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in this issue
MAY 2016
Features
44
CHEAP EATS
Tacos to Thai food, immense burgers to impeccable eggs Benedict … the metro is well-stocked with (sometimes slightly hidden) spots for enticing flavor, and the good news for would-be explorers is that every one of these options is as light on the pocketbook as it is loaded with taste.
54
HAPPY TRAILS
Two wheels or two feet, exercise goes great with the great outdoors – especially when you’re reaping the recreational rewards of the extensive, and still growing, network of running and cycling trails around OKC. Do your health a favor, and get a move on!
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405 MAGAZINE MAY 2016
in this issue
MAY 2016
In the 405
Home
73 For a burst of decorative freshness, say it with flowers; inside the well-designed home of master builder Gary Randolph.
15 Art meets accommodation in the 21c Museum Hotel; spa relaxation awaits at the Artesian in Sulphur; the myth of Oklahoma’s space supremacy; talking innovation with tech star Lydia Benham; finding some favorite merchandise in Norman’s Social Club; garments and gear for fun in the summer sun; a new approach to community service organizations; humorously unnerving sights in Sin City; metro spots to join the CrossFit craze.
Dining
81 OKC’s Meat Market Refectory aims high with exceptional ingredients; chef Michael Paske’s recipe offers thrill from the grill; separating so-called superfoods from their hype; gnocchi and neighborliness at Flip’s; The Martini Lounge’s berry-powered thirst quencher.
Travel
38 Territory Ahead M.J. Alexander weaves a tale of bandits, blood, bullet holes and fallen idols as she retraces the final days – and the car – of famed bandits Bonnie and Clyde.
104 You’ve probably
42 Creatives
113 Take a tour of
Attention to detail is a hallmark of graphite specialist Haley Prestifilippo’s art, as she renders large-scale creations exploring the interconnectedness of life and death.
68 Culture Change is on the horizon in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of south OKC, so forward-thinking developers and organizations are working to shape its future.
ON THE COVER
4
seen Kanab even if you don’t know the name, as this little Utah town has a rich history in Western cinema.
Events
100
Spirit Quest
The countryside around Mexico’s Sierra Madres is hot, dry and bereft of shade, but it holds buried treasure of a sort: the agave that grows in the area is a key component of the powerfully complex liquor mezcal. And in tracing its journey from plant to finished product, Matt Payne discovers some of the ways in which this alcoholic spirit reflects the spirit of Oaxaca.
outstanding interior design in the Symphony Show House; the Okie Mod Squad plans to turn back the clock for a weekend; revel in creativity at the Paseo Arts Festival.
In Every Issue 8 From the Editor 10 Reactions 12 Web Sights 29 On the Scene 88 Food and Drink 115 Speaker Box 116 On the Radar 120 Backstory
A delicious, and budget-friendly, Frito chili pie made with Red Cup’s renowned vegetarian recipe. Photo by Quit Nguyen
405 MAGAZINE MAY 2016
PRIVATE BANKING | FIDUCIARY SERVICES | INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT | FINANCIAL PLANNING | SPECIALTY ASSET MANAGEMENT | INSURANCE
You’re Protecting More Than Just Your Wealth You want someone to help create and grow your wealth, but just as important is a partner truly dedicated to helping protect it for you and your family. Visit with a wealth advisor today to create a personalized plan to help your dreams come to life.
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If you’re retiring or changing jobs… …you have options. In times like these, it’s a good idea to talk things over with an experienced professional who is ready to listen and help you make sound financial decisions. With their guidance, you can explore possible new directions and find answers to questions like:
What should you do about your 401(k), retirement plan or pension? Should you think about a rollover to an IRA? Is early retirement a good idea? How can you avoid early withdrawal tax penalties?
MAY 2016
Publishing Director Scott Crystal scrystal@openskymediainc.com Editor-in-Chief Heidi Rambo Centrella heidi.centrella@405magazine.com EDITORIAL Managing Editor Steve Gill steve.gill@405magazine.com Style Editor Sara Gae Waters saragae.waters@405magazine.com Fashion Editor Jennifer Salyer jennifer.salyer@405magazine.com Contributing Editor Terry Clark Contributing Writers M.J. Alexander, Mark Beutler, Jerry Church, Brett Dickerson, Christine Eddington, Lauren Hammack, Greg Horton, Matt Payne, Elaine Warner, Bill Wassinger ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel scotty.odaniel@405magazine.com Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel brian.odaniel@405magazine.com
What benefits do you have coming from Social Security? Call Retirement Investment Advisors and ask for a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ for a complimentary consultation or visit online at TheRetirementPath.com. It’s good to know your options because you may have more than you think.
Design & Production Coordinator Tiffany McKnight tiffany.mcknight@405magazine.com Interns Sabrin Abu Seir, Daltyn Moeckel, Callie Ridley Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Shannon Cornman, Terrell Fry, Simon Hurst, Charlie Neuenschwander, Quit Nguyen, Matt Payne, Trace Thomas, Carli Wentworth ADVERTISING Business Development Manager Heidi Turner heidi.turner@405magazine.com Executive Director of Advertising Cynthia Whitaker-hill cynthia.whitakerhill@405magazine.com Account Executives Ryan Dillard ryan.dillard@405magazine.com Debbi Knoll debbi.knoll@405magazine.com Account Manager Ronnie Morey ronnie.morey@405magazine.com
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405 MAGAZINE MAY 2016
VOLUME 2 • NUMBER 5
READER SERVICES 405 Magazine 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Phone 405.842.2266 Fax 405.604.9435 info@405magazine.com, 405magazine.com Story Ideas and Letters to the Editor Your views and opinions are welcome. Include your full name, address and daytime phone number and email to editor@405magazine. com. Letters sent to 405 Magazine become the magazine’s property, and it owns all rights to their use. 405 Magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity. Back Issues Back issues are $9.50 (includes P&H) each. For back issue availability and order information, please contact our office. Bulk Orders For multiple copy order information, please contact our office. Subscriptions 405 Magazine is available by subscription for $14.95 (12 issues), $24.95 (24 issues) or $34.95 (36 issues). Subscription Customer Service 405 Magazine P.O. Box 16765 North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765 Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. CST Phone 818.286.3160 Fax 800.869.0040 subscriptions@405magazine.com 405magazine.com/subscribe
405 Magazine Volume 2, Number 5, May 2016. 405 Magazine is published monthly by Open Sky Media, Inc. at 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, 405.842.2266. © Copyright 2016 Open Sky Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of 405 Magazine content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. 405 Magazine is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. 405 Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed detrimental to the community’s best interest or in questionable taste. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ownership or management. Basic annual subscription rate is $14.95. U.S. single-copy price is $4.95. Back issues are $9.50 each
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FROM THE EDITOR
Born to Run (or Eat)
HEIDI R A MBO CEN TRELL A Editor-in-Chief heidi.centrella@405magazine.com
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SIMON HURST
FOU R Y E A R S AG O A BOU T T HIS T I M E , I threw in the towel. I had recently run the Oklahoma City Memorial half marathon, and, after being a rather obsessed – but not competitive – runner since college days, I was ready to stick a fork in it. I already had become an off-and-on runner. And I was bored. So I started trying alternate forms of self-inflicted pain, swelling and needs for ice: morning spin classes at the Downtown YMCA (and anyone who’s taken a class with Buzz, aka “Spin Nazi,” knows that this, indeed, is painful), noon BodyPump classes at the MidTown YMCA (effective, but I didn’t care much for the lunges), and then yoga and hiking. Of them all, yoga stuck … but I’m still an on-andoff-er on that scene. While I was hanging – or trying to keep up – with the Team Downtown OKC running club, one morning was especially memorable. Wait, there was one other morning when we ran a 10-mile loop to, on and back from the then-vacated old Interstate 40 bridge as the new I-40 Crosstown was in launch mode. That was cool. I digress. So one morning we decided to hit the trails instead of the pavement. We all cycled the Lake Stanley Draper loop, led by Buzz, then those of us who preferred to switch to feet-on-ground took to the trails that wound through somewhat rugged terrain, surrounded by trees with roots underfoot. The dedicated cyclists took off for an extended ride. Now, the I-40 run was no doubt a fun one – think about it, running down the middle of an empty interstate and no one to tell you not to (kind of like being encouraged to run with scissors) – but something about traversing those trails was amazing, a reconnection with nature … and a few bugs and near misses with mountain bikers. Oklahoma City boasts numerous trails – around lakes and rivers, through hills and trees – some man-made and some designed by Mother Nature. If you’re into it, or wanting to get into it, check out the feature on great metro-area locales for your running, cycling or hiking pleasures (page 54). If you prefer more of the gym, weights and I-hope-I-don’t-pull-my-arms-off experience, then you might want to see page 32 for everything you need to know and more about Crossfit. And whether you’re an exercise buff looking to carb-load or just in the market for dining suggestions on a budget, there should be something to tempt everyone in this month’s feature on inexpensive feasts around the metro (page 44). I encourage you to go exploring for fitness, food or both in this endlessly discoverable metro of ours – make it a great May. Peace.
RE ACTIONS A sampling of reader feedback
Places and Faces
Thank you, 405 Magazine, Greg Horton and Shannon Cornman for an awesome article! (“Goodness From the Ground Up,” March) You are talented! And I enjoy reading and looking at your craft. - CHEF VUONG NGUYEN Northeast in the news! We love the incredible images and history captured in this piece (“New Neighborhood Hope?,” January) from 405 Magazine. - ONE OKC Great article (“Doing It All Well,” March) featuring Shelley Cox, owner of Cayman’s! Thanks, 405 Magazine, for highlighting Norman shopping! - VILONA MICHAEL We’re so proud of our Director of Permaculture, Paul Mays, and all of the great organizations in OKC that are working hard to bring better food and awareness of the importance of local and organic to the forefront (“The Growth of Urban Gardens,” April). CommonWealth Urban Farms and Guilford Gardens have been working toward these goals for a long time. We’re honored to be mentioned in the same article with them. - SIXTWELVE
A Monumental Author
Many thanks to 405 Magazine for this excellent recap of [Ralph] Ellison’s life, his Oklahoma ties, and the continuing significance of the “novel of ideas” that made him famous (“A Most Visible Man,” April). Food for thought: memorializing Ellison in NYC on this scale is inspiring: “It is the largest tribute to a writer in the largest city in the nation … the only New York City monument dedicated to an Oklahoman.” But what kind of public monument might we try here in OKC to pay tribute to our own most significant literary native son? - RALPH ELLISON FOUNDATION
A Toast, To New Beginnings
Cheers, OKC! Thanks for voting us Best Cocktail Bar in 405 Magazine’s Best of the City! We’ll drink to that! - THE R&J LOUNGE AND SUPPER CLUB
Got my 1st @405Mag in the mail. Thank you! Nice cover of Lake Hefner. - STACY BATTLES, VIA TWITTER
Onward and Upward
I just wanted to drop you an email and tell you the magazine looks fantastic and is getting better and better all the time! I used to just glance through it a little, but now I find myself reading the articles on a regular basis, and even the ads are impressive. Good work! - MICHAEL O’HASSON, PIXELMONGERS LLC
Sound Off
We want to hear from you! Here’s how to contact 405 Magazine:
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405 MAGAZINE MAY 2016
BY E-MAIL editor@405magazine.com BY THE POST 405 Magazine Attn: Heidi Rambo Centrella 729 W Sheridan, #101 OKC, OK 73102
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WEEKEND 101 Our recommendations for fun stuff to see and do as the week winds down
SNAPSHOT! A pictorial showcase of local events and the people enjoying them
Over 60 Years of
Our digital domain, 405magazine.com, is the place to find content from the magazine while you’re on the web, but it’s also home to some extra articles that can’t be found in print. Visit this month for additional information on the OKC Orchestra League’s Symphony Show House, a look ahead to the Dean A. McGee Awards and more.
INSIDER
Products
The scoop on exclusive deals and special promotions from our partners – perfect for savvy shoppers
NOW READ THIS! An advance glance at some highlights from the upcoming issue
FOOD FOR THOUGHT Restaurant reviews and recommendations, recipes and tasty treats of all kinds
@HOME Ideas, advice and beautifully tempting products for décor and more Visit 405magazine.com/newsletters/ to get on the informational express train – next stop, your inbox.
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So what’s on your mind? We’re always looking for feedback and readers’ opinions, and that means we’re hoping to hear from you. Feel free – in fact, feel encouraged – to drop us a line anytime at feedback@405magazine.com. Thanks for writing!
Many Thanks!
We at 4O5 Magazine want to take this opportunity to share our appreciation for everyone who helped celebrate the high points of life in the metro at our Best of the City event in April, and to express our especial gratitude to the people who helped make it memorable: Presenting sponsor Interior Gilt Red PrimeSteak and the Good Egg Dining Group Naifeh Fine Jewelry Urban Farmhouse Designs Diamonds Direct Designer Rugs/Culinary Kitchen R Meyers Calvert’s Plant Interiors Joey’s Pizzeria Kindt Events David Attalla Blake O the DJ Kyle Dillingham Sooner Valet
Congratulations again to all the people and businesses who were named Best of the City – and thank you all for making our home a more outstanding place.
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in the
PHOTO BY SIMON HURST
Sky-High Expectations
It’s a stylish, thoughtfully designed site for boutique accommodations. It’s a carefully curated gallery that literally never stops sharing challenging, thought-provoking contemporary art with visitors. The new 21c Museum Hotel in the core of OKC is both, and then some, bringing new life and purpose to a century-old space that once housed the Fred Jones assembly plant. It’s an interesting concept for what should be a beautiful space - the future of Film Row is looking up.
MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 PLACES
A SPACE FOR THE NEW CENTURY Experience the 21c Museum Hotel
combining luxurious guest rooms and suites with a first-rate art museum. The new 21c Museum Hotel is located at 900 W Main in the old Fred Jones assembly plant. Built in 1916, the century-old structure has been gutted and re-designed, all while maintaining the integrity of the past. “Renovations started in 2014 and are expected to be complete by this summer,” says Holly McKnight, director of public relations for the 21c company. “Guests and visitors can expect a renovation that brings new life to the building, but with a thoughtful, contemporary design that nods to the building’s rich history.” The Louisville, Kentucky-based boutique hotel and restaurant group, whose name derives from “21st century,” was founded by contemporary art collectors and preservationists Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson. They opened the first hotel and museum in 2006, and other hotels are located in Bentonville, Durham, Cincinnati and Lexington. In addition to Oklahoma City, future hotels are planned for Nashville, Indianapolis and Kansas City. All renovations come with a unique set of challenges, McKnight said, but their design team wanted to keep as many of the original elements as possible. “The original column grid remains, alluding to the full volume of the space,” she says. “Finishes and furnishings are inspired by the assembly line and technology of the automotive industry, while many of the building’s original features have been restored, repaired or recreated – including the showroom’s original terrazzo floor, freight elevator doors, historic storefront, entry canopy and marquee, decorative brick and terra cotta, exterior sconces and the Fred Jones Manufacturing signage.”
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PHOTOS BY SIMON HURST
A N EW HOT EL that is one of Oklahoma City’s most intriguing new developments opens this summer,
21c Oklahoma City will employ nearly 150 people. The hotel offers 135 rooms, and 23 of them are suites. Many guest rooms feature sweeping views of the downtown skyline, as well as abundant natural light and an airy loft-like feel. The 21c Suite, built in the original penthouse, features nearly 3,000 square feet of living space, including two bedrooms, plus more than 2,000 square feet of outdoor terrace with views of downtown.
“Art is NEVER USED AS DECORATION at 21c. The property is designed specifically to showcase art. It is meant to CHALLENGE, AMUSE, STIR and EXCITE .” HOL LY MCK N IGH T
Another unique component to 21c is the art museum, incorporating a 50,000-square-foot, multi-venue space dedicated to showcasing the work of both emerging and established living artists. “Art is never used as decoration at 21c,” McKnight says. “The property is designed specifically to showcase art. It is meant to challenge, amuse, stir and excite. It’s thought-provoking and entertaining. The museum is open free of charge to the public 24/7 and is supplemented by a broad range of cultural programming that will be responsive to the Oklahoma City community.” Exhibitions are organized primarily from the 21c collection, augmented by loans from museums, galleries, artists and other public and private collections. “The 21c collection includes painting, sculpture, installation, photography, performance, film, video and digital art. The collection features more than 2,500 works by artists from all over the world, reflecting the global nature of contemporary culture,” McKnight adds. The comfortable chef-driven restaurant, Mary Eddy’s Kitchen + Lounge, is named for the late Fred Jones’ wife, and will provide all banquet, catering and in-room dining services. The property also features a gym, spa and plentiful outdoor space. “We want you to feel welcome and comfortable,” McKnight says. “Nothing about our hospitality is stuffy.” A catalyst for urban renewal, an economic driver for the community, an oasis where art challenges, stimulates conversation and provokes new ideas – all those concepts flow together in conversation with McKnight about this space, making it easy to get excited about the appeal. She adds, “21c was founded in the spirit of offering genuine southern hospitality to all who enter our doors.” And those doors will be opening very soon. - MARK BEUTLER MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 DESTINATION
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405 MAGAZINE MAY 2016
Sole’renity Now!
A quick trip to Sulphur provides lasting relaxation
PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
CONSIDER T HIS A ST RONG recommen-
dation: Take I-35 south about an hour from Oklahoma City, turn left and before long you’ll see a copper-domed castle rise up from the horizon in this charmingly odiferous, quintessential Oklahoma small town. The castle is the magnificent Artesian Hotel and Casino, and the cute little town is Sulphur. The Artesian and its wonderful spa, Sole’renity, will wine you, dine you, massage you, pamper you and relax you – so much so that later, as you roam the wide corridors of the hotel, perhaps on your way to the Bath House for a soak, you may find yourself wondering just where in the heck you are. The luxury is seamless. The views are beautiful, and many rooms come with cozy, curtained window seats. They’re perfect for napping, reading or just watching hawks circle and dip, high above the wilderness preserve just across the street. Our recent visit began in Sole’renity Spa, housed in the Artesian along with children’s spa Little Soles. “I feel very humbled to be working alongside the Chickasaw Nation here at the Artesian,” says owner Rhonda Mordecai, who has been in the beauty and wellness business for 30 years. “We are proud to have been named one of the Top Ten Family Spas in the country by Better Homes and Gardens magazine.” The grown-up spa offers a full slate of body treatments, and Mordecai says Sole’renity soon will branch into medical spa services, as well. “We are currently searching for our medical director, and soon we will be able to offer our clients things like laser treatments, Botox and fillers like Juvederm.” For us, the order of the day was a full-body detoxifying mud wrap. After checking in and filling out a short questionnaire, guests are led back to the women’s lounge. There they’ll find rows of lockers with thick white robes and slippers, a sauna and steam room, showers and an outer vestibule with cozy plush lounge chairs, soft lighting, fruited water and toasted nuts and dried fruit for snacking. Guests are gently led back to treatment rooms, and that’s when the good stuff happens. A mud wrap involves stripping down to some strategically placed towels and lying on a padded, heated table while an aesthetician applies a layer of warm, fragrant mud to your body with a wide paintbrush. The mud is warm and soothing, and as each limb is coated, it’s wrapped in plastic. After that, you’re swaddled in warm blankets and the attendant massages your head, face and feet. It’s heaven. About 45 minutes later, the mud is wiped off with warm towels, limb by limb, and thick, moisturizing buttercream is slathered on. It’s over so much sooner than you want it to be. What a great idea for Mother’s Day. Or graduation. Or a birthday. Pack up the kids and the husband (or don’t), and book a spa day for everyone. We cannot recommend it highly enough. - CHRISTINE EDDINGTON
FROM THE “WHEN IN ROME” FILES Guess how Sulphur got its name: Natural mineral springs bubble forth from the ground here, and their predominant extra ingredient is our unsubtle yellow friend, sulfur. On your way out of town, pick up a few gallon jugs and fill them with Sulphur water at the spring. Why? It’s great to wash your face with because it boosts collagen and tones down Rosacea. For realz. Stroll around the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, snap a few selfies in front of the
“Little Niagara” and, if you’re so inclined, take a dip in the swimming hole. Whatever you do, be sure to work up an appetite. Then, drive a couple of blocks west and turn left at Poor Girls Café. Don’t worry about what the building looks like, go in anyway. Inside you will find delicious, home-style food – like from the home of your creamiest, gravy-filled fantasies – and a friendly camaraderie among the other diners and the staff. They don’t miss a trick, and pegged us for, among other things, wanting milk in our coffee instead of the powder the second we walked in. The vegetable omelets were served Boston-style, along with more hashbrowns than you should have in one sitting and a choice of biscuits, toast or pancakes. No pancakes if the place is too busy, though. House rule. - CE MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 OKLAHOMYTHS
The Place for Space? Examining a persistent Oklahoma conception W HIL E OK L A HOM A M AY BE a comparatively young state, it’s nonetheless
rich with history, lore and fun facts. Unfortunately, some of those facts aren’t quite so … factual. In this series, M.J. Alexander hunts for the accuracy – or lack thereof – behind some of our state’s stories. MOST ASTRONAUTS THE CLAIM: Oklahoma has been home to more astronauts than any other state. SOURCE: AmericanProfile.com, July 8, 2001 FACT CHECK: According to NASA’s 2013 Astronaut Fact Book, there have been 330 NASA astronauts: 50 active astronauts, 35 management astronauts, 196 astronauts who have retired or resigned and 49 who have died. Eight astronauts have Oklahoma ties; five of those were born in the state: Gordon Cooper born March 6, 1927, in Shawnee
John Herrington born Sept. 14, 1958, in Wetumka
William Pogue born Jan. 23, 1930, in Okemah
Fred Haise born Nov. 14, 1933, in Biloxi, Miss., joined Oklahoma Air National Guard and attended University of Oklahoma
Thomas Stafford born Sept. 17, 1930, in Weatherford
Stuart Roosa born Aug. 16, 1933, in Durango, Colo.; attended high school in Claremore
Owen Garriott born Nov. 22, 1930, in Enid
Shannon Lucid born Jan. 14, 1943, in Shanghai to missionary parents; raised in Bethany
But while that’s an impressive roster, and these challengers of the unknown have given Oklahoma plenty to be proud of, it’s not the most from any state. It’s not even the most from any city. Among cities, New York City is the hometown to the most astronauts, with 13, followed by Boston and Cleveland with seven each, Philadelphia with six and Baltimore with five. So if any starry-eyed young Sooners want to boost our totals in the future, the sky’s the limit. For now, though, the state is far from the most astronomical. - M.J. ALEX ANDER
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STAR POWER
The states boasting the most astronauts New York - 31 California - 23 Texas - 23 Ohio - 21 Pennsylvania - 20 Massachusetts - 14 Illinois - 14 Michigan - 12 New Jersey - 12 Indiana - 12 Virginia - 10
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in the 405 CONVERSATION
The Speed of Innovation THE TERM “GAME-CHANGER” IS USUALLY HYPERBOLE,
especially in the world of technology. With countless apps hitting the market every year, they can’t all be changing the face of the industry they target. Still, it does happen occasionally … however, when something unique comes along, in spite of its ease of use or obvious benefits, the change of thinking required to adapt it is often difficult to foster. Lydia Benham, a Classen SAS and OU graduate, surveyed Oklahoma City to find what need she could meet with a tech startup. That approach was interesting in itself; why not just pursue the thing you studied in college (art, in Benham’s case)? In a very real sense, though, her polling of the city’s needs is much more strategic than starting yet another bakery or florist or gallery, all tasks that could utilize her creative side. Instead, Benham created BlazeJobs, an online hiring app that connects employers with employees in high-turnover jobs like food service and retail. “We found out that the culture still has not adjusted to the immediacy of mobile apps,” Benham says. “They
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were still using signs on their windows or services like Craigslist.” The app features a remarkably simple user interface and the ability to tailor personal profiles so that a sous chef or dishwasher need not be inundated with each other’s openings, and employers can plug in exactly what skills are required for a specific position. No wasting time scrolling through reams of employment applications or the hyperlink nightmare that is Craigslist. The rate of adaptation around the industry has been astonishing, including being selected for “Start Up Alley” at the 2016 National Restaurant Association’s annual convention. Benham attributes some of the success to partnering with local restaurant groups for the beta version. “We were getting input from employers and we plugged those suggestions into the actual build, which means we created something they actually need,” she says. What happens, though, when an industry is not quite ready for something so innovative because they are bogged down in old ways of thinking?
PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
Talking tech with developer Lydia Benham
You said user acceptance was one of your primary obstacles levels, too. I like building things, combining people to make a to success with BlazeJobs. How exactly was it a problem? team, pulling things together, sketching out ideas. One of the “When you come into a market and you have something that most exciting aspects of BlazeJobs was to see this international really does change the way people do a common task, it creates team come together in a locally focused community. We have the need to completely shift gears. We got rid of tedious steps and contractors from here, Belarus, Buenos Aires and Nashville.” archaic processes, but that’s no good if you can’t get someone to What do you mean by locally focused? “The barriers to download the app, which takes three seconds. We discovered that entry in Oklahoma City are very low because the climate for education and marketing only get you to a certain point, and then startups is excellent here. It helped that there is no one in you have to get people to actually download the app. Once they Oklahoma doing what we’re doing, but we also discovered do, they change their way of thinking.” how focused people are on working with locals. Did you encounter other obstacles in the OKC Because I’m a native Oklahoman and my business market? “Surprisingly few. Once we partnered “If you think things is here, I was able to say, ‘Hey, this is something with employers, we eliminated one obstacle – we put together. We’re local. We’re here, working are moving fast with you.’ People in Oklahoma really respond making something that no one needed – and then now, JUST WAIT to that because they love local and they love user acceptance. One obstacle turned out to be a benefit. When you work in technology, you do most homegrown.” FIVE YEARS.” of the work behind the glass, so to speak, but the Where is tech headed in OKC? “We will start LY DI A BE N H A M culture of Oklahoma City is based on relationships. to see a lot of high-tech solutions integrating Coming from the tech world, the value of relationsoftware and hardware over the next three years ships was not something I factored, but now I have a relationship that will simplify processes and create bottom-dollar savings for with the people I bank with, and we are partnering with Work businesses. We are also moving into an age where the millenniReady Oklahoma, a program to put financially vulnerable people als will outnumber everyone else in the workforce, so adoption back to work. Once we figured out that Midwestern model of rate of new technology will start to increase dramatically. If you building relationships like that, it opened so many doors for us.” think things are moving fast now, just wait five years. We’ll all How did an art major end up in tech development? “I have be scratching our heads and wondering what the hell happened. a background in the arts, yes, but I like creativity at different At least my grandmother will.” - GREG HORTON
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MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 FAVORITE THINGS
Join the Club Shop and a Haircut at Norman’s Social Club AT F IR ST GL A NCE , you might scratch your head and
Baggu Grid Backpack, $39 “Study in style with this minimal grid backpack from Baggu. Durable and lightweight, this bag is perfect for going on an adventure or just to carry school supplies – and to top it off, it’s made completely of recycled cotton.”
Cactus Tea Towel, $16 “A hand-printed tea towel on unbleached flour sack cotton, ideal for an added pop of decor to any kitchen, it also makes drying dishes 10 times more fun (or so we’ve heard).”
Constellations Pant, $35 “Soft, organic fabric designed by the Lovewell team and hand-sewn into an everyday legging, this particular pair has an adorable constellation print, hand cut to order. Not only are the leggings incredibly soft and comfy, 5 percent of sales provide clean water for kids and families in the Jalapa Valley of Nicaragua through the efforts of Second Mile Water.”
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Badlands dry shampoo paste by R + CO, $28 “Great for adding second-day texture and absorbing excess oils in your hair. It doesn’t build up in your hair, leaving it still feeling lightweight while adding that sexy texture.”
Vintage Glasses, $39 “Great for staying hydrated, but even better for your favorite margarita or Bloody Mary.”
PHOTOS BY CARLI WENTWORTH
wonder, “What kind of ‘club’ is this?” The Social Club, located in historic downtown Norman, isn’t a “club” in the truest sense of the word, but once you discover it you definitely feel like you’re a part of something. Part shop, part salon, this unique blend of two worlds is a gem. Helmed by Dana Scott, it offers something for practically everyone: unique prints with drink ingredients to baby leggings or vintage glassware to specialty tea towels. It’s welcoming and cool and laid-back all at the same time. With partner Erica Smith running a six-chair salon in the back – a seriously cool space, as well – it’s easy to see why The Social Club is like no other business around. Shopping and a haircut? Why, don’t mind if I “do”! - SAR A GAE WATERS
Moscow Mule Print, $18 “The cutest and simplest instructions on how to make a perfect Moscow mule are illustrated on a print, and ready to be hung by your bar or given to a cocktail connoisseur as a gift. These are a Social Club exclusive item, and were designed for us by the wonderful Oklahoma City native Erin Robinson.”
Things Will Work Out Pin, $10 “A pin designed by one of our favorite makers: People I’ve Loved. This pin will give even the negative-est of Nellys hope for the future!”
PRESENT PERFECT When asked how she goes about procuring items for the shop, Dana says, “I generally find myself relating items that I think are awesome to the situation when a person would give that item as a gift. To me, gift giving is one of the best ways to let someone know you care, you’re thinking about them or you think they’re really wonderful. Other than that, I find endless inspiration in beautiful things that are also functional – treasure hunting at flea markets and estate sales, great coffee, tasty cocktails, nature … and not taking yourself too seriously.”
Sweet Grapefruit Candle, $19 “Mmmmmm! That’s all we can think while smelling this delightfully scented handmade candle created using domestically grown soy wax, cotton core wicks and fine fragrance oils. The packaging is kept simple with a jar and a brass lid.”
Evil Eye Ring, $45 “Available in 18K gold plate or rhodium plate, embellished with a white Swarovski crystal, the perfect adornment to keep all bad vibes at bay.”
Shorthand Office Supplies: Notebook, $16; Notepad, $8; Washi Tape, $5; Push Pins, $8 “Who says office supplies have to be boring? Not Iron Curtain Press, the creator of Shorthand office supplies. Freshly colored notebooks with high quality paper and just the perfect amount of line spacing, washi tape with fun designs to liven up anything that needs taping and brass pins to add a little extra personal style to wall hangings or bulletin boards.”
Vintage Decanter, $26 “For Sunday brunch or just for decor, it’s detailed with vertical impressions, accompanied by a glass square stopper.”
Sticks and Cones Earrings, $25 “Beautiful handmade earrings to up your jewelry game, these earrings are dangly malachite cones at the end of a brass stick, excellent for any event or as a gift.”
MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 TRENDS
Hit the Beach! OR PERHAPS THE L AKE? The pool? Even the back yard! Warmer weather beckons us outdoors, and it’s only going to get sunnier from here – that means now is a good time to update your gear, from new sunglasses and sun hats to swimsuits and sandals. Here’s a look for both the guys and the gals to inspire you to get outside and soak up the summer. Don’t forget the sunscreen! - SARA GAE WATERS
Kate Spade Balboa Island bikini top ($85) and bottoms ($67), Nine West sun hat ($42) from Von Maur, OKC | pink Turkish beach towel ($35) from Sara Kate Studios, OKC | Bahia white tunic ($194), Krewe du optic sunglasses ($235), Samudra new floating leaf jumbo pouch ($76) from Gretta Sloane, OKC | Joia Flat Sandals ($19.95) from Blush, Norman
PHOTOS BY CARLI WENTWORTH
Tommy Bahama hat ($45), OluKai men’s flip flops ($80), Tommy Bahama red Baja Poolside swim trunks ($78) from Von Maur, OKC | Costa sunglasses ($149), Southern Tide seersucker swim trunks ($85), Kiel James Patrick rope bracelet ($40) from Threads, Norman
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in the 405
SERVICE
Cynics might wonder whether the 45-member Bricktown Rotary is basically a drinking club that gets little done. Wright would disagree. “I figured it up and we probably did about 400 or 500 hours of volunteer service just over Christmas,” she says. “That work had an impact on 600 to 700 people.” It’s hardly the work of a club only interested in schmoozing. The club was formed in 2003 and has met at the Bricktown Brewery since. “They wanted from the start a different dynamic in a service club,” Wright says about its founders. “Meeting after hours with a couple of drinks provides people with an opportunity to be in a very relaxed and engaging atmosphere,” she says. “You’re not rushing to get back to work.” Others are finding the evening meeting time to be helpful, too. There are 13 Rotary clubs in Oklahoma County. Four of them meet after work, which reflects the new desires of people who are not in traditional work or family situations. Code for OKC embodies a newer type of service Patrick Gaines speaks to fellow organization, a child of the digital society. Rather Rotarians at a recent Monday meeting. than declining, today’s service clubs and work are changing in both form and substance. There’s no ringing of a bell, formal structure of meeting or formal membership. They only have a connection as a Meetup.com group. You belong if you are passionate about a specific project. Instead, what the 10 to 15 members of Code for OKC have in Modern models for service organizations common are basically two things: their coding skills and their desire to promote “data transparency” and open government. THE CONCEPT ISN’T NEW – coming together to do good works They are currently writing code that will let the public view the as a group has a rich history, and Rotary International memOklahoma City budget online. bers have been devoted to “service above self” for more than a “I think having the budget in a visual format will engage OKC century now. Nevertheless … these aren’t your grandfather’s residents,” Lippert says. service clubs. But if they get good money for coding at their day jobs, why Sandy Wright presides over Bricktown Rotary, which meets put in unpaid time after hours? after work during “happy hour” – and several members enjoy an “Coding isn’t just work,” Lippert says. “It’s creating something adult beverage sitting in front of them versus a rubber chicken out of nothing. It is the most satisfying feeling to work hard to and rice lunch. When the meeting is over, they are in no hurry to create something you’re proud of.” - BRET T DICKERSON leave. Catherine Lippert, co-chair of Code for OKC, helps set up folding tables and chairs at Prototek, a somewhat dingy, utilitarian “makerspace” at NW 10th and Hudson. After quickly grabbing slices of pizza from boxes, members open their laptops and start collaborating on a project. Populated by folks who have very different ways of doing it, Bricktown Rotary and Code for OKC are new models for community service work. In earlier years, the dominant service club scenes were of besuited businessmen meeting for one hour at breakfast or lunch, quickly leaving afterward for work. Then their weekend pancake breakfasts or chili suppers would raise money for charitable causes. That still happens in many service clubs today, but in larger urban areas like Oklahoma City, the model is changing to a Members of Bricktown Rotary productive service mode.
PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
Community Boost
MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 LAUGH LINES
What Happens in Vegas … will require strong antibiotics and years of therapy IF YOU R E A D Elaine Warner’s “Viva
Lesser-Known Vegas” last month, you got a lovely snapshot of the Las Vegas my parents must have seen every summer on their annual trek to Sin City. In the same way Christian holidays conveniently line up with pagan feasts of old, my parents’ vacations always aligned with golf tournaments of some kind. Their trips to Vegas were no different: My dad would head out to an all-day golf event, while my mom would park herself at a slot machine and stay there for eight or nine hours, confirming our suspicion on day-long car rides that she had a steel bladder. With the exception of a brief financial report on my mom’s success (or not) with the slots, my parents never offered ancillary details about their stays in circa 1980 Gomorrah, and we never asked. Whatever those particulars were, they couldn’t hold an LED candle to the sites of Vegas 2016 – the ones Elaine judiciously omitted from her depiction of the more quaint side of town. If my parents went to Las Vegas today, I’d meet them on the gangway and push them back onto the plane for their own good. I’ve been to Las Vegas several times, most recently a couple of weeks ago. It’s a great city for many things beyond gambling – shopping and dining, to name two – but for my favorite pastime, people watching, it really doesn’t get any better than Vegas. I used to think it takes a lot to shock me, but this city always proves me wrong. Before my most recent trip, the last time I was in Las Vegas was less than three years ago. Like all visits before it, it came with a front row seat to the 24/7 spectacle moving down the strip: loud, screaming, barely legal kids who are too drunk to feel the pellet I’d like to shoot
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into their ass; girls of all sizes stuffed into Size 0 sausage-casings-for-dresses; bright-eyed, innocent toddlers in strollers at 2 a.m., pushed by parents who have no intention of letting Junior’s bedtime stand in the way of an all-nighter with the unwashed masses; the armies of waist-high Asian grandmothers who click-click-click stacks of nudie trading cards for passersby. This trip, on the other hand, was more eye-opening (and eyeball-burning). People have apparently decided that wearing clothes is too much of a hassle. Nearly the entire strip was just that: naked people. For everyone else, it looked like the Ill-Fitting Apparel convention was in town. An alarming number of people must have been painting the shed in the backyard, moments before deciding, “I think I’ll go to Vegas right now. This is what I’m wearing.” Passing by a tattoo and piercing studio, I decided I should re-pierce my ears, something I’d been putting off for years. Before Trixie could impale my lobes, she had to ask some preliminary qualifying questions: • Was I at least 18 years of age? (Is the Botox that convincing?) • Was I acting on my own free will? (It’s not an act.) • Was I drunk, high or pregnant? (Well, the night is young …)
Next, all I had to do was sign a waiver as an agreement that, in the event Trixie was drunk, high or pregnant and messed up my ears, I wouldn’t get too bent out of shape about it. As I scanned the form, I noticed the list of available services the studio offers its clientele and, while I’m no prude, I do think there are some things better left un-tatted and un-pierced. Cirque de Soleil, whose artfully ethereal performances of suspended agility always make for an entertaining outing with the family, had blanketed city billboards to promote their new show with an ad featuring a threesome. “You see kids, when Mommy and Daddy – and the other Mommy – really love one another … ” I think the “What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas” campaign, besides being over-exposed and well beyond its sell-by date, represents the first point of departure from the sound judgment people leave behind with their Starbucks cups at the boarding gate. Las Vegas Tourism and Visitors Bureau could nail it with an updated campaign slogan like “What Happens in Vegas Will Probably Require Stronger Antibiotics Than You Can Legally Obtain” or “Vegas: This Is What Happens When You Don’t Listen to Your Mother” or “Vegas: Bad Decisions Start Here” or “This may be Vegas, but you still need to put on a damn pair of Spanx® and learn the difference between a tunic and a dress.” - LAUREN HAMMACK
in the 405
ON THE SCENE
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OKCMOA Omelette Party
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Patrons get their grooves on as the OKC Museum of Art partners with top local chefs to celebrate “Eggs, Drinks and Rock ‘n’ Roll” in its annual festive fundraiser. 1. Deloris Bradford, Margaret Sayler, Meg Salyer 2. David Neff, Matthew and Dinah Cloud, Suzanne Peck 3. Greg Chitsey, Katie Girardi, Brook Walker, Jed Williams 4. Lynda Shreve, Russell Kim, Lea Morgan 5. Meghan Van Stavern, Vicki Van Stavern, Sarah Day-Short
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PHOTOS: OKCMOA OMELETTE PARTY BY TERRELL FRY; RED TIE NIGHT BY SHANNON CORNMAN
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Red Tie Night
The 24th annual gala is more than a marvelously elegant evening: as the state’s largest single-evening fundraiser, it’s a way to help the Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund assist thousands of Oklahomans living with HIV/AIDS. 1. Mary Arbuckle, Graham Colton, Stacey Ford 2. Mayor Mick and Terri Cornett 3. Luba Speegle, Brett Cauthen, Patrick Boylan, Al McAffrey 4. Phil Burke, Robert Mills, Cher Golding 5. Sheryl Colton, Greer Colton, Cindy Colton
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MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 ON THE SCENE
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Diapers and Diamonds
Jewelry vendor Diamonds Direct celebrates its grand opening in OKC, and donates a portion of the event’s proceeds to nonprofit Infant Crisis Services.
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1. Lori Hoggard, Jo Lynne Jones, Courtney Thomas 2. ICS director Miki Farris (center) with Diamonds Direct’s Nelson Lopez and Dovy Klarberg 3. Jessie Gardner, Kelsey Halford, Karen Wicker, Terri Watkins 4. David Medlock, Cindy Thompson, Sharon and Phil Inzinga, Ann Tubbs 5. Angela Lee, Teresa Gagliano
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JLN Charity Ball
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The Junior League of Norman dons “Big Hats and Bow Ties” for its 2016 philanthropic fundraiser and taster’s affair.
PHOTOS BY TERRELL FRY
1. Autumn McMahon, Keri Dennis, Lanae Price 2. Sierra Eberle, Nathan Thompson 3. Jennifer and Jon Davenport, Jake and Sarah Smith 4. Kevin and Patty Hill 5. Miranda and Jacob Harris
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Chef’s Feast
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Sampling dishes from outstanding area chefs gives diners satisfied palates, and the Regional Food Bank a boost in their efforts to feed Oklahoma children in need.
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1. April Sarsycki, Mandy Holmes, Sherri Kilgore, Ronda and Dan Glades 2. Dana Hope Chism, LaToya Anderson 3. Rob and Traci Land, Lezel and Rick Safi 4. Dana and Morris Collie 5. Becky and Daniel Woodall
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LORI HANSEN, M.D. 405.753.9600 MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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in the 405 FITNESS
CrossFit in the City
A workout filled with camaraderie, community and constant variety
CROSSFIT BOXES NEAR YOU Midtown OKC CROSSFIT 405 1501 N Broadway, OKC 405.458.0405 crossfit405.com Moore EXILE 524 Tower Drive, Moore 405.819.6337 locu.com Norman KODA CROSSFIT 1210 McGee Drive, Norman 405.888.1752 kodacrossfitnorman.com South OKC CROSSFIT REDMAN 8209 S Penn, OKC 405.496.7152 crossfitredman.com
ever was, maybe more so. They love nothing more than to gather at the Box (CrossFit for studio) and haul, jump, drag and throw things repeatedly while sweating profusely and listening to loud, energetic music. And then there’s the lingo. Andrew Nicholas is one of the owners of Moore’s CrossFit Exile, which was a hub of activity on a recent Monday evening. “There is definitely a two-part learning curve that comes with CrossFit,” Nicholas says. “There are the movements, and then there’s the language. We have lots of acronyms and abbreviations.” It’s not intimidating, though, and Nicholas, like most CrossFit coaches, works thoughtfully to make sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable. He’s a tall, fit, 28-year-old wearing red Lululemon shorts, a burgeoning man-bun and customized Nike trainers emblazoned with “Exile” in gold lettering on each shoe. He is a patient, kind instructor who pays keen attention to each student’s form so that, while they may be sore the next day, they won’t actually harm themselves. As clients drift in, the camaraderie and sense of community are clear. People are having fun. It’s a hard workout, but it’s playful, too, and the whole thing has a school recess feeling. The class begins with a warm-up, which consists of 500 meters on a rowing machine or a 400-meter jog and some stretches.
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Edmond EDMOND CROSSFIT 301 W Waterloo Road, #296, Edmond 405.259.2651 edmondcrossfit.com Shawnee CROSSFIT SDG 623 W Independence, Shawnee 405.535.5961 crossfitsdg.com Yukon BIFF’S CROSSFIT 328 Mustang Road, Yukon 405.265.0301 biffscrossfit.com
PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
CROS SF I T IS NOT A CU LT … not in the bad way. Its devotees are as fervent as Mr. Darcy
North OKC GET A GRIP CROSSFIT 6909 W Hefner Road, OKC 405.684.7479 getagripcrossfit.com
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in the 405 FITNESS
This is a MetCon class, which is the perfect class if you’re new to CrossFit. Most CrossFit Boxes have something similar. “CrossFit is based on constantly varied, high-intensity, functional movements, and it incorporates many elements of gymnastics,” Nicholas says. “A MetCon class has more guidance and more hands-on instruction. In more advanced CrossFit classes, we “It will definitely start together, but then people look at the WOD and start going work you and through it. But don’t think the make you LOOK MetCon class is easy. It’s not. BETTER NAKED.” We have people who are lifelong A N DR EW N ICHOL A S MetConners. It will definitely work you and make you look better naked. And in spite of what people might have heard, it’s only dangerous if you’re doing it wrong.” - CHRISTINE EDDINGTON
SAY WHAT? A CrossFit Glossary Box – Where the CrossFitters CrossFit, AKA the gym, the studio WOD – Workout Of The Day, there is no routine workout here RFT – Rounds For Time EMOM – Every Minute On The Minute The Rig – Looks like a jungle gym in the middle of the Box where you’ll do squats, pull-ups and more IHIDPMAO – CrossFit’s (totally unofficial) newest acronym: I Hope I Don’t Pull My Arms Off
Comprehensive dental care at a new location — bigger space, advanced technology!
561 Merchant Drive
healthy smiles for life Call (405)
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Susan E. Whiteneck, DDS Jennifer M. Jenkins, DDS and Sara K. Spurlock, DDS
321-6166 or visit www.normandentist.com
Patient-Centered Cancer Care
OKLAHOMANS NO LONGER NEED TO TRAVEL OUT OF state to receive world-class cancer care. The Stephenson Cancer Center at the University of Oklahoma provides cancer care teams that are redefining patient-centered care in a new state-of-the-art facility.
As nationally recognized leaders in research and patient care, experts at the Stephenson Cancer Center are exploring new treatments and breakthroughs with advanced research and clinical trials right here at home.
The Stephenson Cancer Center annually ranks among the top three cancer centers in the nation for patients participating in National Cancer Institute-sponsored clinical trials, and it is one of 30 designated lead cancer 800 NE 10th Street Oklahoma City, OK 73104
centers in the Institute’s National Clinical Trials Network.
Phone (405) 271-1112 Fax (405) 271-5797 stephensoncancercenter.org
The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo
EXCELLENCE AND QUALITY WITH A PERSONAL APPROACH The doctors and staff at the Cardiovascular Health Clinic are very appreciative of the interest in and continued community support of their recently opened office location on Quail Springs Parkway in Oklahoma City. We have been working this past year to provide a full spectrum of cardiac and vascular diagnostic imaging tests in the relaxing, comfortable setting of our new office. Next month, we will be announcing the availability of additional diagnostic and treatment services, enabling us to more completely evaluate and treat your heart and blood vessel health concerns. This addition to our office practice will continue our efforts to provide state-of-the-art health care in a more relaxed, economical setting.
DWAYNE A. SCHMIDT, M.D. | JIM G. MELTON, D.O. 3200 Quail Springs Parkway, Suite 200 | Oklahoma City, OK 73134
405.701.9880 | info@cvhealthclinic.com
RURAL LOCATIONS: Woodward | Chickasha | Weatherford | Pauls Valley
Happy Mouths, Happy Patients
T
he mission statement of Dr. Krista Jones’ Edmond practice includes the words “life changing”, and the testimonials from her patients bear witness that she and her staff are succeeding in meeting that goal for metro residents. Voted both “Best Family Dentist” and “Best Cosmetic Dentist” in 405’s Best of the City 2016, Dr. Jones has a commitment to comprehensive dentistry that’s intended to support her philosophy that our teeth are meant to be kept throughout our lifetime, and that aesthetics are an important part of that picture. A practicing Oklahoma dentist for 35 years, Dr. Jones’ attention to detail and focus on outcome has resulted in a high satisfaction rate among her patients – something she believes is the product of a relationship built on trust. “We want to help our patients achieve their goals for health, function, and aesthetics,” Dr. Jones says. “I enjoy getting to know my patients on a personal level, and understanding what their desires and plans are, and how I can help them achieve them.” Healthy teeth are necessary for our overall physical well-being, and a great smile is a sure-fire confidence builder. Dr. Jones’ understanding of these two sides of dentistry, combined with her skill and track record of lasting results, form the basis of a solid practice that patients can rely on to meet a variety of needs. “I have a high success rate,” Dr. Jones says. “When patients get the work they need in a reasonable amount of time, they like it and they don’t have to have it redone, patients are happy and that is fun for my staff and me.”
KRISTA M. JONES, DDS, PC
2000 E 15th St. Building 200, Edmond | 405.341.0203 | EdmondDentist.com
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territory ahead
On the Trail of Bonnie and Clyde The deaths and legend of the Depression-era desperadoes BY M.J. ALEXANDER
THE MOST FAMOUS DEATH CAR IN AMERICA sits under plexiglass in a smoky corner of a tired casino on the California-Nevada border, 2,500 pounds of bullet-riddled automotive muscle infused with sex, violence, hysteria, celebrity and lawlessness: the Death Car of Bonnie and Clyde. The Ford Deluxe V-8 rolled off the assembly line in February 1934, making its way from Michigan’s River Rouge assembly line to a dealership in Kansas, where it was purchased for $785.92 in March 1934 by Jesse and Ruth Warren of Topeka. In the first six weeks the Warrens owned the car, they drove it slowly to break it in, putting 1,243 miles on the odometer. On the last Sunday in April, Mrs. Warren parked the car in their driveway and left the keys in the ignition. When she next looked out the window, it was gone. She reported the car stolen. It was spotted the next day on the side of the road near Ottawa, Kansas, heading toward Oklahoma. By the time police arrived at the scene, all that was left were the tracks of new tires and discarded cigarette butts. The car reappeared 25 days later, on Highway 151 near Gibland, Louisiana. It bore an additional 7,500 miles on the odometer, more than 160 bullet holes and the dead bodies of the most infamous outlaw couple in American history: Bonnie Parker, 23, and Clyde Barrow, 25.
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In an era of Pretty Boy Floyd, Ma Barker, Machine Gun Kelly and John Dillinger, Texas-born Bonnie and Clyde captured America’s imagination. From the depths of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, they showed that sometimes — at least for a little while — people might get ahead by breaking the rules. They were young, good-looking and in love. The cops couldn’t catch them. They lived life on their own terms. Their legend grew thanks to an undeveloped roll of film left behind after they fled a garage apartment hideout in Joplin in the midst of a shootout. On April 15, 1933, the photographs were developed and sent out on the newswire: The nattily dressed duo were hamming it up, reveling in their gangster life, posing with guns by one of their stolen cars, with Bonnie chomping on a cigar and Clyde lifting her aloft. With the film were poems written by Bonnie. Her The Story of Bonnie and Clyde concludes:
rifles, 46 Colt .45 automatics and 10,000 rounds of ammunition. Armed to the teeth, Clyde sawed off some of the barrels and stocks, and had three 20-shot clips welded together to create a 60-shot “banana clip” for what he called his “scattergun.” As their firepower and list of their victims grew, the public that had adored their exploits began to have second thoughts. The last straw for many was the 1934 Easter Sunday murder of two motorcycle cops near Grapevine, Texas. One of the gang members killed patrolman E.B. Wheeler, and a panicked Clyde then felt obliged to fire on the second officer, H.D. Murphy. It was Murphy’s first day on the job. He was two weeks away from his wedding. His grief-stricken fiancée wore her wedding gown to the funeral. Suddenly, public opinion turned against them. The formerly dashing outlaws came to be seen as cruel and cold-blooded.
They don’t think they’re too tough or desperate, They know that the law always wins; They’ve been shot at before, But they do not ignore That death is the wages of sin. Some day they’ll go down together; And they’ll bury them side by side; To few it’ll be grief To the law a relief But it’s death for Bonnie and Clyde. The Bonnie and Clyde who starred in the newsreels shown before feature films starring fictionalized bad guys Edward G. Robinson and James Cagney became folk heroes to many. “They always dressed perfectly, wielding guns in a deadly manner, cooly evading capture against all odds,” former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Jim Wright recalled as he remembered his childhood in Oklahoma and Texas. “It was a very romantic existence we felt they must enjoy. And even if you did not approve of them, you still would have to envy them a little, to be so good-looking and rich and happy.” In reality, the gang lived hand-to-mouth, robbing fewer than 15 banks in the course of two years, sometimes hitting the same one more than once, with takes as low as $80. Clyde and his associates mostly hit out-of-the-way grocery stores and gas stations, stealing cars and bonding them, sometimes even shaking down vending machines for food money. The duo was both demonized and celebrated. Author Jeff Guinn, looking back from the 75th anniversary of the rise of their celebrity, explained: “True, they robbed banks and shot it out with lawmen, killing some in the process. But in 1933, bankers and law enforcement officials, widely perceived to have no sympathy for decent people impoverished through no fault of their own, were considered the enemy by many Americans. For them, Clyde and Bonnie’s criminal acts offer a vicarious sense of revenge. Somebody was sticking it to the rich and powerful.” On July 7, 1933, the gang broke into the National Guard Armory in Enid, Oklahoma, and stole five Browning automatic
“WE JUST SHOT THE DEVIL OUT OF THEM” The posse that ambushed Bonnie and Clyde at 9:15 a.m. May 23, 1934, comprised six lawmen, two from Louisiana and four from Texas, who lay in wait after receiving a tip from the father of one of their former gang members. In the publicity that followed, at least two different versions of the trap were put forth: “Each of us six officers had a shotgun and an automatic rifle and pistols. We opened fire with the automatic rifles. They were emptied before the car got even with us. Then we used shotguns ... There was smoke coming from the car, and it looked like it was on fire. After shooting the shotguns, we emptied the pistols at the car, which had passed us and ran into a ditch about 50 yards on down the road. It almost turned over. We kept shooting at the car even after it stopped. We weren’t taking any chances.” – Ted Hinton, Dallas County Deputy Sheriff “We just shot the devil out of them. That’s all. That’s all there was to it. We just laid a trap for them. A steel trap. You know. Bessemer steel, like gun barrels are made of … They both reached for their guns, but were kind of slow. Seemed like they must have had cramps or something. They were just too slow.” – Frank Hamer, Texas Ranger
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territory ahead
KILLED BY THE BARROW GANG FIRST, LAST LAWMEN KILLED WERE OKLAHOMANS Of the 13 killings attributed to the Barrow gang, nine were of lawmen. The first and last were felled in Oklahoma. Atoka County Deputy Eugene Moore was gunned down in Stringtown on Aug. 5, 1932, when he and Sheriff Charley Maxwell approached a car outside the dancehall, where a bottle of moonshine was being passed around. Maxwell took seven bullets, but survived. Moore was killed by a single bullet from a .30 caliber Stevens automatic rifle. The 30-year-old father of three was one of 12 children of Lemuel Capel Moore, a legislator of the Chickasaw Nation. The 13th and last known killing by the gang came on April 6, 1934, when Ottawa County Constable Cal Campbell was shot in the heart outside Commerce, when he and Police Chief Percy Boyd investigated a car that had been stuck in the mud. The 63-year-old Campbell died instantly; Boyd, who survived being shot in the head, was taken hostage and released in Kansas after being told by Bonnie that the photographs of her posing with the cigar were meant as a private joke, and that she disliked being called a “cigar-smoking gun moll.” She asked Boyd to tell the public that she only smoked cigarettes, and declared “nice girls don’t smoke cigars.” John N. Bucher – Hillsboro, Texas – April 27, 1932 Eugene Moore – Atoka, Oklahoma – August 5, 1932 Howard Hall – Sherman, Texas – October 11, 1932 Doyle Johnson – Temple, Texas – December 26, 1932 Malcolm Davis – Dallas, Texas – January 6, 1933 John W. (Wes) Harryman – Joplin, Missouri – April 13, 1933 Harry McGuinnis – Joplin, Missouri – April 13, 1933 Henry D. Humphrey – Alma, Arkansas – June 26, 1933 Major Crowson – Huntsville, Texas – January 16, 1934 Wade McNabb – Near the Texas-Louisiana border – March 29, 1934 E. B. Wheeler – Grapevine, Texas – April 1, 1934 H. D. Murphy – Grapevine, Texas – April 1, 1934 Cal Campbell – Commerce, Oklahoma – April 6, 1934
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The gang fled from Grapevine up through Oklahoma, and machine-gunned Constable Cal Campbell of Commerce five days later, triggering a multi-state manhunt. Enraged Oklahoma law enforcement turned out in force, joined by officers from Kansas, Missouri and Arkansas. The front page of the April 6, 1934, editions of The Oklahoman reported: “Convinced that Clyde Barrow, fugitive killer, and his companions will seek to ‘back track’ into Ottawa County under cover of darkness, scores of officers guarded highways and bridge heads near here Friday night. From four states came operatives of the federal department of justice.” A posse led by Texas Rangers tracked the gang for 15,000 miles, relying on tips and hunches in an era before police radios and federal law enforcement. The posse finally caught up with them on May 23, 1934, as Bonnie and Clyde drove down a back road in Louisiana to meet an old gang member, who had betrayed their location. The next day’s front page of The Oklahoman announced that “Barrow, Slow on Draw, Dies with Girl Pal,” noting “Fifty bullets from the guns of old-time Texas rangers and country sheriffs Wednesday ended the murderous career of Clyde Barrow and his savage gun-woman, Bonnie Parker … The officers gave the bandits the same medicine they had meted out to their victims in more than a dozen fitters and raids against the law in which 12 men were killed. In many of the fights, Bonnie Parker stood side by side with her outlaw associate and shot it out with the officers, each time successfully until today.”
When word spread of the outlaws’ demise, onlookers flocked to the site of the ambush. Bonnie’s purse was stolen, and a woman with scissors cut off pieces of Bonnie’s dress and her blood-soaked hair, to sell as souvenirs. Officers guarding the scene were overcome by the crowd, and historian E.R. Milner notes that the coroner worried that “nearly everyone had begun collecting souvenirs such as shell casings, slivers of glass from the shattered car windows and bloody pieces of clothing from the garments of Bonnie and Clyde. One eager man had opened his pocket knife, and was reaching into the car to cut off Clyde’s left ear.” The car and the bullet-riddled bodies within were towed to the town of Arcadia, Louisiana which swelled in size from 2,000 to 12,000 within hours. Movie magazines were found at Bonnie’s feet, and Clyde’s saxophone and sheet music were stashed in the trunk with an arsenal of weapons. The death car was padlocked into a garage for safekeeping and, when the curious crowd nearly pulled off the building’s doors to be able to view it, was moved to an area with a tall chain-link fence. The families of Bonnie and Clyde claimed their bodies, and the Parkers insisted that Bonnie would not be buried beside Clyde. Today, they rest in separate Dallas cemeteries, under simple gravestones. As the headlines telling of their rise-and-fall yellow and fade, one relic of the heyday of Bonnie and Clyde remains.
After years of changing hands, most recently for $250,000 in 1988; after years of traveling to sideshows and state fairs; after years of promoters shooting up the driver’s side of 1934 Ford V-8 Deluxes to claim that theirs is the real Bonnie and Clyde car; the most famous death car in America remains encased in plexiglass in a smoky corner of Whiskey Pete’s casino in Primm, Nevada. It’s guarded by two gun-toting mannequins near the front of the official Bonnie and Clyde Death Car gift shop, selling hats, beer mugs, T-shirts and keychains for your very own life of crime.
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creatives
Attention to Detail
ALL CHILDREN ARE ARTISTS, but some children grow up to become artists. Haley Prestifilippo of Norman has seen home video of herself when she was as young as 4 years old saying that would be her future. While growing up in Atlanta, she also remembers her brother bringing home Ranger Rick magazines, a publication of the National Wildlife Federation. The pages were full of animals of various kinds, and she used them as her first real models. “I remember drawing the birds and realizing that they looked like the birds in the magazine,” she says. “My parents weren’t artists, but my mom’s side of the family was definitely artistic.” Those early drawings were in pencil – a medium that Prestifilippo has mastered, if her recent work is any indication. She was a featured artist at this year’s Momentum, the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s annual curated exhibit for artists 30 and younger. Included with her display pieces, all of which were graphite on paper, was an interactive work called “What Could I” that the audience was allowed to alter … actually, they were asked to erase pieces of it. Why would an artist create a piece just to see it destroyed, even if only slowly, one erasure at a time? To understand the exercise means to get at what Prestifilippo is trying to convey in much of her work. It’s even included in her artist
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statement: reconciling the space between growth and deterioration. “The inspiration for that theme comes from the idea that everything is enmeshed,” she says. “There is a continuum of life and death, and each feeds the other. Anything decaying, and in my work it’s often dead animals, will feed something else that is living and growing.”
“I like to create something THAT IS BEAUTIFUL AT A GLANCE, when you see
the whole thing. But when someone walks closer, THEY WILL SEE THE DETAILS EMERGE .” H A L E Y PR E ST IF IL IPPO
Thinking about art philosophically as she does is likely a result of her formalized training. She earned a BFA at Notre Dame and a MA in studio art at Eastern Illinois University. Whatever her
philosophy, her training and skill are obvious. Prestifilippo’s detail and drawings are exquisite, and it sets her apart as an artist. That’s partly due to her manner of attracting viewers. “I like to create something that is beautiful at a glance, when you see the whole thing,” she says. “But when someone walks closer, they will see the details emerge. It pulls them in. It’s the kind of art I’m attracted to as a viewer, too.” The attention to detail is present in her both as creator and observer. She talks about enjoying the layers of meaning or sound in literature and music, as well – the layering that makes beauty more intricate, more compelling and, for her, more interesting. How else would an artist stay engaged with a piece of work that takes up to 200-300 hours to complete, depending on size? That’s the time she estimates it takes to complete the various sized drawings. Step close to her work and you will see the rich texture, remarkable detail, the use of shading – chiaroscuro creates depth in these monochromatic pieces – and the way the animals and organic
PHOTOS BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
Haley Prestifilippo explores connections in charcoal
shapes blend into each other, an effect meant to echo Prestifilippo’s idea that there is a constant oscillation between the moment of death and moment of life, of decay and creation. Smaller versions of her work, “Tiny Frames,” were recently on display at Science Museum Oklahoma in a joint installation with her husband, OU art professor Jason Cytacki. The drawings were bounded by small frames she found at a Salvation Army store. She chose them because they reminded her of the Dutch Baroque, one of the periods that influenced her most with its detailed drawings and gilded frames, both earmarks of the period. Those ornate frames seem to extend her drawings by mimicking the rolling, asymmetric edges of the art. Prestifilippo said she is sticking with drawing for now, but she has plans to start experimenting with more color. She had a gouache and graphite piece at 12 X 12 last year (OVAC’s annual
fundraiser) called “You Can’t Steal It If I Give It To You,” which was her first foray into the medium. She may even go back to painting, a medium she focused on at Notre Dame, and on a larger scale in grad school. As for being an artist couple, she said she and
Cytacki have talked about collaborating, but nothing definite is in the works. Her studio is in her home and not open to the public, but will be in the Norman Arts Council Open Studios tour this month. And her future as an artist continues. - GREG HORTON
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$
CHEAP
EATS Mouthwatering meals that won’t break the bank When it comes to dining, “cheap” can be a deceptive descriptor. If you look around, the metro is home to plenty of places that serve high-flavor, good quality food even though it doesn’t put a ding in the wallet. And given the temperatures that are on the horizon with the advent of summer, sometimes cooking is out of the question … so here’s a little compilation of some of our staff favorites that will give you and your palate a solid bang for your buck.
BY $TEVE GILL PHOTOS BY QUIT NGUYEN & CARLI WENTWORTH
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Nic’s Grill
(see previous page)
The Spot: 1201 N Pennsylvania The Fare: Cheeseburger combo – massive onion burger, curly fries and a drink. I’ve spent a few years now happily, and industriously, trying to figure out the source of this burger’s magic, and I think it’s partly the immediacy: taking the first bite while it’s still steaming after watching and smelling it cook, and waiting impatiently to sink my teeth in it. The Damage: $10. There’s cheaper beef out there, but you can’t beat the appeal, and you definitely won’t leave hungry. The Service: It runs so smoothly it’s hard to believe this is only a two-man operation. Nic cooks, Javon keeps drinks refilled and tables bussed, everybody wins. The Takeaway: It’s cash only, has a mere 16 seats and is only open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on weekdays, but it has hands-down one of the greatest burgers in town. It’s more than worth braving the lengthy lines. Go. Go now!
Grill on the Hill The Spot: 324 SW 25th, just west of S Shields The Fare: Breakfast is served: sausage/egg/cheese breakfast sandwich, chorizo burrito, “haystack” hash browns, which are broken up and fried crispy for extra texture. The Damage: $16, which included coffee and a couple of cinnamon apple fritters. Not remotely shabby. The Service: There’s a very old-school diner vibe to it, which makes sense: Regulars are greeted by name, refills are plentiful and smiles abound. The Takeaway: Come early, come often. It’s easy to reach from the city center and completely worth it, even if you don’t get a commemorative T-shirt.
Egg Roll Express The Spot: 1529 S Boulevard, Edmond, located in Edmond Plaza East The Fare: Beef and broccoli, combination fried rice with beef, chicken and shrimp, egg rolls … some of the greatest hits. The Damage: $16 for a whole mess of deliciousness The Service: You won’t go overlooked in this well-lit, open space. Just try to have your mind made up before going to the counter to order; there’s a posted menu, but you don’t want to risk holding up the line. The Takeaway: They aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel in terms of Chinese food, and sometimes getting something familiar executed to perfection is more satisfying than a hit-or-miss experimental fusion dish. If you have a little cash handy (they don’t take cards), this is a great option to keep in the back of your mind.
Oklahoma Station The Spot: 4331 NW 50th, located in Springdale Shopping Center The Fare: Sliced brisket sandwich that was nice and tender, apple cobbler with just enough cinnamon The Damage: $11.30 total The Service: Cafeteria-style ordering and payment, down to the plastic tray. Multiple people did ask how we were doing, though, and there’s something primally satisfying about naming a meat and watching a guy carve slices off a giant haunch of it. The Takeaway: It’s worth going for the beef – especially with a bit of red onion from the condiment bar – and the vibe of an old train depot is pretty cool, too.
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Pho Ca Dao The Spot: 2431 N Classen Blvd, Uptown The Fare: Rich, savory broth with rice noodles and thin slivers of beef. You don’t have to impress anybody by getting the tripe. Augment it to taste with lime, basil and chili paste, and remember that shrimp or pork spring rolls set it off nicely. The Damage: A medium, which generally gives me enough and then some, is about $8, and a pair of spring rolls runs half that. The Service: They’re happy to leave you in peace while you eat, so if you need a refill or a to-go cup for leftovers, don’t wait too long to make eye contact with the lady at the register. The Takeaway: I’m a pretty recent pho convert, honestly, so I don’t know how refined my palate might be for it … but this stuff is delicious. It’s also basically a superweapon when cold and flu season rolls back around, so tuck that away for October.
Rocky Mountain Grill Cous Cous Café The Spot: 6165 N May The Fare: A vegetable tagine with a savory tomato base served on a bed of couscous in a shallow clay bowl, kefta kabob with rice The Damage: $18 The Service: Our waitress was polite but a little timid, as though she wanted us to have a good day if that was all right with us. It’s a nice little spot, though, that doesn’t feel like you’re on one of the busiest stretches of May. The Takeaway: If you’re in the mood for Mediterranean/Moroccan fare that includes a bevy of vegetarian options, this is a prime spot for flavors and portions that are both ample.
The Spot: 231 S Coltrane, Edmond The Fare: I’d love to recommend the pancakes, given that they’re fluffy and delicious and also huge. But I can’t; it wouldn’t be fair to you, because you need to get something that features the spectacular trademark green chili sauce. Try a breakfast burrito – also huge, it has scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon, sausage and cheese. And maybe get a pancake on the side. The Damage: $4.25 for three pancakes, $5.50 for a smothered burrito The Service: Excellent. Owner and cook Scott clearly loves what he does, often taking time to chat with diners, and the relaxed camaraderie extends to the staff, as well. The Takeaway: I could hardly recommend it any higher – the only downside is that I don’t live close enough to make it a more regular habit. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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Beef & Bun Mr. Catfish The Spot: 2741 NE 23rd The Fare: Catfish basket – four fresh hot filets of what’s probably the best catfish in the city, along with fries and a bit of bread. It makes for a somewhat monochromatic lunch, but it’s seriously great. The Damage: $8.25 The Service: It’s a converted fast-food restaurant, so the interior isn’t particularly fancy, but the owner and staff are outgoing, as well as great cooks. The Takeaway: The barbecue’s tasty, too, especially the ribs. Be aware that it’s only open Thursday-Saturday, and don’t forget the cobbler if there’s any left, it goes fast.
The Diner The Spot: 213 E Main, Norman The Fare: The 2x2x2 is a classic diner-style breakfast with pairs of pancakes, eggs and bacon or sausage. And speaking of classics, the Diner’s justly renowned beef chili (no beans, so you’re welcome, purists) fuels one of the better Frito chili pies you’ll ever have. The Damage: 2x2x2 is $7.75 if you spring for blueberries, which you should, and the chili pie is $6 The Service: Speedy – The Diner is a Norman institution and also not very big, so you might have a little wait to get seated, but they’ll take care of you quickly once you’re settled. The Takeaway: It is an institution, and for good reason. The menu is filled with hearty tastes, and since nothing is over $10, exploring it should be a breeze.
Sandro’s The Spot: 914 W Main, Norman The Fare: A calzone stuffed with sausage and cheese, the lunch pizza combo The Damage: $6 for the behemoth pizza pocket, $3.50 for a slice and green salad The Service: It’s counter service, and if you go at a peak hour there will be a line since it’s right across from Norman High. But it moves quickly, and management is prone to boisterous wisecracks, which is a plus. The Takeaway: Excellent value on the calzone, since it’s more than enough for one – this is a great choice for a quick lunch.
Four Js The Spot: 2920 S Agnew, east of S May The Fare: This little café does Thai and Laotian specialties: We had the brightly tangy larb with ground chicken, lime, mint, cilantro and who knows how many other spices, and the weeping tiger. Come on, it’s a dish called the Weeping Tiger! It’s good, too: It’s a salad topped with morsels of marinated steak and a red chili sauce that delivers a pop of acidity up front and a sneaky spice payload. You might well be tearing up by the time you’re done eating. The Damage: $20 for the pair The Service: Completely great. We were there at the end of the lunch hour, and the owner came out to chat a couple of times about each dish, how the diner’s doing so far and whether we could possibly eat anything else. The Takeaway: I’m really glad to have heard about this place. It’s a little outside my usual orbit, but Laotian food is, it turns out, delicious.
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Coney Island The Spot: 428 W Main, Downtown The Fare: Chili dogs. Click. The Damage: Three chili dogs with onions, cheese and mustard is under $5, and sometimes that’s all I could want out of a meal. The Service: Nothing about this place screams haute cuisine, but that’s as it should be. The owners seem like good people, though, and while they’re not fond of cell phones, chess games are another story. The Takeaway: It isn’t trying to be someplace it’s not, and it’s perfect for what it is – I’m glad to know there’s still room in the downtown landscape for little spots like this. Have an inexpensive bite and contemplate OU’s record over the years as expressed in the season-by-season football scores papering the walls. P.S. It’s cash-only. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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Carican Flavors
Lang’s Bakery The Spot: 2524 N Military The Fare: Try a charbroiled pork banh mi sandwich on a spectacularly fresh baguette with some pickled daikon and carrots, or a savory beef and carrot stew with noodles. Or better yet, make multiple trips and try both – you can afford it. The Damage: The bowl – I should say the big bowl – of Hu Tieu Bo Kho is a paltry $7, and the banh mi is a completely amazing $3. The Service: Can be a trifle slow, but the staff was nice enough that it didn’t really register. The Takeaway: A. They only take cash. B. That’s about the only potential source of frustration I can imagine you might have. This is a true hidden treasure.
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The Spot: 2701 N Martin Luther King The Fare: Jerk chicken that’s way less spicy than I was afraid it would be, with sides of green beans, plantains (mmm) and baked mac and cheese (once more with feeling, mmm) The Damage: $11, since we couldn’t resist adding an extra side The Service: Order at the counter, and don’t hesitate to ask about anything that catches your eye. The ladies dishing up lunch are extremely helpful. The Takeaway: Completely worth an experimental visit. Caribbean isn’t a cuisine you run into much around here, so branch out. Next time, I’ll try the curried goat.
Sooner Dairy Lunch
Thai Kitchen
The Spot: 1820 W Main, Norman The Fare: Double cheeseburger, tots, chocolate shake (couldn’t leave without sampling the “dairy” part, could we?) The burger tastes a bit like one of Sonic’s finest but a little fresher, and while tater tots elsewhere are too often underdone or greasy, these are legit. If you only get one thing, though, make it a shake. The Damage: $6 for a double with tots, an extra $3.80 for a chocolate shake The Service: None, really – it’s set up for you to park, place your order and go. There’s a single row of stools against the order window if you’re determined not to return to your car, but your interaction with the staff is pretty limited. The Takeaway: The place has been around for more than 60 years, and is practically a legend. I moved to Norman in 1996 but was never truly a resident since I’d never eaten here. Feels good to have corrected that oversight, and the shakes are an excellent way to celebrate anything, even if it’s a milestone you made up.
The Spot: 327 Dean A. McGee, just east of Hudson, Downtown The Fare: Phat Thai, Phat Spicy, Phat See Ew, Phat Priao Wan – that’s three noodle dishes and one rice, with varying combinations of beef/ chicken/tofu, vegetables ranging from peppers to pineapples and deliciously rich, spicy sauces. The tangy sweet-and-sour stuff on the Priao Wan is especially addictive, and since one of us is a pescetarian, having so many meatless options is a definite plus. The Damage: Every entrée on the lunch menu is $6.99 (which includes spring rolls or soup), or the all-you-can-eat buffet is $8.99. The Service: Quick and thoughtful – the server seemed a trifle surprised we weren’t having the buffet, but he was patient about specifying our individual spice levels and didn’t wince at any of our pronunciations. The Takeaway: It’s marvelous. Everything we tried was piquantly tasty, the portions are more than ample and a group of four had lunch for $30.
Pops The Spot: 6447 Avondale The Fare: It’s entirely possible you’ve only visited this new spot in Nichols Hills Plaza – or the original east of Edmond on Route 66 – in order to stock up on unusual sodas. But the food is good stuff too, like the Arcadia burger’s bleu cheese, bacon and house-made barbecue sauce with a side of crispy onion rings. The Damage: $9.50 for this comparatively high-end combo, and the sodas tend to run about $2 apiece or so. The Service: Quite good, whether you’re seated at the big curved bar or booths – although it can get fairly noisy during peak hours, you shouldn’t have to work to get served. The Takeaway: Part of the reason it’s often noisy is that it’s a great spot for kids and families; the menu’s variety gives everybody something to savor, and the soda coolers’ immensely varied riots of colors and flavors are natural attractions.
Good Gravy Diner The Spot: 8014 N Western The Fare: The Good Gravy (when a dish is named for the restaurant, we take that as a recommendation) – two eggs, hash browns, breakfast meats and a pair of biscuits served with a choice of four gravies. Yes, this is a diner that specializes in gravy. U.S.A.! The Damage: $7.50, although you can always add on some extra gravy options. The Service: Find a table in this bright, bustling Nichols Hills-adjacent stopover, and a cheerful waitress will be right with you. The Takeaway: How can this not be a great idea? There are nearly four dozen gravies in various combinations, ranging from sausage to Denver (ham, bell peppers and onion) to chocolate on weekends. They have lunch options too, but the odds of me ever ordering a salad here are remote, to be honest.
Tacos San Pedro The Spot: 2301 SW 44th The Fare: A gordita that’s got something of a tamale’s cornmeal softness in disc form, stuffed with tender shredded beef and queso fresco, plus an order of chicken flautas that includes five crunchy-fried little tubes of tastiness. The Damage: $11. Verdad. The Service: Order from the broad counter up front and seat yourself – the interior is especially well done and welcoming, thanks to the tile inlaid tables, big paintings and cheery color scheme. The Takeaway: An extremely solid choice for Mexican food, with a broad range of possibilities from quesadillas to menudo, and nothing’s over $10.
Someplace Else The Spot: 2310 N Western, Uptown The Fare: Deli goodness – the pastrami on dark rye is a classic and only gets better with provolone and mustard, and even something as uncomplicated as a turkey sub is a solid choice. Plus, the baked goods are uniformly excellent. The Damage: Sandwiches are less than $5 apiece, a side of tabouli is only $1.25 and cookies average 50 cents each. The Service: It doesn’t take much time to put a sandwich, so you won’t be waiting at the counter long, plus they’re admirably accommodating about customer indecision re: number of lemon bars vs. snickerdoodles vs. white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. Um, I’ve heard. The Takeaway: The classics never go out of style. For an uncomplicated sandwich that barely makes an impact on the wallet, duck inside. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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Sheesh Mahal The Spot: 4621 N May The Fare: Mixed vegetable curry in a spicy cream sauce, chicken biryani, garlic naan The Damage: Lunch for two with more food than two could eat, $15. The Service: Love the presentation, down to the little complimentary cups of spiced tea that came with our meal. There was even a cricket match playing on TV. And the waiter thankfully took a patient approach to walking us through the posted menu’s options. The Takeaway: There’s only one thing on this menu that’s more than $8, and that’s an entire grilled chicken. Go fill yourself full of Indian and Pakistani food!
Tacoville The Spot: 3502 Newcastle Road, just east of S Portland The Fare: Let us now praise spiced ground beef heaped on or in or around tortillas. Any combination thereof – nachos supreme, tacos, burritos, chalupas – is going to turn out tasty, and they make their own hot sauce, which should be good for an extra point. The Damage: Nacho supreme? $1.80. Tacos that are more than six inches long? $1.30. You’d really have to work to run up much of a tab here, as practically the entire menu is under $5. The Service: It’s a bustling spot with counter service where they call you back to the pickup window when your food’s ready, so while the staff is happy to see you, you probably won’t interact with them much. The Takeaway: Hey, it’s called Tacoville, not Taco Frills. This venerable little hole in the wall might not look like much, but it’s ideal for getting a bunch of food without much outlay. Oh, and they don’t take cards, but there is an ATM on site.
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Red Horse Grill The Spot: 2205 W Main, Norman, located in Merkle Creek Shopping Center The Fare: Chicken strips – hefty and with pepper in their breading – and some quality onion rings, a nice and simple (and fried) meal. And speaking of frying, they do catfish filets on Fridays if you’re in the neighborhood. Just follow the line. The Damage: $5.25 for three chicken strips w/ toast and gravy, $4.50 for a big basket of onion rings, $8 for a four-piece catfish dinner ($13 for all you can eat) The Service: I remember reading once the owner saying something like, “We don’t do fast food, but we’re still pretty fast.” The Takeaway: It had probably been almost 15 years since I’d been through these doors, and the décor has been updated, but it tastes like I never left. I’ll have to guard against the nagging feeling I have a paper due about the history of World War I, but it should be worth it.
Lake Hefner Golf Club Diner The Spot: 4491 S Lake Hefner Drive, just off N Meridian The Fare: The menu is posted on a pillar, and above it the pillar is a separate sheet that proclaims, in a much bigger font, “House specialty Eggs Benedict … the best in town!” Naturally that’s our recommendation. The burgers and chili are pretty good too, but the writing’s literally on the wall. The Damage: The mere pittance of $8.50 The Service: More comfortable than country club in style, you can feel its age while immediately understanding the appeal that keeps bringing regulars back. The Takeaway: Crowds of people regularly come to this golf course specifically for the food; that should tell you something by itself. Whether or not you plan to hold a club at any point during your trip, it’s well worth a visit.
Red Cup The Spot: 3122 N Classen Blvd The Fare: The apple, onion and jack cheese panini (yes, really), Frito chili pie (see this month’s cover) The Damage: $7 for the tantalizingly unusual sandwich combination, $8 for the big bowl of vegan chili, chips, onions, tomatoes, olives and cheese. The Service: The staff has that big happy family vibe – I still remember the time years ago they closed early to carpool to Texas for a concert, but that was more entertaining than frustrating. The Takeaway: If your diet swings that way, bear in mind that RC has been voted best vegetarian restaurant by our readers for three years and counting. It’s good enough that even carnivores will have no trouble finding plenty to enjoy, from the coffee on up.
Florence’s The Spot: 1437 NE 23rd The Fare: Very, very good fried chicken, a breaded pork chop, biscuits and cornbread and yams and cabbage and green beans and sweet corn and potatoes mashed to order and mac and cheese that I could have kept eating for multiple servings. The Damage: Right around $20 for everything listed above The Service: Who ever heard of a soul food place where they didn’t treat you right? It’s not a great choice if you’re in a tearing hurry since it takes a little bit to cook, but food like this should be savored anyway. The Takeaway: Delicious, and filled with unexpectedly potent sense memories for those of us who grew up in the country eating this kind of “grandmother’s kitchen” goodness. I can see why it’s been around for six decades.
La Cueva Grill The Spot: 409 N Walker, located in the retail strip below Avana, Downtown The Fare: Nachos, pulled pork torta The Damage: $6.25 each The Service: Outstanding! The first time I went they were deserted and about to close, but the owner insisted on staying open for me anyway, and we wound up having a pretty nice conversation. And the complimentary salsa/queso bar while you’re waiting is a great touch. The Takeaway: Convenient location, good quality, budget friendly – I don’t know why you’d do fast food Mexican instead. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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Sunrise is a great time to put in a few miles at Lake Hefner.
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Y P P A H LS I A R T RUNNING AND RIDING IN THE 4O5
It’s become abundantly clear: People who exercise constantly are really calm and really happy, and they look fantastic. Most of them also regularly hit the trails, as in the plethora of running, biking and hiking trails that have cropped up throughout the 405, which make it easier and safer than ever to get your endorphins on. BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON
PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
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Adi McCasland is an ultra-marathoner, yoga instructor and freelance writer who has laid tread on most of the trails around Oklahoma City. She varies her routes, but lately often finds herself running along the Bluff Creek trails immediately north of Lake Hefner. She shifted her focus to trail running about a year ago. She also glows and smiles almost constantly as we chat about her avocation over coffee early one morning. On this particular day, McCasland already has run for a couple of hours and taught a 6 a.m. yoga class. “I am an early runner,” she explains. “I wake up at 3:30 and am running by 4. Sometimes I run at Lake Arcadia, or Draper. They both have really nice trails.
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“I generally run between 40-75 miles a week,” she says. “I ran my first marathon in 2006, and I thought, ‘Well, that was fun but it wasn’t long enough.’ So I decided to move into ultra-marathons, which are anything longer than the 26.2 miles in a marathon.” McCasland usually runs with one of her two favorite running buddies, Golden Retriever-Collie mix Murray or human Nick Shelton, who has been her distance-training partner since September. Oklahoma City has 81 miles of multi-purpose trails, said Jennifer McClintock, City of Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department spokeswoman and newly minted marathoner. She says those include Bert Cooper Trails at
IT’S NOT THE AGE, IT’S THE AGE GROUP
If you’re out enjoying the trails, particularly the River Trails, keep your eyes peeled. There’s a strong possibility that you’ll see a blur with pigtails on a bike zip past you, and that’s Desiree White, who at 53 looks 30, and who fellow cyclists refer to as the godmother of mountain bike racing in Oklahoma. White just clinched an impressive win: third place overall for females at the recent Ouachita Challenge. She is
BLUFF CREEK PHOTO COURTESY OKC PARKS AND RECREATION
Adi McCasland gets a morning workout alongside her pal Murray. Just north of Lake Hefner, Bluff Creek Trail (right) is a popular spot for runners.
Lake Hefner, the Hefner-Overholser Trail, which connects the two lakes, the Overholser Trail, the new West River Trail, Oklahoma River Trails (on either side of the Oklahoma River), the South Grand Trail, Earlywine Trail, Lightning Creek Trail, Katy Trail and Tinker-Draper Trail. “As for Martin Park,” McClintock says, “We have 2.5 miles of natural woodland trail in that park, although we consider that a walking-path or in-park trail and not a multi-purpose trail, since bicycles are not allowed. Approximately one mile of that trail is now considered ‘universal’ and accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or with other mobility limitations, thanks to the generous work of Wilderness Matters, a local nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for people with limited mobility to experience nature and the outdoors.” Even more trails are in the works for Oklahoma City. “The I-44 Trail, which will parallel I-74, or Hefner Parkway, and I-44 down to the Oklahoma River has been funded and a plan accepted. The MAPS office is in the preliminary stages of getting the needed land acquired so they can break ground,” McClintock says.
GET INVOLVED A few great organizations BICYCLE LEAGUE OF NORMAN 405.360.8970 (evening) bicycleleague.com BIKE EDMOND bikeedmond.org CHANDLER BICYCLE CLUB 405.258.2922 EDMOND RUNNING CLUB 405.348.9661 edmondrunningclub.com OKC VELO CLUB 405.721.5934 okcvelo.org OKLAHOMA BICYCLE SOCIETY 405.354.2301 oklahomabicyclesociety.com OKLAHOMA CITY LANDRUNNERS & OKLAHOMA CITY RUNNING CLUB okcrunning.org 405.818.9745 OKLAHOMA EARTHBIKE FELLOWSHIP okearthbike.com POT COUNTY PEDALERS 405.275.4980 RED DIRT PEDALERS 405.372.2525 reddirtpedalers.org RIVERSIDE TRACK CLUB 405.247.8000 x299 RUN NORMAN 330.631.2972 freewebs.com/run-norman SEMINOLE AREA RUNNING CLUB 405.382.7241 STILLWATER RUNNING CLUB 405.372.5578
so entrenched in racing that she doesn’t think in terms of age, she thinks in age groups. “I have been racing since I was in the 25-29 age group,” she says. “I taught aerobics at the International Fitness Center, which tells you how old I am, and some of the guys in the class were into cycling. It sounded like fun, so I went to Al’s Bicycles and bought a bike and rode in the Redbud Classic. Then I was hooked.” White hasn’t limited herself to cycling and loves other sports, too. “I have always embraced all aspects of cycling, but I love the outdoors, and so I’ve done marathons, triathlons including Iron Man distance, X-TERRA off-road triathlons. You name it, I’ve probably tried it.” She and her husband, fellow cyclist and Tour de Dirt race organizer Corey White, are perfectly suited and each nurtures and supports the other’s competitive drive. “He understands me,” she says, with a mixture of gratitude and wonder, and a big smile on her face. The Whites have a home in Hobart, where Corey and his children have always lived, and an apartment in Oklahoma City, where Desiree lives during the week because her job is at the OU College of Dentistry. “My children are my bikes, and Corey understands that. I have five: two mountain bikes, two cross bikes and a road bike.” These days it’s gravel races, which she embraced in 2012. “Back then, there weren’t as many people doing it.” Her first race was the Land Run 100, Stillwater’s adrenaline-inducing annual behemoth of a race. “It’s a hundred miles and 6,000 feet of climbing. My first year, my rear derailleur broke at mile 97. My second year, I got second place. Last year, I won it.” Like the other athletes you’ll meet in this story, White radiates a calm happiness so intense it creates an almost-visible aura around her. That calm evaporates the minute she’s racing, and becomes a steely resolve. This woman races as many ways as she can, as often as possible. To call her competitive is a vast understatement, so it’s no surprise to learn that she’s also ranked eighth in the nation in cyclocross. “Cyclocross happens on a closed course in
a park. It’s like a steeplechase on bikes,” she says. “There are obstacles like stairs. It’s a much more popular sport in Europe. The oldest age group in women’s cyclocross is 75-79, and make no mistake: I. Will. Get. That. Jersey.”
MAKING IT HAPPEN
White rides and runs hundreds of miles each week, but when it comes to nutrition, she and many of her contemporaries have ditched the conventional plan of carb-loading before a big event in favor of constantly eating clean, with lots of organic vegetables, eggs, lean meats and salads. Brandon Melott, who just broke the course record at Oklahoma’s Ouachita Challenge, eats the same way, except he adds a sizeable dose of healthy fats to his calorie intake, which is generally between 4,000 and 5,000 a day. He rides every day and puts upward of 12,000 miles on his bike a year. “I eat clean, so that means cooking all of my own food, which gets exhausting. I eat a lot of baked chicken. We eat chicken every day, and a lot of fish, and a lot of vegetables,” Melott says. Like White, he rides in multiple disciplines, including mountain biking, road biking and cyclocross, and he is also one of the owners of Charlie’s Bicycle Lab. He loves sharing his passion for all things bicyclic with others. “The whole point is fun,” he says. “Of course I want to be the fastest, but if I’m not having fun, what is the point? Fun. That is the whole point.” Melott incorporates a bit of crosstraining into his regimen, and a little bit of almost-yoga. His wife, Lindsay, is a talented and much-sought-after yoga instructor in Oklahoma City, and she created a routine for him. “I would call it cycling-specific, extended stretching,” Melott says, laughing. “It’s not quite yoga, because yoga is really hard. I cannot tell you how much it has helped me feel stronger and ride better.” He encourages anyone thinking of getting a bike and hitting the trails, “Just do it. There are people out there who want
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GET YOURSELF IN GEAR BEFORE YOU HIT THE TRAILS of the 405, make sure your bicycle’s brakes and tires are in good shape, and, if it needs work, drop it by your local bike shop for a tune-up. However, if you really want to kick your ride into high gear, you’ll need more than just a bike. Fortunately, two big wheels from OKC’s bike shops – Celestial Cycles owner Sheridan Marquardt and Steve Schlegel from Schlegel Bicycles – shared a few tips on the gear you need to get rolling. - BILL WASSINGER
PADDED SHORTS Riding a bike means a lot of time spent sitting on the saddle. That’s a why a pair of padded cycling shorts is important, Marquardt said – the pad will wick moisture away from your skin while dispersing pressure points and preventing chafing during your ride. Louis Garneau Signature Optimum Shorts, $50
EYE PROTECTION In addition to keeping the sun’s damaging UV rays out of your eyes, Schlegel says a quality pair of sunglasses also offers protection from bugs and dust, as well as impact resistance. Cycling shades aren’t one-size-fits-all, however, so he advises, “Look for the pair that fits your face and offers wide peripheral vision and adaptability to your riding conditions.” Tifosi Pro With Interchangeable Component System, $100
HELMET Whether you’re riding off-road or around Lake Hefner, the best protection you can give yourself on a bike is a helmet. Marquardt says a properly fitting helmet is the key to staying safe, cool and comfortable. And if you’re ever in a crash, make sure to replace the helmet to keep your head protected. Giro Revel MIPS, $65
WICKING JERSEY A cotton T-shirt is fine for a cruise around the neighborhood but, for a longer ride, Schlegel recommends a cycling-specific jersey that will wick moisture away from your skin to keep you cool and dry. Jerseys also feature pockets to carry essentials such as keys, phones, wallets, energy bars and more, and they’re available at a variety of price points. Bontrager Anara Women’s Jersey, $110
LIGHTS While most bikes have reflectors, Schlegel says visibility lights and headlights are important to make you more visible anytime you’re on your bike. Look for LED visibility lights that offer both evening and daytime visibility and, if you’re going to ride after dark, don’t forget a handlebar-mounted headlight to light your way. Bontrager Flare R Tail Light, $60
SHOES AND CLIPLESS PEDALS While a pair of tennis shoes is fine if you’re just getting started, Schlegel says a pair of cycling shoes made with a stiffer sole will help deliver more power to the pedals. Clip those shoes into the binding system of a “clipless” pedal and you’ll apply power during the entire pedal stroke, which will help you ride farther and faster with less effort, he said. Bontrager Specter Shoes, $160; Shimano 105 Clipless Pedals, $150
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GLOVES A good pair of gloves can provide a better grip on the handlebars and protect your hands in the event of a crash. Plus, Marquardt said, “they can go a long way to keeping your hands cool and comfortable when riding during a hot Oklahoma summer.” Louis Garneau 1 Calory, $15
HYDRATION For any ride in the Oklahoma heat, hydration is vital to avoid heat exhaustion. While it can be as simple as a water bottle and frame mounted-cage or as large as a backpack-style hydration pack, Marquardt says the simplest way to stay hydrated on your bike ride is to sip between six and eight ounces of fluid every 15 or 20 minutes. Osprey Syncro, $85
COURTESY IS CONTAGIOUS AND ETIQUETTE IS EVERYTHING Ground rules for trail use FROM CAPTAIN OBVIOUS Wear a helmet and make sure it fits. Put helmets on your kids. If your kids can’t yet ride in a straight line or obey verbal commands, rethink being on a busy trail. Weapons and fires of any kind are prohibited. Leash and pick up after your dogs. Don’t let the expanding leash stretch across the trail. That’s rude and dangerous. Don’t litter. Do not use trails while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Don’t ride your moped, motorcycle or anything else with a motor on the trails. Stay on the designated trails. It’s better for you, the animals and the plants. Glass breaks, so use plastic bottles.
FROM CAPTAIN SLIGHTLY LESS OBVIOUS Keep to the right, except when you’re passing. Use your voice when passing. Pass on the left, and shout something like “On your left!” When the person acknowledges, shout “Thank you!” You are in charge of not crashing into the person in front of you. The person behind you is in charge of not crashing into you. That being said, there’s no need to challenge anyone’s reflexes with sudden turns or stops. Don’t block the trail, even if a gnat flies into your eye or mouth. Freak out on the side of the trail. Be extra safe. Go overboard on safety. Use proper lights on bicycles, front and rear, and/or light-colored clothing at night.
Trails around Lake Overholser give cyclists beautiful scenery.
to help. Lots of people who would love nothing more to share the joys of cycling with people. So make a commitment to yourself, find a shop and go.” Charlie’s Bicycle Lab hosts multiple group rides each week, for all skill levels. There is a beginner-level ride every Monday at 6 p.m. In this context, “beginner” means the ride is 14 miles long and the average speed is 14 miles per hour. Tuesday nights, also at 6 p.m., are for more advanced riders. The distance is 35 miles, and the speed averages in the low 20s. Thursday nights at 6:30 at Bluff Creek are less formal mountain bike meet-ups. “There are tons of places to ride now. There has never been a better day than today to start riding,” Melott says.
TWO WHEELS AND A DREAM
Steve Schlegel couldn’t agree more. The man behind Automobile Alley’s Schlegel Bicycles Pro and Multisport shops has been in the bike business since he was 12, and riding competitively almost as long. He puts in about 9,000 miles a year, and is a regular competitor in Iron Man
triathlons. Like Melott, he’s seen development in the local bike culture. “There has been a significant shift in the culture of central Oklahoma, and Oklahoma City specifically, which has enabled the city to embark on projects like the new trail that connects the River Trails to the Trails at Overholser,” Schlegel says. “That six-mile stretch of trail opened a huge opportunity.” Schlegel points out that, more and more, people are using their bikes for actual transportation, not just sport and recreation. He’s an active proponent of that, and he doesn’t just talk the talk. He serves on the boards of multiple cycling and trails organizations and works with the city of Oklahoma City on initiatives that will strengthen our bike culture by incorporating bike lanes and amenities for cyclists throughout the city. “We’ve been working with the city to add cycle aid stations, which are freestanding work stands with pumps, a rack and tools. We’ve got 12 so far: one outside the Kayak Café at Lake Overholser, four or five on the River Trails, one outside Elemental Coffee, one outside Schlegel and two at Lake Hefner.”
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competition, but we need to continue to invest in these amenities.”
LAST LAP
Riders stop for a tuneup at a cycle aid station.
He credits Mayor Mick Cornett for much of the progress. “The momentum is great and it’s growing. I feel very positive about it,” he says. “Although it’s great for us, this is not just for our current population. It’s an economic draw. These are things that are important to the newer work force, the millennials. Dallas has seen a 50-time return on the funds spent on building a bike infrastructure, according to a study they’ve done.” He encourages new riders to make sure their bikes are properly fitted and mechanically sound, and that they learn cycling etiquette and rules of the road before embarking on their own personal cyclical odyssey. “We offer workshops on safety, and on how to change your tire,” he says. “We’ve got different rides that start at Schlegel, for different skill levels, and we’ve been recognized as one of the top 100 bike retailers six years in a row and as one of America’s best bike shops for two. A lot of that comes from our advocacy, and the level of service we offer the cycling community, no matter what their level.” Upcoming workshops and events at Schlegel include Steve Schlegel’s birthday ride, at 6:30 p.m. May 5, and a free class, Tube Changing 101, 8:30 a.m. May 21 or 6 p.m. June 16.
A FITTER FUTURE, SOONER
Normanites, you have a lot to envy! But you also have a solid trails game going on and it’s only getting better. According to James Briggs, park planner for Norman, there are some 18 miles of multi-use, offstreet trails within Norman’s city parks
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and at Lake Thunderbird. There are also 15 miles of single track, off-road biking trails and about 22 miles of hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty. Add to that 13 miles of walking trails, and plenty of bike lanes, and Norman’s looking pretty spiffy. “The Norman Forward plan includes several miles of multi-use paved trails and neighborhood park walking trails,” Briggs says. “I am awarding bids for a multi-use trail in Saxon Park this month. Our park development plan for Ruby Grant Park includes a few more miles of unpaved running and multi-use paved trails. We are also working on a plan to locate a single-track bike skills course in a city park. All told, I would estimate there are over 20 miles of new trails planned on the books and funded over the next five years.” Norman Mayor Cindy Rosenthal is equally committed. “We know that walking, biking and running are some of the most popular forms of exercise in Norman, and it makes good sense for health and community-building,” she says. “Early in my tenure as mayor, we hosted ‘Walks with the Mayor’ to promote fitness and awareness of Norman’s many recreational assets. The side benefit was not only good health but also new friendships and community partnerships. “We know that trails do more than promote health benefits,” she continues. “Norman is competing to attract new businesses and talented entrepreneurs. We know that millennials are picking communities that offer an active lifestyle. Norman fares very well in this
In the final analysis, having an inviting and safe venue for outdoor exercise is a good thing for the city as well as the individuals who use it. And here in the 405, the opportunities aren’t too shabby – Mayor Mick Cornett muses, ““We continue to explore the idea that civic design can nudge people toward healthier and more active lifestyles. What’s most amazing about the MAPS 3 trails and our existing trail infrastructure is the wide variety of environments you can explore. Our trail system includes urban settings, parks, beautiful rural settings, lakes and rivers, to Riversport Rapids at the Boathouse District. I don’t know if there is a trail system in the country with such diverse experiences.”
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Trails you may not know CLEAR BAY TRAIL, NORMAN
These trails on the south side of Norman’s Lake Thunderbird boast 18.5 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. All five trails interconnect, and they also can be hiked on their own as loops. Beginners, try the 1.5-mile Green Loop or the 1-mile Yellow Loop. Feeling your oats? Go for the 1.25-mile Red Loop or the 4.75-mile Blue Loop. For superstars only: The Gold Loop’s 10 miles of switchbacks. From Highway 9, turn into the Clear Bay area and immediately turn right.
AIRPORT TRAIL, SHAWNEE
Head east on I-40 to Shawnee and check out the dual-use path that surrounds most of the airport. This trail is for running and cycling. One complete lap is 3.21 miles. Cool factor: The north side of the trail goes right under the runway! There is also a workout station. Parking is on the southeast side of the airport at the intersection of Legacy and Airport Drive; just look for the pump jack.
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culture
BLURRED LINES
THE LONG GAME
Capitol Hill in south OKC poised to be center of attention “WHAT’LL YOU HAVE, HONEY?”
It’s a common greeting from Norma Ericson, a co-owner, and Chantille Hendricks as they take orders from a long lunch line at Grill on the Hill. The cafe is actually at the apex of old Capitol Hill at 324 SW 25th Street in Oklahoma City. Before 90-year-old “Pappa” Shy Manning leaves after lunch every day, Ericson makes it a point to give him a big hug. “He and his wife, Jo, come in here even for their birthday parties with their family,” Ericson says with a laugh, pointing to a birthday announcement pinned to the wall. The familiarity between staff and customers, along with good food, might distract a visitor from the substantial changes that
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BY BRET T DICKERSON PHOTOS BY SIMON HURST
are in store for the rest of historic Capitol Hill. Although the district is currently a shadow of its previous self, one seasoned real estate developer can see a bright future. Marty Dillon of Uptown Development Group already has started investing in historic Capitol Hill. He’s not the only one who is interested, either: Oklahoma City Community College and the Metro Library System have spent millions in rebuilding some old buildings near SW 25th and Hudson for their services. But investors may have to wait if they haven’t already made a purchase. In fact, there has been so much anticipation of values increasing, “there’s not a whole lot for sale,” says Brett Fisher, a longtime pawnbroker in Capitol Hill.
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culture
BLURRED LINES
its center? The large-scale, attractive designs of these developments in the area lend credibility to that speculation. There isn’t much of a counter-argument, either, since there has been no public talk to date of actually blending low-income or Section 8 residents into the new developments. When a new economic culture arrives only blocks away, change will come to Capitol Hill. Will the district become Oklahoma City’s version of Brooklyn, New York, where the previous working class is simply being replaced by urban professionals? Or will Capitol Hill be a unique blend of several economic and ethnic cultures? The current strength and increasing educational opportunities of the prevailing Hispanic culture in the district indicate the possibility that a unique blend will emerge.
INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION
The high levels of interest mean the district could undergo major changes over the next 20 years, permanently changing its economic and cultural make-up.
GEOGRAPHY COUNTS Before bridge improvement and work on the Oklahoma River, there was a geographic barrier between the south and north sides of Oklahoma City, reinforcing the cultural divisions between them. Now, new infrastructure and housing development could mean a blending of cultures previously unthinkable. The Central Park being built downtown is part of a larger “Core to Shore” design, calling for development to jump south of I-40 and extend all the way to the Oklahoma River. And the river is only eight blocks north of SW 25th and Capitol Hill. The new MAPS 3 Convention Center will sit just 18 blocks to the north. The pace of this work was slowed due to changes in the convention center’s location and now the energy sector’s economic downturn. But the eventual merging of Capitol Hill and downtown into one larger district could slowly dissolve previous cultures there. The white, older working-class Capitol Hill and the more recent Hispanic Capitol Hill could give way to a new blend of cultures yet to be defined. Are the developments targeting upper-income professionals who are seeking a hip, urban lifestyle with the Central Park as
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Two public institutions are spending millions to be even more effective in reaching the prevailing Hispanic culture of Capitol Hill, affecting all-important literacy. Economic and political strength from deeper engagement with the rest of Oklahoma City could be the result. If Hispanics in south OKC continue on their trajectory of increasing educational and economic strength, by the time higher income professionals of many ethnicities arrive, the prevailing culture could force a blending rather than the Brooklyn-type replacement process. OCCC takes the Capitol University of Oklahoma’s Jessica Hill district and its HisMartinez-Brooks panic culture so seriously, it already has spent $3.3 million on just the first phase of the new Capitol Hill Center at SW 25th and Hudson. The shell of the former Katz Drug and Langston’s stores on that site are being used. Two more phases are planned. “I think that it reflects the heart and the passion of OCCC,” Jessica Martinez-Brooks says. “We really care to meet students at whatever level they are coming in.” Martinez-Brooks was the director of Community Outreach and Education for OCCC as the Capitol Hill Center construction began, and now works for the University of Oklahoma. After three moves to get more permanent space, OCCC made a commitment to the Capitol Hill area. “We knew we needed a permanent home,” Martinez-Brooks says. “We couldn’t keep renting space and develop programming how we wanted it, and based on community needs of both the students and their parents.” Merging funds with money Oklahoma City granted from tax increment financing districts and “brownfield” grants to remove asbestos, OCCC was able to launch its building project on the corner.
Uptown Development Group’s Marty Dillon
The Metropolitan Library System is staying, too. Rather than abandoning Capitol Hill, the library system is investing heavily in the future of the population. With funding help from Oklahoma City, MLS is investing $4.1 million for extensive renovation of its building at SW 26th and Hudson, just one block south of the new OCCC location. “There’s been a big resurgence of families and children, and there’s a huge need for access to electronic media there,” says Todd Olberling, director of construction management for the MLS. “We have a great after-school program with children that come down the street from the school. And so there’s a huge need there.”
PROPERTY INVESTMENT “The Capitol Hill district is just south of downtown and has tons of potential,” says Marty Dillon – along with Mike Dillon, the principals for the Uptown Development Group. They bought the Tower Theater on NW 23rd when most everyone else considered the property to be too toxic to touch. In 2014, Jonathan Dodson, David Wanzer and Ben Sellers bought it from Uptown to complete its transformation for multiple uses. With the recent relighting of the marquee, the Tower has gone from eyesore to jewel. Uptown Development seems to be good at making bets on property, and they’re betting on Capitol Hill. They bought the old Knob Hill Theater and connected buildings that lie just across the intersection from the OCCC Capitol Hill Center. “It’s just another great Oklahoma City theater waiting to come back to life,” says Dillon.
WAITING Fisher said that he started hanging out in his dad’s pawn shop in Capitol Hill when he was 5 years old. Today, he is in his 50s
and still going to work in the pawn shop his dad started. He has some investments in Capitol Hill, but his “stuff is all old, old investment” from way before any public talk of a Central Park in downtown or Core to Shore. He isn’t selling any of it right now; it has too much future potential. Nor are others. It’s the anticipation of future value that makes it so hard to find any properties for Capitol Hill businessman Brett Fisher sale along SW 25th right now. “Everybody is just kind of waiting to see what’s going to happen with the river, and all that stuff,” Fisher says.
THE LONG GAME With development slowing, the area’s Hispanic culture will have even more time to develop economic depth and gain political strength in Oklahoma City and the state. So it’s not likely to be just a case of one economic class replacing another as in so many other gentrification processes. It will be a much different and far more interesting dynamic. In Capitol Hill, it’s the long game now. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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Making a Splash
home
PHOTO BY CARLI WENTWORTH
Spring is in full bloom, so this is no time to let your surroundings remain monochromatic and drab – especially since flooding your home with joyously vibrant color is as quick, simple and rewarding as filling a vase, or several, with a selection of nature’s decorations. With April’s showers behind us, it’s time for May flowers.
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home DÉCOR
INSTANT CHARMERS Adding color and life via flowers BY SAR A GAE WATERS PHOTOS BY CARLI WENT WORTH
IF THERE IS ONE CERTAINTY IN HOME DÉCOR, it has to be the immediate fresh-
ness flowers bring to a room. Even if you have had the same old couch and curtains for what feels like forever and you’re sick to death of your rug, add in some freshly cut flowers or a few potted plants, and voila! Things will seem palpably new. With so many flowers available from multiple sources, you shouldn’t let trepidation stop something that can bring such joy: don’t be afraid to cut and arrange. Keep it simple to start. You don’t have to even mix different flowers together – the easiest way to get a punch of color for minimum effort is to simply cluster flowers together, cut them down and place them in a favorite container. Remember to check the water and refill and recut if you need to. Look for branches in your yard for a base and add in just a few blooms here and there for a more wild but very “in” type of arrangement. Whatever your fancy, you can’t go wrong with fresh blooms to brighten your home and your day.
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“Beauty in every detail”
2232 Bridgeview Blvd. | Edmond | 405-285-9453 | ripplecreekhomes.com
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home HABITAT
Building a Masterpiece At home with Trish and Gary Randolph TRISH RANDOLPH FIRST LAID EYES ON HER HUSBAND Gary 33 years ago, in Weatherford, America. She was working as a clerk in a clothing store, and he was in the early stages of his construction career, remodeling a section of the store. She’s from Hammon, and he hails from Boise City. “On our first date, we came to Oklahoma City and went to the White House restaurant, on Grand,” Gary remembers. Trish is all smiles as the pair reminisces about their courtship. “I sure thought he was cute,” she adds. A year later they were married, blending their families, and after a couple more years they moved to Edmond. Today, they have four children and 10 grandchildren. Almost. The tenth is due in October. Gary is a master builder, having plied his trade for 44 years, and his successful company bears his name. “Master builders have been around for 5,000 years,” Gary says. “I see the house long before it’s built.” Being a master builder means you take a project from design to completion. You don’t hand a project off to someone else, so there’s no room for misinterpretation of plans or the vision. Gary Randolph is an artist and he thinks in three-dimensional imagery, able to create a home or room in his mind, and then execute it perfectly.
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(From top) The Randolphs wanted an outdoor living space that could be used year-round. Ceiling-mounted heaters warm winter diners, and the saltwater pool never freezes. Natural California redwood siding echoes the red dirt of the creek banks, and brilliant blue tiles around the pool and spa mirror our gorgeous Oklahoma sky. Harmony achieved! Gary and Trish begin and end their days here on this blue velvet daybed of sorts. It’s the perfect spot for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and Trish says it’s the most popular piece of furniture in the house.
PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY CARLI WENTWORTH; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OK REALESTATE PHOTOGRAPHY
BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON
(From top) With 10 grandchildren popping in and out of the Randolphs’ home, making one room an incredibly cool kids’ hangout was a stroke of genius. This loft and reading nook occupies about a third of the overhead real estate, and if you’re more than about four feet tall, it’s not for you. Shiny concrete floors embedded with pea gravel serve as primary flooring throughout the home. Polished to a high sheen and used in an artful way, simple materials become elegant, and could almost be mistaken for terrazzo. The painting above the cushy, kid-friendly sectional was created by an African artist living in Santa Fe, who goes by one name, Boubak, and paints his unstretched canvases on the ground.
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home HABITAT
Daughter Ashley is the only one of the Randolph progeny to follow her father into the business and is now an apprentice. Trish, an aesthetician, owns her own business, too, and tackles high-level design projects for her husband’s company. But to say he’s got one company and she’s got another isn’t really the way it works. They collaborate on everything, including one another’s sentences, and Gary lets Trish the aesthetician experiment on him. The couple has imagined, constructed and now makes their home in a beautiful Mid-Century Modern-inspired home on a
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lot that they lucked into finding – and quickly snapping up. It’s in the heart of Oklahoma City, in a neighborhood that dates back to the 1940s. The property runs along the Deep Fork River, and the couple reports that they share their early mornings and evenings with deer, fox and raccoons. “We wanted a more urban lifestyle, which we got, but we also got a little piece of wilderness right in the middle of the city,” Gary says. “One night we were home, watching a Thunder game on TV,” Trish says. “Well, I was watching it, and Gary was
A Jonathan Adler Sputnik chandelier illuminates an organically shaped and naturally finished dining table big enough for a crowd. The steps leading down to the living area mimic the table, and were created out of walnut by Todd Graham and his company, Tree Theory. The Randolphs became interested in Mid-Century design several years ago and immediately became students of the genre, even subscribing to its de facto bible, Dwell magazine. (Left) Trish is an avid cook and this kitchen is a beautiful blend of form and function. A hidden coffee bar is tucked into a cabinet adjacent to the refrigerator. Three enormous slabs of quartzite, which is pressure-treated quartz sandstone, have been seamlessly assembled into a huge kitchen island with lots of space for meal prep or lingering.
asleep. And I was looking online for lots, which I had been doing for quite a while.” The couple had downsized once, significantly, moving from a 2,800-square-foot Edmond home to a mere 1,200 square feet in Oklahoma City’s charming gem of a neighborhood, Brookhaven. “We knew we were thinking we wanted about 1,800 square feet and the lots were just too big. And then this popped up. I woke Gary up, and we got in the car in our pajamas and drove over. We bought it the next day.”
(Above) Gary and Trish’s master bedroom is a far cry from the massive master suites popularized in the early 2000s. Everything about this home is modern, and that includes its attitude. Less really is more, when it’s perfect. (Left) This simple room is filled with Trish’s signature mix of textures and her clever high-low blend of designer pieces and vintage shop finds. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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®
dining
PHOTO BY CARLI WENTWORTH
The Art of the Meal
Chef and co-owner of the Meat Market Refectory Steve Spitz told us that the restaurant prides itself on providing a more complete meal rather than an a la carte dining experience – diners with an appreciation for aesthetics will be glad to discover the kitchen has an eye for presentation, as well. And the filet, accompanied by roasted vegetables and a veal reduction, is a marvel in its own right.
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dining
LOCAL FLAVOR
MAKING ITS MARKET
Class is in at Meat Market Refectory BY STEVE GILL PHOTOS BY CARLI WENT WORTH
OK , POP QU I Z: Have you ever before heard the word “refecto-
ry”? I dabble in vocabulary for a living, and I couldn’t have told you without looking it up that it basically means a group dining room, with a connotation of education. Schools have cafeterias, extremely fancy schools have refectories. This means that while the name Meat Market Refectory is a bit of a mouthful, it’s at least an apt one for this restaurant: While it’s not attached to a school, it does put a premium on providing class. And the mouthfuls are rather good.
MAKING AN IMPRESSION
The interior is a striking space from the hardwood floor up. The visual centerpiece is the broad circular bar, overtopped by a sinuous blue blown glass chandelier and surrounded by gleaming liquor-laden shelves and tall chairs of gray tufted leather glinting with silver nailheads. Booths line the wall of the central space, with more private taits doors: The waiter’s use of a crumber to clear the tablecloth bles stretching down between courses. the west hall. Sliding doors can divide the GETTING TO THE MEAT OF IT south seating section Speaking of those courses, Spitz stresses the efforts to which into variable sized he goes to obtain the freshest and finest possible ingredients, banquet areas, each including certified organic chicken, eggs and produce and the with its own a/v highest possible grades of beef and pork. The menu undergoes setup and independent lighting, giving it a hotel ballroom-like slight seasonal variations, depending in part on ingredient feel for meetings or small groups. availability but also evolving with time and taste. Wherever you’re sitting, it’s hard to not be impressed by the One fairly consistent element, though, is the smoky spice of attention to detail, from the ranks of folded cloth hand towels Hatch green chiles. Spitz explains, “We order Hatches by the in the bathroom to the heft of the curtains in the private dining ton, literally – our first order was for 2,000 pounds, and we went room that seats 10 and contains a matched pair of beautifully through it in under three months.” Not every dish boasts them, carved Peruvian storage chests. but they’re notably plentiful: adding a small flicker of heat to the Extra stylistic flourishes such as cucumber slices in the remoulade that sets off the slight sweetness of the crab cakes water and the weight of the ornate flatware help (which are mostly crab, not filler, and entirely delireinforce an overall impression of opulence, as does cious), topping the various burgers and sandwiches and the excellent service. Co-owner and chef Steve Spitz starring in a pork stew that’s one of Spitz’s specialties. MEAT MARKET told us their intent is to emphasize friendliness over That recipe’s in a celebrity cookbook alongside contriREFECTORY stiff decorum, but I mean it as a compliment when I butions from Martha Stewart and Mario Batali, and 2920 NW 63rd, OKC say that there’s at least a little formality inherent in you might have seen it in person recently when Spitz 405.608.8866 a touch I haven’t seen since the Coach House closed meatmarketrefectory.com did a cooking demonstration at Festival of the Arts.
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Not every dish completely works – I thought the lobster BLT’s thick toast was a little too buttery both in flavor and on the fingers, so I’d recommend getting it and its chile-rubbed applewood smoked bacon in the form of sliders instead – but when it does, it’s outstanding. Case in point: The house burger is topped with a breaded envelope of fried brie, so when you break the seal, the cheese flows out to coat everything with richness. Knife and fork required. I didn’t actually begin to weep, but it was close; that’s a marvelous concept. And the beef is all prime, since it’s trimmed from their ribeyes and filets, ground and delicious. Plus, and you might be able to presume this since they’re a high-end steakhouse, but it bears emphasis: The custom-aged filet is just amazing. Extremely thick, nearly fork tender, so flavorful … the one I tried was in the top 10 steaks I’ve ever eaten, maybe top five. The ribeye wasn’t as good, but not much else could be.
FINISHING TOUCHES
And do stick around for dessert. They make a very nice coconut cream pie, and the chocolate torte is just on the right side of too rich, but for something distinctive, try the champagne sabayon. It’s a light, smooth custard with a shimmer of champagne on the palate and a nicely enjoyable, but not overwhelming, sweetness. Premium ingredients aren’t exactly inexpensive, so while you might not set a record, especially at lunch, going lavish carries something of a price tag. But if you’re looking for a beautifully atmospheric spot for fine group dining – especially with Mother’s Day on the horizon – it might be time to add “refectory” to your vocabulary.
On the Market One extra reason to visit, even if you don’t wish to linger over a sumptuous meal, depends on the Refectory’s commitment to quality ingredients: There’s a small but select butcher shop and grocery on site. Local honey, premium cheeses (I can vouch for the Red Dragon) and plenty of magnificent-looking viands – Spitz says it’s the only retailer in OKC to provide hormone- and antibiotic-free NatureSource beef. Take something great home with you.
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dining
CHEF’S TABLE
HOW IT’S DONE PESTO
½ cup sunflower kernels ¾ cup EVOO 2 cups arugula 2 tbsp vinegar (cook’s preference) pinch of red pepper flakes salt and pepper to taste Combine in a food processor and roughly chop. Paske suggests adding a tablespoon each of your favorite herbs to the recipe, and for sunflower pesto, he recommends rosemary, thyme and basil. The pesto needs to be prepared the night before, because the pork chops will marinate in half the mixture overnight.
Michael Paske’s al fresco favorite
MICH A EL PA SK E started his food career at McDonald’s. The Chef de Cuisine at Venue 7 started cooking as a child because his mother worked too many hours for her to be home cooking for him all the time. When the time came for him to get a job, food made sense. “She taught me how to scramble eggs, pack my own lunch, things like that,” Paske says. “I also remember watching Justin Wilson ‘gar-un-teeing’ I would love what he was cooking.” About this same time, his mother made him a meal that stuck with him and influenced him to this day. As meals go, it was pretty simple, but it also demonstrated that the young Paske had an adventurous palate. She prepared grilled steak, Brussels sprouts and lima beans. Anyone who has raised children knows that those last two ingredients never make kids’ top five favorite foods list, or top 100. “I liked the Brussels sprouts because I thought of them as a tiny head of lettuce I could eat in one bite,” Paske says. “And while I didn’t eat the lima beans then, they are now my favorite bean.” Paske spent six years at Outback Steakhouse, working his way up from busboy to assistant kitchen manager. He then helped open Primo’s in Yukon as co-executive chef. In his current position, he oversees menu planning and meal preparation for Venue 7’s catering. Since May is a great month for grilling (storms excepted), Paske chose to modify his signature childhood meal by combining some of the ingredients, and then adding one of his favorite chef-y finishing touches – sunflower seed pesto – with a bone-in double-thick pork chop. - GREG HORTON
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Place ears of corn on the grill while it’s still heating. By the time the grill gets to temperature, the corn will be ready. Cut the corn from the cob to be part of the succotash side. Cook some wild rice before the pork chops go on. Paske said a box of wild rice from the grocery store is fine, but not to use the seasoning packet. Add salt, pepper, butter and garlic to taste. Drain a can of lima beans and wash them thoroughly. Combine corn, lima beans and rice into one dish. Add diced tomato if desired. Finally, shave raw Brussels sprouts into the dish. The heat will partially wilt the sprouts, but not so much that the crunchy texture is lost.
PORK CHOPS Double-thick pork chops retain moisture better, according to Paske. Cook them on medium heat – if it’s a charcoal grill, that means just off the center – 10 minutes per side. It’s best to turn every five minutes and rotate 90 degrees to create cross-hatch markings. Serve over the succotash, and finish with remaining pesto. - GH
PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN
Greatness from the Grill
ROASTED CORN AND LIMA BEAN SUCCOTASH
224 johnny bench drive | lower bricktown OKC 405.701.3535 | www.kdsbricktown.com
dining
FOOD FACTS
Vitamins and Miracles Do these superfoods live up to their hype? I N L I T ER AT U R E , a legend begins with a kernel of truth, and then after generations of exaggeration, the character has become superhuman, animated with amazing powers. The truth is lost to the better, more compelling story of slaying monsters, rescuing cities or loving eternally. That process works wonderfully as an analogy for a category of foods, too: the so-called superfoods. These grains or leafy greens or berries or ground crustacean shells allegedly cure everything from gout to erectile dysfunction to cancer. Recently, a well-known Mediterranean restaurant announced that lupine beans (or lupini) would be added to their menus, including the Oklahoma City location. If you have never heard of this legume, don’t feel alone. While the incredibly bitter seeds are a popular snack around the Mediterranean and in South America, they are relatively unknown in the U.S. The health benefits are impressive, too. Only 200 calories per cup, the seeds also provide protein – the highest plant protein of any legume – fiber and B vitamins. They have to be brined for days to remove the bitterness, and they are linked to allergic reactions, especially with people who have a peanut allergy. As with many things Mediterranean, the lifespans of people who live in that area are touted as evidence of the superiority of their diets … without considering the actual benefits of slower, less stressful lives in the overall longevity equation. One of the earliest and best known of the superfood trends was the acai berry from Brazil. According to Mother Jones, acai-based products grossed approximately $200 million in the U.S. in 2012. As with most trends in our high-speed age, when the cataracts didn’t clear up or
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the sciatica stop flaring up, the culture moved on to the next superfood as a sort of messianic quest for natural healing – as long as it happens quickly. Today, kale is the messianic food du jour. Yes, some people find it delicious, and yes, it’s even good for us, but the idea that there is a granola-and-Birkenstocks equivalent of “just take this pill” is just as misguided as the Fen-Phen obesity solution. “Kale is high in iron, but it won’t cure cancer,” says Petra Colindres, a registered dietician and nutritionist. At her business, Nutrition by Petra, Colindres regularly educates clients who have been misinformed about how nutrition works. “I tell clients to look at the environment they live in, not just what they’re putting in their bodies,” Colindres says. “Sure, add kale, but if you’re still eating fast food or smoking cigarettes, kale and berries won’t help you.” Nutrition is a complex combination of factors, and Colindres notes that every person is different. “All diets don’t work for everyone,” she says. “From a dietician’s perspective, extreme diets are a terrible idea, and eliminating a food group means eliminating micronutrients your body needs.” That advice also applies to another craze: juicing. “You definitely get the micronutrients from juicing,” Colindres says, “but you don’t get the fiber you need from fruits and vegetables. Likely, you’ll be hungry a half hour later. You’re better off to blend them rather than juice them.” Still, eating natural is far better than eating processed foods, and the superfoods do have clear health and nutrition benefits. The task is to sort out the truth from the marketing. - GREG HORTON
Quinoa “The miracle grain of the Andes,” is how The Guardian described the marketing surrounding this staple grain of Bolivia and Peru. Quinoa is very high in protein (roughly 15 percent) compared to other grains, and it’s very easy to prepare, pairs well with other foods, and can be used with delicious effect in vegetarian and vegan diets. That in spite of the “Queen-O” burgers made famous by Bud Light. In the same article, The Guardian reported that by 2013 the price of quinoa had risen with Western demand such that poor Bolivians could no longer afford a staple grain, a double loss in that they also lost a good source of non-animal protein. In Lima, Peru, quinoa costs more than chicken, and Peruvians were turning to less expensive junk food as a result. Whether healthy eating should have an ethical component is up to individuals, but this is certainly worth taking into account.
Kale Related to cabbage, believe it or not, kale is loaded with vitamins A, C and K as well as omega-3 acids. There is very little criticism of kale that is not related to its ubiquity. Kale chips are delicious and clearly better for us than potato chips – baked or otherwise. Some people have an issue with the texture of kale chips or sautéed kale, but this is one leafy green that earns its current special status. As Colindres points out, it won’t cure cancer, so any outrageous claims about its health benefits should be laughed off, but it’s OK to do so while eating kale. Again, though, it’s supposed to be part of a complex, balanced diet – not the star of every meal.
Chia Seeds
Acai Much like the electrolytes refrain from Idiocracy, the antioxidant craze of the early 21st century is wearing thin and yielding very little solid evidence. Are they good for us? Yes. When acai berries are used in makeup, do the antioxidants help our skin? Is that a serious question? Do they boost weight loss? No unbiased scientific study has found that to be true. The studies so far indicate that the berries of the acai palm are exactly as good for us as raspberries, which not only taste better, they cost less.
In addition to flatulence, expect zero taste benefits from these tiny seeds. The science is all over the place on this seed of a flowering plant from Latin America. A cursory glance at Google search results indicates that chia seeds offer 11 or eight or possibly nine health benefits. That sort of Buzzfeed-style list-making likely indicates uncertainty. The criticism that seems based on actual science is that the much-touted omega-3 acids in chia seeds are the wrong kind for humans. As a secondary and icky problem, the seeds get very slimy when wet, so mixing them in certain foods guarantees a slimy texture.
Matcha This green tea is the latest product that marketers are lying about – sorry, touting its benefits. Try this headline: Matcha will “torch body fat.” Or this one: Dr. Kristi Pado Funk puts matcha on the top of her Anti-Cancer Diet Grocery List. I have an iPhone and I can barely make a grocery list, let alone categorize the lists into “causes cancer” and “fights cancer.” The antioxidants are exponentially greater than in regular green tea, but – and this is going to sound repetitive – the unbiased scientific studies are not complete on this one yet either.
Goji Lupini Beans These lima-looking little guys are high in plant protein, dietary fiber and essential amino acids … but some varieties aren’t just unpalatably bitter, they’re actually poisonous. Unless, that is, you’ve got the time and patience to soak them in salt water for a week while changing out the water every day, and even then they can trigger allergic reactions. Time will tell whether they truly take root in American health cuisine.
Again with the berries. What’s wrong with raspberries? They’re delicious. If you don’t like red things, blueberries also taste great. Goji berries have been credited with increased athletic performance, improving sleep cycles and (of course) weight loss. As with acai berries, no scientific studies back up these claims. They are berries, though, so eat up – or pay less for delicious raspberries. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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food drink Symbols $ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $10 to $25 $$$ most entrees over $25 outdoor dining reservations accepted valet parking new or updated entry
American ANCHOR DOWN Sip a beer or specialty cocktail and munch on a selection of gourmet corndogs in this fresh Deep Deuce concept housed within repurposed shipping containers. 30 NE 2nd, OKC, 605.8070 $ CAFÉ 501 Rustic stone oven pizzas, fresh salads and specialty sandwiches on house-made artisan breads. Add welcoming atmosphere and enjoy. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ COOLGREENS This health-conscious establishment has a menu, but customization is encouraged; every available component in their salads, wraps and even the frozen yogurt is naturally delicious. 3 metro locations, coolgreens.com $$ DEEP FORK GRILL Crisply elegant atmosphere complements the menu of superb seafood (wood-grilled cedar plank salmon is a house specialty), steaks and accoutrements. 5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$ THE FIT PIG The flavor is abundant in this Automobile Alley stopover’s selection of healthy grab-and-go meals; the menu covers breakfast, quick salads or heartier meals, and most options are gluten-free, dairy-free or both. 722 N Broadway, OKC, 290.7080 $$ FLINT Approachably casual style, plus the kitchen’s impeccably serious attention to detail in the outstanding contemporary cuisine, winningly combined in the Colcord Hotel. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$ GUYUTES The vibe is definitely and deliberately mellow in this Uptown watering hole; the diverse and musically named collection of pizzas and wraps and such have a ton of flavor to offer, adding more temptation to the loaded drinks menu and incredible patio. 730
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HEFNER GRILL Upscale fare of hand-cut steaks and seafood plus a tempting brunch to boot, enhanced by a live piano and a spectacular view overlooking scenic Lake Hefner. 9201 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 748.6113 $$ INTERURBAN Great food in casual comfort – while there are plenty of options for the health-conscious on the menu, visitors really should try the chicken-fried steak and anything with honey-pepper bacon. 4 metro locations, interurban.us $$ KITCHEN NO. 324 A seasonally inspired café and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner, and a thorough treat for breakfast or brunch. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $ LEGEND’S A Lindsey Street landmark for over 40 years, this casually upscale restaurant still serves exceptional seafood, steaks and more amid welcoming surroundings. 1313 W Lindsey, Norman, 329.8888 $$ MEATBALL HOUSE The focus in this Campus Corner restaurant is right where the name says, but the variety of ingredients, sauces and presentation in salads/sandwiches/pizza/pasta gives a surprising breadth of satisfying dining options. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 701.3800 $$ PACKARD’S NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN They’re not kidding about the “new” – the entire lunch and dinner menus are filled with innovative tastes for a distinctive dining experience. 201 NW 10th, OKC, 605.3771 $$ PICASSO CAFÉ Their neighbors in the Paseo are painters, potters and sculptors, so it’s apt that creativity abounds in these zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises, including plentiful selections for vegetarians. 3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $ POPS There may not be room in Nichols Hills Plaza for a duplicate of the giant bottle-shaped sculpture found at the Arcadia location, but the incredible profusion of soda varieties will still dazzle visitors – and the sandwiches, salads, burgers and diner fare are certainly worth careful, repeated examination. 6447 Avondale, OKC, 928.7677 $ PROVISION KITCHEN The concept sounds deliciously promising: fresh and local meals for the taking. This Nichols Hills Plaza locale offers chef-prepared
portion-controlled meals and salads in a seasonally rotating menu of organic and locally sourced ingredients; perfect for taking a healthy lunch or dinner to go. 6443 N Western, OKC, 843.2310 $
location in Midtown, its gourmet flavor combinations use waffles as the foundation for sweet and savory sandwich treats. 1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $
THE R&J LOUNGE AND SUPPER CLUB A sentimental dining experience with vintage recipes and atmosphere. Seating is limited but the patio is a year-round treat, and the drinks menu is a thing of beauty. 320 NW 10th, OKC, 602.5066 $$
WHISKEY CAKE High-quality locally sourced ingredients, prepared using slow cooking techniques that’s a prime recipe for outstanding dining. Enjoy – and don’t forget the namesake dessert. 1845 NW Expressway, OKC, 582.2253 $$
REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, enchiladas, pork chops and steak by the lake in a casual, energetic, hacienda-style atmosphere of stone walls and mahogany beams around an open kitchen. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995 $$
Asian
SATURN GRILL A star of the lunchtime stage in Nichols Hills Plaza, its rotation of daily specials and tasty twists on pizza, sandwiches and salads keep it crowded on weekdays. Calling ahead is recommended. 6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Top-of -the-line ingredients are combined into entrees and sides that are carefully concocted in-house, as are the bevy of wondrous craft cocktails. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$ SUNNYSIDE DINER A new day dawns for breakfast and lunch on the west side of downtown as a former service station becomes a no-pretense, made-from-scratch diner. Order up! 916 NW 6th, OKC $ SYRUP The most important meal of the day is also the most enticing at this unique breakfast boutique serving a heaping helping of signature dishes (the crunchy French toast is something special) and Stumptown coffee. 123 E Main, Norman, 701.1143 $ VAST Keeping your attention on the steaks, seafood and other temptaitons might be difficult; the view from atop the Devon Tower is truly unparalleled in Oklahoma, making this a fantastic date spot. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$$ VICEROY GRILLE Opulent décor, comfortable environs and some outstanding cuisine make a strong recommendation for the Ambassador Hotel’s in-house restaurant; don’t overlook the brunch options. 1200 N Walker Ave, OKC, 600.6200 $$ WAFFLE CHAMPION A food truck that expanded into a brick-and-mortar
CHAE Found near OCU, this pancultural treat puts a delectable influence on embracing traditional Korean cuisine and showcasing its versatility by blending its ingredients with dishes from around the world. Grab your chopsticks and enjoy. 1933 NW 23rd, OKC, 600.9040 $$ DOT WO GARDEN With an elegantly appointed location, Dot Wo continues its crowd-pleasing legacy of over two decades by pairing sumptuous classics of Chinese cuisine with fiery, fresh sushi. 6161 N May, OKC, 608.2388 $$ GRAND HOUSE The takes on Asian classics are quite delectable, and this venerable Chinese restaurant goes the extra mile to provide enjoyable ambiance alongside its excellent cuisine. 2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$ GUERNSEY PARK A hidden treasure on an Uptown back street, reflecting traditional Asian flavors expertly fused with a hint of French influence. Try the chicken lollipops and curry salmon. 2418 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$ O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in cool, vibrant digs. Call ahead for dinner, because it becomes a packed house in a hurry. 105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$ SAII With a dark, rich ambiance that elevates it over its surroundings, the captivating Saii serves expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus an extensive and adventurous sushi menu. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$
Bakery BELLE KITCHEN Doughnuts, macarons, pastries and ice cream created from scratch, in small batches – making treats like these with care and passion makes a difference that’s easy,
and a pleasure, to taste. 7509 N May, OKC, 430.5484 $ CUPPIES & JOE The name is only part of the story: the Uptown nook holds cupcakes and coffee as well as pie, live music, a cozy, trendy vibe and more. Park around back and take a peek. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $ LA BAGUETTE Comfort and exquisite baking make a tres chic destination for brunch and beyond. They supply pastries throughout the metro, but the source is especially delicious. 1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 2100 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $ PIE JUNKIE A Plaza District haven for serious pie aficionados. Call ahead to order a whole pie or quiche or walk in and choose from what’s on hand; either way the flavors are incredible, and you may never find a better Key lime. 1711 NW 16th, OKC, 605.8767 $ SARA SARA CUPCAKES The ambiance and milk bar make great additions to the variety of specialty cupcakes - selections range from traditional chocolate to blueberry honey and even bacon, egg and cheese. 7 NW 9th, OKC, 600.9494 $
Bar & Pub Food THE BARREL The menu is wellstocked with intriguing and delicious twists on pub cuisine like shepherd’s pie
and shrimp and chips, but the equally ample bar makes it a great spot to relax over drinks as well. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $
fare from barbeque wings to pork chops is a constant pleasure. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 701.5844; 3121 W Memorial, OKC, 608.2200 $$
tasty spin on comfort food.” While its entrees are excellent, the sides here are equal players as well. 3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$
BLU FINE WINE & FOOD Just south of Main Street, this sleek bar stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range from mojitos to barbeque chicken pizza to fresh hummus. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$
REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Part beer bar and part upscale eatery, this noisy, amply attended Classen Curve locale pairs a vast selection of quality brews with tasty menu items, including a great burger selection. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577 $$
LEO’S BAR-B-Q Dense, rich flavor and tender texture, delivered in genuine unpolished style for commendable value – no wonder its ribs and brisket are favorites among Oklahoma connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $
THE MONT While the food should tempt palates inclined toward a Southwestern zing, it’s beverages like the beloved Sooner Swirl and the primo patio (with misters) for which this landmark is justly renowned. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $
SIDECAR The fully stocked “barley and wine bar” (including wine on tap and plentiful spirits) keeps Automobile Alley patrons fueled, with a few delicious tidbits to boot. 1100 N Broadway, OKC $$
Burgers & Sandwiches
OAK & ORE A Plaza District port of call built with repurposed rustic materials, it offers more than a handful of creative sandwiches that practically require a knife and fork, as well as a tantalizing selection of lovingly chosen craft beers. 1732 NW 16th, OKC $ O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies alike, it’s served up killer burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. A St. Patrick’s Day must. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $ PUB W Multiple sections provide a choice of atmosphere, but the menu filled with choice beer and “new classic”
VZD’S A revamped menu yields a new dining experience in a classic locale on Western – soups, sandwiches and salads can be found in plenty, plus a few special touches and gourmet twists as well. 4200 N Western Ave., OKC, 524.4203 $
Barbeque EARL’S RIB PALACE A popular choice among locals in a genre that’s hardly lacking in options, the local chain pounds out hit ribs and turkey as well as a top-tier burger. 6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STAR URBAN BARBEQUE Iron Star specializes in “a unique and
COW CALF-HAY This tempting burger spot offers ample flavor combinations, and the delicious neverfrozen patties are mmmmmassive. Don’t forget the onion rings. 3409 Wynn, Edmond, 509.2333; 212 N Harvey, OKC, 601.6180 $ THE GARAGE BURGERS & BEER It can get noisy in the sports-bar atmosphere, but even so your focus will likely be on savoring the many tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 8 metro locations, eatatthegarage.com $ HILLBILLY’S There’s mighty appealing flavor in their land-based or seafood sandwiches, and the licit thrill of moonshine cocktails is a bonus. The shady patio is a genuine pleasure. 1 NW 9th, OKC, 702.9805 $
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ICE HOUSE Follow the tantalizing aroma to find this walk-up burger depot on the east edge of the Myriad Gardens. It rewards a little time spent in line with sizzling onion burgers inspired by Nic’s Grill, big helpings of fresh, hot fries and creamy milkshakes – the better to make the outdoors greater. 125 Ron Norick, OKC, 232.6427 $ IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Hand-cut fries, hand-breaded onion rings and simply great burgers, especially with No Name Ranch patties - lean and flavorful thanks to a local breed of cattle. 1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Dr, OKC, 235.4762 $ LOUIE’S GRILL & BAR Casually cool and come-as-you-are, these popular bar-type hangouts excel at inexpensive burgers, sandwiches and pizzas - and there’s probably one right nearby. 12 metro locations, louiesgrillandbar.com $ THE MULE Solid beer and beverage selection plus a delectable array of gourmet grilled cheeses and melts (ingredients range from fontina to figs) fill the menu at this relaxation destination in the Plaza District. 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded … and it’s incredible. It’s only open for lunch and the lines are often long, but the colossal burgers are easily among the metro’s best. Don’t forget some money, since it’s cash-only. 1202 N Penn, OKC, 524.0999 $
Pillow Talk
Flip’s serves up a delicate treat
FLIP’S WINE BAR AND TRATTORIA on Western isn’t aiming for de-
mure, restrained elegance in its atmosphere, because they have something they like even better: genuine camaraderie. Their website proclaims it proudly, “We are casual, fun, high energy, sometimes loud and crazy but most importantly, accessible.” A welcoming spot for al fresco dining and good-time meeting place, its habitually packed status is a testament to its popularity among locals, although the Italian comfort cuisine might have something to do with that, as well. The Gnocchi Pesto Cream is an ample helping of delicate little potato dumplings tossed in a rich pesto cream sauce and served on a bed of fresh spinach – it receives a little extra color, texture and savor with the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, a whisper of gorgonzola cheese and fresh basil. Variants on this pasta have been around for millennia – we’re talking Imperial Rome – but if you want it to be good, it’s gotta be fresh. And also tender: Quality gnocchi is so synonymous with softness that it’s often described as pillowy. In fact, while shooting this, photographer Shannon Cornman described overhearing someone saying gnocchi is like “little pillows of heaven.” How can you pass up an opportunity to taste that? - STEVE GILL
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S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these burgers’ exquisite flavors - including such showcase ingredients as peanut butter or a coffee crust - come as sliders too, the better to sample more kinds. 5 metro locations, sandbburgers.com $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS With one burger, one side dish (fries) and one salad, the menu is easy to remember - and the execution makes the meal unforgettable. Add a shake and enjoy. 3 metro locations, tuckersonionburgers.com $
Coffeehouse & Tea Room ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and unusual concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in a cheerful atmosphere; the food options are worth investigating as well. 4 metro locations, allaboutcha.net $ CAFÉ EVOKE Outstanding coffee drinks and other beverages from one of the area’s great caterers; if patrons wish to stick around to sample soup, sandwiches, snacks or sweets, so much the better for their palates. 103 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.1522 $ CLARITY COFFEE The vibe is crisp, clean and cool while still remaining welcoming and comfortable –
including seating for sipping or getting some work done – and the brewers have their beverages down to a science. As the sign says, “Drink the Coffee.” 431 W Main, OKC $ COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe on Automobile Alley, it has become a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts, especially during its periodic educational sampling seminars. 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $ ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - the passionate staff is always eager to share knowledge about the process augmented with locally sourced salads, breakfast options and other treats. 815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $ RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle surroundings encourage curling up for conversation over great coffee, baked treats, vegetarian-friendly breakfast and lunch specials, and live music. It’s highly recommended. 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $ T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE Proving that an establishment’s focus can be at once narrow and broad, these retreats offer over 100 varieties and expert counsel to explore a world of possibiliteas. 511 NW 23rd St, OKC, 7518 N May, OKC, 418.4333 $
Continental BLACKBIRD A Campus Corner gastropub pairing succulently creative dishes like pot roast nachos with a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. There’s little on the menu that won’t tempt palates. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes (the chicken-fried steak is a house specialty) and love of seafood drive the contemporary comfort food in one of the city’s finest dining destinations. 2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$ LOTTINVILLES Rotisserie chicken and wood-grilled salmon are the featured players among a host of Southwestern-influenced entrees, salads and panini; the Sunday brunch is sincerely pretty epic. 801 Signal Ridge, Edmond, 341.2244 $$ LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients - but every dish is the result of genuine culinary artistry. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$ THE MANTEL Marvelous steaks, seafood and other specialties combine with a refined atmosphere and outstanding service to set the stage for a truly memorable meal, especially if you have a date to impress. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$ THE MELTING POT Special occasion? Here’s where to make a
PHOTO BY SHANNON CORNMAN
GOOD TASTE
meal into an event. Specializing in four-course fondue dinners, this Bricktown restaurant rewards a time investment with delectable memories. 4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$ THE METRO A perennial favorite that feels comfortably upscale without exerting pressure to impress on its clientele, the farreaching menu covers culinary high points from vichyssoise to crème brulée. 6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ MICHAEL’S GRILL Thoroughly urbane dining in an intimate setting: the steaks, chops, seafood and pastas are all reliably excellent, and the Caesar salad prepared tableside is the stuff of legends. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$ THE MUSEUM CAFÉ A setting as inspiring as the OKC Museum of Art warrants something special in cuisine: delicately light or delectably robust, its European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$ PARK AVENUE GRILL A one-ofa-kind dining experience inside the luxurious Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak and seafood with the high style of its 1930s setting. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$
PASEO GRILL Quiet and intimate inside, cheerful and comfortable out on the patio, with an award-winning menu filled with distinctive flavors inspired by the cuisines of Europe in both areas – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ ROCOCO An “East Coast-style” restaurant with a diverse menu of international dishes, all set off by carefully selected wines to create the perfect dinner pairing. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Penn, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 A Campus Corner hotspot boasting sleek, swank décor, an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch and a consistently celebratory vibe - in toto that makes this a winner. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$ SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; magnificent culinary rewards. The expertly considered menu mixes French and Italian f lavors to present a wide spectrum of amazing f lavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$ WEST The staff is speedy, the décor sleek and modern, and the entrées like beef pad thai or roasted airline chicken - are wide-ranging but elegantly simple. 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072; 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC $$
French BONJOUR Make your morning tres bien with marvelously executed breakfast and lunch classics in this petite café - biscuits and gravy to salmon linguine, the menu isn’t vast but the execution is sublime. 3705 W Memorial, OKC, 286.9172 $ LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Les Freres Buthion have deep roots in the city’s culinary landscape, and this flagship combines fine dining with a great bakery, deli and butcher on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$
German DAS BOOT CAMP Longtime fixture for Deutsch festivities Royal Bavaria has brewed up a second round of exceptional cuisine and magnificent beer in a less expensive, faster-paced location in downtown Norman. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $ FASSLER HALL Bringing festive German flavor to Midtown via housemade sausages, warm soft pretzels with cheese sauce, duck fries and a heftig beer menu, plus a weekend brunch – what’s not to love? 421 NW 10th, OKC, 609.3300 $ INGRID’S Authentic German fare at its best, including outstanding Oklahoma-made bratwurst. Join
weekend regulars for breakfast, and remember the bakery counter. 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444; 6501 N May, OKC $$ ROYAL BAVARIA Superb takes on traditional dishes like Weinerschnitzel, Jagerbraten and sausages, plus fantastisch housebrewed beers. The time spent is a worthy investment in this family-style dining hall. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$
Indian GOPURAM - TASTE OF INDIA A full-service restaurant whose richly appointed interior and attentive staff accord patrons the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentifully stocked lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandoori-cooked delicacies and boasting healthy, natural, delicious cuisine served amid splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ A tremendous set of Indian staples and delicacies - the menu has sections for vegetarian, tandoori, South Indian and Indo-Chinese specialties - plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$
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Italian & Pizza BELLINI’S Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. It’s worth a visit even if only for a couple of the namesake beverages on the shady patio. 6305 Waterford, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the splendid menu keeps the booths full and diners planning return trips to this vintage building by the railroad tracks; don’t overlook Sunday brunch. 105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style (that means thin, flexible crust with a lot of surface area to cover in cheese and tasty toppings), it offers whole pizzas or slices, a full bar and a primo patio. 1734 NW 16th, OKC $ FLIP’S WINE BAR & TRATTORIA Managing to feel rustic despite its location in a busy corridor of OKC, this cozy Italian joint keeps extended hours, and tends to get busier and louder as the hour gets later. 5801 N Western, OKC, 843.1527 $$ HIDEAWAY PIZZA If you’ve been serving a devoted following for over half a century, you’re doing something right. In this case, that’s incredible pizza in jovial surroundings - a true Oklahoma success story. 7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$
A Sip of Summer Blackberry bliss at the Martini Lounge IF YOU’RE LOOKING in the bushes and brambles of Oklahoma’s countryside, blackberries won’t be ripe until somewhere around the beginning of July. If you’re in Edmond, however, you can get a jump-start on the season in style; just drop by the Martini Lounge for a Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade. Found inside the soigne Boulevard Steakhouse, the bar is best known for sterling renditions of its namesake cocktails, but there’s more on the menu than merely martinis – this BLACKBERRY particular concoction is a house BOURBON recipe, crafted by bar manager LEMONADE Ashley Flannigan. Bartender Danielle highly 2 oz Woodford Reserve recommends it – “If you’re an bourbon Old Fashioned drinker, you would Muddled blackberries really like it,” she says. Ask her ½ oz simple syrup Juice from a whole lemon for one next time you’re in the Garnish with mint sprig neighborhood, and enjoy the taste of summer sooner. - STEVE GILL
HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA There’s really no need to be humble about this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. It’s one of our favorites; choose your toppings and think deep thoughts. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies. Try to budget room for both, but remember to come back for a sandwich or pasta. 700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$ KNUCK’S WHEELHOUSE Homemade daily with sauces from scratch and local beer in the crust, it’s a tasty and varied stopover for Bricktown wanderers as well as a pizza-lover’s destination in its own right. 103 E California, OKC, 605.4422 $ MONI’S Handmade, New Jersey-style brick oven pizza and authentic pasta recipes from Southern Italy in a casual, comfy ambience (ideal for dates). 17200 N May, Edmond, 285.5991 $$ PEPPERONI GRILL Pizza, salads, seafood and plenty of pasta-powered classics and innovations fill both locations of this local favorite; even the bread is a pleasure. 1901 NW Expwy, OKC, 848.4660; 1000 W Covell, Edmond, 285.5454 $$ PIZZA 23 The tempting selection of specialty pies on especially buttery, flaky
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crusts is available for takeout, but dining in is recommended; the Uptown joint’s good beer selection and crisp, urban décor add savor to the flavor. 600-B NW 23rd St, OKC, 601.6161 $$ PIZZERIA GUSTO Neapolitan-style pizza (which harnesses an extremely hot fire to quickly cook superfine flour crusts and quality ingredients) stars alongside Italy-inspired salads, pastas and appetizers. 2415 N Walker Ave, OKC, 437.4992 $$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of legitimately Italian tastes for a casual lunch, or romantic dinner, amid stylish scenery. The weekend brunch offerings are especially superb. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ TOMMY’S ITALIAN-AMERICAN GRILL An old favorite returns to the metro to provide fresh, plentiful doses of primo pasta and pizzas, always served with plenty of ambiance. 5516 W Memorial, OKC, 470.5577 $$ UPPER CRUST A chic, contemporary pizzeria and wine bar specializing in wood-fired, thin-crust New York-style pies complemented by a full menu and wine list. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$ VICTORIA’S A comfortable atmosphere, with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – the chicken lasagna and linguine with snow crab are especially excellent. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377; 3000 SW 104th St, OKC, 759.3580 $ VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff and management treat customers like guests in their home. It’s a small space, so calling ahead is recommended. 7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ THE WEDGE Wood-fired pies crafted from fresh ingredients (the possibilities range from pepperoni all the way to figs or truffle oil) and made-from-scratch sauces. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$
Japanese // Sushi CAFÉ ICON Tempting sushi, Japanese specialties and delicious spectacles like steak cooked at the table on a sizzling stone fill the menu to bursting with visually splendid and palate-pleasing treats. 311 S Blackwelder, Edmond, 340.8956 $$ MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry, thanks to the skilled chefs executing culinary performance art at tableside hibachi grills. It’s a great spot for a special occasion. 4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in the form of
PHOTO BY SHANNON CORNMAN
AT THE BAR
an especially wide-ranging and creative sushi menu). 4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$ TOKYO It’s neither huge nor lavishly appointed, and the menu focuses on tradition rather than creativity; but it’s palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best sushi. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$ VOLCANO Creations from the hibachi grill or dazzling displays of handcrafted sushi prowess – this restaurant might not have much seating, but it’s certainly far from short on flavor. 2727 S I-35, Moore, 759.3888 $$
Mediterranean HAIGET’S Vegan-friendly – and friendly in general, due to the influence of the warm, patient namesake owner – this gem rewards the adventurous with Ethiopian and Kenyan specialties to explore and share. 308 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 509.6441 $$ MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI The menu is stocked with authentic, quick and savory options from Greek salad to eye-watering cabbage rolls, and there’s even a minigrocery stocked with select staples. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA Practically the definitive example of a hidden treasure, the spicy, vegan-friendly menu of Ethiopian delights awaits the bold. Bring friends and be prepared to linger. 2308 N MacArthur, OKC, 606.8616 $$ ZORBA’S For well over 20 years, Zorba’s has satisfied appetites and pleased palates. Serving dishes from recipes passed down through generations, they proudly share flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $
Mexican & Latin American 1492 Authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, combining its caliente flavors with fusion decor to make an ideal spot for a romantic evening ... including perhaps the world’s best mojitos. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$ BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s nearly always standing-room-only at lunch, but don’t let that deter you; spend a few minutes in line and get an ample reward in the form of fast, fresh, imaginative taco creations. 530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $ CAFÉ DO BRASIL It’s a long way from OKC to Rio, but the savory menu in this Midtown hot spot covers the distance in a mouthful. Even brunch is a spicy, inimitable treat. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$ CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant flavors from
the zesty traditions of Guatemala. Lunch possibilities beckon, but it’s the breakfast specialties that truly dazzle. 3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $ CHILTEPES The full name calls it a “taco joint,” but don’t equate it mentally with fast-food Tex-Mex; delectable doses of authenticity flavor the menu, including Guatemalan specialties and breakfast treats served all day. 1800 NW 16th, OKC, 601.0384 $
It’s Time to Rediscover
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CULTIVAR A farm-to-fire Mexican kitchen that stresses sustainability, local sourcing and fresh, fast, flavorful food. Gluten-free options, chef-crafted tacos, a substantial bar and plenty more are on the menu. 714 N Broadway, OKC $$ IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices - a treat from the house-made salsas to the handcrafted cocktails, and all the tastes between. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172 $$ MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN A festive atmosphere on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner sets off a menu loaded with hand-rolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and signature dishes . 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ TARAHUMARA’S Beloved by locals (there’s usually a line but it moves quickly), this airy ristorante serves huge, tasty Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like carnitas de puerco and mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$ TED’S CAFÉ ESCONDIDO The universal standard of OKC Tex-Mex comparisons - fast, fresh and amply portioned, it’s often very crowded and always supremely delicious. 4 metro locations, tedscafe.com $$
7101 Miramar Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Reservations Recommended 405.478.1417 www.jbruners.com
Same Romantic Location,
Expanded menu!
Boucherie, Groceries, Pastries, Your Next Cake Order...
Stop by La Baguette Bistro
YUCATAN TACO STAND A Bricktown haven for feisty Latin fusion cuisine such as paella and tamales wrapped in banana leaves plus signature nachos and combos … and a selection of over 75 top-shelf tequilas. 100 E California, OKC, 886.0413 $ ZARATE’S In addition to the familiar joys of enchiladas and the like, the chef’s Peruvian heritage shines in dishes featuring plantains, yuca and imported spices. Try something different; find something tasty. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$
Seafood THE DRAKE The Good Egg Group’s flagship and a standard-bearer for diners who crave excellent seafood, it supplies a passel of chef’s creations featuring the sea’s finest, plus an oyster bar and righteous cocktails. 519 NW 23rd, OKC, 605.3399 $$$ LAND & SEA Chef Sean Cummings harnesses the delicious possibilities of multiple biomes in this savory concept. Look closely; it’s pretty small, but the sea bass will make you a convert.
7408 N May Ave Oklahoma City 405-840-3047 labaguettebistro.com MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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7523 N May Ave, OKC, 755.2622 $$$ PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Cajun Crab Boil is a favorite, guests are encouraged to “leave the silverware at home and dig in,” and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial OKC favorite for its flavorful seafood and spicy Creole-inspired dishes: Shrimp Diablo, Tabasco-infused Caesar salads, Andouille omelets at Sunday brunch and more. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ THE SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus fried and grilled seafood, in an atmosphere that’s not shy about being as casual as it can be. 3 metro locations, theshackok.com $$
Soul Food ®
THE DRUM ROOM March your own drumsticks in for a heap of crispy, juicy fried chicken (among the city’s best) starring alongside fried okra, waffles and a fully loaded bar. 4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$ JAX SOUL KITCHEN The team behind Blackbird and Blu dishes up big ol’ helpings of jambalaya, pork ribs, fried catfish and many more deep South classics for OU-adjacent crowds. 575 S University, Norman, 801.2828 $ KD’S Sleek ambiance, down-home inspiration, pork chops, stuffed catfish, shrimp and grits and more of Kevin Durant’s favorite foods, presented with skill and vim – and a dose of star power. 224 Johnny Bench Dr, OKC, 701.3535 $$
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MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE The ambiance and service are sublime, but fine aged steak broiled to perfection is the star. 3241 W Memorial, OKC, 748.5959; 100 W Main, OKC, 208.8800 $$$ MEAT MARKET REFECTORY The well-aged steaks are excellent, but they’re the tip of the ample menu’s iceberg: fresh seafood and Australian lamb chops command attention as well, and from Hatch green chili crab cakes to champagne sabayon, the carefully selected flavors pop and sparkle in this prime dining experience. 2920 NW 63rd, OKC, 608.8866 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S This lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées and sides with a full complement of amenities destined to impress. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE It aspires to the ultimate in upscale dining via hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambiance. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$
Steakhouse BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance down to the last detail and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$
RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities to make some of the state’s best dining. 504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$
BROADWAY 10 Cruise into the Buick building in Automobile Alley to savor steak supremacy or seafood selections (even sushi) in a cozy enclave amid urban bustle. 1101 N Broadway, OKC, 212.3949 $$$
Thai
J. BRUNER’S AT THE HAUNTED HOUSE Renowned for its spooky past (its name is no accident), it’s a must for its steak, lobster and enduring charm. 7101 Miramar, OKC, 478.1417 $$$ JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Saving room for your steak, lobster or prime rib
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JUNIOR’S The classic restaurant’s decor sets the perfect stage for handcut Angus steaks and lobster to fight for attention with knockout fried chicken. 2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$
RANCH STEAKHOUSE Effortless opulence, custom-aged hand-cut USDA Certified Prime tenderloins and ribeyes, served amid warm Southern hospitality. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$
CATTLEMEN’S Almost as old as the state itself, this Oklahoma institution’s immense corn-fed steaks and matchless atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$
122nd & N. May Avenue • 755-1000 quailcreek.bank • Member FDIC
is difficult when your gratis appetizers arrive in the form of a Lebanese bounty, but make the effort. Jamil’s has been feeding Oklahoma exceptionally well since 1964. 4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$$
SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, fried rice with crab, cinnamon beef ... the variety is exceptional, making this Midtown diner a popular midday option. 1614 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.8424 $ SWEET BASIL The enormous aquarium adds to the cozy ambiance; with its outstanding curries and specialty dishes, it makes a great venue for a dinner date. 211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$ TANA THAI There’s a lot to like about the food in this little spot, from red snapper filet to pad thai. Pay special mind to the varied soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$
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INTERNATIONAL
Nights in Oaxaca are often filled with atmospheric festivities.
THE SPIRIT OF OAXACA Southern Mexico and the making of mezcal SHORT LY A F T ER 8P.M.,
from small second-story balconies, families watch and wave as I leave the mezcaleria, stepping out into the dry air of colonial downtown Oaxaca, Mexico – where I am swept into a percussive, frenzied parade of colorful skirts, twirling giants and brassy horns playing traditional Mexican music through narrow cobblestone streets. Caught up in the spirit of mezcal and all things Oaxaca, I stay with the candlelit procession. Wherever such a kaleidoscopic parade ends, an exponentially larger fiesta will begin.
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At every intersection, more join. The Latin-infused melody of spritely horns and buoyant tubas repeats, growing louder, and drums beat with greater intensity as we make our way toward the town square and the famed La Iglesia de Santa Domingo where hundreds have gathered. Lining the perimeter of the square, under a full moon, vendors hawk fruit juices and balloons while elderly women sell tamales, as well as an exotic variety of worms and grasshoppers. Meanwhile, the men cook arrachera (skirt steak), over an open flame,
filling tacos and tortas late into the night. I eat and then it is time for more mezcal. Mezcal, known for its soulful properties, is an ancient agave-based spirit, exclusive to the state of Oaxaca. Unlike its cousin tequila, which is made from one kind of agave, mezcal is made from more than 30 different kinds, and is always locally grown and distilled by fire, hand and horse. Mezcal’s passionate, leathery, uplifting flavor is subject to
change based on how it is cooked and what agaves are harvested. No matter the method of preparation, Oaxaca’s mezcal is as enchanting as it is ever-present throughout the Mexican state. Mezcalerias are small, local, family-owned bars that can be found throughout Oaxaca. These intimate establishments have limited seating, serve only mezcal and employ bartenders who are extremely well-versed in the roots of their particular brand. Forty-five minutes outside Oaxaca City in the high Sierras, I arrived in the modest village of San Baltazar Guelavila. Here, Los Angeles-based entrepreneurs Fausto Zapata and Vicente Cisneros distill El Silencio, their increasingly popular brand of mezcal that began as a simple passion project and has quickly begun to appear in some of the premier cocktail lounges of the United States. It is here, at a small palenque, or mezcal distillery, where El Silencio uses more than 50 local hires and a horse to ensure that their product makes its way from the rattlesnake-infested agave fields to the distillery, and into the bottle. It completes its journey under the watchful eye of Master Mezcalier Pedro
The breathtakingly beautiful Iglesia de Santo Domingo
Smoky, sweet and complex, mezcal rewards the contemplative palate.
Hernández, a ninth-generation “Maestro Mezcalero.” If the previous night’s parade was an example of Oaxaca’s urban hysteria, the perilous trek into the Sierra Madres could only be described as rural pandemonium. Along with several jimadors (the men who harvest agave), their machetes and various other impossibly sharp tools, I load up in the back of a well-worn flatbed,
and we begin to zigzag along sinuous ridgelines and narrow, rocky mountain roads. As the last bastions of tire tread give way to an irrationally rocky, unmarked, Martian-like path toward the agave fields, we still have almost an hour under the blazing sun to go. The sun is merciless, and the bottle of water I brought is gone. All I can think of is death, and an impeding crash
into a cactus-lined ravine followed by dehydration-induced hallucinations, brought mercifully to end by the bite of a poisonous rattlesnake … yet we press on toward the agave fields. Agave, when ready for harvest, is aged between 10 and 12 years. With the agave’s spiny leaves, a blazing sun and armed militias of angry bees, removing the thick leaves is a laborious,
painful process. Not to be shamed, I grab a machete and, bees be damned, start to hack away the leaves of the agave plant, eager to get to the fruit at the center. Once harvested, Fausto pulls out a bottle of El Silencio and we taste a drink. With my foot on an agave pineapple, as the drink burns its way down my throat, I look out forever into the Sierras and taste a lot more. MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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INTERNATIONAL
Jimadors cut and cook agave plants to begin the distillation process.
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We return to the palenque, where employees hack dense, sticky pineapples into quarters. Once chopped, the pieces are loaded into a handdug hole filled with volcanic rock and burning mesquite wood. The choice of wood dictates the mezcal’s flavor. Once the pineapple pieces have filled the smoldering hole, the pile is covered with a tarp and three inches of soil, then left to cook underground for 72 hours. The pieces are then moved into another pit to extract the cooked sugars. A scrappy horse pulls a giant grinding stone in circles, crushing the pieces until the charred remains of wood are a sticky pulp. The pulp is then mixed with spring water and fermented, turning it into an agave wine – at which point it begins making its own alcohol. Finally it is distilled. The alcohol is vaporized, twice distilled and held to an intensive taste test done only by the Maestro Mezcalero. Once blessed, it is bottled on site, boxed and shipped to the United States. In the shade of the palenque, we join the villagers and the team from El Silencio for carne asada and a variety of moles so complex that each is worthy of its own story. The village is alive, as it has been for centuries, with the spirit of mezcal. The following night, there is no parade. The streets of Oaxaca are emptier, and without the enticing colors from the previous night and the reverberating sounds in my ears, I see so much more than before. We make our way to another rich mole dinner. I’m sunburned, dehydrated and elated. As we
walk, I look into the mezcalerias and watch as mezcal is poured. That night, poolside, as we toast the successes and the journey of the day, I know that the mezcal with which we toast has had a journey of its own. But it’s not just a journey. It’s a parade … a giant, timeless, parade. And where that parade ends, the fiesta begins. – MATT PAYNE
(Clockwise from top) Mezcal is a smallbatch undertaking | Oaxaca’s arid climate nonetheless supports a variety of flora | The finished product of the mezcal-making process is a drink worth showcasing.
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travel STATESIDE
Stunning even at night, Kanab is found in one of America’s most outstanding areas for scenery.
Where the Western Was Done A BR A S S FA N FA R E … a stentorian voice … the William Tell
Overture … “A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty ‘Hi-yo, Silver!’” To anyone who grew up in the ’50s, the image comes clearly: A masked rider comes over the hill, through the rocks – it’s the Lone Ranger! Too young? Never mind. If you’ve ever seen a western movie or TV show, you, too, have seen Kanab, Utah. Countless TV episodes and more than 100 movies have been made in and around this tiny Utah town that earned the soubriquet “Little Hollywood.” Kanab makes a handy stopover between some of America’s most beautiful national parks – it’s 30 minutes to Zion and 90 minutes to Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon’ s North Rim – but it’s an interesting little place all by itself, and there are even more great sites close by.
READY FOR ITS CLOSE-UP
In 1917, the three Parry brothers started a transportation company to pick up tourists at the train station and take them
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to the national parks. For the first movie made here, Deadwood Coach (1924), Tom Mix hired Chance and brothers Whit and Gron to transport cast and crew to various shooting locations. The brothers recognized a golden opportunity. Armed with hundreds of photos from the area, Chance hit Hollywood, calling on studio executives and location scouts. In 1931, the brothers purchased a large home and turned it into a tourist accommodation, Parry Lodge, with a restaurant – convenient for housing the movie crews and stars. Chance was the liaison, Whit ran the lodge and Gron supplied livestock, wagons and horse-drawn vehicles needed by the movie companies. For decades the whole town was in the movie business. Locals worked as extras or helped on the sets. It wasn’t unusual for the high school to close early so students could make a little extra money. Some of Hollywood’s brightest stars played and stayed here: John Wayne, Alan Ladd, Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, Ronald Reagan, James Garner and many more. Their pictures
MOON BY BARRY GLAZIER
Cinema, scenery and more in Utah
JOHNSON CANYON COURTESY KANE COUNTY OFFICE OF TOURISM; CLIFFS AROUND KANAB BY BARRY GLAZIER; PARRY LODGE COURTESY FOREVER RESORTS
decorate walls and halls throughout the lodge. This super-retro accommodation has kept all of its early charm, accompanied by enough updates to vie with contemporary competitors. The number of rooms grew as the business prospered. We stayed in the Julie Newmar room – half a duplex near the pool, decorated with posters and newspaper articles about the filming of Mackenna’s Gold starring Julie Newmar, Gregory Peck and Omar Sharif. Employees are well-versed in the lodge’s history and full of gossipy, handed-down stories of the stars – some of them are probably true. Each year, from mid-May to mid-October, a century-old barn on the property becomes a theater, and every night there’s a different movie that was filmed in the area. Presentations kick off with one of the facility’s film historians talking about Parry Lodge history and facts about the film. Movies are free – popcorn is extra.
READY ON THE SET
I watched The Outlaw Josey Wales starring Clint Eastwood. This was particularly apt since that afternoon I had visited the Little Hollywood Movie Museum, a set sanctuary. One of the (Clockwise from top) Many “Gunsmoke” episodes were filmed in Johnson Canyon. | Sunset brings out the colors displays is the adobe (actually in the cliffs around Kanab. | Parry Lodge has been welcoming guests for over three-quarters of a century. made of fiberglass) that became Josey’s home at the end of the movie. Another piece is a toll booth, made of Styrofoam, from the NOW PLAYING 1990 remake of The Desperate Hours with Anthony Hopkins. Movie sets aren’t the only thing rescued in Kanab: Best Friends While most of the exhibits are from westerns, other genres Animal Sanctuary is the nation’s largest no-kill companion also were filmed in Utah – the landscape has even been a standanimal sanctuary. Home to approximately 2,000 cats, dogs, in for the planet Mars. Everything’s slightly tatty, partly because horses, pigs, birds and bunnies, Best Friends is listed on Trippieces were supposed to look weathered, partly because they’ve Advisor as the number one thing to do in town. The sanctuary weathered more. offers a variety of free tours, accommodations, hiking trails, Nevertheless, this is a fun place to visit, and a 12-minute film volunteer vacation opportunities … and the chance to take about movie-making in the area is fascinating. In the docuhome a new friend. mentary, one of the locals describes the industry’s benefit to In addition to the three national parks, there are five national the community. Even though pay for extras and stuntmen was monuments, one national recreation area, two state parks and minimal, he said, “It kept the kids from eating the putty out of two national forests within reasonable driving range of Kanab. the windows!” If you’re a photographer, plan hours extra for any road trip – and MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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travel
(From top) Kanab’s Western Legends Round-up is the town’s biggest annual event. | Volunteers at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary can take animals with them on hikes or even for a sleep-over. | Clint Eastwood in The Outlaw Josey Wales found a home in this adobe house, now part of the Little Hollywood Movie Museum.
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make sure you have extra batteries, because each vista is more spectacular than the last. If you’re a shopper, both Denny’s Wigwam and the Little Hollywood Movie Museum carry many western and Native American items. REaD Cat Giftshop and Bookstore is a great source for nature items and numerous books – particularly on regional topics. Western Hills Rock and Gem at the west end of town carries beautiful pieces of local sandstone with gorgeous, natural patterns. The town’s biggest celebration is the annual tribute to its heritage, the Western Legends Roundup – always the fourth weekend in August. Hotel rooms in town book up completely, a herd of longhorns leads the parade down the main street, and visitors enjoy old movies, street fairs and music. This year’s headliners include Mickey Gilley and Bill Anderson. Kanab’s movie history is a big draw, but it’s just part of the town’s attractions. Come here and make your own western memories. With so much to do in the area, you may come for the night but you may wind up spending the week. – ELAINE WARNER
WESTERN LEGENDS ROUND-UP COURTESY KANE COUNTY OFFICE OF TOURISM; BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SANCTUARY COURTESY BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SANCTUARY; LITTLE HOLLYWOOD MOVIE MUSEUM BY ELAINE WARNER
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events
PHOTO BY CARLI WENTWORTH
Décor Galore
Timing is crucial in life – plans that were in place for a different property came apart, but in the interim the magnificent Johnson-Hightower home in Heritage Hills had become available, so the Show (House) will go on. The OKC Orchestra League’s annual Symphony Show House event brings together the combined skills and resources of more than a dozen of the metro’s most outstanding designers and decorators to give visitors a showcase of beauty. The palatial house at 439 NW 15th is open for exploration May 7-22, proceeds benefit the OKC Philharmonic and most furnishings – including these pieces and accessories from Mister Robert Fine Furniture – are available for purchase. For tickets and more information, visit symphonyshowhouse.com.
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events PRIME PICKS
Closing Time May 14, OKC Civic Center The only good thing about the end of the OKC Philharmonic’s performance calendar is that they tend to save some of the best for last. A Philharmonic Gala features radiant pieces by Chabrier and Walton, symphonic dances from “West Side Story” – and since it’s tough to come up with a higher note on which to end the season than “The Great Gate at Kiev, ” the orchestra closes by unleashing Mussorgsky’s magnificently mighty “Pictures at an Exhibition.”
Theater of Masterpieces May 12-July 30, Oklahoma Hall of Fame Museum You might well be unfamiliar with the name O. Gail Poole – though the Oklahoma artist spent decades as a force of creation who exhibited works around the world, he was never enthusiastic about marketing or self-promotion. However, he was a great inspiration to and influence on the artists who followed his work, and the exhibit “O. Gail Poole: Rediscovered Oklahoma Master” is a style-spanning compendium of excellent evidence why. Norman Long, “Handsome G”
Center of Attention
Surf (Oklahoma) City
April 29-May 1, Downtown Edmond
Rouge Nation May 19, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Symbolism is important; wearing a particular shade obviously won’t magically ward off illness, but sharing solidarity in scarlet does help build moral support for combating heart disease, and the information and inspiration at the Go Red for Women seminar and luncheon can change habits for the better. Chaired by Avilla Williams and Jill Castilla, it’s a demonstration that the strength in numbers can be a lifesaving force.
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May 21, OKC Civic Center If the mark of a true classic is its timelessness, consider that 2016 is the 50th anniversary of “Pet Sounds, ” and how marvelous it still sounds. Better yet, consider how great some of America’s greatest songs can still sound in person by hearing the Beach Boys – featuring longtime members Mike Love and Bruce Johnston – and special guest Dean Torrence of Jan and Dean. No summer is endless, so there’s no time to find bliss in balminess like the present.
BEACH BOYS PHOTO BY UDO SPREITZENBARTH
Get yourself downtown! The 38th annual Downtown Edmond Arts Festival is still free to the public, filled to the proverbial brim with dazzling pieces made by more than 100 artists (including the Edmond Fine Arts Institute’s popular 5x5 Sale), live entertainment including a Saturday night set from Matt Stansberry and the Romance and all kinds of treats to eat and drink. And most importantly: it’s happening right now!
events SPEAKER BOX
Allman Joy
A LONG LINE AT THE DMB
GREGG ALLMAN PHOTO BY DANNY CLINCH, DAVE MATTHEWS PHOTO BY MOSES NAMKUNG
Gregg Allman is finally happy, healthy and enlightened SOME LIVES ARE SO RICH , so eventful, that you hope that generations that follow will never forget how amazing those lives were. For some, you only imagine that a family archivist wrote down the stories, or had vivid recall to pass them down. For musical artists, one would like to think that their legacy will live on through their music. This is mostly true for Gregg Allman, as his songs – as a solo artist, a songwriter and as a founding member of the Allman Brothers Band – will live on for many lifetimes. Aside from the songs, he left us a great biography, My Cross to Bear with Alan Light, which was published in 2012. While I usually don’t like to promote a book that’s four years old, this book is different. It reads as so open and honest, and it’s written in such a way that you would swear Mr. Allman was in the same room talking to you directly. Unlike his peers, who are either dead, retired or living off the past, Allman has a new lease on life, new legs. Well, he did get a new liver a few years ago. In the fall of 2014, the Allman Brothers Band played their final shows. While guitarists Derek Trucks and Warren Haynes left the band to concentrate on their side projects, Allman went back into the studio with Don Was to work on a new solo record, likely due sometime this year. Gregg Allman’s last solo work was the T Bone Burnett-produced “Low Country Blues” record in 2011. While Allman is not as prolific as he was in the past, he’s patiently enjoying the next steps in his evolving career. Though his current tour was only projected to run through the spring, his health and his excitement with touring led to an expansion of the tour, which now extends through the fall. A special stop in the 405 will occur on May 17, at the brand-new Criterion, 500 E Sheridan in Bricktown. Allman has had the distinction of being a solo artist and quietly leading the ensemble unit that carried his family name for decades as the Allman Brothers Band. Even though his older brother Duane died in 1971, the ABB would go on to fame and infamy for over 40 years. With his long blond hair and aloof persona, Gregg Allman has also generated the rare distinction of being a visual rock icon. You can show a photograph of him to an average music fan and they will immediately answer “Gregg Allman.” You will never hear a true music journalist describe the Allman Brothers Band as “Southern rock.” That’s a cheap label that’s used by amateurs. They were a musical hybrid of American musicians, who all happened to be from the South, melding blues, jazz, gospel, rock and soul into something wholly original and un-definable. The “At Fillmore East” version of “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” is as close to an avant-garde jazz classic as anything by Ornette Coleman, with Duane’s slide guitar replacing the saxophone. Even though they were never a traditional rock band, they deservedly were named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. Once always brooding and mysterious, Allman smiles directly at the camera now. He is happy. “You have to have a real belief in order to deal with life’s challenges,” he wrote in his biography. “My spirituality has allowed me to keep my demons at bay, and the more that happens, the stronger I become.” It’s refreshing to see a man who is at peace, as if he’s reached Maslow’s hierarchical stage of self-actualization. He has overcome the tragic deaths of his father (murdered), his brother (motorcycle accident) and his bandmate Berry Oakley (motorcycle accident), as well as decades of substance abuse and bad marriages (six marriages total, one of them to Cher!). Visit criterionokc.com or ticketmaster.com for ticket information. - JERRY CHURCH
HOW WEIRD IS IT that on the very same night of a rare appearance by a Gentleman from the South, i.e., Gregg Allman, comes an equally rare appearance from another Southerner, albeit from East of Appalachia: the Dave Matthews Band? Appearing on the giant arena stage celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the Dave Matthews Band will perform two full sets at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in the 405 on May 17. Though not touring to promote a new record, the anniversary tour is slated to run through September. The DMB has played these parts many times before. This time, Mr. Matthews has become an elder statesman on family farm rights and social activism through his work with Farm Aid and his friendship/ kinship with Neil Young. Much like the Allman Brothers Band, the DMB is a multi-racial musical collective that spans several different genres, from jam to jazz to Southern soul. Dave Matthews has such a distinctive vocal style, it has become mostly parodic. Jimmy Fallon does an amazing Dave Matthews impersonation with his hiccupping and high-hey-ho vocal tics. This will be an epic night with Gregg Allman just a stone’s throw away. Recording is allowed at the DMB concert; in fact, you might even be able to make a mixtape for your prospective mate. Visit chesapeakearena.com for ticket information. - JC MAY 2016 405 MAGAZINE
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on the radar
WANT TO SEE MORE? Visit our online calendar at 405magazine.com
Let’s Do the Time Warp The Okie Mod Squad turns back time with modernism weekend THE OKIE MOD SQUAD has set their sights on increasing public
awareness of iconic mid-century buildings, and their architecture, during its Oklahoma Modernism Weekend May 20-22. They plan to give tours showcasing architecture in the “Church of Tomorrow,” the oblong First Christian Church. If you’re interested in more than just building design, be ready to see many other mid-century beauties … via vintage cars on Saturday. “The First Christian Church has a huge parking lot that we hope to fill up with ’50s finned wonders, sassy ’60s and ’70s muscle cars, fun rat rods, chromed-up motorcycles and the like. We will award People’s Choice awards to the favorite car of each decade,” says Lynne Rostochil, co-founder of Okie Mod Squad. The weekend also promises an Ultra-Lounge Dance Party hosted at Rockford Cocktail Den, plus Bad Granny’s Bazaar is opening its
Dance CONTEMPORARY DANCE OKLAHOMA Through May 7 The time is now for the OU School of Dance to exhibit some modern marvels of movement. OU Reynolds PAC 560 Parrington Oval, OKC, 325.4101, ou.edu/finearts
Events ONGOING DOWNTOWN EDMOND ARTS FESTIVAL Through May 1 Wander through a wondrous collection of art by over 100 creators from around the country, and stick around for the food and bands. Downtown Edmond 32 N Broadway, Edmond, 249.9391, downtownedmondok.com IRON THISTLE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL Through May 1 Whether you’re Scots or nots, there’s fun to be had at Yukon’s annual convocation of dancers, musicians, food vendors, sheep herders and caber tossers. Kirkpatrick Family Farm 1001 S Garth Brooks, Yukon, 834.1876, facebook.com/ironthistle MAY FAIR Through May 1 The Assistance League’s spring assembly of juried art, children’s art education, food
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vendors, live music and family activities is still a ball after all these years. Andrews Park 201 W Daws, Norman, 321.9400, assistanceleaguenorman.org 1ST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK May 6 The historic arts district’s name means “stroll,” which happens to be the preferred form of locomotion while taking in its wonders during a monthly display of arts and culture. Paseo Arts District 3022 Paseo, OKC, 525.2688, thepaseo.com LYRIC’S BROADWAY & BREW May 6 Lyric Theatre offers samples of local beer, tasty treats, raffle prizes and fun to benefit its theatrical programs. Myriad Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC, 524.9312, broadwayandbrew.com
closet doors for a Flashback Fashion Show and will create mid-century looks for the runway. If you plan on attending early enough, you may just be able to collect a piece of mod-history for yourself. Vendors already have begun gathering curiosities for Mod Swap, a flea market that includes typewriters, art deco, funky lamps and vintage board games. The Okie Mod Squad hopes that attendees will leave with a greater appreciation for the rich history of Oklahoma’s architecture before it’s too late to appreciate it at all. For a calendar of events, visit okcmod.com. - CALLIE RIDLEY
BITING THE APPLE May 7 Adults only at this salacious art show and dance that celebrates risqué business. IAO Gallery 706 W Sheridan, OKC, 232.6060, individualartists.org GREG PROOPS May 7 Even if you don’t believe his podcast claim to be “The Smartest Man in the World,” he’s immensely funny, making his OKC standup appearance a comedic must. ACM @ UCO Performance Lab 329 E Sheridan, OKC, 974.4700, acm-uco.com KOLACHE FESTIVAL May 7 The delicious baked goods are the tip of the celebratory iceberg in this day of music, dance, food, a parade and Czech heritage. Main Street Prague, 567.4866, praguekolachefestival.com
SPACE DAY May 6 Science Museum Oklahoma celebrates the final frontier via educational presentations exploring flight, robotics and space exploration. Science Museum OK 2020 Remington, OKC, 602.6664, sciencemuseumok.org
OSTRICH EGG BREAKFAST May 7 Rise and shine … and eat! Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs and omelets cooked to order by guest chefs. OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th, OKC, 425.0612, zoofriends.org
JUNGLE BOOK FESTIVAL May 6-22 The Children’s Garden is filled with adventure as scenes from Kipling’s classic tale of Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera and friends come to life. Myriad Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC, 445.7080, myriadgardens.com
RUN FOR THE ROSES HOPE GALA May 7 It’s Derby Day, and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is ready to celebrate in style, and raise a few funds to aid in researching the disease. Bricktown Events Center 429 E California, OKC, 810.0070,
centraloklahoma.jdrf.org RIVERSPORT RAPIDS GRAND OPENING May 7-8 OKC’s exceptional riverside facility is complete and ready to roar; the opening weekend features athletic competitions, live music, food trucks and a huge fireworks show. Boathouse District 725 S Lincoln, OKC, 552.4040, boathousedistrict.org SYMPHONY SHOW HOUSE May 7-22 The metro’s finest designers and decorators put together a knockout showcase of visual splendor; tours benefit the OKC Orchestra League. Heritage Hills 439 NW 15th, OKC, 601.4245, symphonyshowhouse.com 2ND FRIDAY CIRCUIT OF ART May 13 A monthly community-wide celebration of creativity, focused on historic Downtown Norman. Norman Arts Council 122 E Main, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org LIVE ON THE PLAZA May 13 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District 1618 N Gatewood, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org FAIRY BALL May 14 The Paseo Arts Association invites children to dress up and experience an evening of fun, creativity and dance. First Christian
Church 3700 N Walker, OKC, 525.2688, thepaseo.com
N Broadway, Edmond, 341.6650, facebook.com/heardonhurd
Theatres 150 E Reno, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com
GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON May 19 A day of education, mutual support and lots and lots of red helps the American Heart Association help ladies have healthier lives. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd, OKC, 948.2147, heart.org/oklahomacity
CHUCK WAGON GATHERING May 28-29 This long-running kids’ event offers food, fun and entertainment the cowboy way - crafts, grub, entertainment and more. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org
CENTER THEATER SHOWS May 5-29 The OKC Museum of Art screens overlooked treasures and unsung independent films. OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com
PASEO ARTS FESTIVAL May 28-30 Live bands, tasty food and the output of over 80 invited artists fill this Memorial Day treat. Paseo Arts District 3022 Paseo, OKC, 525.2688, thepaseo.com
FINE ARTS INSTITUTE May 2-31 The FAI hosts a collection of beauty produced by students in its varied adult classes. Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards, Edmond, 340.4481, edmondfinearts.com
UPCOMING CANTERBURY MASQUERADE BALL Jun 4 Start primping your threads, Canterbury Voices is turning the venerable hotel into a speakeasy for one night to mark its annual fundraiser. Formalwear and masks encouraged. Skirvin Hilton 1 Park, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com
BUFFED May 6-28 The community art space in the Paseo welcomes a solo show, subtitled “the aesthetics of removal,” from Randall Barnes. The Project Box 3003 Paseo, OKC, 609.3969, theprojectboxokc.com
EXCHANGE ON FILM ROW May 20 Hit the Row for pop-up shopping from area merchants, live music and food truck bliss in a free community festival. Film Row 609 W Sheridan, OKC, filmrowokc.com LEADWELL CONFERENCE May 20 Leadership is the star at Dr. Shanna Teel’s informative summit featuring Joe Jacobi, Christa Orecchio and Dr. Steven Jones. CHK Boathouse 732 Riversport Dr, OKC, drshanna.com EDMOND AUTHORS BOOK FAIR May 21 A free literary experience filled with locally written tomes and opportunities to talk with the authors who brought them into being. Edmond Historical Society 431 S Boulevard, Edmond, 340.0078, edmondhistory.org HEARD ON HURD May 21 A free monthly festival of live music, food trucks and pop-up shops - come enjoy! Downtown Edmond 32
Film CLASSICS SERIES May 3-31 Catch a masterpiece you missed the first time around or just want to re-experience on the big screen: Stripes May 3, Roman Holiday May 10, Gladiator May 17, The Wizard of Oz May 24 and Saving Private Ryan May 31. Harkins
Galleries
RITA ORTLOFF May 6-28 The visually engaging Paseo gallery hosts a collection of acrylic paintings that beg closer inspection. In Your Eye Gallery 3005 Paseo, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com PAINTING IN THE COURTYARD May 7 Artists whose work can be found in the gallery paint, sculpt and create amazing new pieces before viewers’ eyes. Howell Gallery 6432 N Western, OKC, 840.4437, howellgallery.com
DANCES WITH BRUSHES May 13-Jun 30 Vitality suffuses the canvases of local artist Mitsuno Reedy in this engaging show. Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org
Museums ONGOING THE COWBOY RETURNS Through May 8 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org NAVAJO WEAVINGS FROM THE PARRISH COLLECTION Through May 8 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org RIDING THE WHIRLWIND Through May 8 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org MURMURATIONS Through May 14 Artspace at Untitled OKC, 815.9995, artspaceatuntitled.org SCHOOL OF ART & ART HISTORY STUDENT EXHIBITION Through May 15 Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma FLORA AND FELINES Through May 27 Myriad Gardens OKC, 445.7080, myriadgardens.com
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on the radar SPOTLIGHT
RED EARTH REUNION SHOW Through Jun 30 Red Earth Museum OKC, 427.5228, redearth.org PRY THE LID OFF Through Aug 12 Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org GALILEO’S WORLD Through Aug 31 Across the OU Campus Norman, 325.4142, galileo.ou.edu OUR CITY, OUR COLLECTION Through Aug 31 OKC Museum of Art OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com
Long Live Creativity The Paseo Arts Festival Returns
ON MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND in 1977, the Paseo Arts District set out to bring a little more culture and fun to the Oklahoma City metro. It’s been 40 years, and they’ve done exactly that for all these years – upholding their mission to enrich, educate and inspire the public through art at the Paseo Arts Festival. This year’s 40th incarnation of the event is May 28-30, and will host more than 85 artists with works in mediums varying from paintings to photography, sculptures, jewelry and more. However, the festival is known for more than just tangible artwork. To add to the excitement, this year a third stage has been set up for even more amazing live performances by local musicians from acoustic bluegrass to country and rock. Keep reading, though, because there is something for everyone. The food court will cater to more than a dozen vendors, and will include traditional festival favorites, as well as the not-so-traditional but just as delicious. If you have children, there is a no-cost children’s area that allows parents and aspiring artists to get involved and have fun. The Paseo Arts Festival attracts around 60,000 people each year who gather to browse artwork, join in on the creativity, eat food and jam out to rockin’ talents. The neighborhood’s galleries and restaurants will remain open during festival hours, with many of the galleries hosting special exhibits and artists never before featured. To get more information, including a list of participating artists and musicians, visit thepaseo.com. - SABRIN ABU SEIR
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O. GAIL POOLE: REDISCOVERED OKLAHOMA MASTER May 12-Jul 30 Poole was a true master of his craft, a fourth-generation Oklahoman who often shifted between styles to push himself and continue exploring the realms of artistic creativity. Oklahoma Hall of Fame Museum 1200 Classen, OKC, 235.4458, oklahomahof.com
Music WHISTLE STOP CONCERTS May 1-11 The Norman Depot is right on the train tracks, after all - perfect for welcoming folk-rocker Griffin House May 1 and bluegrass-influenced Show Ponies May 11 as they breeze through town. Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org JOE BONAMASSA May 3 In Bonamassa’s hands, the blues become white-hot - his immense technical skill on the guitar and furious intensity make the resulting sound a marvel to witness. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker, OKC, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com OPOLIS SHOWS May 4 Metro, meet Opolis - you’ll make beautiful music together, headlined by Levitation Room. Check online for updates. The Opolis 113 N Crawford, Norman, opolis.org KRYSTAL KEITH May 5 Honeyvoiced chanteuse Keith performs selections from her debut “Whiskey and Lace.” Sooner Theatre 101 E Main, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org OU MUSIC May 5 Join the OU School of Music for stellar performances: the semester is nearly concluded, but there’s still time for one big sendoff from the New Horizons Band. OU Catlett Music Center 500 W Boyd, Norman, 325.2081, ou.edu/finearts/music
201 N Walker, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org GRAND CASINO SHOWS May 6-20 It should sound great at the Grand this month with live performances from Boz Scaggs May 6 and Air Supply May 20. Grand Casino 777 Grand Casino, Shawnee, 964.7263, grandresortok.com BLUE DOOR SHOWS May 7-21 Self-billed as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” it certainly has some of the best music, including David Lindley May 7, John Clavin Abney May 15, Eric Brace and Peter Cooper May 19 and Kevin and Dustin Welch May 21 - check online for updates. The Blue Door 2805 N McKinley, OKC, 524.0738, bluedoorokc.com RIVERWIND SHOWS May 7-28 The casino is hopping this month, proving that weekends are even better when they include special guests like Creedence Clearwater Revisited May 7, The Mavericks May 13, Dwight Yoakam May 21 and the Sommore/Earthquake Comedy Show May 28 . Riverwind Casino 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com HARRY CONNICK, JR. May 8 Pianist, vocalist, composer and even actor, Connick has a tremendous stage presence and still sounds amazing sharing the hits with audiences. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker, OKC, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com CRITERION SHOWS May 11-26 The downtown concert hall keeps pounding out the hits with performances by Sturgill Simpson May 11, Disclosure May 13, Gregg Allman May 17, the Randy Rogers Band May 21 and Deftones May 26. The Criterion 500 E Sheridan, OKC, 308.1803, criterionokc.com LINDA EDER May 14 Circumstance couldn’t keep her away for long; Broadway Tonight’s season concludes with a rescheduled appearance from the lush, powerful, genre-spanning voice of the international songstress. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater 100 N University, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/ cfad/broadway A PHILHARMONIC GALA May 14 Join the OKC Philharmonic as Maestro Joel Levine puts a coda on the Classics season with a selection of personal favorites. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org
NOON TUNES May 5-26 Free lunchtime serenades to sonically spice up your Thursdays: the Raul Reyes Trio May 5, Baxter & MacMullin May 12, Chelsea Bushong May 19 and Carl Moore May 26. Downtown Library 300 Park, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us
LUKE BRYAN May 14 The Nashville star rolls through OKC with a pounding country sound, ready to - as his latest album puts it - Kill the Lights. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com
POPS: CLASSIC FM RADIO HITS May 6-7 Jack Everly conducts the OKC Philharmonic in a playlist of the most memorable hits from five decades of popular music, re-scored for orchestra. OKC Civic Center
DAVE MATTHEWS BAND May 17 The bestselling brigade are legendary live performaers - make like an ant and march to the ‘Peake. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com
DIAMOND BALLROOM SHOWS May 17-25 Crank it up on the south side with a musical blast from Ghost May 17, OTEP May 23, Flogging Molly May 24 and Tech N9ne May 25. Diamond Ballroom 8001 S Eastern, OKC, 866.977.6849, dcfconcerts.com ELLIE GOULDING May 18 The breakout British star singer kicks off a new season at the Zoo on her Delirium tour. Zoo Amphitheatre 2101 NE 50th, OKC, 602.0683, thezooamphitheatre.com OKC HANDBELL ENSEMBLE May 20 This non-vocal choir is well versed at rocking the bells, and now they’re taking their show on the road for a moviethemed medley with a sound all its own. First Unitarian Church 600 NW 13th, OKC, 757.4643, okcbells.com PAPER DIAMOND May 20 The electronica producer of dizzying album Levitate is a vet of Coachella and Bonnaroo; now he’s ready to shake the Farmer’s Market’s foundations. OKC Farmers Public Market 311 S Klein, OKC, okcfarmersmarket.com THE BEACH BOYS May 21 The songs of summer from one of America’s truly great bands - this performance features special guest Dean Torrence of Jan and Dean, and all proceeds will benfit the Regional Food Bank’s Food for Kids program. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker, OKC, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com FRONTIER CITY SHOWS May 29 The amusement park offers a bit of extra incentive to visit with a performance from Norteno combo Los Invasores de Nuevo Leon. Frontier City 11501 N I-35, OKC, 478.2140, frontiercity.com
Sports PARKINSON’S RALLY WALK AND 5K May 1 Participation is open to all, and the more caring people who band together to fight Parkinson’s Disease, the better humanity will be. Wheeler Park 1120 S Western, OKC, 810.0695, parkinsonoklahoma.com DODGERS BASEBALL May 2-31 Baseball’s back! Join OKC’s boys of summer as they host New Orleans May 2-5, Las Vegas May 14-17, Salt Lake May 19-22 and Iowa May 31. Chckasaw Bricktown Ballpark 2 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 218.1000, okcdodgers.com
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MARCH FOR BABIES May 14 The March of Dimes hosts this annual saunter to provide better prenatal care and help prevent premature births. Myriad Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC, 943.1025, marchforbabies.org OKC ENERGY FC SOCCER May 15-24 Open wide for some soccer! The Energy look to continue the momentum from last year’s deep playoff run by kicking off against San Antonio FC May 15 and Real Monarchs SLC May 24. Taft Stadium 2901 NW 23rd, OKC, 235.5425, energyfc.com FULL MOON BIKE RIDE & RUN May 23 It’s not a race, more of a monthly opportunity to burn some calories in the company of friends and well-wishers as the sun goes down. Myriad Gardens 301 W Reno, OKC, 445.7080, myriadgardens.com
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Theater ONGOING CHARLOTTE’S WEB Through May 6 Oklahoma Children’s Theatre presents E.B. White’s classic coming-of-age nature tale. Oklahoma Children’s Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC, 951.0011, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org HAIRSPRAY Through May 7 Tubby teen Tracy may not be a ravishing beauty, but she can dance - and when you’ve got it, flaunt it. Especially if it puts you in a position to enact social progress. Pollard Theatre 120 W Harrison, Guthrie, 282.2800, thepollard.org LIGHT UP THE SKY Through May 8 It’s a play about a play that’s about to become a hit - maybe. If everyone involved can refrain from messing with it, which … isn’t very likely. Jewel Box Theater 3700 N Walker, OKC, 521.1786, jewelboxtheatre.org OPERA ON SCREEN May 1-22 World-class ballet and opera presentations from around the world, shown in high-def and comfort: Giselle May 1 and Lucia di Lammermoor May 22. Harkins Theatres 150 E Reno, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com TOP GIRLS May 12-22 W-O-M-A-N spells success, right? This contemporary drama by Caryl Churchill examines Marlene’s journey to the top of her field and what costs she pays along the way. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker, OKC, 626.6605, okctheatrecompany.org
OKC ROLLER DERBY May 8 High-speed grace and a few strategic applications of brawn; this month the Lightning Broads host the OKC Outlaws. Skate Galaxy 5800 NW 36th, OKC, okcrd.com
4,000 MILES May 13-Jun 4 A full 70 years but only a few feet separate a grieving young man and his grandmother as the ad hoc roommates form an unlikely but powerful bond. Carpenter Square Theatre 800 W Main, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com
CHIP IN FOR THE ARTS May 9 Allied Arts invites metro residents to take a round on the links to benefit creativity in central Oklahoma. OKC Golf & Country Club 7000 NW Grand, OKC, 278.8944, alliedartsokc.com
BULLETS OVER BROADWAY May 23-29 Woody Allen’s quirky comedy moves from screen to stage in this Celebrity Attractions adaptation. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker, OKC, 800.869.1451, celebrityattractions.com
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backstory
Simply the Best “WE PUT THE ‘PING’ in ‘shopping.’ And the zing. And the zest.” That was the slogan for Hightower, an upscale boutique nestled in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. Beginning in 1956, Frank Hightower and his wife, Dannie Bea, set up shop in a charming three-story chateau at 412 Colcord Street, next door to the Hightower Building at 105 N. Hudson. “The building was originally home to the Woodmansee-Abbott Music Company,” Hightower’s son, Johnson, tells 405 Magazine. “Dad bought it and remodeled the entire north façade because he wanted the appearance of a New York storefront. He and my mother traveled extensively and understood exquisitely crafted products – merchandise unavailable here at that time. So he decided he would bring it to Oklahoma City.” When Hightower opened, the shop carried the finest Baccarat crystal, Old Sheffield silver and Royal Worcester china. A 1967 catalog lists a Vacheron & Constantin 18k gold timepiece for $1,395, while a pair of Edward Marshall Boehm porcelain songbirds sold for $3,500. (That’s the same buying power as roughly a quarter of a million dollars today.) And jewelry designer Julius Cohen traveled regularly from New York to design custom jewelry for store patrons. “Mom was actively involved in buying but not in business operations; that was Dad’s domain,” Hightower says. “Dad ultimately hired a young New York merchandiser, Art Cella, as store manager, and they all would take trips routinely to the big city to find attractive lines to broaden inventory. Art was a big guy, and he would grab them both by the arms as they bustled through the crowded merchandise districts.” The shop evolved with the times, Hightower said, with a new kitchen department that looked surprisingly like Williams Sonoma of today.
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“We were the first merchandiser of the Cuisinart in Oklahoma, shortly after French chef Simone Beck delivered one to Dad after her cooking demonstration in Oklahoma City,” Hightower remembers. “We still have it, although it’s not in very good shape anymore. Another expansion was devoted to leather, including luggage by Fulton and desk accessories by Cross and The Alex. By then, the shop had grown to occupy the entire ground floor of both buildings. All was a testament to Dad’s vision and his conviction that our city wanted this.” By 1980, Hightower says there was little support for high-end retail downtown, and his father decided to close. “Penn Square Mall had many choices, Nichols Hills Plaza offered new boutiques and the ladies didn’t need to travel downtown anymore to shop,” Hightower said. “Quite a few still made a day of it – coming to The Cellar for lunch and then shopping at Hightower – but for the most part, downtown had become a place to drive to work and drive home at the end of the day.” Today, the building’s façade remains largely as it was during its retail heyday. The crystal, silver, china and jewelry are long gone, and today the space is a multi-tenant office property still owned and managed by the Hightower family. “For Dad, it was a labor of love bringing fine things to Oklahoma City. When he made the decision to close, which was announced by personal letter to all store patrons, many sent responding letters thanking him for his many years of service,” Hightower says. “It truly was the end of an era.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF HIGHTOWER FAMILY COLLECTION
BY MARK BEUTLER
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