Norman Board of Realtors to launch campaign

The Norman Board of Realtors will launch the "Good Thing You're in Norman" campaign aimed at easing the concerns of those living in the area as well as potential home buyers looking to relocate.

Borrowed from the state's "Good Thing You're in Oklahoma" ads, NBR President Maxine Bates said the new campaign is slated to be rolled out in the coming months.

"The Norman Board would like everyone in our area to understand that despite what is happening in the rest of the country, and the negativity being reported by the national media, Norman real estate is growing," Bates said. "Last year we experienced a 2 percent jump in homes values compared to the previous year and a 3 percent increase in total sales."

The local real estate market picked up last month after a slow start in 2008, which Bates said is probably due to the ice storm that devastated parts of Norman around the beginning of the year.

"April home values increased 8.3 percent over April of 2007," Bates said. "So, the market is picking up for spring."

Norman Dress Barn to start BYOB initiative

The Dress Barn women's clothing store, 1510 24th Ave. NW, recently announced its new "Bring Your Own Bag" initiative to benefit the Arbor Day Foundation.

Dress Barn District Sales Manager Shannon Saunders said the store is selling reusable bags for $2.25, with $1 going directly to the foundation, whose goal is to "inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees."

"With this new initiative, we can plant more trees in our nation's forests while helping the environment and enhancing the beauty of nature," Saunders said. "We hope to heighten awareness with our customers and invite them to make changes that will help make the world a better place."

Dress Barn is a national chain operating more than 800 locations in 46 states. Dress Barn Inc., the store's parent company, also owns Maurices, which operates 650 stores in 43 states.

New Hilton Garden Inn to celebrate grand opening

The Hilton Garden Inn, 700 Copperfield Drive, will celebrate its grand opening 5 p.m. June 12.