Moore Monthly - November 2021

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VOL. 17 • NO. 11 • NOVEMBER 2021

COVER STORY

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HEART OF GIVING: In this season where gratitude is celebrated, we take a look at how Moore Public Schools and Simple Modern are making a remarkable difference in our community and around the world through their giving.

SOONER FLIGHT ACADEMY Augmented reality brings home the experience of aviation education in a powerful way, allowing students a close-up look at aircraft without ever leaving their school or home.

TASTE LOCAL NOSH: Weathering a pandemic has been a major challenge for this unique restaurant and catering company. But owner Kim Torres says Nosh has managed to adapt and grow through these past difficult months.

CLASS ACTS

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Southmoore's Sydney Borchardt is breathing easier these days thanks to a cutting edge surgery which helps her live with scoliosis. She has also been honored as one of two National Ambassador's for Shriners Hospitals for Children.

4 Letter from the Editor 12 Boomtown

Giving Thanks is Good for the Mind, Body, and Soul

16 Brand Senior Center Activities 19 Senior Living

34 Children's Book Review

Bear Grylls Adventures: The Jungle Challenge

37 Moore Healthy

Collaboration Creates OU College of Nursing at Norman Regional

36 Ask a Dietician

The Most Versatile Vegetable - But Make It Sweet

Caring for the Caregiver

22 Business Building Blocks

Business Startup Training & Support

26 Heroes of Moore: Veteran's Spotlight Aaron Whitlow

27 Heroes of Moore:

40 The Station Schedule 41 Moore FFA Adds Industrial

28 Calendar of Events 33 Pioneer System Library Calendar

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite seasons. And it's not just for the abundance of great food and pecan pie (don't get me started on the issue of which pie rules supreme during the holidays...my mind is made up). November is a great time to take stock of the many blessings we have, even in the midst of difficult times. There are so many stories of generosity to tell in Moore. But this month we settled on two of the more remarkable: a collaboration that is tackling the growing issue of teen homelessness in Moore and a company with a world-wide impact, based here in Moore, that is has committed to generous giving as a core value of their business. We are grateful for these stories along with all the others that are unfolding in our community right now. Happy Thanksgiving!

Laser to Print Shop Arsenal

44 Sports

The Fast and the Serious: Zach Oliva Races to Battle Pediatric Cancer

1st Responder Spotlight Dustin Davis

Letter from the Editor

45 Sports Calendar 46 Sports Photos

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Editor Moore Monthly Publisher Brent Wheelbarger Writer/Editor Rob Morris Designer April Burgess For ad placement, specifications and rates, call or email Aleta Wheelbarger 405-659-7224 | aleta@mooremonthly.com

28 NE 28th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73105 • trifectacomm.net

Moore Monthly is a monthly publication by Trifecta Communications, serving Moore, South OKC & Norman. Moore Monthly is free to the public. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Moore Monthly is not responsible for the care and/or return of unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, photography, books, or any other material that is submitted for possible publication.


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BY ROB MORRIS

Heart of Thanksgiving MOORE GIVES BACK IN A BIG WAY

A Bridge of Hope Haley Wigg's sophomore year at Moore High School began with enthusiasm and hope. But it wasn't long before she found herself facing the kinds of challenges that could extinguish the dreams of youth.

friend's houses," said Wiggs. "And sometimes I just slept in my car because I didn't have any other options."

Finally, Wiggs said she called one of her teachers to see if she could find help. That led her to connect with Bridges program in Norman. Bridges is a non-profit organi"I had got- zation dedicated to helping high school ten preg- students in family crises to pursue their n a n t education. Stacey Bruce, the Executive my sopho- Director of Bridges, says the organizamore year," said tion was born in the mid-90s, out of a Wiggs. "And then partnership with Norman schools and I was kicked the Norman Housing Authority after carout of my ing adults in the community recognized house and the problem of teen homelessness. had no"Teen homelessness is a growing where to go." problem," said Bruce. "Kids might For the leave homes due to abuse, neglect, next six or overcrowded living situations. It months, Wiggs just might also be due to financial issues. But each year, a surprising number of did what she could to survive. kids in Cleveland County end up on "I did a lot of couch-surfing, sleeping at the streets."

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Bruce says Bridges provides those teens with the housing and support they need to finish high school and take the following steps into adulthood. That support includes help with food, clothing, shelter, and medical needs. The students also receive counseling in life skills and advocates to help them graduate. Unlike any other in the area, it's an organization connecting with a growing group of kids who would otherwise fall through the cracks. For Haley Wiggs, it was just the lifeline she needed. "Bridges gave me everything I needed to make it through high school," said Wiggs. "I was able to go have my daughter, go back to school, and graduate. It was a place where I was safe and helped." After graduation, Wiggs enlisted in the Air National Guard and got her own apartment. She and her four-year-old daughter are in a healthy place that might not have happened if not for Bridges.

It is, in nearly every detail, a remarkable success story. The one negative element for Wiggs is true for every homeless Moore student who can be helped by Bridges of Norman: each student is required to enroll in the Norman school system to participate. That's why Moore Public Schools and the Moore Public Schools Foundation are partnering with Bridges of Norman to begin a new program in Moore. Moore Public Schools hired Amanda Robinson to spearhead this effort. "We became aware that our homeless teen numbers were climbing in Moore," said Robinson. "Last year, we identified 85 homeless families, with 34 of those being unaccompanied, homeless youth. Everyone who works with homeless teens will tell you that if you have 34 who have been identified in that category, then you almost certainly have twice that number who are homeless." The urgency of the problem was driven home last year when Moore's superintendent, Dr. Robert Romines, met a Southmoore student who had gone through the Bridges program in Norman. "That student told him that if it weren't for Bridges, he would have ended up living under a bridge or dead," said Robinson. "That student was able to complete his high school education at South- moore through the virtual program. We've realized the importance of not only providing things like shelter, food, and clothing to these kiddos, we also need to do everything we can to keep them in the school community where they've grown up and connected to their teachers, friends, and other important adults in their lives." The realization that such a dramatic problem exists in our city has sparked a fire among Moore Public School's administrators and NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 7


money, and Bridges is helping us implement the program." What that program will look like is a piece of property in Moore that will offer housing, most likely in the form of tiny homes, along with school supplies, employment, mentors, tutoring, life skills lessons, clothing, food, and medical care.

teachers, who decided to establish a Bridges program in Moore. That's where Clayton Remick and the Moore Public Schools Foundation have gotten on board. "The Foundation's basic mission is to enhance, enrich, and expand the educational experience here in Moore," said Remick. "The needs in Moore are great. For example, we have 700 kids that go home with a backpack from the Regional Food Bank each weekend. When we learned that there were 34 kids in Moore that did not have a secure place to sleep at night, that did not sit well with our board or our stakeholders." A s

Remick and his team continued to explore solutions to the issue with Robinson and Dr. Romines, they agreed that they didn't want to build something from scratch w h e n there was an organization like Bridges already in existence and just down the interstate. "They've been doing this with a high degree of success for 30 years," said Remick. "We don't want to reinvent the wheel here. So, we're raising the

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"We're still having conversations on how this collaboration will work," said Remick, "But we are moving forward with enthusiasm. And one of the cool things is that this year's Moore Love campaign has named us one of the recipients of their fundraising initiative. Everyone in the district wants this to happen, and it is greatly needed." In the meantime, Bruce says the Bridges of Norman team operates with a "Phase One" mindset for this new collaboration in Moore. "We essentially do the legwork to find them a safe place to live, perhaps with grandparents, relatives, or friends, while they continue to go to school in Moore," said Bruce. "We'll also help supplement income so they can have groceries and utilities. We try to provide them with all the things our students get at our Bridges location. They just don't put their head on a pillow at night here." It's a life-changing step in the right direction for those students in Moore who find themselves wondering where they'll sleep each night. It's the kind of thing that can provide a lifeline for students like Haley Wiggs. "People don't know how many people like me there are out there," said Wiggs. "To have something like this for them would be amazing. I know that my life would have turned out very different if I didn't have this." A Simple But Profound Mission Every day, tens of thousands of drivers on 19th Street pass the sharply designed but unassuming three-story office building nestled behind Target and Moore. Maybe a handful of people know that the former Computer RX building is now the home of Simple Modern, one of the more popular e-commerce companies in the country. The business was started in 2015 by three friends who wanted to


build a company that would become more than just a successful business. "Mike Beckham, Brian Porter, and Micah Ames were working together at a company called Quilted.com in Oklahoma City," said Chris Hoyle, Simple Modern's Chief Marketing Officer. "These guys decided to work together with a vision to create a business that was successful but would also have generosity as a core component of that company." The three friends were e-commerce experts, so they tried out a few products on Amazon before settling on water bottles. "Micah had a particular interest in water bottles," said Hoyle. "He was an outdoorsman and knew water bottles well. At the time, the world was just getting to know stainless steel insulated bottles, but they were costly. Simple Modern was able to locate a manufacturer in Asia making great bottles and putting their unique spin on it. And things just took off."

Simple Modern's products hit shelves in 2016. But Hoyle says things took in in 2017 when the company was looking to connect with a major retailer. At the time, Hoyle was working in mass retail in northwest Arkansas, so he connected the Simple Modern owners with a broker. "They had been selling for about six months and just gotten a contract with OU," said Hoyle. "But they had a proven track record in e-commerce, so Sam's Club told them, 'If you can get all the college li-

censes, we'll give you a university tumbler program.' Mike and the team went out and got all the licenses, and that was the fuel that propelled the business forward." Today, you'll also find Simple Modern products Sam's Clubs, Walmart,

and Target, and the product line includes the NCAA, NBC, NFL, MLB, NHL, Disney, and Nickelodeon. In addition to the tumblers that marked the company's early inventory, they now offer a range of products, including coffee mugs, barware, kids backpacks, lunch bags, Bento boxes, food provision jars, and of course, water bottles. Shoppers visiting the simplemodern.com website will find a dazzling array of designs and options to purchase custom products for teams, businesses, and organizations. The company's products are also being purchased on Amazon in Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Denmark. As interesting as the business-success side of the story is, Simple Modern's commitment to generous giving makes it even more fascinating, especially in a world where the bottom line seems to be the preeminent reason for a business's existence. CEO Mike Beckham says that the attitude of giving has always been a part of his life. "I grew up in a family where both of my parents emphasized the importance of helping others," said Beckham. "I spent the first half of my career in the non-profit world, and those years were foundational in the dreams I have for the rest of my career." Porter and Ames shared Beckham's philosophy of giving. So, NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 9


when it came time to build their own company, it was an easy call to make generosity a core value. "Our view is that it is healthy for financial giving to be happening at both the corporate and individual levels," said Beckham. "It signals the central role that giving has in the organization as a whole, and it also empowers our team members by giving them the ability to direct more funds than they would be able to give personally." Simple Modern gives away 10% o f its profits annually. Their annual giving partners include: • Restore OKC – focused on eliminating racial divisions in Oklahoma City through education and compassion and taking on projects that allow all community members to work together toward common goals. • Water 4 – an organization dedicated to empowering people living in water-scarce regions worldwide to provide clean water for their community.

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• St. Paul's Community School provides a high-quality and classical Christian education accessible to all families in OKC, regardless of income or ethnicity. • The Spero Project – an OKC-based non-profit that embraces resettled refugees and connects them with people, resources, and opportunities to help them feel welcome in their new community.


Moore instead of other locations. It puts Simple Modern in the unique position of being a business where employees commute to Moore instead of Oklahoma City. The availability of the Computer RX building made the decision a smart one for Beckham. "Coronavirus led to almost a year of remote work for our team, and when vaccines began to be available, we re-evaluated our commitment to an in-person working environment," said Beckham. "The result was reaffirming our belief that a team with a strong mix of flexibility and in-person collaboration was the best option for Simple Modern. We had been sub-leasing the Computer RX building and loved the location. We feel like setting up our headquarters here has given us room to come and the perfect

But the giving doesn't stop there. Hoyle says the corporate culture of giving is cultivated in Simple Modern's employees.

to grow over the years environment to do our best work."

"Generous giving is a part of our recruiting pitch to new employees," said Hoyle. "We let them know that we give our employees five percent of our profits, and they get to donate that money to the non-profit of their choice, so that's the kind of company we're trying to build."

Beckham believes the future is bright for Simple Modern and Moore as the company puts down deep roots.

Hoyle says all of that has been a part of Simple Modern's winning formula. And it's a formula that includes the choice to locate in

"I feel like the best days are in front of Simple Modern," said Beckham. "We plan to expand our domestic manufacturing capabilities, and we will be announcing another major retail partner soon. In addition, our capacity for generosity and impacting lives should continue to grow. I'm very excited about the road ahead." NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 11


BOOMTOWN

Giving Thanks Is Good For The Mind, Body, and Soul

579-7000 • firstunitedbank.com

2101 Interstate 35 Frontage Road Moore, OK 73160 10731 S. Western Oklahoma City, OK 73170

Moore Branch South OKC Branch

Spend Life Wisely ™

POWERED BY

A

s we enter into the holidays, we begin a time of togetherness and gift-giving. Still, it is also vital that we take time to reflect and give thanks during this season. Practicing gratitude helps us to refocus on what we have and be less concerned with what we lack.

• Go on a gratitude walk, clear your mind, and focus on those things for which you are grateful, • Find a small rock or object that, when you see it, reminds you to pause and be grateful, • Continually ask yourself, "How have I been blessed? And, how can I be a blessing to others?" • Offering prayers of thanksgiving.

In research done by Positive Psychology, studies show that people can deliberately cultivate gratitude—and there are significant social and personal benefits to doing so. Gratitude helps us have a more positive outlook, relish good experiences, improve our health, deal with adversity, and build stronger relationships. Gratitude can also help people connect us to something larger than ourselves alone — other people, nature, or a higher power.

At First United Bank, we define gratitude as a positive state of being grateful, an overwhelming feeling of appreciation and thankfulness, and the desire to return kindness to others.

1 Thessalonians 16-18 states, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." So, what are some ways you cultivate gratitude in your life? Spending time in gratitude doesn't have to be time-consuming or complicated. Gratitude starts with noticing the goodness in life. It begins with creating habitual practices that can be as simple as these few ideas: • Writing down three specific things that you are thankful for each day, • Engaging in "mental subtraction," imagining what your life would be like if some positive event had not occurred, • Writing thank-you notes to others on a regular and routine basis,

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In November, First United Central Oklahoma bankers will each receive a copy of the Five Minute Gratitude Journal, along with a Spend Life Wisely gratitude bookmark. We see it as a small step toward cultivating and fostering the continual practice of gratitude. Additionally, as a practice of thanksgiving, our banking locations will each participate in a non-perishable food drive to support food insecurity in our communities. We invite you to join us in giving back in appreciation for all the blessings of life you receive. Established in 1900, First United has more than 85 bank, mortgage, and insurance locations throughout Oklahoma and Texas. It is one of the largest, well-capitalized banking organizations in the Southwest, with more than $10 billion in assets. It is among the largest privately-held community banking organizations in the United States. First United provides a full range of financial services, including banking, mortgage, insurance, and investment products and services, with a primary focus to inspire and empower others to Spend Life Wisely®. Learn more at FirstUnitedBank.com. Member FDIC


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BY BRENT WHEELBARGER

Sooner Flight Academy Brings Life-Size Aircraft Into the Classroom with New Augmented Reality Education App

T

he University of Oklahoma’s Sooner Flight academy is typically a hands on experience.

“If you come to Sooner Flight Academy, the very first thing we do is get you out at the airplane,” says Jennifer Bailey, SFA Curriculum Coordinator. "Touching the airplane. Looking at it. That up close and personal experience. It’s a wow factor and kids go bananas for it.” At least that’s how things work in normal times. The program teaches science, technology, engineering and math concepts through the lens of aviation. This means getting kids into an airplane. By studying the aircraft and the operation of various components, kids gain an understanding of the physics of flight. But since the onset of Covid, getting kids to the airport hasn’t always been an easy task. According to Tammy Trumble, a teacher at Washington Elementary in Norman, “We want the kids to experience hands on. But we can’t always take them there anymore. Even a bus trip is a big deal.” So you’re probably thinking, why not bring the aircraft to the kids? Except aircraft are big. And expensive. And the idea of taking a full size aircraft around to schools is pretty much out of the question. Or is it? Cue the theme song from 2001 A Space Odyssey. This is where the latest advances in augmented reality (AR) come into play. 14 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021

Trifecta Communications is a local AR development firm. Its teams build apps that seemingly place digital objects in the physical space; usually through the camera and computing power of a mobile device like an iPad or smart phone. “We helped Sooner Flight Academy create an augmented reality app that makes it look like a full size airplane is sitting on the school grounds, or even in the school gymnasium,” says Trey Schurer, Emerging Technology Director at Trifecta Communications. Using the camera on an iPad, students see a trainer plane land in front of them. They can then explore the aircraft by walking around it. They can touch parts of the plane to learn about it. They can even take a test through their interaction with the AR plane. “Seeing the plane in real life coming down full size is definitely quite impressive, every time,” says Trey.


According to the folks at Sooner Flight Academy, the app is the first Students agree. “O gosh, I thought it was going to hit me,” says a student at Washington Elementary. “I was amazed by it,” says another. “I’ve of its kind in an aviation education setting and an important new tool for never seen anything like it.” the future of digital learning. It’s also helping them expand pro“In the teaching module, gramming outside of Norman. they get to walk around the In fact, Sooner Flight Academy airplane,” says Jennifer. “And now has students signing up they’ll be able to touch differfor their digital program, inent parts of the plane. And a cluding the new AR app, from video will pop up and teach states across the country. them about that part of the plane and give them some information. So the AR app allows the children to have a simulated experience with a life size airplane.”

The experiential nature of the app isn’t lost on educators. “For them to be able to actually see it, experience it, touch it, walk around it, move with it; it’s going to stick in their memory,” says Tammy. “Unlike just reading it from a text book. This is going to give them something where they’re going to remember the words that they heard. They’re going to get that vocabulary. Because they see the plane, they see the word on it. They can touch the app.”

and other groups are available.

The app is free to download from iOS or Android app stores and includes access to the teaching and testing portions of the app. Access to the augmented reality section of the app requires an access code that can be purchased for $2.99/device for 30 days of access. Discounts for schools

More information about the app and programs offered by Sooner Flight Academy can be found at pacs.ou.edu/flightcamp.

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BRAND SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES

NOVEMBER 2021 November 1 November 2 November 4 November 5 November 8 November 9 November 10 November 11 November 12 November 15 November 16 November 18 November 19 November 22 November 23 November 24

Classic Movie: Dancing with Wolves 9:00 a.m. Open Art Studio Country Music House Singers Tai Chi BP Checks Oak Street Health Services Tai Chi Art Class Visit with Moore Police Bingo with Donna Classic Movie: Regarding Henry Open Art Studio Library Check Out Tai Chi Fresh Cobbler provided by Village on the Park Closed for Veterans Day Art Class Bingo with Terry and Wanda Smart Phone Basics Classic Movie: Castaway Open Art Studio Country Music House Singers Tai Chi Speaker on Stroke Prevention Tai Chi Computers with AJ Art Class Bingo with Scott Smart Phone Basics Classic Movie: Trading Places Open Art Studio Country Music House Singers Tai Chi Closed for Thanksgiving

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8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 11:45 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 11:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

November 25 November 29 November 30

Closed for Thanksgiving Classic Movie: The Rock Open Art Studio Library Check Out Tai Chi

9:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 12:30 p.m.

Exercise: Mon, Wed, & Fri 10:15, Stretch, Strengthen and Health: Tues. 9:30, Chair Yoga: Tues. & Thurs. 10:15, Arm Chair Travel: 9am, Wed., Line Dancing Lessons: Wed., 1:00, Woodcarving: Thurs. 9:00-11:00 Dominos, Card games, Jig-Saw puzzles, Pool, Quilting, & Volunteer work to assist the homebound or work is available at the Brand Center. Moore Council On Aging Bus Service: 799-3130 Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the City of Moore for errands or appointments 8am to 3:30pm, Monday through Friday Aging Services Monday through Friday Call & make reservation by1:00pm. Reservations for meals: 793-9069 Donation for a meal for seniors 60 & above: $2.25 Required cost for guests under 60: $5.00


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SENIOR LIVING BY TAMMY C. VAUGHN, AGING SERVICES INC.

Caring for the Caregiver

O

klaoma family caregivers need financial support, and they can't wait any longer. More than 530,000 Oklahomans provide 440 million hours of unpaid care to loved ones, valued at $5.8 billion annually. These caregivers are overwhelmed, exhausted and depleting their own funds to care for their loved ones. You are not alone. But just knowing that doesn't help with the fatigue, the uncertainty, and getting your needs met while taking care of someone else's. So what are the effects of Caregiving on Health and Well-Being?

Family caregivers are also at increased risk for depression and excessive use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Caregiving can be an emotional roller coaster. On the one hand, caring for your family member demonstrates love and commitment and can be a very rewarding experience. On the other hand, exhaustion, worry, inadequate resources, and continuous care demands are enormously stressful. Caregivers are more likely to have a chronic illness than are non-caregivers, namely high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a tendency to be overweight. Studies show that an estimated 46 percent to 59 percent of caregivers are clinically depressed.

You cannot stop the impact of a chronic or progressive illness or a debilitating injury for whom you care. But there is a great deal that you can We hear this often "My husband is the person with Alzheimer's, but now I'm the one in the hospital! If you are a caregiving spouse between do to take responsibility for your personal well-being and to get your the ages of 66 and 96 and are experiencing mental or emotional strain, own needs met. you have a risk of dying that is 63 percent higher than that of people Many times, attitudes and belief form personal barriers that stand in the your age who are not caregivers. The combination of loss, prolonged way of caring for yourself. Not taking care of yourself may be a lifelong stress, the physical demands of caregiving, and the biological vulnerabilities that come with age; place you at risk for significant health problems pattern, with taking care of others an easier option. However, as a caregiver you must ask yourself: What good will I be to the person I care for as well as an earlier death. if I become ill? If I die? Breaking old patterns and overcoming obstacles Older caregivers are not the only ones who put their health and well-be- is not an easy proposition, but it can be done -regardless of your age or ing at risk. If you are a baby boomer who has assumed a caregiver role situation. The first task in removing personal barriers to self-care is to for your parents while simultaneously juggling work and raising adoles- identify what is in your way? • Do you think you are being selfish if you put your needs first? cent children, you face an increase risk for depression, chronic illness, • Is it frightening to think of your own needs? What is the fear about? and a possible decline in quality of life. • Do you have trouble asking for what you need? • Do you feel inadequate if you ask for help? But despite these risks, family caregivers of any age are less likely than • Do you feel you have to prove that you are worthy of the care recipnon-caregivers to practice preventive healthcare and self-care behavior. ient's affection? Do you do too much as a result? Regardless of age, sex, and race and ethnicity, caregivers report problems attending to their own health and well-being while managing careSometimes caregivers have misconceptions that increase their stress giving responsibilities. They report: and get in the way of good self-care. Things like: • Sleep deprivation • I am responsible for my parent's health. • Poor eating habits • If I don't do it, no one will. • Failure to exercise • If I do it right, I will get the love, attention, and respect I deserve. • Failure to stay in bed when ill • Our family always takes care of its own. • Postponement of or failure to make medical appointments for themselves NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 19


Because we base our behavior on our thoughts and beliefs, attitudes and misconceptions like those I just mentioned can cause caregivers to continually attempt to do what cannot be done, to control what cannot be controlled. The result is feelings of continued failure and frustration and, often, an inclination to ignore your own needs. Ask yourself what might be getting in your way and keeping you from taking care of yourself. One you have started to identify any personal barriers to good selfcare, you can begin to change your behavior, moving forward one small step at a time. But how do we move forward? Strap on your tool belt and use your tools.

• Be prepared with a list of ways that others could help you and let the helper choose what she would like to do. • Try not to take it personally when a request is turned down. • Avoid weakening your request: It's only a thought but I was wondering if you would stay with your dad while I went to church. This sounds like it is not very important to you. Instead use I statements: I would like to go to church on Sunday. Would you stay with your dad from 9:00 until noon? • Try not to take it personally when a request is turned down. It may just not be the right time for that person and for goodness sake ask again.

TOOL #1 - Reduce personal stress - your level of stress is influenced by many factors, including the following: • Whether your caregiving is voluntary. • Your relationship with the care recipient. • Your coping abilities. • Your caregiving situation.

TOOL #5 - Talk to your physician ……about YOU - the caregiver. • Caregivers will discuss their loved ones care with the physician, but seldom talk about their own health. Building a partnership with a physician that addresses the health needs of the care recipient and the caregiver is crucial. Remember that saying put your own oxygen mask on first!

Things you can do: 1. Recognize warning signs early. These might include irritability, sleep problems, and forgetfulness. 2. Identify sources of stress. Ask yourself, what is causing me stress.? 3. Identify what you can and what you cannot change. 4. Take action. Stress reducers can be simple activities like walking, gardening, having coffee with a friend. Make a list for yourself and keep it in front of you.

TOOL #6 - Start to Exercise • It is the healthiest thing you can do for yourself. Exercise promotes better sleep, reduces tension and depression, and increases energy and alertness. If finding time is an issue, perhaps the care recipient can walk or stretch with you. • Walking is one of the best and easiest exercises. Walking 20 minutes a day, 3 times a week, is very beneficial. Work walking into your life. Even if its just going down the hallways, through the rooms of your home, out the front door, around the house, and back until you have 20 minutes in.

TOOL #2: Set Goals: Decide what you would like to accomplish in the next 3 to 6 months.

TOOL #7 - Learn from your Emotions. It is a strength to recognize Things you can do: when your emotions are controlling you (instead of you controlling your • Take a break from caregiving. (you will hear more about that later on) emotions). Caregiving often involves a range of emotions. Some feel• Get help with caregiving tasks like bathing and preparing meals. ings are more comfortable than others. When you find that your emo• Engage in activities that will make you feel more healthy. tions are intense, it might mean • Break your goals down into smaller action steps. Then get started. • That you need to make a change in your caregiving situation. • That you are grieving loss Example: • That you are experiencing increased stress. Goal: Feel more healthy • That you need to be assertive and ask for what you need. Possible Action Steps • TOOL #8 - Call Aging Services, Inc. - 405-321-3200 1. Make an appointment for a physical check 2. Take a half-hour break once during the week. We can help you with taking a break from caregiving! 3. Walk three times a week for 10 minutes. Aging Services, Inc. has a respite voucher program for caregivers as TOOL#3: Communicating constructively - being able to communi- well as for grandparents raising grandchildren. You can receive up to cate constructively is one of a caregiver's most important tools. When 4 - $100 vouchers each quarter to use to pay anyone you want - family, you communicate in ways that are clear, assertive, and constructive, you neighbor, adult day, or even a company to hire a caregiver to give you a will be heard and get the help and support you need. break! Call to see if you and your care recipient qualify. • Use "I" messages rather than "you" messages • Respect the rights and feelings of others. Regardless of what challenge you are facing right now, know that it has • Be clear and specific. Speak directly to the person. Don't hint or not come to stay. It has come to pass. During these times, do what you hope the person will guess what you need. can with what you have, and ask for help if needed. Most importantly, never surrender. Put things in perspective. Take care of yourself. Find TOOL #4: Asking for and accepting help - What do we usually say, ways to replenish your energy, strengthen your faith, and fortify yourself when people ask if they can help? (PAUSE) Thank you, but I'm fine. from the inside out. 20 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021


NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 21


POWERED BY

Business Building Blocks

Preparing for Success, Changing Lives, Building Better Tomorrows.

(405) 801-5000 • mntc.edu

MNTC Business Building Blocks — Business Startup Training & Support

Gina Bertoletti Workforce & Economic Development, Small Business Management Developer

Gina Bertoletti is a Business Coordinator at Moore Norman Technology Center. Her role and passion are to support businesses and connect them to resources. She comes from a family of entrepreneurs and considers it a privilege to serve business in Oklahoma. She serves as the President of the Oklahoma Business Incubator Association and has been with Moore Norman Technology for 17 years.

In what ways does Moore Norman Technology Center work with new business start-ups? MNTC holds business courses as well as providing one-on-one business coaching. Each business we work with is in a different place in their existence and that requires individualized attention. We work with them on whatever challenges they may be facing, from growing pains to hiring to expanding their business. We also work with the Moore, Norman, and South OKC Chambers of Commerce to bring relevant “Lunch-and-Learn” topics to their communities.

What types of courses does Moore Norman Technology offer in the business start-up arena? We offer courses on leadership, basic business start-up, HR, finance,

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operations, marketing, and beyond. The great thing is most of our courses can now be accessed online. This provides a convenient and easily accessible way to pursue additional education for those who are dealing with busy schedules and managing their business. If you’re interested in our courses, you can check out our latest offerings on www.mntc.edu.

If someone is interested in getting assistance with your new business, what is the best way to get information? MNTC has a small business resource gold mine on our website. It is full of business links, resources, templates, and articles that are a tremendous help. In addition, they can contact Gina Bertoletti at 405801-5891 or gina.bertoletti@mntc.edu for one-on-one assistance.


POWERED BY

MNTC Business Building Blocks — VA Benefits

First, you need to apply for the eligible program you’re interested in pursuing. Once you're accepted into the program, I would contact the VA and inquire about your eligibility. Get a certificate of eligibility and bring that to our office, or you can email it and transcripts from any previous universities or institutions that you've attend-

What if I’m a veteran, but I’m not eligible for a VA education benefit? Is there anything else available? Yes, we offer a military tuition discount for our short-term and long-term programs. To be eligible for the discount, an individual must currently be a member of the armed forces or have received a discharge from the armed forces other than a dishonorable discharge and be able to provide documentation. Eligible students may receive a reduction of fifty percent (50%) on the cost of tuition in career majors and short-term courses. Additionally, current spouses of such individuals are also eligible to participate in the program. To establish eligibility, the spouse is required to submit a military identification card which indicates the relationship between the student and the military member.”

Audra Main Financial Aid Coordinator Audra has worked in financial aid services for nearly thirty years. She has served student populations at two-year, fouryear, graduate-level institutions and the career technology system. She loves working in financial assistance because she gets to help make people’s educational dreams possible.

NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 23


PHOTOS AND STORY BY ROB MORRIS

NOSH

EVOLVES INTO ONE OF MOORE’S HIDDEN GEMS

ADDRESS: 200 SE 19th Street PHONE: 405-814-9699 WEBSITE: noshinmoore.com HOURS: Monday — CLOSED Tuesday–Sunday — 11:00 a.m.– a.m.–3:00 p.m.

N

osh just might be one of Moore’s most unexpected dining experiences. Owner Kim Torres began the business as Catering Creations in 1999. Still, over the years, it has become what she describes as a “bistro and tearoom” and highly popular home meal delivery service.

so we do have people come in and enjoy what’s known as ‘high tea.’ It’s not a strict high tea, but it includes a table with a nice tablecloth and six different items: four savory and two sweet. And then you have different kinds of tea, so four people could come in, and all have a different tea or sample each other’s teas.”

“We did begin as Catering Creations in Norman,” said Torres. “We still do a tremendous amount of catering as part of our business. We just met with the OU basketball team about catering their tip-off event.”

Torres says Nosh does require a 48-hour notice for the high tea experience and notes that it has become increasingly popular as the current pandemic has lingered. The pandemic also led Torres into another area of service that has become wildly popular.

Torres says Nosh/Catering Creations can handle any size event, from one-to-5,000. “We can do a variety of catering events that includes plated meals, buffet-style meals, and drop-off events at offices,” said Torres. “We can also do bar service and have rentals for things like tablecloths, china, and silverware, so even if you don’t use us for catering, we can still rent you those items.” In 2015, Torres said she decided to open a restaurant in Moore. “Kathy Gillette at the Moore Chamber of Commerce told me that I needed to check out a restaurant that had closed down on 19th Street,” said Torres. “It has previously been a tearoom, and we decided it was perfect for our needs.” When it came time to decide on a name for the restaurant, Torres said the word “nosh” just resonated with her. “It literally means, ‘to eat or dine with great enthusiasm,’” said Torres. “That did fit with our desire to differentiate between the catering and restaurant sides of the business.” Torres and her team decided to keep the “tearoom” décor for their new bistro and added one of the area’s only “high tea” options. “We kept the teapots from when this was a tea room,” said Torres, “And 24 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021

“We’ve done our Thanksgiving packages for home meals, and those are popular,” said Torres. “But when the pandemic started last year, we had to get creative to keep ourselves going. At first did some quarantine packs with things like dry beans, rice, and toilet paper. But then we started offering takeand-heat meals, and now we deliver those all over the metro area.” It’s a service that continues to grow. Torres says their kitchen changes the menu regularly, but some items have become favorites. Pot roast, chicken-mac-and-cheese, baked salmon, and King Ranch casserole are always popular. “People know what they’re getting with us being local, and they can trust that,” said Torres. “We’ve gained a lot of clients because a lot of people have elderly parents that they want to take care of and make sure they get healthy meals.” Back to Nosh’s very popular Thanksgiving packages, which come in family packs for 6 or 12 people. Customers can choose turkey, ham (or a combination of the two types of meat), along with mix-and-match side items including mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, and green bean casserole. The most important thing this year is that people need to order early. “Things are a little dicey with all the supply chain issues right now,” said Torres. “I don’t want to freak people out, but you’ll want to make sure you order early to be safe.”


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POWERED BY

HEROES

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING

AARON WHITLOW 405-329-2076 • waggonershvac.com

1351 E. Indian Hills Rd. Norman, OK 73071

Waggoners' Heating and Air

V E T E R A N / A R M E D F O R C E S S P OT L I G H T

Aaron Whitlow and his family moved to Oklahoma after General Motors closed the California auto plant back in 1983. As a young boy, he grew up in a family that had lots of military connections.

he went to the Naval Hospital in Bremerton, Washington, where he served on the security detail. His last deployment was to the USS Theodore Roosevelt, a Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

“I had uncles and cousins who were in the service,” said Whitlow. “When I graduated from high school, I had decided to pursue a career in law enforcement, but with the recession in 2008, the job market was kind of tough. So, as I was working in prison security and toward my criminal justice degree, I looked into possible military careers.”

During his station on the USS Roosevelt, Whitlow became a fan of the University of Syracuse. After nine-and-a-half years in the Navy, Whitlow decided it was time to head back out into the private sector. He moved back to Oklahoma and has become an independent dealer for Amsoil synthetic lubricants. He’s also working on his MBA through the Syracuse University online education program.

As he did his research, Whitlow found a Navy career track in the Master-at-Arms and security forces. After a conversation with a Navy recruiter, he signed up on a deferred entry. He then finished his current college semester before heading off to Lockland, Texas, for his basic training. “Master-at-Arms is like the military police,” said Whitlow. “For example, when I was deployed in Bahrain, I was on the harbor patrol doing anti-terrorism protection. We were there to protect U.S. and coalition force vessels that were coming into that harbor.” Bahrain was Whitlow’s first deployment and part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His second deployment was as part of a joint task force in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. From there,

LICENSE: 038828 051757 02188 TACLA0085780E 149509

26 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021

“I had my course diverted from Master-at-Arms to electrician’s mate,” said Whitlow. “I still used my security training by helping assist with weapons qualifications. But I also learned to maintain elevators on the ship as an electrician’s mate.”

“That’s one of the great things about military service,” said Whitlow. “I’ve never had to put out a dime for my education. Not for undergrad or graduation. I used my tuition assistance, and now I’m using the Post-9/11 GI bill for my MBA.” Whitlow says he would encourage high school students to consider a career in the military for several reasons, not just for access to educational funds through the GI Bill and other educational assistance programs. “The biggest advantage is that you’re going to learn a valuable skill at no cost,” said Whitlow. “I would tell kids today make sure you enlist and learn a trade that will follow you into the world after you leave the military.” He also appreciates the camaraderie that comes from serving your country with others. “The longer I served, and the more I was deployed, the deeper the friendships became,” said Whitlow. “That’s one of the things that kept me going. I still keep in contact with my buddies from those days way back when.”


OF MOORE

POWERED BY

F I R S T R E S P O N D E R S P OT L I G H T

DUSTIN DAVIS

FAMILY: I met my wife through the fire service when I was working with Noble. She was an ER nurse at the time. We’ve been married 15 years and have two boys, ages 13 and 11. We’re all very active, do a ton of football games, and are constantly on the go between them playing sports and watching sports.

BLACK RIFLE COFFEE COMPANY

BACKGROUND: I grew up in Norman and graduated from Norman High in 1999. Like most kids, I was active in all the team sports. When I was 15, I discovered the gym and started working out. The owner of that gym just happened to be a firefighter, and there we also a bunch of other firemen who worked out there. So, in addition to the owner teaching me how to work out well, that was where the seed was planted about becoming a firefighter.

1909 S Telephone Rd, Moore | (405) 977-3502 blackriflecoffee.com

Moore Fire Department

LIFE AS A EMT/PARAMEDIC: One of the best things about being a firefighter in Moore is the sense of family and team. You know, we live with each other here at the station for about a third of our lives, so we grow close as a family. And if you’ve ever played on a sports team, you’ll understand the team mentality. There are so many aspects of “team” that we experience every day, which also draws you closer together. Honestly, being a firefighter sometimes feels like the ultimate team sport you could play.

SERVING AMERICA'S COFFEE TO THOSE WHO SERVE

REASON FOR BECOMING A FIREFIGHTER: As I got to know the owner of that gym and the other firefighters who worked there, I realized that this was something I wanted to join. I love what we do and how we help the community. So right out of high school, I got my EMT certification and started working for EMSA in Oklahoma City. I was able to get on the fire service by the time I was 23 in Noble, and while I was there, I changed my mind about working on a big city fire department like Oklahoma City or Tulsa and set my goal for a department like Moore. I hired on in Moore in 2004. As I look back at my life as a teenager, I sense that I was called to this job and help people in difficult circumstances. It’s something I preach to my kids, that you need to find a job you love because then it’s not work for you. It’s funny. To this day, my wife doesn’t understand why I like getting to work early, but I just love coming to work here in Moore every single day. I started out

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • NOVEMBER 2021 Due to positive tests for the coronavirus across the area and the constant changes still taking place as of our press deadline, please confirm the events and services listed in this calendar are still in place before making your plans to attend or participate. It’s especially important to ensure the safety of your family, loved ones and yourself by practicing safe COVID-19 recommendations.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CCC VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Antigone November 3,4,5,6 – 7:30 p.m.

Join OCCC Theatre Arts as we explore the tragic results of pride and willfulness in this new adaptation of Sophocles’ classic tragedy, ANTIGONE. Following the exile and death of Oedipus, King of Thebes, his sons, Eteocles and Polyneices agree to share power. When Eteocles refuses to yield the throne to Polyneices at the appointed time, Polyneices raises a foreign army to take the throne by force. The ensuing civil war ends with the brothers killing each other on the field of battle leading to the events of Sophocles’, ANTIGONE. Our story opens shortly after the brothers’ deaths, their uncle, Creon, seizes power and orders that the body of Polyneices be left unburied in the fields to rot as punishment for raising an army against his native city. Antigone, daughter of Oedipus and sister to Eteocles and Polyneices, vows to bury Polyneices’ body with full funeral rites in defiance of Creon’s decree, the penalty of which is death. Both, Creon and Antigone, refuse to compromise on their principled stances; one for the rule of law, the other for piety to gods and family. The result is tragedy for all. For tickets or more information, call the OCCC Box Office at 405-682-7579.

Cirque Mechanics – Birdhouse Factory November 20 – 8:00 p.m.

This mystifying Cirque experience is perfect for the whole family, combining the thrills and humor of a circus (including aerial acrobatics, juggling and plenty of other stunts you shouldn’t try at home) with artistry and culture. The set and style, placed in a 1930’s widget factory, is inspired by the industrial murals of Mexican-born artist, Diego Rivera, the outrageous contraptions of cartoonist Rube Goldberg and slapstick humor in Charlie Chaplin’s Modern Times. The hopeful story follows a group of manufacturing workers who ditch the assembly line to help a feathered friend. For tickets or more information, call the OCCC Box Office at 405-682-7579.

FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART 555 Elm Avenue, Norman, OK 405-325-3272

The University of Oklahoma’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is one of the finest university art museums in the United States. Strengths of the more than 20,000 object permanent collection (including the approx. 3,300-object Eugene B. Adkins Collection and the more than 4,500-object James T. Bialac Native American Art Collection) are the Weitzenhoffer Collection of French Impressionism, 20th century American painting and sculpture, traditional and contemporary Native American art, art of the Southwest, ceramics, photography, contemporary art, Asian art and graphics from the 16th century to the present. Temporary exhibitions are mounted throughout the year that explore the art of various periods and cultures. EVENTS

Tuesday Noon Concert November 2 – 12 p.m.

Tuesday Noon Concerts is a weekly series coordinated with OU's School of Music. These 30-minute concerts occur during the semester in the Sandy Bell Gallery located in the museum's lower level. This week's performance is Mark Neumann's Viola Studio.

Creighton Gilbert Virtual Celebration November 4 – 3 p.m.

On Thursday, November 4 at 3 p.m. the museum will host a virtual event celebrating the legacy of renowned Renaissance scholar and influential educator Creighton Gilbert and the current exhibition, A Life in Looking: The Creighton Gilbert Collection. Join us for presentations and a panel discussion with former students, curators of the exhibition, and special guests. Speakers include: Dr. Carmen Bambach | Marica F. and Jan T. Vilcek Curator, Department of Drawings and Prints Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York David Byron | Independent Scholar and Author Dr. Alexander Nemerov | Carl and Marilynn Thoma Provostial Professor in the Arts and Humanities Department of Art & Art History, Stanford University Dr. Erin Duncan-O’Neill | Assistant Professor of Art History, University of Oklahoma Dr. Allison Palmer | Professor of Art History, University of Oklahoma

Tuesday Noon Concert November 9 – 12 p.m.

Tuesday Noon Concerts is a weekly series coordinated with OU's School of Music. These 30-minute concerts occur during the semester in the Sandy Bell Gallery located in the museum's lower level. This week's performance is a preview of Bach's opera The Coffee Cantata & La Serva Padrona.

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Tuesday Noon Concert November 16 – 12 p.m.

Tuesday Noon Concerts is a weekly series coordinated with OU's School of Music. These 30-minute concerts occur during the semester in the Sandy Bell Gallery located in the museum's lower level. This week's performance is Suzanne Tirk's Clarinet Studio.

Coffee with the Collection November 19 – 9:30 a.m.

Grab your favorite cup of coffee and start your morning off right with a delightful look at artwork from the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. Once a month, these virtual discussions will feature a favorite object from the collection presented by a curator, OU faculty member, or other art professional. With a mix of works currently on view or from the vaults as well as recent acquisitions, you won't want to miss these candid conversations. Friday, November 19 at 9:30 am, Allison Palmer and Erin Duncan-O'Neill, OU art history professors and guest curators of our current exhibition "A Life in Looking: The Creighton Gilbert Collection," will share insights, anecdotes, and favorite artworks from the show. Coffee with the Collection has partnered with Black Camel Coffee, a new local roaster, to offer a specialty roast that correlates with each month's featured artwork. For Norman residents, Black Camel Coffee will deliver your purchase right to your door at no extra charge. Visit their website to purchase this month's special roast, available the beginning of July. Enter promo code IUWXGS8 for an exclusive 20% discount and enjoy a taste of art during the program.

Tuesday Noon Concert November 23 – 12 p.m.

Tuesday Noon Concerts is a weekly series coordinated with OU's School of Music. These 30-minute concerts occur during the semester in the Sandy Bell Gallery located in the museum's lower level. This week's performance is Chamber Music.

CHURCH & SPIRITUAL CONNECTION FRESH START COMMUNITY CHURCH FOOD PANTRY open the third Thursday of each month, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., 309 N Eastern Avenue, West Campus-Family Life Center. Canned and dry goods available. Must be a resident of Moore (please bring an ID). CELEBRATE RECOVERY Monday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Faith Crossing Baptist Church, 13701 S. Pennsylvania. For more information, contact Nancy at 405-514-9990.

CITY MEETINGS & EVENTS

CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, October 4 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 1 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway Moore PARKS BOARD MEETING, Tuesday, November 2 at 6:00 p.m. The Station at Central Park, 700 S. Broadway. CITY OF MOORE GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND ELECTION TOWN HALL MEETING Thursday, November 4 at 7:00 p.m. Oakridge Elementary School, 3201 S. Santa Fe Ave cafeteria. For more information about the two Propositions on the ballot, visit www.cityofmoore.com/ election2021. MOORE URBAN RENEWAL AUTHORITY MEETING Monday, November 8 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT MEETING Tuesday, November 8 at 5:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore. VETERANS DAY CEREMONY Thursday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m. Veterans Memorial Park, 1900 SE 4th St. Hosted by the Moore VFW and the American Legion. CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 15 at 6:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore CDBG ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday, November 18 at 5:30 p.m. Moore City Hall, 301 N. Broadway, Moore SASQUATCH HUNT Thursday, November 18 Moore Parks and The Station at Central Park. Are you ready to catch some ‘Squatch? These critters have told some of the Parks & Rec. staff plan on checking out Moore’s 13 parks and The Station Recreation Center from Thursday, Nov. 18 through Tuesday, Nov. 23. We don’t want them to get too wild and take over the parks so if you want to help hunt them, feel free to join the fun and become an official ‘Squatch Hunter!

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS & PERFORMANCES AND COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS • NOVEMBER 2021 - from Page 30 Finding a hidden Sasquatch on the playground, along the walking trails, or hiding in their special places and then bringing the critters to The Station will get you a a special treat and a ticket for a chance to win a special Sasquatch prize. For more information visit cityofmoore.com or call Moore Parks and Recreation at 405-793-5090. TURKEY SHOOT FREE THROW CONTEST Friday, November 19 The Station at Central Park Recreation Center, 700 S. Broadway. Here’s your chance to win a Thanksgiving Turkey for the family’s holiday dinner! You can sign up in one of the 5 age categories to compete in a free throw contest to see who will be the Turkey Winners! Ages: 5 and under, 6 – 9 yrs., 10 – 12 yrs., 13 – 17 yrs., 18+. Fee: Day Pass, Passholders no charge. For more information, please call (405) 793-5090. MOORE CITY HALL Closed for Thanksgiving, November 25 and 26.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION ADOPT-A-PET Moore Animal Shelter, S-I35 Service Road. Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., closed on holidays. For additional information call (405) 793-5190. BIG TRASH PICK UP Moore residents will be allowed two FREE big trash pick-ups a year and one free voucher to the city landfill for each physical address in Moore. Call (405) 793-5070 to schedule your trash pick-up. CT CLOTHING CLOSET last Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. CrossTimbers United Methodist Church, 3004 S. Sunnylane, Moore. CrossTimbers UMC Clothing Closet is a place where those in need can find men’s, women’s and children’s clothing along with shoes and accessories. All sizes are available and are free for community members.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAM Moore Police Dept. is starting a Neighborhood Watch Program. If you’re interested in helping your neighborhood reduce crime, contact Sgt. Jeremy Lewis, (405) 793-4448. PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP Tuesday, November 2, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. 2800 SW 131st Street. For more information contact Connie Daniels at 405703-2300. MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Thursday, November 4, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tinker Federal Credit Union, 14900 S. Sooner Road. Come and join us at Tinker Federal Credit Union for a tailgating Business After Hours! Wear your favorite college or NFL team shirt and jeans to this outdoor event! There will be plenty of fun, food, and prizes to enjoy! We can't wait to see everyone there! For more information call Elizabeth Awbrey at 405-634-1436 or email elizabethawbrey@southokc.com. MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NETWORKING LUNCH Tuesday, November 9, 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Van’s Pig Stand, 1991 Tower Drive, Suite A. Join us for great food and an opportunity to grow your business knowledge, share new ideas and connect with our business community. Each attendee is given the opportunity to present information regarding their business to all in attendance. So, bring your best sales pitch - make it innovative and memorable. RSVP required. Buy your own lunch. Cancellation Policy: If you register for an event and do not cancel your reservation at least 24 hours prior to the attend you will be charged, regardless of attendance. For more information contact Carole Motley, cmotley@moorechamber.com. SOUTH OKC CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Thursday, November 9, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Southwest OKC Public Library, 2201 SW 134th Street. This ninety-minute network-

30 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021

ing event is in a roundtable format and will allow attendees to share information about their respective businesses. Attendees are allowed ninety seconds at each table to share information and then move to a new audience and repeat the process. Be sure to bring your business cards to hand out! The session is free; but a $10 no-show fee applies to any cancellations after October 4, 2021. Instant Connections is limited to the first 36 respondents and is a members-only event. For more information call 405634-1436. SOUTH OKC CHAMBER INSTANT CONNECTIONS Wednesday, November 10, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. HarborChase of South OKC, 10801 S. May Ave. This one-hour networking event is in a roundtable format and will allow attendees to share information about their respective businesses. Attendees are allowed 90 seconds at each table to share information and then move to a new audience and repeat the process. The session is free; but a $10 no-show fee applies to any cancellations after November 8, 2021. Instant Connections is limited to the first 36 responders and is a members-only event. For more information call Elizabeth Awbrey at 405-634-1436 or email elizabethawbrey@southokc.com. MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Closed on Veterans Day, November 11. MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAPPY HOUR NETWORKING EVENT Wednesday, November 17, 4:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. HarborChase of South Oklahoma City, 10801 S. May Ave. HarborChase will be hosting a Happy Hour Networking Event in our Fusion Lounge, every 3rd

Wednesday of the month! For more information call Elizabeth Awbrey at 405634-1436 or email elizabethawbrey@ southokc.com. MOORE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Closed for Thanksgiving, November 25 and 26. SOUTH OKC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Closed for Thanksgiving, November 25 and 26. P.A.L.S. PROGRAM FOR SENIORS

SENIOR CONNECTION Seniors are assigned to a buddy who will call every day to check on you. Sign up with Sgt. Lewis, Moore Police Dept., (405) 793-4448. PROJECT RETURN HOME FOR ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS IN MOORE For information about enrolling a loved one, contact Virginia Guild at (405) 7934478 or Sgt. Jeremy Lewis at (405) 7934448. TRANSPORTATION: • Metro Transit will provide van service for age 60 and older on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the Moore area to Oklahoma City for medical appointments. Call Jackie at (405) 297-2583. • Moore Council on Aging. Seniors may have transportation anywhere in the city of Moore for errands or appointments. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. Call (405) 799-3130 at least one day in advance. • “Share-A-Fare” for age 60 and over or disabled. Purchase taxi fare at 40% off.

SEE THE FULL CALENDAR AT

MOOREMONTHLY.COM


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PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM — NOVEMBER CALENDAR Virtual Programs

In-Person Programs

Many virtual programs require signup in advance with a valid email address. Go online to www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org/ calendar for more information and the most current schedule of upcoming events.

Moore Public Library, 225 S. Howard Ave. Tuesday, Nov. 2, 9 a.m. Tai Chi for Better Balance Thursday, Nov. 4, 9 a.m. Tai Chi for Better Balance Thursday, Nov. 4, 9:15 a.m. STEAM Toddlers Tuesday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m. Tai Chi for Better Balance Thursday, Nov. 11 Library closed, Veterans Day Wednesday, Nov. 17, 4 p.m. Sensory Play Time Thursday, Nov. 18, 9:15 a.m. STEAM Toddlers Thursday, Nov. 25 & Friday, Nov. 26 Library closed, Thanksgiving holiday Sunday, Nov. 21, 2 p.m. Sunday Stories Tuesday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. Tai Chi for Better Balance

Thursday, Nov. 4, 6:30 p.m. Penn Avenue Literary Society Book Discussion Monday, Nov. 8, 2 p.m. Meditation and Mindfulness Tuesday, Nov. 9, 6 p.m. Cover to Cover Book Club Thursday, Nov. 12, 6:30 p.m. Manga Book Club Monday, Nov. 15, 7 p.m. Asian Culture Comics Club Tuesday, Nov. 16, 5:30 p.m. Teen Book Club (via Discord) Thursday, Nov. 18, 10 a.m. Thankfulness Preschool Story Time Thursday, Nov. 18, 5:30 p.m. Shakespeare Stories Club Monday, Nov. 22, 2 p.m. Meditation and Mindfulness

Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library, 2201 SW 134th St. Thursday, Nov. 11 Library closed, Veterans Day Saturday, Nov. 13, 11 a.m. Teen Community Project Tuesday, Nov. 16, 5 p.m. Family Game Night Wednesday, Nov. 17, 10 a.m. Touch, Learn, Create Thursday, Nov. 25 & Friday, Nov. 26 Library closed, Thanksgiving holiday

NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 33


PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM — CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW

Bear Grylls Adventures: The Jungle Challenge Author: Bear Grylls · Illustrator: Emma McCann · Publisher: Bear Grylls Reviewer: Mary Maynord, Children’s Library Associate, Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library

Extreme wilderness survivalist, TV personality, and bestselling author Bear Grylls has written a fun and exciting adventure series just for kids. Each book follows a child participating in an outdoor summer camp. Once they are given a magical compass, they meet Bear Grylls in a challenging location and learn life-saving skills they will need to survive. In this book, The Jungle Challenge, we find Omar at camp. He likes the other kids and all the activities. But winning was crucial to him. He didn’t want to lose. He wished his teammates were as quick or brave or strong as he is. But when he is given a mysterious compass and is transported to a thick jungle with spiders, snakes, and caimans, Omar realizes that slow and steady is crucial with the help of his adventure guide, Bear Grylls. Will his time in the jungle be enough to change his mind about winning at all costs? If you enjoy The Jungle Challenge, you may want other books in the series as well as these children’s non-fiction books, Bear Grylls: Survival Camp and Bear Grylls: Extreme Planet. For more book recommendations, stop by your local library or call 405-979-2200. For other library events and information, visit www.pioneerlibrarysystem.org or download the Pioneer Library System Connect App.

34 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021


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STAFF REPORTS, NORMAN REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

This story sponsored by

Collaboration Creates OU College of Nursing at Norman Regional

A

new partnership between Norman Regional Health System and the Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is training more nurses while also giving students hands-on experience. The partnership will create a satellite location of the Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing at Norman Regional’s two hospitals, Norman Regional Hospital and the Norman Regional HealthPlex. It will be called OU Nursing at Norman Regional Health System. “The innovative partnership between Norman Regional Health System and Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing is an example of how we can positively impact the future of healthcare by providing new and additional opportunities to grow the nursing profession,” said Brittni McGill, Chief Nursing Officer for Norman Regional. “Our program will begin offering a traditional BSN program in August 2022. Our hope and desire is that this becomes a partnership model that can be replicated in other healthcare disciplines.” Oklahoma and the nation are experiencing a severe nursing shortage. According to The American Nurses Association (ANA), more registered nurse jobs will be available through 2022 than any other profession in the United States. According to an article in the Nursing Times, The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that 11 million additional nurses are needed to avoid a further shortage. Employment opportunities for nurses are projected to grow at a faster rate (15%) than all other occupations through 2026.

“Academic-practice partnerships are key to meeting the unprecedented demand for more nurses at all levels. OU College of Nursing looks forward to collaborating with Norman Regional Health System to prepare more nurses, lay the path for practicing nurses to advance their education, and leverage innovate strategies to address the nurse faculty shortage,” Julie Anne Hoff, Dean of the Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing, said. This new program is an innovative way to battle that shortage by educating new nurses and quickly preparing them for their role in a hospital setting, McGill said. Students entering into this program will not only get clinical experience at the hospitals, they will also attend class in the Norman Regional Hospital Education Center. Norman Regional also has unique hands-on training such as its simulation lab featuring life-size mannequins. Applications for all Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing programs are now open. Students interested in applying to the BSN program should visit the Fran and Earl Ziegler College of Nursing website for instructions: https://nursing.ouhsc.edu/Academics/ Bachelors-Programs/bsn/Application-Process Applications are due no later than February 1, 2022 for the Traditional BSN program at Norman Regional Health System.

NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 37


BY LAURA HEDRICK MS, RD/LD

This story sponsored by

The Most Versatile Vegetable – But Make It Sweet

I

t is a known fact that potatoes can be eaten in a wide variety of ways; there’s baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, French fries, potato chips, hash browns, tater tots, potato soup, the list goes on. Not only can potatoes be salty, but they can be sweet. The month of November is the month of Thanksgiving, where everyone gathers with their families to eat until their pants no longer fit. On the Thanksgiving table, more often than not, are some form of sweet potatoes and along with Thanksgiving, November is a month that brings awareness to their wide variety of forms and benefits.

Other health benefits of sweet potatoes include eye health from beta carotene, and anti-inflammatory effects to reduce heart disease from anthocyanins. Additionally, the fiber in any vegetable reduces cholesterol, while high potassium levels of sweet potatoes keep blood pressure down. It is best to store potatoes in a cool, dry, dark place and not in the refrigerator unless cut up or already cooked. It is important to scrub the skin under running water, and recommended to eat the skin for the additional fiber.

Sweet potatoes are starchy vegetables that contain a high amount of healthy vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, C, and potassium. Just as regular potatoes, sweet potatoes can be mashed, loaded, roasted, fried, etc. They are low in calorie at about 160 calories each, almost completely fat-free, have 4 g fiber, and 3.6 g protein. Some might be thinking well, aren’t they high in carbohydrates? The answer is yes, as it is a starchy vegetable, and contains about 37 g CHO in one large sweet potato. Diabetics, have no fear – the American Diabetes Association considers sweet potatoes a low Glycemic Index food that fits well into a healthy eating plan for diabetes management due to its high vitamin and fiber content.

Some ways I love to eat sweet potatoes are simply cut up and roasted in the oven with either spicy or sweet seasonings, or in a crockpot lentil soup or Dahl with plenty of other veggies. On Thanksgiving, you might find a sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Some might find this out of the ordinary, but I treat my sweet potatoes just like a regular potato and top them with sour cream, cheese, and jalapenos. Everything in moderation, as us dietitians say! So, with all that being said, I highly encourage everyone to branch out this holiday season and see how many ways you prefer to eat your sweet potatoes.

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THE STATION SCHEDULE • NOVEMBER 2021

ACTIVITIES & CLASSES

DUE TO POSITIVE TESTS FOR THE CORONAVIRUS IN CLEVELAND COUNTY THIS SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY POINT IN TIME. Please check with www.cityofmoore. com or call (405) 793-5090 for the latest information. This is a partial list of schedules, activities, and classes available through the Moore Parks & Recreation department. You can find something of interest for everyone by visiting The Station website at: centralpark.cityofmoore.com/ activities-programs or by calling The Station front desk at (405) 793-5090.

CAMPS THANKSGIVING BREAK ART CAMP WHEN: November 22 – 24 TIME: 9 a.m. - Noon AGES: 6–12 FEE: $55 WHERE: The Station Activity Room REGISTRATION: Through November 21 DESCRIPTION: Create colorful paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more. You will use watercolors, paint, crayons, beads, strings, and clay. So much fun and the best part is you get to keep and take home what you make. THANKSGIVING BREAK GIZMO'S, GADGETS, & THANG'S CAMP PRESENTS: WACKY SCIENCE WHEN: November 22 - 24 TIME: 1–4 p.m. AGES: 6–12 FEE: $55 WHERE: The Station Recreation Center REGISTRATION: Through November 21 DESCRIPTION: Science has never been this much fun before. In this camp you will get to create and participate in experiments, make a mess, and get your hands dirty all in the name of Science. Don’t miss out on the action as this camp is sure to fill up fast. THANKSGIVING BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP WHEN: Nov. 22–24 TIME: 9 a.m.–Noon AGES: 6–12 FEE: $55 WHERE: The Station Recreation Center

REGISTRATION PERIOD: Through Nov. 21 DESCRIPTION: For any young athlete who is looking to improve his or her skills, work hard, make new friends and have fun. What better way than by getting to play basketball for a week and learn some new things in the process. CHRISTMAS BREAK ART CAMP WHEN: December 27 - 31 TIME: 9 a.m.– Noon AGES: 6–12 FEE: $55 WHERE: The Station Activity Room REGISTRATION: Through December 26 DESCRIPTION: Create colorful paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and more. You will use watercolors, paint, crayons, beads, strings, and clay. So much fun and the best part is you get to keep and take home what you make CHRISTMAS BREAK GIZMO'S, GADGETS, & THANG'S CAMP PRESENTS: ROBOTS WHEN: December 27 - 31 TIME: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. AGES: 6–12 FEE: $55 WHERE: The Station Recreation Center REGISTRATION: Through December 24 DESCRIPTION: Science has never been this much fun before. In this camp you will get to build and create your very own robot that will do multiple things. You might get to assemble a robotic car, plane or pendulum machine. This camp will keep you engaged from beginning to end. CHRISTMAS BREAK BASKETBALL CAMP WHEN: December 31 TIME: 8 a.m.–Noon AGES: 6–12 FEE: $25 WHERE: The Station Recreation Center REGISTRATION: Through December 30 For any young athlete who is looking to improve his or her skills, work hard, make new friends and have fun. What better way than by getting to play basketball for a week and learn some new things in the process. CHRISTMAS BREAK VOLLEYBALL CAMP WHEN: December 27-31

40 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021

TIME: 10 a.m.–Noon AGES: 6–12 FEE: $55 WHERE: The Station Recreation Center REGISTRATION: Through December 30 For any young athlete who is looking to improve his or her skills, work hard, make new friends and have fun. What better way than by getting to play volleyball for a week and learn some new things in the process.

CLASSES FIT AS A FIDDLE WHEN: Tuesday mornings through December 28th TIME: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. WHERE: The Station, 700 S. Broadway Avenue AGES: 3-5 years FEE: $25/month, Free to First Five Station Passholders, DESCRIPTION: Toddlers will enjoy getting their exercise by running, jumping, tumbling on mats and dancing to favorite energetic songs. GAME TIME! WHEN: Through December 28 DAY/TIME: Thursday, 10–11 a.m. WHERE: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room AGES: 3–5 FEE: $25 per month/Free to Station Passholders (5 Passholders per session) REGISTRATION: By the first Thursday of each month (20 maximum) DESCRIPTION: Let’s play a game! This is the perfect time for toddlers to learn how to play parachute games, Red Light, Green Light, Musical Chairs, Duck, Duck, Goose, and many more! Games are a great way to make new friends and have lots of fun! HOLIDAY YOUTH ARTS AND CRAFTS WHEN: November 1 – 22, November 29 – December 20 TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. WHERE: The Station, 700 S. Broadway Avenue AGES: 6-12 years FEE: $20/session, Free to First Two Station Passholders, DESCRIPTION: A class where kids get to use their imaginations in a variety of different ways making a variety of projects.

All projects will have fun holiday themes! PICKLEBALL - ADULTS WHEN: Wednesday, and Friday TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. WHERE: The Station, 700 S. Broadway Avenue AGES: 18+ FEE: Free to Station Passholders, $5 for Non-Station Passholders INSTRUCTOR: Stacia Becher, CPT DESCRIPTION: Play this nationally-trending sport twice a week. Scoring and rules will be covered. ADULT LINE DANCING WHEN: November 5 - January 10th (8 Classes) (No Class Nov. 26th, December 24th, December 31st) TIME: Fridays, 6 P.M.- 7 P.M. WHERE: The Station Recreation Center Activity Room FOR: Adults 15+ REGISTRATION PERIOD: Through November 3rd CLASS COST: $50 – 5 Station Passholders per session no charge DESCRIPTION: Learn how to do a variation of multiple line dances. a fun class that varies each time!

DANCE CLASSES ADULT SWING DANCING WHEN: November 2 - December 21 TIME: 6PM - 7PM, Tuesday WHERE: The Station Recreation Center: Activity Room AGES: Adults 15+ REGISTRATION PERIOD: Through November 1 FEE: $50 per session/ 5 Station Passholders free CLASS INSTRUCTOR: Bob Gates DESCRIPTION: Learn how to Swing and the many variations and before you know it you will be able to scoot across the dance floor like a pro.


doing this," said Dunlap. "We already created banners for the Moore Public Schools Foundation and other organizations from across the state. We hope that we can stop outsourcing our fundraising and raise our money internally by providing this service and making it profitable."

Dunlap said the BOSS industrial printer was purchased with "Our goal is to build an entire print funds from a grant awarded to shop that will be a self-sustainable the FFA through Oklahoma Cabusiness," said Dunlap. "This would reer Tech. She has also secured create a new way to bring in money funds for the FFA program's next and fund projects for the kids while purchase: an industrial-grade teaching them aspects of running a computer numerical control business, including things like invoic(CNC) wood router. While the ing, customer relations, and how to new laser engraver can cut into organize and prioritize orders." the wood to a certain degree, The FFA's latest addition is a BOSS industrial laser print- a CNC wood router will allow students to cut precise er, a professional-grade piece of equipment that allows patterns deeply into the wood. students to engrave everything from camera-ready logos "Essentially, nearly anything that they can design can to photos onto wood or acrylic surfaces. The laser printer adds even more capabilities to the MHS print shop, which be cut by this router," said Dunlap. "It's connected to a is already equipped with a full-sized banner printer. The computer that will cut designs neatly, so if they wantplan to build a self-sustaining print shop is unique to the ed to cut out perfect heart-shaped boards, the CNC router could do that easily." state of Oklahoma. "As far as I'm aware, we're the only school in the state Dunlap says the next step will be to add a sublimation printer to the print shop. This specialized printer would allow students to print with ink on various surfaces, t-shirts for instance. This would enable the FFA Moore to offer a wide variety of printing services and move closer to the goal of financial sustainability. "The Oklahoma Career Tech grant program allows us to apply every other year," said Dunlap. "So, I'll have to wait until 2023 to submit another grant application. But maybe we can find another funding source for the sublimation printer before then."

1259 S Eastern, Moore (405) 895-6638 scrogginsanimalhospital.com

f you wander into the new Agricultural Building at Moore High School, you might be stunned to find a room filled with cutting-edge equipment that doesn't necessarily seem farm-related. Jessica Dunlap, Agricultural Education instructor at Moore High, says this is a strategic choice to equip students with tools to succeed in the business world.

POWERED BY

Scroggins Animal Hospital

I

Moore FFA Adds Industrial Laser to Print Shop Arsenal

If your organization is interested in taking advantage of the Moore FFA's growing print service, visit their Facebook page for contact information: facebook.com/mooreokffa. NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 41


Dr George Elassal provides orthodontic treatment with traditional braces and Invisalign aligners. Providing prevention and treatment for TMJ dysfunction since 1980's for all ages.

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Southmoore’s Sydney Borchardt Serves as National Shriners Hospital Representative

CLAS

ACTSS

Borchardt had the procedure at Shriners Hospital for Children in Philadelphia. At the time, it was one of the only locations offering VBT. The surgery has made all the difference for Borchardt. As a junior at Southmoore, she is enjoying full participation in all activities, including playing oboe and marching with the Southmoore Sabercat band. "Because of VBT, I'm more flexible," said Borchardt. "I'm able to bend and do all my daily activities. I can breathe better now, so I can play my instruments to my full ability, which I didn't even realize that I wasn't until doing after I had the surgery."

Class Acts honors outstanding High School and Jr. High kids in Moore and south OKC. Dr. George Elessal awards Sydney Borchardt $50 as our November Class Acts recipient.

S

ydney Borchardt was 10-years-old when she was diagnosed with scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine that can worsen as children grow older.

"For two-and-a-half years, I wore a back-brace for 23-hours-a-day," said Borchardt. "I also did yoga and all sorts of exercise. Basically, anything I could to prevent surgery." Unfortunately, the degree of curvature in her spine continued to increase to the point where it became clear surgery would be necessary. As she and her family talked about options with their doctor, they learned about a new procedure that could make a difference.

42 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021

"It's called VBT, which stands for vertebral body tethering," said Borchardt. "It's a medical tether the doctors put on the outside of your spine, and they keep it a little bit loose, so as you grow, it stretches to keep your spine straight."

Borchardt has also been selected as one of two National Patient Ambassadors for Shriners Hospitals for Children. As an Ambassador, she travels to various events across the country, sharing her story of perseverance and how Shriners Hospitals for Children make a dramatic difference in the lives of countless children. "I think the most exciting part is just meeting new people and getting to share my story," said Borchardt. "Two people are selected nationally out of thousands each year, so it's a huge honor for me to get to do this. Seth is the other representative, and because so many things were canceled by the pandemic last year, we also get to travel with Connor and Mia. They were last year's representatives." Borchardt says she's looking forward to a trip to California to be in the 2022 Rose Bowl Parade. "We'll get to ride on the Shriners Hospital float in the parade," said Borchardt, "It's just so exciting to be able to do all these fun events, especially with the other national patient ambassadors and making a difference in spreading the word about Shriners Childrens Hospitals." In the meantime, Borchardt is enjoying life as a Southmoore junior and relishing living a normal life. She says her experiences have led her to consider a career helping others overcome physical problems. "I can't tell you what a difference Shriners and VBT has made in my life," said Borchardt. "I've been thinking a lot about becoming an occupational therapist because I feel like it's a perfect environment to be working with kids."


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SPORTS BY ROB MORRIS

THE FAST AND THE SERIOUS Zach Oliva Races to Battle Pediatric Cancer

I

t’s a painful Christmas memory for Zach Oliva.

“I was five years old, and we were coming home from my uncle’s house,” said Oliva. “I was just getting these coughing fits, so bad I would throw up and get really dehydrated.” Zach’s mom had been searching for answers to her little boy’s ongoing breathing problems. Doctors, unsure of what the issue was, had been treating him for asthma. But Zach says his mom had a gut feeling something else was wrong. “We went to the Moore Medical Center that night, and they ended up giving me an x-ray,” said Oliva. “The doctors came out and told my parents that I need to go up to the children’s hospital in OKC.” At the Jimmy Everest Center for Children’s Cancer, doctor’s diagnosed Oliva’s problem as a devastating one: neuroblastoma. The cancerous tumor was growing in and on his spinal cord, pushing into his lungs. Doctors scheduled surgery to remove the tumor. That’s when something remarkable happened. “It was the first surgery, and it was only supposed to take a couple of hours,” said Oliva. “It ended up taking eight hours, and what the doctors told my parents was pretty much miraculous.”

It turns out that somehow, cancer had killed itself. “They thought I would have the surgery, then probably chemo and radiation,” said Oliva. “But since the cancer somehow killed itself, I didn’t have to do any of that. So, they cut out all of the tumor they could, and I’ve been cancer-free since. Oliva, who graduated from Moore High School in 2019, has turned that experience into a passion for two things: racing and helping children who are battling pediatric cancer. “My dad has been racing cars for something like 30 years now,” said Oliva. “I’ve been going since I was a little boy, so it’s always been in my blood.” Back in September, Oliva competed in the Race 4 Time at the Southern Oklahoma Speedway in October. He was one of close to 100 drivers racing to help raise awareness and money to support the Jimmy Everest 44 | MOORE MONTHLY | NOVEMBER 2021


Center, which treats children with cancer. The race was “The sense of family goes way beyond just the started by John and Nicky Webb, owners of the speed- football team,” said Oliva. “All the other teams, way. John Webb lost his dad to cancer and knew he the band, the principals, the teachers all make it wanted to make a difference in children’s lives. Oliva feel like one big family.” says the race is one of his favorites. As Oliva works a full-time job, he says racing and “It’s the biggest race for me because I get to see all helping kids battle cancer is at the center of everythe kids that have or have had cancer,” said Oliva. “I just thing he does for the near future. love seeing them when they come up to me, and their faces light up when they realize that I had cancer, and “Yeah, it would be great to do this as a career,” they see the things that I’m doing now.” said Oliva. “But that takes a lot of money, and so I’m ok with how we’re doing it now. The important thing Oliva says a lot of his determination and fight come is that I get to help spread awareness and help raise from his years as a Moore High Lion. While at MHS, he money for these kids. And if you can change one played on the football team and still remembers the en- kid’s life, maybe give that kid a chance to live and go live his dream, that’s worth all the work.” tire high school experience as a great one.

NOVEMBER SPORTS CALENDAR (Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all scheduled events are subject to change)

MOORE Football November 5

@Mustang

Basketball November 30 Westmoore Wrestling November 6 @PC West Tournament November 13 @Westmoore Tournament November 18 Red & Blue Duals Swimming November 2 November 16 November 18

Norman@OU @Shawnee @Harrah

SOUTHMOORE Football November 5

Norman North (Senior Night)

Basketball November 30 @Deer Creek Wrestling November 12 Sabercats Chili Kickoff November 13 @Westmoore Tournament November 20 Southmoore Preseason Open Tournament Swimming November 2 November 16 November 18

Norman@OU @Shawnee @Harrah

WESTMOORE Football November 5

@Jenks

Basketball November 30 @Moore Wrestling November 6 @Edmond North Open November 13 Westmoore Open November 20 @Southmoore Open November 21 Kickoff Classic@ Tulsa Fairgrounds November 30 Guthrie Tri Swimming November 2 November 16 November 18

Norman@OU @Shawnee @Harrah NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 45


SPORTS PHOTOS

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NOVEMBER 2021 | MOORE MONTHLY | 47


SPORTS PHOTOS

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