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Mom, This house is AMAZING! Anna and I are already loving the backyard... of course, being just a block away from her school is perfect. I’m so proud of you Kayla! Seriously, mom, I wouldn’t have been able to do this without you. Don't sell yourself short. You've been able to accomplish whatever you put your mind to. Thank you for suggesting Chickasaw Community Bank. With their help, we’ll have a place to call home for many years to come. Love you. Come see us soon!
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OUTSTANDING SCHOLAR-ATHLETES OF THE MONTH Jada Atkinson
SOUTHMOORE HIGH SCHOOL
Recent sports or academic highlight?
I recently competed in the 6A state track meet and placed 1st in both the 100m and 200m race. I ran personal bests in both events, running 11.38 in the 100m (a new state and meet record) and 23.76 in the 200m. I was recently awarded the Masonic Student of Today award and graduated with honors.
Personal highlights?
My parents are Jennifer and Shannon Atkinson. In addition to track, I was on the basketball and swim teams. My personal interests aside from competing are listening to music and drawing/painting.
How do you maintain balance?
Managing life, school and sports was not as difficult as I thought. I am a goal-oriented person and I make plans for myself to achieve the goals I set for myself. I believe that and my parents’ support is what has helped me manage a healthy balance between life, sports and school.
Plans for the future?
I’m attending the University of Oklahoma in the fall and majoring in sports business.
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Ansley Scott
MOORE HIGH SCHOOL
Recent sports or academic highlight?
I recently won the 400 meters at the 6A state track meet. My team won the 4x400 relay, our 4x800 team placed 2nd, and our 4x200 team placed 3rd. I also made the all-city first team.
Personal highlights?
My parents are Gina and Rusty Scott. In addition to running track, I enjoy hanging out with friends and going to the lake!
How do you maintain balance?
Balancing life, school and sports is hard, but I try to be organized in order to make time for everything, especially for those things that are most important to me!
Plans for the future?
In the fall, I am going to attend the University of Central Oklahoma, major in nursing and I will also run track. My plan is to become a nurse practitioner.
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Happy Independence Day! HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! If you're still looking at options for how to spend the day, check
JULY 2021
out our calendar, which lists several celebrations in the vicinity. We're launching a new endeavor in this issue that we think you'll enjoy and find informative. Each issue, we will feature one to three timely topics for your perusal; this
PUBLISHER
Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@lifestylepubs.com 405.541.5650
month, the topics are watery fun and summer family getaways. Half are explored in the
MANAGING EDITOR
physical magazine, while the rest can be explored online. Make sure to check this new
Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@lifestylepubs.com
offering out ... we think you'll find some great ideas for things to do as a family or with
AD DESIGNER
friends, or even on your own, this summer.
Miranda Williams L AYO UT DESIGNER
There's lot of interesting and informative content in this issue. Just a couple of highlights:
Dana Rudolph
+ Faith Reflections: Sue Rother Bond, whose father was a cousin of America’s first
Staci Elder Hensley, Brooke Barnett, Debbie Copp, Lindsey Davies
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
and only official Catholic martyr—Oklahoma-born priest Blessed Stanley Rother, honors the memory of her famous relative in a variety of ways, including serving on the board of the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine (now under construction in Oklahoma City) and writing and illustrating a children’s book about Rother. 100% of proceeds from her self-published book go to support causes aligned with his values. + Travel Destination: Harrison Sikes writes about his experiences from a recent visit to Alaska. Supplemented with jaw-dropping photos taken by Sikes and his traveling partners, his sister and a cousin, he recounts fishing for halibut, trout and salmon; watching a momma brown bear teach her cubs how to hunt and fish; and traveling and camping in what he called "some of the most beautiful scenery I believe exists." Those are just some highlights of what you'll find in this jam-packed issue. Before closing, we wished to share some exciting news with you. Cleveland County
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
Lifestyle publisher Jimmy Darden has taken over the reins of a second Lifestyle mag-
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
azine: OKC Lifestyle (https://citylifestyle.com/okc). He invites businesspeople from
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
both areas to contact him about advertising opportunities, as well as others, including
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
leaders of metro nonprofits and arts organizations, to discuss how OKC Lifestyle and
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
Cleveland County Lifestyle can help them publicize their work in the community. He
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
can be reached at Jimmy.Darden@Lifestylepubs.com. I also welcome your feedback and story ideas; just email me at Jerri.Culpepper@Lifestylepubs.com.
514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
ON THE COVER America’s first and only official Catholic
Jerri Culpepper, Managing Editor
martyr‚ Oklahoma-born priest Blessed
Stanley
Rother.
A
shrine and museum honoring the first U.S. priest to be beati-
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
fied is being built in Oklahoma City. See related story, page 30.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ARCHDIOCESE OF
Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No
OKLAHOMA CITY ARCHIVE 10
Proverbs 3:5-6 Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
via the US Postal Service to some of the Cleveland County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
HEALTHY SMILES
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INSIDE THE ISSUE JULY 2021
FEATURES 24 The Last Frontier Beautiful Sights, Fishing and Bear Sightings Make for Unforgettable Trip
30 ‘The Shepherd Cannot Run’ Shrine and Museum to Honor the Legacy of America’s Only Catholic Martyr
46 Cleveland County’s Black Rifle Coffee Company Dedicated to Serving Those Who Serve
24 50
50 If Life Gives You Lemons... OU Golfer, Teammates Draw on Culture for Success
30 DEPARTMENTS
46
10
Lifestyle Letter
14
Good Times
18
Around Town
20 Local Experiences 24 Travel Destination 30 Faith Reflections 36 Hometown Hero 40 Now Open 44 Giving Back 46 Locally Owned 50 Inspired By 52 Realty Report 54 Lifestyle Calendar 58 City Scene
The Spirited Senior Living Community You’ve Been Waiting For. Coming Soon. Sooner Station at University North Park is a spirited senior living destination in Norman, OK offering 189 residences for active adults seeking independent living, assisted living, and memory care services. A premier Senior Living Sponsor of the University of Oklahoma Alumni Association, Sooner Station residents will enjoy direct access to continued learning, campus visits, events, and more. Find out more at SoonerStation.com and pre-select your apartment today! Or, call now 405.267.4968 to schedule a complementary tour.
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GOOD TIMES
OTF Fitness Moore Participates in Fight For Air Fundraiser Getting fit, having fun and giving back. Orangetheory Fitness Moore’s team did all that as participants in the recent Fight For Air fundraiser for the American Lung Association. The OTF team raised over $14,500 for the nonprofit—twice as much as the nearest competing team. Call 405.703.5259 or visit OrangeTheory.com to learn more about what this fitness community is all about.
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National Family Law Firm Ribbon Cutting A June 7 ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official opening of the Oklahoma City office of the national family law firm of WhitbeckBennett. The firm was founded with a vision to help struggling families with strong legal advice at their time of greatest need. WhitbeckBennett is the first national family law firm in Oklahoma City that serves both men and women. 1. Amber Godfrey, attorney and manager of the just-opened WhitbeckBennett family law office in Oklahoma City | 2. John Whitbeck, founder and managing partner of WhitbeckBennett | 3. Norman Mayor Breea Clark (left) attended the event as an honored guest and speaker to support in the commemoration of the special occasion. 14
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
SWITZER SOONER LIVING’S AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET IS 10 DAYS
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15
GOOD TIMES
Black Rifle Coffee Company Holds Grand Opening The flag was raised at the June 11 grand opening of Black Rifle Coffee Company’s newest location at 1909 S Telephone Road in Moore. The community came together to honor local veterans and first responders by singing the National Anthem and enjoying a great cup of coffee with those who attended. See related story, page 46.
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South OKC Chamber Goings-on It was a rainy start for the SOKC Chamber's Annual South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament but when the sun finally came out, it was the perfect weather for a round of golf! The chamber also hosted ribbon cuttings and grand openings, a business briefing luncheon and a City Connection.
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1. First Place Flight A Winners Lassiter Construction: Thomas Tillson and Mickey Lassiter with Peter Evans from Moore Norman Technology Center | 2. Peter Evans, Moore Norman Technology Center with Norman Regional Health System Flight B Winners Richie Splitt, John Manfredo, Danny Kelley and Jim Beyer | 3. Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office Team: Brandon Holmes, Jim Anderson, Charles Avery, Tommie Johnson III | 4. Oklahoma City Chief of Police Team: Terry Dickerson, Jason Clifton, Bobby Thompkins and Wade Gourley | 5. Ribbon cutting and grand opening for VWR Originals LLC | 6. Grand opening and ribbon cutting for Tiff’s Treats Cookie Delivery 16
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Their first years. Our first priority.
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Primrose School of Norman 3220 Healthplex Drive Norman, OK 73072 405.801.3301 PrimroseNorman.com
Now Enrolling Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a registered trademark of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2020 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
17
AROUND TOWN Find out more about the library’s activities and services online at www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org or download the PLS Connect App on Google Play or the Apple Store.
BOOK ON GRIFFIN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PUBLISHED A pictorial history of Griffin Memorial Hospital written by Cleveland County Historical Society treasurer Suzanne H. Schrems, Ph.D., published this month, is now available for purchase online at NormanMuseum.org/books or in the MooreLindsay House gift shop. A book signing is planned sometime this summer for the book, Images of
WHITBECKBENNETT LAW FIRM OPENS OKC OFFICE
America: Griffin Memorial Hospital. In honor of the new publication, the MooreLindsay House, 508 N. Peters, is featuring an
The family law firm WhitbeckBennett (WBLaws.
exhibit titled “Historic Hospital,” which continues
com) recently opened an Oklahoma City office,
through Aug. 20. The exhibit will offer an in-depth
with WhitbeckBennett’s Amber Godfrey, who has
look at the history of the hospital and its build-
been practicing law for 13 years, serving as manager.
ings. Historical photos and medical supplies
John Whitbeck, founder and managing partner,
will round out this look into the history of one of
launched the, Virginia-headquartered firm in April 2020 with aspirations to identify future locations to expand their practice nationwide. The firm's founding vision is to help struggling families with
Norman's earliest establishments.
LOCAL ARTISTS RECEIVE OVAC AWARDS
strong legal advice. WhitbeckBennett is the first
Two local artists were among Oklahomans to
national family law firm in Oklahoma City that
receive fellowships and student awards recently by
serves both men and women.
the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition.
LIBRARY SERVICES EXPAND DURING SUMMER
Norman artist Jason Cytacki (JasonCytacki.com), an associate professor of painting at the University of Oklahoma, was named a Visual Arts Fellow, which
The Pioneer Library System has resumed some
carries a $5,000 award. His work, which has been
of its program offerings, with events scheduled to
exhibited nationally and internationally, examines
take place as safely as possible in outdoor settings.
the underlying framework that mediates the values,
Visit the library’s website, www.pioneerlibrary-
meanings and symbols of the world we inhabit.
system.org/calendar, or visit any of the 12 PLS
OU student Dimana Bazrbashi (Instagram, @its.
libraries—including six Cleveland County branches
dimana) received a $500 Student Fellowship Award,
in Norman, Moore, Southwest Oklahoma City, and
presented to qualified artists with outstanding vision.
Noble—to see what each will offer as program
The Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition supports
opportunities begin again.
Oklahoma’s professional visual artists. These
As part of its Summer Learning Challenge, the
awards are intended to recognize past achieve-
library is giving readers of all ages a chance to earn
ments and future promise and the funds can be
points through minutes spent engaging with books
used as the artist’s needs require.
or many other activities. Sign up through Aug. 15 at pioneer.beanstack.org, and take part in activities not just in person but also through suggestions
LAURA FINLEY JOINS OTF MOORE COACHING STAFF
that are part of the learning tracks for young chil-
Laura Finley, at attorney who practices environ-
dren, older children, teens or adults. Many of these
mental law and is in-house counsel at Western
activities can be completed anywhere.
Farmers Electric Cooperative, recently joined the coaching staff at Orangetheory Fitness Moore.
18
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Laura earned a degree in biology from the University of Central Oklahoma and her law degree, also from OCU, three years later. She earned her personal training certification in May 2020 and joined the OTF staff after joining as a member. She met her husband, Eric, her senior year of college; they’ve been married for 17 years and have two boys and one dog.
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CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
19
LOCAL EXPERIENCES
SUMMER ADVENTURE SUMMERTIME IS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY FOR ADVENTURE! School is out, the weather is warm and we have vacation time to spend with our families. Make the most of this summer by exploring all our community has to offer. From the best spots to have a picnic to the perfect places to cool off in the water, there’s plenty of fun summertime activities to do as a family. Seize this season of adventure and make some memories!
WATERY WAYS TO STAY COOL + Kayaking a fast-growing recreation Lake Thunderbird State Park, which boasts two marinas, nine boat ramps and two swim beaches. 13101 Alameda Drive, Norman, OK 73026 + The railroad-themed Station Aquatic Center offers activities geared toward people of all ages! It features three pools and a 439-foot lazy river. 700 S. Broadway Ave., Moore, OK 73160 + One of two interactive water features at the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, which offers a gardening school and children's and family events year-round. 301 W. Reno Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102 + Learn to scuba dive through Sea Shanty Scuba & Swim or let their travel department create the perfect getaway for you and your family/friends. 116 E. Main St., Norman, OK + Check out OKC's Will Rogers Gardens this summer! These historic gardens provide serene settings and dynamic programs for casual park visitors and experienced greenthumbs alike. 3400 NW 36th St., OKC 20
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
scan for more photos & the full list
SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES + Beat the heat this summer at the Sam Noble Museum and spend the day browsing galleries showcasing dinosaurs, fossils depicting Oklahoma’s natural history and more! 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman, OK 73072-7029 + Skeletons: The Museum of Osteology features over 450 REAL skeletons from animals from all over the world. Osteology is the study of bones. 10301 S. Sunnylane Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73160 + The Myriad Botanical Gardens hosts a "myriad" (LOL) of programming for people of all ages, includiwng Summer Twilight Concerts, held Sunday evenings beginning at 7:30. + For residents and visitors summer isn't complete without a “selfie” in front of the “O-K-C” sculpture or a Ferris Wheel ride in the Wheeler District. 1701 S. Western Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73109 + More than just a park, Martin Park Nature Center is a hub for nature exploration and education for visitors of all ages.
Photography Doug Hoke
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Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
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TRAVEL DESTINATION
ARTICLE HARRISON SIKES
Mountain at Denali National Park
T H E L A ST F RON T I E R 24
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
BEAUTIFUL SIGHTS, FISHING AND BEAR SIGHTINGS MAKE FOR UNFORGETTABLE TRIP
I RECENTLY MADE A TRIP TO ALASKA WITH MY SISTER SARAH AND OUR COUSIN KENDRA. We spent several weeks exploring across the central/southeastern area to experience what the last frontier has to offer. We used our Airbnb in Anchorage as a base camp in between adventures. Much of the time spent in Anchorage was for planning the next sights to see, playing board games and cooking excellent meals. There were many trips made to the Kenai Peninsula to take advantage of everything this part of the state has to offer. I spent a few days fishing the Kenai River, where I was able to catch salmon, rainbow trout and Dolly Varden trout, which was a first for me. The best part about fishing this area was observing a mama brown bear and her cubs feeding in the deep pools where salmon were holding. I could sit all day and watch the cubs dive down for fish and then fight each other for it when one of them got one.
Momma brown bear and her cubs walking on the beach at Lake Clark
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
25
TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)
While I spent much time here on the river, the girls took a plane to Lake Clark National Park & Preserve to check out some bears going about their daily activities. They especially enjoyed watching the young cubs play amongst each other and get distracted while mom was trying to teach them how to dig for clams on the beach. With limited access to people, the bears in this area do not view people as a threat to their food and will coexist with you while keeping your distance and showing respect. Working our way down toward the tip of the Kenai Peninsula Borough, we found ourselves camping in Homer for a few days. This is a fishing town hosting some of the best halibut fishing in the world, which makes this a very popular place for a lot of people. Feeling like a mountain town with some beach town in it makes Homer a place like no other. This was my favorite city we visited while there, and I can’t wait to go back. We were lucky enough to obtain a permit online for a pass to drive into Denali National Park. Typically, one can only drive their car 15 miles into the park before having to take a bus to get in deeper. The permit allowed us to venture 60 miles into the park in our own vehicle. Along this trip were endless views of some of the most beautiful scenery I believe exists, as well as our first live look at caribou. We also saw a few bears moseying around, and a wolf way off in distance. Preservation of this park is outstanding, which should allow it to remain in its natural state for all to enjoy for many years. This was my favorite part of our trip to Alaska. Denali is one of a kind. I’ll never forget the feeling I had sitting at camp eating the oats Sarah made for breakfast that morning and sipping on some coffee before we started our drive into the park.
26
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Mountains reflecting off of a lake in Wrangell National Park
Aspens changing color outside of Denali National Park
Sunset on Cooper Lake in the Kenai Peninsula CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
27
TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)
Rock formation on an island in the Gulf of Alaska
DID YOU KNOW? Alaska is by far the largest U.S. state by area, comprising more total area than the next three largest states (Texas, California and Montana) combined, and the seventh largest subnational division in the world. While it has one of the smallest state economies in the country, Alaska’s per capita income is among the highest, owing to a diversified economy dominated by fishing, natural gas and oil, all of which it has in abundance. United States armed forces bases and tourism are also a significant part of the economy; more than half the state is federally owned public land, including a multitude of national forests, parks and wildlife refuges. Of the 20 highest peaks in the United States, 17 are in Alaska. Denali, the highest peak in North America, is 20,320 ft. above sea level. Denali, the Indian name for the peak, means “The Great One.” The Yukon River, almost 2,000 miles long, is the third longest river in the United States. There are more than 3,000 rivers in Alaska and over 3 million lakes. The largest, Lake Iliamna, encompasses over 1,000 square miles. Alaska has 6,640 miles of coastline and, including islands, has 33,904 miles of shoreline. Some of Alaska’s popular annual events are the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race from Anchorage to Nome, World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks, the Blueberry Festival and Alaska Hummingbird Festival in Ketchikan, the Sitka Whale Fest, and the Stikine River Garnet Fest in Wrangell. The Stikine River attracts the largest springtime concentration of American bald eagles in the world. Influences on music in Alaska include the traditional music of Alaska Natives as well as folk music brought by later immigrants from Russia and Europe. Prominent musicians from Alaska include singer Jewel, traditional Aleut flautist Mary Youngblood, folk singer-songwriter Libby Roderick, and Christian music singer-songwriter Lincoln Brewster.
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Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Check out the State of Alaska website—Alaska.gov—for a wealth of information, including more state facts and misconceptions, the state’s history, museums, fishing licenses, travel conditions, etc.
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29
FAITH REFLECTIONS
Sue Rother Bond and her husband, Dr. James Bond, plant trees on the site of the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, scheduled for completion in July 2022
‘THE S H E PH E R D C A N NO T RU N ’
The Bonds created a puppet show about Rother’s life that they present to school-age children.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF AMERICA’S ONLY CATHOLIC MARTYR Susan Rother Bond's children's book is read to a rapt audience of children and adults
30
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
ARTICLE STACI ELDER HENSLEY
Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine rendering
WHEN YOU’RE CONNECTED WITH SOMEONE
THE STORY OF BLESSED STANLEY ROTHER
WHO’S SACRIFICED EVERYTHING TO HELP THE
Father Stanley Rother’s incredible story is one of tre-
LESS FORTUNATE, SHARING AND CONTINUING
mendous dedication to the spiritual flock for whom he
THAT PERSON’S LEGACY CAN BE A SACRED TRUST.
laid down his life.
That’s certainly the case for Sue Rother Bond, whose
Born during the Great Depression into a devoutly
father was a cousin of America’s first and only official
Catholic farming family in Okarche, Oklahoma, young
Catholic martyr—Oklahoma-born priest Blessed Stanley
Stanley soon determined he wanted to become a priest.
Rother. Bond honors the memory of her famous relative
After completing seminary and serving several years
in a variety of ways, including serving on the board of the
in Oklahoma, in 1968 Father Rother received permission
Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine. Now under construction
to join the Oklahoma Catholic Archdiocese’s mission in
in Oklahoma City, the 2,200-seat shrine and accompa-
Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala. For nearly 13 years, he would
nying museum is scheduled for completion in July 2022.
live and work amongst the poverty-stricken native tribe
In 2018 Bond wrote and illustrated a 48-page chil-
of the Tz’utujil, who are Mayan descendants. Although he
dren’s book about Rother titled Blessed Stanley Rother:
had struggled with Latin while in seminary, he neverthe-
An Extraordinary Life. Along with her husband, ortho-
less became fluent in both Spanish and the tribe’s native
pedic surgeon Dr. James Bond, she also created an
dialect—even creating a Bible translation in the latter lan-
accompanying puppet show about Rother’s life that they
guage. He assisted the tribe with both spiritual and prac-
present to school-age children.
tical matters, spearheading the building of a parish hall,
Bond self-published her book, so that 100% of the
hospital and radio station, developing irrigation systems,
funds raised can go to support causes aligned with
teaching farming techniques, and even importing a trac-
Blessed Stanley’s values. Among other projects, the
tor from his family’s farm to assist with local agriculture.
Bonds sent food to his former Guatemalan parishioners
“He plowed the fields side-by-side with his parishio-
who were severely impacted during the COVID lock-
ners,” Bond said. “He taught them about God with not
down and purchased more than 3,000 trees to beautify
only words, but by acts of love. He loved the people of
the grounds of the new shrine.
his parish, and they loved him.”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
31
FAITH REFLECTIONS (CONTINUED)
“ I h av e s h i p p e d b o o k s t o n e a r l y e v e r y s t a t e i n t h e U . S . a n d a l s o t o p e o p l e o f m a n y C h r i s t i a n d e n o m i n a t i o n s ,” s h e a d d e d . “ H i s s t o r y s e e m s t o t r a n s c e n d C a t h o l i c i s m a n d C h r i s t i a n i t y. B l e s s e d S t a n l e y ’s s t o r y i n s p i r e s u s a l l t o b e c o m e t h e b e s t version of ou rselves by lov i n g a nd ta k i n g ca re of a n u nder s e r v e d p o p u l a t i o n a t a n y c o s t .” When a civil war broke out in Guatemala in 1980,
“As the mother of five children, I have always been
the Catholic church was targeted by the government.
creative with sharing stories with my children, and
Violence against the parishioners ensued, and Father
they always loved the bedtime stories of Blessed
Stanley’s name was among those added to the gov-
Stan,” she said. “So, I decided to write a fully illus-
ernment’s “death list.” At the Oklahoma Archbishop’s
trated children’s book to share his story.”
request, Rother returned to the States, but soon went back to Guatemala, saying simply “The shepherd
The book was an immediate hit, and has been translated into both Spanish and Tz’utujil.
cannot run at the first sign of danger.” Three months
“I have shipped books to nearly every state in the
later, on July 28, 1981, intruders entered the parish
U.S. and also to people of many Christian denomi-
and the beloved priest was martyred.
nations,” she added. “His story seems to transcend
On Dec. 1, 2016, at the request of the Oklahoma
Catholicism and Christianity. Blessed Stanley’s story
Archdiocese, Pope Francis officially recognized
inspires us all to become the best version of our-
Father Rother as a martyr for the faith—the first from
selves by loving and taking care of an underserved
the United States and the first U.S.-born priest to be
population at any cost.”
beatified. (Beatification is a necessary step along the
Bond’s book, along with other Rother-related
process toward declared sainthood, and adds the
items, is available for purchase through the
title of “Blessed” to the individual’s name.) The Rite of
Oklahoma Archdiocese website, ArchOKC.org.
Beatification was held in Oklahoma City on Sept. 23,
It also can be purchased by emailing blessed-
2017, and was attended by more than 20,000 people
stanleybook@gmail.com for a secure credit card
around the world. Bond said the family and church
link, via Facebook, @blessedstanleyrother, and
members are hopeful that Blessed Stanley Rother
through Amazon and local Catholic bookstores.
will eventually be canonized as a saint.
More information about the shrine can be found
“Blessed Stanley gives us an ordinary hero we
at ArchOKC.org/shrine.
can all live up to,” Bond said. “We all can strengthen
“Blessed Stanley’s story is powerful because
our faith and love for our neighbor through everyday
anyone can identify with it,” Bond said. “He was not
actions of kindness and develop courage through
exceptionally tall or fast or strong. He was an ordinary
adversity to stand up for what is right at all costs.”
farm boy whose courage and faith grew throughout his life. All of us have opportunities during any ordinary
CARRYING ON THE LEGACY
32
day to show compassion and help someone in need
Father Stanley’s life was chronicled in the
and listen to what God calls us to do. As Oklahomans,
well-received biography The Shepherd Who Didn’t
we are all familiar with hard work and rolling up our
Run by Maria Scaperlanda. However, Bond said,
sleeves to help our neighbor. Especially in today’s time
she felt something still was needed to reach a
of division and hate, these ordinary values can serve
younger audience.
our world extraordinarily.”
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
CONTINUED >
Rendering of the Blessed Stanley Rather Shrine North Transept
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FAITH REFLECTIONS (CONTINUED)
Blessed Stanley Rother: An Extraordinary Life cover
Aerial rendering of the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine and accompanying museum
Artist's rendering of the shrine
34
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
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HOMETOWN HERO
Charlie Neely is serving as Cleveland County's veterans' liaison coordinator.
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
ARTICLE STACI ELDER HENSLEY
G UA R D I N G 36
Guarding Their Backs
WHEN CHARLIE NEELY ENTERED THE SERVICE IN 1992, THE U.S. ARMY’S RECRUITING SLOGAN WAS “BE ALL THAT YOU CAN BE.” Nearly 30 years later, the Custer City, Oklahoma, native has lived up to that slogan in spades. This past April, the lieutenant colonel took on a new challenge: serving his fellow servicemen and women as Cleveland County’s veterans’ liaison coordinator.
best role as a county would be to coordinate
In this role, Charlie serves as the “go-to guy,”
resources and point vets in the right direction,”
so to speak. He typically doesn’t provide one-on-
Charlie said. “There are other organizations out
one assistance, but is nevertheless available 24/7
there that are better equipped to handle things
to put veterans in touch with local agencies and
like benefits claims, and I make myself available
services who can help them with their specific
to help them as well.
needs. He’s also available to speak to veterans’
“The point is for vets to know that you don’t
groups and other local organizations and to
have to do it alone, and there’s going to be a point
answer any questions from the community.
where you need help,” he continued. “If veterans
“All soldiers need an advocate. In the past
don’t take action, they’re missing out on so much
we have toyed with the idea of becoming
that could greatly improve the qualify of life for
VA-certified officers, but determined that our
them and their families.” Charlie said he is excited to take over the reins of the veterans’ liaison program—a post previously held by fellow Army veteran Mark Braley. In an interesting twist, Charlie was Mark’s commander in Iraq, and the two served together for several years. The program itself operates in partnership with the Cleveland County Health Department and was begun in 2017 as a special project of County Commissioner Darry Stacy. Charlie began his duties April 12, and has already been able to assist a number of veterans and their family members. He stressed that he can be reached by phone at any time day or night, at 405.593.5365 or 405.366.3405. You can also email him at Charlie.Neely@health.ok.gov.
Charlie Neely (right), with Carl Ellison, the accredited veterans' benefits adviser at the Norman Legion Post
T H E I R B AC K S
NEW VETERANS’ LIAISON HELPS FELLOW VETS GET HELP
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
37
HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)
“My whole goa l is t o b e t h e r e fo r v e t s at all times, and a v e t e r a n’s t i m e o f c r i s i s i s n’ t g o i n g t o b e f r o m 9 t o 5 ,” he sa id. “I k now Ok lahomans, and I k now vetera ns , and I understand w h e r e t h e y’ r e c o m i n g f r o m . A s fe l l o w Ok ies , we suppor t e a c h o t h e r.”
to earn the Bronze Star and the Combat Action Badge, among many additional honors. He will be
Charlie considers his new role to be a natural
officially retired from the service in July.
extension of his military career, which began in
“My most memorable experience was working
1992 when he joined the Oklahoma National Guard
with our allies in the Azerbaijanian and Singapore
as a military policeman in the 745 MP company. He
armies to facilitate cross-cultural military training,
was commissioned as an officer in 1997, and his unit
expanding our allies’ freedoms,” Charlie said.
would end up serving in combat in both Afghanistan and Iraq as part of the Global War on Terrorism.
As if he weren’t busy enough, Charlie is completing a master’s degree in strategic studies through
As a field artillery officer, he served in multiple
the prestigious U.S. Army War College, and is due
roles, culminating as battalion commander, 1st
to graduate in July. He already holds an associate
Battalion, 158th Field Artillery, and the 45th Field
degree in police science from Oklahoma State
Artillery Brigade’s officer in charge. He deployed
University and a bachelor’s degree in education
to LSA Anaconda and Baghdad, Iraq, as a security
from the University of Central Oklahoma. Together,
forces commander in 2005, where he would go on
he and his wife, Renee Salazar Neely, have five children and eight grandchildren. “Being in the service has made me even more proud to be an American,” Charlie said. “It has enabled me to serve this country in my small way to prove to the world that America really is the ‘shining city upon the hill’ for freedom.”
38
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
39
NOW OPEN
NEW FACILITY PLANNED WITH WORLD-CLASS CUSTOMER CARE AND SAFETY IN MIND
ON JUNE 12, TRUE SKY CREDIT UNION OPENED ITS FOURTH BRANCH IN CLEVELAND COUNTY. Like its predecessors, planners incorporated the latest technologies to make transactions as convenient, safe—even educational and entertaining—as possible. I recently spoke with True Sky Vice President of Marketing and Community Development Jon Skelly, who talked about the newest branch and its offerings and also shared some other positive credit union news. WHAT OPTIONS WILL TRUE SKY CUSTOMERS HAVE FOR MAKING VARIOUS TRANSACTIONS AT THE NEW BRANCH? This new branch features some new technology designed to provide exceptional service (and a little bit of fun!)
TRUE SK Y CREDIT UNION
ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES
Serena Campbell (left), manager, True Sky’s Northeast Oklahoma City branch, and Diana Broms, manager, Norman branch 40
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Cleveland County's latest True Sky Credit Union branch is located at 3301 W. Tecumseh Road, Norman.
to all our credit union members. First, we have replaced the tra-
ANY OTHER TRUE SKY CREDIT
ditional drive-through service with two brand-new interactive
UNION GOOD NEWS?
teller machines, or ITMs. These ITMs resemble traditional ATMs,
Yes! Our CEO, Sean Cahill, was recently named
with one very specific difference: members can video chat with
to The Journal Record’s Most Admired CEO list. The
an ITM teller and perform all of the same functions that can be
honorees were recognized in a virtual celebration
done at a teller station inside, all from the safety and comfort
June 28 and profiled in a commemorative maga-
of their car. Make a deposit or loan payment or ask for cash in
zine inserted into The Journal Record on June 29.
specific denominations...these machines can do all of that. This
In addition, True Sky recently was recognized
branch also features our brand-new touch screen desks where
with the Louise Herring Award, given to credit
members can meet with one of our Member Service Officers to
unions across the nation that demonstrate the
open accounts, apply for loans or service their existing accounts
internal application of credit union philosophy
while reviewing, accepting and signing all the necessary paper-
to help better financial matters and increase
work on the desk’s touchscreen surface.
financial education for its members. We won this award for a program we implemented
YOU MENTIONED NEW FUN AND EDUCATIONAL FEATURES?
during the last several federal furloughs.
Members and guests may get free drinks from a touchscreen soda fountain. We’ve also added iPads with financial education
ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?
games designed for our littlest members and a huge video wall that
True Sky is local; member-owned and not-
keeps our members informed, engaged and educated. Plus, we have
for-profit. We offer competitive home and auto
an air traffic control tower that lights up at night in honor of our 75
loans, as well as a myriad of other services. Find
years of history serving FAA employees.
out more about us at TrueSkyCU.org.
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
41
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Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
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GIVING BACK
ARTICLE ANDY RIEGER
LE TOUR DE VIN, AN ANNUAL TRADITION CELEBRATING FOOD, WINE AND THE GENEROSITY OF NORMAN’S FOUR ROTARY CLUBS, WILL RETURN TO THE NCED HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER MAY 21, 2022, ORGANIZERS HAVE ANNOUNCED. The event, held annually since 2003, was postponed in 2020 and 2021. Executive director Joe Gil, a member of the founding Crosstimbers Rotary Club, said the event venue’s social distancing rules kept the 2021 event from taking place in May. 44
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
CELEBRATION OF FOOD, WINE AND GENEROSITY TO RETURN IN 2022
DE VIN
LE TOUR
“We met a year ago and decided to cancel 2020. We then postponed the 2021 event and will be back on May 21, 2022,” he said. “Interest among the four Rotary clubs is greater this year as we return to some sense of normalcy.” The four clubs, Norman, Sooner, Crosstimbers and the Legacy Club, review grant applications and choose a beneficiary in two-year installments. This year’s beneficiary, The Virtue Center, will continue to receive the $100,000 with $50,000 paid this summer and the balance coming after the 2022 event. The center will use the money as part of its capital campaign to relocate from its current location near the OU campus to one near I-35 and Lindsey Street. “Through the generosity of our partners and the four clubs, we were able to continue our pledge to the Virtue Center,” Gil said. “The majority of our partners have continued to sponsor the event.” Previous recipients of Le Tour de Vin proceeds include the Red Cross, Mary Abbott House, Food and Shelter, Thunderbird Clubhouse, CCFI, the Studio at Sooner Theatre and Full Circle Adult Day Care Center. Each club has a representative who works with Gil year-round on preparing for the event. Nonprofits pitch their projects to the club members. Every two years, Rotarians choose a project which is announced at the conclusion of that event. Previous events have been held at
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CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
45
LOCALLY OWNED Black Rifle Coffee Company
ARTICLE BROOKE BARNETT
Cleveland County’s Black Rifle Coffee Company DEDICATED TO SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE
FOUNDED BY VETERANS, BLACK RIFLE COFFEE COMPANY
IS
DEDICATED
TO
SUPPORTING
ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS, VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS. Black Rifle Coffee is a company with a clear mission: to serve those who serve. “What makes us unique is our mission combined with our dedication to premium coffee products,” says former Green Beret and Black Rifle Coffee Company founder and CEO Evan Hafer. “With every purchase made, we give back to the men and women serving on the front lines.” BRCC offers premium coffees hand-selected by their team of veteran employees with the same mission focus they developed while serving in the military. “We take pride in precision, in craftsmanship, and in making sure our customers get the highest quality cup of coffee available anywhere,” Evan explains. “We’re not just a company, we’re a community of people who love this country and who support the men
Black Rifle Coffee Shop
and women who serve it.”
1909 S. Telephone Road
BRCC responsibly sources coffees from around the
405.977.3500
ular Ethiopian Geisha and a Costa Rican Black Honey
BlackRifleCoffee.com
coffee. The company works directly with coffee growers
Facebook at Black Rifle Coffee Co
and importers to make sure that their partners are sup-
Twitter and Instagram at @blckriflecoffee
porting growers and farmers at the point of origin.
46
Moore, OK 73160
world, including iconic rare micro-lots such as their pop-
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Black Rifle Coffee Company
“We’re coffee nerds. By developing strong relation-
“It’s not a coincidence that we’re just down the road
ships with our growers and hand-selecting our beans,
from Tinker Air Force Base, a place with a service leg-
we do our best to make sure our customers are getting
acy that dates back to World War II,” explains Evan. “The
a quality coffee experience with every cup,” adds Evan.
men and women in this community are fundamental to
“We make sure we’re sourcing the best coffee avail-
maintaining our safety and security, and we’re looking
able. Otherwise, we don’t buy it.”
forward to giving back in every way we can.”
BRCC roasts all their coffee beans in-house in
While their coffee business continues to expand,
their roasting facilities in Salt Lake City, Utah, and
BRCC remains committed to finding new ways to
Manchester, Tennessee.
give back, through direct donations to deployed
“We take pride in the process and in the finished
troops, veterans’ organizations, law enforcement, fire
product, and BRCC coffee drinkers can taste the dif-
and rescue teams, medical response professionals,
ference,” Evan continues. “Our roasting methods and
and many others.
techniques highlight the best and most unique flavors,
“We’re here because we want to live lives that are
and we work each day to improve. We don’t believe in
worth the sacrifices that have been made on our behalf,
complacency when it comes to great coffee.”
and we’re grateful to be a part of your community,” Evan
In May, BRCC opened a new storefront in Cleveland
concludes. “If you’re a coffee enthusiast with experi-
County, located at 1909 S Telephone Road in Moore.
ence tasting, testing and even roasting your own coffee,
The Black Rifle Coffee Shop features more than 15
we’ve got something for you. If you’re brand-new to the
different blends of coffee and a full espresso bar. A
world of coffee and you’re looking for some guidance
light food menu includes breakfast, sweets and grab-
about where to start, we’ve got you covered, too.”
and-go lunch options. This location also features a
Moore’s Black Rifle Coffee Shop is open from
drive-thru, complimentary Wi-Fi, exclusive BRCC mer-
5:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 5:30 a.m.-
chandise and outdoor seating.
10 p.m. Saturday.
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INSPIRED BY OU GOLFER, TEAMMATES DRAW ON CULTURE FOR SUCCESS
ARTICLE DEBBIE COPP PHOTOGRAPHY OU ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT
I F L I F E GI V E S YO U LE M O N S . . .
IF LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS, MAKE LEMONADE.
the Nike Invitational and recorded four rounds in the 60s,
Since March 2020, many of us lived by that
including a career-low 65. While other OU student-athletes
motto. As common activities were canceled,
learned how to cope with Zoom or headed home until cam-
we grieved—for ourselves and for those who
pus re-opened, McAllister, who is from Oklahoma City, and
brought happiness to others by those activities.
his local teammates figured out how to play golf safely once
Intercollegiate athletics literally shut down as the
courses began opening up.
student-athletes struggled with what to do next.
50
“We didn’t really have much to do. With golf being outside,
Logan McAllister, then a sophomore on the
we took advantage of that,” McAllister said. “Once the NCAA
University of Oklahoma men’s golf team, found
announced the additional year of eligibility and all of our 2019-20
his career shut down. He played in three events
seniors announced they were coming back, we knew we had the
as a freshman and as a sophomore. He won
possibility to have a very special year.”
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Special might not cover it. OU became the first team to qualify for all five years of match play at the NCAA Championship. The Sooners lost 3-2 in the final match to finish as the runnerup. The last three days were extra special for McAllister. He won all three of his matches. He hit the second hole-in-one of his career on the final day of stroke play, then added another one during the final 18 holes. “I never thought I would have holes-in-one during the competition. The first one bounced a few times before it went in but the second felt great off the tee,” McAllister added. “It was cool to watch it go right in.” The NCAA Golf Championship is 72 holes of stroke play with a cut to the final eight teams for match play. While many fans like the familiarity of stroke play, McAllister has a different perspective. “I love match play. It is a great way to determine the national champ. The momentum can change so quickly and it is easy to know what is going on. You can really feed off the momentum.” That final tournament was the highlight of a season that was a career best for McAllister. He played in every tourney and won the Big 12 Colonial Preview. Named Big 12 Golfer of the Month in September, he had two runner-up finishes in the spring. His 71.60 career stroke average entering the NCAA Championship is the third lowest in school history. “When the seniors announced their decisions, we all just knew something special was happening. It really is part of the culture that Coach (Ryan) Hybl and Coach (Bill) Allcorn have built. We are a close-knit team and it made sense for us to continue to play together as long as we did it safely. Everything else was shut down. We learn from those ahead of us and we pass it along. It is a natural flow that is unique and it leads to long-term success.” There were five redshirt seniors on the Sooner roster in 202021 and they are gone. That moves McAllister up to a leadership role and his coach called the final day of the NCAA a changing of the guard. And McAllister sounds like he is ready. Pour that lemonade.
“
“I HAVE LEARNED FROM GREAT LEADERS. I HAVE COME THROUGH OUR PROGRAM AND OUR CULTURE. I SEE OUR SUCCESS CONTINUING BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT OUR CULTURE IS ALL ABOUT.”
CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
51
REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT
NEIGHBORHOOD
CLEVELAND COUNTY
ORIGINAL PRICE
SOLD PRICE
%SOLD/ORIG
DOM
BDRMS
BATHS
$1,149,000
$920,000
80%
313
5
5
Vista Springs Estates, Norman
$895,000
$860,000
96%
24
3
3.2
Smoking Oaks 1, Norman
$839,000
$839,000
100%
1
5
4.1
Frost Creek, Norman
$875,000
$829,000
94%
91
4
4.3
Blue Creek Estates, Norman
$775,000
$775,000
100%
81
5
4.1
Southridge, Norman
$699,000
$710,000
101%
4
5
5
Brookhaven 37, Norman
$599,000
$599,000
100%
2
5
5
Estates of Wyndemere, Moore
$550,000
$560,000
101%
4
4
3.1
Rural Norman
$457,000
$475,599
104%
3
3
3
Timbers/Blackstone, SE OKC
$415,000
$415,000
100%
3
4
3
Rivendell 5, SW OKC
$384,900
$393,900
102%
3
4
3
Fountains, SW OKC
$412,900
$390,000
94%
19
4
3.2
Cascata Lakes 2, SW OKC
$384,000
$382,000
99%
7
3
2.1
Lake Ridge 5, SW OKC
$385,000
$380,000
98%
7
4
3
Olde Stonbridge, Moore
$395,000
$377,500
95%
24
3
2.1
Williamson Farms, SW OKC
$344,960
$359,888
104%
104
4
3
Rock Creek Estates, Moore
$340,000
$349,000
102%
1
3
2.1
Apple Estates. Moore
$345,844
$345,844
100%
25
3
2.1
Copper Trails, SW OKC
$330,000
$324,900
98%
16
4
2.1
The Waters, Moore
$320,490
$320,490
100%
0
4
2
Fountain View Sec 1, Norman
This data is a sampling of sold properties from last month. Source: OKC/Norman Multiple Listing System.
Without integrity, nothing else matters.
Prime Realty Kathy & Steve Griffith (405) 759-3570 Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com 52
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
Luxury Homes
1530 SW 89th St. Oklahoma City 73159 PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com
Luxury Homes
WE CAN BUILD YOUR DREAM RIGHT HERE IN OUR CLEVELAND COUNTY COMMUNITY
405-701-5557 | WWW.OKCHOMEBUILDER.COM
JULY
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
SATURDAYS
2
4
NORMAN FARMER’S MARKET
BLANCHARD'S INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION
TRIBUTE TO LIBERTY
Hwy 62 & NE 10th St., Blanchard
This Independence Day celebra-
Norman Farmer’s Market: free root
Take a helicopter ride and relax or
tion will feature tasty food, great
beer floats and performances by
take the children to the Kids Zone for
music and a stunning fireworks
Ashlyn Turner on 7-3; OBI blood
a petting zoo, pony rides, inflatable
display. Tribute to Liberty begins at
drive, 4H and cooking demos and
toys and games. End the evening
6 p.m. with live musical entertain-
Panda Stomp on 7-10; 4H demo and
with a great fireworks display at dusk.
ment. Set up a spot in the park and
performance by Ashlyn Turner on
Fun for the whole family.
enjoy the company of family and
Norman Fairgrounds
Events planned Saturdays at the
Joe B Barnes Regional Park, MWC
7-17; gardening class, Panda Stomp and cooking demo on 7-24; and goat-petting zoo and Panda Stomp on 7-32. ClevelandCountyFair.org
SATURDAYS IN SUMMER SUMMER MUSIC SERIES
friends, then stick around to watch
4
the sky light up with a fireworks show at 9:45. MidwestCityOk.org/ ParksRec/Page/Tribute-Liberty
A CELEBRATION IN THE HEARTLAND
Buck Thomas Park, Moore
This fun-filled 4th of July celebration features a variety of activities for kids, live music, craft vendors and plenty
4 FOURTH FEST
2501 Jenkins Ave, Norman, OK 73072
of food booths. Young guests can
Bring the whole family to celebrate
Riversport OKC
enjoy a children's art tent, giant sand
Independence Day from 5-10 p.m. at
Spend your summer Saturdays sur-
pit and more. The festival ends with
Reaves Park! Enjoy a lovely summer
rounded by water, great music and
a spectacular fireworks display at
day with food trucks, sand volleyball,
a fantastic view of the Oklahoma
dusk. CityOfMoore.com
cornhole, baby crawling and toddler
City skyline during the Summer
walking races, face painting, fam-
Music Series at Riversport OKC.
ily yard games, and more! You can
RiverSportOkc.org/Events/Summer-
also tune into the fireworks show on
Music-Series
KGOU; the show will also be streamed on Facebook Live!
CONTINUED >
Crawl Space Encapsulation
SCAN HERE
FOR MORE INFORMATION
BEFORE 54
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
AFTER
FREE INSPECTIONS!
405-213-0492 | VESTAFS.COM
em ma of
Cl MATTHEW 22:39 “Love your neighbor as
3050 Yarbou
(
Christian
EXPERIENCE THE NICE DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF!
CALL TODAY. (405) 562-5233
MIKE COCHRAN, OWNER »
AS PART OF OUR SERVICE TO CUSTOMERS, WE OFFER: A furnished waiting area with free wi-fi
A complimentary shuttle service to take you to and from home or work
A 3 year / 36,000 mile mile warranty on most repairs
Answers to questions and concerns straight from our on-site manager
M AT T H E W 2 2 : 39 “Love your neighbor as yourself.” CBAC.COM/SOUTH-WESTERN-AVE 10311 S. WESTERN AVE OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73139
Join us in supporting the Work Activity Center
Helping the disabled adults in our community.
"Ask your doctor about hormone replacement therapy"
Scan for information and to donate.
CHRISEXPRESSDRUG.COM | 405-735-3950 | 12032 S WESTERN AVE | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73170 CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty
55
JULY
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
10
24
NORMAN CONQUEST RIDE
FREE CITY OF MOORE FISHING DERBY
JD McCarty Center, Norman
This all-day, annual ride is open
Buck Thomas Park, Moore
to cyclists of all skill levels, with
Kids ages 5-15 can cast a pole to try
individual, family and tandem rides
to catch a prize fish. The OK Wildlife
ranging from an introductory 10
Department will be on site covering
all the way to a punishing 64-mile
safety training. Bring your own pole
ride through the hills surrounding
and bait. Kids must be accompanied
Norman and nearby Lake Thunderbird.
by an adult.
In addition, a more laid-back tour of the town, perfect for families and casual riders, will be offered. BicycleLeagueOfNorman.com
10 BEATS & BITES FESTIVAL
24-25 HORROR CON
Wyndham Garden Hotel, OKC
Any time of the year is a great time to enjoy a good scare, especially during this two-day event that brings
Riverwind Casino, Norman
all kinds of horror genre fans from
Bring your appetite, family and friends
around the region. From costume
to this free, family-friendly event for
contests and haunted walkthroughs
an evening filled with amazing live
to live entertainment and vendors
entertainment and the best food from
galore, Horror Con is sure to delight
Would you like to get in touch with
the finest food trucks in the metro
all ages. HorrorConOkc.com
us? We would love to hear from you!
area. While you munch at Beats &
Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/
Bites, tour through the sampling
ClevelandCounty using the Get
of retail vendors. Riverwind.com/
In Touch link and let us know what
Entertain/Beats-And-Bites
you think.
If you need home coverage, I can help. I live and work right here in our community. I know what the homes are like in the area. So I can offer advice you can trust to help you get the protection that fits your needs. If you’re ready to talk home insurance or need some advice about protecting all that’s important to you, call me today.
Julie Cook Insurance Agency 405-692-2411 11723 South Western Avenue Oklahoma City juliecook1@allstate.com
Allstate home products not available in FL, and may also not be available in certain areas of other states. Policies may be written by a non-affiliated third-party company. Insurance subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company & affiliates: 2775 Sanders Rd Northbrook, IL. ©2016 Allstate Insurance Co.
56
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
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57
CITY SCENE
Wayne Fjesth plants seeds in the butterfly garden on the grounds of Norman Public Library East.
Native wildflowers are part of the scenery and a focal part of the landscaping design outside of Norman Public Library Central.
58
NATIVE PRAIRIE GRASSES HAVE SPRUNG
It’s yet another way the library can use a variety
FROM THE ROLLING HILLS OF CENTRAL
of resources to educate.
OKLAHOMA SINCE LONG BEFORE ANYONE
“You have five or six generations of but-
HAD A THOUGHT OF WRITING A BOOK OR
terflies migrating back and forth between
BUILDING A LIBRARY TO HOUSE IT.
Canada and Mexico; they’re just going across
But the use and featuring of the natural
the country,” said Wayne Fjesth, a longtime
Oklahoma habitat has been a focus in the
library volunteer actively involved with help-
design at Norman’s two newest libraries.
ing with the butterfly garden.
Norman Public Library East, 3051 E.
“We’re keying on the monarch, but there will
Alameda, has a landscape including a variety
be at least 10 species we would expect to see,
of Buffalo grass and bluestem with patches
and also five to six species of bees. This pro-
of colorful flowers including goldenrod and
vides a great area for them.”
the bright purple Eryngo that make up the
The same can be said at Norman Public
area that begin the view from the windows
Library Central, opened in November 2019 at
on the north side of the building.
103 Acres St. The library space utilizes multiple
The library also has added a butterfly garden,
native Oklahoma grasses and the use of sedi-
with multiple flowers and plants adding another
mentary rocks, including mudstone and sand-
touch to the space. The purpose of the butterfly
stone in its design. It also sports a unique gar-
garden area is as a teaching area for visitors
den area that is actually on top of the first level
and also an opportunity to attract migrating
of the building and viewable from the southside
butterflies to take their own break at the library.
windows on the second and third floors.
Cleveland County Lifestyle | July 2021
CHRISTIAN POTTS
Keeping It Natural
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
NEW LIBRARIES PROVIDE A TASTE OF NATIVE OKLAHOMA
Prime Realty Luxury Homes
Our Realtors are connected with the fibers of this community — not only do we live, work and play here, we watch trends affecting financing and mortgage rates, the stock market and local, national and global economics — all of which can affect the final price and terms. We believe that without integrity, nothing else matters. And for buyers wanting to find their perfect home, to those wishing to list their distinguished property we will be honest, dedicated and determined.
OUR TEAM
F R O M L E F T T O R I G H T , T O P : Tiffany Elcyzyn, Brigit Axton, Amber Dawson, Armando Amor, Lisa Elrod, Kenia Flores, Jerry Flowers, Kristen Gonzales, Jordan Keeler. B O T T O M : Nguyet Kieu, Cami Martz, Tera Painter, Lisa Ray, Adriana Roberts, Allison Sloan, Glenda Slusser, Leslie Switzer, Dustin Whittern.
KATHY & STEVE GRIFFITH BROKER / OWNERS K A T H Y 405-213-7839
Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com
S T E V E 405-613-4141
Steve@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com
1530 SW 89TH ST. | OKLAHOMA CITY 73159 PRIMEREALTYLUXURYHOMES.COM