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BOYD STREET

R Mason Thomas

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Norman - East

801 12th Ave. NE

Norman, OK 73071 (405) 579-7000

Norman - Hwy 9 4925 SE 44th St.

Norman, OK 73072 (405) 579-7000

Norman - North West 570 24th Ave. NW

Norman, OK 73069 (405) 579-7000

Come play with your Wild Card throughout November to win your share of $120,000 in our giveaway. Grand prize drawings on Fridays

Exclusive Facility Access:

Two indoor 25-yard pools

Eight basketball courts

Twelve volleyball courts

Eighteen indoor pickleball courts

Outdoor lighted amenities: two sand

Volleyball courts and six pickleball courts

Leagues:

Basketball for adults and youth

Adult and youth indoor volleyball

Sand volleyball!

Special Events:

From Screen to Plate

Experience Ratatouille like never before with an immersive fine dining and movie event. Enjoy a chef’s tasting from Scratch Kitchen and Cocktails, with each course inspired by key moments in the film and paired with wine. Watch the beloved movie come to life through taste in this unforgettable multi-sensory evening.

November 7 @ 7pm

$100 per person

$150 VIP seating

1 & 2

MATILDA

7 SOONER THEATRE 101 E MAIN ST SOONERTHEATRE.ORG

RATATOUILLE

FROM SCREEN TO PLATE

7PM • YFAC • 2201 TRAE YOUNG DR YFAC.COM

7 10 W MAIN STREET

NORMAN GHOST TOUR

7-8:30PM VISITNORMAN.COM

VETERANS DAY PARADE

9 REAVES PARK 2PM NORMANOK.GOV

MEL BROOKS’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN

7-9 OU UNIVERSITY THEATRE 563 ELM AVE OU.EDU

13 SOONER STATION

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

5-7PM • 2803 24TH AVE NW NORMANCHAMBER.COM

15 CITY OF NORMAN

E-WASTE DROP-OFF

9-12PM • 1017 FAIRWAY DR NORMANOK.GOV

DIFFERENTLY

Wunderhaus Focuses on Beth Ketchum’s

Custom Interior Design Projects with New Location Doing Design

BY: STAFF WRITER

Beth Ketchum knows her craft, from fabrics and upholsteries to the art of making a house into a home. The owner of Wunderhaus Design, Ketchum has customized spaces with her creativity for the past quarter century. The business recently moved to 1228 N. Interstate Drive in Robinson Crossing.

Ketchum made the move in part to focus more on her custom design business, including drapery, upholstery work and more.

“The window treatment and upholstery side of the business has grown considerably more than I expected,” she said. “I have been pleasantly surprised. My biggest reward is when people say, ‘Walking into that room we had designed makes me happy. I can’t believe two window panels made such a huge difference.’”

That happiness comes from Ketchum’s attention to detail and the ability to implement what customers are looking for by truly hearing them and helping along the way when they aren’t sure what exactly they’re seeking.

“When you hear words like custom or interior design, it can be intimidating. That’s not Wunderhaus. We make the design process as easy as possible,” said Ketchum. “It’s about designing furniture and window treatments for your lifestyle. Sometimes people know what they don’t want but aren’t sure what they do want. Oftentimes, it only takes one piece of fabric to help inspire them. We can build on that vision even if it’s incomplete. I always take what my customer likes and put that into a functional living space.”

Fabric is an integral part of Ketchum’s business, which specializes in performance fabrics that deter soil, stain, mildew and odor. Her new store features a 20-foot wall with three-tiered shelves of material.

“I have always loved fabrics and textiles, almost since I can remember, but it really started with taking home ec in middle school,” she explained. “I can see a fabric and know it came out during this or that period. Some discontinued fabrics are now being brought back. If a customer has a favorite fabric in the shop, I ask them to point it out so we can go off that to get a sense of their style.”

The new store also offers more custom projects and drapery treatments on display, with examples of cornices, draperies, shades, shutters and other options.

After creating custom draperies as an independent contractor and working as a consultant with local furniture stores, Ketchum opened her own business, formerly known as Elizabeth Ketchum Interiors. The business transitioned into Wunderhaus Design, a new name highlighting the joy and wonder of home. The website describes it as “where creativity meets function, transforming everyday spaces into curated works of art.”

Ketchum makes the process easy and fun, with her team’s attention to detail underscored by her own sense of commitment.

“When I do a project, you’re going to get 100% of me. I take care of my customers. I am extremely thorough and have open communication with them. I’m really

good at troubleshooting before something happens, which helps execute projects with little to no error,” she said.

Unusual projects have also been part of her portfolio, including RVs and boat seats. A customer even asked about airplane upholstery, but Federal Aviation Administration regulations ultimately altered plans.

Ketchum travels throughout the metro area to lead projects. She recommends placing orders by mid-November in order to be ready for the December holidays.

“I also pride myself on quick turnaround times. Most upholsterers are several weeks to months out, but I can usually have draperies in about four weeks,” she said.

Find out more about Wunderhaus Design at wunderhausdesign.com.– BSM

OU Food Pantry Finds Strength in Partnership with United Way UNITED FOR GOOD

The University of Oklahoma Food Pantry is entering its third year as a United Way partner, a collaboration that has strengthened its mission to serve students, faculty and staff facing food insecurity. Through the university’s annual United Way campaign, 10% of proceeds raised directly support the pantry, helping stock shelves and expand services to the campus community.

“It’s a win-win,” said Matt Marks, assistant director who helped launch the pantry as an undergraduate in 2016. “When staff and faculty donate to United

Way, they’re helping agencies across Norman and the OU community at the same time.”

The partnership has not only provided funding but also connected the pantry with a broader network of organizations and volunteers.

“United Way has allowed us to meet incredible folks in the community, other agencies and businesses that can really help us with what we’re doing,” Marks said. “They do incredible work. It’s strengthened us and built new connections.”

Photo by: Emory HoodOU Marketing and Communications

A STUDENT-DRIVEN EFFORT

The OU Food Pantry began as a student government project. In 2016, the student body president presented the idea, and Marks was tasked with bringing it to life. What started as a student-led effort remains one today.

“It’s been incredible to be a part of,” Marks recalled. “We can really make an impact on campus.”

The pantry serves OU students, staff and faculty. Individuals in need can visit once per week, receiving food, toiletries and clothing. The pantry relies on donations from local food drives, partnerships with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and campaigns such as the annual Red River Food Fight, which collected nearly 12,000 pounds of food this year — up from about 5,000 last year, claiming OU’s three-peat in the annual competition against the University of Texas.

A CULTURE OF CARING

Today, the pantry serves about 400 clients weekly, but Marks measures success through relationships built with clients.

“We hear from people who share how much this support means to their families,” he said. “Sometimes it’s what helps them get to the next paycheck.”

The pantry’s team includes student volunteers who take on leadership roles, managing operations, organizing fundraisers and stocking shelves. Students and community members also contribute throughout the year, forming what Marks calls “a strong volunteer network that keeps us running.”

One of the pantry’s biggest accomplishments has been reducing the stigma around seeking help.

“I do think it’s changing,” Marks said. “Our first location was small and not very inviting. You could see people’s hesitation. Some thought others needed the help more.”

By creating a space that feels like a community hub, the pantry has helped normalize the experience.

“We’re building a culture of community and connection,” the founder said. “It’s about breaking down barriers and making everyone feel welcome.”

LOOKING AHEAD

The pantry continues to evolve to meet growing needs. Recent events, such as a pickleball tournament during OU’s Family Weekend and a spring 5K fundraiser, have increased awareness and financial support.

“Our students are dreaming big,” Marks said. “We don’t just wait for people to come to us — we go to them. There’s always somebody who can use a little help, and we want them to know we’re here when they need us.”

As the United Way campaign continues through mid-December, the pantry’s team hopes to reach another annual $100,000 milestone toward their partnership campaign, strengthening its impact on campus and in the Norman community.

“We’re so thankful for the OU community,” Marks said. “It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we all work together.”

Monthy story presented by: Norman Stamp & Seal

The Cleveland County Economic Development Coalition is proud to sponsor the 2025 National Weather Festival- an event attended by thousands of visitors annually. CCEDC is committed to enhancing weather and radar initiatives in Cleveland County by targeting corporate entities, aerospace partnerships, and by collaborating with partner organizations like the National Weather Center and the OU College of Atmospheric & Geographic Sciences to expand opportunities and contribute to our overall regional prosperity.

The National Weather Festival is a family event with fun educational activities for all ages. There will be lots to see, including helicopters, emergency vehicles, hourly weather balloon launches, and drone demonstrations by our research partners.

Saturday, November 1st

10AM-2PM | National Weather Center

Photos by: Mark Doescher

His smile is contagious, and his ability is unquestioned. In his four seasons as a Sooner, R Mason Thomas has battled through injuries and adversity to become one of the top players in college football and changed the overall perception of defense at the University of Oklahoma.

When Brent Venables took the Oklahoma job in 2022, he made one thing very clear — his defense was going to be “physical, punishing, relentless and suffocating.”

Thomas and several members of that first recruiting class in 2022 took that challenge to heart and have risen to the challenge. They’ve been a part of a complete and total mindset change at OU, where previously defense was an afterthought to a high-scoring offense. Now, the defense is not only the clear strength of the team but also among the best defenses in the country.

“It’s special. It’s a commitment to what we want to do,” Thomas said of the defensive turnaround. “What Brent Venables said in his opening remarks with what he wants to bring to OU. For us to go out and get a sense of what we’re doing now, it’s definitely amazing. That hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. What we do behind the scenes is why we’re a real brotherhood.”

But it was not an easy path for Thomas. In fact, it was almost a path that never led him to OU.

THE RECRUITMENT

Thomas was considered a late bloomer in high school, even with his athletic DNA. His father, Harvey, was a defensive end for the University of Florida.

“My dad played football at UF, that’s how my parents met. My dad wanted me to go play football, and my mom didn’t really want me to play,” Thomas said. “I started playing when I was 7, and in the summer of my sophomore year going into junior year, it really seemed to click. I thought if I really keep working hard, I can make this my profession, and I could get really far. I played basketball and ran track. I wasn’t really into it, but football really became my thing.”

Thomas showed elite skills during his high school career at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and started to rack up huge numbers on the gridiron. He totaled a combined 109.0 tackles, 36.0 tackles for loss, 19.0 sacks and an interception over his junior and senior seasons. Thomas committed to Iowa State in July of 2021 and looked to be on his way to Ames to play his college football for the Cyclones. But then the offers started to pour in — Kentucky, LSU, Miami and a brand-new staff at OU started to take notice, led by new Defensive Ends Coach Miguel Chavis.

“He pulled up in the Hellcat in Pompano Beach, Florida, and sold me on Oklahoma,” Thomas said. “It’s amazing what we’ve been through. What we’re going through now. That’s my guy. … That’s my ride or die at this point. Ever since that day we met in Florida it’s been crazy.”

Brent Venables wanted Thomas in a Sooner uniform so badly it was the first place he sent Chavis when he got the job.

R Mason Thomas

BY: CHRIS PLANK

The

CLOSER

“First guy I sent Coach Chavis to see,” Venables said. “Hired Chavis, and within the first 30 minutes of being hired, I told him, ‘Don’t come to Norman, go to Pompano Beach and go down to see R Mason Thomas.”

Thomas was sold on Oklahoma doing for his career what it did for Nik Bonitto. The current Denver Bronco was a fellow Florida native and someone Thomas looked up to as a player.

“He was that role model for me to decide to go to OU because he fits my stature, that outside linebacker type on the shorter end,” Thomas said. “For him to have success at OU, I wanted to go to OU. Whatever he felt helped him, he gave to me. We text and stuff.”

Thomas was Chavis’ first major recruiting victory, and now he is the focal point of a group that not only has front-line talent but also has plenty of depth.

“When R Mason showed up, he was 212 pounds soaking wet,” Venables said. “Now he’s over 250 pounds, one of the most fierce and explosive pass rushers in college football. … All of his best days are in front of him.”

THE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS

The path wasn’t instant success. Thomas missed seven games over his first two seasons due to inju-

ries but was able to lean into his preparation, understanding that building strong routines would eventually translate to accomplishment.

Battling injuries, Thomas totaled just 16 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in his first two seasons. During his sophomore season, a high ankle sprain set him back only to be followed by yet another ankle sprain that kept him off the field.

“No. 1 was staying healthy, for sure,” Thomas said of battling through injuries. “Find different ways to recover, work to see what works best for me. And No. 1 is to really stay healthy.”

In his process of finding different ways to recover, Thomas started focusing on his diet and his nutrition, and it really helped him find another level heading into his third season in a Sooner uniform.

“I didn’t really notice it was a lot of your diet,” Thomas said. “You can work out as hard as you want to, and if you don’t eat the right stuff, you’re not going to get the right gains you want. I’m leaner and quicker with more speed and more muscle mass. ... That’s where I want to be.”

The renewed focus and health helped Thomas finally get healthy and ready to make the impact he and

everyone knew he was capable of when he stepped on campus.

“The more I got on the field, it was like practice. It kind of slowed down,” Thomas said. “Taking my film process to another level, and taking my treatment, nutrition and hydration process to another level — It all made more sense, building those good habits. It’s not frustrating at all anymore. I just had to stop saying why and follow the plan that God has.”

Getting healthy and gaining a better understanding of Brent Venables’ system helped prepare Thomas to take the next step.

“With experience, you just know what it looks like,” Thomas said. “So, when you prepare and you want to build a good team, you want to tell a younger player how it looks like.”

His veteran teammates helped him find another level on and off the field. With his health where it needed to be and his body healed, Thomas was ready to become more of a leader. He credits Ethan Downs with helping shape his leadership style.

“Ethan showing me what it will look like, so that when Ethan does that, I can show the younger guys what it will look like when I step into that role that I’m doing this

year,” Thomas said. “So, I’m putting my spin on it, but for me to be under him for three years and for my time to kind of lead in my own way, it’s been really good.”

THE CLOSER

Thomas’ persistence led to a breakout 2024 campaign. Across 13 games last season, he recorded 23 tackles, 9.0 sacks, 12.5 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and 11 QB hurries and became one of the SEC’s most disruptive pass rushers. His 9.0 sacks ranked fourth in the conference and 17th nationally.

“I told y’all R Mason was pretty good,” Chavis said. “When you ain’t got no ankles, it’s hard to play edge. Then he starts his junior year and was the most productive guy and all-SEC second team.”

Thomas earned second-team All-SEC honors among coaches and finished 20th nationally in sacks. His nine sacks led the team and no other Sooners’ defender had more than Gracen Halton’s five.

Thomas seemed to have a flair for the dramatic when it came to the timing of his sacks. Six of them came in the fourth quarter of games with the Sooners protecting leads. He earned the nickname “The Closer” for his late-game heroics. Against Tulane, he exploded

for 3 sacks, a forced fumble that he recovered himself and even batted down a pass – all in the span of four game minutes.

After having to sit out the first half of the Auburn game this season, Thomas emerged with a sack on his first series back and on the final offensive play for the Tigers. Thomas was seemingly the only defensive lineman that was rushing the quarterback, and he sacked his former teammate Jackson Arnold for a game-clinching safety.

The Closer had sealed the deal once again.

“They nicknamed me that?” he asked. “That’s a pretty cool nickname, then. Whoever made that nickname is …” Thomas paused for a moment, seemingly searching for the words, before laughing, “a good nicknamer.”

His numbers in 2024 are still jaw dropping to look back upon. He led OU in QB hurries with 11. The rest of the line combined for just 10 more, and no other player at any position had more than three.

Along with his pass-rushing excellence — posting an 85.9 pass-rushing grade for the year, per PFF, which was 16th-best among FBS edge defenders — Thomas had a pair of forced fumbles and a fumble return for a touchdown in the regular-season finale at LSU. Despite his breakthrough junior season, Thomas believes he’s far from a finished product, prompting his return for 2025. His 64.4 run defense grade was 29th among Oklahoma defensive players last season, while his 4.3% stop rate was 19th on the roster.

His nine-sack season last year, including six in SEC play, occurred despite far fewer pass rush snaps than other SEC edge rushers. Arkansas’ Landon Jackson led SEC edge rushers in pass rush snaps with 362 in 12 games. Texas’ Barryn Sorrell also had 362 pass rush snaps, but he played in 16 games for the Longhorns. Compare that to Thomas, who had just 243 pass rush snaps last season. He finished the season with the same number of total pressures as Jackson, according to Pro Football Focus, on 119 fewer pass rush snaps.

DECIDING TO COME BACK

After his breakout junior season, Thomas had a decision to make. Thomas was getting buzz for the 2024 NFL Draft and in the NIL world there were tons of opportunities to still make a lot of money playing college football. It was a family decision.

“I talked to God, my family, my coaches. We sat down and looked through all the film and the draft class. There were some deep edge rushers in that 2025 class,” Thomas said. “Ultimately made the decision to come back, ultimately win with my guys. I’m 0-3 in bowl games. I don’t have a ring. I don’t have anything on my fingers. I don’t have any callused

hands. That was a big thing, the fourth year buys me, Robert Spears-Jennings, Gracen Halton, Kip (Lewis), Kobie (McKinzie) and the whole 2022 class to play with them again and to stay in Norman for my last year I knew I had to come back.”

That family also included a conversation with his coaches.

“He and I kind of shut the door and looked at what’s best for him. What’s best for Oklahoma is to have R Mason back, no doubt,” Chavis said. “That’s pretty easy. But what’s best for you? We just did an honest evaluation of his game, and I was telling him, ‘You look at these NFL grades, but what do you want to be? What do you want to do? What do you want to accomplish at Oklahoma?’ He has his own personal goals of things he wanted to improve on. … There were comments that the NFL scouts had, and he’s been attacking those things this spring and this fall camp.”

There was more than just the allure of the NFL, Thomas reportedly had massive offers to finish his college career somewhere other than Norman.

“Through a lot of hard work, man, he’s really developed into one of the most explosive defenders in all the college football,” Venables said. “He was offered, you know, well over seven figures to leave Oklahoma in the offseason. But, you know, just goes to show the type of character, type of care, the type of investment that he has here at Oklahoma (and) what his opportunity means to him. So, really cool to see.”

Thomas has served as a blueprint for Venables and Chavis when it comes to recruiting. In today’s era of college football, players will leave at the first sign of adversity. Thomas didn’t.

“It’s just a great testimony,” Chavis said of Thomas’ path. “Mas is talking to the guys, but he also came to an official visit and talked to recruits, talking about perseverance. So many kids, if they don’t have immediate success as a freshman (will leave). It used to be if you don’t have immediate success as a freshman, you go to work. Now, you have the opportunity to leave and to not have continuity for yourself because the portal and you’re monetarily incentivized too. It’s been special to see the path R Mason has chosen.”

“The Closer” R Mason Thomas is special due to his combination of elite speed and explosiveness, which allows him to be a disruptive pass rusher despite being undersized. He possesses a relentless mindset and a high motor, constantly working to improve his technique and physicality to make up for what he lacks in size, making him a unique and effective defensive end. The personality and the commitment of Thomas combined with his athleticism are what truly set him apart and make him a cornerstone of the OU defense. – BSM

Turning setbacks into comebacks

SERVING NOTICE

Sooner volleyball climbing the ranks in the SEC

BY: CHRIS PLANK

As they roll through the gauntlet of SEC play, Aaron Mansfield and his OU volleyball team are starting to capture the attention of the rest of the country. With their high-powered service game, big-time hitters and blockers, and their progressive offensive attack, the Sooners are starting to serve notice that they are ready to make a return trip to the postseason and compete in the strongest conference in college volleyball.

Behind the leadership of senior Alexis Shelton and a deep and talented group of attackers, the Sooners shot out of the gate with their best start since 1997. It was also just the sixth time since 1996 that an OU squad finished its nonconference slate with two or fewer losses.

Mansfield, who is in his third year leading the Sooners, said the success so far this season starts with the team’s two young setters — Harper Hall and Avaya Maga. The two have adjusted to running a “very progressive offense.”

“It usually takes some time, but they both have acclimated really well and really quickly, and that’s not an easy thing to do,” Mansfield said. “We just have a lot of players who can score. In our win against Missouri, we hit over .400 as a team, and that equates to a batting average in baseball. Any time you’re over .300, that’s pretty good. Our whole team hit .400 in that match, which was a program record in a five-set match — and it was against a ranked opponent. Our offense has been humming.”

The progressive approach that Oklahoma has implemented in 2025 is the 6-2 rotation. The first number, six, represents the number of hitters on the court, and the second number, two, stands for the number of setters. Usually, there will be three front-row hitters and a back-row setter. After three rotations of this, the setter rotates to the front row and becomes a hitter. The opposite hitter simultaneously rotates to the back row and becomes the setter. The Sooners have been able to execute this rotation because of the talent and emergence of Hall and Maga.

“We have a few undersized setters, and with the SEC being the most physical conference in the country, we need to have a certain level of physicality at the net,” said Mansfield of using multiple setters. “We just have different setters, and all of them are highly skilled, but they’re just a bit undersized. We looked at the 6-2 lineup, and it’s really dictated by who you have on your roster. It’s not a lineup we’ll do every year since your roster is always changing, but we looked at who we have and how it’s going to be optimized.”

Maga tallied a season- and career-high 37 assists in the Sooners’ win over Missouri, while Hall had 31 in

the same match. Despite using two different setters, the Sooners have still been able to find a solid rhythm and chemistry with their offensive attack.

“In volleyball, you basically have six offensive sets.” Mansfield explained. “Each of our setters runs three, but you need to have rhythm in all six. It’s kind of like having two quarterbacks, but you don’t want the rhythm of the offense to change. ... It’s really hard. It just takes time. What ends up happening is when both setters set the ball with similar shapes, the hitters know what to expect. We’ve been working on that a long time, since the start of camp, and that setter hitter rhythm. It’s arguably the most important thing in this sport. It’s been really good this season, and it has a lot to do with setters setting a very similar ball.”

The setters’ success can also be traced to the depth of weapons the Sooners have at their disposal, led by Shelton. Shelton was named to the preseason watch list for the AVCA’s 2025 Division I Player of the Year Award and has lived up to the billing. As of mid-October, Shelton led the Sooners in kills, averaging 3.56 kills per set and is just shy of a .300 hitting percentage. After becoming the 15th Sooner to reach 1,000 kills, Shelton has climbed into the top 10 in program history and has a realistic chance to finish in the top six for her career.

“She has turned into a really good all-around player,” Mansfield said. “When we got here, she could jump high and hit hard. That would allow her to score some points ,but there were some other parts of her game that needed to be developed, and she treats her mind and her body like a professional now. The way she shows up every day in practice is a testament to the progress she’s made.

“The other thing that has changed is that sometimes she tends to feel the game out and let it come to her, and then she flips the switch halfway through the match,” Mansfield continued. “What she’s done a much better job of is from point number one, she starts to insert her dominance. She’s done that this season — not letting the game come to her. She goes and gets it right away. That’s taken some time to develop, and she’s done a tremendous job of that. In SEC play, she’s been pretty electric. To watch her play from the sidelines and get to coach her every day is pretty special. I think she’s one of the top athletes on campus.”

Washington transfer Emoni Bush has added another weapon for the Sooner setters and has been electric since stepping on campus. Bush had arguably the best outing of her career in a September win over St. Mary’s, hitting an incredible .800. Bush had the first 20-kill game of her career and recorded zero errors on 25 swings. The graduate transfer is the only Sooner in Photos by:

Mark Doescher

the 25-point rally scoring era (2008-present) to hit .800 with a minimum of 20 attempts. She is the sixth Sooner to record a .800 or higher hitting percentage with a minimum of 10 attempts and the only outside hitter to do so. Bush now leads the nation in single game hitting percentage (minimum 20 attempts).

“A lot of the times when you’re scouting an opponent, you focus on two primary attackers. For us we have four,” said Mansfield said of this squad’s depth. “That can create a lot of issues for teams and how they defend us. You can’t pay attention to one or two attackers. It can become a really big competitive advantage having this many attackers, and this the first time we had it. At the same time, we’re going to go to Alexis and Emoni in crunch time because of their experience when needed. That doesn’t mean anyone else can’t do it. Alexis has been in that moment. We are a really balanced offense right now, but we want to continue to set up Alexis.”

And the depth has been bolstered with the development of Kelli Jo (KJ) Burgess and the emergence of Kamille Gibson. Burgess has become a key piece of the Sooner attack and has set career highs on two occasions with eight blocks in a match. Gibson added her name to the record books as she recorded five aces against Central Arkansas in a three-set victory. Gibson is now the fourth Sooner to tally five aces

in a three-set match in the 25-point rally scoring era. The development of freshmen Tekoa Barnes and Ada Awagu have given the Sooners explosive weapons that continue to develop.

“The staff has done a great job with the development and recruiting. Then you have KJ Burgess, who is in the top five in the SEC in hitting percentage, and you throw her in with our pins who have been really efficient,” Mansfield said. “Opposing defenses are going to have to pay attention to a lot of attackers instead of just keying on one or two, and that can create a cool competitive advantage that we’ve seen so far. We certainly want to set a lot of balls to Alexis and Emoni. They’re going to be the highest volume attackers for us, but we also know we have a lot of other players who can score”.

The future for the OU volleyball program is exceptionally bright due to a combination of innovative coaching strategies, emerging young talent and a deep roster of highly skilled athletes. With strong recruiting, player development and a culture of continuous improvement, the Sooners are well positioned for sustained success in the coming seasons. With the focus and determination of Mansfield and his dedicated staff, OU is on the path toward becoming a force in the world of college volleyball. – BSM

From:

TKicking It The Washington Warriors Football Team has

an Unexpected Helper on Special

Teams She’s

he Washington Warriors have built a dynasty. Under head coach Brad Beller, the Warriors have won back-to-back-to-back Oklahoma Class 2A state titles. Heading into the season, Washington had won 44 straight games and 70 of its last 73 games.

Prior to an early-season loss to Sulphur, the Warriors had not suffered a defeat since the 2021 state championship game against Marlow. The current seniors on the Warriors’ roster had never lost a game until Sept. 5, 2025.

The word dynasty fits, and Beller has been the architect of one of the most dominating runs in high school football. But there was an area where the Warriors needed some help this season, and an unlikely candidate stepped up and rose to the challenge.

“It started back in August. My daughter, Kelby, came in one day. We were practicing special teams, and she asked who our kicker was,” Beller said. “We had Kade Babcock and a freshman in Charle Mann, who was really green — he’s going to be really good. And for whatever reason that really struck her.”

Kelby, one of three daughters for Beller and his wife, Kami, was entering her senior year at Washington High School. She is already an accomplished athlete, having earned a scholarship to play college basketball for Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and has been a key part of the Washington softball and track teams. But there was somewhere else she felt she could help.

“I think it just really came across her that if Kelby could help, she was going to do whatever she could to help,” Beller said. “She didn’t tell me what she was doing but just came in and started kicking. She never played soccer or anything. She just came in and started kicking, and finally one day she asked what it would take for me to kick. I told her she had to be good, she couldn’t just show up. I gave her a list of three criteria, and she met each one of them. For her to be bold enough to do something that’s way out of her comfort zone or anything she has ever done? It was a proud dad moment because she’s growing and seeking other ways to help other people and not afraid to go and attack something like that.”

The opportunity for Kelby to kick was possible because it had been done before by Aubrey Schmidt,

daughter of Jerry Schmidt, the University of Oklahoma football team’s director of sports enhancement and strength and conditioning. When Kelby was in fourth grade, Schmidt kicked for the Warriors. The example she set was one that helped build the foundation for Kelby to say she could kick for Washington too.

“You never know what that is going to do for little girls,” Beller said. “I don’t think Kelby was looking to have an impact on all the little girls. She was truly trying to help and be bold and do something bold, and then she saw the impact that she had on little girls when parents of girls from opposing teams were coming up and saying positive things to her. It was the same impact that Aubrey had on her. Parents were congratulating Kelby on how they use her as an example for girls to not be afraid to challenge the social norms.”

Even though Kelby has a basketball scholarship and has been a multisport state champion, soccer — or even the possibility of kicking — was never anything the family saw coming.

“There was zero indication. I saw her kick and punt in the front yard, and there truly was no foundation,” Beller added. “Roxy, my youngest one, she played soccer, and she’s got a good leg, so she’s let me know

BY: CHRIS PLANK

in 2028-29 she’s going to start kicking. … She has a foundation. Kelby had zero. There was no way I looked at her and thought she would be a kicker until the season progressed. It has really been awesome to watch.”

On Sept. 27, Kelby kicked her first extra point — almost 10 years to the date when Schmidt made her Warrior debut — and made her impact on girls across the state of Oklahoma.

“It was tough because you’re trying to coach a game but you’re watching your daughter, and I wasn’t expecting that. … It wasn’t on my bingo card in the first of August to have a daughter kick in a game,” Beller said. “To see her walk out there and not even be phased. ... Her first one there was a false start, and she had to back up and missed it wide right. But she still went out there and did her best, and that’s all we’re asking of kids is to do their best. She swung and let it happen.

“She is getting better as the season goes along,” Beller continued. “She went 2-2 in Marietta and kicked them well. … I was proud of her, and I’m proud of Charlie Mann — he has been kicking unbelievably. But for her to be bold enough to jump in there and say, ‘That’s what I’m going to do to help’ has been awesome to watch.” – BSM

Riverwind Classic Golf Tournament

The Riverwind Classic Golf Tournament was held on September 23 at Winter Creek Golf & Social Club. 32 teams combined to raise more than $100,000 for charities in Norman including $76,000 for the Norman Public School Foundation.

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING

Hazmon Genato, a high school senior, participates in an apprenticeship program with SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital. Genato, who also is a student at Moore Norman Technology Center, works a few hours each week as a nurse tech for the hospital where he is gaining skills and knowledge to prepare for a career as a nurse.

MNTC Student Participating in SSM Health Apprenticeship Program to Gain Experience in Health Care Field

Hazmon Genato is getting a glimpse into his future. The high school senior spends a few hours each week working as a nurse tech for SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital as part of an apprenticeship program.

Genato, a student in Moore Norman Technology Center’s Advanced Unlicensed Assistants plus (AUA+) program for high school seniors, said some of his tasks include taking vital signs and bathing and feeding patients. He also gets the opportunity to work alongside nurses, gain skills and insight into the career field and see “how much compassion and teamwork matter in a health care setting.”

The experience is proving pivotal since Genato plans to pursue a nursing degree from the University of Oklahoma after he graduates from Norman North High School.

Genato is the first student from the technology center to participate in the apprenticeship program, which gives students the opportunity to get paid on-the-job training while applying classroom learning to real-

world experience, according to information about the program.

It’s also an opportunity for students to see the careers available in health care and gain workforce training. Additionally, “they’re getting more experience, but they’re able to get paid for the work they’re doing,” said Karen Petrak, an instructor with the technology center’s AUA+ program.

Students in that program practice different health care processes, techniques and diagnostic procedures in simulated and live clinical environments.

In Oklahoma, advanced unlicensed assistants can perform certain tasks under the supervision of a licensed nurse, such as assisting with patient care activities and monitoring vital signs.

Genato said he chose the program because it gives him flexibility while he finishes his senior year, works and volunteers at a gym. Genato, who is also a certified nurse aide, said he’s “always wanted to work somewhere in the health care field.”

BY: SHARLA BARDIN

“I love helping people,” Genato said. The student said he enjoys the hands-on practice and skills he’s learning through the program at the technology center, and it’s “helping me build confidence.” And, with the apprenticeship program, he’s getting guidance from the nurses he works with and developing a greater understanding about the responsibilities they face.

Genato said the job at SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital has been an enriching experience, from the skills he’s learning from the nurses to the assistance he offers to patients.

“Every time I step out of that hospital, I feel like a new man,” he said. “I put others before me, and I made sure to give them the best of my care.”– BSM

NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT MONTH, WHICH AIMS TO PROMOTE CAREER GROWTH AND LIFELONG LEARNING FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES.

MOORE NORMAN TECHNOLOGY CENTER OFFERS A VARIETY OF CAREER PROGRAMS AND WORKFORCE TRAINING.

FUSON_BoydSt_082025_Final.pdf 1 7/22/25 11:03 AM

Small BUSINESS SATURDAY

How and Why to Support Norman’s Local Small Businesses this Holiday Season

Each year, as we gather to enjoy our favorite fall dishes and holiday jingles begin to echo in stores, Norman gears up for a celebration that shines not just on big-box retailers, but on the heart and soul of our community: small business. Observed on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday is an event that encourages shoppers to make intentional choices — to shop local, support local owners and help keep Norman’s unique character vibrant.

Small Business Saturday was launched in 2010 by American Express as a counterbalance to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with the goal of spotlighting independent, brick-and-mortar businesses across the country. This year, our Sooners will be hosting the LSU Tigers on Small Business Saturday. So, in honor of the last regular season football game, let’s make it a full weekend of local shopping!

Here in Norman, the tradition has taken root as an essential part of our holiday season. In past years, the City of Norman has formally proclaimed the Saturday after Thanksgiving as Small Business Saturday, urging residents to “shop small and shop local” not only that day but throughout the holiday season.

WHY NORMAN MATTERS IN THIS CONVERSATION

While the University of Oklahoma’s presence certainly shapes our identity, Norman is a city of entrepreneurs, innovators, artists and craftsmen. Our local districts are peppered with boutiques, specialty shops, cafés, galleries, bookstores and creative studios that can’t be replicated by nationwide chains.

Behind each storefront is a story: a boutique owner, a maker of handcrafted goods, a café serving up made from scratch sweets or a local service business striving to stay competitive. Supporting these small businesses means strengthening Norman’s economy, keeping dollars circulating locally, preserving jobs and reinforcing the unique character that makes our city feel like home.

HOW NORMAN RALLIES AROUND SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

The Norman Chamber of Commerce, through our Small Business Council and other local partners, play vital roles, coordinating marketing and programming to help smaller businesses participate with shared visibility and support.

Businesses often roll out special deals — extended hours, discounts, gift-with-purchase, in-store events or bundles only available that day. For shoppers, it’s both a chance to cross gifts off the list and to discover places they’ll return to long after the holiday.

TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF THAT SATURDAY

Plan your route. Make a mini-itinerary: don’t miss any of the many hidden gems located within our city.

• Fuel locally: Break for lunch or coffee at a local café — it’s another way to support Norman’s small business ecosystem.

• Buy thoughtfully: Think gifts, décor or even gift cards — ideal for last-minute shoppers.

• Share your finds: Snap photos, tag the business and use hashtags like #ShopNorman and #SmallBusinessSaturday. Word of mouth is powerful.

• Stay engaged beyond the day: True support means returning after the holiday, bringing friends and referring others.

LOOKING AHEAD

As Norman continues to grow, preserving what makes it unique — its small businesses, its local culture, its neighborhoods — will require concerted effort. Small Business Saturday is not just a one-day push; it’s a reminder of the fragile ecosystem that sustains local entrepreneurship. If we all commit to shopping small when we can, recommending our favorites and embracing the local identity, Norman will remain a place where big ideas start small.

So, when the weekend after Thanksgiving arrives, step into Norman’s local shops, meet the makers and proprietors and let your dollars do more than buy a gift — let them invest in our community.

HOW TO BUDGET IN TIMES OF INFLATION

With inflation high, many Americans are finding it difficult to stick to a budget. After all, when groceries have leapt in price and household staples can be double, or even triple, what they cost just a year ago, how can the same amount of money get you through the month?

Sticking to a budget during times of high inflation is challenging – but not impossible. Here are five ways to budget while in times of inflation.

1. PLAN YOUR GROCERY PURCHASES

Groceries can take a huge bite out of a monthly budget. Fortunately, there are ways to trim your grocery bill, even when prices are soaring.

First, shop your pantry and fridge before hitting the store. You may not remember exactly what you have at home and doing a quick scan of your food items can help you stick to purchasing only what you need.

Next, plan your week’s dinner menu before shopping so you can pick up exactly what you need for the week in just one go. The fewer trips you make to the grocery, the less you’ll spend on impulse buys. Also, when you have the ingredients you need and plans in place for dinner each night of the week, you’ll be less likely to make a last-minute decision to indulge in takeout or fast food.

Consider joining a club store at this time as well. You’ll need to spring for a membership, but you’ll enjoy steep savings on groceries and other products. Just be careful to only buy what you need, no matter how cheap an item might be.

Finally, don’t forget to shop sales and to couponize. Use apps like Reebee, Checkout 51, Flipp and Grocery IQ to stay in the know of what’s on sale in each store, and to download coupons for even bigger savings.

2. CONSIDER AN ENERGY AUDIT

With winter approaching and the cost of energy sources still climbing, this can be a good time to have an energy audit performed on your home. An audit

will help identify energy drains around your home, such as air leaks near your windows and doors, so you can fix them to make your home more energy-efficient. You can also take additional measures toward saving on energy costs, such as switching all lightbulbs to LED bulbs, unplugging electronics when not in use and setting your thermostat a little lower during winter, and a bit higher in the summer.

3. CHOOSE YOUR INDULGENCE

Everyone needs to treat themselves to something special every now and then, but with costs rising on restaurant meals, movie tickets and clothing, something’s gotta give. Take a closer look at your justfor-me purchases of the last few months, and try to narrow them down to just one or two treats. You can swap them with an enjoyable activity that doesn’t cost much, such as a hike or bike ride, or cut them out completely.

Alternatively, you can find ways to trim the cost of your indulgences. For example, if you love dining out but restaurant meals are destroying your budget, you can decide to eat out but skip the desserts and wines, or opt for a midday meal so you can take advantage of lunchtime specials.

4. SWITCH YOUR AUTO INSURANCE PLAN

If you’ve had your auto insurance policy for a while and you’ve maintained a good driving record during that time, there’s a good chance you can save a bundle by switching to a new insurance plan and/or provider. Reach out to a representative at your current insurer to discuss your options. Ask about raising your deductible in exchange for a lower premium, reducing overall coverage or negotiating for a safe driving discount. After obtaining a quote, call several other providers to get competing quotes. You can choose to go with your lowest offer, or call back your

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present provider and ask them to match it for your continued business.

5. PAD YOUR INCOME

As always, when income doesn’t meet expenses, you have the choice of trimming expenses or boosting your income – or you can do both! In addition to following the cost-cutting tips outlined here, you can also look for ways to increase your income.

If your paycheck is suddenly not enough to support your lifestyle, consider asking for a raise. Your workplace may have already given you a cost-of-living raise to reflect rising inflation last year, but this may prove to be insufficient as costs have continued to rise. Don’t be afraid to ask for another raise at this time.

In addition, you can look for other ways to pad your monthly income. Find a side hustle, like driving for a ride-share company or consulting for hire, which you can do at your leisure on weekends. Ask your workplace about taking on additional projects on an as-needed basis for additional pay. Open a small service business doing something you love and excel at. Every extra dollar earned counts!

Times are hard for the average American consumer, but with careful planning, you can ride out the record-high inflation rates and keep your budget intact. Use the tips shared here to get started.

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

“I

Concussion Detection Improvement

Norman Regional is the First in Oklahoma to Offer New Blood Test to Detect Concussions

Norman Regional Health System announced it’s the first and only health system in Oklahoma to offer a newly FDA-approved bioMérieux blood test to help detect mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) and concussions in patients 18 years and older.

This innovative test is now available in all three Norman Regional Emergency Departments in Norman and Moore. It gives doctors a faster, less invasive way to evaluate patients who may have suffered a concussion after a fall, car accident, sports injury or other blow to the head.

The test, developed by bioMérieux, a global leader in medical diagnostics, uses a small blood sample to check for special biomarkers that are released into the bloodstream within the first hour after a brain injury. Results from the test are available in under an hour, helping doctors quickly decide whether a patient needs further testing, such as a CT scan. This means patients may avoid unnecessary radiation exposure, while still receiving safe and timely care.

“This new test represents another example of how Norman Regional is investing in cutting-edge technology to provide the best possible care for our patients,” said Ken Dohm, director of the Clinical Laboratory. “Being the first health system in Oklahoma to offer this test underscores our commitment to leading-edge innovation and compassionate care.”

“If a patient comes into the ER after hitting their head, time is critical,” said Michael Porter, MD, Norman Regional Emergency Department physician. “With this new test, we can draw blood and have results back in under an hour. It gives us a fast, reliable way to know whether a patient needs further testing or can be safely treated without unnecessary scans. It’s a huge step forward in keeping our patients safe and giving them peace of mind.”

WHY THIS MATTERS TO OKLAHOMANS

A concussion happens when a sudden bump, blow, or impact to the head causes the brain to move inside the skull. It’s a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation. Symptoms may include headache, dizzi-

ness, nausea or confusion. While most concussions are not life-threatening, they’re still a medical emergency because complications can occur if left untreated.

According to the CDC, more than 69,000 deaths in the U.S. were related to traumatic brain injury. Falls are one of the most common causes, especially in older adults. As colder weather approaches and the risk of slipping and falling increases, this new blood test provides a quicker way to evaluate head injuries in the ER.

BENEFITS FOR PATIENTS AND PROVIDERS

• Patient Friendly: A simple blood draw replaces the immediate need for imaging in many cases.

• Fast Results: Results are delivered in under an hour, enabling quicker decision making.

• Improved Safety: Helps avoid unnecessary CT scans and radiation exposure.

• Reassuring: Provides emergency doctors with a reliable tool to guide treatment.

Norman Regional Laboratory Services, already known across Norman, Moore, Blanchard, Newcastle and Goldsby for its state-of-the-art technology and compassionate service, is proud to be at the forefront of offering this new diagnostic test to the community, said Dohm.– BSM

SERVICE SPOTLIGHT:

MELISSA SMUZYNSKI

Communications Director Melissa Smuzynski started with Cleveland County in May 2025 right in the middle of budget season. A former broadcast media journalist and public relations specialist for over 20 years, she immediately faced a test of her abilities as she entered public sector service.

“It was like jumping into the deep end of the swimming pool,” she said. “While I wasn’t directly part of budgeting the county’s $61 million in available funding, communicating the complexity of that process to the public in a way that’s understandable was a challenge.”

The Board of Cleveland County Commissioners had created the relatively new position as a means to improve government transparency and communication with the public.

“People don’t realize how many services the county provides,” Smuzynski said. “My job is to bring that information to them and to help our elected officials keep taxpayers and local businesses better informed.”

Commissioner Rod Cleveland said engaging the public still includes keeping an open door, but has extended beyond conversations and handshakes with residents.

“We are the closest form of government to the people with thousands entering the courthouse to conduct business regarding land, property taxes or civil and criminal court cases,” he said. “In this technological age, we needed to continue to broaden our reach, and Melissa is helping us do that. She jumped in at a very busy time. Budgeting can be tense because there are only so many dollars in the pot. Melissa came during the midst of that complex process and managed it with incredible dexterity and professionalism.”

It’s not surprising that Smuzynski showed grit from day one. She grew up in west Texas oilfield country and attended Texas Tech University, where she earend her journalism degree.

“I went into television news at a station in Abilene straight out of college,” she said. “That’s where I met Damon Lane, who would later become my husband.”

Her early goal was to be an investigative journalist for a major network and do long-form journalism like “60 Minutes” or “20/20”, but life has a way of changing goals.

“Damon ended up in Oklahoma City, and I ended up in Dallas-Ft. Worth and that’s when we started dating,” she said. “We were friends for seven years before we married.”

She didn’t know where life would take them, but after they married, he was promoted to chief meteorologist at KOCO in Oklahoma City.

“We decided to make Oklahoma our home, and I transitioned out of TV news so we could start a family,” she said.

She began looking for a job in communications.

“I started in the nonprofit sector because that’s where I thought I could have the greatest impact,” she said. “When I had our daughter, I took a year off with her.” When she returned to work, Smuzynski transitioned to public relations and communications.

“I spent the next decade climbing the corporate ladder,” she said. “I created my own consulting company but was eventually hired by one of my clients.”

At that nationwide event company, she was able to ascend to vice president of marketing and communications, but the job came with a lot of pressure and travel demands that weren’t conducive to family life. Shifting focus, she left to return to consulting, which gave her more flexibility and allowed her to prioritize family. About 18 months later, she saw the opening for communications director at Cleveland County.

“I saw the opportunity to make a difference working in the public sector,” she said. “During the interview, it was clear county leadership wants to increase transparency and public education. Those goals align with my core values. Government is here to serve the people, and that’s what we’re about first, last and always.”– BSM