May 2014 by The Norman Transcript

TOWN

May 9, 2014

e z z e e r r b b r r e m m m m ss uu e n i f l e e f e m s e mak

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what’s

SIDE

4 From the editor “Where was 6 God?” Party at 7 Block Sam Noble with 8 Q&A Elizabeth Wheat Photos of 12 May Fair

Earl Sally plays the washboard during the Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band concert at the 2013 Summer Breeze Concert Series. photo by Kyle Phillips

13 Music Reviews Joey Frisillo at 14 the Depot 16 Summer Breeze Johnny Rivers at 22 Riverwind 2nd Friday 23 Art Walk Norman 24 Venues 10 26 Top Social Calendar Photos of 28 NMF7 Dos and Don’ts 30 of Mother’s Day

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from the editor’s desk

Hannah with her mother and mother-in-law in 2010.

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This year’s Mother’s Day marks a significant one for me: It’s my first being inducted into the holiday as a mama myself. Though my babe is still in utero, my mind often wanders into the age old question of whether or not I’ll make a decent mom. Truth is, I haven’t the slightest idea. Time will tell. What I can say, definitely, is that I don’t have to worry. If I take my cues from my own mom and other mothers in my life — I’ll be golden. For my own mother, mothering is a carefully calculated balance between spontaneous, nonsensical whimsy and a no-nonsense optimistic approach towards life’s trials. I’ll never understand when people gasp in exasperation about turning into their mother. My

TOWN

staff

mom totally rocks. If I turn out anything like her, I know my own daughter will have a life filled with magical moments and an overarching sense of peace and self-assurance. Mom, your voice is still the tone my innerdialogue takes. When I’m chastising myself, it’s your voice I hear. I laugh now remembering the moments I received short lectures from you when I had disappointed you. From my childhood perspective, they were moments of deepest shame. The irony is you probably didn’t give these life lessons a second thought. But I still carry them with me. I hope I hardly disappoint you now. But more importantly, Mom, when I’m encouraging myself — it’s you I hear. It’s you I hear telling me, “If you can do something about it, don’t worry about it. If you can’t do something about it, don’t worry about it.” You have taught me to find joy in the journey, even when the road is inexplicably difficult — just by being yourself. That is a gift I still use every day. I will never be able to fully thank you for that. When I got married, you told me that some day I’d understand how much you love me. With my own baby girl on the way, I think I’m starting to get it. It doesn’t matter how uncomfortable I am, as long as my girl is healthy and safe. And isn’t that the definition of love? Putting someone else’s needs above your own. Mom, I’ll never know all the quiet moments you sacrificed your self-interest for my betterment. I just hope I can pay that love forward. As for my mother-in-law, motherhood means combining selfless service with a healthy dose of joy. I haven’t spent my entire life observing her, but

from how my husband turned out I know she did something right. And though her baby boy is nearly 27, she still diligently makes sure he’s content and safe — even when she’s at the end of her rope. Mami, in the many ups and downs of your life, you have always exemplified patience, sacrifice and forgiveness. Your quiet example of endurance is one I treasure. And from watching your son, I know it’s a lesson he, too, has taken to heart. Thank you for raising a boy that will — and already does — love his own daughter with tenderness. I’ll never be able to repay you for that. Motherhood is anything but glamorous. But from the two favorite moms in my life, I’ve learned its importance is long-lasting and its reach one that ripples through generations. As one wise man once said, “There is no role in life more essential and more eternal than that of motherhood.” With any luck, I’ll soon be filling that role without any troubles. Thanks for always being the most perfect of examples, Mom and Mami. I love you! For up-to-date information on N-town, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Have any suggestions for us? Comments? Praises? Give me a shout out at hcruz@ normantranscript.com. I’d love to hear from you.

Publisher Mark Millsap

Ad Director Debbi Knoll

Production Manager Rob Rasor

Executive Editor Andy Rieger

Advertising Representatives Rebekah Collins Robin Escarcega Kimberly Lehenbauer Ryan Dillard Angela Williams Erik Winters

Writers Hannah Cruz Doug Hill

Editor Hannah Cruz Layout Artist Kerry Friesen

Photographers Kyle Phillips Jay Chilton Julie Bragg

N-town is a monthly publication of The Norman Transcript, 215 E. Comanche St, Norman, OK 73070. (Phone: 405.321.1800). Letters or editorial contributions should be sent to: N-town, P.O. Drawer 1058, Norman, OK, 73070 or emailed to hcruz@normantranscript.com. N-town is not responsible for unsolicited submissions. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner, without permissions is prohibited. Address advertising inquiries to Debbi Knoll, 405-366-3554 or dknoll@normantranscript.com. N-town can be found online.

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A still from the film. photo provided

by Hannah Cruz

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When the May 20, 2013, EF-5 tornado barreled through Moore, Okla., leaving a wake of death and destruction in its path, many were left wondering: Where was God? It’s a question Steven Earp, lead pastor at Elevate Church in Moore, has set out to answer in a faith-based documentary exploring the role of faith and hope in overcoming life’s trials titled “Where Was God? Stories of Hope After the Storm.” “God is present in the lives of people who love him, and the interacting and giving care of people who run to the source of the disaster while some of us are running away — God is there,” Earp said. The film, following the lives of those impacted by the tornado throughout the community, is scheduled to premiere at the Moore Warren Theatre May 16. Earp, the film’s executive producer, said the movie will screen for a week, or more, depending on ticket sales. Tickets are available online now at movietickets.com. About two weeks after the tornado hit, Earp said he was approached by a friend, a movie producer, about the possibility of creating a documentary about the event. By the fall they were interviewing families in the community looking for stories of hope and overcoming. Before he knew it, Earp said the project grew to become “something much bigger than

we imagined.” “By the fall we had local, area filmmakers that are all professionals come on board. Some of them volunteering, some of them very part time just doing what they could,” he said. “The quality, the production, everything just increased exponentially and it’s grown and gotten a lot of momentum and we feel really good about it.” The movie tells the stories of many individuals Earp described as “heroic.” Among them, Plaza Towers Elementary school teacher Karen Marinelli who shattered her tail bone protecting her students, as well as Plaza Towers Principal Amy Simpson who courageously continues to lead the school. Stacey and Scott McCabe, parents of 9-year-old Plaza Towers student Nicholas who passed away in the collapsed elementary school building, share their experience of healing. Also in the film is Kayla Carmona, 15-yearold survivor of the 2011 Joplin, Mo., tornado, who lost her father and sister in the Joplin tornado. Carmona moved to Moore with her mother shortly after the Moore tornado to help counsel victims. Cleveland County Undersheriff Rhett Burnett, Meteorologist Gary England and Storm Chaser Val Castor appear in the film as experts. Earp also appears in the movie in his role as a pastor. Earp said all participants in the movie

were carefully selected. He worked alongside counselors to ensure all individuals were ready to share their stories. “These are people who, for the benefit of others, have opened up their hearts and said, ‘Here’s what we’ve experienced and here’s what we’ve felt. And even in the midst of this great disaster, God is still good and you can still trust him,’” he said. Earp said he had a difficult time editing down the stories into one film. What stories made the cut, he said, came down to which ones share messages of hope and redemption and are relatable for others on a broad spectrum. “The goal is to give people the idea that no matter what life storm they’re going through we all experience death, we all experience sickness, we all experience a bankruptcy, or divorce or whatever it is — no matter what life storm you’re going through God is always near,” he said. “And that’s really the goal. Not just for them to know that but for them to experience it and kind of feel that reality. That’s the goal.” Beyond the obvious dialogue, Earp said the film also includes two metaphors woven throughout that explore ideas of fatherhood, as in relation to God. “Throughout the film there is a father-figure who is picking things up in rubble and towards the end, a piece of artwork that represents how

God takes the broken things out of disasters and makes something beautiful out of it,” he said. And with the film premiering near the first anniversary of the tornado, Earp said there’s no way around it: The end product is emotional. “And it’ll be more emotional here than anywhere else, but when you walk out you will be smiling,” he said. “You will have tears, but you will be smiling.” The documentary — filmed, directed, produced and edited in Oklahoma — was a labor of love by many volunteers, Earp said, and cost an approximate $200,000 to produce. Funding was provided by Elevate Church, faithbased groups and companies. It is a Behold Motion Pictures film in association with Elevate Faith Productions, and was produced by Brian Cates and Chris Forbes and directed by Travis Palmer. Earp said he would love to see the movie screened across the nation, but his target audience is Moore residents. His biggest dream would be raising enough money to provide copies of the movie to anyone impacted by the tornado. Any funds generated from ticket sales will go back into ministry at Elevate Church. The film trailer is currently being shown at the Moore Warren Theatre and can be viewed at wherewasgod.com. Individuals who wish to host a screening of the film in their area can visit the website to request a showing.

SAM

NOBLE

block party by Hannah Cruz

In celebration of recently receiving the National Medal of Museum and Library Service, the University of Oklahoma’s Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is throwing a party. Scheduled 1-5 p.m. June 1, the “Historic Block Party” at the museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave., is a free event packed full of fun. Museum Director Michael Mares said the purpose of the celebration is to honor the public for their continued support throughout the years. “The people of Oklahoma rallied together to save the original museum from destruction,” Mares said. “Ever since, their support has made it possible for the museum to work with them in providing unique programs that benefit young people from across Oklahoma, as well as adults. This medal is for all Oklahomans.” The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor conferred on museums and libraries for service to the community by the Institute for Museum and Library Services. Winners of the medal were selected from nationwide nominations of institutions that demonstrate innovative approaches to public service, exceeding the expected levels of community outreach. Only five museums and five libraries nationwide were selected for the 2014 medal. Other recipients include Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Brooklyn, N.Y.; Chicago Public Library in Chicago, Ill.; Las Vegas-Clark County Library District in Las Vegas, Nev.; Mid-Continent Public Library in Independence, Mo.; Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Conn.; North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh, N.C.; Octavia Fellin Public Library in Gallup, N.M.; The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in Indianapolis, Ind.; and Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Mass. Mares said receiving the medal was a pinnacle in development for the museum. Because the award was given to recognize the service the museum provides to the community, he hopes the public will come out to celebrate.

“I think that we’re very lucky to be in Oklahoma. Very few states have been able to take a university museum that was really down on its luck 20 years ago and build a world class facility,” Mares said. The block party, taking place on the museum’s north lawn, includes live music, food trucks, celebratory cake and informational booths on all the museum has to offer. Mares said the event is pet-friendly, with pet owners allowed to bring pets on to the outdoor museum grounds. The family-friendly event also includes free museum admission. The museum was founded in 1899 by the Territorial Legislature of the future state of Oklahoma and located on the OU campus. In 1987, the museum was designated as the state’s natural history museum. In May 2000, the museum opened its doors as a new 198,000-square-foot facility, welcoming 2.1 million visitors since that time. The museum houses more than 10 million objects organized in 12 collections from Native American Languages to Genomic Resources. Among the museum’s many annual public programs are community events like Science In Action/Object ID Day, Spring Break Escape, Eggstravaganza, Holiday Happening, and the annual Oklahoma Native American Youth Language Fair. Other educational programs offered by the museum include Meet the Dinosaurs, Web of Life and ExplorOlogy. Beginning in 2008, the museum launched Free First Mondays and, in 2010, became a participant in the Blue Star Museum Program to offer free admission to military personnel and their families. With such an award under the museum’s belt, Mares said there are no plans to rest on the museum’s laurels. “The challenge now is to keep improving,” he said. For more information visit snomnh.ou.edu.

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Elizabeth Wheat is no stranger to costumes. The Minneapolis native made a decade-long career out of dressing the stars of shows like “Will and Grace,” “Criminal Minds,” “My Name is Earl,” “Jonas Brothers” and “Scrubs.” After relocating to Norman in 2010 from Los Angeles so her husband could teach at the University of Oklahoma, Wheat’s new client base consists of customers at Queen of Hart’s Costumes in Norman where she works. Life isn’t as fast-paced for Wheat any more, but it’s a lifestyle change she welcomes with open arms. No matter her location, Wheat said telling stories through costuming is always fulfilling. For more information on Wheat, find “Elizabeth Wheat Wardrobe Stylist” on Facebook. For more on Queen of Hart’s Costumes visit queenofharts.net.

with Elizabeth Wheat by Hannah Cruz

One of the jobs I had — the tenor in Phantom of the Opera, I can’t remember the gentleman’s name who was playing this at the time, but he kept losing weight. And the character is rotund so the costume staff was continually adding padding to his fat suite because the costume had been built a specific size. My job, for like a month, was I would go and sit — and Phantom, in 1989, was the end all be all of Broadway, so there were never any seats — I would sit in the steps every night and watch to make sure the fat pad moved with him and looked believable. I got to see Phantom like 30 times. [laughing] So then my job was to come back and report, “We need more padding on the left. It looks okay. There’s a bulge on the right.” I mean, really specific stuff. It’s so weird: All those things you don’t realize are

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Tell me how you got into costuming.

Originally, when I was in art school they had offered a class in costume design through the fashion department, where I went at Minneapolis College of Art and Design. I had been a fashion student up until that point. I took that class and I was totally hooked at that point. The magic of it is being a part of a story, being a part of that story and how you help tell that story is what you put on the actor. And that to me just hit a vein, it felt right. That sense of how do you tell this story via what the person’s wearing. It’s a universal language and has very specific meanings but you can interrupt them through creating outfits and creating juxtapositions of different things that have a different message.

Q How did you get started in your career out of that? When I was in art school I spent one year living in A New York as a part of an exchange they had — all the art schools have a loft there. So I went to that and landed an internship at Donna Karen and at Phantom of the Opera. ...

Q somebody’s jobs. Somebody’s job is to make sure the Phantom’s fat looks good.

through. They didn’t produce any of their work there. I decided it was time to get a real job, so I got an assistant designer job at Eddie Bauer, which is located in Seattle. I did that for a while and didn’t like corporate. It just wasn’t me. Even though there were good things about it, it wasn’t a good fit. I did the garment industry for a while, so I did Eddie Bauer and then I did Unionbay. I traveled a lot with Unionbay, which is interesting. I would go to Hong Kong a lot. That was eye opening, if nothing else, just in the sense of how the global market really works and where all these garments are manufactured. It’s huge. It’s enormously complicated, the machinery of that industry — not literally the sewing machines — but the way in which fabric is grown, cultivated, sold, dyed. That whole gigantic behemoth, and how that dovetails in with how garments are actually arrived upon and developed and arrive in a mall in Tennessee, and how they’re consumed. Fascinating business.

Mhmm, yeah! Yeah — especially with theater.

A Television and film, once it’s on film it’s cut in stone. Theater is living and never ends until the show closes, so every night is going to be a little different.

working in corporate help you be a better Q Did costumer? When you work in television and features, so little

So that was in college — what happened after college? After that I did summer theater in Vermont at a place

A called Weston Playhouse that was just magical. It was really great. ... And then I landed a job in Memphis. It was a little equity house in Memphis. I did that for a year but the pay was poor and I only had like a day off a month, so I went back to Minneapolis and I got into commercials and features there. That’s where I met my husband who was the cinematographer on an indie film. He lived in Seattle. I decided this was the man for me, and I packed up my stuff and moved to Seattle. There I did theater at first. They have a wonderful, huge, beautiful equity house in Seattle called The 5th Avenue Theatre, so I dressed shows that would come

A of it is actually custom made. Understanding what it takes to get garments to retail is critical because you end up being a retail expert, rather than building anything — especially in television, because there’s never time. The way in which you get duplicates — duplicates is when you have to have six things because Sylvester Stallone gets shot and you have to have six for him, six for the stunt guy and the stand in and so on and so forth. Figuring out how to make sure you do have duplicates, you do end up having to have a relationship often times with the manufacturer. The other side of that is, for example, when I was on “Will and Grace,” every single thing had to be the very top of the line. Every garment — just the expectations of the producers and the talent. It couldn’t be the Burberry that was already on the floor. It had to be what was coming next, so you build your relationships with the

manufacturers just on a different level. Then you get into product placement and you’re building your relationships with your manufacturers there. This is a good example: Tiger Woods. You’re never going to see him in anything but Nike. You just never will because that’s product placement in a really obvious way. Other features do product placement that’s a little more subtle. Like every James Bond movie is really just a car commercial, but every single thing that’s there, every single thing on screen in a film like that has been negotiated. So understanding how garments are built, where they come from, all the politics it takes to get them to retail and how they’re going to be positioned at retail, will inform your decisions on a political level and on a stylistic level.

costume design by Elizabeth Wheat. photo by Benita Cloward of BRC photography for Ntown.

So it’s really like an art form? It’s more than just going

Q to the mall and picking out clothes.

It depends. It really depends. For the Jonas brothers,

A they really have a specific style. They don’t have tie-

ins with brands like some of the other celebrities would. They don’t have any of that. But they build their own looks. They have a stylist that has worked with them for years, Michelle Tomaszewski, and she is the best in the business. She’s amazing and she’s the only one that will understand what they do or don’t want because they don’t tell anyone. They don’t tell her. You have to — you get a little clairvoyant. Or you don’t survive.

sounds like a case by case thing then. Which Q Itsounds exhausting. A Definitely. It is. [laughing] Q So after you met your husband you went to Seattle? I lived in Seattle for about three years. I was doing a A little bit of commercials with him. The film industry in the late ‘90s in the regions really dried up and not just Seattle, but anywhere else that had been doing well as a region because of Canada. Being able to go to Canada and shoot your whole feature for half of what your budget would be anywhere in America, was tempting. So that became what people did. A tumbleweed blew through Seattle, for production work. You either had to find something else to do or leave. So we left. Kyle had a production company in Los Angeles that was repping him as a director, so that was sort of an easy transition because when we landed in L.A. I was doing some commercials with them and some manufacturing still. I was still doing some manufacturing in the industry there. But it doesn’t work very well. The garment manufacturing in Los Angeles isn’t set up like it is in Seattle, they do all domestic production so it’s so different. They’re trying to always catch the very tail end of a trend ... so in L.A.

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costume design by Elizabeth Wheat. photo by Benita Cloward of BRC photography for Ntown.

they don’t have that overseas piece of it, so a lot of times they’re scrambling and they want a piece in the store in a month. Sometimes that works out because you can catch trends right at the last minute but it makes for a giant headache. I didn’t like it.

want something that’s two days a week? Because I just lost my set costumer and that’s all I have.” So I did “Will and Grace” and a couple of other sitcoms and the kids got bigger. And then I got on “My Name is Earl.” Ultimately, I got onto “Criminal Minds” and I did that for two seasons. That was brutal because sometimes the call time was 4 p.m. and you’d get home at 8 in the morning. And I had toddlers.

watch any of those CSI shows and they cut to a morgue scene, there’s people. Dead people on those slabs. They’re all people. They’re $100-a-day extras. Non-union, $100 a day, plus a cold lunch — and there you lie all day long. — all the things you don’t think about Q Sowhenbizarre you’re watching a TV show. Especially when

Q you’re only consuming it for 45 minutes. You don’t think about how long and how many people it took to create it. Yeah, well it’s not like costuming is any easier. Once A you get into that, you’re running. You’re running all Q That’s crazy. I don’t know how you survived that. All those dead people are all on the call sheet, which day long. It’s six in the morning until 10 at night. You are A means they all need to have clothes. Sometimes I had to. It was fun, but boy, was it hard. You’re on your feet running. A on the back of a trailer at 5 in the morning and it’s it’s just a hospital gown but sometimes it’s going to be whatever they were killed in so then you have to go find freezing cold but you know it’s going to be 90 degrees So when did that happen? Q out who they were — hookers, whatever. later. Dress 100 people. That was tough. I did a lot of hookers on “Earl.” But the show is a The other part of “Criminal Minds,” like all those CSI It was one of those weird deals where I was A shopping for a commercial, and there was a girl comedy, so it was silly. But they would still hire a specific kind of shows, is there’s dead people all the time. That’s a That’s a lot to keep track of.

ahead of me in line doing this giant return. And I said, “You know what, that’s a stylist.” So I introduced myself, I said, “Ya know, let me know if you ever need an assistant.” So she called me. I did work for her for a while. I was at her wedding and I met the supervisor for “Will and Grace” and was six months pregnant with Cole. I said, “Once I have this baby, I would really like to find something that was two days a week,” and I didn’t think anything of it. But she called me. It was the weirdest, most serendipitous thing. She called me and said, “Do you still

challenge. If the crime story exists where the dead people have been there a long time, you use a rubber mannequin that they have “dug up” so you have to dress those rubber mannequins. You treat them like people in the sense that you have to have there clothes decayed to the same extent the rubber mannequin would be. That’s rare though because it’s very expensive to use those rubber mannequins. It’s cheaper to hire people. I think the rubber mannequins are $400 a day and the people are $100. But when you think about it, when you

type of background person for this. brought you to Oklahoma after 10 years in Q Sothewhat film industry? My husband was teaching part time at Chapman and

A he had been selling scripts, but it had been kind of

tapering off and it wasn’t happening quite as quickly as it had been so we were looking for some way to simplify things.

“

Be ready for anything, but have your own vision, in case somebody wants it. Somebody else’s vision will always come first, that’s very important in this business, you are there to interpret the vision of the director or the photographer. But if they want your opinion, have one. Be ready.

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“

costume design by Elizabeth Wheat in an episode of “Scrubs.” photo provided.

- Elizabeth Wheat

We didn’t want to sell our house because it’s such a good investment, but we knew we needed to find some other way to put food on the table without being gone for a 15-hour day every day. So he started looking for positions, tenure-tracked professor positions in film schools. So OU had an opening. The reason we chose it is because there is semi-affordable housing here and the schools are good. Affordable housing and good public schools never go hand in hand, they just don’t. This is just one of those weird situations where it’s true.

And the other thing, I don’t have to look for work. Everyone is a freelancer, always and forever, even when you’re on a show. So you’re always looking for work when you’re working in Los Angeles in the industry.

kind of advice would you give to a young Q What costumer or stylist?

Q So this is just much more stable? I don’t have to look for work. And I get to go home A at six. And it’s close enough I could ride my bike.

in case somebody wants it. Somebody else’s vision will always come first, that’s very important in this business, you are there to interpret the vision of the director or the photographer. But if they want your opinion, have one. Be ready.

And people here are lovely. All that stuff’s good. But when it comes down to it, it’s worth it. So far so good.

I think the most important thing you can do is just

A be ready for anything, but have your own vision,

you decided to come out to Oklahoma, had Q Sobe?is your career now what you expected it would Q When you been out here before? Did you know anything? No. But it’s good. I feel like I landed in such a lucky A No, nothing. A place. Q What was it like for you? To move from L.A.? Even though your career isn’t what you expected it I don’t know how to answer that. [laughing.] it was a Q to be, do you feel fulfilled? A total culture shock. The people here are very nice. The nice thing about A Oh yeah, definitely. it is it’s very convenient. Everything is close together. My kids ride their bikes to school, my husband rides his bike Q What’s your creative inspiration for your work? to school. ... guess the way to think about that is how do you It took me a while to figure out what to do here, so A Imake whatever your working on the best it can be? I went back to school at the vo-tech here and learned how to do websites. And I was teaching one class at OU, costuming for film and television, during the intercession. One of my students had met Kris (owner of Queen of Hart’s Costumes), and he said, “You’ve got to meet this lady, she’s opening a costume shop.” I rented some things from her for a commercial I did, and she’s just really great. She’s just fabulous. So then she needed a website, I built her a website. There were just all these things, kind of places where it crossed over. I do all her online social media. I do the ads, I do photo shoots — anything she needs that is going to be outreach, I take care of that for her so she doesn’t have to worry about it or hire somebody else for it. And I help with customers, when people come in and need a costume, I got ‘em. When she does Sooner Theatre, I help build some of that stuff.

I like to look at Wes Anderson. He’s my favorite director probably ever because he tells stories that are so direct and so straight forward and they have an innocence but a sophistication that are both accessible and provocative. His stories are immaculate. Tight. Interesting, funny, terrific characters. The articulation behind all the visuals is spot on. ... So sometime I think, well, what would Wes do? [laughing] He’s way up there. He’s pretty great. One of the things I like to talk about in this class is use of color harmony and how do you create visually on the screen a sense of who belongs to what camp? He’s a master at this... the way in which these people are dressed you know exactly who they are. With the sound off, you know exactly who these people are, what they want, where they came from. That takes collaboration not only with the designer but the actor and director so it fits into the big picture storytelling and little picture of who this person is in the moment. That to me is the standard that I would like to achieve. It’s the little details.

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costume design by Elizabeth Wheat. photo provided

Q How does it compare to what you were doing before? A I go home at six. Do you have any personal goals for yourself for Q what’s next? You go home! [laughing] Q I would like to keep teaching that class. And I want I go home. That part’s been great because I can take A my boys to Boy Scouts and I can go to their hockey A to do more editorials and stillphoto work. I haven’t games. I never got to do any of that stuff, not when I was on “Criminal Minds” or any of those hour shows.

figured out how yet, but there it is.

costume design by Elizabeth Wheat. photos by Benita Cloward of BRC photography for Ntown.

Irving Middle School art teacher Dan Harris works on his pottery during May Fair in Norman onMay 3. photo by Jay Chilton

Kayelee Ayers sings at the Andrews Park amphitheater stage during May Fair in Norman on May 3. photo by Jay Chilton

CAUGHT on camera May Fair Arts Festival May 3 and 4 Andrews Park Photos by Kyle Phillips & Jay Chilton

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Lacey Roye, right, paints Jordyn Brooksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; face during the May Fair Arts Festival at Andrews Park on May 4. photo by Kyle Phillips A young child rides a pony during the May Fair Arts Festival at Andrews Park on May 4. photo by Kyle Phillips

Hatleigh Bartrug paints a picture at the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art area during the May Fair Arts Festival at Andrews Park on May 4. photo by Kyle Phillips

Grant Walton shoots water balloons at his friends during a game at May Fair Arts Festival on May 3. photo by Jay Chilton

music reviews

by Doug Hill

Musician: Jim Suhler Album name: Panther Burn Why you should listen: In addition to being a whiskey brand and small Mississippi town, Panther Burn is now title for a memorable blues album. Jim Suhler may be best known for being a member of George Thorogood’s band The Destroyers. This is Texan Suhler’s fifth record with his own combo called Monkey Beat. It’s difficult to tell from the liner notes who are included in Monkey Beat because no one track shares identical personnel. There are a few familiar names here and there including Carolyn Wonderland on back-up vocals who performed here in Norman recently at Jazz in June’s Blues Night. This baker’s dozen of Suhler original compositions plus one cover is a southern slither through swamps, hill country and mysterious pine forests where you still might find white lightning in clandestine distilleries. For your ears Suhler’s guitar is the equivalent of a shot of that high-proof liquid fire. “Between Midnight and Day” calls forth a double guitar blistering that threatened to melt the Bose speakers it was coming through. “I do my best work between midnight and day/ Yes I do,” Suhler sings. “Across the Brazos” is a mighty hymn to the longest river in Texas. Accordion reminiscent of Sir Douglas Quintet will carry you across the current running from headwaters up north to the Gulf of Mexico. Although the states share no common border at any point, Suhler musically joins Mississippi and Texas in “Texassipi.” He affirms that’s where he’s from and the lyrical result is confirmation that it’s a state of mind rather than physical location. “Sky’s Full of Crows” is creepy southern Gothic at a gallop. You probably have to live down here to relate to this Flannery O’Connor short story set to music. “Oklahoma chrome and painted silver ladies/ by me on the left on a semi doing eighty,” Suhler sings in “Dinosaur Wine.” It’s an ode to that go-juice we’re all about here in the oil patch. The sanctified liquid that makes wheels turn and engines burn. From moonshine to Texas tea, Suhler serves up the south in a shot glass.

Musician: The Halley Devestern Band Album name: Fabbo! Boffo! Smasho! Why you should listen: The Halley Devestern Band has been dubbed the number one blues band in New York City. That’s some big britches to fill but their new super hero themed album of songs rises to the title. Devestern probably tires of having her voice compared to Janis Joplin (1943-1970) but it’s a fact she fronted Big Brother and the Holding Company for a time. Joplin’s former combo didn’t choose her for that chore because she sounds like Vanessa Carlton. Devestern actually is a superior vocalist to Joplin’s nasal and frequently off-key singing on recordings from back in the day. Her range and control may not trump Joplin’s style and charisma but she’s a fine modern blues diva. Power and soul are both evident in spades. Devestern and her bass player Tom Heinig composed all eight songs on this disc. Thomas Hutchings’ CNP Horns section is utilized to devastating brass effect. From low down gut bucket saxophone honking to sophisticated flugelhorn lines, they’re a brilliant addition to the production. Lyrics are unusual. “Kangaroo Momma” is about being a baby kangaroo. It’s hard to argue with the warm security of mommy’s nice warm pouch. I guess. This track may hold the distinction of first American blues song ever with a didgeridoo introduction. “Tore Up (From the Floor Up)” memorializes suffering from the “Johnny Walker flu.” It bops albeit in a queasy way, musically documenting a skull-busting hangover in need of greasy pork chops and eggs breakfast. Favorite track is titled “The Jesus I Know.” It’s an organ and choir inflected gospel tune truly revealing Devestern’s divine vocal powers. The words are about her understanding of Jesus of Nazareth as a dark complexioned man who fed the hungry and turned the other cheek. But we also learn He doesn’t mind if kids play on his lawn, that He digs Muhammad and Buddha, doesn’t care who you love as long as you love somebody and stays away from gun shows. It’s a fabulous conclusion to a smashing album.

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Paintings to grace Norman Depot. by Doug Hill

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Tulsa artist Joey Frisillo has been inspired by the colors of Oklahoma’s earth, sky and waters. As anyone who has lived here for any length of time can tell you, that’s going to be a lot of various shades of red. Oklahoma has glorious crimson sunsets, startlingly red soil freshly broken open by construction equipment and rose-tinged lakes. “I paint in pastel and oil,” Frisillo said. “I interpret the earth, sky and water with Oklahoma color schemes. It’s amazing what Mother Nature paints for us every evening in the sky.” The artist resides with her metal-engraver husband Al and four canines in a home overlooking Keystone Lake on the Arkansas and Cimarron rivers. The Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave., is hosting an exhibition featuring 50 of Frasillo’s masterful canvases beginning May 9 and running through June 28. The show’s opening reception is during the 2nd Friday Circuit of Art on May 9. Frisillo’s work is rife with prairie flowers, verdant meadows and the occasional white crane perched on a formation of sandstone. Lipstick red azaleas, elegant autumn gold leaves and azure blue skies dominate paintings that convey the majesty and tranquility of a natural world. There aren’t any grizzly cowpokes or rattlesnakes that you can see roaming around Frisillo’s canvas universe. “I’ve always loved the landscape,” she said. “Back when I was a kid we’d drive places and I enjoyed looking at the scenery. When I moved to Colorado there was amazing scenery to behold and I lived there for 17 years. Moving to Oklahoma was kind of a tough transition.” But as other transplants have learned, the red dirt here is somehow slowly but magically seductive. “Oklahoma is different from the Rocky Mountains but I also got back into art here,” she said. “It motivated me to learn how to paint a tall grass prairie and water which is particularly difficult for me. I work outside as much as possible which then informs the studio work. You see more details and perspectives outside than you do in a

photograph.” Frisillo is a native of Ft. Wayne, Ind., and attended art school at Miami University of Ohio. Searching for gainful employment took the young woman and a girlfriend to Denver. “I wanted a job where I could apply my art degree but there was nothing,” she said. “In order to eat I ended up at Amoco production company.” She started in the mailroom and took advantage of the fact that the company hired from within. Frisillo moved into the geophysical department and received on-the-job training in seismic processing. “I learned it, did well and kept advancing,” she said. Frisillo moved to the company’s Oklahoma research center in 1989. A corporate merger with British Petroleum a decade later gave the petite brunette an opportunity to jump ship and become a full-time painter. During the corporate years she’d dabbled in art some and sharpened composition skills through photography. “That was my artistic outlet and I still use it in my paintings,” she said. In the 15 years since Frisillo began painting she has amassed an amazing body of work and recognition. Frisillo’s paintings have been in numerous juried exhibitions including the Gilcrease Museum’s “Collectors Reserve.” She received the Award of Excellence from Art of the West magazine at the Woman Artists of the West 38th invitational show in Chicago. Three galleries in Tulsa and Ft. Wayne sell her work. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Visual Arts Council. “It seems like there’s always the threat of having the rug pulled out from under us,” she said. Frisillo has both studied with many other artists and taught art herself at the Philbrook and Gilcrease Museums. Although she believes most artists are self-taught, learning the fine points of good composition and color values can be learned. What’s difficult to convey to students is Frisillo’s

mastery of softened focus in her paintings. It’s the fine line between beauty observed in nature and how that is captured for perpetuity on her canvas. In conjunction with her exhibition, Frisillo is conducting a Mini Landscapes workshop in Norman for students 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 21. Call 405-307-9320 for enrollment information.

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by Hannah Cruz

The idea is simple: Free live music, a park and an audience. It’s a formula that’s proven successful for the Performing Arts Studio’s Summer Breeze Concert Series,

“This isn’t a Saturday night concert series, this is a Sunday night,” Ransley said on the simplicity of the series. “This is a recharge for the week. This

now in its 14th year. This year’s series brings nine local and national acts to Lions Park for a summer of laid-back listening on Sunday evenings. The Giving Tree Band kicks off the series on May 18, with eight more

is everybody take a deep breath and really relax and let your weekend finish nicely and go home and relax and start

concerts through Sept. 7. “It is an event that everybody can come and enjoy regardless of age,” PAS executive director Shari Ransley said. “Bring all of your family, bring all of your friends, bring dinner, bring a blanket, sit down and enjoy a Sunday night.” The series’ success is thanks to its simplicity and neighborhood picnic-like feel, Ransley said. With no distractions from additional vendors or activities, guests are able to enjoy the music void of any distractions.

your week.” Nancy McClellan, assistant to the director, agreed. “And parents don’t feel any pressure because we don’t have anybody out there trying to sell things,” McClellan said. “You can go out there and not spend one cent and have a delightful evening.” Summer Breeze Chair Mark McClellan said the series offers audiences a variety of music, introducing audiences to groups they may not have heard before. This year’s series includes genres like rock ‘n’ roll, salsa, country, folk, swing, jazz, Americana, red dirt and rockabilly. Performances are by The Giving

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by Hannah Cruz

The idea is simple: Free live music, a park and an audience. It’s a formula that’s proven successful for the Performing Arts Studio’s Summer Breeze Concert Series,

“This isn’t a Saturday night concert series, this is a Sunday night,” Ransley said on the simplicity of the series. “This is a recharge for the week. This

is everybody take a deep breath and really relax and let your weekend finish nicely and go home and relax and start

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John Calvin plays his harmonica and guitar as he plays a show with Camille Harp at the 2012 Summer Breeze Concert Series at Lions Park. photo by Kyle Phillips

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Dancing as a workout, Althea Napoli gets into the rhythm of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Bel Airsâ&#x20AC;?music in 2012. photo by Julie Bragg

Jen Starsinic plays her fiddle as Evan Harrison Parker plays his bass guitar with the David Mayfield Parade as the band plays a show at Lions Park during the 2012 Summer Breeze Concert Series. photo by Kyle Phillips

Kelley Mickwee plays the drums and sings with the band the Trishas Sunday evening at Lions Park during the final 2012 Summer Breeze Concert Series performance of the year. photo by Kyle Phillips

Honeylark vocalist Natalie Houck sings a song during the band’s concert at Lions Park during the 2013 Summer Breeze Concert Series. photo by Kyle Phillips

Marley Glidewell, 9, blows bubbles as she waits for the start of the 2013 Summer Breeze Concert Sunday at Lions Park. photo by Kyle Phillips

Kaylee Dilks swings a hula-hoop around her hand in 2012. photo by Kyle Phillips

Chubby Carrier sings as he plays the accordian as he plays a show with his band Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band during the 2013 Summer Breeze Concert Series at Lions Park. photo by Kyle Phillips

Tree Band, Salsa Shakers Band, honeyhoney, Red Dirt Rangers, John Arnold Band, Larry Mitchell, Sunday Flyers, Handsome Devils, and Kim Lenz and the Jaguars. The best part about this year’s lineup, Ransley said, is that it offers something for everyone and a place where everyone can be themselves. “You will see everybody from all walks of life, all ages, all groups, all together enjoying an evening. And that, for me, is what makes Norman a really special place,” she said. “So that’s what I hope people get out of Summer Breeze: They get to relax, be themselves, whoever they are, whatever status, place, whatever — bring it all. Bring it to the park and enjoy some music.” When Nancy started the series 14 years ago, she said she never imagined it would grow to become what it is. Though the series started as one concert in the park, it now is a 9-concert series attracting approximately 22,000 people throughout the summer. Both Nancy and Ransley said they aren’t done tweaking and perfecting the series, and hope to continue to see it grow throughout the years. One of this year’s tweaks includes the unveiling of a name change for the Performing Arts Studio, from Performing Arts Studio to simply, The Depot. For more information on the series visit the Performing Arts Studio’s website at pasnorman.org or call 405-307-9320.

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The Giving Tree Band • May 18

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er al Sum m u n n a h t e 14 ark, nks t o t h a h t c i s n L ions P i u s m g n e i v i n l e ev it h at b e b egin c t Sunday e o l t e s d e r l o u f d c he heduled s are all s t r e c n o c ly ily- f riend e p ub lic . h t o t n e p ree and o

a break or have a release from every day life. It’s a mini vacation,” Fink said. “So we feel like we’re providing not just entertainment but a service to people to give them a chance to be free, at least temporarily, from the stress of life. The most important part is to bring joy to other people’s live.” For more on the band visit thegivingtreeband.com. Salsa Shakers Band • June 1:

The Summer Breeze Concert Series kicks off with the Yorkville, Ill., group The Giving Tree Band, bringing a sound that offers a little bit of everything for everybody. “It’s rock ‘n’ roll, like a classic sounding rock ‘n’ roll band but with a variety of American influences and folk and roots music, bluegrass and country,” said Todd Fink, founding band member and banjo player. “It’s sometimes acoustic and sometimes electric, it’s a combination of instruments and sounds.” Fink said the group gains inspiration from classic songwriters like Neil Young, Bob Dylan and bands like The Eagles. For the upcoming Norman concert, Fink said the band’s goal is to simply have a good time on stage. “I feel like music is an opportunity to take

Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Panama and the U.S. The result is a sound that reflects the collective group’s rich heritage. The group was founded in 2013 by Armando Rivera, percussionist, and Rual Reyes, bass player, and was originally known under the name Alegria Real. “We’re kind of excited to hear a different take on Latino music they’re going to bring us — obviously going to be a lot of fun,” said Summer Breeze Chair Mark McClellan. honeyhoney • June 15

The six-piece salsa and Latin jazz band powerhouse, The Salsa Shakers Band, is bringing a festive, energetic concert to the park for the second installment of the concert series. Composed of musicians from throughout Oklahoma City, all members come from different corners of the world including

Equal parts country, folk and rock, the duo honeyhoney is hitting the stage mid-June with a sound that defies exact definition. Suzanne Santo, on vocals, banjo and violin, and Ben Jaffe, on vocals and guitar, make up the band based out of Los Angeles.

For more information visit honeyhoneyband.com. Red Dirt Rangers • June 29

crowd with a lot of young people and older,” he said. “Just a neat atmosphere I think.” For more information visit johnarnoldband. com. Larry Mitchell Trio • July 27

some new songs they’ve been developing. In the end, no matter what they’re playing, he said he hopes it’s a good time for both the band and the audience. “I think Greg’s lyrics are thoughtful and insightful and always tell a good story,” McCarty said. “I think if they listen to the lyrics they’ll see there’s something a little bit deeper each time they listen to it.” For more information visit sundayflyersband.com. Handsome Devils • Aug. 24

Describing the Red Dirt Rangers’ sound isn’t hard. It’s in their name after all. McClellan describes this group as the “defining band” in the red dirt genre. This three-person group out of Stillwater, Okla., is made up of members Brad Piccolo, Ben Han and John Cooper. The group has been together since the late 1980s. For more information on the band visit reddirtrangers.com. John Arnold Band • July 13

Country, swing, jazz and rock converge into one with the John Arnold Band. The band, together since the early 1980s, kicked off their career with much success and toured the country for many years. Now back home in Norman, John Arnold said the group still performs together, but now with a more laidback approach that is all about fun. The group, all Norman or Oklahoma City residents, includes Arnold, Victor Rook on base, Dennis Borycki on keyboard, Gary Howe on fiddle and John Spencer on drums. The band has played the Summer Breeze Concert Series before, and Arnold said he loves it for it’s laid back family atmosphere, and mix of talented local and national artists. “It’s usually just a ball, a nice diverse

Led by Grammy award-winning producer, engineer and guitarist Larry Mitchell, The Larry Mitchell trio brings a dynamic rock instrumental blend of rock, funk, jazz and blues. McClellan described Mitchell as a “crazy fireworks kind of guitar player.” “It’s instrumental electric guitar at the speed of light,” McClellan said. “The guy is just so fluent and fast and great melodies and we’re kind of excited to have something like that because I don’t think Summer Breeze has ever had a guitar god on stage like that before.” For more information visit larrymitchell. com.

A unique mix of Americana, folk rock and red dirt sensibilities make up the sound of Norman band Handsome Devils. The group includes drummer Devon Carothers, bassist Derek Carothers, lead vocalist and guitarist Derek Paul and backing vocalist and guitarist Zane Russell. For more information on the group visit hdevils.com.

Sunday Flyers • Aug. 10

Kim Lenz and the Jaguars, Sept. 7

Self-described as modern pop rock with an Americana soul, The Sunday Flyers is a group of locals who love to jam. The group — including Gregg Standridge, Michael McCarty, Mark McCarty, Bob French, Chris Babcock and Gates Miskovsky — performs original songs by band member Standridge, as well as favorite covers. McCarty said at this year’s Summer Breeze concert the group will be playing both old favorites and

Nothing short of rockabilly, Kim Lenz and the Jaguars will fill Lions Park with the classic sounds of 1950s rock ‘n’ roll. The Los Angeles-based musician has been cultivating her take on the genre since 1998. Lenz performs alongside band members Ramon Espinoza on guitar, Joel Morin on guitar, Shorty Poole on bass, and Santos De Leon on drums. For more information visit kimlenz.com.

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Johnny Rivers

by Doug Hill

ROLLING INTO RIVERWIND

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In 1964 Johnny Rivers performed his current hit “Maybelline” for a crowd of young people on the TV dance show American Bandstand. After the three minute song, host Dick Clark asked Rivers when he got his first big break. “It was at the Thunderbird Hotel in Las Vegas and then Harrah’s Casino at Lake Tahoe,” the then 22-year-old Rivers replied. Fifty years later the senior statesman of rock ‘n’ roll is still playing casinos. He will be rocking the Riverwind Casino, 1544 W. State Highway 9 in Norman, 8 p.m. May 17. Tickets are $35-$45 and are available at riverwindcasino. com. Rivers has actually never stopped playing clubs. Much of his early success in the 1960s resulted from recordings of live performances at joints such as the Whisky a Go Go on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, Calif. Some blame the British Invasion of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who for diminishing Rivers’ and other American artists’ careers. But Rivers has never stopped recording, producing and playing live shows. Back when the recording industry was very much an insider’s business, Rivers founded his own label, Soul City Records. Having come out of the Louisiana music scene and known for covering songs by AfricanAmerican performers, soul was no stretch for him. It wasn’t lily white Ricky Nelson who recorded Willie Dixon’s “Seventh Son,” Rivers did it in 1965 when racial tension was at its height in America. It’s notable in the American

Bandstand show mentioned above that the audience was a happy jammed-together mixture of black and white kids. From his Soul City Records work Rivers won a Grammy as producer of the 5th Dimensions’ hit “Aquarius/ Let the Sun Shine In” which won Record of the Year in 1969. He is also responsible for giving Okie singer/songwriter Jimmy Webb a massive boost to his career a few years earlier. Rivers arranged for the 5th Dimension to record Webb’s fluffy “Up, Up and Away” composition which became a runaway hit and snagged an incredible five different

Grammys in 1967. Coincidentally, Webb is performing at the Sooner Theatre May 9. In a 1998 TNN interview, Rivers also acknowledged introducing Webb to singer Glen Campbell, which led to an uber-successful writerartist collaboration. During the 1970s Rivers continued covering other writers’ material including “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Help Me Rhonda.” He released the curiously titled “L.A. Reggae” album in 1972 which included a string of non-reggae tunes including “Brown Eyed Girl.” Rivers is remembered by many in that era for singing the theme song for late night TV rock concert show “The Midnight Special.” That tacked on to his

earlier television program notoriety singing “Secret Agent Man” for the 1964-1966 boob tube series “Secret Agent.” It’s the song that plays unbidden if you open Rivers’ website today. The 1980s is not regarded as a stellar decade for popular music but Rivers continued plugging away. He released the “Borrowed Time” LP and reactivated his Soul City Records label for a platter titled “Last Train to Memphis.” Possibly because of his early experience as a record label founder, Rivers was among the few artists who started a career in the 1950s to have personally retained copyright ownership of his own recordings. Towards the turn of the century he was rediscovering the blues roots that had inspired his youth. In 2000 Rivers was included with Eric Clapton, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers and Sir Paul McCartney on a tribute album to Buddy Holly and the Crickets. He was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame five years ago. Rivers’ 21st century shows preserved digitally from outdoor events, such as the 2009 city of Monterey’s 200th anniversary celebration, reveal an artist who has changed little over time. His voice is strong. He’s trim and handsome and still plays guitar standing up on stage. A question that comes to mind is why has Rivers never been inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame? It’s just a matter of time and he undoubtedly has years of artistry ahead of him. Next week’s Riverwind show may be an opportunity to see Rivers in the year before his induction.

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5 p.m. LOCAL, 2262 W. Main St., is teaming up with Mariposa Coffee Roastery for a group art show and auction benefiting Campaign Rwanda in an effort to provide clean drinking water to coffee producing communities.

5:30 p.m. Firehouse Art Center, 444 S. Flood Ave., is hosting the closing reception for artist Matthew Kaney’s exhibit “All Fun & Games,” an innovative exhibition featuring the video arcade game as a medium of visual art.

Plan your perfect Art Walk with us. Find a complete list of events at 2ndfridaynorman.com.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

Studios at 420 Main, 420 E. Main St., welcomes visitors to the new retail space on the ground floor, featuring work from guest artists Charles Burnell and Madie Sallee. Nicole Garber will be signing her new book “Intercession.” Limited edition shirts designed by Rick Sinnett will be on sale.

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave., is screening deadCENTER short films, in addition to opening up its current exhibits and permanent collection up to visitors.

7 p.m. STASH, 412 E. Main St., welcomes featured artist Melissa Gray. Big Truck Tacos and The Loaded Bowl will also be on hand.

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GOLD ROOM Style + Wax, 104 S. Porter Ave., is hosting the Halls Pizza Kitchen Truck parked out front, as well as chair massages and specials for appointments booked during the art walk.

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7:30 p.m. Dope Chapel, 115 N. Crawford Ave., hosts a variety of printmaking pieces by Jami Hale.

Studio E, 220 E. Main St., is featuring the work of artist Gary L. Wicks. Coffee from Cool Beans and snacks will be available.

8:30 p.m. D.M. Wealth Management, 201 E. Main St., welcomes the work of impressionist painter Bobby Atkins, along with music from Frank Lawrence out front.

9 p.m. MAINSITE Contemporary Art, 122 E. Main St., is presenting the OU MFA Thesis Exhibition, along with NAC Individual Artist Jamie Lim. Free refreshments from LOCAL will be available.

8 p.m. Ball and Morse, 111 N. Peters Ave., hosts featured artist photographer Summer Lee.

10 p.m. Opolis, 113 N. Crawford Ave., brings laughs with a comedy night presented by Oklahoma favorite Wampus.

VENUES BELMAR GOLF CLUB Nestled on 200 acres of unspoiled farmland, and just minutes away from OKC, Moore & Norman, Belmar Golf Club is the perfect venue to host any of your special event needs. Our Banquet Room can seat groups of up to 250 people. With a warm atmosphere, the room naturally lends itself to wedding receptions, business seminars, showers, holiday parties and cocktail receptions. Our Fine Dining Room accommodates groups of up to 50 people and is a great location for birthday dinners, business meetings or just an informal get-together with friends

SAM NOBLE 24

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is one of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most elegant and unique venues for hosting your next special event.The beautiful spaces lend themselves to any kind of event, large or small. Let Oklahomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural history create a unique experience for you and your guests.The Museum provides a perfect balance of sophistication

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SCRATCH Scratch offers space for gatherings large and small. We have private tables inside for small groups of friends or business events. We also have room for up to 40 on our patio or in a section of our dining room. We do pre-arranged menus ranging from 1 or 2 appetizers to 3-5 course meals. CALL US FOR DETAILS!

and adventure as you mingle beneath a full-scale mammoth or wander through the galleries. From weddings and receptions to private parties, lectures, film screenings, conferences and more, the Sam Noble Museum can offer you and your guests an event experience to remember. For more information, visit www. SamNobleMuseum.org.

FAIRGROUNDS

A variety of rooms available for your next event. From our large Arena, to our Exhibit Hall, to our Banquet and Meeting Roms

for all types of meetings, shows, parties and markets. 615 E. Robinson Norman, 405360-4721

VENUES FRED JONES The grand entrance of the University of Oklahomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art leads visitors into a series of intimate pavilions and spacious galleries filled with spectacular works from the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s permanent collection, which provide the perfect setting for your next special event. Sandy Bell Gallery is a grand, open space designed to hold contemporary art and accommodate larger groups, this gallery can seat up to 200 people

comfortably at 25 tables of eight people. Groups of 200 or more can use the Sandy Bell Gallery for nonseated events. Mary Eddy and Fred Jones Auditorium is the perfect setting for lectures, film screenings, award presentations and other events requiring a small stage, the Mary Eddy and Fred Jones Auditorium has 146 seats and space for up to four wheelchairs. Overflow seating is available for up to 40 people. Receptions for auditorium events

can be set up in the Sandy Bell Gallery located only a few steps away. A catering kitchen is discretely tucked between the Records and Bell galleries and is available during special events. All special event spaces are conveniently located near stairs, a public elevator and restrooms. A service charge of 5% is applied for outside caterers. Contact Joyce Cummins at 325-9112 to plan your next event or gathering.

FIREHOUSE The Firehouse Art Center offers high quality visual art classes year-round for both adults and children. Summer classes are now enrolling and begin June 1st. The Firehouse Art Center is also home to a gift shop featuring the work of local artists and the FAC Gallery, which hosts a range of professional art exhibitions and holds receptions during every 2nd Friday Circuit of Art.

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CAL

See our detailed calendar in N-town lite in the main edition of The Norman Transcript for a complete guide of this week’s events.

N-town staff picks the top 10 things you can’t miss this month.

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Cuba 2014 exhibit at Shevaun Williams The sights of Cuba will be in Norman during a multiartist photographic exhibition,“Cuba 2014,” 7-9 p.m. May 9 at Shevaun Williams & Associates Commercial Photography, 221 E. Main St. The one-night show exhibits the work of a group of photographers who visited Havana and Trinidad, Cuba, in January. The group was granted special visas to visit the country as part of a cultural exchange. The exhibition will include a reception with complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres to enhance exhibit-goers’ Cuban cultural experience.

Jimmy Webb at Sooner Theatre Watch songwriting living legend Jimmy Webb live in concert during his 8 p.m. May 9 performance at the Sooner Theatre, 101 E. Main St.

Tickets are $40-$50 and can be purchased at soonertheatre.org. For more information on Webb visit jimmywebb.com.

Adventurer of the Year at Norman Library The 2012 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year Jennifer Pharr Davis is sharing stories of endurance, faith and love, she experienced while hiking the 2,181 mile

Appalachian Trial in 46 days. Her presentation is scheduled 2-3 p.m. May 11 at the Norman Library, 225 N. Webster Ave. For more information visit pioneer.lib.ok.us.

deadCENTER Film Festival in OKC

See the works of Norman filmmakers during deadCENTER Film Festival June 11-15 at five locations in downtown Oklahoma City. The 2014 festival will feature 90 independent

films from Oklahoma and around the world. For a complete schedule visit deadcenterfilm.org. All Access passes are available online for $125 ($75 for students).

StART Norman in Downtown Norman Celebrate StART Norman, a public arts initiative, during a closing reception 6-10 p.m. May 9 at 227 W. Main St. The event includes art work from “Threshold: the

Mother’s Day at the Sam Noble Museum

promised land” exhibit, live music, the Mariposa Mobile Coffee Shop, refreshments and more. For more information visit startnorman.com.

Treat your mom to a free day of fun and learning with complimentary admission on Mother’s Day, May 11, at the Sam

Noble Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave. The museum is open 1-5 p.m. on Sundays. For more information visit snomnh.ou.edu.

Family Day at Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art Zoo 2 U with Extreme Animals at Library Explore art during Family Day 1-4 p.m. May 18 at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave. The free event offers a variety of hands-on

art activities for the entire family, with May’s programming centered on the Allan Houser Drawings:The Centennial Exhibition.

Frog Talk at the Sam Noble Museum Discover the language of frogs during Frog Talk 7:30-10 p.m. June 12 at the Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave. The family event, for ages 6 and up, starts in the museum learning and then travels to a local park for

A zoo is coming to the Norman Library with educational entertainment during Zoo 2 U with Extreme Animals 2-3 p.m. and 7-8 p.m. June

2 at 225 N. Webster Ave. The event offers hands-on interaction with the animals, bringing a unique experience for audience members.

guests to experience the night life of Oklahoma frogs. Space is limited and advance registration is required.To enroll call 405-325-1008. Cost is $20 members/$30 non-members. For more information visit snomnh.ou.edu.

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Hungry Planet at the Sam Noble Museum Learn what fuels families around the world during “Hungry Planet: What the World Eats,” a photography exhibit at the Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave. The exhibit highlights 10 families from around the

world in their kitchens with one week’s worth of food.The work highlights similarities and differences in how each family produces, shops for and prepares food. The exhibition is on display through Aug. 31.

CAUGHT

Bright Light Social Hour’s Jack O’Brian plays the bass as the band performs on the Main Stage at the Norman Music Festival on Saturday, April 26. photo by Kyle Phillips

on camera Norman M N Music i F Festival ti l April 24, 25 and 26 in downtown Norman Photos by Kyle Phillips and Jay Chilton

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Dead Meadow’s Mark Laughlin plays on the drums during the band’s show on the Main Stage at the Norman Music Festival on Saturday, April 26. photo by Kyle Phillips

The band Kalo performs on the Sailor Jerry Stage during the Norman Music Festival on Friday, April 25. photo by Kyle Phillips \

Trinity Byrd giggles as she rides the carousel during Norman Music Festival 7 on Friday, April 25. photo by Jay Chilton

Sierra Rose Hawkins plays a show at Tres Cantina during the opening day of the Norman Music Festval on Thursday, April 24. photo by Kyle Phillips

Thomas Davis spins poi during Norman Music Festival 7 on Friday, April 25. photo by Jay Chilton

Dead Meadow’s Steve Kille plays the bass during the band’s show on the Main Stage at the Norman Music Festival on Saturday, April 26. photo by Kyle Phillips

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Dead Meadow’s Jason Simon plas the guitar and sings during the band’s show on the Main Stage at the Norman Music Festival on Saturday, April 26. photo by Kyle Phillips

photo by Kyle Phillips

All About a Bubble’s Luke Chronister sings as he plays the guitar during the band’s show at Tres Cantina. photo by Kyle Phillips

Y A D S ’ R E H T MO Y A D S ’ R E H T MO Y A D S ’ R E H T MO

Y A D S ’ R E H MOT Moth e r Y mDOS ’ s o A t h AND DON’TS e D D r ’ s a d S a ’ y y R E H T OF MOTHER’S DAY O mother’s day M (for sons and husbands) Y A D S ’ R E H MOT M AY D R’S E H T MO

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Do Remember It: Somehow I fail to do this. Every year. I don’t know why. It comes around at the same point. But somehow, the day before I wake up in the middle of the night with an “oh crap” and then fluster the rest of the day. I could plan a nice gift, but noooo. I have to scramble. On the years I do remember, the gifts are so much better. I once bought and planted tulip bulbs along the side of our house (with my grandma’s help). That was one of the most successful gifts I’ve ever given her (and I was, like, 10). Nothing like setting the bar high. And never meeting it again. Sorry, Mom.

men with little to no subtlety. One year, I thought I had it down. I asked my dad to act as a spy and find out if she had what I was planning to get her. He put his hand over the phone briefly and asked her if she had it. Sigh. For the record, she did already have it. Blast! I couldn’t even be sneaky when buying a ring for my then girlfriend. She doesn’t wear rings and has never worn rings. Her mother, stepmother and friends had no way of knowing her ring size. I finally just had to take her and say “surprise ring sizing for no reason at all.” She wasn’t fooled. She still married me though, so that's good. If you manage to pull off subtle, she’ll be shocked. She spent her whole life trying to figure out what you were up to when you were too quiet. She’ll feel like she’s losing her touch.

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AY D ’S R E TH O M truth to the cliché of “it’s the thought that

Maybe you’re lucky. Maybe you always remember Mother’s Day. Maybe you remember everything AY and don’t rely on Facebook to remind you of birthdays — maybe I hate you a little. For S D the rest ’all R E OTH of you, here are some handy dos and don’ts for making Mother’s Day moreMsuccessful.

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by Kerry Friesen

counts.” Even if you fail, fail gloriously. If she can tell that you really thought about it, even if you were totally wrong, at least you were thinking. That seems to make moms happy. At least, it makes mine happy. I think. Spring a little on her favorite restaurant. Buy her tickets to a show she’s been wanting to see (maybe force Dad to go along) She’ll love it and maybe he won’t be bored.

Don’t let her say she doesn’t want anything. This is a lie. It’s a lie whenever anyone says it. I don’t know why we keep playing DAY R’S Everyone likes presents. E this game. H T MO Everyone deserves presents sometimes. Moms, this goes for you, too. Please tell me. I’m bad at this game. If you know what you want, you’ll have an extremely low chance of being disappointed. Or, at the very least, drop some obvious hints. And when I say obvious, I don’t mean obvious to you. Think like me. Would I get this?

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Do pay attention: Chances are, she’s dropped at least a couple hints at things she likes or wants. Pick up a pen. Write them down. You will not remember them. You do not have a mind like a steel trap. Unless that steel trap is open and leaking. Then, maybe you do. I always think I will remember what Mom just said she wanted — I will not. Months later, I’ll wonder what she said and have no way to figure it out. Unless I just ask, “Hey, what was that thing you said you wanted one time?” She won’t be fooled by that totally innocuous question. DAY

R’S THE MO

Don’t get another gift card to Bed, Bath & Beyond She only politely accepted the first ten. Get her one more and she’s likely to explode. Put a little more thought in to your gifts. I write this as I am browsing the sheet section. You know, if she’s saved all of those gift cards I’ve purchased over the years, she could afford a nice sheet set by now. In all seriousness, try to be thoughtful. She, in all likelihood, pushed you out of her body. The least we can do is put a little thought into her gift. There is some

mother’s day Y A D S ’ R E H MOT M DAY

Do be subtle: I offer this piece of advice fully aware that I fail at this. I come from a line of

Don’t forget about your pregnant wife. A baby (born or not) cannot buy a Mother’s Day gift. That does not mean that she doesn’t deserve one. Your life is about to (or has very recently) change. AY of Give her one last gift between R the two ’S D E OTH you. It won’t be like thatMagain.

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