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8 | July 2021
Features
JULY CONTENTS 2021
ISSUE 7– VOLUME 20 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Home of Hope
16 by Rae Lynn Payton
Mark Doescher
MANAGING EDITOR Lindsay Cuomo
McFarlin Memorial carries out their mission by building a home with Habitat for Humanity.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Mark Doescher Josh Gateley - OU Athletics
CONTRIBUTORS
A Classroom in Living Color
20 by Lindsay Cuomo
Elementary students and community members partner to create a community pollinator garden.
Roxanne Avery | Lindsay Cuomo Kathy Hallren | Joy Hampton Shannon Hudzinski | Chelsey Kraft Rae Lynn Payton| Chris Plank Chat Williams
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In Memory of RANDY LAFFOON
Normanite in the Spotlight:
26 The Hoppers
by Chelsey Kraft This year’s United Way of Norman campaign features a trio of co-chairs: the Hopper brothers.
20
Gladiators
32 by Chris Plank
Patty Gasso’s softball team wins the program’s 5th national title.
Welcome Home
45 by Staff
Spotlights 67 Groundbreaking for Better Health
Changing, remodeling and creating new spaces to call home.
32
Fresh Look
Cleveland County Abstract changes name, moves to new location.
72 by Shannon Hudzinski - OUFCU
Tips for Empty Nesters Downsizing
76 by Kathy Hallren - Joe’s Wines & Spirits
Youth Performance
Fairway Insurance Group
Insurance agent Chase Moore opens new independent agency.
Service Spotlight:
The Service Station The Norman landmark looks forward to the post-pandemic marketplace. sportstalk1400.com
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98 Mendi Brandon
94 by Chelsey Kraft
Unwind with Wine
85 10 Year Celebration
Norman Regional Hospital:
provided
88 by Roxanne Avery
Any articles, artwork or graphics created by Boyd Street Magazine or its contributors are sole property of Boyd Street Magazine and cannot be reproduced for any reason without permission. Any opinions expressed in Boyd Street are not necessarily that of Boyd Street management.
62 by Roxanne Avery
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COMM U N I T Y
HOME OF HOPE
M
cFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church’s mission is “Changing Lives That Change the World.” The church is carrying out its mission in a number of ways, including a recent project to build a home in partnership with Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity. “We try to reflect our mission in everything we do,” shared Kristen Howard, the church’s director of communications. “This project is a great example of living up to that mission changing individual lives as it causes that ripple effect.” Scott Meier, the church’s director of missions and community outreach, is coordinating the build. “One of the things we are creating is a close relationship with Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity,” Meier said. “We wanted to make sure the home was done with someone with experience and done with a structure and organization that is bigger than us.” Habitat for Humanity President and CEO Randy Gardner and his father-in-law Bob Warner, who are both members of the church, have worked to make the connection seamless since this is the first time McFarlin has undertaken a project of this magnitude with Habitat for Humanity. But this is not the first construction project for the church. Volunteer builders at McFarlin have plenty of experience building homes. They have made it their yearly mission to travel to the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas for the past six years and build homes for families in need. The pandemic halted their trip this year, so the church decided to use it as an opportunity to help locally.
16 | July 2021
“The church was looking for a way to continue their mission and we wanted to get another project going in Noble,” Gardner said. The house being built in Noble will be about 1100 square feet with three bedrooms, a perfect fit for a small family of 3-4 people. The application period for homeownership recently closed and Habitat’s family selection committee, comprised completely of community volunteers, is fully engaged in selecting the homeowner. Although Habitat for Humanity has several home designs available, the church’s past experiences enabled them to merge one of Habitat’s designs with the design they’ve previously used in Texas, with a few modifications. Volunteers include McFarlin church members, Noble United Methodist Church members, as well as a few people that have worked with them on other service opportunities. The group is well versed in construction projects of this kind. “One of the things McFarlin is striving to be is a missional church and we really want to engage our members to be in
BY: RAE LYNN PAYTON
Local church carries out their mission by building a home with Habitat for Humanity service in the community and ultimately around the world,” shared Meier. The church focuses on honing in on gaps in the community. “There are lots of organizations doing amazing things and we want to help support them and help them,” said Meier. “It makes more sense for us to do that than to reinvent the wheel.” Despite delays due to a number of causes, such as weather interferences and supply shortages, things are moving at an efficient pace. The build began in late April and should be complete by mid-September. “It’s exciting to see a convergence of things opening up and we’re also rolling on the house, which is exciting. As a person of faith, I think it’s a God thing,” Meier said. What can the community do to help? Meier and Howard suggest Normanites connect with Cleveland County Habitat for Humanity directly to either give financially or to donate needed items. Habitat for Humanity is also building a home on Iowa Street in Norman and is in need of volunteers, too. “Financial support is certainly the biggest piece,” Gardner shared. “But any talents or resources, whether that’s volunteering or donating new appliances, building material or meals for the volunteers, anything like that, really helps. The other thing people can do is to spread the word that Habitat is building homes.” “Like and follow us on social media and stay involved.” Visit cchfh.org to learn more.
Photos by: Mark Doescher
You can also check out McFarlin’s website at mcfarlinumc.org/habitathouse/ to see their Habitat home’s progress and find a registry of needed items for the house as well as sign up to volunteer. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, you may also call Meier at 405-321-3484. – BSM
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COM M U N I T Y
A Classroom in Living Color
I
Elementary students and community members partner to create a community pollinator garden
n 2015, an empty patch of park space near Lincoln Elementary stood poised, brimming with untapped potential. Today, thanks to the help of some of the creative and curious minds at Lincoln Elementary, that section of Eastwood Park has become a haven for pollinators and hands-on learning.
it. Another group added a prairie grass garden. Others have written pamphlets, studied bat houses and birdhouses and created pollinator replicas using a 3D printer. Through their studies, they answer the question “what does our garden need” and make it happen.
Each year, Lincoln Elementary second graders, guided by their teachers and community volunteers, study and care for a pollinator garden, shifting their classroom science standards into real-world learning. Instead of just reading about the relationship between pollinators and plants, these students are taking ownership to create a space to not only to observe science in action but also to carry on the experience for their schoolmates and community.
“Kids come up with the best ideas, more than we would ever think of and we are brave enough to go with it,” Nixon shared.
“Instead of planting in a cup, the kids are planting in a garden and they are going to see their efforts years down the road,” shared Sherry Franklin, a second-grade teacher at Lincoln that has been a part of the garden project since it began. “We thought it was really cool to impact a space where they play. The park, it’s their park; it’s where our kids go after school.” “Pollination and how it impacts our planet are part of second-grade science standards,” explained fellow teacher Kathy Nixon, also a founding garden educator. “We learn what a pollinator is, what plants need and how seeds are dispersed, in the real world.” Each new group of second graders gets to uncover their own way to influence the garden. The first group helped design 20 | July 2021
Franklin said they have brought in experts like beekeepers and landscape designers to help the students take their ideas from paper to reality. Adam Sarmiento, with Eco Landscaping, met with students to discuss the elements of a garden and then took each of the students’ ideas to shape the garden’s landscape. He was able to fit in almost all of their wishes. “They all wanted a water feature but we didn’t have the funds,” Franklin admitted. “He left space for the water feature in the center of the garden.” Nixon and Franklin have put in a lot of sweat equity to make the pollinator garden happen, from securing grants, constructing the garden beds to bringing in local experts to assist. And, they both said they are so thankful for the dedicated volunteers who inspired the garden, designed the garden and others who have worked alongside the school to keep the garden blooming. “When the community embraces you and validates what
BY: LINDSAY CUOMO you are doing, it’s incredible,” shared Franklin. “Community members have advocated and helped care for the garden to make sure it continues to grow and look good for the kids.” For those wondering what is next for Lincoln’s pollinator garden, well, you’ll have to wait and see. “The garden, it’s for everyone’s but it’s (the students’) to care for,” Nixon said. “We will brainstorm with the kids to see what they envision next but they get to pick their question.” However, volunteers do have some ideas in mind. “The pollination garden is one piece of a bigger project that this community group envisioned,” Franklin said. “They want to create a whole learning space for more learning opportunities.” Nixon hopes that their garden inspires others to create pollinator gardens of their own. “I hope to inspire other schools and community groups to create similar gardens,” she said. “When we were researching, we couldn’t find many to draw from.” Beyond the educational impacts, these teachers are most proud of the impact their students are making. “Second graders are so passionate. They are social justice warriors,” Nixon said. “They want things to be fair and right. It’s so refreshing.” “These 7- & 8-year-olds are having a real-world impact. If they can be empowered to solve big problems, then they have learned that the sky is the limit if you put your mind to it,” Franklin added. – BSM
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COMM U N I T Y
NORMANITES IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The Hoppers T
Br i a n, B ra n d on a n d Kev in Hopper.
his year’s United Way of Norman campaign features a trio of co-chairs: the Hopper brothers.
Kevin, Brian and Brandon Hopper grew up around the United Way of Norman through their mother’s involvement. After staying at home with her sons, Kathey Drummond went back to work as the director of Helpline in 1985 before moving into the executive director role for United Way. Drummond later joined the Norman Regional Health System, where she retired as vice president in 2011. Her career was spent in the not-for-profit world and this service-oriented life rubbed off on her children. The Hoppers recalled early memories of joining in their mom’s volunteer efforts, whether that was attending United Way kickoff events or delivering flowers to shut-ins after Sunday church services. Drummond explained that when her family lived in Texas before moving to Norman, she was a Meals on Wheels driver. Kevin and Brian were around 4 and 2 years old, respectively, and would ride with her, one being in charge of getting the food out of one cooler and the other grabbing the dessert. Drummond said her parents were sweet, caring people who taught her to care for others, and she thought it was important for her children to do the same thing. Now, Drummond sees her sons raising their children to help people, too.
26 | July 2021
“My heart is just full looking at these three boys, and knowing that they’re sort of service above self, that they’re looking at other people and raising their children that way,” Drummond shared. “So, here we go with another generation of people who will care, which is good.” All three Hopper children decided to stay in Norman to attend the University of Oklahoma, and so far their college-aged children have done the same. Kevin and his wife, Shelley, have two children, Fletcher and Ryan Paige; Brian and his wife, Stephanie, are parents to Caleb, Claire and Patrick; and Brandon and his wife, Traci’s, kids are named Taylor, Jake and Avery. Professionally, Kevin and Brandon are both commercial lenders, for MidFirst Bank and First United Bank, respectively, while Brian is a partner in a commercial landscape business, Landscapes USA. Currently, the United Way of Norman funds 39 programs and 27 organizations in the area and serves nearly 60,000 people each year. Because of their mom, the Hoppers have been involved with United Way through direct and indirect ways since they were kids. As adults, Kevin and Brandon have been active volunteers with United Way for several years, while Brian is newer to direct involvement with the organization, joining the Financial Stability Impact Council last year. “People sometimes want to give a single cause, which I totally
BY: CHELSEY KRAF T respect, and I do give to some specific causes,” Brian stated. “But if you want to impact a community, United Way sees where the greatest needs are among a whole partnership of agencies and specifically targets how to best impact the community.”
During one meeting, a CEO shared that he was going to talk to his employees about if they are someone who is doing well following the COVID-19 pandemic, to be thankful and consider helping those who are not doing as well. Kevin said he wants to encourage others to take a similar approach.
For the Hoppers, chairing the United Way campaign together allows them to have a bigger impact. They said they are going to make an effort to have at least two of the three of them at every event and kickoff throughout the year.
“I want to bring that up as well as we go through this campaign, if you’re somebody that has a job, or you’ve made it through this pandemic and you’re doing well, then we’d love to have you help us give back to those that are not,” Kevin explained.
The trio started planning in January and over the last couple of months has been meeting with the CEOs of the pacesetter companies that do drives for the United Way. They will continue to meet with coordinators of some other workplace campaigns between now and when the campaign officially kicks off on Aug. 11. Kevin said their hope is that companies will start running their drives around that same time, and their goal is to wrap up the campaign around Thanksgiving. Brandon added that in the meetings so far, there has been a lot of energy and excitement about the campaign, especially as people are looking forward to being able to be in-person with their employees and to do events again.
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One approach to donating is Fair Share giving, where people are encouraged to donate either 1% of their annual salary or one hour’s pay each month. Workplace donations were down last year with a lot of people working from home, so Brandon encouraged people to also consider being part of the 110% Club if they are able. The 110% Club donors are the ones who give at least 10% more than they did a year ago. “We’re encouraged that it’s going to be a good year, and we’re excited about it,” Brandon said. “The other thing I’m excited about is getting to see these two guys more over the next year as we’re doing these events for United Way because I think we’re going to have a blast.” – BSM
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 27
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S P O RT S
T
he Oklahoma Sooner Softball team clinched its 5th National Championship beating Florida State. After losing its first games in both the Women’s College World Series and the Championship Series, the Sooners became just the 4th team to rally and win a title despite losing those first games. But the story of the 2021 Championship run goes far beyond what happened in Oklahoma City and is more about the record-setting offensive performances and dominating pitching from Giselle Juraez that showcase the Championship Mindset that is engrained within the Sooner Softball program.
THE SEASON In previous issues of Boyd Street Magazine, we have focused on both Player of the Year Jocelyn Alo and the power surge the Sooner offense put up in 2021. But the incredible season for Alo is not complete without understanding the challenging path this team took to get to a point where they could play in 2021. “I just don’t know that people understand how rough it was,” Sooner Head Coach Patty Gasso said. “I think every coach in the country could relate… week by week you’re wondering who’s going to be at practice and who might not, whether they are contact traced and they’re out for two weeks, 10 days. There was a lot of that going on.” Even the challenge of putting together a schedule created issues. The typical release date for the Sooner softball schedule is in late November, this year the schedule did not even drop until two days before opening day. Once the season started, weather played a factor too, with a crazy winter story freezing out most of the South and forcing the Sooners to find themselves in a state of fluidity. The term pivot became central to the Sooner Softball, early in the season. “Every day at practice, I was trying to get people to learn new positions in case we don’t have those players with us,” Gasso said. “It was hard. But at the same time, they were so athletic and understanding about it and saying, hey, whatever we need to do to win, put me wherever you need to put me. Some players were sitting out when they know that they’re good enough to be in. It was just such a selfless team approach the entire season. That’s what it’s about.”
Photos by: Mark Doescher
During the Championship Celebration at Marita Hynes Field, Gasso went even more in-depth on how difficult the challenge was to get through the season. “Four hundred fifty-five days ago, I had to look at Giselle Juarez, Shannon Saile and Nicole Mendes and tell them I’m not sure that you’ll ever play here at OU again because this season is over,” Gasso said. “There was anxiety and a lot of uncomfortable athletes, not knowing what was going on. Thank you, Lord, that we got an extension for our super seniors. “We played with masks, we had constant COVID testing…. It was really unsettling and kind of nerve wracking, but I so appreciate this team and their commitment to this sport, commitment to wanting to play and making very good decisions.”
32 | July 2021
BY: CHRIS PLANK
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BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 33
34 | July 2021
A TRUE LEARNING EXPERIENCE Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and a constantly evolving schedule, the Sooners were still excelling on the field. Oklahoma rolled through the early part of its season. Sooner softball had ascended to No. 1 in the national polls, starting the season 33-0 overall. Oklahoma dominated conference play undefeated, with an overall winning streak carried over from last season to 40 straight games. After a three-game sweep over 7th ranked Texas, with each win coming in run rule fashion, the Sooners faced a quick turnaround with a challenging trip to Athens, Georgia to battle the Bulldogs. The “Game of the Year” took place in game one of that doubleheader on a Tuesday night in Georgia. The backand-forth battle with the Bulldogs ended with the Sooners falling in 9 innings by a final score of 7-6. A 4th inning grand slam by Lynnsie Elam had given the Sooners a 5-2 6th inning lead, but it was not enough for the Sooners. The Sooners won the nightcap in run-rule fashion but the frustration from game one was still evident in the postgame comments of Gasso. “We need to get better,” Gasso said. “We’re not good enough. We need to get better, and this team agrees. I think this could end up being one of the most rewarding weekends, just from what we’ve learned from it.” The Sooners responded winning nine of its last 10 games, clinching a 9th straight Big 12 Championship and 12th in program history, while winning another Big 12 Tournament, the 7th in Sooner Softball history. The regular season put the Sooners in position to both host a Regional and Super Regional. “We had to get a loss there. We needed a loss there,” Gasso said of the Georgia game. “We didn’t deserve the win, but we felt what it felt like to be in a full-capacity stadium under pressure, that was needed.” The Sooners proceeded to roll through both the Norman Regional and Super Regional. During the Regional, the boydstreet.com
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 35
Sooners clinched the title with a 24-7 win over Wichita State. OU’s 24 runs set an NCAA Regional single-game record while the Sooners’ 50 runs in three games set an NCAA regional record. The Sooners blasted six home runs on the final day, hitting four in the seventh inning. The six homers tied an NCAA single-game postseason record. In the Super Regional, the Sooners overcame Washington and its Player of the Year Finalist right-handed pitcher Gabbie Plain. In the first game ever played on ABC, the Sooners clinched its 14th trip to the Women’s College World Series and 5th straight with a run-rule win over the Huskies. The stage was set for the Sooners to make a run at National Championship No. 5.
THE SCENIC ROUTE The Sooners had put together a record-setting offense, but questions consistently surrounded its pitching staff. Many wondered if the Sooners had the pitching to match its offensive firepower. Those questions became even louder as Oklahoma lost its first game in Oklahoma City to upstart James Madison and its talented pitcher Odicci Alexander. Only three teams in the history of College Softball had lost their first game and battled through the elimination bracket. It was a challenge, it would not be easy, but the Sooners had an ace up their sleeve.
36 | July 2021
Sooner Super Senior Giselle “G” Juarez had been the perceived Sooner ace for most of the season. But Juarez had not pitched an inning in the Super Regionals and did not get the start in the first game of the Women’s College World Series. Juarez had struggled giving up the long ball, having allowed 19 home runs heading into Oklahoma City, and had not been the same pitcher she was earlier this season, and earlier in her career. But as the Sooners faced elimination against Georgia on a Saturday morning, something clicked. “She had a different look… calm, confident, wanting the ball,” Gasso said. Juarez proceeded to run the table for the Sooners in games she started. She shutout Georgia in a run-rule win to advance to a Championship Series rematch with defending Champion UCLA. Against the Bruins, Juarez came out of the bullpen to pitch five innings of shutout relief allowing just three hits leading the Sooners to a win over the Bruins and a rematch against James Madison. “She had been throwing really well and feeling really good,” Gasso said of Juarez. “She’s been waiting for this moment, a little bit of redemption. I know her season in 2019 ended with a couple of tough outings against UCLA, so this was, I think, something a little personal to her, as well.” With redemption over UCLA in the rearview, Juarez got a
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break as the Sooner bats rallied with a 3-run 7th inning to force an if-necessary game with James Madison. When Florida State upset Alabama, it pushed the Championship Series clincher to Monday afternoon. While many speculated it would hurt the Sooners to face James Madison on an extra day’s rest, Oklahoma dominated winning 7-1. After giving up a lead-off home run, Juarez allowed just three more hits the rest of the game in a complete game while striking out 11 as Oklahoma clinched a spot in the Championship Series against Florida State.
NOTHING BUT A “G” THING Oklahoma rebounded from losing the first game of the best of three series against the Seminoles to win the next two behind the dominating arm of Juarez. Juarez was named the Most Outstanding Player of the WCWS. In the two wins over Florida State, Juarez pitched back-to-back complete games allowing just three earned runs in 14 innings. “I just remember being so proud,” Super senior Nicole Mendes said of the performance from Juarez. “I remember last year whenever she got hurt and her not knowing if she would be able to come back. I remember two years ago in ‘19 being on the other side of this ball and her pitching her heart out… I just can only smile because it’s such a G thing to do.” 38 | July 2021
Juarez finished 5-0 in the tournament. All told in the WCWS, Juarez surrendered 16 hits, four runs, eight walks, and had 38 strikeouts in 31 1/3 innings. “She just came out on fire this weekend,” Sooner freshman Jayda Coleman said. “She is built for the College World Series. I’m so proud of her. Great super senior to look up to.” For Juarez, the reality of the moment is one that may not set in for a while. “I just wanted to go out there and just give (my team) every chance to win,” Juarez said. “The beginning of the season wasn’t great for me, but I just kept grinding and trusting God’s plan for myself. He had this moment planned for me… it just feels surreal right now.”
THE POWER OF 4 Post-season runs in years past have always featured a theme. In 2016, fans would hold their hands up in moments of adversity. 2017 was the power of 3, and in 2019, the Sooners were ready to shoot their arrows. While the 2021 team was fueled with its Gladiator mindset, they drew power and unity in the number 4. Shirts were worn that had “B4TL” on them and the team would hold up 4 fingers in moments of celebration. B4TL – read as “Battle” – was the brainchild of Grace Lyons who came up with the acronym that stands for “Boast about
40 | July 2021
the Lord. The number 4 essentially represented the team playing for God and for others and for each other. The number 4 seemed to play a major role for the Sooners beyond just motivation. The Sooners became the 4th team to win the WCWS after losing its first game and became the 4th team to lose the first game of the Championship Series and rally to win the National Championship. And after losing its first game to Florida State, the Sooners had just 4 losses on the season.
“This team, they’re like an engine with cylinders firing. Every one of them has a part in what we’re doing. Whether they’re hitting it out, whether they’re in the dugout picking a pitchers’ pitch,” Gasso said. “Whether they’re calling for a bunt, whether they’re playing great defense — everyone had a part in this. “They knew how to get here... so many things happened off this field that was life changing for them. Their faith, their fight and finally their finish, 5th national championship for this team.” – BSM
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WE LCOME H OM E
WELCOME HOME In this inaugural Welcome Home edition of Boyd Street, you will find the best that Norman has to offer to help you create (or find) the home of your dreams. From realtors, custom builders and remodeling experts to furniture, home décor and so much more, our special edition makes it easy to find exactly what you need from reputable Norman-based businesses.
boydstreet.com
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Mr. Robert Furniture
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Cavins Roofing
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The Carlstone
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Two Hip Chicks
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Cayman’s
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Byrd Building
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Occasions
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ScissorTail Roofing
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Elite Roofing Systems
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Saxon Realty Group
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McCurdy Real Estate
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Hardware Expressions
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Landmark Fine Homes
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Armstrong Homes
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Habitat for Humanity
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 45
WELCOM E H OM E
THE ONE. THE ONLY. With more than 63 years of satisfied customers, Mister Robert Furniture is THE PLACE to beautify your home. They offer only the best to their customers. Customizable furniture, one-of-a-kind rugs, extraordinary lighting, unique accessories, and original fine art all make Mister Robert your destination for everything you need to beautify your home or office.
• Professional Design Services • Fine Furnishings • Accessories & Home Decor • Window Treatments • Fine Art & Rugs
With award-winning design service, Mister Robert has the talent to assist you both in store or in your home. Shop Mister Robert and you will see why they are THE ONE. THE ONLY.
109 E. Main St. • 405.321.1818 46 | July 2021
misterrobert.com
WE LCOME H OM E
LOCAL. TRUSTED. PROFESSIONAL Based out of Norman, Cavins will be here for you even after the process is complete. If problems should arise, you know they are easy to contact at a phone call away. With quick response time after an emergency, they know Oklahoma weather and give you the best products that are needed to withstand the weather.
• Free Inspections
Cavins provides top of the line customer service. Experienced professionals that have been roofing in Oklahoma for over 11 years, they work with your insurance company for you. No need to hire different companies for different services, it’s all under our roof at Cavins. They can provide other services if needed: plumbing, remodeling, water restoration and maintenance.
• Water Mitigation
1839 Atchison Dr. • 405.573.3048
cavinsconstruction.com
boydstreet.com
• Repairs • Replacements • Additions
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 47
LUXURY. SENIOR. LIVING. Located in the heart of Norman, Oklahoma.
• Storm shelter
The Carlstone offers residents a brand new community that is full of amazing spaces for activities. Their monthly activities calendar is full of educational classes and events. Carlston includes scheduled transportation to popular destinations for shopping, dining and entertainment.
• Washer/Dryer included
Their residential community features spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments and a restaurant style menu with dining anytime. Every apartment comes inclusive with utilities, cable and internet.
• Fitness room • Beauty/Barber salon • Shuttle service
Contact their friendly, professional office staff to schedule a tour today.
501 E. Robinson • 405.701.2951 48 | July 2021
thecarlstone.com
WE LCOME H OM E
YOUR HOME DECOR DESTINATION Two Hip Chicks Marketplace is a boutique store located in Norman offering home decor, seasonal décor and gourmet foods, plus baby, children’s and women’s accessories and apparel and gifts for every occasion. The welcoming and homey shop has been owned and operated by a mother-daughter team for 11 years.
• Farm-to-table pieces
Shop unique brands such as their huge selection of Mud Pie serving pieces and home décor, Creative Co-Op wall art, Rifle Paper Co. home décor and kitchenware and Capri Blue and Swan Creek candles and more. They also offer housewarming, bridal and baby registry.
• Lighting
• Candles • Textiles • Wall décor
Stop in today to shop and be sure to follow Two Hip Chicks Marketplace on Facebook or Instagram for the latest on their popular inventory, instore events and seasonal specials and sales.
932 N. Flood Ave • 405.701.2763 boydstreet.com
shoptwohipchicks.com BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 49
WELCOM E H OM E
LIVE WELL. DRESS WELL. SHOP WELL. Cayman’s is a lifestyle store styling the metro and beyond for the past 41 years. Starting with the world of fashion and accessories to curating fashion forward decor pieces that provide you with an effortless transition to the space you already love. Cayman’s carries items to transform your home in an effortless way such as upgrading your living room with Missoni pillows and throws, your book shelves with Assouline books and Michael Aram frames, styling your coffee table with Klein Reid bowls. They have something for every area of your home.
2001 W. Main St. • 405.360.3969 50 | July 2021
• Jan Barboglio • Klein Reid • Missoni Home • Michael Aram • Nest New York
shop-caymans.com
WE LCOME H OM E
YOUR HOME. YOUR LIFE. YOUR STORY. Byrd Building is defined by uncompromising quality, time-tested architecture and their dedication to each homeowner. They believe in the value of a “hands on” approach in every aspect of home construction. Byrd Building is committed to working harder, offering more and providing you with peace of mind through the entire process. Their homes are built by talented teams of skilled craftsmen, dedicated to professional workmanship. Their reputation depends on creating more than a house, but a home that you and your friends and family will admire.
3401 W Rock Creek Rd • 405.250.7941 boydstreet.com
• Custom Homes • Professional Design Services • North West Norman Development
• The Ranch at Lost Creek • Building Norman For 23 Years
byrdbuilding.com BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 51
WELCOM E H OM E
THE PLACE TO SHOP Occasions is a locally owned small business that prides itself on quality customer service. It is owned and operated by long time Norman residents who love to create the perfect shopping experience. Occasions has a variety of products for your home and so much more. As an exclusive dealer, Occasions boasts a huge selection of Mackenzie-Childs that brings customers from local and outlying areas.
• Printing • Gift Wrap • Closing Gifts • Personal Shopping • Wedding Invitations & Registry
Among the many services they offer, Occasions is well known for its stationery and invitation printing. This Mom and Pop ( Three Blonde Moms) shop is full of unique items and the perfect gifts for every occasion. This last year has proven to us all, that local shopping is vital to the success of the community. Occasions owners and staff have shown they have and will go the extra mile to accommodate the needs of their customers. Be sure to check out WHAT’S NEW WEDNESDAY by following Occasionspaper on Facebook and Instagram.
2001 Main St, Suite 119 • 405.217.8467 52 | July 2021
occasionspaper.com
WE LCOME H OM E
GET THE PERFECT ROOF It’s easy to get overwhelmed making decisions about repairs to your home but ScissorTail Roofing and Construction will go the extra mile to answer your questions every step of the way. They are serious about quality service and stand behind their work whether you’re in the market for roofing repairs, storm restoration or remodeling. ScissorTail Roofing & Construction can take care of any remodel or addition project, no matter the size. Their full-time experienced account managers will inspect your property free of charge, and guide you through the repair and replacement process. ScissorTail can also assist with all your storm restoration needs: roofing, siding, gutters, windows, etc, as well as any interior work. Call to schedule your free estimate today.
3110 N Interstate Dr, Ste 200 • 405.928.8089 boydstreet.com
• Family-owned, Normanbased company • Free estimates • Commercially licensed • Remodeling - Commercial & Residential • OK CIB# 80002282
scissortailroofing.com BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 53
WELCOM E H OM E
TOP QUALITY ROOFING SERVICES Elite Roofing Systems is a locally owned, Norman-based roofing contractor that provides a full line of roofing services, including roof repair, construction and maintenance. Backed by more than 20 years of experience, Elite has provided homeowners and commercial property owners in Norman and across the greater OKC area with excellent customer service and beautiful, functional roofing systems at affordable rates. Dedicated to quality craftsmanship, Elite’s roofing services are backed by a 10-year warranty on all materials and labor.
• Locally owned & operated
Was your roof damaged by recent Oklahoma weather? They offer free inspections and work with your insurance company directly to help ensure you get the most from your coverage. Contact Elite Roofing Systems today to schedule your free estimate or roof inspection.
• Free inspections
133 24th Ave NW, Ste 184 • 405.361.3094 54 | July 2021
• Fully bonded & insured for your protection • Commercial and residential roofing • 10-year warranty on all materials & labor
eliteroofok.com
WE LCOME H OM E
SAVING YOU THOUSANDS When you are looking at selling your home, Terry & Jackie Saxon of Saxon Realty Group have developed a model to help save their sellers thousands of dollars. After 22 years of working with other real estate firms, Terry & Jackie opened up Saxon Realty Group, and they developed the $899 listing fee for sellers. The $899 listing fee helps sellers save money when selling their home while also receiving the same great service as they would from any other realtor. Saxon Realty Group is a modern real estate company that uses technology based marketing. Get your home listed on the MLS, along with 40 plus other real estate websites. No Gimmicks, no loopholes, no fine print, full service for less. From listing to closing and everything in between.
3750 W Main St • 405.361.3380 boydstreet.com
• 22 years of experience • Saving sellers thousands • MLS Listing • Professional photos • Full service for less
saxonrealtygroup.com BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 55
WELCOM E H OM E
MCCURDY REAL ESTATE
HARDWARE EXPRESSIONS
REALTORS YOU CAN TRUST
UNIQUE & BEAUTIFUL DECORATIVE HARDWARE
McCurdy Real Estate, Inc. is the place to go when making one of the most important decisions of your life! Their knowledge of real estate and commitment to personal service will de-escalate worries and uncertainties that comes with buying or listing a home. They pride themselves on being a hometown agency dedicated to serving the public with all their real estate needs and know the community and sell ALL of the Norman/Metro area. With their combined experience, they’ve been doing it successfully for over 50 years!
For 22 years, Hardware Expressions has offered an extensive selection of the most unique and beautiful hardware and plumbing fixtures. From exclusive designers such as Di Lusso, Carpe Diem, Vicenza and many more, browse a variety of styles from sleek and modern to glitz and glamour to find the perfect pieces to add personality to your home.
1006 NW 24th Ave • 405.857.9001 •themccurdygroup.com
210 36th Ave SW • 405.364.0539 • @hardwareexpressions
56 | July 2021
Did you know Hardware Expression also offers general contracting services to help with remodeling and kitchen and bath design? They also carry carpet, tile, blinds, shutters, everything you need to create the beautiful spaces you’ve been dreaming of.
WE LCOME H OM E
BUILDING GREAT PLACES If you are looking to build your first home or last, Landmark Fine Homes is the Oklahoma home builder for you. As a custom home builder in the Oklahoma City Metro Area, Landmark Fine Homes is committed to building energy-efficient, quality-crafted homes. If you are interested in building in the Norman, Edmond, Moore, Mustang, Piedmont, Deer Creek, Choctaw, Guthrie, Yukon, Noble, Tuttle, Newcastle or Oklahoma City areas, they can help. Landmark builds not only beautiful homes, but energy-efficient ones. Homes are third-party tested for energy efficiency and given a HERS rating. Their reputation as a leader among Oklahoma home builders is based on their commitment to their customers, expert constrution and craftsmanship. Together, they can make your dream home a reality.
2900 Washington Dr. • 405.347.5991 boydstreet.com
landmarkfinehomes.com BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 57
YOUR PERSONAL BUILDER
We’re known as ‘your personal builder’ because we listen carefully to your needs and lifestyle. Then, we work with you to make a comfortable and practical place that gives you the special feeling affectionately called ‘home’. Our hands-on approach as a family owned and operated business allow us to carefully control quality and costs. Our pride shows in every detail.
Visit us TODAY at our new model home in the Hallbrooke Neighborhood at 2106 Turtle Creek Way in Norman. Hallbrooke is located off East Rock Creek Rd between 12th Ave NE and 24th Ave NE. 17
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HOPE COMMUNITY! Norman CLEVELAND COUNTY IS
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Fresh Look
BY: ROXANNE AVERY
Cleveland County Abstract changes name, moves to new location
C
leveland County Abstract recently moved to a new location and changed its name, but the team of associates serving Normanites remains the same. Now known as Chicago Title Oklahoma, they have been a part of the Chicago Title family for over five years and changed the name to align the brand with their sister company. Providing the Norman area with the best title and settlement services is the hallmark of the business and that will never change, said Patrick Clark, sales associate. “We thought since we’re changing locations, we would change our name as well,” he said. “Customers are still going see all the same faces, get the same amazing customer service and quality of service, just under a new name.”
Along with the new name and address, Chicago Title Oklahoma is debuting a new app. When a contract is turned in, the associate at Chicago Title becomes an agent for the buyer and the seller. Both need to know what has been done, what remains to be done, and when they’re going to close. The new app technology is one of the big advancements in real estate and pushes that information directly to the real estate agents’ phone. “Instead of agents reaching out to us to find out where we’re at in the process, when significant events occur, buyers and sellers know everything as it is happening,” Clark explained. “This is a big win for Norman and Cleveland County as a whole.” As the oldest abstract firm in Cleveland County, Cleveland 62 | July 2021
County Abstract has been serving the community since 1899. “For that reason, we purposely took a long time changing the name to Chicago Title,” Clark said. “I grew up in Norman and recognize what a tight knit community this is. It’s going to be a little bit of a change not to see Cleveland County Abstract, but Chicago Title Oklahoma is the same community feel we’ve always had and I think people are going to be really excited and pleased.” “Chicago Title is a great corporation,” Mitzi Farris, escrow officer and manager at Chicago Title Oklahoma, said. “The products we supply are top notch. The customer service is outstanding because we have a great group of ladies who all work well together. This is a great company and we will continue working hard to earn your business every day, and we thank you for your loyalty and support.” Chicago Title Oklahoma’s new address is 4241 28th Avenue NW; just around the corner from the Norman Board of Realtors. –BSM
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Norman Regional HealthPlex to open new entrance, parking lots
A
s construction preparations begin at the HealthPlex campus, Norman Regional has opened a new temporary entrance and parking lots to prepare for the expansion of the hospital campus.
The current main and emergency department entrances, as well as the main parking lot, will be closed during the construction project. The current west entrance, referred to as the Women’s and Children’s Pavilion, will act as the hospital’s main entrance until construction is complete and a new, temporary emergency department entrance is located just east of the Women’s and Children’s entrance. Additional parking lots have been built to accommodate patients, visitors, physicians and employees. The patient and visitor parking lot is located west of the hospital in Lot F, just south of the West Norman Professional Building. Complimentary valet parking is available. There is also emergency parking available just north of the new Emergency Department entrance. “Our patients are our No. 1 priority during this time, and our No. 1 driving force behind the HealthPlex expansion. We are doing everything we can to make this process as smooth as possible,” said John Manfredo, Norman Regional’s chief operating officer. “I want to thank our patients and their families for their patience during this time. Please know that we are growing in order to best meet your future health and wellness needs.” The easiest way to drive to the HealthPlex will be using 36th Avenue NW or Tecumseh Road to access HealthPlex Parkway. Access from the Interstate-35 service road will be closed during construction.
The HealthPlex expansion is part of Norman Regional Health System’s Inspire Health plan. Inspire Health is a transformational plan designed to re-imagine healthcare in Norman. Manfredo said the extensive changes planned are a vital step in ensuring the health system and the Norman community grow stronger and healthier. The HealthPlex is being expanded to consolidate and relocate all acute care services to the HealthPlex campus. The expansion will feature a new patient bed tower, a new roundabout entrance and a new parking garage. Phase two of the expansion will also include the creation of a Cancer Center and an Ambulatory Care Center. The current construction is part of the HealthPlex’s “Make Ready Phase,” which is preparing the campus for the project to officially begin in July. The expansion construction project will kick off with a groundbreaking ceremony at 9 a.m. Thursday, July 15. “This is an exciting time for Norman Regional Health System as we are in the final stages of preparing the campus for its expansion. I look forward to watching this expansion grow our current services and equip us with the space we need to best care for our communities,” said Richie Splitt, president and CEO of Norman Regional. For more information on the HealthPlex expansion or the Inspire Health plan, please visit InspireHealthOK.com. You can also sign up for the Inspire Health newsletter to receive the most up-to-date information on construction projects. –BSM
Patients are encouraged to allow extra time to get to their appointments at the HealthPlex. boydstreet.com
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 67
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STRENGTH AND STABILITY YOU CAN COUNT ON We’ve been in Norman for more than 100 years, and the way we do business hasn't changed. We still strive to give you the best in customer service, with a steady commitment to our community. Above all else, we seek to give you the features of a large bank with the personal service of a community banker. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of the Norman and Moore communities!
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Tips for Empty Nesters Downsizing
Q
uiet. Calm. Clean. And empty. These are just a few of the adjectives that may come to mind when you return home after your youngest child leaves the nest. It’s the beginning of a new stage in life and your home may feel completely different. No longer are you constantly kicking aside stray sneakers and picking up a trail of school papers. No longer are you sharing your living space with soccer gear and your freezer with boxes of frozen pizza and ice pops. You may even get the TV remote to yourself! Now that the house has emptied out, it’s a great time to sift through the “stuff” that has piled up over the years. Maybe you’ve even decided to move to a new and smaller home. Whether you’re decluttering because your home has grown emptier or you need to get rid of half your belongings before you relocate, downsizing can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you downsize as an empty nester.
ALLOW YOURSELF TO GRIEVE, BUT STAY POSITIVE It isn’t easy to let go of precious mementos, give away the adorable baby outfits your oldest wore as an infant or say goodbye to the home that watched your family grow. Make these goodbyes a little easier by acknowledging your grief but putting a positive spin on your new stage. Yes, you are saying goodbye to playdates and PTA meetings, but you are entering a phase in life that will open up new vistas and opportunities you’ve never had before.
CLEAR OUT YOUR CLOSETS If your closets have not been purged since AOL, CDs and cluttered mailboxes, you might be looking at a mountain of outdated clothing to sort through and organize. Here’s how to make this job easy. Set up four boxes near your closet. Mark one “giveaways,” one “keepers,” one “sell” and the last “dump.” As you sort through grunge tops from the ‘90s and neon jeans from the ‘80s, consider each item: Can you donate this, keep it, sell it or is it destined for the dump? Place each item in its designated box until you’ve gone through the entire pile. When you’ve finished sorting through all your clothing, return the items in the “keepers” box to the closet, toss the junk, bring the giveaways to a clothing donation drop-off spot and sell what’s left in a garage sale or on a site like Poshmark.
SELL YOUR SPARE FURNITURE Whether you’re relocating or staying put for now, your furniture needs will change when the kids have left home. Create space and earn some extra pocket money by hosting a garage sale for your unused furniture pieces. You can also sell spare 72 | July 2021
drawer chests, desks and more on OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
SIFT THROUGH YOUR FILES In the world before everything was digitized, important papers in a household could pile up like snow in a blizzard. The good news is you likely don’t need most of the papers you’ve been saving all these years. It’s time to clear out the pile! Each of your files will likely fall into one of three categories. Important paperwork includes personally identifying info and sensitive documents, such as birth certificates and Social Security cards for each child. Of course, you’ll need to save the original copies of these documents in a safe place. On the other end of the spectrum are saved files that serve no purpose now, such as electricity bills from 1995 and pay stubs from your first post-college job. These can go straight into the shredder. Finally, you’ll have documents that fall somewhere in between these two categories, such as medical records, tax returns and your children’s report cards. You can choose to keep some of these, or, if you’re short on space, scan each document and upload it to cloud storage.
RETHINK YOUR BEDROOMS With all the kids out of the house, you can rethink the way you use your bedrooms. Have you always dreamed of a designated sewing room? How about using the space to indulge in your model train hobby? You can finally have that hobby room you’ve always wanted when the kids were growing up! If you need to save some sleeping room for the kids when they come home to visit, you can keep a daybed in any converted bedroom for that purpose. It’s a new stage in life, and it’s time to sift through the piles of junk that have accumulated over the years. Follow our tips for downsizing made easy!
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BY: KATHY HALLREN | JOE’S WINES & SPIRITS
Unwind with Wine
D
o you enjoy having a glass of wine at home, on the patio or around the pool but have questions about how to store and serve wine?
Questions like how long will it keep, do I need a wine refrigerator and what temperature do I serve wine are frequently heard by your local wine merchant. So here are answers to your wine questions and some suggestions to help you unwind with wine. First, you do not need a wine refrigerator. Most wine can be stored in any properly air-conditioned, dark space. But a wine refrigerator will extend the life of wine and has the added advantage of keeping white wine at a proper serving temperature. Most wine sold at local wine merchants and virtually all wine sold at grocery stores are released for consumption within a year and will not age well, even if properly cellared. If you are interested in cellaring wine, then a space that is maintained below 60°F will be necessary. A small wine refrigerator is a start, or there are a range of options available. Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast are good publications for information on wines to purchase for cellaring and op-
76 | July 2021
tions for small, medium or large cellars. Sparkling wine should always be served cold, at 42°F. Other white wines should also be served cold, the sweet ones also about 42°, others 48°-50°. This means removing them from your regular refrigerator about 20 minutes before you serve them. Red wines should be served about 10° warmer than cellar temperature, at about 65°F. This means placing your room temperature (72°F) wine in the refrigerator 20 minutes before you are going to serve it. And please never leave your child, your dog or your wine in the car! If you’re sipping your wine on the patio or poolside, there are very nice acrylic wine glasses available. There are also disposable glasses. Stemless, gel-filled wine glasses that will keep your wine cold are a good investment, and covers that keep pool water and flies out of your wine are handy too. I hope you have a great summer and enjoy some great wine, beer or cocktails if you prefer. Enjoy! Kathy
101 E Main St - Downtown Norman - (405) 321-9600 - www.soonertheatre.com
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BY: CHAT WILLIAMS | YOUTH PERFORMANCE
LI F EST Y L E
Celebrating 10 Years of Youth Performance
O
wner and operator of Youth Performance, Chat Williams is excited to be celebrating 10 years of success. Over the past 10 years they have built successful athletes with dedication and fun. We asked our past and present clients about Youth Performance and we were honored by their responses.
TREVOR LAFFOON: Chat helped me become a better athlete in soccer and all aspects of sports and life. Working out with Chat helped me avoid injury during my club, high school and college career. It also allowed me to have a a strong work ethic and helped me work on time management and maintaining a healthy life of sports and working out. Trained 11 years, Norman North Girls soccer coach
ADDISON MASTERS: Youth Performance has taught me how to work hard, even when no one is watching. They’ve helped me become stronger and faster to be able to compete at the college level. I’ve made life-long friends at YP and would not be the person I am today without them. YP is like my second family. My favorite memory is when we did the statue challenge and the whole gym stood still while we filmed. Trained 8 years, College Volleyball
LAUREN KERSEY: Youth Performance allowed me to take my game to the next level, instilling the concepts of hard work and discipline, while still having fun. A couple of us created “Chalktalk” with Chat. We would get the chalk that was used for lifting and pat it on his back to leave a white handprint. We once made these chalk balls that we all threw at him and it went everywhere. Trained 7 years, College Volleyball
VISIT YOUTH PERFORMANCE AT: 500 W MAIN ST • 405.701.3416 boydstreet.com
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 85
B U S I N E SS
BY: ROXANNE AVERY
Fairway Insurance Group Insurance agent Chase Moore opens new independent agency
O
pening a new business a month before a global pandemic may sound like bad timing but for Chase Moore, founder and agency principal at Fairway Insurance Group, it was the right timing. With a full line-up of insurance products, Moore proudly represents his policyholders without focusing on the carrier. “Our ability to work for our customer rather than to force a certain coverage or carrier means we don’t have to compromise what our customer really needs,” he said, explaining his motivation to start Fairway Insurance Group. “At Fairway Insurance, we’re not going to compromise anyone’s coverage in order to fit a square peg into a round hole.” The team at Fairway Insurance Group offers affordable insurance services with free quotes and reviews. While focusing on property and casualty, they also offer homeowners and auto insurance as well as personal umbrellas, rental property, boats and RV’s, commercial insurance and business policies including workmen’s comp and general liability. With many years of experience in the insurance industry, Moore said he was blessed to work in an industry that was not overly affected by COVID.
88 | July 2021
“Like it or not, people still have to have insurance,” he acknowledged. His father, Monty Moore, an insurance agent for 37-years, taught him how to take care of customers and how to treat employees. But instead of going down the same path of working for only one insurance carrier, Moore chose the avenue of working with multiple carriers as a way to carry on the family legacy and principles his father taught him. “My dad worked for the ‘captive carrier’ and I came to a point where I was tired of asking policyholders to compromise what they needed,” he said. “Instead, this new business offers me the ability to work directly for the policy holder and make sure they have what they need. Policyholders get to work directly with me and my team.” Born and raised in Norman, Moore said he and his family love this area. A baseball coach at Norman North and current Kiwanis’ Club president, he finds a variety of ways to serve the community. “We love this town,” he shared, about his personal and professional values. “We want to take care of everyone the best we can. I was able to learn from one of the best (his father) and am carrying on that legacy under a different brand.” –BSM
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B U S I N E SS
What’s Eating Norman
The Ser vice St ation 94 | July 2021
W
hen it was first constructed, the building at 502 S. Webster Ave. served as a Conoco station.
But since 1978, it’s been home to a restaurant named, for obvious reasons, The Service Station. The original owners, Phil and Jerry Crewson, also ran Crosby’s, a restaurant that had an antique store at the end of it. The pair needed storage space, so they purchased the defunct gas station before deciding to open another restaurant there. In August 2001, Jeff Crabtree and Kenton and Betty Johnson purchased the location. Crabtree retired in September 2019, and the Johnsons have continued management duties since. The Service Station’s history can be seen on its walls through antique decor and in its menus, with carthemed names for the food items, which range from burgers to salads to steaks, along with frequent specials.
Photos by: Mark Doescher
“No matter how old I get, I will never ever think of a bacon burger as just a bacon burger. It’ll be a Bentley for the rest of my life. And okra is lugnuts. I will never be able to see a bowl of okra as anything but lugnuts,” shared Kenton Johnson, adding that throughout the years, he has given away many menus to people who get a kick out of the names. As one of a few restaurants in Norman that has been around since at least the 1970s, The Service Station features a loyal clientele. Johnson said he enjoys when not only the children but now also the grandchildren of some of these consistent visitors come by for a meal. There are also special guests who stop by too, like mayors and governors. One couple, who had its first date 40 years ago at The Service Station, often returns to dine at the same table. Recently, a man came in and shared pictures of when he worked at the Conoco station as a 17-year-old in 1953. For people who have never been to The Service Station, Johnson wants them to know the food is made to order when ordered, and the staff tries its best to accommodate those with special requests. “The clientele and how loyal and nice they are is what makes it worthwhile,” Johnson stated. “I love boydstreet.com
BY: CHELSEY KRAF T to meet new people. I’d totally be in the wrong business if I didn’t. It’s fun, and we just try to make sure you have a good time.” During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant closed completely for five weeks before offering just take out for a while. The restaurant is now fully open, but due to staffing issues, Johnson explained there are about 15-20 seats inside and about a dozen on the patio that they have not been using recently. Like with others in the food industry, Johnson said they are facing challenges when trying to hire staff right now. Looking forward to the fall, Johnson admits he isn’t sure what it will look like at the restaurant. For example, he said that with his current staff size, if there were a football game day tomorrow, he would not open the restaurant. Right now, he’s still taking things day by day. “It’s going to be really tough to make big-time plans,” Johnson explained. “I’ve condensed my menu through all this, there’s 15-16 items that we completely took off for now. We’re still doing a paper menu, and we’re still trying to figure out what we’re going to come back with when we do the permanent menu. If I was to tell you exactly what was going to happen on Labor Day, I’d be lying because I have no idea.” Both of the Johnsons’ daughters have worked at the restaurants, including the youngest one still while she’s going to school. A couple of the other waitresses have been with The Service Station for 10 years, and there’s even a pair of cousins who work at the restaurant, whose grandparents the Johnsons have known for a long time. “You can’t get any more mom and pop than we are,” Johnson said. “We’ve tried to give them a family atmosphere to work in. You wouldn’t believe the weddings we’ve been to for people who have kids now. I mean, there are kids who started when they were 18 or 19, and now they’re 35 and have a couple of kids and still stay in touch. My contact list is full of kids who worked for us over the years, and that’s awesome. That’s what we shoot for whenever we’re hiring. It’s been a family affair in this place for 43 years.” – BSM
BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 95
S ERV I C E S P OT L I G H T
BY: JOY HAMPTON
Service Spotlight: Mendi Brandon
W
hen emergency situations arise, a cool head and a calm demeanor are paramount to a public information officer, particularly one working for law enforcement.
Brandon started as the new public information officer on May 1 and has already shown her mettle when asked to photograph a CLEET graduation involving multiple agencies.
Mendi Brandon exemplifies those key characteristics, according to Cleveland County Sheriff Chris Amason, who recently promoted her to the job of spokesperson and media contact for the Sheriff’s Office.
“The photographer had an emergency and I was asked that day if I could handle it,” she said.
“I used to be very shy and quiet, but from working with this agency and being married to a former law enforcement officer, I’ve developed into this type of person,” Brandon said. Brandon started with the Sheriff’s Office in August of 2015 as a part-time evidence clerk. Her husband was the captain of the Criminal Investigations Division at that time. “We just had our fourth child, and I was going to school,” she said, smiling at the memory. “Life was very hectic, and I wanted to put myself back into the workforce after being a stay-at-home mom for 16 years.” Brandon moved to full-time as a receptionist at the detention center in 2016 and worked her way up through the civilian ranks to serve as quartermaster, where she was eventually promoted to sergeant.
Sheriff Amason said that kind of flexibility is a must for Brandon’s position. “She didn’t hesitate when asked to step up,” he said. “She stepped in and got the job done.” Her new position brings other challenges as well, but Brandon sees those as opportunities for growth. “I love interacting with people in the agency which my former position allowed me to do, but now I also get to build those relationships outside the Sheriff’s Office, with other agencies and our community,” she said. Brandon is from Lexington, though she has moved around enough to appreciate Oklahoma and Cleveland County in particular. “Most of my life has been spent in Cleveland County,” she said. “I look forward to serving the people here in my new capacity.”
“I’ve been around law enforcement for 20 years so I know how law enforcement works and I know the community,” she said. This is a continuation of our series on public servants in Norman.
98 | July 2021
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