Disc golfer heading into woods at N.E. Lions park.

Poison Ivy Irritates Disc Golfers at Local Parks

The wooded area at the popular N.E. Lions disc golf park is infested with poison ivy making some disc golfers break out in allergic reactions.

Poison Ivy grows naturally in the state of Oklahoma. According to webmd.com when poison ivy comes into contact with skin, the oil it produces called, urushiol can cause a rash with red, itchy bumps. With the recent heavy rains and mild climate, the plant is growing incredibly fast. Norman offers three disc golf courses, Colonial Estates, Griffin Park, and N.E. Lions Park. All three disc golf courses have wooded areas that may be infested with the plant.

“If it is an improved portion of the park, we will [clear out poison ivy], but not if it is in the bushes,” said Sheryl from the Norman parks and recreation office. “We just don’t have the chemical budget to do that.”

WebMD suggests washing the area of contact separately, rather than washing it in the shower as the oil from the soap can help the plant oil to spread. Avoiding the plant or wearing long sleeves, pants and gloves can also prevent an allergic reaction.

OU Sponsors Farmer's Market

The University of Oklahoma’s "Look Local" week-long event rounds out with a farmer’s market where students can purchase organic foods from local vendors.

OU’s housing and food services sponsored the activities from Sept. 21-25 raising awareness of social responsibility and eco-education. Events included several anniversaries of campus restaurants and a recycling competition between dorm residents. The farmer’s market was held Thurs from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the Walker-Adams Mall, showcasing several local farmed and baked products.

“This is great!” said OU student Heather Anderson. “I picked up some stuff after class. I’m trying to teach my daughter to eat healthy.”

OU offers several choices for students throughout the year for local and organic dining. Since it’s opening last year, The Laughing Tomato located in the Student Union has been serving locally grown products in about 15% of its items.

Apartment Complex Cracks Down on Student Parkers

Students who park in the Bishop’s Landing Parking lot may find their car ticketed or towed when they get out of class, these charges could cost more than a campus parking permit.

Bishop’s Landing Apartments is located on Brooks and Trout, the closest apartment complex to campus. Residents are supplied with parking tags to park in the parking lot. Any cars not displaying their parking pass will be ticketed. Repeat offenders can be impounded. The city of Norman issues 14,000 parking tickets a year with a maximum fine of $750.

“We notice there is illegal parking once our residents start complaining about no place to park,” said Louise Hammersly, Manager of Bishop’s Landing apartment complex.

The University of Oklahoma offers over 10,000 parking spaces with several parking permit options. Annual parking permits cost $195 and can be purchased in Robertson Hall, room 311.

The weekend is over, but the rain isn’t going to stop before classes begin again on Monday.

The National Weather Service has predicted the rain to continue until Wednesday afternoon. With Mesonet.org reporting an accumulation of 1.54 inches of rainfall in the past three days, Norman has been put under a flood watch.

“People were getting stuck up by the railroad tracks,” said Matt Dean, a tow truck driver for L & A Wrecker who was working overtime during Saturday’s game. “The tow trucks were getting stuck trying to tow them out!”

Although current road conditions are clear, it is always important to take proper precautions in case of flood. The National Weather Service urges everyone to avoid areas that are already flooded and being especially cautious at night.

Library Offers Students More Spanish Practice

For students who feel they need more practice with their foreign language requirements, the Norman Public Lirary will be offering free Spanish classes this month for anyone interested in attending.

the Spanish classes have been held for several years and are taught in Spanish to familiarize students with the language. There is no experience level required since the classes range from beginner to advanced levels.

"I'm going to try to attend as many classes as I can," said Brian Foster, an
engineering student at the University of Oklahoma. "I'm taking Spanish
as my foreign language requirement and it's hard to find places to practice
outside of classes."

Classes will start Sept. 10 at the Norman Public Library and will meet every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. until Oct. 8. There is no registration for the class and walk-ins are welcome. For more information, please contact the Norman Public Library at 405-701-2620.