BOYD STREET
Spend Life Fearlessly.
Norman - East
801 12th Ave. NE
Norman, OK 73071 (405) 579-7000
Norman - Hwy 9 4925 SE 44th St.
Norman, OK 73072 (405) 579-7000
Norman - North West 570 24th Ave. NW
Norman, OK 73069 (405) 579-7000
Wednesday Dive Nights
Wednesday evenings 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Sponsored by Bluewater Divers
All scuba divers must be PADI certified and be able to present certification during registration.
Tailored Banking Solutions.
As a member of the Norman community, we specialize in fostering relationships, not just managing finances. We're your partner in growth, committed to supporting your business goals that’s Relationship Banking.
and Annual Memberships for Individuals and Families GO ON-LINE FOR THE DAYS AND TIMES OF ALL OUR ACTIVITIES.
NMOTION
MEMBERSHIPS TO THE YFAC ARE ON SALE!
Sign up on-line for individual or a family membership to enjoy open gym and swim, aqua fitness, swim lessons, leagues, and more. Go to www.yfac.com or stop in to learn more.
MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE OU STUDENTS | MILITARY/VETERANS | SENIORS 50+ FIRST RESPONDERS | LOCAL RESIDENTS
COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF THIS NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY
MONDAY–FRIDAY 6:30 AM-8 PM SATURDAY 10 AM-8 PM SUNDAY 12 PM–4 PM
REAVES
4 NORMAN FOURTH FEST
5-7
WESTWOOD GOLF COURSE NORMANOK.GOV
7
SUMMER BREEZE CONCERT
14
SUMMER BREEZE CONCERT
MOUTHS OF BABES
7:30PM • LIONS PARK NORMANOK.GOV
CALEB MCGEE
7:30PM
BUILDING SKILLS,
FULFILLING POTENTIAL
ABLE Community Based Services is committed to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing skill-building opportunities in Norman for more than 40 years, with an emphasis on self-efficacy and individuality.
“Adults with disabilities have the same feelings, wants and needs that we all have. They have goals and preferences, things they can do and want to do,” said CEO Jan Malone, who started as a staff member in 1999. “What has kept me here so long is the individuals we serve. They have a soft spot in my heart.”
ABLE offers residential options, with four group homes and two Daily Living Supports (DLS) homes, which currently house 28 adults. A residential director oversees all six sites, with a house manager in each home to manage appointments, medications and more.
“Each person has their own room, and they have input on how the home is decorated, the way it looks, with individual colors. That is their home. There are shared common areas, too,” said Malone. “Our
group homes have no more than six individuals and our DLS homes, which are more one-on-one, have no more than three residents.”
Prioritizing what residents want to do in their daily life and in broader life goals is part of the program, from shopping to going to the movies, attending culinary camp or learning other new abilities. There is no defined limit to their stay in the home, with some individuals living permanently on-site for decades.
Vocational services, with workshops and customized support, are offered without an on-site living requirement. Contracting with local businesses provides work experience and the opportunity to earn income.
“We want our participants to have jobs in the community that they want to do. The work available to them is often janitorial or in landscaping, and for some people that’s absolutely a fit.
Some individuals, though, want to do something else,” said Malone. “For example, we have one young man who wants to drive a trash truck. He wants to get
Adults With Disabilities Find Purpose, Gain Independence Through ABLE
his driver’s license. We will set goals to make those dreams come true and even if they may find something else along the way, it’s the progress they make that matters.”
Volunteer work and job sampling are part of the vocational program. Working with Norman and Oklahoma City employers, including the University of Oklahoma and local restaurants, gives participants a sense of purpose in their community.
“What I can tell you about our workers is that some of these individuals have the best work ethic. I have met people who have their uniforms laid out the night before. I know of one individual who goes to work at 7 in the morning just to drink his coffee and be prepared to clock in at 9. Rain or shine, in the snow, I see their dedication,” said Malone.
Job coaches help participants fill out applications, review appropriate dress for the workplace, conduct mock interviews and teach other best practices. There are currently 29 participants in the vocational program.
The majority of funding comes from Oklahoma’s Developmental Disabilities Services Division. ABLE is also a United Way partner agency.
“(United Way) funding is a tremendous help to the programs. The United Way’s Day of Caring and the volunteer work they lead lets us accomplish so much more,” said Malone.
Seasonal fundraisers throughout the year, including a lily sale in the spring and a casino fundraiser in July, also help pay for special projects.
The non-profit seeks to set people up for success. Many sharpen their skills, enjoy socialization and make the most of their unique abilities. Malone estimates the average age of participants to be around 40, with some outliers in their early 20s and into their 60s.
Regardless of age or ability, each person has something to contribute.
“Just because individuals don’t always express things the same way doesn’t make them any different. When they are out in the community, they want to be treated the same, not as someone who is fragile or has something wrong,” said Malone. “They have taught me so much and continue to give by sharing who they are, every day.”
Find more information about ABLE at okable.org. – BSM
Innovative Summer Camps Offer Creative Learning for Norman Students ENRICHING OPPORTUNITIES
Norman Public Schools is once again expanding educational opportunities for local students during summer break. In addition to reading remediation, credit recovery and credit advancement, NPS summer enrichment camps offer kids “creative, open-ended learning opportunities,” shared Holly McKinney, executive director of teaching and learning.
“Behind our over-arching goals to expand educational opportunities, we wanted to offer students more choices, especially for our middle school students, which tend to be a harder group to get to be active during the summer months,” explained McKinney. “Because we want kids to have positive connections throughout the summer.”
This June, middle students could choose from a variety of enrichment opportunities including Drawing Bootcamp, World Music Drumming,
Film Acting & Cell Phone Filmmaking, A French Culture Experience, game design and more.
“Kids are exploring areas and concepts they might not have ever thought they would,” McKinney shared. “In our Entrepreneurship 101 camp, students built a food truck business and all that goes into that – market research, design – and there was a parent showcase on the last day.”
In World Music Drumming, the two-week class explored the world of music through a variety of genres, then showcased new skills in a final performance for family and friends.
“Our camps are designed to provide hands-on challenges that encourage critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration,” McKinney said.
Elementary students could choose from AlphaBest, a STEAM and fitness-focused program, or Going Places, camps that incorporate sto-
rytelling with experiential STEM activities. June camps explored propulsion, simple machines, kinetic energy and app creation, while July camps will focus on alternative forms of energy, marine life and theatre.
McKinney said that an effort of this scale requires a team of educators including content creators, food services, teachers and principals, as well as financial support from Norman Public Schools Foundation.
“Our world-class NPS teachers are teaching these classes. They are experts in their area and really dig in with our students,” McKinney said. “Building principals help oversee our programs too. Our camps wouldn’t be what they are without the Foundation’s support. It is truly amazing. About 75% of our campers receive full or partial scholarships from the Foundation.”
Enrollment for July camps is still available for elementary students at https://www.normanpublicschools.org/Page/3285. – BSM
BY: LINDSAY CUOMO
SUMMER LEARNING
Local students can also connect with the NPS Learning Bus to check out books and participate in interactive STEAM activities.
The bus makes stops around town, along with the district’s food truck, at schools, local parks and community organizations. Find a stop schedule on the district’s Facebook page.
Norman Gains “Film-Friendly” Status, Attracts Hollywood Filmmakers A CINEMATIC FUTURE
Norman’s charm and appeal are becoming center stage to a larger audience - Hollywood filmmakers.
Norman recently achieved “Film-Friendly” status through certification with the Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO). The title enables Norman to be among Oklahoma towns featured on their website, which incentivizes filmmakers to target Oklahoma for future filming locations.
The application process involved meeting designated requirements, including obtaining a permit through the City of Norman.
Norman’s film liaison, Stefanie Brickman, serves as an ambassador between those who have an interest in filming in Norman and showcasing Norman’s iconic assets. She has worked in partnership with city officials, Sara Kaplan and Darrel Pyle, while navigating this new territory of economic development.
“Between the city of Norman, VisitNorman, & the Norman Economic Development Coalition, we are all on the same page, overlapping and using our assets so that we can all work together to attract more filmmakers to Norman,” Brickman explained. Filmmakers scan the website, complete with image catalogs, to quickly spot various locations and attractions for their upcoming films and de-
termine whether these locations are ideal for telling their film’s story. Norman’s small-town, timeless charm paired with its historic buildings and unique establishments, make it a perfect site for many filmmakers.
Detailed images of many Norman points of interest are available, such as the iconic Sooner Theater and the Norman Optimus Club Gym, which was a WWII-era hangar now a part of the Max Westheimer Airport. It was previously used for some scenes filmed in “Twister” in the mid-90s.
“The more that we’ve had an opportunity to connect with veteran filmmakers as they have scouted Norman for future film projects, we realize just how often they will be using our local businesses. They are going to be relying on some of our existing local businesses for food and hotel accommodations and using local labor and suppliers to build sets. There are so many pieces to the economic impact,” Brickman said.
Norman’s film future is looking bright, as filmmakers have already been busy scouting prime spots, such as Norman Regional’s Porter campus location. With the Porter campus closing in late July, the building is now available to rent and was recently viewed by a group hoping to film in the fall of 2024.
“Sometimes it’s just knowing what we have and showcasing it,” shared Brickman.
Filming for the upcoming film “Defenders’’ will commence this fall as well. The film will be produced by veteran Hollywood filmmaker Randy Turrow and is set to be a $10 million project. It is expected to be a box office success that could in turn bring Hollywood fame to Norman. The film’s inner theme will revolve around teens standing up to bullying and will share an uplifting and encouraging message to viewers.
The City of Norman is excited about the film’s residual prospects and what it means for the community in the future. Not only will it drive economic growth and showcase local gems within Norman, but hopefully create a trail of must-see spots seen in films as a part of any visitor’s itinerary when exploring Norman.
“(Film) is very much an economic driver,” Brickman said. “If we have companies who locate in Norman to begin film production, that is definitely a sector that the Norman Economic Development Coalition is looking to attract.” – BSM
RE L A X
this summer & leave the selling to me!
INDOOR AMENITIES
Central heating and air | Gourmet style kitchen
Granite-like countertops | Plush carpeting
Hardwood-like flooring | Stainless steel appliances
Full-size washer and dryer connections
Double door refrigerator, icemaker, filtered water
Spacious bathrooms with soaking tubs
Large walk-in closets | Energy-efficient windows
Cox Quick Connect, allowing immediate internet
COMMUNITY AMENITIES
24 hour fitness gym
Club house
Swimming pool
Business center
On-site maintenance
“I
Falls.”
BY: LINDSAY CUOMO
Local leaders weigh in on the benefits of shopping local
When you spend your dollars locally, you are not only supporting businesses that give back to community events, schools, sports and local nonprofits, you are also investing through your sales tax dollars into quality-of-life efforts and the day-to-day operations of the City of Norman, including capital improvements and public safety.
Each summer, Norman Chamber of Commerce, VisitNorman, Norman Economic Development Coalition and the City of Norman partner to bring Normanites the annual Summer Sidewalk Sale as part of a state-wide initiative with the Independent Shopkeepers Association’s Weekend of Local.
On July 12-14, dozens of retail sites will participate in the sale offering unique, one-of-a-kind goods at locally owned shops. Boyd Street and KREF encourage Normanites to #ShopNorman during this special weekend and all year long.
“Buying locally is not just a cute slogan; it is fundamental to creating a thriving economy,” said Lawrence McKinney, president and CEO of Norman Economic Development Coalition. “Locally owned companies reinvest their profits to expand their businesses and to support community causes. Big box stores don’t have that same latitude to support local projects and their revenues flow back to corporate HQ. So, next time you’re out shopping, make the conscious decision to support locally owned businesses and franchisees!”
“There are so many reasons to prioritize shopping local,” said Sara Kaplan, chief business & community relations officer for the City of Norman. “Oklahoma is the only state in the U.S. where cities are limited to sales tax for our general operations. Sales tax funds vital public services like park and road improvements, police and fire departments and transit. Additionally, local shops & restaurants are what give Norman our unique character.”
“There is not a better investment than shopping locally. When you shop local, you are supporting homegrown businesses run and staffed by our friends and neighbors,” said Scott Martin, president and CEO of the Norman Chamber. “These businesses not only directly support core city services through the sales tax they generate, but they also re-invest into the fabric of Norman through the support of social services, schools, job creation and exceptional services. Shop local this summer and every day of the year – you won’t go wrong.”
“Our local shops and businesses are part of what makes Norman unique and makes us distinct from other communities,” said Dan Schemm, executive director of VisitNorman. “An exciting part of welcoming the new SEC teams and fans to Norman is showcasing our independent retailers. Normanites need to be loyal patrons who frequent those stores all the other days of the year so that on OU game weekends, there is plenty to offer.”
This Summer Support Local
Sooner Bowling Center Hosts PWBA Oklahoma Regionals PRO BOWL
Sooner Bowling Center will host a Professional Women’s Bowling Association regional tournament on Sunday, July 14. More than 50 professional bowlers from the region will compete in an eight-game block to qualify for a spot in the finals.
The event is open to the public with no admission fee.
“Come grab a drink and a burger and watch some great bowling,” said Sooner Bowling Center General Manager Mandy Haws.
This is the first time Sooner Bowling Center has hosted a professional regional tournament, and Haws said she is excited to help “elevate the sport of bowling in Norman.”
“Norman is a sports town, and we are excited to bring in some really great female bowlers, to show off Norman and the sport of bowling,” Haws said.
Organizing a tournament of this level has been a labor of love for Haws, and she expressed her appreciation to VisitNorman’s Sports Commission for their support of the tournament.
Haws invites the community to a “Bowl with the Pros” event on Saturday, July 13, beginning at 5 p.m. Those interested in participating in the Pro-Am should call 405-360-3634 to sign up.
“While we hope many of our youth league participants take advantage of this unique opportunity, everyone is welcome to bowl alongside these elite female bowlers,” Haws said.
Sooner Bowling Center, located at 550 24th Ave NW, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The center offers summer and fall bowling leagues open to anyone interested. Fall leagues start in August and continue until early spring.
“Bowling is a great way to stay active and social,” Haws said. “It is a lifetime sport. We have people of all ages participating in our leagues. You can bowl with your friends or make new friends.”
Learn more about the PWBA regional tournament and leagues at Sooner Bowling Center by visiting soonerbowl.com or following Sooner Bowling Center on Facebook or Instagram. – BSM
GLASS CEILING SH 4TTERED
2024 National Champions
BY: CHRIS PLANK
In keeping with their “glass ceilings” theme, the 2024 Oklahoma Sooners softball team’s historic run concluded with another National Championship, ushering in a new level of greatness within the sport.
By sweeping Texas in the Women’s College World Series Championship Series, the Sooners won their 6th National Championship title in the last eight seasons and, in doing so, is now tied for the second most titles in college softball history at eight. They accomplished what no other program has ever done in the sport beforewin four-straight National titles.
OU also took out its rival Texas in two of those four Championship series and improved to 6-0 against the Longhorns in the WCWS, with an overall record of 33-3 in their last 36 showdowns.
Sooners Jayda Coleman, Tiare Jennings, Nicole May, Kinzie Hansen and Rylie Boone ended all complete seasons they played at OU with a National Championship ring. All-American Alyssa Brito transferred in from Oregon and won three titles while Alynah Torres captured her second ring after moving in from Arizona State. Add in senior transfers Kelly Maxwell, Karlie Keeney and Riley Ludlam and you have the greatest senior class in softball history.
“This group of seniors really left their mark,” said head coach Patty Gasso. “That’s one thing you want them to do is leave the program better than you found it. They really did a good job of training and teaching these young athletes what it’s going to look like in the future.”
This senior class was a part of the four most productive seasons offensively in the history of Oklahoma softball. The ‘21, ‘22, ‘23 and ‘24 seasons are the top four for home runs hit at OU. The ‘21 team set the mark for the most home runs (161) in a single season. These four seasons also represent the top four seasons in runs scored for the Sooners and they rewrote the record book as part of the longest winning streak in the history of college softball (71).
Photo by: Mark Doescher
And if a regular season winning streak is not enough, Oklahoma established the record for the longest NCAA Tournament winning streak spanning two postseasons and 20 straight tourney wins.
The senior class was also part of the largest crowd to ever witness a regular season college softball game (8,930 in a 2023 win over Texas) and smashed every attendance record in the history of Sooner softball.
“Our legacy was to show everyone that we left it all on the field every day, never take it for granted,” catcher and co-captain Kinzie Hansen said. “Rylie Boone and I came in; we played about 20 games our freshman year. It was taken away in the blink of an eye on March 13 in 2020 when we were sent home.
“To show everyone what true tenacity looks like, showing them to never give up and never give in, no matter how much your body hurts, how many Ls you take, how much you get punched in the mouth, like I said the other day, always to get back up and to always keep going.”
While the march towards history and an unprecedented fourth straight title is complete, the path was littered with pitfalls and, at times, disappointment. The Sooners lost more Big 12 games in 2024 than they had in the previous seven seasons combined. In fact, the
2024 team finished 59-7, marking the most losses in a season since 2017. The Sooners lost a 3-game series in Big 12 play for the first time ever.
“We fought all season,” Hanson said. “Everybody had something to say about us all the time. People counted us out. It was a grind… mentally, physically. We fought the entire year. It was all worth it in the end.”
The Sooners had been dubbed the “Evil Empire” by opposing fans and coaches and that perception was magnified in some people’s eyes when standout Oklahoma State pitcher Kelly Maxwell decided to play her final season at Oklahoma.
“It wasn’t easy, this season. It’s probably the hardest coaching season that I’ve had in a while because of a lot of the naysayers,” Gasso added. “It’s heavy. It’s been exhausting. These players are exhausted, but they keep going. It’s the love for each other. It’s the love for the game. It’s the love for the university. But they’re elite athletes who have extreme passion.”
The Sooners’ success over the last eight seasons led to social media celebrations at almost every turn when something would go wrong.
“Honestly, the whole season was tough,” Jayda Coleman added. “As we went on, if we lost one game, two games, lost to Texas, everyone had an opinion about
us. It was frustrating just to see everyone on social media rooting and hoping for anybody else but us.”
The adversity that had been at almost every turn for the Sooners in 2024 seemed to have disappeared once the post season kicked off. Oklahoma swept through the Big 12 Tournament beating Texas in the Big 12 Championship game and then rolled through Regional and Super Regional play undefeated.
After run-ruling Duke in its first game of the Women’s College World series, Maxwell put together one of the greatest post season pitching performances in Sooner history. She had established herself as the Sooner ace but struggled to be her dominant self during the NCAA Tournament. That was until her 2-hit, 11-strikeout complete game shutout of UCLA.
“What stood out is her response, without question,” Gasso said. “She has been going through a lot. There are so many negatives coming. It’s everywhere. She had not pitched free. So, to see her do that was something I’ll never forget.”
True to the story of the 2024 season, the Sooners found themselves facing a challenging and difficult situation after losing to Florida in the National semi-finals. A 3-hour rain delay force the if-necessary game to the following afternoon. But, in a true showing of how the bond of Sooner softball goes beyond the players in the
locker room, a former champion stepped up to help Oklahoma get its mind right.
Shay Knighten was a star for the Sooners from 20162019. She won two National Championships and was known for being clutch in big moments during her Sooner career. Her message on that Tuesday morning before a do-or-die game was exactly what the Sooners needed to hear.
“I will never forget that meeting for the rest of my life. I have looked up to Shay Knighten since I was in the seventh grade,” Coleman said. “First off, for her to be in the same room as me was surreal. For her to just open her heart and just talk about the Lord, pretty much just telling us that we are not alone. She has been through this before.”
“I just told them what it’s like,” Knighten said. “It’s hard... But just go out there and do what you do. God is behind you. He’s all around you. So just take your abilities and be free with them.”
In a season filled with memorable moments and unforgettable plays, Coleman sent the Sooners to the Championship Series with a dramatic walk-off, 8th-inning home run. The message from Knighten resonated with Coleman even as she was rounding the bases.
“Anytime we are on the field, if we want to look up to her, she can give us 30 seconds of encouragement. I
use that very, very often, ever since she told me that,” Coleman said. “It was just a surreal moment. I remember I just started bawling, crying. Sometimes the Lord moves your heart in such a certain way. That’s just something I’ll never forget in my life.”
Arizona won eight national titles in 16 years from 19912007. UCLA, the all-time leader with 11 national titles, started in 1982 (the first recognized by the NCAA) and won their most recent one in 2019, a span of 37 years.
Oklahoma’s eight national titles under Patty Gasso — tied for second all-time with Arizona — have come in a 25-year stretch. But Gasso’s last seven championships were recorded in a 12-year stretch from 2013 to 2024, with back-to-back trophies in ‘16 and ’17 and now an unprecedented four in a row. UCLA (1988-8990) is the only other program to win three in a row. While the outside noise was loud and at times overbearing, the Sooners had high expectations of their own and sometimes that could almost be too much.
“I think the pressure we put on ourselves was immense. I think, for me, that was my biggest thing, trying to do everything I can for this team,” Tiare Jennings said. “But in reality, I didn’t have to do anything at all. I think that was when I was at my best when there were no expectations of myself. Just to be on this team, just be present, celebrate everyone’s successes. Going through this post-season, I felt so free, so much fun, no expectations, no pressure. We just did a great job
of staying within each other. We didn’t let it bother us at all. We just came out here and stuck together. This is family.”
There is one thing that is undeniable about this Sooner softball team and this senior class. They were passionate and in your face with an unmatched enthusiasm and in doing so they changed history.
“They really look forward to post-season. They’re very resilient. They feel invincible. That’s the way they play,” Gasso said. “They’re never afraid. They’re not afraid to lose. This is bigger than a game for them. It’s about life. It’s about trust. It’s about all kinds of things that they’ve changed each other’s lives with.
“This generation, they’ve taught me a lot about coaching. They taught me how to accept who they are and how it looks. I think that has a lot to do with a lot of things, that I just allowed them to be them.”
In the process of overcoming adversity and with the passion they played with, this team not only changed history but changed the way a hall of famer led and coached. They were unapologetic and undeniable.
“These guys have taught me a lot about coaching and the word is ‘unapologetic.’ They play hard,” Gasso added. “They care about this program, and they care about the past. But they really showed me that they care about each other. And we have had times where we have not gotten along really well, they will tell you that. And I’ve had some of these athletes come for-
ward and tell me straight up what we need, and I listen to them.”
“I’m so, so proud of this team, and everyone had their hand in it,” Hansen said. “It was a team effort. We fought all season. Everybody had something to say about us all the time. People counted us out. It was just a grind — all in, mentally, physically. We fought the whole year. It was all so worth it in this moment.”
As the Sooners celebrated their National Championship among their loyal and faithful fans at Loves Field, Sooner Athletic Director Joe Castiglione wrapped his speech with a surprise gift. Castiglione brough out live goats to pay tribute to the GOAT (greatest of all-time) of college softball - the 2024 Sooner senior class.
“Real recognizes real,” Castiglione said.
“They all have wonderful things ahead of them,” Gasso said. “They’ve cemented this program in history. They’ve cemented themselves in history. History can change, but these guys will never, ever be forgotten. They’ll go down in history — not just at OU — but I personally would say across the country as one of the best classes softball has ever seen. I’m proud of that. It would be easy to say we’ve had enough. This is hard and we’ve had enough. But they’re elite athletes. Whether they want to or not, they grind, they work hard.”
Through all the records and shattered glass ceilings, Oklahoma Softball maintains a central focus on a calling that goes well beyond the field. The foundation of Sooner Softball is planted in faith, and the platform through an unprecedented run has changed more than just the record books, it has changed lives.
“I never really cared about the accolades in the end, being behind the scenes and seeing others be stirred with the grace of God was the reward,” Rylie Boone stated. “I got to witness God move in ways I never could have fathomed. I learned joy in chaos, grace in obedience. It’s a relieving feeling if you make your college career worth your while. This was not a dream for me. Truth be told, it was God’s vision.”
“God brought me here to Oklahoma for a reason,” Alyssa Britto added. “More than the trophies, the rings and everything else… my life has been changed forever. Glory to God, win or lose, because the greatest victory was done on the cross. When Jesus died for me, now I get to walk in life with my friend Jesus and experience the goodness of His faithfulness every day for the rest of my life. This program is special, not just because of the greatness and rewritten history, but for the people and the foundation of faith it was built upon.” –
BSM
MONEY AND MENTAL HEALTH
For many people, the mere mention of the word “money” spurs feelings of stress and anxiousness. In fact, a Bankrate study of nearly 2,500 U.S. adults found that 70% of respondents feel stressed about their finances.
HOW DO FINANCIAL STRUGGLES IMPACT MENTAL HEALTH?
There are lots of ways money troubles can influence one’s mental health:
• Stress and anxiety. Financial struggles are one of the leading causes of stress and anxiety. Feeling stressed and anxious can also impact a person’s physical health.
• Depression. Money struggles can also lead to depression, which can cause a person to lose interest in activities they once enjoyed and affect their ability to function in daily life.
• Strained relationships. Financial issues are famously a primary cause of divorce, but it doesn’t end there. Money issues can put a strain on many other relationships as well, including those between parents and children, siblings, friends and more.
• It is essential to recognize the signs of financial stress and take steps to manage it. Seeking support from friends, family or a mental health professional can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety associated with financial struggles.
HOW DOES FINANCIAL STABILITY IMPACT MENTAL HEALTH?
Now, let’s explore how financial stability can impact one’s mental health:
• Peace of mind. A stable financial reality can provide a sense of security and peace of mind, reducing stress and anxiety.
• Increased opportunities. Living a financially responsible life can provide a person with the opportunities to pursue their interests and passions, such as travel, hobbies and new learning experiences, all of which can improve overall mental health and well-being.
• Improved relationships. Financial stability can also improve relationships, reducing stress and tension associated with financial struggles.
It’s important to aim for financial stability to improve your overall mental health and well-being. This can involve taking steps to save money, reduce expenses and invest in a financially secure future.
THE LINK BETWEEN MONEY AND SELF-WORTH
Unfortunately, too many people link their self-worth
to their financial situation. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem when experiencing financial struggles. However, it is essential to recognize that self-worth is not tied to financial success. Instead, focus on developing yourself as a person in ways that are not related to your financial situation. Set personal goals, practice self-care and seek fulfillment in areas outside financial success.
DEBT AND MENTAL HEALTH
Debt is often the most significant financial problem that people face, and it can have a strong impact on mental health. Research shows that people who are in debt are more likely to experience mental health problems like anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts.
People who’ve been caught in the debt cycle may feel like they are trapped in their situation with no way out. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. Debt can also cause a great deal of stress, which can lead to physical health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
If you are struggling to escape from under a mountain of debt, there are steps you can take to kick your debt for good. Consider consolidating it through an unsecured personal loan that may include one low-interest, and possibly lower, debt payment each month. You can also pay off one debt at a time by maximizing your monthly payment toward that debt until it’s paid off, which is often called the “snowball method” of debt payoff. If you choose this route, be sure to continue making all your minimal monthly payments on your other debts as you focus on the one.
MANAGING YOUR FINANCES FOR IMPROVED MENTAL HEALTH
Are you struggling with money challenges that are negatively impacting your mental health? Here are ways you can improve your financial and mental health:
• Create a budget and stick to it.
• Trim your discretionary spending for extra breathing room in your budget.
• Seek support from a financial counselor or therapist.
• Practice stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga or exercise.
• Avoid using credit cards or taking out loans unless absolutely necessary.
• Set realistic financial goals and work toward them.
• Focus on personal achievements and growth unrelated to your financial worth.
IT’S HOW SOONERS BANK !
Full menu of products and services, including FREE checking accounts, new and used auto, boat, motorcycle, and RV loans.
Home equity loans and lines of credit.
Proudly Serving Our Community for 60 Years!
Mobile App with FREE Mobile Deposit.
Direct deposit and payroll deduction discounts.
Wine Regions & Labels
Bordeaux, Cote-de-Rhone and Loire Valley are regions that evoke romantic visions of France and sipping wine, but then comes the reality of shopping for those wines, a process that can be overwhelming for some. If that’s you, I would like to offer some approaches to broaden your wine horizons and help you find the wine you like best.
First, let’s start with labels. French and Italian wines have, in the past, been labeled by the region of origin, rather than the predominate grape in the wine. However, New World wines, including in the U.S., Australian and South American, are defined by grape varietal and the regulations that required a specific minimum of that variety.
A customer came with me with a photo of a wine she had enjoyed in another state (always a great idea). Knowing that the particular wine is not distributed in Oklahoma, I set out to find something similar. Sommeliers often do this for restaurants. They seek out wine from adjacent vineyards, (i.e. similar terroire), and then look for a wine that is reminiscent.
This can be a challenging task since many factors impact a final product. Large production wines attempt to maintain consistency from year to year by blending and other techniques. Smaller vineyards rely on the winemaker to choose when to harvest, which grapes to use from a particular block and when to use a blend. So when hunting for the elusive comparative wine, it is important to have as much information from the original bottle as possible as you research the vineyards and winemakers working in that area. Your local liquor store operators can be a very helpful resource.
On a lighter note for summer, low calorie and low sugar wines have become very popular, but another easy way to lighten the calorie load is to add a little club soda to your wine. In this warmer weather, a little ice is not too bad either.
Happy Summer!
EQUIPPED FOR TOMORROW
Norman Regional Health Foundation Raises $4 Million for Healthcare Technology
Norman Regional Health Foundation announced in June during their annual Ambassador Ball that local donors raised more than $4 million for healthcare technology as part of the Equipped for Tomorrow campaign. Former University of Oklahoma women’s basketball head coach Sherri Coale, who served as chair of the campaign since its inception two years ago, was in attendance to announce the news.
“Norman Regional Health System is such a hub for our community. Not only is it an entity for health and wellness but it’s intertwined with our schools. It’s a hub that has spokes that affects so many,” Coale said.
Campaign funds will purchase state-of-the-art equipment for specific service areas within the Norman Regional Health System and will partially fund a $1.8 million renovation of the Education Center at the Porter Health Village. The renovation is a result of a partnership between the Foundation and Norman Regional Auxiliary, and the new Education Center is slated to open in August.
“More than 300 donors contributed to Equipped for Tomorrow to raise $4,024,079,” shared Erin Barnhart, the Foundation’s executive director. “The Foundation would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to these generous donors. This campaign is an investment in our healers, our patients and our community.”
The campaign focused on cardiovascular care, cancer care, perinatal care, physical rehabilitation and education.
“This campaign will transform healthcare in our region and ensure lifesaving equipment is available throughout the communities we serve,” said Richie Splitt, president and CEO of Norman Regional Health System.
As a result of the campaign, Norman Regional will become home to a new ZeroG® Gait and Balance System from Aretech® this summer, making this cutting-edge physical rehabilitation equipment available to patients in Oklahoma for the first time. This critical piece of equipment utilizes a robotic body-weight support system to empower those injured and with neurological deficiencies to relearn how to walk.
The Clarix Imaging system, another piece of lifesaving equipment purchased through the campaign, helps breast cancer surgeons identify tumors more easily during lumpectomy procedures by creating 3D images of the tissue. The images allow doctors to see in more detail which aids in making decisions with increased accuracy during surgery, reducing the risk of complications and additional surgeries.
Other equipment funded by the campaign includes Isolette incubators and warmers for newborns, equipment for cardiovascular procedures and labor beds. Learn more about the funded projects at nrhfoundation.org.– BSM
Ambassador Ball
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF NORMAN REGIONAL HEALTH FOUNDATION
PREMIER PATRONS ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR
GRAND & HEALER PRAISE PATRONS
Dr. Rick & Carol McCurdy
Kathy & Cliff Smith
Drs. Mike & Lane Tinsley
Norman Anesthesia Providers
Richie & Jill Splitt
NOBLE PATRONS
Dr. Joseph Saveika
ALL OF OUR ACCOUNTS COME WITH
Respect.
To truly respect someone, you need to understand who they are—their hopes, dreams, goals, and challenges. Since 1909, the Armstrong Bank family has had the honor of knowing the people of this community and the privilege of serving up financial guidance and accounts to help you succeed. With every solution you’re searching for, know that we’re here for you, and we have your best interest in mind. Respect helps us do so much more for you.
A NEW ERA
Norman Regional Prepares to Open Expansion of New Flagship Location
Norman Regional Hospital will open a major expansion, marking a significant milestone in providing enhanced healthcare services to Norman and south-central Oklahoma residents.
As part of the Inspire Health plan, the Porter campus, located at 901 N. Porter Ave., will close its doors to patients in late July, consolidating acute care services into the newly expanded Norman Regional HealthPlex, located at 3300 HealthPlex Parkway, which will now be known as Norman Regional Hospital.
The first patient day for the expanded Emergency Department at Norman Regional Hospital will be Sunday, July 28. On Monday, July 29, the new Ambulatory Care Center and Critical Care Tower will open for patients.
“I am filled with immense pride and anticipation as we stand on the cusp of a monumental transformation. The expansion of our HealthPlex campus marks the beginning of a new chapter in our 77-year legacy of delivering exceptional healthcare to the Norman community and beyond,” said Norman Regional President and CEO Richie Splitt.
“This facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology, advanced medical equipment and a design that prioritizes patient comfort and safety. Our healers, armed with their expertise and dedication, are poised to deliver care that is not only life-saving, but also compassionate and respectful.”
Norman Regional will celebrate the official ribbon cutting with Chambers of Commerce from Norman, Moore and South Oklahoma City on Friday, July 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. at 3300 HealthPlex Parkway in Norman.
Speakers will include Splitt, Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila, Chief Operating Officer John Manfredo, Norman Regional Board Chairman Doug Cubberley and Chief Medical Officer Aaron Boyd, MD. The community is also invited to enjoy an open house celebration on Saturday, July 20, from 9 a.m. to noon.
The Family Fun Fest event promises a day of funfilled activities, including free food, games, facility tours, Hotrods for Healthcare and pet adoptions at 3300 HealthPlex Parkway in Norman.
The expansion will feature an updated Ambulatory Care Center (ACC) focusing on easily accessible outpatient care and services, updated Critical Care Towers and five new heart Cath labs to meet the needs of cardiovascular patients.
EXPANSION CELEBRATION EVENTS
Ribbon Cutting
July 19, 2-4 p.m.
Norman Regional Hospital, 3300 HealthPlex Parkway, Norman
Open House & Family Fun Fest
July 20, 9 a.m.-noon
Norman Regional Hospital, 3300 HealthPlex Parkway, Norman
ENTERTAINMENT UPGRADE
Coalition of Norman Leaders Unveil Renderings for University North Park Entertainment District
Acoalition of Norman and Cleveland County leaders, including OU President Joseph Harroz Jr., OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione, Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila and others, recently convened to discuss the proposed University North Park entertainment district. The coalition released conceptual renderings of the district, which aims to create at least 5,000 new jobs and housing for over 3,000 residents.
The district will feature a multi-purpose performance venue, retail, restaurants, offices and other amenities intended to enhance Norman as a regional destination.
“The broad support behind the new entertainment district continues to expand, and it is exciting to see it gain momentum,” said Harroz. “OU is incredibly proud to be part of the united effort that is driving this project to completion, creating thousands of new jobs, housing, entertainment options and economic opportunities for the citizens of Norman.”
The university plans to use the arena for athletics events, including for women’s and men’s basketball teams as well as women’s gymnastics.
“The new entertainment zone will do wonders for the City of Norman and Cleveland County,” said Castiglione. “New retail, housing and jobs will spur great economic growth and our citizens will undoubtedly reap the rewards.
“Moreover, as we enter the SEC, the district will build upon OU Athletics’ strengths, adding to our suite of best-in-class facilities and attracting a whole host of talented student-athletes. The project will also bring new events to Norman and will serve as a beacon of possibilities for our city and community.”
The project will be financed primarily through private investment with the remainder from public sources, including a significant commitment by the university. No funds will come from city or county general funds, and the public will not see a tax increase. Mayor Heikkila praised the project for its job creation, housing solutions and alignment with Norman’s strategic development goals.
“I look forward to seeing this project reach final approval in the coming weeks,” said Heikkila.
“We are so excited about the large number of new jobs, the new housing options for our residents and the economic growth potential for our city. Importantly, all of this will be accomplished without raising taxes on the residents of Norman.
“We’ve worked together in a very collaborative fashion to help make this project a reality, and I am very proud of this strong show of unity during this important time in Norman’s history.”
P A R T N E R S F O R P R O S P E R I T Y R O
“Norman has a chance to take a bold step in defining its future for decades to come, securing our place as the most attractive destination in Oklahoma to work, live, and play ”
-Rick Nagel, Local Businessman
“The Norman Chamber of Commerce is excited for this generational project. This is a historic level of private investment in Norman, which will provide much needed housing and thousands of new jobs. This partnership will continue to set Norman apart and make us the destination of choice for individuals and industries ”
-Scott Martin, Norman Chamber of Commerce
“This is a once in a generation opportunity for our community that can be a catalyst for so much across our community The Oklahoma City Metropolitan area will grow substantially over the next 10 years, and Norman can secure its place as one of the premiere entertainment communities in the state and top cities in the SEC, adding to our already vibrant Downtown and Campus areas.”
-Jonathan Fowler, Fowler Holding Co.
“The Planning and Zoning Commission recently approved the development plan for 90 acres of land owned by the OU Foundation That land was not advancing the foundation’s mission and was not generating ad valorem tax for the County nor sales tax for the city By putting it in production we are helping the Foundation, the University, the County, and the City. As co-chair of the Vision Committee last summer I am excited to see so many of the identified goals advanced by this one project: 1) Significant housing supply which will help deliver affordable housing; 2) Live, work, and play development; 3) walkable and green space; and 4) an entertainment venue An exciting development for Norman!”
-David Nimmo
“If Norman wishes to retain young professionals and attract businesses looking to locate or expand in Oklahoma, then Norman must support quality of life initiatives like the arena and entertainment district which will strengthen ALL of Norman!”
-Shelley Cox, CEO of Cayman’s
“As a hospitality and entertainment executive who has operated University hotels and resorts across the country, I’ve witnessed firsthand the positive impact an investment like this has on a city and its residents This incredible opportunity doesn't come around often. It's exactly what playing to win looks like!”
-Scott Kovalick, Embassy Suites by Hilton Norman
“I support the entertainment district proposal for Norman because this investment in our city's quality of life has the prospect of creating more job opportunities, presents a unique opportunity for this city to be elevated as a premier destination as we move into the SEC, and will help build more bridges between our vibrant community and the OU student body "
-Ryan Barnett, OU Student
“The proposed performance venue and entertainment district will significantly transform the city in numerous positive ways Having moved 24 times during my military and corporate career, I’ve witnessed firsthand the positive impact that a new business and entertainment district can bring especially one near an airport. This project promises to bring unimaginable prosperity to our Norman community ”
-James Spann, Boyd Street Ventures
SERVICE SPOTLIGHT:
DAVID FREUDIGER
Working an entire career with the Norman Police Department lead to a lifetime of memories for retired police officer David Freudiger who experienced many notable events during his career. Most significant were the 1995 bombing of the Murrah building in Oklahoma City, the 2005 Hinrich’s bombing on the University of Oklahoma campus, the anthrax mail scare and the 9-1-1 New York twin towers terrorists who were trained at Max Westheimer.
Retiring after 20 years on the force, Freudiger is now deep into the second phase of his career as a forensic technician in the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) at Norman PD where he continues to experience events most people only see on television.
Born at Norman Regional Hospital, Freudiger has lived in Norman most of his life. Growing up with great respect for the police, Freudiger realized at a young age he wouldn’t be happy sitting behind a desk. He yearned for a job where he could be active and outdoors which led to his decision to go into law enforcement.
“I was hired in 1994 and was less than a year out on my own when the Murrah bombing happened,” Freudiger reminisces. “Our agency assisted with the bombing, and I responded to that which sparked an interest in being a part of the bomb squad.
“I sought out the more challenging assignments. I was always drawn to anything that was above normal police work, which set me on the path I’m on today.”
After serving 13 years in patrol and a year in recruitment and training, the police department provided Freuidiger with specialized training and he became a detective.
Working seven years in investigations and three years in Crimes Against Children (CAC) at the Mary Abbott house, Freudiger cut his retirement short by five years. “I’d planned to do 25 years but after CAC, I went back to major case work for a couple years but then was pretty well finished.”
The Norman Police Department employs two people in their forensic department, including Freudiger.
“My experience in patrol and investigations and all the fancy training they sent me to put me on the path to be right where I’m at,” he said.
Crime scene investigations fall under his job description.
“It’s definitely challenging… to go to a scene where often there’s no one there to tell me what happened,” Freudiger said. “I get to look at all the physical evidence and figure out what occurred.”
Freudiger said he would never discourage anyone from getting into his line of work, especially if it really interests them but cautions people to be aware.
“There are downsides to police officers’ jobs in general, especially when a person specializes in crime scene investigation,” he said. “We don’t go on very many ‘good’ calls. Some people go to school in the forensics program and expect certain things when they get out, but the reality is way, way different.”
Graduating from OU with a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement administration, Freudiger has an additional 3,500 hours of investigations training. He has worked in fatality investigations, child deaths, crime scenes and post-blast investigations. He has specialized training in questionable deaths, advanced shooting reconstruction and 3-D scanning that can be used to recreate the actual crime scene.
Freudiger said he hopes citizens are put at ease knowing the Norman Police Department is large enough to have a forensics unit and is well supported by the public and the city.
“Many small agencies don’t have a unit like we do, and it falls to individual police officers who don’t have that type of specific training,” he explained.
When not at work, Freudiger likes working on cars including an old hot rod he owns. He also enjoys being outdoors with activities like fishing and watching his two daughters play soccer.– BSM
With First Fidelity Bank, you have the canvas to paint your future. Visit ffb.com and start your masterpiece.
