City of Norman

Storm Spotter Training

2005-01-29T10:21:00.000-06:00

In Oklahoma, it's not a question of if severe storms and tornadoes will threaten, but when. To help get ready for the upcoming severe weather season, the National Weather Service will conduct storm spotter training in Little Axe on Friday, February 11th beginning at 6:30 PM.

The training is free and open to the public, and will be held at the Little Axe Community Center.Rick Smith, Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the National Weather Service's Norman Forecast office will conduct the training, which is designed to give storm spotters the information they need to be able to safely observe severe storms, and to report their observations to city officials and the National Weather Service. Even with radar and other technological advances over recent years, forecasters at the National Weather Service still rely heavily on trained storm spotters to provide ground truth information. The presentation will also include information on storm safety, severe weather climatology and other interesting facts related to springtime weather in Oklahoma.

One way for the National Weather Service to gather the information from trained storm spotters is through the local office of emergency management and the amateur radio volunteers that support emergency operations. The South Canadian Amateur Radio Society supports the local area. You can learn more about amateur radio by visiting their web page at www.w5nor.org or by calling the Norman Office of Emergency Management at (405) 292-9780.

David Grizzle, the City of Norman Emergency Management Coordinator, will also be available to address any questions or concerns regarding severe weather operations for the City of Norman and to provide information on how citizens can be a part of the severe weather operations effort.

For more information concerning the storm spotter training contact Pam Sharp at the Little Axe Community Center (405) 292-9770 or David Grizzle at the Norman Office of Emergency Management (405) 292-9780

January 25 City Council Agenda

2005-01-20T16:21:00.000-06:00

Sister City Plaza and Trail Dedication

2005-01-20T10:44:00.000-06:00

Leaders from across the globe will be coming together this Saturday at Andrews Park to dedicate Norman’s very own Sister City Plaza and Trail. A delegation from Norman’s sister city in France, Clermont-Ferrand, led by their Mayor, Serge Godard, are in town and will be on hand for the dedication.

Norman has had a sister city relationship with Clermont-Ferrand and Colima, Mexico for some time. The city is also in talks with Seika Town, Japan about developing a sister city relationship. The dedication will begin at 9:00 AM on the south side of Andrews Park. Norman’s Park and Recreation Department will have coffee and hot chocolate for all that attend. The dedication is open to the public and all are welcome to join in the festivities.

The plaza and trail were recently designed and built through the hard work and dedication of Norman’s Park and Recreation staff.

Chocolate Festival Plans Announced

2005-01-11T09:30:00.000-06:00

February 5, 200510:30 am - 3:00 pm
Presented by the Firehouse Art Center

Being held at the Norman North High School Commons, 1809 N. Stubbeman

TASTING SESSION
Linger over the selection of your ten delicious chocolate samples! Tickets are $18 ($15 for Firehouse members). It is advised that you purchase your tickets early, so you can get an entry time convenient for you. Premier Tasting tickets are available.

Premier guests receive 15 samples, Tupperware container and a drink!

Premier Tasting tickets are $30 ($25 for Firehouse members).

CHOCOLATE! Competitions
It's Chocolate, designed for the eyes! "CHOCOLATE! A Juried Exhibit" features art that mostly chocolate and mostly edible. Marvel at these creations vying for purchase awards. Then, cast your vote for the "People's Choice Award!"

Area cooks and bakers will be competing for cash prizes in the FAC Brownie Bake-off and the Most Delicious Dessert competitions. After judging, the brownies and desserts will become
samples for tasters -- and delicious they will be!

The Firehouse Art Center Chocolate Festival Tickets are now on sale! The Firehouse Art Center will have regular hours through Dec 22nd, 2004. Our hours of operation are 930am - 530pm Tuesday through Friday, 10am-4pm on Saturday, and 1pm-5pm on Sundays. Tickets for the Chocolate Festival as well as the Gala will available for sale online beginning in January.

On the 23rd of Dec the Firehouse Art Center will be open from 930am - 10pm! Chocolate Festival tickets are great stocking stuffers so beat the rush and buy your tickets before Christmas! We will be closed from Dec 24th through Jan 3rd. We will reopen at 930am on 4 Jan, 2005.

300 Premiere tickets are available for early tasting for one hour and include 15 samples, a container to carry them in, and a drink.

Premiere tickets are $30 for non-members and $25 for members.
Tasting time is from 1030am - 1130am

400 Traditional tickets are available for each 30 minute segment and include 10 samples!
Traditional tickets are $18 for non-members and $15 for members.
30 minute tasting sessions beginning at 1130am and ending at 300pm

The Chocolate Festival is the Firehouse's largest fundraiser of the year! The 23rd annual Chocolate Festival will be held 5 Feb, 2005 at Norman North High School. It has grown substantially over the years and includes many of Norman's most well known restaurants and business sponsors.

Events include:
Cooking demonstrations
$5 kid's area (which includes 4 activities and 1 chocolate sample)
culinary creations
brownie bake-off
chocolate sculpture competition
chocolate picture competition
chocolate gallery show

Entry forms for each of these competitions/contests are available online and at the front desk. Our address at the Firehouse is 444 S. Flood Ave, Norman, OK 73069. You may call us at 405.329.4523 or visit our website at www.normanfirehouse.com

All of the information regarding the Chocolate Festival is posted including prices and details regarding each event.

Light the Way: Reflecting upon Child Abuse & Neglect

2005-01-10T10:39:00.000-06:00

Every 11 seconds a child is reported abused or neglected in our nation.

A candlelight vigil, with special guest First Lady Kim Henry, will be held at Alcott Middle School gym on Monday, January 31st at 7:00. The school is located at 1919 W. Boyd.

This event is sponsored by

Bethesda

Center for Children & Families

Exchange Club

Junior League of Norman

Mary Abbott House

Norman Police Department

For more information contact 364-1420.

The Norman Convention & Visitors Bureau 2005 Calendar of Events

2004-12-27T16:30:00.000-06:00

Dates & events are subject to change without notice. Please call the number listed for the event for confirmation and additional information. Due to occasional rescheduling of events, we recommend that you dispose of last quarter’s mailing.

All telephone numbers are area code 405, unless otherwise indicated.

For additional craft fair information, you may call the Sooner Mall at 405-360-0360 or local community churches.

Channel 20 Programming for January

2004-12-21T11:55:00.000-06:00

City Council Agenda for December 28

2004-12-21T11:44:00.000-06:00

Increased Fines to Become Effective

2004-12-21T08:25:00.000-06:00

Almost a month ago, the Norman City Council approved increasing the penalty on parking fines. The increased fines become effective on Thursday, December 23rd.

One parking violation that received much discussion was parking on sidewalks. Imagine being in a wheelchair, elderly, or young and walking to school; and trying to get around on the sidewalks in Norman. It seems like a pretty easy thing to do with our extensive sidewalk system. Unfortunately for many it is not. Parked cars when blocking a sidewalk make it difficult, if not impossible, to continue down the sidewalk. The new fine for parking on a sidewalk is $50 initially. If it is not paid in 5 days, the fine goes up to $75, with a maximum penalty of $200.

Other parking fine increases are as follows:

Fine Amount

Violation Fine Amount After 5 Days
Expired Meter $10 $25
Excess of Time $10 $25
Private Property $50 $75
Fire Lane $100 $150
Handicapped Parking $100 $150
All Other Violations $20 $30

In addition to these increases, people can expect to pay $25 in court costs in certain instances. The vehicle registration fine did not change and remains at $50.

A majority of criminal fines in Municipal Court that had a maximum of $200 were raised to $500. Also, the state assessment on traffic and non-traffic violations increased by $2. If you would like to report a violation, please notify the Norman Police Department at 321-1600.

Holiday Sanitation Schedule

2004-12-16T09:21:00.000-06:00

This year, with Christmas and New Year’s being on Saturdays, there will be no change in sanitation service. The Sanitation Division will run regular service schedules during the holidays.

In response to many concerns about the capacity of the poly carts for extra holiday trash, Norman Sanitation crews will be picking up extra trash that is placed next to the poly cart. This extra pick-up will occur for two weeks from December 27, 2004, to January 7, 2005, on normal service days. Trash must be placed in bags. Only normal waste items will be picked-up, not hazardous waste or bulky items that would normally be picked up during spring and fall clean up. Citizens are encouraged to use one of Norman’s three recycling centers to dispose of their corrugated cardboard. They are:

Pratt Foods – Lindsey & 12th Avenue Southeast
Target Store – 24th Avenue & West Main
Hollywood Shopping Center – Lindsey & McGee

Christmas trees will be collected on regular yardwaste collection days. The city asks that all ornaments, tree stands and other plastic items be removed from the tree prior to placement at the curb. Also, trees more than six feet in height should be cut in half prior to being placed at the curb for collection.

Norman Finance Department Receives National Award

2004-12-10T10:46:00.000-06:00

The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) is pleased to announce that the City of Norman has received the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget.

The award represents a significant achievement by the entity. It reflects the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting. In order to receive the budget award, the entity had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as:

· A policy document
· A financial plan
· An operations guide
· A communications device

Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories to receive the award.

When a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award is granted to an entity, a Certificate of Recognition for Budget Presentation is also presented to the individual or department designated as being primarily responsible for its having achieved the award. This has been presented to Anthony Francisco, Finance Director.

"Not only is this an award for our department, it is an award for all City employees who work very hard on our budget. We are very proud to receive this national award and recognition for our efforts. There are very few cities in the State of Oklahoma who receive this award, so we are exceptionally honored," said Suzanne Krohmer, Budget Analyst.

Since the inception of the GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program in 1984, approximately 900 entities have received the Award. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North America.

The Government Finance Officers Association is a nonprofit professional association serving 14,000 government finance professionals throughout North America. The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting.

City Council Agenda for December 12

2004-12-10T10:39:00.000-06:00

The Search is Over

2004-12-10T10:25:00.000-06:00

At their Tuesday night Executive Session, Norman City Council choice to remove the Interim part from Brad Gambill’s title and make him Norman’s new City Manager. Mr. Gambill has been serving in the capacity of Interim City Manager since Andy Anderson left to take a job in Bend, Oregon in July.

“I look forward to working with the city council and city staff as we tackle the many critical issues facing our city. The City of Norman has an exceptional workforce and this is a wonderful community to call home,” said Brad Gambill, Interim City Manager.

Norman’s Mayor Harold Haralson commented, “I am extremely pleased Brad succumbed to the council’s hints and decided to become the permanent City Manager, he will do an outstanding job. He brings a multitude of skills which will be a definite asset to our community.”

Brad most recently served as the city’s Utilities Director before retiring on July 31, 2003. Mr. Gambill joined Norman’s staff in 1994. Prior to that he served as the Director of Community Development for the City of Stillwater and Urban Planner for the Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority. Brad has also worked as a private consultant doing work in the Southwest United States.

Prior to retiring from the city, Brad also completed a distinguished 40 plus year career in the Army National Guard, retiring from the United States Army in 2002. Upon his military retirement Major General Gambill was serving as Deputy Commanding General of the Fifth United States Army.

Brad was born in Pawnee and graduated with a B.A. from Oklahoma State University and a Masters in City Planning from the University of Oklahoma. He also received a Masters in Strategic Planning from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. Brad and his wife Janet live in Norman, they have two children and four grandchildren.

Cleveland County receives National Emergency Grant for displaced Saxon employees

2004-12-08T11:15:00.000-06:00

The Department of Labor has awarded the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission a $283,430 National Emergency Grant (NEG) to allocate funds for displaced Saxon workers in Cleveland County.

On July 7, 2004, Saxon Publishers announced that Harcourt Publishing had purchased the company and 208 employees’ jobs would be affected.

The grant provides supplemental funds to the Cleveland County Workforce Investment Board (CCWIB) to respond to the needs of dislocated workers by providing financial assistance to workers so they can attend college or receive technical training in high demand occupations. Several workers have already enrolled in classes at Moore Norman Technology Center, the University of Oklahoma and other approved statewide vendors.

"Enabling members of our vital workforce to stay in Oklahoma is a good investment in our future,” Gov. Henry stated. “The training these individuals receive will help prepare them and our great state to continue to grow and embrace new opportunities."

Don Wood, executive director of the Norman Economic Development Coalition expressed similar sentiments.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the county to support those employees that have lost their jobs with the purchase and relocation of Saxon,” Wood said. “It allows many of these families to stay in Norman.”

Dislocated workers apply for assistance at the Workforce Oklahoma office located at 12th Ave. NE and East Main in Norman. Interested applicants should contact Jackie Irvin at 701-2035 to schedule an appointment.

“This grant allows the Cleveland County Workforce Investment Board to fulfill its purpose by assisting displaced workers,” stated George Skinner, Cleveland County Commissioner. “The board is grateful for this grant.”

The Workforce Oklahoma office provides Internet access where applicants can search the web and utilize the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission’s Oklahoma Job Link.

Some of the events that qualify a community for a NEG include plant closures, mass layoffs affecting 50 or more workers at a single site of employment and multiple layoffs in a single local community that have significantly increased the total number of unemployed individuals in a community.

For more information about the grant, please contact Joan Barker at 405.701.2057.

About The Cleveland County Workforce Investment Board
Appointed by the local elected officials of Cleveland County, and certified by the Governor, the members of the Cleveland County Workforce Investment Board are authorized to implement the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 – the purpose of which is to “…improve the quality of the workforce, reduce welfare dependency, and enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the Nation.

The Workforce Investment Board is part of the “Workforce Oklahoma” system, a public/private partnership of employers, community-based organizations, labor unions, and agencies involved in delivering workforce development service. The guiding principles of Workforce Oklahoma are having a local focus, being employer driven, using existing resources and being accountable for results.

December Programming Schedule for Channel 20

2004-12-08T09:07:00.000-06:00

Parents Night Out

2004-12-06T08:25:00.000-06:00

What are you to do when you need to find the perfect gift for you child or attend your office holiday party? Well the City of Norman Parks and Recreation Department has just the thing for you, Parents Night Out. For only $5 you can buy yourself some free time and insure you child has more holiday fun than you could imagine!

On Saturday, December 11th from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Irving Recreation Center, 292-9774 and Friday, December 17th from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Whittier Recreation Center, 292-9703; there will be pizza, movies, games and more! Space is limited, so pre-registration is a must.

City Sponsors Workshops to Outline New Discharge Requirements for Food Establishments

2004-12-02T10:24:00.000-06:00

Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are a serious problem for sanitary sewer collection systems. When poured down the drain, these waste products cling to the walls of the pipes that make up the collection system and reduce the amount of sewage the system can transport. Many times FOG causes complete blockages of large sections of the collection system and results in sewage backing-up and overflowing from the system. When these overflows occur outdoors they pollute the environment, create health hazards and can result in Administrative Orders and fines issued by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. When they occur indoors the raw sewage creates a health hazard and can destroy property.

The City of Norman spends a great deal of time and money every year trying to keep the collection system open and flowing smoothly. Most of the problems occur in the collection lines that service the city’s restaurants. This is because the restaurants are where the largest amounts of FOG are used and disposed of.

In an effort to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and decrease maintenance costs from FOG accumulation in its sanitary sewers, the City of Norman adopted a FOG program. Any nonresidential facility connected to the sanitary sewer collection and treatment system involved in the preparation or serving of foods is subject to the conditions of the FOG program.

The City of Norman’s Utility Department is sponsoring free workshops to assist local businesses in complying with the new requirements for discharging fats, oils and grease. These workshops will be held at the Norman Municipal Building, Council Chambers, 201 W. Gray. The first workshop will be for businesses that service grease traps. It will be held Monday, December 6th at 11:00 AM. The second set of workshops will be for any business that prepares, cooks and/or serves food. These workshops will be held on Monday, December 13th at 5:30 PM and Wednesday, December 15th at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Each workshop will be about an hour and a half. Registration is required, but the workshops are free. To register for any of the FOG workshops please call Environmental Services at 292-9731.

Falling Debris from Vehicles

2004-12-01T13:03:00.000-06:00

The last time you were driving behind a large truck full of debris did you wonder if they had their load covered so that your car wouldn’t get dinged by a rock or gravel? Or maybe you thought there should be a law addressing such an issue. It just so happens an ordinance is on the books to deal with this very situation. City leaders recognized the problem years ago and have written language to address it. City Ordinance Section 20-518 Parts E and F states:

(e) No vehicle shall be driven or moved on any roadway, unless such vehicle is so constructed or loaded as to prevent any of its load from dropping, shifting, leaking, blowing or otherwise escaping there from, except that sand may be dropped for the purpose of securing traction, or water or other substances may be sprinkled on a roadway in cleaning or maintaining such roadway.

(f) No person shall operate on any roadway any vehicle with any load, unless said load and any covering thereon is securely fastened so as to prevent said covering or load from becoming loose, detached, or in any manner a hazard to other users of the roadway. Any vehicle loaded with sand, cinders, or other loose material susceptible to blowing or escaping by reason of wind shall have such load covered or dampened so as to prevent the blowing or escaping of said load from the vehicle.

Fines for such an offense range from $35 to $200, plus court costs. As always, when traveling with loose debris make certain it is appropriately secured. If you see a vehicle that is in violation of the ordinance, please call 321-1600 to report the incident.

Winter Weather Preparedness Tips

2004-11-30T15:22:00.000-06:00

Even though some portions of the state have already experienced their first winter precipitation this season, it's not too late for all of Oklahoma to become winter weather prepared. Toward that effort, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has joined the National Weather Service (NWS) in recognizing Wednesday, Dec. 1 as Winter Weather Awareness Day.
With winter weather comes the need to prepare your home, automobile and family to deal with the colder temperatures, as well as the possibility for snow and ice.
"It's especially timely to review winter weather travel safety plans since more people will be on the road during the holiday period," explained OEM Director Albert Ashwood. "Before setting out on a holiday trip we encourage families to make sure they have prepared their automobile. Packing blankets, emergency food and water, flashlights, a radio and cell phone with extra batteries will help you and your family, should you become stranded because of the weather," he said.
It's also important to remember to protect your home. Adding weather stripping and insulation, keeping furnaces clean and ready to use, and being aware of cold temperatures and vulnerable pipes that might freeze mark just some of the actions that can help prevent major and costly winter weather-related damage.
In recent years Oklahoma has experienced some devastating ice storms. The storms were responsible for nearly 40 deaths, power outages for hundreds of thousands and more than $250 million in damages to cities and towns. "By following some simple tips and monitoring the media during times of severe weather, Oklahomans stand their best chance at not becoming a victim of the weather" said Rick Smith, warning coordination meteorologist with the NWS Office at Norman.
Winter weather watches and warnings will be issued by the NWS on NOAA Weather Radios and over radio and television stations so that Oklahoman's can stay aware of any hazardous winter weather conditions that may arise.
In addition, OEM is teaming up with local emergency management offices across the state in order to encourage winter weather preparedness activities in all Oklahoma communities. Individuals or groups who would like to host a program to help become better prepared for the next storm should call their local emergency management office.
Below are some winter weather preparedness tips. Citizens who would like more information on how to cope with winter weather should contact local emergency management offices in their area or visit www.srh.noaa.gov/oun on the Internet for more tips, safety guidelines and winter weather definitions.

Be Aware
· Know what winter storm and blizzard watches and warnings mean.
· A National Weather Service Winter Storm watch is a message indicating that conditions are favorable for hazardous winter precipitation to develop.
· An NWS warning indicates that a winter storm is occurring or is imminent, and could threaten life and property.
· A blizzard warning means sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 mph or greater and considerable falling or blowing snow are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
· Depend on your NOAA Weather Radio, along with local radio and television stations for weather reports.

Plan for a Winter Storm
· Develop a Family Disaster Plan for winter storms. Discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued. Everyone should know what to do in case all family members are not together when a winter storm hits.
· Understand the hazards of wind chill. Cold temperatures are even more dangerous, and potentially deadly, when combined with strong winds. The lower the temperature and stronger the wind, the more at risk you are.
· Check on family, friends and neighbors -- especially the elderly. Make sure they are prepared.
· Don't forget about the pets. Make sure they have good food and water supplies and a place to seek shelter.
· Have your car winterized before winter storm season. During winter storm season keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
Protect Your Property
· Make sure your home is properly insulated. If necessary insulate walls and attic. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills.
· Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside.
· To keep pipes from freezing, wrap them in insulation or layers of old newspapers. Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
· Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing.
· Know how to shut off water valves.
· Install and check smoke alarms.
· Keep safe emergency-heating equipment, such as a fireplace with wood. Always be cautious in using a portable space heater. Consider storing extra heating fuel.

If You Must Go Out During a Winter Storm:
· The best way to stay safe in a snowstorm is not to be out in it. Long periods of exposure to severe cold can result in frostbite or hypothermia. It is easy to become disoriented in blowing snow.
· Stretch before you do so. If you go out to shovel snow, do a few stretching exercises to warm up your body. This will reduce your chances of muscle injury.
· Avoid overexertion, such as shovelling heavy snow, pushing a car or walking in deep snow.
· Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks. Slips and falls occur frequently in winter weather.
· Dress in many layers and wear a hat and mittens.
· Come inside often for warm-up breaks.
· If you start to shiver or get very tired, or if your nose, fingers, toes, or ear lobes start to feel numb or turn very pale, come inside right away and seek medical assistance. These are the signs of hypothermia and frostbite and need immediate attention.
· Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive.
· If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle and hang a brightly coloured cloth (preferably red) on the radio antenna and raise the hood (after snow stops falling).

Make sure your Winter Storm Disaster Supplies Kit includes:
· A cell phone with extra battery or two-way radio
· Windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal
· Several blankets or sleeping bags
· Rain gear and extra sets of dry clothing, mittens, socks and a cap
· Non-perishable snacks like canned fruit, nuts and other high energy "munchies." Include non-electric can opener if necessary.
· Several bottles of water. Eating snow will lower your body temperature. If necessary, melt it first.
· A small sack of sand or kitty litter for generating traction under wheels, a set of tire chains or traction mats.
· Jumper cables
· A first aid kit
· A flashlight with extra batteries
· A brightly colored cloth to tie to the antenna if you get stranded.

WinterFest 2004

2004-11-30T08:20:00.000-06:00

The City of Norman Parks and Recreation is proud to present the 2004 WinterFest Holiday Celebration. This year’s celebration is scheduled to begin at 5:30 PM on Friday, December 3rd at Andrews Park.

Attendees can look forward to some great live entertainment from the Eisenhower, Kennedy, Jefferson and Jackson Elementary School Choirs, and the Dazzler Drill Team. The annual tree lighting will be at 6:00 PM with a few holiday remarks from Mayor Harold Haralson. There will also be free photos with Santa for the first 200 families, free refreshments, a moon bounce, Funny Factory Clowns, and balloons.

For more information, please contact the Norman Parks and Recreation Department at 366-5472.

HOLIDAY SAFETY

2004-11-29T10:24:00.000-06:00

As the end of the year holidays approach people become busier, excited and at times a little bit careless. The Norman Police Department wants to remind everybody of a few crime prevention/safety tips to make your holidays safer and merrier. We have listed the tips below in various categories.

At Home
Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave your home, even for a few minutes.
Try not to display holiday gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway.
If you go out for the evening, consider leaving a light and radio or television on, so your home appears to be occupied.
Be wary of strangers soliciting for charitable donations. They may attempt to take advantage of people’s generosity during the holidays.
Avoid leaving boxes that gifts were in out on the curb for trash pickup (especially TV, computer, VCR, etc.).
Test your smoke detectors.
Never leave holiday lights on overnight or when you are going to be away from home.
Use only fire resistant ornaments and lights that are in good working order.
Be careful about leaving any pieces of gift wrapping, bows, and other small items lying around, these things can choke small child.
Never leave candles burning overnight or while you are going to be away from home.

Shopping
Always lock your car with the windows closed and take the keys with you.
Lock your packages and gifts in the trunk of your car where they can not been seen.
If possible, coordinate your shopping trips with a friend, so you will not be shopping alone.
Try to do your shopping before dark if possible, but if not, never park in an unlit lot or area, no matter how convenient.
To discourage purse-snatchers don’t overburden your self with packages.
Report any suspicious activity you notice to the police or store security.
When driving to and from shopping, drive careful and wear your seatbelts.
Watch for traffic while walking to and from stores.
Never leave your purse in a shopping cart and walk away.

*The Norman Police Department will have bike officers at major shopping areas and patrol officers will be providing as much visibility as possible.

Holiday Parties
Have non-alcoholic drinks available for party guests that may be designated drivers.
It is a great idea to have alternative transportation for intoxicated persons. Don’t let guests drink and drive!
Make arrangements ahead of time for any additional parking you may need or have the party at a location that has plenty of parking.
It is also a good idea to contact your neighbors if you are having the party at your home, to make sure they have no objections.
Be very careful with lit candles that may be knocked over by party guests.

Remember while driving, especially during the holiday season, to drive at a speed that is appropriate for the conditions and always wear your seatbelt. The Norman Police Department wishes everyone a very happy holiday season!

The November Edition of the Norman Economic Development Coalition's E-Digest

2004-11-24T08:57:00.000-06:00

Joint Ward Meeting

2004-11-24T08:56:00.000-06:00

Councilmembers Rachel Butler and David Hopper are pleased to announce their upcoming neighborhood meeting. The meeting will be Thursday, December 2, 2004, at 6:30 PM in the gym at Washington Elementary School (SE 48th, just south of Alameda).

The main topic of discussion will be the discharge of firearms in rural residential areas. Many people in east Norman have expressed concerns related to shooting near their homes. This will be an opportunity to discuss all the issues.

Also on hand will be City Manager Brad Gambill, Police Chief Phil Cotten, Manager of Current Planning Doug Koscinski, and a representative from the city’s legal staff.

Although residents of Wards 5 and 6 are specifically encouraged to attend, all citizens of Norman are invited and welcome to participate in the discussion.

Street Closure

2004-11-23T15:02:00.000-06:00

Weather permitting, Friday, November 26, 2004, Robinson Street will be closed west of the intersection of 48th Avenue NW. The closure will last for approximately three months. Haskell Lemon Construction will be performing paving operations in association with the Robinson Street Gap Paving project, which extends from 48th Avenue NW to Brookhaven Boulevard.

The detour route will be 60th Avenue NW (Western Avenue), Tecumseh Road and 48th Avenue NW.

Drivers who wish to avoid the construction on Robinson Street are encouraged to use alternate routes into the City, such as Tecumseh Road.

Thanksgiving Schedule

2004-11-22T15:12:00.000-06:00

Due to the holiday, all sanitation operations will be closed Thursday, November 25, 2004, Thanksgiving Day. Residential customers, whose sanitation service is on Thursday, November 25, 2004, will be picked up on Friday, November 26, 2004 and Friday customers will receive service on Saturday, November 27, 2004. Those once a week commercial customers that receive Thursday collection will be picked up another day of the week.

City offices will be closed Thursday, November 25, 2004 and Friday, November 26, 2004 for the Thanksgiving Holiday.

City Council Special Session Meeting

2004-11-10T13:30:00.000-06:00

OU UPDATE

2004-11-09T10:44:00.000-06:00

UNIVERSITY NEWS

THE FUTURE OF FREEDOM: Fareed Zakaria, ABC News political analyst and Newsweek International editor, addressed guestions at a recent OU President's Associates dinner and discussed how American-style democracy and economics don't always translate into freedom in other countries.

NSSL CELEBRATES 40TH YEAR: The National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with public presentations, a sold-out dinner and its first open house since the Sept. 11 attacks.

2005 OU CALENDAR AVAILABLE: The 2005 University of Oklahoma calendar "Of Campus Beautiful by Day and Night" is now available for sale.

CENTER OF ATTENTION: Weathernews recently opened its U.S. Operations Center on OU's Research Campus-South.

TULSA COUPLE GIVES TAOS MASTERWORKS: Thanks to a gift from longtime art collectors Priscilla C. and Joseph N. Tate of Tulsa, a major collection of Southwestern paintings will have a new home at OU's Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art.

OU STUDENTS CREATE BUSINESSES: This year's four Integrated Business Core companies in the Michael F. Price College of Business are now up and running.

UNIVERSITY OUTREACH GETS GRANT: The University Outreach organization at OU's College of Continuing Education received a $2.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that will aid children of imprisoned parents.

COLLEGE OF NURSING RECEIVES HONOR: The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center's College of Nursing recently was named the first of three U.S. centers designated as a Joanna Briggs Institute Collaborating Center for Evidence-Based Practice.

OU PROFESSOR APPOINTED TO FDA PANEL: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has invited Dr. Kenneth Dormer, University of Oklahoma professor of physiology, to participate in a panel that will develop a standards guide for pre-clinical testing of new technology in implantable hearing devices.

MINORITIES IN MEDIA: Karla Harshaw, president of the American Society of Newspaper Editors, led a discussion recently focused on the responsibilities of journalists and readers for diversity in the media.

OU TO PRESENT 'DREAM COURSES': Beginning this spring semester, professors in history, film and video studies, geography, sociology, meteorology, drama and English will have the opportunity to teach their "dream" course and bring in experts from their particular field.

ALUMNI NEWS

AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPS: For those who are planning ahead for next year, be sure to check out the scholarships for which all students can apply.

OU ARMY ROTC ALUMNI PLAN NOV. 12 REUNION: The Army Reserve Officers Training Corps Alumni and Friends Club at the University of Oklahoma will hold its second annual reunion Friday, Nov. 12, on OU's Norman campus.

SPORTS NEWS

OU ATHLETICS HELPS OU LIBRARIES: A partnership between OU's athletics and libraries has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars toward an endowment that will buy books and journals and help pay for databases.

OU PROGRAM PROFILED: ESPN profiles Sooner coaches and players, including graduate assistant Josh Heupel and true freshman Adrian Peterson.

GALA SWINGING FOR SUCCESS: A new Spanish member of OU women's golf is making a name for herself.

LINKS OF INTEREST

GET A HEAD START ON HOLIDAY SHOPPING: The OU Alumni Store features great Sooner-themed gifts that include Fossil watches, children's clothing, OU Christmas stockings and "Sooner Santa" hats. Stocking are available with or without monogramming. Proceeds support the Alumni Association, scholarship programs and the University.

DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY: The University of Oklahoma's School of Library and Information Studies recently celebrated its 75th Anniversary.

Sooner Cinema for November

2004-11-04T14:09:00.000-06:00

Sooner Cinema is doing something a little different this month -- we are showing three movies that have been heavily requested by our patrons. We will not be showing any Sunday films in December.

Sunday, November 7
Monty Python's The Meaning of Life'
6 p.m. Only
Tickets are $5
Rated R

The Monty Python group examines the meaning and purpose of life in a series of sketches from conception to death and beyond. In typical Monty Python fashion they satirize and humourize almost everyone. There are even musical numbers, but with that same unmistakable brand of Python humor. Expect the un-expected!

November Events at The Sooner Theatre Call 321-9600 for information

Same Time Next Year - November 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13 Tickets are $12 and $15. Senior and student discount on Nov. 7.
Sooner Cinema - Flash Gordon (1980) November 14
The Lovin' Spoonful - November 19, 8 p.m. Tickets are $30, $35 and $40
Sooner Cinema - Super Size Me, November 21

Channel 20 programming for November

2004-11-02T09:26:00.000-06:00

Click here for the November programming.

Local students shadow Storm Prediction Center forecasters

2004-10-29T08:30:00.000-05:00

Students from Norman and Moore Public Schools are participating in a Job Shadow program with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla.

The program allows high school students interested in meteorology to spend a day interacting with operational forecasters and touring the facility. The students watch forecasters as they go about their typical daily activities, including issuing severe thunderstorm and tornado forecasts and watches throughout the contiguous United States.

Two students from the Moore High Schools will shadow forecasters Oct. 28 and 29, and two students from Norman High Schools will shadow on Nov. 3 and 4.

The program began last March when Marty Farris, a Norman North student, and Ryan Marx, a Norman High School student, each spent a day at the SPC. The program is coordinated by SPC forecaster Jeff Peters, who accompanies the students through the day and provides a comprehensive tour, along with a detailed slide show explaining the SPC operations, the organizational structure, and instruments used to obtain meteorological data for their suite of forecast products.

In addition, each student will attend a daily map discussion facilitated by both SPC forecasters and National Severe Storms Laboratory researchers.

The NOAA Storm Prediction Center issues forecasts and watches for severe thunderstorms and tornadoes over the contiguous United States. The SPC also monitors heavy rain, heavy snow and fire weather events across the U.S. and issues specific national products for those hazards. SPC meteorologists are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Part of the National Weather Service’s National Centers for Environmental Prediction, the SPC was established in Washington, D.C. in 1952, moved to Kansas City in 1954 and then Norman in 1997.

The SPC’s program is part of the national Job Shadowing 2004, a joint initiative of a coalition that includes America’s Promise, Junior Achievement and the U.S. Department of Labor. Job Shadowing 2004 is supported through national co-sponsors Monster and News Corporation.

Pat Mayes named Workforce Investment Area Leader of the Year

2004-10-28T10:35:00.000-05:00

Workforce Oklahoma recently announced Pat Mayes, chairman of the board of directors of First American Bank, as the Cleveland County Workforce Investment Area 2004 Business Leader of the Year at its annual Workforce Oklahoma Alumni Celebration.

Workforce Oklahoma celebrates Oklahoma’s workforce system and seeks to recognize individuals who have made improvements to the systems as well as recognize individuals who utilize the system to increase their job skills.

Mayes has been an asset to the Norman community by serving on numerous boards and influencing the Norman business community for 48 years. He is the immediate past president of the Norman Chamber of Commerce and he currently serves as chairman of the Chamber’s Government Relations Council.

He served on the Norman Board of Education for 25 years, acting as president five times. He is the past chair of the Heart of Oklahoma American Red Cross and a member of the Norman Alcohol Information Center.

Mayes is a member of the Oklahoma Bankers Association and belongs to the State Chamber of Commerce, where he sits on the Small Business Council.

Also recognized during the event were Brenda Aflleje and Tony Saldana for utilizing the Workforce Oklahoma system to better their lives and careers.

For more information, contact Maureen Hammond at 405.573.1900 or e-mail her nedc@nedcok.com.

About Workforce Oklahoma
Workforce Oklahoma is the new workforce development system where business leaders, educators and employment professionals are working together to achieve job growth, employee productivity and employer satisfaction. Within this system is a network of statewide offices where employment, education and training providers are integrating services to assist customers in finding jobs and qualified workers, making career decisions and accessing training opportunities.

City Council Agenda for Oct. 26, 2004

2004-10-25T10:09:00.000-05:00

Please click here to read the agenda.

Small Gift Makes a Big Difference

2004-10-25T10:04:00.000-05:00

The City of Norman Fleet Maintenance Division has the large task of maintaining every city vehicle. Each year they go through hundreds of tires, gallons of oil and the other critical parts to keep Norman’s staff rolling. One such critical part is the oil filter.

The Wix Oil Filter Corporation has developed an ingenious way to promote their product and also do a good thing in the communities they serve. Before city crews dispose of the empty boxes that once held a Wix oil filter, they tear off the lid for safekeeping. Each box lid is worth $0.25 to the Corporation. After accumulating hundreds of the lids, the city returned them to Wix, which in turn wrote a check to a very deserving group of Norman students.

Recently Wix Filter donated $765 to the Norman FFA due to the extra care taken by Norman Fleet Maintenance staff. Thanks to diligence of city staff and the generosity of the Wix Oil Filter Corporation, Norman FFA students have received a wonderful gift.

Community Halloween Carnival

2004-10-15T15:59:00.000-05:00

Looking for a safe and fun Halloween activity? The City of Norman has just the thing, a carnival. Whittier Recreation Center is hosting a Community Halloween Carnival on Saturday, October 30th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Activates will include a Hay Ride, Haunted House and Moon Bounce.

Donations of Pumpkins, Halloween candy and decorations are needed to help make this event a success. If you have any items that you would like to donate please bring them to the Parks and Recreation office at 201 W. Gray, Building C, anytime Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or the Whittier Recreation Center Monday through Thursday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Whittier Recreation Center is located at 2000 W Brooks. For more information please call 292-9703 or 366-5472.

Norman Receives Thirteenth Consecutive Financial Award

2004-10-15T15:40:00.000-05:00

For the twelfth year in a row, the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the City of Norman by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

An Award of Financial Reporting Achievement has also been awarded to the individuals primarily responsible for preparing the award-winning CAFR, Norman’s Finance Director, Anthony Francisco and Norman’s Municipal Accountants, Becky Masters and Clint Mercer.

The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 15,000 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago, Illinois and Washington, D.C.

Trick or Treat Night Scheduled for October 30th

2004-10-15T13:23:00.000-05:00

Regional leaders in Central Oklahoma have recommended Saturday, October 30th as the night for Trick or Treat activities in the metropolitan area this year.

The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) Board of Directors, comprised of local elected regional officials, recommends scheduling Trick or Treat night from Halloween’s usual October 31st date to keep a uniform metropolitan-wide date that can be enjoyed by children and families.

The ACOG Board has helped schedule trick or treat night since the 1980s. A consistent date helps plan for the safety and welfare of children in the region and allows everyone to have fun around the area on the same night.

Years ago, when communities set their own schedules, it caused confusion and inconsistency, as trick or treaters and their families could visit several communities over a two or three-night span to take in Halloween festivities.

The Association also recommends several tips for a safe Trick or Treat night:

Drivers should be aware of children running or crossing the street.

Homeowners who distribute candy should keep their porch lights on and keep their yards free of items that could cause children in costumes to fall.

Candles should be used with caution. Flashlights or light bulbs can replace candles in a variety of situations.

Children should go out with their parents or older siblings.·Make sure eye and mouth holes in masks are large enough to see and breathe easily.

Parents should check all candy to make sure it is safe.

The City of Norman is an ACOG member community.

CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION

2004-10-15T11:51:00.000-05:00

CONFERENCE ROOM – MUNICIPAL BUILDING - 201 WEST GRAY

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2004, 5:30 P.M.

DISCUSSION REGARDING WASTEWATER DISCHARGE FOG PROGRAM – FATS, OILS, AND GREASE.

NOAA Events Friday and Saturday

2004-10-13T11:59:00.000-05:00

The public is invited to participate in two free events this weekend in Norman in conjunction with the National Severe Storms Laboratory's 40th Anniversary Celebration, invited talks Friday afternoon and an open house Saturday morning.

*Invited talks* highlighting the Lab's history, research accomplishments and current activities will be presented from 1:30 to 5 p.m. Friday (Oct. 15) in the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
Auditorium, 2401 Chautauqua Ave.

The speakers and topics are:
*Historical Overview* 1:30-1:50 p.m. - Ed Kessler

*Weather Radar* 1:55-2:15 p.m. Past - Dick Doviak
2:15-2:35 p.m. Present - Dusan Zrnic

*Forecasting Impacts: Severe Weather* 2:40-3:00 p.m. Past - Chuck Doswell

*Break *3:00-3:20 p.m.

*Forecasting Impacts: Severe Weather* 3:20-3:40 p.m. Present - Harold Brooks

*Storm Chasing & Basic Understanding of Thunderstorms and Tornadoes* 3:45-4:05 p.m. Past - Joe Golden
4:05-4:25 p.m. Present - Lou Wicker
4:30 p.m. Future - Jeff Kimpel*

The NOAA Weather Partners in Norman will host an *Open House* from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday (Oct. 16). This includes the Storm Prediction Center and NSSL at 1313 Halley Circle, and the National Weather Service
Norman Forecast Office and Radar Operations Center at 1200 Westheimer Dr. Additional displays and the Warning Decision Training Branch will be in the NSSL building at 1424 Halley Ave.

We expect a lot of people to be interested in the Open House. This is the first one we've held since 2000, when 800 people attended.

More information is available online: http://www.nssl.noaa.gov

Free Car Seat Check

2004-10-13T08:49:00.000-05:00

Have your car seat checked free of charge by a Certified Child Passenger Safety Specialist on Thursday, Oct. 14, from 3-6 p.m. at Bob Moore Cadillac, 2505 W. Main St.

Get answers to these troubling questions:

“My child can climb out of the car seat. What can I do?”

“Why doesn’t my car seat stay tight in the car?”

“When can I turn my baby’s car seat around to face forward?”

Results from previous safety seat checks have shown that four out of five car seats are used incorrectly.

Be sure yours is not one of them!

Health Officials Urge Use of Basic Hygiene and Other Precautions to Help Prevent the Spread of Influenza

2004-10-12T11:19:00.000-05:00

The Oklahoma State Department of Health today urged Oklahomans to begin practicing measures to help prevent the spread of influenza as a result of the nationwide shortage of influenza vaccine.

As state and county public health officials work with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local hospitals, physicians, nursing homes, home health agencies, employers and others to try to determine where and how much influenza vaccine will be available in Oklahoma, they urged residents to consider other options to try to stay healthy during influenza season.

"Those simple, common sense measures - 'things mom told you' - really can make a difference in reducing the risk of colds and influenza," said State Health Commissioner Dr. Michael Crutcher.

"Since many of us will not be getting our flu shot this year, it is more important than ever that we all observe the following simple precautions," Crutcher noted.

Wash your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, then use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. l Avoid close contact with persons who are ill. l Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. l Stay home when you are sick. l Seek medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms of influenza: unusually high fever, sore throat, headache, runny or stuffy nose, extreme tiredness, muscle aches, and dry cough.

There is no such thing as the "stomach flu." Vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and other stomach distress can sometimes be related to influenza, especially in children, but these problems are rarely the main symptoms of influenza.

"Our top priority is to get any vaccine that will be available to those who will need it most," Crutcher said. Those high risk groups include:

All children ages 6 - 23 months.
Adults 65 and older.
Persons aged 2 - 64 years with underlying chronic medical conditions.
All women who will be pregnant during the influenza season.
Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
Children aged 6 months - 18 years who are on chronic aspirin therapy.
Health care workers involved in direct patient care.
Out of home caregivers and household contacts of children aged less than 6 months.

A possible vaccination option for persons not considered at high risk is the intranasally administered, live, attenuated influenza vaccine, FluMist(tm). If available through private providers, FluMist(tm) is encouraged for healthy persons who are aged 5 to 49 years and are not pregnant, particularly health-care workers, first responders, and persons caring for children aged 6 months or younger. The Oklahoma State Department of Health's influenza surveillance system has not confirmed any cases of influenza thus far this influenza season.

"Although influenza can make you feel miserable, for most healthy people it is not a serious health problem," said Crutcher. "For those whose health conditions may make them vulnerable to complications from influenza, however, influenza can be very dangerous. That's why we need Oklahomans to make thoughtful decisions about whether or not they should get an influenza shot this year and to practice good handwashing and respiratory hygiene to prevent the spread of influenza."

Norman Employee Honored

2004-10-12T08:13:00.000-05:00

Representatives of the Oklahoma Water and Pollution Control Association (OWPCA) will be on hand at tomorrow’s Norman City Council meeting in order to present the Outstanding Distribution Supervisor Award to David Hager, Utilities Supervisor.

David is being recognized by his peers for his efforts in replacing older, sub-standard water mains, maintaining the system integrity and addressing a growing problem of hot soils damage to distribution pipes.

The OWPCA is a professional organization of Waterworks and Wastewater operators who safeguard public health by providing safe drinking water and safe disposal of wastewater in Oklahoma. The City of Norman water distribution system safely transports water from the Water Treatment Plant to the residents and businesses of Norman. Included in the network are 481 miles of water lines, 4,211 fire hydrants and 5 water towers.

“David is the type of individual that will go the extra mile to see that the work is done right. He puts in extra time to make sure that Norman's Water Distribution System is operated in a safe and efficient manner, always emphasizing public health and employee safety,” stated Lloyd Davis, Utilities Superintendent.

Sign Installation

2004-10-07T16:36:00.000-05:00

At the request of area residents, the City of Norman Traffic Control Division will be installing "No Parking Any Time" signs along the north side of Hoover Street, between Flood Avenue and Lahoma Avenue.

The Traffic Control Division has scheduled the work for the week of October 11, 2004.

City of Norman Agenda, Oct. 12, 2004

2004-10-07T15:31:00.000-05:00

For the complete agenda, please click here.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

2004-10-07T08:34:00.000-05:00

MEMORIAL DEDICATION: More than 630 veterans were honored in the dedication of a memorial to fallen Sooner veterans.

OU RESEARCH FUNDING EXCEEDS $200 MILLION: The University of Oklahoma received $210 million from outside sources for research in fiscal year 2004, marking the first time OU has crossed the $200 million mark for research programs in one year.

SCIENTIFIC SERVICE: Kelvin Droegemeier, Regents Professor of Meteorology and Roger and Sherry Teigen Presidential Professor, is waiting for approval to serve on the National Science Board.

SOONER SIBLINGS: Two brothers share Owen Field--one plays football and the other plays the drums.

ENROLLMENT REACHES ALL-TIME HIGH: President Boren recently announced 31,314 students are enrolled for the 2004-05 year, 24,569 of whom study on the Norman campus.

OU-TX GETS POLITICAL: Gov. Brad Henry rakes in the beef after winning the governors' bet on the Red River Shootout.

MORE TEXANS HEAD TO OU YEARLY: Recruiting prospective students south of the Red River pays off.

SISTER-TO-SISTER PROGRAM: Aiming to ease the tough teenage experience, the Women's Outreach Center at OU is launching its sixth year of Sister-to-Sister, a young women's mentoring and leadership program.

WISDOM WITH AGE: This past year, OU had more than 6,000 undergraduates over the age of 22.

ALUMNI NEWS
STUDENTS THANK ALUMNI: OU alumni clubs give scholarships to about 120 students.

OU GRADUATE PRODUCES NEW WB DRAMA: OU alumnus Mickey Liddell is the executive producer on the new WB drama "Jack and Bobby."

SPORTS NEWS
SOFTBALL: Oklahoma All-American Heather Scaglione was recently named to the USA Softball National Elite Team and will compete for the 'Stars and Stripes' in the first World University Softball Championship from Oct. 26-31 in Plant City, Fla.

SWITZER CENTER DEBUT: The Barry Switzer Center, which has re-opened following a $1 million renovation, pays tribute to OU football achievements and legends.

Q & A WITH OLYMPIAN GUARD YOUNG: OU assistant coach Guard Young is now an Olympic Silver Medalist after the U.S. won its first team medal since 1984.

LOOKING BACK
OU-TX 1971: You don't have to reach back far into the University's archives to pull out celebratory OU/Texas memories; however, this month, we looked all the way back to 1971, when OU beat Texas 48-27 while former President Lyndon B. Johnson watched from the sidelines.

LINKS OF INTEREST
ARCHITECTURE SERIES: Well-known names in architecture to speak at OU.

OU'S POLITICAL COMMUNICATION CENTER: The Department of Communication's Political Communication Center houses an internationally known collection of old and new political advertisements.

THE FABRIC OF MAYAN LIFE: The Pitzer Collection of Mayan textiles at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History demonstrates the diversity and beauty of the artistic, though inherently functional, Mayan textile tradition.

UNIVERSITY THEATRE'S 80TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON: University Theatre's 2004-2005 schedule.

Flu Shot Event Cancelled

2004-10-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

Contact: Shari Kinney/Russell Brewer
Cleveland County Health Department
(405) 579-2261/579-2251

Flu Vaccine Shortage Prompts Exercise Cancellation
Cleveland County Health Department Prioritizes Vaccines

The Cleveland County Health Department has cancelled plans for a free influenza shot clinic scheduled for October 26, 2004 because of shortages in vaccine resulting from vaccine manufacturer Chiron’s inability to deliver vaccine this year.
“We are focusing on persons at high risk of influenza complications,” said Shari Kinney, County Health Department Administrator. “We are encouraging healthy people to remember that prevention is the best approach to influenza season. Covering your mouth when you cough and washing your hands often will greatly reduce the spread of influenza.”
The following are priority groups for vaccination:

persons over 6 months of age with underlying chronic medical conditions;

adults aged 65 years and older;

all children aged 6–23 months;

health-care workers involved in direct patient care;

all women who will be pregnant during the influenza season;

out-of-home caregivers and household contacts of infants.

Oklahomans are encouraged to check with their private health care providers and clinics as alternative sources for getting the influenza vaccine.

The Cleveland County Health Department was part of an eight-county exercise by the Oklahoma State Department of Health. The goal of the exercise was to prepare for the type of mass immunizations that might be required in the event of a terrorist attack, a naturally occurring disease epidemic, or other public health emergency.

National Police Shooting Championship Results

2004-10-05T16:34:00.000-05:00

The Norman Police Department Pistol Team just returned from competing at the National Police Shooting Championships in Jackson, Mississippi. The competition involved approximately 450 of the finest competitive law enforcement shooters in the world. Officers from Germany, Venezuela, Canada and the United States shot in the weeklong competition. The competition involves shooting revolvers, semi-automatic handguns, and shotguns from 3 to 50 yards. All of the team members that competed are Firearms Instructors. They teach the lessons they learn during the competitions, to Norman Officers, once they return.

The Norman PD Pistol Team sent 7 members this year. They are Harold Nicholson, Jamie Shattuck, Shon Elroy, Blake Green, Eric Lehenbauer, David St. John, and David King. Our officers obtained several individual awards and titles in the various individual competitions. Harold Nicholson and Jamie Shattuck both received the coveted "President's 100 Award". This is only given to the top 15% of the shooters in the nation.

The 2004 NPD Pistol Team brought home its best ever team finish during the team competitions this year. Officers Shattuck and Nicholson took home first place in the High Master Division of the Two-Officer semi-automatic pistol competition. Officers St. John, Elroy, Lehenbauer and Green placed 3rd in the Four-Officer semi-automatic sharpshooter division.

The most prestigious team award at the NPSC is the Four-Officer team match. This is where the 2004 team's performance was truly outstanding. The Four-Officer revolver team of Shattuck, Green, Nicholson and Lehenbauer won the Master Class of this match. In addition their score placed them as 4th in the World. The only teams with higher scores were the United States Border Patrol, the Mississippi Highway Patrol, and the Los Angeles Police Department. Our team defeated every other agency represented including numerous federal, state, county, and municipal agencies. In addition they defeated all of the teams from Canada, Germany, and Venezuela.

The amount of personal time and expense that these officers provide the department is commendable. The fact that they are able to compete with and defeat the finest law enforcement shooters in the world is remarkable. Please join us in congratulating these exceptional officers.

October Channel 20 Schedule

2004-10-05T16:16:00.000-05:00

Register to Vote By October 8th

2004-10-01T16:21:00.000-05:00

Register to Vote By October 8th. The November 2nd election is just over a month away. Don't forget to register to vote. It's easy to do. Go by your local public library, county election board office, tag agency, or post office and pick up a registration form today.

Become a member of Norman's e-mail group, Norman News at www.cityofnorman.com

ODOT Public Meeting

2004-10-01T16:04:00.000-05:00

All interested persons are hereby given notice that the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) proposes to reconstruct State Highway 9 from 84th Avenue SE in Norman, Cleveland County to US 177 in Tecumseh, Pottawatomie County. ODOT has scheduled two public meetings to discuss the proposed project. The first meeting will be held in Cleveland County on Tuesday, October 5, 2004 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the gymnasium of Washington Elementary School located at 600 48th Avenue SE in Norman. The second meeting will be held in Pottawatomie County on Thursday, October 7, 2004 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Tecumseh City Hall Auditorium located at 114 N. Broadway in Tecumseh.

Exact design and right-of-way requirements for this proposal have not been determined. The purpose for the informal meeting is to request information from the public to further assist ODOT in the identification of critical social, economic, and environmental effects that may result from the project. Any information that may affect the design of the project is also requested.

ODOT strives to accommodate the needs of all citizens, including those who may be disabled. If you would like to attend this meeting but find it difficult because of a disability, architectural barrier, or another special need, please contact Howard Saxion at 290-7366, and we will make a sincere effort to resolve the problem. Other questions prior to the meeting may also be directed to Howard Saxion at 290-7366.

Fire Prevention Week

2004-10-01T16:02:00.000-05:00

The Norman Fire Department is joining the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other safety advocates this fall to remind children and adults about fire safety during Fire Prevention Week, October 3-9. This year's theme, "It's Fire Prevention Week: Test Your Smoke Alarms," highlights the importance of all families installing and maintaining smoke alarms in the home.

The Norman Fire Department will display a fire engine and the Fire Safety House for free tours and educational lectures at the West-side Wal-Mart. In addition, Norman’s seven fire stations will be holding “Open House” for tours and walk-in visits. All locations will be open from Monday October 4th through Friday October 8th, 2004 from 9:00 am to 4:00 p.m. each day.

Smoke alarms are the most effective early warning device available for the home. Since they were introduced to consumers in the 1970s, they have helped to reduce the home fire death rate by one half. Even though they are now widely popular, roughly 70 percent of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

Fires can spread through a home rapidly, and in some cases, individuals may have as little as two minutes to escape to safety once the alarm sounds. The Norman Fire Department encourages residents to keep smoke alarms working and to leave immediately when a smoke alarm sounds.

Upon request, the Norman Fire Department will help residents to develop a home fire escape plan. Residents will learn to identify escape routes in the home and to choose an outside meeting place where everyone can gather after they've escaped. Practice ensures that everyone in the home knows the fire escape plan, they're familiar with the sound of the smoke alarm, and they know how to exit quickly.

Here are some key smoke alarm installation and maintenance tips:

· Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of the home and outside each separate sleeping area.

· Mount smoke alarms on ceilings or high walls.

· Test smoke alarms once a month, following the manufacturers instructions.

· Replace batteries once a year or as soon as the device "chirps," indicating that the battery is low.

· Replace all smoke alarms after 10 years, even those that are hard-wired or smoke alarms with "long-life" (10-year) batteries. Smoke alarms with "long-life" (10-year) batteries also need to be replaced when the alarm "chirps" or fails to respond to periodic testing. The batteries in these units cannot be replaced.

· A qualified electrician should install alarms that are hard-wired to the home’s electrical system.
To learn more about Fire Prevention Week, visit NFPA at www.firepreventionweek.org. NFPA has been the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week since 1922. The campaign's purpose is to raise public awareness about the dangers of fire, how to prevent it and how to be protected from it. Fire Prevention Week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, in which more than 250 people died, 100,000 were left homeless and more than 17,400 structures were destroyed. Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record, according to the NFPA.

NFPA has been a worldwide leader in providing fire, electrical, building, and life safety to the public since 1896. The mission of the international nonprofit organization is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating scientifically-based consensus codes and standards, research, training and education.

Sooner Cinema Feature Film

2004-09-30T09:02:00.000-05:00

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind Sunday, October 3, 2 and 6 p.m. Rated R, Running time 108 minutes Tickets are $5

Joel (Jim Carrey) is stunned to discover that his girlfriend Clementine (Kate Winslet) has had her memories of their tumultuous relationship erased. Out of desperation, he contracts the inventor of the process, Dr. Howard Mierzwaik (Tom Wilkinson), to have Clementine removed from his own memory. But as Joel's memories progressively disappear, he begins to rediscover their earlier passion. From deep within the recesses of his brain, Joel attempts to escape the procedure. As Dr. Mierzwiak and his crew (Kristen Dunst, Mark Ruffalo, Elijah Wood) chase him through the maze of his memories, it's clear that Joel just can't get her out of his head.

October 10 The Devil's Backbone
October 17 Spellbound
October 24 The Corporation
October 31 Classic Horror Double Feature - Special 1:00 show time of Dracula (1931) and Frankenstein (1931).

The Red Cross will be outside the Theatre for blood donations. Free entry to the double feature after donating blood!

TICKETS ARE STILL ON SALE FOR BILL HALEY'S COMETS. CALL 321-9600.

ODOT Presents Future Outlook to Citizens; Requesting Feedback

2004-09-29T08:10:00.000-05:00

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation wants to encourage citizens to take an active role in transportation planning policies and projects. The department is hosting a series of open house meetings across the state to receive feedback from communities for its updates of two important planning documents.

Citizens will have the ability to review and comment on the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, a document listing projects to be undertaken over the next three years. Citizens will be able to discuss and provide comments on these and other projects they would like ODOT to consider for future programs.

Comments will also be taken on the Statewide Intermodal Transportation Plan update which will outline policies governing transportation planning for a minimum of 20 years into the future. It will contain information and policies for highways, airports, rural transit, waterways, rail and pedestrians/bicyclists. The plan will also identify highway corridors to be developed to accommodate the growing traffic volumes in the state.

If you attend a meeting you will have the opportunity to talk with engineers and planners and give your input on future transportation projects and policies. If you are unable to attend, you may contact ODOT's Planning & Research Division at (405) 522-1410 or email rsaunders@ODOT.org or dborelli@ODOT.org with questions.

All meetings are held between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The nearest meeting location to Norman is listed below:

Monday-October 18, ODOT Central Office, Oklahoma City, 200 N.E. 21st St., 405-522-1410. Serving the metro areas.

National Severe Storms Lab Celebrates 40 Years

2004-09-28T16:55:00.000-05:00

The NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory will celebrate its 40th Anniversary on Oct. 15 and 16 in Norman, Okla. The public is invited to attend free talks highlighting the organization's history, research accomplishments and current activities from 1:30 to 5 p.m. at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, 2401 Chautauqua Ave., followed by a celebration dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m., also at the Museum. Cost for the dinner is $25 and reservations are required by Oct. 6.

More information is available online at http://www.nssl.noaa.gov or by phone, (405) 360-3620.

The NOAA Weather Partners in Norman will join NSSL in hosting an Open House from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16. The Storm Prediction Center and NSSL at 1313 Halley Circle will be open to the public, along with the National Weather Service Norman Forecast Office and the Radar Operations Center at 1200 Westheimer Dr.

More information about the NOAA Weather Partners is available online:
http://www.norman.noaa.gov/publicaffairs/backgrounders/backgrounder_nwp.html

The September Edition of the Norman Economic Development Coalition's E-Digest

2004-09-27T08:29:00.000-05:00

On-line Survey

2004-09-27T08:23:00.000-05:00

The Norman City Council and City Manager Search Committee are seeking your input. The City has established an on-line survey to solicit the opinions of Norman’s residents. The survey is temporary, but will assist the Council and Search Committee as they look for a new city manager. You can log onto www.cityofnorman.com to find the survey under the City Manager Search link.

Since the survey will only be available for a limited time, people are encouraged to log-on now and let their thoughts be known. In addition, there will be a paper version of the survey at the City Hall Information Desk and with city documents at the Library.

“Citizen input is vital to this process. The search committee seeks citizen opinions about the qualifications and experiences desired in a new city manager. In addition, we hope that citizens will offer their suggestions about the priority issues that a new city manager should address. As a committee, we will use this input to screen and evaluate applicants,” said Search Committee Co-Chair and Councilmember Cindy Rosenthal.

2004-09-23T14:16:00.000-05:00

The first of a series of televised presidential debates is scheduled for 8 PM Thursday, September 30. A free kit of materials will help Norman residents turn the event into a party, a political party.

NIFty Debate Watch Party kits are available to registered voters at the Norman Public Library, 225 N. Webster in downtown Norman, and at the Cleveland County OSU Extension Office, 601 E. Robinson during regular business hours.

The kits are a project of the Norman National Issues Forum, NIF, a group that encourages public debate and deliberation of issues of national importance.

“We hope these kits will inspire people to watch the televised debates with their friends and families and then to discuss the issues that are important to them. Our goal is to stimulate and encourage discussion, not to take sides,” explains Anne Masters, Associate Director of System Services for the Pioneer Library System and one of the developers of the NIFty Debate Watch Party kits.

Norman NIF will be sponsoring its own NIFty Debate Watch Party for the public. The non-partisan event will begin at 7:45 PM, Thursday, September 30, in the Lowry Room of the Norman Public Library, 225 N. Webster in downtown Norman. Each person who attends the public party will receive a debate watch kit to use at their own party for future debates.

The kits are free and include: a booklet with suggestions for planning, decorating, and hosting a debate-watch party; information about the National Issues Forums and the Commission on Presidential Debates; a button for the party host or hostess; response cards that help participants identify and track important issues during the debate; and a list of related websites that offer more information including on-line voter registration.

Kits also include free samples of red, white and blue party snacks.

The Planning Group of the Norman National Issues Forums is a partnership of civic and service groups serving the members of the Norman community and Cleveland County, individuals representing City of Norman and Cleveland County service agencies, and individuals representing education institutions in or serving Norman and this area of the state. Current members are: Pioneer Library System and the Norman Public Library, University of Oklahoma Center for Leadership Development, Cleveland County OSU Extension Service, LINK Norman, the Norman Transcript, and the City of Norman.

For more information, contact Masters at 701-2678.

Town Hall Meeting

2004-09-23T10:52:00.000-05:00

On the heels of a hugely successful joint ward meeting, Mayor Harold Haralson will be hosting a Town Hall Meeting to discuss code compliance issues, parking and the emerging issue of party houses. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 29, 2004 at 6:30 PM in the City Hall Council Chambers. The Mayor and Council are committed to addressing these challenges head-on, with the assistance of the University and larger Norman community.

At the ward meeting there was general agreement from elected officials, neighbors, students and OU officials that action must be taken. The Town Hall Meeting will serve as a larger forum to continue the dialogue and involve more people in this important process.

“The meeting is a good opportunity for the community, city and university to start a process looking into those issues that everyone can have some input on and come to a solution that most people can feel comfortable with,” said Mayor Harold Haralson.

“Our Ward meeting indicated that code and parking violations, as well as the increasing number of nuisance houses, are issues that negatively impact many neighborhoods. City Council and staff cannot resolve these issues without the input and assistance of the entire community. Only by listening to residence in these neighborhoods and joining with the various interests in the community to develop effective strategies to address these problems,” commented Councilmember Doug Cubberley.

Councilmember Cindy Rosenthal added, “In recent years, we have experienced an increase in a set of behaviors which are detrimental to the traditionally residential, family neighborhood. These issues are complicated and cannot be solved by the city alone. We look forward to working cooperatively with neighbors, students and OU officials to develop strategies in three areas: enforcement, education, and changing the environment.”

“The issue is that single family residential areas are experiencing a reduced quality of life due to an increase in disturbances by parties and noise, litter, and other code violations including parking violations and debris in yards,” said Police Chief Phil Cotten.

CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION

2004-09-17T10:51:00.000-05:00

CONFERENCE ROOM – MUNICIPAL BUILDING
201 WEST GRAY

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2004

5:30 P.M.

DISCUSSION REGARDING THE STORMWATER UTILITY FEASIBILITY STUDY.

Fall Clean Up

2004-09-15T11:29:00.000-05:00

The City of Norman is happy to announce that once again it will be setting aside specific days for the citywide fall clean up this year:

Norman Collection Day Date of Fall Clean Up
Monday - October 2, 2004
Tuesday - October 9, 2004
Wednesday - October 16, 2004
Thursday - October 23, 2004
Friday - October 30, 2004

Residents may place items not normally picked up with their regular trash service, such as: couches, mattresses, refrigerators and air conditioners (the freon must be removed), etc. These items should be placed by the curb or in the alley, NOT in the poly cart. Employees will be using manual trucks and picking up the debris by hand or using large equipment, not the automated trucks. Items that will not be picked up include: construction debris, yard waste, tree limbs, brush, tires (must be taken to the transfer station), hazardous chemicals such as: oil, paints, freon, pesticides, herbicides, etc.

Residents may also dispose of their items at the Norman Transfer Station, located at 3901 S. Chautuaqua for no charge if they have a current utility bill, driver’s license or proof of residency on the five designated Saturdays. The Transfer Station will be opened on those Saturdays from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Yard waste, tree limbs or brush smaller than 2 inches in diameter and less than 4 feet in length may be disposed of at the Norman Compost Facility, located at 3450 S. Jenkins. Citizens should access the Transfer Station by using Chautauqua Avenue.

Rural customers need to call the Sanitation Department at 329-1023 as soon as possible to schedule a time for pickup. Also, on the weekend of October 15, 2004, there will be large dumpsters placed at Denver Corner and the American Legion on 156th Street for residents to drop off appropriate items.

City Manager Search Forum

2004-09-14T16:56:00.000-05:00

The City Manager Search Committee wants to hear from you. The Committee is going to hold a public forum on Monday, September 20, 2004 at 7:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The forum will provide an opportunity for the Search Committee to hear from the community as they begin the hunt for a new city manager.

Through community dialogue, the Committee hopes to have a better understanding of the kind of person Norman’s needs to manage the city at this point in our history. Any and all citizens are welcome to attend.

Public Meeting on Road Improvements

2004-09-14T08:07:00.000-05:00

The City of Norman in conjunction with Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) is proposing to reconstruct a portion of Lindsey Street between Oakhurst Avenue and 24th Avenue SE and a portion of 24th Avenue SE between Lindsey Street and Imhoff Road. A public meeting will be to discuss and gather public input on the proposal to reconstruct the above referenced project. The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM Thursday, September 16, 2004, in the City of Norman Council Chambers at 201 W. Gray.

The reconstruction of the Lindsey portion to a five-lane road and 24th Avenue SE portion to a four-lane road with a new signal at 24th Avenue SE and upgraded signal at Oakhurst Avenue will provide a safer and more efficient road for the traveling public.

For further information please contact Lonnie Ferguson at 366-5454.

Hunter Safety Course

2004-09-10T09:52:00.000-05:00

Once again, Pam Sharp at the Little Axe Community Center (168th Ave SE & Hwy 9, just south) will be hosting a Hunter Safety Course. The Course will be held on Saturday, September 18, 2004, from 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.

In addition to the one-day course there will also be a home study course offered. On October 2, 2004, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., time will be set aside to receive instructions and pick up home study packets. Two weeks later on October 16, 2004, from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. people will return to complete the course.

Both courses are free of charge and open to anyone that would like to participate. Both courses are limited to the first 75 people who register, so anyone wishing to enroll will need to contact Pam at 292-9770 as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide the name, address, phone number and social security number of the registrant. Happy & Safe Hunting!!!!!

City of Norman Agenda, Sept. 9, 2004

2004-09-09T16:38:00.000-05:00

For the complete agenda, please click here.

Football Traffic Advisory for Saturday, Sept. 4

2004-09-01T09:25:00.000-05:00

Porter Avenue, from Robinson Street to Rock Creek Road:
Drivers should avoid this area. The contractor is trying to finish the west half of the new roadway by this Saturday. If accomplished, traffic will be switched to the new pavement. If not, Porter will remain opened but drivers will be required to use the old pavement - which is in poor condition.

Gray Street, from Porter to Flood Avenue:
Paving activities continue on this project. Milling and paving have been completed between Porter Avenue and the railroad track. Work continues from the tracks to Flood Avenue. No work will be done on Saturday and all lanes will be open. Drivers may encounter areas with pavement edge drop offs if the milling operations are not completed by this Friday.

Lindsey Street between 24th Ave. SW and Berry Road:
As in the past, Lindsey will have two lanes for in-bound traffic before the game and two lanes for out-going traffic after the game.

Lindsey Street and Elm Avenue:
Officers will only allow persons who have a parking permit from the athletic department to continue east on Lindsey. All other traffic will have to turn either north or south on Elm Avenue.

Jenkins Avenue and Lindsey Street:
As in the past, this intersection will be closed for the game, with traffic detoured.

September OU Update

2004-09-01T09:12:00.000-05:00

Click here to read University of Oklahoma updates and alumni and sports news.

Basketball Leagues at 12th Ave. Rec. Ctr.

2004-08-31T11:59:00.000-05:00

The 12th Avenue Recreation Center will be hosting two Basketball Leagues this fall:

The first is a Men’s Open 3 on 3 League. The entry deadline is September 30th, and play begins the week of October 4th. Players can register for only $25 and teams must register together. Each team is guaranteed to play 14 games. There will be team trophies for 1st and 2nd place; in addition T-shirts will be give to the top four teams.

The second is a Men’s Church League. The entry deadline is October 1st, and play begins the week of October 4th. Teams can register for $265 plus $5 per player. Teams are guaranteed 7 games plus the playoffs. There will be team trophies for 1st and 2nd place; in addition T-shirts will be give to the top four teams.

To participate in both of these exciting basketball leagues, please call 292-7275.

Sidewalk Replacement Participation Program

2004-08-31T11:58:00.000-05:00

The City of Norman has a program to help address the problem of old and deteriorating sidewalks and curbs. The City will provide 50% of the funding with property owner(s) providing the other 50%. There are two ways to proceed with this work, and we let the property owner decide which approach to take.

Option one is to use the City of Norman's annual contract for concrete construction. Under this option the property owner pays half the cost to the City and then the City has the contractor complete the work and pays the bill.

Option two calls for the property owner to arrange for the construction and then the City will inspect the work and pay the property owner half the cost of having the city contractor do the work. Under this option a property owner can do the work themselves, or hire their own contractor and get paid half the city's contract cost. Often that money will cover the cost to purchase the materials. The only pitfall to this approach is that the work must meet the City's standards for the property owner to get paid. If the work does not meet the City's specifications, the property owner won't get paid.

Applications will be accepted year round, with work beginning in September. Applications for sidewalk/curb repair or new city block sidewalks in established neighborhoods are available upon request at the City Of Norman Public Works Department at 201-A West Gray or phone 366-5457. All applications will require a legal description of the adjacent property (housing addition, lot and block numbers), a brief description of the problem. New walks require a petition with 80% of property owners agreeing to complete the project. If all funding is used the program will not begin again until the next fiscal year (July1).

Another related program is a wheel chair ramp project. The City budgets $25,000 each year for the construction of wheel chair ramps at locations where they are needed. If citizens are aware of a location where a wheel chair ramp would assist a citizen in a wheel chair get safely around our community, they are encouraged to call 366-5457 with that location. This is an important program that assists our citizens with special mobility needs in navigating our City.

Sign Installation on Symmes between College & University

2004-08-31T11:57:00.000-05:00

At the request of area residents, the Traffic Control Division will be installing "No Parking Anytime" signs along the south side of West Symmes Street, between College Avenue and University Boulevard.

The Traffic Control Division has scheduled the work for the week of August 30, 2004.

Channel 20 Programming for September

2004-08-31T09:59:00.000-05:00

Click here for the September programming.

Fall 2004 Wellness in Norman series offers music and meditation

2004-08-31T08:55:00.000-05:00

Wellness in Norman invites individuals of any fitness level to come and enjoy music while learning meditation techniques every Tuesday in October from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Norman Regional Hospital Auditorium, located at 901 N. Porter.

Admission is free.

The tentative schedule is as follows.

Oct. 5: One Harp and A Flute
Performers: Laurie Wickenkamp and Barbara Hagist
Facilitators: Licia Iverson and Rick Wickenkamp

Oct. 12: Keyboard
Performer: Barbara Hester
Facilitators: Sacra Nicholas and Darrel Clark

Oct. 19: Performers: University of Oklahoma String Quartet
Facilitator: Dr. Barbara Boyd

Oct. 26: Guitar and Group Vocals
Performer: Kurt Van Sickle
Facilitator: Kurt Van Sickle

For more information contact Cindy Merrick at 447-1991 or visit http://www.wellnessinnorman.com.

Ward 4 and 7 Meeting

2004-08-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

Councilmembers Cindy Rosenthal and Doug Cubberley are pleased announce their upcoming joint Wards 4 and 7 meeting. The meeting will be Thursday, Sept. 2, 2004, at 7:00 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room at City Hall.

Police Chief Phil Cotten, Revitalization Manager Linda Price and Assistant City Attorney Susan Rogers will all be on hand to provide presentations and answer questions. The main issues to be discussed are:1) code enforcement education -- a review of common code complaints, the code enforcement process, and an effort to enlist neighborhoods in helping get out information on code enforcement;2) related to code enforcement -- we will spend time talking about parking and traffic concerns in the code and getting citizen input on their concerns; and3) party "houses" or "nuisance" properties -- this part of the meeting will be both informational (how our current code addresses some of the problems associated with party houses) and participatory (we are seeking citizen input about their concerns and suggestions on this issue).

Although residents of Wards 4 and 7 are specifically encouraged to attend, all citizens of Norman are invited and welcome to participate in the discussion.

Parking on sidewalks

2004-08-26T10:44:00.000-05:00

Imagine being in a wheelchair or elderly and trying to get around the sidewalks in Norman. It seems like a pretty easy thing to do with our sidewalk system. Unfortunately, for many, it is not. One reason is people park across the sidewalks, making it very hard, if not impossible to continue.

It is actually against the law to park across the sidewalk. The fine is $15.00 initially. If it is not paid in 5 days, the fine goes up to $25.00. If you observe someone parked across the sidewalk, please notify the Norman Police Department.

Building a Better, More Beautiful Norman

2004-08-24T13:55:00.000-05:00

With so many new citizens to our wonderful community, city officials can’t think of a better time to educate and remind all of Norman on some of the more commonly violated city codes. The following information will help everyone do their part in keeping Norman a beautiful and clean city.

Principal Code Complaints

HEALTH: Items outside, not intended for outdoor storage, i.e. - indoor furniture, appliances, clothe, cardboard, plus junk, limbs, boards & stagnant water.

WEEDS: Grass/weeds over 12” high.

INOPERABLE VEHICLES: Vehicles that do not run including those with flat tires or out-of-date tags.

OFF-STREET PARKING: No vehicle parking is allowed in yards. Parking should be on improved surfaces designed for that purpose.

SUBSTANDARD HOUSING: Inadequate and/or deteriorated living facilities.

INSECURED STRUCTURE: Vacant building that is open.

DOGS: A maximum of two (2) adult dogs is allowed per location.

POLYCARTS: Need to be placed within 7’ of the curb not later than 7:30 a.m. and moved house side by the end of the day of service.

What is proactive code enforcement and how does that differ from complaint-based enforcement?

In most of the City of Norman, the code compliance staff responds to specific concerns and complaints about potential violations that are reported. In a small area of core Norman, the code compliance staff patrols regularly and enforces the code with or without a specific complaint having been lodged.

If you see a problem or have a concern, you are encouraged to call 366-5332 (Planning & Community Development Revitalization Division/Code Compliance Office) or 366-5396 (Action Center) to report a potential violation. You can also email the complaint to the Action.Center@ci.norman.ok.us

Please detail what you believe to be a violation and give either an address or a good, specific physical description of the property. You do not need to give your name, but you may be asked for your phone number in case some type of follow up is needed.

The August Edition of the Norman Economic Development Coalition's E-Digest

2004-08-24T10:25:00.000-05:00

Phone Book Recycling

2004-08-24T10:17:00.000-05:00

Southwestern Bell and the City of Norman are once again offering citizens the opportunity to recycle their old phonebooks. Norman has started to receive the 2004-2005 Southwestern Bell telephone directories. In conjunction with the delivery of the new directories, there are drop-off sites where citizens can bring their old phonebooks.

The dates for the program are August 31 through October 15, 2004, at the following locations:

City Hall – 201 West Gray

12th Avenue Recreation Center – 1701 12th Avenue NE

Firehouse Art Center – 444 South Flood

Lloyd Noble Center – 2900 Jenkins

Cleveland County Fair Barn – 615 East Robinson

Sooner Mall – 3301 West Main

Norman Recycling Centers:

Pratt Foods – Lindsey & 12th Avenue Southeast

Target Store – 24th Avenue & West Main

Hollywood Shopping Center – Lindsey & McGee

To participate in the program, all a person needs to do is drop off their old directories in the specially marked “Phone Books Only” container at one of the above locations.

Parallel Roads, Not Projects

2004-08-23T10:47:00.000-05:00

With so much road construction around town, it is at times difficult to tell where one project ends and another begins. The Downtown Main Street and Gray Street projects are a perfect example of this dilemma. What began on Main Street as a community initiative to upgrade and renovate Norman’s historic downtown area, turned into a painstaking experience on the part of the merchants, city staff and contractor. Although the Main Street project isn’t complete, a considerable amount of work has been finished and the fruits of everyone’s labor are ripe for the eye. There are still items to be completed and liquidated damages to be settled, but what the final product will be can now easily be seen.

The Main Street Downtown Improvement Project is a complex combination of several different projects and funding sources, implemented on Main Street between Park Drive and Porter Avenue.

The Roadway portion of the Main Street project is a pilot project for Certification Acceptance from ODOT in which the city and their designee, Tetra Tech FHC assume ODOT’s role in project administration and inspection. The Enhancement project although funded by federal monies through the state, and the Waterline/Fireline project were also administered and inspected by the city and Tetra Tech FHC.

The estimated $2,005,364 construction cost of the Roadway project is being funded with 80% STP-UZA funds ($1,604,291) and 20% City of Norman funds ($401,072). The estimated $478,729 construction cost of the Enhancement project is being funded with Federal Transportation Enhancement Grant funds ($368,808), citizen participation (92,202) and City of Norman funds ($17,719). The estimated $556,796 construction cost of the Waterline/Fireline project is being funded with City of Norman funds.

Project Elements and funding:

Roadway modifications - Surface Transportation Project funds from the Oklahoma City Urbanized Area (STP-UZA- distributed through the Oklahoma Department of Transportation [ODOT]) and City funding)

Curb and gutter - STP-UZA and City funding

Asphalt cold milling and overlay -STP-UZA and City funding

Drainage improvements - STP-UZA and City Funding

Traffic signal upgrades - STP-UZA and City Funding

Water line relocations - City Funding

Roadside (streetscape) enhancements - Federal Transportation Enhancement Grant distributed through ODOT) and citizen funding

Sidewalks - STP-UZA, Federal Transportation Enhancement Grant and City funding

Gray Street on the other hand is a completely separate project, with the majority of roadwork being done by city crews. There are two parts to the Gray Street project; one a resurfacing phase, which is underway and progressing quickly. The other part is a complete traffic signal upgrade project.

The resurfacing was funded by and through the City of Norman Capital Fund. That portion of Gray Street from Flood Street to Porter Avenue is being paid from funds set aside as part of the 2000 capital budget. The budget from the 2000 capital budget for this work is $174,200. The section of Gray Street between Pickard and Flood is being funded from a 2005 capital budget item. The amount set aside for this project in the 2005 budget is $37,000. The work on Gray Street was delayed to prevent damage to the new asphalt surface by the signal project. Now that the majority of the signal work is complete, the asphalt surface can be installed with little danger of damage.

The traffic signal upgrade project on Gray Street is a state project. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation and their designee, Cobb Engineering Company of Oklahoma City, is handling construction inspection and administration. The $491,460.14 construction cost is being funded with 80% federal funds ($393,168.11) and 20% City of Norman funds ($98,292.03). The project is expected to take 150 calendar days to complete.

Project elements and funding:

Installation of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Gray Street and Webster Avenue.

Replacement of the signals and controller cabinets at the intersections of Gray Street with Porter Avenue, Peters Avenue, Santa Fe Avenue, University Boulevard and Flood Avenue.

Installation of decorative traffic signal poles similar to those recently installed along Main Street in the Downtown area.

Installation of underground communication cable between traffic signals for interconnection and traffic signal coordination.

Installation of priority control system for emergency vehicle traffic signal pre-emption.

Minor intersection modifications (i.e., wheel chair ramps, corner bump outs, drainage pipe and inlets, etc.)

Speed Limit Sign Change on 24 SE between Lindsey & Alameda

2004-08-20T15:31:00.000-05:00

Weather permitting, Monday, August 23, 2004, the Traffic Control Division will be installing signs on 24th Avenue SE, between Lindsey Street and Alameda Street, increasing the speed limit from 35 MPH to 40 MPH.

The change is justified for two reasons:

First, recent speed studies along this one-mile long segment of roadway indicated that the current 35-MPH speed limit is too low for the prevailing vehicular speeds.

Second, operating speeds have increased due to the recently completed improvements at the intersection of 24th Avenue East and Alameda Street, which included the removal of an all-way stop and the installation of a new traffic signal.

City Council Agenda, August 24, 2004

2004-08-20T10:47:00.000-05:00

Click here for the agenda.

Root Control Program

2004-08-19T09:07:00.000-05:00

Beginning, August 30, 2004, a Contractor will begin application of a root control herbicide as part of the City’s Sewer System Maintenance Program. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approves the herbicide for use in Public Sewer Systems. The herbicide will retard root growth, which can cause main line stoppages. The work is expected to take about a month, depending upon weather and will occur throughout town.

In some instances it will be necessary for contractor personnel to access sewer manholes located in resident’s back yards to perform the above work; entry into homes is not required. Every effort will be made by the Contractor to notify residents in advance. Workers will be wearing orange safety vests and company uniforms with Duke's Inc. identification.

Roots from trees, shrubs and other vegetation penetrate sewer mains causing structural damage and allowing ground water to enter the sewage collection system. Sufficient groundwater can enter the system to cause manhole overflows during prolonged rainfall and a marked increase in the cost of sewage treatment at the wastewater treatment plant. Roots in the sewage collection pipes also promote blockages, which can cause back-ups into residences.

Contractor personnel should not be in any yard over two hours and no digging is required. Chemicals used in the treatment of problems are non-toxic, non-flammable and will not harm surface vegetation. The City of Norman appreciates the support that this program receives and will continue to provide aggressive maintenance programs for the sewer collection system. If there are any questions regarding the root control program, please call 329-0703.

Parking Sign Change

2004-08-18T08:46:00.000-05:00

At the request of area businesses and property owners, the Traffic Control Division will be changing the parking restriction signs along the south side of the 200 block of West Main Street, between Webster Avenue and Santa Fe Avenue.

The existing one-hour limit parking signs will be replaced with two-hour limit signs.

The Traffic Control Division has scheduled the work for the week of August 16, 2004.

Norman CVB Introduces New Officers for the CVB Board of Directors

2004-08-13T13:47:00.000-05:00

The Norman Convention & Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce a new slate of officers for the Board of Directors.

President: Bob Gill (Norman Organized Athletics)
Vice President: Phyllis Murray (Norman Hospitality Association seat)
Secretary: Leslie Baumert (City of Norman/OU seat)
Treasurer: Al Mamary (Norman Arts and Humanities Council seat)

The returning board members are Rick Hart (OU Athletic Department seat), Larry Atkinson (Norman Public Schools seat), Carrie Burleson (Norman Hospitality Association seat), Cheryl Berry (Norman Chamber of Commerce seat), and Tony Marbell (Norman Restaurant Association seat).

“Tourism means economic development for this city, and I’d like to thank the Mayor and the other board members for giving me this opportunity to lead the CVB,” said newly-elected Norman CVB Board President Bob Gill. “Visitors to our city generate tax revenues, and that additional money benefits all of us as residents.”

The Norman CVB’s board meetings are scheduled for the third Wednesday of every month at 2:30 p.m. and the public is invited to attend. The board meetings are held at different locations throughout the city of Norman. Call the office for upcoming meeting locations. The Norman CVB seeks to attain and retain visitors to Norman for economic impact. For more information, please visit our website at www.visitnorman.com or contact the office, 366-8095.

Norman Police Department places 6 officers in Governor’s Twenty

2004-08-13T11:49:00.000-05:00

On August 6-7, 2004, the Norman Police Pistol Team hosted the Oklahoma State Shooting Championships and Dale DeBerry Regional Police Pistol Combat (PPC) match at the Norman Police Training Center. The event consisted of 46 competitors from Oklahoma, Texas, and Colorado. PPC matches consist of various matches fired using several different revolvers and semi-automatic pistols. While competing in the matches officers shoot from various distances which range from 3 to 50 yards and utilize several different shooting position that include standing, sitting, kneeling, and prone. There are also varying time limits depending on which match is being fired. Competitors are then placed into different classifications based on previous scores, which include High Master, Master, Expert, Sharpshooter, Marksman, and Classified.

MPO Jamie Shattuck, MPO Harold Nicholson, MPO Shon Elroy, Sgt. Blake Green, Sgt. Eric Lehenbauer, and Rangemaster David St. John were named to the Governor’s Twenty, which is based on the aggregate scores of the semi-automatic and revolver matches. MPO Harold Nicholson and MPO Jamie Shattuck were also named to the state pistol team. This team consists of the top six shooters in the Governor’s Twenty match, and competes against other state teams to determine a national champion team.

Additionally, Norman police officers earned one first place team award, fourteen first place individual awards, and four second place awards

The pistol team will next travel to Jackson, Mississippi to compete in the National Police Shooting Championships on September 20-23, 2004.

Annual Summit Scheduled for Youth Workforce Practitioners

2004-08-11T15:50:00.000-05:00

The 2nd annual Region IV Youth Development Summit will be held at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City on Aug. 24 – 26.

The summit is designed to provide youth workforce practitioners with performance driven workshops, forums for youth topic discussions and networking with other workforce development professionals.

Youth Council and Workforce Investment Board members are encouraged to attend the summit.

Workshop topics include impact performance, rural and urban youth development approaches, case management, operating a year-round youth program, serving foster care youth, Workforce Investment Act element training, and understanding Child Labor Laws.

The University of Oklahoma, National Resource Center for Youth Services and the
Department of Labor are conducting the majority of the workshops.

Josh Ship, Liz Murray, and Mason M. Bishop are the featured speakers.

Ship will share his personal experiences about neglect and abuse and how he developed his positive attitude, Murray’s inspirational story has been documented in the movie “Homeless to Harvard” and Bishop is the deputy assistant secretary in the Employment and Training Administration for the United States Department of Labor.

Booths are also available for the summit.

Cost for the three-day event is $200.

Workforce Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission and the U.S. Department of Labor are just a few of the sponsors.

For more information or to register, contact Event 1 at 918.712.8922 or visit http://www.event1inc.net/show%5Fregistrations/2004%5Fyouthsummit/

City Council Agenda, August 10, 2004

2004-08-10T08:45:00.000-05:00

Click here for the agenda.

Show Your Appreciation

2004-08-10T08:24:00.000-05:00

Want to show your appreciation, say thank you, or just share a kind word with a city employee, then participate in the City’s first United Way fundraiser of this year’s campaign. As usual, the City will be kicking off its campaign with a balloon-a-gram sale. Every year, employees are given the chance to send a balloon-a-gram or certificate to their fellow employees. In addition, the entire Norman community will be given the chance to share their appreciation for all the hard work that city employees put forth, and purchase balloons for their friends, co-workers or family member who do not work for the city.

For only a dollar you can purchase a balloon-a-gram (a balloon with a special note attached to it) or a certificate of appreciation. These balloons and certificates will be hand delivered to any City of Norman employee on Wednesday, August 18, 2004. In addition, you can purchase balloons and certificates for your friends, co-workers and family members. All you need to do is call and make provisions, then come by and pick them up on Wednesday, August 18, 2004 at city hall in the multi-purpose room. You may order certificates up to noon on Monday, August 16th. Balloons may be purchased up to noon on Wednesday, August 18th for anyone, however delivery will only be to city employees.

“This event has always been a great way for us to kick-off our campaign, it gives us all a boost and a chance to share our appreciation for our co-workers,” said Scott Martin, Assistant to the City Manager. “For only a dollar, you can’t beat it,” Martin said.

The City of Norman has been a "Pacesetter" with the United Way for many years and is proud to support the United Way through its fundraising activities. Please contact Suzanne Krohmer at 366-5362 for further details and to arrange your purchase. All proceeds will go to United Way.

Traffic Signal Upgrade

2004-08-10T08:23:00.000-05:00

The City of Norman's Traffic Control Division has scheduled a project to upgrade the traffic signals at the intersection of Boyd Street and Flood Avenue. Beginning Wednesday, August 11, 2004, weather permitting, the span wire mounted signal heads will be removed and the intersection will be controlled by a temporary ALL-WAY STOP system until the new signals can be installed and made operational. The new installation will consist of mast arm mounted overhead signals and street lighting. It is anticipated that the project will take one week to complete.

OU Update

2004-08-04T16:19:00.000-05:00

Click here to read University of Oklahoma updates and alumni and sports news.

The Norman Economic Development Coalition held annual elections

2004-07-30T16:44:00.000-05:00

The Norman Economic Development Coalition recently held its annual election of board members.

Bob Danner was re-elected to another one-year term as chairman as well as another three-year term on the board.

Nick Hathaway will remain vice chairman, Lois Lawler as treasurer and Joe Harroz as a member at large.

The core members, which consists of representatives from the three organizations that provide financial support to NEDC, made the nominations.

Anna-Mary Suggs, executive director of the Norman Chamber of Commerce, Andy Anderson, city manager, and Dan Davis, executive director of OU’s Office of Technology Development, represent their organizations as core members.

Other board members include Ted Greb and Lindy Ritz.

Danner is president and chief executive officer of Bio-Cide International, Hathaway is the vice president for Administrative & Executive Affairs at the University of Oklahoma, Lawler is a Coordinator for Education Leadership Oklahoma at the Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation and Harroz is the chief counsel for the University of Oklahoma.

Citizens Academy

2004-07-30T16:06:00.000-05:00

On the heel of another successful Citizens Academy, city officials have scheduled the forth Academy to begin on August 26, 2004. Any Norman citizen can participate and with a class size that can range from 30 to 50, most people who are interested and willing to commit a few Thursday evenings should be able to join the class.

There is a need to educate people on the tenets of local government. The City of Norman Citizens Academy serves as a basic forum to provide this education. Not only are there different forms of municipal government, but also each city does things in their own special way. Through Norman’s Academy, residents are able to receive an in-depth look at each city department and its functions. In addition, interact with its elected and paid staff, thus better acquainting themselves with the level of government that impacts them most on a daily basis. This form of close examination and knowledge breeds a healthy respect and involvement that will only help perpetuate good government and good community.

The Academy meets on Thursday evenings beginning at 6:00 PM with a light snack and goes until 9:00 PM. Each session highlights a different city facility and department(s):

August 26 - Mayor/Council/Manager/Clerk
September 9 - Finance/Parks and Recreation
September 23 - Utilities
October 7 - Utilities
October 21 - Fire/Police/EMS
November 4 - Planning/Public Works
November 18 - Court/Legal/Human Resources
December 2 - Graduation

To participate in the next Citizens Academy please call 366-5446.

NPD to host shooting championship

2004-07-27T08:45:00.000-05:00

The Norman Police Department will host the 2004 Dale DeBerry Regional and Oklahoma State shooting championships August 6 and 7 at the police pistol range on Jenkins Avenue. The championships, which are sponsored by the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Shooting Association, attract law enforcement competitors from throughout the Midwest and Southwest. Competitors will be tested in areas of firearms proficiency at distances ranging from three to fifty yards in individual and team competition.

The Regional Championship, established as a memorial to Norman Police Sergeant and avid competitor Dale DeBerry, will be held on August 6. The match will focus primarily on the use of various semi-automatic handguns relevant to Law Enforcement.

The Oklahoma State Championships will be held August 7 to determine the top individual and teams in the state and establish the “Governor’s Twenty,” an honor awarded to the top twenty Oklahoma Law Enforcement shooters.

Law Enforcement shooting competition was established as a means to develop the individual officer’s shooting proficiency and is used by many departments to choose and develop firearms instructors.

2004 marks the third consecutive year that the Norman Police Department has hosted the championships, which is largely due to the fine reception and support of Norman’s citizens and businesses.

To schedule an interview or ask questions, call for Master Police Officer Shon Elroy or Master Police Officer Harold Nicholson at (405) 321-1600.

City Council Agenda, July 27, 2004

2004-07-27T08:39:00.000-05:00

For the complete agenda, please click here.

HealthPlex Offers Complete Diagnostic Imaging Services

2004-07-20T17:00:00.000-05:00

Broken bones, heart disease, and many other health problems can all be accurately diagnosed at one location. Conveniently located on Tecumseh Road at I-35, HealthPlex offers the medical imaging tools you need in an outpatient setting.

And since its grand opening this summer, the HealthPlex has been making diagnosis as easy as a trip down the road.

“HealthPlex provides another method of accessing quality diagnostic imaging services for our outpatients,” says Sue Kazmierkiewicz, Director of Diagnostic Imaging at Norman Regional. “Also, there is room to grow and offer different services than those at the hospital’s main campus.”

WHY HEALTHPLEX?

When you need diagnostic testing, you want it fast. Thanks to HealthPlex, you can have accurate imaging exams in a timely manner and get back to life quickly.

Every aspect of HealthPlex assures a pleasant experience, from ample parking space to compassionate healthcare providers.

“For people living on the north side of Norman, HealthPlex is here to meet their routine diagnostic imaging needs,” says Bennie Riddles, Manager of Special Imaging at NRH. “When patients come to HealthPlex, they can take comfort knowing they will receive the same high quality care provided at Norman Regional.”

WHAT HEALTHPLEX OFFERS

Diagnostic imaging services available at
HealthPlex include:

• open MRI
• high-speed CT scanner
• two ultrasound machines
• general X-ray equipment

“At HealthPlex, we provide the cutting-edge diagnostic imaging technology and all diagnostic imaging services needed,” Riddles explains. “Our goal is to offer a complete outpatient diagnostic center with easy access for the community, and HealthPlex is doing just that.”

For more information on diagnostic imaging available at HealthPlex, call (405) 307-1000.

2005 Dates for Favorite Annual Events

2004-07-20T10:47:00.000-05:00

Thousands of football fans gather in Norman each fall on home football game days to cheer on the Sooners, but folks also enjoy coming to Norman for a wide range of other family fun events and activities throughout the year.

The Norman Convention & Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce the 2005 dates for some of Norman’s favorite annual events.

February 5, Chocolate Festival   As seen on the Food Network
A dessert lover’s dream, the Chocolate Festival allows visitors to indulge in a variety of sinful sweets, like brownies, cookies, cheesecakes and ice cream treats! The event includes an exhibit of chocolate art and competitions for the best chocolate brownies and desserts. Tickets are $12.00. Call (405) 329-4523

April 1-3, Medieval Fair   Only festival in Oklahoma to be Named in the top 100 events in the United States
http://www.weather.com/activities/events/special/top100.html
This unique living history fair features more than 200 craft and food booths, games for all ages, educational exhibits and a vast array of colorful characters like minstrels, jugglers, dancers, knights and bagpipers. See jousting tournaments, human chess games and other medieval merriment! Free admission. www.occe.ou.edu/medievalfair.

April 24, Kids For Kindness Festival
The Little River Zoo’s Kids for Kindness Festival encourages children to promote humane education and care for the environment. Children graduate as Official Ambassadors for the Planet Earth. Free admission. www.littleriverzoo.com

April 29-30, May 1, May Fair Arts Festival
Experience a blend of visual arts, music, children’s activities and food from some of Norman’s favorite restaurants. For additional information, call the Assistance League, 405-366-7055, www.assistanceleaguenor.com.

June 23-25, Jazz in June
When the sizzling sun dips behind the trees and evening breezes carry the sounds of wailing horns and toe-tapping drumbeats, true music buffs know it can only mean one thing: Jazz in June. Join us for live, free music under the stars. www.jazzinjune.org

Mark your calendars now for these fantastic events, and enjoy a family getaway weekend to Norman. While in Norman, visitors will also enjoy affordable lodging, great antiques shopping and a variety of wonderful attractions. See the world’s largest Brontosaurus at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, pet a porcupine at The Little River Zoo and take a horseback ride at Lake Thunderbird State Park. For more information about Norman lodging, dining and activities, call 1-800-767-7260 for a free Norman Visitors Guide or go to www.visitnorman.com.

The Norman Economic Development Coalition and the OU Office of Technology Development to sponsor OCAST proposal workshop

2004-07-20T08:44:00.000-05:00

The Norman Economic Development Coalition and the University of Oklahoma Office of Technology Development are sponsoring a free Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I proposal development workshop on Aug. 10 and Aug. 11 in the University of Oklahoma Memorial Union.

Registration begins at 8:30 on both days.

Those interested in applying for a SBIR or STTR Phase I proposal are encouraged to attend. It will provide the necessary tools to develop objectives, work plans, a budget, and a comprehensive abstract. The workshop will help participants identify and understand the mission of government agencies that regulate contractors as well as government accounting requirements and necessary internal controls.

The first day of the workshop will provide a basic understanding of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs as well as a strategy for participating in these programs.

The second day of the workshop will provide intermediate level knowledge including instruction on government cost accounting and a logical process for developing a competitive proposal.

An agenda is available on the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology’s website, http://www.ocast.state.ok.us/.

Interested participants must register before Aug. 6.

Registration information can be sent to Michelle Gilliland at michelleg@meridian-technology.com. Include your name, company name, address, phone number and e-mail address.