Tuesday November 10, 2009

As you can tell from newspaper editorials and internet discussion boards, the opinions are split but passionate on the MAPS 3 proposal. For example, my MAPS 3 opinion page has over twenty responses, and we'll just say that exclamation marks are used more than a few times. With the vote just less than a month away, all the details of the plan are becoming clear and the sides are organizing efforts.
Coming out in support of MAPS 3 are, obviously, the mayor and the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, as well as many other civic organizations, schools and businesses. They have a campaign website at www.yesformaps.com. On the other side of the issue are Oklahoma City's fire and police unions, among others. Their committee "Not This MAPS" claims there are far more pressing concerns in the current economic climate.
As for the proposal itself, specific details continue to emerge. The streetcar system would be five to six miles downtown, State Fair Park would get exhibit space and public building upgrades, and a whitewater kayaking venue would be added on the Oklahoma River. One MAPS 3 component, the downtown park, was more clearly illustrated at a presentation a couple of weeks ago. Designers intend to include a cafe, lake, amphitheater, dog park and skating rink. Frankly I think that's a bit too busy, but what do I know.
What do you think? Voice your opinion on MAPS 3 and how you intend to vote.
MAPS 3 Logo © Oklahoma City
Monday November 9, 2009

Jane Schane knew where last week's photo was taken. That was the Dean A. McGee Eye Institute on NW 56th, with the photo submission by About.com contributor Roni Collins.
And this week, we have another one from Roni, who has discovered this side of the game is fun too. My thanks once again to Roni for the submissions. Post your guesses for this week's picture below.
If anyone else would like to submit one for a future week, just send it my way for consideration, and make sure you identify it as "Where in the Metro?".
Photo © Roni Collins
Sunday November 8, 2009

It's almost the time that many have been waiting for. That's right... Talk about a perfect holiday gift. It's the 2010 Thunder Girls Calendar, slated to go on sale this Wednesday at the Thunder Shop. You can see photos from the official unveiling as well as full profiles with photos of each of the Thunder Girls, one of many new additions to thunder.nba.com.
In addition to the entire section dedicated to the Thunder Girls, Rumble gets his own site with his story, videos, coloring books and booking information. Also, the Thunder player pages have been expanded, and the website now has expanded videos, wallpapers and more.
Photo: Chris Graythen / Getty Images
Friday November 6, 2009

As we all come off the sugar high of Halloween, don't miss out on the Oklahoma City Philharmonic's Pops season opener, Classical Mystery Tour. Considered one of the finer tribute bands in the world, Classical Mystery Tour presents an evening of music from the Beatles.
The 6th Annual "Girlie Show" takes place this weekend at the Farmer's Public Market on Klein. They call it "an art show with a curve," and there will be music, food, art and more. Get details on the official site.
In sports, the Thunder hits the road Friday night for a game against Houston but will back at the Ford Center on Sunday night to take on the Orlando Magic. It won't be an easy match-up. After winning the first two, the team has dropped to .500 with 2 losses and will be looking to turn that tide.
Riverwind Casino has a couple of shows of note this weekend. On Friday, it's country singer Rodney Atkins on the ShowPlace Theatre Stage. Then, Saturday brings a live cooking demonstration with the Food Network's Ingrid Hoffmann. Get venue and ticket information here on About.com OKC.
State Fair Park is the site for the Oklahoma Mineral & Gem Show. There will be educational displays and demonstrations as well as a items such as jewelry and rare minerals. Admission is $6 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Get more information on the official site.
Elsewhere, the Paseo Arts District holds its monthly "First Friday" gallery walk. And the Robertson Activity Center in Yukon will host the "Pumpkin Harvest Craft Festival on Saturday, with 40 booths of crafts, jewelry and baked goods. Admission is free, and you can call (405) 350-8937 for more information.
Are you attending any of the above events, or has something else caught your eye this weekend? Let us know below. You can submit future events for publication and possible profile here on About Oklahoma City by using this form.
Photo © Adam Knapp