Time to check on Oklahoma State moneyman T. Boone Pickens, who enjoys game day just like the rest of us, especially now that he built a runway on his 45,000-acre West Texas ranch for easier use of his Gulfstream 550.
He used to have to take a helicopter from the ranch to the airport at nearby Pampa, Texas, to board the jet, but thankfully those days are over.
The flight takes 40 minutes and T. Boone is met at the Stillwater airport by athletic director Mike Holder, who doubles as chauffeur for Pickens and his wife, Madeleine. The first stop is the student union, and Pickens is mobbed when he steps out of the vehicle. Countless autographs, pictures, handshakes and thank yous later, he makes his way to the stadium that bears his name.
Once he reaches his midfield suite perched above the 50-yard line, a stream of fans stop to say hello. There is university president Burns Hargis and fellow donor Greg Casillas. Before halftime, Oklahoma City Thunder players Kevin Durant, Jeff Green, Russell Westbrook and James Harden pay a visit.
More guests at halftime, including Oklahoma governor Brad Henry. Then up walks Garth Brooks, who introduces his wife to T. Boone.
Later, Pickens meets a man from his hometown of Holdenville, Okla., and the man and his friends are welcomed into the suite.
Finally, as the Cowboys' game against Grambling nears conclusion, it's time to head for the airport. Just getting from the suite to a private bus outside the stadium is a chore. There are more hands to shake, more autographs and good-byes.
Back at the airport, Pickens climbs the carpeted steps to his jet and heads for home. He closes his eyes and enjoys the 40-minute flight home — just like the rest of us.
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