Boyd Street Magazine October 2021 by SportsTalkMedia

Accept-ional Coffee Shop

Not Your Average Joe

Normanite in the Spotlight

Rick Nagel

What’s Eating Norman

405 Burger Bar

October 2021 • Issue 10 • Volume 20

HE’S GOING THE DISTANCE

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Features

OCTOBER CONTENTS 2021

ISSUE 10– VOLUME 20 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark Doescher

United Way of Norman Partner 20 Agency: Food & Shelter

Elevating Education

Three of Norman’s newest principals share insights, goals for the school year.

Normanite in the Spotlight: 28 Rick Nagel

Lindsay Cuomo

PHOTOGRAPHY

by Krystyn Richardson Community support helps assure aid is available in times of need.

24 by Lindsay Cuomo

MANAGING EDITOR

Mark Doescher

CONTRIBUTORS

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

Haley Gauley - haley@sportstalk1400.com Trevor Laffoon - trevor@sportstalk1400.com Perry Spencer - perry@sportstalk1400.com

PUBLISHER

Casey Vinyard

by Lindsay Cuomo The newest memebr of OU’s Board of Regents shares how he hit the ground running in his new position.

In Memory of RANDY LAFFOON

Not Your Average Joe

34 by Rae Lynn Payton

“Accept-ional” Norman coffee shop serves food, drinks and fun.

He’s Going the Distance

40 by Chris Plank

The power of the ‘stache’ is helping the Sooners win games, from distance.

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.

Spotlights

Crosstown Clash Football

50 by Mark Doescher

Images from Norman North’s victory over the Tigers.

15 Community Calendar What’s Happening

Crosstown Clash Volleyball

54 by Mark Doescher

Images from the Timberwolves’ victory over Norman High.

Restore Behavioral Health: 60 Destigmatizing Mental Health

by Chelsey Kraft Restore Behavioral Health shares vision for community mental health.

by Lindsay Cuomo

72 Equity Loans

All You Need to Know about Home

by Shannon Hudzinski - OUFCU

78 Wine Cocktails

Let’s Get Ready to Entertain with

by Bill Moakley A new restaurant aims to serve the needs of Norman families close to Owen Field.

by Kathy Hallren - Joe’s Wines & Spirits

83 by Chat Williams - Youth Performance

Hydration Tips

90 Where to Eat in Norman

Shell Belle’s Café Campus Corners’ newest cafe aims to make customers feel at home.

sportstalk1400.com

94 by Roxanne Avery

67 Living Pain Free

Norman Regional Hospital:

What’s Eating Norman: 86 405 Burger Bar

Staff

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98 Det. Olivia Burrus

Service Spotlight:

by: Mendi Brandon

Cover photo by: Mark Doescher

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COMM U N I T Y

UNITED WA Y OF N ORM A N P AR TNE R A GEN C Y:

FOOD & SHELTER

Voluntee rs ser ve at the Un ited Way ’s Day o f Ca rin g a t Fo o d & S h elter

Community support helps assure aid is available in times of need

20 | October 2021

BY: KRYSTYN RICHARDSON

nited Way of Norman partners with 27 agencies around the Norman community to provide critical services to individuals and families. Each year, the agencies are asked to provide data and share stories to make sure the community’s donations are being spent appropriately and learn how the agencies are making a difference in our community. As the United Way and partner agencies navigated the hardships brought on by COVID-19, many of these stories highlight the way our community has come together in support of one another in some beautiful ways. One story shared was from Food and Shelter of Norman. At Food and Shelter, the mission is simple; they feed hungry people and help those experiencing homelessness. When a woman who was distraught after she and her children received a positive COVID test called and needed food, the staff jumped into action. The family’s pantry shelves were bare and they were unprepared to quarantine at home, nor did they have anyone to help with shopping or cooking. Food services director Sunny Hill received the call for help, and, in collaboration with April Heiple, Food & Shelter’s executive director, the two began packing and delivering food to the family’s home right away. They packed about four food boxes, including milk, eggs and even fresh produce. Heiple said she left the items on the porch, knocked and walked back to her car, but before she even made it back to her desk, the mom had called. “On my voicemail, the mother held back tears and explained how grateful she and her family were to accept the food. She was so thankful for the support and how nutritious the food was. She even said some of the items happened to be her and her children’s favorite foods!” This story is just one of many ways United Way of Norman has been able to help partner agencies support the Norman Community amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “We have been so pleased to partner with United Way of Norman, especially the last year and a half throughout the pandemic,” said Heiple. “The contributions they have made to our agency have been invaluable to the Norman community.” There are many ways to support the United Way of Norman. 1. Volunteer for Day of Caring or be on one of the impact councils that help determine the agencies that the United Way supports. 2. Attend a fundraiser hosted by a supporter, such as the City of Norman’s United Way Golf Tournament, or United Way’s Celebrity Sing on Oct. 22. 3. If you own or run a business, signup to participate in a Workplace Campaign to allow your employees to give back to their community. boydstreet.com

4. Donate directly at UnitedWayNorman.org/Give. If you work outside of Norman and participate in a workplace drive, be sure to designate 7100 when you donate through your employer. If you find yourself in need of support, these community agencies will be here to support you. Contact 211 for help with health and human services.

Monthy non-profit story presented by:

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BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 21

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COM M U N I T Y

Elevating Education

Cen ter : S a ra h Ad a ms

Three of Norman’s newest principals share insights, goals for the school year

oyd Street sat down with three of Norman’s newest principals to talk about what it’s like to be at the helm of a public school and the unique challenges of the school year ahead.

SARA ADAMS, PRINCIPAL AT TRUMAN ELEMENTARY What motivated you to become an educator? I loved school and everything about it as a student. I originally thought I would be an English teacher but, as I got into my studies, I found my true passion around elementary aged kids. I started my teaching career at Madison which is where I went to elementary school. People encouraged me to go into administration, and the more I thought about it, I decided that is what I wanted to do. I want to help teachers realize how awesome they are! What does a typical day look like for you as an elementary principal? One thing that I have learned about this role is that the characteristics of patience, flexibility and a whole lot of grace are so important. I do not know what situations are going to happen each day. Being with kids is my favorite thing. I love going into class24 | October 2021

rooms, even if it’s a short amount of time, to say good morning. Being present and being a part of the school community are extremely important. What do you see as your biggest challenge or opportunity this year? One of our biggest obstacles is being mindful of COVID and all the stuff that goes along with that. It just changes the way we do things and makes us work a little be harder to be creative to create a fun, learning environment. Relationships are the cornerstone of what we do in education. It’s already a family here at Truman so I am fostering and supporting that. I was gifted the most amazing teachers, students and parents.

ETHAN DAVIS, PRINCIPAL AT WHITTER MIDDLE SCHOOL What drew you to Norman Public Schools? The role of relationships, inclusion and collaboration. A strong part of NPS is the distribution of leadership across the building to help teachers grow in their confidence. Every teacher has high expectations for themselves. They just need tools in their toolbox.

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

Cen ter : Eth a n Dav is What do you see as your biggest challenge or opportunity this year? I came from a small town, and I miss that sense of community at times. It is my goal everywhere I go to make those connections, even in a larger school, to create a more intimate community feel in a close-knit supportive environment. In my role, I can pour into those students who need more and find resources to wrap around the student. I can’t do it alone, so I lean on the community and district support to meet those needs. I really believe in putting a lot of people around the table and finding solutions. What would you like everyone to know about your school? The heart of every educator is focused on supporting the children in their classroom with whatever is going on. This is their chance to impact kids during difficult years as they are figuring out who they are. We want to be a stabilizing force as much as possible. So much is changing around us, and I want to be that for my students and give them a chance to be heard.

What do you see as your biggest challenge or opportunity this year? Longfellow, as all schools, have been thru a lot but there are still opportunities to make school a fun place to be. My goal is to make sure that everyone can come here, be safe and feel welcome here, to help teachers in their learning journey and help them grow. The heart of it is that teachers are doing a really difficult job and doing it with their full hearts, pouring so much of themselves into that. Middle school can be a challenging time but also a great time to find what students are passionate about. It is an exciting time to figure out what they are like. It really becomes more focused on the individual pathways for students as they begin to experience more opportunities. – BSM

BRAD TALLEY, PRINCIPAL AT LONGFELLOW MIDDLE SCHOOL What motivated you to become an educator? It all started for me in 3rd grade. My teacher, Mr. Bell, he took it to a whole new level, and it came through in spades. He loved learning, teaching and being a part of our lives. It got us excited to be at school. He made school feel like family. From that year on, I would tell people I wanted to be a teacher, that or a spy, but I ended up being a teacher. One of the things I love is that every day is a little bit different, and I thrive off that. What drew you to Norman Public Schools? I am a Norman kid. I grew up in Norman schools. From Monroe to OU, they shaped who I am. It’s exciting to be an educator in Norman because so many of the teachers that were impactful to me as a student are still here teaching. boydstreet.com

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NORMANITE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

he first five months of Rick Nagel’s tenure on the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents has been eventful. Since his appointment in April, the Board been tasked with restructuring the health sciences campus, merging the hospital and clinics into one, unified organization; navigating OU’s move to the SEC; as well as voting on a proposed budget which included a tuition increase. “The first 100 days has been a whirlwind. I was the lone no vote on the budget that included a tuition increase,” Nagel said. “Restructuring the Health Science Center was for the state and for a better patient experience. A lot of work had been done on that before I arrived. Merging all of the pieces together under one management structure is good for OU, for the state and for a better patient experience. “Then of course the move to the SEC and dealing with COVID as an overlay to all of this hasn’t been easy.” Nagel said he is excited to impact his alma mater and sees his expertise in the aerospace industry as an asset towards helping OU “meet the needs of a modern economy.” As the CEO and managing partner of Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm focused on aerospace, defense and intelligence, he hopes to be a bridge between the university and the state’s second largest industrial sector. “Aerospace, defense and intelligence is a huge part of our economy,” said Nagel. “I want to help OU plug into that ecosystem and help students be job ready in that industry.” After beginning his career at a tech company, Nagel decided to shift his professional focus during a pivotal time. “9/11 rocked everyone’s world,” he shared. “My younger brother was on the GI Bill at the time, and he reenlisted. I felt like I should do something to help. I felt that aerospace and defense was an area I could impact and grow to higher levels of scale.”

28 | October 2021

Rick Nagel

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

He first joined Acorn as an Advisory Board Member and became a managing partner in 2004. “As one of a few private equity firms in the state, we raise money from individuals and institutions and put it to work in small middle market companies that are building airplane parts, providing tech support and engineering services.”

“I was fortunate that my car made it at the time. It was kind of a beater,” he remembered. “I arrived at OU and loved it. Since that time, Norman has been my home.” Nagel also recruited his brother and cousin to become Sooners, too.

Acorn has invested in such areas as advanced manufacturing, government IT services, defense electronics, aircraft financing and satellite communications, among others.

“Norman, and Oklahoma, have been great to me,” he shared. “The people here have been supportive and always willing to lend an ear whenever I needed, as mentors or investors and even in my personal life.

Before serving as a regent, Nagel served on the board for the State Chamber of Commerce and is currently on the Board of Governors for the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), US Army Association, the US Air Force Association and the National Defense Industrial Association.

“This is a really unique community. It is incredibly diverse and that helps you look inward and think, as you would expect in a university town. I can’t think of a better place to be. My son is going to school at OU and that gives me some hope that our roots will grow even deeper here.”

Nagel grew up in a small town outside of Omaha, Nebraska. His father passed away when he was young, and, because of challenges his mother faced with her health, he and his brother spent some time in foster care. They were also involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters and attended a Boys & Girls Club.

Nagel and his wife, Kandi, have three children: a son, Decklin, and two daughters, Mackenzie and Kennedy.

His connection with the Boys & Girls Club is what would eventually bring him to Norman. “One of my counselors pointed me towards a Phillips 66 scholarship for BGC kids,” he shared. Nagel began looking at colleges. After visiting with the dean of the college of engineering, he decided to attend OU. He loaded up his car and made the journey to Norman. boydstreet.com

Nagel is a self-described workaholic but when he isn’t working he enjoys spending time with his family, helping with homework and getting his girls to soccer practices. He also enjoys watching OU athletics and playing chess. Since Kandi is also a business owner, Nagel said there isn’t a lot of quiet time spent at home. Kandi owns Global Gear, a headwear company that specializes in custom branded products. “Our lives are not very quiet. A lot of what I do keeps me on the road, but we spend a lot of our time with as much meaningful work as we can,” he said. “I try to be a great ambassador for Oklahoma and Norman wherever I go.” – BSM BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 29

THANKS FOR LIVING UNITED! A big thank you to all of our community sponsors. We couldn’t do what we do without you!

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COM M U N I T Y

Not Your Average Joe

“Accept-ional” Norman coffee shop serves food, drinks and fun

ot Your Average Joe (NYAJ) not only serves exceptional coffee, but they are also on a mission to create an environment where individuals of all abilities can feel included and successful. Tim Herbel, executive director of NYAJ, had been roasting coffee behind the scenes for years with an organization called Compadres Coffee, producing white label coffee used for churches, universities and restaurants. One blend of their coffee was called Not Your Average Joe, and every time a bag of that blend would sell, they would give a portion of the proceeds to various charities in need.

Photos by: Mark Doescher

When an opportunity became available to open a coffee shop locally, Herbel knew they wanted to create something different. “When we had the opportunity to take over a coffee shop in Midtown, we were like the world just doesn’t need another brand of a coffee shop saying our coffee is better than your coffee or my vibe is better than your vibe,” he said. “But it could use a better cause, something that would bring people together and so NYAJ, the non-profit, was born.”

34 | October 2021

Their goal is to inspire the surrounding community by involving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the creation of an array of menu items to meet any craving, from professionally roasted coffee to savory sandwiches and fresh baked goods. “We wanted to chip away at the statistic that 80% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed after matriculation from high school,” shared Herbel. Most high school graduates move on into exciting new chapters of life whereas individuals with disabilities are often limited. “We provide opportunities for meaningful, gainful employment and we give them integrative opportunities to work side by side with neurotypical peers much like they do in high school,” Herbel explained. On average, around 50% of NYAJ staff has a form of intellectual or developmental disability, whether it be Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, deafness or blindness, for example.

BY: RAE LYNN PAYTON Each new location allows NYAJ to employ 8-12 more adults with disabilities. “It’s truly rewarding to hear your friends who have disabilities just be happy,” he said. “They’re elated to have an employer that will work within their abilities.” Their first location opened in January 2019 and, after that success, NYAJ of Norman opened in February 2021, near OU’s campus at Elm Avenue & Lindsey Street. Their fantastic food and even better staff have made it wildly successful as well. “We didn’t want to just have a good story, we wanted to have exceptional products, so we pride ourselves on our food and our coffee,” Herbel said. The little yellow house location features a sand volleyball court, a large outdoor patio, several rooms available for rent and a large kitchen perfect for catering. They offer a diverse food menu with breakfast burritos, salads, sandwiches and fall soups. Fan favorites include their homemade ice cream, turkey club, avocado toast and their Elvis sandwich, made of peanut butter, banana, bacon and honey with local jam on blueberry bread. A French pastry chef of Quincy Bakeshop in the Bradford House Hotel has partnered up with NYAJ. Her homemade cinnamon rolls, chocolate babka, French macarons and more are featured on their tasty menu as well. They use four specialty coffee association master roasters to produce their inimitable brew. But the group is anything but pretentious about their exceptional coffee. NYAJ’s tagline is “exceptional coffee, even better people” and their mission is rooted in inclusion, complete with a unique one-of-a-kind word; they say, “to be exceptional is to be accept-ional.” NYAJ is led by a seven-member board, several of which have family members with disabilities and have lived this journey personally. Herbel’s own nephew was born with a condition that prevented him from walking, talking and feeling included his entire life. His life story prompted Herbel’s devotion to inclusion. Herbel described one of their core values as radical hospitality, making their inclusive, friendly atmosphere paramount. He said it’s not unusual for customers to be given various samples of smoothies, coffees or pastries while visiting. Although they’re only .2 miles away from the stadium, don’t let parking concerns deter you. They have ample space reserved for customers, except for game days. However, game days are still a great time to visit because they invite food trucks to enrich their family-friendly experience. Their fourth store opened in September on NE 36th and Lincoln as a part of a new collective food court within Homeland, alongside Leo’s BBQ and other food options and they are opening another store in Broken Arrow this fall. While nothing beats the in-person experience, you can order from their online menu and have it delivered straight to your door by visiting nyaj.coffee. As a special offer, bring in a copy of this issue to Not Your Average Joe in Norman to receive a free ice cream treat with any purchase! – BSM boydstreet.com

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 35

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S P O RT S

he joke about kickers is that they have one job. That one job is easily defined: make your kicks and put points on the board for your team when called upon.

Oklahoma junior kicker Gabe Brkic has excelled at his “one job” with an added swagger and confidence that is rare for his position. His rocket leg, along with his handlebar mustache and mini mullet, has made him a fan favorite and his popularity is not slowing down. As the Sooner football team roll through the 2021 season, expectations remain sky high. But without the heroics of Gabe Brkic, the Sooners may have started the season 0-1. Against the Tulane, Brkic nailed four of his five field goals to help secure the Sooner win over the Green Wave and avoid a disastrous upset. He finished the day with makes from 26, 51, 55 and 56 yards out. The 56-yard Brkic bomb set the record for the longest made field goal without a tee in OU history, as OU narrowly avoided a season imploding Week 1 loss and held on for a 40-35 win. “He’s a great weapon,” sophomore wide receiver Marvin Mims said of Brkic. “We’ve known that… Basically, we just have to cross the 40-yard line and he can put it in there.” Standout linebacker Nik Bonitto took it one step further, crediting the kicker for saving the Sooners. “Brkic saved us today,” Bonitto said after the game. “This is stuff that we see in practice all the time. It was nothing new to him and no surprise when he made those.” His success on the field only told part of the story for Brkic in the Sooner opener. His postgame press conference, which was only four minutes long, and his postgame radio interview caught the attention of everyone as his personality took over. It started with Brkic crediting his good pregame meal for his in-game success. “I had a good breakfast this morning,” Brkic said after the game. “I had chicken and pasta. I went out there, took my mind off football and booted it... It’s not too tough.” He also gave credit to his mustache for his ability. “That’s where my power comes from, the ‘stache,” Brkic said. “I’m going to let that thing grow out.” He compared kicking to parallel parking.

Photos by: Mark Doescher

“My dad’s best friend, when we were younger, he told me that kicking a football is like parallel parking,” Brkic said. “So, every kick I just think, ‘I’m going to parallel park this football through the goalpost.’ That’s it. “I’m basically waiting for Coach Riley to shake his head in frustration and say we gotta kick it,” he said. His laid-back demeanor and relaxed almost nonchalant approach was a hit with the fans and the media.

40 | October 2021

HE’S GOING

BY: CHRIS PLANK

THE DISTANCE

boydstreet.com

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 41

“His postgame press conference… Coach (Bob) Stoops sent it to me and said I had to watch it,” said head coach Lincoln Riley. “He’s a funny guy. He doesn’t take anything too serious. ... I think he’s made that an advantage in his game. I think the guys really like (and) respect him. He’s got a good balance and perspective on things. And he’s a lot of fun to have around when it’s fourth down and we’re on the 35-yard line, too.” In addition to the power that comes from his mustache, Brkic does a lot of work that goes unnoticed. Beyond just weight training and workouts, Brkic works a lot on his focus and mindset as well. “I do a lot of strength training, speed training and, honestly, a lot of it is just a lot of mind exercises,” Brkic said during OU’s fall camp. “Not specific mind exercises, but when we work out — am I focused on every workout? It will translate to a game, almost exactly.” In fact, most of the work for special teamers goes unnoticed. In addition to an actual kick: the snap must be perfect…the blocking must be perfect… the hold must be perfect… and, of course, the kick must be perfect. “A lot of our work goes unnoticed,” Sooner long snapper Kasey Kelleher said. “That is where the best work gets in. Every day we have our own little routines of warming up and practicing. We’ll have our special team periods throughout the practice and that’s our time to shine, a lot of unnoticed work goes into it.” 42 | October 2021

Kelleher has been the Sooner long snapper for every single Gabe Brkic field goal and extra point attempt and understands the personality of Brkic maybe better than anyone on the Sooner roster. He knows when the time is right to have fun and he knows when the time is right to buckle down and focus. “Gabe is a really goofy guy… that’s always the word I use,” Kelleher joked. “We always keep it light, but you have to have that turn-on switch that gets you mentally focused on the game and mentally focused on the task at hand and he definitely has that.” For Brkic, the support of his long snapper has gone a long way in developing him into the consistent performer he has become since stepping on campus in 2018. The Sooners found Brkic in Ohio and he immediately caught the eye of Sooner coaches. “Recruiting kickers is different,” Brkic said. “Colleges will pick up a kicker every four years. They aren’t bringing two guys on scholarship at the same time. Thankfully Oklahoma was looking, and it was Jay Boulware at the time. He flew up to Ohio and Lincoln Riley later flew up. It was done after that. It was a no brainer.” Brkic was redshirted during the 2018 season and the start to the 2019 season was not necessarily smooth. Prior to the start of his redshirt freshman season, Brkic lost out on the kicking job to Calum Sutherland but never lost his confidence.

44 | October 2021

When Sutherland was removed from the roster, Brkic pounced at the opportunity and has never looked back. Brkic took over the starting kicking duties in 2019 and instantly showed his worth. After taking over the full-time job entering the 4th game of the season, Brkic proceeded to make every field goal he attempted and was named a first-team All-American by CBS Sports. “I wasn’t the starter coming in but when I took it over it became my thing,” Brkic said. “When you’re doing well, you can ride off the momentum.” Brkic provided several memorable moments for the Sooners during his freshman year. He came up huge for Oklahoma in the incredible come-from-behind win against Baylor in Waco. That night, Oklahoma found themselves in a 25-point hole in the first half before rallying for the largest comeback in Oklahoma Sooner football history to beat the Bears. With 1:45 left in the game, the Sooners had rallied to tie Baylor at 31 apiece when the freshman was called upon to try and give the Sooners the win. Brkic strutted onto the field in a hostile environment and drilled the go-ahead 31-yard field goal that gave the Sooners the lead. Oklahoma won the game 34-31 and without the clutch kick from Brkic the comeback might have stalled. “Baylor… that was a fun game,” Brkic recalled. “Our biggest comeback in the history of OU as a football team. That was cool to see Jalen (Hurts) take control and pull us through after halftime. “When I went out there to kick, I didn’t really care. It was like every other kick. It didn’t go to my head at all. It was definitely fun after the game. I wish it was a last-play walk off.” The walk-off was provided by Sooner linebacker Nik Bonitto who intercepted a Charlie Brewer pass but the legacy of Brkic was cemented. His holder at the time was 2017 Holder of the Year (commonly called the HOTY) Connor McGinnis. Neither McGinnis nor Kelleher were surprised to see Brkic project confidence, certainty and calm in his most critical, challenging and biggest moment so far as a Sooner.

ball, every little finger that I put on the ball when I’m snapping. He’s thinking about it. So, you really want to lighten the mood because the less he’s thinking about it, the less that can go wrong.” After an All-American freshman season where Brkic never missed a kick, he backed it up with a solid sophomore campaign. Brkic finished as a Lou Groza Award semifinalist and was voted a first-team All-Big 12 performer by both head coaches and media. Brkic finished his sophomore season with 20 made field goals and finished with the second most multifield goal games in school history with eight. Kelleher has seen the confidence of Brkic continue to grow. “Every specialist has their own tick and reset button,” Kelleher said. “That’s what you need to have. You go in there and you have one shot. You have 10 reps as a specialist in practice but, in the game, it’s very mental. He has a ton of confidence, and it continues to grow.” For Brkic, the comradery between the specialists is a key in building confidence, especially away from the field. Time spent away from football has been huge for building trust and, more importantly, having fun. “We get along really well, we hang out a lot,” Brkic said. “We play a lot of golf with each other, a lot Sundays playing golf. We’ve got a good group and we’ve got a good connection between all of us.” But are there lessons from the links that can carry over to the gridiron and improve his ability on game day? “You can translate some things from golf into kicking field goals and punting,” Brkic said. “Your leg swing and your golf swing can be similar. This past summer, I improved my golf game a lot and I think that improved my kicking game too. “In golf, I’ll pick a target line and make sure my club swing goes through my target line, same with field goals. I’ll pick a target in the stands and as long as my leg swings straight through that I’ll hit a good ball.” Heading into his third season, Brkic was named to the watch list for the Lou Groza Award again. The award is annually given to the country’s best placekicker.

“That’s just kind of his personality, whether it’s a practice kick on a Tuesday or if it’s a go-ahead kick against Baylor,” McGinnis said. “He’s a guy who isn’t fazed by the moment and it’s really cool to see a young guy stepping into a role like that and being able to produce and perform.”

In that season-opening win against Tulane, Brkic captured the early lead for the award when he tied a national record by connecting on three field goals of 50 yards or longer. An Oklahoma Sooner kicker had never connected on more than one from such distance.

In 2019, at Kansas State in late October, Brkic came on for a 50-yard field goal on the final play of the first half.

He also tied a program record by putting four through the uprights. It’s happened 11 times and he’s now done it three times.

“This is for the Super Bowl,” Brkic said to McGinnis as he set up the kick. “A specialist’s game is so mental that you think about everything,” Kelleher said. “You think of every little step to the boydstreet.com

“I’ve learned through the years that you can’t be thinking about the kick at that moment,” Brkic said. “It’s all muscle memory at that point… But I take my mind completely off football.” BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 45

In the relatively short history of the Lou Groza award, the first winner was in 1992. A Sooner has never taken home the trophy, but now this fan favorite is a legit candidate to make even more Sooner history. Brkic is not at all shy about the excitement he feels knowing the fans are behind him. “I like meeting the fans and seeing the support of the fans. It’s great to see that support,” Brkic said. “I love that we’re playing for a big organization and a major brand like the University of Oklahoma.” Brkic has also learned to grow from times when he is not at his best. During the 2020 season, while maintaining a perfect mark, he did miss six field goal attempts including a potential game winner that would have beaten Texas in the third overtime. 46 | October 2021

“After that, I kind of learned not to get complacent and make sure I’m locked in and engaged with every situation,” Brkic said. “I just stay focused. I can’t have a lack of focus at any time.” Brkic understands his role. He knows in most instances he is the last person anyone wants to see on the field, outside of the punter or when he is kicking an extra point. But his strong leg, accurate kicks and his casual personality are exactly what Oklahoma needs in a kicker who could end up being the most important player on the roster. If the mustache stays and the mullet keeps growing, will the superpowers always be there for the standout Sooner kicker?– BSM

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50 | October 2021

BY: MARK DOESCHER

boydstreet.com

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 51

52 | October 2021

DISTRICT ATTORNEY GREG MASHBURN …

As a husband and father, DA Mashburn knows every family deserves safety and security. That’s why Greg Mashburn works hard every day as our District Attorney. The District Attorney’s Ofce continues to be recognized both locally and across Oklahoma with awards for excellence. bThis unparalleled level of professionalism is the standard District Attorney Greg Mashburn set when rst elected.

DA Mashburn leads a team of talented and accomplished professionals dedicated to serving the citizens of District 21. Over 30 times DA Mashburn’s ofce has been recognized with awards for excellence, including District Attorney of the Year, a governor’s commendation, Oklahoma Drug Court of the Year, Oklahoma Victim Advocate of the Year, Oklahoma Drug Prosecutor of the Year, Oklahoma Drug Investigator of the Year, Outstanding Arson Prosecutor, Oklahoma Domestic Violence Prosecutor of the Year, an award for excellence in sex crimes prosecution, and several awards for child support enforcement. Local businesses, schools and neighborhoods are safer places to live and work thanks to the efforts of the DA Greg Mashburn.

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• Keeping our community safe • Prosecuting the criminals who break the law

• Driving down crime rates

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Working Hard For All of Us!

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MASHBURN AUTHORIZED AND PAID FOR BY MASHBURN FOR DA (2022) P.O. BOX 6373 NORMAN, OK 73070

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 53

C RO SSTOW N C L ASH ‘2 1

TIMBERWOLVES WIN CROSSTOWN VOLLEYBALL

54 | October 2021

BY: MARK DOESCHER

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COM M U N I T Y

Restore Behavioral Health: Destigmatizing Mental Health

Mic h a el L a mke , t h e rap i s t

Restore Behavioral Health shares vision for community mental health

ince its establishment in 2016, Restore Behavioral Health, a private counseling clinic providing mental health and relationship care, has experienced significant growth. This year, the practice moved into a new location at 1008 24th Ave NW in Norman, with distinct areas for their adult and children’s departments. Gina Dixon, a licensed professional counselotr who co-founded Restore with Kelly Lashar, explained that even 20 years ago, the two shared a similar vision. Dixon said she envisioned that seeing a counselor would be viewed similarly to going to the dentist or the chiropractor. The duo wanted Restore to offer a variety of services for people of all ages and to be a place where people felt comfortable. Restore provides faith and non-faith-based therapy for children, adults, couples and families. Their large team of professionals includes licensed professional counselors, social workers and marital and family therapists, as well as certified life coaches and biblical counselors. They are also a training location for master-level student interns and therapists in candidacy for licensure. They all have a wide range of education, training and specializations to treat mood, adjustment and personality disorders, anxiety, ADHD, grief, trauma, divorce and other issues in life and relationships.

60 | October 2021

“Restore is a place where you can find what you need with one phone call. That’s our dream that you have this one safe space where you can go and get a variety of services,” Dixon said, adding that she wants the community to know the heart the counselors have for helping others. A new addition to the practice is The Center at Restore, which is focused on professional development and education. Currently, this includes classes for counselors to learn new skills, but Dixon said, long term, the goal is to also provide classes to the public to aid in the vision of normalizing mental health. As part of The Center at Restore, we mentor candidates for licensing and masters level interns,” said Beth Sparks, Restore’s chief operating officer. “We do lots of testing and we are always looking for great practitioners and therapists to join our team from all over Oklahoma and encourage anyone looking for an internship in candidacy, psychology, counseling and behavior health services to contact us.” Dixon shared that Restore is in the process of opening a second location in the Midtown area of Oklahoma City, and they hope to open more satellite offices in the future. Additionally, Restore is beginning to establish community partnerships and team up with other medical professionals and employers to help provide holistic services.

BY: CHELSEY KRAF T “Another trend we are seeing is that employers are adding mental health services to the benefits packages offered to their staff and families,” said Sparks. “We are the providers for many local churches and companies.” Landyce Smith and Michael Lamke are two members of the Restore team. Smith, a licensed master social worker, works with clients ages 6-20 years old. She first started with Restore part-time in May 2020, seeing a couple of clients a week as there was an increased need for services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Smith fell in love with the job and decided to join the Restore team full time in January 2021. Smith said she thinks Restore has done a good job including people with different expertise on staff, which is helpful if someone is in need of a specific service, such as testing for an Individualized Education Plan for school. Smith may be able to refer them to someone within the office. Another plus of having such a large team is that if someone doesn’t connect with the first counselor they meet with, it is easy for them to make an appointment with someone else at Restore. “There’s a wide variety of people here who can help you with anything you have going on,” Smith said. “We want to make this a safe space for the community to come … We want to help you find the best person who meets your needs.” Michael Lamke, a licensed marital and family therapist, has been with Restore since February 2017. He was drawn to the practice after hearing the vision that Dixon and Lashar had, and he’s seen this vision play out as the team has grown. “From the start, they’ve really talked a lot about having a group of therapists where we can each have kind of our own thing that we do, and that we do best,” Lamke explained. “We’ve seen that come into place in some really great ways. A lot of us have our special areas or niches that we work in, but collectively, it makes a really nice whole.” Restore accepts most major insurances and private pay and has options for reduced rates with some of their providers. When people call for help, they try to get them scheduled as soon as possible. If needed, they will even refer out to other professionals in the community. “Covid protocols certainly taught us that telehealth is beneficial in some settings and we continue to incorporate that option in our practices,” said Sparks. Visit restore-bh.com to learn more about the team at Restore and the services offered. – BSM boydstreet.com

L a n d a ce Smith , th era pist a n d L ayl a , Restore’s cer tified th e rapy d o g BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 61

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Say Boo to the Flu! Join Norman Regional and Moore Pediatrics for a free family flu clinic Saturday, October 30, 9 a.m. to noon (while supplies last). This walk-in clinic will offer free flu shots for both adults and children (ages 6 months and up). Presented by: Norman Regional Health Foundation Free Family Flu Clinic Saturday, October 30 // 9 a.m. – Noon* Norman Regional Moore Conference Center 700 S. Telephone Road *While supplies last.

For Your Safety: • Masks are required on all people over 2 years old. • The event will be held in the Conference Center • Only those receiving the vaccine and one support person (if needed for assistance) are allowed inside. • If you do not feel well, have a fever, or signs of respiratory illness, do not attend this event. NormanRegional.com

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

H EA LT H

LIVING Pa in Free Orthopedic surgeon uses robotic technology for hip and knee replacements

oint pain can be debilitating, keeping us from living our fullest life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 15 million people experience severe joint pain and nearly half of adults with arthritis have persistent pain.

ments. Mako allows a surgeon to know more about the patient’s anatomy, tailoring procedures to the specific needs of each patient.

“Osteoarthritis is a multi-factorial issue,” said Dr. Jeremiah Maupin, a new orthopedic surgeon with Ortho Central. “There are factors we can control and some we can’t.

“I am really excited to be in Norman and bring the robotic aspect of surgery to the hospital,” Maupin shared. “We are able to map the patient’s anatomy and see what is going on in real time. It allows us to determine the best placement with an increased degree of accuracy.”

“With joint health, people often wait before seeing a doctor. They make concessions, little decisions that add up, and they end up not doing the things they want to do.”

While long term impacts are still being studied, he shared that many patients are experiencing better short-term outcomes.

Maupin said he is seeing patients with life-impacting pain seeking treatment at earlier ages.

“Traditional joint replacement is a highly successful surgery,” he said. “But the robot gives me invaluable information about each patient and allows me to tailor the implant specifically and measures in millimeter increments.”

“Previously, my patients used to be over 60,” he shared. “But now we have been seeing the age bracket for total joint replacement changing. Patients are pursuing options sooner. “60 is the new 50, 50 is the new 40 and people are wanting to stay active in their later years.” “If your pain is stopping you from doing what you want to do, it is worth getting it evaluated. There are a lot of treatment options available,” he shared. “Many of my patients tell me they wished they had done this sooner.” Maupin became an orthopedic surgeon because of the solutions he can offer people in pain, being able “to see an acute problem and fix it.” Maupin is bringing new technology in joint replacements to Ortho Central. He is specially trained in robot-assisted surgery utilizing the Mako robot for knee and hip replaceboydstreet.com

Patient care has been a part of Maupin’s life from a very early age when he helped his father care for animals at a veterinary clinic growing up in Idaho. “I grew up helping him on the various farms,” he remembered. “I always knew I wanted to work in some medical capacity. I loved science and knew it was my passion to help people.” In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, grilling outdoors for family gatherings and spending time with his family. He and his wife, Nicole, recently welcomed their third child. To learn more about Mako robotic surgery and other joint pain treatment options, visit orthocentralok.com or call 405360-6764. – BSM BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 67

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BY: SHANNON HUDZINSKI | PRESIDENT/CEO OU FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

All You Need to Know about Home Equity Loans

s you pay down your first mortgage or the value of your home increases, you develop equity. When you have equity built up in your home, borrowing against it with a home equity loan is a great way to tap into the money when you need it most. Many people take out a home equity loan to finance home improvements, pay for their child’s college education, cover unforeseen medical costs, and many other purposes. Here’s all you need to know about home equity loans.

WHAT IS A HOME EQUITY LOAN? A home equity loan (HEL), or second mortgage, is a secured loan that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home. The loan amount is based on the difference between the home’s current market value and the homeowner’s outstanding mortgage balance. Home equity loans tend to be fixed rate, while the typical alternative, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), generally have variable rates and allow the borrower to withdraw funds as needed.

HOW IS A HOME EQUITY LOAN AMOUNT DETERMINED? Your primary mortgage is the amount you borrowed when you first purchased your home. Over time, as you pay down the loan and/or the value of your residence increases, so does your equity. You can take a home equity loan out against the equity you have built up in your home, essentially borrowing against your home’s value minus what you still owe on your mortgage. It’s important to note that a home equity loan is a second loan against your home. You’ll still need to pay your primary mortgage along with new payments for your home equity loan. A lender will typically want you to have at least an 80 percent loan-to-value (LTV) ratio once your home equity loan has been approved.

incurred when originating, writing, closing or recording a loan. These fees include application, appraisal, title search, attorney fees and points. Some lenders may advertise no-fee home equity loans which require no cash at closing, but these will usually have other associated costs or a higher interest rate which can easily offset any gains.

WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF A HOME EQUITY LOAN? There are several advantages to taking out a home equity loan to fund a home improvement project or a large expense: • The amount of interest paid toward a home equity loan may be tax-deductible. • Interest rates on HELs are generally lower than those provided by credit cards or unsecured loans. • You can use the funds for a variety of purchases.

INTEREST RATES ON HOME EQUITY LOANS

Home equity loans do have some disadvantages as well:

Home equity loans typically have a fixed interest rate, making budgeting for the payments easy. The lender provides a lump sum payment to the borrower, which is then repaid over the life of the loan, along with a set interest rate. Both the monthly payment and interest rate will remain the same over the entire loan term, which can last anywhere from 5 to 30 years. If the borrower sells the home before the loan term is matured, the loan must then be repaid in full.

• Using your home as collateral for the loan means risking foreclosure and the loss of your home if you default on the loan.

A home equity loan can be a great choice for a borrower with a one-time or straightforward cash need such as a home addition, large medical expenses, debt consolidation or a wedding.

• You may qualify to borrow more than you actually need and ultimately end up using more than planned, which of course you’ll need to repay.

ARE THERE ANY COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH HOME EQUITY LOANS? As with mortgage loans, there are closing costs associated with home equity loans. Closing costs refer to any fees 72 | October 2021

• If your home value declines over the term of the loan, you may end up owing more than your home is worth. • You’ll need to pay closing costs and other fees when you take out a home equity loan.

The hot real estate market has led to a boom in popularity for home equity loans. However, it’s important to weigh all factors carefully before determining if a home equity loan is best for your specific needs.

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BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 73

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L I FEST Y L E

BY: KATHY HALLREN | JOE’S WINES & SPIRITS

Let’s get ready to entertain with wine cocktails!

emperatures are dropping, football is happening, and it is time to get together and entertain. I went looking for some easy wine cocktails because cocktails (and yes, seltzers) rock. Making cocktails can be daunting, but wine-based cocktails are usually simpler. When researching recipes, 90% were sangria, so I am not including sangria. I am also skipping white and rosé spritzers, because I am sure my readers have those figured out. So here are some suggestions for your party, or just to treat yourself.

RED WINE SPRITZER This red wine spritzer lightens up red wine, and then you can use the rest for cooking. Here’s how to make it: • •

Fill a glass halfway with red wine, preferably chilled. Pour in an equal amount of club soda and stir gently.

•

Add an orange slice garnish!

PINOT NOIR-TINI • • •

Pour 1 1/2 oz. pinot noir, 1 oz. vodka and 1/2 oz. dry vermouth in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir until the glass is chilled. Strain into a martini glass and serve with a couple of quality cherries.

78 | October 2021

CLASSIC BISHOP PUNCH • • •

Combine 1 bottle red wine, 3 oz rum, the juice of 1/2 lemon and 4 teaspoons sugar in a punch bowl. Stir well to make sure everything combines and the sugar dissolves. When it’s time to serve, add ice and any variety of seasonal fruits you wish.

This punch will make about nine 4-oz servings.

SOMETHING BLUE • •

2 oz Hpnotiq Liqueur 2 oz white wine, any style will work perfectly in this recipe.

•

1 oz ginger ale

Pour the Hpnotiq, white wine and then ginger ale into a Champagne flute. Serve and enjoy. Since there’s no ice, chill all ingredients beforehand. Chilling the flutes will help, too. To make party service quick and easy, line up all the flutes you need and pour the liqueur and white wine. Right before it’s time to pass out the cocktails, top each glass with cold ginger ale. Enjoy your party! Kathy

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Law enforcement has long had a use of force continuum that dictates the amount and level of force that is recommended for use in the performance of their duties. This continuum has changed slightly over the years due to new products, such as the Taser, and OC Spray, but generally speaking, it has remained consistent. There has never been a use of force continuum developed for citizens to the point of the law enforcement continuum, however, CCW Safe has developed a guide that should be considered by concealed carriers to protect them from criminal or civil prosecution stemming from a citizen use of force. The guide is based on avoidance, and focuses on situational awareness and threat assessment to evaluate a situation where they feel force may have to be used to defend themselves. If a threat is determined to be real and possible, there should always be a 911 call for assistance, and action taken to physically remove yourself from the threat, or to set barriers between you and the threat. Deadly force is obviously the last stage of the guide, and should only be used when you have exhausted all other means to avoid the threat. Once deadly force is used, there is no turning back, so concealed carriers need to be fully aware of the citizen use of force guide, and how it can better protect them. For more information on how to avoid deadly encounters, and how to protect yourself as a concealed carrier, visit ccwsafe.com

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BY: CHAT WILLIAMS | YOUTH PERFORMANCE

LI F EST Y L E

Benefits of Cardiovascular Exercise

ardiovascular exercise offers many benefits from improved health and well-being to influencing your quality of life and may also help improve your immune system. Cardio workouts are shown to reduce fatigue, promote positive changes in body composition, improve self-confidence and posture, reduce stress, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and increase bone density. The FITTE Principle is an acronym used for program guidelines and suggestion to design an effective cardiovascular routine:

FREQUENCY: Exercise sessions per week/3-5 times a week is

recommended. But 1-2 times a week is better than nothing. Baby Steps!!

INTENSITY: How hard should you work? Heart rate helps de-

termine the intensity of the exercise being performed. Most research shows that cardiovascular benefits take place between 60% and 85% of age-predicted max heart rate.

TIME: An individual beginning a program may only start with 10 minutes a day and gradually increase. Depending on your fitness goals, 20-60 minutes of continuous cardiovascular exercise daily is a realistic goal to shoot for.

TYPE: Simply the mode of exercise that you choose. This could be the treadmill, step mill, stair master, elliptical, stationary bike or an aerobics class.

ENJOYMENT: Bottom line: Find something that is fun and you will enjoy. This may take a while, so be patient.

Over time, set goals to increase your distance covered, amount of time exercised, the intensity of your workouts and/or the number of days per week. Increase slowly. It’s recommended at approximately 10% a week. For example if you are performing 20 minutes of exercise per session, increase the next week by 2 minutes per session. Chat Williams, MS, CSCS*D, NSCA-CPT*D, CSPS*D, FNSCA chat@youthperformance.net • www.youthperformance.net • 701-3416

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B U S I N E SS

What’s Eating Norman

405 Burger B ar 86 | October 2021

telen Covel’s latest venture, in concert with his dad, country music star and Normanite, Toby Keith, is fueled by two passions: buildings and burgers. Old buildings and onion burgers to be exact. “He (Keith) has a huge passion for old buildings, gas stations, honky tonks and that kind of a thing,” Covel explained. “One of the things he really likes doing is restoring them and putting something new in the areas around Norman and to kind of revitalize the areas that he enjoys.” One of the first places Keith restored was the old Hollywood Corners gas station and store in far northeast Norman along Porter Avenue. It’s now one of central Oklahoma’s most popular live music, food and drink venues. The latest effort, being spearheaded by Stelen Covel, is 405 Burger Bar, located at 1429 George St, at the corner of George and Stinson streets. Veteran Norman residents and anyone who has attended many OU football games will know the location as being just south of OU’s Everest Indoor Training Center on Lindsey Street, and just a few hundred yards southeast of where Headington Hall sits. “Since helping out with Hollywood Corners, I’ve kind of developed a passion for restaurants myself,” the younger Covel said. “We wanted a spot south of the stadium because you know how crazy north of the stadium gets for bars, and we wanted a spot people could enjoy that may bring a little bit of a different vibe than Campus Corner. So, we ran through a few different concepts, and we landed on onion burgers.” And not just any onion burgers. “We’ve got a recipe for a really, really kickass onion burger,” Covel said. “It’s probably my favorite onion burger in the state. An Oklahoma onion burger is the only real onion burger in my eyes.” Covel added that the motto for the new restaurant is “Big Buns and Real Meat.” A full bar will serve customers a variety of signature cocktails and beers. 405 plans to cater to folks who don’t necessarily want to swim through the crowds that gather around the stadium. Covel said 405 wasn’t

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BY: BILL MOAKLEY developed as a huge space because the hope is to develop a block party atmosphere. “We have special events permits for the home games this year,” Covel explained. “We’ll be selling beer outside. South of the stadium is where everyone parks, so there will be a lot of foot traffic. It’s hard to set up and do a tailgate these days. Hopefully, the smell of the grilled onions on the flattop will draw some people in.” A graduate of OU and a self-confessed OU ‘historian,” Covel said he and his family have deeps ties to Norman and prefer reviving buildings that have fallen into disrepair instead of going the new construction route. “Norman holds a special place in our hearts,” Covel said. “Anything we can do to revitalize areas of Norman is of special interest to us. If you took Hollywood Corners, nobody would have thought a bar or restaurant could do well there. My dad sees things as how the area will benefit, regardless of how much money it’s going to make. That’s a special thing for him. “At 405, we think a lot of Norman residents remember there being restaurants and things in the area it’s located in and want to see something back there.” 405 will seat around 70 inside. Orders will be taken at the front of the restaurant counter-service style, and will be served in boxes to be taken back to tables or to go. The menu will be consolidated. “We’d rather do everything we do the best than doing a bunch of things mediocre,” Covel said. As for putting in a restaurant in his hometown, Covel said the decision to do so was an easy one. “I was born and raised here, so it means a lot,” Covel said. “I’ve seen Norman grow since I was young. My preschool sat where Headington Hall is. I’ve seen the transformation from a little college town to a thriving economy. And I really see potential for Norman’s business future. I hope to see more people do things like what we’re doing.” Stay up to date with 405 Burger Bar events at facebook.com/405burgerbar. – BSM BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 87

REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS. Warren Stowe 405-248-9509 geico.com/okc-south 1500 W I-240 Service Rd Oklahoma City

THE DI N E G U I DE

the DINE guide

90 | October 2021

Legends Restaurant & Catering

Sauce It Up

Legends has served the Norman community and

Sauce It Up serves high quality pizza, pasta and

the University of Oklahoma for over 50 years.

subs that can be grabbed fast, on the go, or enjoyed

Legends is a stunning, intimate, casually up-scale

while watching your favorite sports in restaurant.

family owned restaurant that is perfect for business

With an extensive appetizer, salad, pizza, sub and

meetings, gatherings, romantic dinners or casual

pasta menu, Sauce It Up has something delicious

meals. Private dining rooms and catering available.

for everyone in the family.

1313 W Lindsey St. • 405.329.8888

2627 Classen Blvd Ste. 104 • 405.857.7795

The Turn Grill @ Westwood Golf Course

Gringo Girl Tamales & Southern Eatery

Located at the Westwood Golf Course on the SE

Evolving from selling Tamales at central Oklahoma

corner of NW 24th and Robinson, The Turn Grill

farmers markets, Gringo Girl Tamales & Southern

offers a good meal at an affordable price to keep

Eatery has grown to a full scale restaurant serving

your energy up for your next round. Check out their

a diverse menu of home cooked favorites. From

Launch & Lunch special including $2 range tokens

nachos and loaded fries to chiken fried steak,

and Happy Hours every weekday.

tamales and fresh made pies, they have it all.

2400 Westport Dr • 405.360.7600

924 W Main St • 405.857.2202

Gaberino’s Homestyle Italian

Scratch Kitchen & Cocktails

Gaberino’s is a family-owned Italian restaurant

Scratch’s menu is crafted entirely from scratch and

located on Ed Noble Parkway. They feature

features smokehouse bacon, pan-seared fish, farm

homestyle recipes made from scratch, with gluten-

gresh veggies and slow roasted meats.They have

free, vegetarian, vegan and low-carb options.

a plethora of custom cocktails that will leave you

Gaberino’s provides in house dining, patio dining,

wanting more. Come taste the difference a true

delivery, on-line and takeout services.

fresh, from Scratch, experience can make.

400 Ed Noble Parkway • 405.310.2229

132 W Main St • 405.801.2900

Spare Time Sports Grill

The Mont

Spare Time Sports Grill is inside Sooner Bowl and

You won’t find a better spot for lunch, dinner,

features delicious food beyond what you’d expect at

or drinks than The Mont’s famous patio. Enjoy

a bowling alley. Great burgers, salads, sandwiches

enticing entrees, burgers, mexican delicacies and a

and appetizers enhance the bowling experience or

world famous swirl. Is it your birthday? The Mont

provide a great lunch or dinner spot. Carry out or

is the perfect place for your big birthday blowout

dine in available.

party with all of your friends.

550 24th Ave NW • 405.360.3634

1300 Classen Blvd • 405.329.3330

Service Station

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

The Service Station has been Norman’s favorite

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar specializes in preparing

neighborhood restaurant for 43 years. Stop by and

simple foods - such as the quintessential hamburger

try one of thier famous burgers, sandwiches, salads,

- with a culinary passion to satisfy restaurant-goers’

steaks or seafood and grab a drink from their full

cravings like never before. The bar features an

bar. Enjoy a nice meal on the patio, inside the

ever rotating selection of regional draft beers and

historic dining room or grab your food to go.

cocktails that are well beyond ordinary.

502 S Webster Ave • 405.364.2139

2050 24th Ave NW Ste 101 • 405.561.1067

Interurban

Penny Hill Deli Bar & Char

Interurban is a casual and fun concept featuring a

100% fresh meat. Handcrafted sandwiches. All

wide variety of menu items catering to families, busy

natural ingredients. That’s what customers will

business professionals and baby boomers of all ages.

find when visitng Penny Hill Deli. Voted Norman’s

Their commitment to customers back in 1976 is the

favorite Deli for 14 years. The menu extends far

same today: good, fresh, quality food; reasonable

beyond normal deli offerings, with a full bar and

prices and friendly and attentive service.

multiple grilled entrees to entice all patrons.

1150 Ed Noble Dr. • 405.307.9200

1150 W Lindsey St. • 405.366.8767

Legends Restaurant & Catering

Thai Thai Asian Bistro

Mr. Sushi believes in quality and consistency, using

Thai Thai is a family run restaurant serving

only the freshest ingredients to prepare and present

delicious, authentic Thai food in Norman for over

every dish with care. From Yellowtail Sashimi

a decade. Everything on their menu is made fresh

to their creative Captain Crunch Roll, there is

daily. Join them for dine in at their location on 24th

something on the menu for everyone. Dine-in, take-

Ave NE near Tecumseh or take home a meal for you

out and delivery options are available.

or the enitre family.

1204 N Interstate Dr. Ste 130. • 405.310.6669

3522 24th Ave NW Ste 100 • 405.310.2026

The Meating Place

405 Burger Bar

Located on Main St just East of the railroad tracks,

Do you like big buns and real meat on your burgers?

The Meating Place’s permanent location serves

Then 405 Burger Bar is the place for you and you

delicious high-quality barbecue, local beer, craft

family. Featuring an extensive burger menu, full bar

cocktails all in a lively atmosphere. Join them for

and multiple TVs to catch the game, all just a short

trivia night or stop by their food truck when you see

walk from Ou’s stadium, 405 Burger Bar is perfect

it out and about around town.

for both pre and post game celebrations.

121 E Main St. • 405.857.7431

1429 George Ave • 405.500.6750

Want to be included in our monthly Dine guide?

Call 405.321.1400 or contact us at sportstalk1400am@gmail.com

for more information on how you can be included every month! boydstreet.com

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 91

B U S I N E SS

Shell Belle’s Café

Campus Corner bakery adds taste and convenience to the Norman community

othing smells better than grandma’s kitchen and stepping into Shell Bell’s Café feels as if you’re at grandma’s house. Country-inspired scents, blending almond, vanilla, brown sugar, cinnamon and buttery crushed oatmeal, waif through the air. Cookies, muffins, scones, cupcakes and cakes, hot and fresh from the oven, line the counters to cool while owner Shelley Hall and her staff mix up recipes not found in any cookbook. Shell Bell’s features a fall seasonal menu with flavors such as pumpkin and gingerbread. Bread is baked fresh daily to include on hearty sandwiches and to serve alongside daily soup specials or just to buy and take home. And there’s plenty of coffee and tea to choose from. Opening on July 7, 2020, the business began like so many others, with a lot of challenges.

94 | October 2021

“It was hard being in our location and yet people not knowing about us,” Hall reminisced. “A lot of people came in and said they didn’t know we were here.” Conveniently located at 331 White St. on Campus Corner, some people might remember when it was Crimson & Whipped Cream. A life-long resident of Norman, Hall left to go to college but later returned to continue her education in entrepreneurship through the Moore-Norman Technology Center. Five years later, she attended chef school at the Platt College pastry program. “Had the restaurant and equipment not been for sale and this location available, we may not have opened it at that time. It turned out to be good timing and so we went for it.” Local attorney Chad Pate, a regular at Shell Belle’s, says Hall’s food is awesome.

BY: ROXANNE AVERY “Her baked goods are delicious, and her shop not only has a great location but also fills a need because there aren’t any other bakeries on Campus Corner. She fills that niche and I appreciate that there’s now a bakery close to my office.” Another unique offering is the jelly in the retail case made by Hall’s former instructor Chef Shelly Wambler, who retired when the program ended at Platt. You might even be lucky enough to catch her working in the café and partake in food she prepared. Be sure to follow Shell Bell’s social media for details about upcoming after-hours events including pumpkin carving and other seasonal fun. Regular hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. There’s a breakfast and lunch menu and now with OU home football games back, Hall says she will be flexible and expand her hours and menu. “We want people to know we’re here,” Hall said. “We’ll block off parking spaces in front of the store and give away cold brew and iced tea and cookies. Because our cookies are ginormous, we’ll be giving away bite-size samples.” Hall said they will have pre-packaged samples available on Asp Street during game days as well as some full-size items available for purchase. Curbside pickup is available at shellbellesbakery.com and call-in is also available as well as services such as Door Dash.–BSM

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BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 95

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S ERV I C E S P OT L I G H T

BY: MENDI BRANDON

Service Spotlight: Det. Olivia Burrus

etective Olivia Burrus grew up in Woodward, Okla. with dreams of producing music. A guitar player and singer, Burrus wanted to help people follow their dreams, but not be in the spotlight herself. After high school, Burrus attended the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (USAO) to make that dream a reality but, after only a semester, she decided this was not what she was meant to do. “It seemed like an easy path for me, but something was off, it just didn’t feel right,” Burrus said. As a child Burrus would watch hours of “Law and Order: SVU” and attend events to advocate for victims. “I remember when I was small my mother took me to events that helped raise awareness for victims of child abuse, such as Kelsey Briggs,” she remembered. “Growing up and seeing how her life might’ve been saved, I wanted to make a difference where I could for other children.” After pushing away her preconceptions of who could and couldn’t be in law enforcement and what made a good officer, Burrus found her calling. She transferred from USAO to Northwestern Oklahoma State University and graduated with a degree in criminal justice. Degree in hand, Burrus began working as a patrol officer for the Woodward Police Department, where she remained for a little over a year. In 2020, her husband’s job was transferred to Norman, and she began searching for the agency that aligned with her values.

“When I saw Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office was hiring, I felt it was the best agency for me,” she said. “After meeting some of the people at the Sheriff’s Office, I knew their standards were not just a show for the public but was something each person was held to and strived to align with.” Because of her experience, Burrus was assigned to the Operations division to work patrol. A quick learner, Burrus picked up the new location and policies with ease. Less than a year at the Sheriff’s Office, she applied for a detective position when a spot opened. “This was what I had been waiting for, I knew I was capable of doing the job and hoped that I would get it,” she said. “But there were other great deputies applying who had been with the Sheriff’s Office longer than I had. When I got the call that I was chosen, I couldn’t believe it. I was very excited.” Burrus has been in her new role for a month now and is adapting to new duties. She says her favorite thing is knowing she achieved a goal she set for herself, and that she will have the opportunity to help children of Cleveland County. “Detective work is physically and mentally challenging, it takes a toll on not just your work life but your personal life as well,” Sheriff Amason said. “When reviewing Burrus’ qualifications and after speaking with her, I knew that she would be the perfect fit for this position.” When not on duty, Burrus enjoys running half-marathons and obstacle course races with her husband. When asked if she had set her next goal, Burris exclaimed, “Oh, yes. I would love to obtain my master’s degree in digital forensics.” This is a continuation of our series on public servants in Norman.

98 | October 2021

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Boyd Street Magazine October 2021

Articles inside

Boyd Street Magazine October 2021