My name is Piper, and I’m a senior at Moore High School. A recent sports highlight was being voted captain by my teammates, which means a lot to me as a sign of their trust. Academically, I’m ranked 17th in a class of over 600 and will graduate in the top ten percent.
Personal highlights?
My parents are Tony and Laura Nichols. Growing up around basketball with my dad as a high school coach, I started playing in elementary school and joined the school team in 7th grade. Outside of basketball, I enjoy being part of my school’s Mock Trial team and reading.
How do you maintain balance?
Balancing school, life, and sports can be challenging, but with the support of my family, friends, coaches, and teammates, I manage it by prioritizing tasks based on deadlines.
Plans for the future?
I haven’t decided on a college yet, but James Madison University is my top choice. I plan to major in political science, follow a pre-law track, and become an attorney.
Turning Setbacks into Comebacks
James Bond, MD
Ted Boehm, MD
Brian Clowers, MD
Carl Fernandes, MD
Richard Kirkpatrick, MD
Zakary Knutson, MD
Jeremiah Maupin, MD
Mark Moses, MD
Aaron Smathers, MD
Joshua Wilson, MD
ROMAN MILLER
MOORE HIGH SCHOOL
Recent sports or academic highlight?
I am currently ranked as the number one basketball player in the state by Prep Hoops Oklahoma. This season, I am averaging 23 points per game as we work toward securing first place in 6A - District 2.
Personal highlights?
I am the son of Roland and Nikki Miller. I play basketball and enjoy staying active by working out. In my free time, I like playing video games, watching Marvel movies, and spending time with friends.
How do you maintain balance?
I balance life, school, and sports by staying ahead on my schoolwork and completing it early, which allows me to focus on basketball.
Plans for the future?
I am currently uncommitted and plan to make my decision after the season ends. In college, I plan to study either business or physical therapy.
Welcome to Our Home & Design Issue!
This month in Cleveland County City Lfestyle, we celebrate "Home & Design"—and oh boy, do we have a lot of informative and interesting content for you!
In a small but growing community south of Norman, many are discovering that a way of life once thought lost is still within reach. Located 10 minutes from central Norman, 15 minutes from Newcastle, the New Urbanism community of Selah is the way communities were originally designed. Homes come in a variety of styles, from townhomes and cottages to larger, estate homes. Page 32.
An upscale new community is rising out of the Oklahoma prairie. Located in Oklahoma City, just south of Nichols Hills, 6100 Grand is reminiscent of certain Upper East Side New York or Parisian neighborhoods. The elegant townhomes were designed by Rick Brown, principal of Richard R. Brown Associates, with exteriors featuring gorgeous white stone facings, large arched windows, and richly detailed, exquisite columns and balustrades manufactured by Renaissance Cast Stone. You have to see it to believe it. See page 16.
A quick peek at other content:
• Happy with your home but need to dress it up some? Katelynn Henry of Henry Home Interiors offers nine fun ways you can elevate your space. See page 28.
• The cowboy boot. It's one of the most iconic symbols of the American West, and it's the subject of a new exhibition ongoing at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Presented by Lucchese Bookmaker, a leader in the art of bootmaking, the exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the history, craftsmanship and cultural impact of this form of footwear, through all its iterations across the decades. See page 40.
• Interior designers and decorators say adding original local art is a wonderful way not only to enhance your spaces, but to show off some of your interests (great conversation starters!) and support artists in your community. Many homes in the metro and beyond now feature whimsical carved wood figures created by former “In Toon with Norman” cartoonist John Tullius. He's currently at work on a series of saints, but also has carved wizards and other subject matter. Page 22.
Enjoy!
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650
We are excited to welcome Norman’s own, Dr. Lauren Parker to our practice! Dr. Parker is a former T-Wolf, Sooner, and graduate from OU College of Dentistry. Dr. Parker spent the last year honing her skills at AEGD in oral surgery, dental implants, and advanced comprehensive and rehabilitative dentistry. Dr. Parker is passionate about dental health, striving to provide excellent comprehensive dental care while expanding the procedures we can offer in our practice. Make sure to meet her the next time you visit!
LAUREN N. PARKER, DDS SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
321-6166
business monthly
Pioneer Library System Offers Upward Mobility Programs
March is the season of growth and Pioneer Library System has programs geared towards personal and professional development. From Managing Your Money, Land That Job to English Language Learners, there’s something for everyone. Visit pioneerlibrarysystem.org to explore our event calendar for details. Join us today and grow toward a brighter future!
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Sets 'Saved by the Bowl" Fundraiser
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma will hold its totally-tubular, '90s-themed Saved by the Bowl (Bowl For Kids’Sake) fundraising party beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, at HeyDay Norman, 3201 Market Place. BFKS supports the nonprofit's mission to match volunteer mentors (Bigs) with children (Littles) who need help with self-esteem, decision-making and other areas of life. For questions about sponsorships and volunteer opportunities, contact Michael Stuemky at Stuemky@bbbsok.org or 405.364.3722.
How does a kangaroo gain energy as it bounces? Why do birds have different beaks? How does a prairie dog cool its home? Creatividad silvestre | Wild Creativity, continuing through May 4 at the Sam Noble Museum (SamNobleMuseum.ou.edu), invites visitors of all ages to explore fundamental concepts of biomimicry through hands-on design challenges, spotlighting the interplay between the art and science of nature and how it continues to inform our world.
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NORMAN PHILHARMONIC
Mozart’s
Rheinberger’s Organ Concerto No. 1 Stephen Wurst, organist
McFarlin
Zielinski, conductor
Medieval Fair Set for April 4-6
Arts, entertainment, educational exhibits, amazing food, challenging games and the best people watching in Oklahoma comes to Reaves Park in Norman from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. each day Friday through Sunday, April 4-6, for the much-anticipated Medieval Fair. Admission is free. Nearby parking managed by OU Athletics is $10. The program, stage schedules and vendor listings will be posted to the website as they become available. MedievalFair.org
Museum of Osteology Sets Native Pollinators Class
Learn about native pollinators of Oklahoma and how to cultivate a garden that supports native wildlife in a class set for 11 a.m.-2 p.m. OR 2-3 p.m. March 7, at Skeletons: Museum of Osteology. Each participant will leave with a planted seed in a recycled container, info guides on Oklahoma native pollinator plants and wildlife, and helpful tips on starting their own garden. SkeletonMuseum. com/current-upcoming-events/conservation-class-march-17
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6100 GRAND: SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR UPSCALE LIVING
New Upscale Community Monumental and Intimate
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DUSTIN GWIN, VISUAL TRAIL MEDIA
“The project is an amazing synthesis of French design and modern detail.”
If you’ve driven down Grand just south of Nichols Hills recently, you may have seen a sight so unexpected you thought it was a mirage.
Ten townhomes—with six more in the works during the third phase of the project—comprise a new, upscale housing development designed by renowned Oklahoma City architect Rick Brown, principal of Richard R. Brown Associates.
Arising from the Oklahoma prairie, this new community, called 6100 Grand (6100grand.com), looks like nothing else you will find in the state or region. Reminiscent of certain Upper East Side New York or Parisian neighborhoods, the exteriors feature white stone facings, large arched windows and richly detailed, exquisite columns and balustrades manufactured by Renaissance Cast Stone.
PROJECT’S INSPIRATION
Rick said that he designed the new townhomes based on American architect Ogden Codman Jr.’s unrealized vision of a grand community in New York City. (Codman was known for his collaboration with author Edith Wharton on her book, The Decoration of Houses, published in 1897.)
Together with his wife, Tracey—who owns an original Codman Townhome in NYC and is an expert on French design—the couple drew on Codman’s principles of harmony and proportion in designing both the sophisticated interior and exterior of the townhomes, which “pay homage to the past while embracing the future of luxury living.”
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
“Our desire was to create a timeless project, with great volume (12’ ceilings), classic detail to both the interior and exterior, and a design that could be either classic traditional, or modern,” Rick said, noting that units range from 3,350 square feet to 7,000 square feet.
Inside, the townhomes feature exquisite details such as antique French fireplaces, custom iron railing high-end Waterworks fixtures, soaring ceilings and grand staircases.
Among the exterior features that first draw the eye to the townhomes are the columns and balustrades. Rick said this project was the first time they had collaborated with Renaissance Cast Stone, describing the experience as an integral part of realizing the vision the couple had for the project, based on Codman’s earlier designs.
“The project is an amazing synthesis of French design and modern detail,” Rick said. “It stretched the limits of the craftsmen in Oklahoma City (Renaissance Cast Stone and the general contractor for the project, Van Hoose Construction), but we got excellent work when they were challenged. It is at once monumental and intimate.”
A PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE
The couple began producing drawings of the planned new development five years ago, and the second phase was recently completed. Two years ago, Rick and Tracey moved into one of the Phase 1 townhomes, which they have furnished
with 19th-century furniture and accessories and modern art.
As residents, the couple enjoys 6100 Grand’s walkable environment, which is close to shopping, restaurants and other entertainment venues, as well as the community's numerous amenities, including a pool, state-of-the-art workout center and conference room for residents’ use.
“Our target market is well-established professionals, both those still working and retired, who desire Oklahoma City’s finest design,” Rick said.
FMI
With its impressive architecture and amenities rivaling those of prestigious resorts, 6100 Grand sets a new standard for upscale living in the heart of OKC. For more information and to schedule a showing, contact David Oliver @ Sotheby's International at 405.532.3800.
RENAISSANCE CAST STONE
For this large-scale project, Renaissance Cast Stone ( RenaissanceCastStone.com) founder and owners Juan and Genaro Arriaga said they were asked to produce and install wall veneer, balustrades, columns ornate panels, quoin
corners (stone or brick that form the corner of a building) and window surrounds.
“It was one of the largest projects we have done,” he said, noting additional challenges that involved coordinating different crews during the production and delivery process.
He added that they were grateful to be asked to be a part of this project.
“It is exciting to see these types of grand projects coming to Oklahoma City,” he said. “We are very proud of the outcome of this project, and we know the client is happy, which is very important to us.”
ABOUT RICHARD R. BROWN ASSOCIATES
Richard R. Brown Associates was established in 1985 as a full-service, architectural, interior design and planning practice. RBA is licensed in over 30 states, and has provided services throughout the United States and Mexico. RBA has achieved 15 design awards for the firm’s work, including three Honor Awards from the American Institute of Architects.
With a passion for creating timeless spaces that blend classical elegance with modern sensibilities, founder/principal Rick R. Brown has garnered acclaim for his exceptional design work and unwavering commitment to excellence.
We are very proud of the outcome of this project, and we know the client is happy, which is very important to us.
Please help people affected by the 2025 California Wildfires by scanning the QR code, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting the word CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a donation.
CREATING IN THE QUIET
At 71, Former ‘In Toon with Norman’ Cartoonist Turns Eye to Sculpting Saints in Wood
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE PIPES
You may not know John Tullius if you were to meet him on the street, but if you’ve lived in Cleveland County for any length of time, it’s a sure bet that you have admired and maybe even chuckled at his art.
This shy storyteller had a successful career at The Norman Transcript for more than 30 years as their enigmatic “In Toon with Norman” cartoonist. However, John’s making the chips fly as an emerging creative voice in a space that can only be termed a “Sculpenter.”
“I was born to do art,” John said. “Most sculptors take big chunks of wood and whittle them down. As a carpenter, I’m used to building things up. I understand how wood grains go together and how to piece things together so that there is little waste.”
Not fully sculpture, not all carpentry, he melded these art and technical forms to create an all-John art form.
As a Navy veteran, John used his GI Bill to go to the University of Oklahoma after growing up on a farm south of Norman, the youngest of five children. He started in architecture but then realized that what he really loved to do was art, so he changed his major and graduated with a fine arts degree at age 34.
“My dad told me to get a job and save your money,” said John, who has lived in Norman for all of his 71 years (minus four years while in the Navy).
After college, John and his brother Jerry went into business together. For more than four decades, they have remodeled, provided custom cabinetry and trimmed houses all over Norman. John has also sojourned into furniture making for close family and friends.
He enjoys working with his hands and is no stranger to the gardens, as evidenced by the greenery in every room of his home. His newest artistic endeavors are equally inspiring inside as they are outside.
“All of my sculptures are large enough and sealed for the garden, although most of my collectors seem to keep them inside their homes,” said John, who uses cedar posts to create his latest series of Saints.
CONTINUED >
Opposite Left Top: John Tullius with his dogs, Duncan and Mitchell.
Opposite Left Bottom: John’s Saint series sculptures come in a variety of sizes and can be displayed indoors and out.
Opposite Right Top: With decades of carpentry experience, John expertly crafts and connects artistic touches like this dove.
Opposite Right Bottom: If John does not like a head or any other part of a sculpture, it gets cut off and recycled into another project. Nothing is wasted.
“ALL OF MY SCULPTURES ARE LARGE ENOUGH AND SEALED FOR THE GARDEN, ALTHOUGH MOST OF MY COLLECTORS SEEM TO KEEP THEM INSIDE THEIR HOMES.”
“I started with Saint Francis, patron saint of animals and birds, and have just finished with Saint Cecilia, patron saint of music, which is #160.”
John attributed his Saints series to a lifelong pathway that “clicked on” countless touchpoints in his life—from being raised Catholic to a random refrigerator magnet to something his sister once said to him.
“I am constantly learning and using what I learn to create my art. From the ‘look’ of my Saints to the Saints I choose to carve, I feel blessed to be on this path.
“I always told my two children that you have to do something you love, and the money will come,” added John, who is now a grandparent. “And I think I have finally found it. I couldn’t be happier.”
John works five hours a day in his garage workshop. He says he doesn’t have to have the best tools, he wastes very little, and he “makes it happen” when challenges arise in his shop. He knew very little about the Saints when he started this series, so learning about them as he creates his versions of them has been another life lesson.
Through custom orders and creative inspiration, John is making his way through the Saints: Saint Gertrude, patron Saint of cats; Saint Nicholas; Saint AgathaPatron Saint of Breast Cancer patients; Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American to be declared a Saint…the list goes on and on. He also has sculpted wizards and gnomes.
“Most of my collectors are females, who seem to have a connection with my works of art that go beyond me,” he said, noting that he loves to see his art being enjoyed, but that he prefers to remain in the background to create in the quiet.
“Knowing that people love my work and that it will continue to bless others for generations is a blessing to me. Getting paid is just a bonus.”
You can find John G. Tullius’ art at STASH, 412 E. Main St., in Norman, or visit his Facebook page at facebook.com/ JohnGTulliusArtist. He can also be emailed at jgttoons@att.net.
Left : John’s studio is a little bench in his garage where he creates heavenly works of art.
Top: John built his own wood cabinets and furniture, and now he is foraying into wooden sculptures.
Bottom: This praying Saint, who watches over their home, is the favorite of John’s wife, Gretta, and will forever be a part of the Tullius family.
Left : John’s Saints are not just beautiful; they are functional and are made to be used inside or outside in the garden.
Top: Some of John Tullius’ statues can be filled with bird seed or used as plant starters, a perfect addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.
Bottom: John Tullius is one of Norman’s most prolific artists. Even after more than 30 years, his “slowing down” creativity speed is keeping collectors busy.
Primary
Body
6 WAYS TO ELEVATE Your Space
How to Add Beauty and Interest That’s Timeless
ARTICLE BY HALEY TAHSUDA PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLY C PHOTOGRAPHY
Raised in the furniture industry, Katelynn Henry--owner of Henry Home Interiors--curates her 10,000-square-foot showroom with timeless, trend-enduring pieces that are visually striking and modern, blending classic design with captivating, lively details.
At Henry Home Interiors HenryInteriors.com, the secret to creating lasting design lies in the thoughtful blend of timeless textures, eye-catching accents and high-quality pieces that resonate style and function. Curated by Katelynn Henry, the showroom offers a range of design elements that bring together luxury and comfort with enduring appeal.
Upgraded lighting plays a pivotal role in elevating any room’s atmosphere, illuminating the space while highlighting key features like elegant furniture and fine textures. Whether it’s a striking chandelier or subtle sconces, lighting at Henry Home Interiors provides both beauty and purpose. Complementing this is the use of burl wood, a natural material prized for its intricate patterns and warm tones. Burl wood pieces add a sense of sophistication and timelessness, instantly taking the design up another notch.
Equally enticing is the use of shagreen textures, which add a modern, luxurious touch that surpasses trends. This unique texture offers an understated elegance, perfect for creating both contrast and harmony when paired with other materials like burl wood.
Unique accents—whether whimsical brass figures like our signature monkey champagne bucket or sculptural bowls—further personalize the space. Quality rugs are another essential, grounding each room with rich texture and color. Additionally, local art is a must to weave into every design, creating a deeper connection to the community and a fabulous talking point with guests.
By combining these elevated elements, Henry Home Interiors creates spaces that are not only visually striking but designed to stand the test of time. The result is a home that feels both sophisticated and deeply personal, a true reflection of everlasting style.
For more information on Henry Home Interiors, call 405.321.1000 or email info@HenryInteriors.com.
Photo: Shevaun Williams Photography
Katelynn Henry
BURL WOOD
Burl wood’s distinctive grain patterns and rich texture infuse warmth and character into any space while adding a touch of natural elegance. Its durability and timeless appeal make it a sought-after choice for furniture like chests of drawers, console tables and desks.
UPGRADED LIGHTING
Lighting can dramatically change the look of a room. Upgrading your builder grade light fixtures to the works of art found at Henry Home Interiors is key to elevating your space and creating a vision for your entire home or business.
UNIQUE DECOR
Intriguing accents infuse personality and charm into any home. You’ll find a myriad of brass and other accents with unexpected features like these octopus orbs (available in two sizes) and faux florals in their 10,000-square-foot showroom.
QUALITY RUGS
An abundance of thoughtfully chosen rugs anchor every area of the Henry Home Interiors showroom, each perfectly displaying how a quality rug made of premium materials can add instant warmth and texture.
LOCAL ART
Henry Home Interiors is a purveyor of local art. More than a talking point at a dinner party, adding local art should be a staple of everyone’s design process. Piper B. (shown above) and many other artists can be found in this illustrious store.
SHAGREEN
Shagreen’s exotic texture and subtle sheen evoke luxury and sophistication. This durable material, often used for furniture, wall coverings and accessories, introduces a glamorous and refined element to any room.
It Takes a Village
NEW URBANISM COMMUNITY OF SELAH “THE WAY COMMUNITIES WERE ORIGINALLY DESIGNED”
BY
JERRI CULPEPPER
| PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARY KURNS & KYLIE
ARTICLE
MASTERS
It takes a village to raise a family.
There was a time when home was the heart of a community. Neighbors knew each other by name, and front porches were meant for rocking chairs, sweet tea and conversation that stretched into the evening. Backyards were filled with the smell of barbecue and the sound of laughter. In the summertime, kids ran barefoot through the grass, cooled off in the sprinkler and chased fireflies as the sun faded into the night.
Back in the day, life felt simpler—before schedules stretched past sundown and the world felt a little less familiar.
Yet, in a small but growing community south of Norman, many are discovering that a way of life once thought lost is still within reach.
Located 10 minutes from central Norman, 15 minutes from Newcastle and a half-hour or so from Oklahoma City, the New Urbanism community of Selah “is the way communities were originally designed,” said Kalyn Stropes, director of sales for Selah Realty.
“From the very beginning, Selah’s visionaries and developers, Brett and Tina Adkins, set out to create a community where everyone feels welcome and connected. Many homes feature spacious
front porches designed for gathering, while block parties bring neighbors together in a way that feels both natural and timeless.”
The community’s name, Selah, is derived from a Hebrew blessing found in Psalms, focusing on sustainability, agrarian urbanism and community building.
“Selah feels safer for your kids to run around and play in,” Kalyn said, noting that all entry points in Selah are gated.
“Whether you are tucked in the woods in a cottage or have a 2-acre lot with a pool, everyone is able to live life having fun at the amenities our community provides,” she said.
“In Selah, there really is such a wonderful variety of options in housing,” Kalyn said. “We have small condos that reside over commercial space, called “Liveworks”. We also have townhomes that can be purchased or leased.”
Selah is thoughtfully designed into distinct villages, each offering a unique living experience. Cottage Woods and Storybrooke feature charming homes ranging from 900 to 2,000 square feet, while the Sweetwater District offers mid-sized residences between 2,000 and 3,500 square feet. For those seeking more space, The Vineyards and East Ridge boast half-acre lots along
Selah’s border or overlooking the vineyards, with Estate Homes ranging from 3,200 to 4,500 square feet.
Estate Homes can also be found in Selah’s Entry District, welcoming residents and guests into the heart of the community.
For those who prefer a custom-built home, The Acres district offers 1- to 2-acre lots, allowing for even larger estate homes with space for a shop. And with future phases already in the works, Selah’s vision continues to grow, offering even more opportunities to find your place in this thoughtfully crafted community.
“We have numerous residents currently living in Selah who purchased their lot and built custom. We have 14 more customs being built this year. The buyer just has to work with our architects and choose a builder from our builders’ guild,” Kalyn noted.
Did You Know?
Selah is designed as a New Urbanism community, emphasizing sustainable living, walkability and a mix of land uses. The community features acres of preserved green space with miles of nature trails connecting homes, restaurants, arts and businesses.
Selah offers a variety of housing options to suit different lifestyles. From cozy cottages in Storybrooke Village to elegant estate homes in The Vineyards Estates, and traditional family settings in Sweetwater Village, there’s a place for everyone.
Architecture in Selah “is unlike any other community in Oklahoma,” Kalyn observed. “Our architects specifically design for New Urbanism communities all over the U.S. Our plans provide more windows to provide more natural light, larger islands, hidden pantries or rooms, etc. Our exterior designs are meant to be timeless. We don’t follow trends, we stick to our new urbanism roots to allow our homes to not age’ over time.”
Though Selah is just a short drive from Norman and the greater OKC metro, residents will soon find little need to leave for everyday essentials and conveniences.
The community already features a variety of amenities, including Pryor’s Pizza Kitchen, a family-friendly restaurant with an outdoor playground, pickleball and ping pong, and live music. Sip at Selah, a boutique coffee shop, offers craft coffee, tea and graband-go options, while The Reserve at Selah provides an elegant venue for private events and gourmet dinners.
And the community continues to grow—later this year, work will begin on Founder’s Market, a boutique grocery store designed to bring everyday essentials even closer to home. With more additions planned for the future, Selah is shaping into a destination where everything you need is just around the corner.
“A huge misconception about Selah is that you have to have a million dollars to live here,” Kalyn concluded. “That is not true. You may need to rent while you save; we have options for that. You may want to start small and let the equity in your home grow so you can build bigger in a few years; we can set you up for that as well! Selah Homes appreciate at a quicker rate due to the amenities being added to our development. You really cannot go wrong by buying now and getting almost immediate equity!”
To learn more about Selah, visit SelahOK.com/. To schedule a tour of the community and to learn about the various housing options available to you, call 405.267.HOME | SelahOK.com
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Live a More Polished Life
Busy professionals deserve a home that reflects their success. 3nchanted Fairy-Tale Cleaners provides meticulous cleaning services for those who value quality and time.
Our background-checked and insured teams deliver a discreet and personalized cleaning experience, using eco-friendly products for a sparkling clean that’s healthy for your family.
THE cowboy BOOT
EXHIBITION SHINES LIGHT ON ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC SYMBOLS OF THE AMERICAN WEST
AND WESTERN HISTORY MUSEUM
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NATIONAL COWBOY
The cowboy boot.
This quintessential form of footwear has been featured in history books, films and television shows depicting (sometimes loosely) America’s Old West. Alternatively, they have also been featured prominently on the fashion scene, worldwide as well as here in the U.S.
Whether you’re a rancher or farmer who wears “working” boots for everyday work and fancier footwear for a night on the town, a boot fancier who loves wearing them to add a western flair to their wardrobe, or an armchair historian with interests in cowboys and all things related, you’ll want to catch Cowboy Boots: From Roundups to Runways, running Feb. 7 through May 4 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Presented by Lucchese Bookmaker, a leader in the art of bootmaking, the exhibition takes visitors on a journey through the history, craftsmanship and cultural impact of one of the most iconic symbols of the American West.
During its heyday as an essential part of a working cowboy’s toolkit on cattle trails, to its rise to mainstream prominence in the early 20th century (including the rodeo scene) and its reemergence in pop culture as a fashion status symbol in the 21st century, the cowboy boot’s story is
“[THE
EXHIBIT] INCLUDES BOOTS WORN BY WESTERN HEROES OF YESTERYEAR, LIKE GENE AUTRY, ROY ROGERS, JOHNNY CASH AND ANDRE THE GIANT,
TO MODERN-DAY ICONS LIKE THE Dallas Cowboys
Cheerleaders AND A SPECIAL
COLLABORATION
BETWEEN
AND
Chris Stapleton .”
Lucchese Bootmaker
A bootmaker shows off his workshop and a handsome pair of cowboy boots.
intertwined with both American history and contemporary culture.
Visitors will discover how the basic form of the cowboy boot—from the toe box to the pull straps, from the ornate to the understated—has endured, remaining virtually unchanged for over 160 years. From the heel to the toe bug, guests will discover the function and craftsmanship behind each component and learn how each detail serves both practical and aesthetic purposes.
Through a combination of artifacts, artworks, larger-than-life color graphics, video and audio presentations, guests will get a firsthand look at how cowboy boots are made and learn about the master craftsmen who transform them into works of art, as well as hardy footwear designed to protect the wearer from rattlesnakes, thorny bushes and other hazards.
Visitors can examine custom-made boots, including those worn by famous individuals; compare their own footwear to famous boot prints; and even design their own cowboy boot on a touchscreen.
“This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to examine the lasting legacy of the cowboy boot, which has played such a pivotal role in the landscape of the American West,” said David Davis, chief curatorial officer at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. “It will highlight some of the most extraordinary cowboy boots ever created, offering a one-of-a-kind look at this cultural icon.”
“THIS EXHIBITION OFFERS A unique opportunity TO EXAMINE THE LASTING LEGACY OF THE cowboy boot, WHICH HAS PLAYED SUCH A PIVOTAL ROLE IN THE landscape OF THE AMERICAN WEST.”
Boots that run the gamut of the pop culture spectrum also will be featured.
"These include boots worn by Western heroes of yesteryear, like Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Johnny Cash and Andre the Giant, to modern-day icons like the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and a special collaboration between Lucchese Bootmaker and Chris Stapleton," the curator added.
The museum has planned two brown bag lunch and learn events in conjunction with the exhibit: Oklahoma cowboy bootmaker Lisa Sorrell will present The Art of Bootmaking, scheduled from noon-1 p.m. March 6; bootmaker Ray Dorwart will present Evolution of the Cowboy Boot from noon-1 p.m. March 13.
For more information, visit NationalCowboy Museum.org/exhibitions/cowboy-boots
Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger hams it up on the red carpet, sporting a spiffy pair of cowboy boots.
The exhibit includes historic photos such as this one of cowgirl Ruth Roach on her horse, Tony.
In this photo included in the exhibition, a boy shows off his skills with a horse and lasso.
TRIVIA QUIZ
Test your cowboy boot knowledge in this fun trivia quiz:
1. During what period of time did the cowboy boot first make its appearance?
2. What are the two basic styles of cowboy boot?
3. What are the most popular toe styles found on cowboy boots?
4 What is a common accessory used with cowboy boots?
5. What are cowboy boots commonly manufactured from? (Bonus if you can ID more exotic materials)
6 Early cowboy boot designs were influenced by a ____ tradition originating in Spain.
7.Cowboy boots took a significant turn in the 1930s and ‘40s, with the growing popularity of _
Trivia Quiz Answers:
1. Cowboy boots trace their roots to the post-Civil War American West.
2. The two basic styles of boot are the western (or classic) and roper. The classic style is distinguished by a tall boot shaft (at least mid-calf), with an angled "cowboy" heel, usually over 1” high. A slightly lower, still angled, "walking," heel is also common.
3. Popular toe styles include snip, wide snip, square and round.
4. Cowboy boots were often worn with spurs, which are sometimes attached to the heel of each boot to cue a horse while riding.
5. Cowboy boots are normally made from cowhide leather (sometimes decoratively hand-tooled), but are also sometimes made from more exotic skins like alligator, snake, ostrich, lizard and eel.
6. Early cowboy boot designs, along with other cowboy accouterments, were heavily influenced by the vaquero tradition, which originated in Spain and dates back to the early 16th century.
7. In the 1930s and ’40s, the growing popularity of Western films (and later TV shows) brought a whole new dimension to the cowboy life in general—and to cowboy boots in particular. Bootmakers began experimenting with hand tooling, patterned stitching and colorful designs to keep up with the demand inspired by the fashion-forward boots worn by popular actors like John Wayne, Gregory Peck and Clint Eastwood.
realty report
A SAMPLE OF RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES IN CLEVELAND COUNTY.
This data is a sampling of sold properties from last month. Source: OKC/Norman Multiple Listing System.
MARCH 1ST
Norman Mardi Gras Parade
Norman's Main Street | 7:00 PM
POLLINATOR PALOOZA is the theme of the 2025 Norman Mardi Gras Parade, set for 7 p.m. Join in on this celebration of community, art and nature, whether as a participant, a sponsor, a member of the crowd or all of the above! All sorts of flowers and their pollinator friends will be dancing down Main Street to live music.
MARCH 1ST
Hands and Hearts
Center for Children & Families, Norman | 9:30 AM
Join Hands & Hearts at CCFI for their 21st event. This year, the event will be a breakfast. It will remain free; however, upon submitting your RSVP online, a minimum suggested donation of $25 is being asked of each attendee. This donation will ensure the nonprofit keeps its costs low and will help them reach their goals. CCFINorman.org/ Annual-Fundraiser
MARCH 14TH - 15TH
Soap-making Workshop
Moore-Lindsay Historical House Museum
Jenna Ziegler, Norman's own soap-making wizard and owner of Wild Bergamot, will be teaching two hands-on soap-making workshops. Soap-makers will choose from a selection of essential oils and exfoliating and/or decorative add-ins for their soap, and after a 6-week curing time, they will take home five bars of custom soap to use, share and enjoy! NormanMuseum.org/Soap.html
MARCH 15TH
Norman's Craftapalooza Market
Cleveland County Fairground, Norman | 10:00 AM
Craftapalooza Wandering Market is a craft variety shop-o-rama featuring Creative Souls exhibiting art, home décor, hand-crafted, sparkly jewels, vintage styles, modern trends, oneof-a-kind designs, boutiques, gourmet foods, small businesses and more. Free admission. ClevelandCountyFair. org/Calendar
MARCH 16TH
Import Face-Off
Thunder Valley Raceway Park, Noble | 8:00 AM
Gates open 9 a.m., racing starts at 11 a.m., and event ends around 5 p.m. Awards ceremony starts around 4:30. There will be a car/truck/bike show, 1/4-mile drag racing (open grudge racing/tnt - no classes), stereo crank it-up-contest, burnout contest (time permitting), low-car limbo, 2-step competition, vendors and pit midway. ImportFaceOff.net
MARCH 17TH - 21ST
Spring Break Camp
Sam Noble Museum, Norman
This five-day camp will keep your kids active and creative while school is out. Campers will spend each day playing games, making crafts, exploring museum exhibits, engaging in scientific activities and more. Children will also stay with real paleontologists. SamNoble Museum.Ou.edu/calendar
CONTINUED
MARCH 20TH - 23RD
Spring Break
Scavenger Hunt
Moore Parks
The Moore Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a spring break scavenger hunt at Central Park and Kiwanis Park. Find the scavenger hunt clues and redeem one clue at The Station front desk for a prize. Each participant can redeem a card (one only) for a prize at the Station front desk. CityOfMoore.com/Upcoming-Events/ Spring-Break-Scavenger-Hunt
MARCH 26TH
Magic Show at Legally Brewed
Legally Brewed, Norman | 7:00 PM Local magician Tracy Mowdy will dazzle and delight you with his incredible magic. Not only will you be entertained, but your ticket purchase will help make a difference. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit South Central CASA of Oklahoma, supporting their important work to advocate for deprived children in the community. All ages. LegallyBrewedCo.com/ Events-Calendar
MARCH 29TH
Norman Wine and Craft Festival
Cleveland County Fairgrounds, Norman | 9:00 AM
Features an indoor family-friendly event with vendors showcasing, wine, beer, food, home decor, art and more. ClevelandCountyFair.org
Leslie specializes in listing and selling homes in the heart of the OKC Metro. Whether staging homes to sell quickly or working with a first-time home buyer, she will take care of you.
She is a new host of the EMMY nominated, TELLY award winning lifestyle show, American Dream TV: Selling Oklahoma City - Cleveland County!
Leslie is also certified by the National Association of Realtors as a Senior Real Estate Specialist. Her years of experience and current certification will expand her ability to help Baby Boomers and other seniors sell their houses to downsize or transition in their golden years! Leslie was voted Best Realtor in SW OKC/Moore by the Moore Monthly Magazine and Favorite Realtor by Nextdoor!
Leslie and her husband Alan are active in their church and outreach ministries, are avid OU Sooner fans and are seasonal storm chasers.
ROW 1: Lisa Ray, Jerry Flowers, Nguyet Kieu, Dustin Whittern, Lisa Elrod, Wes Brozak, Leslie Switzer, Matthew Thomas ROW 2: Cami Martz, Kirk Holloway, Tera Painter, Londell McMillan, Amber Dawson, Kirk Little, Susan K. Ford
