Gary Shelton's journey from pastoral care to insurance isn't your typical career path. Yet, for Gary, both professions are deeply intertwined, rooted in a fundamental desire to help and protect others. This desire led to the establishment of the Gary Shelton Agency under Farmers Insurance, a venture that combines Gary's pastoral compassion with his commitment to providing comprehensive insurance solutions. A Pastor's Heart for Insurance Gary's transition from ministry to insurance was sparked by a significant change in his life. His pastoral work, centered around listening and providing support, laid the foundation for his approach to insurance. Gary saw insurance not just as a business but as a continuation of his mission …

In the world of real estate, where properties and profits often take center stage, Leslie Switzer of Prime Realty Inc Luxury Homes, stands out for her heart-led approach. As a full-time realtor, Leslie's journey in this field is more than just a career—it's a calling. Her story is one of passion, community, and an unwavering commitment to her clients. A Legacy in Real Estate Leslie's connection to real estate isn't new; it runs in her blood. Growing up with a mother who juggled teaching and real estate, Leslie was no stranger to the world of property sales and management. Yet, it wasn't her first career path. Leslie initially ventured into corporate executive management, overseeing an extensive network of attorneys across the U…

Maintaining a clean home goes beyond the usual suspects of floors, bathrooms, and kitchens. Many items and areas often escape our notice during routine cleaning, yet they can harbor dust, germs, and grime. Here’s a list of 15 overlooked household items that deserve your attention for a truly spotless home. Door Handles and Light Switches: Constantly in use, they can become hotspots for germs. Wiping them down weekly can reduce the spread of bacteria. Remote Controls: A hub for bacteria, given their frequent handling. Clean them with disinfectant wipes regularly to keep germs at bay. Keyboard and Mouse: Especially important for those who work from home. Use compressed air to remove debris and disinfectant wipes for surfaces.…

In the digital age, social media stands as a powerful tool for local businesses to connect with their consumers, build community, and drive sales. Leveraging creative content can set your business apart, fostering a loyal customer base and attracting new patrons. Here are ten innovative social media ideas designed to enhance engagement and highlight your local business's unique charm. 1. Behind-the-Scenes Looks Share photos or videos showcasing the day-to-day operations of your business. Whether it’s the morning prep in a café, a day in the life of a bookstore, or the setup process for a local event, giving your audience a peek behind the curtain makes your business feel more relatable and inviting. 2. Employee Spotlights Intr…

A revolution in healthcare is unfolding, thanks to Aubrey Cotham, the dynamic RN and entrepreneur behind Healing Hydration. This unique mobile IV therapy service has been making waves in the community, offering a personalized approach to wellness that stands out in today’s fast-paced medical landscape. Aubrey Cotham: The Nurse with a Vision Aubrey’s journey to founding Healing Hydration is as inspiring as it is unique. After graduating from Oklahoma Baptist University, she delved into the demanding world of ICU nursing during the peak of COVID. The challenges of the pandemic, coupled with her subsequent transition to home health, revealed a significant gap in healthcare – the need for addressing the root causes of health is…

Embarking on a fitness journey is an exciting step towards improved health and well-being. For beginners, knowing where to start can be the biggest hurdle. This guide offers essential tips to help you begin your exercise routine, no matter where you are. 1. Understanding Your Fitness Level: It's important to assess your current fitness level before diving into a new exercise regime. This helps in creating a workout plan that's both effective and safe. Many local gyms and fitness centers offer assessments to help you gauge your starting point. 2. Setting Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals to keep yourself motivated. Whether it's running a certain distance, joining a local fitness event, or simply improving your overall health, …

From Passion to Profession: Angel Melvin's Story Light Alive Marketing shines as a beacon of creativity and innovation. Led by Angel Melvin, this marketing agency not only offers cutting-edge marketing solutions but also represents a journey of personal growth, adaptability, and a profound commitment to client success. Angel Melvin's path to founding Light Alive Marketing is a narrative of self-discovery and the pursuit of passion. Initially venturing into early childhood education, Angel soon realized her true calling lay in the realm of creativity. As her children embarked on their own life paths, Angel found the freedom to delve into graphic and web design. Self-taught and driven by an inherent love for art, she quickly transf…

Red Tulip Designs, a thriving cabinet refinishing business in Oklahoma, is the brainchild of a determined couple, Jeremy and Kimberly Gilleland. Their story begins in 2016, rooted in a simple desire for creative expression and financial stability. Initially dabbling in furniture as a part-time endeavor, it wasn’t long before their talent for transforming pieces of furniture began to gain traction. The couple's journey into entrepreneurship officially took off in 2018 with the establishment of an LLC, marking the beginning of a more serious and dedicated approach to their craft. Despite their success with furniture, the couple frequently encountered requests for cabinet painting, a domain they initially resisted due to its intricat…

As winter embraces the Norman, Moore, and South Oklahoma City areas, the communities come alive with a variety of activities that promise to enrich, entertain, and engage. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, sports fan, or just looking for some family fun, this region has something special for everyone during the cooler months. Here’s a list of 10 must-try activities to add some warmth and excitement to your January days. Visit the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History (Norman): Dive into the past with exhibits featuring dinosaur fossils and cultural artifacts. Attend a University of Oklahoma Basketball Game (Norman): Feel the thrill of the game and cheer for the home team at the Lloyd Noble Center. Explor…

In the heart of Oklahoma City's metro area, Hite Digital Norman stands as a testament to the power of passion, family values, and community service. This digital marketing agency isn't just about offering services; it's about creating connections and nurturing local businesses. A Union of Hearts and Minds Amy and Joseph Singleton's journey is more than a love story; it's a tale of two lives intertwining to create something bigger than themselves. Married for six years and together for over seven, they each brought their own experiences and dreams into the relationship. With five children and three grandchildren between them, family is at the core of everything they do. Their path to Hite Digital Norman was unconventional. Jose…

Christmas movies have long been a staple of the holiday season, offering a blend of warmth, nostalgia, and festive cheer. In this article, we delve into the lesser-known stories behind some of the most beloved holiday films. From behind-the-scenes secrets to fascinating trivia, these insights bring a new dimension to the films we cherish and rewatch every holiday season. These fun facts uncover the hidden layers that make these Christmas classics so enduring and endearing. "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946): Initially a box office disappointment, it became a beloved classic thanks to frequent television broadcasts starting in the 1970s. "Home Alone" (1990): The movie used a real tarantula for the scene where it crawls on Daniel Ster…

In Norman, Oklahoma, a unique enterprise dedicated to empowering small businesses stands out for its innovative approach to employee benefits. Strategic Benefit Partners, led by Holly Peppler, is a woman-owned employee benefits insurance brokerage that specializes in crafting comprehensive benefits packages tailored to small businesses. Their mission is clear: to help these businesses attract and retain top talent by offering essential services like health, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage. With a witty tagline, "Your friends with benefits," they bring a blend of professionalism and approachability to the world of employee benefits. The Genesis of a Unique Vision Holly Peppler's journey into the world of em…

Shopping locally plays a crucial role in sustaining and enriching our communities. When we choose to purchase from local small businesses, we're not just buying a product or a service; we're investing in the economic health and vitality of our neighborhood. Each local purchase helps to circulate money within the community, contributing to the creation of jobs and the support of families and local entrepreneurs. Moreover, local businesses often offer unique, high-quality products and services that reflect the character and needs of the community, fostering a sense of identity and pride. Ultimately, shopping locally is a powerful way to build stronger, more resilient communities, creating a positive impact that resonates well beyond a si…

In Oklahoma City, at the crossroads of Northwest 10th and Council, stands a landmark deeply rooted in the city's fabric – House of Kawasaki. Known affectionately as HOK, it's not just a business but a legacy, woven into the lives of motor enthusiasts and the community at large. A Journey from Humble Beginnings House of Kawasaki's story is a tale of growth, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence. It began with a single location, created in the 1970s, and has since evolved into a one-stop shop for all powersports needs. From the early days, HOK has been serving its powersports friends, becoming an integral part of the Oklahoma City landscape. More Than Just a Dealership At HOK, it's about more than just motorcycle…

As the holiday season approaches, it's a wonderful time to pause and reflect on the many aspects of our lives that spark gratitude. Amidst the hustle and bustle, taking a moment to acknowledge what we're thankful for can bring a deeper sense of joy and contentment. Here are 10 reasons to be thankful this holiday season: Family and Friends: The invaluable support and joy from loved ones. Health and Well-being: Appreciating our physical and mental health. Home and Safety: Gratitude for a safe and comfortable living space. Community and Connection: The belonging and support from our communities. Opportunities for Growth: Recognizing personal and professional development. Nature and Surroundings: The beauty and sustenanc…

Moving to a new home can be a significant event in your life, filled with both excitement and stress. To ensure a smoother transition, here are some essential tips to consider: Start Planning Early: Begin your moving process several weeks or even months in advance. This gives you ample time to organize, pack, and handle unforeseen issues. Create a Moving Checklist: A detailed checklist helps you track every step of your move, from hiring movers to changing your address. Declutter Before Packing: Take this opportunity to sort through your belongings. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need, reducing the amount of stuff you have to move. Gather Packing Supplies: Stock up on boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers. Co…

November can be a wonderful month for family activities, embracing the onset of cooler weather, the approach of the holiday season, and the natural changes in the environment. Here's a list of family fun things to do during November: Nature Walks to See the Fall Foliage - Take advantage of the crisp November air by exploring local trails or parks. Collecting fallen leaves can be an educational and fun activity, and children can learn about different tree species. Thanksgiving Crafts - Get into the spirit of Thanksgiving by creating themed crafts. Families can make handprint turkeys, gratitude trees, or even festive placemats for the holiday table. Visit a Pumpkin Patch - While October is prime pumpkin season, many pumpkin pat…

Mazarati Solutions: it's more than just a name, it's about empowerment, camaraderie, and fostering connections. Behind this innovative venture is the effervescent Krystal Mazarati, whose journey from juggling a demanding job, school, and family to creating a haven of empowerment is nothing short of inspiring. A Spark that Ignited a Flame The inception of Mazarati Solutions stemmed from a simple yet profound realization: the need for a support system, a community where women could thrive, support each other, and foster meaningful connections. It began as a vitamin supplement venture aimed at energizing the exhausted. However, it soon morphed into a hub of empowerment, a connecting tool for those in need. Turning Negativity into…

Holidays are as much about delicious traditions as they are about togetherness. As families converge around festive tables, it's often the desserts that steal the show, evoking cherished memories and crafting new ones. Each pie slice or spoonful of pudding isn't just a taste of sweetness—it's a bite of family history, a moment of shared joy. Whether it's grandma's classic pumpkin pie or a new cranberry-orange concoction, these treats are more than just dishes; they're legacies of love. As we delve into this season, let's celebrate the magic that desserts and family bring to our holiday gatherings.Here’s some Thanksgiving desserts, both classic and unique, to try this year: Classic Thanksgiving Desserts Pumpkin Pie: A creamy,…

Early Struggles and Pursuit of Stability In 2009, the financial strain hit hard for Krystal Marazzi when she faced job loss due to pregnancy complications amidst a recession. With a newborn to care for and a hefty hospital bill, the pressure was on. However, adversity wasn't about to stop Krystal. She decided to return to school, aiming for a stable career to provide for her family. Navigating Through Career Options Initially venturing into accounting, she soon realized the monotony of the field didn’t suit her. The urge to connect with people and make a tangible difference propelled her towards sales, a realm she was familiar with due to her stepdad's car dealership. Yet, the dissatisfaction lingered, leading her to search …

Halloween is almost here and sometimes things creep up on you. Like, remembering to put together your costume! AAAHHHH! No worries! We've got a few tips to help you create the perfect fit in no time. MASKS - Get crafty and create a paper mask by cutting a paper plate in your preferred shape with holes for your eyes and adding a string to your mask to wrap it around your head. FACE PAINT - If you have face paint at home, you can add some whiskers to your face if you want to be an animal or paint a mask on your face for a superhero. You can also paint accessories like a spider web for a spooky Halloween look. The possibilities are endless. CARDBOARD - Cardboard boxes are great for do-it-yourself costumes. Grab a pair of scissor…

As the seasons change and you begin to reduce your sprinkler run time, consider these tips to help recycle valuable organic matter and nutrients back into the soil and save water. Try these 3 easy ways to recycle yard waste: Add leaves to your compost pile. Keep fallen leaves and other yard waste in your landscape. Rake shredded leaves into your landscape and garden beds as mulch. Mulch helps keep soil cool and damp and prevents weed growth. Use a mulching lawn mower which will mulch leaves and grass clippings directly into your lawn. …