Boyd Street Magazine August 2019

Old Fashioned Fun

Cleveland County Free Fair

Nurturing Self Esteem

Operation School Bell

OU Superfan Battles Cancer

Team Taco

August 2019 • Issue 8 • Volume 18

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Features

AUGUST CONTENTS 2019

ISSUE 8– VOLUME 18 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

14 by Chelsey Kraft

Old Fashion Fun

Mark Doescher

MANAGING EDITOR

Cleveland County Free Fair starts Sept. 5.

Lindsay Cuomo

SENIOR EDITOR

19

by Kaylee Campbell Serving Success

Chip Minty

Snack cart business makes more than money for Norman students.

26

by Josh Helmer Team Taco

PHOTOGRAPHY

Community rallies around long-time OU fan, Big 12 volunteer.

35

Jennifer Baker

Normanite in the Spotlight:

by Chelsey Kraft

Sooner Theater’s leading woman.

Mark Doescher • Jim & Lisa Photography

CONTRIBUTORS

50

Heide Brandes | Kaylee Campbell Stefanie Brickman | Lindsay Cuomo Drake Diacon | Kathy Hallren Joy Hampton | Josh Helmer Shannon Hudzinski | Chelsey Kraft Tyler McComas | Bill Moakley Chris Plank | Emily Robinson Paige Uhr

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

Tracie Gray - tracie@sportstalk1400.com Trevor Laffoon - trevor@sportstalk1400.com Perry Spencer - perry@sportstalk1400.com Jess Haralson - jess@sportstalk1400.com PUBLISHER Randy Laffoon

42 by Bill Moakley

Outside the Lane

46 by Lindsay Cuomo

Operation School Bell

Norman program uses clothing to nurture self esteem, success in classroom.

64 by Drake Diacon

Noble Bears Football

58

10 Major Ricky Jackson

Little Axe hopes to improve after challenging inaugural season in 2A.

CCS Football

CCS must grow up quickly with few returning seniors.

Cleaning Up

Maid OK grows through customer service, attention to detail.

60

84 by Heide Brandes

Building Relationships

Service Spotlight:

by Paige Uhr

30

by Lindsay Cuomo

Boyd Street Teacher Features

Class 101

Service Spotlight:

by Joy Hampton

75 Check Up

Seven Steps to a Mid-Year Financial

Business coaches students through college prep process.

Not Just for Kids

Local orthodontists answer common questions.

boydstreet.com

Visit Norman

38 Detective Matthew Sandburg

Key to dream home is finding the right builder.

88 by Lindsay Cuomo

by Bill Moakley

22

Assistant Chief Jason Smith

86 by Chelsey Kraft

Service Spotlight:

12 by Stefanie Brickman

82 by Emily Robinson

Spotlights

Little Axe Football

70 by Josh Helmer

Any articles, artwork or graphics created by Boyd Street Magazine or its contributors are sole property of Boyd Street Magazine and cannot be reproduced for any reason without permission.

Any opinions expressed in Boyd Street are not necessarily that of Boyd Street management.

Noble returns promising class of players for 2019.

66 by Drake Diacon

Boyd Street Magazine 2020 E. Alameda Norman, Oklahoma 73071 Phone: (405) 321-1400 E-mail: editor@boydstreet.com Copyright © Boyd Street Magazine

Social media breathes new life into bowling tradition.

/boydstreetmagazine

92

@boydstreet

by Shannon Hudzinski

79

by Kathy Hallren

You Say Syrah, I Say Shiraz

81

by Lindsay Cuomo

NRH - Early Inspiration

Cover art by: Mark Doescher (photo provided by Jim & Lisa Photography)

COMM U N I T Y

BY: BILL MOAKLEY

Service Spotlight:

Major Ricky Jackson N

orman Police Major Ricky Jackson certainly looks the part of a former high school and college football player. However, it was in another “field” of competition he learned some of the valuable lessons he employs in his current line of work.

“I was a tournament Jackson said. “I had brought a chess board when we were young. how to play.”

chess player,” a cousin that home one day He taught me

As a freshman at Mount St. Mary Catholic High School in Oklahoma City, Jackson won his schoolwide chess tournament, and he went on to earn allstate honors his senior year.

“I learned strategy from chess. Valuable lessons such as winning and losing, hard work and focus,” Jackson said.

“There are a number of life lessons that can be attributed to chess.”

Following high school, Jackson started college at Oklahoma State University, but, after his freshman year, he transferred to what is now Rose State College, and then went on to attended the University of Central Oklahoma. Jackson finished college by trading Pistol Pete for Boomer Sooner, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from the University of Oklahoma and was hired by the Norman Police Department in 1986.

“I immediately liked the interactions with people, being that primary first responder and being there when people needed assistance,” Jackson said.

“Being a police officer, you have to wear many hats. You have to be a social worker, a doctor, a counselor. You have to be an enforcer.”

Jackson spent four and a half years in patrol. Then the call came from some 10 | August 2019

friends encouraging him to apply to fill an opening in the detective division.

“My buddies convinced me to try it and see if I liked it,” Jackson said. “I later realized what they needed was my boat.

They had a little tournament fishing club and they needed an extra boat. That was their main reason for asking me.”

Having taken the bait, Jackson enjoyed detective work enough to spend 19 years in the division, starting as a property crimes investigator and moving on to work almost every type of case.

“The neat thing about a mid-sized agency such as Norman is that we’re not pigeon-holed, working one area or the other,” Jackson said. “In bigger departments, you can get stuck in certain areas. In Norman, we’re small enough that everyone has to know a little bit about everything.”

Jackson, one of three majors with the NPD, currently serves as bureau commander for operations, the department’s largest bureau.

He oversees patrol divisions and the uniform support division.

“I enjoy it,” a content Jackson said. “I enjoy the people I work with, and I enjoy all the different components of patrol. They’re the first that people see. Most people’s contact with

the police department is generally with patrol officers, so it brings me home to the main heart of the organization.”

When he’s not in uniform, Jackson can be found on 60 acres of land that was part of an original claim staked 130 years ago by his great-grandfather in Logan County.

“I’ve always been a bit of an outdoorsman, and I value the land. I’ve had people offer to purchase it. But I made a promise to my father that I’d hold on to the land.

It’s worth more to me than money.”– BSM This is a continuation of our series on public servants in Norman.

SMALL BUSINESS. BIG IMPACT.

COMM U N I T Y

BY: CHELSEY KRAF T

Old Fashioned Fun

Cleveland County Free Fair Starts Sept. 5

T

he Cleveland County Free Fair has been a staple of the community for more than a century, and it will be back in Norman for another round of fun Sept. 5 through 8 at the County Fairgrounds, 615 E Robinson Street.

The four-day event is full of attractions, competitions, exhibits, entertainment, food trucks and live music.

There also will be a petting zoo, livestock shows, baby crawl races, photography contests, horticulture exhibits, antique tractor pulls and wiener dog races. There’s even a carnival.

New features in 2019 include an arm-wrestling contest on Sunday, Sept. 8 at 1 p.m., said Richard Peters, president of the Fair Board, and anyone can enter.

Peters grew up just three blocks southeast of the fairgrounds. He said he was always drawn to the Fair as a kid and decided to join the board to help the event continue growing.

14 | August 2019

“I started showing livestock, and that’s when I realized what the fairgrounds were all about,” Peters said.

“There are families that are second-, third- and fourth-generation families that have all grown up around that fair, so there’s a lot of history and heritage at the fair.”

“If you live in Cleveland County, it’s free to enter the exhibits and there are several categories to participate in,” said Holly Rains, administrative assistant with the fairgrounds. “We even have coloring contests for children and adults.”

In a county that has both rural and urban areas, part of the growth has included the addition of activities that will appeal to people from different areas. The fair even draws visitors from all over Oklahoma, Peters said.

“We’re very diversified, and that’s why we have such a huge turnout,” Peters said. “It’s more than just a county fair.”

Most of the event is free, with the only aspects that visitors will have to pay for being food, drinks and the carnival rides, Peters said. There is also free parking, with shuttles available to patrons. Peters added that the fair is safe and clean for the whole family, with plenty of security and hand-washing stations all over the fairgrounds.

Peters said he often talks to fair visitors who say they come one day for a few hours then stop by again another day because there is so much to see.

“Don’t plan on just coming one day,” Peters said. “You won’t be able to see and do all of it, and there’s something new every day. You can come out each day, and I guarantee you’ll see something different.”

A complete schedule of events and information about how to enter the fair’s various contests can be found at www. clevelandcountyfair.org. – BSM

NO MATTER YOUR CAREER PATH...

IT ALL STARTS WITH EDUCATION. Norman is known as an education community because of its three nationally recognized educational entities: Norman Public Schools, Moore Norman Technology Center and the University of Oklahoma. We are proud to work with these schools to ensure our Norman students have every opportunity to be productive workers and successful citizens when entering the workforce.

COM M UNI T Y

BY: KAYLEE CAMPBELL

Serving Success Snack Cart Business Makes More Than Money for Norman Students

A

group of students at Norman’s Adams Elementary School is learning skills that will help them lead meaningful lives, and it’s making all the difference.

The students in Rosita Fletcher’s class are learning to overcome struggles with assorted cognitive functions, memorization and social skills by running their own classroom business. Fletcher, who has been teaching special education for six years, likes to weave collaborative work into her curriculum, so last school year, she introduced the classroom business concept to her students.

“I got the idea for the student-run business on Facebook, from a post by a fellow special educator,” Fletcher said. “She talked about how the business helped her students learn sequencing skills, appropriate social skills, helped them with following directions, collaborative work, number recognition, basic addition and subtraction, reading comprehension and the importance of health and hygiene.

“All students are at different levels academically, so it was the perfect activity to get students involved with learning how businesses work.”

To get their business off the ground, Fletcher’s class partnered with the school’s PTA to purchase a cart, snacks and drinks to serve the school’s teachers and staff. In addition to providing the students with a way to give back to their school, the project also teaches them valuable life skills in a relevant way. boydstreet.com

Fletcher’s students interview for disabilities and inspire Norman to betheir positions by assessing their own come a more inclusive community. strengths and areas for improvement.

“I’m proud of Norman and the opporThe process allows their teacher to tunities that are available for individumodify their positions to meet their als with disabilities. However, I always abilities and needs, setting the stubelieve that there is room for improvedents up for growth and success as ment,” Fletcher said. “There are not they run the snack cart, as well as the a lot of options for persons with disclassroom store and bank. abilities after they graduate from high “I love making my curriculum meanschool. Creating these opportunities ingful for my students. I hope that makes for a richer, more caring and inI’m providing lessons that will carry clusive community.” – BSM on with my students for their whole life and prepare them to lead happy, successful lives,” Fletcher said.

Through the project, “we witnessed changes in social behavior, increased confidence and better self-regulation.

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COMM U N I T Y

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Service Spotlight:

Assistant Chief Jason Smith T

he Norman Fire Department is making technological strides, and assistant chief Jason Smith and his team are spearheading the movement.

Smith grew up in a small town in Jefferson County, Oklahoma with three siblings and, after high school, he went to play football on scholarship at the University of Missouri. Afterward, he moved to Oklahoma City, where he was a schoolteacher for five years.

A friend, now a retired battalion chief for the Kansas City Missouri Fire Department, introduced him to fire service.

Smith was inspired by his friend and the incidents he had worked, including the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995.

Smith’s fire service career officially began in 2003, and he is now coming up on his 17th year. Smith has held every position – firefighter, driver, captain and now assistant chief. His current position is new to the Norman Fire Department and is fairly unique in the field.

His efforts focus on leveraging technology to place information in responders’ hands quickly and to meet department mandates. That information is then used to decrease response times, and that translates into improved preparation and better service. He also creates, revises and implements response plans, directs special projects and uses analytical data to strengthen ratings and surpass department requirements.

“There are several entities we have

to report to, and I make sure we’re in And it’s constantly evolving.” compliance with all of those.”

Smith, his wife and four-year-old son That responsibility, however, is not live in Oklahoma City. His wife is a new. Prior to the creation of the posinurse, so when she works, he is on tion, the department still had to meet parenting duty and vice versa. requirements, but they did not have When asked what Smith does in his efforts focused on developing cutting free time, he laughed and said he edge technology. watches the Disney channel a lot.

“We have always strived to do better, “I enjoy hanging out with my son but my team and I are the first to push and wife. And whatever interests my technology and get it into fire service.” child, interests me.”

The latest technological advance for He adds that he used to have other the Norman Fire Department is the hobbies, but it has become clear to creation and incorporation of the him after having a child that it’s imautomatic vehicle locator. Instead of portant to stay present. dispatching the station in the desig“Life is happening now.” – BSM nated area of an emergency, this GPS technology notifies the nearest fire truck. Because of this, the department has seen a reduction in response time.

“If there is a truck driving downtown and a call comes through from a business there, the truck will be called out instead of the nearest station.”

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COMM U N I T Y

Team Taco

T

BY: JOSH HELMER

Community Rallies Around Long-Time OU Fan, Big 12 Volunteer

he man so many have come to know as Taco recently finished up his 27th year as an event volunteer at the Women’s College World Series.

Taco’s given name is Tom Collins and he regularly works plenty of Big 12 events including media days, football title games, baseball, softball and basketball tournaments, too.

Now in a battle with pancreatic cancer, enduring chemo treatments that zapped him of his strength and caused him to lose 50 pounds, the 72-year-old still wanted to be at the WCWS. “I figured if I didn’t make it to something I wanted to, then the cancer was winning. I wasn’t going to let that happen,” Taco said. “I made the Big 12 women’s tournament and then the following weekend, I spent at the Women’s College World Series. That just let me show the big ‘C’ that it had a fight on its hands.”

Naturally, Taco has made a lot of friends during the years he has helped with the WCWS and other collegiate events. The Oklahoman’s Jenni Carlson described him as the “unofficial ambassador of the WCWS” in her story last June. And, 26 | August 2019

to those that know Taco, it’s most definitely true.

Two of his longtime friends were quick to offer support by creating “Team Taco” t-shirts to help fund his treatments. Teje Hopson and Raylene Smith saw the reaction to Carlson’s story about Taco and took the opportunity to assist.

“We noticed how many people chimed in and that he had so many friends and people wishing him well, wanting to help him through. We just thought we need to do something,” Smith said.

Hopson and Smith got to work with their husbands, Jim and Chip, and connected with a Norman embroidery company, Anything Goes, who donated all of the shirts and the printing.

“Every penny we’ve made has gone straight to him,” Smith said.

So far, they have sold more than 300 shirts to help Taco, and orders have come from all over.

“It’s been super positive. We have shipped shirts all over the United States, of course, to a lot of his local

friends,” Hopson said.

Smith echoed the same sentiment on the widespread reception to their “Team Taco” t-shirts.

“Everybody has been excited to help him out and have been very generous.

We’ve gotten several donations from people who didn’t even care if they got a t-shirt or not. It’s been easy to unload these t-shirts,” Smith said. “He’s a fixture in Norman. Everybody that’s ever gone to school there or even goes to games there knows Taco.”

The support has not been lost on Taco, either.

“This is probably one of the worst things you can go through in your life.

I’ve met a lot of people over the years, but I had no idea how good of friends that I had until this thing came up. It’s just amazing. I’m blessed,” Taco said.

Taco’s fight with cancer wages on, and he is undeterred. Those interested in purchasing a shirt or a white ball cap to help support his fight can do so by contacting Hopson and Smith on their “Team Taco” Facebook page. – BSM

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COMM U N I T Y

Emily Evetts

T

eachers are trained to educate the next generation, but beyond the reading, writing and arithmetic, teachers are in a key position to inspire.

For Emily Evetts, it was her own second grade teacher that she still draws inspiration from today.

“When I was in second grade, I had the most amazing teacher. She was able to connect with her students. She made them feel like they were the most important people,” Evetts said. “That is what I was striving for when I became a teacher. My goal is to make my students feel cared for, just like I felt in my second-grade class.”

Today, Evetts is working to shape third graders at Wilson Elementary School.

Her days are filled with small groups, educational stations, spelling, science, social studies and more but what she says she is really crafting is a love for learning.

“My goal inside the classroom is to

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

provide an engaging environment that shows students they are able to have fun while learning,” she said. “Not only do I want my students to excel academically, but I want to help students to learn how to be caring and responsible citizens.”

Evetts said third graders possess a unique excitement for the classroom.

“I love third grade because the students still love school,” she said. “They like to be silly and don’t typically worry about what others think.”

Evett was named Wilson’s Teacher of the Year, an honor she said has really inspired her.

“I work with the most caring and hardworking teachers. Every teacher in my school deserves to be Teacher of the Year. They all do amazing things and care so much for the students at Wilson.

“I am overwhelmed by the thought that they believe in me and my ability to rep-

resent our school. My hope is that they continue to see my love and passion for every student that walks through our halls. Norman Public Schools is blessed with a community that supports their teachers and students. We are grateful for the opportunity to educate the future of our city and state.” – BSM

Teaching Norman

Janette Nichols

J

anette Nichols is relatively new to the education profession and describes teaching as her “mid-life crisis career.”

“I was emerging from a tough marriage and was trying to find my way again in life and to support my kids,” Nichols said.

She started as a math teacher in Del City but quickly realized she was meant to be something else.

“I liked teaching math, but I was drawn to the vacant seat, the sleeping student and the noisemaker. Shortly thereafter, I started to pursue my master’s in counseling.”

She has been working as a middle school counselor for the past four years.

“I felt a real calling to middle school,” Nichols said. “We start to move into an independence of thought and action and begin to steer our own boats for the first time. Some steer their vessels effortlessly and some struggle to even stay in the boat. I know I can’t save them all, but on any given day, I can listen. And in our 30 | August 2019

hearts, having someone listen may be all any of us ever truly need.”

At Alcott Middle School, Nichols is completing her first full 6th through 8th grade loop with the same class of students and she said she is grateful for the opportunity to make long-term connections.

“It has been incredibly gratifying to do my part to help these students navigate the messy beginnings of adolescence.

Hopefully, I have planted some seeds, some small piece of conversation… that will resonate with them so that they realize they are loved and capable just because of who they are.

“At the end of the day, all we really want is to help kids, especially those who do not have another trusted adult out there they can turn to. I want students to learn that failure is not only an option, it is mandatory. We are messy flawed beings.

I try to show students that learning from failure is the foundation for success.”

Being new in her current role, Nichols

said she was surprised when she learned she was selected as Alcott’s Teacher of the Year.

“When the results were given to me, as trite as this sounds, I just didn’t feel worthy. I’m only in my fourth year as a counselor and still pretty much feel like a hack. Once the shock wore off, I was so honored that my peers chose me to represent them. We are a family, and it’s an incredible privilege to be given acknowledgment that I’m considered a valued member of that family.” – BSM

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COM M UNI T Y

BY: CHELSEY KRAFT

NORMANITE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Jennifer Baker

A

ll it took was watching a performance of “The Nutcracker” at the University of Oklahoma for Jennifer Heavner Baker to be hooked on the theater.

After watching the show, she told her mom she wanted to dance too, so she started at Marie Keeling’s ballet school at 5 years old. Baker’s mom also signed her up for the City of Norman’s summer acting program, where she earned the role of a Georgia Peach.

“All I did was carry a cardboard peach across the stage one time, and that was my theatrical debut. I loved it,” Baker said.

Baker has been performing or in production ever since. Whether it is choreographing a performance or watching musicals, specifically “White Christmas” even in the middle of summer, Baker loves the arts and what they do for the soul.

A Norman native and graduate of Norman High School, Baker attended OU following her graduation and earned a fine arts degree. During the summers when she was an OU student, she performed at Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma and Music Theatre Wichita.

After she graduated, Baker auditioned for Discoveryland in Tulsa, which was the national home of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!”. She was involved there for almost a decade, playing the part of Laurey and then helping with choreography for “Oklahoma!” and “Seven boydstreet.com

Brides for Seven Brothers.” During that same time, Baker would go to New York City or take theater jobs in places like Pennsylvania or Virginia.

Once Baker and her husband, Jay, also a Norman native, decided to get married, they knew they wanted to head back to their hometown. She recalled a time when she was catching the subway to a callback in New York City and saw a group of kids getting on with their backpacks as their moms kissed them goodbye for the day.

“I’ve told this story before, and it sounds kind of silly, but it’s honest … something happened in that moment and I said, ‘I really miss Norman, and that’s where I want to raise my children and settle down,’” Baker said.

The couple, who has been married for 20 years and has two daughters, Addison and Aubrey, returned to Norman in 2002. In January 2003, Baker started working as artistic director at Sooner Theatre and now also works as executive director.

Initially, her focus was to start programs for children. Baker said that when she was growing up, children could not be in a musical in Norman until the 11th grade. While Baker participated in dance studios and church and school choir, she was not able to put together all those skills at once until high school, and it became important for her to provide an outlet for children to experience musical theater at a younger age.

“When you see a kid gain confidence and look you in the eye for the first time when they have had their head held low for so long, or when they say a line on stage and then they’re so proud, it’s pretty rewarding,” Baker said.

Baker said she is grateful to both the City of Norman and the whole community for supporting Sooner Theatre. The city has helped restore and take care of the landmark building, and the community has provided sustainability through donations, including through the Encore Club.

“Honestly, I can’t imagine Norman without it,” Baker said. “It’s a blessing to have this jewel in Norman when we see theaters shutting down all over the country.”

In addition to her role at the theater, Baker is active in the community as the director of Celebrity Sing for the United Way and with the Christmas parade. She is also active in the Norman Rotary, participated in Leadership Norman and was a former board member for a few organizations.

Baker hopes that whoever fills her role at Sooner Theatre in the future, has the same passions and focuses she has.

“I hope that whoever takes this job after me, I hope they love children.

I hope they love the whole idea of providing an outlet for adults and children to perform, and I hope that they’ll keep this mission going,” Baker said. “But I also hope that I have a few more years left.” – BSM BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 35

36 | August 2019

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BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 37

COMM U N I T Y

BY: JOY HAMPTON

Service Spotlight:

Detective Matthew Sandburg D etective Matt Sandburg is often one of the first to volunteer for community outreach projects, whether it’s peeling up old carpet at the Women’s Resource Center or helping families during a Christmas giveaway at a local department store.

“Matt Sandburg is a thorough investigator with an eye for detail, but one of his best attributes is his compassionate handling of victims,” said Sheriff Todd Gibson. “We also appreciate his community involvement and positive attitude.”

Sandburg got his start in law enforcement, working at the Oklahoma County Detention Center as a young man looking for a job. He found he liked law enforcement and the job turned into a career as he moved to Logan County before coming to the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office in 2013.

Serving CCSO, he worked in Judicial Services and then took a turn at patrol.

When a spot opened in the Criminal Investigations Detachment, Sandburg applied.

“I always had the goal to work in investigations,” Sandburg said. “The thought process and the thought-provoking puzzles have always been a draw to me.”

Sandburg works with the Criminal Investigations Detachment team on any serious crimes, but he is the designated child victim and sex crimes investigator.

“That’s something I’ve got a very strong interest in,” he said. “I’ve got some family history with family members who have been victims in the past, and I want to strive to see that other people don’t have to go through the same issues and the same problems that they did.”

Sandburg said it’s challenging to work with children and youth who have been victimized — often by the very people charged with caring for and protecting them — but the job allows him to have a positive impact on those young lives.

“I take solace in the fact that I’ve been able to help those children or even adults who have been victims of assaults or domestic violence,” he said. “I try to put them on the right track to see that they are never victimized again.”

While victim and witness statements are important, sifting through the physical evidence can take time and Sandburg tries to be as thorough as possible.

While technology brings many tools to the modern detective, sometimes it’s good, old-fashioned legwork that solves a case.

“A lot of the younger deputies have a good grasp on a lot of technologies, but sometimes the older school methods of interviewing and canvassing are things they have to learn,” he said.

Meeting people from other agencies and building relationships are also key to the job. Working with other agencies and sharing information helps to better protect and serve the people of Cleveland County, he said. He appreciates that Sheriff Gibson’s administration encourages cooperation.

Sandburg said learning to compartmentalize has been key to balancing his professional and personal lives.

“I don’t take my job home, I can’t,” he said. “That’s not fair to my family or my friends.”

Despite the challenges and sometimes heartbreak that comes with the job, Sandburg said it’s worth it for the times the team can make a difference.

“There were two children who had to be removed from a home with deplorable conditions, but whenever they saw me they would call me their detective and they would ask about ‘their deputies’ who had made that first contact,” he said. “It’s a good feeling when you know you’ve made a difference.”

This is a continuation of our series on public servants in Norman.

38 | August 2019

B U S I N E SS

Outside the L an e

BY: BILL MOAKLEY

Social Media Breathes New Life into Bowling Tradition

Y

ou can’t get more traditional than bowling. It’s a uniquely American pastime that transcends generations with mom-and-pop alleys, bowling dates and league play.

So, for Mandy Hawes, the Gen X manager of Sooner Bowling Center in Norman, the question in recent years has been how to bridge the gap between attracting bowlers from the Greatest Generation and Millennial Generation. The answer, she says, is social media, and her bowling industry peers across the country agree.

Hawes was recently honored by the Bowling Proprietors Association of America with their Special Honors Award for her work in bringing social media to bowling as a form of exposure for the mostly family-owned outlets. Since the formation of the BPAA Social Media Committee six years ago, Hawes has preached the new frontier of communications.

“Bowling is a very traditional industry. There is still a large amount of the greatest generation involved,” Hawes said. “There are businesses that have up to four generations involved. Leadership is starting to put more resources behind social media.

“The whole reason I started traveling and talking about social media is because it wasn’t taking off. Starting with the Gen Xers, we’re going to be the ones that will be able to adopt the technology.”

Hawes has served as a member of BPAA Social Media Committee, and, as its past chair, she now serves on the organization’s education committee.

“When I started out on the social

42 | August 2019

media committee, there were not a lot of speakers in the industry talking about how we could use social media for our businesses,” Hawes said.

The most important priority in the bowling business is promotions, she says. It’s important to keeping your machines running, the grill going and people on the lanes, but promoting the business will keep people coming through the door.

And that’s where social media holds value, Hawes says. There is a lot of competition for the entertainment dollar, and bowling centers are taking up the challenge.

“We’re not competing with other bowling centers anymore,” Hawes said. “We’re competing with people’s choice in what they want to do with their time, money, family and friends.”

“We did everything on paper,” Hawes said. “Newspaper advertising. Yellow Pages advertising. Lots of word of mouth. It’s just a transition from paper. Not that those things aren’t important anymore. I saw it as an opportunity. The reality of where things are going is digital.”

Sooner Bowling Center debuted on social media in 2009 with a Facebook page. They’ve since added Twitter, Instagram and Pintrest. The biggest obstacles for Hawes and those charged with keeping up social media presences in the bowling industry is simple.

“It’s just time,” Hawes said. “But it gets better every day.”

Hawes believes the leap from the Yellow Pages to Facebook pages can be

an anxious one as well. But, she believes, it’s somewhat foolproof once the leap is made.

“The only way you can mess it up is you don’t think about consequences,” Hawes said. “Your branding, your messaging, the tone you want for your business, the demographics you’re targeting. You have to be thoughtful. I think it’s not as scary as people think it is. The anticipation is worse than the actual outcome.”

For her own channels, Hawes is certain of what works best.

“People always work great. People having fun,” she says. “We’re in the business of people coming to us to have fun. Showing that presence of fun, like league bowlers, when they roll their 300s. People and stories are always the best content.”

Hawes has spent a good deal of time traveling the country and speaking to her colleagues about the importance of establishing a social media presence and she is seeing the results of her efforts as industrywide social media adoption continues to rise.

“Within our industry, we’re getting there,” she said. “We’re rounding the curve.”

Sooner Bowling Center, which is located at 550 24th Avenue SW in Norman, is home to 24 lanes, a full-service grill, arcade center and private meeting room. The facility hosts birthday parties and other full-facility events, in addition to league play. – BSM

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COMM U N I T Y

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

Operation

School Bell

Norman Program Uses Clothing to Nurture Self Esteem, Success in Classroom munity where kids come first, and our organizations make sure all the kids’ needs are met.”

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here are a lot of obstacles that can get in the way of a child being successful in the classroom: a hungry belly, an unstable home, lack of resources, the list goes on. Assistance League Norman is working to remove some of those obstacles for kids in Norman and Little Axe schools.

Their Operation School Bell program gives kids a new wardrobe, sending them back into their classrooms with a renewed sense of self confidence.

“Our surveys show that students have higher self esteem and come to school better prepared to learn when they have current, stylish clothing and do not have to worry about basic necessities like socks and underwear,” said Lisa Gerard, program co-chair.

Terri Welborn, a teacher at Truman Elementary School, shared about the impact she has seen in her own students involved in the program.

“The smiles and excitement are so fun to see as the kids show each other some of their new clothes,” Welborn wrote in a testimonial to the League. “We are so fortunate to live in the Norman com46 | August 2019

Motivated by the belief that when students’ basic needs are met, they come to school ready to learn, the members of the League work yearround to fund the effort.

“Last year, Operation School Bell served 2,200 students from Norman and Little Axe public schools,” Gerard said. “We provide each child that comes through our program with a new coat, three tops, two pairs of pants or jeans, five pairs of socks, five pairs of underwear, a grooming/hygiene kit, a new book, a stuffed animal and a shoe card to purchase a new pair of shoes.”

“We also have a gently used area in our store where students can select additional clothing items and accessories,” she added.

While the program has help thousands of kids over the years, there are still more in need.

“Approximately 8,000 students in Norman qualify for our program, and last school year, we were able to increase our service,” Gerard said. “Our goal is to continue to increase the number of students that we are able to serve.

“To do this, we need for individuals and businesses to support our fundraising efforts.”

Thankfully, the Norman community has plenty of opportunities to get involved.

“We will be having an All Hallows Gala this year on Oct. 25, and we also host a Holiday Home Tour. In the Spring, we will have Operation Spelling Bee and an Operation School Bell 5K in May.”

The League also accepts donated clothing in good condition in children’s sizes only at their building at 809 Wall Street in Norman from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesday mornings and gift cards from stores like Target, Walmart, Dollar Tree, Kohl’s, Lane Bryant and JC Penney are very helpful as well.

“Our buyers shop locally, and gift cards help us to replenish grooming kit supplies and also to make one-time purchases of sizes or items not in stock.”

Volunteers are also needed to help with sorting in the workroom and shopping with the children.

“Each child is paired with a volunteer who serves as that child’s personal shopper. Children receive individual attention and select their own clothing items,” Gerard said. “We appreciate and thank all of our supporters who make it possible for us to clothe students in our community.”

Gift cards and monetary donations can be mailed to Assistance League Norman at 809 Wall Street, Norman, OK 73069. To learn more about the Operation School Bell program, volunteering and upcoming fundraising events, like or follow Assistance League Norman on Facebook or visit www.assistanceleague.org/norman. – BSM

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S P O RT S

Ready for Another Shot

BY: CHRIS PLANK

Sooner Football Prepares for Another Title Run

W

ith the frustration of falling short last season, Lincoln Riley stepped to the podium and set an expectation for the Oklahoma Sooner football program.

leadership of defensive coordinator Alex Grinch.

“We’ve still got a bunch of Big 12 trophies. We’re going to hold that tall skinny one here in a couple years and we’re going to hold it in a large part because of the fight from these seniors in this program, all the players, the staff,” Riley said.

In each of the past three seasons, the starting quarterback at OU has made the trip to New York City as a Heisman Trophy finalist. Baker Mayfield won the award in 2017 and Kyler Murray followed suit in 2018. It was the first time in the history of college football that two players from the same school that played the same position won back-toback Heisman Trophies.

The disappointment was obvious, but resiliency was evident. With the disappointing Orange Bowl loss to Alabama still fresh, the Sooners and its leader wasted no time setting a foundation for the 2019 season. As the countdown to the Sept. 1 opener against Houston inches closer, three major changes from the 2018 season will help propel the Sooners toward their ultimate goal of an 8th national championship. They have a new quarterback, a new offensive line and a new defense under the 50 | August 2019

THE NEW GUNSLINGER

Both quarterbacks were then selected as the top overall pick in the NFL Draft, another first. Mayfield and Murray have more in common than just wins, stats and hardware, however. They both transferred to Oklahoma, a factor that will come into play yet again this season.

While the future seems set with the addition of true freshman and 5-star re-

cruit Spencer Rattler, the Sooners need experience now. Riley chose to bring in former SEC Offensive Player of the Year and national championship winning quarterback Jalen Hurts.

Hurts brings an impressive resume to Norman. The Alabama transfer was 26-2 as a starting quarterback, and despite losing his starting job to Tua Tagovailoa in 2018, he remained a team leader. When he was called upon in the second half of the SEC Championship game against Georgia, Hurts rallied the Crimson Tide to a 35-28 win over the Bulldogs, throwing and running for a touchdown.

The spotlight will continue to be bright for Hurts. Beyond the Heisman trophies and NFL recognition, the statistics of his predecessors have been staggering. Mayfield threw for 83 touchdowns during his final two seasons as a Sooner and Murray became the second player in FBS history to throw for at least

ler and Baker is you have to marry your schemes to them and find some common ground. We’ll certainly do that for Jalen and our other quarterbacks.”

Despite some questions, there is little doubt about Hurts’ experience. He has played in 38 career games with 28 starts, thrown for 5,481 yards with 48 touchdowns and just 12 interceptions. He rushed for nearly 1,000 yards his freshman season and has consistently averaged more than 5 yards per carry.

“He certainly brings a lot of great game experience that Kyler and Baker did not have when they got here,” Riley said. “It’s not like you’re starting from scratch. He’s a smart kid, he’s been eager, he’s worked hard, and we’ve meshed together well.”

4,000 yards and rush for at least 1,000 in a season. Neither Mayfield nor Murray lost a road game as a starter and led the Sooners to four straight Big 12 Championships.

“I think I clearly understood what I got myself into, but I also know that I have expectations for myself,” Hurts said.

“I’m kind of built for these types of situations. Probably the most interesting part of all this, my situation, my experiences, all of those things, is how unique it is. I’m not your average Joe.” The perception is that Hurts is less of a passing quarterback and more of a running quarterback and accuracy was a concern at Alabama. Many question if his skill set will fit the Sooner offensive approach, but Riley disagrees.

“I like his skill set a lot,” Riley said. “I feel like at any point with a new quarterback, you’re going to get different feels with what they like and what they can do well.

What I think we were decent at with Ky52 | August 2019

Despite all the excitement around the transfer, he still has to win the starting job. Hurts was sharing snaps with redshirt freshman Tanner Mordeci during the spring, and he definitely looked the part, completing 11 of 14 passes for 174 yards and a touchdown. But he is still in a battle to start the season opener. Rattler, who was the top quarterback prospect in the country, joined the Sooners this summer.

Regardless of who ends up starting at quarterback, the offense will be loaded with playmakers. Solid recruiting and a commitment to developing talent has led to one of the deepest and most explosive receiver groups the Sooners have possessed.

After losing Marquise Brown to the Baltimore Ravens in the first round of the NFL Draft, the Sooners reloaded in the offseason. Outside receivers coach Dennis Simmons added three five-star recruits to a room that already features a potential 2020 first-round pick in CeeDee Lamb and the breakout star of the Orange Bowl in Sophomore Charleston Rambo.

Most of the attention during the off-season has focused on the future of Jadon Haselwood, Trejan Bridges and Theo Wease, who each ranked among the top receivers nationally.

“Everybody makes this big thing about how they’re five-star receivers,” Sim-

mons said. “I mean, the biggest thing about those guys is that they’re great kids. We can go get talented players.

They’ve been getting talented players at the University of Oklahoma since they’ve been playing football. But to get kids with that caliber of talent that have character, that to me is what separates those guys.”

The offense also adds a potent running game with Trey Sermon and Kennedy Brooks, along with a talented group of tight ends starring Grant Calcaterra, Lee Morris and the versatile Brayden Willis.

BEDENBAUGH’S BIG NASTIES As you walk inside the main entrance of the Switzer Center, you can’t help but notice the massive sculpture standing just inside the entrance. It’s the largest trophy in college sports, standing at almost seven feet and weighing over 800 pounds, its mass and size is a testament to the accomplishment it represents.

The 2018 Sooner offensive line became the first Big 12 unit to win the Joe Moore award, which is annually presented to the best offensive line unit in college football. But the massive trophy may pale in comparison to the monster numbers the 2018 Sooner offensive line helped achieve on the field.

Under offensive line coach and co-offensive coordinator Bill Bedenbaugh, the Sooner offensive line was the driving force behind an offense that broke the FBS record for yards per play, averaging an incredible 8.7 yards per snap.

Unfortunately, in this case, to the victors go the spoils. Of the five starters on the Joe Moore award winning offensive line, four have now moved on to the NFL. Cody Ford and Bobby Evans both declared early for the NFL Draft and were taken within the top 100 picks. Dru Samia and Ben Powers were both drafted in the fourth round.

While having four starters drafted is an incredible accomplishment, it also sets up a challenging season moving forward. Fear not, the cupboard is far from bare. The Sooners have incredible talent to build around in Creed Humphrey, the only returning starter on the offensive line.

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Erik Swenson, who has played in just 10 career games. But Swenson appeared to leave the spring as the starting left tackle for the Sooners.

“We really wanted to show that we’re ready to take over for these four starters,” Swenson said, “and we’re going to do whatever we can to replace them.”

“It is a weird feeling. I got really close to those guys over the last two years,” Humphrey said. “The guys here now I’ve been around just as long. It’s a good group. Last year, they welcomed me like I was one of their own. Coming in this year, it’s a step for me being a leader and it’s exciting.”

The sophomore center from Shawnee has already become a fan favorite with his fiery personality and consistent pancake blocks. Humphrey missed spring practice but has established himself as one of the top linemen, not just in the Big 12 but around the country as well.

Despite the lack of experience, the excitement level is high for those who will be called upon to step up in 2019.

“There is not a lot of experience, but the talent is there. We recruited really good players and they all have the same mentality we had last year where you want to dominate anyone in front of you.

That’s the mentality you have to have when you play at OU,” Humphrey said.

“Coach B (Bedenbaugh) is focused on every detail.”

The Sooners have just one returning upper classmen on the offensive line, junior 54 | August 2019

The Sooners added transfer guard RJ Proctor from Virginia and junior college transfer Finley Felix as tackle. Sophomores Adrian Ealy, Tyrese Robinson and Marquis Hayes were all four-star recruits. Ealy could end up as the starter at right tackle with both Hayes and Robinson fighting for time on the interior. Redshirt Freshmen Darrell Simpson and Brey Walker were both working at guard during the spring.

Three talented newcomers who signed as part of the 2019 class could also figure into the mix.

THE SPEED D ERA IS UPON US One of the most consistent problems for Sooner football over the last five years has been inconsistency on defense. As the offense turned heads, the defense continued to struggle.

Last year, the OU offense was the No. 1 scoring offense in college football. Conversely, the Sooners ranked 101st scoring defense allowing 33 points per game and finished 114th in total defense. To add to the frustration, the Sooners were 130th in pass defense, allowing 297 yards per game.

Riley needed to change more than just the defensive coordinator. He needed to change the entire mindset. Alex Grinch has proven he can coach defense in the toughest conference in college football with an air raid offense to boot. The 38-year old has been nominated for the Broyles award three-times and was a semifinalist in 2017.

“It starts with the mentality. When you want to make a change, people want to talk schematics, but it’s about the men-

tality,” Riley said of improving his defense. “It’s about the evaluation of the players you are bringing in. Then it gets to scheme and how they get coached. I think our guys are starting to understand the way we want them to play and approach playing defensive football here in Oklahoma.”

Grinch helped transform the Washington State defense from 99th nationally in 2014 to 16th in the country by 2017. After a year at Ohio State, Grinch now jumps into the Big 12 fire, a conference where the ability to play defense overshadows a potent, high scoring offense.

Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the approach Grinch has taken is that he is not about the talk. To him, whatever said off-the-field is irrelevant.

“When you talk about the things you are going to do, it is very hollow,” Grinch said. “I struggle this time of year to say this or that, but we have great expectations. We keep talking about if you can defend something once you can stop it twice. So, unless they’re scoring every snap, which I pray they don’t, it implies we defended them once. And if it can be done at all, it can be done better.”

Riley can sense the excitement and attitude change already.

“There’s hope. There’s energy,” Riley said. “We’ve got a lot of veteran defensive players, guys who have been a part of good teams. And then you’ve got some really talented newcomers who are excited about our direction too. You can feel the momentum. Alex and the defensive staff have done a nice job of building that momentum. You can see it starting to come together.”

In addition to Grinch, the Sooners hired Brian Odom to coach linebackers while Roy Manning has jumped on board with his energy and passion to take over the cornerbacks. Grinch works with the safeties as well as coordinating the defense.

The Sooners return 14 players on defense who started at least one game last season. Only two returnees started all 14 games, Big 12 pre-season defensive player of the year Kenneth Murray and Tre Norwood.

Murray led the team in tackles in 2018 with 155 tackles, 12 for loss, including four sacks. As returning captain, he will have a ton of talent around him, including redshirt freshman DeShaun White and Levi Draper who could battle for playing time at inside linebacker with junior walk-on Bryan Mead.

“It’s great when the head man comes in and has that dog mentality that we are going to go out there and attack,” Murray said. “No matter what it is, no matter what anybody says, I’m going to ride with you and we’re going to go out and do this thing. We have a defensive coordinator that has that mentality and is enforcing that mentality and lets you know that this is what it is going to take and there is no other excuse that will be acceptable for us.

I’m excited.”

captain Kenneth Mann led the group that returns with 51 tackles.

“There is enough talent in that room to be successful defensively,” Grinch said.

“But it’s not just finding 11 guys that can play a high level of football. My biggest concern is that I don’t know if I can circle 22 guys on the board from a consistency standpoint. It is one thing to say you have the ability. It’s another thing to do it down in and down out.”

“If you’re going to play 11 guys, it’s a tall order, you’re a better football player if you’re playing less reps,” he added.

“That’s the type of sport we play. The effort that’s involved on any given down specifically on the defensive front, and also on the back end of things, that pool of players has to increase. It’s the job of

Tre Norwood was the

Up front, the numbers are far more encouraging. Despite not having a returning defensive lineman that started every single game, this defensive line group is loaded with experience. Ronnie Perkins leads the returning defensive lineman with five sacks last season and returning boydstreet.com

The development of Gallimore will be key in getting consistent pressure on the quarterback. The continued maturation of cornerback Tre Brown will play a major role in the Sooners ability to force turnovers in the secondary. The Sooners forced just 11 turnovers last season and managed just six interceptions.

That number has to improve, and so far, the Tulsa product is all-in on the approach from Grinch.

one constant in what was an ever-evolving secondary last season. Norwood started at corner most of the season but was shifted to the safety position in the latter stages of the year. During most of spring ball, Norwood was still working as a safety, which means that Parnell Motley and Tre Brown could be the only returning cornerbacks that have seen valuable playing time.

After a challenging freshman season, Bookie Radley-Hiles has re-committed himself this offseason and has shown signs of improvement. Despite battling injuries, Robert Barnes and Chance Sylvie have benefited from a fresh start.

Plus, the Sooners signed five defensive backs in the 2019 recruiting class, including Jamal Morris, who may figure into the Sooner defensive back rotation.

me personally, to take my game to the next level, I had to lose some weight. I dropped 15 or 20 pounds. I felt like it was good for me. Being a part of the defense, this Speed D, it is about being physical and fast and playing every down to the best of my ability. Being in the weight room with Coach (Bennie) Wiley, the standard is extremely high, and you look forward to that and then you see the results and its rewarding.”

coaches to get those things done from recruiting and on the field.”

The most important piece in that pool of players just might be returning defensive lineman Neville Gallimore.

The Athletic listed the Sooner senior defensive tackle number two on its list of athletic “freaks” in college football.

Grinch’s defensive approach will allow Neville to focus more on getting after the football as he shifts from a zero-nose technique to a true defensive tackle.

“We understand that last year we did some things, but we have to get better and do it together,” Gallimore said. “For

“He is a competitor. He’s competing with us and himself,” Brown said. “He wants to be the best, and he wants us to be the best. He brings a lot of energy to the defensive side. It’s never boring with him out there. He’s always pushing us. We’re flying around the field. We just have to fly to the ball.

That’s going to be the difference this year. We’re going to get things done.”

The Sooners have a renewed focus on defense, a talented group of young, hungry offensive lineman and an experienced quarterback ready for the opportunity to lead again. While Riley’s pursuit of the “skinny one” has come up short the past two seasons, he has reset the focus and improved in areas that desperately needed help. Now, we wait to see if the Sooners are ready to take that next step in 2019.

Sooner Football… Here… We… GO! – BSM

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 55

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roud but not satisfied was said a lot around Norman High this offseason. After the Tigers made an incredible run in the final weeks of the regular season to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2012, NHS can certainly smile about what they accomplished in 2018.

But head coach Rocky Martin knows his team is capable of more than a 3-point loss on the road to Owasso in the first round.

The lofty expectations for the Tigers are centered on the return of Cade Horton at quarterback. Going into his third year as the starter, Horton has complete command of the offense and is poised to have the best season a Norman High quarterback has had in a long time.

“I truly believe he’s the best quarterback in the state,” said Martin. “I know there’s a lot of good ones, but not only can he make every throw in the book, he’s really a dual threat guy. He rushed for 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns last year. He’s just a phenomenal athlete.”

There won’t be many times that NHS doesn’t have the best quarterback on the field. But as good as Horton might be, the play of the offensive line is as equally important. The good news is three starters return, including SMU commit Ben Sparks.

“I’ve told a number of colleges that I think Ben Sparks could play anywhere,” Martin said. “He’s smart enough to play every position. We put him at left tackle because he’s our guy. He’s as physical as I’ve seen and constantly pushing guys back until the 58 | August 2019

whistle blows. You don’t ever have to worry about his effort.”

Across the line from Sparks at right tackle will be returning starter Grant Goodson. A load at 6-foot-6 and 270 pounds, Goodson will routinely outsize his opponent on the defensive line and make both life for Horton and the run game much easier. Along with the return of Brandon Andrews at guard, NHS feels extremely confident about its talent on the offensive line.

After a late-season emergence at running back that saw him averaging 7.5 yards per carry, Joe Willie is ready to put it all together for a complete season. Though the Tigers have used multiple backs in years past, and may do so again this year, Willie is clearly the focal point of the rushing attack.

Combine his abilities with Andrew Young’s at wide receiver, and you’ll find a skill position group that’s not only talented, but experienced in big games. Offensively, NHS has the pieces to be as potent as any other in 6A-1.

Defensively, it all starts with the linebackers. OSU commit Cole Thompson followed Martin from PC West to Norman two years ago in the hopes that both football and school would be better.

“He’s as good as I’ve seen,” said Martin. “He’s the most impressive kid I’ve ever seen in the weight room. The line-

backer position is like the quarterback of the defense and that’s what we need Cole to be for us. I think he’ll do it.”

With Tyren Robb and his family moving out of town, Cedric Seals joins Thompson as the other returner at linebacker. Their combo of speed and physicality will be a handful for opposing offenses this season.

Defensive line play could also be a strength for NHS as Braden Woods returns as the anchor. A strong player with exceptional hands, Woods can play several positions, but will most likely find a home at nose guard. He’ll be joined by the Prince brothers, Charles and Willie, who can really run at defensive end. The potential to be both a strong pass rushing and run stuffing line is certainly in the cards for the Tigers.

With so many teams in 6A-1 running the spread offense, it’s imperative to have play makers in the secondary.

Safety Jackson Caldwell and cornerback Kevin Randle are back as starters and they bring a wealth of ability.

Though it’s fair to say NHS will be somewhat undersized in the secondary, don’t count out their knack for making the big play. If things come together at corner and safety, there’s no reason to doubt the big expectations that follow this team into the season.– BSM

Photo by: Mark Doescher

“That’s how we’ve approached the offseason,” said Martin. “We’re really proud of the accomplishments we had last season, but at the same time, we’ve got to build on it. Not only do we want to make the playoffs, but we want a deep run, too. We’ve got some big goals this year.”

NORMAN NORTH

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haracter, chemistry and culture.

Those are the three words Norman North has on its summer pride shirts. The T-Wolves are also looking for consistency as they turn the page on a 2-8 finish and embark on year two of the Justin Jones era.

“Those are the things that we want to emphasize and the things that we need for us to turn the corner,” said Norman North head football coach Justin Jones said. “What it’s about for me is that we are becoming a good football program and are consistently getting what we expect when we step on the field.”

Norman North returns nine offensive starters, including junior quarterback Jackson Remualdo (6’ 2, 170). Remualdo spent some of last season as the T-Wolves’ starting signal-caller and Jones said he’s happy with the progress he’s seen this spring.

“Jackson has a much better grasp of what a 6A quarterback has to do both from a game management standpoint and understanding situations,” he said. “He really did a great job through our 7-on-7 and the tournament that we hosted … and even had the chance sometimes to call plays himself.”

Senior Blaine Martin (5’10, 165) and junior Gabe Trevillison (5’ 9, 180), a pair of talented running backs, join Remualdo in the backfield.

60 | August 2019

BY: JOSH HELMER

“They’re totally different runners,” Jones said. “Gabe is a downhill, physical back, a guy that can get the tough yards. Blaine’s a guy we love having in the backfield, more of the speed and quickness, the thunder and lightning.”

North Texas commit, senior Jake Roberts (6’ 5, 235) gives the Timberwolves “multiplicity” on offense with his ability to work as an in-line tight end, in the backfield or flex out as a receiver.

“I’ve been really proud of his work ethic. He’s been a great leader,” Jones said.

Other pass catchers to keep an eye on include senior Cale Cabbiness (6’ 2, 160), senior Malachi Gatewood (6’ 2, 162) and junior Luke Switzer (6’, 180).

On the offensive line, juniors Benicio Fuentes (6’ 4, 298) and Logan Lehenbauer (6’ 4, weight) will man the tackle positions. Senior Logan Furnish (6’ 4, 290) returns at center and senior Sam Shepelwich (6’ 2, 252) will be one of the starting guards. Junior Walter Young Bear (6’ 3 weight) is expected to earn the other starting nod.

“I think our offensive line has probably made the biggest leaps out of any unit. I’ve been really happy with their style, physicality and where they’ve grown,” Jones said. “There’s still a lot of guys on that offensive line with lit-

tle varsity experience, so that’s going to be the big question mark for us as we go forward.”

The Timberwolves return four starters to a defense that will once again operate a 3-4 scheme, with some tweaks structurally. Jones is taking over the defensive coordinator duties and has added North alumni Trey Wormington as a defensive line assistant and brought in Phillip Spess to coach defensive backs.

“Trey just graduated from UCO and brought a lot of energy to that position group. In the secondary, we hired what I feel like is an outstanding young coach that has a really bright career ahead of him,” Jones said.

Spess comes from Tecumseh and spent two years prior at Southern Methodist University as the Mustangs’ quality control coach. Jones said he’s enjoyed taking over the defensive coordinator duties.

“Getting back to the defensive side of the ball as a full-time coach has been fun. It’s been great to see our guys’ transition,” Jones said.

On the defensive line, senior Jachin McDonald (6’ 3, 210) will start at defensive end. Sophomore Josh Koranda (6’ 2, 288) has been getting reps at nose guard.

Photo by: Mark Doescher

S P O RT S

North returns a key piece with inside linebacker, senior Jake Landers, (5’ 11, 213).

“That defensive unit starts with Jake Landers. Jake’s a guy that started every game last year and has had a tremendous spring,” Jones said.

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The other inside linebacker position is a battle between senior Dylan Smith (5’ 10, 170) and junior Kameron Washington (5’ 11, 218). At outside linebacker, one of the starting positions is expected to be filled by senior Riley Barker (5’ 10, 175), though Barker was described as a “utility guy” that could play inside or outside.

Jones says he is thrilled with the progress of cornerbacks, seniors Joshah Bowie (6’, 170) and Malachi Gatewood (6’ 2, 162).

“The two corner positions are the place that I’ve felt we’ve grown the most from last year. We’re playing two corners that I believe can be some of the best corners in the state,” he said. “They both can run and that gives you a great presence, especially against the teams that we play.”

At the safety position, the T-Wolves are looking at sophomore Trey Laubach (5’ 10, 171), sophomore Eli Moulton (6’, 156), junior Carson Rector (5’ 10, 182), sophomore Jake Tadlock (5’ 8, 156) and senior Trey Yates (5’ 10, 155).– BSM

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S P O RT S

NOBLE very least one of those games,” George said. “If you want to make the playoffs in this district, you have to beat some of these peer programs. We didn’t do that last year and that’s why we missed the playoffs. Our kids learned from it and look forward to this year.”

The quarterback position will be in transition after two-year starter Hayden Lingle graduated following the 2018 season. There will be a battle for the position for 2019 as senior Austin Fisher (5’8, 155) and sophomore Trevor “Chili” Lorenz (6’3, 160) vie for the starting job. George says last year’s backup is the favorite to be under center week one.

E

ntering the 2018 season, the Noble Bears looked to weather a difficult schedule and make the playoffs for a third straight year, but the Bears fell short of the playoffs with a 4-6 record, 2-5 in a difficult District 1 in Class 5A. “The biggest thing for us last year was the shift in district that put us in a situation where you knew there were six playoff-quality teams and only four would get in,” Noble head coach Greg George said. “Not only did we play in a tough district, but we also didn’t help ourselves. We didn’t play as well as we needed to play in key games and that was the difference last year.”

The road to the playoffs in 2019 will not be a cakewalk either as the Bears schedule features playoff teams in Ada, Piedmont, Duncan, El Reno, Altus and Ardmore.

“When you look at those first three games of district play (Duncan, El Reno and Altus), we have to win at the

64 | August 2019

“Right now, Austin is our starter, going through spring ball and pad camp.

He just has that feel for the offense, but they’re both competing,” he said. “We expect Austin to have a good year for us. He is multidimensional, and that’s a change for us because the last five years, we had pure drop-back passers. Having the quarterback run game will be something very different for us offensively, and we look forward to it. I will say, even if Trevor (Lorenz) doesn’t start there for us, he will contribute somewhere else for us because he’s just a football player.”

The backfield saw contributors Bryan Henager, James Robison and Umane Willhoite graduate, but lead senior back Gavin Yeager (6’2, 210) returns looking to have better fortune on the injury front this season.

“We expect big things from Gavin this year,” George said. “He was banged up for a few games last year and he never really got to take off like we were hoping, but this year, we are hoping the quarterback run game benefits him and can open up some running lanes. When you have that extra element of misdirection with the quarterback run game, it really makes it hard for defenses.”

The receiving corps is led by returning starting seniors Antywan “Jay” Smith

BY: DRAKE DIACON

(5’10, 160) and Ezra Elkins (5’8, 160), while sophomore Trevor Wardrip (6’0, 165), junior Gabe Hudson (6’1, 170) and junior Korbin Hughes (5’10, 150) will get the opportunity to also contribute in the passing game. George says he expects Smith—who will also start at cornerback—to be the playmaker of the group.

“We need him to have a big year,” he said. “We need one of those 1,000 yard seasons from him, and we are expecting him to deliver on our expectations.”

The offensive line is led by seniors, including guard Hunter Largent (6’2, 315), center Kyle Huse (6’0, 250) and tackle Brody Sturges (6’5, 235). They appear to be one of the strong points of the offense. While all three of the seniors will be important pieces to the line, George says Largent sets the tone for the group.

“He’s the guy who makes things go up there, and he’ll play college football at some level,” he said. “He’ll be the bell cow of the group, but all of our seniors will be key to our success because they will lead by example and help the younger linemen along the way.”

The defensive front seven was one of the strong points of the 2018 defense.

Gavin Yeager, Hunter Largent and Brody Sturges will contribute on the front in addition to what they give the Bears on offense. Other names to watch for are seniors Devry King (5’10, 185), Sam Sendelbach (5’9, 195) and Dawson Wright (6’0, 220), in addition to juniors Brandon Cartwright (5’9, 195) and Robert “Shawn” Gillespie (5’10, 175).

Senior Jay Smith will play both ways as he mans the top cornerback spot, while junior Gabe Hudson and sophomore Trevor Lorenz will play safety.

Noble opens the 2019 season at home against Newcastle on Sept. 6 and the Bears start district play on Sept. 27 against Duncan.– BSM

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S P O RT S

I

LITTLE AXE

n 2018, the Little Axe Indians moved down from 3A to District 7 of 2A, which is arguably one of the most difficult districts in all of Oklahoma high school football. After a season mired by injuries and coupled with a tough schedule, the Indians fell short of the playoffs with a 4-6 record.

“In the first half of the season, we had some things that didn’t necessarily go our way,” head coach Matt Lane said. “We had some injuries and other things that were beyond our control that didn’t go right for us. I liked what I saw out of our guys the second half of the season because they never quit.”

The 2019 schedule won’t get any easier as the Indians will have district foes Lexington, Washington and Millwood coming off of playoff bids last season.

Leading the offense for the second year will be junior quarterback Collin Gibson (6’0, 165). In addition to being the team’s leading passer a year ago, Gibson also led the team in rushing.

While Lane says Gibson has a chance to be truly special, the part of his game his coach would like to see grow is his confidence and becoming more of a team leader.

“You couldn’t really ask for a better job than what he (Gibson) did for us last year,” Lane said. “He kind of deferred to other guys since he was just a sophomore last year, but since those guys have graduated, you’ve seen him kind of take the initiative and leadership role we want to see him take.”

The running game will be ever important for the up-tempo rushing attack Lane has established. The backfield is a group of playmakers with junior Corey Shackleford (5’8, 165), junior Micah Helie (5’6, 140), senior Caeden Guthary (5’11, 185). The group also includes sophomore Kody Dellinger (6’0, 175), who is a transfer from Midwest City.

Lane says Shackleford has a chance to be an impact player for the offense this year.

66 | August 2019

BY: DRAKE DIACON

“He was averaging over eight yards per carry,” Lane said. “He’s a dynamic kid, and he didn’t get to play in three games last year, so we are hoping to see him on the field all season. He’s the kind of kid that when he touches the ball, you hold your breath because he can turn a five-yard loss into a 15yard gain.”

While the offense really emphasizes the run game, Lane says the receiving corps is as strong as it’s ever been. Junior Andrew Hanna (5’10, 165) and senior Travis Loving (6’5, 170) will be the top wideouts for the Indians’ offense.

Clearing the way for the Indians’ run-attack will be three seniors: center Ethan Nusser (5’8, 220), guard Weston Early (5’11, 300) and tackle Johnathan Price (6’2, 215). The other side of the offensive line is likely to be filled out by junior Tristan Castrillo (5’10, 240) and sophomore Kameron Farris (5’10, 220).

“I’m really excited about our offensive line and that really starts with the right side, where we have our seniors,” Lane said. “I would honestly put that right side of the line against anyone else’s in the state. It’s that good.”

The Indians’ defensive scheme is shifting to a 3-3-5-stack style, and Lane hopes it helps keep his line fresh.

“We don’t have a ton of depth on the defensive line, but the depth we do have is very athletic,” he said. “What we’re trying to do is take advantage of our more athletic kids and also be able to help keep our depth from being an issue.”

Typical of smaller schools, Little Axe has many of their offensive starters playing defense as well. Weston Early, Castrillo, Guthary and Price will all do so on the line and in the linebacker group. Senior defensive end Lucas Buchanan (6’0, 190) is also one of the game changers for the defensive line.

“We are really excited about the line and the linebackers, but we really like the 3-3-5 style with the kids we have com-

ing back,” Lane said. “We have a chance to really dominate and keep offenses guessing with our blitz packages.”

The secondary, or as they like to refer to themselves, “L.A.P.D.: Little Axe Pass Defense”, is set to be experienced after an unfortunate run of injuries last season. Those injuries allowed Shackleford, Hanna, Helie, junior David Benge (5’8, 140) and junior Jorge Lopez (5’7, 190) to play last year. All of them are set to start going into 2019.

Little Axe opens the season on the road Sept. 6 against Bridge Creek and starts district play at Lexington on Sept. 27.– BSM

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S P O RT S

BY: JOSH HELMER

COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN

That may be a tall order with only three returning seniors on their 2019 roster.

“We really feel like this is a real critical year for us and battling for a playoff spot is a reachable goal,” head coach Mat McIntosh said. “If we can compete at a level that we think we can get to, then we really feel like our program has turned the corner and that last year wasn’t a fluke.”

“The biggest thing for us is to keep that momentum and the key to that is getting our young guys to believe what we think about them. We think they’ve got the talent to step forward.”

CCS graduated two-year starting quarterback A.J. Ward and will replace him with either junior Gunnar Colvin (5’ 11, 175) or sophomore Kallen Montgomery (6’, 175). The two will be locked in a quarterback battle throughout fall camp and perhaps into the nondistrict portion of the schedule to see who will operate the Royals’ spread attack.

“They’re both athletic guys. Both have an opportunity to be two-way players for us,” McIntosh said. “If not at the quarterback position, they’ll both get on the field offensively.”

“They both have their strengths. Kallen will generally be a tad bit better of a run70 | August 2019

ner at this point, but Gunnar can make good decisions. So, we are just trying to figure out which of those two can be the best combination.”

CCS generally works out of a one-back set, but the Royals have three options to put in the backfield. Sophomore Dylan Acton, (5’ 9, 175) junior Alex Hoselton (5’ 10, 190) and sophomore Boyce McIntosh (6’ 1, 200) will all carry the football.

The Royals’ receiving corps is stockpiled with talent and may be their best position group. McIntosh says it’s the team’s deepest position group. Jackson Bush (6’, 175) headlines the pass-catchers.

“We’ll have to figure out any and all ways to get him the football,” McIntosh said.

Other receivers to watch include junior Kooper Hartsock (5’ 10, 175) on the outside and junior Gage Williams (6’ 2, 190) and sophomore Isaiah Williams (5’ 9, 180) in the slot.

“Anytime we’ve gotten the ball in his hands in the spring and summer, Isaiah has just looked really good and we expect big things from him,” McIntosh said.

Although it’s not the Royals’ deepest unit, McIntosh feels his offensive line is a talented group. CCS returns threeyear starter, senior Alex Laffin (6’ 220) at guard, junior Harry Shuman (6’ 2, 240) at tackle and is moving junior Josh Vordenbaum (5’ 11, 195) from guard to center.

Sophomore Cody Rose (6’ 5, 265) also saw action last season.

“If we do have success this year, they’re going to lead the way for us,” McIntosh said.

Community Christian will once again work out of a 3-3-5 defense and McIntosh says he is excited about what the

Royals have in the trenches.

Senior Matt Farabow (6’ 3, 230) is set to start on the defensive line and then a laundry list of other players will see time up front including Laffin, Rose and Shuman as two-way linemen. A pair of offensive skill guys, in Acton and Gage Williams, will also contribute up front.

“We think Acton will give people all kinds of trouble with his quickness,” McIntosh said.

McIntosh described his linebackers as his strongest unit defensively. They return Hoselton and Vordenbaum as well as McIntosh who led the team in tackles last year in his freshman season.

“Even though they’re young, there’s a lot of experience and productivity.

They’ll just continue to develop,” McIntosh said.

In the secondary, it’s a complete overhaul as CCS will have five new faces.

The Royals didn’t have to use Bush as a two-way player last season, but he will be called upon to play cornerback this year. To help the rebuild in the backfield, McIntosh was able to recruit junior Austin Remington (6’, 165) and sophomore Ashton Weber (6’, 170) out of the school hallways. Both are established basketball and soccer players but will be first-year players on the gridiron.

Remington was graded as the team’s “most impressive defensive guy” in the team’s 7-on-7 work this spring. The other safety positions will be occupied in some capacity by Colvin, Hartsock, Montgomery and Isaiah Williams. – BSM

Photo by: Jim & Lisa Photography

C

ommunity Christian is looking to become a perennial playoff contender. Fresh off a 6-5 campaign that earned the program their first-ever playoff berth since joining the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA), CCS will need to grow up quickly in order to grab back-to-back trips to the postseason.

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B USI NESS

Seven Steps to a Mid-Year Financial Check Up

It feels like you just packed away the holiday decorations yesterday, but believe it or not, 2019 is already half over.

As we sail into the season of barbecues and beaches, take a few minutes to give yourself a mid-year financial checkup.

A small investment of time can spur important changes that can affect your financial wellness for the rest of 2019 or even for years to come.

Use the seven steps detailed below to guide you through your checkup.

STEP 1: REVISIT YOUR BUDGET Remember sitting down in December and crunching all those numbers? There’s no need for such a detailed job again, but take some time to review your monthly budget.

Are you sticking to the planned budget for every category?

Are you overspending in some categories or under-spending in others? Do you need to adjust your allotted budget in some areas or maybe trim your discretionary spending across the board?

Review your spending over the last few months and make any necessary changes so your budget can continue working for you. Be sure to account for any significant life changes that may alter your financial needs, such as a marriage, the birth of a child, a divorce or a job change.

By reviewing and adjusting your budget, you will avoid falling into the mindless spending trap and you will be taking proactive steps toward staying on top of your finances for the rest of 2019.

STEP 2: ANTICIPATE LARGE EXPENSES Now that you’ve updated your monthly budget, take a moment to list any large expenses you anticipate having in the next six months. This can include household appliances that may need replacing, expensive car repairs that will likely become necessary or an anticipated medical expense that is not fully covered by insurance.

Once you have this information in hand, determine which spending category you will take the money from to cover these expenses. Do you have a rainy-day fund that can pay for one or several of these costs? Can you use the money in your emergency fund? Make the decision about sourcing this money now so you don’t make the wrong choices when you’re stressed and pressed for time in the future.

If you do not have enough money set aside for these expenses, build a savings plan into your monthly budget now so you have the funds available when you need them.

STEP 3: REVIEW YOUR TAX WITHHOLDINGS Review your tax withholdings to see if they need any adjusting. If taxes and numbers are not your thing, ask your accountant for assistance with this step. Your goal here is to pay the perfect amount so you’re not hit with a huge tax bill at the end of the year but also not lending the government your money interest-free. boydstreet.com

STEP 4: CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE Your credit score is like your money grade, indicating the degree of your financial wellness and responsibility.

Visit AnnualCreditReport.com for your free credit report from any of the three major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.

If your score has gone up in the last six months, you’re doing great! Keep up the good work.

On the flip side, if your score has dropped, review your report in detail. Are there any errors you’ll need to contest with the Federal Trade Commission? Is there a credit card bill or another line of credit you’ve been neglecting that is dragging your score down? Are you having trouble remembering to pay your monthly bills in a timely manner?

Take the necessary steps to fix your score today, whether that means contesting a charge, setting up an automatic payment on some of your bills or lowering your credit utilization rate by paying with plastic less often.

STEP 5: REVIEW YOUR INVESTMENTS Now is the time to review and adjust all of your investments.

This includes your contributions to your retirement funds, any stock investments, bonds, trust funds or savings certificates. Make sure you are maximizing your contributions when possible and that your other investments are performing according to plan, making adjustments as necessary.

STEP 6: TACKLE YOUR DEBT List every single outstanding debt you carry, including credit card debt and loans. Designate one debt to tackle first, either choosing the one that carries the highest interest rate or the one with the lowest balance. Next, work on a plan to get rid of your chosen debt, being careful not to neglect the others. See if you can trim your budget or boost your income in any way to increase your payments on this debt. Once you’ve paid it off, move to the next one on your list so you’re on your way to a debt-free life.

STEP 7: REVIEW YOUR FINANCIAL RESOLUTIONS AND LONG-TERM GOALS Which financial resolutions did you jot down at the end of 2018? What are your dreams for the future? Did you want to start socking away another $200 a month? Is your goal to retire comfortably at 55?

Take some time to review these goals and to determine whether you are indeed taking the steps necessary for making them happen. If you’ve been neglecting them for the first half of 2019, create a plan for working toward them for the rest of the year. Remember: With determination and proper planning, nearly any financial goal is possible!

Now that you’ve given yourself a thorough financial checkup, you can kick back and enjoy the sweetness and the sunshine of the season, guilt-free. Happy summer!

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 75

BY: KATHY HALLREN | JOE’S WINES & SPIRITS

You say Syrah, I say Shiraz

N

ames of wine can be confusing, and in some cases difficult to pronounce. Let’s shed a little light on the subject, starting with the classic sauvignon blanc.

The classic sauvignon blanc grape is found in many wines including Sancerre, Pouilly-Blanc, Graves and others from France and Fumé Blanc in the United States. Why all the different names? There are a couple reasons. Robert Mondavi, a leading California vineyard operator, thought Fumé Blanc was easier to pronounce and therefore easier to market in this country.

Traditionally in France, wines are named after the region where they are produced, resulting in several names for wines made from the same type of grape. That tradition is slowly being supplanted by varietal designations, and there is a great deal of variation between the styles of Sauvignon or Fume Blanc. French Sauvignon Blancs are usually oaked, as are Fumé Blancs, while most American Sauvignon Blancs are not. New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs are also unoaked, offering a very fruity forward.

Zinfandel or primivato is often found side by side and, depending on whom you consult, are the same grapes or a close genetic clone of an older Croatian grape. Primivato is grown primarily in southern Italy, while the zinfandel

LI F EST Y L E

grape made its home in California with the gold rush.

These grapes produce wines with very different characteristics, from fruit forward to downright sweet or even dry and full bodied. Generally dry, Primivato generally is a little lighter than zinfandel.

Pinot gris or pinot grigio are made from the same grape.

However, their styles are quite different. Pinot grigio is a traditional light, dry wine from northern Italy. Pinot Gris is originally from the Alsace region of eastern France, and it tends to be full bodied and may have sweet notes. More specifically, Oregon winemakers are emphasizing medium-bodied wines with apple or pear notes.

Finally, Syrah or Shiraz are the same grape. Syrah is what French winemakers call this grape while Australian winemakers call it Shiraz. The style of wine produced is very different too. French wines are restrained, while the Australians are fruit forward. It is important to note that Petit sirah is a completely different grape, unrelated to the other two.

With so many delicious options to choose from, your local wine merchant can help you find the style you prefer.

Kathy

H EA LT H

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

Early Inspiration

Norman Physician Says Medical Journey Shaped by Her Mother’s Doctor

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ometimes, an unexpected encounter can leave a lasting impact. For Dr. Mady Ohs, the newest physician to join Norman Regional’s Care For Women - Norman clinic, it was a doctor caring for her mother that helped shape her professional journey.

“I had my son in my third year of residency,” she said. “That was an amazing experience. I never thought that he would teach me so much about my profession. I can relate better to what my patients are going through. It was really cool to go through that experience with them.”

“As a young girl, I had always been interested in science and in medicine,” Ohs said. “But, when I was in high school, my mom needed a hysterectomy. That doctor and the way she cared for my mom was my first real introduction into women’s health.”

To this day, for Ohs, being in the delivery room remains a highlight.

Since, she has pursued her passion for women’s health, graduating from the University of Oklahoma for her undergraduate degree and OU’s College of Medicine for her medical degree. She then completed her residency in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she delivered babies and cared for women and girls of all ages.

But, perhaps the most influential experience of her career, Ohs said, happened during her third year of residency. boydstreet.com

“I still remember delivering my first baby.

I had such a big smile on my face,” she said. “I can’t think of a more rewarding privilege. I feel so honored to be chosen to be present on such an important day.”

Ohs said she is excited to join the team of doctors, nurses and other specialists at Norman Regional.

“I felt so welcome,” she shared about the first time she toured the hospital and clinic. “I was so impressed that everyone, the nurses and even the lactation consultants, had some kind of special passion or interest of care. It was clear they want to make things better in the community.”

And, caring for moms is Ohs’ particular specialty.

“It’s important to me to respect whatever a mom decides (in terms of her health and the health of her baby) and to help them with that goal. The burden we moms put on ourselves can be extremely overwhelming, and I want my patients to feel supported. I want my office to be a place they feel safe talking about whatever problem they are having.

“My number one goal is for the mom to be healthy and to have a healthy baby. I want to support their different expectations and goals and to be there to listen whenever things don’t go as expected.”

Ohs is accepting new patients at the Care for Women - Norman office located at 3400 W Tecumseh Rd, Suite 205. To learn more about Ohs and the team of physicians she is joining at the clinic, visit www.normanregional.com or call 7932229. – BSM

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 81

B U S I N E SS

BY: EMILY ROBINSONT

Cleaning Up

Maid OK Grows Through Customer Service, Attention to Detail

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isa D’Amico, co-owner of Maid OK, with her husband Joe, has an impressive and extensive list of cleaning services and specialties.

This family-owned business was established more than 20 years ago, and they will clean just about anything.

They even have a certification to do fire and water restoration and mold remediation.

Like other cleaning companies, Maid OK does both residential and commercial properties, but Lisa feels like they sweep away the competition in quality. “We really pride ourselves on customer service,” she said. “We also guarantee our work.”

D’Amico says Maid OK has high standards for what they do, and they pay meticulous attention to detail, which is why they are now one of the largest cleaning services in the state.

She went on to explain how their quality control works. Another employee will inspect sites to make sure everything is being done properly, that customers get what they pay for, 82 | August 2019

and any problems or mistakes will be fixed, she said.

Serving clients from Edmond to Purcell, testimonials praise the work of Maid OK’s employees and they also offer a discount to employees of the University of Oklahoma.

The company averages about 40 jobs per day, but business hasn’t always been this good.

D’Amico said her family got started in the cleaning business after they moved to Norman from McAlister when they decided to close their BBQ business. As she and her husband were dealing with that disappointment, she said that God told her to “start over.”

Cleaning came to mind, “because I was good at it,” she said. “My mom was like a drill sergeant. Every week she’d turn on the music, and we’d just clean. She taught me how to clean properly.”

So, Maid OK was conceived with the motto “Everything is made okay with

Maid OK,” and the company began to grow by word of mouth, through friends, family and fliers.

“We did all the cleaning ourselves for the first five years,” she said. “Now we have grown to 30 to 40 employees.”

Lisa laughed when explaining the difference of having six or seven phones ringing at one time to now having a website “where people can shop and submit an online form to book services.”

D’Amico said her favorite part about owning this business, although tough at times, is being able to provide jobs for people, especially single moms or girls who have no family. She finds it rewarding to reach out to them and take them under her wing.

The D’Amico family is involved in their church, enjoys golf and family nights, and hopes the community will consider their company when looking for cleaning services. For more information, visit their website, www.maidok.com.– BSM

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B U S I N E SS

BY: COM HEIDEMBRANDES UNI T Y

Building Relationships

Key to Dream Home is Finding the Right Builder

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uilding a dream home is exciting, but if buyers don’t have the right builder, it can be a source of unyielding stress and sleepless nights. Horror stories are filled with problems with builders, budgets spiraling out of control and sites left half-finished.

Thankfully, most builders are both professional and capable. David Armstrong, of Armstrong Homes, is one of those Norman-based builders, and with 27 years of homebuilding experience behind him, he said homebuyers can avoid bad experiences simply by the way they choose, manage and communicate with their builders.

Once a perspective homeowner has done the due diligence to research building companies in their area, the choice of how to find the right builder usually comes down to style, personality and price, Armstrong said.

“A lot of building companies do a great job, but I always caution people to compare apples to apples,” he said.

84 | August 2019

“Talk to several builders and see the specific features of each house. It’s easy to get caught up in the things you see like pretty light fixtures, but look at the guts of the house too, like the windows, the insulation packages, what kind of foundation is used, the heating and air. It’s a lot of work, but it’s important.”

While Norman has many good builders, Armstrong says the personality of the homeowner and the builder must mesh.

“You’ve got to compare personalities too. You have to be able to get along with your builder and have to be able to trust and talk to them,” Armstrong said.

Checking with a local builders’ association is an easy place to start your search, and, Armstrong said, you should look for builders with ties to the community.

“The builders’ associations can give you a list of builders in the area, but you should also look for builders who

live in and support your local community,” he said. “We’ve done stuff for Mary Abbott House, for Folds of Honor and with local animal shelters.

I live next door to some clients.”

When it comes down to choosing from a short list of perspective builders, price is often the deciding factor, but Armstrong said personality and confidence really should be at the top.

“The relationship should be based on clear communication,” Armstrong said. “In fact, I give you my mobile phone number so that if you have a question, before, during or even after you move in, you’ll be able to talk to me. I visit each home we build just about every day. It’s part of the quality control that sets Armstrong Homes apart from the rest, and allows us to say, ‘We are your personal builder.’”

ArmstrongHomes.com has even more tips as well as blogs, news articles and galleries that can help homeowners find their perfect home and builder.– BSM

A

graduate of Norman High, David Armstrong grew up in Norman and has raised his family in Norman. After years in the construction industry, he started Armstrong Homes in 1992.

“I love Norman,” he said. “We do everything from starter homes to million-dollar mansions, but we really specialize in custom homes.”

While Armstrong does have a few “inventory” homes, he said he averages anywhere from eight to 12 homes a year that he personally builds and the “personal” in “personally” is the key to his success, he said.

“I like to say, ‘I’m your personal builder.’ I only do a few homes a year, and because of that, I’m on site during the build. I’m the one you talk to, I’m the one who is always there. Personal service is my philosophy.

We start from scratch or take their blueprints and make a plan, but the client is the one who makes the choices, even down to the colors.”

The importance he puts on the attention to detail is why he limits how many homes he builds a year.

“That’s my philosophy,” he said. “My boys used to tease me and call me OCD. I’m really hands-on, and I have a hard time letting a project go without me being there. I want each home to be built right, and still have time to be involved with my community and kids.” – BSM

B U S I N E SS

BY: COM CHELSEY KRAF M UNI T YT

Class 101

Business Coaches Students Through College Prep Process

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tudents and families who are seeking assistance for the college planning process, including ACT and SAT prep sessions, can find that right here in Norman through a company called Class 101.

The national franchise of Class 101 has been in operation for more than 20 years, and Rennie Cook and his wife, Stacy, opened a location in Norman last year. Cook has a background in education, including both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma plus professional experience in various roles at OU. Opening Class 101 has allowed him to step back into education.

In 2013, Cook started The Triumph Team, which is a training and development firm. The initial dream for Triumph was that it would be multi-generational, working with all groups and all ages. That focus, combined with Cook’s background in education, made adding a resource for high school students a natural fit.

Students can become clients in the college planning program, which features aspects like helping families understand the cost of college and the financial aid process, developing

86 | August 2019

good study skills, building a resume, creating a list of potential schools and assisting with the application process, among others.

ACT and SAT prep programs are also available for both those participating in the college planning program or as a stand-alone service to any students.

Essentially, Cook and Class 101 are there to be another support system through the process.

So far, Cook has already seen the students he has worked with experience success. Through the test prep program, some students have raised their scores by four or five points, and some have increased their marks enough to increase their scholarship totals by $20,000, Cook said.

“I told my wife the other day that it’s probably one of the most fun things I get to do, just sit down with students and help them achieve their goals and reach their dreams,” Cook said.

ACT prep sessions are currently in progress and are held on Tuesday nights from 5 to 7 p.m. The classes are structured from four to eight sessions, with each session focusing on an aspect of the ACT – English, math, reading and science – followed by a part two course for each subject.

Cook explained that the sessions are rolling so students can sign up at any time and always be able to go back during a later

week and take any sessions they may have missed.

“At the end of the day, I’m an educator. That’s what I do,” Cook said.

“When I was working at the University of Oklahoma, I was an educator.

When I was working in the church, I was an educator. What I do at Triumph as far as executive training and development, that’s education. That’s my passion, helping educate and empower people.”

Anyone interested in learning more about Class 101 and its resources for students can visit www.class101. com/normanok or call 823-2178 to schedule a no obligation, free consultation. – BSM

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B U S I N E SS

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

Not Just for Kids

Local Orthodontists Answer Common Questions

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etting braces or other orthodontic care seems like a rite of passage for many teens and the endeavor also comes with a lot of misleading stereotypes. For example, did you know it’s not just for kids?

To help navigate the process, Boyd Street talked with local orthodontists Dr. Robi Lynn Craig and Dr. Ryan Streight at Craig & Streight Orthodontics to help debunk some of the mysteries of orthodontic care.

1. WHAT ARE SOME INDICATORS THAT MY CHILD NEEDS ORTHODONTIC CARE? AT WHAT AGE OR MILESTONE IS BEST TO SEE AN ORTHODONTIST? There are a number of dental problems that can be identified at an early age, so we like to see children for the first orthodontic visit at age 7.

Addressing these issues early will 88 | August 2019

sometimes prevent extraction of permanent teeth, chipping or trauma to a tooth, gum recession and impacted teeth. The timing is important because after the main growth spurt, we are sometimes limited in what we can correct orthodontically and sometimes need surgical intervention to help. We like to prevent that if we can do so.

2. FOR ADULTS WANTING TO ADDRESS THEIR SMILE, WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR GETTING THE PROCESS STARTED? ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS TO KEEP IN MIND? Surprisingly, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health,

happiness and self-esteem are very important to adults and no patient is “too old” to wear braces. We also provide patients with the more aesthetically pleasing options, such as clear brackets and Invisalign, which are both a great option for many adults. Many insurances also have adult orthodontic coverage. Adult orthodontics can range from small cosmetic improvements to functional bite correction as well as working in conjunction with dentists to improve positions of teeth and gums for restorative work, many times preventing premature loss of teeth.

3. HOW CAN I FIND OUT AN ESTIMATED COST AND HOW MUCH MY INSURANCE WILL COVER? ARE PAYMENT PLANS AN OPTION? Orthodontic treatment is specialized treatment for each individual. We offer free consultations to discuss your personal treatment plans and

payment options. We offer low down payments and no interest payment plans. Our goal as an office is to not let financials stand in the way of anyone achieving his or her amazing smiles.

We aim to make orthodontics affordable and fit most people’s budgets.

4. WILL HAVING BRACES OR OTHER ORTHODONTIC DEVICES LIMIT OR PROHIBIT CERTAIN ACTIVITIES? (SPORTS, PLAYING AN INSTRUMENT, ETC.) Most people adjust to having orthodontic appliances quickly and easily. Many of our patients play sports and/or play musical instruments. If our patients play sports, we ask that they wear a mouthguard. If they play a musical instrument, it just requires a little extra practice at first. There are some restrictions with eating certain foods when you are undergoing treatment with braces. Taking care of your teeth with braces is important. We always discourage sugary, sticky sweets and soda. Good brushing is key to a great result.

5. HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT ORTHODONTIST FOR MY FAMILY? Like most things, choosing an orthodontist is a very personal choice. There are some important questions to ask

boydstreet.com

Robi Lynn Craig, DDS, PC, Heather Kierl, DDS, MS and Ryan A. Streight, DDS, MS.

when seeking orthodontic opinions.

There are different treatment philosophies, and it’s important to understand what those differences are. It’s also important to ask questions about different experience levels with various treatment modalities you are interested in. Asking questions is your best way to make yourself knowledgeable.

But perhaps most important in your decision making, you should always choose the office you feel most comfortable with because you are going to spend a lot of time with that office throughout treatment. Not everyone is a great fit with all personality styles.

Our goal at CSO is to provide the highest quality orthodontic care in the shortest amount of time possible in a relaxing and comfortable environment. We pride ourselves on our customer service, and we want everyone to feel listened to and taken care of. It’s very important to us that your experience in our office is kind, comforting, fun and respectful.

To learn more about the care options available at Craig & Streight Orthodontics, visit www.craigandstreight. com or call 321-1926. – BSM

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 89

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New Address, Same Pasta

Campus Corner Icon, Victoria’s Moves Downtown

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fter 30 years at its Campus Corner location, Victoria’s The Pasta Shop is making a big transition this summer.

Roth estimates the transition period will take a couple of weeks, but he is equally excited and confident about the transition.

“We go through so much parmesan and it’s what makes our Alfredo the bestseller. You’ve never had anything like it.”

For quite some time, owner Chris Roth, along with his wife, Shannon, knew changes needed to be made to continue running their restaurant successfully. When the opportunity arose to move into a building Roth owned downtown, he quickly acted.

“I’m inspired by downtown, and it’s progressed a lot. I really like the direction it’s going.”

Additionally, his loyal employees and customer base are a vital piece of the puzzle. He has had his managers, Griffin and Christi, for several years, which has contributed to consistent, top-notch service and food. Roth is equally thankful for his customers.

He’s watched some of them grow up over the last 25 years.

“It’s more cost effective than having a short-term lease,” he said. “Those are tough to keep your place in business.”

The restaurant is moving to 215 E Main St. and is slated to open Sept.

1. Because the new location will provide more space, Roth plans to bring the menu from Victoria’s second location, which has been in Oklahoma City for five years. There is more variety, which he is excited to share with the Norman community.

The Campus Corner restaurant is still open and fully operating for now.

However, there will be a transition period for equipment to be moved.

92 | August 2019

After graduating from the University of Oklahoma and starting at an accounting firm, Roth picked up his first client on his third day on the job.

It was Victoria’s. The first owners ran into trouble and the second owners didn’t want to make the same mistake. He worked as their accountant until he bought the business three years later in 1994.

“They were disbanding, but I wanted to keep it going. I knew Victoria’s was something good.”

There are a few things that make Victoria’s stand out from other Italian restaurants, Roth said. It’s important to have a consistent, local and fresh product. The two most popular items on the menu are the lasagna rolls and Alfredo.

“I’ve watched kids come in here, grow up here, get married and bring their kids here,” Roth said. “I can’t believe I’m that old, but it’s been very cool to see.”

Roth has been married to Shannon for 17 years, and they have twin boys.

The couple spends much of their free time on the golf course, and when they aren’t there, they’re having a date night or family dinner at the place they know and love, Victoria’s The Pasta Shop.– BSM

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