Cleveland County, OK March 2024

HOME + DESIGN

FABULOUS TRENDS IN WINDOW TREATMENTS

AMAZING KITCHEN REMODEL

LOCAL SERVICES

BUILDING HOMES, COMMUNITY & HOPE

TRASHAUN COMBS-PIERCE

NORMAN HIGH SCHOOL

Recent sports or academic highlight?

Winning against Norman North twice out of the 3 times we’ve played.

Personal highlights?

My parents are Marquis Pierce and Tashia Pierce. I played football when I was younger all the way to 8th grade then pursued basketball as my main sport. My personal interests are listening to music, I love building legos, and playing video games.

How do you maintain balance?

I manage life, school, and sports, by focusing on each area day by day and sticking to that routine.

Plans for the future?

At this time I have not made any decisions as to where I will further my academic and athletic careers.

Presented by

Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Turning Setbacks into Comebacks

James Bond, MD

Ted Boehm, MD

Brian Clowers, MD

Carl Fernandes, MD

Richard Kirkpatrick, MD

Zakary Knutson, MD

Jeremiah Maupin, MD

Aaron Smathers, MD

Joshua Wilson, MD

KEELEY PARKS

NORMAN HIGH SCHOOL

Recent sports or academic highlight?

My biggest highlight for basketball was scoring 51 points and getting a win in overtime vs an opponent.

Personal highlights?

My parents are Melissa and Frankie Parks and I play basketball at Norman High School. I have been a varsity basketball player since my freshman Year. I enjoy shopping and hanging out with my friends.

How do you maintain balance?

I always prioritize my school work first. I also like to have a routine and schedule because it makes me feel more balanced and focused and it’s easier to manage life, school and sports.

Plans for the future?

I plan on playing college basketball in the future and am currently in the decision process of where I will be attending.

Welcome to Our Home Issue!

While winter still held sway, my mom could often be found at the kitchen table with an assortment of seed catalogs and gardening magazines strewn in front of her, happily planning her spring garden. Her thoughts would be far away from the gray, wet cold of the day outside her window. Her mind, instead, dwelled in a place where the sun was shining, the bees buzzing, and the ground before her lay tilled and fertile: ready for plantings (seedlings and young starts) of vegetables, herbs and flowers.

One day I hope to follow in her footsteps and set out my own real garden—my “gardening” usually consists of only a few pots set indoors and out—but for now, this is a hobby that will have to wait for a more opportune time.

Many of our readers enjoy a spot of gardening now and then; others, like my mother, devote hours every day during the growing season to establishing and maintaining a more serious garden. For some, it’s roses or one or other flower varieties. For others, it’s vegetables and herbs.

It's my opinion that one of the top perks of home ownership is the opportunity to make your own garden. That in mind, I recently visited with Norman Master Gardener Rahmona Thompson about gardening in general and building your own raised-bed garden. See related story, page 42.

Inside, you'll also read about a major kitchen renovation, current trends in window treatments (it's not your grandmother's cafe curtains!) and a local nonprofit whose focus is on building homes and supporting individuals and families in the community.

Those are just a taste of what you'll find inside. We love putting together the Homes issue each year. Home is, after all, where the heart is!

Happy reading, dear friends!

JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_CLEVELANDCOUNTY

SARA K. SPURLOCK, DDS

JENNIFER M. JENKINS, DDS & associates

We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal health. We understand that our role in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontitis, gingivitis and tooth decay is a vitally important component of achieving overall health. We are keenly aware of the benefit reducing inflammation in your mouth has on your body and your overall health. In our practice, we diagnose and treat gum disease and partner with our patients to achieve their optimal oral health. We care about our patients in the same way we care for our own families—wanting the best health for them and doing our part so we can help them achieve it! Our dental team is ready to help you achieve and maintain your oral health as well as your overall health. It is so important to take care of yourself- contact us so we can help you!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT to come see

(405) 321-6166

city scene

1: Okahoma Native Son Blake Shelton was among those honored at the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Banquet.

2: Randy Thurman and Pati Thurman with Citizen of the Year recipient Steve Buchanan 3: South OKC Chamber President Elaine Lyons with End of the Trail award recipient Jeremy Sparks 4: Terrell Fry, Oasis Technologies, with Ambassador of the Year Award recipient Stephen Zaborowski, ArchWell Health 5: Lealon Taylor and Tonya Mann, Epic Charter Schools, with Volunteer of the Year recipient Marla Robinson, Grit Resources 6: Glenda Montiel, COX Business, with Citizen of the Year recipient Steve Buchanan, Buchanan Realty Group 7: Emeritus Club 2023 inductees were honored at the event, held at the First Americans Museum.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

1:

Megan Crowe leads a seminar on the latest in kitchen/bath design.

business monthly

South OKC Chamber Banquet Bestows Awards

Among honorees at the South OKC  Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet at First Americans Museum were:

• Native Oklahoman Award Oklahoma Native Son Blake Shelton

• Emeritus Club 2023

Elizabeth Odom,  Ronnie Freeman,  Judge Twyla Gray (posthumously)

• Ambassador of the Year

Stephen Zaborowski, ArchWell Health

• Volunteer of the Year  Marla Robinson, Grit Resources

• Citizen of the Year  Steve Buchanan, Buchanan Realty Group

See City Scene, page 14.

Sam Noble Museum Hosts Bug Squad Adventures

Kids and families are invited to climb, jump and pay their way through the new Bug Squad animatronic insect adventure exhibit, now open at the Sam Noble Museum. Exhibit highlights include the Spider Web Escape area with a slide, the Ant Colony Climber, and an opportunity to experience (virtually) what it’s like to fly like a dragonfly in the Dragonfly Drone. The exhibit is produced by Omaha Children’s Museum.

Photography Courtesy of Omaha Children’s Museum

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PLS Supports Your Health Goals in 2024

Your library is here to help with your healthy living goals! Explore our events calendar at  PioneerLibrarySystem.org to discover free health programs happening in March and beyond. We’ll be offering Zumba, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and more, all with your wellness in mind. You can utilize the calendar filters to sort by location, age group, and event type, and can even create a personalized brochure of events!

Scan to read more

OU to Present National Live Showings

The University of Oklahoma will offer the best of British theatre this spring through a campus partnership presenting select showings of National Theatre Live productions.

April 7

Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” featuring rising stars Jessie Buckley and Josh O’Connor

April 28

Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,”  starring Benedict Cumberbatch All productions will be presented at 1 and 6 p.m. in the auditorium of Gaylord Hall, 395 W. Lindsey St. Admission free; limited seating available.

Photography Courtesy of National Theatre Live

WINDOWS by WUNDERHAUS

ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAYLIN HILL | KOLLAB CREATIVE CO.

WINDOW TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE IN A WIDE VARIETY OF STYLES

Need help with windows? No, not the software program; the kind that lets in light, affords us privacy when we want it, and—as a bonus—helps set the desired tone for virtually every room in your home!

Beth Ketchum, owner of Wunderhaus Design + Consign ( Wunderhausfc.com) and her expert team “have you covered,” so to speak, whether your tastes run to minimalism or classic sophistication.

“We offer a diverse range of window treatment options for homeowners. From elegant curtains and blinds to custom draperies and shades, our selection complements various styles, and our expert team provides personalized consultations to help you find the perfect window solutions that enhance both aesthetics and functionality,” Beth says.

“Currently, we can help you achieve popular looks like natural textures, layered treatments and motorized solutions for smart homes,” she says, adding: Our team excels in translating these trends into personalized window treatments that elevate your space.”

For those who appreciate timeless elegance, Wunderhaus offers tried-and-true window treatment options, while classic choices include wood blinds, Roman shades and traditional draperies. All of these enduring styles add a touch of sophistication and enduring charm to any home.

“Our window treatment materials span a rich spectrum, including natural hardwood shutters and jute and grass-woven shades,” Beth notes. “Come out and explore our fantastic fabric selection, ranging across a diverse gamut of colors, textured prints and high-performance options. Whether it’s the timeless allure of hardwood or the earthy elegance of woven shades, we’re dedicated to providing a variety that complements your style.”

The Wunderhaus team can tailor window treatments to fit a wide range of window sizes.

“Whether you have standard or custom dimensions, our expert team ensures a perfect fit,” Beth says. “From cozy nooks to expansive windows, we accommodate various sizes to enhance the aesthetic and functionality of your space. Contact us for personalized consultations to find the ideal solution for your specific window dimensions.”

Ready to move your window treatments up to the next level? Wunderhaus charges $150 for an in-home consultation. During this personalized session, their expert team will assess your space, discuss your preferences and provide tailored recommendations for your window treatments.

Beth notes that each consultation is unique, but some stand out as unusual in some way.

CONTINUED >

Left page: The bed and antler chandelier are the focal point of this room. A performance fabric with blackout lining was selected for the liner.

This page, top: To complement the warm tones of the travertine counters, the designers chose a rich wool plaid fabric.

Bottom: To let light in but give privacy, a semi-sheer simple pinch pleat cafe curtain with custom made iron hardware was used.

For example, their most recent challenging project involved installing draperies over 20 feet long, requiring the use of scaffolding, while their latest elaborate endeavor featured a stunning traditional formal dining room window treatment with silk draperies and board-mounted swags.

One of the most enjoyable experiences was working with Amy & Steven List, creating a casual yet elegantly styled space with shades, draperies, café curtains, and custom upholstered pieces.

The photographs shown on these pages are of the Lists’ Ashton Grove home and, Beth says, “reflect a blend of casual elegance with a Ralph Lauren vibe.”

“Customer satisfaction is our priority,” Beth says. “We strive to exceed expectations, making the process enjoyable from consultation to installation. I love what I do, and I hope that is conveyed to my clients through my commitment to give each client the best service and products.”

Window treatments dress up your home, help you save energy, add character and charm, and so much more…why not do them up right? Beth and her team at Wunderhaus stand ready to help make that happen. Visit them at their store in Brookhaven Village.

WUNDERHAUS DESIGN + CONSIGN 405.701.4048 |  info@wunderausfc.com.

This page: "Wanting to keep a tranquil feel, we chose an organic linen for the panels and trimmed them in a beautiful wheat colored tape along the lead edge," explains Wunderhaus owner Beth Ketchum.

Right page, top: The homeowners wanted an organic aesthetic but also wanted to block out sunlight. A natural linen for the panel, trimmed in a beautiful embroidered jute tape along the lead edge, was used in combination with a Roman shade with blackout lining for ultimate privacy.

Bottom: In the primary bath, privacy was addressed by installing a Roman shade with a light-filtering lining to allow in natural light.

A beautiful Juxtaposition

REMODELED KITCHEN BLENDS ELEGANCE AND FUNCTIONALITY

Urban Kitchens ( UrbanKitchensOK.com) owner and designer Jo Meacham compares a just-completed major kitchen renovation to the fairy tale of Cinderella, minus the glass slipper.

She explains that the Edmond home, built in the late 1990s, featured stained woodwork trim and cabinets in the kitchen and served the family well for many years.

“But, just like for Cinderella, the time had come for a change.”

Noting that planning is the most important part of any large renovation project, the designers from Urban Kitchens met with the family over a period of several months. Discussions focused on function and form, as well as “the look” they wanted to achieve.

The kitchen remodel left a large island in place, but entailed relocating the cooktop and replacing the cabinets with ones designed for specific uses. A new range, relocated on another wall, became the focal point of the project.

A full quartz backsplash replaced the tile backspash, adding another layer of elegance.

ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN CROWE

All new appliances were purchased, as well as a microwave drawer and a new under-cabinet, drawer-style refrigerator.

“The white Shaker-style cabinets represent an elegant transitional style juxtaposed against the dark, Urban Bronze island and hood,” Jo said. “Changing from a tile backsplash to a full quartz backsplash added another layer of elegance, as did the addition of contemporary chandeliers above the island.”

designed by Urban Kitchens

Transformation complete, and a happy storybook ending for these satisfied homeowners.

Go to  Houzz.com/hznb/projects/faircloud-lane-kitchen-pj-vj~7369455 to see “before” photos.

The white Shaker-style cabinets represent an elegant transitional style juxtaposed against the dark, Urban Bronze island and hood.

Contemporary chandeliers were placed above the island, adding beauty and light.

A new under-cabinet, drawer-style refrigerator added functionality to the remodeled kitchen.

The new kitchen blends form and function ... and elegance!

Building Homes Community & Hope

ROSE ROCK HABITAT FOR HUMANITY’S MISSION GOES BEYOND SIMPLY BUILDING HOMES

ARTICLE BY LINDSEY DAVIES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELLE SHROYER

Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity programs in Cleveland County focus on building homes and supporting individuals and families in the community. I spoke with Elle Shroyer, vice president of donor and community engagement, about all the ways this nonprofit is working to elevate the lives of all who live in this area, as well as ways you can help.

WHAT IS YOUR MISSION? WHAT COMMUNITIES DO YOU SERVE?

Since 1993, Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity has been devoted to addressing the critical issue of affordable housing in South Central Oklahoma. Our mission is to put God’s love into action by building homes, community and hope.

With over 55 affordable homes built and the introduction of the ReStore in 2000, which sells gently used items to generate sustainable funding, we’ve expanded our impact beyond construction. Our holistic approach includes emergency repairs, wheelchair ramps and support through financial literacy programs.

In 2022, we extended our service area to include Pottawatomie County, and we’re thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of a new ReStore in Shawnee in February 2024, further enhancing our reach. The ReStore’s sales, combined with community donations, empower us to serve South Central Oklahoma by constructing and renovating homes for working-class families, providing ramps for aging individuals or those with disabilities, and ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.

CAN YOU PROVIDE DATA ON YOUR COMMUNITY IMPACT?

The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity’s diverse programs contribute to both community engagement and the organization’s mission. In 2023, the Norman ReStore Programs, including Donation Pick Up (1,409 individual households), Donation Drop Off (2,529 individual households), Deconstruction (five sites with 95 items recovered), and Community Service (749 individuals served 5,868 hours, with four individuals gaining employment with the ReStore) ensure a streamlined and impactful process for individuals looking to contribute to affordable housing.

ReStore also collaborates with the local court system to provide Community Service options and partners with Novelis for Aluminum Recycling. The upcycle program showcases the organization’s commitment to waste reduction and sustainability by repurposing items.

Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Programs in Cleveland County focus on building homes and supporting individuals and families. In 2023 the Homeownership program benefited two households and six individuals, while ramps were constructed for 11 households (35 individuals). Emergency Repairs, serving 169 households (541 individuals), Community CleanUps, aiding seven households (24 individuals), and Code Violation Assistance for five households (10 individuals) exemplify the organization’s commitment to community improvement.

Additionally, the Family Support team assisted 68 individuals by referring them to organizations that could meet their needs. Four Homeownership Workshops were held for the community to connect families no matter where they are in the homeownership experience, with contractors to support them in maintaining their homes (impacting 37 households, 111 individuals).

The Financial Education program further contributes to community well-being, with four in-person classes reaching 17 households (49 individuals) and providing certificates to 328 participants.

Overall, Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity’s impactful initiatives touch the lives of numerous individuals, promoting affordable housing, community engagement and financial well-being.

UPCOMING EVENTS?

The Common Grounds Coffee Festival (9 a.m.-4 p.m. March 2 Cleveland County Fairgrounds), is about building community by bringing people together to support a powerful local cause while celebrating the unique blend of culture and commerce that makes Oklahoma so unique, so come celebrate community through coffee. roserockhabitat.org/coffee2024

“Together, we can continue to build homes, foster community and instill hope in the hearts of those in need.”

Left: One of the two homes dedicated on Twisted Oak Circle in Norman Right: Realtor Jerica Pound, who chairs Rose Rock’s Family Selection Committee, welcomes home new homeowners.

The Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity Family Disc Golf Festival (Oct. 6) is an inclusive and community-driven event that combines competitive play with family-friendly fun, all in support of Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to provide safe and affordable housing. roserockhabitat.org/disc-golf

WHAT CAN OUR READERS DO TO SUPPORT YOU?

Readers can engage in various ways. Firstly, they can contribute by donating to our organization, whether it be financial support or by donations of gently used furniture, appliances and household items to our ReStore.

Volunteering is another impactful way to get involved, and individuals can participate in a range of activities such as home construction, community events or assisting at the ReStore.

Additionally, spreading awareness about our mission within the community and on social media helps amplify our reach. We welcome individuals to explore our website or contact us directly to learn about specific volunteer opportunities and areas where their skills and interests align with our initiatives.

Together, we can continue to build homes, foster community and instill hope in the hearts of those in need.

WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE READERS TO KNOW?

While the information provided covers various aspects of Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity’s mission and ways to support, it’s crucial for readers to recognize the transformative impact that community support can have, especially in the context of homeownership.

Every contribution, whether financial, material, or through advocacy, plays a vital role in making a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families in need.

Beyond the immediate benefits of providing shelter, homeownership has a profound impact on future generations. Stable housing creates a foundation for stability, security and generational progress, positively influencing the educational, emotional and overall well-being of children.

By supporting Rose Rock Habitat for Humanity, readers contribute not only to building homes, but also to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering families to build a better future for themselves and their descendants. The ripple effect of positive change echoes through families, communities and society as a whole, creating a lasting legacy of hope and progress, while ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for a decent place to live.

Top: New homeowners, Rebecca and Jocelyn, cut the ribbons for their new homes in a public ceremony Feb. 2.

Bottom: Community gathers to celebrate two side-by-side home dedications.

Presenting NY Times best-selling author, actor, screenwriter, and TV producer

Tembi Locke

April 20-22

ARTICLE BY JULIE DILL-BURNETT

STATE-OFTHE-ART TECHNOLOGY

NORMAN REGIONAL’S ORTHO CENTRAL EXPANDS TO YOUNG FAMILY ATHLETIC CENTER

Oklahoma’s premier orthopedics clinic, Ortho Central, has expanded to the Young Family Athletic Center, located at 2201 Trae Young Drive.

As Heather Kuklinski, director of this project, explains: “Ortho Central has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception four years ago. We needed more space and a dedicated facility, and the expansion will better serve the patients in the Norman community.”

While patients will continue to be served at their existing Norman location in the West Norman Professional Building at 3400 Tecumseh Road, three entities are now housed at the new location, each with its own purpose.

“Ortho Central is positioned as the cornerstone in this complex to provide elite sports performance training as well as injury prevention and treatment.”

Ortho Central Clinic

Drs. James Bond, Zakary Knutson, Aaron Smathers and Joshua Wilson have all moved to the Young Family Athletic Center.

“Our vision to expand and provide top-notch sports medicine care for patients—from the weekend warrior to the professional athlete—is now a reality,” Dr. Knutson explains.

“Having a second Ortho Central location in Norman is a win for everyone. We are very excited to be in the new stateof-the-art facility.”

Ortho Central at YFAC is dedicated to orthopedic care and sports medicine and will offer advanced technology to patients, including Dynamic Digital Radiography. This allows surgeons to view joints not just in a 2D plain film, but in motion as well. This technology takes very fast images “in real life” while the patient is moving, whether it be a person’s hand, shoulder or knee. This imaging can be done while weight-bearing, and the physicians are very excited about this advanced technology.

With two orthopedic clinics in Norman to better serve their patients, “Ortho Central is positioned as the cornerstone in this complex to provide elite sports performance training as well as injury prevention and treatment. Every athlete, from recreational to pro, from 9 to 90, will find what they need to attain and sustain excellence,” Bond said.

Ortho Central Physical Therapy

The entire physical therapy department is moving to the Young Family Athletic Center, where it will boast a much larger space than its current facility. The new, comprehensive and state-of-the-art rehabilitation center will be equipped to treat a diverse orthopedic and sports medicine clientele.

Dr. Bond

Dr. Knutson

“We are thrilled to be able to offer comprehensive physical therapy services in a facility that was meticulously designed for maximum performance.”

With this move, explained Heather Kuklinski, “we are now able to expand outside of our walls.”

The new facility has 40 yards of indoor specialized turf that opens up to a 60-yard outdoor turf field, allowing for specialized training for post-operative patients and the athletics population.

Sorinex strength-and-conditioning equipment, specially designed for rehabilitation and advanced strengthening, along with a microgravity technology treadmill, will better serve the community. The treadmill takes the weight off the joints, allowing the patient to rehab with less pain.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer comprehensive physical therapy services in a facility that was meticulously designed for maximum performance,” said David Haynes, manager of Ortho Central Physical Therapy.

“We have always had an outstanding team of therapists, but now we have a space that can address every aspect of rehabilitation and human performance.”

NMotion

The Sports and Human Performance Center, led by Amanda Sadler, M.D., along with a strength and conditioning coach, Jozsef Szendrei, offers new, personalized strength and performance services. This facility is athletics performance-based, and it’s for anyone who would like to move or perform better. This facility offers testing of anything from body fat and lean muscle mass analysis to recovery.

For more information on Ortho Central, visit OrthoCentralOK.com

Dr. Smathers

Dr. Wilson

ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAYLIN HILL

Great floor plans. Family-friendly neighborhoods. Functional yet beautiful kitchens and bathrooms with all the bells and whistles. Energy efficient. Warranties that are hard to beat.

These are just a few descriptors that match each and every home built by 1st Oklahoma Homes.

Here, we feature one of their completed, movein-ready spec homes.

4109 CENTRAL PARK DRIVE, APPLE ESTATES ADDITION, MOORE

This spec home ($444,900) features a great open-space floor plan with plenty of room for family gatherings and entertaining guests. It has four bedrooms and three bathrooms—plus a study that could become a fifth bedroom.

Other features include a large living area with a corner fireplace; a spacious kitchen and dining area that includes stainless steel appliances, a gas cooktop, a pantry and a large center island.

The home is packed with features to make tasks more convenient for its residents, including a

Left page: This lovely open-concept kitchen/dining area features a kitchen island and many upscale details. Photo by Kaylin Hill | Kollab Creative Co.

This page, top: The front of this Moore home features a wood and brick exterior with unique window awnings. Richard Smith Photography

Bottom: This elegant yet highly functional kitchen boasts plenty of cabinet space and has a light, airy vibe. Richard Smith Photography

Clean lines and lots of light give this bathroom an upscale, spa-like look.

large owners’ suite that connects to the laundry room and a mud room with sink located directly off the garage. The home has an 8-foot privacy fence, window blinds and garage door openers. Bonus: it was built to be super-energy efficient.

Parents will love having a nearby neighborhood park and splash pad close by for their children’s enjoyment. And they will love the security that comes with having a 10-year residential warranty policy and a one-year builders’ warranty.  1st Oklahoma Homes proudly offers HERS (a home energy rating system) for all of their homes.

About Apple Estates: This community offers a variety of styles and sizes of homes in different subdivisions: Apple Valley, Apple Gardens, Apple Village, Apple Estates, and Apple Landing. The community boasts two large ponds and a Moore public playground with a splash pad, a rentable pavilion for parties and a walking trail.

Richard Smith Photography

This corner fireplace provides a striking focal point for the living area.

Photo by Kaylin Hill | Kollab Creative Co.

There's plenty of room for family and entertaining in this open-concept home built by 1st Oklahoma Homes.

The community is located within walking distance of the highly rated Broadmoore Elementary School, and is also conveniently located close to major interstates, retails, restaurants, entertainment for all ages, and the Moore community center, The Station at Central Park.

1st Oklahoma Homes also has three spec homes for sale in Norman’s Summit Lakes, a friendly (and growing) neighborhood of over 542 homes.

Visit their website or give them a call to find out more about this company and to learn more about the homes currently available for sale.

1ST OKLAHOMA HOMES

2316 N Broadway St. | Moore, OK 73160 | okchomebuilder.com | Email: info@1stokhomes.com | Office: 405.701.5557

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Photo by Kaylin Hill | Kollab Creative Co.

IF YOU ARE READING THIS...

SO IS YOUR BEST CLIENT.

2 OUT OF 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

MASTER GARDENER SHARES TIPS FOR MAKING, MAINTAINING YOUR OWN

Raised-Bed Gardening: A Primer

ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER

KAYLIN HILL

“

“You do need to think about drainage when choosing materials. Standing water will cause plant roots and wood-based materials to rot.”

One of the joys of home ownership is being able to establish your own garden. Whether your “thing” is raising vegetables and herbs for eating and cooking, or flowers to add beauty to your lawn or to arrange in vases, a garden can be a great source of pride and joy. Lots of sweat equity, too.

I spoke recently with Cleveland County Master Gardener Rahmona Thompson about an ongoing gardening trend—raised-bed gardening—as well as tips for growing different plants successfully in Oklahoma’s ever-changing weather.

INTRODUCING MASTER GARDENER RAHMONA THOMPSON

Rahmona Thompson earned her Master Gardener designation in 2017 through the Cleveland County Master Gardeners Association, an affiliate of the Oklahoma State Extension Service Master Gardeners program. She became president of the association this year.

A self-described “Okie, born and bred,” Rahmona grew up in Ada from the second grade through one semester at East Central University. She and her husband moved to Norman so he could attend graduate school, and they decided to make their home here.

Rahmona holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in botany from the University of Oklahoma and a doctoral degree in the same field from Oklahoma State University. She was a faculty member in the East Central University Biology Department for 25 years, retiring in 2017.

As a Normanite and Norman Transcript reader, Rahmona noted that Betty Culpepper’s Pepper Patch, then Pat Folley’s and now Judy Kautz’s garden columns, “were/are must-reads. As a result, becoming a Master Gardener was on my retirement to-do list.”

(Ed. Note: Betty, as some of you know, was my mother.)

IN THE BEGINNING …

Rahmona’s passion for gardening began in childhood and involved various family members.

“Digging potatoes, shelling peas, snapping beans, eating fried green tomatoes and pickled okra are fond childhood memories,” she recalls. “My paternal grandfather even had grape vines and chickens in his Oklahoma City backyard.”

Her father-in-law also maintained large vegetable gardens.

“I remember one summer eating so much cantaloupe that it was several years before I was willing to eat it again!” she recalled, laughing. (And yes, this superfood is in the same family as cucumbers, pumpkins and squash, so it is technically a veggie.)

Additionally, Rahmona’s mother “had flower beds and now has orchids and other potted plants.”

RAISED-BED GARDENING: THE START

Rahmona became acquainted with raised-bed gardening while doing payback hours as a Master Gardener, which included volunteering in the CCMGA Demonstration Garden at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds, which has several of these beds.

With her interest sparked into square-foot gardening, Rahmona purchased the book All New Square Foot Gardening (2nd ed.) by Mel Bartholomew.

“I no longer follow the book’s plant placement recommendations, but my raised beds are made according to the book’s basic plan,” she said.

Rahmona’s husband, Ronald—a remodeler—built her raised-bed frames.

RAISED BED BENEFITS AND GUIDELINES

The benefits of raised garden beds include higher yields, better soil, water conservation, fewer weeds,

““Use what is easily obtainable. You can always modify or improve a bed later if you are going to continue gardening this way.”

extended seasons and better pest control (source: OSU Fact HLA-6033).

“For me, quickly converting a patch of Bermuda grass lawn into a bed without needing a rototiller was the attraction,” she quipped, noting that the only major difference in raised-bed gardening vs. ground gardening is the bed preparation.

“The depth of the bed needs to correlate to the size of the plants’ root system,” Rahmona explains. “Annual plants or plants that die in the winter grow well in a raised bed of 6 to 12 inches deep. Small shrubs or dwarf fruit trees need over 2 feet.”

RAHMONA’S RAISED BEDS

Rahmona likes to grow tomatoes, pickling cucumbers, spinless okra and dill in her raised beds because she can water-bath these vegetables to give as Christmas gifts. (Water-bath canning is her other major post-retirement activity.)

“However,” she added, “depending on my mindset (seeds or plants that catch my eye) and the weather, I have grown lettuce, arugula, green peas, green beans, onions, carrots, radishes, poblano peppers, red and green sweet peppers, banana peppers, jalapeno peppers, Japanese eggplant, globular eggplants, squash, zucchini, basil, thyme and oregano.”

MANAGING PESTS

Like all gardeners, she is faced with pests that would like to consume the hard-earned fruits of her labor. So how does she manage them?

“First, I don’t even attempt to varmint-proof,” she says. “There are some varmint deterrents I use. I ‘plant’ plastic forks and spoons near young transplants and onion sets to prevent them from being dug up. When I plant okra seeds/transplants, I surround them in a one-quart milk jug that I have cut off the top and bottom of and cut a slit in one side. This precaution is because the squirrels in my neighborhood love to eat the tops off okra seedlings.

“A blast from the water hose can shoo off chomping insects,” she adds. “But butterfly caterpillars can

eat as much of my dill as they need, even if it means I must buy some for my canning. Basil can flower for solitary bees instead of being pinched back for more flavorful spaghetti.”

She adds, “I prefer a cacophony of vegetation to protect my yield, as described by Plant Partners by Jessica Walliser and Weed Free Gardening by Tasha Greer, as opposed to lots of labor, pesticides and herbicide. But if you are into a more orderly arrangement of plants, that is easily done.”

For gardeners who want to exclude animals, she said, “Chicken wire can line the bottom of the bed, and cages made of chicken wire or PVC pipe and netting can cover the top. Raised beds are easy to modify. All New Square Foot Gardening has lots of suggestions.”

PLANT SELECTION AND CARE

Rahmona suggests planting species based on their temperature tolerance, not on when they show up for sale. (Pick up a free copy on the OSU Fact Sheets website ( Extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/) for details.)

“In the spring, I have used a bed sheet to cover plants during a late freeze,” she said, adding, “but if there is an early fall freeze, what dies is what dies.”

If weather or a viral or fungal disease harms a plant, Rahmona simply trims the damaged parts off the plant. “Then if it dies, then it dies. Okra is the only species I will replant if there is enough time for it to produce pods before a killing freeze.”

So, seeds or transplants? Either/both is fine.

“I do both,” Rahmona said. “I direct-sow seed for cool season vegetables—radishes, greens, carrots, green peas, beans—and for summer vegetables—okra and cucumbers. I don’t have a room in my house to start seeds for transplanting, so I buy the early summer vegetables: tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and herbs.”

MAKING YOUR OWN RAISED-BED GARDEN

Rahmona has two 4-foot-by-4-foot beds and one 4-foot-by-2-foot bed, all made of 2-foot-by 6-foot untreated boards with the ends butted and screwed together.

“The boards can also be stacked two or more layers high. More expensive lumber such as cedar can be used, but do not use treated boards,” she said, “but any product that can form a perimeter can be used.”

In the CCMGA Demonstrations Garden, she noted, the beds are made of concrete blocks topped with patio pavers.

Of course, there are also fancy premade beds and bed construction materials available for purchase.

Rahmona’s beds are placed on top of cardboard, but other types of weed barriers—plywood bottoms or hardscape—will work as well.

“You do need to think about drainage when choosing materials,” she stresses. “Standing water will cause plant roots and wood-based materials to rot.”

For Rahmona, soil was the most expensive part of the building process because she used potting soil, which allowed her to skip mixing the different components, such as dirt, vermiculite, perlite, sand and compost, herself.

“Now you can buy raised bed soil already mixed,” she said, noting that if straight garden soil is used, it will need to be modified with compost or green compost/mulch plants such as clover or oats.

She urges beginners to look at examples of raised bed options or the OSU fact sheet at extension.okstate.edu/ fact-sheets (labeled Backyard Demonstration Gardens).

For novices, Rahmona suggests starting out cheaply: “Use what is easily obtainable. You can always modify or improve a bed later if you are going to continue gardening this way.”

“This is the best I have ever seen. It was so uplifting. It spoke to everything that is good in this world.”

—Glen Duncan, Grammy Award-winning musician

“So beautiful and so moving! It has a very important message for the entire world.”

—Vikki Carr, world-renowned singer, four-time Grammy Award winner

MARCH 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 2ND

Leap Day Free Day

Magnolia Blossom Ranch, Newcastle | 1:00 PM

Celebrate the leap year with a day of free activities during Leap Day Free Day at Magnolia Blossom Ranch in Newcastle. The local alpaca ranch will offer an afternoon of alpaca interactions, fiber workshops and more. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and the ranch gift shop will be available for guests to shop. MagnoliaBlossomRanch.com

MARCH 9TH

Norman Wine and Craft Festival

Cleveland County Fairgrounds, Norman | 9:00 AM

Indoor & family-friendly event with over 70 booths of wine, beer, food, home decor, woodwork, jewelry, art and much more. ClevelandCountyFair.org

MARCH 15TH

Great Benjamins Circus

Cleveland County Fairgrounds, Norman | 4:30 PM

A traditional circus that offers amazing acts of international quality while being true to the traditional circus roots. Eventbrite.com

MARCH 18TH - 22ND

Spring Break Camp at Sam Noble Museum

Sam Noble Museum, Norman

This five-day camp in Norman will keep your kids active and creative while school is out. Campers will spend each day playing games, making crafts, exploring museum exhibits, engaging in scientific activities and more. Children will also stay entertained by meeting fossilized Oklahoma dinosaurs and talking with real paleontologists. SamNobleMuseum.ou.edu/Calendar

MARCH 23RD

Easter Egg Scramble

Buck Thomas Park, Moore | 10:00 AM

Come to Moore's Easter Egg Scramble, with an egg hunt with Easter bunny! Fun for all ages 0-12 years. The Easter Egg Scramble begins at 10:30 a.m. CityOfMoore.com/Upcoming-Events/Moore-Easter-Egg-Scramble

MARCH 30TH

Norman Chocolate Festival

Noun Hotel, 542 S. University Blvd., Norman | 10:00 AM

The highly anticipated Norman Chocolate Festival, hosted by the Norman PTA Council, will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and will feature various local chocolate vendors from Norman and the metro area showcasing their unique chocolate creations. Visit their Facebook page for more information.

Handmade Soap

Add a spa-like feel to your home with this refreshing soap recipe that's simple to make at home.

ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

lavender honey lemon soap

ingredients

• 2 lb. goat’s milk melt-and-pour soap

• 1 lemon rind, zested

• 3 tablespoons of dried lavender buds

• 2 tablespoons of honey

• 15 drops of lavender essential oil

• 6 drops of lemon essential oil

• jar or bowl for melting soap base

• Silicone mold

directions

Chop soap into smaller pieces. It will melt faster this way. Place in bowl and microwave (or double boil). Be careful to watch soap and not let it burn.  If you are using microwave, heat in 30 second increments, stirring frequently. Once soap is melted add your essential oils first. Once essential oils have been added and mixed thoroughly, add the lavender buds, lemon zest and honey. Have your mold ready to go, on a flat, even surface. You’ll want to move quickly before the soap cools too much. Mix everything thoroughly again, and pour mixture into mold. Let the soap cool for 2-3 hours until bars are completely solid. Wrap or package however you like.

Recipe from Sisoo.com

Nestled on expansive acreage, this grand home offers a detached barn for two cars, loft for storage and a sports pool, and a large circle drive surrounded by mature shade trees. A welcoming front porch, wood flooring, Primary bedroom on main floor with its own private patio, gourmet kitchen, 2 living rooms, 2 dining, and wet bar. Backyard entertainment haven with latticed area for privacy, covered pavilion, and outdoor dining space.

ROW 1: Tracie Woods, Tiffany & Boomer Elcyzyn, Amber Dawson, Lisa Elrod, Jerry Flowers, Kirk Holloway, Matt Thomas, Nguyet Kieu

ROW 2: Cami Martz, Tera Painter, Lisa Ray, Susan K. Ford, Dustin Whittern, Leslie Switzer, Lonny McMillan