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M A R C H 2 022

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OUTSTANDING SCHOLAR-ATHLETES OF THE MONTH ETHAN CLARK

SOUTHMOORE HIGH SCHOOL

Recent sports or academic highlight?

I recently came back from an injury and tied the school three-point record. I also made the all-tournament team in our first tournament this year.

Personal highlights?

My mom is Kelly Clark and my dad is Shawn Clark. I have played basketball ever since I was able to walk. I love to go fishing in my free time, either with friends or my dad.

How do you maintain balance?

I always made school my No. 1 priority, I think that is why I have so much success with my grades. I am always very busy with basketball but I always have time during the weekends to see family and friends.

Plans for the future?

I am looking at several offers to further my academic and athletics career. I am going to major in business, so one day I can have my own. I am hoping to have a business that helps out less fortunate people.

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Recent sports or academic highlight?

My latest athletics highlight is our basketball team’s success this season. Our record is 15-4, we are hosting regionals, and we have a great shot at making it to the state playoffs.

Personal highlights?

My mother’s name is Melinda and my father’s name is Bryatt. I have two sisters, Sky and Talia. I run track and play basketball. I started playing ball at 5 years old. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family, traveling and reading inspiring biographies.

How do you maintain balance?

I do my best to balance life, school and sports by making school work my priority, and after that it’s sports, family and friends.

Plans for the future?

I haven’t decided on a college at this point, but I plan to play Division 1 basketball and pursue a degree in organizational leadership. After college, I hope to play professional basketball, become a college coach and work with student-athletes.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Welcome to Our Homes Issue

March 2022 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650 MANAGING EDITOR

For most of us, our homes rank right up there in level of importance with our families and our health. For those most fortunate among us, our earliest memories took place in or near our home: the amazing smell of Mom's cookies baking in the oven, the family opening gifts around the Christmas tree, games of red light/green light on the lawn, Saturday morning cartoons... Whatever your lifestyle now, no matter how big or small your family, no matter the size of your home (or apartment, condo, etc.), you're continuing to build memories that will be forever linked to where you live. If you have a child or children, they, too are forming lasting memories. In this issue, we have gathered several articles relating to the home. One is about a local company that draws on the Renaissance period to produce stunning decorative cast stone entries, surrounds, mantels and fireplaces, and accents such as planters and pergolas for both private homes and commercial buildings across the state and region. Talking about your wow factor! In another article, you'll learn about how students in the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture at the University of Oklahoma are getting hands-on experience building houses, such as the mobile tiny home pictured here, as well as other facilities, including a mobile medical clinic. Each of the projects tackled by the class also address a community need. We've also included two "how-to" pieces: one on organizing your closet (timely as we enter spring cleaning season!) and another on how to build and maintain a compost pile. Both are projects I intend to tackle this spring. Of course, those are just a few highlights to pique your interest. I hope you will carve out a little time to stop and read about some of the positive goings-on in our community. In the meantime, here's to creating beautiful, lasting memories. Happy spring!

Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Brooke Barnett, Lindsey Davies, Courtney Dekalb-Myers, Mark Johnson, Jerri Culpepper CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Richard Smith Photography

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_CLEVELANDCOUNTY

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Cleveland County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cleveland County area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cleveland County City Lifestyle™ is gathered from

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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MARCH 2022

inside the issue The Home Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

24 Design + Build

Lifestyle Letter

Giving Back

OU Architecture Students Get Real-World

City Scene

Realty Report

Experience Building Houses and More

Business Monthly

Events

Local Experiences

Financial Buzz

Education Corner

How To

Family Care

House Call

Travel Journal

Curb Appeal

HO ME + DES I GN

Open House

HO ME + DES I GN

30 Compost Like a Pro

Master Gardener Offers Guide to Building and Maintaining a Compost Pile

44 Beauty & Timeless Elegance

Business Draws Inspiration From the Renaissance Period

48 1st Oklahoma Homes

LO CA L S ERV I C ES R EA L ESTAT E

FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S

HO ME + DES I GN

EDU CAT I O N HEA LT H + WELLNES S

LO CA L S ERV I C ES T R AV EL

Model Homes Offer Functionality

O N T H E C OV E R

and Elegance

This fireplace mantel gracing a Norman home is the handiwork of Renaissance Cast Stone, which specializes in entries, surrounds, columns and pedestals, balustrades, crown molding, mantels, fireplaces and accents such as planters and pergolas.

The Spirited Senior Living Community You’ve Been Waiting For. Coming Soon. Sooner Station at University North Park is a spirited senior living destination in Norman, OK offering 189 residences for active adults seeking independent living, assisted living, and memory care services. A premier Senior Living Sponsor of the University of Oklahoma Alumni Association, Sooner Station residents will enjoy direct access to continued learning, campus visits, events, and more. Find out more at www.SoonerStation.com/home and pre-select your apartment today! Or, call now 405.267.4968 to schedule a complimentary tour.

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Managed by Integral Senior Living | A MedCore/TNRG Community

MARCH 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Cold temperatures and snow did not stop Orangetheory Fitness Moore members from achieving their fitness goals!

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MARCH 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Local Young Performers Win Freddie G Award

1NB Hosting Before Hours Event

Home Goods to Be Featured at Spring Fling

Students representing The Studio of The Sooner Theatre in Norman won a Freddie G award for Excellence in Ensemble Work and earned other recognition at the 2022 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta Jan. 14-16. The Studio of The Sooner Theatre presented Shrek The Musical JR. Students Alli Dorris and Mason Smith made it to the callback for future video shoots for “how-to” choreography videos. Students Michael Farris and Shelby Pippins were distinguished as All-Stars.

1NB Financial Center in Norman is hosting the Norman Chamber of Commerce March Business Before Hours from 9 to 9:15 a.m. on Wednesday, March 23. Start your business day networking with 25 to 30 other business professionals. 1NB Financial Center is a full-service bank located at 716 Wall Street in Norman, offering professional results with a personal approach.

Join Henry Home Interiors, 3720 W. Robinson in Norman’s Brookhaven Village, from 4-7 p.m. April 7 for their first-ever Spring Fling! Shop their 6,000-square-foot showroom filled with furniture, rugs, art and more. The event also will feature several pop-up shops by local vendors Sara Kay Art, Artsy Oklahoma, Tulips, Orchid and Olive, and Jennbroidery. Enjoy giveaways, charcuterie, sips and sweet treats, too! For more information, call 405.321.1000, email info@henryinteriors.com or visit HenryInteriors.com.

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CONTINUED >

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Wine shared with a friend is happiness tasted and time well spent. March 4-6 wewmooreok.com 405.232.WINE (9463) 2001 S. Broadway Ave Moore, OK 73160

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for updates.

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B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

Henry Home Interiors Wins ARTS Award

Virtue Center Sets “Making Magic” Benefit

Bowl & Lip Sync For Kids’ Sake

Henry Home Interiors started 2022 out with a bang by taking home an ARTS award at the star-studded 32nd Annual ARTS Awards ceremony, held Jan. 7 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas with hosts Carson Kressley and Thom Filicia from Bravo’s original Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. They won the ARTS Award for Best Single Location Furniture Store in the nation—one of four finalists in this category with stores from Georgia, Texas and Colorado.

The Virtue Center (TheVirtueCenter. org) invites area residents to attend “Making Magic,” a benefit featuring internationally renowned illusionist—and former Norman native—Rob Lake, beginning at 6:30 p.m. March 24 at The Well on South James Garner Avenue, Norman. Proceeds will go toward the nonprofit’s Building Hope, Connection & Community capital campaign. The benefit is limited to 150 people. Tickets are $150 per person/$250 per couple and—along with sponsorship opportunities—are available at GiveButter.com/makingmagic.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma, Norman, will hold its signature fundraising event, Bowl & Lip Sync For Kids’ Sake, at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, at HeyDay Entertainment in Norman. Proceeds will support the nonprofit’s one-to-one mentoring programs that empower the potential of youth, leading to their brightest possible futures. Whether you want to create a music video or a bowl team, or you individually want to raise funds, visit norman forkidssake.org to get started!

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Let’s Play!

Pioneer Library System Brings Programming to the Well You know us at the library, you know us in your community—now the Pioneer Library System is out and about at the Well, as well! Get to know us at Cleveland County’s newest wellness center at 210 S. James Garner Ave., Norman, where we are proud to contribute to the Well’s catalog of classes as we present programs on STEAM, mental health and healthy cooking! Register for these and other programs at pioneerlibrarysystem. org and thewellok.org.

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Take your pets outdoors as the weather gets nice to help with weight control, energy and behavioral management, plus socializing and training. Don’t forget the parasite prevention to keep the fleas and ticks and mosquitoes off them too!

BoyerVetClinic.com Small Town Feel in the Big City! Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5:30pm Curbside Service Available

CONTINUED >

13500 S Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73170 | (405) 794-8504 MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

Narwhal Exhibition Opens at Museum From their depiction in the 1500s as angry sea monsters to their status as icons of pop culture today, the narwhal with its unique spiral tusk has inspired legend in Inuit and European society and fascinated people across cultures for centuries. This mysterious animal and its changing ecosystem are explored in the Smithsonian traveling exhibition “Narwhal: Revealing an Arctic Legend,” on display at the Sam Noble Museum at the University of Oklahoma through June 19.

Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary to Host Annual Fundraiser The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary will hold its 35th annual Celebration of Hope beginning at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at the First Americans Museum. The event will feature the real-life parents portrayed in The Blind Side, Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy. Honorary chair for the event is former OU and NFL quarterback Sam Bradford. Emcee is Oklahoma’s News 4 sports reporter, Dylan Buckingham. Individual reservations are $100; sponsorships are available. Visit CelebrationofHopeOKC. com to purchase.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty

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MARCH 2022

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Whether you are wanting to spruce up your home with new décor and finishes or just appreciate the beautiful homes in our area, we have you covered with what our community has to offer from shops, home tours and more.

Home Decor & Design R ECLAIMED WAR EHOUSE: Find furniture (including downtown industrial),

art and prints, seasonal decor, all kinds of lighting, fans, candles and much more in this lifestyle shop! 3200 South Sunnylane Road, Moore, OK TWO HIP CHICKS: 2 Hip Chicks offers baby/children's and women's accessories and apparel, home decor, seasonal decor, gourmet food, and gifts for every occasion! 932 N Flood Avenue, Norman, OK AR TIFACTOR Y: Whether you lean more to motorcycle-riding fox or wistful hummingbird, there’s a critter cup here to brighten your day at Artifactory art studio/shop and gallery. 106 E Main Street, Norman, OK STASH: STASH’s owners just returned from a major gem and mineral show, bringing back crystals of all sizes and budgets. Other eclectic home goods also featured. 412 E Main Street, Norman, OK HENR Y HOME INTER IOR S: Join Henry Home Interiors from 4-7 p.m. April 7 for their first-ever Spring Fling, showcasing furniture, rugs, art and more; popup shops; giveaways; and more! 3720 W Robinson Street, Norman, OK

Scan for more photos and the full list. Two Hip Chicks

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

DESIGN + BUILD ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER

OU Architecture Students Get Real-World Experience Building Houses and More

As we head into the second decade of the 21st century, prior definitions of a house, as well as other structures intended for work, play, health care, large-scale storage and other purposes, are changing, here and worldwide. There are tiny houses, mobile houses and smart houses, just to name a few. Likewise, new tools (like 3D printers) and construction materials are constantly being introduced to help make the structures stronger, more durable, more eco-friendly, and more energy-efficient—as well as elevating their aesthetic in many instances. Students in a design + build class in the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture at the University of Oklahoma are getting a chance not only to learn about these exciting new designs and approaches, they’re getting a chance to build them. As a bonus, the projects accepted for the class meet a societal need and the students get the satisfaction of helping out families and others with their special needs. Gibbs College has a history of offering design + build opportunities, including those led by architecture professors Bruce Goff and Herb Greene in the 1950s and ‘60s. For example, students helped build the Bavinger and Prairie houses in Norman. In 2018, the college recruited Bryan Bloom, assistant professor of construction science, to oversee an elevated design + build program targeting the college’s construction science students. Bloom speaks with great enthusiasm about the design + build program, both what it has accomplished thus far and its future. The first project was four affordable duplex units for the Norman Housing Authority, a public housing agency that is committed to providing affordable housing opportunities, community improvement and family support programs in the communities and neighborhoods of the City of Norman. A property on Hughbert Street in east Norman was acquired in the winter of 2017. Hans E. and Torrey Butzer of Butzer Architects and Urbanism designed the units. Hans Butzer also serves as dean of the college. The first duplex was constructed by subcontractors, who helped guide students on the second. While the junior and senior construction science majors had some classroom experience under their belts and some had limited

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | HOME + DE S I GN

work experience from working on construction sites or as part of a family business—none had the requisite range of experience—drywalling, pouring concrete, carpentry, etc.—required to build an entire house. The one-bedroom duplexes met a need in the community for smaller units designed for singles or couples without children. And while the duplexes were built with an eye to making them affordable, along with a clean and simple design, the students were mindful of meeting as many of the needs of their target audience as possible. Among other things, that meant making both the kitchen and bathroom ADA-accessible. Because the design work couldn’t start until late in the fall semester when the property was acquired, that meant an expedited design schedule at the start of the spring semester. After two weeks of discussions, the class started work on the project immediately after spring break. Although no cutting-edge techniques were used on this project—affordability was the key takeaway here—Bloom says students learned many valuable lessons. For example, after research, they chose cedar siding—a material selected for its water-repellant nature as well as its aesthetic appeal. On the side of the structures facing the railroad tracks, they didn’t include windows and the walls were built with double insulation and double walls with a gap in between, which Bloom said reduced the noise level surprisingly well. Many of the construction science students, including now-alum Patrick Strubel, cited “experiencing all aspects of a new construction build” as their favorite part of the Hughbert Street project. Another student (also now an alum) said that her favorite part of the Hughbert project was being able to “fully understand and connect the dots” regarding a full-scale construction project. The second project, in 2019, was to build a tiny house on a trailer platform, aka an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), a concept that is growing in popularity in many communities across the nation. ADAs are small houses, generally placed in the back yard of an existing home; they are often used to house aging parents or other family members who desire some degree of autonomy and privacy.

T O P : The first Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture design + build project were these affordable duplexes on Hughbert Street (Jerri Culpepper Photography)

B O T T O M : Bloom poses with OU Construction Science students (from left) Matthew KanadyAytes, Cody Babcock and Ashish Patel after a day of framing on the duplex.

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1 : Students work on framing the duplex on Hughbert Street. 2 Students at work on the Hughbert Street duplex project. 3 : Year two of the OU design + build project was a mobile tiny home, or Accessory Dwelling Unit. 4 : Architecture students work on the mobile medical clinic for the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes in Anadarko. 5 : Inside view of the mobile medical clinic 6 : The mobile medical unit enables Indian Health Services to take services to rural tribal members who have a difficult time getting to and from the health clinic.

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | HOME + DE S I GN

After raising funds from a private investor (later refunded), research was conducted to determine the market for mobile prefab buildings (the structure would have to be mobile since it would be built on campus and then moved to its permanent home). After building the 8x20’, 160-square-foot tiny home, they auctioned it on the internet, and it was purchased by a family in Santa Monica. The third project was launched in spring 2020—in full pandemic mode. Despite numerous challenges, Bloom said, the class built a climate-controlled prefab building for a nonprofit called the Osage Forest of Peace, an interfaith contemplative retreat center with which the college had been collaborating on creating a master plan for their growing facility in Osage County near Sand Springs. “Like any organization that handles hospitality, they needed climate-controlled storage,” Bloom said. “So, we ended up building it here—the wall assemblies, roof, etc.—in our shop, and over spring break, we put it on a trailer and set it up. This marked the first time that students did a job from start to finish without the help of subcontractors.” Last year, looking for a job that was more progressive and cutting edge, the class tackled a mobile medical clinic for the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes in Anadarko. The mobile medical unit enables Indian Health Services to take services to rural tribal members who have a difficult time getting to and from the health clinic. Manufactured plywood sheets were used for the framing, the reasoning being that the class could envision a future where large pieces of wood lumber will be hard to come by. They also used multiple pre-cut, prepared materials designed to allow for “ease-of-construction” for those who may not have all the tools or experience for a traditional build. To design the clinic, the students used a medical unit conceptualized and designed by OU architecture assistant professor Ken Marold, who also created a fabrication strategy for building the unit quickly. Construction science student Asael Herrara, who served on the student team, said, “I wanted to take this class to have the opportunity to give back to the community. I didn’t know it would be a medical mobile unit, but it’s amazing to give back to our community in this way. This is a great experience because there are people learning and teaching across a variety of construction backgrounds.” Now in its fifth year, Bloom has expanded the Design +Build program to accommodate all the college’s students— architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and regional and city planning—in addition to construction science. He hopes soon to expand the program into a two-semester rather than one-semester program. This year’s project is a self-sustaining greenhouse for Mark Twain Elementary School in Oklahoma City. The class is working on the project with Engage Learning, a Norman-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has worked with dozens of schools, hundreds of teachers and thousands of Oklahoma K-12 students since 2017 with the aim of empowering students to shape their world through project-based, maker-focused and STEM-intensive programs.

Bloom poses with OU Construction Science students Matthew Kanady-Aytes, Cody Babcock and Ashish Patel (from left) after a day of framing on the Hughbert Street project.

Ben Bigelow, director of the Haskell and Irene Lemon Division of Construction Science, has high praise for the enthusiasm and dedication Bloom has displayed as head of the Design + Build class. “The program combines interdisciplinary collaboration and service learning as a vehicle for truly impactful community engagement,” he said “Each year, the program selects a different project. Though it is a spring course, the projects actually require a full year to procure, plan, design and execute. “Since joining the OU faculty,” Bigelow added, “Professor Bloom has dedicated over four full academic years (and summers, too!) to developing what is now known as Gibbs College’s Design + Build program. Despite the significant amount of time required in the summer and fall to coordinate these projects and the considerable time required to execute the projects in his class, Professor Bloom eagerly looks forward to the class and its project each year. “This class may be the smallest he is assigned to teach but it requires more of his time than his largest class,” Bigelow continued. “His passion for providing students with an experience serving something bigger than themselves through the built environment drives him. So rather than considering options that make the class and projects easier for him, Professor Bloom focuses on ensuring students get the best possible experience.” Bloom says it’s been “a joy to see these lightbulbs go off for these juniors and seniors” as they gain real-world experience, especially at a time when opportunities are limited. “We are living with the pandemic, like everyone else,” he said. “We try to be as safe and conscious as we can, in compliance with university guidelines—though it can get overwhelming both for them and the other faculty. It’s a privilege to get to work with community members to help them achieve their goal.” Bloom encourages persons with an identified need that can be filled through the design and construction of a capital project to share the details with him for the consideration via email at bloom@ou.edu.

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COMPOST LIKE A PRO Master Gardener Offers Guide to Building and Maintaining a Compost Pile ARTICLE BY COURTNEY DEKALB-MYERS

Have you started preparing your garden yet? Have you considered complementing it with a compost pile? Composting serves several functions. It provides nutrition that will help your garden flourish. It serves as a buffer to lock in the soil moisture so you can water less often, saving a valuable natural resource as well as saving you money. And it reduces the amount of trash going into the landfills.

WHAT CAN BE COMPOSTED? Lots of things can be composted! If you’re out gardening and creating yard waste, that’s a perfect base for the compost bin. Think grass clippings, leaves, twigs or any excess vegetation. Produce scraps can be composted as well. When I’m prepping food, I usually keep a scrap bowl that I can take to the compost bin when I’m finished. Newspaper, coffee grounds, tea leaves and eggshells are also great candidates for the compost bin. You don’t have to buy a fancy container; just make sure it seals to avoid a pesky fruit fly invasion. (Side note: make sure to remove produce stickers and the staples from tea bags before adding to the pile.) Things that should not go in the compost bin include fatty goods, grease, meats, dairy products, fish or bones. These can attract unwanted varmints. It’s also a good idea to avoid adding any diseased plants or weeds that have gone to seed. These can both cause unintentional additions of pathogens or seeds when applying the finished product. Do not add pet or human waste to the pile. If using a worm bin, avoid adding peppers, onion peels or citrus peels. Worms can be a little picky and the flavor of these foods is overwhelming to them.

BUILDING A COMPOST PILE Composting can be as simple as creating a pile in your backyard or as complex as a three-bin system. It’s up to you and what you prefer! The pile needs to be at least 3’ x 3’ x 3’. This gives enough space for the pile to heat up and start the process of breaking down. You can purchase a bin or tumbler to keep it contained and covered. You can also build a system from pallets, posts and chicken wire, or concrete blocks to designate the space. You can also just pile it up in a spot in your yard. It’s all about your preferences. If space allows, a three-bin system is a great option: one pile for new material, one for material that’s actively breaking down, and one for finished compost. You can rotate which bin is in what stage as you continue to compost. With just one bin or pile, there is a

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point where you should stop adding to it and just let it break down. Otherwise, you’ll be adding material that is not fully decomposed to the garden. It’s a good idea to keep a good ratio of “browns” and “greens”. Browns are carbon-heavy materials and include dry leaves, wood chips, twigs, straw, eggshells, cardboard, newspaper and pine needles. Greens are heavy in nitrogen and include fruit peels, veggie scraps, grass clippings, coffee filters, tea leaves and fresh vegetation. A 3:1 brown to green ratio is the diet for the microbes breaking down the material into compost.

MAINTAINING YOUR COMPOST PILE Compost bins are pretty low maintenance but do require some commitment. Turning the compost bin every week allows for oxygen to get to the center of the pile and speed up the microbial break down process. Keeping the pile moist is also important for the microbial process. Consider soaking the compost pile once a week, but don’t saturate it, though, as this can lead to a decrease of oxygen and create unpleasant odors. Compost should not smell; if it does, it’s an indicator that something’s going wrong. Another maintenance tip is to purchase a composting thermometer, which allows you to take the temperature of the pile’s center. The natural composting process generates heat from 140°F to 160°F. Monitoring the temperature will give you peace of mind that things are breaking down correctly.

Cleveland County Horticulture Educator Courtney Dekalb-Myers

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COMPOST TIMELINE The time it takes to break down material into a usable compost product can vary, but it will be a few months. The process is much quicker in warmer months because microbial activity tends to increase with heat. When building your compost bin, make sure that the pile is in the sun. To speed the process up, you can turn the pile more frequently or break the material into smaller pieces.

HOW TO USE COMPOST Compost can be worked into the top 6 inches of soil to add nutrients to the garden. Adding compost also helps with soil structure, which can mitigate drainage problems in heavy clay. It can also be used as a mulch to insulate the soil or mixed in with containers to save some money on potting soil. Compost is a complete fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Generally, nitrogen is used by plants at a higher rate while phosphorus and potassium can stay in the soil for a long period of time. It’s important to check with a soil test every few years to make sure these nutrients are not getting to excessive levels. As the Cleveland County Horticulture Educator, Courtney DeKalb-Myers answers horticulture homeowner questions, advises and mentors the Cleveland County Master Gardeners, and teaches workshops throughout Cleveland County.

MASTER GARDENING

TRAINING OFFERED:

Readers are invited to attend Cleveland County Master Gardener Training, starting the first week of August and running to the beginning of November. Classes meet from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays and covers everything from basic botany, soil science, entomology, ornamental plants and growing your own food. Being a Master Gardener gives you the opportunity to volunteer in horticulture projects around the community, along with connecting with other passionate gardeners. Cost is $150 and space is limited. For more information, email Courtney DeKalb-Myers at courtney.dekalb@okstate.edu.

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COMPOST THINGS LIKE: FRUIT SCRAPS

VEGETABLE SCRAPS

COFFEE GROUNDS

EGGSHELLS

GRASS AND PLANT CLIPPINGS

DRY LEAVES

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home safe home

J es

sic aR o se Jo

son hn Whether it be natural disasters such as fire or tornado, or medical emergencies such as heart attack or a suicide attempt, having a family plan is vital.

Keeping Your Home Safe ARTICLE BY JE SSICAROSE JOH NSON

FAM ILY CA R E | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

There are many items that keep a home safe. When I asked my Facebook audience what came to mind when they thought of home safety, I got a range of answers—from alarms, cameras, dogs, first aid kits, flashlights and firearms. Keeping family members safe isn’t just about natural disasters or accidents, it’s also keeping them safe when there is a mental health crisis. One way to keep family members safe is proper firearms storage. Use of a firearm lock or a safe is an ideal way to store your firearms. Other ways for safe storage include storing your firearms and ammunition separately or storing them unloaded. Always keep firearms stored away from children and those untrained in the safe use of firearms. Ways to keep medications and your loved ones safe is by storing medications out of reach of children, utilizing a lock box, use of medication disposal packs, prepared medication containers, and disposal of medication after expiration date/end of need. In Oklahoma, local police departments have medication disposal bins. You can visit the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics drop box locator website at RXdrugdropbox.org for a location near you. Narcan, also known as naloxone, can be picked up from a pharmacy or you can order one online at okimready.org/overdose. This life-saving nasal spray can be administered easily by anyone to someone who has taken too many opioid-based medications at once. One study found that one in four persons had thought about suicide for less than five minutes before taking action. Another study interviewed persons hospitalized from a suicide attempt and 48% said they acted within 10 minutes of having thoughts of suicide. By keeping your firearms and medications safety stored, we provide time and distance for our loved ones if they experience a mental health crisis. It is important to have a personal plan for all crises. When emergencies hit, it is easy to become overwhelmed with emotions, and having a plan in place makes things smoother and easier on everyone. Whether it be natural disasters such as fire or tornado, or medical emergencies such as heart attack or a suicide attempt, having a plan is vital. For more tips on home safety for mental health, suicide prevention information, a FREE no-questions-asked firearms lock, or to request JessicaRose to speak at your next event: Rosebudcllc.com or JessicaRose@rosebudcllc.com. JessicaRose Johnson, M.A., is owner of Rosebud Consulting LLC.

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ARTICLE BY AUDRA GEORGE

THE PERFECT CLOSET MAKEOVER

What makes up the perfect closet? If you could do a makeover in your closet, what would it take to get you the perfect space?

THE PERFECT CLOSET: • • • • • • • •

Has enough space to hold all your belongings Features custom shelves that match your needs perfectly Has a boutique-like feel with great lighting Is functionally organized just for you Has enough space to display all your best shoes and handbags It makes getting ready in the morning a breeze!

OK, I know what you’re thinking. You don’t have enough space or the perfect closet. You don’t have custom shelving or a boutique-looking closet.

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That’s OK; most people don’t. However, anyone can have a beautiful, organized and functional space! Trust me! You can create the “perfect” closet with the space you currently have. The custom shelves can come later. With a few changes, YOU can improve your closet’s look and overall function while simplifying your space to better serve you.

WHY IS HAVING AN ORGANIZED CLOSET IMPORTANT? • • • • • • • • • •

Saves you time—everything is easy to see and within reach Saves you money—when everything is easy to see, you don’t go out and buy something again that you already have Fewer clothes mean you love what you do have and enjoy wearing it Decreased overall stress of searching for things you know you have but can’t find Makes getting ready for the day enjoyable

TIPS FOR SUCCESS • • • • • • • • •

Start small—a closet can be a big project; consider doing sections at a time (example: shoes one day, tops on another day). Get a box ready for the donations pile—those things that you discover you no longer want or need. Be honest with yourself—is the article of clothing worn, too small or out of date? If so, let it go to create space for the things you really love.

• • • •

PRET T Y NE AT OKC

PRODUCTS SUGGESTED TO ORGANIZE YOUR CLOSET Matching hangers Drawer dividers Shoe organizer or shoeboxes Matching bins or baskets

Products come in many different sizes, shapes, styles and prices. Choose products that you like and that fit your budget and your space.

CONTINUED >

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NOW TO THE IMPORTANT PART: HOW DO YOU ORGANIZE YOUR CLOSET?

STEP ONE Take everything out. Starting with a blank space is best. It will really open your eyes to see just how much you have.

STEP TWO Edit and group. Hold up each and every pair of shoes, shirts, pants, dresses, etc.; recall the last time you wore it. Do you still love the way it looks on you? Does it feel right? Does it need any repairs? Make a pile for donations, a toss pile and a keep pile. Take the keep pile and group like items together, e.g., long sleeves with long sleeves, jeans with jeans and so on.

STEP THREE Depending on the size of your closet, consider packing up off-season clothing. It’s an easy swap when the seasons change, and this keeps your closet from feeling overstuffed.

STEP FOUR Add items back to your closet within their groups. Create zones in your closet for shoes, work attire and casual wear. This will make it super easy to get ready each day and make it even easier to put clothing back in its rightful spot. If you have drawers, consider file folding items to save space and to be able to see each item better. Stacking prevents you from seeing everything in the drawer.

STEP FIVE Contain your things. Smaller items can be contained in bins and baskets. This improves the look of your closet and gives your belongings boundaries so they stay together in their place.

Want to take the overall look of your closet to the next level? Color-code your clothing from light to dark within their zones; add labels to bins and baskets so you know exactly what is in each basket; add hooks to hang hats or your favorite bags. With a little determination and following these few steps and pro tips, you, too, can create the “perfect” closet with the space you have right now. Whether big or small, these tips can work in any space.

H OU SE CA LL | LOCA L SERVI CE S

NEED HELP GETTING ORGANIZED? Whether it’s your closet, pantry, office, or other area of your house that’s just not as organized as you’d like, we at Pretty Neat: An Organizational Solution are here to help! I’m Audra George, owner and pro-organizer of Pretty Neat: An Organizational Solution. At Pretty Neat OKC, we share a genuine desire to help others and would love to put our obsession with all things organization to work for you! Thinking of moving, relocating, downsizing or selling your home? We can help! We offer move management services as well. We’ll even unpack and set up your new home for you! We have all-inclusive packages made to help you from start to finish with your project and remove the stress off you. Learn more about us (and read customer testimonials) at PrettyNeatOK.com.

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M O U N T A I N E E R

T R A I N

J O U R N E Y

ARTICLE BY BONNIE HEDGES, CTC/CTS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID HARKNESS

Did you know that I am from Moab, Utah—home to Arches and Canyonlands national parks? It’s an area surrounded in beautiful red rock formations boasting some of the most stunning landscapes in the word. The Colorado River runs along the outskirts of Grand County, and over thousands of years this river has carved crevasses, twists and turns into the landscape that can only be seen in this unique beautiful part of Utah. When I discovered that Rocky Mountaineer would have a two-day luxury train journey from Denver to Moab with a one-night stop in Glenwood Springs, I was thrilled. What a fabulous way to see the mountains of the Colorado Rockies and the red rocks of Utah! A group of OU football fans joined us on a customized OU Football Tour. In Denver, we stayed at the Historic Crawford Hotel at Union Station. The next morning, we would depart on the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train to begin our journey. The red carpet was laid out for us as we boarded the beautiful blue-and-gold train cars, where we were welcomed by our hostess and host. The comfortable seating with large picture windows would give us a full view of the scenery while being served welcome Bloody Mary’s and mimosas. Along the way, we would enjoy lovely breakfasts and lunches from a gourmet selection of items prepared fresh in the kitchen cars, with a final charcuterie board of cheese, buffalo, elk and deer meat near the end of the ride. All the meals were served on elegant dinnerware with white gloves. As we slowly left the bustling Denver traffic to start the climb into the Rockies, I knew we would see sights few Oklahomans have ever seen. During the ride, our hosts and the train guide shared stories of the rails and history of the area. As the train left the Eastern Slopes behind, we would travel through 31 tunnels before entering the 6.2-mile Moffat Tunnel and cross the continental divide

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

We arrived in Glenwood Springs in time to enjoy the old historic Colorado Hotel, the so-called “Little White House,” where Theodore Roosevelt stayed so many times. The next morning, we were off early with hot coffee, a lovely selection of breakfast items and, of course, Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas. As the train meandered along the Colorado River, our guide pointed our attention to eagles roosting in the trees. The flat lands and unique structures of the Book Cliffs, home of antelope and deer, is the area where my mother’s family lived and farmed in the 1940s. Our host allowed me to share some stories from my family history. At times, family members would walk the old forsaken tracks of the Narrow-Gauge railway, built in 1883, looking for artifacts from the train. The NarrowGauge was luxurious in those days. When a piece of China, a plate or cup, would break, they just threw it out of the window. My aunt and uncle would make beautiful jewelry from the broken pieces they found. My grandmother was a camp cook for the rail workers in Cisco, Utah, in the early 1950s, traveling on the same tracks we were traveling that day. She had a rule that, if you complained about the food, you had three seconds to say “but it is just like I like it’ or you had to cook the next meal. I use this phrase in my house, but it doesn’t work. Ha-ha. I was proud when we arrived at the remote train depot outside of Moab, where I could show off some of my part of the world: Arches, Canyonlands and Needles national parks, and many places only us standing right there and God knew about. If you are looking for a vacation that will create lasting memories, a Rocky Mountaineer Rail Journey in the United States or Canada is the way to go! Any of Bentley Hedges Travel staff can answer questions and help you plan a train journey of a lifetime. They can be reached at 405 237-3333.

Bonnie Hedges shares memories of the locale with fellow passengers on the Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic tour.

We have moved and are Growing! Heartland Wealth Management is pleased to announce that our office has moved to a new location! In doing so, we are excited to also announce the addition of Financial Advisor John Harris to the team. With over 30 years of experience, John will be a great addition to the Heartland family. Regardless of your financial goals, the Heartland Wealth Management team is here to help you achieve them.

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B E AU T Y & TIMELESS ELEGANCE ARTICLE BY BROOKE BARNETT

Renaissance Cast Stone completed much of the work on this beautiful Oklahoma City home. Shown here: an intimate porch with classic balustrades.

C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E + DE S I GN

This Norman home features a cast stone exterior as well as numerous other stunning cast stone details both inside and out.

B U S I N E S S D R AW S I N S P I R AT I O N FROM THE RENAISSANCE PERIOD What a great experience! We did an outdoor fireplace mantel and seat and WOW! What a great job. From the template to the install to the finished product, everything, including workmanship, timeliness, friendliness, was superb!” - Heather Healey

With over 30 years of experience, Renaissance Cast Stone creates stunning decorative cast stone for private homes and commercial buildings across the state and region. Specializing in entries, surrounds, columns and pedestals, balustrades, crown molding, mantels, fireplaces and accents such as planters, pergolas, spheres and finials, the company strives to produce enduring beauty and timeless elegance for their clients. Cast stone has been regarded as a top-quality building material for centuries, first used extensively in London before moving to America in the early 1900s. Valued for its beauty, permanence and versatility, cast stone offers many advantages over natural stone. The dense finish of cast stone is resistant to weather and dirt, while offering a smooth, stone-like appearance. While it can be precisely colored to simulate an almost limitless variety of natural stone, cast stone is extremely strong and durable, in addition to being breathtakingly beautiful. Reinforcement is added to provide the structural durability of precast concrete, with the beauty that rivals natural stone. For remodeling or restoration, cast stone also gives homeowners the ability to seamlessly replace deteriorated stone. Owner Genaro Arriaga opened the company 12 years ago, combining his love of cast stone and extensive experience in construction. Genaro’s talent with mold-making and his love for renaissance architecture helps his staff bring their client’s dreams to life. “We get our inspiration from drawings, paintings and statues from the Renaissance period,” explains Genaro. “To see the timeless beauty created during this period and being able to bring these creations to life for our clients is what got us started in cast stone.”

CONTINUED >

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A central focus of this living room in a Norman home is the elegant fireplace mantel designed and installed by Renaissance Cast Stone.

Renaissance Cast Stone offers a full line of cast stone products, but also specialize in fully customized pieces that allow clients to design their dream home. From small cast stone restorations to large architectural precast pieces, Renaissance Cast Stone is dedicated to handling each project with an unmatched attention to detail.

“We begin each project listening to our client’s ideas,” explains Genaro. “We begin with hand drawings to form the idea on paper, from there our draftsman will create specification drawings to bring to the table and from there, we move into full production and installation. We pride ourselves in exceeding the homeowner’s expectations in every way, while bringing lasting beauty to their home.”

Renaissance Cast Stone serves the residential and commercial construction fields in the states of Oklahoma, North Texas, Southern Kansas and Missouri, Arkansas and can ship across the country. For more information and to explore a photo gallery of Renaissance Cast Stone’s projects, visit RenaissanceCastStone.com or call 405.514.4780.

I had the privilege of meeting Genaro Arriaga 10 years ago. Shortly after meeting him, we hired him on our Rose Creek house build. The project included four fireplace surrounds, window surrounds and the first of its kind, cast stone corbels. After experiencing his process and product, I began referring Renaissance Cast Stone to all my builders and clients. When that home sold unexpectedly, we pulled him in again for a state-of-the-art front covered porch design that includes full cast stone surround and terrace columns. Anyone who has worked with Genaro and his team quickly discovers his artistic gift, but more importantly his care to you and your project. We at Shane Rickey Design are proud supporters of Renaissance Cast Stone & team. I am grateful to call Genaro a friend and colleague. - Shane Rickey, Shane Rickey Design

C UR B A P P E A L | HOM E + DE S I GN

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If you need home coverage, I can help. I live and work right here in our community. I know what the homes are like in the area. So I can offer advice you can trust to help you get the protection that ﬁts your needs. If you’re ready to talk home insurance or need some advice about protecting all that’s important to you, call me today.

Julie Cook Insurance Agency 405-692-2411 11723 South Western Avenue Oklahoma City juliecook1@allstate.com

Your home is a big investment. Protect it.

Proud to offer Good Hands® protection to you and your family.

Allstate home products not available in FL, and may also not be available in certain areas of other states. Policies may be written by a non-affiliated third-party company. Insurance subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company & affiliates: 2775 Sanders Rd Northbrook, IL. ©2016 Allstate Insurance Co. 15496063

Learn the skills. Help save a life. Suicide is preventable. Anyone can make a difference. @rosebudcllc

Two-day workshop in suicide intervention skills

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Learn and practice a life-saving intervention model Widely used by professionals and the general public

To inquire about scheduling a training for your team please contact Jessica-Rose Johnson SPEAKER | TRAINER | ADVOCATE www.rosebudcllc.com

405-300-0374

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1 S T O K L A H O M A

H O M E S MODEL HOMES OFFER FUNCTIONALITY AND ELEGANCE ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICHARD SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

Drawing on this aesthetic, 1st Oklahoma Homes incorporated natural materials like stone and wood, as well as light-colored walls and trim with punches of natural wood.

When Mike Sikes, owner of Oliveto Italian Bistro, and his wife decided to order their first custom-made house, Mike reached out to 1st Oklahoma Homes’ Ali Farzanah. In fall 2019, he began working in earnest on the project with Ali and the architect. Timing was iffy; it was about 10 days prior to the hit of COVID-19. Despite challenges associated with the early days of the pandemic, their home was successfully completed in 2021. Mike describes the process of working with Ali and his team as positive if a bit stressful because this was the first time he and his wife had worked with a custom builder. He said in the few instances where there was a miscommunication, Ali and his team were quick to respond and work out a mutually agreed-upon solution. “Ali has a high degree of integrity. We’d definitely work with him again if we ever do this again,” he stated. The Sikes went with a Craftsman-style house with an open floor plan and vaulted ceilings. At their request, the builders added a steam shower to the master bath, a large kitchen with giant island for food prep and casual dining, and a bonus room for their home gym and sauna. They also built an oversized garage onto the house in which to store their camper. Like all 1st Oklahoma Homes, the house has high marks for energy efficiency. While 1st Oklahoma Homes is facing the same pandemic-related challenges in obtaining materials and the soaring costs of those materials as other builders,

which means they have put new custom home projects temporarily on hold, they have a number of move-in homes across the metro for sale, and they are happy to visit with clients about their plans to build a custom home in the near future. Owner Ali Farzaneh said they build houses in several popular styles. Two of their model homes are showcased here. The nearly 2,300-square-foot main house featured in these pages is located in Norman’s Summit Lakes addition and features a Scandinavian design, the trademark of which is functionality, simplicity and clean lines that are in harmony with its environment. Drawing on this aesthetic, 1st Oklahoma Homes incorporated natural materials like stone and wood, as well as light-colored walls and trim with punches of natural wood. Another element of Scandinavian design is the free use of light and open space, hallmarks of this new build. The second model home, located in The Ridge addition in Newcastle, features a modern design and a focus on form and function. Modern design derives from mid-20th-century designs that stays away from heavy textures, ornamentation and dark dramatic elements in favor of clean straight lines and uncluttered spaces. The overall look is one of calm and relaxation. Learn more about 1st Oklahoma Homes, including the communities in which their turn-key homes are located, at OKCHomeBuilder.com.

LEFT: This 1st Oklahoma Home build in Norman's Summit Lakes addition draws on Scandinavian design elements such as functional, simplicity and clean lines. MIDDLE: Light-colored walls and trim with punches of natural wood, hallmarks of Scandinavian design, can been seen throughout this home. RIGHT: Yet another element of Scandinavian design, functionality, was incorporated into the kitchen and throughout the home. CONTINUED > MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

This 1st Oklahoma Homes build (shown in first two rows) draws heavily on Scandinavian design, the earmarks of which include simplicity, functionality and simplicity with nature.

The second model home featured here is this modern build in The Ridge addition of Newcastle. This style emphasizes form and function and clean lines. Both homes featuring interior design by Janet Biddick ( janetbiddickdesigns.com).

O PE N H OU SE | HOM E + DE S I GN

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Watch for news soon about the OU Football Coaches Luncheon fundraiser hosted by CAB.

THE CITIZEN’S ADVISORY BOARD ARTICLE BY LINDSEY DAVIES

Mission: To Help Children in Cleveland County Welfare System Feel Safe and to Thrive

Helping children in the Cleveland County Welfare system feel safe and to thrive during a difficult time in their lives is the goal of an advisory board that has been serving some of our most vulnerable population since 1989. When it was formed, CAB’s mission was to fulfill Christmas wishes of children in foster care in Cleveland County through a Secret Santa Program, noted Sue Durrett, CAB executive director. In their first year, they served 69 children. Last year, that number had grown to almost 700. CAB has since expanded its reach with two new programs. Through its Basic Needs Program, launched in 1992,CAB focuses on fulfilling requests that will help children with safety and stability in placement and connections with their family and community, as well as providing them with opportunities to discover their talents and interests through such enrichment opportunities as sports and other extracurricular activities and experiences.

G IV IN G BAC K | LOCA L SERVI CE S

“The goal is to provide as much normalcy as possible during a chaotic time in the lives of these children,” Durrett said. Examples of needs met through the Basic Needs Program include beds or cribs so children can be placed with relatives or siblings can stay together; food for families as they await reimbursement from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services; celebration funds and gifts for graduation; prom dresses; gas cards; and assistance with driver's education. “These are just a few examples, as our program focuses on the unique needs of the child,” Durrett said, noting that they coordinate their efforts with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Cleveland County Child Welfare department to identify children and families in need of assistance. “In addition, we have supported activities for youth preparing to transition out of foster care in learning necessary skills to live independently.”

The number of children served through this program grows every year, Durrett said, noting that in 2019, CAB added a Luggage with Love Program, which provides emergency clothing for children at the time of removal from their biological home. Children receive a personalized duffle bag filled with two sets of clothes, pajamas, socks, underwear, shoes, blanket, a hygiene kit and a toy, and book or other personal item. In addition, the children receive a coat and gloves in the winter and a swimsuit and flip flops in the summer. “This helps children at a traumatic time have something that belongs to them and assists foster parents by allowing them to focus on helping the child settle in their home,” Durrett explained. Durrett said there are several ways readers can help. “We always welcome groups that would like to do a drive for clothing, hygiene products, and/or crib and twin sheets for our Luggage with Love Program,” she said. “Also, we will be having a fundraiser in March, Pins for a Purpose, to help restock our inventory. It is a fun bowling tournament with lots of laughs, trophies and auction items.” Another way to help is through the OU Football Coaches Luncheon, where guests can hear about the upcoming football season, enjoy scrumptious food and participate in a live auction. And in November, CAB will again be asking for community shoppers to help fill the wish lists of children in the program. To participate in the Pins for a Purpose, Coaches Luncheon or Secret Santa, visit cabok.org. “Children in the Child Welfare system didn't ask to be there,” Durrett said. “They need the support of all who can provide it to help them through a traumatic time in their lives and help them continue to believe and dream of a positive future. Ensuring they are safe, feel stability in where they live, maintain important connections with family, and have opportunities to be involved in extracurricular activities promotes their growth and helps in building a brighter future. One kind action can make a positive impact on a child and their future.”

The Citizens Advisory Board hosts a Secret Santa program to fulfill Christmas wishes of children in foster care in Cleveland County.

“Children in the Child Welfare system didn't ask to be there. They need the support of all who can provide it to help them through a traumatic time in their lives and help them continue to believe and dream of a positive future.” - SUE DURRET

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MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

MARCH 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Cleveland County. N E I G H BO RH O O D

OR IGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Rural, Moore

849,900

860,000

101

201

3.1

Las Colinas, Norman

775,000

750,000

Rivendell 11, SW OKC

699,900

699,000

2.1

Rivendell on The Lake, SW OKC

699,999

686,000

3.1

H&L, Norman

538,000

480,000

3.1

Rio De Bella, SW OKC

470,000

100

3.1

Twin Lakes, Moore

445,500

464,500

104

2.1

Sendera Lakes, Moore

443,229

451,901

101

2.1

Brookhaven Square 4, Norman

449,950

445,000

Carrington Place, Norman

425,000

432,516

101

Apple Estates Sec 3, Moore

430,000

100

The Waters, Moore

394,990

402,490

101

132

Whispering Hills, Norman

415,000

390,000

2.2

Lake Ridge 6, SW OKC

359,900

386,000

107

2.2

Palermo Place, SW OKC

377,234

100

Greenbriar Kingswood, SW OKC

375,000

369,900

136

2.2

Belmar North, Moore

363,150

355,000

Talavera, SW OKC

349,900

350,000

100

Blue Ridge Acres, Norman

350,000

335,000

Meadow Lakes, SW OKC

325,000

335,000

103

This data is a sampling of sold properties from last month. Source: OKC/Norman Multiple Listing System.

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Not Federally Insured | No Financial Institution Guarantee | May Lose Value The Compass is a trademark of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2022 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (07/21)

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MARCH 2022

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. M A RC H 1 2 T H - 1 3TH

BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Convention

COX CONVENTION CENTER, OKC This fun, family-friendly event will include tons of amazing LEGO creations worth gawking at. All can also dive into building zones to unleash creative energy or listen to guest speakers inside the LEGO theater. Plenty of LEGO sets, mini-figures and accessories will also be available for purchase at this LEGO-centric event. BrickUniverse.com/Okc

M A RC H 1 2 T H

Norman Wine Festival

“Bridges serves, houses, and advocates for some of the most incredible teens living independently due to no fault of their own. High school students who are striving toward graduation. While the stories and reasons students come to Bridges are sad, we are not a sad place. We are a family, loving and supporting each other through thick and thin. Our students go forward into fruitful and successful lives.” - Stacy Bruce, Executive Director

CLEVELAND COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, NORMAN | 9:00 AM Come see this family-friendly event with over 70 booths of wine, beer, crafts, home decor, baked goods, food art and much more. ClevelandCountyFair.org

M A RC H 1 7 T H

sham-ROCK the Gardens: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

M YRIAD BOTAN ICAL GARDE NS, O KC | 11:00 AM Bring your lawn chairs to Devon Lawn and enjoy a glass of green beer as you listen to live music. Purchase a child’s craft wristband and watch as they enjoy access to crafts, games and activities. If you get hungry, check out the food trucks and browse a variety of vendors gathered for the St. Patty's Day celebration.

Norman East 801 12th Avenue NE

Norman Hwy. 9 4925 SE 44th Street

Norman North West 570 24th Avenue NW

(405) 579-7000 FirstUnitedBank.com

MyriadGardens.org/Events/St-Pat ricks-Day-In-The-Gardens Member FDIC.

MAR CH 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

PAYING OFF YOUR HOME TOO EARLY? ARTICLE BY MARK JOHNSON

Many people have the desire to not have a house payment. So, they either make additional payments on their mortgage or when they have a windfall of cash they want to pay off their mortgage. However, this may not be the most financially sound thing to do. With mortgage interest rates at 40-year lows, it may be more financially sound to apply that extra payment or windfall toward a savings or retirement account. The average 30-year mortgage is currently around 3.5% today. With the average return of the stock market, as measured by the S&P 500 Index, being 10.5% since 1957—that’s a margin of 7% that you could be taking advantage of. As an example, a 30-year mortgage at 3.5% would cost you $185,000 in interest over time, while that same $300,000 invested in the S&P 500 would have grown to

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FIN ANCE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

over $6.1 million over the past 30 years. Basically, saving $185,000 in interest cost you the potential of growing your money to over $6 million! There is a difference in debt and “good-debt.” When you are able to use other people’s money at a very low cost, as in a mortgage lender, then you should. The caveat in this scenario is that you do have to invest the difference to get that margin. While not having a mortgage and monthly payments may help you sleep better at night, paying your mortgage off early may not be your smartest financial choice. Mark Johnson is a financial advisor for Heartland Wealth Management, 3351 W. Rock Creek Road, Suite 130, Norman, OK 73072. He can be contacted at 405.561.7051 or Mark.Johnson@heartlandwm.com.

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