Boyd Street Magazine August 2023

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CREATE MEMORIES AT THE CLEVELAND COUNTY FAIR

The four-day Cleveland County Fair kicks off Thursday, Sept. 7, and runs through Sunday, Sept. 10. The annual event offers free parking and entry and hosts some unique experiences including entertainment opportunities for all ages at no cost.

Here are 6 free things to do at the 2023 Cleveland County Fair:

1. New to the fair this year is the Scottish Highland Games demonstration, put on by the OKC Area Scottish YEET Club. YEET is a slang term that means “to throw things” and most of the Highland Games are about throwing stuff - in very inventive ways.

“We’ll be doing height events,” said Laura Anthony, a world-class athlete who competes at home and abroad. “We’ll have a pitchfork and a bag filled with either jute or twine, and we’ll be throwing the bag over a bar using the pitchfork.”

During the demonstrations, the athletes will interact with the public.

“We’ll let people touch implements, but we can’t let them throw them due to liability,” she said. “We will go out and talk to the crowd and answer questions, so there’s an interactive element to it.”

The events are varied but tend to all involve throwing things in some way or the other. The games run from novice to elite events with different age and weight ranges for competitions, so this demonstration will be a chance to share Scottish heritage while also introducing a sport to the public.

“We’ll just be getting back from Switzerland and Scotland at the Masters World Championships, so you will have world-class athletes there,” Anthony said. “In Scotland, we’ll be some of the first women to ever take the field in the heavy events at the Braemar Gathering.”

Find the Highland Games demonstration on the north side of the fairgrounds on Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Both men and women will demonstrate their skills.

2. Other free Saturday highlights include the Silver Spur Square Dancers who demo their dances and then invite the audience to join them.

3. The Baby Crawl and Stick Horse Races are a highlight on Friday evening. Picture babies stopping in the middle of the race and playing with each other or lying down inches from the finish line while Mom and Dad call out encouragement or wave a favorite toy. It’s unpredictable, and the winners take home trophies that become a lifetime memory.

The stick horse race follows the baby crawl and is divided by age groups. Competition is fierce for the kids who gallop across the finish line, all striving for a trophy. Entry is free, but participants are encouraged to bring their own stick horses if they have one to make sure there is enough for everyone.

4. On Sunday, wiener dog races are a crowd pleaser. Enter your dog for the full experience or pick a favorite canine to cheer for during each heat. Entry is free and winners take home loads of prizes as well as trophies.

In addition to the races, there is an accompanying wiener dog costume contest. Dachshunds are encour aged to have their owner dress in matching or themed costumes.

5. Throughout the fair, the Canadian River Old Iron Club (CROIC) hosts tractor pulls and children’s activi ties on the north side of the fairground’s campus. Fam ilies can take a step back in time with CROIC’s handson, kid-friendly activities including a hayride, trackless train, corn grinder and sheller, washtub and more. All events hosted by CROIC are free.

6. Another family favorite is the petting zoo, sponsored by the Cleveland County Fair Board, and is free for all ages. Get up close and personal with a variety of ani mals. Like the tractor club activities, the petting zoo runs through all four days of the fair inside the fair barn.

BY: JOY HAMPTON

GIVING CHANGES EVERYTHING

The United Way of Norman unites the community in a number of ways – from those in need receiving services from community partners to the donors and volunteers that help make it all possible.

“No single agency can meet all of our community’s needs,” shared Jed Dembowski, United Way vice president tasked with marketing and communications. “We want to improve health, expand education, grow livelihoods, and address essential needs.

“Gifts to United Way of Norman become part of a collective effort supporting local programs and initiatives tackling critical issues in our community.”

This year’s annual campaign aims to raise $1.8 million. Dembowski emphasized that “donations stay local.”

“Funding decisions are made by local volunteers following hours of review and discussion,” he confirmed.

The effort is led by Robyn Castleberry, from Moore Norman Technology Center, serving as campaign chair this year. Castleberry leads a large number of committed volunteers including 32 community leaders that sit on the board of directors as well as 40 community volunteers on the Campaign cabinet.

Dembowski was also quick to highlight the important role of campaign coordinators at local businesses.

“Achieving our goal would not be possible without the campaign coordinators,” he said. “These volunteers run the United Way campaign at their individual businesses - coordinating speakers, fundraisers and other activities. They inspire us with their hard work and passion for strengthening our community.”

“Attitudes toward corporate responsibility and community involvement start at the top,” he added. “Support from the CEOs at Pacesetter companies is vital to making our goal.”

Pacesetters are a select group of businesses that typically donate around half of all the funds collected during any given year. They jump-start the annual campaign, setting the pace, just as the name implies.

“The success and excitement generated by the activities of our Pacesetters inspire other organizations to follow their lead when running their campaigns,” Dembowski said.

KREF owner Casey Vinyard said she is proud to be among this group.

“Our teams at KREF, KrefSports.tv, Boyd Street & 19th Street Magazines are proud to support United Way as a Pacesetter company,” she shared. “We strive to have 100% annual team giving and provide as much support as possible to the United Way partner agencies as they are a critical part of strengthening our community. We are thankful for such a strong United Way and hope more companies will join in supporting the Pacesetter campaign.”

To learn more about The United Way of Norman or to get involved in this year’s campaign, visit unitedwaynorman.org, or follow along on social media, @UnitedWayNorman.

“Any business that wants to help needs to email kholder@unitedway-norman.org or call the United Way office at 405-329-2025,” Dembowski invited. “We know a workplace campaign may not be right for everyone, but together we can figure out how to meet a company’s goals for giving back to our community.” – BSM

“Our goal is to improve the lives of more than 60,000 people in our community,” said Jed Dembowski, VP, United Way of Norman.

Back to the Classroom

At-school Virtual Care Visits Help Mitigate Missed Class Time

Now available district wide for the second school year, Norman Public Schools Student Health Services is once again partnering with Norman Regional and Norman Regional Health Foundation to offer Norman Regional Kids Virtual Care. The program allows students the opportunity to meet with a healthcare provider without needing to leave school.

Parents can even attend the virtual visit without leaving work.

“As a district, we are always looking for ways to improve healthcare equity,” shared registered nurse Mollee Speichinger. “Our services provide students access to medical professionals that they might not have outside of school for a variety of reasons.”

Students first see their school’s on-site medical professional – each school in the district has a fulltime medical professional. The school nurses have been specifically trained to recognize symptoms that are well-suited to be diagnosed via a virtual visit. If it is determined that a student might benefit from a virtual visit, a parent is contacted. If the parent wishes to proceed, an appointment request is made.

“Norman Regional KIDS Virtual Care works us into their schedule and usually the wait time is about 1015 minutes,” Speichinger said. “Parents can watch the visit virtually if they would like.”

Using a digitally connected TytoCare device, a local pediatrician can evaluate the child. They can listen to a child’s lungs, look into their ears and/or throat, visually assess rashes, and more.

“We are able to test for things like strep, COVID and the flu, and get those results quickly,” Beth Roberson, NPS’s director of health services said.

The provider can determine if a prescription is needed and whether or not the student should return to class.

Bryce Ell, ambulatory optimization manager for Norman Regional, said that the program’s first year had positive results.

“83% of parents whose student used the program reported they believe their student was able to get back to school quicker because of the virtual care program,” Ell revealed.

200 families enrolled in the program last school year and Roberson would like to see that number increase.

“We have 16,500 students so we want to see our enrollment skyrocket to reach more kids,” she said. “The biggest benefits of the virtual care program are reducing missed class time and work time, and early intervention will help us mitigate the spread of illness.”

The virtual care program is optional, and families can enroll at any time during the school year. Enrollment is good for the entire school year, including summer school, so Roberson encourages families to sign up while they are filling out other back-to-school paperwork.

Norman Regional will bill your medical insurance. For example, SoonerCare will cover the virtual care visit. If you do not have insurance, the cost of the visit is $60. Enrollment can be accessed electronically at NPS’s health services webpage or at normanregional.com/ services/virtual-care-norman-regional-kids-virtual-care.

The virtual care program and the on-site, full-time medical professionals at each school are possible thanks to a partnership between Norman Public Schools, Norman Public Schools Foundation and Norman Regional Health Foundation. The foundations purchased the TytoCare devices used in the virtual visits and contributes to the annual cost to provide student health services.

“Thanks to (this partnership), NPS is a leader in student health,” Roberson said. “We were just overwhelmed to get this opportunity because we want to ensure that our students are healthy, and this is a great resource.” – BSM

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

BY: CONNOR PASBY

YOUR HOME FOR HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

KREF Sports Streaming is the broadcasting home for twelve schools across Oklahoma. It features a long partnership with Norman Public Schools and, more recently, Moore Public Schools.

Over the past 12 months, the family has gotten even bigger.

At the beginning of last year, KREF Sports teamed up with Edmond Public Schools and Deer Creek High School to be their streaming partner. Yukon, Piedmont and Bixby are joining this fall.

“KrefSports.tv is proud to partner with local schools to provide a free streaming platform to showcase student athletes, school activities and their programs,” said Casey Vinyard, KREF owner. “We appreciate the support of these communities and love the opportunity to continue to give back to the schools.”

Not only is KREF Sports a platform to watch high school games, but it’s also a home for Coaches Shows every Wednesday night. Buffalo Wild Wings has partnered with krefsports.tv to host a show in three locations: Norman, Moore and Edmond. Every sport gets the opportunity to have its own show throughout the academic year, which is a special moment for players and coaches. The live stream event brings a great audience with fans and family members showing their support both in-person and online.

Buffalo Wild Wings will continue to be a great partnership for Coaches Shows, offering a great atmosphere for all involved.

KREF Sports is all about providing a great viewership experience for high school sports fans that

can’t make a game but also lets the players rewatch their games and shows. Every event is archived on the krefsports.tv website, so players can watch the play-by-play and reminisce on important moments.

“KREF has been great for our players, their families and the coaches,” Westmoore boys basketball head coach Todd Millwee said. “They all enjoy getting to watch our games while listening to the KREF commentators. Family members that live out of town love being able to watch games online.”

The amount of positive feedback that KREF Sports has received has been incredible. The broadcasts, content, camera work and relationships with the schools will keep getting better which is why there’s only one place to go for the 2023-2024 high school season - krefsports.tv.– BSM

NORMAN TIGERS

Despite a 3-8 record for Norman High last season, the Tigers managed to make it to the 6A playoffs. As Rocky Martin enters his ninth season as head coach, this season will look a bit different.

OFFENSE

There will be a new quarterback at the helm after Tias McClarty had the reins for three seasons. Martin said there have been two guys battling for the position - junior Phoenix Murphy (6’0”, 160lbs) and sophomore Crew Noles (5’11”, 165 lbs). Martin likes what he sees from both and knows how tough it is to replace a three-year starter.

“Whenever you lose a guy like that, you really have to start evaluating, and that’s what we’ve been doing,” Martin said. “Phoenix Murphy had varsity reps last year, and he’s gotten his foot in the door with experience. Crew Noles, who’s just a sophomore, had a good spring. Both are going to compete and battle this thing out.”

The positive news for the Tigers is they bring back a heavy number of playmakers on both sides of the ball, starting with senior Dax Noles (6’0”, 185lbs). Dax Noles has been a catalyst for this Tigers team, especially last season. The “Noles Package ‘’ came into effect in 2022 with direct snaps to Dax Noles in short-yardage situations. On defense, he was always around the football.

“We’re going to use him a ton, and in different spots on the field,” Martin said. “That is what’s hard to prepare for as an opponent. We can use him as a wide receiver, and we can use him in the backfield, whether it’s quarterback or running back. He’s just a kid that can do it all.”

The Tigers return some important pieces from the offensive attack last season. Senior Devin Alexander (5’9”, 170lbs) will be the main ball carrier, and we know the track speed that Alexander provides. He was the second leading rusher on the team last year, behind McClarty, rushing for 556 yards and two touchdowns. Alexander will be eager to get those touchdown numbers up.

The Tigers will also have senior Judd Divelbiss (5’8”, 160lbs) and junior Kamran Donald (5’8”, 160lbs) that will see reps in the backfield.

Norman High’s passing game was a problem last season, only throwing for a total of 693 yards as a team. It’s a run-heavy type of offense for the Tigers, but there were some key misses through the air on important possessions. The passing game will feature some big targets for the Tigers. Senior Port Hartsock (6’1”, 170lbs) will be a receiver that will step into a bigger role. He’s someone that will cause some mismatches for linebackers and safeties. Dax Noles will see some action in the passing game as well, having one receiving touchdown last year.

Devin Alexander

BY CONNOR PASBY

The offensive line had a bunch of shifts throughout the season, due to injuries and new guys stepping up. Two of the starters up front return for Norman High, based on the starting lineup late in the season. Senior Caleb Roberson (5’11”, 315lbs) and sophomore Julius Stevens (6’4”, 295lbs) will be relied on to keep the running game at an elite level. Roberson was a consistent starter for Norman High, meanwhile, Stevens was a freshman that merged into the lineup late in the year.

DEFENSE

If there’s one thing to take away from last season, it’s that the Tigers can play defense. There were a few moments in the season when the defense kept Norman High in the game.

The Tigers return both inside linebackers and all of their secondary, which is a great sign for Martin. Dax Noles was their leading tackler last year with 124 tackles, followed up by senior Lance Eubanks (6’0”, 200lbs) with 86, then Behr Boyd (5’11”, 190lbs) with 74 tackles.

“We’re pretty fortunate to have these guys back on defense,” Martin said.” They’re also track guys that can show off their speed. Two guys that really came on later in the year were Lance Eubanks and Behr Boyd.”

The defensive line will be a question mark for the Tigers. They lost their top three sacks leaders from a

Dax Noles

year ago and will look for guys to step into a bigger role. Senior CJ Moore (5’11”, 275lbs) will lead that position group, after being a starter at nose guard last year. Moore had one sack and a fumble recovery.

At secondary, the Tigers bring back some ballhawks. They return both starting cornerbacks, senior Kurt Carter (5’7”, 150lbs) and junior Kenneth Rosario (5’8”, 155lbs). Junior Jaxon Ford (5’11”, 165lbs) was a rover for the Tigers last year and will see significant time this year. Dax Noles will be shifting from linebacker to free safety at times.

Martin pointed to some improvements his team needs to make this season.

“Obviously, turnovers and penalties were a big one,” he said. “We just can’t hurt ourselves. We did that a number of times last year. Another thing is that we need to be able to throw the football. Teams were able to load the box against us last year. Defensively, we need to eliminate the big plays that we allowed at times last year.”

Norman High will open against Norman North in the Crosstown Clash on Aug. 31 on krefsports.tv.

NORMAN NORTH TIMBERWOLVES

Norman North enters the 2023 season and year six under the leadership of Justin Jones, after another successful campaign in 2022. The Timberwolves won each of their final six regular season games, topping East-side powers Broken Arrow and Jenks in back-to-back weeks.

North finished second in the rugged District 6A-I1, earning the chance to host a quarterfinal contest against Owasso. Unfortunately, star quarterback Kamden Sixkiller suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in the regular-season finale and missed the 4134 playoff loss to the Rams.

All in all, 2022 was a very successful 8-3 mark. After just five combined wins in the first two seasons of the Jones era, Norman North has eclipsed the six-win plateau in the past three seasons.

“A culture of consistency is standard here,” Jones said. “Our guys are very businesslike, and they understand what we’re going to do and the process that we have. When expectations are clearly defined, I think it makes it much easier.”

Norman North opens its season with non-district contests against Norman, Edmond Santa Fe and Yukon. Then, it’s the daunting three-game gauntlet of Bixby, Broken Arrow and Jenks.

OFFENSE

Norman North will have a new triggerman for its spread attack this season. Junior Owen Eshelman

(6’2”, 165lbs) takes over for the Timberwolves. Though it was under unfortunate circumstances when Sixkiller was injured, Eshelman was pressed into duty to close out last season. He performed admirably, completing 14 of 22 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns, against a pair of interceptions.

“The most important thing I think for a quarterback at the 6A level is getting experience,” Jones said of Eshelman’s starting experience. “Having those reps against Owasso was important and against Enid when he came in and took over immediately for Kam.” With a spring and summer of growth under his belt, Jones feels like it has its next talented signal-caller in Eshelman.

“I think he has all the tools that you want to be a successful quarterback,” Jones said. “One of the smartest guys that we’ve had. I think that’s first and foremost. The second thing is Owen’s an incredible athlete. He’s a multi-sport guy. The third factor for me is that he is one of the most competitive guys on the team.”

North is replacing both of its top two running backs from last season as well. The Timberwolves will turn to junior Will Lundquist (5’8”, 155 lbs) and move-in back Latrell Williams.

“Really like what Will Lundquist has been doing this spring. He is as fast as anybody that we’ve had and plays with great vision,” Jones said. “Latrell Williams has immersed himself within our culture and really

Cooper Vicsek

BY JOSH HELMER

fits in. You wouldn’t know that he moved in less than a year ago.”

Regarding skill weapons, North has depth at the tight-end position but will heavily feature senior tight end Duante Moses (6’1”, 220lbs).

“Duante is as good as anybody on our team - one of the strongest guys, pound-for-pound, and a great leader for us,” Jones said.

Senior Luke Freeland (6’3”, 180lbs) is moving over to tight end and has enjoyed a great spring and summer, per Jones. Junior Garrison Utley (6’2”, 240lbs) is another name to watch in this group.

At wide receiver, North is set to fill the loss of talented receivers Cason Cabbiness and Brayden Dorney. The T-Wolves will look to senior Zain Prater (5’11”, 175lbs), junior Carter Hammer (5’6”, 135lbs) and freshman defensive phenom, turned do-it-all offensive weapon in sophomore Mason James (5’11”, 160lbs).

Along its offensive line, it all starts with the two offensive tackles. Kansas-commit and senior offensive tackle Harrison Utley (6’4”, 290lbs) will be a key piece, as will senior Kasen Lea (6’4”, 255lbs) who has an offer from UNLV, among others.

“When you look at our two tackles, both move well and play with a nasty demeanor on the field,” Jones said. “I think that’s where our offensive line, at its core, starts.”

Harrison Utley

On the interior of its offensive line, the Timberwolves return junior center Eric McMullan (5’11”, 280lbs) and senior guard Cooper Vicsek (6’0”, 260lbs). Senior Landen Collier (6’1”, 245lbs) is another name to watch at guard.

“At this level to be successful on offense, you’ve got to have a great offensive line,” Jones said. “We’re going to be able to play seven or eight of those guys in a rotation, especially interiorly.”

DEFENSE

Defensively, Norman North bases out of a 3-4 defense, but the Timberwolves won’t be shy to morph into four- or five-down defensive alignments when called upon.

“I think this is the first time at Norman North that we’ve returned as many defensive players as we have,” Jones said. “Defense should be a place that we can hang our hat on.”

Jones likes his defensive line’s athleticism and notes that the Timberwolves will be a little bigger on the line this season.

North has moved senior nose guard Finn Smith (6’1”, 230lbs) outside. Senior Isaac Morgan (6’0”, 240lbs) will primarily man the other defensive end position but will also play some nose guard. Junior Jack Udy (5’11”, 270lbs) swings over from the offensive side of the football to take over nose guard duties. Garrison Utley will factor into the defensive line rotation as well.

Senior Carver Rogers (6’1”, 180lbs) will man one of the outside backer positions, while junior Logan Richard (6’1”, 240lbs) will be counted upon inside.

“(Rogers) understands what we’re trying to do defensively, all the nuances and intricacies that that position takes,” Jones said. “You’ll see him lined up as a safety, as a linebacker, sometimes he’ll be down as a defensive end.”

The Timberwolves will also feature Moses and senior Jake Martin (5’11”, 200lbs) inside and junior Tate Johnson (5’10”, 180lbs) on the outside opposite of Rogers. In the secondary, senior Camden Pratcher (5’11”, 165lbs) will start at one of the corners. A terrific athlete, Pratcher won 6A’s long jump state title last spring. Pratcher will be joined by seniors Elias Battle (5’9”, 180lbs), Curtis Miller (5’11”, 160lbs) and James at corner. At safety, Battle could swing some double duty.

Seniors Owen Flowers (5’8”, 160lbs) and Levi Chaffin (5’9”, 170lbs) are also expected to contribute. A couple of other names to watch include juniors Reece Crandall (5’8”, 160lbs) and Rhett Zimmerman (5’10”, 160lbs).

NOBLE BEARS

After finishing the 2022 year with a 5-5 record, Noble is heading into this season with some extra motivation. Head coach Greg George is entering his ninth season with the Noble Bears and is looking to get back into the postseason.

“Last year defensively, we couldn’t stop the run,” George said. “We have to get better. We weren’t very big up front. Hopefully, after a year in the weight room, we can get bigger and stop the run game. There were a few times last year where we scored enough points, we just couldn’t get off the field.” That will be a point of emphasis this season. The Bears averaged 38.5 points offensively last year, which is exactly where you want to be as an offense.

OFFENSE

There will be some new faces on the offensive side of the ball. The Bears lose their dynamic signal caller, Colin Fisher, who has been a big part of their winning culture. Now, it’s a quarterback competition for the Bears. Senior Joseph Bear (5’11”, 150lbs), junior Dawson Davis (5’8”, 160lbs) and sophomore Jackson Steely (5’8”, 160lbs) will be fighting for the spot.

“Right now, it’s still wide open,” George said. “There are three young men battling for it, and we’re not going to make that call until the third week of fall camp leading up to Week 0.”

The Bears lost some key playmakers at running back and wide receiver a year ago, so the offense will fea-

ture some new faces. Junior Jordan Peterman (5’7”, 165lbs) will be the main ball carrier. He saw some reps last season while backing up Colin Thomas. Peterman had 19 carries for 99 years in 2022.

The wide receiver room will look a lot different. The Bears lost their top two targets on the outside, but they bring back some experience. Junior Bryson Carey (5’8”, 150lbs) will be the number one target, and he’s coming off a season where he had 228 yards and four touchdowns. Expect to see senior Logan Kirby (5’11”, 160lbs) and junior Conner Lane (6’ 1”, 180lbs) contribute to the passing game as well. George expects big things in the future for Lane at wide receiver.

Despite coming into the season with a new quarterback, George expects to still throw the football a good amount.

“We will have a lot more H-back and tight end sets,” he said. “We’re still going to try to throw the ball as much as we can, but it may be with two tight ends instead of four wide.”

The offensive line is a strong position group for the Bears. They bring back some big bodies that helped lead a 1500-yard rushing attack a year ago. Senior Trevor Hand (6’0”, 220lbs) will play center, along with Jordan Hensley (5’11”, 275lbs) at guard. The tackles will feature senior Bronson Barnett (6’0”, 290lbs) and Dalton White (6’0”, 250lbs).

BY CONNOR PASBY

“We like what we have on the offensive line. We bring back most of our guys there,” George said. “The right guard spot will be up for grabs.”

DEFENSE

The defensive line will be a strong spot for Noble. Once again, it’ll be a 3-4 defensive scheme for the Bears this season. Seniors Mason Crawford (6’2”, 210lbs) and Seth Scruggs (6’0”, 220lbs) are two players to keep an eye on upfront.

Senior Steven Willis and junior Jay Turley will provide depth. Jackson Stewert (6’0”, 220lbs) will also see time up front.

George is really impressed with his linebacker play. Conner Lane (6’1”, 180lbs) will be an outside linebacker. Sophomore Andrew Holmes is a young player who gained playing time towards the end of his freshman season. Expect to see Hand as another inside linebacker.

There will be a few non-starters that could possibly see time, such as senior Eric Hensley and junior Connor Franks.

Noble has a difficult slate once again at the 5A level, and George knows the importance of the early games.

“Our first three, I think, are as tough as anybody,” George said. “We go to Piedmont Week 0, at Blanchard Week 1, and then at home against Tuttle. So those are extremely important.”– BSM

Trevor Hand

WASHINGTON WARRIORS

After back-to-back misses, Washington finally broke through and won its first state championship sine 1996 last season, toppling Millwood, 17-14, in the title game.

Now, after compiling a 41-3 mark over the past three seasons, with a state title and a pair of runner-up finishes, the task is navigating how to stay on top of Class 2A.

“It’s really neat to get to see the kids enjoy the fruits of their labor,” Washington head football coach Brad Beller said. “Even more to see them be excited for the next step - not just winning a state championship, but as a catapult to something even greater in the future.”

The 2023 season starts off with a bang in the non-district portion of the schedule with a Week 0 matchup against fellow 2A power Vian. Then, the date everyone will circle comes in Week 2 against a Jones squad that Washington has beaten each of the past three years in the playoffs, including the semifinals last season.

“I think they’ve only lost two total players from last year’s team, so they’re going to be loaded,” Beller said. “That will be a huge matchup.”

OFFENSE

Offensively, everything in Washington’s spread option offense starts with the triggerman senior quarterback Major Cantrell. The 5-foot-11, 175-pound signal-caller embarks upon his third season under center.

“We’re very spoiled the last couple of years to have

a guy that just understands the offense as well as he does,” Beller said of Cantrell. “We’re going to miss him after this year, but we’re really going to enjoy the time that we have because he is our spark plug. He works every day to get better.”

Up front, Washington replaces center Caleb Bruce who started each of the Warriors’ past 44 games and three state title contests. The Warriors bring back seniors Easton Berglan and Baylor Haynes (6’0”, 190lbs) to anchor Washington’s offensive line.

Across the board, four out of Washington’s five offensive linemen have started in either one or more championship games. The lone newcomer is sophomore Kingston Stringer.

As Washington works to also replace running back Cole Scott, senior Kade Norman (5’10”, 180lbs) and junior Hudson Howard will tag team the reps in the backfield. “Both of those two have been key contributors over the last year or two, even at different positions, so we’ve got a chance to be really, really good in the backfield,” Beller said.

Of course, most high school and college football fans know that Washington has a pair of elite tight ends in senior Iowa State commit Cooper Alexander (6’4”, 225lbs) and junior Notre Dame commit Nate Roberts (6’4”, 230lbs).

“Both are going to be such vital, important parts to our run and pass games,” Beller said.

Nate Roberts

BY JOSH HELMER

“We’ve

DEFENSE

Defensively, Washington loses just three starters including nose guard Nathan Rainey, defensive end Hayden Milner and safety Jaxon Hendrix, but Beller is quick to point out their importance.

“Those three guys were very, very valuable to us,” Beller said. “I mean, I cannot stress how much those guys are going to be missed.”

That said, there’s still plenty of defensive firepower roaming the halls of Washington High School. “We have a lot coming back off of a (very special defense),” Beller said. “I’ll be honest. The reason why we won a state championship was because of our defense.”

The Warriors were indeed stiff defensively, surrendering just 9.8 points per game and only 10.4 points per game during the playoffs. Only Vian and Sulphur scored 24 or more points on the Warriors last season. Washington will once again operate out of a 4-3 base, but they’ll shift around and show three- and five-man fronts at times.

Alexander and Roberts will combine with junior wide receiver Mason Singletary (6’0”, 165lbs) and senior wide receiver Cage Morris (6’3”, 185lbs) to form a nice collection of weapons for Cantrell and the Warriors.

got a ton of playmakers on the offensive side of the ball,” Beller confirmed.

Major Cantrell

Along its defensive line, several names to keep an eye on are senior defensive end Naithen Spaulding (6’2”, 230lbs), nose guard Wyatt Denton and junior defensive end Kane Lampkin (6’2”, 210 lbs).

“(Spaulding) is a guy that’s started ever since he was a freshman,” Beller said. “He is a guy that can take a game over or shut one side of the field down. He will dominate most games that we play in and everyone will have to at least double him or chip him with a running back in the pass protection.”

Beller is really excited about the upside that his team has opposite of Spaulding, too.

“Kane Lampkin is a guy that has unbelievable talent,” Beller said. “He’s just got to be more consistent. He can dominate a game and be as special as Spaulding if he will just continue to gain some experience and be consistent with his technique and aggression.”

At linebacker, Washington brings back a series of senior starters. Keller Howard (6’0”, 215lbs), Case Taylor (6’0”, 200 lbs), Ben Vaughn and Jake Coles all return at linebacker. “That’s where we’re really deep - Hudson Howard, Blake Heiliger and Kale Brakefield can all step in. We’ve got a ton of names at linebacker,” Beller said.

In the defensive backfield, senior safety Cole Beller will captain the secondary. Meanwhile, junior cornerback Tanner Olson is expected to be one of the Warriors’ other top secondary pieces.– BSM

CCS ROYALS

Community Christian kicks off the 2023 football season looking to improve on a 2022 campaign where the Royals went 7-5 and lost in the second round of the playoffs. CCS is in a tough 2A-3 district that includes Crooked Oak, Comanche, Frederick, Lindsay, Little Axe, Purcell and Washington, the 2022 State Champion.

“Every preseason thing will have (Washington) picked as the favorites to repeat. We know that’s the monster in our district,” head football coach Mat McIntosh said. “After them, it’ll probably be the way it was last year - Lindsay, Purcell and Frederick will be three teams we’ll have to beat to go to the playoffs.”

OFFENSE

On the offensive side, CCS is keeping business as usual regarding their style of play.

“We are a shotgun spread,” McIntosh said. “We’ll always be a three-or-four wide with what we’ve got up front. We may do more two-back or a tight-end look and only three wide.

“We’ll definitely be a run-first team to control things and set up our passing by how we’re able to run the ball.”

The Royals will once again have a first-year signal caller. Tyndale McIntosh, who is taking the challenge

of leading the team at QB1, has really impressed the staff throughout the offseason.

“He’s had a good spring and good summer for us,” McIntosh said. “With the guys we have coming back, we just need somebody who is going to take care of the ball and manage the game.”

One of the advantages CCS feels like they bring to the 2023 season is experience on the offensive line. Four returning starters will help the first-year starting quarterback, along with the running game as well. Two junior linemen who will bolster the offensive line are AJ Shadid and Justin Montgomery.

“We return quite a bit of experience,” McIntosh said. “We really feel like we’re probably going to be as good as we’ve ever been up front on the offensive line.”

Another position the Royals are not too worried about is the receivers and that is due to the multiple returning starters. Three seniors to keep your eye on are Braxton Hartsock, Tag Holt and Asher Jennings.

“Asher’s had as good spring and summer as any player we’ve had,” McIntosh said. “We expect production from all three seniors, but we really expect a big jump from Asher who is going from role player to a key player for us offensively.”

Braxton Hartsock

DEFENSE

The Royals are running a 3-4 base defense that blitzes often. The strength of the defense comes from the linebacker position.

“We blitz as soon as we get off the bus,” McIntosh said. “We send at least one, sometimes two, of our linebackers on every snap of the ball.”

CCS returns seniors Drew Bradley and Kole Gilleland, juniors Grayson McGuire and Layton Teichroeb, and sophomore Grant Haney. All have significant snaps from last season and look to keep the rotation fresh.

One of the spots on the team that is lacking experience is the defensive line. CCS is only bringing back one player who was a full-time starter and another who started at various times throughout the season. While the defensive line is very young, there is one junior who wreaked havoc on opposing offenses.

“Dax Crawford is really the leader for us up front,” McIntosh said. “He is really hard for other teams to

Running back duties are split by two seniors - Drew Bradley and Grayson McGuire. Both should be poised for a big season as they work behind an experienced line.

Drew Bradley

block, and he does a great job in run support and getting after the quarterback.”

In the secondary, there is a bit of iron-man football being played. Hartsock, Jennings and Holt will all be back to man the defensive backfield. Another name to look out for is senior Jace Samples, as he is expected to spend a lot of time in the back end.

“We try to manage the depth… to keep guys fresh,” McIntosh said. “At the 2A level, at the end of the day, the best thing for us is to get the best eleven guys on the field as often as possible.”

Many high schools have difficulty finding a kicker, but CCS does not have this problem. The Royals are returning senior Carter Lowry, a four-year starter who handles all kicking duties.

“He’s a great weapon for us,” McIntosh said. “Very dependable on field goals and extra points, a strong leg that helps us pin guys deep.”

MEET THE PLAYERS

Local student athletes share what makes their community, school, team and coaches unique.

WHAT POSITION DO YOU PLAY?

SR • 6’ • 190

Safety

SR • 6’4” • 290

WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THE SEASON?

To win - we got the talent and grit to put up a fight against any team.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT PLAYING FOR YOUR SCHOOL?

The culture - We always have a big student section and lots of people in the stands. It’s awesome to know you have got the rest of the school behind you.

BESIDES YOUR CURRENT POSITION, WHAT POSITION WOULD YOU LIKE TO PLAY AND WHY?

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE ATHLETE?

QB - I get to play a little bit for the wildcat. It’s just a great feeling to have the ball in your hands and have control of the game.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT IN YOUR ATHLETIC CAREER?

Scoring the game winning touchdown against Edmond Memorial on Homecoming night.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG TO LISTEN TO BEFORE YOU PLAY?

WHAT IS YOUR TWITTER HANDLE?

“Sum 2

Continuing to improve upon the foundation we built these past three years. Win more games, make it to State, win State!

The brotherhood you create by going to battle together week after week. Getting to represent Norman North against the best teams in the state.

Quarterback-I think I’ve got a little Ben Roethlisberger in me.

Beating Jenks at Jenks during their homecoming.

Harrison Utley

Dax Noles

Offensive Tackle

Baker Mayfield

“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

@HarrisonUtley

Tim Tebow

Prove” by Lil Baby

@Dax_Noles

SR • 5’11” • 215

Middle linebacker & center

We may not have the size, but we have the work ethic. Every game is going to be tough, and our opponent better be ready for a dogfight.

The atmosphere - Noble loves football. The stands are always filled, and if you aren’t at the game, you are on your phone trying to find it online. There is nothing like strapping your helmet up and walking out to see the stadium filled.

Defensive end - I played there a little last year and did some pretty good things

Jordan Burroughs

SR • 6’3” • 200

Wide receiver

SR • 5’9” • 185

Outside linebacker & running back

Go 15 and 0 and win and back-to-back state championships.

The way we are familyalways having each other’s backs and celebrating each other’s success.

Strong safety - I’d love to play it because you get to come down hill and hit people as hard as you can.

Bo Jackson

I expect our team to work extremely hard and become the best team in school history.

The environment of home games

Quarterback - I’ve played it in the past.

Bryce Harper

Getting to play in the baseball state tournament.

The first drive of the state championship my junior year

“Kickstart My Heart” by Motley Crue

@TrevorHand05

“Run this Town” by Lil Wayne

@ michael_abc_

Winning the first playoff game in school history

“We Back” by Jason Aldean

@Bradley2Drew

Cage Morris

Trevor Hand

Drew Bradley

OKLAHOMA BREAST CENTER

Norman Regional Rebrands Breast Cancer Care Center

Norman Regional’s HealthPlex campus is now home to the newly rebranded Oklahoma Breast Center. Surgical oncologist Dr. Denise Rable is the director of breast services at the center that will have clinics in Norman and Oklahoma City.

“The Oklahoma Breast Center is a comprehensive breast program that will serve patients throughout the state with two accessible locations in central Oklahoma,” Rable said.

Rable, an Oklahoma native, grew up in Tulsa and graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. She then completed her general surgery residency and fellowship in breast surgical oncology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

“I have quite a bit of history in Norman since I went to OU and spent the first 10 years of my career working in Norman,” Rable shared. “My husband and I, we are big fans of OU.”

Rable said Norman Regional Health System’s “willingness to support a comprehensive breast care program” drew her to Norman and this new partnership.

“Norman Regional already has a beautiful facility on the HeathPlex campus and there is more construction underway which will include state-of-the-art operating rooms that will elevate our breast care program and improve efficiencies,” she said.

Rable pointed to the added support from the Norman Regional Health Foundation as another reason.

“Through the foundation’s Equipped for Tomorrow campaign, we will have a Clarix imaging system, which is a very important piece of technology,” Rable explained.

The imagining system gives surgeons a real-time, 3D look at surgical margins which are vital to decrease re-excision and recurrence rates.

“With the current facilities and the additions coming soon, we are going to be able to treat patients in Oklahoma with state-of-the-art procedures in a centralized location increasing accessibility to high-quality care,” Rable said.

With emphasis on incorporating the most-update treatment options, including breast reconstruction, Rable and her experienced team are “advocates who guide patients through the whole process.”

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

“Patients today are well educated about treatment options, having done a lot of research. We take into account patient goals and help them find a path that is appropriate for them.”

The center also offers virtual consultations, cancer genetics counseling for high-risk patients and breast reconstruction. Nurse practitioner Jeneice Miller has extensive training in genetic testing and helps patients through that process. She also assists with follow-up care and the survivorship process.

To learn more about the Oklahoma Breast Center, visit oklahomabreastcenter.com or call 405-3072623.– BSM

“Getting a cancer diagnosis and waiting for information can be very stressful,” Rable acknowledged.

CONVENIENT ORTHOPEDIC CARE

Ortho Stat Welcomes Experienced Orthopedic Care Provider to Same-Day Care Clinic

Last fall, Ortho Central opened Ortho Stat, a walkin, same-day orthopedic care clinic. Board-certified orthopedic specialists are available to see patients of all ages seven days a week for a wide range of orthopedic injuries including broken bones, sports-related injuries, work-related injuries, sprains, minor dislocations, swollen joints and lacerations and cuts, conditions that patients often seek care for in emergency rooms.

Ortho Central opened the clinic to increase access to convenient and cost-effective orthopedic care, a feature that drew Joe Bourland, a physician assistant who has specialized in orthopedic care for more than 25 years.

Bourland said he joined Ortho Stat because of the clinic’s reputation and unique office hours.

“I have a personal mission statement to provide easy access to orthopedic excellence,” Bourland said. “But at the end of the day what matters most is outcome-based care and Ortho Central is a practice of doctors with a great reputation. I feel like I could send a patient to any doctor I work with here and they would have a good outcome.”

While in college working towards his degrees, Bourland served as an athletic trainer at Tyler Junior College, the University of Oklahoma and Arizona State University. He was studying to be a physical therapist at the time, however, after feedback during a job evaluation, Bourland decided to change course to become a physician assistant and certified athletic trainer.

“Being a PA fits my personality perfectly,” he said.

Athletic training provided him with an avenue to become an orthopedic care provider which has fed his mission “to provide patients with easy access to personalized care.”

“The best way to make people understand that you care is to actually care,” he shared.

Bourland has special interests in ACL reconstruction and ligament injuries, non-operative orthopedic care and shoulder and rotator cuff injuries. At Ortho Stat, Bourland is able to assess patients using on-site x-rays, MRIs and CT scans, provide them with immediate care, and, if needed, schedule the appropriate follow-up care, all in one visit.

“If you have an urgent orthopedic issue, don’t wait. Come see us,” Bourland said. “We can get you going with what you need and then get you connected with the right doctor for follow-up.”

When he isn’t caring for patients, Bourland enjoys reading, sprint triathlons, jiu-jitsu and spending time with his family which includes his wife of 21 years, three kids and two rescue pups. All three of his kids played or are currently playing baseball at Westmoore High School and his oldest is playing college baseball at Southwestern College.– BSM

Ortho Stat is located within the Ortho Central office, just north of Norman Regional Healthplex, at 3400 W Tecumseh Rd. Walk-in clinic hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

Ortho Stat’s newest orthopedic care provider, Joe Bourland, PA, ATC

SERVICE

SPOTLIGHT: CAPT. TIM HOCK

Working in the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) at the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office is the pinnacle of a long and successful career for Capt. Tim Hock. Beginning as a security officer in the old stand-alone Sears building at 23rd Street and North Penn in Oklahoma City, Hock knew he wanted to work in law enforcement. While catching shoplifters for Sears, a couple of Oklahoma City police officers working off-duty told him the department was hiring. The rest is history.

Several years earlier while playing football and running track at Del City High School, Hock received a full scholarship to Colorado State University to play football. After redshirting his freshmen year, he graduated five years later, meeting his wife along the way. During his last semester in college after interning for the Probation and Parole board in Ft. Collins, Hock couldn’t find a job.

“After graduation, my wife and I moved back to Oklahoma to shack up with my mom and dad,” he laughed.

By September 1987, Hock was enrolled in the Oklahoma City Police Academy.

Today, as captain over CID, Hock is responsible for staff members such as the Community Response Team (CREW), among others.

“They are a uniformed team who respond to whatever crisis we’re having - whatever needs attention,” he explained.

Assignments vary including helping people experiencing homelessness to executing warrants. With his experience as a former CID Gang Detective in Oklahoma City, Hock now also supervises the Task Force officer unit.

“We’re partnered with federal agencies,” he said. “I have a deputy with the U.S Marshall’s fugitive squad.” The fugitive squad only goes after high-profile, violent people.

“It’s the most dangerous gig we have,” Hock explained.

Although law enforcement is trained to stop threats, danger is usually imminent.

“We don’t have the luxury of diagnosing what the core issue is when someone is charging us,” Hock said. “At the end of the day, we all want to go home to our families. There’s not an officer out there who wants to engage someone in a firefight, but sometimes it just happens, and it is unfortunate for everyone. A lot of guys don’t recover from it.”

With fentanyl as a big focus for the Sheriff’s Office, Hock said he has a District 21 task force officer and another on the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN) Opioid and Heroin task force.

“The Sheriff’s big push is to get fentanyl off the streets,” he said. “We ran a warrant in May in Norman at a motel. We ended up getting 1,000 fentanyl pills off the streets.”

Hock said there’s a lot more of it out there, unfortunately.

“Our officers carry Narcan to reverse that stuff and help save lives,” he said.

When not working, Hock enjoys collecting Smith & Wesson revolvers, playing poker and spending time with his wife of 35 years and their children and three grandchildren.

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO A NO-SPEND WEEKEND

There’s so much to love about summer! Unfortunately, though, the warmest season of the year can be incredibly expensive. Family activities, higher utility bills and steep fuel prices are just some of the ways summer can get pricey. A great way to combat a swollen summer budget is to take a financial fast – or several of them. Here’s how.

PLAN AHEAD

Your spend-free weekend won’t happen without planning. So, make sure the house is well-stocked, your car’s tank is full, that there aren’t any bills due over your chosen weekend. Of course, spending double ahead of the weekend won’t help your budget much. Still, take basic steps to ensure you’re prepared for the weekend instead of giving up the entire endeavor.

GET CREATIVE

This is the time for creative thinking! First, when it comes to meals, you’re going to need to throw them together using whatever you have on hand. Have fun inventing new dishes with the odd assortment of ingredients you have available. You may also need to get those creative juices flowing if you fail to plan properly and suddenly run out of a household staple. Just keep at it and find solutions when the need arises.

GO TAKE A HIKE

The great outdoors doesn’t cost a thing! Look up a local trail you haven’t tried before, hit your favorite path again, or take a drive somewhere new. Load your backpack with energy food, water and sunscreen and get ready to hit the trails! You can also make it a full-day affair and pack an easy picnic dinner to enjoy at the end of the trail.

MAKE LAZY DAYS GREAT AGAIN

Designate one day of your weekend for a lazy day. Sleep as late as the kids or the dog allows, have breakfast in bed whenever you feel like it and spend the rest of the day watching old movies and playing board games. There’s no schedule today, so feel free to stay in your jammies until noon – or all day if that floats your boat! Of course, when there’s no driving, you won’t need to fill up on gas.

AVOID TEMPTATION

Willpower is only as strong as you allow it to be. Don’t tempt it this weekend! Unless you’re absolutely sure you won’t end up falling into the trap of spending money, take some precautions to make it harder for you to spend. First, browse incognito. This will force you to manually input your payment information for any purchases you find yourself tempted to make. Of course, you can also avoid any shopping sites completely. Similarly, you’re likely better off skipping any window shopping at the mall this weekend.

HOST A GAME NIGHT

Instead of spending money on the fun, why not bring the fun to you? Invite some friends over for an epic, cost-free game night. Make sure you’ve stocked up on snacks before the weekend, and let your friends bring any extras you may have forgotten. To up the fun factor, think beyond the board game and set up a video game night, or even a card game event. AT-

TEND FREE EVENTS

When you have get out of the house but you can’t spend a penny, free summer events are the way to go. Look up free concerts, festivals, fairs, art shows and more in local magazines and online forums. With so much to see and do, you may just enjoy a day at the neighborhood fair more than a pricey visit to an amusement park.

DON’T GIVE UP

If something happens and you’re forced to break your fast, don’t throw in the towel. You can jump right back on and continue your spend-free weekend as if nothing happened. An expense you didn’t anticipate, such as medicine for a family member who just came down with something, may throw you for a loop. However, if it’s a real necessity that must be purchased now, you can forgive this small slip-up. Just make sure it’s a real need and that you don’t let this morph into a spend-fest.

Your spend-free summer weekend is within reach!

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BY: KATHY HALLREN | JOE’S WINES & SPIRITS

It’s a Fine Time for Wine & More

Tailgating season is back, and it is time to party in Norman! Get tailgate ready with some new wine and wine cocktails.

Beat the heat by getting yourself some wine glasses that go in the freezer. They keep your wine chilled without watering it down. Stem and stemless options are available.

Think outside the box and go beyond Sangria when serving chilling red wine. All the red Moscato is best with a good chill. Qu.Ale Italian Red is extraordinary when chilled to 46°-50°F.

But, nothing says it’s a party like bubbly, served well chilled. Make it easy by buying 187ml bottles. Many of your favorite brands are available in this format, including Chandon, Ruffino Prosecco, Korbel and Cooks.

Sparkling wine is made in many countries with different styles. Champagne comes only from Rheims France, except for a few wines made in the U.S.A. prior to trademark enforcement. Cremente is a sparkling wine made anywhere else in France using the traditional method. It is generally semi-dry to dry and is fermented in the bottle.

Asti Spumante is a sweet sparkling wine from the Asti area in Italy. Made from the Glera grape, Prosecco is drier, and most are fermented in tanks making it a more economical choice. Cava is made in Spain in the traditional method, primarily from three Spanish grapes. It also is semi-dry to dry and is generally a very economical choice for entertaining.

American sparkling wine may be anything from carbonated wine to being produced in the traditional method. Price is generally the indicator of the production method. Chandon, Mumm’s, Piper and Gruet are a few produced using the traditional method. An easy way to make a champagne cocktail is to drop two or three pearls of Cocktail Cavier (no fish eggs involved!) in your glass. These pearls are infused with vodka and are available in raspberry, strawberry, blueberry and lychee. They add a fun, tasty element to sparkling wine.

Happy Tailgating!

Kathy

NORMAN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT