Cleveland County, OK April 2020

APRIL 2020

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

Going for the Green (Eco, That Is)

WATER, BATS & WILD CARE - 3 INSPIRING STORIES

CLEAN-UP PROGRAMS HAVE HUGE IMPACT

ASSOCIATION LEADING NEW ERA OF SOCCER

TRADITION INNOVATION SATISFACTION

QUALITY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@lifestylepubs.com 405.541.5650

Hello, Spring!

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF WHEN YOU HEAR THE WORD “SPRINGTIME”?

Perhaps it's the sound of thunder and the spell of ozone at the approach of a spring storm?

Or maybe its the profusion of crocus, daffodils, hyacinths, tulips and other pastel hued flowers that seemed to "spring" up everywhere overnight?

Maybe its children, baskets in hand and eyes shining bright, eagerly poised for the go-ahead to search out Easter eggs in the new green grass?

EDITOR

Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooke Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies, Bonnie Hedges, Staci Elder Hensley

For this issue of Cleveland County Lifestyle, we turned our attention to a different kind of

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

green: the "eco" kind. In one story, you'll read about three individuals who are doing their

Krystyn Richardson

part to "save the planet" in very different ways. One is a professor at the University of Oklahoma (he's also a priest) who has gone to some of the poorest nations in the world to help them solve their water issues. Another is a mammalogist who studies bats. Like 'em or not, these flying mammals serve several vital roles, not the least of which is as a huge consumer of mosquitoes, which can transmit diseases such as malaria and the West Nile virus to humans. The third is a woman who is committed to helping rescue wild animals and teaching people how to co-exist with them whenever possible.

Several stories fall outside the Eco umbrella, including one about an extraordinary woman who has overcome severe obstacles following military service and severe PTSD. Helping to restore her smile, literally as well as figuratively, was a talented local oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

P.S. Accompanying this letter is a photo that we couldn't run with the related story in

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Around Town. Make sure to read about a check recently presented to the Moore Public

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Schools by the Community Fund for Moore Schools to convert Kelley Elementary

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

School to LED lights, which will help reduce the school's carbon footprint.

P.S.S. In an article titled “Ready to Build Your Dream Home” in our March issue, we neglected to give credit to the designer who designed the home’s interior and advised her clients on its exterior as well. We were wowed by the elegant lighting and other design aspects, inside and out. We apologize for the oversight, and suggest that readers check out Janet Biddick’s Facebook page at facebook.com/JanetBiddickDesigns/ to learn more.

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA

ON THE COVER Norman Youth Soccer

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Association officers and staff (from left) Don Rother, Executive Director; Bryan Rother; Steve Gillis, Complex

Jerri Culpepper, Editorial Coordinator

Coordinator; Bob Shalhope; Gordon

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Drummond; Skip Thorpe, Technical Director. See related story, page 40.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAR ROTHER PHOTOGRAPHY 6

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cleveland County areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No 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.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2020

FEATURES 20 With the Help of a Local Oral Surgeon Woman Veteran Overcomes Homelessness, PTSD to Regain Smile

24 Save the Planet A Professor/Priest, Mammalogist and Wild Care Specialist Discuss Their Very Different Work

30 Experience the Stories of the Bible With 404-Mile, Faith-Based Journey Through Israel

32 Cleaning Up, Coming Together Clean-up Programs Help Conserve Ecosystems, Protect

30 24

Wildlife, Reduce Water Pollution and Beautify Natural Surroundings

32 DEPARTMENTS

20

6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Renovate & Refine

20 Hometown Hero 30 Travel Destination 32 Giving Back 36 Open House 40 Trend Setter 44 Locally Owned 49 Realty Report 50 Lifestyle Calendar

GOOD TIMES

Norman Public Library Central Hosts Crowns Tea Norman Public Library Central hosted the 16th annual edition of its Crowns Tea Feb. 23. Attendees dressed in their Sunday best; most sported church hats in the tradition chronicled in the novel Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats by Michael Cunningham and Craig Marberry. Over 200 attended for a tea service, readings and multiple performances. PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEL MAR PHOTOGRAPHY

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1. Longtime Crowns Tea emcee Charlotte Gordon addresses attendees at the Feb. 23 event at Norman Library Central.

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South Oklahoma City Chamber Banquet The South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce held its 2020 Annual Banquet at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center, presented by AT&T. The event served as the installation for the South Oklahoma City Chamber’s 2020 Board of Directors.

Outstanding individuals in the community were also honored for their work in 2019. PHOTOGRAPHY AHH SHOOT! PHOTOGRAPHY

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1. Glenda Montiel, Cox Business, and 2019 Citizen of the Year awardee, Matt Hinkle, Tyler Signs | 2. Elaine Lyons, president, South OKC Chamber of Commerce, and South OKC Chamber’s outgoing chairman, Karl Hillerman, MidFirst Bank | 3. Pat Lewis, OG&E Electric Services, and Jeff Kretchmar, OKC Energy FC, SOKC Chamber’s 2019 Membership Awareness Campaign “Godfather” | 4. Noble McIntyre, McIntyre Law, and 2019 Volunteer of the Year awardee, Linda Richardson, HMI Promos | 5. SOKC Chamber’s 2019 Ambassador of the Year, Marla Robinson, Wonderland Treasures, and Raoul Gonzales, Resthaven Funeral Home & Memory Gardens | 6. SOKC Chamber’s 2019 Native Son awardee, Justin Echols, along with Patricia Felix and Lindsey Jeffries with Women of the South 10

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

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April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

11

GOOD TIMES 1.

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South Oklahoma City Chamber Enjoys Busy February During February, First Enterprise Bank hosted the South OKC Chamber’s February Business After Hours; Congressman Tom Cole presented an update to the South OKC Chamber members at Moore Norman Technology Center - South Penn Campus; and the chamber held its first Taco ‘Bout It Trivia event at Cocina de Mino. Over 60 people participated in this fun event.

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1-3. Some of the lucky winners of the door prizes awarded during the SOKC’s Business After Hours | 4. Congressman Tom Cole presented an update to the South OKC Chamber members at Moore Norman Technology Center - South Penn Campus on Feb. 18. | 5-6. The South OKC Chamber held its first Taco ‘Bout It Trivia event at Cocina de Mino on Feb. 18. Plans are to make it an annual event.

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Sister Cities Global Achievement Luncheon Sister Cities International OKC Global Achievement Luncheon was held Feb. 27 at Embassy Suites. Jonna Kirschner served as event chair; Merrill Eisenhower Atwater, great-grandson of President Eisenhower, as keynote speaker. Other awardees: Global Leadership – Global Blood Fund – Oklahoma Blood Institute; Global Humanitarian – Dr. Stephen Prescott; Global Vision – Gov. Frank Keating; Global Lifetime Achievement – Lou Kerr

4.

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1. Chris Morriss, Honorary Conselor Rico Buchli, Lou Kerr | 2. Dr. and Mrs. Bill Parry | 3. Judy Austin, Lou Kerr, Terry Neese | 4. Mary Blankenship Pointer, Merrill Eisenhower Atwater, Jonna Kirschner | 5. Merrill Eisenhower Atwater, former Gov. Frank Keating, Mark Stansberry | 6. Merrill Eisenhower Atwater, Mary Blankenship Pointer, Randy Jungol, Jonna Kirschner, Mayor David Holt 12

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Press & Plow

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April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

13

AROUND TOWN

AMONG FRIENDS SCHEDULES FIESTA AMONG FRIENDS Among Friends’ biggest fundraiser, Fiesta Among Friends, is scheduled for May 15 at The Nest at Terra Verde. The event, which begins at 6 p.m., will include a Mexican dinner, drinks, and a live and silent auction. Tickets are $45 per person and can be purchased through the website AmongFriends.net.

Sponsorships also are available.

award during opening ceremonies of Colonial Day at the Oklahoma History Center. Nearly 300 Oklahoma students participated in the literature contest and other Colonial Day activities.

COMMUNITY FUND FOR MOORE SCHOOLS DONATE FUNDS FOR LED LIGHTS At a recent Moore School Board meeting, mem-

Since 2003, Among Friends has been providing

bers of the Community Fund for Moore Schools

a safe and friendly place for adults with devel-

presented Moore Public Schools Superintendent

opmental disabilities and additional needs. The

Robert Romines with a check for $13,216 to convert

nonprofit receives no government funding and

Kelley Elementary School to LED lights.

depends on fundraisers, grants and donations to

The organization’s research indicates that an

stay open. For more information and to purchase

average school elementary would save approxi-

tickets, visit their website, listed above.

mately $8,000 per year in power costs by switch-

FULL CIRCLE ADULT DAY CENTER PLANS FUNDRAISER

ing to LED bulbs, which typically have a lifespan of 10 years. The Moore School Board elected to conduct the first project at Kelley Elementary

“A Night in Monte Carlo” is the theme of Full

School. The donation will cover the cost of pur-

Circle Adult Day Care’s fundraising evening, sched-

chasing approximately 2,800 LED bulbs. See

uled from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at the Nest

related photo accompanying the Lifestyle Letter.

at Terra Verde, 800 36th Ave. SE, Norman. Cocktail attire preferred. Tickets are $100. Pre-register by April 27 at FullCircleok.org.

NORMAN CENTRAL LIBRARY HOSTS SERIES Seeking to engage and inform the community, Norman Public Library Central will spend April in thoughtful discussion of world affairs with the Great Decisions 2020 series.

Activities at 6:30 p.m. each Tuesday evening of the month focus on different topics.

APRIL 7 – “China’s Road into Latin America,” presented by Paul Bell APRIL 14 – “Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking,” by Roksana Alavi APRIL 21 – “India and Pakistan,” by Aqil Shah APRIL 28 – “Climate Change and the Global Order,” speaker to be announced

(Photo by David Wheelock)

EISENHOWER ELEMENTARY FIFTH-GRADER WINS COLONIAL DAY LITERATURE CONTEST

throughout the country in the spring.

Each discussion takes place in the Oklahoma Room of the new Norman Central library, 103 W. Acres St. Because of ongoing coronavirus

Charlie Balthrop, a fifth-grader at Eisenhower

concerns, people are encouraged to check first

Elementary School, Norman, received a citation

before heading out to a library event by visiting

from State Rep. Merleyn Bell recognizing him as

www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org.

the winner of the Colonial Day Literature Contest, sponsored by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. They were joined by Eisenhower Vice

14

Great Decisions is a presentation of the Foreign Policy Association and discussions take place

NORMAN CHILDREN'S BUSINESS FAIR SET

Principal Andrea Crowe, Principal Danielle Eikel

The first-ever Norman Children's Business Fair will

and Colonial Williamsburg historical interpreter

be held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. April 18. Twenty young

Stephen Seals. Charlie received a plaque and $100

CONTINUED >

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Happy Easter!

Your hunt for the perfect smile ends here!

2 Amazing Locations Norman / South OKC

Dr. Tim Shannon, DDS, MS Dr. Mark Revels, DDS Dr. Gabriela Restuccia, DDS, MS

orthoexc.com

AROUND TOWN entrepreneurs will be featured at the marketplace at Loveworks Leadership, 151 12th Ave SE, Suite 100.

The event is free and open to the public.

Doors open at 6 p.m., with dinner and other activities following at 6:45.

For more information about the organization

Kids create a product or service, develop a brand,

and the event, and to make reservations, go to

build a marketing strategy, and then open for custom-

AgingServicesOK.com, then click on News

ers at this new event. The children are responsible for

and Events.

the setup, sale, and interacting with customers.

Local sponsors are Evergreen: an Acton Academy and Loveworks Leadership. Thanks also go to the Acton School of Business, and the donors and volunteers, who all believe that principled entrepreneurs are heroes and role models for the next generation.

Awards will be presented in each of the four age groups (6-7, 8-10, 11-12, and 13-14) for “Most Business Potential,” “Most Creative Idea” and “Most Impressive Presentation.”

For more information, contact Matina Hunnell at 928.8330 or matina@evergreenacton.com, or visit ChildrensBusinessFair.org/norman.

VA APPEALS REFORM: WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU? The Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2017 makes the procedural process of appealing your disability claim faster and more efficient.

Veterans have three options, which are referred to as "lanes”:

MARY ABBOTT CHILDREN'S HOUSE SETS OPEN HOUSE In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, Mary Abbott Children’s House is hosting an open house for the community on from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 23, at 231 E. Symmes St.

1) HIGHER-LEVEL REVIEWS: Allows veter-

Guests can enjoy dinner hot off the grill and meet

ans to have a more experienced VA adjudicator

our two newest staff members – therapy dogs in

review their denied claim without submitting

training, Phoebe and Eleanor.

additional evidence.

Staff and board members will be present to

2) SUPPLEMENTAL CLAIMS: This lane allows

discuss services the center provides to victims

veterans to submit new and relevant evidence to

and families affected by physical and sexual

support their claims and

abuse and neglect.

3) APPEAL TO THE BOARD: Allows veterans to appeal their claims directly to the Board of

Because of the coronavirus outbreak, many pub-

Veterans' Appeals in three different methods: a)

lic events are being canceled or postponed. It’s

Evidence, b) Hearing and c) Direct Review.

advisable to call before the event to ensure it is

Please contact R.S.S. Tortorello @ (405) 761-

still being held as scheduled.

4401 for expert guidance.

AGING SERVICES SETS AN 'EVENING OF LIVE MOTOWN MUSIC' Don’t miss Aging Services Inc.'s second annual fundraising event for the seniors of Cleveland County, scheduled for Thursday, April 16, at the Yellow Rose Dinner Theatre in Moore.

16

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

The event, featuring an evening of live Motown

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

music, will include dinner, a raffle drawing and an

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

awareness center stage.

Us tab at ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com.

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Luxury Homes

WE CAN BUILD YOUR DREAM RIGHT HERE IN OUR CLEVELAND COUNTY COMMUNITY

405-701-5557 | WWW.OKCHOMEBUILDER.COM

REDUCING YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

RENOVATE & REFINE

18

COMPANY OFFERS AC PROGRAM THAT REDUCES ENERGY USE, SAVES HOMEOWNERS MONEY

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID MICHENER PHOTOGRAPHY

MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE LOOKING FOR WAYS TO REDUCE THEIR CARBON FOOTPRINT.

“The main focus of the American Standard System Care Program is to give homeowners a chance to get

For homeowners, the largest energy draw—and

the most efficient system affordably at a fixed monthly

greatest expense—is the air conditioner and heat-

cost,” Brian says. “We offer a 10-year program which

ing systems. For Oklahoma homeowners, about

includes the cost of the new system, all repairs and

60% of our household utility costs goes to keep

all maintenance including filters. The system, which

us cool in summer and warm in winter, says Brian

has a high SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio)

Porch, founder and owner of Norman Heating, Air

can lower homeowners’ carbon footprint while low-

Conditioning & Plumbing.

ering their monthly utility bills by as much as 40%.

Norman Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing

In addition, they gain peace of mind knowing that for

recently launched a program that is aimed at provid-

those 10 years, they will incur no out-of-pocket repair

ing area homeowners with the highest-efficiency air

cost. There’s an added savings when you figure in

conditioner possible—which lowers energy costs and

rising utility costs. No other heat and air company in

thus one’s carbon footprint—at a set monthly cost.

Norman offers this program.”

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Brian offers several other tips to help homeowners lower their monthly air conditioning costs while keeping their unit functioning at its peak for the duration of its lifetime (which is about 12 years):

+ Change the filter regularly; this usually means monthly, but depends on the type of filter

+ Schedule annual tune-ups; Norman Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers three levels of maintenance programs, plus the new American Standard System Care Program mentioned above

+ Replace your air conditioner when it begins to lose efficiency + Set your thermostat to 78 degrees F. (U.S. Department of Energy recommendation), 7 to 10 degrees higher when you will be gone for several hours or days

+ Install window treatments that block sunlight and prevent heat from entering through your windows

+ Install fresh or replace old weather stripping and caulk around doors and windows to keep your home sealed

+ Limit use of appliances that generate heat, like the oven and stove, until after 8 p.m. (summers, grill outside as much as possible)

+ Install ceiling fans to increase cooling efficiency Complimentary Oil Change With This Ad

On a final "green" note, Brian advises homeowners who still have an old AC unit that uses R22 Freon (which was found to have negative environmental effects) to start planning to buy a new one. This year, he notes, the government has finally banned its production after several years of phasing it out.

Norman Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing, founded in 2008, enjoys a 4.9 (out of 5.0) Google Review rating with over 640 reviews. Visit NormanAir.com to learn more.

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April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

19

HOMETOWN HERO

WITH THE HELP OF A N O R A L S U RG E O N MELISSA COOPER GREW UP LISTENING TO HER GRANDFATHER’S TALES OF SERVING IN THE U.S. ARMY DURING WORLD WAR II. Then, she witnessed firsthand her father’s service in the Air Force. So, it was no big stretch that when she was deciding what to do with her own life, entering the service was a natural choice.

Originally from Muskogee, she officially joined the Army at age 21, only a couple of months after her younger brother also enlisted. After basic training, Melissa went on to become an E-4 records specialist and was assigned to the adjutant general’s office in Mannheim, Germany, for six years. She served from 1990 to 1992 as a part of Operation Desert Storm, followed by four years in the Army Reserves after the hostilities ended.

During peacetime, her responsibilities included processing routine orders for soldiers who were transitioning out of the service. During Desert Storm, however, it was a different matter.

Soldiers departing for Iraq would first fly to Frankfurt, where they would be transported to Mannheim for processing. Melissa was part of a team who went over records, making sure life insurance policies were filled out properly, along with any other paperwork that would be needed if the soldier were to die during deployment.

That was far from the worst of it, though. While she may not have been on the front lines of combat, working in the general’s office was hellish in its own way. Melissa was also responsible for

WOMAN VETERAN OVERCOMES HOMELESSNESS, PTSD TO REGAIN SMILE

keeping track of combat fatalities and helping determine where soldiers needed to be transferred to replace those who had been killed or wounded. The worst part, however, were the consolation letters she wrote each day to spouses, parents and family members of those who had died. Those letters numbered in the

ARTICLE STACI ELDER HENSLEY

hundreds, and it was a job that still haunts her today.

When asked how she coped with the intensity of her work, Melissa’s answer reflects that of her comrades in arms.

“People ask how you deal with it on a daily basis, and that’s hard to answer,” she said. “You just do. It’s your job.”

While Melissa said she thrived on the structure and the camaraderie with her fellow soldiers, she nonetheless struggled as a veteran. Already a single parent, Melissa emerged from the Army as a self-described alcoholic with severe post-traumatic stress disorder, and at one point was even homeless.

20

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

21

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

Today, however, she has been sober for six years, is happily married to Tinker Air Force Base employee Ken Cooper and is the proud mother of a successful grown son and daughter, Casey and Jessica McKinney, and has two grandchildren. Casey, a Tulsa police officer, is planning to continue the family tradition by enlisting in the Army Reserve.

Melissa, meanwhile, recently had yet another lifechanging event.

Malnutrition and chronic infections stemming from her post-service struggles caused Melissa to lose her teeth when she was 37. She struggled with ill-fitting dentures for 15 years, until Dr. Perry Brooks of Oklahoma Dental Implants & Oral Surgery recently fitted her with implants.

“I was referred to Dr. Perry by Aspen Dental,” Melissa recalled, “but the funny thing is we had already looked him up on the computer and was reading his credentials.

He was our pick anyway. The fact that he was a good Christian man was huge plus. He prayed with us before the procedure and it really helped me calm down because I was nervous. Dr. Perry knows his stuff and he was very upfront with me about everything. He’s very patient and definitely not in a hurry when he has an appointment with you. I definitely made the right choice.”

“Ms. Cooper presented to me with a desire to improve/ restore her smile and increase her ability to chew food without her dentures falling out of her mouth,” Dr. Perry said. “This is a very interesting case. Melissa had been homeless and suffers from a history of PTSD. Her confidence in smiling was lacking. She couldn’t chew hard foods. Had been missing all her teeth for many years. She had been told by many dentists that she wasn’t a candidate for dental implants due to lack of bone.

“My initial exam revealed that she had plenty of bone to reconstruct her bite. Subsequently, I designed her custom dream smile using advance imaging and the ability to do virtual reality surgery. She approved of the plan. Just after two visits, Melissa had a single visit surgery with general anesthesia and walk out with a fixed (non-removable) bridge.

“After four months, the temporary bridge was converted to a final permanent bridge,” Dr. Perry added, noting that Melissa was never without teeth through the entire procedure.

“It was amazing to watch the transformation of a woman who served her country proudly while in the military, who suffered from depression and PTSD, was living on the streets, and who had been at the end of life’s rope, changed into the happiest patient with gorgeous smile.”

“I look like a completely different person now,” Melissa says. “I am so thankful to Dr. Brooks for all he has done for me. It has given me my self-esteem back, and I get compliments every day!”

22

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

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23

ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES

THREE INDIVIDUALS—A PROFESSOR/ PRIEST, MAMMALOGIST AND WILD CARE SPECIALIST—DISCUSS THEIR VERY DIFFERENT WORK

S AV E T H E PLANET 24

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

J I M F. CHAMBERLAIN, PH.D. + Co-Director for Education

a n d O u t r e a c h , O U WaT E R C e n t e r, a n d C a t h o l i c P r i e s t “MY WORK IN DEVELOPMENT IS INFORMED AND INSPIRED

BY THE GOSPEL LOVE OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE DOWNTRODDEN, WHILE MY INTELLECTUAL FAITH IS BUOYED

BY CATHOLIC SOCIAL TEACHING, WHICH INCLUDES

‘SOLIDARITY WITH THE POOR’ AS ONE OF ITS MAIN TENETS.”

Jim F. Chamberlain, who holds a doctorate in environ-

taught an undergraduate course in Uganda in which students would

mental engineering and earth science, began traveling

participate in a range of projects ranging from rainwater catchments

to developing countries after attending an Engineering

and sanitation facilities to designing solar-powered pumping stations.

Without Borders conference. He traveled to El Salvador

Always working with local technicians, these projects became a learn-

with the EWB chapter to work on several water projects

ing experience for both the students and the locals.

involving building pipelines to carry water to very poor villages along the southern Pacific coast.

Chamberlain, also a Catholic priest, says has his OU

In Uganda, he helped find funding to install solar panels to provide electricity for a maternity ward in Gulu and helped repair a water well at Atiak that provided clean water for dozens of people daily.

connection has helped open up doors for collaborations

Chamberlain advises readers who are concerned about their

and experience in developing nations, so that he has

planet’s future to strive to create an ethic of sustainability regard-

been able to take his church youth group on mission trips

ing the material things that they use and consume and to keep

to Haiti, Puerto Rico and Jamaica.

informed about areas experiencing water stress. Many of the

Chamberlain has done research on the removal of excess fluoride from drinking water in Ethiopia and helped battle

migrations across the world, he notes, are due to people seeking better resources, including water.

arsenic in Cambodia’s water supply. He also has conducted

The WaTER Center at OU also offers periodic speakers and pro-

surveys of water, sanitation and hygiene stations to help

grams that offer education and awareness through a fall symposium

prioritize schools in Ethiopia that needed help first. He

and other events. Learn more at ou.edu/coe/centers/water

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

25

SAVE THE PLANET (CONTINUED)

“WORLDWIDE, MORE THAN 1,400 BAT SPECIES PROVIDE IMPORTANT ECOSYSTEM SERVICES. INSECTIVOROUS SPECIES CONSUME LARGE AMOUNTS OF INSECTS EACH NIGHT, REDUCING AGRICULTURAL AND HUMAN PESTS.”

BRANDI COYNER, PH.D.

+ Curatorial Associate at

the Sam Noble Museum

the eastern United States and adjacent Canada and Mexico, the bat was petitioned to be added to the federal endangered species

Brandi Coyner, who holds a bachelor’s and a doctoral degree

list in 2016. Along with several colleagues, Coyner is studying the

in zoology, originally wanted to pursue medical school, took a

local prevalence of a fungus, known as white-nose syndrome

different career path after taking a summer course in field mam-

that’s been killing bats by the millions in the northeastern United

malogy at OU’s Biological Station, deciding, instead, to study wild

States. The fungus also afflicts about a dozen other species of

mammals—specifically, bats.

North American bats and is carried by numerous others.

With more than 1,400 bat species worldwide, this flying mammal

To help bats thrive, Coyner suggests simply leaving their current

provides important ecosystem services, she notes. Insectivorous

habitats alone, as disturbing and damaging caves can create an irre-

species consume large amounts of insects each night, reducing agri-

versible impact. Homeowners who wish to attract bats may wish to

cultural and human pests, while some 300 species of fruit depend on

research how to install and maintain a bat house.

bats for pollination. These bats disperse the seeds of the fruits they consume, and their guano is used as fertilizer.

Coyner’s current research focuses on Oklahoma’s Perimyotis subflavus, also known as the Tri-Colored Bat. Found throughout 26

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

While it’s worth noting that, although rare, bats can and do carry some deadly diseases, Coyner advises individuals to leave them alone and, if one appears sick or injured, to contact WildCare in Noble or the local animal control.

RONDI M. LARGE + Founding Volunteer

D i r e c t o r, W i l d C a r e

“BE AN ADVOCATE FOR THE RETENTION OF NATURAL SPACES. WILDLIFE WILL THRIVE, AND WE WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY THEM FOR GENERATIONS IF WE PROTECT THE PLACES THEY NEED TO LIVE. BE A FRIEND TO WILDLIFE. DRIVE THE SPEED LIMIT AND KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR WILDLIFE. AND IF YOU CAN, MAKE YOUR YARD A WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

BY PROVIDING FRESH CLEAN WATER FOR WILD ANIMALS YEAR ‘ROUND.”

Rondi Large is one of three founding volunteer directors of

Most of its facility and operating costs relate to their primary

WildCare in Noble; the other two are O.T. Sanders and Nancy

goal of providing medical evaluation, surgery and ongoing

Harrington, D.V.M. WildCare was officially incorporated in 1994, and

medical care if needed, species-specific nutrition and shelter.

became approved as a tax-exempt nonprofit in 1995. However, the

WildCare’s secondary mission is to help people understand the

three had been actively rehabilitating wildlife since 1984. The orga-

wildlife they encounter and to promote harmonious coexistence,

nization started in Rondi and O.T.’s home and moved to the Golden

whenever possible. Its staff also help people determine whether

Family Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center in June 2015.

an animal, in fact, needs rescuing. For example, people often want

The mission of the WildCare Foundation is to provide people a

to rescue fawns without knowing that mother deer leave their

place to bring native injured, orphaned or ill wildlife struggling to

babies safely camouflaged in overgrowth while they graze during

survive, with the goal of releasing healthy individuals back into the

the day, returning periodically to nurse their fawns.

wild. WildCare is the oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation center

Rescued animals may be brought to the facility, located at 7601

in Oklahoma and one of the 10 largest facilities in the country. Since

84th St., in Noble, or taken to one of their drop-off locations—the

its beginning, WildCare has admitted and provided care for over

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare or the Norman Animal Shelter.

100,000 sick, injured and orphaned native wild animals. During that time, the number of animals coming into the facility has grown from

Find out ways you can help by contacting them at 872.9338 or WildcareOklahoma.org.

just a few animals a year to nearly 7,000 annually.

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

27

28

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

TRAVEL DESTINATION

Experience the Sto r i e s o f t h e B i b l e

THROUGH 404-MILE, FAITH-BASED JOURNEY THROUGH ISRAEL

ARTICLE BONNIE HEDGES, CTC/CTS EXPERIENCE THE STORIES OF THE BIBLE COME TO LIFE ON A FAITH-BASED JOURNEY TO ISRAEL WITH GLOBUS TOURS. Walk in the steps of Old Testament heroes and see the sites seen by Jesus and the New Testament saints.

Your journey will begin at one of the world’s oldest ports,

Your journey begins at one of the world's oldest ports, the Port of Jaffa in modern-day Tel Aviv, Israel.

the Port of Jaffa in modern-day Tel Aviv, Israel. The Old Jaffa Port is the port from which Jonah boarded ship. It is also from this port that Medieval pilgrims started their strenuous two-day trek to Jerusalem.

From Tel Aviv, you will travel north along the west coast of Israel with a view of the Mediterranean Sea. Stop at the fortified city of Megiddo, thought to have seen more battles than any other location in the world. For Christians, the word Megiddo is synonymous with the end of the world battle of Armageddon, as mentioned in the Book of Revelation.

In northern Israel is the region of Galilee in which Jesus spent his first 30 years. In the old city of Nazareth of Galilee, you will see the domed Basilica of the Annunciation, where the angel Gabriel purportedly told Mary she would bear a child.

St. Joseph’s Church is said to be the site of Joseph’s carpentry workshop. The underground Synagogue Church is reputedly where Jesus studied and prayed. An open-air museum, Nazareth Village, reconstructs daily life in Jesus’ era.

Jesus’ first miracle of changing water into wine at a wedding occurred in the town of Cana. Even now, many couples renew their wedding vows at this sacred spot.

Much of Jesus’ ministry occurred on the shores surrounding the Sea of Galilee. Nearby is the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus is believed to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount. You can also visit the Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes. (And of course, while at the Sea of Galilee, plan a short cruise and enjoy the gentle rocking of the waves.)

Then you will go south to Jerusalem, which is located on a plateau in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and Dead Sea. It is one of the oldest cities in the world and is considered holy to the three major Abrahamic religions— Judaism, Christianity and Islam. In 2017 the United States recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

30

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Tourists at the Bronze Age entrance to the excavated ruins of the ancient city of Meggido in Northern Israel, also known as Armageddon

View of rooftops of Old City of Jerusalem, including the gray dome of the Church of Our Lady of the Spasm (Armenian church) and golden Dome of the Rock

TAKE AT LEAST THREE DAYS TO TOUR

THE OLD TOWN OF JERUSALEM: + Visit the Mount of Olives where you will see the small town of Bethany, the Garden of Gethsemane, the place of Jesus’ ascension, and the Cave of the Assumption, believed to be the Virgin Mary’s Tomb. + Plan to stroll through the restored Jewish Quarter to Mount Zion and visit the upper room, where Jesus and his disciples had the Last Supper. (It is recommended you do tours with a guide in order to have the best visit possible.) + Finally, from Jerusalem take the excursion to the most popular tourist attraction in Israel, the ancient fortress of Masada, where the Jews perished when they took their last stand against the Roman armies.

Overlooking Masada, you have a view of the Dead Sea, which is the lowest place on earth.

On your 404-mile journey through Israel, you will be in a modern air-conditioned motor coach and can make memories that will last a lifetime. Many meals are included.

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April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

31

GIVING BACK

CLEAN-UP PROGRAMS CRUCIAL FOR HELPING CONSERVE ECOSYSTEMS, PROTECT WILDLIFE, REDUCE WATER POLLUTION AND BEAUTIFY NATURAL SURROUNDINGS

cleaning up,

coming together CINDY GRANTHAM MOVED INTO HALL PARK IN NORTHEAST NORMAN IN LATE 2014, MOSTLY DUE TO THE BEAUTY OF THE AREA. “I fell in love with the green spaces, lake and trails here,” she explains. “I am so grateful for the Hall Park citizens who

to conserve ecosystems, protect wildlife, reduce water

came before us, many who are long gone, that helped pre-

pollution and improve the appearance of our natural sur-

serve the natural beauty of this neighborhood.”

roundings. Collaborative clean-up efforts also develop a

Preserving the natural beauty of our neighborhoods, green spaces and natural surroundings is an important responsibil-

sense of community, connect like-minded neighbors and help preserve our environment for the next generation.

ity that offers many benefits for the community. Community clean-up programs are more than just a way to remove bothersome litter and debris. These efforts are crucial for helping

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN HALL PARK Cindy remembers being invited by to help clean up one of the Hall Park lakes during her first spring in the area.

“It was a miserable, wet and cold March day,” she recollects. “Three of us got into my neighbor’s paddle boat and went from shore to shore, soaking wet, exhausted and having the time of our lives while we picked up trash along the entire lake shore. That one extraordinary effort to take ownership of the cleanliness of our lake became my passion.

ARTICLE BROOKE BARNETT

32

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

“ONCE I STARTED PICKING UP TRASH, IT BECAME HARD TO IGNORE LITTER WHEREVER I SAW IT. SO, FROM THERE, I STARTED PICKING UP TRASH THROUGHOUT HALL PARK DURING MY DAILY WALKS WITH MY DOGS. MY LAB MIX, MINNIE, WILL NOW HEAD TOWARD TRASH AND POINT IT OUT.”

The Hall Park Clean-up Crew

In Hall Park, the most successful neighborhood clean-up event to date took place in January 2020, with more than 15 volunteers picking up over 300 pounds of trash along Robinson and 24th Avenue Northeast.

“Once you start cleaning up an area, you start noticing the natural beauty all around you and there is a sense that you are helping the flora and fauna survive,” Cindy adds. “One of the best parts of my involvement in Hall Park’s beautification efforts are the friends I’ve made. There are truly wonderful people all over Hall Park who I would never have met had I not been involved with our neighborhood clean-up efforts.”

CONTINUED >

Lake Thunderbird Workshop and Clean Up participants April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

33

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

“I BELIEVE STEWARDSHIP OF THE EARTH IS THE MOST PRESSING ISSUE FACING THE YOUNGER GENERATIONS, AND THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE H O M E T O S TA R T C A R I N G F O R Y O U R E A R T H ”

MAKING A DIFFERENCE AT LAKE THUNDERBIRD

how the citizens of Cleveland County can make a difference

Even if your neighborhood doesn’t offer an organized

in their daily life. In addition, other groups, community orga-

clean-up event, there are still ample opportunities to help

nizations and civic agencies share volunteer opportunities.

make a difference in the world around you. One example

“We all have to work together to protect and improve

is the annual Lake Thunderbird Workshop and Clean Up,

our water quality,” Michele adds. “People who partici-

organized by the City of Norman.

pate not only make a big difference for their community,

“Lake Thunderbird is impaired due to sediment and

but they also have fun.”

nutrients. Because it is impaired, its watershed has a Total Maximum Daily Load placed on it for sediment and nutrients, and citizens can help protect our water quality,”

explains

Michele

Loudenback,

Norman’s

stormwater program specialist.

“Norman, Oklahoma City and Moore are required to meet certain milestones and do certain activities in order

Citizens who are interested in the annual Lake Thunderbird Workshop and Clean Up can contact Michele at michele.loudenback@normanok.gov or 366.5435 to be added to the event’s email list. Information is also available by following the City of Norman on Facebook.

to improve the water quality of the lake. Two such activities

Although Hall Park holds a yearly clean-up event, the

are educating the public and encouraging them to partic-

litter never ceases, and the best way to address it is to pick

ipate in the effort to make it better. The Lake Thunderbird

it up before it gets into the green spaces.

Watershed Workshop and Clean Up Event does both.”

“My advice to others who may want to organize a

Depending on the weather, this annual event attracts

clean-up is to find like-minded individuals in their neigh-

an average of 50 attendees who are educated about

borhoods and just ask them to help out,” Michele advises.

water pollution, stormwater pollution and the ways that

“Start with your Homeowners Association and publicize

they can protect water quality in everyday life.

it on a neighborhood Facebook group or the Nextdoor

“This is a huge boon for the environment because

website to recruit volunteers.”

when people are educated about ways to help, they tend

“I believe stewardship of the earth is the most press-

to do them,” Michele explains. “When we perform a trash

ing issue facing the younger generations, and there

clean-up around Lake Thunderbird, we remove trash and

is no place like home to start caring for your earth,”

other debris that would likely make its way into the water.”

Michele concludes. “So, when volunteers show up with

The annual event educates participants on Lake

their children, I am so thankful for what these parents

Thunderbird’s history, the current state of water quality and

34

HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

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OPEN HOUSE Prime Realty owners Steve and Kathy Griffith have deep roots in Cleveland County, roots that tie them to their neighbors in ways that transcend selling houses.

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

A HOME: M U C H M O R E T H A N J U S T B R I C K A N D M O R TA R HOME OWNERSHIP ALSO OFFERS SHELTER, STABILITY, WEALTH AND PRIDE, SAYS LOCAL REALTOR

36

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

A HOME: IT’S SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST BRICK AND MORTAR.

ABOUT PRIME REALTY AND THE PRIME REALTY TEAM Prime Realty Inc.—and its owners/brokers Kathy and Steve

For this, Cleveland County Lifestyle’s Home issue, we

Griffith—have deep roots in Cleveland County, roots that tie

asked Kathy Griffith, who with her husband, Steve, own

them to their neighbors in ways that transcend selling houses,

Prime Realty, what—in her opinion—home ownership means.

although it’s an endeavor for which they share a deep passion.

“Many have asked about the importance of home ownership,

The company contributes annually to the Backpack for Kids

and although some concepts are difficult to break down, the

Program, an annual effort headed by the Regional Food Bank in

concept is an exciting opportunity I love to share: It’s ‘The

which pre-assembled food sacks and backpacks are delivered to

American Dream!’” she says. “Home ownership is not just a roof

participating schools at no cost to the school or the child. The

over your head; it represents shelter, stability, wealth and pride!”

food bags contain approximately 10 different purchased foods

She adds, “For the 64% of households in the United States,

designed to provide nutrition and calories for chronically hungry

home ownership offers the feeling of ‘owning a part of the

children over the weekend. They also contribute to the American

neighborhood’. Homeowners have a stronger connection to

Business Women’s Association, Norman Chapter, whose mis-

their neighborhood and are more committed to volunteer.

sion is to bring together business women of diverse occupations

Home ownership also has a positive impact on academic

and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and

achievement, including improved reading and math perfor-

others grow personally and professionally through leadership,

mance in children. Plus, there is the freedom to customize your

education, networking support and national recognition.

home according to your likes and personality. A well-main-

Furthermore, says Kathy, Prime Realty Inc. is driven by a team

tained home not only generates benefits through consumption

spirit and a devotion to the community in which they live. “Our

and safety, but a high-quality structure also increases mental

Realtors are connected with the fibers of this community—not

health balance. The pride of ownership comes from knowing

only do we live, work and play here, but each of us track market

‘this place is uniquely mine!’”

conditions at the local level, giving our unique perspective that it takes to get deals done in this competitive climate.”

KATHY ALSO LISTED THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS OF HOME OWNERSHIP:

LOCAL AND GLOBAL EXPERTISE

1. Stability: Rent prices increase 4% annually, while a

“We watch trends in financing and mortgage rates, the stock

fixed mortgage rate allows you to save for future projects

market, and local, national and global economics—all of which can

and help guard against inflation.

affect the final price and terms of your sale. We have our finger on

2. Forced Savings: Your mortgage is like a forced savings

the pulse of Oklahoma City-area real estate market! We can best

plan! As each payment is made, your principal loan balance is

advise where to give and when to hold the line to yield the best

being reduced.

possible price for the house you’re selling or buying,” Kathy says.

3. Appreciation: On average, home prices appreciate annually. This helps create a safety net for you.

INTEGRITY AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

4. Home Equity: Home equity refers to the difference

“We believe that without integrity, nothing else matters,”

between your mortgage balance and your home’s market

says Kathy, adding that their team “specializes in provid-

value. Home ownership builds equity every single month,

ing world-class integrity-focused customer service to the

which you can later use to start a business, send your children

Oklahoma real estate market.”

to college, etc.

5. Net Worth: A homeowners’ net worth is 44 times greater than renters, giving you the financial freedom to re-invest!

6. Tax Benefits: Think government-created tax benefits (ask your CPA for details).

For buyers looking to find their perfect home, Prime Realty offers a concierge level of assistance that sets them apart from most of their competitors in the metro area, and beyond.

“When you come to us to list your property, we will be honest and won’t tell you what you ‘want’ to hear just to get your listing. And we

7. Future Predictions: Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, and

won’t cut corners to make our job easier. When your house is sold,

the Mortgage Bankers Association all believe that homes

you’ll know we did everything possible to get you the best deal, and

sales will increase steadily this year.

we didn’t leave any of your money on the table,” Kathy says.

8. And the social benefits don’t only pertain to the fam-

Visit PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com for more infor-

ily, but extend to the communities, the state and the country!

mation about the Prime Realty team and the products and

Buying a home is an investment in YOUR future!

services they offer.

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

37

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

HOW TO GET YOUR HOUSE MARKET READY

BY KATHY GRIFFITH Unlike real life, in the real estate industry you have three opportunities to make a first impression, and we break each of those opportunities down. The first is online, the second is at the curb and the third is at the front door.

The last step is where ‘Get Your House Market Ready’ plays a vital role in our complete listing package. At no cost to our clients and as part of the amazing support and customer experience we offer all our clients, Prime Realty offers an awesome program called “Get Your House Market Ready,” by master occupied stager Micah Abbananto.

At the heart of the program is a video in which Micah describes the science of staging and shares her Market Ready secrets. Included are 15 downloadable graphics covering topics from furniture placement and shelf staging to making a beautiful Examples of rooms that have been decluttered, one of the steps to successfully staging a home for sale.

(FOCAL POINT PHOTOGRAPHY)

bed and downloadable master lists that allow you to check off tasks as they are completed and keep track of your progress. Bonus features include an interview in which Micah shares more secrets as well as downloadable paint color guides.

Clients also receive two coaching emails from Micah designed to encourage you during what can be a stressful time for many home sellers.

I’d like to share just one of the market ready tips you’ll learn about in the video. When selling a house, you want to strike the perfect balance between depersonalization and creating a warm, welcoming home. This means putting away the majority of framed photos, bulletin boards and personal items (think photo albums, magazines, toys, equipment, awards, etc.). Leave a few nice, framed photos to make the house appear inviting and lived in and, most importantly, balanced.

Selling a house successfully will involve some pre-packing and purging of your belongings.

Having a self-storage unit nearby will give you somewhere to temporarily place all of your extra stuff when getting your house market ready.

This program is just one of the ways we go above and beyond to help our clients. Market ready houses sell 79% faster and for between 6% and 25% more money. Pretty impressive!

38

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

The Griffiths wanted to give their Realtors (who have been together collectively 120 years) due credit for helping make the realty company so successful. They are Armando Amor, Darrel Brannon, Tiffany Elcyzyn, Tiffany Ellis, Nguyet Kieu, Tera Painter, Lisa Ray, Kenia Flores, Tammy Shugart, Glenda Slusser and Nathan Smith.

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39

TREND SETTER

NORMAN YOUTH SOCCER ASSOCIATION HELPING USHER IN A NEW ERA OF SOCCER IN NORMAN

SOCCER IS RAPIDLY INCREASING IN

sportsmanship; maintaining proper play-

POPULARITY IN AMERICA, AND SOME

ing facilities; and operating in a financially

SAY IT WILL SOON SURPASS BASEBALL

responsible manner.”

AS THE NO. 3 favorite sport in America (foot-

Oklahoma Celtic provides programming for

ball and basketball, respectively, holding the

Recreational, Academy, Competitive and Adult

No. 1 and No. 2 spots). Here, thanks to the

leagues, as well as TOPS (The Opportunity to

ongoing work of the Norman Youth Soccer

Play Soccer for physically and mentally chal-

Association, soccer enjoys a considerably

lenged athletes), a program through the non-

higher popularity rating than in many other

profit U.S. Youth Soccer Association.

parts of the state and country.

“We are a proud member of both the

The soccer association was formed in 1976

Girls and Boys ECNL (Elite Clubs National

by Gordon Drummond and Bob Shalhope.

League) and Oklahoma Premiere Clubs and

Gordon is also the first and only Norman

National Premiere League,” Don adds.

High School men’s soccer team coach notes

Association staff, parents of players and

Don Rother, who has been involved with

other supporters are excited about plans to

the club for 35 years, beginning as a player

build one of the finest soccer complexes in

and progressing to coach, director of player

the region, right here in Norman, at the Gillis-

development, director of coaching, and now

Rother Soccer Complex, 1001 E. Robinson.

as executive director.

“The association’s leadership team, par-

At the association’s heart is its soccer

ents and other soccer supporters were vocal

program, Oklahoma Celtic, whose mission

and visible during City Council meetings on

is to “encourage, promote and stimulate

the Norman Forward initiative, through which

interest and participation in the game of

the complex at Griffin Park will be funded,”

soccer by organizing recreational and

Don says. “We felt that, as a club, that this

competitive soccer teams; developing our

was the right thing to do not only for us, but

players, coaches and referees; promoting

for the whole of Norman.”

CONTINUED >

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY SHAR ROTHER PHOTOGRAPHY

40

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

41

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

Norman Forward is a quality-of-life initiative proposed

“This really does feel like a new era of soccer is starting here,”

by community groups and residents, placed on the ballot

Don reflects. “There is so much on the horizon, and we are taking

by the City Council, and approved by 72% of Norman vot-

pride in being able to offer kids of all ages a chance to be involved

ers on Oct. 13, 2015.

in whatever capacity they desire. We have so many coaches who

“We have a real opportunity to create something special through the Norman Forward initiatives,” Don says.

For Don personally, soccer has been a lifelong passion; he carries that passion into his involvement in the club.

pour their hearts and souls into our recreational program, and we couldn’t do what we do without the parents who invest in our next generation, and the people of Norman who support these children with initiatives such as Norman Forward.”

And he’s not alone.

“One of the great things about our club is that we have

HOW YOU CAN HELP

deep roots here with coaches and people of great charac-

To accommodate as many area children as possible, the association

ter who continue to allow us the opportunity to grow the

awards approximately 700 scholarships a year, Don says. Scholarship

club,” Don says. “We are unique in a sense that what began

opportunities continue through the ECNL and competitive leagues

as a grassroots effort has grown into something bigger

as well, providing some children the opportunity to play and to learn

than we could ever have hoped.”

from college coaches who might not otherwise have that chance.

Don notes that the early movers and shakers of the club continue to support the organization, soccer and the community.

Readers can support the association via its two annual fundraisers, the NYSA Golf Tournament and Cleats 4 Kids. To learn more

“Gordon Drummond, one of the founders, continues to

about corporate sponsorship opportunities for the golf tourney,

coach the men’s soccer team at Norman High and still main-

which funds scholarship opportunities to financially challenged ath-

tains an active role in the community and soccer in Norman.

letes to be able to learn and compete in soccer, and the Cleats 4 Kids

Steve Gillis, one of the men for whom the complex is named,

program, email Don at don@oklahomaceltic.com.

continues to invest in the NYSA/Oklahoma Celtic program, as well as the city. And Bryan Rother, the other gentleman for

+ VISION STATEMENT: To be the premier soccer program in

whom the complex is named, has two grandchildren who play

Oklahoma for total player development, with an emphasis on

in the club, and he is a huge supporter in various other ways.”

teaching life lessons that translate beyond the field of play.

With the addition of Skip Thorpe, the club’s newly

+ CORE VALUES: P.R.I.D.E. (Passion, Respect, Integrity,

appointed technical director, Don said he’s excited to now

Development, Excellence)

have more time to get further involved in the community

+ OKLAHOMA CELTIC COLORS: Kelly green, black, white

and to help bring more tournaments to Norman, which not

42

only benefits the club’s players and families, but also helps

For more information, visit OklahomaCeltic.com; or @oklahomaceltic

boost the local economy.

on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

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Give a gift Show your love this

Mother’s Day

Treat your mother with something special this Mother’s Day with a variety of gourmet chocolates, chocolate covered strawberries, and much more!

Pre-Orders begin ONLINE April 15th

AppleTreeChocolate.com | 754 Asp Ave Norman | (405) 310-3959

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

43

LOCALLY OWNED

LIVING IN ST YLE OUTDOORS OUTDOOR ESCAPES OFFER PRACTICAL, BEAUTIFUL CHOICES FOR HOMEOWNERS WHO LOVE LIVING LARGE

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

44

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

IF, LIKE MANY OKLAHOMANS, YOU ENJOY SPENDING AS

Owner Brian Scroggins notes that their most popular service

MUCH TIME OUTDOORS AS POSSIBLE WHILE AT HOME—AS

in the fall and winter are pools and other outdoor living projects.

WELL AS WHILE ON VACATION AND OTHER OUTINGS—THE

In the spring, it’s landscaping, drainage work, and the design

FOLK AT OUTDOOR ESCAPES ARE THERE TO HELP YOU MAKE

and installation of patios and firepits. Summers, the Outdoor

THE MOST OF YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE.

Escapes crew concentrate most on installing sprinklers and

Outdoor Escapes, an outdoor construction and landscape com-

outdoors kitchens.

pany that provides quality outdoor living for its customers, has over

“We enjoy taking a design/concept we think up in our mind and

20 years of experience in construction and landscaping—and the

taking that to a design for our customers and building that in their

design, ideas, ability and enthusiasm to complete just about any job

backyard,” Brian says. “Our passion is taking a blank backyard

customers may request. This includes design, landscaping and land-

and installing a complete backyard with most aspects of our busi-

scape lighting, irrigation, drainage and retaining walls.

ness—a pool, patio, structure or pool house, outdoor kitchen and

They are the go-to company for outdoor living in style. They will work with homeowners on a variety of covered structures, including pool houses and outdoor kitchens with fireplaces, as well as other projects that make outdoor living more practical, beautiful and enjoyable most months of the year.

fireplace and complete with landscape and irrigation.”

The Outdoors Escapes crew love exploring outdoors concepts with clients.

“Clients usually have an idea of what they want in the backyard or project, but most just don’t know all the details of what they

They are your go-to experts for building fire pits; paver, flagstone

want or what the site is going to require to build their project,”

or concrete patios; seat walls; and even waterfalls, big and small.

Brian notes. “That is where our professional experience and train-

Outdoor Escapes also is your go-to business to install swimming

ing/education comes to the forefront and that is what we special-

pools (both custom concrete and fiberglass) and hot tubs.

ize in for our customers.”

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

45

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

AS A BONUS, BRIAN SAYS, THE OUTDOORS ESCAPES STAFF DO THEIR BEST TO REMAIN ECO-FRIENDLY IN ALL THEIR DESIGNS AND PROJECTS. IN LANDSCAPING, FOR E XAMPLE, PLANTS ARE PLACED WITH THE AIM NOT ONLY OF ADDING BEAUT Y, BUT ALSO PROVIDING SHADE AND WIND BLOCKS TO HELP WITH THE HEATING AND COOLING OF YOUR HOUSE.

it comes to your outdoor construction projects. By allowing us to handle everything from design to install, we typically don’t leave any detail or step out. When you have multiple contractors come in to do a project, things typically get left out or forgotten.

But when you hire us, the buck stops with us, and we make sure the job is complete from the design, to the grade work, to the drainage, to the structures, to the finished landscape.”

Brian, who holds a bachelor of science degree in horticulture/ landscape construction as well as a master of science degree in plant and soil sciences, both from Oklahoma State University, started his own lawn service while still in high school.

“I loved working outdoors and not behind a desk, and when I began looking for a field to get into after high school,

OTHER WAYS THE COMPANY WORKS

I found the landscape architecture and construction program

TO REMAIN ECO-FRIENDLY:

at OSU and have never looked back,” he says. “I’ve been in

+ Irrigation – Rain sensor technology is used to prevent

the landscaping field since the late 1990s.”

overwatering of yards + Pools – Variable-speed pumps are used to reduce energy cost on pools + Structures and landscape – LED lighting is used in all their structures, as well as in landscape lighting

Brian is married to Kristi Scroggins, a veterinarian in Moore. They have two children, Brody, 15, and Kobi, 11, and lots of pets. He enjoys going to livestock shows with his children, who show competitively on a national level with show lambs. Brian and his son together care for a herd of commercial cattle and sell retail freezer beef to customers.

The Outdoors Escapes team works closely with clients to design and build the outdoor escape of their dreams, big or small.’

“We consider ourselves a one-stop shop for anything outdoors,” Brian says. “We are our client’s general contractor when 46

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

OUTDOOR ESCAPES OutdoorEscapesllc.com 990.8944

YO U R FR IENDLY NEIG H B OR HOOD L AW N P R O FE S S ION AL S We know how important it is to have one of the best looking lawns in the neighborhood. Allow us to take care of it for you so you can relax and enjoy all year long. We are locally owned and operated to ensure quality and dependability. Our lawn professionals are dedicated to providing the best possible service and results. We promise you will love your lawn!

405.535.7 2 5 0 PLOGreenLawns.com

P R OUDLY S E R V I N G OK L A HO M A C I T Y A N D T HE M E T R O A R E A

3824 N. MacArthur Blvd. | Warr Acres, OK 73122 www.fandfaccounting.com

405.384.3177

Your Business Matters to Us!!

Individual | Business | Payroll & Bookkeeping

IRA Maximize Your Contributions Not all IRAs are the same. If you aren’t getting the best returns on your IRAs, look to diversify into some great growth investments. With tax season upon us, now is a great time to make both your 2019 AND 2020 contributions to a quality growth-focused IRA. In 2020 both Traditional and Roth IRAs contribution limits remain at $6000, with some able to contribute an additional $1,000 with the IRA catch up. Call today to get more from your IRA.

HEARTLAND WEALTH MANAGEMENT

STOCKS | BONDS | MUTUAL FUNDS | ETFs ANNUITIES | LIFE INSURANCE

Mark Johnson Financial Advisor

Recommended by America’s Most Trusted Financial Voice

3351 W. Rock Creek Rd Suite 130, Norman OK

405-561-7051

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Heartland Wealth Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocations.

April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

47

INCREASE YOUR HOME VALUE WITH A DESIGNER OR IMPACT RESISTANT ROOF! Don’t call a sales rep talk to Dan, the owner, and he will get your roof squared away!

W W W. A F F O R DA B L E O K . C O M / / 3 6 6 -7 1 1 3 / / 6 4 0 1 N . I N T E R S TAT E D R . N O R M A N , O K

LIC # 0007

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

CLEVELAND COUNTY

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

Las Colinas, Norman

$699,900

$635,000

90%

132

5

4

Fountain View, Norman

$585,000

$585,000

100%

5

4

3.1

Cascata Lakes, SW OKC

$515,000

$500,000

97%

18

4

2.2

Kingsbridge Estates, SW OKC

$489,755

$475,130

97%

343

4

3.1

Brookhaven 35, Norman

$500,000

$475,000

95%

69

4

4

Little River Trails, Norman

$463,429

$458,000

98%

74

4

3.1

Arbor Lake 4, Norman

$463,000

$445,500

96%

243

4

3.1

Valley View Estates, Moore

$459,900

$439,400

95%

193

3

2.1

Rockport 4, SW OKC

$443,000

$430,000

97%

130

4

4

Preserve at Parkside, SW OKC

$419,999

$415,000

98%

88

5

2.2

Lost Creek, Moore

$400,000

$401,000

100%

36

4

3

Cascade Estates, Norman

$379,900

$345,000

90%

191

4

3.1

Arbor Meadows, Moore

$327,774

$330,174

100%

0

4

2.1

Carrington Place, Norman

$345,000

$330,000

100%

146

4

3

St James Park 3, Norman

$325,000

$314,000

96%

81

4

2.1

Vintage Creek, Norman

$315,000

$309,900

98%

248

3

2.1

The Springs at Green Leaf, Norman

$308,525

$308,525

100%

0

3

3

Highland Village, Norman

$319,900

$307,500

96%

114

3

2.1

Sonoma Lakes, Moore

$299,900

$302,000

100%

27

3

2.1

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

Luxury Homes

1530 SW 89th St. Oklahoma City 73159 PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

49

4 EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Orr Family Farm, OKC

APRIL

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Bring the family to the farm for an Easter Eggstravaganza event, fea-

turing Easter egg hunts and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny.

After checking the Easter-specific

fun off your list, enjoy the daily farm attractions, from the carousel and locomotive rides to the four-lane zip line and gemstone mine.

OrrFamilyFarm.com

17-19 OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET PRESENTS: (E)MOTIONS(S) Civic Center Music Hall

The Oklahoma City Ballet will captivate audiences with (E)motion(s), a triple-billed performance within the Civic Center Music Hall in Oklahoma City. This heartwrenching show will feature Red Sweet by Jorma Elo and world premieres by both Penny Saunders and Robert Mills.

OkcBallet.org/Performances

17-19 LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL 563 Elm Ave., Norman

Award-winning “Legally Blonde The Musical” is a splendid tribute to girl power. Nominated for seven Tony Awards, this hilarious show challenges stereotypes, sexism and snobbery with high-energy dances and memorable songs. Music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin.

Book by Heather Hach. Ashton

800 Canadian Trails Dr Norman, OK 73072 A Residence of Legend Senior Living®

LegendSeniorLiving.com

50

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Byrum,

director.

Performances:

April 3-11, Elsie C. Brackett Theatre, Norman. (405) 325-4101

APRIL

18 NORMAN CHILDREN'S BUSINESS FAIR 151 12th Ave SE,

Suite 100 Norman OK 73071

First-ever

Norman

Children’s

Business Fair will host 20 entrepreneurs ages 6-14 at Loveworks Leadership. This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Kids create a product or service, develop a brand, build a marketing strategy, and then

STRONGER

open for customers at this one-day marketplace. To learn more visit our website. Sponsors: Evergreen: an Acton Academy and Loveworks

19 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE Oklahoma City National

Memorial & Museum, OKC

TOGETHER The bank you love, now even stronger.

Each year, visitors gather to remember those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever by the April 19, 1995, bombing in Oklahoma City. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the attack. Join state and local dignitaries, family members, survivors and rescue workers for the Day of Remembrance.

MemorialMuseum.com

21-26 FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Bicentennial Park, OKC

Known as Oklahoma City's annual "rite of spring," the Festival of the Arts is a six-day community celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts. Come to the Festival of the Arts to view the creative works of over 140 artists from across the nation and add personal touches to the collaborative Creation Station sculpture.

ArtsCouncilOkc.com

Norman: Robinson at 36th NW • Main at University Blvd • Lindsey at 12th SE Noble: 805 N. Main St. Oklahoma City: 11671 S. Western Ave.

www.armstrong.bank April 2020 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

51

Visit Us Online

Take your pets outdoors as the weather gets nice to help with weight control, energy and behavioral management, plus socializing and training.

Don’t forget the parasite prevention to keep the fleas and ticks and mosquitoes off them too!

BoyerVetClinic.com Small Town Feel in the Big City!

Keep up with us online when you are on the go.

Past Issues Current Articles Business Directory

FIND US ONLINE AT clevelandcountylifestyle.com

Office Hours: M/F 8 am-5:30 pm T/W/Th 8 am-7 pm S/Su Closed 13500 S Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73170 | (405) 794-8504 52

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

Get the detailed information you need to tackle vehicle maintenance and repairs with your library card at pioneerlibrarysystem.org

Pioneer LIBRARY SYSTEM

ARE YOU READY TO ENJOY A PAIN FREE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE?

www.teamsolidrocktraining.com

FREE WEEK TRIAL

NORMAN'S CLUB OF CHOICE. THE TRAILS GOLF CLUB

At The Trails Golf Club, we’re passionate about golf and the families and friends that breathe life into our course. We’ve been in business for 40 years now, and all this time we’ve been thrilled to get to know the community in a fun and relaxed way. From individual instruction and classes to tournaments and events, our experienced staff is here to provide members with great golf and family fun..so visit TRAILSGOLF.COM and Make The Trails Golf Club your Club of Choice!

For Information inquire at trailsgolf.com or call Brittney Wheeler at 405-364-3790 TrailsGolf.com // 3200 S Berry Rd. Norman, Oklahoma 73072 54 Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2020

1+1 = True CUT 2% OFF YOUR AUTO LOAN* Get 1% off automatically when you’re approved for the loan Get an additional 1% off when you open a qualifying account Apply at any branch or trueskycu.org/1plus1

For details on qualifying accounts and full terms and conditions, please visit www.trueskycu.org/1plus1

We are Prime Realty, Inc. where a Team spirit is combined with the devotion of Family.

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.

Kathy & Steve Griffith OWNERS / BROKERS

405-213-7839 | 405-613-4141 Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com Steve@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com

www.PrimeRealtyOK.com 1 5 3 0 S W 8 9 T H S T. , S U I T E A 1 OKLAHOMA CITY 73159

ARMANDO AMOR

DARREL BRANNON

T I F FA N Y E LCY Z Y N

T I F FA N Y E L L I S

KENIA REYNOSA FLORES

JERRY FLOWERS

NGUYET KIEU

L I S A R AY

T E R A PA I N T E R

TA M M Y S H U G A R T

GLENDA SLUSSER

N AT H A N S M I T H