every last drop of summer! Check out iconic OKC summer experiences, lesser-known venues for family fun, 10 Oklahoma trips on a tankful, 50 things to do this summer for $5 or less and a countdown of family fun ideas ahead of the first day of school. Get Classroom Ready Make sure your kids have what they need to start the school year off on the right foot. Find school start dates, school supplies events, cost-saving tips, kids programs and extracurricular activities, mental health resources, teacher gift ideas and much more.
Find all of the above and more at metrofamilymagazine.com/back- to-school-resources.
This exhibition was organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Photo © Museum Associates / LACMA.
Scan this QR code or visit OKCMOA.com to secure your spot to see this larger-than-life exhibition!
Children 17 and under receive free admission to the Museum thanks to generous support from The Chickasaw Nation, The Ann Lacy Foundation, The Cresap Family Foundation, and Chuck & Renate Wiggin.
PRESENTED BY
ONLY AT
8 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023
METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SYSTEM
Summer Reading Program 2023
June 1 - July 31
Earn 600 Points to Win Prizes! Read 5 Minutes or Complete 1 Reading Activity = 5 points Log your reading and activities from June 1 - July 31 Once you reach 600 points, you receive: Your choice of: 2 youth books or 1 adult book OR Logo tote bag * while supplies last Keep logging your reading to earn additional entries for the prize drawings and help us reach our Community Goal.
metrolibrary.org/summerreading • #IReadBecause
NEW & NOW
Beat the Heat By visiting these new museum exhibits BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED. The blazing summer sun doesn’t have to scorch your family fun plans! Check out these 5 new museum exhibits in the metro (and enjoy the AC!).
1
Impressive Impressionism Don’t miss the chance to see famous impressionist works right here in OKC! The Oklahoma City Museum of Art opened a major exhibition on sculptor Auguste Rodin in June. Recognized as one of the greatest sculptors since the Renaissance, Rodin pioneered an approach to his art that aimed to capture not only the physicality of his subjects but also their psychology. True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism , organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, delves into the classical influences on Rodin’s sculptures, the artist’s focus on portraiture and his exploration of movement and the human body. The exhibition showcases more than 60 works of art by Rodin, as well as several dozen by fellow Impressionists like Claude Monet, Pierre- Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Edgar Degas and Paul Cézanne, and includes sculpture, paintings, print and photography. Kids will especially enjoy the section dedicated to Rodin’s process of casting sculptures in bronze in which each step is detailed. Also in this space, visitors can explore a touchable version of one of his sculptures.
KID VISITORS WILL ENJOY MIMICKING THE POSES AND EMOTIONS THEY SEE ON DISPLAY.
Dr. Rosie May, director of curatorial affairs and audience engagement for OKCMOA, encourages parents to challenge kids to emulate the poses and emotions they see in Rodin’s sculptures. The variety of works by other impressionists will also invite conversations comparing and contrasting the art throughout the exhibition. True Nature is open through Oct. 22, and advance reservations for the exhibit’s timed ticketing entry are highly recommended. Bonus: kids 17 and under always get in free!
2 Cosmic Creativity A visit to Factory Obscura is sure to open kids’ eyes to all the expressions and possibilities of art. After all, they can touch the art on display! In addition to visiting the permanent exhibit Mix-Tape , Factory Obscura has added a temporary immersive art installation for the summer months. Cosmic Callback: An Illuminated Interlude is a mesmerizing light and sound show representing the journey to the heart of a star and back again. Created by a collaborative team of 10 artists, the experience lasts about 15 minutes and is enjoyed from some cool,
comfy chairs (also art!), allowing you to gaze up through 3D glasses at swirling lights punctuated by a soundtrack. Cosmic Callback is on display through July 31. Tickets for the experience are $6 for kids ages 12 and under and $8 for 13 and up, and you can stay to enjoy the experience more than once. You can also bundle tickets for Mix-Tape and save $2.
EXPERIENCING THIS LIGHT AND SOUND SHOW IS PERFECT ON A HOT SUMMER DAY.
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MOVING TO A NEW COUNTRY BY MOIRA REDCORN (MA^ZHA^ TSEKA MA^THI^). PHOTO BY ANN SHERMAN.
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Oklahoma’s Own For art that will make you say WOW! head to Oklahoma Contemporary! Experience a collection of art from 13 Oklahoma artists representing a variety of generations in ArtNow: The Soul is a Wanderer . Through distinct perspectives and approaches to media, including paintings, sculptures, videos, performance, photography and ceramics, the works explore significant moments for each artist.
Found in Nature Aspiring engineers, architects, artists and designers should make plans to visit Nature’s Blueprints: Biomimicry in Art and Design at the Sam Noble Museum in Norman. Open through Oct. 22, the exhibit considers how each of these professions is inspired by nature. Showcasing works of art, examples and a few interactive elements, Nature’s Blueprints demonstrates how nature can teach us about both beauty and efficiency. The exhibit is curated by Tulsa-based Lindsay Aveilhé and takes its title and inspiration from former United States Poet Laureate and Oklahoman Joy Harjo’s (Muscogee Creek) poem A Map to the Next World. The Soul is a Wanderer is open through Jan. 15, 2024, and admission to Oklahoma Contemporary is always FREE! Plus, mark your calendar for free Second Saturday events with art-making activities that coordinate with the exhibit on July 8 and Sept. 9.
4
LEARN HOW DESIGN IS INSPIRED BY NATURE.
5 Birds of a Feather
Calling birders of all ages! Also at the Sam Noble Museum, Flight Lines: The Art of Natural History opens July 15 and features works of art and scientific illustrations meaningful to ornithology, the study of birds. Before the age of photography, scientists and naturalists had to illustrate their discoveries to share them with the world. Today, scientific illustration might not be as necessary, but plenty of artists and researchers choose to keep the tradition alive and capture the essence of nature in works of art. The exhibit features the work of professionals, scientists and OU students and will be open through Nov. 19.
Additional location in Edmond at Covell and I-35! Coming Soon!
Find a full list of all current museum exhibits in the metro at metrofamilymagazine.com/guide-to-current-museum-exhibits.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 11
FAMILY MENTAL WELLNESS
Screen Time SCRUTINY THE NO-GUILT GUIDE TO FINDING BALANCE AND IDENTIFYING ALTERNATIVES BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED.
SPONSORED BY
By the nature of our tech-heavy world, kids today have a lot more screen time than their parents did. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that, on average, kids ages 8 to 18 spend more than six hours on screens daily, not including school work. And the Journal of Behavioral Addictions reports that adolescents who spent more time on screens than their peers exhibit higher levels of depression and anxiety a few years later. How can parents effectively balance the need for screens with our families’ mental wellness? We spoke with Jae Jackson McConnell, senior program manager over the Peer Recovery Support Division and Behavioral Health and Wellness Division for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, for her advice as a professional and mom of two. ACHIEVING BALANCE Parents must temper the screen time debates and warnings that screens are entirely detrimental with the knowledge that times today are different than when we were growing up. McConnell’s two young sons are on the autism spectrum, and screens have been a helpful tool for them to learn their own way, at their own pace. “My kids are very visual
“For my own children, I notice a marked improvement in behavior when I cut down on screen time,” said McConnell. “When my kids are on screens too long, they’re not getting to experience things happening in comparison culture, social media can pose constant challenges to older kids’ mental health. In addition to proactively initiating conversations and limiting access to social media, McConnell notes it’s important for parents to acknowledge the increased hardships today’s kids nature or be social.” From bullying to the
MCCONNELL BALANCES HER BOYS' SCREEN TIME WITH OUTDOOR FUN AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.
face with the constant accessibility to the online world. “When you had problems happening at school, you could come home and get away from it,” said McConnell of when today’s parents were kids. “But now it’s constant — they can’t get away from it. For teens that can be especially difficult.” REDUCING KIDS’ SCREEN TIME For families seeking to reduce screen time, McConnell shares an effective 2-step process: First, parents should check our own habits. Our kids are watching, and mimicking, what we do in our daily lives, which means curtailing our own screen time will have positive benefits for our kids. McConnell’s boys, ages 3 and 5, call her out when she’s on her phone for extended periods of time. She tries to take in news and social media in small doses, staying on top of current events using credible, neutral sources and watching for the sense of overwhelm or overload that occurs when she’s consumed too much. Second, replace screen time with another activity. Especially for younger kids, McConnell says it’s not realistic to take screens away and expect them to come up with a replacement activity. For little ones, this may mean parents need to play a game with them or take them to the park. With older kids, parents may simply need to suggest several activities for them to choose from, like playing outside or reading a book.
learners, so trying to explain something to them can be a challenge, but if they can see it happening, it opens a whole new world,” said McConnell. “They have a hard time with pretend play. There are YouTube videos that teach kids how to use their imagination, so my kids watch other kids pretend play. They picked it up and can now do it on their own.” McConnell also acknowledges
that too much of anything, including screens, can be harmful.
SCREENS HAVE BEEN A HELPFUL LEARNING TOOL FOR MCCONNELL'S TWO BOYS.
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FAMILY MENTAL WELLNESS
WHAT ABOUT FASTING FROM SCREENS AS A FAMILY?
SUMMER SCREEN TIME ALTERNATIVES: 1. Hop on a bike for a two-wheeled adventure. 2. Host a family game night. 3. Check out one of the metro’s free museums. 4. Give back by volunteering together. 5. Visit a pick-your-own farm for fresh summer produce. 6. Cool off at a local splash pad. 7. Conduct a science experiment with items you already have at home. 8. Spend time stargazing. 9. Set up a play date at a new-to-you park. 10. Drop a line in a kid-friendly fishing spot. Visit metrofamilymagazine.com/screen-time-balance for even more ideas and clickable links! down when and where you can and don’t shame yourself over screen time. Parents are busy and exhausted and oftentimes doing the best they can.” Editor’s note: This article is part of a 10-month series of articles and podcasts with 988 Mental Health Lifeline. Find the full series at metrofamilymagazine.com/mental-health.
Especially if your children are young, McConnell says expecting them to fast from screens for an extended period of time is not realistic. An abrupt change of routine for young kids or removal of the connection to their friends for older kids may make a screen fast more trouble than it's worth. “Having a routine creates a sense of safety for kids and disrupting that can be too hard for them,” said McConnell. Instead of random screen fasts, she advocates setting certain times a day that screens are off limits, for kids and adults alike. That could mean screens are not allowed during mealtimes or after a certain time in the evenings. In McConnell’s home, her sons are not allowed to be on screens in the mornings before school. “So many times, they would get out of bed and immediately ask for their iPads instead of getting ready for school,” said McConnell. “Now they are not allowed to be on iPads in the morning, and they know the routine, so they don’t ask for them anymore. Rather than cutting out screens entirely for a few days or a week, make certain times in your day a ‘hard no’ for screens.” McConnell’s top piece of advice for parents is to not be too hard on themselves when it comes to screen time. “Everything is attached to a screen, so you’re not going to be able to get away from it completely,” said McConnell. “Cut screen time
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METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 13
LOCAL FAMILY FUN
CAPTION
Updates to Will Rogers World Airport enhance family travel BY ERIN PAGE . PHOTOS PROVIDED. Let's Fly!
VISIT THE PUBLIC OBSERVATION AREA AT WILL ROGERS WORLD AIRPORT TO WATCH PLANES TAKE OFF AND LAND.
What’s new at Will Rogers World Airport? If you haven’t been to Will Rogers World Airport since before the pandemic, you might think you’ve been teleported to a different city when you enter the modern, airy, thriving travel hub. The most recent airport expansion, opened in September 2021, includes a new security checkpoint, two “meeter greeter” lobbies and a dedicated exit for disembarking passengers to head from the concourse level to baggage claim. Located at the new east end, past all the airline ticket counters, the new security checkpoint is expansive. Six checkpoints lanes, compared to the previous three, mean passengers are screened more quickly. Two more lanes will be added in the future. Once through security, the Town Center, an open, light-filled space, leads to restrooms, a mother’s nursing room, a pet relief area and three new Delta Airlines gates at the east end of the terminal. New restaurants include a Starbucks and Vino Volo, plus locally owned Tin Lizzie’s retail store features unique gifts and Made in Oklahoma products. Plenty of furniture for relaxing, holding a meeting before a business trip or charging your devices with built- in plug-ins dot the concourse.
Air travel is steadily climbing back to pre-pandemic rates, including at Oklahoma City’s Will Rogers World Airport. In 2022, the airport saw 4 million passengers come through its doors. While that didn’t quite catch 2019’s record number of 4,418,768 passengers, the first quarter of 2023 outperformed 2019’s numbers, placing the airport on pace to grow into a 4.5 million passenger airport within the next year, reports public information officer and marketing manager Stacey Hamm.
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LOCAL FAMILY FUN
NEW RESTAURANT OSTERA (ABOVE) AND SHOPPING (BELOW, LEFT) EXPAND TRAVELER OPTIONS AT WILL ROGERS WORLD AIRPORT.
In the center concourse food court, Freddie’s Frozen Custard & Steak Burgers and Tropical Smoothie offer quick bites. Grab snacks, books, magazines and other travel necessities at the new Oklahoma's Own News 9 store and tech accessories at the iStore. Head to the west concourse for classic Italian cuisine at the newly opened Osteria or get your preflight caffeine fix at small-batch roastery Elemental Coffee.
ROOM TO EXPLORE AND LEARN Hundreds of exhibits, gardens, live science and planetarium shows all included with general admission, we have room for everyone.
2020 Remington Place, Oklahoma City, 73111 (405) 602-6664 ScienceMuseumOK.org @ScienceMuseumOK
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 15
LOCAL FAMILY FUN
THE AIRPORT'S NEW SECURITY CHECKPOINT DOUBLED THE NUMBER OF LANES FOR PASSENGERS.
Coming soon! Both the airport itself and the number of passengers it services have grown substantially in the past 10 years. A master plan to enhance parking options is in the works, with a focus on adding more parking garages, expanding current lots and offering more partially covered parking. The plan will be complete by 2024 with parking enhancements expected to be completed over the next 10 years. Set to open by the end of this year, local retailer Plenty Mercantile will offer sustainable gifts. New concept The Apartment, which will feel like travelers are stepping into a chic apartment setting complete with virtual cityscapes viewed through the windows, will have apparel, books, beauty products, furnishings and fixtures for sale. Then, in 2024, Hatch Early Mood Food, serving sweet and savory breakfast options, will replace The Grill at OKC and complete the eatery upgrades. Will Rogers is set to join the international travel scene by 2025. The airport’s leadership team is working to recruit international air service directly out of Oklahoma City, instead of locals having to travel first to Denver or Dallas-Fort Worth. One gate in the new east terminal will be dedicated to international flights. The build-out has already begun for the Federal Inspections Services space, where international travelers will be processed through customs and access a separate baggage claim.
Did you know? Even frequent flyers may not be aware of these 3 unique offerings at Will Rogers World Airport: 1. Parking reservations are available in Garage A, which is on the lower level with the closest proximity to the terminal. Making a reservation costs a one-time fee of $5, plus you’ll pay the daily or hourly parking fee when you leave the airport. Especially if you’re toting kids and all their gear, this could be a great time (and sanity) saver! Capacity is reached quickly during holidays and school breaks, and reservations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit flyokc.com/parking-rates and click on Premium Parking Reservations to reserve your spot. 2. If you have a child who loves airplanes, you can visit the airport to watch planes land and take off without going through security. Located in the east wing, the mezzanine/public observation area can be accessed past the ticket counters and the entrance to the security checkpoint. Take the stairs up to the second level and follow the long walkway through a set of double doors until you see the wall of glass with views of the runways. Take a seat in the comfy armchairs and consult the monitors to see when the next plane is due to arrive. The public observation area is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is free to enjoy. 3. Field trips for school and community groups are available free of charge. The airport regularly hosts children’s groups as well as high school and college aviation students and adult community groups. Tour groups can see behind the scenes of baggage claim, watch how TSA agents screen luggage, work with agents to understand the equipment used at the security checkpoint and even visit the airport fire station and meet the fire crew. Contact stacey. hamm@okc.gov to schedule.
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LOCAL FAMILY FUN
• Atlanta • Austin • Charlotte • Chicago (Midway and O’Hare) • Dallas Ft. Worth • Denver • Destin - Ft. Walton (seasonally) • Houston (Hobby and International) • Las Vegas • Los Angeles • Miami International • Minneapolis Catch a nonstop flight from OKC to: • Nashville
• New York LaGuardia • Orlando (MCO and Sanford, seasonally) • Phoenix • Salt Lake City • San Antonio • Seattle • St. Louis • Tampa • Washington National
Book your next event with us! Call 405-736-0233 to reserve your space
Top tips for traveling families As Will Rogers World Airport continues to serve more passengers and as air travel increases, make sure to revisit these tips before your next flight: • Arrive at least 90 minutes to two hours ahead of when your flight boards (not when it’s scheduled to take off). Oftentimes passengers think that because Will Rogers is a smaller airport, they can arrive closer to take-off time, but Hamm advises that can result in missed flights. • Leave yourself plenty of time if you’ll be parking a car, especially when traveling during a holiday or school break. • Will Rogers World Airport is not a 24/7 operation. While staff is onsite 24/7, TSA closes as soon as the last flight leaves for the night (usually around 8 to 8:30 p.m.) and doesn’t reopen until 3:30 to 4 a.m. That means if you’re traveling on a later evening flight, ensure you arrive before 8 p.m. or security will be closed. • The busiest time of day at the airport for departures is 5 to 8 a.m. If you have a 5 a.m. flight, arrive between 3:30 and 4 a.m., when TSA opens, so you have time to get through security. • The lunch hour, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., is a busy time for arrivals, which means traffic can be heavy and you’ll need extra time for parking and/or getting dropped off. • Make sure to have your valid, up-to-date driver’s license if flying domestically and your passport and proper documentation if flying internationally. • Double check what you can and can’t pack in your carry-on on your airlines’ website. • If you plan to travel with a firearm (only allowable in your checked luggage), call the airline you’re flying for the proper regulations on how to pack it. Each airline has different requirements. • Pack your patience. And snacks. Air travel is still fairly unstable, with pilot shortages and technology glitches translating to more delays than pre- pandemic times. Learn more about Will Rogers World Airport and stay up to date with coming upgrades at flyokc.com .
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 17
What a JOY it’s been to be part of the OKC metro — and your families! — for the past quarter century! So much has changed in our city and in parenting in the past 25 years, but our commitment to serving local families has remained steadfast. As many in our original parent community have become grandparents, using MetroFamily resources to play and learn with grandchildren, we continue to feel immense gratitude for all the families who have informed, supported and inspired our work. Enjoy this look back at our past and our vision for how we will continue to support all OKC families in the years to come. Thank you for being part of our MetroFamily! 25! Looking Back, Thinking Forward 25 years of MetroFamily BY SARAH TAYLOR Turns
As we look back on the past 25 years, here are the top five ways we have been fortunate to support the OKC community and local families — plus how we’re looking to serve in even more effective ways in the future: Our local family fun resources have always been our most popular and often how new families hear about MetroFamily. We provide award-winning, top-notch resources, including a popular calendar of events and directories, lists and guides featuring kids’ sports, arts, STEM and other educational classes and camps along with parenting classes and resources. Through articles, themed series and our new podcast, we have brought attention to important local issues such as foster care, child care, our education system, mental and physical health of children and resources for kids with special needs. We enjoy highlighting the local movers and shakers who work hard to improve family life in Oklahoma City, as well as the parents who are making a difference for their own children and other kids who need a helping hand through our annual Awesome Moms contest and Real Parents of the Metro series. 1 2 3
MetroFamily’s mission as a media company is to provide inspiration and support to local parents in their important role of raising their children to be happy, contributing members of their communities, and to help businesses and service organizations connect their messages to these engaged parents. Our emphasis on “things to do” as a family through our in-print and online calendars, lists and resources is key to this mission: we know family life can be tough and prioritizing having fun as a family is key to building relationships that can stand strong through the difficult times. We also acknowledge that our community is only as strong as its individual families — strong families rely on parents who have the resources and know-how for their vital role.
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4 5
We strive to reach parents where they are in the ways most convenient for them , including our award-winning print publication, popular website, e-newsletter (for 20 years!), robust social media presence and our own annual events. Our team knows parenting is both hard and beautiful because we’re all raising kids and grandkids, too! Throughout the years we’ve been not only committed to sharing our own experiences to help other families but also to listening to and providing a platform for the experiences of other families to inspire hope, advocacy and community.
If you have ideas for how MetroFamily can better serve you and your family, please let us know by emailing tips@metrofamilymagazine.com or calling us at 405- 601-2081. And thank you for being a loyal reader of MetroFamily. We look forward to raising our OKC children together with you for years to come!
We are constantly on the lookout to identify and implement new programs and technologies that better serve the OKC community. One example of a recently launched project is our OKC Thrive Fest event, held March 25 at RIVERSPORT OKC, that provided access to encourage better physical and mental health for the entire family.
Summer at the Park Move Rent a boat, play pickleball, roller skate, walk, bike, explore our children’s playground, and cool off with a run through our interactive fountains. Enjoy Free concerts, festivals, gardens, nature programs, Farmers Markets, and much more. There is something For Everyone at Scissortail Park.
Seniors Couples Families Events Kids Life
Thanks to all who voted for us! Plan your visit at scissortailpark.org/calendar
fotoartsphotography.com • (405) 326-1533
300 SW 7th Street | Oklahoma City, OK | 405.445.6277 | scissortailpark.org
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 19
25 Years of #okcfamilyfun
Feb. 1998: Named “Best New Publication” by Parenting Publications of America
May 2013: We launch our annual Awesome Moms contest
Aug. 2012: Our first annual Family Favorites contest
Dec. 2008: We're on Facebook
July 2002: Our website goes live
March 2012: Our first Kids Fest
Aug. 1998: Hanson cover
Oct. 2013: The magazine gets a new logo
March 2003: Our first weekly email goes out to subscribers
FEBRUARY 1998 The first issue of MetroFamily Magazine is published and named the “Best New Publication” by Parenting Publications of America. AUGUST 1998 As the band Hanson was stealing the hearts of teen girls around the country, they also grace our cover. DECEMBER 2000 New owner, Sarah Taylor, publishes her first issue. She is still the publisher and president today. JULY 2002 Our website, metrofamilymagazine.com, goes live. MARCH 2003 We launch our weekly email to subscribers about family fun in OKC.
DECEMBER 2008 We’re on Facebook! MAY 2011
MAY 2013 Our Awesome Moms contest begins, honoring outstanding local mothers nominated by readers. OCTOBER 2013 We rebrand with a new logo. JULY 2015
JUNE 2017 With our partners Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, we host our first Geekapalooza, a family fun event focused on STEAM activities, which has become an annual event. APRIL 2018 Oklahoma teachers, with the support of many parents and community leaders, walk out of their classrooms for 10 days to protest low pay, low per-student funding and overcrowded classrooms. We prepare a hub of online resources and information for families, from childcare options to food support. NOVEMBER 2018 Sarah Taylor receives the Parenting Media Association Distinguished Member Award.
Our website hits 45,000 monthly page views, and we’ve jumped to over 300,000 monthly page views today! MARCH 2012 We host our first Kids Fest event, which was such a hit it became an annual staple. AUGUST 2012 We launch our annual Family Favorites Awards, where readers nominate and vote for the best local businesses and attractions. SEPTEMBER 2012 We release the first post in our now weekly Weekend Warrior blog.
We’re on Instagram! SEPTEMBER 2016
We host our first Cover Kids Search event, inviting local kids to meet us face-to-face to compete for a coveted spot on our cover. MARCH 2017 We set a magazine record of winning 11 industry awards from Parenting Media Association and have continued to win 10 or more awards every year since.
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Feb. 2022 : Our first Cutest Baby Photo contest
March 2017: We set a magazine record of winning 11 industry awards from Parenting Media Association
June 2019: Oklahoma City Mayor Holt and family grace our cover
March 2023: We host our first OKC Thrive Fest event
June 2017: We host our first Geekapalooza event
Sept. 2016: Our first Cover Kids Search event
May 2020: We launch our weekly podcast, Raising OKC Kids
RAISING OKC KIDS conversations with MetroFamily
edition of the magazine to meet families where they are with resources, mental health tips and safe family activities. MAY 2020 We launch our weekly podcast, Raising OKC Kids, and we add new blog Hashtag Parenting, through which local parents and grandparents offer advice and discussion around the issues most important to them and our community. AUGUST 2020 Our annual Cover Kids Search goes virtual — and viral! Families submit photos of Cover Kid hopefuls online, vote for their favorites and finalists are interviewed via Zoom, which continues in our competition today. By giving parents greater access to enter virtually, we continue to see record numbers of Cover Kid hopefuls enter each year.
JUNE 2019 Oklahoma City Mayor Holt and family grace our cover. SEPTEMBER 2019 Our Weekend Warrior blog becomes a multi-voice platform with parent contributors from around the metro sharing their favorite family fun adventures. OCTOBER 2019 We begin sending bite-size daily emails to help parents prepare for each day with timely news, parenting resources and family fun ideas. MARCH 2020 The world shuts down and our staff begins to work from home full time. APRIL 2020 In response to the pandemic and stay-at-home orders, we release our first all-virtual
NOVEMBER 2020 We launch MetroFamily Insiders in response to parent readers asking for a subscription through which they could receive our magazines in the mail. Insiders also receive discounts on all MetroFamily events and other special perks. JANUARY 2021 We move from publishing magazines monthly to every other month. NOVEMBER 2021 We are named the Media Outlet of the Year by the National Association of Mental Illness, Oklahoma. FEBRUARY 2022 We launch the Cutest Baby Photo Contest.
MARCH 2023 We host our first OKC Thrive Fest event, focused on connecting families with physical health and mental wellness resources. JULY 2023 As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we also look to the future! We look forward to serving YOUR family and connecting metro families to local businesses and services through new mediums and enhanced technologies in the months ahead. Stay connected with us at metrofamilymagazine.com!
JANUARY 2023 We’re on TikTok!
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Thank you for sharing YOUR MetroFamily memories and experiences with us! 25 Years of #okcfamilyfun
“MetroFamily means a lot to me because when I was younger and broke, I could never find things to take my children to that I could afford and so we would go to the library and every time we went there was a MetroFam magazine that talked about free or low cost events that we could attend.” Marisa Our family transitioned to OKC two summers ago and I cannot tell you how helpful your work has been to us. We used MetroFamily to research options before we moved, read your newsletters regularly, attended MAP and now look to you to learn what’s happening in the city. Samantha
Ethan being on the cover of MetroFamily was a massive esteem booster. Ethan was proud and basked in the congratulatory remarks provided by his peers, family and friends. He now wants to pursue modeling. Nike
"MetroFamily Magazine has been an incredible resource for my family for many years! Thank you for your reassurance and committing to remain true to your own values. I appreciate the purpose and the presence of MetroFamily Magazine in every facet, from the tangible copies to the online presence you have created and the many lives you’ve touched." Brittany
“It was such a great experience getting to work with MetroFamily from start to finish. They were so kind and patient in the interview and the photo shoot was so much fun, not only for Nora, but the whole family. What a gift to the metro area.” ❤ Jessica
You all have helped bring a lot of awareness and new foster families and we just can’t thank you enough! I also personally love the magazine and it has been so helpful to me in my parenting journey. You all are AMAZING! Casey
What I appreciate most about MetroFamily Magazine is that they offer a platform for conversations, to learn about families who are different from mine. We all know parents learn from other parents. To have this resource, when I was trying to figure things out, could have spared my child, my family, a very difficult time. Sara
“I love Metro Family! I have been a fan since my kiddos were young and that's a loooong time considering my ‘baby’ is graduating from high school this year.” Kathy
MetroFamily Magazine, both in print and online, has been my family’s go to for all things OKC for families. From the community events on the calendar to the service advertisements at the back, it keeps us engaged in our wonderful community. Jenny
“Everything in regards to the kids I check MetroFamily … it’s literally my Oklahoma child rearing manual. We’ve never had a boring weekend once thanks to MetroFamily.” Cassie
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HAVE YOU HAD
GLASSES OF WATER TODAY? G
# okcfamilyfun
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PHOTOS BY ERIECH TAPIA
Things to Do in July & August FREE See You Saturdays at Oklahoma Hall of Fame (1400 Classen Dr) features complimentary admission, crafts, games and more. During the first hour, guests can take part in a sensory-friendly experience. 9am-2pm. oklahomahof.com JULY 4-9 OKC Dodgers vs Albuquerque at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (2 Mickey Mantle Dr). $14 & up. Tuesday-Friday, 7:05pm; Saturday, 6:05pm; Sunday, 1:05pm.
FREE POOLS! on the Plaza in the Plaza District (1700 block of NW 16th St) features a summertime-themed event with local artists, live music, special events, local shopping and more. 6-10pm. plazadistrict.org FREE Dancing in the Gardens – Country Line Dancing at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features an evening of dancing with a live DJ, dance demonstration and dance lessons. 7-10pm. myriadgardens.org JULY 15 Wild-ones Wildlife Walks at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd) features a guided hike through the park where you'll have the opportunity to see and learn about the wildlife all around us. All ages welcome. $2. 9-10am. Also held: Aug. 19. okc.gov/parksignup Stratford Peach Festival at Stratford City Park (701 S Pine, Stratford) features a variety of activities including live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors, carnival, car show, peach ice cream and more. Free to attend. 9am-3pm. facebook. com/2022peachfestivalstratfordok 20th Birthday Bash for Grizzly Bears at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) features enrichment treats for the bear brothers, plus fun activities for kids and giveaways while supplies last. Free with admission. 10am. okczoo.org FREE World Snake Day Celebration at Martin Park Nature Center (5000 W Memorial Rd). Learn about how snakes keep us and the ecosystem safe and all the ways you can help them. 2-4pm. okc.gov/parksignup FREE Heard on Hurd Street Fest in Edmond (Broadway Ave, 1st & Hurd, Edmond) features local food, unique shopping and live music. 6-10pm. mycitizens.bank/heard-on-hurd FREE Floating Films a t RIVERSPORT OKC (800 Riversport Dr) features a waterside, outdoor screening of Sharknado . Tubes and rafts available to rent. 8-10pm. riversportokc.org JULY 16 FREE Family Kickball at North Highland Park (NW 82nd St & N Harvey Ave) features a family-friendly kickball event for families to enjoy fun and physical activity together. 7:30-10pm. keepmovingokc.org
Also held: 7/18-23 vs El Paso, 8/1-6 vs Round Rock, 8/22-27 vs Albuquerque, 8/29-9/3 vs Round Rock. okcdodgers.com JULY 5 FREE SONIC Summer Movies at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features an outdoor screening of Vivo . Pre-movie activities, 7pm; movie, 9pm. myriadgardens.org JULY 6 FREE VIBES Artwalk in downtown Edmond (Broadway, 2nd to Edwards St, Edmond) features a variety of creative talent and live entertainment hosted in participating businesses. 6-9pm. Also held: Aug. 3. edmondvibes.org JULY 7 Summer Animal Enrichment Event at the OKC Zoo (2000 Remington Pl) features summer-inspired enrichment activities for the zoo’s animals prepared by caretakers, encouraging them to use their environment to stay cool. Free with admission. 10am-2pm. okczoo.org FREE First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District (NW 30th & 27th St, Walker & Hudson Ave) features special themed exhibits, guest artists and a variety of live entertainment. 6-9pm. thepaseo.org JULY 7-8 Blackberry Festival at McLoud Veterans Memorial Park (600 E Park St, McLoud) features all kinds of blackberry-themed items from fresh blackberries to blackberry cobbler, sodas and teas as well as live music, a parade, food, carnival, games and fireworks. Friday, 5-10pm; Saturday, 9am-11pm. mcloudchamber.com JULY 8 Norman Conquest Ride at JD McCarty Center (2002 E Robinson Ave, Norman) features an all-day, annual ride open to cyclists of all skill levels, with individual, family and tandem rides from 10 to 62 miles. Benefits the J.D. McCarty Center and Camp ClapHans. $10 & up; kids (under 12), free. 7am-1pm. bicycleleagueofnorman.com
FREE Second Saturday at Oklahoma Contemporary (11 NW 11th St) features a family-focused day of art-making, performances and gallery adventures. July’s theme is Cosmic Marbling. 1-4pm. oklahomacontemporary.org JULY 12 FREE SONIC Summer Movies at Myriad Gardens (301 W Reno Ave) features an outdoor screening of The Sandlot . Pre-movie activities, 7pm; movie, 9pm. myriadgardens.org JULY 13-15 Peach Festival in downtown Porter (various locations) features live music, a parade, food trucks, arts & crafts vendors, a culinary contest, tractor pulls and more. Free to attend. See website for schedule. porterpeachfestivals.com JULY 14 FREE 2nd Friday Art Walk in downtown Norman (Main St, Norman) features art, live performances and more. 6-9pm. 2ndfridaynorman.com
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / JULY-AUGUST 2023 25
JULY/AUGUST CALENDAR
JULY 17-AUG. 31 MetroFamily’s Cover Kids Search (online). OKC metro parents are invited to submit photos of their kids ages 4-12. The most captivating kiddos from each age group and the sibling category will be chosen to appear on our covers during the 2024 calendar year. $10. metrofamilymagazine. com/coverkidssearch JULY 18 Sensory Playdate at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NW 63rd St) features activities designed for all abilities with opportunities for families and kids to enjoy the museum in a new and accessible way. Free with admission. 10am-noon. nationalcowboymuseum.org JULY 19 FREE Youth and Mid Summer Nationals Block Party at State Fair Park (333 Gordon Cooper Blvd) features live music, food and family-friendly entertainment including a golf cart parade, carnival games, a sing- along and more. 6:30-8:30pm. facebook. com/ArabianHorseAssociation JULY 21 FREE Fiesta Friday Summer Series in the Historic Capitol Hill District (S Harvey between 24th & 25th St) features pop-up shops, a DJ and live entertainment. 6-9pm. Also held: Aug. 18. historiccapitolhill.com JULY 22 National Day of the Cowboy at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (1700 NE 63rd St) features a celebration of the classic Western icon. Dress up in your Western duds and enjoy performances by Oklahoma Opry, family-friendly activities and crafts while exploring Prosperity Junction and Liichokoshkomo’. Free with admission. 10am-4pm. nationalcowboymuseum.org
JULY 24-26 OKC Spark vs the Vipers at Hall of Fame Stadium (2801 NE 50th St). $22; kids (2 & under), free. See website for game times. Also held: July 28-30 vs Pride & Aug. 1-3 vs Smoke. okcspark.com JULY 25 FREE Wheeler Criterium in the Wheeler District (1701 S Western Ave) features some of Oklahoma’s top riders as they race through the neighborhood streets. 5-8pm. Also held: Tuesdays in August. wheelerdistrict.com
JULY 27-30 Shrek The Musical Jr at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre (2501 N Blackwelder Ave) features the tale of an ogre named Shrek who sets out to rescue Princess Fiona. Best suited for ages 5 & up. Adults, $11; kids (2-12), $9. See website for performance times. oklahomachildrenstheatre.org JULY 28 FREE Fourth Friday Block Party in the West Village District (W Sheridan Ave) features a block party with market vendors, live music, art exhibits, open houses and giveaways from participating businesses. 6-10pm. Also held: Aug. 25. westvillageokc.com
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