HavenbrooK Funeral Home
Let us lend a helping hand....
Tools to help with the details so you can concentrate on the celebration.
3401 Havenbrook St. • Norman • 405-329-0101 www.HavenbrookFuneralHome.com
Thank you for nominating us
Best Real Estate Agency
Dillard
GROUP REAL ESTATE The leader in local Real Estate for over 25 years Start Your Property Search With Us!
www.DillardGroup.com 3550 W. Robinson Ste. 200 Norman, OK 73072
contents MAY-JUNE 2015
features
26
CAREER SOONERS The non-profit organization’s stated purpose is to help former OU athletes develop careers and find jobs
32
ZUMBA MOMMA Local instructor combines her love of dance and fitness into a business that aims to empower women
60 68
MEN ON A MISSION Sooners document their adventure to Antarctica
72
CADDO CULTURE Norman resident Jereldine Redcorn revives a centuries old art and craft
departments 09 from the Editor 14 Norman Events 36 Norman FYI 44 Norman Style 52 Taste of Norman Gaberinos 56 Wine Time 58 Norman Business Two Hip Chicks 64 OU Spotlight Innovation Hub 74 Norman Sports
60
SNAPSHOTS 78 Social Justice Banquet 80 Perceptivity Award 81 Chamber Luncheon 82 Junior League Charity Ball 85 Parting Shot
52
SUPER SUMMER a super-hero theme is set to greet young readers this summer.
On the Cover: 6
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
(L to R) Olivia, Shelby, Rebecca and Reiley get ready for a summer road trip in our editor’s 1974 Volkswagen Super Beetle.
FINE HAND-CRAFTED UPHOLSTERY
FINE HAND-CRAFTED UPHOLSTERY
®
Comfort, style, and picturesque details come together in the brilliant designs of Huntington House furniture. A harmonious combination of versatility and refreshing aesthetics create a must-have living room. Invigorating looks and a crafty form make all their peices an integral addition.
3600 WEST RENO, OKLAHOMA CITY • 405.947.6500 •
WWW.BOBMILLSFURNITURE.COM
®
Mitchell’s Jewelry– Full Page Ad
magazine
it’s all about you MAY/JUNE 2015 VOLUME 5 | ISSUE 3
PUBLISHER Mark Millsap EXECUTIVE EDITOR & GENERAL MANAGER Andy Rieger ADVERTISING MANAGER Rebekah Collins ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ryan Dillard Robin Escarcega Rebecca McKenny Matt Moran Nathan Ward CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sharla Bardin Mack Burke Jerri Culpepper Amy David Doug Hill Chris Jones Jocelyn Pedersen Doris Wedge CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lindsey Davies Doug Hill Kyle Phillips Andrew Soliven NORMAN STYLE COORDINATOR Rebekah Collins DESIGNER Daren Courtney DIGITAL COORDINATOR Jason Clarke Norman magazine is a bi-monthly publication of The Norman Transcript. 215 E. Comanche, Norman, OK 73070. (Phone: 405.321.1800). Letters or editorial contributions should be sent to: Norman magazine P.O. Drawer 1058, Norman, OK, 73070 or emailed to editor@normantranscript.com. Norman magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permission is prohibited. Norman magazine can be found online at
from the Editor
No streakers, please
I
t was nearly time for graduation and seniors were anxious. The days were warm and few buildings at Norman High School were air conditioned. The library and the cafeteria were the exception and the place we spent most of our free time. While standing with my smoking friends outside the cafeteria one afternoon, we watched as a car pulled slowly toward us. White, high-top shoes slowly emerged from a passenger in the back seat. He was shirtless but that’s often the case on warm days. We expected that. What we didn’t expect was that he was also missing his pants. Besides a ballcap and tennis shoes, this long-haired classmate wore nothing but a smile as he took a couple of laps through our cafeteria and back to the car. Just another typical day for the Norman High Class of 1975. That group of seniors, now nearing the magical age of 60, will gather for our 40-year class reunion in early June. Times were quite different then. When we started high school, Richard Nixon was president and Vietnam was very real. The draft didn’t end until January of 1973. Most of us thought we’d end up in uniform on our senior trips. By the time we graduated, the war had officially ended a month earlier and Nixon quit nine months before we walked across the stage. The 1960s and early 1970s drug culture drifted from the campus to our city’s lone high school. We grew our hair long. Smoked and drank things we would warn our kids about years later and thought nothing of pushing the envelope on authority. The Norman police may still be looking for that 1965 Rambler station wagon that performed remarkable bleach burnouts in Jewell Sweatte’s drive-in on West Lindsey in near syn-
by a ndy rieger chronization with my 8-track version of Steve Miller’s “The Joker.” The greatest advancement in education came to us through modular scheduling. It gave students an incredible amount of free time scattered around 15-minute blocks (mods) of instruction. It also allowed marginal students like me to have “approved work” and leave campus after lunch each day for a job. The class of 1975 was the last class where sophomores went to NHS after attending Central or West Junior Highs. Norman switched to mid-highs after 1975 and kept only juniors and seniors at NHS. Then, we opened middle schools. The second high school, Norman North, opened more than 20 years after we graduated. Jim Riley was the principal and Lester Reed served as superintendent. The assistant principals were the disciplinarians but the parking lot attendants and the attendance clerks were the ones that were most important to me. My favorite classes were typing, English and History. My highest math was consumer math where Miss Wallace taught us to balance checkbooks and figure percentages and even calculate taxes. A lesson learned from Judy Goodyear in an electronics class was most helpful later in life: Current will only flow if a circuit is closed. Come early June, we’ll suck in our stomachs, get some hip clothes and comb over those bald spots as we relive our youth spent at 911 W. Main Street. The reunion program includes a mixer in downtown Norman, party at O’Connell’s, a dinner at The Trails and Sunday brunch at Legend’s. Streaking, thankfully, is not on the program.
www.normanmagazine.com
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
9
50 years strong and still growing
Brookhaven Office - 1968
Brookhaven Office - 2014
Here at Don Cies Real Estate, we take pride in our ability to serve the needs of every individual, and with our team of over 30 licensed Realtors serving the Norman area, we are confident that one of our associates will be a perfect fit for you. Founded as Don Cies Company in 1963, we are the oldest locally owned Real Estate business in Norman. We are able to use our history and experience to provide customers with the service and attention to detail that is only available from a business that has proven its commitment to the Norman Community. We would like to thank all of Norman’s citizens for once again voting us Norman’s Best Real Estate Agency! Here is to another 50 years together.
Exclusively Representing - Brookhaven - Brookhaven Square - Summit Valley - Summit Lakes
Don Cies Real Estate 405.329.0256 1203 Brookhaven Blvd 424 W Main Norman Oklahoma
WWW.DONCIES.COM
RTJ – Full Page Ad #1
HI, I’M JOE TAYLOR. Overton, Texas. What keeps me coming back to the Trail? It’s just absolutely sensational.
I have people tell me what they’ve spent playing one round at Pebble Beach and a night at the hotel, or going to Pinehurst for a couple rounds. We do the entire week, travel, hotel, green fees, good meals and everything for the price of one day at these places. And it’s absolutely a sensational place to come. TO PLAN YOUR VISIT to Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, visit rtjresorts.com or call 1.800.949.4444 today. facebook.com/rtjgolf twitter.com/rtjgolf
healthy smiles are happy smiles Comprehensive dental care in a relaxed and fun atmosphere Call (405) 321-6166 or visit www.normandentist.com Dr. Susan E. Whiteneck & Dr. Sara K. Spurlock
healthy smiles for life
Get back to life sooner with robotic surgery Get back to your family and everyday activities sooner with robotic surgery at Norman Regional. Our team of highly trained robotic surgeons can treat a range of conditions including gynecological, abdominal, colon, rectal, urological and other issues. Robotically-assisted surgeries require only a few small incisions allowing patients to recover faster, with less pain and most importantly dramatically reducing the recovery time usually associated with surgery. Some procedures are even performed through a single incision that is barely noticeable. Norman Regional’s HealthPlex is home to the robotic surgery program. Talk to your doctor to see if robotic surgery is right for you.
NormanRegional.com
Norman events
Information supplied by Norman Convention and Visitors Bureau
PHOTOS BY KYLE PHILLIPS, DOUG HILL AND JAY CHILTON
MAY - JUNE 2015
ONGOING EVENTS First Monday of the month Free Admission Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday, 1-5 p.m. The first Monday of each month, the museum features free admission www.samnoblemuseum.org
Tuesdays Comedy Night Othello’s 434 Buchanan Street 9 p.m. Sign up begins at 9 p.m. and the show begins at 10 p.m. othellos.us/
Art Adventures Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 500 Elm Avenue 10:30 a.m. Young artists are invited to experience art through books and related art projects for children ages 3 to 5 accompanied by an adult. Art Adventures are made possible by generous support from the Kimball Foundation. ou.edu/fjjma
Tuesdays and Saturdays
Fridays
Norman Farm Market
Karaoke Night
Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson Tuesday, 4-7 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m.-Noon www.clevelandcountyfair.org
Red Brick Bar, 311 E. Main St. Norman 10-11:30 p.m.
Second Fridays Second Friday Circuit of Art Mainsite Art Gallery 120 E. Main St. 6-9 p.m. 2nd Friday Circuit of Art – a monthly, citywide celebration of art – is a collaboration between artists, art organizations, and businesses, brought to you by the Norman Arts Council. 2ndfridaynorman.com/
Noon concerts Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 500 Elm Avenue Noon The Tuesday Noon Concerts series is a cooperative effort between the OU School of Music and the FJJMA. Set aside part of your lunch hour for these 30-minute concerts performed by OU music students and faculty. Selected Tuesday Noon Concerts are followed by gallery talks or Art After Noon programs at 12:30 p.m. ou.edu/fjjma
Saturdays Thursdays Acoustic Open Mike Night Michelangelo’s 207 E. Main St., Norman 7-10 p.m.
14
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
It’s Feeding Time! Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua 11:30 a.m-Noon Observe local reptiles, amphibians and fish, during their feeding time and learn more about these Oklahoma animals. www.samnoblemuseum.org
Saturdays and Sundays
Ongoing through May 3
Discovery Time
Exhibit: A Forest Journey
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua 2-4 p.m. Discovery Days includes interactive, hands-on activities with stories, crafts and touchable specimens. Free with paid museum admission. www.samnoblemuseum.org
Ongoing Art exhibit: A World Unconquered: The Art of Oscar Brousse Jacobson Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 500 Elm Avenue Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artist Oscar Brousse Jacobson arrived at the University of Oklahoma in 1915, and the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art commemorates the centennial of his appointment at OU with a retrospective of his influential career. Jacobson completed in excess of 600 works of art during his fifty-year career and looked to the landscapes of Colorado, New Mexico, and Oklahoma for inspiration. During his tenure at OU, he oversaw tremendous growth in the School of Art, helped to create the first art museum on campus in 1936, and promoted the visual arts in the Southwest, especially the work of Native American fine artists. The exhibition will include over 50 works by Jacobson and explore the vital role he played in encouraging the visual arts in the region. ou.edu/fjjma
Ongoing through May 10 Art exhibit: Beyond the Battlefield: Depictions of War Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 500 Elm Avenue Museum hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Beyond the Battlefield examines war and conflict as depicted by artists of the modern world, with a focus on the wars of the 20th century: World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War or Conflict. The paintings, prints, and photography of this exhibition present a diverse range of perceptions and opinions on war ranging from commendation to condemnation. ou.edu/fjjma
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday, 1-5 p.m. A Forest Journey, developed and produced by the Franklin Institute, takes a look at how trees shape our world. The exhibit will last through May 3. www.samnoblemuseum.org
Ongoing through May 23 Oklahoma Panhandle State University Faculty Art Exhibit Firehouse Art Center 444 S. Flood normanfirehouse.com
Ongoing through June 14 Art exhibit: National Weather Center Biennale National Weather Center 121 David L. Boren Blvd. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The National Weather Center Biennale is the first exhibition of its kind – an international juried exhibition presenting: Art’s Window on the Impact of Weather on the Human Experience. The 2015 exhibition is sponsored by the National Weather Center in Norman, Oklahoma, the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at the University of Oklahoma, and the Norman Arts Council. In conjunction with Earth Day 2015, the exhibition opens on Sunday, April 26 and closes Sunday, June 14, 2015. www.ou.edu/content/nwcbiennale
Summer Camps June 1-July 31, 2015 •Acting, Singing, Dancing, Improv, Studio Production and More! •Entering PreK-6th grades •One, two and three week camps •Full and half-day options And, Don’t miss these Republic Bank & Trust Studio Series Productions! Tickets for ALICE on sale beginning June 6 Tickets for IN THE HEIGHTS on sale beginning July 11
2015 4-28,
June 2
July 3 0
- Aug
. 2, 20
15
The Sooner Theatre’s Main Event Concert Series season finale
May 1 Music by John the Franklin Trio Native Spirits Winery 10500 E. Lindsey 7:30 p.m. www.nativespiritswinery.com
Krystal Keith i n
c o n c e r t
May 8, 2015 • 8 pm
405.321.9600
www.soonertheatre.com NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
15
May 1-3 Friends of the Norman Library Better Books Sale Norman Public Library 225 N. Webster 6-9 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday Friends of the Norman Library will hold its annual Better Books Sale of high quality coffee table, rare and collectible books for all ages and interests. pioneerlibrarysystems.org
May 2 David Nail in Concert Riverwind Casino 1544 W. State Highway 9 8 p.m. David Nail concert tickets are available at the Riverwind Casino Box office, online or by calling 405.322.6464. riverwind.com
Brownie Girl Scout “Senses” Workshop Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua 9 a.m.-Noon Have you used your senses today? Join us for a sense-ational experience as we use our senses to investigate the natural world in this exciting workshop! Brownie Scouts will complete all requirements for the “Senses” badge. Badge not included. The cost is $10 per scout and includes the workshop and general museum admission. Scouts registering individually are each required to have one adult chaperone. For troop registration, a minimum of one adult chaperone is required per five scouts. Attending chaperones receive complimentary admission. Badges, belt loops and pins are not included. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. On-site registration is not available for these programs. To register an individual scout or troop, please call (405) 325-1008. Sponsored by Arvest Bank & Republic Bank & Trust. Deadline to register is April 24. samnoblemuseum.org
16
May 2 Junior Girl Scout “Detective” Workshop Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua 1-4 p.m. The game is afoot! Join us as we investigate a museum mystery using natural science techniques and some good old-fashioned detective work. Junior Girl Scouts will complete all requirements for their “Detective” badge. Badge not included. The cost is $10 per scout and includes the workshop and general museum admission. Scouts registering individually are each required to have one adult chaperone. For troop registration, a minimum of one adult chaperone is required per five scouts. Attending chaperones receive complimentary admission. Badges, belt loops and pins are not included. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. On-site registration is not available for these programs. To register an individual scout or troop, please call (405) 325-1008. Sponsored by Arvest Bank & Republic Bank & Trust. Deadline to register is April 24. samnoblemuseum.org
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Sooner softball vs. Utah Valley Marita Hynes Field 2500 S. Jenkins 6:30 p.m. soonersports.com
May 2 & 3 Sooner Theatre Showcase 2015 Sooner Theatre 101 E. Main St. 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The Sooner Theatre invites the community to celebrate the beginning of spring with The Sooner Theatre Showcase 2015! The theatre’s 8th annual variety show will feature very special song and dance performances by students from The Studio of The Sooner Theatre.
May Fair Arts Festival Andrews Park 201 Dawes 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday The annual event features fine arts and crafts, live entertainment, food vendors, children’s art yard, student art show, locally grown plant and flower sale and more. assistanceleaguenorman.org
May 3 Sooner softball vs. Utah Valley Marita Hynes Field 2500 S. Jenkins 2 p.m. soonersports.com
May 5 Soft Moon in Concert Opolis 113 N. Crawford 8 p.m. opolis.org/
May 8 Opening Reception: “Sketchbooks of O. Gail Poole” Norman Depot 200 S. Jones 6-9 p.m. Featuring works from the sketchbooks of prolific Oklahoma artist, the late O Gail Poole, this exhibit is a retrospective of his work envisioned as becoming aa travelling show with interactive ebooks. Limited edition prints of various works will be available for purchase. normandepot.org
IN YOUR CORNER As your business continues to grow, competition will only get more fierce. You need a partner on your side. At INSURICA, we’re proud to have been an integral part of Norman for more than 50 years, and we want to help propel the growth of your business – and protect you from its inherent risks. That’s why our network of insurance agencies offers unique solutions specifically tailored to your industry’s needs. We’re committed to growing with you and digging deeper, toward a more intimate understanding of how to better insure your business’s future. We figure out just what your corner is – so we can be in it with you. We specialize in you – so you can specialize in what you do best. To learn more, visit INSURICA.com.
3101 W. Tecumseh Road #202, Norman, Ok 73072 | 405.321.2700
Agriculture Construction Education Energy Environmental Financial Healthcare Hospitality M anufacturing Ministries Not-For-Profit Staffing
echnology Tr ansportation Agriculture Construction Education Energy Environmental Financial Healthcare Hospitality M anufacturing Ministri
Not-For-Profit Staffing Technology Tr ansportation Agriculture Construction Education Energy Environmental Financial Healthcare Hospitality M anufacturing • Ministries Not-For-Profit Staffing Technology Tr ansportation Agriculture Construction Education Energy Environmental Financial Healthcare Hospitality M anufacturing • Ministries Not-For-Profit Staffing Technology Tr ansportation Agriculture Construction
UNI_13-NAI-1_Norman_Color_Block_Graphic.indd 1
11/20/13 12:25 PM
After Hours with Tammy Arce Native Spirits Winery 10500 E. Lindsey 7:30 p.m. www.nativespiritswinery.com
Krystal Keith in Concert
Sooner softball vs. Oklahoma State
May 8-22
May 9
Art Exhibit: From Earthsea to Fantasy
Chicago in Concert
Mainsite Art Gallery 120 E. Main St. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. normanarts.org
Sooner Theatre 101 E. Main St. 5 p.m. No matter how compelling Krystal Keith’s voice, songwriting and debut album Whiskey & Lace may be, there’s no getting around the shadow of a musical superstar in the room. Not that she’d want to, of course. Krystal’s father Toby contributed several songs and coproduced the project with Mark Wright. soonertheatre.org
Riverwind Casino 1544 W. State Highway 9 8 p.m. Chicago concert tickets are available at the Riverwind Casino Box office, online or by calling 405.322.6464. riverwind.com
Marita Hynes Field 2500 S. Jenkins 2 p.m. soonersports.com
May 10 Second Sunday Poetry: John Hadley Norman Depot 200 S. Jones 2 p.m. Norman poet/songwriter/artist/ professor John Hadley will read from his recent book “Son of Boogers and Hangnails. The book includes poems, mostly humorous, including several pages of haiku, and many pages of wordplay and anecdotes — plus a few stories which contain goofy uses of language. Complimentary light refreshments will be served. normandepot.org
May 8 & 9 OHCE Quilt Show Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www.clevelandcountyfair.org
MAY
8-9
The Bridal Boutique Charming Charlie Chico’s
The Beach Club Tanning Studio
City Bites
Brookhaven Pharmacy
The Health Club
Coolgreens
Classic Vision, Dr. Jacob Smith
Louie’s at Brookhaven
Dental Lodge
Ihloff Salon-Aveda
Crown Fine Jewelry Francesca’s Collections J. Spencer Jewelry and Gifts
Mazzio’s Pizza
Le Visage Spa & Skin Care Clinic
Pub W
Yoga att Tiffany’s
Starbucks Coffee
Jos A. Bank
Edward Jones Owens & Graves Lending Morgan Stanley SAIC
OK Runner
SBR Design Co.
SBR Design Co. The Sparkly Spot
St. Anthony Physicians Group
Teaoli
Steve Owens Insurance Group
Theo’s Furnishings and Marketplace Wild Birds Unlimited
www.brookhaven-village.com a Norman Tradition
White House/Black Market
William Delay Vantage Diagnostic Imaging Village Veterinary Care
NW 36th & Robinson. Norman •321-7500 •Just west of I-35 on Robinson 18
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Free admission on Mother’s Day Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua 1-5 p.m. The museum is offering complimentary admission to all mothers. samnoblemuseum.org
May 11 Melt Banana in Concert Opolis 113 N. Crawford 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. opolis.org/
12-May Sooner baseball vs. Stephen F. Austin L. Dale Mitchell Park 401 W. Imhoff 6 p.m. soonersports.com
May 14-16 Sooner baseball vs. Texas Christian L. Dale Mitchell Park 401 W. Imhoff Friday & Saturday 6 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m. soonersports.com
May 15 Cleveland County Auction Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www.clevelandcountyfair.org
May 16 Farm Market Celebration Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson 8 a.m. - Noon www.clevelandcountyfair.org
MAY
16 May 16
May 17
May 21
Relay for Life of Cleveland County
Summer Breeze Concert Series: The Handsome Devils
Built to Spill in Concert
Norman High School 511 W. Main St. 5-11 p.m. Relay For Life is The American Cancer Society’s signature event. Teams of friends, families, co-workers, etc join together to form teams to fundraise in the fight against cancer. At the event, we honor local cancer survivors, remember loved one we have lost, and fight back while bringing the community together to have fun and kick cancer’s butt! www.relayforlife.org/clevelandcook
Super Fan 5K The Railhouse 102 W. Eufaula 8 a.m. Put on your sneakers, tube socks, and gameday jersey, because we want you sporting your best game face for the Super Fan 5K! Come out for the third annual run to support the Mary Abbott Children’s House and the Norman Public School Foundation. superfan5K.org
Lions Park 450 S. Flood 7:30 p.m. The Handsome Devils (Derek Paul, guitar, lead vocals; Derek Carothers, bass; Devon Carothers, drums; Zane Russell, guitar, vocals) blend a love of folk, rock, blues, R&B and jazz into a wholly Americana sound. Whether it’s their rootsy southern rock hooks to their laid back blues grooves to their heartfelt storytelling, their many fans love their honest, catchy tunes and fun live shows. Bring seating, refreshments and enjoy! normandepot.org
Family Day at Fred Jones Museum of Art Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 500 Elm Avenue 1-4 p.m. Experience A World Unconquered: The Art of Oscar Brousse Jacobson and create landscapes of your own. Following Family Day visit the Jacobson House for special event starting at 4:30. ou.edu/fjjma
Opolis 113 N. Crawford 7 p.m. Built to Spill Concert with Special Guest Wooden Indian Burial Ground and Junebug Spade. opolis.org/
May 22-24 Heartland Nigerian Goat Auction Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www.clevelandcountyfair.org
May 24 True Widow in Concert Opolis 113 N. Crawford 8 p.m. opolis.org/
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
19
Brookhaven Beauty with Historical Charm
3930 Charing Cross - Impressive, large living room for entertaining or just relaxing by the fireplace. Formal dining room & breakfast area in kitchen. 2nd living area is very versatile - could be large study, game room or 4th bedroom. Master bedroom is on lower level. Plantation shutters throughout most of home. Church windows in the living room and Master Kerr Team AD by the first owner, who incorporated them into bedroom were reclaimed from a 100+ year old church in FULL SouthPAGE Dakota the original custom design. Dining room floor is reclaimed wood flooring from the same church, and uses old-style pegs. Above ground storm shelter in oversized 2 car garage. Circle drive for extra parking on this quiet cul-de-sac street. Walking distance to Brookhaven Neighborhood Park. Offered at $332,900. For more information call 405.321.8326
Your home sold GUARANTEED at a price agreed to at time of listing, or we’ll buy it for CASH. Seller and Wally must agree on price and date of possession at time of listing Call Wally and Cindy to discuss the sale of your home, or visit their website to claim a free special report on how this system works.
405-321-8326 KerrTeamGuaranteedSale.com
Cindy Kerr
Number 1 Norman Residential Broker in Sales 2004-2014* Wally Kerr
Kerr Team ½ page Vertical Ad
Beginning May 25
Beginning June 5
Blue Star Museums complimentary admission program
Art exhibit: Enter the Matrix: Indigenous Printmakers
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History 2401 S. Chautauqua Monday through Saturday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Complimentary admission to all active duty military, veterans and their families between Memorial Day and Labor Day. samnoblemuseum.org
Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 500 Elm Avenue Museum hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Enter the Matrix: Indigenous Printmakers joins work from the museum’s permanent collection with work on loan from private collections such as Crow’s Shadow Institute (Oregon), Melanie Yazzie (Colorado), and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The exhibition explores how printmaking has become a matrix for cultural and artistic exchange, the critical sites of engagement, and key figures. ou.edu/fjjma
May 31 Summer Breeze Concert Series: The Steel Wheels Band Lions Park 450 S. Flood 7:30 p.m. The Steel Wheels have captured audiences across the country with their heady brew of original soulful mountain music and their deep commitment to roots and community. Based in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, this dynamic four-piece string band marries oldtime musical traditions with their own innovative sound and lifestyle, generating a truly magnetic revival. normandepot.org
June 5-7 & June 12-14 Builders Association of South Central Oklahoma Festival of Homes Hallbrooke Development 2017 Providence 1-7 p.m. Open Friday through Sunday, the 2015 Festival Show Home is located at 2017 Providence, in Hallbrooke. www.BASCO-Festival.com.
June 12
June 5 After Hours Friday, Music by Annie Oakley Native Spirits Winery 10500 E. Lindsey 7:30 p.m. www.nativespiritswinery.com
The Melvins in Concert Opolis 113 N. Crawford 8 p.m. opolis.org/
Clint Black in Concert Riverwind Casino 1544 W. State Highway 9 8:30 p.m. Clint Black concert tickets are available at the Riverwind Casino Box Office, online or by calling 405.322.6464. riverwind.com
es
f the B t o
t
B
ormanTranscri pt eN Th es es
st
t
2013 Be
*This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Norman Board of Realtors or its multiple listing service Associated Multi-List Service of Oklahoma Inc (AMLS).
of the B
B es
t Realtor
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
21
June 12 Closing Reception: “Sketchbooks of O. Gail Poole” Norman Depot 200 S. Jones 6-9 p.m. A closing reception for the “Sketchbooks of O. Gail Poole” will be held in conjunction with the 2nd Friday Art Walk. The exhibit will remain on display through June 26. A special feature of the evening will be a Jazz in June preview concert on the north lawn. Time and musicians to be announced. normandepot.org
Jamey Johnson Concert Riverwind Casino 1544 W. State Highway 9 8 p.m. Jamey Johnson concert tickets are available at the Riverwind Casino Box Office, online or by calling 405.322.6464. riverwind.com
June 18-20
Jazz in June Brookhaven Village 3750 Robinson & Andrews Park 201 Dawes Street 7 p.m.
Call Us Today: (405) 360-0215 707 24th Ave SW, Suite 200, Norman, OK 73069
www.aardnorman.com Dr. Stacia M. Dowell DDS Dr. William J. Skaggs DDS
A Smile
It Happens in a flash, and the memory can last forever
Allografting
22
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Preventive
Dental Implants
Cosmetic
June 13
June 18-20
The Growlers in Concert
Jazz in June
Opolis 113 N. Crawford 8 p.m. opolis.org/
Brookhaven Village 3750 Robinson & Andrews Park 201 Dawes Street 7 p.m. The free, three-day music festival, now in its 32nd year, is scheduled for June 18-20. Bill Evans’ Soulgrass is slated to headline Jazz in June’s “Jazz in the Park” Saturday, June 20. www.jazzinjune.org
20th Annual June Bug Jam Sooner Theatre 101 E. Main St. 7 p.m. June Bug Jam 2015 is the annual fundraiser for Transition House, Inc., a three decades-old champion for mental wellness. The June Bug Jam event is a celebration of recovery for those working to overcome the challenges associated with serious mental illness. This year’s line-up features the musical talents of Seth James, a nationally recognized blues singer and guitarist. soonertheatre.org
featuring
June 14
GRETCHEN SCOTT
Second Sunday Poetry: William Bernhardt Norman Depot 200 S. Jones 2 p.m. William Bernhardt is the author of thirty-five published works, including his poetry book, The White Bird, the Ben Kincaid novels, the Shine young adult novels, and Nemesis: The Final Case of Eliot Ness. Bernhardt holds a Masters Degree in English Literature and is a two-time winner of the Oklahoma Book Award. normandepot.org
Summer Breeze Concert Series: Kelly Willis Lions Park 450 S. Flood 7:30 p.m. Austin, Texas-based Kelly Willis is a country music singer-songwriter noted for her clear, unadorned vocal style and her fresh-faced beauty. Willis’ music has been described as contemporary country and alternative country, but Kelly has been embraced by many as the torchbearer for “new traditionalism.”. Bring seating, refreshments and enjoy! normandepot.org
Come See Our Selection of Easy to Wear Fun Apparel! Christmas Expressions 2214 W. Lindsey • Norman • 405-360-5211 Monday through Friday 10 - 6 • Saturday 10 - 5
June 26 Bill Engvall in Concert Riverwind Casino 1544 W. State Highway 9 8 p.m. Bill Engvall tickets are available at the Riverwind Casino Box Office, online or by calling 405.322.6464. riverwind.com
June 28 Summer Breeze Concert Series: Mama Sweet Lions Park 450 S. Flood 7:30 p.m. Mama Sweet’s first gig came in the spring of 2002. Before long, they had released two albums and developed a loyal following. In 2014 they flew to Seattle to record in Studio Litho. The result of that trip was a renewal and Mama Sweet’s second studio album, “21 echo”, which was released in December 2014. Bring seating, refreshments, and hear them in person at Summer Breeze! normandepot.org
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
23
Your new career is waiting. We'll help you get there! Flexible Schedules | Industry Certifications | Career Advisement | Online Classes FRANKLIN ROAD CAMPUS 4701 12th Ave. NW Norman, OK 73069
mntc.edu 405.364.5763, ext. 7260
SOUTH PENN CAMPUS 13301 S. Pennsylvania Oklahoma City, OK 73170
Feature Story
Career Sooners by john shinn
C
ollege can be a glorious time for Oklahoma student-athletes. While they’re in school, there’s a support system well beyond coaches and teammates specifically designed to develop them into the best they can be — on the field and off. But there’s an expiration date on that attention. When it arrives, many are left pondering what’s next when a degree’s obtained and the athletic eligibility’s expired. Former OU football player and successful oilman Jakie Sandefer spent a decade actively helping some answer those questions. Sandefer’s creation: Sooners Helping Sooners. The non-profit organization’s stated purpose is to help former OU athletes find develop careers and find jobs. “He had a heart for former student-athletes,” former OU player and assistant coach and administrator Jerry Pettibone said of Sandefer. Unfortunately, Sandefer passed away in January, leaving the organizational reins to Pettibone, former OU quarterback and businessman Jay O’Neal and Pam Kelleher.
26
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Their goal is to create a pathway for former OU athletes who want help to find careers and jobs they seek. For generations, schools like OU have developed career centers and alumni networks to help place recent graduates in jobs. Sooners Helping Sooners works with those groups. But they serve a different purpose. “They deal mainly with current student-athletes. We are dealing with former studentathletes who have completed their eligibility,” Pettibone said. “We’ve worked with some who have been out of school a couple months and some who’ve been out of school for 20 years. That’s what Jakie saw as a real need — to help in that situation. That’s what we focus on.” Even those who achieve college degrees in four years find themselves unprepared when
PHOTO BY KYLE PHILLIPS
Jerry Pettibone, Pam Kelleher and Jay O’Neal help former athletes find jobs after their playing days are over.
the job hunt begins. It’s an ever-changing environment. There are many who left OU fully believing sports would be their profession. All the statistics bear out that scenario is unlikely.
• The average NFL career is three years. • Ninety percent of those selected in Major League Baseball’s amateur draft never make it to the Major Leagues. • The average NBA career is over after five seasons.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
27
Reality leaves a lot of former OU athletes in their late 20s and trying figure out what they’re going to do to support themselves and their families. “When you enter the job market, you’re a walk-on,” O’Neal said. Recent changes to NCAA scholarship rules help some. Scholarships no longer expire when eligibility does. That alteration allows former players who have been out of school for years to come back and earn their degrees without the expense of college tuition. But even the degree doesn’t fill the true need — a job. That aspect of life is something many didn’t give full attention to while in school.
Oklahoma defenders Sam Proctor (27), Corey Nelson (7) and Travis Lewis (28) celebrate Nelson’s recovery of a during a Big 12 Conference game in Norman.
One of the benefits of an OU athletic career is the bond in generates with its loyal fans and alumni. Successful playing careers — even marginal ones — do not go unnoticed. Athletic achievements and team success are notable laurels for a job résumé. But getting that résumé on the right desk is where the rubber meets the road. “Everyone knows a lot of connections bring you further in life than just what you’re education is,” OU coach Bob Stoops said. “I think it’s a real positive in the direction we’re moving and connecting more student-athletes with business people in the community.” That’s where Pettibone and O’Neal see their focus. They both did well for
DRIVING IN CIRCLES? Get Where You Are Going Faster.
Shop 405Drive.com 28
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
PHOTO BY ANDREW SOLIVEN
themselves after their playing careers. Coaching is where Pettibone found his success. O’Neal coached for a while before creating a successful career in cable television. Business connections played a substantial part in their professional lives. They want to bond colleagues with those looking for work now. The organization is located at the Riverside Building at 2600 Van Buren, Suite 2600 in Norman. The network is, obviously, strongest in Oklahoma and Texas. But Pettibone said employers in Kansas, Illinois and California have expressed interest.
“We don’t promise anyone that we’re gonna get them a job. We open doors for them and educate them on the interview process and what kind of training programs are available that they might be interested in,” Pettibone said. “We open the door, but it’s up to them to take advantage of the opportunity.” The focus is not on former football players. OU currently fields teams in 19 different sports. “If they were a student-athlete in any sport at OU, we feel like they’re part of our family,” O’Neal said. “We want to help them.”
Long after their playing careers are over, Sooner athletes often need help connecting with employers.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
29
to
me Welco your e new Hom
Take a Tour of Presented by Builders Association of South M Central Oklahoma 34 new homes Presented by
and
Moore HoMe Builders A s s o c i At i o n
in Norman, Moore, S OKC & surrounding areas!
Builders Association – Full Page Ad
Pictured are tour homes from 2014
June 5-7th & June 12-14th, 2015 homes open 1-7pm daily
Norman Show Home - 2017 Providence Drive in Hallbrooke Moore Show Home - 1301 Sand Plum in the Willows Be inspired! Visit the website then visit our Festival Homes!
BASCO-Festival.com Pick up a FREE Tour Book at participating 7-Eleven stores starting May 21st. Financier
Show Home Addition
Show Home Builder
Tara McHughes Co-Owner Mallard Construction Kristen Marney Treasury Services Valliance Bank
VALLIANCE REMOTE DEPOSIT BRINGS THE BANK TO MALLARD CONSTRUCTION. Mallard Construction brings their high quality, full-service roofing services to homes and businesses throughout Oklahoma City, Edmond and Norman. Their customers rely on them to prioritize their needs, and deliver comprehensive, affordable solutions on time and on budget. Owners John and Tara McHughes rely on Remote Deposit from Valliance to bring the bank to her office. Time is money, and we help Tara save both by empowering her to bank from her desk, and keep her focus where it belongs — on her customers. VALLIANCE BANK. WE BRING THE BANK TO YOU.™
1501 24TH AVE NW I 405.286.5750 I NORMANVBANK.COM
Norman Profile
A Zeal For Zumba by s harla bardin
Local instructor combines her love of dance and fitness into a business that aims to empower women
A
PHOTOS BY SHARLA BARDIN
Yaisa Mann with her children, Jalen, left, Jael, in front, and Josiah.
s a kid, Yaisa Mann loved to watch “American Bandstand,” “Soul Train” and “Solid Gold.” She was excited to see the new dances on those TV shows and would later mimic the steps in her bedroom. Now, she stands before a captivated audience who mirror her moves. Mann teaches Zumba, which is a dance fitness program where participants follow routines to a variety of music, from Latin rhythms to hip hop hits. Each week, the Norman resident steps in front of her classes at 10Gym and Trinity Baptist
Church, flashes a beaming smile and guides the group as they move, groove and burn calories. For Mann, the classes are more than a series of salsa moves, shuffles and squats. It’s also her opportunity to encourage people to have fun with exercise and learn to love their bodies, no matter their age, shape or size. “Fitness is for everyone,” she said. “It can be fun.” Her excitement about Zumba and fitness has also blossomed into a full-time job. Mann started SwagHER Fitness in 2010 and offers exercise classes and personal and group coaching. Mann’s mission is about more than motivating people to work out. She also has a deep desire to help women boost their body image and see their self-worth. “You have to know that we all have a valuable purpose,” she said. “Beauty and purpose comes from the inside.”
DISCOVERING DANCE
Dancing was always a favorite hobby for Mann growing up because it gave her a way to express herself, communicate her emotions and let her true self shine, she said. Mann said she dealt with insecurities as a kid, ranging from feeling too dark skinned to concerns about her raspy voice and frizzy hair. But, when she danced, “I didn’t care what anyone thought about me.” The Armona, Calif., native continued to dance when she went to college in Fresno. She participated in step shows with her sorority,
32
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Yaisa Mann said she loves the women she has met through her class at Trinity Baptist Church. Nedalie Davison, who attends that class, said Mann brings enthusiasm, high energy and a love for exercising to each class she teaches.
Delta Sigma Theta, and loved to create line dances with friends. Dance wasn’t her only creative outlet. Mann also dreamed of becoming a writer after she was inspired by a Terry McMillan novel. She attended California State University, Fresno and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English and African American studies and a master’s degree in English. She then set her sights on a doctorate. Mann moved to Oklahoma in 2001 after she was accepted into graduate school for the English program at the University of Oklahoma. She also worked as a teaching assistant, including taking a position in the Women’s and Gender Studies Program. She discovered that she enjoyed teaching classes that centered on women’s issues, gender and race. She also helped create two courses that focused on body image and self-esteem. Mann was also dealing with her own issues about body image at the time. She said she felt out of shape and self-conscious about her body after having three children. “My body was foreign and I felt lost in my body,” Mann said.
So, she decided to start exercising. Mann began going to the Cleveland County Family YMCA, where her husband, James, worked at the time. Her initial experience wasn’t a positive one, though. Mann went to the weight room and said she felt awkward and “judged.” She was unsure about what equipment to use or what she needed to do to get a good workout. “I was uncomfortable because I didn’t know what to do in the weight room,” she said. “And I didn’t know how to push myself.” Soon after, she read about a new Zumba class at the YMCA and signed up. Mann loved everything about the class, from the music and the dancing to the emphasis on having a good time. “From then on, I was hooked. I felt like you could really be free and have a lot of fun,” she said. “It was like a party.” Mann began to take more classes and eventually trained to be an instructor in 2008. She started teaching at the YMCA and offered classes in other locations, including Trinity Baptist Church where she leads a women’s-only group. Teaching Zumba was not only fun for Mann, but also boosted her confidence and helped her
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
33
become more accepting of her body. Mann said there were times during her academic career when she felt like she needed to look or act a certain way to fit in with others. With Zumba, though, “I was just havABOUT YAISA MANN ing fun” and sharing her love of dance Age: 38 with others. “I feel so comfortable in Hometown: Armona, Calif. myself,” she said. Soon, her part-time Zumba classes Family: Married to James were becoming a full-time passion. and they have three chilMann said she’s a woman of faith and dren: Jalen, Josiah and Jael believes that God began opening up Work: Owner of SwagHER opportunities for her to empower girls Fitness, swagherfitness.com and women through her fitness classes What do you love most and her involvement with community about exercising: Moving organizations, such as the Oklahoma my body, sweating, and Eating Disorders Association. honoring God by taking care “I decided to fuse my body image of my temple. studies and passion for dance to create SwagHER Fitness.” Favorite song to dance to: Through the business, she offers Beyonce’s “Crazy in Love.” classes, hosts health expos and workshops for companies and agencies and also serves as a fitness coach and motivational speaker. Mann said it’s an exciting ex-
perience and a job she loves. “Every day is my Friday,” she said. “It doesn’t feel like work.”
ENCOURAGING AND EMPOWERING OTHERS
Mann said a goal with her classes is to help people feel comfortable while they are exercising. So, Mann works to create a positive and playful atmosphere. That includes showing off her silly side, such as during a recent Zumba class when she picked up a microphone and lip-synched to “Proud Mary” while leading the group in a routine to the song. Mann’s spunk, spirit and passion have left an impression on the women who take her classes. Nedalie Davison, of Norman, credits Mann for helping her lose weight, develop healthy habits and make new friends. Davison was invited by a co-worker to attend Mann’s Zumba class at Trinity Baptist Church in 2013. At the time, Davison said she was in a highly stressful job and had gained 45 pounds “to my already overweight and out of shape body.”
We are a full-service bridal and prom boutique that is dedicated to giving you an experience to remember. We have a wide range of gowns and dresses that will fit every style and budget. From vintage to glam, we have the perfect dress to represent you and your story.
263 34th Ave SW • Norman, OK
(405) 701-1779
Hours: Tues-Thurs 10-6, Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4
*After hours appointment times available upon request.
34
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
It's About Something Special. From Us, To You.
Yaisa Mann leads a women’sonly class at Trinity Baptist Church in Norman.
Davison was reluctant but decided to go to the Zumba class anyway. “I was terrible at it. My immediate thought was, ‘This isn’t for me. Why am I here embarrassing myself?’ I couldn’t get the steps right,” she said. “But, by the end of our 60-minute class, something unusual happened. I felt great. I loved it!” “Yaisa has a way of making everyone in her class feel like they are Beyonce material. With her positive energy permeating the room and her love of fitness she brings to every class, you can’t help but want to come back for more, and that I did,” Davison said. Davison said she also loves how Mann tailors her classes to include a variety of fitness levels. Mann also encouraged Davison to try other fitness classes and now she has added yoga, Pilates and boot camp classes to her workout. There have been other changes in her life, too. She left the stressful job, lost 58 pounds, gained some muscle and increased her energy level. “I have strength and endurance that I never knew possible,” Davison said. She also has gained new friendships through her fitness classes with Mann. “They are some of the best support team that a person can have. We encourage each other every step of the way. We laugh, we cry, we have fun, we struggle, we accomplish goals. We have our ups and we have our downs. Together, we succeed with love, friendship and fitness,” Davison said. Mann said she is proud of the camaraderie and connection that women feel who take her Zumba classes. She also is grateful to have opportunities to combine her love for exercise and dance with the chance to inspire and empower others. “I want to be able to use my voice. I want to help other people. I want to be a resource. I want to be a mentor,” Mann said. “I want to help others to be the best version of themselves.”
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
35
Norman FYI What do most people not know about you? I was cheerleading captain for the Noble Junior High School Bear Cubs. Do you name your vehicles? Not all of them. But my current car has a name. It seems like a female car so I gave it the very distinguished male name of Gavin. What do you notice about how other people drive? Attentiveness and lack thereof. Some people are really good about paying attention and knowing what’s going on around them and others are texting or not paying attention. What’s your favorite part of the day? Afternoon, when it’s at the warmest and brightest point. I like when it’s warm and sunny.
BilliJo Zorn
Sneed
MIXED MEDIA ARTIST/ IT SERVICES SPECIALIST How did you learn to drive? I actually took Driver’s Education but I also did a lot of driving around with my dad out in the country when I was 15. What was your first car? A yellow 1972 Volkswagen Super Beetle. Where’s a good place to go for a summer drive? Out to Clear Bay at Lake Thunderbird. What’s the longest car trip you’ve been on? We took a family road trip to Las Vegas in 1999, driving from Noble to Flagstaff, Az. in one day. It was around fourteen hours. What’s the most difficult vehicle you’ve ever driven? Learning to drive that 1972 VW was tough because it had standard transmission with a clutch. My dad was teaching me how to drive and it was awful. A terrible experience but I learned how to drive it.
36
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
What’s the fastest you’ve ever driven? 110 mph. My mom Julie was in the car. We were in my Honda on the interstate southbound between here and Dallas. I said, ‘Let’s see how fast we can go!’ She did not like it and was gripping the seat saying stop, stop, stop. I wanted to see if I could get it over a 100. What’s your dream car? A 1966 Chevrolet Nova with 327 engine because those cars were the sleepers of their day. That was the time when Chevy had a bunch of big muscle cars and the Nova is kind of small. And they didn’t put the 327 engine in a whole lot of them. With the 327 they were one of the fastest of the smaller cars in that era. What do you order at a drive-in restaurant? I really like the Potato Boats at Classic 50’s drive-in. It’s like a baked potato without the skin that they put a lot of different toppings on. What kind of music do you like listening to in the car? Classic rock. When you’re cruising around in an old car, Queen’s ‘Night at the Opera’ is really good. What state has the worst drivers? Oklahoma. We have too many slow drivers in the fast lane here.
Michael “Tic Tac”
Byars HOSTY DUO PERCUSSIONIST
Hosty Duo gig). We broke down in Albuquerque which added some hours to the trip. What’s the most difficult vehicle you’ve ever driven? A Bobcat front loader. The wheels are close together and there’s a cage around the seat. That’s not an easy machine to operate. What do most people not know about you? I love to go fast. Do you name your vehicles? Typically by color like ‘Old Blue,’ ‘Old Red’ or ‘Vanna White.’ What do you notice about how other people drive? I notice people who are relaxed and in no hurry whatsoever. I can see that. What’s the favorite part of your day? Sunrise. I see a lot of them and that used to be from staying up all night. Now I’m older and don’t sleep very much. What’s the fastest you’ve ever driven? In the neighborhood of 160 mph on a Suzuki GSXR 1100 (motorcycle).
How did you learn to drive? Working on a dairy farm in Blanchard, driving the farm truck around. What was your first car? A red 1970s era Chevy Vega. Where’s a good place to go for a summer drive? The Talihina area of southeastern Oklahoma. What’s the longest car trip you’ve been on? Driving straight from San Diego to Oklahoma City all through the night (after a
What’s your dream car? A brand new black fully-loaded Ferrari, of course. What do you order at a drive-in restaurant? Typically a burger. Doesn’t everyone? What kind of music do you like listening to in the car? You can never go wrong with some JJ Cale. What state has the worst drivers? It’s not what state you’re in, it’s who you’re behind and what kind of hurry you’re in.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
37
Norman FYI
Dr. Lani
Malysa POLITICAL SCIENCE PROFESSOR
How did you learn to drive? When I was 15 in Goodyear, Arizona my mom taught me and dad a little bit in a 1964 Plymouth Valiant station wagon. What was your first car? It was a 1964 Plymouth Valiant four-door with a small block 8-cylinder 273 engine that got up and went. I paid $100 for it. Where’s a good place to go for a summer drive? Any of the Oklahoma state parks are beautiful, such as Red Rock, Roman Nose or Tall Grass Prairie.
What’s the longest car trip you’ve been on? Eleven thousand miles over a two week period during Christmas break in graduate school. We started in Tucson and made stops in
5 1 0 2
Graduation Keepsake Section
f o s s a l C
This section will feature senior classes from Norman High, Norman North, Community Christian, Noble, Little Axe and All Saints 8th grade graduates.
Publishing May 20th
215 East Comanche | normantranscript.com | 366-3573 38
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Kenosha, Wisconsin, Chicago, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C. and New Port News, Virginia. Then we retraced all those stops and arrived back in Tucson. What’s the most difficult vehicle you’ve ever driven? Learning to drive a 1969 VW Squareback with a stick shift. My cars before that had been automatic transmission. It took a while to learn not to grind gears. What do people not know about you? Jon Forman and I have been married 30 years and during that time we’ve had 19 cars and 5 motorcycles. Only two were new all the rest were used or old. Do you name your cars? Oh God yes, ever since my first car, because they have personalities. The 1964 Valiant was Prince Valiant, my ’69 Squareback was Fast Eddie, the Impala I have now is the Big Girl, the Mustang is Steve the Wonder Pony after Steve McQueen, my Ranchero is Dirty Harry and my ’67 Galaxy is beautiful powder blue and female so she’s Topaz. What do you notice about how other people drive? When they don’t use their turn signal blinkers. It’s been a gripe of mine forever. What’s the favorite part of your day? I like the heat of the day in the afternoon. And thinking about having a glass of wine when my husband comes home from work. The birds are chirpy then. What’s the fastest you’ve ever driven? 121 mph in a Datsun 240 Z. It was really fun but I felt the front end getting squirrelly so I backed down off the throttle. What’s your dream car? I’ve always liked the Dodge Daytonas and Plymouth Super Birds from the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. I like the 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat, it comes with a 707 HP engine which is bigger than the best Corvette. I’m a Mopar girl. What kind of music do you like listening to in the car? 70’s and 80’s rock n roll and country rock. My two favorite road songs would be the Allman Brothers’ Ramblin’ Man and Jackson Browne’s Running on Empty. I drive much faster if those come on the radio. What state has the worst drivers? I’ve been in all but three of the states. Texans drive really fast. Let’s just say that certain parts of the country do some kinds of driving better than others. Like mountain driving, city driving and driving on snow and ice. NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
39
Dr. Jock
Campbell SEMI-RETIRED OKLAHOMA GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
How did you learn to drive? My dad taught me when I was 14 in my mother’s 1935 Ford Roadster. It had friendly fenders, they waved at you. What was your first car? It was that same Ford. My dad sold it to me for $100. He was very much a believer in paying one’s own way. Where’s a good place to go for a summer drive? Almost anywhere in the mountains of Colorado or Northern New Mexico. What’s the longest car trip you’ve been on? It was from Northern France through Switzerland, Austria, over the Alps and into Yugoslavia. Then a friend and I went to Venice, Italy, Rome and around the coast to France and Spain. I went on alone to North Africa as far south as Casablanca and to the Atlas Mountains. It was in a VW Beetle. I was just discharged from active military service over there and traveling until almost out of money. What’s the most difficult vehicle you’ve ever driven? Without a doubt, the Model T Ford. It doesn’t have the standard clutch and gearshift. It has what’s called a planetary transmission and I still don’t know how they work exactly. There’s a pedal where the clutch is and when you pull the hand brake on that puts the transmission in neutral. When you want to go you push
40
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
on the pedal to the floor, let the brake off and you’re in low gear. When you get a little speed up you move into high gear. There’s only two gears. Do you name your vehicles? My lady friend Cia and I name all our vehicles. One is called Amelia after our favorite waltz. What do you notice about how other people drive? I think most people aren’t thinking about their driving, even if they aren’t talking on their phone or texting. What I laugh about the most is how people can’t wait to get around me because I’m driving so slowly. They dash around me to stop at the next light. What’s the favorite part of your day? I love sunsets because it’s pleasant and when I feel most reflective. Winter sunrises are also quite nice. What’s the fastest you’ve ever driven? When I was younger I wanted to know if my 1973 Porsche 911 would really go the 150 mph that the speedometer shows. On the way home from Arizona on I-40 I was on a long
flat stretch in western Oklahoma. I put my foot in it to see what she would do. At about 125 mph I was surprised at the rate the power line poles were going by. Up ahead a tractor trailer pulled into my lane as he was passing another one. I imagined the windshield and my head going under the back of one of those trucks before I could get stopped. So I slowed to a reasonable speed. What’s your dream car? Any Aston Martin. What do you order at a drive-in restaurant? A chocolate malted, it’s one of the finest things man has ever created. What kind of music do you like listening to in the car? Mexican mariachi music. Linda Ronstadt made two albums in Spanish that are among my several favorites. What state has the worst drivers? Texas. They’re rude and won’t let you change lanes and they drive too fast. I was there last week and it was hair-raising.
Thank you for your nomination in Norman’s Reader’s Choice Awards Best Retirement Community Winner 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
Proud Supporter of the Norman Community
Fresh
Picks J
ust in time for summer! Check out these Mini Melissa slippers in a Mary Jane Zig Zag style. We have toddler sizes 5-10 in gold, silver, and fucshia ready for you!
C
elebrate a birth, wedding or any special occasion with a Kada frame! Frames are available in many structured patterns, finishes and colors that add vintage personalities or a modern fill to match your style.
Tulip Tree 360 24th Ave NW #100 329.1060
Theo’s Market Place 3720 W. Robinson Street 3550 Bart Connor Drive 405.364.0728 • theosmarketplace.com
W
hether you need a gift for your mom, your dad, or your recent college grad, we’ve got them here at Columns! We have the perfect gifts to choose from: beautiful Dale Tiffany vases, timeless Howard Miller Clocks, and wonderful Julia Knight bowls. Columns 2001 W Main St • 405.364.3777
L
ove Tokens was born between the hands of artists in a studio in Oklahoma City. Original - Peaceful - Graceful Exclusively Available at Mitchell’s Jewelry. Mitchell’s Jewelry 2201 W. Main Street • 405-360-2515
Sovereign FULL PAGE AD
Scene & Style
American vintage
Photography by Brittany Stover Photography Fashions styled by Blush Jewelry provided by Mitchell’s Jewelry and Blush Hair and Makeup by Amy Meek of Mystique Hair Salon Modeled by: Rebecca McKenny, Reiley Menzie, Shelby Morgan, and Olivia Raiber
44
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
45
46
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
47
48
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
49
Norman Profile
Mystery Maker Maven by c hris jones
I
t was a dark and stormy night. Lightning flashed in the windows of the English manor as the butler cleaned the blood from the sterling silver pickle fork. Storms create great mystery settings, and the seemingly ever-present butler is the usual suspect, but the British crime novels selected by Almira Grammer are much more complicated. Mystery Makers, the popular Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) class, taught by Grammer at the University of Oklahoma, continues to attract a capacity enrollment with a waiting list. The six-week OLLI classes at OU serve individuals age 50 and older with a variety of noncredit courses. New classes are offered each semester with educational, fun and thought provoking topics led by some of OU’s top professors. Annual membership is $40; classes are $35 each. There are no exams or papers to prepare in these classes, step in, pour a cup of coffee and enjoy. For those who find tales of danger and deception intriguing Mystery
50
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Makers is the perfect class. Grammer, a lifelong reader and artist received a BA and MA in English from the University of Oklahoma, where she worked as course developer and editor at OU before her retirement. The idea for the mystery class began during lunchtime discussions with coworkers Lisa Angelotti and Chris Elliott, OLLI director. They selected a mystery novel, read it, and spent time discussing the book’s plot, characters and author’s style. The lunchtime endeavor was so enjoyable it provided the idea for what is now one of the most sought after OLLI classes. When Grammer set her retirement date Elliott asked her if she would be interested in expanding the book idea into a class for OLLI. It was too enticing to refuse. As the first class was publicized, Elliott and Grammer hoped that a least 10 people would enroll; now six years later, the class is a huge success. The class is held one day a month for four months, spring and fall semesters. The format allows time for class
Almira Grammer’s classes focus on British mysteries.
members to locate and read the book. “I decided the Mystery Maker class would focus primarily on British mysteries, these are my favorites,” Grammer said. “I was nervous that first session and I didn’t know if anyone would have much to say about The Hound of the Baskervilles, by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Boy, was I wrong. Ollie participants always have something to say. The last thing I wanted was for people to doze off.” She remembers being scared to death the first time she stepped in the classroom. After the lively discussion in her first class Grammer was in her element. She’s the maven of mysteries, enriching her classes with a history of the mystery, a slide presentation that includes background information on the author and the setting of the novel. Maps of the area and recipes of foods mentioned in the books create added depth and interest to the discussions. “I choose the books we read; and I am always anxious about my choices,” Grammer said. “I have given my readers the option to choose the books, but
they tell me they trust me.” A few books get raised eyebrows, such as Matto’s Realm. The psychological period mystery by a little known author is set in Switzerland. Grammer said the class had a great time discussing the book. It wasn’t a class favorite and many participants expressed their reasons for disliking the book. During the six years of Mystery Makers the class has read International mysteries from Sweden, Italy and Brazil, as well as American mysteries featuring classic writers such as Hammett and Chandler. Ed Keller and his wife, Libby are devoted fans of OLLIE classes and particularly Mystery Makers. “Last year I didn’t think the classes could get any better, but this semester Almira has outdone herself,” Ed Keller said. “I really love this class. I have always read mysteries but never to the
“ Last year I didn’t think the classes could get any better, but this semester Almira has outdone herself.” depth I am reading now. Almira draws us into conversations about the book and the author, the characters. It’s interesting even if I don’t like the book.” He discovered the award-winning Shetland Island series by Ann Cleeves through the class and has read every one. “This class is not political or religious,” Libby Keller said. “In Almira’s class we talk about the books we read. She’s a master at what she does.” Included in the 50 books featured since the class began is The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley, featuring the quirky Flavia de Luce character, and Chief Inspector Armand Gamach, a gentlemanly char-
acter in the series of novels by Louise Penny. And one of the latest selected for the 2015 spring semester, the very peculiar Detective Constable Fiona Griffiths in Talking to the Dead, by Harry Bingham. Another popular aspect of Almira Grammer’s class is the tea and cookies she provides and presents in colorful seasonal themes. Stacks of mystery novels brought in by Grammer and those enrolled in the class add another element to the class. The book exchange keeps mystery books from new to obscure from gathering dust. “I would say Mystery Makers is one of our cornerstone classes at OLLI,” Chris Elliott said. “Almira dives deep into British mysteries and she does her homework. I can’t say enough good things about her and her topnotch class. Almira is a dream for OLLI.”
You’ve prepared for a rewarding retirement. We can help you make the most of it. As Ameriprise Private Wealth Advisors, we can help you grow and preserve your wealth to put your vision of a confident retirement more within reach. MARK E. WOODY, CFP®, CLU®, CHFC®, APMA®, CASL Private Wealth Advisor Managing Director Kindred Wealth A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. 581 Merchant Dr Norman, OK 73069 405.345.1990 mark.e.woody@ampf.com kindredwealth.com
9104 N. Kelley Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73131
Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (7/14)
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
51
Taste of Norman
GABERINO’S HOMESTYLE ITALIAN Located in RedBud Plaza 283 34th Ave SW 405-310-2229 Open Daily 11:30am to 9:00pm www.gaberinos.com
52
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Italian adventure review and photos by k yle phillips
T
ucked away in southwest Norman, Gaberino’s Homestyle Italian brings made-from-scratch Italian dining to a new level. The exterior of the restaurant just might have you fooled, though. Located in the RedBud Plaza, 283 34th Ave SW, close to West Norman Library, Gaberino’s looks like any other Italian restaurant. That changes, as soon as you step into the cozy, warm interior, where it’s obvious food is not the only thing on the owners’ minds. Vintage Gaberino family photos on the walls bring it home that this is an authentic, family Italian restaurant. Couple that with traditional checkered table cloths and the great smell of great Italian cooking and you’ve got a recipe for a truly inviting restaurant for family gatherings or a romantic date night. Owners Laura and Mitch Duprez, both cutting their culinary teeth at Victoria’s Pasta Shop, made sure to keep the fare simple by filling the menu with the Italian staples, plus a little more. Specially dishes can be ordered, like the Chicken Lasagna Florentine or Shrimp Scampi, but build your own pastas and pizzas also fill the menu with a variety of sauces to chose from that are all made in house. The made-from- scratch cuisine uses fresh, all local ingredients and offers both vegan and gluten free choices.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
53
The Italian Creme Cake makes for a perfect ending to the meal.
Mitch and Laura Duprez operate Gaberino’s Homestyle Italian.
Eager to try a new date night spot, Holly and I made our way to the homestyle Italian restaurant and were seated immediately upon arrival in the intimate bistro-style setting of a small dining room. The exceptionally friendly waitstaff greeted us right away with a Spring Time menu filled with tastes that could satisfy even the pickiest eater offering choices from basil soup and sandwiches to gourmet pasta available seasonally such as the shrimp and asparagus pasta with pinenuts. How could I resist? Starting off with the made from scratch tomato basil soup was the best choice I could have made and the dish lived up to the mission of the restaurant. The freshness of the
Great Great Selection! Savings! Great Service! Great Selection! Great Service! Great Location! 54
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
soup, topped with a heavy portion of cheese, was obvious the second it was set on the table. But this wasn’t the only choice. The stuffed mushrooms seemed to be a fan favorite of the room, with almost every table around us ordering the dish. When it came to the main dish, my wife ordered the Chicken Parmesan, an inhouse specialty with walnut and parmesan encrusted chicken breast baked and served atop handmade spaghetti and covered with marinara sauce. A step above the average, this dish tasted as mouthwatering as it looked and smelled. As for myself, knowing you can’t call yourself an Italian restaurant without baking
1330 Alameda
Norman, Ok
405-364-9262 www.JoesPlaceWines.com joeswinesandspirits.com
a good pie, I ordered the pizza with a fresh marinara sauce. It did not disappoint. The crisp crust and light garlic flavor accented the pepperoni and Italian sausage topping perfectly. Throughout the meal, the staff was attentive and made excellent recommendations on what to try off the menu, the best being the Italian Cream Cake, made in-house with coconut, pecans and cream cheese icing. This treat made the restaurant worth the trip, even without the other great menu selection and satisfied our afterdinner, dessert cravings. Gaberinos also offers Lemon Sorbet, made with freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest and desserts from local bakeries La Baguette and il Dolce. Pair any of these with a French Press coffee, and you won’t be disappointed. Located at 283 34th Ave SW and open everyday from 11 a.m-9 p.m, Gaberinos succeeds in making customers feel like they are eating food
from the old country with their madefrom-scratch ingredients and comfortable atmosphere. Reasonable prices and a great ambiance make it the perfect date spots you can’t afford to miss.
Shrimp and asparagus gnocchi is made with potato dumplings, fresh asparagus and shrimp.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
55
Norman Spirits
Summer & Sake by k athy hallren
SHIBA DOG Glass: Old-fashioned glass Garnish: Improvise Ingredients: • Sake – 1/2 (60ml) •Grapefruit juice – 1/2 (60ml) Method: (build) Build in a salt rimmed old-fashioned glass and fill with ice. Add all the ingredients, mix and serve.
56
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
I
just visited Kyoto, Japan and in addition to trying to visit as many world heritage sites as possible, I made it a priority to visit a Sake factory. The visit was initiated by my internet inquiry to Yamamoto Honke, and I received a lovely letter from the wife of the owner. She could not be there, but turned me over to her husband (brewery owner) and the kurabito (brewer)
for the tour. My husband and I arrived and stepped into the offices dating back to 1670. These were not the slick modern facilities I imagined, but rather charming offices where we were offered warm sesame snacks while we waited. High quality Yamamoto Honke Sake was being hand packed for shipment in the corner. Soon we were greeted by Mr. Yamamoto, and taken to the new brewery. There we met our French kuribito, originally a brewer for Kronenbourg. So you wonder, why a brewer making wine, at least I wondered? Welcome to the world of sake, the process used to produce sake, bears much more resemblance to brewing beer, than making wine from grapes. First sake rice is different than table rice, it grows much higher, and is much harder. Making a long story short, the rice is milled, rested, rinsed, steeped in water, steamed, now its ready to ferment. Enzymes and yeast are added, then over a period of time, more rice/enzyme/yeast are added three more times. Fermentation is done in varying size batches and temperatures depending on the quality of sake to be produced. Finally it is filtered, and water added to reduce alcohol content. Again the higher quality sake is then aged for about a year. Two things are very important in choosing sake. Lower is better, a designation of 35%-40% on the bottle reflects higher grade, because the greatest amount of the outer grain has been removed leaving the tasty internal portion to produce flavor. Water is very important, hard water – dry sake, soft water – sweeter sake. Sake is traditionally brewed in the winter, and festivals for the new sake take place early in the year with the breweries being open to the public. As usual to introduce you to something new here is a cocktail recipe. Have fun, enjoy.
World-class & local:
EXPERIENCE MARRIOTT’S TOP SPAS WITHOUT LEAVING ALABAMA From relaxing massages to invigorating facials and body treatments,
Montgomery and the Spa at Ross Bridge are in the Top 7, followed closely
Marriott is known globally for having great spas. In North America, five of
by the Battle House in Mobile. All five of these spas are part of the RTJ
the top Marriott and Renaissance spas are found in Alabama. For guest
Resort Collection and feature innovative treatments inspired by Southern
satisfaction, the Spa at the Marriott Shoals in Florence remains the top
Hospitality. Clearly great golf and spas work well together in Alabama.
ranked Marriott spa in North America. The Spa at the Grand Hotel in Pt.
Come experience them for yourself.*Renaissance and Marriott spa guest
Clear also is in Marriott’s Top 10. For Renaissance Hotels, both the Spa at
satisfaction rankings in North America, as of Oct. 1, 2014.
FLORENCE · HOOVER · MONTGOMERY · MOBILE · POINT CLEAR The
Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail · rtjresorts.com/spacard
Norman Business
She’s Hip on Flood Street
PHOTOS BY KYLE PHILLIPS
O
DeShanna Wolking operates Two Hip Chicks and manages a room full of vendors of the eclectic.
58
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
by d oris wedge
ne of a kind decorator pieces. Fussy little girl dresses. An old chain link fence gate that might one day serve as a kitchen pot rack. A wooden bed headboard repurposed as the base of a shelf. String sculptures. It is all there and more at the Two Hip Chicks Marketplace on North Flood. The marketplace is a collection of rooms occupied by vendors of the eclectic, 25 vendors which includes those who display their wares in narrow wall spaces between the doorways of what once was a counseling center. Proprietor DeShanna Wolking is proud of her business which has just celebrated its four-year anniversary. It is really two businesses operating under one roof. One is Two Hip Chicks, Wolking’s own creative outlet for old items repurposed into new uses, decorative signs and so much more. The other is the Two Hip Chicks Marketplace with space leased to vendors. Wolking has long been a part of Norman’s business community, from working with her father, Larry Forbes, in a garden and landscaping business on Robinson to operating a party planning business and even owning a children’s clothing store. “I have always worked retail and I liked interior decorating, but I had never painted or made anything,” she says. She started with small wooden decorative crosses and still shows a collection of crosses in various styles to adorn walls or tables. She began doing craft shows, “working out of my garage, and it (the business) was just getting too big. I was so busy so I asked a friend if she was interested in joining me,” and “Two Hip Chips” was born.
Two Hip Chicks just celebrated its fourth anniversary.
They decided to move from the garage, “if only to get a workplace that was heated and cooled,” she recalls. They opened the door on Flood. “It was just a little store in the front and a workroom in the back” to make the pieces that craft show shoppers were eating up. A year after the move onto Flood, and pending the expansion into the building next door so they could add other vendors, the friend decided to step away from the partnership. “I was already established as “Two Hip Chicks” so I kept the name,” Wolking said. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays, Wolking continues to fabricate her own products, and buy some at market for resale. “Of my 25 vendors, a lot of them make their own products, but some are purchased at market. I would say it is a 60/40 split with most being handmade.” Things sell quickly, she says “and most of my vendors don’t have the manpower to keep their spaces stocked with hand-made items.” Rooms are well stocked and the vendors tend to specialize in certain types of items, from reclaimed old items to fashionable clothing and jewelry and more. There is even a locally produced chalk paint line. The vendors continually update and re-arrange their displays, she says, to keep a fresh look. “I have a waiting list of vendors who want to get their own space here.” Wolking’s two daughters and her husband are involved in the business, and she continues selling at craft shows in the three-state region. “I still do 16 major craft shows a year,” including Mistletoe Express in Oklahoma City and shows at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds.
When you retire, your money should keep working.
John Harris Vice President Financial Advisor 3700 W. Robinson, Suite 220 Norman, OK 73072 405-366-3426
Someday you’ll stop working, and at that point, you’ll have to depend on your retirement income. To work toward building that income, you’ll need a strategy. With more than 25 years of experience, I can help you create a strategy for goals like retirement, estate planning and leaving a legacy. Let’s put your money to work. Call me today to set up an appointment.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. © 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC588469 (12/12) CS 7338805 MAR013A 03/13
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
59
Norman Adventure
Men on a Mission
by a my david
W
hile it was cold in Norman in January two local Sooners were basking in the high 30-degree temperatures of the summer sunshine of Antarctica. Jay Hensley and his long-time friend Charles Goldsmith snapped a photo with their alma mater’s flag to mark their adventure earlier this year. The pair is on a mission to visit all seven continents. They hope to finish in 2016. “It was an incredible trip, a bucket list for two old guys,” said Hensley. The Norman men and their wives have been friends since elementary school.
60
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Hensley said the 14-day trip was full of memories right down to the lost luggage. Other passengers on the pair’s small cruise ship offered Hensley clothes off their backs since shopping in the area was sparse. Hensley said people from all over the world made up the199 passengers aboard the small French ship, La Boreal, that sailed out of Ushuaia, Argentina. We made many friends whom we will most likely stay in contact with, he said. Hensley said the beauty of the continent was overwhelming at times and he enjoyed seeing the Humpback Whales. It was surprising to see the lack of fear the penguins had of humans, he said. Hensley said his previous bucket list included participating in a marathon, running with the bulls and doing a bungee jump.
Charles Goldsmith, left, and Jay Hensley are on a mission to visit all continents. Their recent 14-day trip included whale watching, sea lions and penguins.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
After completing those he and Goldsmith started on the current project. “My wife and I love to travel. We love to explore and get off the beaten path and find new things,� Hensley said. At 61, Hensley still works for a consulting firm. His wife, Renee is a retired Norman educator. Goldsmith said traveling is very educational and he enjoys seeing new things and cultures. He and his wife, Debi, travel in the United
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
61
The small, 199-passenger, Le Boreal, included travelers from all over the worl d. It sailed from Ushuaia, Argentina.
62
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
States with their grandkids and look forward to introducing them to international travel when they are older, he said. The majestic landscape and wildlife are what Goldsmith said he enjoyed most at Antarctica. When the pair visited Europe, Goldsmith said it was amazing and he enjoyed the age of the buildings, the culture and the people were nice most of the time. In Africa, Goldsmith said the poverty is what stood out to him. “The living conditions weren’t like in Europe.” Goldsmith said he likes to get out of his comfort zone and language isn’t a barrier in most places. Next spring the two plan to visit Asia, including Beijing and Shanghai, followed by Australia with their wives. “We are planning to take in the tourist spots but also float the Yangtze
River to get us out into the countryside,” Goldsmith said. His dental practice in Oklahoma City will keep him busy a few more years, but Goldsmith said he and Hensley would like to get out and see as many things as possible while they can.
The two men found the penguins to be unafraid of humans. Goldsmith and Hensley will travel to Asia and Australia next year, capping their quest to visit all seven continents.
In Your Dreams...
WEDDING DAY...MOTHER’S DAY... ANY DAY!
Hello Summer Hello Shorts Mel’s Kloset 2109 W. Main St. • Norman 405-307-0115 • Mon-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-5
2109 W. Main • 405-329-3390 • Mon-Sat 10-6 • inyourdreamsok.com NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
63
OU Spotlight
Research, Instruction, Innovation by jerri culpepper
64
T
here was a time, not very long ago, that universities were thought of by many as ivory towers, as places where professors worked in solitude on arcane projects or research with little or no relevance to the real world. Whether that perception was ever truly merited or not, it’s certainly not the case at the University of Oklahoma which, like other leading institutions of higher education and nextgeneration businesses world-wide, today is building its teaching and research platforms on concepts centering on innovation, collaboration and experiential learning.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
To help meet these growing needs at the university and the community levels, a new facility is being planned on OU’s rapidly growing Research Campus – itself a model of cross-disciplinary research with real-world applications. Coordinated through the newly created Office of Strategic Initiatives in collaboration with the Michael F. Price College of Business, Office of the Vice President of Research-Norman campus, College of Engineering, University Libraries and Information Technology, an Innovation Hub – thus called because it will serve as the central hub of various “spokes” across campus related to research, instruction, innova-
o t n I g n i w S
PHOTOS BY LINDSEY DAVIES
l e R
n o i t a ax
Erin Wolfe is director of the OU Office of Strategic Initiatives.
Poolside or Porchside, Thompson’s has the hammock to take you there.
1400 SW 24th Ave. • 405-364-1912 www.ThompsonPool.com M-F 9-7 • Sat 9-4 NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
65
tion and entrepreneurship – is being built with an eye to enhancing teaching, research, skill development and entrepreneurship, explained Erin Wolfe, director of the Office of Strategic Initiatives. The mission of the Innovation Hub, she added, is to advance interdisciplinary collaboration and entrepreneurship through facilities and coworking environments, tools and maker technologies, programs and support professionals. While students and faculty will be key users of the new, approximately 25,000-square-foot facility, which will be located on the first floor of Three Partners Place, it also is being built with the goal of serving the area community and others who want to apply – or discover how to apply – state-of-the-art technologies to their business plan or other enterprise. Within the university, she said, there is a great need for such a space among the student body. Though many of the colleges have some of the same equipment as the digital lab, that equipment is available only to students in that college, and is often in high demand. There
66
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
currently is no other place on campus with the collaboration/research/entrepreneurship focus that the Innovation Hub will have. The Innovation Hub, which is expected to open in spring 2016, will include several specialized “hubs,” described below. A 5,000-square-foot digital fabrication lab, equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers/milling machines, and other computercontrolled machinery for producing prototypes and other items. In the Innovation Hub, Wolfe said, students will have the opportunity to learn how to create their own software and applications, as well as how to use the equipment to produce physical products. Additionally, the lab will be made available for outreach efforts – high school students, in particular, will be invited to tour and use the facilities. A Teaching and Visualization Lab will provide an immersive display capable of supporting interactive scholarship where the scholarly experience is unbound by fundamental classroom limitations. The overall mission is complete interactivity and collaboration.
Touchdown Workspaces, where students and other researchers, can review their fabrication plans, rethink their datavisualization techniques, or meet with colleagues and discuss ideas A business incubator and coworking space will be available for students and others interested in entrepreneurship. To fortify students and other guests, a café also is planned, Wolfe noted. But the Innovation Hub will offer more than a place to work, collaborate and eat. It will be staffed with digitally fluent experts who will provide technological, research, library and other support. Plans also include development of a mentor network of alumni, staff and other business and industry leaders who can help with commercialization and developing business plans. Appetite whet?
University of Oklahoma students Zachary McManaman, a freshman planning to major in mechanical engineering, and Corbin Greer, an information studies senior, are interns in the Office of Strategic Initiatives.
A sample of what’s to come is already available, in the form of the mobile Innovation Hub, outfitted with a sampling of the high-tech equipment (think 3-D printers and laser cutters) that will be featured in its larger cousin. This mobile lab is already being taken to high schools (and will continue to be available after the Innovation Hub is opened) and is used for other marketing and research purposes. The mobile lab is open for public tours from time to time and by appointment. Please visit innovation.ou.edu for upcoming events and contact information. When built, OU’s Innovation Hub will, perhaps, help dispel any remaining notions of universities as places of arcane learning, but rather as places where collaboration and innovation combine to address real-world problems and needs.
. s s e l e c i r . p t i s h s i i r e e h c Tim ou love a gift to help them
iG ve the one y
COLUMNS ON MAIN BRIDAL REGISTRY COMPLIMENTARY GIFT WRAP FREE NORMAN DELIVERY
2001 W MAIN STREET NORMAN, OK 405.364.3777
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
67
Norman History
Caddo Culture Rekindled by d oug hill
N
orman resident Jereldine “Jeri” Redcorn has received international recognition for being the individual who revived traditional Caddo pottery making. It was a centuries old art and craft that nearly didn’t survive the Louisiana to Oklahoma diaspora of the mid-19th century. Redcorn is a wife, mother, retired educator and has been an artist in residence at the Smithsonian Institution. A trio of her fine ceramic vessels titled “The Three Sisters” were used for the jacket cover photograph of new book “Art of the Oklahoma Judicial Center” by Gayleen Rabakukk. In 2008 Redcorn’s “Intertwining Scrolls” pot was chosen from the permanent collection of the National Museum of the American Indian by First Lady Michelle Obama for display in the White House’s Oval Office. Redcorn’s one-woman resurrection of the traditional Caddo methods in making both fine and utilitarian pottery began as a quest to understand her people’s history. It’s a saga both fascinating and inspiring. PHOTOS BY DOUG HILL
“I grew up on my dad’s cotton farm in Colony,” she said. “We went to Caddo dances and also Cheyenne and Arapaho because their reservations were nearby.” One of Redcorn’s favorites was the Alligator Dance. “When you’re young it’s a social dance and you hope you’ll be holding hands with some guy you like,” she said. “The alligator aspect never occurred to me then, it had just been handed down through the centuries.” Obviously there were no gators in western Oklahoma where she grew up but the reptile’s symbolism was something Redcorn wouldn’t forget. It wasn’t until 1991 as a member of the Caddo Culture Club that she visited the Museum of the Red River in Idabel and realized the enormity of what had happened to her nation. “Not only had we been removed from the lush pine forests and river banks of Louisiana by President Andrew Jackson,” Redcorn said. “Our amazing culture had been totally upset and in 1859 we arrived in Oklahoma barely with our lives.” Exposure to European diseases had begun decimating the Caddo population starting in the 16th century. Violent white settlers pushed the maize and squash farmers west. It’s estimated only a few hundred Caddo made it to what would become the Sooner State.
Caddo artist Jeri Redcorn felt an immediate spiritual kinship to the clay when she first rolled it out.
68
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Redcorn became a diligent student of Caddo history. “I realized I could name the presidents, but couldn’t name one Caddo chief,” she said. “What really got to me was that my history had been purposefully denied.” Redcorn’s mother and father had both been subjected to the infamous boarding school policy in an attempt to assimilate Indian children into white culture. “They both went away at age 6 and during those years couldn’t speak their Potawatomi and Caddo languages,” she said. “They were indoctrinated into Christianity.” Redcorn affirmed she did not grow up with bitterness and this was immediately evident from speaking with her. “My people accepted what had happened to them and went on with life,” she said. “They pulled together for the children.” The displaced Caddo managed to retain their language, songs, dances, horticultural knowledge, burial customs, food preparation and how to relate to each other. One tradition however had not survived the Diaspora.
“Pottery was gone,” Redcorn said. “Their skills in clay were unsurpassed but they had disappeared.” She imagined her female Caddo ancestors teaching the young girls where to find the best clay and how to make pots. Redcorn studied Caddo pots in several museums. Many fine examples have been discovered and preserved. OU’s Sam Noble Museum of Natural History has perhaps the finest permanent collection in the world with nearly 700 pieces. Redcorn developed important relationships with archeologists at the University of Texas-Austin and learned from them. It became Redcorn’s personal mission to make pots with methods as close as possible to the way her ancestors had for centuries. “I learned they mixed ground muscle shells in the clay,” she said. “And they must have used flint shards and bone to incise their designs into the clay.” She marveled at how thin the clay walls were in some of the ceremonial vessels. These were often buried with the deceased
Redcorn recommends the University of Oklahoma’s Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History as one place to view many fine examples of ancient Caddo pottery.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
69
Jeri Redcorn is a revered member of the Caddo Nation. Shown here at a dance in the Oklahoma History Center
and sometimes filled with items such as seed corn they’d need in the next world. “Items such as wooden bows and textiles didn’t survive through time but I’ve been able to study these magnificent pots,” she said. Redcorn found an immediate spiritual kinship when she first began rolling out clay. “I felt in my hands how important pottery was to the Caddo people,” she said. “It’s forming something from the earth and no more basic than that. Earth, water and sun.” Initially she faithfully replicated many of the traditional engraved designs observed from her studies. Gradually more of Jereldine Redcorn’s personality and transcendent essence was incorporated into her art. “For instance the Oklahoma Judicial Center’s (‘The Three Sisters’) pieces represent me, the Caddo and women,” she said. “In the Caddo Nations we follow our mother’s line and I wanted to bring out the importance of women to me, in society and at the Judicial Center.” The three pots are of an Oklahoma Spiro Mounds design representing sisters who
Using the Latest Science to Help Our Patients Feel Better and Find Relief. It’s as simple as that. Make an appointment with one of our board-certified allergists. Come see us at our convenient Norman location at the Norman Physician’s Building — 950 N. Porter, Suite 102.
WE KNOW ALLERGIES
Appointments 405/235-0040 Dr. Atkinson
Dr. Filley
Dr. Hatch OAAC’s Other Central Oklahoma Locations:
Main @ The Oklahoma Health Center 750 N.E. 13th, Oklahoma City Meridian Medical Tower (Across from Mercy Hospital) 13321 N. Meridian, Suite 100, OKC
Dr. Overhulser mag 6-14.indd 1 70OAAC Norman NORMAN magazine
Dr. Stutes
| MAY/JUNE 2015
New Edmond Location 3560 S. Boulevard
Porter Avenue
E. Robinson St. RC Luttrell Dr. Norman
Regional Hospital
East Himes St.
H
Norman Physician’s Building
(Across from Norman Regional Hospital)
950 N. Porter, Suite 102
www.oklahomaallergy.com @okallergyasthma
5/27/2014 12:34:22 PM
A photo of Redcorn’s ceramics graces the cover of new book “Art of the Oklahoma Judicial Center.”
carried corn, bean and pumpkin seeds in the Caddo’s beginning narrative. Redcorn fires these creations in her east Norman backyard. She is assisted by husband Charles Redcorn. He’s the Osage author of the novel A Pipe for February (OU Press, 2002) and distinguished Tribal Fellows scholar at Dartmouth College. Charles is also a fire wood expert. Rather than using a modern electric kiln they bake the clay pots on a grate in a re-purposed steel drum heated by burning embers at the bottom. “I call the Norman Fire Department first to make sure we’re within regulations,” Redcorn said. “Sometimes they come out and I show them what I’m doing.” Calm, hot and dry days are best. Her method is not far from that of the ancient Caddo peoples as recorded by French traders centuries ago. It has been important to Redcorn that her efforts at reviving the Caddo pottery tradition continue into future generations. She has mentored Oklahoma professional artist and educator Chase Earles who is now a prominent Caddo potter using traditional methods. “Chase has taken off like a comet and has had a lot of success,” she said. “And in turn he is teaching others.” Redcorn is pleased that her Caddo art resides in the White House. She sees American historical significance in the African-American Obama couple choosing a Native American ceramic. “There’s something satisfying to me about those intertwined histories in a Caddo pot being on display in the very center of power,” Redcorn said.
3720 W. Robinson Street • 3550 Bart Connor Drive 405.364.0728 • theosmarketplace.com
MAY IS
asthma & allergy awareness month
Mention this ad for $5 off your next visit! (Service items only.)
Our mission is to provide high-quality veterinary medicine and loving care for pets. We commit to providing a state-of-the-art facility, a highly trained staff, and a professional, warm, and caring environment for your pet(s).
405-321-3361 400 24th Ave. N.W. roserockvethospital.com
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
71
Norman Life
Super Summer at the Library by christian potts
S
ummer is super inside the libraries of the Pioneer Library System, with a super-hero theme set to greet young readers as they enter the doors of their favorite library this summer. More than 40,000 people came to programs and activities during last year’s Summer Reading Program, a new record for the library system in summer program attendance. The bulk of these special programs take place in June and July, but there is something going on each day the library is open as parents’ efforts to help their children keep their reading caught up can seem a lot more like fun and a lot less like hard work. Locally that means not just activities inside the walls of Norman Public Library Central, 225 N. Webster Ave., and Norman Public Library West, 300 Norman Center Court, but also nine other hometown libraries plus outreach activities to communities like Little Axe, Goldsby, Lexington and more.
Children get ready for story time at the Norman Public Library.
PHOTOS PROVIDED
72
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
THE BENEFITS
While a lot of this is to put smiles on the faces of youngsters and give their parents and caregivers a safe, free outlet for summer activities, there ultimately is a deeper and more critical goal in place. Believe it or not, Summer Reading Programs began in the 1890s, according to information gathered by the American Library Association. At that time, they were put in place “as a way to encourage school children, particularly those in urban areas and not needed for farm work, to read during their summer vacation, use the library and develop the habit of reading.” More than a century later, the goal hasn’t changed that much. The facts show that a lack of keeping up reading skills during the summer can bring what’s referred to as the “summer slide” for elementary-school age students. Research done by Reading is Fundamental, a national literacy initiative, showed that the average child not keeping up on reading during
the summer will lose about 2.6 months of grade-level equivalency in rereading skill. Within a few years that could add up to leaving a child nearly a year behind where he needs to be. And that’s where local librarians are helping, putting children on track for summer reading goals of books read and time spent reading them, with similar age-appropriate opportunities for teens and even a set of activities for adults. In short, it’s keeping their skills sharp while the children are entertaining and reading the sorts of books they enjoy.
THE THEMES
To help in building and coordinating program ideas, library systems throughout the state and the country utilize special themes for each Summer Reading Program. Past themes have focused on water, the underground and even traveling the world. And those health nuts only have a year to wait, as the 2016 Summer Reading Program will be “Wellness and Fitness” with the children’s theme of “On Your Mark, Get Set, Read!” But this summer, it’s all about superheroes and the creativity and inspiration that can flow from their stories. “There are superheroes everywhere,” said Jeff Provine, who will present a comic book character workshop this summer for teens. “And so much of it can come from young people. Grade-schoolers, some of the stuff coming out of their heads is so creative. “It doesn’t always have to make sense, but it’s just awesome, anyway.”
Doug Anderson, performing as Doc Rogers, is again part of the library’s summer program.
THE FUN
This year’s program schedule features many favorites as well as some new faces who will bring their talents to the library. Among the performers slated to appear are: Doc Rogers, the Mind Bender – Comedian Doug Anderson has taken his talents as a magician far and wide, and this summer will tour the library system with his “Every Hero Has a Story – Magic and Fun Show!” Monty Harper – The longtime performer has been a part of many Summer Reading Program slates in the past, and this year brings some new tunes as well as some old standbys families will remember for his presentation, “Hanging Out with Heroes.” Basically Bostick, Children’s Intergalactic Theatre – Al Bostick is another summer program regular, and brings some of his zany acting crew for a reading-centered performance he promises will be “out of this world.” Gene and Peggy Helmick Richardson – The Texas storytellers share tales of days gone by, with folk tales, fairy
tales and more that will focus on a different kind of hero. For teens, activities will include a screen printing workshop, Provine’s aforementioned look at creating characters from an expert on comic books and a visit from the always-popular Science Museum Oklahoma crew for scientific experiments and activities that educate and entertain. And the events don’t stop there, as the library continues its slate of weekly story times and age-appropriate programs, as well as visits from the Oklahoma City Zoo and more. The Summer Reading Program is provided thanks to the support of many organizations, including the Oklahoma Department of Libraries, the Institute for Museum and Library Services, Oklahoma Arts Council, the Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation, Hitachi Computer Products of America Inc., Kirkpatrick Family Fun, Oklahoma College Savings Plan, Sonic, The Oklahoman Newspapers in Education, Pioneer Library System Foundation and Friends of the Library groups from throughout the Pioneer Library System. Find out more by visiting or calling any PLS Hometown Library or going online to www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
73
Norman Sports
ove L
For the of Lifting by j ocelyn pedersen
Bob White, Jr, looks over photos on his gym bulletin board.
74
F
irst there’s a command for everyone to be quiet, then a grunt, a loud crash and finally, applause. This sums up the routine as a weightlifter strives for and makes a new personal lifting record at a small gym located in a central-Norman home. Bob White, Jr., set up the Olympic style weightlifting gym years ago for his personal use. Now, White, 82, is a champion weightlifter, having won gold and silver medals at international competitions, and is considered by many to be one of the preeminent Olympic weightlifting coaches in America. He now extends his knowledge as a coach to local athletes. White has transformed his garage into an Olympic-style weightlifting room where there are three lifting platforms. Two have large Murray crosses painted on the floor to observe foot movement. Another platform offers lines painted in 1-inch increments, to provide an accurate study of foot movement within one-half of an inch. A camera can be played back at regular speed, stop action, or in slow motion to aid in analysis. There is a jerk block station, too. White has built three sets of these—one for Team Austin, one for a team in Oklahoma City and a set of his own. This
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
device serves several purposes one of which is to help strengthen elbows—one of the body’s weakest areas. Another station is a power rack. The object of the room, White said, “is not to be the YMCA or a health club—those are great—but that’s not what this is for. This actually produces the strongest people on the face of the earth.” White restarted weight lifting about the time of the Murrah bombing as a result of prostrate cancer surgery. “I almost died during cancer surgery,” White recalls. “I could only lift five pounds. I had to get into something to build back my strength.” So White went to the USA Stars weight training and martial arts facility. “I saw this big ‘ol guy sitting next to the squat rack and I introduced myself and asked, ‘can I work in with you?’ and he said, ‘sure.’ I couldn’t lift the weight. That was the first day I met Shane Hamman.” It was about 20 years ago when Hamman and White trained together. Hamman went on to twice represent the U.S.A. at the Olympics. He holds the world record for a 1018 lb. squat. White maintains that Hamman “was and continues to be my mentor.” White also went on to excel in competition. In 2014, White won a silver medal at the 2014 Pan American (South America, USA and Canada) Masters Weightlifting Championships, held in Toronto. He competed in
PHOTOS BY JOCELYN PEDERSEN
the 80-84 age division, 85KG weight class. He won a gold medal at the USA National Masters Weightlifting Championships, Shreveport, Louisiana. In 2013, he won a silver medal at the USA National Masters Weightlifting Championships in Moorestown, New Jersey and a gold medal and the Pan American Masters Championships in Chicago, Illinois. He claimed 4th place in the World Masters games in Torino, Italy the same year. White is the first Oklahoman to qualify and medal in any of these events and he proudly shows pictures of his accomplishments. His lifting assistant and daughter, Margaret White, travels with him to most national and all international competitions. She appears close at his side in several photographs. Hamman often comes to White’s private training facility to sign shoes and instruct younger athletes who White is coaching. These shoes hang on the walls along with singlets for the Metro Weightlifting Club for which White is the licensed, Olympic style weightlifting coach. Alongside are motivational slogans and
the ever-present white board where all 32 of his athletes keep track of their personal records. White’s gym is a den to these young people and they know they are safe there. Their singlets remain at the gym as do their socks and towels. Upon leaving, athletes know where to place them for the Whites to launder. Some young people come in, change into their singlets and eventually wander down the hall to visit with Bonnie White, Bob White’s wife of nearly 61 years. So comfortable are they in the White’s home, they lose track of time while visiting and discover it’s time to go before they know it. But that’s okay, because life lessons can be learned in many places including a weight room or a kitchen or in a den with the TV on. Lessons learned at the gym include respect, courtesy, teamwork, camaraderie and friendship. There are a few strict rules, however. No one comes into the gym until 4:30 p.m. because the time prior to that is Bob’s lifting time. He said he can’t concentrate on his own lifting if he’s concerned about the safety of his charges.
Braxton Byrd, 15, has trained with White for about three years. “He’s an outstanding lifter,” White says. Byrd said he hopes to compete in the 2015 National Youth Weighlifting Championships to be held in Minnesota later this year.
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
75
Another rule is when someone is going for a PR (personal record) nobody talks, nobody moves. When the PR is attained, everybody claps and cheers. No one under the age of 11 years is allowed in the room, and lastly, athletes have to be in school—and that includes anyone from grade school through doctoral studies. White, who started coaching athletes when he was in his late 60s, has trained athletes who have gone on to obtain scholarships at OU, the Colorado School of Mines, the Air Force Academy, Dartmouth, Bucknell and John’s Hopkins, and various schools in Missouri and Kansas. He also trained with Chad Vaughn, another two-time Olympian. Athletes from various cities around the metro make the drive to Norman to train with White who said everyone is asked to lift three days a week, then added that the good ones will lift four or five days a week. Students lift, strengthen, progress and
move away, but such is the cycle of those who start lifting at age 11 and progress through White’s gym and school. White doesn’t accept just anyone at his gym. They must be vouched for or sponsored by someone. “The people who train here have no right to be here, it’s a privilege to be here,” White said. Braxton Byrd, 15, a Norman North freshman, knows what a privilege it is and how he’s made progress over the few years he’s trained with White. “I’m lifting way more,” Byrd said. “I started with the 15kg bar and am now lifting a total competition score of 147 kg.” Byrd said last year his qualifying total needed to be 108kg, but his was above that at between 130 and 140 kg. The qualifying number is obtained by taking the best weight obtained over three snatch lifts and adding it to the best weight obtained over three cleanand-jerk lifts. The total becomes the qualifying attempt and score.
“I plan to do as much as I can,” Byrd said. “I plan to be a maxillofacial surgeon. That will take time in school and I don’t know if I’ll have time for this, but I’ll try to. Working with Bob is awesome. You can definitely tell he cares about everyone. He puts just as much effort into me just lifting the bar as what he does helping people train for nationals.” Brian Roberts, father of Jake Roberts,13, who has been lifting with Bob for about a month said he was pleased his son was able to join the gym. “I love it. I heard of Bob a long time ago. Almost any high-end athlete who comes through Norman High or Norman North has trained with Bob. I couldn’t wait for Jake to be the appropriate age to get him in here. The principle philosophy inside and outside the weight room is what we want for our kids. The reputation of folks who have been through that gym speaks for itself. That fact that my son is in here
Providing Trusted Tax, Accounting and Providing Trusted Tax, Accounting and Business Solutions forYears Over 30 Years Business Solutions for Over 30
Gray, Blodgett & Company, PLLC Certified Public Accountants and Business Advisors
Gray, Blodgett & Company, PLLC 629 24th Ave SW • Norman, Oklahoma 73069 • 405-360-5533 • 405-364-3771 FAX CertifiedPublic Accountants and Business Advisors www.cpagray.com 76
NORMAN magazine |
629 24th Ave SW Norman, Oklahoma 73069 MAY/JUNE 2015 405-360-5533 405-364-3771 FAX
Bob White at the power rack as he prepares to lift. White won a silver madal in the 2014 Pan American (South America, UAS and Canada) Masters Weighliftig Championships in 2014. He competed in the 80-84 age division, 85KG weight class.
training means a lot to my family and his future.” Roberts said weightlifting transfers whether the athlete is in track, basketball or football. “The fact that Bob doesn’t charge a fee is amazing. You don’t see that.” He added that he thinks the values and expectations at the gym are clearly outlined. “Everyone’s very polite. Very business like. When anyone goes for a PR, everyone stops. The dry erase board is a motivator. When Jake leaves here, he can’t wait to get back.” Loving what they do combined with dedication yields champions. Hamman, Vaughn and White have been inducted into the Oklahoma Weightlifter’s Hall of Fame. The three were recognized on national TV in February for their contributions in working with youth. But White hasn’t always coached. He came to OU on an academic scholarship, played baseball for a year with the OU team, earned his degree in mechanical engineering and spent approximately 20 years as OU’s chief engineer. At one time, he was a partner in an engineering firm that built and owned major properties in the region. He started his own engineering business in 1979 and is still active with it. He serves on the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors-one of the most prestigious boards for that discipline, which White described as “a rare honor.” White’s lifetime of success culminates in his desire to help young people reach their dreams and goals. Along with his wife, Bonnie, the two have made an incredible difference in countless lives over the years. And all for the love of lifting.
Mon-Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 12pm-5pm 2207 W Main Street • Norman, OK 73069 Located in the Big Lots Shopping Center
(405) 217-4100
Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
77
Snap
78 Social Justice Banquet 80 Perceptivity Award 81 Chamber Events 82 Junior League Charity Ball 85 Parting Shot
Susan Ferguson, Reese Allen
Tom McAuliffe, Andy Rieger
April and Greg Heiple
Sally Matthews, right, visits at the banquet. PHOTOS BY CURTIS ENSLER
Sam Matthews Social Justice Award Harriette Leigh, a minister at McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church, received the Sam Matthews Social Justice Award from the Xenia Institute. The evening banquet was held March 5 at the First Christian Church. Past award recipients were also recognized at the annual event. The award honors Sam Matthews, a longtime Norman Realtor, who showed courage in selling a home to an African American couple in Norman in the late 1960s.
Barbara Henderson and Lester Reed
Greg, Kathy and Harold Heiple
78
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Marilyn Ogilvie and Herman Curiel
MyHsatiriqSualoen 2244 W. Main St • Norman 405-364-3520
Walk-Ins Welcome George Henderson, left, and Jim Kenderdine share a laugh at the banquet.
Specializing In: Trendy Styles, Mani, Pedi, Facial, Waxing, Color, Make-Up, Hair Extensions, Eyelash Extensions
Award recipient Harriette Leigh
a.com
April Heiple
p nands o l a s r ai
h
ue mystiq
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
79
Snap Shots
Joe Foote, dean of the OU Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communications, was the 2015 recipient of the Otis Sullivant Award for Perceptivity. He accepted the honor at a luncheon in the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art.
Elaine Steyn, Imran Hasnat
80
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
PHOTOS BY JOY HAMPTON
Perceptivity Award
Nancy Mergler visits with OU President David L. Boren
Bill Ross, Joe Foote
Bill Ross, David Boren, Molly Shi Boren
Jody and Joe Foote, Ralph Thompson
Chamber guest, Chuck Thompson, Mike Lacy
Glenn Parker, Hailey Frazier, Tracie Tomlinson and Liz Barfield
Nancy Wolf, Shannon McCutchen
Kyla McMoran, Jamie Swain
Gina Mitchell, Robin Allen Carrie Mitchell, Ryan Cannon
Chamber Events The Norman Chamber of Commerce’s spring events included Business After Hours at Sooner Copy Machines and Mitchell’s Jewelers. Natalie Shirley was the guest speaker at a chamber women’s networking luncheon held at the Assistance League chapter headquarters. The chamber’s annual banquet was held April 23 at the Embassy Suites. Look for pictures in the July-August issue of Norman Magazine.
Rebecca Sparks, Mandy Haws
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
81
Snap Shots Junior League Charity Ball The Junior League of Norman (JLN) had an exciting night “Raising the Stakes” with their 2015 Annual Charity Ball held on February 21, 2015 at Embassy Suites in Norman. The event was under the planning and creative direction of Stephanie Courtney, a professional Oklahoma Event Planner and JLN Member, along with co-chair Ashley Welke. Guests were treated to the famous Taster’s Affair showcasing the best dishes from Norman and surrounding areas, as well as live and silent auctions and show-stopping entertainment. “It was important to us that the guests felt like they were enjoying an experience, and not just attending a fundraising event,” Courtney said. By offering casino games, a wine pull and live entertainment, guests are sure to agree that it was a great time. Every year the main focus of the Charity Ball is to raise funds to directly support the Norman community and the projects JLN serves. The JLN is continually changing and evolving to meet growing needs in the community, and is grateful for the support of businesses and individuals alike. The Charity Ball saw record sponsorships this year and JLN proudly continues to fund the Baby Steps House, Done In a Day projects, and Food For Kids. Recently the JLN founded a program called Girl Power, which focuses on empowering at-risk fifth grade girls with courage, self-esteem and knowledge. “It is life changing to witness someone grow and realize they are important and worthwhile,” said Katie Ihrig, JLN member. One of the biggest changes to this year’s Charity Ball was the online and text bidding for the silent auction items. With the help of inVinci, the software company offering the technology for online bidding, auction items were available to be viewed in advance so guests could invite family and friends to bid on items, regardless of whether they actually attended the event. This advancement was without a doubt a huge contributor to this year being one of the most successful Charity Balls to date.
Blake Wozniak, Simon Moore, Caleb Cramer
Showgirls from Teaze Dance and Fitness
Danny and Amy Morris
Erin Williford, current JLN president, noted, “I am very proud of the success of ‘Raising the Stakes.’ The incorporation of the online auction, the casino gaming tables, a wonderful DJ and fantastic restaurants all contributed to this being the best Charity Ball I can remember. It’s a wonderful thing to be able to have fun while raising money for our community projects.” For more information on how you can sponsor or donate to the Junior League of Norman please visit www. juniorleagueofnorman.org or ‘Like’ our Facebook page “Junior League of Norman.” Junior League of Norman is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
Ashley Welke, Stephanie Courtney
Jessica Miller, Rooney Virgin
82
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Bryan and Jennifer Skinner
Shelby Cummings, Jennifer Morgan
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
83
got you We’veWe’ve got you We’ve got covered covered you covered.
Nicole T. Jarvis, M.D. OB/GYN 3201 W. Tecumseh Road, Suite 220 Norman, Ok 73072 405-701-2424
more beautiful A more A beautiful you. yo A more beautiful you.
www.NicoleJarvisMD.com
TRANSCRIPTM E D I A
Norman | print | online | mobile | magazine | Moore
normantranscript.com
TOWN
N
M oore American mooreamerican.com
• Acne/Laser Treatments • Chemical Peels • Permanent Make-up • Microdermabrasion • Chemical Peels • Laser Skin Resurfa • Permanent Make-up Acne/Laser Treatments • Nasal• Reconstruction • Laser Skin Resurfacing • Acne/Laser • Treatments Cheek and Chin Implants • Facelift/Weekend L • Microdermabrasion Browlift • JuveDerm® • Facelift/Weekend•Lift • Microdermabrasion • Nasal Reconstruction • Chemical Peels• Browlift • Eyelid Surgery • Nasal Reconstruction • Cheek and Chin Implants • Eyelid Surgery • Facial Liposuction • Laser Skin Resurfacing • Cheek and Chin Implants • Vein Treatments • Facelift/Weekend LiftLiposuction• Neck Lift • Facial • Browlift • Vein Treatments • Botox® • JuveDerm® • Neck Lift • Eyelid Surgery• Botox® Best Cosm • JuveDerm® etic Surger y • Facial Liposuction Voted by the Norman • Neck Lift Transcript Read ers • Botox®
640 24th Ave S. W. • Norma 640 24th Ave. S. W. • Norman 405-364-6777 405-364-6777 • normansurgicalarts.com• normansurgicalar 640 24th Ave S. W. • Norman 405-364-6777 • normansurgicalarts.com Fellow
Fellow
84
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
Parting Shot
Benjamin Roberts catches a football with his dad at last year’s Summer Breeze concert series in Lions Park. This year’s first concert is May 17 at 7:30 p.m. featuring The Handsome Devils PHOTO BY KYLE PHILLIPS
NORMAN magazine | MAY/JUNE 2015
85