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E A L E S T A T E w i t h B U Y B U Y S E L L S E L L
BY: DAN SCHEMM
LOVE, YOUR WAY
WValentine’s Weekend in Norman
ith Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, Norman offers an easy way to turn the holiday into more than a single night out. From creative outings and playful activities to relaxed evenings close to home, the city provides a variety of ways to shape a Valentine’s weekend without overplanning.
FOR THE CREATIVE & CURIOUS
Norman’s arts scene offers a natural place to start the weekend. The 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk on Friday, Feb. 13 invites visitors to explore galleries, studios and unique shops throughout the Walker Arts District in Downtown Norman. With no set route or schedule, this event creates a relaxed lead-in to the evening before dinner or drinks elsewhere.
Live music, performances and creative events happening across Norman throughout the weekend offer additional opportunities to build plans around shared interests, whether that means catching a show or simply browsing local spaces.
FOR THE PLAYFUL & ADVENTUROUS
For couples who prefer activity over a traditional dinner reservation, Norman offers plenty of playful options. Bowling, arcade games and interactive entertainment at places like Sooner Bowl, SoonerCade, Main Event and HeyDay Entertainment keep the mood light and flexible, making it easy to pair fun with food or dessert afterward.
Valentine’s Day itself also brings one of Norman’s most imaginative events. The Medieval Fair Ball leans fully into fantasy, with themed attire, music and a festive atmosphere. It stands out as an unexpected option for couples looking to try something different.
FOR THE “LET’S KEEP IT EASY” CROWD
For those drawn to a classic night out, Norman’s dining and nightlife scene offers comfortable, familiar options alongside a few new additions well-timed for Valentine’s weekend, including Juliette Oyster Bar & Steakhouse and Maximillian’s Social Club, both designed for lingering conversation.
When dessert feels essential but better enjoyed later, local favorites like Apple Tree Chocolate offer takehome treats that extend the evening in a relaxed way.
No matter how the weekend takes shape, Norman offers flexibility and choice. More inspiration for Valentine’s weekend, along with February events happening around town, can be found at VisitNorman.com.– BSM
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Norman Public School’s Aviation Academy Completes Milestone PREPARING FOR LIFTOFF
As a boy growing up near the University of Oklahoma’s Max Westheimer Airport, Nico Del Mundo was drawn to the constant hum of airplanes.
“I’ve always liked watching planes come in and land and take off,” Nico, 16, told Boyd Street Magazine. “I’ve always liked learning how stuff works. I’m a maker. I like making things.”
Today, the Norman North High junior is learning how to build and maintain planes thanks to training he receives from the Oklahoma Aviation Academy at Norman Public Schools and at the Moore Norman Technology Center.
The academy is a collaboration between the school district, the university, and industry leaders like Boeing. It prepares high schoolers for careers in aviation, aerospace, and related STEAM fields through handson experience, education, and industry exposure.
The aviation program has grown from an inaugural class of freshmen students in the fall of 2022 to about 300 participants today, according to academy director Terry Adams.
In May, the academy will complete its first four-year cohort.
“I think that kids are looking for something fun and interesting to do, and I think they want to be a part of what’s going on as far as a career goes,” he said. “We’ve tried over the last 3 ½ years to diversity our offerings so that we cover a lot of interest areas for kids.
“Our programming covers private pilot and drone stuff. We have a lot of weather ... we encourage kids to look at meteorology school. We have air traffic control in there, cyber defense. Aviation maintenance is an option with our partners at Moore Norman Technology Center. I just think there are a lot of different pathways they can take.”
The crown jewel of the program is a new state-of-theart facility being built on university-owned property adjacent to the 740-acre airport. The 113,000-squarefoot building is expected to be completed by December 2026, according to Adams.
“It appears like we’ll be able to start classes in the new building in January of ‘27,” he said.
The new facility will house four aviation rooms, an engineering room, a civil air patrol room, a Tango Flight classroom, two plane-building areas, three science rooms, and 13 traditional classrooms.
Max Westheimer Director Lance Lampkin makes a point of talking to aviation students at least once a semester. He also gives them tours of the airport.
“We try to stay as heavily involved as we can to make sure that they are connected to professionals that are actively working in the industry,” he told Boyd Street. “Students can learn from my team or even any consultants that may be in the area and just get them that hands-on, real-world experience.”
Construction is also underway on Max Westheimer’s new air traffic control tower, which will stand 106 feet tall when completed in August or September, Lampkin said.
“It’s a little bit under double the height of what we currently have,” he said. “Our current control tower cab was moved; it was an old Tinker tower cab from the 1940s that was sitting in a boneyard. It was moved to its location now at our airport in 1982.
The cab, a glass-enclosed room at the very top of the airport’s control tower, provides air traffic controllers with a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the airfield and surrounding airspace.
Safety concerns prompted the move to replace the existing cab, which sits atop the third floor of the Max Westheimer terminal building, Lampkin said.
“We started to identify that our tower was too short, so our controllers weren’t able to accurately see or comfortably see the north end of the airfield like the (Federal Aviation Administration) wanted them to,” he said. “They could still see it, but there are some sightline requirements that are minimum standards by the FAA.”
Evans, meanwhile, is excited about the progress of Tango Flight, a non-profit educational program that encourages high school students by having them build and fly real, FAA-certified airplanes from kits.
Students started the first build of a Van’s RV-12iS in August and have since started building a second plane.
Both are being built in an airport hangar, Adams said.
As many as 40 schools nationwide, including six in Oklahoma, participate in the Tango Flight program.
“We’re to my knowledge the only dual-build school that signed on to build two planes at a time,” he said. “I’ve got about 60 students, juniors and seniors, that are working to build these planes.”
Among them is Del Mundo, who plans to become an aviation maintenance technician once he is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
He’s learning more about that end of the business from the technology center at 4701 12th Ave. NW. It’s where he spends about three hours a day, before heading over to the aviation academy.
“I’m a hands-on learner and we get to do a lot of hands-on activities, projects, stuff like that,” he said. “I love the program, both what I do at Moore Norman and the aviation academy.”– BSM
Norman Public Schools superintendent Dr. Nick Migliorino speaks at the topping out ceremony for the avaiation academy
Work continues on Max Westheimer Aiport’s new control tower
the FUTURE is NOW
Photos by: Mark Doescher
BY: CHRIS PLANK
Uncommonly talented, highly recruited and highly motivated. Aaliyah Chavez has been as good as advertised as she stars for the University of Oklahoma women’s basketball team. The high-profile recruit with the impressive resume and massive social media following has quickly made her mark on Sooner Nation and the entire college basketball world.
Right out of the gate, Chavez has proven that she is the real deal and has already exceeded expectations while validating the incredible hype that followed her to Norman. Through the first half of the season, Chavez leads the Sooners in scoring and assists. She has registered the top scoring mark among all first-year players nationally and is the only true freshman ranked inside the top 100 in scoring.
“She’s so incredibly special,” head coach Jennie Baranczyk said. “I knew that she was really good, obviously. I saw her enough times in summer basketball, and I’ve seen her enough times in her high school. I knew she was a special player. I think her desire to be great is outstanding, and I don’t mean just in terms of being a scorer. I mean, she wants to be great in everything that she does, and so when she steps across the line, she’s competing.”
The Lubbock, Texas, native is one of only four players nationally — and the only freshman — averaging at least 18.9 points, 4.4 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game. She is on pace to join Hannah Hidalgo, Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark as freshmen since 2009 to average those figures.
Chavez came to Oklahoma as a five-star prospect and is the highest-rated signee in program history. She was a standout at Monterey High School, sweeping national player of the year honors from Gatorade, Naismith, MaxPreps and Sports Illustrated, and was named a McDonald’s All-American. She was ranked the No. 1 prospect in the class of 2025 by Prospects Nation, USA Today, 247Sports and others.
Her high school and AAU numbers are staggering. As a star senior, Chavez averaged 34.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 3.7 steals per game, leading the Monterey Plainsmen to the 5A Division II state title for the first time in over 40 years. She concluded her high school career with 4,796 points, 1,279 rebounds, 771 assists and 476 steals, hitting 636 3-pointers across 150 games. One of the most prolific scorers in high school girls’ basketball history, Chavez recorded nine 50-point games and ranks 14th on ESPN’s all-time scoring list. On the AAU circuit, Chavez starred for CyFair Elite and led the team to Nike Nationals championships in 2022 and 2024.
At the 2025 McDonald’s All-American Game, Chavez helped power Team West to a 22-point win, finishing
with 10 points and four assists while also winning the event’s 3-point shooting competition. She later represented Team USA at the Nike Hoop Summit, where she posted 10 points, five assists and two steals in a victory over the World Team.
The competition was fierce to secure Chavez. In the end, Baranczyk’s style was a major difference maker that landed the talented point guard in Norman.
“They play fast, and they like to shoot,” Chavez said. “If y’all watch me play, I love to shoot, and I play fast. It just kind of matched how I played.”
For Baranczyk and Oklahoma, the addition of Chavez has brought more than just a great player — It has also added a great teammate.
“You know, she has so much belief in her team, and they have so much belief in her, so she’s just really, really special,” Baranczyk said. “I love coaching her. I love that you can be really hard on her in one possession, and then the next one, she’s right there, locked in with you. She doesn’t turn on you, and she doesn’t turn on her team, and I think that’s a credit to her character and who she is.”
At Oklahoma, Chavez has found a supportive environment where people care about her. One example she shared was her team’s reaction after she missed a late shot against Kentucky.
“Everyone’s been great so far,” Chavez said. “I feel I’m just moving on in the games, and going forward you can see my teammates trust me. That’s what’s so great about Oklahoma is they trusted me to hit that last shot against Kentucky. Even though I missed the shot, everyone was together and telling me, ‘You’re OK. … Everyone misses shots.’”
Chavez has earned the trust of her teammates through her hard work and unselfishness.
“I think she’s done a great job adjusting,” junior forward Sahara Williams said. “She’s still a kid at the end of the day, and I’m so proud of her for how she’s handled it.”
Senior center Raegan Beers also mentioned she’s proud of Chavez and what she has been able to achieve so far.
“There’s a lot of things that go unseen, a lot of work that goes unseen, especially when it comes to Aaliyah Chavez,” Beers said. “I tell her almost every day, ‘I’m proud of you. You take on a lot as a freshman point guard coming in, expected to run offense where it’s a read and react, and you don’t have a set play, and you got to tell people where to go, and you got to know what you’re doing, you don’t know where
everybody else is going.’ To come into a team like that at this level in the SEC, one of the best conferences in women’s basketball, it’s a hard thing to do.”
But the core of what has driven Chavez to be the best is rooted in her family. Her father, Sonny Chavez, began training her when she was in third grade. He used past frustrations with how he was picked on and treated as a child to help fuel his desire for his kids to be thick-skinned. His goal was not a fluffy, feelgood approach. When he was conducting workouts, he wanted his clients to quit.
“The first time we started training, he didn’t want me to play basketball,” Chavez said. “He would challenge me, saying, ‘This is not a sport for you.’ I would just be coming in, and he pushed me as hard as he could and was like, ‘You’re not playing. You’re going to quit instead.’”
When she did not quit, her dad knew that she had the potential to be special.
“When she didn’t quit the workouts, I knew, obviously, she was a little bit different than most,” Sonny said. “She has two older siblings that were not willing to do the workouts, so by the time we got to her, we’re not wasting our time.”
The training ramped up another level. The goal was to be the best, and Chavez thrived.
“He saw that I had that fight in me, and then he believed in me,” Chavez said. “He’s been huge in just my whole game, my personality, everything. I wouldn’t be the person or player without him for sure. I know my dad’s always been in there with me, and he’s always had confidence in me. Coming into the game, if I’m going to shoot this shot, then I’m going to make this shot, and that’s what I believe every time I shoot a shot. Or if I make a play, I’m like this pass is getting there. I just have so much confidence in my game.”
While Chavez continues to thrive in Baranczyk’s system at Oklahoma, there have been adjustments. The first adjustment was to get used to the physicality of SEC basketball compared to high school or AAU basketball. Another adjustment for Chavez has been learning how to become a better player when the ball is not in her hands.
“I would also say I didn’t come off the ball a lot in high school or in AAU,” Chavez said. “Now coming off the ball, how do I read something? How do I get myself open or get my teammates open?”
As for working to get open when she did not have the ball in her hands, it was a learning process for the lifelong point guard who continues to improve every game.
“I don’t know how many assisted shots she had prior to coming here,” Baranczyk said. “She had the ball in her hands a lot, and so you can see her learning how to put her team in good positions. There are moments that she’s taken over a game, and there’s moments that she’s learning to get us in the offense. Her communication is going to continue to grow, and her confidence, her presence continues to grow every game.”
The awards are already rolling in. Through the first 17 games of the season, Chavez had already been named the SEC Freshman of the Week five times. The SEC record is held by Kentucky’s Rhyne Howard, who earned eight honors. Courtney Paris set the OU record with nine freshman of the week selections, and Chavez’s five are tied with a handful of Sooners for the second most.
Chavez has also been mentioned for every major award in women’s college basketball. She was named to the preseason watch lists for the Tamika Catchings National Freshman of the Year Award, Naismith Trophy National Player of the Year, Wooden Award and Nancy Lieberman Point Guard of the Year Award.
While Oklahoma has a special talent in Chavez, the roster is truly loaded. Four of OU’s five starters were five-star prospects and McDonald’s All-Americans, while the lone non-five-star starter, Zya Vann, was a top 50 recruit in ESPN’s rankings. But Chavez and the rest of the Sooners are more than just highly rated prospects — they have grown into a legit Final Four contender and are playing hard.
What has made Chavez so special is her relentless work ethic, unwavering confidence and ability to quickly adapt to new challenges. From her early days, she demonstrated a unique drive to improve and excel, thriving under intense training and embracing every opportunity to get better. Chavez’s
confidence, instilled by her father’s belief in her, manifests in her fearless approach on the court — whether she’s taking a crucial shot or making a decisive pass, she trusts her skills and decisions completely.
Chavez’s stands out not just for her talent, but for her passion, competitive spirit and the ability to play with heart in every aspect of the game. Surrounded by a talented roster, Chavez’s special qualities have led to expectations that truly have no limit for not just her but the entire team.
“She wants to be great, and she wants everyone around her to be great,” Baranczyk said.
“She doesn’t show up moody. She comes with a really good attitude. She’s really coachable, sometimes almost too coachable. There are times where I kindly say something to her on the floor, and she looks back so nice at me most times. She doesn’t do that when I look away from her. She’s won over her team and the fans, and I love her ability to fit in with the team.”– BSM
GROWING TO MEET THE NEED
The Salvation Army Plans Emergency Shelter Expansion in Norman
The Salvation Army recently announced plans to remodel and expand its emergency shelter in Norman, a decision guided by local data and decades of experience serving the community. Serving Cleveland and McClain Counties since 1892, The Salvation Army currently operates a low-barrier facility accessible to individuals and families facing crisis.
An independent firm conducted a comprehensive feasibility study to better understand current services and the growing needs across Cleveland and McClain Counties. According to Salvation Army leadership, the study confirmed what staff and volunteers witness every day: an increased need for safe shelter, warm meals and access to basic hygiene services.
In response, an expansion plan emerged from months of evaluation, planning and community-focused conversation, all rooted in the organization’s mission to meet human needs without discrimination.
The project will move forward once final internal approvals are secured. Funding is already in place for Phases 1 and 2. Additional private donations are needed to complete Phase 3.
Although The Salvation Army operates internationally, all funding for this expansion will be raised locally. Every dollar donated in Cleveland and McClain Counties will remain in the community to support local programs and services.
STRENGTHENING THE FOUNDATION
The first two phases focus on improving the core spaces that serve both shelter residents and the broader Norman community. Plans include the construction of a new 4,333-square-foot commercial kitchen and dining hall, fully equipped for on-site meal preparation and seating for up to 144 guests.
Renovations to the existing emergency shelter will increase bed capacity to 48 and expand access to showers and laundry services. The Salvation Army is currently the only emergency shelter in Norman offering both services, amenities that play a critical role in personal dignity, health and long-term stability.
While construction start dates depend on final approvals, architectural plans are in place, positioning the organization to move forward as soon as approvals are finalized.
EXPANDING CAPACITY WITH DIGNITY
Phase 3 will begin once fully funded through private donations and includes nearly 9,000 square feet of new construction. The phase includes seven family shelter pods with private bathrooms, a new women’s shelter accommodating up to 68 women and additional renovations to the existing shelter.
When all phases are complete, the emergency shelter will have the capacity to serve up to 144 individuals in a single evening.
For more information about the emergency shelter expansion or how to support the project, contact The Salvation Army of Cleveland and McClain Counties.– BSM
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A FLIGHT PATH FOR THE FUTURE
Under the vast Oklahoma sky and amidst the skeletal steel of what will soon become a world-class educational hub, leaders from education, government, and industry gathered January 14 for a ceremonial beam-signing at the future home of the Oklahoma Aviation Academy (OAA).
The event marked a pivotal milestone for a project that has moved with blistering speed—from a conceptual conversation in late 2021 to a multimillion-dollar construction site at Max Westheimer Airport today.
FROM A SINGLE “YES” TO “DRAINING THE RIVER.”
“I remember the day when Mr. Rick Nagle pitched this,” Dr. Nick Migliorino told the crowd. “I went straight into Justin Milner’s office and said, ‘This is going to be the most incredible day or the worst day of our lives. I just said yes to something.”
That “yes” set off a chain reaction that united the University of Oklahoma, Norman Public Schools, Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition, Moore Norman Technology Center, and state legislators. Chuck Thompson, an officer of the Coalition and President of the OAA Board of Advisors, used a military metaphor to describe the logistical hurdles the team overcame. “It reminds me of a story of two Civil War generals. One says, ‘Just drain that river and march our troops across.’ The other asks how, and the first says, ‘I’m in policy, not operations.’ We are standing here because our operations people actually figured out how to drain the river.”
OVERCOMING A CENTURY OF OBSTACLES
Rick Nagel, the visionary behind the project and Managing Partner of Acorn Capital Management, emphasized that the OAA's existence was never a certainty. He noted that the project survived over a hundred potential dealbreakers, including a complicated land deed dating back to the 1940s involving the Department of War. “There were probably 100 to 120 single points of failure,” Nagel remarked. “The prevailing sentiment through this entire program was approaching everything with ‘Yes.’ If we know we have problems to solve, let’s focus on what unites us.”
THE ECONOMIC ENGINE: CLEVELAND COUNTY’S ROLE
While the vision was educational for the School System, workforce development strategy for the aviation industry was the reason the Coalition marshalled resources and submitted the application for $20 million in state funding. Boeing representatives were on site as well and have already contributed nearly $500,000 to the Academy.
LOOKING TO THE HORIZON
As the ceremony concluded, students signed the final structural beam, a permanent record of the inaugural classes that started in portable buildings just three years ago.
HIGH-FIVES TODAY. HIGH-SKILLED JOBS TOMORROW.
A humanoid, a county-wide student contest, and a talent-attraction program for employers
Help Us Name the Humanoid
This spring, K-12 students across Cleveland County can enter our Name the Humanoid+ Innovation Essay Contest for a chance to:
• Help officially name ourhumanoid
• Win scholarships and classroom STEM prizes
• See their ideas about the future of work come to life Contest opens March 15. Deadline May 1. Details and entry forms will be published on February 28th.
As part of our national, award-winning, and visionary talent attraction and job opportunities program, the Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition would like to introduce you to our as-yetunnamed Humanoid. She stands 4’10” high, has electric blue eyes, weighs 80lbs, and has a firm handshake. Her skills are limited only by our imagination and AI programming.
Cleveland County FUTURES
ClevelandCountyFUTURESisacounty-wideeffort,fundedsolelybytheAmericanRescuePlanAct(ARPA), allocatedbytheClevelandCountyBoardofCommissionersto:
• Grow good jobs with Cleveland County businesses
• Support students and workers as they prepare for future careers
• Attract the kinds of investment that keep opportunity right here at home From humanoids in classrooms to new spaces for innovation, the Coalition is helping the next generation build their future in Cleveland County.
Inform. Inspire. Connect
Left: Humanoid Middle: Grayson Millar, 3rd Grade, All Saints Catholic School Right: TJ Shuster, 6th Grade, Irving Middle School
SPECIAL OLYMPICS OKLAHOMA WINTER GAMES BOWLING AT SOONER BOWL
INVESTING IN STUDENTS
MNTC Foundation Luncheon Raises Money for Scholarships, Teacher Grants
Individuals, organizations and businesses have an opportunity to enhance student achievement and advance education during an upcoming fundraiser benefiting Moore Norman Technology Center.
The Moore Norman Technology Center Foundation is hosting its annual luncheon on Feb. 24 to raise money for scholarships and efforts that the foundation supports at the center.
Jillian Ramick, president of the foundation, said the event showcases how donations from the community have far-reaching benefits for students and MNTC.
“We hear from students, faculty and staff about how those funds directly impact their own personal journey or what the teacher and staff witness as far as those funds impacting the students,” Ramick said.
The foundation’s work includes raising money for student scholarships, a grant program for teachers and emergency funding for center students or employees in the event of sudden loss of income or hardship.
Additional efforts include a gas card program to assist students in need of extra money for fuel and a food pantry for students and staff in partnership with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. The foundation also hosts a Student of the Month program, in partnership with Tinker Federal Credit Union, to recognize students who are excelling in their programs, Ramick said.
Ramick is one of 12 members who serve on the foundation. She has worked with the foundation for two years and values being part of a group that aims to further the technology center, its students and its programs.
The center plays a vital role in the region by helping high school students and adults get the education and experience they need to launch them into career fields, while also helping businesses with their training needs, she said.
The luncheon is a chance for individuals and businesses to make a difference in students’ lives and invest in the work being done at MNTC.
“You can see that direct impact and know that your funds are directly assisting someone who is trying their absolute hardest to better themselves and their families,” Ramick said.– BSM
T he Moore Norman Technology Center Foundation luncheon is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 24 at the center’s South Penn Campus at 13301 S. Pennsylvania Ave. in Oklahoma City. Tickets are $50 per person, and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, visit mntc.edu/luncheon.
“I
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Love
IS IN THE (LOCAL) AIR
A Valentine to Norman Business
February has a way of softening the edges. Storefront windows glow a little warmer, menus sprout chocolate and champagne, and even the most practical among us start thinking in hearts instead of spreadsheets. In Norman, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance, it’s about relationships. And nowhere is that more evident than in our local business community.
Doing business in Norman has always been personal. This is a town where the barista remembers your order, the shop owner asks about your kids, and the server at your favorite restaurant notices when you’ve been gone too long. It’s not just commerce; it’s connection. In a season devoted to love, that matters.
Local businesses here show their affection year-round, but February puts it on full display. Florists hustle to keep up with last-minute romantics. Restaurants transform ordinary weeknights into candlelit occasions. Boutiques curate gifts that say, “I saw this and thought of you,” which, incidentally, is exactly what shopping local feels like. When you buy from a Norman business, someone actually did see it and think of you.
There’s also something quietly romantic about entrepreneurship itself. Starting a business takes faith, commitment, and no small amount of risk, qualities that mirror any lasting relationship. Norman’s business owners pour their hearts into what they do, whether that’s perfecting a recipe, opening their doors one more day during a tough season, or sponsoring a local team because community loyalty still means something here.
Valentine’s Day reminds us that love isn’t grand gestures alone. It’s consistency. It’s showing up. That’s what Norman businesses do. They weather construction, economic ups and downs, and changing trends, yet they stay rooted. They adapt without losing their identity, proving that longevity, like love, is built on trust.
And the relationship goes both ways. When residents choose local shops, services, and restaurants, they’re
not just making a purchase; they’re returning the affection. Every dollar spent locally is a small love letter, saying, “You matter to this town.” It’s how we keep Norman, Norman.
So, this Valentine’s Day, maybe the best date night starts downtown. Maybe the most meaningful gift isn’t shipped overnight but wrapped by someone who lives just a few blocks away. Maybe love looks like choosing the place that knows your name over the one that only knows your credit card number.
In a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, Norman’s business community reminds us that relationships still drive success. That loyalty still counts. That love, whether romantic, neighborly, or entrepreneurial, is worth investing in.
This February, let’s celebrate the businesses that make our town feel like home. After all, in Norman, love isn’t just in the air. It’s open for business.
Turning setbacks into comebacks
INDOOR AMENITIES
Central heating and air | Gourmet style kitchen
Granite-like countertops | Plush carpeting
Hardwood-like flooring | Stainless steel appliances
Full-size washer and dryer connections
Double door refrigerator, icemaker, filtered water
Spacious bathrooms with soaking tubs
Large walk-in closets | Energy-efficient windows
Cox Quick Connect, allowing immediate internet
COMMUNITY AMENITIES
24 hour fitness gym
Club house
Swimming pool
Business center
On-site maintenance
HOW TO RECOVER FROM A FINANCIAL SETBACK
Financial setbacks are an unfortunate reality that almost everyone faces at some point in life. The good news is, you can recover and bounce back stronger. Here’s a guide on how to regain control of your finances after a setback, reduce stress and rebuild a solid financial foundation.
1. ASSESS THE SITUATION HONESTLY
The first step in financial recovery is understanding its scope. This requires an honest assessment of your finances. List all your debts, calculate your monthly expenses and then review your assets. Knowing your financial situation can relieve some uncertainty and create a foundation for moving forward.
2. PRIORITIZE YOUR EXPENSES
When you’re in financial recovery mode, prioritizing expenses is crucial. Focus on needs over wants to make the most of your resources:
Essential expenses like housing, food and utilities should always come first.
Debt payments should be prioritized based on interest rates and minimum payments. Paying off high-interest debt can prevent it from growing further. Non-essential expenses like dining out, subscriptions and entertainment should be minimized or cut out temporarily.
This short-term budget shift may feel restrictive, but it’s a powerful way to free up funds that you can use toward debt reduction or savings.
3. CREATE A DEBT REPAYMENT PLAN
If your setback has left you with debt, devising a repayment plan can help you regain financial stability. Consider strategies like:
• The debt snowball method. Focus on paying off the smallest debt first, then move to the next one. This can provide a sense of progress and motivation.
• The debt avalanche method. Prioritize debts with the highest interest rates first. While it may take longer to see progress, this approach can save more money over time.
4. BUILD AN EMERGENCY FUND
If you’ve been through a financial setback, your emergency fund has likely been depleted and needs to be built up. While it may seem impossible to save
while recovering, even small contributions can add up over time. Aim for an initial goal of at least $500$1,000, then gradually work toward saving three to six months worth of expenses, as recommended by financial experts.
5. CONSIDER EARNING EXTRA INCOME
Supplementing your primary income can accelerate your recovery and reduce financial stress. There are several ways to earn extra income, depending on your skills and schedule. First, you can freelance or do gig work. Online platforms, like Fiverr and Indeed, offer opportunities in fields ranging from writing to graphic design and consulting, while ride-sharing platforms, like Uber and Lyft, allow you to accept gigs on your schedule. You can also work part-time in retail or at other seasonal positions. Finally, you can pad your pockets by selling unused items you no longer need on platforms like eBay.
6. SET NEW FINANCIAL GOALS
A positive mindset is critical during financial recovery. Shifting your focus from the setback to the future can help you stay resilient and motivated. Set achievable, short-term financial goals, such as paying down a specific amount of debt each month or saving a set amount each paycheck.
Use this guide to bounce back better from a financial setback or give OU Federal Credit Union a call at 405-325-2211 to meet with one of the Financial Service Representatives.
Beth Ketchum
Schedule your $50 hear t scan today.
Robin Singh, MD Cardiac Electrophysiologist
Norman Regional’s Cardiology team is trusted to provide information and resources outside of the surgery experience. We are home to the largest 365/24/7 Cath Lab in the state with reduced wait times for its cardiac surgey. Norman Regional is the closest provider of heart care for southern Oklahomans.
Donovan Beswick, Director of Radiology at Norman Regional
5 REASONS
During Heart Month, we’re reminded that heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death — especially in Oklahoma. Despite this, many of us can’t identify our risk until it’s too late. That’s why proactive tests like heart scans are essential tools in preventive care.
At Norman Regional, heart scans are quick, affordable and noninvasive ways to take charge of your heart health — often before symptoms ever appear. Heart scans are recommended for women age 40+ and men age 35+.
Here are five powerful reasons from Donovan Beswick, Director of Radiology at Norman Regional, that you should consider scheduling a heart scan this February.
1. EARLY DETECTION CAN SAVE LIVES
Heart scans — also called cardiac scoring or coronary calcium scanning — detect hard calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, an early sign of coronary artery disease (CAD). Detecting this buildup before symptoms arise means you and your doctor can act early to prevent serious events like heart attacks.
“One of the biggest advantages of a heart scan is that it allows us to see signs of heart disease long before symptoms ever appear,” said Donovan. “When we can identify calcium buildup early, patients and their care teams have the opportunity to intervene sooner — and that early action can be life-saving.”
2. IT’S MORE PREDICTIVE THAN STANDARD SCREENS
Unlike routine cholesterol blood tests or blood pressure checks, heart scans directly measure calcified plaque (calcium) in the arteries. Studies show that calcium scoring is significantly more predictive of future coronary events than traditional risk factors alone, helping doctors assess risk more accurately.
“Traditional screenings like cholesterol and blood pressure are important, but they don’t tell the full story,” Donovan said. “A heart scan gives us a direct look at calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, which is one of the most reliable indicators of future heart disease risk.”
3. PERSONALIZED RISK INSIGHT — EVEN WITHOUT SYMPTOMS
Many people with coronary artery disease don’t experience early symptoms. A heart scan provides a personalized calcium score that helps reveal your individual risk — even if you feel healthy — which can be especially valuable if you have risk factors like family history, high cholesterol, smoking history or high blood pressure.
“Heart disease doesn’t always announce itself with warning signs,” said Donovan. “Even patients who feel healthy can have underlying risk. A heart scan provides
an individualized calcium score, which helps patients better understand their personal heart health — not just general risk factors.”
4. IT GUIDES BETTER HEART HEALTH DECISIONS
Knowing your calcium score allows you and your doctor to make informed decisions about your care. A higher score could lead to lifestyle changes, medication adjustments or further testing — all of which can dramatically alter your heart health trajectory.
“The real value of a heart scan is how it informs next steps,” said Donovan. “You can review results with your primary care provider to get a plan and manage your health in the event that there are findings in your scan. Or you can have the peace of mind knowing that everything looks all clear.”
5. QUICK, NONINVASIVE, AND AFFORDABLE
A heart scan takes about 10 minutes, does not require needles or contrast dye and is completely noninvasive. At Norman Regional, scans are priced at only $50 to make proactive heart screening easier for more people.
“Many people are surprised by how simple a heart scan is,” said Donovan. “After the scan, you’ll receive your Preliminary Calcium Scoring Report right away. Once images are reviewed a detailed final report from a board certified radiologist will also be available and can be discussed with your healthcare provider.”
TAKE HEART THIS FEBRUARY
Heart scans aren’t just tests — they’re tools for early action. In a world where heart disease often progresses silently, this quick screening gives you clarity about your cardiovascular health and empowers you to take control.
Whether you’re at average risk or have a family history of heart disease, a heart scan this Heart Month could be a decision your future self thanks you for.
Schedule your $50 heart scan at Norman Regional today by calling 405-307-2290 or scanning the QR code.
Proud Sponsor of United Way of Norman
JSERVICE SPOTLIGHT:
JENNY GOODSPEED
enny Goodspeed began her employment at Cleveland County on Jan. 3, 2023, when Rusty Grissom took office as the Cleveland County commissioner for District 3. After a 33-year career in banking, Goodspeed accepted the position of deputy commissioner, serving directly under Grissom.
Grissom had reasons for offering Goodspeed the job, and she had reasons to take a leap of faith and accept the position, though the initial job offer came as a complete surprise. During her years in banking, Goodspeed cultivated and grew relationships with her customers.
“My customers were more than customers. They became my friends… my people,” she said. “My realm of people included the Grissom family.”
Shortly after Grissom was elected commissioner, he and his wife invited Goodspeed and her husband, David, to dinner.
“I’ve known Jenny for a long time. She was my banker, and when I needed something, I knew she would get it done,” Grissom said. “My wife and daughter suggested I talk to her about coming to work for me. She was shocked when I asked her.”
Goodspeed asked for time to think over his offer.
“I hadn’t considered a change in my career, and I needed time to research what a deputy commissioner would entail,” she said. “I reached out to Chuck Thompson, as I had worked for Chuck for years and respected his professional opinions and expertise. After a lengthy lunch meeting with Chuck and having the support from David, I made the decision to take the job.”
What Goodspeed learned is that county commissioners manage a wide range of responsibilities, and she would be working alongside Grissom to serve the public.
“It’s a big difference in job duties from being a bank vice president versus being a deputy commissioner, but I knew I could trust Jenny to have my back and to do the right thing,” he said.
In her role, Goodspeed uses her financial expertise to protect taxpayers by combing through contracts, examining county accounts, working on the budget and helping ensure that dollars spent at the county level are working for the people.
“I am very proud of what we have accomplished for District 3 since we began in 2023,” she said. “We’ve
made improvements to our roads and bridges by utilizing grant opportunities with our local tribes. We’ve also utilized ARPA funds to replace trucks and equipment that were much needed to keep up with the maintenance demands for our roads.”
Goodspeed sees her job as an honor as she works every day for the betterment of Cleveland County.
“I truly believe we have three county commissioners who work hard and care about their constituents and this great county,” she said. “We’ve created a team defined by transparency, integrity and service. When people trust you with their money, it’s a big deal.”
Goodspeed believes her partnership with Grissom is successful because of the division of duties.
“Rusty provides the vision, and I work on the operations side to help make that a reality,” she said. “We’re united in our shared devotion to the people of District 3.”
As the grandmother of a 2-year-old, Goodspeed believes the work she does to make Cleveland County a better place is work that will benefit her grandson and future generations.
“They live in our district,” she said. “Anything we can do to enrich the future, that’s what we’re here to do.”
While Goodspeed enjoys many pastimes, her favorite moments are spent with David and their kids. Together, they love everything from cheering on Oklahoma football and watching the Los Angeles Rams to going to concerts and rodeos, while finding new adventures along the way.
“As we navigate life as empty nesters, I wouldn’t want anyone else by my side,” she said.
