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Features

SEPTEMBER CONTENTS 2019

ISSUE 9– VOLUME 18 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mark Doescher

Making Progress

14 by Bill Moakley

MANAGING EDITOR Lindsay Cuomo

City moving forward on major quality-oflife projects.

SENIOR EDITOR

Chip Minty

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mark Doescher

Taste of Norman

22 by Heide Brandes

Annual food tradition supports Norman’s marching bands, kicks off football season.

CONTRIBUTORS

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Normanite in the Spotlight: 31 H. Rainey Powell

by Chelsey Kraft Powell carries on his family’s Campus Corner legacy.

Rotary Road Rally celebrates bikes, flat armadillos to benefit Norman schools.

Midway Madness

42 by Callie Collins

Traffic management system could ease frustrations on Norman streets.

Side Out

64 by Jeffrey Whitson

Mount St. Mary’s rebuilding with young volleyball squad.

Visit Norman

18 Capt. David Awbrey Service Spotlight:

by Paige Uhr

26 by Lindsay Cuomo

Boyd Street Teacher Features

Norman entrepreneur’s maker space full of creative opportunity.

/boydstreetmagazine

by Joy Hampton

All You Need to Know About the

Retailer turns treasure hunting passion into booming business.

Service Spotlight:

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Hunting for Treasure

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by Bill Moakley

34 Transport Deputy Chad Beasley

Making it Happen

84 by Kaylee Campbell

Service Spotlight:

12 by Stefanie Brickman

80 by Callie Collins

Spotlights 10 Lt. Sean Tuschmann

Stop and Go

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.

State Fair season kicks off in September with old traditions and new excitement.

56 by Chip Minty

Ride the Armadillo

38 by Chip Minty

PUBLISHER Randy Laffoon

@boydstreet

by Shannon Hudzinski

73 by Kathy Hallren

Wine Pairings and Tastings

77 by Lindsay Cuomo

Sooner than Later Cover photo by: Mark Doescher

COMM U N I T Y

BY: BILL MOAKLEY

Service Spotlight: Lt. Sean Tuschmann

orman Police Lt. Sean Tuschmann was born and raised in New Jersey, and he moved to Arizona while in high school and eventually served 10 years with the Phoenix Fire Department. He never thought he’d be living, working and raising a family in Norman, Oklahoma, but that all changed while he was driving through the Sooner state on his way to Alabama. “We were driving through Oklahoma on our way to Alabama to see family, and while we were driving through, we began to think Oklahoma was a really nice place,” Tuschmann said. “My wife and I were looking at Phoenix, and it was getting a little crowded. We wanted to raise our family somewhere we felt was a little nicer, a little more wholesome.”

if I’d be interested in being in that area,” he said. Now, a year and half into his service as an SRO, Tuschmann has found his niche. His division serves 23 schools in Norman with a staff of eight SROs. In addition to being in the schools every day, SROs staff parades, the annual Crosstown Clash and any event that benefits from NPD involvement. “When you’re in the schools, you have a chance to make a difference,” he says. “You have an opportunity to reach and educate kids. It

“Being an officer, period, is rewarding,” he says. “But it’s so rewarding seeing a kid who runs up and hugs one of the SROs on graduation day and says, ‘thanks for being here for me.’ It’s really, really cool.”

When they returned home to Phoenix, Tuschmann began looking into police departments that were hiring, and he came across an opening in Norman. In 2009, he was hired by the Norman Police Department, and he and his family landed in the Sooner state that August.

In addition to being a police officer, Tuschmann says he’s a family man.

“We’ve been here 10 years, and it’s the best life in the world, the best place in the world,” Tuschmann said. “We love it. The people here are amazing.” Tuschmann began his service in Norman as a patrol officer, including a four-year stint on the night shift and as a bike team member. A year as a PTO followed, then Tuschmann began eyeing an opportunity to serve as a school resource officer. “Our SRO lieutenant was moving to our training division, and he asked me

For Tuschmann the pinnacle of being in schools can often be seen on graduation day.

gives kids a chance to see that officers are normal people.” Tuschmann explained the SRO mission is three-pronged. “The SRO triad is that we are teachers, counselors and officers. That’s what we build off. It’s rewarding.”

“I’m a big-time family guy,” he said. “Family is number one to me. Life comes and goes very quickly, and it’s not something you want to look back on later in life and say, ‘oh boy, I wish I would have spent more time with them.’ We love our jobs, and we come to work every day proud of what we do, but I always say, ‘don’t lose focus on your family.’” He’s also a muscle car fan, who says he partially feeds his addiction through his role as a law enforcement driver training officer.– BSM

This is a continuation of our series on public servants in Norman.

10 | September 2019

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COMM U N I T Y

BY: BILL MOAKLEY

Making Progress

City Moving Forward on Major Quality-of-Life Projects

ome of the most anticipated projects tied to quality of life in Norman are progressing toward final phases of development this year. Construction on Ruby Grant Park and design work on the city’s new senior center are both expected to begin this September, according to Jud Foster, parks and recreation director for the City of Norman. Meanwhile, plans for the city’s new aquatic center are beginning to take shape. Passed by Norman voters in 2015, Norman Forward was a citizen-initiated proposal to renovate, expand and construct a variety of quality-of-life projects throughout Norman. A half-percent sales tax over 15 years is funding the projects.

14 | September 2019

RUBY GRANT PARK

The 153-acres Ruby Grant Park will be just south of Franklin Road between Interstate-35 and 36th Avenue NW, and will include walking trails, a playground, an 18-hole disc golf course and a dog park, among other amenities. Conceived as part of the city’s 2009 master plan, Foster said the park will include passive areas as well as active areas. “It’s a beautiful piece of property,” he said. “It has all kinds of terrain, rolling hills and some tree cover, flat space and open space. There are a couple of ponds and a creek.” Foster said one of the focuses for the city was ensuring the park be designed and equipped with Norman’s various disabled communities in mind. City

officials have met regularly with representatives advocating on behalf of those with disabilities to ensure the park is as accommodating as possible. Trails in the park will include tactile edges that will allow sight-impaired visitors to navigate their walks by long cane. The planned disc golf course will include numerous holes graded so those using a wheelchair can safely play. “All through the project, we’re trying to make it accessible,” Foster said. “I think the end result will be a very popular destination for lots of people.” Foster says the city plans to engage in a fundraising effort to raise an additional $200,000 to $250,000 for upgrades to the playground area. That effort is expected to begin this fall.

“It’s going to serve a large number of kids with various types of abilities,” Foster said. “It will be very inclusive.” The park will also include a highschool level, grass cross country course that will allow Norman’s two high schools to host meets. Bids for construction of the park were opened in July, and work will be carried out in two phases. “This first phase will get a lot accomplished,” he said.

SENIOR CENTER

In addition to construction of the new park, the city has selected a location for the new senior center and selected FSB Architects and Engineers as the lead design firm. The center will be located at the intersection of Jenkins Avenue and Constitution Street in the southwest corner of Reaves Park, which Foster says fits well within the city’s park renovation plan. Once the design phase for the senior center begins, Foster said the city will meet with senior citizen leaders to be-

gin a series of public input sessions. “There will be an extensive effort for public input on that project,” Foster says. “It will be open and available to everybody who wants to have input.” “The newer senior centers that are being built aren’t even being called senior centers,” Foster says. “They’re being called wellness centers, or recreation centers,… places for physical activity.” Foster said Norman’s new center will include space for traditional activities such as card games and family gatherings. The city is hoping to also encourage exercise and more wellness opportunities. “The trend around the country is for more of a wellness and physical fitness center,” he said. “We’ll go through the information gathering process, and that will be a very high priority.”

AQUATIC CENTER

FSB will also serve as the design lead for the planned indoor aquatic facility and multi-sport facility, which will

most likely be located just north of the Embassy Suites Hotel in University North Park. The new aquatic center is expected to include a 50-meter competition pool in which Norman schools and Sooner Swim Club can use in competitions. The city also hopes to attract other events. “We hope to build something that will accommodate the state high school swim meet,” Foster said. “Right now, I believe there are only two facilities that share the state swim meet. We hope to build a facility that compares to those. That will be very special.” The multi-sport facility will include eight courts that will accommodate basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, wrestling and gymnastics, among others. “Those are two great projects that are about to be on the drawing board,” Foster said. More information on the ongoing Norman Forward projects can be found on the City of Norman website at www. normanok.gov/cm/norman-forward. – BSM

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COMM U N I T Y

BY: PAIGE UHR

apt. David Awbrey is one of the veterans at Station 9 and one that still gets picked on the most. Going on 20 years at the Norman Fire Department, Awbrey will be 60 when he hits the milestone. “I’m definitely one of the oldest in the department, and they are never going to let me live that down.” Awbrey joined the department after many years in the truck driving business. The opportunity to become a firefighter presented itself and he changed career paths soon after. Awbrey was already familiar with the profession – an old friend of his was a firefighter in Oklahoma City and he came from a family of them, too. Both his brother-in-law and nephews were in the field. “I knew it could always be a possibility, but I had a good career driving trucks.”

18 | September 2019

He was enthusiastic to begin the new career when the time came and was certain it would be a seamless transition. At 40 years old, Awbrey took the leap and hasn’t turned back. “I was excited to join the field. I figured it’s good, honest, hands-on work and you know, I could maybe help someone out while I’m at it.” Now, he serves as a captain at his station and is directly under Chief Mark Castell, and he’s responsible for the station, oversees the crew, makes decisions for the team and ensures everything is going how it should. If he arrives on scene before Chief Castell, he is the one in command and will direct the team until the chief arrives. Similarly, in the chain of command, Awbrey is the middleman. If there are any issues or problems, he’s the go-to when communicating.

“If the crew needs something passed to the chief or if the chief needs something passed to the crew, I’m the guy to communicate that.” Castell and Awbrey have a great working relationship and Castell is one of the many to make fun of Awbrey’s age. Castell jokes that the captain is always “trying to prove himself in a young guy’s game.” Awbrey laughed and agreed that his late start would always be a topic amongst the team. Outside of the station, Awbrey enjoys family time with his wife, children and grandbabies. Together, Awbrey and his wife have three grown children and three grandchildren with one on the way. “We have a lot of grandbabies now, and they’re my hobby. I babysit a couple of times a week with my wife. It’s a blast getting to spend time with them. I really enjoy it.” – BSM

Photo by: Mark Doescher

Service Spotlight: Capt. David Awbrey

COMM U N I T Y

BY: HEIDE BRANDES

Taste of Norman

Annual Food Tradition Supports Norman’s Marching Bands, Kicks off Football Season

orman High and Norman North may be rivals, but for one special event, they become a team to raise funds for music. Partnering with as many as 30 restaurants, each with 600 samples of their signature dishes, the Norman North and Norman High band students give the community a delicious way to support programs at both schools.

Taste of Norman is an annual event and is the biggest fundraiser for the Norman High and Norman North Band Booster Associations. The event features restaurants that feature samples of everything from pizza to pasta and barbecue to desserts. “All these restaurants bring out samples, and the band students sell tickets to the event,” said Brandi Pershica, Norman North Band Booster president and Taste of Norman board member. “This event has been going on for more than 20 years, and last year, more than 2,600 people came through the doors. We typically raise $10,000 to $15,000 each year for our band programs.” This year, Taste of Norman - which is 22 | September 2019

held before the Crosstown Clash football game between Norman High and Norman North - will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 5 at OU’s Mosier Indoor Track Facility.

Although the Taste of Norman event benefits the band programs at both high schools, a bit of competition still exists. Each band member sells tickets, and the money raised from their sales stays with that students’ band program. Tickets are also available at Republic Bank and at the door. Revenue from those sales are split equally between the band programs. “Our restaurants are such great supporters of this event, and Republic Bank is one of our biggest supporters,” said Pershica. “Restaurants already signed up are Legends, Pub W, Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Chick fil A, Eskimo Sno, Hideaway Pizza, Interurban and The Mont, among others. Neighborhood Jam returns this year too, and they were very popular last year. We will also have a few new restaurants for the first time this year.” Proceeds from the tasty event are used to help the booster programs provide

new band uniforms, upkeep on equipment and instruments, new music, for band contest costs and more. Without the support of the community, Pershica said many students wouldn’t have the opportunities they have now. “Our restaurants love to be a part of this event,” she said. “They donate all that food! We ask them to bring at least 600 samples of each dish. They also donate staff as well. It’s a big thing for them to do that for our kids, and we love working with them.” Even though the event is held before the Crosstown Clash football game, participants can come out to enjoy just the food if they wish. “You don’t have to attend the game, but it’s a great way to support the programs,” said Pershica. “Both bands will perform at Taste of Norman, so it’s a fun thing for them and for people who support the event.” Tickets are $15 each with no charge for children age 5 and younger. Tickets can be purchased from Norman or Norman North band members, Republic Bank or at the door. – BSM

COMM U N I T Y

Kambra Reynolds

n Kambra Reynolds’ second grade classroom at Cleveland Elementary, her students start their day with a special greeting.

“I start each day greeting my kids with a handshake, high five or a hug,” Reynolds said. “It lets me gauge how their day has gone so far, how their evening was. I want to let them know right away that they are an important person.”

Reynolds said she wants to make sure her kids know she believes in them, letting what inspired her carry over to her students. “My first-grade teacher is why I became a teacher,” Reynolds said. “She was so kind and believed in me, and I want to be that for my kids.”

Reynolds chose second grade because of the impact she can have on kids socially. “Second graders are growing more independent and are still excited about learning and having fun, but they

BY: LINDSAY CUOMO

also start having social issues. I enjoy teaching them how to be a good friend. Those relationships are everything.”

She builds these valuable skills by modeling them herself and being intentional about building a community culture in her classroom.

“We have a morning meeting each day to help build a community in our classroom. We have a closing meeting at the end of the day to reflect on the day, to talk about what we learned, what we didn’t like, something we hope to do tomorrow.” The same passion to put her students first, Reynolds said, led her into the political landscape, which was something she said she never expected she’d be doing. “It is interesting to have your finger on the pulse of education in Oklahoma,” she said. “I have become a leader, supporting others, advocating. It does take a lot of time and it’s unpaid.” Emboldened by the teacher walkout in

2017, she took on a leadership role to continue to advocate for public education.

“First and foremost, my goals are pretty local, focusing on change in the district and at the state level. I don’t know where that will take me, but I have found out it’s a passion of mine. It is rewarding to know I have a voice and that people are listening.”

Reynolds was selected as Cleveland’s Teacher of the Year and was a finalist for District Teacher of the Year. – BSM

Teaching Norman Ryen Muralt

t’s in a teacher’s job description to help students grow, but Ryen Muralt, a second-grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary, said her students often return the favor. “My students have absolutely helped me grow as a teacher with each new school year,” she said. “Even from a young age, I enjoyed working with other children and helping them. I always enjoyed reading, writing and learning new things.” Muralt doesn’t just teach her students about life-long learning. She lives it by example. “I’m currently back in school, working toward my master’s in education,” she said. But her learning doesn’t stop there. She uses all the resources around her. “My teammates (other second-grade teachers) have also helped me become a

26 | September 2019

better teacher. We share new ideas, ask questions, and help one another grow.” Muralt said she was drawn to teach in early education because of the impact she can make in those beginning years. “I was lucky enough to shadow different teachers and gain experience with a variety of grade levels during my college years,” she said. “Younger children are so impressionable and in need of guidance. I felt very drawn to the primary grades and was blessed enough to be hired as a second-grade teacher. It was a natural fit for me.” It seems that others agree. Muralt was honored as Roosevelt’s Teacher of the Year. “I work with the most wonderful educators and administrators. It is an incredible feeling when people you admire believe

in you and honor you in such a moving way.” – BSM

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COM M UNI T Y

BY: CHELSEY KRAFT

NORMANITE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

H. Rainey Powell F

or nearly a century, the Powell family has had a presence on Campus Corner.

In 1927, H.E. and Ruby Powell opened Sooner Drug, which Ruby continued to run even after her husband passed away. Their son, Harold, opened the well-known clothing store, Harold’s in 1948. Now, Harold’s son, H. Rainey Powell, carries on the family’s legacy on Campus Corner, working in real estate. Powell, who attended Norman High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Oklahoma in 1975, served in various executive roles at his father’s company. After finishing college, he went to San Francisco and spent two years in Macy’s Executive Training Program before coming home when his dad offered him management of the Norman store in 1978. “I kind of always planned to (work for the family business) but went to another retailer to get different perspectives and training,” Powell said. Once Harold’s went public in 1986, Powell worked as the chief financial boydstreet.com

officer and later the president and chief operating officer, while his sister, Rebecca, was the chief executive officer. The company headquarters later moved to Dallas, and eventually Powell decided to step away from Harold’s to remain in Norman. “I told my wife, ‘I think my job is moving to Dallas,’ and so she goes, ‘Well, you’re certainly welcome to come home on the weekends,’ which she will deny to this day,” Powell recalled with a laugh. “So I was going, ‘Well, I’ll figure something else out to do.’” Powell had handled leasing for Harold’s locations around the nation, so he decided to use that experience. His family also owned property on Campus Corner, so he used that to make his move into real estate. “We had several pieces of Campus Corner, and there was a family partnership with my sisters and myself,” Powell said. “We acquired some additional property, and basically I turned that into a job. I officially left Harold’s in January of 2000 and started in the real estate business.” Now, Powell oversees a pair of real estate companies, 329 Partners and Asp

Street Investments, and owns a variety of buildings on Campus Corner, including the historic Boomer Theater. Powell and his wife, Mary, have been married for 38 years and have two daughters. In his free time, Powell enjoys golfing and has served on several volunteer boards in Norman, including the Campus Corner Association Board, Norman Regional Hospital Foundation, Norman Public School Foundation and the Norman Alcohol Information Center, which is now The Virtue Center. Although Harold’s, which expanded to locations in more than 20 states, closed in 2008, reminders of its rich history still exist on Campus Corner. The original Harold’s site, which was located at 329 West Boyd, still remains in the family. At the time Harold’s opened, Powell’s grandmother owned the building. My dad “liked to say he had a friendly landlord,” Powell said. There is a plaque commemorating the flagship store, and a small section of shops just north of the location is dubbed “Harold’s Square.” – BSM

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 31

COMM U N I T Y

BY: JOY HAMPTON

Service Spotlight:

Transport Deputy Chad Beasley D eputy Chad Beasley grew up in poverty in Dibble, Oklahoma. His mother did the best she could, but his father was an alcoholic and was unable to provide for the family.

“We lived a lot of times without electricity… without basic needs. Basketball coaches would pitch in and buy our shoes, stuff like that,” Beasley said. “I always knew that wasn’t what I wanted in life, so I started working early.” Beasley started working at age 11, picking tomatoes to earn money for his family. Government assistance was hard to come by back then, and he recalls one time when they lived on water, biscuits and gravy for three months. “We would bring home the little jelly packs from school to put on the biscuits,” he said. “I always knew that wasn’t what I wanted for my kids.” Beasley worked various jobs and when a job opened up at a nearby prison, he applied and was hired. “That’s what sparked my interest in law enforcement,” he said. Beasley advanced, serving on the Correctional Emergency Response Team. During that time, he got his CLEET training, but shortages in state funding meant low wages for corrections 34 | September 2019

officers. So, in 2014, he applied at the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office.

“They hired me, and I haven’t looked back since,” he said. Beasley worked in Judicial Services at the Cleveland County Courthouse for five years before transferring to the transport department. While he enjoyed working at the courthouse, he said he’s found his niche, transporting people in custody.

Transport deputies move people in custody to and from other counties or from Department of Corrections prisons. Beasley said they often transport people to mental health facilities as well, taking them all over the state to wherever beds are available. Beasley said he appreciates the leadership of Sheriff Todd Gibson and the agency’s commitment to strong values and compassionate service, treating the underlying causes of crime such as addiction. “No one wakes up one day and says, ‘hey, I want to be an addict,’” Beasley said. “Life hits them, and it’s on them before they realize it.” While Beasley recognizes that people make choices that affect their lives, he also believes “we can do something to help.”

Gibson said deputies like Beasley bring the ideals of the sheriff’s office into the real world. “Chad is a hardworking, dedicated employee, but he’s also a man with a big heart and a willingness to courageously protect and compassionately serve those in his care,” Gibson said. “He looks beyond the charges and the tough outer shell of people in custody and sees the human beneath the fear and anger and desperation. He’s no pushover, rather he’s able to balance tough love with compassion. Those are valuable assets in law enforcement.” When Beasley is transporting a person, often that person wants to talk, offering a chance to point them in a new direction. One young man Beasley transported had just received a felony charge. A college graduate and a pharmacist who had become addicted, the young man was despondent and thought his life was over. Beasley used their time together to encourage the young man not to give up on himself. “You can go three days without water and you can go thirty days without food, but you can’t go a single day without hope,” Beasley said. This is a continuation of our series on public servants in Norman.

36 | September 2019

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COMM U N I T Y

BY: CHIP MINTY

Ride the Armadillo

Rotary Road Rally Celebrates Bikes, Flat Armadillos to Benefit Norman Schools

cores of bike riders and armadillo lovers will converge at Norman’s Reaves Park on Sept. 21 for the third-annual Rotary Road Rally & Flat Armadillo Festival, an event created to benefit Norman Public Schools. “I’ve never heard of a flat armadillo festival, so we’ve started something here that could be unique to Norman, which is even more reason to come out,” said Craig Heaton, former Norman Rotary Club president and ride co-founder. “We’re just out to have fun and celebrate the coming of fall. The Sooners don’t play football on Sept. 21, so, whether you like to ride bikes or not, the event is a great opportunity to get out and be active.” As always, the Rotary Road Rally will include rides that are 34- and 54-miles. The longest ride goes as far as Flat Armadillo Road in the southern reaches of Cleveland County.

38 | September 2019

There is also a short, family ride in town. The long rides begin at 8 a.m. and the family ride starts at 10 a.m.

and drink as well as music and other color, such as a dancing leprechaun from O’Connell’s Irish Pub and Grill.

For families and kids who aren’t into long distances and big hills, the fivemile Campus District Tour will pass some of the University of Oklahoma’s most iconic landmarks, such as Campus Corner and Heisman Park, Heaton said.

Whoever’s strong enough to reach the Armadillo Rest Stop will get a coupon for a free beer at O’Connell’s and something else that’s flat, but riders must get to Flat Armadillo Road to find out what it is, Heaton said.

“A Norman bicycle patrol officer will lead the family ride, and it’s guaranteed to be family friendly and flat.” The longer 34-mile tour will go into the Slaughterville area, where riders will reach the Midway Rest Stop. Hosted by Midway Deli, the pullover will include food, drink, cheering fans and, of course, rock-and-roll music. In addition to the Midway Stop, riders on the 54-mile route will visit the Armadillo Rest Stop, where they’ll find food

There’s more to the event than cycling, though. Heaton said the festivities start on Friday, Sept. 20, when O’Connell’s will be hosting a packet pick-up event, where participants can pick up their t-shirts and ride packets, then enjoy a free beer and pasta dinner. On Saturday, all the rides end back at Reaves Park, 2501 Jenkins Ave., where the Flat Armadillo Festival will be in full swing with music and free lunch from the Midway Deli food truck. There also will be inflatables, giveaways, face painting for the kids and a TV tent with college football.

“Flat Armadillo Road is a great name that everyone seems to enjoy. We named our festival to celebrate the quirky road as well as the riders who make it all the way out there,” Heaton said.

children, Heaton said. Basic reading and math skills are developing at that age, and students who miss school can fall behind, which erodes proficiency as they grow older and face more challenging academic demands.

“We just wanted to create a fun atmosphere for people to enjoy,” Heaton said. “Even people who don’t ride should sign up. For $35, they get a great t-shirt with a cool logo, they get dinner and a beer at O’Connell’s and they can have lunch at Reaves from Midway Deli while they enjoy the festival.” The Rotary Road Rally was established in 2017 to help raise money for the Norman club’s Rotary Success Cycle program, which provides bicycles to elementary school students as an incentive for excellent attendance. The effort is aimed at nearly a dozen Norman elementary schools where student attendance is an ongoing concern. Under the Success Cycle program, district officials have said schools are seeing significant improvement.

Norman Public School Superintendent Nick Migliorino called the Norman Rotary Club an incredible partner for the district.

Through the Rotary Success Cycle, the Norman Rotary Club purchases nearly 80 bicycles at cost from sponsor Al’s Bicycles of Edmond. After every nine weeks, two bikes are given away at each school. One bike goes to a boy, and one goes to a girl. The students win the bicycles with raffle tickets they earn with each week of perfect attendance. The district believes that school attendance is critical for elementary school

“The Success Cycle program has contributed to higher attendance in several schools, which leads to improved performance in the classroom. We appreciate everyone who supports the ongoing success of the program.” The preregistration cost is $35 for adults and $45 for families, which pays for the ride, dinner at the packet pickup, a t-shirt, lunch and a $20 gift card from Schlegel’s Bicycles in Oklahoma City. Registration on the day of the event is $40 for adults and $50 for families. For more information and preregistration, go to www.normanrotary.org. – BSM

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COMM U N I T Y

BY: CALLIE COLLINS

Midway Madness

State Fair Season Kicks off in September with Old Traditions and New Excitement

he countdown has begun and it’s beginning to feel like State Fair season in the Sooner state. Preparations are underway for the sights, sounds and foods that make the fair a fun annual tradition known throughout the metro and the state. With 10 days of blue ribbons, live music and carnival rides, fairgoers will come from far and wide to enjoy all there is to see and do at the Oklahoma State Fair, which kicks off Sept. 12 for its 112th season. Check the fair website for more informationat okstatefair.com.

and 12 year-old Camp Contemporary campers this summer with just one material: black masking tape. Local artist Jessica Petrus led the amazing artistic creation, which was constructed in just four days, with 30 rolls of tape.

RENAISSANCE VILLAGE

Their tumbling, juggling and dancing acrobats have amazed audiences since 1984 and they’re sure to amaze at this year’s Oklahoma State Fair.

WHAT’S NEW AT THE 2019 OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR

Location: Centennial Plaza, between Gates 1 and 2

See skilled archers, belly dancers, jesters and musicians and watch jousting on horseback and meet knights from another era. The Village Faire also features specially-themed food. MASKING TAPE MADNESS

Location: Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center

See the amazing mural created by 11 42 | September 2019

A GRIZZLY EXPERIENCE SHOW Location: Bandshell Lawn

Yogi the Bear and two more bear friends will teach audiences about respecting wildlife and what to do if one is encountered in the wild. XTREME CHINESE ACROBATS

Location: Entertainment stage in the Bennett Event Center

KIDS CELEBRATION

Location: Entertainment stage in the Bennett Event Center

This interactive game show is for kids, teens and adults. You might even get to be part of the show. OKLAHOMA MURAL CHALLENGE Date: Sept. 14

Location: The Circle

Watch local artists paint a mural start to finish in a single day. OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR PUTTERS CUP Date: Sept. 20, 3 - 8 p.m.

Location: Modern Living Building

Golf tournaments divided by age will let the public compete for prizes. Sponsored by Golf USA and Simons Entertainment Group, divisions will also compete against each other to be crowned first Putters Cup Grand Champion. (Adult division - ages 14+, junior division - ages 6 - 13)

RETURNING FAVORITES

Fairgoers will be excited to know that Xtreme Bulls & Broncs will be back at the fair this year. Puppies of Penzance, the Pirate Magic of Rafael and Anna, Don’s Chainsaw Creations, the ever-popular Swiftly Swine Pig Races and the Vintage America Glamping Cooking Show are also returning and performances by Midland and Scotty McCreery, on Sept. 20 and Sept. 21, will finish out the entertainment lineup. Other events including the following:

SINGO “NAME THAT TUNE” BINGO & TRIVIA LIVE Date: Sept. 12

Location: Modern Living Building

Test your skills and win prizes during the alternating rounds of bingo and trivia games. Last year’s success made this competition a crowd favorite.

Of course, no fair would be complete without the unique food offering like turkey legs, deluxe nachos, chicken-on-a-stick, chocolate-covered strawberries, fresh-squeezed lemonade and all-things fried. Featured vendors will also include food trucks including Snow S’more, MacTastic and Gringo’s, in addition to other hosted stands.

Exhibits like the auto show, antique tractor displays, 4-H and FFA entries, a barnyard birthing center and a petting zoo are more highlights that fairgoers can look forward to once again at the Fair this year.

DISNEY ON ICE’S MICKEY’S SEARCH PARTY Dates: Sept. 12 through Sept. 16 Show times vary

Location: Jim Norick Arena

This year’s production includes kids’ favorite characters like Elsa from “Frozen,” Miguel from “Coco,” Moana, Aladdin and the cast of “Toy Story.” Buy tickets in advance at https://okstatefair.com/activities/disney-on-ice

O k l a h o m a

Now you are ready for the 2019 Oklahoma State Fair. Plan where to park and what to do during your day at the fair, by visiting okstatefair.com. Be sure to also check the Fair’s website and social media platforms for armband deals for the Midway, known for its games and amusement park-style rides, including bumper cars, a carousel and more. – BSM

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BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 43

S P O RT S

alen Hurts transferred to the University of Oklahoma for an opportunity to start for a contender, compete for a national championship, play for head coach Lincoln Riley and improve his professional football possibilities. As the Sooners start the 2019 season, one goal has already been accomplished… Jalen Hurts is the starting quarterback. As Hurts prepares to blaze a new path, his resume is already loaded with impressive individual accomplishments and almost unparalleled team success. After a stellar high school career at Channelview High School in Texas, Hurts signed with Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide. By game two of his freshman season, Hurts had the starting quarterback job, becoming the first true freshman to start at quarterback for the Crimson Tide since 1984. He excelled as a dual-threat quarterback, leading the Crimson Tide to a perfect regular season, an SEC championship and a berth in the national title game. It took a last second come back by DeShaun Watson and the Clemson Tigers to prevent Hurts from winning a national title during his freshman season. Despite the disappointment of not winning a title, Hurts was named not only the SEC Freshman of the Year but also the SEC Offensive Player of the Year after throwing for 2,780 yards with 23 touchdowns and rushing for nearly 1,000 yards. His sophomore season netted similar results with Hurts leading the Crimson Tide to a 13-1 record and yet another spot in the national title game. Hurts was named the offensive MVP in the Crimson Tide’s 24-6 win over the Clemson Tigers in the Sugar Bowl that earned the Alabama a spot in the National Title game. Then … Everything changed. In the national championship game against Georgia, Alabama’s offense struggled in the first half. Hurts was benched and replaced by Tua Tagovailoa who led the Crimson Tide to the national championship with his second half performance. Tagovailoa won the job in 2018 and, despite going 26-2 as a starting quarterback, Hurts was relegated to back-up quarterback duty. 46 | September 2019

Fresh BY: CHRIS PLANK

“Was what happened in the 2018 national championship game bittersweet? Of course, it was — it was a humbling experience. But I am even tougher for it. I am built for this,” Hurts wrote of the experience in his Players Tribune article when he announced his transfer to Oklahoma. “I understand that God put those obstacles and challenges in my life for a reason. He wanted me to feel the pain I felt for a reason. He wanted me to understand the importance of never losing faith — and of always staying true to myself. He had not brought me this far just to leave me there.” “This isn’t something you’re stuck in,” he’d tell himself. “This is something you’re going through. And one thing I can promise you is that I’m better off for having gone through it. Everything I dealt with at Bama: I’m stronger for it. I’m wiser. I’m a better man.” However Hurts had not performed his final act as an Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback. Despite being relegated to back-up duty during his junior season, in the SEC championship game, Alabama was struggling and Tagovailoa was injured. In that moment, Saban turned to Hurts to try and save the day and the junior responded. Despite the hurt and frustration from not playing as much as he deserved or maybe had even earned, Hurts put forth one of his best performances. With Alabama trailing by two scores to start the fourth quarter, Hurts entered the game and led the Crimson Tide on an 80-yard scoring drive to tie the game at 28. With about a minute left in the fourth quarter, he ran for a 15-yard touchdown to give Alabama its first lead of the game. The Crimson Tide went on to win the game and earn its fifth straight birth in the four-team playoff. “We’ve always had a lot of faith in Jalen, and I told him when we put him in when Tua got hurt, ‘it’s your time’,” Saban said after the come-from-behind win over Georgia. “He certainly took advantage of it and did a fantastic job. I’m so proud of this guy for what he’s done this year. I can’t even tell you.”

Photos by: Mark Doescher

Despite the iconic moment, Tagovailoa started the next two games and Alabama eventually lost to Clemson in the national championship game. Hurts decided to finish his career somewhere that would give him an opportunity to play. He visited with his former offensive coordinator Mike Locksley who had taken the head coach job at Maryland. He talked with Miami about the potential of joining the Hurricanes. But when it came time to make a decision, Hurts decided to choose the path of the previous two Heisman Trophy winners and number one picks in the NFL draft. He decided to transfer to the University of Oklahoma. “As I’ve gotten to know him, I’ve been really impressed by the way he carries himself, the way he works,” Riley said at the time of Hurts transfer. “There’s not going to be much that happens to this kid that he hasn’t been through already.” Hurts was already a known name in the world of college football when he announced he was transferring to the Sooners. The accolades and accomplishments were well documented long before he exchanged Roll Tide for Boomer Sooner. However, his first act in a Sooner uniform showed something that had not been on display much during his time in Tuscaloosa.

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Hurts wowed a Friday Night spring game crowd of 50,228 Sooner fans with his performance quarterbacking the Red squad to a 35-14 win over the white squad. Hurts finished 11-14 passing for 174 yards with a touchdown. With over-analytical eyes watching every move on the field, it was what he did after a touchdown that seemed to catch the eye of not just Sooner fans but college football pundits. It was a display that showed a different side of the quiet and soft-spoken Texan. After crossing the goal line for a short touchdown run, Hurts gathered his teammates in the corner of the end zone for a celebration photo. This was different for Hurts, and in the end, it was fun for everyone. “Not doing that at the other place,” Hurts said, smiling and joking after the game. “My old coach, Coach Saban -- I probably

would get a chewing for that one.” “I think it was fun to be out there for the first time,” Hurts said of his new team. “Any opportunity I get to step on the field, I say it’s a big deal. Anytime I get to step on the green, I try to take advantage of it.” But Hurts was not in the midst of a coronation. He still had to win the starting job. Despite the impressive performance in the spring game, this was a competition between Hurts the transfer, five-star freshman Spencer Rattler, and Tanner Mordecai, who was in the system for an entire season last year. “One of them’s got to go win it,” Riley said at Big 12 Media Days in Arlington in July. “We’ve got an interesting dynamic in there with Jalen as an older, more experienced guy that’s been through a lot of battles, and we’ve got some very young, talented players in there with a chance to make a name for themselves. It’s really, truly, ‘may the best man win.’” Hurts understood and embraced the competition. And despite all the on the field success in his past, he realized that this was a fresh start, a clean slate. “My past success, the things I have done and achieved, those don’t help us win any games (at Oklahoma) in the fall,” Hurts said. “I think the biggest thing for us is creating an identity for ourselves, finding out who we are as a team and then, ultimately, playing ball and getting things done in all phases of the organization this year.” While expectations were understandably high at Alabama, the expectations of being a transfer quarterback at the University of Oklahoma under Riley are equally as high. Hurts has jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire. The expectations of being a quarterback under Riley at the University of Oklahoma are as high as you could imagine. With high expectations, Hurts does have one major advantage over his Heisman winning predecessors. “He brings game experience that Baker and Kyler did not have when they got here, but also doesn’t have as much experience in the system,” Riley said. “It has been quicker but it’s been fun. BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 47

different skill sets and we could do a lot with them. If Jalen does win the starting job from everything I’ve seen, I’m not sure there’s anything we’ve done before I wouldn’t do with him.” Through all the questions and all the personal adversity, Hurts landed the Oklahoma Sooner starting quarterback position. As the season kicks off, Hurts has the third best odds to win the Heisman Trophy. In his career, he has already won a national title, played in two more and has thrown for 5,600 yards and 48 touchdowns. Hurts has also rushed for 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns. Those 23 rushing touchdowns stand as an Alabama career record at the quarterback position. There have been things that we do that he’s been able to trace back to different things that he’s done at Alabama or even in high school. So, it’s not like you’re starting from scratch. It’s a fun process. He’s a smart kid. He’s eager and works very hard at it, and we have meshed together well.” The questions centering around Hurts at Oklahoma have mostly centered around fit. Will Riley have to change or adjust

his offense based on Hurts skill set? Despite the perceived struggles that Hurts could have with the Sooners offensive approach, Riley does not anticipate any adjustments based on what Hurts either can or cannot do. “All of the previous (quarterbacks) had things they liked and didn’t like,” Riley said at Big 12 Media Days. “I think every quarterback on earth has that. Baker (Mayfield) and Kyler (Murray) were

The book based on the career of Hurts could easily be written based on his current resume. The 30 for 30 could end with the incredible story of bringing a team back to win an SEC Title. But Hurts wanted more, and in 2019, he has the opportunity to do something at Oklahoma, to not only add another chapter to his incredible career autobiography, but also to the incredible history of Oklahoma football. The final chapter is just waiting to be written. – BSM

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S P O RT S

BY: CHRIS PLANK

TV Challenges Game Attendance

OU Adds Stadium Renovations to Keep Fans Coming Back

With unparalleled success in the stands, the Sooners continue to upgrade the fan experience at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The administration is not taking anything for granted as many other college programs are experiencing a decline in attendance. As TV ratings remain strong, the battle in the stands rages on, and even success on the field is not a guarantee of strong attendance. In a national championship season, Clemson was down an average of 373 fans per game, according to the NCAA’s figures. Even the SEC reported the lowest attendance since 2003. “We’re competing more than ever before against the television product we helped create,” Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowlsby said.

For people watching games on television at home, the fan experience is sometimes hard to beat. 52 | September 2019

“There’s no line at the restroom, the beer is always cold. You don’t have to invest eight hours going to the stadium. There are no parking fees. You don’t have to pay seat license, and on your 70-inch TV, it’s a pretty good viewing experience.”

There is constant evaluation of what it takes to keep fans showing up, and the Sooner administration is listening. Whether through surveys, one-on-one conversations or even through social media, when questions are asked or concerns are raised, they listen. “Ticket prices set an expectation that there will be a certain kind of experience,” said Kenny Mossman, OU’s senior associate athletic director for external operations. “Especially when fans go to other events where the venue is newer, they still expect the same experience at our venue.”

“Our stadium is one of the great venues in the history of college football, but it needs upgrades, too,” said Joe Castiglione, OU vice president and athletics director. “Among the improvements underway is a first-rate technological

experience. We recognize that connectivity is an important piece of the fan experience. We’re also exploring ways to use the wireless access to further engage our fans in nearly every aspect of game attendance.”

The stadium is nearly a century old and the infrastructure was not built to meet the standards of today’s fans, Mossman said. As part of the upgrades, handrails will be added throughout the facility, and some seats and aisles are being widened, adding to the stadium’s ability to accommodate ADA patrons.

“The changes we are making give us a more accessible stadium while also helping provide greater accommodation for everyone,” Castiglione said. “Our fans will find that it’s easier to move around the facility and will definitely improve the comfort of enjoying the game.” While this particular upgrade will not be as noticeable as the addition of the south end zone in 2016, it will have an impact on the overall numbers within the stadium. The handrail and seat widening proj-

Photo by: Mark Doescher

ince the start of the 1999 season, the Oklahoma Sooners have won more Big 12 Championships than they have lost home games. Equally impressive, the Sooners have played in front of 123 consecutive sellout crowds.

ects will decrease the stadium’s capacity by about 3,000. OU officials have been planning for that reduction for several years.

Every aisle will have a handrail, Mossman said. That required removal of seats from aisles. Multiply that over many rows and the seat capacity reduction adds up. But that was part of the master plan, established when the south end zone project was in progress. The seating increase from the south end zone addition will offset seats lost from the current seat-widening project. “Our goal is to take this very important step with as little disruption as possible. We have worked with ticket holders to find new seat locations,” Mossman said.

The attendance numbers will decrease, but accessibility and comfort will increase. Success on the field can create the desire and drive for fans to attend games, but, in today’s competitive world, it’s not the only factor.

“Fans are looking for more than a ticket. They are looking for a day and an experience. We are reimaging fan fest this year. It will be in that long stretch between McCasland and the stadium. We’re going to add more concepts, so we’re always looking to make it more fun and more entertaining.” During a recent visit to the Disney Institute, Mossman learned that every part of a visitor’s experience should lead back to their next visit. “That’s the mindset we have to have too. We are always building toward your next visit,” Mossman said. – BSM

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COMM U N I T Y

BY: CHIP MINTY

Stop and Go

ngelo Lombardo is used to having a target on his back. After more than a quarter century as Norman’s transportation engineer, he’s received more angry calls than he can remember from drivers upset that the light was red when they needed it to be green. Lombardo has the thankless responsibility of managing the city’s vast network of 153 traffic lights. He and his team are the people behind the curtain, choreographing the system to manage traffic flow 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s not a perfect system, Lombardo is first to admit, and most Norman drivers are probably thinking the same thing every time they find themselves staring at a red light in front of an empty intersection. But overall, Lombardo says the system works OK until something happens, like a traffic accident, street construction or a power outage. 56 | September 2019

Then, he gets ready for the phone calls. “You have to have a pretty thick skin and trust that your professional judgement is best,” he says. But working OK isn’t good enough for Lombardo. It hasn’t been for a long time, and he’s been striving to improve the system for most of his career, installing communication infrastructure a little at a time, whenever circumstances and his budget presents an opportunity. Through his efforts, nearly half the city’s traffic lights have been connected through 60 miles of fiber optic lines, allowing coordination. Now, he says, the city’s ready to take the next step, the installation of a management center that will allow staff to operate the system in unison and in real time. Voters funded the technology through passage of Norman’s transportation bond issue last April. The center will cost $3.3 million and most of the project will be paid for

with matching government funds. The city will invest about $366,000 from the bond issue, and the city plans to ask for federal dollars to cover the difference. The center will be in the city’s new Emergency Management Center, which will be completed next year, but funding to equip the traffic center is not expected for at least a couple more years. Once funded and operational, Lombardo said the traffic center will have a wall of video screens and a control system connected to traffic signals across the city. “This will be the icing on the cake once it’s completed,” Lombardo said, whose been piecing the system together for years. His staff will use the center to continually monitor live shots of traffic at intersections along Robinson Street, Main Street, Lindsey Street and other heavily traveled thoroughfares across the city.

Photo by: Mark Doescher

Traffic Management System Could Ease Frustrations on Norman Streets

“We’ve been doing traffic management enhancements for some time, but haven’t been enjoying the full potential,” he said. “Once the center is complete, Norman will be the fourth city in Oklahoma with a Traffic Management Center.” Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Edmond have centers, but Edmond still lacks much of the fiber optic network needed to link traffic signals together. Lombardo said drivers are likely to see a difference at times when there’s a traffic accident or some other disruption. Technicians will be watching the situation unfold and will have the control to intervene. That would be a big improvement from today’s system, which is pre-programed based on traffic-pattern snapshots taken at three different times through the day. “It’s not a perfect system,” he says. “The biggest complaint we get from people is the system is a bit ridged and that it doesn’t account for student traffic.” With the traffic management center, technicians will assess off peak-traffic volumes and develop a wider variety of traffic plans that are more responsive to traffic patterns that are actually on the street, Lombardo said. While federal funding for the system is still pending, Lombardo has much to smile about. His effort to create a more efficient traffic control system has been a long journey, but it may finally be nearing an end. Does that mean the angry calls will end too? Maybe not. People like green lights more than red lights. – BSM

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S P O RT S

BY: JEFFREY WHITSON

Another Shot Mount St. Mary’s Hopes Young Team Can Find Identity, Improve Record

Wildes (6’1” 235). Alexander recognizes Fairies as his “mainstay up front,” and he says Wildes is a solid leader in the tackle position.

Six returning starters on both sides of the ball should allow experience to dominate, but the Rockets are still relatively young.

Meanwhile the defense will return six starters, Alexander says they have good size. Look for them to be aggressive with a young secondary and speed at almost every position.

The offense is looking for more production this year from its quarterback and wide receiver duo, junior QB Luke Wagner (6’0” 165) and senior wideout Glass (5’10” 165). Both are more than capable of scoring.

Junior defensive back Cooper Glass (6’2” 170) is likely to continue his terror in the secondary. Last season, Glass racked up an impressive stat sheet with 101 tackles, six pass breakups, four fumbles caused and two fumbles recovered.

Wagner was responsible for 1,400 yards in total offense and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore. Last season, Glass accumulated 634 receiving yards on 22 receptions.

Sophomore defensive back Jaxyn Ward (6’2” 170) looks to build on a freshman season that included 34 tackles, six pass breakups and one interception. Sophomore linebacker Jackson Conroe (5’10” 170), another young player on defense, accounted for 41 tackles in his freshman

he Mount St. Mary Rockets are looking to improve on a 2-8 season posted in head coach Willis Alexander’s first year, and he’ll have a more experienced team assisting him.

There is another strong duo on offense with Dalton Fairies (6’0” 220) and James 60 | September 2019

year. Rounding out the players to watch is sophomore defensive end Jesse Hamilton (5’10” 200). Hamilton played some last season, but Alexander expects him to be a big contributor this year. This young defense should develop as the season progresses, giving the team a shot at improving last year’s losing record. “We are trying to build on a youthful football team that has been young for the past two seasons. We will find an identity and build on that,” Alexander said. “We’re looking forward to building this program one brick at a time.” The middle portion of this season will test Alexander, as his team faces some of the district’s best teams. Starting on Sept. 26, the Rockets face Heritage Hall. On Oct. 17, they travel to John Marshall and they face Kingfisher on Nov. 1. – BSM

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BY: JEFFREY WHITSON

Mount St. Mary’s Rebuilding with Young Volleyball Squad

he Mount St. Mary’s High School Volleyball program is in a rebuilding season, after having tremendous success in the previous four years. Head coach James Ward has led his team to appearances in at least the state semi-finals in each of the last four years, including a 3A State Championship in 2016, followed by two runner-up finishes. “We had a great group that just graduated” Ward said. It is going to take quite a bit more from the younger players this year to achieve

64 | September 2019

the success in years past.

“With all the youth we have, it’s going to be a growing season.”

But his program is off to good start already.

The Rockets have already pulled out a fantastic win against Choctaw High School on Aug. 13, winning three games to two.

The team’s biggest tests come in the month of October with Carl Albert on Oct. 3 and then a quick turn around with Bishop Kelley on Oct. 8. They will not

face Bishop McGuinness this year unless both teams make the state tournament.

Though young, Mount St. Mary’s roster holds a lot of potential that Ward looks to develop in this transition season. Allie Jennings, the team’s senior backcourt player, is receiving looks from several colleges. Her leadership, as one of the few seniors, will help guide the younger players to a strong season. Other players to be on the lookout for this season include Sadie Harris, Piper Smith and Grace Glass. – BSM

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All You Need to Know About the Capital One Data Breach In late July, Capital One Bank announced that 106 million of its card holders had their data compromised in a massive breach that stretched over four months. Among the victims, 140,000 customers had their Social Security numbers swiped and approximately 80,000 had their linked checking account numbers stolen. No credit card numbers were reported to have been lifted in the breach. The company fixed the vulnerability immediately and promised to alert all victims of the breach about their compromised data. The alleged hacker has been apprehended and steps are being taken to ensure a breach of this magnitude doesn’t happen again.

The Capital One issue was hardly the first of its kind to hit the news in recent years. Factors like online data and sophisticated hacking tools have spawned a wave of data breaches that have hit all kinds of businesses and service providers, from police departments and eateries to major retailers and online search engines. In light of the multiple and wide-reaching data breaches over the past few years, experts recommend that everyone, even those who are not Capital One credit card holders, take the following five steps to protect their information from hackers:

• Freeze your credit – Placing a freeze on your credit is the first and most crucial step you can take to stop scammers from making use of your information. A credit freeze will not affect your credit score, but does serve as a red flag for lenders and credit companies by alerting them to the fact that you may have been a victim of fraud. Consequently, hackers will not be able to open a new line of credit or apply for a loan in your name. • You can now freeze your credit at no cost at all three of the major credit bureaus: Equifax, TransUnion and Experian. You’ll need to provide some basic information, including your date of birth and your Social Security number. You’ll receive a PIN for the freeze that will need to be used for lifting the freeze should the need arise. • Enable two-factor authentication – If you haven’t already, change all of your logins to two-factor (also called “multi-factor”) authentication. Whenever posboydstreet.com

sible, choose a non-password authentication, like face recognition or thumbprint sign-in. This will provide an extra layer of protection against hackers and scammers trying to access your account.

• Sign up for credit monitoring – Capital One is offering free credit monitoring for all victims of the data breach. You can find out more about this offer and general information about the breach by visiting the Capital One website. • Even if you’re not a Capital One card holder, you might want to consider signing up for credit monitoring to prevent being a victim of a data breach in the future. The service will immediately notify you about any suspicious activity on your accounts so you can stop potential hackers in their tracks. Credit monitoring will run you $10-$30 a month, but you’ll have the security of knowing that the company is on the lookout for any signs of trouble with your credit. • Use strong, unique passwords – Always choose strong passwords for all your accounts and use different passwords for each login. Your passwords should be at least eight characters long, and use a variety of numbers, letters and symbols. Vary your capitalization use as well, and never use your name, phone number or a common phrase as your password.

• If you’ve been using your current passwords for a while, consider changing them up now. You can make this task easier by using a password aggregator like LastPass or Sticky Password.

• Strengthen your security and spam settings – Never answer emails asking you to share sensitive data, even when they appear to be from legitimate companies. Make sure your devices are fully updated, and keep your spam settings on their strongest levels. It’s also a good idea to keep your social media accounts as private as possible to keep scammers from finding out personal details about your life which they can use to crack your passwords. Hackers never stop trying to get at your data, but with the right protective measures in place, you can keep them from seeing success.

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 69

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BY: KATHY HALLREN | JOE’S WINES & SPIRITS

WINE PAIRINGS AND TASTINGS Y

ou may have noticed that many restaurants are now doing tasting flights and tasting menus. I recently attended an event with a winemaker as master of ceremonies. It was both enjoyable and educational. Some of our local brokers and restaurants host such events and I encourage you to attend one because it helps get you out of your comfort zone to experience wine and food with an open mind. What did I learn, you might be asking? First, I learned that none of the wines I was about to taste are available in Oklahoma, and second, that pinot noir can accompany sushi, which is completely out of my comfort zone. Most tasting menus and events serve four to six different wines, but the one I attended was a little different, serving two pinot noirs. These were paired with a duck dish and a sushi sampling. A couple of the sushi portions were quite spicy. One pinot noir was very old world style, dry with mushroom, farmyard notes. The other was fruit forward and somewhat bold for a pinot noir. The chefs and winemaker suggested the bold style with the duck first, and the old world for the sushi. Then, they suggested we switch the order, and it became apparent how pairings matter. The spicy sushi was complemented

by the bold, forward-fruit pinot noir, which then tempered the spicy sushi’s heat. The duck and old world pinot is a classic combination and the reason is obvious. The mushroom of the pinot balances the slight gaminess of the duck. Contemporaneously with attending this dinner, I was reading a recently released book, “Cork Dork.” The writer took a year to explore the world of wine with the goal of passing the first level Sommelier examination. In the course of her exploration, she visited taste and smell laboratories, and tasted a lot of wine and much more. I recommend the book to anyone with an interest in wine. My experience at the dinner highlighted a passage in the book. The author suggests taking a week to explore a different brand of the same varietal of wine each night. Or, for something a bit more social, get together with friends. Each bring a different bottle of the same varietal to do your own tasting. Smell, taste and most of all enjoy yourself. Cheers, Kathy

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Sooner than Later

Norman Regional Staffs Medical Clinic Inside Stadium

ooner game days are a highly charged environment. Extreme heat combined with excitement of the game can lead some Sooner fans to health problems. To serve the community and to help ensure the health and safety of thousands of fans, Norman Regional Health System collaborates with the University of Oklahoma to staff the Gomer Jones Medical Facility inside Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The facility has been in operation, meeting the health needs of Sooner fans free of charge, for many years.

“The clinic is one piece of a larger emergency care puzzle. We are an extension of the emergency department under the stadium,” said Dr. Patrick Cody, medical director for the clinic.

Photo by: Mark Doescher

“On a busy game day, when it’s hot out and people have been drinking alcohol, we have seen up to 60 patients in our clinic. Those are patients that would have likely ended up in the ER. This helps address that increase and makes sure patients receive timely care.”

The clinic, located at the north end of the stadium, helps meet the needs of Sooner fans, quickly and efficiently, with the hope of returning them to the stands to enjoy the rest of the game, Cody said. The medial team provides all levels of care for problems that range from dehydration to chest pains, said Stephanie boydstreet.com

Gehrke, nursing supervisor for the clinic.

“If someone needs a band-aid, has a headache or forgets their glucometer, we are able to take care of them… and they don’t have to leave the game.”

For more serious situations, the clinic is fully staffed with an extensive response team, including paramedic bike teams, volunteer stretcher teams and medic carts, as well as an ambulance stationed outside the stadium. “The bikes, stretchers and medic carts increase the speed of care. We are able to respond to patients wherever they are in the stadium,” Cody said. “Our teams go through a bike instruction course, so they know how to quickly navigate the ramps and stairs and are fully equipped to start care immediately for cardiac patients.”

The clinic requires a lot of preparation on game days, and the staff arrives hours before game time to make sure the clinic is ready to serve. The 8-bed unit is manned by one physician, four to six emergency trained registered nurses and paramedics. The doctors and nurses volunteer their time. “We arrive three and half hours before the game to get ready,” Gehrke said. “The clinic opens an hour and half before the game, and we stay through the end of the game.” While the schedule can be grueling, Gehrke and Cody say the staff at Norman Re-

gional enjoy the opportunity to serve the community.

“It is a privilege to serve your community outside your normal workplace,” Gehrke said. “I usually have to turn people away. I had over 100 volunteers, and we only staff four to six nurses a game.” They also coordinate cooling stations during the early season games when temperatures can soar to dangerous levels. “We run six cooling stations around the stadium,” Gehrke said. “People that are getting a little over heated can cool down before it becomes too much.”

While the clinic staff enjoys engaging with Sooner fans, Cody shares a few bits of advice.

“We meet some really neat people in the clinic. They travel from all over to go to the games,” Cody said. “People really need to take good care of themselves on game day. Stay hydrated and alcohol does not count. Eat well and know your limits.” “Prepare for the long walk to the stadium and remember to drink water even before you go to the game, and take frequent breaks in the shade,” Gehrke added. The clinic, which just underwent renovations, including new floors, new paint, new cabinetry and upgraded equipment, will be open at all home games. The services are offered free of charge, but donations are accepted. – BSM

BOYD STREET MAGAZINE | 77

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BY: COM CALLIE COLLINS M UNI TY

Making it Happen

Norman Entrepreneur’s Maker Space Full of Creative Opportunity

olor Me Mine is Norman’s newest maker space, with DIY painting, pottery and more. The national franchise is new to Oklahoma and its home at 1632 24th Ave NW is the brand’s only location in the Sooner state. When Jamie Cote walked into her niece’s birthday party at Color Me Mine in Dallas six years ago, she didn’t plan on becoming one of the brand’s franchisees, but the experience inspire her entrepreneurial spirit. “My degree is in psychology,” Cote said. “I was working in financial education services when I decided I didn’t want to work for someone else or have to ask permission to go on my kids’ field trip. I wanted to be able to drop them off at school and pick them up myself.” The business opened June 21, the first day of summer, and it joined Norman’s thriving business community during a season of transition for families. “Summer has been a great time for us to open because so many families are looking for different activities for their children,” said Cote. “I’ve loved getting to know our customers and listening to what they feel is missing in a maker space. What I like about Norman’s business community is that

80 | September 2019

it has this small-town community feeling, but it’s growing. My customers are genuinely interested in my family, my business and how to participate more often here. It’s a unique setting.” Color Me Mine’s guided art approach makes it open for all skill levels, regardless of previous experience. “Anyone can come and make art, no matter their age or artistic ability. My grandma is 84 and she came in and painted with us. Babies and toddlers have come in and made footprints just by dipping their feet in paint. I’ve been able to find makers to teach and inspire participants to make meaningful gifts or just something they want to create for themselves,” said Cote. She plans to continue featuring different art and craft disciplines like knitting and crocheting as the business grows in addition to its current pottery and painting sessions. Painting and pottery are Color Me Mine’s two main artistic offerings. Ceramic items are glazed and fired on-site, and paintings are left at the studio to dry as well. Participants can return an average of four to seven days later to pick up their creations. Walk-ins are welcome and no prior reservation is needed, but group hostings can be arranged.

Family and corporate sessions, birthday parties, bachelorette parties and charitable gatherings are some of the events the business hosts. They host adults-only nights the third Saturday of the month from 6 to 10 p.m. with a BYOB option and fun music. Their kids’ nights allow parents to have an evening out. Programs are held the second Saturday of the month and they include pizza, a movie and a painting class that ties in with the film. The cost is $35 per child, and it is open to kids who are potty-trained. “This fall, we’ll feature a new class each Wednesday night. One item I anticipate everyone will want to have is a ceramic chip and dip server, just in time for football season. That class will be the first Wednesday in September from 7 to 9 p.m. and we’ll have a nacho bar on-site for that,” said Cote. “Halloween will be a big season here. We’ll be painting sugar skulls on Oct. 23.” Expanded offerings for homeschool students, technique workshops and after-school activities are areas Cote hopes to expand her business. Find more information at www. colormemine.com or visit the studio in University Town Center.– BSM

e n i h s

Keeping the lights on so the home team can

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Photo by Shevaun Williams

B U S I N E SS

BY: KAYLEE CAMPBELL COM M UNI T Y

Hunting for Treasure

Retailer Turns Treasure Hunting Passion into Booming Business

abitha Clark and her husband, Russell, started R&R Homes nearly 20 years ago, but she never would have guessed that their careers in homebuilding would lead her to become a small business owner and operator in her own right.

warehouse into a boutique.

“We opened a store and it did great,” Clark said. “The folks in Moore took it in. It really floored me at how well the store did in that first year.

In fact, it was her passion for treasure hunting that led her to open Reclaimed Warehouse, an architectural salvage retail boutique.

Tabitha Clark enjoys the hunt. Whether at home or traveling, she has always found time to scour antique stores, architectural salvage yards and junkyards in search of architectural design gems.

Over the years, Clark has amassed a stock of unique items so large that her collection needed a warehouse. The couple began offering R&R Homes clients the opportunity to shop through the warehouse and incorporate their favorite finds into their new homes. Finding herself somewhat embarrassed when she would take clients to rummage through the dusty warehouse, Clark and her husband began considering the idea of turning the 84 | September 2019

“I’m so new to running a business — leading staff, running daily operations — these were all very new to me. It’s been really amazing and really hard and lots of learning.”

Today, only two years after opening her first boutique location in Moore, Reclaimed Warehouse has expanded its offerings and grown to include a second location at University Town Center in Norman, giving the boutique a total of 9,000 square feet of space. “When we opened, we had custom

tables that my husband had built,” Clark said. “But we’re more than furniture pieces. We also wanted to offer unique lighting options.”

Since opening, the boutique has added lifestyle products, decor, custom furniture, remodeling services and more. Reclaimed Warehouse also has become the first and only distributor of the Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines brand in the Oklahoma City metro area, one of four distributors in Oklahoma. Still, the success of Reclaimed Warehouse’s retail ventures is just part of the story. Clark and her team are also committed to using their space to enhance people’s lives and skills.

The Moore location features an event space that is often used to host crafting workshops. In the past, artists and crafters have used the space to host their own events, and residents have rented it to host bridal showers and other major life event celebrations. “It’s evolving every month,” Clark said. “I feel like this is something that God had called me to do.” – BSM

B U S I N E SS

Vision Advanced Debunking the Differences of Vision Checks

chool is back in session, but making sure that your child can read and see the board is only part of the equation for setting them up for success in the classroom. And if you think that all vision checks are created equal, think again. We spoke with Dr. Jake Smith, optometrist with Classic Vision, who wants to set the record straight. Screening tests are very basic, Dr. Smith said. They focus on binocular acuity, otherwise known as the ability to see clearly in the distance, and do not indicate how well the eyes focus up close or how the eyes work together. While it’s good to test for binocular acuity, Dr. Smith explained that most kids tend to have problems seeing up close, which goes undiagnosed through basic screenings. According to the American Optometric Association, vision testing done in schools and even in a pediatrician or primary care physician’s office often are limited by the environment and type of testing equipment available. Factors such as room lighting, testing distances and maintenance of the testing equipment can affect test results, making these screenings inaccurate and unreliable, at times.

88 | September 2019

Moreover, screening tests do not address the health of the eyes, the possibility of disease or other problems that may occur in the back of the eye.

Although Dr. Smith performs basic screenings in both the Norman and Noble school districts, he recommends seeing a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist in office for complete vision and eye health testing. In office, Dr. Smith and his team have the technology and atmosphere that allows them to provide patients with a more comprehensive exam. In addition to testing for vision problems, regular comprehensive eye exams can also help catch more serious conditions related to eye health and overall health. “Unfortunately there’s a lot of eye conditions that have no symptoms at all,” Dr. Smith said. Things like retinal tears and retinal holes often do not present symptoms but can have a negative effect on a patient’s eye health, Dr. Smith said. Along the same vein, comprehensive vision and eye health exams also have the potential to reveal other underlying conditions that, although they present no symptoms, could cause serious health problems throughout the

body if left undetected and untreated, such as autoimmune disorders. If your child skips around or loses their place while reading, or even if their reading comprehension is not up to par, they may need to see a licensed eye care professional, as these can all be signs of potential vision problems, Dr. Smith said. Like children, adults should also have a comprehensive vision and eye exam once per year. And that includes adults who have had Lasik, as adverse eye health conditions can still occur. And no matter a person’s age, Dr. Smith said that “the things that help our bodies in general really help our eyes.” Things like wearing sun protection, limiting screen time, taking breaks by following the 20/20/20 rule — look 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes — all can help your eyes, Dr. Smith said. With two convenient locations at 1141 36th Ave. NW in Norman and 905 N. Main St. in Noble, Classic Vision is proud to offer vision and eye health care for the whole family. To learn more or schedule an appointment call 447-5001 or visit www.classicvisionnorman.com – BSM

Photo by: Mark Doescher

BY: KAYLEE CAMPBELL

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