Oklahoma Magazine January 2022

Recipes, trends and esse ntia ls

IMAGE Education MATTERS PREVIEW OKLAHOMANS OF THE YEAR Molding a new you A look to the future

Honoring our state’s finest PLUS: Senior Health Finance 101

NEW DATE! OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE PRESENTS

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Here to Help You Rebuild Your Life® What Can Bank Statements Show in a Divorce?

In a divorce, there is a lot of information and evidence that a court may look at in terms of helping to ensure a just result. One piece of evidence that can become important is bank statements.

In some circumstances, the courts may order the parties to exchange bank statements voluntarily. In some cases, the parties may agree to exchange bank statements by consent. And in other cases, the parties may issue requests for production upon each other to produce bank statements.

In some cases, the parties in a divorce may have jointly titled all of their bank statements. In other cases, the parties may have had separate bank accounts during the marriage. This can lead to different levels of concern in some cases — and different levels of need to exchange this information.

What can bank statements show? And why can they be important in a divorce? These are questions many would ask.

As it relates to spousal maintenance and child support, bank statements can show deposits into an account. In cases where the income of the parties is a disputed issue, this can be even more relevant.

This can be particularly true where there is commission-based income, tips, rental income, or income from secondary employment.

Bank statements can also show spending habits. These spending habits can be important as it relates to determining the expenses of parties in a divorce. These expenses can be important as it relates to spousal maintenance. It can also be important as it relates to child support when the expenses relate to the children.

In some cases, the parties might need to show fairly recent bank statements. In some cases, it might be useful to go some period of time backward in terms of looking at bank statements. Different facts can lead to different needs in divorce cases.

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their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters.

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Call for a consultation today at 855805-0595.

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The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm, PC is respsonsible for the content. Principal place of business is 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this article are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

Tulsa County Office

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Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133

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Oklahoma City, OK 73112

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2022

O K L A H O M A M AG A Z I N E

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State

Museums and historical societies commemorate Black History Month in Oklahoma.

The Art of Cocktails

28 29

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

With the dredges of a selfimposed ‘dry January’ in the past, it’s time to indulge your palate.

This year’s spotlight has it all: recipes, trends for drinking, plus a liquor breakdown and a rundown of some of the state’s thriving distilleries.

Image Matters

One of many ways to feel empowered in today’s society is by undergoing an aesthetic upgrade via plastic surgery or non-surgical procedures. From deep plane face lifts to lip fillers, medical experts advise on the industry’s most tried-and-true offerings.

20

34

20 22 24 25 26

44

Ahead of the Curve Private School Guide A deep dive into the higher education sphere explores popular elective classes, the ideal college application, sports and their positive impact and trends in and out of the classroom.

38

56

With Oklahoma Magazine’s helpful guide, you can learn more about the numerous educational institutions around the state.

VOL. MMXXII, NO. 2

Politics History Sports Activities Hobbies Business Agriculture Philanthropy Infrastructure Happenings Insider

Life and Style

Destinations Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska is a remote escape teeming with wildlife.

FYI Health Outside the Metro Scene

Taste

Zach Hutton takes his humble beginnings on a farm to connect diners to true Oklahoma food.

57 58 59

60

Local Flavor Chef Chat Tasty Tidbits

Where and When

February comes alive with performances, sporting events and concerts.

62 64

Film and Cinema Closing Thoughts

FEBRUARY 2022

48

The Golden Years

Navigating the golden years means making lifestyle adjustments and future plans. With preparation and some advice, seniors can live their third acts to the fullest.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

52

Getting Money Motivated

Any time’s a good time to gain control of your finances. Experts advise on strong money moves for different generations, jobs within the sector and red flags for potential investment opportunities.

Recipes, trends and

Recipes, trends and esse nt

essentials

ials

IMAGE Education MATTERS PREVIEW OKLAHOMANS OF THE YEAR A look to the future

Molding Honoring our state’sa new finestyou PLUS: Senior Health Finance 101

NEW DATE! OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE PRESENTS

Saturday, March 26

Expo Square Central Park Hall

FEBRUARY 2022

VOTE NOW FOR THE BEST OF THE BEST 2022 AT OKMAG.COM

ON THE COVER: OUR COVER STORY RUNS THE GAMUT OF SPIRITSTHEMED GOODNESS, FROM THE STATE’S MOST POPULAR COCKTAILS TO DELICIOUS RECIPES AND A LISTING OF SOME OKLAHOMA DISTILLERIES. SEE IT ALL STARTING ON PAGE 28.

The Renaissance starts today Nothing brings a Renaissance to your home or office like a custom-designed hardwood floor.

www.RenHardwood.com

OKLAHOMA LET TER FROM THE EDITOR Like many, you may have participated in what is called ‘dry January’ – taking a month off from alcohol after the gluttony of the holidays. If that’s the case, you're likely itching for a drink, and we've got you covered. The annual cocktail feature returns with recipes, Oklahoma’s most popular drinks, liquor breakdowns and more, starting on page 28.

Taking a sharp right turn, February is also the time of year we delve into the education preview before our big review in August. This year, we discuss the important factors of the ideal college application, plus student loan 101 and the positive impact of sports on collegiate campuses (page 38). Stick around for the annual Private School Guide (page 44).

Other features to peruse include Image Matters, which gives an overview of popular cosmetic procedures to try this year (page 34); Senior Health, exploring health risks in older age and retirement home etiquette (page 48); and Finance 101, presenting savvy money moves for every generation (page 52).

Offerings continue with a collection of Black History Month events in Tulsa and OKC (page 7); a sojourn to Alaska’s Denali National Park (page 20); and a chat with the rising chef of Tulsa Club Hotel, Demarcus Kelly (page 58).

Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

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PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DANIEL SCHUMAN

PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER VIDA K . SCHUMAN

MANAGING EDITOR

MARY WILLA ALLEN

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GRAPHICS MANAGER MARK ALLEN

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

What’s HOT at

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CONTACT US

COMING IN MARCH The Oklahoma Wedding Show, presented by Oklahoma Magazine, returns to Expo Square Central Park Hall on Saturday, March 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Chat with knowledgeable vendors and plan your big day, all under one roof. For more information, visit oklahomawedding.com.

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THE STATE

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

Black History is Oklahoma History

Museums and historical societies commemorate Black History Month in Oklahoma.

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Tulsa’s Greenwood Rising offers a variety of interactive exhibits and artifacts, including “Changing Fortunes,” which showcases the wild success of the Greenwood district in its hay day.

Photo courtesy Greenwood Rising

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lack History Month is an opportunity to reexamine one’s understanding of U.S. history and recognize the countless achievements Black visionaries have made. Because Oklahoma was originally Indian Territory, it has a complex and rich past unlike any other state in the nation.

“Many historians don’t want to say their state’s history is unique,” says Larry O’Dell, historian and director of communications and development at the Oklahoma Historical Society. “But Oklahoma has a very unique African American history.”

O’Dell explains that one of the factors that makes its history compelling is the way in which African American people arrived in Oklahoma. When the federal government forced the Chickasaw, Choctaw, Cherokee, Seminole and Creek tribes into Indian Territory, they brought African Americans along with them as slaves. After the Civil War, many of these former slaves received tribal allotments and created settlements of their own.

In an effort to retrace Oklahomans’ heritages, the

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Oklahoma Historical Society will connect people with resources that can help them research their ancestry in From Tulsa to Beyond: African American Genealogy in Indian Territory and Oklahoma. Genealogist Nicka Smith leads this virtual presentation on Thursday, Feb. 10.

Later in history, during the land runs, Black people flooded to Oklahoma, seeing it as an opportunity to create their own livelihoods. Eventually, the state became home to nearly 60 all-Black communities, more than any other state in the nation, says O’Dell.

Entrepreneur Ottawa W. Gurley was one of the many hopefuls who came to Oklahoma in pursuit of the American dream. He purchased over 40 acres of land, which he sold to other African Americans. These 40 acres grew into the Historic Greenwood District, a vibrant strip of Black-owned businesses. Before the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, its main street buzzed with barber shops, restaurants and offices.

Tulsa’s Greenwood Rising museum pays homage to the legacies of the Greenwood residents through a

T H E S TAT E | S TA R T I N G O F F

Figures of Note For 2022, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History has selected Black Health and Wellness as the theme for Black History Month. A few Oklahomans whose contributions fit within this theme include: A.C. JACKSON (1879–1921):

multimedia, fully immersive and guided experience.

“When you go to Greenwood Rising, you’re going to have an experiential encounter with history,” says Hannibal Johnson, award-winning author and curator/ board member at Greenwood Rising. “We paint a holistic portrait of the community.”

In celebration of Black History Month, Greenwood Rising will display a handwritten letter from Martin Luther King Jr. to Tulsa local and civil rights activist John Cloman for the entire month of February.

In the letter, King respectfully rejects Cloman’s invitation to travel to Tulsa to rally the Black community.

Phil Armstrong, interim director at Greenwood Rising, attributes King’s response to the important role that Oklahoma played in the civil rights movement.

“The start of the Tulsa civil rights movement was in the Eaton Barber Shop,” he says. “Black churches, Black barber shops, beauty salons – those safe spaces [were] where Black people would gather.”

Instead, Martin Luther King Jr. traveled to Oklahoma City, where he spoke at the Calvary Baptist Church in 1960.

Around this time, Clara Luper and other Black leaders were staging peaceful sit-ins throughout the city and paving the way for integration at the University of Oklahoma.

On Saturday, Feb. 5, the Oklahoma Historical Society explores the impact of sit-ins during its screening of Seizing Justice: The Greensboro 4 at the Oklahoma History Center. The event concludes with a panel discussion.

To learn more the Oklahoma Historical Society’s upcoming events, go to okhistory. org/blackhistory.

“Oklahoma itself was a bastion of civil rights for high achieving; African Americans who were in business [and] who did significant things in the community,” says Armstrong. “It just hasn’t been talked about in our history books.”

Above: Pictured here is W.H. Slaughter’s building on “Doctor’s Row” in OKC. Photo courtesy the Oklahoma Historical Society One of Greenwood Rising’s popular exhibits is a barbershop recreation with virtual elements.

Photo courtesy Greenwood Rising

He became a physician after graduating from Meharry Medical College. In 1919, he moved to Tulsa and opened a practice in the Greenwood District. Over time, he became one of the most prominent Black doctors, treating patients of all races until his death during the Tulsa Race Massacre.

W.H. SLAUGHTER (1872–1952):

Known as Oklahoma City’s first Black physician, Slaughter used his wealth to develop the Great Western Hospital, which was the first hospital to serve African American patients in the Deep Deuce area.

He engaged in philanthropic activities throughout his lifetime and served as president of the Oklahoma Medical, Dental and Pharmaceutical Association.

HANNAH ATKINS (1923–2010):

Elected in 1980, Atkins was the first African American woman to join the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

She used her influence to fight for child welfare, mental health and healthcare reforms. Later, President Jimmy Carter appointed Atkins to represent the United States at the United Nations.

“Part of having a solid sense of self is knowing one’s history, knowing that people who look like you have done remarkable things over time,” says Johnson.

FAITH HARL

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | P O L I T I C S

A Race to the Finish Line Three candidates challenge OKC Mayor David Holt for his second four-year term.

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Photo courtesy Urbanic

Photo courtesy Lawson

Photo courtesy Hefner

Photo courtesy the City of OKC

he 2022 political season began early in OKC, as voters will decide this month whether to give Mayor David Holt a second four-year term or hand the city’s top elective office to one of three challengers.

Residents will cast their votes Feb. 8 in the city’s nonpartisan mayoral primary. If no candidate receives a majority, the top two will enter an April 5 runoff for the job.

The mayor’s office is part-time and includes such duties as presiding over an eight-member, nonpartisan city council.

Holt, 42, led a successful campaign in 2019 to pass MAPS 4, financed by a 1-cent sales tax. Holt says

DAVID HOLT

The eight-year MAPS 4 improvements package that voters passed with about 72% approval in December 2019 addresses what the city’s website terms “16 critical challenges and opportunities.”

Among the improvements are construction of a state fairgrounds coliseum and a multipurpose stadium for soccer and other events, and programs to address homelessness, addiction and mental health; and improving parks, recreation facilities and trails.

Holt also mentions his working relationship with Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum, based on their 20-year friendship.

“The first thing we wanted to do was set a different tone,” Holt said recently of his relationship with Bynum.

“We wanted to demonstrate that Oklahoma City and Tulsa could work together. We went out of our way to demonstrate that in a symbolic way – then when COVID hit, working together saved lives.”

CAROL HEFNER

Carol Hefner is an officer in three local companies, and was the former Fundraising Chairman for the Oklahoma Republican Party.

Hefner, who describes herself as the “only conservative Christian in the race,” says she is running to return Oklahoma City “to the Christian conservative roots on which the city was founded.”

She says that as mayor, she would carry out the constitutional duties of government, to protect life, liberty and property.

“That is the function of government – no more, no less,” she says.

JIMMY LAWSON

Jimmy Lawson is director of permitting at the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission and is a finance professor at Rose State College. Lawson says he’s running because a person’s political affiliation shouldn’t determine the “level of access to resources and services.”

He says that if elected, he will seek to address criminal justice reform, homelessness, and educational resources for our youth. He also says that as mayor, he will always “put the needs of the people over politics.”

Lawson also demonstrated on behalf of Julius Jones, whose death sentence was commuted to life without parole by Gov. Kevin Stitt last year.

FRANK URBANIC

Frank Urbanic says that if elected, he will respect citizens’ rights and freedoms. As an attorney, Urbanic filed a lawsuit on behalf of bar and restaurant owners to halt an 11 p.m. curfew early in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additionally, Urbanic says he would seek to shut down the Oklahoma City Streetcar, which he says is costing the city close to $5 million annually and is under-utilized.

“That money could be better spent elsewhere,” he says, suggesting road repairs.

He would address homelessness by looking at successful programs in other cities and getting homeless people into housing so that other problems can be addressed.

HENRY DOLIVE

8

he’s seeking a second term to continue addressing housing affordability, public transit, beautification of public spaces and upgrades to core services and city streets.

Also running are Carol Hefner, 60, vice president of her family-owned real estate firm and the former co-chairman of President Donald Trump’s campaign in Oklahoma; Frank Urbanic, 41, an attorney and combat veteran; and Jimmy Lawson, 42, an economics professor and a director at the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission.

For more information on the Oklahoma City mayoral election, go to okc.gov/government/mayor.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

T H E S TAT E | H I S T O R Y

What’s Left of a Family Legacy Bonebrake Hardware, an abandoned store in Erick, harbors an interesting past.

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This photo of the booming Erick, Oklahoma, was taken on June 17, 1911.

Photo courtesy the Oklahoma Historical Society

on’t read this unless you like historical mysteries that leave you with more questions than answers…or you’re looking for a spot to stop on your next road trip.

Okay, it may not be that big of a mystery. Still, the details are vague, and everything you read says the same thing about the Bonebrake Hardware Store in Erick, Oklahoma – which isn’t a lot. While it is promoted as a museum, it is also a historical landmark that gives you a little glimpse into the past.

If you did a quick internet search of the store, you’d only find a few reviews or articles rating it as a stop along Route 66. The fascination with Bonebrake seems to be that in the 1960s, the owners simply closed the doors without removing a thing. Today, you can’t go inside of it, but instead have to peer in through the windows at the unchanged past left behind.

There was once probably someone who could tell us every detail and bit of town gossip about the Bonebrake and the family who owned it. But, they’ve gone on, and we’re left wondering why the owners closed shop and abandoned the inventory.

Here’s what we found: Howard Edward Bonebrake, also known as the “Oklahoma Hardware Man,” along with his father, John Elijah Bonebrake, were the original owners of Bonebrake Hardware. The research wasn’t conclusive, but it seems that between 1890 and 1908, Howard Bonebrake moved to Oklahoma, after successfully mining gold in Colorado, to enter into business with his dear ol’ dad. At some point, they moved to El Reno, where the first hardware store began. Prospering, they branched out with a store in Weatherford.

Then, thanks to the Choctaw, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad (CO&G) extending further west, Howard had the chance to head a townsite company and establish new towns along the railway. He promoted Foss and Sayre and helped with Elk City, Indianapolis, Clinton and Erick.

While promoting the towns, he also established hardware stores in all of them. Before long, there was a chain of the Bonebrake family business across Oklahoma, 13 stores in total. When John Elijah Bonebrake decided to move to California, he left his son in charge of the company.

There are probably many reasons why the chain didn’t keep expanding. According to an ad in The Texola Harold’s February 2, 1906 edition, Bonebrake Hardware toted that it could and would save you money on all hardware. Did that lead to money troubles and store closures? Additionally, an article in the Carter Express published May 31, 1912, suggested that not all was well because the business owed lots of back taxes.

As time went on, the chain of stores continued to decrease. At his death in 1940, Howard Bonebrake only owned the store in Erick, which was managed by his son, John Henry Bonebrake.

Upon his death, however, Howard was still highly regarded throughout Oklahoma. This was printed in the El Reno American on March 7, 1940: Pioneer Townbuilder, Hardware King, and Trapshoot Champ Dies Suddenly: Howard Bonebrake Was National Figure in Auto and Good Roads Development in Early Days.

Oklahoma lost one of her most colorful citizens on Saturday night when Howard E. Bonebrake, who probably has sold more hardware in this state than any other single citizen, died suddenly from a blood clot in his heart after he had made such a remarkable recovery from a recent operation that he was expected to be discharged from the hospital Wednesday of this week.

That’s where the historical information ends. We can only assume that John Henry Bonebrake retired in the 1960s and didn’t bother to sell or remove the items in the store. Maybe it was too difficult to part with the last standing evidence of his father’s work. All that exists publicly on John Henry Bonebrake is his birth, and then death in December 1993 at age 88.

ALAINA STEVENS

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | S P O R T S

Life on Ice

Competitive hockey players do it all for the love of the game.

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A regular season for the Tulsa Oilers is 72 games – only 10 less than the NHL. Photo courtesy the Tulsa Oilers

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eing a hockey player in Oklahoma is no easy task. Like any sport, it takes time, dedication and skill to make the cut with competitive groups around the state. Oklahoma has an array of hockey teams in different leagues and tiers, although several have come and gone throughout the years. Two prominent teams are the Tulsa Oilers – part of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) – and the Oklahoma City Ice Hawks – part of the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL).

“The ECHL is the ‘AA’ level of professional hockey in North America,” says Zack Reynolds, broadcaster and director of media relations for the Oilers.

The NA3HL, on the other hand, is a tier III junior hockey league consisting of 16 states, with players between the ages of 16 and 21.

“Several of [the Oilers] players are assigned directly from the Anaheim Ducks and the San Diego Gulls,” says Reynolds, with the rest coming from new and returning players of the NCAA or the Canadian Major Junior ranks. “Major Junior is the most common path of players to the [National Hockey League], but the NCAA is quickly carving a large portion of the NHL out.”

A regular season for the Oilers is 72 games, which is only ten less than the NHL. The NA3HL, a junior league, only plays 47 games.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

“[Oilers] players are usually on the ice five to six times a week, with the occasional full seven day week,” says Reynolds.

Generally, the Oilers average three to four games weekly, usually played from Friday to Sunday. If they aren’t playing a game, they’re almost certainly at practice running drills.

“Practices run about an hour and fifteen minutes, but most guys hang on the ice afterward to work on individual skills,” says Reynolds.

The Tulsa Oilers play their home games at the BOK Center in downtown Tulsa. The OKC Ice Hawks home games are played at Arctic Edge Ice Arena in Edmond.

Know the Slang In the off-season, activities BARNBURNER – A highand career choices vary from scoring game player to player.

“A majority of players return to their hometowns to work skills individually,” says Reynolds.

Many may also take up internships or externships as a backup plan to “set them up with some experience if they don’t make it to the NHL.” Of course, to stay on the up and up, players have to do plenty of strength training during and outside of the season.

“Athletes do a lot of maintenance work to keep their joints in shape during the year,” says Reynolds. Weight lifting is chief among them. “Guys will do weight lifting individually throughout the season, both at the rink and at a series of gyms we have a deal with here in the area.”

DREW JOSEPH ALLEN

BISCUIT – Another name for the puck CHIRP – Trash talking the opposing team DUSTER – A benchwarmer, or someone collecting dust on the bench from lack of playtime FLAMINGO – Lifting a leg to get out of the way of a shot LIGHT THE LAMP – Scoring a goal (the red light goes off when a score is made) SIN BIN – The penalty box

T H E S TAT E | A C T I V I T I E S

Exploring the Depths Not just for the ocean, scuba diving finds a place in Oklahoma.

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Along with dives in Oklahoma lakes, ScubaBros in OKC takes out-of-state trips for other diving opportunities.

Photo courtesy ScubaBros

espite being a landlocked state, Oklahoma offers plenty of recreation options on its numerous lakes. Along with fishing and boating, scuba diving is a wellliked water activity that has increased in popularity over the past few years.

There is a perception that scuba diving is strictly ocean-based, but freshwater diving in Oklahoma is a growing segment of outdoor recreation.

Danny O’Connor, executive director of the Outsiders’ House Museum, went through the process to become scuba certified in 2020.

“We went searching for the church from the Outsiders’ movie, which was reportedly underwater,” says O’Connor. “We put together a team to go look for it, and through talking with the divers, I became more interested in learning to dive.”

When asked about any misconceptions he had prior to getting started, he says he was originally intimidated by the math required to calculate safe diving protocols.

He found, however, that the classes really simplified the process, and it was easier to catch on than he’d originally thought.

O’Connor worked with Tillie Holliday from Dive Site in Tulsa to gain his certification. Holliday has 23+ years of experience as a diving instructor and has been diving since she was a teenager.

“Most people complete the coursework in three phases,” she says. “Classroom work and online learning, pool work and then lake dives. Each phase consists of two days worth of instruction.”

Open water Diver (Level 1) Certification costs $315 through Dive Site and includes the equipment needed for the classes. Most people complete the process in three to four weeks.

“I recommend that people buy their own mask, fins, snorkel and boots, since those items function best when fitted to each person,” says Holliday.

Dive Site owner Rob Brinkley also recommends the company’s “Try Scuba” class, which gives participants a three-hour exposure to scuba diving in a pool setting. Many participants go on to complete their Open Water Certification, and the cost is reduced for customers who have completed the Try Scuba class.

The Oklahoma Aquarium offers a unique opportunity to improve one’s diving skills as part of the volunteer dive team, which is responsible for keeping the large exhibits looking beautiful. It also offers the chance to swim in breathtaking exhibits with amazing animals. In addition, volunteers can participate in daily dive shows and costumed holiday events. The aquarium is currently

accepting volunteer diver applications, and Holliday ensures all divers are qualified and safe.

Another way to learn more is to join the Oklahoma Aquanauts Facebook group that meets once a month at various Tulsa and OKC restaurants. The group was formed in 2006 with six people and now has over 2,000 members.

Where to Go

There are two main lakes in Oklahoma for scuba diving: Lake Tenkiller and Lake Murray. Tenkiller offers an underwater dive park with sunken vehicles and protected underwater artifacts, including a jailhouse and buggies from before the lake was created. Broken Bow Lake in Beavers Bend State Park also presents some interesting diving.

Brinkley recently dove Skiatook Lake at Tall Chief Cove and mentions that many Oklahoma lakes have limited visibility, and some divers like Beaver Lake in Arkansas due to its rocky bottom, which reduces silt and increases visibility.

ScubaBros in Oklahoma City offer access to a private training lake near El Reno, where they’ve certified over 3,000 people.

“We offer a basic course for $369, which includes access to our training lake,” says owner Mike Cody.

JEFF THOMPSON

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | H O B B I E S

Patchwork History

Through quilts, Martha Ray tells stories of families long past.

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Martha Ray leads monthly quilting groups in Oklahoma.

Photos courtesy the Sod House Museum

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any families have quilts that have been passed down through the years. Sometimes, there’s a story attached to the quilt, while other times it’s a total mystery. But Martha Ray, retired director of historic homes with the Oklahoma Historical Society, couldn’t let those fables go untold.

Ray was part of the restoration process at homes all over Oklahoma. She “got to go through closets, and chests of drawers, and found all of these wonderful, wonderful quilts and textiles, vintage garments, and [this] just piqued an interest,” she says.

Often there was very little information about the quilts, so she would continue research independently.

Eventually, she was leading workshops and classes, along with sharing all of the quilting stories she found in letters and diaries.

One such story involved a woman who lived with her family in a sod house in Oklahoma, where she had a handmade quilt on their bed, shares Ray. One night the woman noticed a large bulge in the fabric that kept dirt and insects from falling from the sod ceiling.

She poked that moving bulge with a broom handle.

“And there were 17 rattlesnakes that she said fell on her bed, and she grabbed her quilt and pulled it up under her chin,” says Ray. “So she said her quilt saved her life. She watched all 17 snakes crawl off the bed and onto the floor and out of their sod house.”

A quilt is traditionally made up of three parts: a top or flimsy, a backing piece, and batting of some type in the middle. Wholecloth quilts, made up of one large piece of fabric, were the earliest type in America. Next came patchwork quilts, made up of smaller pieces of fabric.

“When women started homesteading and coming west, they would piece anything they had together to make their patchwork quilts and that was just for comfort for their family,”

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

says Ray. Ray shares how in the early days of the country, it was traditional for a girl to have 13 quilts Has reading about made by the time quilts sparked your she got married – 12 interest in the hobby? for everyday use Martha Ray recomand one special one mends finding a quilting for the bridal bed. group to get involved in Girls would start on to learn. these quilts when “The ladies that are in they were as early as these quilt guilds are five years old. This so creative, and they is how many quilts are more than willing came to be passed to share information,” down in families. says Ray. And if there’s Quilts have been not a quilting guild in bringing people your area, look for a quilt together throughout shop for tips and tricks. the history of the She also recommends state. Assembling starting with a simple the three parts of pattern – don’t take on a quilt, before matoo much too quickly. chinery, required a Ray leads monthly tremendous amount quilting groups and of hand stitching, workshops at the Sod and many women House Museum in Aline would come togethand at the Pawnee Bill er to accomplish Ranch and Museum in this task for each Pawnee. Visit okhistory. other. Ray shares org for more information. how they would stretch out the parts on a frame, and each would sew her own section in a predetermined pattern.

“And the ladies would have their chairs sitting around [the frame], and they would just talk and sing and laugh and tell stories.”

Get Involved

BONNIE RUCKER

T H E S TAT E | B U S I N E S S

High Spirits in Horticulture

Plant stores supply Oklahomans with flora from around the country.

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f you go to Calvert’s website, you’ll begin to see a clearer picture of how plant people really feel.

“At Calvert’s, our mission is to beautify your space with tropical plants for your home, office and everywhere in between,” the site reads.

According to Victor Goetz, owner of Calvert’s in OKC and Cohlmia’s in Tulsa, the businesses bring in plants from Florida, California and Arizona.

“We carry all types of plants, but we specialize in tropicals,” he says. “It’s a cool place – we’ve been a nursery since 1907!”

Goetz says that a typical day for Calvert’s includes buying, designing, installing and caring for plants all over the metroplex. He adds that the care of different type of plants varies and that they carry many varieties that are low maintenance.

At Southwood Landscape and Garden Center in Tulsa,

employee and plant expert Paul James says the business is working hard to be selfsufficient.

“We actually grow a substantial number of the plants we sell at our greenhouse production facility, which is just a mile and a half from our retail operation,” he says. James notes the business is especially well known for mums and pansies.

“Our plants are irrigated with water from a natural spring on the property and the plants are acclimated to our climate,” he says. “We do buy plants from other sources, but we’re trying to grow more ourselves every year.”

There are a few hurdles to jump over when caring for such a high volume of plants.

“Weather is a challenge for sure, be it the heat of summer, the cold in winter, or the inevitable storms that blow through,” says James. “The biggest challenge is making

sure everything gets watered, and we have several employees whose only job is to water.”

Over the years, Southwood has also expanded its product line to include gifts and home décor of all kinds for use indoors and out, as well as items such as Christmas trees.

It seems a genuine fondness for plants is required by all plant store owners. Jen Semmler, owner of The Plant Shoppe in Oklahoma City, agrees.

“We require [employees] to be obsessed with plants,” she says. “And also to possess a love for people and the community.”

This popular site for plants carries a wide selection of interior house plants, including tropicals, succulents and tillandsias (a perennial flowering plant of the evergreen species).

As for taking care of a massive quantity of plants, Semmler says having a schedule is the secret to success.

The Credentials Looking to work in a plant store? James offers some sage advice.

“We look for people who fit into our culture, especially those who are passionate about plants and committed to customer service,” he says. “We have people with backgrounds in chemistry, forestry, business, marketing – you name it.

“We do have people with degrees in horticulture and related fields, but a lot of our staff we describe as ‘plant geeks,’ many of whom have no formal training in horticulture but who, nevertheless, have significant knowledge of plants.”

DEBI TURLEY

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | A G R I C U LT U R E

Growing Glass Gem

With Native American and Oklahoma roots, this unique corn variety has a storied history.

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orn, you may think, isn’t particularly exciting. Nor is beautiful the first word to come to mind when the crop is discussed. But the wide array of vibrant colors displayed by the Glass Gem corn variety could change that perception.

Glass Gem corn has a rich history; originally developed from ancient corn of Indigenous people of North America and selectively bred for its bright coloring, the story of Glass Gem also includes social media fame. And it all started (or re-started) with a man, Carl Barnes, looking to connect with his Cherokee heritage through a love of cultivating corn.

Long before Glass Gem, corn has had a long history in the United States. It was a staple crop for hundreds of years for many of the Native tribes and was used both for food and for cultural and religious rituals, according to the Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture. The European settlers benefited from Native people’s proficiency with corn.

When settlers migrated into the Great Plains, many brought corn culture as part of their baggage, says the EOHC. And settlers, as well as relocated Indigenous tribes, brought corn to Oklahoma.

In more recent years, corn has become less of a staple for daily life. But Carl Barnes still held the passion. He recognized the value of the crop from a very practical perspective.

“One corn seed can develop anywhere from 200 to 640 seeds,” Barnes said in a Sapulpa Herald article in 1993. “If you save that seed and plant it, then you’ve got 640 ears the next year. If you ate two a day, you could live off corn for a year, if you had a little beans and squash to go with them.”

Barnes, who counted Cherokee heritage from both parents, also provided corn to Native tribes for ceremonies, the article explained. He worked to locate varieties that were thought to be extinct.

“In growing these older corn varieties, Barnes was

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

able to isolate ancestral types that had been lost to Native American tribes when they were relocated to what is now Oklahoma in the 1800s,” wrote Dina Spector in 2018 for a Business Insider article.

Barnes, who died in 2016, recognized how attractive many of these corn varieties were and began to selectively breed for the vibrant colors.

“A mix of Cherokee, Osage and Pawnee varieties produced two tiny, multicolored cobs, which he showcased at a native plant gathering,” details an article from NPR’s All Things Considered.

Barnes gave fellow farmer, Greg Schoen, some of the seeds, who further cultivated the beautiful colors, naming a particular pattern Glass Gem. He also passed on Glass Gem corn is several of the seeds a type of flint corn, to the non-profit which means it conservation group can be ground into Native Seeds/ cornmeal or dried SEARCH, and thus and popped. But the seeds became unlike sweet corn, is publicly available. not typically eaten When a picture of off the cob. these made waves on social media Unfortunately, the in 2012, the corn corn loses its beauvariety began to gain tiful colors when popularity. it is popped, but a Today, Glass search on PinterGem corn can be est reveals many purchased online, decoration and craft planted and harproject ideas for the vested in your own beautiful ears. backyard.

Knowing the Difference

BONNIE RUCKER

T H E S TAT E | P H I L A N T H R O P Y

Every Penny in Place To ensure the United Way is utilizing every cent donated to its maximum potential, leadership has created a step-bystep process.

At the end of every campaign, a group of volunteerled donors spend hours reviewing the donations made.

They compare totals with need from their 55 partner agencies, they work to ensure those partner agencies have what they need to provide the most support. Every step is verified and checked.

“Our annual allocations to each agency is made public and our organization’s audits and annual reports are readily available on our website,” says Coldagelli.

A Lifetime of Giving Back

Debby Hampton of the United Way of Central Oklahoma fulfills a lifelong calling in her position as CEO.

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Debby Hampton was introduced to the United Way’s work through her father when she was just five years old.

Photo courtesy United Way of Central Oklahoma

t just five years old, Debby Hampton’s love for the United Way began.

Her father worked for a company that donated frequently to one of the nonprofit’s campaigns, and he had earned a pin for his donation. Hampton, in turn, fell in love with that pin, so her dad had her complete some chores to earn it. Thus, her life’s passion was born.

Hampton began her career at the American Red Cross, where she was introduced to infant crisis situations. She mentions she was always impressed by the work and resources offered by the United Way to these supporting organizations.

Her career was varied after that, from being on a team that was sent to OKC’s Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building after the bombing on April 19, 1995; to assisting in a variety of relief efforts after natural disasters that have struck the U.S. In short, Hampton has

done always whatever she can do to help.

A ‘standard’ day for Hampton isn’t what anyone would consider normal.

“It’s truly reacting to whatever happens that day,” says Hampton.

“We make sure our partner agencies have the resources needed to assist in whatever needs are being met.”

During campaign times, usually from Labor Day to Thanksgiving, Hampton is doing what needs to be done in order to ensure the nonprofit is meeting goals. She also works diligently to ensure total accountability for all funds donated; she’s invested in making sure every dollar is counted and utilized, and wants to make sure that donors are able to feel confident in their giving choices.

“Each year at the conclusion of our fundraising campaign, United Way goes through a volunteer-led community investment process,” says Ben Coldagelli, UWCO’s vice

president of communications.

“More than 200 donors volunteer their time to review partner agency funding requests, financials and programs, to ensure contributions are allocated to proven, high-quality programs that create long-term impact for anyone in need.”

For someone like Hampton, who has quite literally spent her entire life helping those in need, she embraces her role by remembering the lives lost in the Oklahoma City bombing.

“They were just normal people going to work, going about their day,” she says.

Being able to assist in resources for unsuspecting survivors gave her the boost she needed to take the United Way to its next level, which includes building a team that she speaks of like family.

“I get to do what I love every single day,” she says. “It doesn’t seem like work.”

ERIKA BROWNING

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | I N F R A S T R U C T U R E

Blowin’ In the Wind The new Bob Dylan center is set to open this May in downtown Tulsa.

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Planning for the center began in 2016 when the n May 10, Tulsa will have yet another reason to George Kaiser Family Foundation acquired the archive. be dubbed a cultural mecca. That is the date the Mark Davidson, Ph.D. – the Bob Dylan librarian and Bob Dylan Center will open – with over 100,000 collections manager – led the effort of transporting and pieces collected over several decades by the esteemed processing the archive. musician and his management team.

“In 2017, we chose Seattle-based Olson Kundig as “We hope visitors will be inspired by unprecedented our lead design firm,” says Higgins. “London-based 59 access to the creative process of one of America’s foreProductions came on board as our media design firm in most artists,” says Steve Higgins, the center’s managing 2020. Jennifer Lebeau, who directed the Dylan film Troudirector. “They can expect never-before-seen perforble No More is on our creative team as well. In addition to mances and photos, rare recordings, as well as working our own small internal team, Bob Dylan’s management manuscripts, correspondence and visual art. All of this office has been invaluable in supporting the will be presented to create an emotional conproject.” nection, rather than a definitive explanation.”

When asked for his personal favorite in Dylan, who was born Robert Allen Zimthe collection, Higgins struggles. merman on May 24, 1941, became a cultural “There are so many treasures, from the icon in America and across the globe, first for ‘Chimes of Freedom’ manuscript, complete his musical and song writing prowess, and in with cigarette burns and coffee stains on later years for his paintings.

Memberships to Waldorf-Astoria letterhead, to letters from According to Higgins, “Bruce Springsteen the center are ex-Beatles and U.S. presidents,” says Higgins. said: ‘The way that Elvis freed your body, Bob available.

“One of my favorite Dylan songs is ‘Jokerfreed your mind.’”

“In January, man’ from the early ’80s. The manuscript Tourists can combine their Dylan visit still a few consists of 17 pages, revealing the evolution with another superb collection. months from of an intricate, mysterious masterpiece that “The historic connection between [Dylan opening its managed to sound unlike anything he’d done and] Woody Guthrie is well documented,” doors, the Bob before.” says Higgins. “Of course, Guthrie was a major Dylan Center The new center is expected to garner influence on Dylan. When Dylan first came already has more visitors to the area, creating a positive to New York, he made a point to visit Guthrie members in economic impact for Tulsa. in the hospital. It is only fitting that the 30 states and “Based on the interest we’ve seen so far, Woody Guthrie Center and the Bob Dylan 12 countries, we expect travelers from around the world to Center are side by side on the same block.” including the visit just to see the Bob Dylan Center,” says Higgins continues: “Dylan elevated pop United KingHiggins. “But Tulsa already is a city of rich, music as an art form during a time when it dom, France, Javibrant cultural importance. Tulsa continues was rather slick and conformist. But more pan, Singapore to establish itself as a must-see destination than anything, perhaps, Dylan’s music and Libya,” says for cultural tourists.” resonates with listeners unlike anything that Higgins.

DEBI TURLEY came before.”

Ahead of the Curve

A rendering showcases what an interior archive wall will look like upon the museum’s completion in May. Rendering courtesy Olson Kundig

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

T H E S TAT E | H A P P E N I N G S

The Month of Love

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, activities abound for every interest and budget.

What to Do?

If you’re looking to spend a night on the town, Tulsa and OKC offer a variety of Valentine’s Day-centric activities to try.

First thing’s first: make a dinner reservation now. Whether you wish to dine out on the day of love itself or the weekend before, bookings will surely be packed.

Romantic dining experiences in Tulsa include Amelia’s, Bull in the Alley, Ti Amo, Juniper and in the raw vu. In Oklahoma City, visit Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse, Ludivine, Patrono or Nonesuch.

On the hunt for ice skating? The Oilers Ice Center in Tulsa, the BA Ice Rink, the Blazers Ice Centre in OKC and Arctic Edge Ice Arena in Edmond are all open to the public. Be sure to stick around after for hot chocolate.

Carriage rides are a unique venture to try for the more adventurous couples or someone looking to ‘wow’ a date. In Sapulpa, Ava K’s Carriage Services offers 45-minute tours of the town. In OKC, visit Bright Star Carriages or Oklahoma Carriage.

A quick internet search yields awesome results for other out-of-the-box ideas – from pottery classes to 5ks, cooking demonstrations and even skydiving.

The Classics

For those with a love for tradition, you can’t go wrong with flowers, chocolate or jewelry for your partner. (And yes, men want flowers, too!)

For the local touch, visit Tulsa candy shops like Glacier Chocolate, Sweet Tooth Candy, Cricket & Fig Chocolate, and Nouveau Chocolates in Broken Arrow. In OKC, try Woody Candy Company, Apple Tree Chocolate or See’s Candies.

For flowers, the tip is to order ahead – everyone loves a delivery to their workplace or home the day-of. In Tulsa, Toni’s, Mary Murray’s and Stems are solid picks; in OKC, try Trochta’s, New Leaf or Floral and Hardy.

And for a pro tip: If you’re in a bind and can’t order ahead, Trader Joe’s always has beautiful bouquets for affordable prices.

If you want to make a big splash with jewelry, Bruce G. Weber Diamond Cellar has the high-end pieces for maximum impact – whether it’s a ring, necklace, watch or earrings. Try Naifeh Fine Jewelry in OKC for the same effect.

Stay In

This one’s for the introverted couples who want to avoid the crowds. Remember a nice dinner, glass of wine and movie at home can be just as romantic as a big to-do. Here are a few recommendations: • About Time • The Big Sick • 50 First Dates • You’ve Got Mail • When Harry Met Sally • Crazy, Stupid, Love • 10 Things I Hate About You • The Notebook • Sleepless in Seattle • Notting Hill • Pride & Prejudice • Romeo and Juliet

No Partner, No Problem

Whether you want a night out with friends or a solo adventure, try one of the following: • Galentine’s: Made popular by the TV show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day is typically celebrated on Feb. 13 and honors female friendships. Think brunch, small gifts, bottomless mimosas, and lots of words of affirmation for enduring friendships!

• Spa Day: Treat yourself to a relaxing day on your own. High dollar excursions could include a massage, facial, manicure/pedicure, or a shopping spree. If you’d rather keep it relaxed, try a bubble bath, face mask or movie night.

• Treat Your Friends: If ‘acts of service’ is your love language, help your favorite couple out by cooking them dinner, baby- or dog-sitting, or assisting in arranging a fun night.

If no one else, your parents would likely appreciate it.

• Sweet Treats: Stop by a local candy store or pick up your favorite restaurant’s most delicious dessert to-go. If you’re a whiz in the kitchen, whip up something festive, like Valentine’s Day-themed macaroons to munch on or share with friends.

• Host a Dinner Party: Invite all your single friends to dinner – either at your house or a restaurant. Whether it’s a meal of commiseration or a chance to meet new folks, you’ll have fun either way.

MARY WILLA ALLEN

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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T H E S TAT E | I N S I D E R

Selling Memories

Mel Myers helps his radio listeners lighten their loads on morning commutes.

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Mel Myers (far left) is seen here in the late ‘80s with Sam Kinison (middle), who made a surprise appearance at Tulsa’s Jokers Comedy Club during the local Young Comedians Night.

Photo courtesy Mel Myers

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sk the veteran Tulsa broadcaster Mel Myers what he’s doing in his recently acquired gig as the morning man for radio station KBEZ (92.9 FM), aka The Drive, and he’s likely to tell you that he’s selling memories.

“On the surface, that sounds kind of cold and mercenary – the selling part,” he says. “But what I’m delivering, I hope, is good memories of people’s lives, while at the same time living in the present.”

And the reason he can do both of those things, he believes, is because the classic hit songs that make up his playlists have “stayed relevant.”

“When I play Led Zeppelin’s ‘Immigrant Song,’ I might be bringing back memories for people who were seniors in high school when Led Zeppelin III came out [in 1970]. But at the same time, I’m bringing back memories for anyone who saw and enjoyed the [2017] Thor: Ragnarok movie.

“My grandson Cash, who’s ten, was wanting me to show him some things on guitar, and one of the songs he wanted to learn was ‘Immigrant Song.’ And I’m like, ‘You’re ten years old, dude. What’s your point of reference for this song?’ And it was Thor: Ragnarok.”

This, Myers points out, is hardly an isolated case.

“I was at a movie a few weeks ago, and a bunch of songs on our 92.9 playlist were in the trailers for upcoming movies. There was one movie where they played a huge chunk of ‘Sweet Dreams’ by the Eurythmics. No voiceovers or anything, just the song accompanying the scenes.

“This music is still viable,” he concludes. “There

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

are still successful radio stations all over the country playing it, and a lot of it is because it’s still being licensed for commercials and movies. So that’s kind of facilitated what I hope I’m doing, connecting with people in the morning.”

Myers has been connecting with Tulsa-area radio listeners for nearly 45 years now, his rich and resonant baritone one of the familiar voices on the soundtracks of our lives. He moved to northeastern Oklahoma in June of ’77, following a stint as a morning jock and program director in Fort Smith, Ark. Phil Stone, later to serve a legendary stretch with partner Brent Douglas at Tulsa’s KMOD (97.5 FM), was his afternoon man in Arkansas; Myers got his first local attention with that same station, serving as KMOD’s midday deejay as well as its production director. During this time, he and fellow broadcaster Dave Michaels, aka Wavy Davy, would become familiar voices on radio spots for rock acts coming to town, especially those appearing at the Cain’s Ballroom, putting him on the ground floor at an exciting time for live music.

“I met the Police backstage when they were traveling in a van,” he recalls. “And KMOD sold tickets [to their Cain’s show] for 97 cents. They gave out police whistles as promotional material; I’ve still got one somewhere. And Pat Benatar – she’s the reason my right ear rings worse than my left, because I got up there to take a look at her and stood, stupidly, right next to the P.A. Both my ears ring – the right ear’s worse. Thanks, Pat.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

What are facts about the 529 College Savings Plans that Myers I should know? stayed with KMOD for a half-

dozen years, moving to KELI, the AM/FM

about the advertisers. But Griffin realizes,

1. The tax benefits are significant: 529 plans are similar in struc- more than some do, is that your ultimate station 14K and using 92K.after-tax He diddollars.customer is the listener.” ture to Roththen IRAs. known You makeas contributions 2.aContribution limits of aremorning high: 529 plans have the advantage short stretch work there, but of That’s something Myers understands as being able to set aside much larger sums. There are no annual it wasn’tlimits, untilbut heyour moved to KMYZ (104.5funds. well – even as he deals with the myriad of contribution state will limit aggregate aka Z104.5, infrom the alate ’80s heVirtually changes that have come along in radio in 3.FM), Contributions can come variety of that people: anyone can into make the contributions for the benefit of a selected indisettled position. the decade-plus he’s been away from the vidual. 4. There are a myriad of “qualified education expenses.”

“Z104.5 was where I made For college costs, thisprobably includes tuition and fees, booksmy and other morning microphone. learning computers.

5. ”Leftover namematerials, here inincluding town aslaptop a morning guy, he money “You know,” he says, “the biggest change can be used in other ways: If there is money left in a 529 that is says.

“Th e best years of it was when we is actually in the control room. It used to unused by the student, the beneficiary can be changed to another had thefamily ‘Banana and Mel in the Morning’ be such a hyperactive job. In the Banana qualifying member.

program in the early ’90s.” and Mel days, he and I would be in there, Both with and without Banana (Brad and if a song was playing, we might be Farnsworth), Myers spent a good long time answering the phone, or doing a birthdayI am ready to start using dermal fillers. How do I on the air with Z104.5.

And his tenure as wakeup call that we’d need to edit a little decide which one is right for me? a morning-drive jock there prepared him before we aired it. Or I might be editing The firstfor place start whengig, deciding which dermal filler is best something else that’d be going on the air in well histo current which came along for you is with a complimentary consultation with one of our whenprofessionals. his longtime friend and fellowtypes air of dermal 45 minutes. medical There are many different personality Dave Michaels contacted fillers and different manufacturers to choose from. Ithim is common “Back in those days, you had to trigger tofrom use a hyaluronic acid (HA) based dermal filler when being 92.9, where Michaels was program every song and every commercial. You had injected for the first time. The most common HA filler on the director. toldinMyers that their market today He are those the Juvederm family,morning made by Allergan.to listen to the end of each commercial If man you arehad ready to start dermal fillers for your first so you could start the next one, and it rejust quitresearching and asked if he wanted time, thecheck job. out our new online quiz to find the best fit for you quired a ton of attention. It was a juggling at baweightspa.com. Make sure to check it out soon, as this quiz Myers, d been doing a lotinformation of radio-and to act. All morning long, you were keeping is available forwho’ a short time only.

For more schedule your consultation, us today at 918-872-9999. production work as call well those plates spinning as fill-in gigs on various on those sticks. It was stations – among other bam, bam, bam, nonstop things – had a one-word activity from the moment answer: no. you hit the door to the “He asked me if I’d just moment you walked out fill in, then, and I said, – and even beyond, some‘Well, I don’t even want to times, if the phones were do that, but I’ll do it for a still ringing. It required atlittle while, since you need tention. It required focus. me and you’re my buddy.’

It was like you were riding At the time he called, I a wild horse, just trying to hadn’t done mornings for keep up. maybe over ten years.

“Now,” he adds, “so “But once I got in there much of the job is com– I don’t want to downputerized that it’s a little play how excruciatingly laxer in the room.” hard it is to get up in the He’s quick to say, morning, but I will say however, that “laxer” isn’t I’d done it enough that necessarily a bad thing.

I knew how to do it. The “The goodness of that awful part is the early is it lets me plan my next hours, but I realized the break and make sure I ownership, the managecommunicate what I hope ment, was doing it more the old way than to communicate,” he explains. “Doing the anybody else in town. It was a different program itself is easy, because I’ve done atmosphere, and the difference is that the it for so long it just kind of goes. But the people who own the station live here. In preparation, to me, is the most important Fort Smith, I’d experienced that, but the part. I try to figure out how I might relate whole time I’d worked here [in Tulsa], until the songs I have that morning to the audiI started with Griffin [Communications, ence, and I try to stay on top of fun things 92.9’s owner], I’d worked only for compato do. nies that were owned out-of-state.

“So I hope I’m connecting with people in “Radio in general is just a bunch of the morning. I hope I’m taking them back chains, really, ownership chains, and evand making them feel good and maybe erybody wants to make money. But Griffin, lightening their load a little bit – and helpI find, cares about the people. Everybody ing them think about happy times.”

JOHN WOOLEY cares about the money, everybody cares

“But what I’m delivering, I hope, is good memories of people’s lives, while at the same time living in the present.”

THE PROFESSIONALS FINANCIAL ADVISOR What are facts about the 529 College Savings Plans that I should know?

1. The tax benefits are significant: 529 plans are similar in structure to Roth IRAs. You make contributions using after-tax dollars. 2. Contribution limits are high: 529 plans have the advantage of being able to set aside DAVID KARIMIAN CFP®, CRPC®, APMA® much larger sums. There are no annual contribution limits, but your state will limit aggregate funds. 3. Contributions can come from a variety of people: Virtually anyone can make contributions for the benefit of a selected individual. 4. There are a myriad of “qualified education expenses.” For college costs, this includes tuition and fees, books and other learning materials, including laptop computers. 5. Leftover money can be used in other ways: If there is money left in a 529 that is unused by the student, the beneficiary can be changed to another qualifying family member.

David Karimian, CFP®, CRPC®, APMA® Prime Wealth Management A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial 7712 S. Yale Ave. Suite 240 Tulsa, OK 74136 918.388.2009 • David.x.Karimian@ampf.com www.primewealthmgmt.com WEIGHT MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST I am ready to start using dermal fillers. How do I decide which one is right for me?

The first place to start when deciding which dermal filler is best for you is with a complimentary consultation with one of our medical professionals. There are many different types of dermal fillers and different MELODY HAWKINS manufacturers to choose from. It is common to use a hyaluronic acid (HA) based dermal filler when being injected for the first time. The most common HA filler on the market today are those in the Juvederm family, made by Allergan. If you are ready to start researching dermal fillers for your first time, check out our new online quiz to find the best fit for you at baweightspa.com. Make sure to check it out soon, as this quiz is available for a short time only. For more information and to schedule your consultation, call us today at 918-872-9999.

Melody Hawkins, Chief Financial Officer BA Med Spa & Weight Loss Center 510 N. Elm Place Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012 918.872.9999 www.baweightspa.com

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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LIFE & STYLE

A M A P TO L I V I N G W E L L

Untamed and Supersized Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska is a remote escape teeming with natural beauty.

A Denali – once called Mt. McKinley – is the highest point in North America.

Photo by Lian Law/NPS

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

t more than six million acres, Denali National Park and Preserve in south central Alaska is a wilderness three times as large as Yellowstone and home to glaciers, boreal forests and the highest peak in North America – formerly known as Mt. McKinley and now called Denali.

Meaning “the great one” in the native Alaskan dialect, Mount Denali towers 20,300 feet above the Alaska range. It’s so massive it makes its own weather. If you’re lucky enough to view the entire mountain, you can say you’re a mem-

ber of the 30% club, owing to the fact the peak is typically shrouded in clouds 70% of the time.

For easiest access, your best bet is to stay within the park itself, although buses venture in regularly during the season, June through August. You can drive the one road into the park in your own car, but only for the first 15 of its 92 miles. Then you must switch to a park bus to go further, either with a guide or without. Opt for a guide, who will describe Denali’s history and help spot wildlife, such as moose, wolves, bears (brown and grizzly), Dall sheep and caribou.

L I F E & S T Y L E | D E S T I N AT I O N S The top of Mt. Denali is covered by clouds 70% of the time.

Photo by Tim Rains/NPS

Visitors can strike out on their own on any of the dozens of hiking trails that traverse the park. Rangers are available for guided hikes, which begin at the welcome center and can be as advanced or as easy as you wish. Whitewater rafting is great fun on the park’s wild and woolly rivers, or choose a gentle float. Another option is to go flight seeing for plane’seye views of Denali’s stunning peaks.

Selecting accommodations is a challenge – there’s a handful of lodges within the park located at mile 92 at the end of the park road, but as of this writing, road construction at mile 43 is making access difficult. Check for updates at alaska.org.

Kantishna Roadhouse is owned and run by descendants of the native Athabaskan Indians and offers handcrafted furniture in either duplex or fourplex cabins. Skyline Lodge, a cozy little solar-powered enclave of five guest rooms, overlooks Moose Creek. The 42 cedar cabins at Denali Backcountry Lodge come with a spa/wellness center. And Camp Denali’s log cabins feature hand-sewn quilts.

Properties outside the park include McKinley Chalet Resort, located just two miles from the park’s entrance on the Nenana River. Casual and fine dining leans toward fresh Alaskan seafood, and the wine list is extensive. The chalet’s roadhouse-style dinner theater tells the story of the first ascent of Denali.

Also near the park’s entrance is the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, a luxurious inn made of local timber and dominated by 40-foot windows and a two-story rock fireplace.

The Alaska Railroad was completed in 1923, just six years after Denali National Park was established, and for many years the rails were the only way to get into the park. Today, the Denali Star still makes the run in style with dining cars and lounges, connecting the park with Fairbanks and Anchorage.

Surprisingly, you can play golf near Denali. The nine-hole Black Diamond Golf Course is guarded by a serene mountain lake and built right on the tundra without benefit of a great deal of topsoil. Hazards include marshes and moose hoof prints.

Head to Denali Square at McKinley Chalet Resort for shops such as the Old Sourdough Studio, restaurants like the Karstens Public House, live music, scenic views and fire pits.

Zero light pollution means optimum viewing of the blues, pinks, greens and violets of the Northern Lights, the aurora borealis, best seen in the fall, winter and early spring when it stays dark longer.

Outdoor activities like hiking and biking are prominent at Denali National Park and Preserve.

Photo courtesy Alaska Geographic

Hikers are pictured here on Horseshoe Lake Trail.

Photo by Emily Mesner/ NPS

Due to its zero light pollution, Denali National Park is the ideal spot to view the Northern Lights.

Photo by Kent Miller/NPS

CHUCK MAI

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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LIFE & ST YLE | F YI

Planning Your Week

Meal prepping can help you to relieve stress, save money and even lose weight.

W

ith a new year comes new resolutions – and a common one is a commitment to healthier eating.

It’s obvious to most that planning ahead can be an effective tool when it comes to what we consume in a day. Even so, a few tips from a professional dietitian can help the process go more smoothly as you venture into meal prepping.

“Write down all the meals you plan on having in the next few days, including breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner,” says Julie Harmon, MA, RDN, with Ascension St. John Health System in Tulsa.

“Stick to proven recipes and meals you can easily make to start. No need to try to learn how to cook something when you’re wanting to be as efficient and quick as possible.”

The next step, Harmon says, is to list all the ingredients you’ll need, and how much of each.

Then, head to your grocery store of choice and buy the necessary items.

“Set aside two to three hours every week to plan and prep your meals ahead of time,” says Harmon. “For example: chop fruits and veggies for snacking, make ahead breakfast ideas like overnight oats, granola or chia pudding, and batch cook one to two entrées, such as roasted chicken or a big pot of stew.”

According to Harmon, keeping the prep time for each cooking session to two hours or less can help lessen the possibility that the prepping becomes a chore instead of welcome addition to your week.

“The correct time to do it [prepping] is when you can make a consistent habit in actually doing it,” she says. “So if Sunday works better for you, do it Sunday. But if your schedule varies when you have the free time to do it, do it then. Consistency is the key.”

FINDING THE MOTIVATION Looking for the energy to prep your meals? It’s all about delayed gratification and looking at the bigger picture.

“A meal plan lets you focus on enjoying your food and having meals

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Some struggle with meal prepping because they aren’t sure how long certain components of a meal will last in the fridge.

“If you are using meal prep containers and have stored your cooked meal prep well, it can last in the fridge for up to 7 days,” says Harmon. “Some foods will keep longer than others, which is something to consider when prepping seven days at a time. To make sure your veggies stay fresh in the fridge up to twice as long, a great tip is to soak them in ice cold water for 15 minutes and then store them in the fridge with a wet cloth or a damp paper towel [over them].”

Harmon advises that someone new to meal prepping start slow, with two to three meals per week.

“People get into an ‘all or nothing’ mindset,” she says. “They make too many changes too quickly and give up a few weeks in.”

DEBI TURLEY

prepped for you that you know are well-balanced, so you don’t have to worry about counting calories,” says Harmon. “Typically it’s a huge time and money saver throughout your week. You might even lose a few pounds along the way.”

EXPLORE the possibilities Private tours offered by appointment, visit us virtually or at a Welcome Wednesday Open House.

OPEN HOUSE — Feb. 2, 2022 For more information call 918-879-4755.

Learn more at hollandhall.org/open-house

L I F E & S T Y L E | H E A LT H

A Struggle with Sleep

Sleep apnea disrupts rest, but treatments are available for relief.

S

leep apnea affects more than 30 million Americans, and many may be unaware that they suffer from the condition, according the American Sleep Apnea Foundation (ASAF).

Of the three main types of sleep apnea, the most common type is obstructive sleep apnea.

April Merrill, APRN-CNS, with INTEGRIS Sleep Medicine in Oklahoma City, says obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by a partial or complete blockage of the airway by the tongue, resulting in a decrease or absence of breathing and subsequent decrease in oxygen levels.

Less common types of sleep apnea include central sleep apnea and complex sleep apnea.

“Central sleep apnea results when there is a loss of signal from the brain telling us to take a breath,” says Merrill. “Complex apnea is the combination of obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.”

Merrill says symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, gasping or choking sounds during sleep, witnessed pauses in breathing while sleeping, morning headaches, frequent urination at night, frequent awakenings during the night and/or inability to stay asleep, dry mouth, falling asleep at work or even while driving, difficulty concentrating and irritability.

In general, sleep apnea affects more men than women, although rates increase in women after menopause, reports the ASAF. In addition, sleep apnea has been linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type two diabetes and depression. Sleep apnea has also been tied to cardiac arrest.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Warning Signs: • Excessive daytime sleepiness

• Loud snoring • Observed episodes

of stopped breathing during sleep

• Morning headache • Abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking

• High blood pressure • Awakening with a

dry mouth or sore throat

• Difficulty concentrating during the day

• Mood changes, such as depression or irritability

• Decreased libido

Source: Mayo Clinic

“Sleep apnea causes elevated levels of cortisol, which leads to weight gain, high blood pressure and high blood sugars,” says Merrill. “This in turn makes your heart work harder, leading to the risk of heart disease and stroke.”

Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to help manage sleep apnea. A common and effective treatment is the use of a continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machine which delivers a continuous stream of pressurized, purified air through a mask or nosepiece.

Other options include wearing a dental appliance such as a mandibular advancement device, which brings a person’s jaw forward to open the airway.

Lifestyle changes may also bring relief through losing weight or simply sleeping on one’s side instead of one’s back. Also, if needed, patient’s can undergo surgery to remove excess tissue in the throat, the tonsils and/or adenoids, or modify the structure of the mouth. Some patients may consider a hypoglossal nerve stimulator; this FDA-approved implanted medical device by Inspire Medical Systems helps reduce obstructive sleep apnea by electrically stimulating the hypoglossal nerve, which enables tongue movement. Placed beneath the skin, the hypoglossal nerve stimulator is controlled with a remote to allow patients the ability to sleep without devices on the face or in the mouth.

Quality sleep is imperative for a healthy mind and body. Merrill encourages individuals to notify their healthcare provider if they think they suffer from sleep apnea and to seek a consultation with a sleep specialist for further evaluation and testing.

REBECCA FAST

LIFE & ST YLE | OUTSIDE THE METRO

All Calm in Kenton

The home of Black Mesa State Park, Kenton provides solace to travelers around the region.

W

Oklahoma’s highest point – Black Mesa – is found in Kenton.

Stock image

ith a population too small to be listed on the official state map, and at least 40 miles from the next-largest town, Kenton – tucked away in the northwest corner of the panhandle – might seem to be a remote spot on Oklahoma’s high desert plain.

Nevertheless, the area beckons visitors for a variety of reasons. And for its handful of mostly lifelong residents, the place is just fine, even with its smorgasbord of unpredictable weather.

For instance, it’s a place that offers a chance to see – really see – the nighttime sky. The area also regularly attracts birders, wildlife observers and those who want to hike their way up to Oklahoma’s highest point, the 4,973-foot Black Mesa, which offers some actual dinosaur tracks at its base.

And above all, in the words of more than one resident, the place is calm. Very calm.

“People say they can’t believe it’s so quiet,” says Vicki Roberts, co-owner of the Black Mesa Bed and Breakfast and a Kenton resident for 45 years. “There is no traffic noise and no light pollution. This is God’s wonderland,” she says. “But I’m a little prejudiced.”

Kenton area rancher Leon Apple, who directs the

community’s two-performance Easter pageant, continues: “You kind of have to be used to it, but there’s no place I’d rather be,” he says.

Polly Kiker, manager of the nearby Black Mesa State Park and Wildlife Preserve, echoes the love of the area’s stillness.

“You can often stop and only hear animals and the wind,” she says. “You can see the Milky Way, and a huge number of stars are visible most nights.”

Kiker says that in the state park, wildlife and hiking opportunities await. Many come to hike the High Point Trail, an 8.4-mile trek that goes to Black Mesa, she says.

Kenton lies 38 miles northwest of Boise City and is less than 10 miles from the New Mexico and Colorado borders. Okla- FOR MORE homa City is some INFORMATION: 360 miles distant, BLACK MESA BED & and Clayton, N.M., is BREAKFAST 45 miles west.

580-261-7443 The Saturday BMBB1.COM night-Easter BLACK MESA STATE morning pageant, PARK & NATURE scheduled for April PRESERVE 16 and 17, is staged 580-426-2222 by participants from TRAVELOK.COM/STATEOklahoma and three PARKS/BLACK-MESAother surrounding STATE-PARK-NATUREstates, says Apple, PRESERVE and annually draws HITCHING POST 400 to 500 people to LODGING & RANCH the area. The 2022 580-516-1213 pageant will be a CIMARRON HERITAGE continuation of an CENTER event that began in BOISE CITY 1952 and has been 580-544-3469 held every year, CHCMUSEUMOK.COM except one when it was snowed out, says Roberts.

Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve is described by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department as a birder’s paradise, with golden eagles, scaled quail, black-billed magpies and pinyon jays.

Other wildlife include black bears, bobcats, mountain lions, mule deer, bighorn sheep and antelope.

Jane Apple, co-owner of the Hitching Post Lodging and Ranch, offers a half-day tour to anyone who wants a closer look at the area. She and her husband also operate a working ranch, raising Angus cattle.

Roberts says that residents have this attitude about the high-desert Kenton weather, which this has brought extreme drought: “Let’s wait and see what God’s gonna do – because we never know!”

HENRY DOLIVE

FEBRUARY 2022| WWW.OKMAG.COM

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L I F E & S T Y L E | SCENE

Barby Myers, Dan Mahoney, Cathy Keating; induction ceremony, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Harvey Pratt, Jim Stovall, Stanley L. Evans, Paula Marshall, Scott Hendricks, Yvonne Kauger, Hannibal B. Johnson, and posthumous inductee Roscoe Dunjee; induction ceremony, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Kyle Shifflett, Blake Shelton; induction ceremony, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Stanley L. Evans, Angelita Ochoa, Hannibal B. Johnson; induction ceremony, Oklahoma Hall of Fame, OKC

Becky Frank, Alison Anthony, Caron Lawhorn, Mandy Monahan, Paula Huck, Susan Crenshaw, Lisa McLarty, Melissa Bogle, Stephania Grober, LaQuisha Epps; Women United Celebrates 10 Years, Tulsa Area United Way

David & Rachel Wagner, Rusty Linker, Paul Salter; First Chair Society, Signature Symphony at TCC, Tulsa

Jerry Bates, Randa Briggs, Heather Ward, Natalie Williams, Emily Walton; Sapphire Celebration Annual Auction preparations, Riverfield, Tulsa

Michael Byrnes, Erin Engelke, Molly Gamber, Doug Sanders; donation from the OKC Dodgers and OK Fidelity Bank, Calm Waters Center for Children and Families, OKC

Casey & Rainey Williams, Bill Lance, Ed Martin, David & Aimee Harlow; Tocqueville Society Reception, United Way of Central Oklahoma, OKC

Harriet Kuykendall, Tad Jones, Tom Egbert, Trait Thompson; Roper-Docent of the Year Honor, Will Rogers Memorial Museum, Claremore

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Judy Love, Mo Anderson; Tocqueville Society Reception, United Way of Central Oklahoma, OKC

Front: Kathy West; Back: Kathy & Richard Haught, Bob West, Karl Rove; Karl Rove presentation, Tulsa Town Hall

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By Mary Willa Allen

WITH THE DREDGES OF A SELF-IMPOSED ‘DRY JANUARY’ IN THE PAST, IT’S TIME TO INDULGE YOUR PALATE IN A BIT OF BOOZE. THIS YEAR’S SPOTLIGHT HAS IT ALL: RECIPES, TRENDS FOR DRINKING, PLUS A LIQUOR BREAKDOWN AND A RUNDOWN OF SOME OF THE STATE’S THRIVING DISTILLERIES.

SNIDER

DRINK UP!

BRANDON

O K L A H O M A’ S M O S T P O P U L A R C O C K TA I L S

PHOTO BY MBLY, OKC; JONES ASSE

We asked bartenders two questions: What’s the most popular standard drink ordered at your bar, and what’s the most popular craft cocktail?

Summit Club, Tulsa:

THE

STANDARD DRINK: Definitely an Old Fashioned, a vodka soda, a dirty martini, or just a good bourbon on an ice ball CRAFT COCKTAIL: A Hike in the Pines. (Psst ... the recipe is on page 30!)

Jones Assembly, OKC:

STANDARD DRINK: Espresso martini CRAFT COCKTAIL: Disco Nap – a margarita made with blackberries and sage simple syrup

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Hodges Bend, Tulsa:

STANDARD DRINK: Manhattan CRAFT COCKTAIL: Tobacco Old Fashioned – made with rum, sugar and tobacco bitters

OSO on Paseo, OKC:

STANDARD DRINK: Tito’s and soda CRAFT COCKTAIL: Vallarta Colada – cream of coconut, honey, lime, blended white rum and overproof Jamaican rum, served in a coconut

Saturn Room, Tulsa:

STANDARD DRINK: Mai Tai CRAFT COCKTAIL: Saturn – made with gin, falernum, passion fruit, orgeat and lemon

BY THE LIQUOR There are six types of liquor – brandy, gin, rum, tequila, vodka and whiskey. Aside from their coloring and taste, you may not know much about these distilled spirits and their differences. We present a small breakdown of each:

Brandy

- DISTILLED FROM: Grapes and other fruits, including apples, cherries and peaches - TASTES LIKE: Fruity or burnt wine - POPULAR DRINKS MADE WITH BRANDY: Sidecar; Brandy Alexander; French Connection

Gin

- DISTILLED FROM: Grains, like corn and barley, combined with botanicals - TASTES LIKE: Dry pine and herbs - POPULAR DRINKS MADE WITH GIN: Martini; Gimlet; Negroni

Rum

- DISTILLED FROM: Sugar, either sugar cane or molasses - TASTES LIKE: Sweet, toasted sugar - POPULAR DRINKS MADE WITH RUM: Pina Colada; Daquiri; Mai Tai

Tequila

- DISTILLED FROM: Fermented juices of the agave plant - TASTES LIKE: Sweet, spicy and vegetal - POPULAR DRINKS MADE WITH TEQUILA: Margarita; Paloma; Ranch Water; Tequila Sunrise - FAST FACTS: There are a variety of tequila types, like blanco, reposado and anejo, along with other agave spirits including mezcal and pulque

Vodka

- DISTILLED FROM: Lots of things, including potatoes, corn, wheat and even beets - TASTES LIKE: Not much, apart from neutral alcohol – which makes it great for mixing - POPULAR DRINKS MADE WITH VODKA: Bloody Mary; Cosmopolitan; Screwdriver; Moscow Mule

Whiskey

- DISTILLED FROM: Malted grains, like rye and barley, typically aged in wooden casks - TASTES LIKE: Distinct by style, but typically roasted and malted grain - POPULAR DRINKS MADE WITH WHISKEY: Old Fashioned; Whiskey Sour; Mint Julep - FAST FACTS: Bourbon, plus Irish, Rye and Scotch whisky, are all styles of this distilled spirit

CHARLES FRIEDRICHS, PRINCIPAL BARTENDER AT OKC’S JONES ASSEMBLY; PHOTO COURTESY BREAD AND BUTTER

Atop the TRENDS

One things for certain – people are still drinking in 2022. But a few trends have emerged as of late, so keep your eyes peeled for these:

Lower ABV content:

While people are still happy to imbibe, they’re looking for lower alcohol by volume (ABV) in their drinks. Perhaps we’re getting a bit sick of hangovers?

Canned cocktails:

If you’ve made a sojourn to the grocery or liquor store in the last year, you’ve probably noticed just about every cocktail can now be found in a can. Vodka tonic, Paloma, Old Fashioned, you name it.

Healthy drinks:

Perhaps it’s the excitement of a new year, but people are looking to incorporate more fruits and veggies into their drinks, along with base liquids like kombucha and even vegan cocktail options.

CBD-infused drinks:

From mocktail tonics with CBD to hempinfused seltzers, a bit of green could be making its way into your neighborhood bar soon enough.

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

29

THE SKILLS TO TEND BAR From being quick with numbers to having a strong physique, being a bartender isn’t for the faint of heart. Here are a few personality traits, plus hard and soft skills, you’ll need for a life behind bars.

FRIENDLY BUT FIRM: Being a bartender means straddling a fine line: Welcoming, but not so nice you can’t exit a conversation swiftly.

Chummy, but not enough to overserve a rowdy guest.

FRIDA SOUTHWEST, OKC; PHOTO BY JAMIE COBB

MULTI-TASKER: You’ll often have four people making intense eye-contact with you to get in a drink order ... while you’re already handling four drink tickets. If you work at a place with food, you’ll have to keep an eye on the kitchen for bar orders, all while making conversation, ensuring your drinks are poured correctly, keeping tabs on the ice and kegs, yelling over the music and tabbing people out as they’re ready to leave. Stressed yet?

ABILITY TO EYEBALL/MEASURE DRINKS: This one might take a bit of time, but it’s important not to under- or overserve your customers with the wrong pour of their spirit.

SATURN ROOM, TULSA; PHOTO COURTESY SATURN ROOM

GOOD MEMORY: You’re on the way to put a drink order in when another patron stops you to ask for a round of shots. Then someone else wants an appetizer. Oh, and you have two drinks half-way made sitting on the bar. Keeping a sharp mind is essential.

GOOD WITH MATH: You don’t have the time to count on your fingers when you’re making someone’s change on a Friday evening.

DEXTEROUS: Ever seen a bartender holding four drinks in two hands? How about a waiter carrying a tray with drinks filled to the brim? A steady set of hands is essential behind the bar.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

RECIPE CORNER

STURDY: On a busy night, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a moment to sit down. Bartenders need to be fit to some degree – able to move around, bend down, reach up and engage their stamina to stay upright and moving for long shifts.

PHOTO COURTESY BREAD AND BUTTER

PHOTO COURTESY SUMMIT CLUB

THE JONES ASSEMBLY, OKC; PHOTO COURTESY BREAD AND BUTTER

CIN CIN MARTINI

THE JONES ASSEMBLY, OKC

A HIKE IN THE PINES SUMMIT CLUB, TULSA

2 oz.

Gin ½ oz.

St. Germaine ½ oz.

Lime ¼ oz.

Ginger syrup 1 dash Cardamom bitters Top with Prosecco “This is a cocktail I came up with when I started here about 5 years ago,” says Sarah Elliot, Summit’s lead bartender. “It has become a Summit staple.”

2 oz.

Malfy gin 2 oz.

Bombay Sapphire East gin 2 oz.

Barbadillo Fino sherry 1.5 oz.

Italicus Bergamot liqueur .5 oz.

Genepy Le Chamois 4 dashes Regan’s orange bitters Combine all ingredients into a sealable 12 oz. glass bottle, store in freezer until cold and ready to serve.

“We wanted to create a dry martini that was complex in flavor, yet approachable enough that someone would want to drink it straight out of the freezer at home,” says Charles Freidrichs, Jones’ principal bartender. “This martini can be ordered as a single or ‘to share.’”

WanderFolk Spirits

GUTHRIE OFFERINGS: Vodka (Prairie Wolf Spirits and Garden Club), bourbon (Same Old Moses), and gin (Garden Club) WANDERFOLKSPIRITS.COM

PHOTO BY NICHOLAS J. SHAW

The following is a listing of several, what they make and where you can find them.

TULSA AND SOON-TO-OPEN IN OKC OFFERINGS: Vodka, gin, cider, sparkling wine, whiskey, bourbon, soju, amaro, rum, orange liqueur, and a blanco agave spirit OKDISTILLING.COM

Success Vodka Red Fork Distillery

TULSA OFFERINGS: Whiskey, bourbon, vodka and moonshine REDFORKDISTILLERYOK.COM

Leadslingers Whiskey

MOORE OFFERINGS: Whiskey, rum, bourbon and rye LEADSLINGERSWHISKEY.COM

OKC OFFERINGS: Vodka SUCCESSVODKA.COM

Cane Creek Distillery

BOYNTON OFFERINGS: Whiskey CANECREEKDISTILLERY.COM

Territory Distilling

STILLWATER OFFERINGS: Whiskey TERRITORYDISTILLING.COM

PHOTO COURTESY LOWOOD

Bars and breweries in Oklahoma abound and continue to grow. But the state is also home to a variety of distilleries, which create a bevy of distilled spirits right here at home.

Distilling Company

PHOTO COURTESY HUMANKIND HOSPITALITY/ BREAD AND BUTTER

ARE IN

RED FORK DISTILLERY, TULSA; PHOTO COURTESY RED FORK

DISTILLERIES Oklahoma

RED FORK DISTILLERY, TULSA; PHOTO COURTESY RED FORK

SMOOTH OPERATOR FRIDA SOUTHWEST, OKC

NIGHT SHIFT

HODGES BEND, TULSA

Created by Nick Shaw at the Minnesota location 1 oz.

Gin .5 oz.

Aquavit (made in house) .5 oz.

Pineapple amaro (Heirloom) .25 oz.

Falernum .25 oz.

Rich simple syrup .75 oz.

Lemon juice 2 dashes Tropical bitters Hopped water (Lagunitas) to top Add ingredients to a shaker, then shake and double strain over ice in a Collins glass. Top with hopped water and garnish with 2 pineapple leaves.

1.5 oz.

Old Overhold rye .5 oz.

Rossa amara .75 oz.

Spiced grenadine .75 oz.

Fresh lemon 3 dashes Angostura bitters 2 dashes Apple bitters “I wanted to do a take on the classic Scofflaw cocktail but with a fun, seasonal twist,” says Zac Speegle, bartender at Frida. “We make a spiced grenadine in-house by infusing pomegranate juice with cinnamon, clove and cardamom, and sweeten it with maple syrup. Vermouth is replaced with a blood orange amaro from Sicily called amara that adds a citrus, herbaceous depth and Old Overhold rye rounds out the drink. For a whimsical spin, the cocktail is made into a clarified milk punch that lends a silky, rich mouth feel, and a bit of deception to the final product.”

MIDWINTER SPRITZ

LOWOOD MODERN WOODFIRE, TULSA

.5 oz.

Grapefruit juice .5 oz.

Rossa Amara liqueur 1 oz.

Punt e Mes Build in wine glass, add ice to the top, top with Cocchi Brachetto d’Acqui.

Garnish with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary.

“The Midwinter Spritz was inspired by Chris Ciesiel, the owner of the bar The Campground in Kansas City,” says Nate Young, bartender at Lowood. “Spritzs are usually reserved for warmer temperatures, but I wanted to do something that is a low alcohol spritz but that had winter flavors.”

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

31

TRY

SOMETHING NEW

Sidecar Barley and Wine Bar, TULSA

Atop the new Cherry Street Plaza, Sidecar (which also has locations in OKC and Jenks), offers stunning views and ample booze.

SDCRBAR.COM

Metro 623, OKC

Sleek and luxurious, Metro 623 combines delicious bites and luxurious digs for a great date night spot.

METRO623LOUNGE.COM

The Drake, OKC

Finally reopened in November of last year, the Drake brings high-quality seafood and any cocktail you can imagine.

THE DRAKE, OKC; PHOTO

BY CHOATE HOUSE

THEDRAKEOKC.COM

ZAC SPEEGLE, BARTENDER AT FRIDA SOUTHWEST; PHOTO COURTESY BREAD AND BUTTER

OSO ON PASEO, OKC; PHOTO COURTESY OSO

K N O W T H E FA C T S The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a data brief in 2020 that gives insight into Americans and their drinking habits.

According to its study, two-thirds (66.3%) of adults aged 18 and over consumed alcohol in 2018. Among those adults aged 18 and over, 5.1% engaged in heavy drinking – which the CDC defines as “consumption of an average of more than 14 alcoholic drinks per week for men or more than 7 drinks per week for women.” 15.5% engaged in moderate drinking, 45.7% engaged in light drinking, and 33.7% did not consume alcohol at all.

The CDC sites long-term health risks of excessive alcohol use as high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, stroke, learning and memory problems, weakening of the immune system, and a variety of other risks. Suffice it to say: drink responsibly!

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Oklahoma Magazine presents

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Image Matters

By Rebecca Fast

One of many ways to feel empowered in today’s society is by investing in an aesthetic upgrade via plastic surgery or a noninvasive procedure. From deep plane facelifts to lip fillers and everything in between, medical experts advise on the industry’s most tried-and-true offerings to make you look and feel your best.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Achieving a More Youthful You

rs All About Deep Plane

One of the hottest aesthetic upgrades right now comes in the form of a deep plane facelift.

Known for being a more ‘natural’ looking facial enhancement, deep plane uses a surgical technique that’s been around for decades, but has recently gained attention with Botched star Dr. Paul Nassif revealing he’s undergone the procedure.

While a traditional facelift separates the skin from the superficial muscularaponeurotic system (SMAS) causing a more taut look, a deep plane facelift lifts the skin and SMAS together.

By repositioning the skin and SMAS as one unit, a more authentic appearance is achieved.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a deep plane facelift offers “a multidimensional result that both tightens and lifts the face to result in better volume and contour of the cheeks, definition of the jawline and firmness of the neck.”

Longer-lasting than a standard facelift, results of a deep plane facelift remain 10 years or more, and typical recovery time is seven to 10 days.

As the years go by, fine lines and wrinkles start to show and skin begins to dull and loosen, which may make you feel that your youthful glow is a thing of the past.

However, with today’s many skin care treatments and procedures, multiple options await to help give you a brighter and more youthful-looking appearance.

Kristen Rice, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Utica Square Skin Care in Tulsa, says an extremely popular non-invasive procedure, one she believes will stand the test of time, is Sciton’s BroadBand Light (BBL), which offers minimal downtime and measurable results for skin discoloration, redness and texture.

“It is a complete package for improved complexion and anti-aging,” says Rice.

“BBL can give dramatic results with as little as one treatment, especially when brown spots are the primary issue.”

Lip fillers have also become very popular, she says.

“Filler for perioral rhytids [wrinkling around the mouth] often provides immediate and quite dramatic results,” says Rice. “This is one of my favorite things to perform, as is it satisfying to give the ‘immediate’ effect patient’s desire for an issue that usually bothers them quite a bit.”

While micro-needling isn’t a new technique, Rice says it has made a comeback over the past several years.

“It, too, is non-invasive with very little downtime, and [offers] great results to help smooth wrinkled skin or uneven texture, from acne scarring as an example,” she says.

For body contouring, Rice says Coolsculpting delivers.

“It is more time consuming, usually requiring two to three sessions and a couple months between each, but the before and after photos are generally very dramatic for those troublesome, exercise-resistant problem areas,” she says.

One technique that has broadened skin care services is ThermaFrax.

“We have offered both Fraxel [skin resurfacing] and Thermage [skin tightening] for many years,” says Rice. “Performing these together is a newer technique which has proven to enhance results. This combination treatment is called ThermaFrax, and is a great option for those with a busy lifestyle to get maximal results in less time.”

Melody Hawkins, chief financial officer with BA Med Spa and Weight Loss Center in Broken Arrow, says Botox and dermal fillers remain top services as well as PDO threads, non-invasive facelifts and body sculpting through Coolsculpting and Emsculpt.

“The best treatment for fuller lips are dermal fillers,” says Hawkins. “We personally use and recommend the Juvederm line of dermal fillers by Allergan for lips.

Their product Volbella is specifically designed for lips and lasts for one year. But if that is not something you want and you still want the results, a quick lip flip using Botox is a great option. It turns out your top lip to give a fuller, more youthful look and lasts up to four months.”

Hawkins says the best procedures for overall contouring are noninvasive facelifts, which use a combination of products and services to combat all signs of aging.

“For instance, a common combination treatment plan involves first resurfacing the skin using laser C02 resurfacing,” she says. “We follow that up with Ultherapy to tone, tighten and lift the skin. Finally, we come in with NovaThreads (PDO threads) to add any extra lift that may be needed, as well as dermal fillers to treat volume loss. By addressing uneven skin tone and texture, skin laxity and volume loss at once, we are able to give patients the best overall result in facial contouring.”

Hawkins also highly recommends Coolsculpting Elite and Emsculpt.

“Coolsculpting Elite rids the body of stubborn pockets of fat with no surgery or downtime, and Emsculpt helps to build muscle as well as can perform a nonsurgical booty lift,” she says. “On the buttocks treatment with Emsculpt, we find using it in conjunction with QWO to also treat cellulite, our patients are able to achieve amazing results.”

FEBRUARY 2022| WWW.OKMAG.COM

35

Lifting the Eyes & Brows

Preventative Botox

Much of the skin care industry centers on preventing problems before they start. With this in mind, many people seek out preventative Botox treatments, with the intention of stopping wrinkles or fine lines from forming.

While it’s a popular practice, Rice shares her concerns.

“I am a firm believer that Botox should be reserved for when wrinkles at rest begin to show or to help improve the shape of the brow to raise drooping eyelids, for example,” says Rice. “Starting Botox injections too early is not necessary if there are truly no wrinkles showing yet. Waiting until the appropriate time to start Botox can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars. It can also weaken the facial muscles, so you don’t want to do this prior to when it can benefit you. It depends on many factors, including age, genetics, history of sun exposure and smoking history.”

36

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Upper and lower eye lifts, as well as brow lifts, can offer both health and cosmetic benefits.

However, any surgical procedures performed around the eye or involving the eye requires special precautions and precision care.

Jeremy F. Tan, MD, an oculoplastic surgeon at the Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, explains how a patient’s pre-operative assessment checks for any conditions that could lead to problems with vision or ocular comfort.

“I see a handful of patients every year that have had procedures performed where something was not identified pre-operatively and has led to dryness or closure issues,” says Tan. “During the surgery, ensuring that the pre-operative markings are accurate, I go by, ‘measure three times, cut once.’ There is a certain amount of skin that is necessary to leave behind to safely close the eyes. If this amount is surpassed, patients can be left with problems closing their eyes or problems with eyelids being lifted off the eyeball with movement of the brows.”

Tan says an upper eyelid lift, known as a blepharoplasty, can improve the peripheral vision as the excess skin is like wearing a ‘low set baseball cap.’

“Also, oftentimes folks will recruit their forehead muscles to help lift the excess skin all day, which for some people can lead to chronic headaches,” says Tan. “Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a purely cosmetic procedure, but this area, both upper and lower lids, really sets the stage for the overall appearance of the face being tired looking versus refreshed and bright.”

With age, sun exposure, use and genetics, the brows often contribute to the heaviness of the upper eyelids, says Tan. “I make the analogy with my patients that the eyelid opening is the window, the eyelid fold of skin is the curtain, and the brow is the curtain rod,” he says. “Even if the curtain is of the right length, if the curtain rod sits too low, it will allow the curtain to fall over the window.”

If you’re considering an eye or brow lift, Tan offers the following advice: “As ophthalmologists first at Dean McGee Eye Institute, we are trained to know in great detail how to identify and support the eye, and will definitely pay close attention to your ocular health,” he says. “There are a lot of great plastic surgeons out there; talk to them to form a good relationship to make sure that all of your needs and concerns are addressed.”

Shown here is a patient of Tim R. Love, MD, before and after two sessions of non-invasive Morpheus8/ Factora with nanofat and PRP injections.

Photos courtesy Tim R. Love, MD

The Non-Surgical Facelift

If you’re not wanting to undergo surgery but still want the impressive appearance of a facelift, you’ve got choices.

“The field of plastic and aesthetic medicine has changed dramatically over the past decade,” says Tim R. Love, MD, an Oklahoma City boardcertified plastic surgeon and pioneer in regenerative approaches to enhance non-surgical facial procedures.

“Non-surgical regenerative approaches have created options allowing us to offer excellent results far beyond traditional surgery. We are using safe yet aggressive techniques beyond the scope of practice for med spas,” he says.

He says INMode’s FACEtite has become a real go-to device that delivers ‘surgical results without the scars.’

“It uses radio-frequency assisted liposuction in a safe and effective mode to melt fat while tightening skin and soft tissue overlying areas traditionally treated with liposuction alone,” says Love. “It’s ideal for unwanted jowls and neck fat and is comfortably performed in our office setting with the patient lightly sedated. Results have been shown to shrink skin and soft tissue up to 40%.”

Love also uses NanoFat injections derived from a patient’s own stem cells, mononuclear cells and fibroblasts. He combines the NanoFat with FACEtite and Morpheus8’s radio-frequency assisted microneedling procedures to further improve outcomes. The NanoFat is injected into the dermal layer of skin to supplement healing and stimulate collagen production.

“Many patients today are wanting to get ahead of facial aging but aren’t ready for a facelift,” says Love. “With the proven regenerative techniques available today, we are able to turn back the hands of time for patients producing results that a facelift alone cannot.”

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f o th d a e eC h A ur ve A deep dive into the higher education sphere explores popular elective classes, the ideal college application, sports and their positive impacts on campuses, and trends in and out of the classroom.

By Tracy LeGrand

Step 1: Getting In The first hurdle to getting a college education is admissions, and learning institutions can factor in test scores, community involvement, high school grades, entrance essays and, sometimes, connections to the school.

Exactly how these factors are weighted in consideration varies between schools.

“Rogers State University is an open admission institution,” says Lee Johnson, RSU’s director of admissions. “The most important factor is an individual’s personal commitment to attaining their degree. When it comes to admissions, we are committed to removing obstacles that stand in their way.

Removing cost as a barrier, more than 80% of students receive financial aid, making a quality education affordable.”

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

At the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, getting in involves the big picture.

“We do not make applicants pick if they would like to be reviewed with or without their test scores,” says Sheppard McConnell, associate vice president for entering student services and first-year retention. “In fact, we encourage students to send us everything they have to build the best picture of them as a learner. When it comes to grades, A’s, B’s and maybe a C are the grades we look for in successful applicants.

“However, we have resources to help those who come to us without the best GPA or study skills. Our Student Success Center is an integral part of our campus, providing tutoring, mentoring and academic coaching for free to our students so they can ... stay on

track to graduate.”

The University of Oklahoma follows a similar holistic approach.

“This process considers several factors that predict academic success,” says Danielle Dunn, the director of communications in OU’s Office of Admissions and Recruitment. “These factors include high school GPA, academic rigor, ACT/SAT scores, engagement in academic and non-academic activities, writing ability, leadership, letters of recommendation and more.

“OU is dedicated to providing access to students who are admissible, so we worked with OSRHE to allow for a test-optional admission policy. When evaluating a student for admission, test scores are just one component considered.”

An OU art history student draws a live model.

Photo courtesy OU

The Dreaded ‘L’ Word: Loans

College debt is, for many, a given if they want an education. The means to that end include a patchwork of options including finding strong loan rates, work study, part-time employment, grants, and loan consolidation and incomedriven repayments after graduation.

Option variations are available. Robyn Rogers, director of financial aid at the University

of Arts and Sciences of Oklahoma, says the school “recently revamped our scholarship program to focus even more on accessibility and affordability. This past year, more than 80% of our freshmen received scholarships.

We also encourage students to submit their FAFSA early to maximize their eligibility for financial aid.

“Students who are eligible for workstudy have many options to choose from on campus,” Rogers continues. “We also have part-time campus jobs for students who don’t qualify for the work-study program. Our goal is to find ways in which we can alleviate the financial burden on our students and their families so they can focus on their education.”

a The Degree Dilemm

Some think that achieving a bachelor’s degree is becoming par for the course, as many employers look for master’s degrees.

While it’s too early to tell if this will be an ongoing trend, graduate degrees are a desirable and marketable attribute in potential hires.

“Graduate enrollment has increased as more employers have indicated requirements or at least recommendations for employees to have advanced degrees,” says Shannon Rigsby, Oklahoma State University’s public information officer. “The types of jobs are continuing to change, and more advanced degrees are necessary for entry level positions in these technology and knowledge-based positions.

“The average person will change careers five to seven times during their working years. Getting a master’s degree or graduate certificate is a way to quickly re-tool and adapt to new types of jobs that didn’t exist previously.”

At Rogers State University, more than 80% of students receive some form of financial aid.

Photo courtesy RSU

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The Positivoerts Impact of Sp

At the University of Oklahoma, sports create camaraderie between students, professors, staff and administration.

Photo by Katherine Welles courtesy OU

College sports are big business – driving the monetary funnel for college programming as well as contributing to the campus life and camaraderie among alumni, sports enthusiasts and students as the excitement builds up to game days.

“Successful athletic programs provide an opportunity for the student body, faculty, staff, alumni and fans to come together for one purpose,” says OSU’s Rigsby. “They provide an opportunity for a shared experience and common ground that crosses generations and backgrounds. And statistics show that students who are engaged in campus activities perform better in the classroom, and are more likely to stay in school. In the end, successful athletic programs influence student enrollment and fundraising; athletics are an integral part of the fabric of our campus and culture.”

That camaraderie in sporting events can also be found at OU. “OU owns one of the greatest winning traditions in intercollegiate athletics, and these events are an opportunity for students to connect with other classmates and make memories that will last a lifetime,” says Dunn. “Games for each sport are free to attend for students, apart from football and men’s basketball. Across all sports, OU claims 39 national championships.”

Trends in Higher22 Education for 20 Higher education trends vary in emphasis from school to school. Mary Millikin, Ph.D., associate vice president for academic affairs, accountability and academics at RSU, says trends at the university include a ratio of 16 students to one teacher and a student body that is 50% first generation college students.

RSU also had 29% of students choosing online studies exclusively in the fall of 2021.

At OSU, “total enrollment increased across the board for this academic year,” says Rigsby. “We have some impressive increases in the number of transfer students 40

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

NSU offers a variety of public health programs with a hands-on curriculum.

Photo courtesy NSU

joining the Cowboy family, as well as the second-largest class of first-time students.

Our population this academic year is also more diverse; historically marginalized and underrepresented students made up over 30% of the incoming class – the most diverse OSU class on record.”

At NSU, they’ve “noticed a slight uptick in requests for scheduling flexibility in the form of Zoom sections of courses and/or blended learning opportunities for course delivery,” says Debbie Landry, Ed.D., provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Our

department chairs review the schedule each year to adjust accordingly, and we have added Zoom links to some of our faceto-face courses.”

NSU’s Jerrid Freeman, Ed.D., president of student affairs and enrollment management, continues: “We have seen a significant increase in graduate students and many of them are looking for online courses. Our undergraduate students, though, are taking classes as they once did, and numbers seem to be returning to prepandemic levels.”

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Oklahoma Panhandle State University says online-only registration has risen exponentially in the last couple of years.

Photo courtesy OPSU

Popular Electives

Aside from the necessary pre-requisites and core curriculum, students often choose electives at college to keep things interesting.

RSU’s Millikin details popular courses, including the Esports Game and Sports Program – which has won one national title so far and was the first electronic sports course in Oklahoma in 2018. Other popular courses include Games and Culture and courses centered on Native American archaeology sites, as well as courses in the Cherokee language.

“Many of our psychology courses are very popular – Sex and Gender; Human Sexuality; Psychology of Death,” says Amy Goddard, director of communications and marketing at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma. “This summer, we offered a Psychology of Stress course that students loved, because we really spent time looking at the biological benefits of stress and active ways we can harness that energy by positively impacting our mindset and perspective when experiencing stressful encounters.”

At OU, a class called First-Year Founda-

tions is a popular pick.

“Designed to help first-year students make the transition to OU, First-Year Foundations helps prepare students for success,” says Dunn. “The two-credit-hour elective course is limited to 19-21 students and is a great way to start building a new community at OU with other fellow students, instructors and Peer Teaching Assistants (PTAs).”

OSU offers a “really popular and unique in-person course [called] Insects and Society, taught by Wyatt Hoback in Entomology,” says Rigsby. “He really helps a general audience understand insects and the role they play in the world. Also, Brewing Microbiology is one of our extremely popular online science courses, as is our class Farm to Fork: A Panoramic View of Agriculture.”

Landry says that NSU “has two newer programs that are proving to be quite popular – our cybersecurity program and our public health program. New opportunities are continuously emerging for cybersecurity majors within the private and governmental community. The cybersecurity degree combines theory and practical application to prepare students for employment in local, state and federal agencies as well as NSU presents opportunities for students to teach and tutor prior to graduation.

Photo courtesy NSU

Elective classes abound at OU. Photo by Hugh Scott

42

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

private positions.

“On the graduate level, the master’s degree in public health offers students two opportunities to improve health outcomes through the specialized preparation and training of global health leaders; community outreach; and collaboration with community partners through careers in public health. While the didactic portion of our 43-credit hour Master of Public Health program is 100% online, students complete a 200-hour practicum in which they gain hands-on experience working directly with community partners.”

At Oklahoma Panhandle State University, “the 100% online programs have grown drastically, offering an RN to BSN Nursing Program, Business, Agribusiness and Criminal Justice,” says Natasha Eidson, the school’s director of communications. “The highest enrolled programs at Panhandle State are our RN to BSN Nursing Program and our Agriculture degrees.

Panhandle State is also one of two universities in Oklahoma to offer a Meat Processing Laboratory. We are very proud to be the first Hispanic Serving Institution in the state of Oklahoma, with a 29% Hispanic student population.”

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ool Private Sch

GUIDE

44

School

Address/phone/website

Enrollment

Student/teacher ratio

Grades

Foreign languages/sports programs/arts and music programs

Number of teachers with advanced degrees (master’s or above)

Scholarships and/or needbased financial aid

Uniforms

Annual tuition (total range or average)

Religious affiliation

Oklahoma Magazine presents a helpful breakdown of a variety of private educational opportunities for elementary, middle and high school in the annual Private School Guide. From tuition rates to foreign languages offered and student teacher ratios, this guide will assist you in making the tough decisions when it comes to education for your kids.

All Saints Catholic School

299 S. Ninth St., Tulsa/918-251-3000/ allsaintaba.com

367

11:1

PreK-8

French, Latin, Spanish/ Yes/Yes

8

Yes

Yes

$5,260-$6,010

Catholic

Augustine Christian Academy

6310 E. 30th St., Tulsa/918-832-4600/ acatulsa.org

200

10:1

PreK-12

Latin/No/Yes

5

Yes

Yes

$7,245

Interdenominational

Bishop Kelley High School

3905 S. Hudson Ave., Tulsa/918-627-3390/ bishopkelley.org

851

12:1

9-12

French, Latin, Spanish/ Yes/Yes

38

Yes

Yes

$10,175 (Parishoners) $12,475 (Standard)

Catholic

Casady School

9500 N. Pennsylvania Ave., OKC/405749-3166/casady.org

990

8:1

PreK-12

Chinese, French, Latin, Spanish/Yes/Yes

83

Yes

Yes

$22,120

Episcopal

Cascia Hall Preparatory School

2520 S. Yorktown Ave., Tulsa/918-746-2600/casciahall.com

535

10:1

6-12

Chinese, French, German, Spanish/Yes/Yes

48

Yes

Yes

$16,075

Catholic

Christian Montessori Academy

3702 S. 90th E. Ave., Tulsa/918-628-6524/

65

10:1

(Multi-age classrooms)

French, Mandarin, Spanish/ No/Yes

0

No

No

$7,500

Christian

Flo & Morris Mizel Jewish Community Day School

2021 E. 71st St., Tulsa/918-494-0953/ mizelschool.org

35

8:1

PreK-5

Hebrew/No/Yes

5

Yes

Yes

$8,725

Jewish

Heritage Hall

1800 N.W. 122nd St., OKC/405-749-3001/ heritagehall.com

890

15:1

PreK-12

Chinese, French, Spanish/ Yes/Yes

77

Yes

No

$10,000-$22,000

None

Holland Hall

5666 E. 81st St., Tulsa/918-481-1111/ hollandhall.org

1,034

10:1

PreK-12

Chinese, French, Spanish/Yes/Yes

63

Yes

Yes

$8,000-$22,500

Episcopal

Holy Family Classical School

820 S. Boulder Ave., Tulsa/918-582-0422/ holyfamilyclassicalschool.org

142

9:1

PreK-8

Latin/Yes/Yes

6

Yes

Yes

$6,240

Catholic

Immanuel Lutheran Christian Academy

400 N. Aspen Ave., Broken Arrow/918-251-5422/ilcanews.org

170

16:1

K-12

Spanish/Yes/Yes

10

Yes

Yes

$6,850

Lutheran Church Missouri Synod

Lincoln Christian School

1003 N. 129th E. Ave., Tulsa/918-828-9200/ lincolnchristianschool.com

950

17:1

PreK3-12

Spanish/Yes/Yes

30

Yes

No

$2,580-$8,598

Non-denominational

Marquette Catholic School

1519 S. Quincy Ave., Tulsa/918-584-4631/ marquetteschool.org

400

22:1

PreK3-8

Spanish/Yes/Yes

8

Yes

Yes

$5,785 (Parishoners) $7,325 (Standard)

Catholic

Metro Christian Academy

6363 S. Trenton Ave., Tulsa/918-745-9868/metroca.com

1,083

11:1

PreK3-12

American Sign Language, French, Spanish/Yes/Yes

36

Yes

Yes

$2,905-$11,335

Non-denominational

Mingo Valley Christian

8304 S. 107th E. Ave., Tulsa/918-294-0404/mingovalley.org

338

10:1

PreK-12

Spanish/Yes/Yes

21

Yes

Yes

$8,330-$10,160

Non-denominational

Monte Cassino School

2206 S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa/918-746-4128/montecassino.org

780

9:1

PreK3-8

French, Latin, Spanish/ Yes/Yes

33

Yes

Yes

$7,100-$12,500

Catholic

Mount St. Mary Catholic High School

2801 S. Shartel Ave., OKC/405-6318865/mountstmary.org

395

12:1

9-12

French, Latin, Spanish/ Yes/Yes

23

Yes

Yes

$12,450

Catholic

Regent Preparatory School of Oklahoma

8621 S. Memorial Dr., / Tulsa/918-663-1002/rpsok.org

550

13:1

PreK-12

Latin, Spanish/Yes/Yes

20

Yes

Yes

$4,950-$10,950

Interdenominational

Rejoice Christian School

13407 E. 106th St. N., Owasso/918-516-0050/ rejoiceschool.com

1,015

16:1

PreK-12

American Sign Language, French, Spanish/Yes/Yes

18

Yes

No

$2,980-$8,870

Christian

Riverfield Country Day School

2433 W. 61st St., Tulsa/918-446-3553/ riverfield.org

600

(Depending on grade level)

Infants-12

German, Spanish/Yes/Yes

22

Yes

No

$11,040-$14,825

None

Saint Catherine School

2515 W. 46th St., Tulsa/918-446-9756/ saintcatherineschool.org

170

13:1

PreK3-8

None/Yes/Yes

3

Yes

Yes

$4,500 (Catholic)

Catholic

christianmontessoriacademy.org

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Ages 3-12

4:1-15:1

School

Address/phone/website

Enrollment

Student/teacher ratio

Grades

Foreign languages/sports programs/arts and music programs

Number of teachers with advanced degrees (master’s on above)

Scholarships and/or needbased financial aid

Uniforms

Annual tuition

Religious affiliation

San Miguel Middle School

2444 E. Admiral Blvd., Tulsa/918-728-7337/sanmigueltulsa.org/

70

12:1

6-8

N/A/Yes/Yes

8

Yes

Yes

N/A

Catholic

School of Saint Mary

1365 E. 49th Place, Tulsa/ 918-749-9361/schoolofsaintmary.com

305

15:1

PreK2-8

Spanish/Yes/Yes

4

Yes

Yes

$5,755 (Parishioner) $7,187 (Standard)

Roman Catholic

St. Mary’s Episcopal School

505 E. Covell Rd., Edmond/ 405-341-9541/smesedmond.org

247

6:1

PreK-5

Spanish/No/Yes

6

Yes

Yes

$3,800-$9,700

Episcopal

St. Pius X Catholic School

1717 S. 75th E. Ave., Tulsa/918-627-5367/school.spxtulsa. org

350

17:1

PreK3-8

Spanish/Yes/Yes

10

Yes

Yes

$5,490

Catholic

Town and Country School

8906 E. 34th St., Tulsa/918-296-3113/ tandcschool.org

176

12:2

1-12

None/Yes/Yes

12

Yes

Yes

$13,540-$15,180

None

Undercroft Montessori School

3745 S. Hudson Ave., Tulsa/918-622-2890/undercroft.org

234

11:1

PreK3-8

Spanish/No/Yes

5

Yes

No

$7,355-$11,920

None

University School at the University of Tulsa

326 S. College Ave., Tulsa/918-631-5060/ uschool.utulsa.edu

200

5:1

PreK3-8

Spanish/No/Yes

8

Yes

No

$12,500

None

Westminster School

600 N.W. 44th St., OKC/405-524-0631/ westminsterschool.org

595

16:1

PreK-8

French, Spanish/Yes/Yes

15

Yes

No

$7,845-$16,265

None

Wright Christian Academy

11391 E. Admiral Pl., Tulsa/ 918-899-3465/ wrightchristianacademy.com

240

10:1

PreK3-12

Spanish/Yes/Yes

10

Yes

Yes

$6,300-$7,600

Non-affilated

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

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Preparing for the

Golden Years Navigating life as a senior means making lifestyle adjustments and future plans. With preparation and some advice, seniors can live their third acts to the fullest.

Senior Health Risks

By Gina A. Dabney

The top health risks for those 50 and older, says Robert C. Salinas, MD, of OU Health’s department of family and preventive medicine, are: loss of functional abilities which make independent living challenging; the use of inappropriate medications, which can lead to side effects including fatigue, insomnia and falls; and isolation, which can lead to symptoms of sadness and depression.

To combat and prevent these health risks, Salinas recommends staying physically active at home, staying mentally active with various activities that promote memory use and cognition, and staying connected with family and friends.

“Thus, a holistic – mental, physical, social, spiritual, emotional – approach to living well is key as we get older,” he says.

The warning signs for these health risks are OU’s Robert Salinas, MD, experiencing difficulty with says there is a national independent activities of shortage of geriatric doctors in the U.S. daily living such as driving a Photo courtesy OU car, paying bills and cooking.

Health Forgetfulness from progressive short-term memory loss is also a warning sign. Many times, it is a family member or friend that notices the changes that necessitate a visit to the doctor.

“With hope, meaning and purpose, most older patients remain resilient and with time, can learn to adapt to changes,” says Salinas.

48

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Getting Fit, Staying Fit

The Field of Geriatrics

Geriatrics is a medical specialty that focuses on addressing the healthcare needs of elderly people. The field of gerontology is the study of aging, which includes all aspects of a person’s wellbeing such as social, psychological, cognitive and biological aspects.

It has been estimated that the U.S. would need 30,000 geriatricians to help care for the aging population – however, at last check by Salinas, there are only slightly over 7,000 board-certified practicing geriatricians.

“As an educator, I do my best to inspire the next generation of geriatricians – but I don’t think we will ever get to that magical number 30,000,” he says.

Patients are often referred to a geriatrician when their healthcare needs require more clinical time to help manage or coordinate complex care plans, or if there is a concern over the side effects from improper use of multiple medications. Salinas provides care for his patients in a variety of settings such as outpatient and in the patient’s home.

“There are days when I might start my day in the nursing home, then see patients in the home, then return to see a few patients in the hospital,” he says.

‘Honored and blessed’ are the words Salinas uses when describing his ability to provide care to older people.

“My patients have taught me about the care of the older patient – probably just as much if not more than medical textbooks,” he says.

John Jackson, a Tulsa-based personal trainer and the owner of Impact Fitness, advises that before starting an exercise routine, nutritional, physical and cognitive statuses should be evaluated. As nutrition improves, you will have more energy and focus ... leading to a stronger desire to exercise. Once a person’s healthcare team gives the okay, working out with a professional fitness trainer can begin.

“You can then progress to a routine that matches your health needs,” says Jackson.

Jackson advises that every day, you should focus on getting your heart rate up with 30 minutes of cardio.

Also, add some type of strength, flexibility and mobility training, which can vary dayto-day.

“The key is consistency,” says Jackson.

Low-impact

exercises such as water exercise, chair aerobics, yoga and band exercises are effective.

Whether it is going to the grocery store with less pain or being active with family, setting goals is important. One client, whom Jackson has been training for 18 years, is living his goal at 81 years old of traveling regularly. Jackson also has clients in their mid-90s and sees that a positive attitude is beneficial to improving health and increasing longevity.

Taking Control of Your Healthcare

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), the nonprofit and nonpartisan advocacy group for Americans age 50 and older, is an ideal resource to obtain information to help take charge of your health and healthcare needs.

AARP Oklahoma’s website, states.aarp.org/oklahoma, is packed with a host of referrals for each senior’s particular needs, such as financial and legal advice, Medicare nursing homes and prescription assistance.

Whether you are making plans for yourself or are one of the more than 524,000 Oklahomans who care for spouses, older parents or other loved ones so they can live independently, having reliable resources is a must.

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

49

Retirement Home Etiquette

Weight Over 60

As we age, metabolism slows down, making food breakdown take longer. Keeping an eye on the type of foods and drinks one consumes, including alcohol, is important as it relates to keeping tabs on your weight. Plus, exercise should be a part of the daily routine, aiming for 30 minutes five days a week.

“I encourage my patients to walk for 20 to 30 minutes each day if they can and to also work on the upper body to help keep their flexibility and strength,” says Salinas.

The key to retaining muscle mass and keeping fit is the proper balance of eating well and staying active. Salinas’s patients, many of whom have lived to be in their 90s, have relayed that exercise and daily laughter – while not being too serious about life in general – are the secrets of living well and long.

RESOURCES:

states.aarp.org/oklahoma/caregiver-resources leisurecare.com/resources/friends-senior-living/ 50

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Alissa Sauer’s blog, 5 Tips for Making Friends in Senior Living, published on leisurecare. com, writes about senior living socialization.

Sauer reports that socialization has been shown to positively impact the immune system. Social people have fewer colds, lower blood pressure and an improved ability to fight off illness.

Here are five tips for making friends and increasing socialization in a senior living community: 1. Participate in community activities.

Most living centers have daily events – find a couple of activities of interest and attend regularly. Here, you’ll find friends that have similar interests.

2. Make meals a social event. Invite people to have a meal in the dining room. Set a time and meeting place.

“This is a great way to bring people Cedarhurst Assisted Living in Tulsa offers its residents ample amenities and events to keep socialization easy.

Top photo by W. Hills; second photo courtesy Cedarhurst

3.

4.

5.

together from various activities at one time,” says Sauer.

Find other new residents. Seek new residents or meet those who have moved in after you. “You can learn the ropes together, offer each other advice, and join each other in new activities,” says Sauer.

Ask a family member or trusted friend to join you for an activity or a meal. Having a trusted ally at your side will give you someone to talk to before the event starts. Plus, this will instill confidence in starting new conversations.

Be patient. Give yourself time as you adjust to the new living environment.

It takes time to make new friends, but regular interaction and a kind smile is a start.

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51

Money MOTIVATED Getting

By Tracy LeGrand

Any time’s a good time to gain control of your finances. Experts advise on strong money moves for different generations, lucrative jobs within the sector, ways to bump up one’s credit score and red flags for potential investment opportunities.

Smart Financial Moves

Every generation, from Gen Z to the baby boomers, have some savvy financial maneuvers at their disposal to potentially reap major rewards in the future.

Sean Kouplen, chairman and CEO of Tulsabased Regent Bank, says that “for these generations, the key is to pay down debt and diversify your investments. I always recommend six months of income in a savings account for rainy days; match your company’s 401-K; pay down debt with higher interest rates; and then 52

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

diversity your investments according to your risk tolerance.”

It’s no surprise that Gen Z is hugely influenced by social media when it comes to saving, borrowing and thinking about retirement. A July 2021 survey by Motley Fool – a private financial and investing advice company – found that 91% of investors from 18-24 use social media for investment advice over other sources like podcasts, friends and family, traditional investing websites, television, newspapers or blogs.

According to the AARP, a wave of Generation X is turning 50 and older this year, and is among the most financially stressed, as the “sandwich” generation taking care of both their own children and aging parents.

They also tend to have the most debt.

Aging brings different challenges and rewards as equity builds and early moves bear fruit.

“As we get older, hopefully debt becomes less of an issue and safety becomes more of a priority,” says Kouplen. “I would recommend

that we all play on relying on Social Security less as we retire; so it’s important that we develop a savings and investment play to provide for our needs after retirement.”

Jobs in Finance

Are you considering a career in banking or finance? Whether as a financial advisor, investment or commercial banker, public accountant or even venture capitalist, there are several ways to make your fiscal career dreams a reality.

Bryan D. Cain, president and CEO of First National Bank and Trust Co., says that community banks are a great option for those looking to get a foot in the door of the finance realm.

“Community banking is a strong and stable industry that is directly tied to the communities they serve,” he says. “When you work for a community bank, you can feel confident that the bank does everything they can to make the community successful.

From donating to local schools and charities FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

53

to helping businesses thrive, community banks are an important industry that needs top talent that is willing to give back.”

Cain offers these answers to common questions, and some considerations for those pondering a career in finance: • Do I have to be good at math?

Not necessarily; there are a lot of departments and roles within the bank where you do not have to be a math whiz. Many roles can apply different skill sets and education.

• Are there opportunities for advancement? Yes – banking is a great industry to start an entry-level job, such as a teller, and work your way up.

Learning about the different departments can help round out your career experience.

• Is it ever too late to start in the industry? No. You can always start in banking. All you need is a great attitude and a willingness to learn.

• What are the benefits of being in the banking sector? Many people like being in banking because of the stability of the industry and the opportunity to have federal holidays off.

Creating and Managing a Budget

When to Invest

If you’re considering an investment, Kouplen says, it’s first important to “understand what you are investing in, and the company should have strong, long-term fundamentals. You can invest in riskier companies or investments, but make sure it’s money you can afford to lose.”

The U.S. Securities and

When it comes to budgeting, the combination of good intentions and smart strategy can result in long-term financial success. Experts offer various tips such as getting a budgeting buddy to keep you accountable or trying the all cash “diet” to ensure you don’t spend more than you don’t have.

Chandler Riggs, a VP financial consultant with Tulsa’s Fidelity Investments, offers some tips.

“Fidelity’s ‘50-15-5’ budgeting rule of thumb can be a great place to start thinking about how you’ll meet monthly expenses while also saving for future goals, whether they’re long-term, like retirement or college, or shorter term, like a home or car,” she says. This rule of thumb offers three bits of advice: allocate no more than 50% of take-home pay to essential expenses; save 15% of pre-tax income for retirement; and save 5% of take-home pay for unplanned expenses.

“Once you know where your money is going each month, and how much you plan to save for each goal, it may help to automate the savings – for example, through monthly contributions to a retirement account, if that’s your primary long-term goal,” she says. “That will help you put the money aside without being tempted to spend it elsewhere when it hits your bank account.

54

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Exchange Commission advises investors to look for red flags before investing, such as aggressive sellers and any unlicensed investment professionals, or those with exaggerated or false credentials. Smart investors ask many questions and avoid so-called ‘risk-free offers’ that sound too good to be true.

Other tips are to avoid any pressure to invest quickly and

not responding to unsolicited pitches seeking your personal details. Ask if the seller is licensed and if the investment is registered. Before investing, make sure you have a resource for questions such as the SEC or the state securities regulator. Research any opportunity thoroughly before investment, including conducting a background check at investor.gov.

•

Credit Score

Most people know that the better the credit score, the lower the interest rates for mortgages, car loans and credit cards. The Motley Fool offers tips to improve one’s score:

• • •

Pull your own credit report and see your current score.

Investigate and dispute any discrepancies if necessary.

When disputing, contact any or all

three of the major credit bureaus, either online or on the phone: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

All three have dispute departments to assist consumers.

• • •

Pay down on card balances to optimize your credit utilization ratio.

Consolidate credit card debt and transfer to lower interest rate options where possible.

Consider a debt consolidation loan only if needed, and avoid any new loan applications.

Pay bills on time.

Expert Tips

We all want to maximize our money motivation, and Kouplen offers some tips to get there.

“My two big tips on financial health are to always maintain a budget and never live above your means,” he says.

“Everything else is pretty easy if you do those two things.

“My next two tips are never invest in anything you don’t understand and always maintain six months of income in a rainy day fund, because we never know when an unexpected job loss or financial challenge could occur.”

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

55

TASTE

FOOD, DRINK AND OTHER PLEASURES

From the Roots

Zach Hutton takes his humble beginnings on a farm to connect diners to true Oklahoma cuisine.

G Brunch at Scratch Kitchen and Cocktails on Paseo is a delicious affair. One customer favorite is the chicken and waffles.

Photos courtesy Scratch

56

rowing up in Apache made more than a small impact on chef Zach Hutton. Raised on a cattle farm on the Comanche/Caddo County line, Hutton says his grandparents and mother’s siblings all lived in town, and they spent a lot of time together on the farm.

It was there that the roots of locally grown food took hold in Hutton’s soul for life, even if it would take years for him to realize it.

“Being poor, we ate what was grown,” he says. “A freezer full of nondescript white butcher paper packages of beef, and more eggs than anyone could eat from the chickens.

I didn’t have the appreciation for the way we lived and

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

ate as a boy because to a child, it’s just boring busy work.

I didn’t realize how important the lessons I was learning would be.”

Behind the house was a bait shop and two acres, mainly planted with okra, tomatoes, squash, watermelon, peppers and onions. By fall, the root cellar was full of pickles and canned tomatoes.

Hutton still has fond memories of the fall harvest canning nights, where the whole family would come around to help.

“Pepa would make a pot of beans with a hambone and sweet corn bread, and dinner at their house would always

have sliced raw onions and raw jalapeno,” he says. “Food was the center, because it was something we did ourselves through hard work, and it cost nothing but the sweat.”

Hutton landed his first job when he was 16 as a line cook at Sonic; naturally, he loved it. A mentor gave him a copy of Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential, and after reading it, Hutton decided culinary school was his path.

He worked odd kitchen jobs around OKC until he met his now-wife, Kayla Shenod, when he was nearly out of culinary school; Shenod bartended downtown.

Their immediate connection deepened when they began working together less than a year later.

Hutton describes the experience and their shared work ethic as “a pushing match to be better every day.”

After completing an offer to spend a year in Arkansas restructuring two restaurants, the couple returned to Oklahoma and opened a brand new concept for the company. What happened next shifted the course of their lives for good: Hutton suffered from a severe case of pancreatitis and spent a month in the ICU. After three weeks in a medically-induced coma, he shocked the doctors with his recovery.

Following two and a half months of rehabilitation, Hutton knew he needed to get back to work ... he just didn’t know where to look. Call it coincidence, fate or just dumb luck, but while driving around Oklahoma City searching for opportunities, he stopped at Scratch Kitchen and Cocktails on Paseo on the very day that they were holding their soft opening.

Shorthand: they hired him on the spot.

Over time, Hutton’s responsibilities

grew to the point where he became a salaried employee and eventually the head chef. Shenod runs the front of the house and bar program.

When COVID-19 became a threat to the industry, the couple devoted all their energy to keeping the business alive.

Scratch is now truly a family affair.

As well as being joined by Hutton’s twin brother Ben as Scratch’s sous chef, the couple took original partner Brady Sexton’s offer to buy a majority share in the Paseo location of the restaurant in 2021.

In the wake of all of these changes, one thing remains the same: Hutton’s connection to Oklahoma and the food that grows here. The menu reflects that in seasonal shifts and in every step towards taking his menu from 85% locally sourced to 100% by the end of 2022.

“We are proud of our work and proud of where we are from; my food has a link to most Oklahomans,” says Hutton. “It has southern and native roots and can exist outside of the usual infrastructure.”

AMANDA JANE SIMCOE

Above: A popular family meal at Scratch is the bacon-wrapped meatloaf, smashed red potatoes and cheesy broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.

Left: Another family meal contains braised shortrib, smoked tomato marinara, cavatappi pasta, fresh basil and grilled sourdough.

Photos courtesy Scratch

TA S T E | L O C A L F L AV O R

Photo courtesy Chippers

TA S T E | F I R S T BI T E

CHIPPERS SEAFOOD AND SOUTHERN “I opened my own restaurant in Cleveland when I was nineteen,” says pastor Ken Johnson. “I was just a kid – didn’t know what I was doing. I’d taste food in my mind and then I’d go back and create the recipe.”

Then life caught up with him. A car crash took his leg, and almost his life. He turned to religion, studied at Rhema Bible College, and for twelve years had his own church in a hardscrabble Cleveland neighborhood. He still has a traveling ministry, preaching just this year in California and Florida, but he and his five children have settled in Tulsa now. Through it all, he never stopped cooking.

“My dad used to cook us a lot of delicious things,” says his daughter and the restaurant manager, Christa Johnson. “We always told him to open his own restaurant.”

And now he has. First as a food truck, then as pop-ups at Mother Road Market, and finally in its own place as Chippers Seafood and Southern, a rather elegant south Tulsa space with Pompeiian red walls that used to house Michael V’s.

Though the restaurant is billed as casual seafood and southern, the food lives up to its fine-dining setting. The one pound seafood stuffed potato features a lavish portion of tasty shrimp, covered with a rich yet delicate sauce that, though called “Cajun Alfredo” on the menu, is more like a classic French sauce mornay.

The menu features lots of pastas, fish dishes, steaks and burgers, with tempting sides like candied yam soufflé and collard greens with smoked turkey. Johnson also does a fine job with fried chicken and catfish.

“I created everything on the menu,” he says. “I perfected the flavors, and I do my best to guarantee excellence, consistency and quality.”

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

57

TA S T E | CHEF CHAT

A Lifelong Student

As executive chef of the Tulsa Club Hotel, Demarcus Kelly pours his heart and soul into each plate.

Top: The Tulsa Club Hotel offers ‘Southerninfluenced modern American’ fare.

Photo by Valerie Grant Below: Demarcus Kelly, a native Tulsan, knew he wanted to be a chef at age 13.

Photo courtesy Komet Communications

ONLINE

HEAD TO OKMAG. COM/KELLY TO SEE HIS GUMBO RECIPE.

58

S

o here he comes, big and burly yet tired from the kitchen – his crisp chef whites still as starched and elegant as the impeccably ironed linen on the Art Deco dining room tables.

It’s just before 5 p.m., and Demarcus Kelly’s taking a break after six hours of work, a brief respite before the first diners come and he’s back on the job for six hours more. He’s already helped prepare fried chicken with waffles and buttermilk biscuits with gravy for breakfast; spent some time on the computers doing administration and planning; then roasted some pork belly to be served with chipotle peach relish at dinner; and braised a rack of Wagyu short ribs. Those will be served not at today’s, but at tomorrow’s dinner (they go on top of pappardelle pasta with mushrooms, pepper, madeira wine and horseradish gremolata) because they take 12 hours to braise.

“We cook them at 250°, low and slow,” he says.

It’s a long day’s work for an executive chef, but, says Kelly, “that’s my managing style. Being in the fire with my line cooks is the biggest way I can help, to be there when they need it.”

It should be clear by now that

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Kelly’s menu pays homage to Southern cooking.

Though Kelly grew up right here in Tulsa, his dad comes from Franklinton, a small town in Louisiana right at that southeast corner where Louisiana digs into Mississippi. He has fond childhood memories of those lazy endless summers, stirring gumbo in the kitchen.

“I stirred the roux for at least an hour, and as a child it felt like forever,” he says. He knew by the age of 13 that he would be a chef.

But if you think his cooking today is all about recreating childhood tastes and memories, that’s not the story. Kelly’s dad was a fine dining chef at the Doubletree, and with his encouragement, Kelly went to Platt for Culinary Arts. For the ten years following his graduation, Kelly worked at Tulsa Country Club. He started out cooking poolside snacks, then slowly moved up to line cook, then banquet chef, and finally executive sous chef. That’s where he fell in love with Southern style.

He learned Southern cooking at the club from Alex Pierce, currently executive chef at Southern Hills, who grew up in North Carolina.

“Demarcus is the epitome of a life long student of his craft,” Pierce tells me. “He is always looking to refine his skills, flavors and techniques. His

even-keel demeanor and quest for knowledge has led him to be the great chef he is today.”

Kelly explains: “I’d call my style ‘Southern-influenced modern American.’ American means being able to draw from all cuisines and mold it into one, and I do that, but my primary influence is Southern. I throw in French technique, too.”

In his spare time, Kelly is planning menus, as his dishes change with the season. He started on Valentine’s Day in early December. He writes down ideas ( fig-cambozola tart), plays with them ( figs won’t be in season, try apricot?), experiments (will cambozola be too assertive for apricot?), tastes, refines. He keeps every recipe he’s ever invented in a computer file ... a big one; he has almost a thousand recipes.

He always wanted to be an executive chef and now he is. So, is he satisfied?

“It’s a dream I had since I was very young,” he says. “But you must, as a chef, get a little better every day.

We’re pushing the envelope here, getting to where food should be, and it feels good.”

And then he walks toward the kitchen, where parsley and chives – which need to be chopped to make fines herbs – await him.

BRIAN SCHWARTZ

TA S T E | TA S T Y T I D B I T S

TED’S TACOS AND CANTINA

Photo courtesy TCE Holdings 2021

When checking out OKC’s Ted’s Tacos and Cantina, many start with choices from the menu’s shareables, with options like guacamole salad, which includes four scoops of always-fresh guacamole with lettuce, tomatoes and cheese. Another favorite is Ted’s special sheet pan nachos with shredded cheese, queso, pico de gallo, pinto beans and toppings of house-made Southwest sauce and your choice of ground beef, shredded chicken or pork, grilled vegetables, fajita-style chicken and steak, or a plant-based protein. Try a Tex-Mex spin on loaded waffle fries with cheese, queso, beef birria, pico de gallo, Southwestern sauce and sour cream. Entrée choices include a variety of tacos, bowls, burritos and quesadillas, plus the fried avocado, a creation of two avocado halves fried with panko breading and jalapeno ranch topping, black bean corn relish and various protein options. 600 N.W. 23rd St., Suite A, OKC, with additional locations in Ada and Ardmore; tedstacocantina.com

Photo by Wonho Lee

Walking into Gambill’s in midtown Tulsa feels like a neighborhood eatery and market experience. The owners and chefs reside a few blocks away and have created a 100% from-scratch, Italian market and brewery. Freshly made pasta is adorned with homemade sauces, with choices like house-ground meatballs. Choose from a large array of salads and soups including “meal salads” like the calamari Caesar.

House specialties include spaghetti carbonara, chicken Parmesan and eggplant Parmesan, both of the latter served with spaghetti; along with chicken marsala and chicken picatta, both served with linguine. The many pasta choices include several varieties of fettuccine, including lemon cream and Gorgonzola Alfredo. Pizza choices include a goat cheese pie with olive oil, red onion, argula and mushroom; and the prosciutto and arugula with olive oil, freshly made mozzarella cheese and roasted garlic. 1921 S. Harvard Ave., Tulsa; tulsapasta.com

JINYA RAMEN BAR

Ramen enthusiasts know it’s all about the noodles ... and especially the broth. At Jinya Ramen Bar in downtown Tulsa, the expert approach is the in-house, slowcooking of six signature broths by simmering for 20 hours to achieve that depth of flavor found in contemporary Japanese cuisine. Blending flavors of classic ingredients such as miso, dashi, kombu and bonito combines with pork bones, meats and vegetables. Menu choices include variations on ramen, noodles, mini Jinya tacos, small plates like crispy rice with spicy tuna or Kobe hamburger steak, plus desserts. Sample an array of craft beer, wine, spirits, hot or cold sake and specialty cocktails, too. 416 E. Second St., Tulsa; jinyaramenbar.com Photo courrtesy Quincy

Photo courtesy Gambill’s

Gambill’s Pastaria & Grocery

Quincy Bakeshop

Quincy Bakeshop is located in the Bradford House Café and has numerous goodies to try. Offerings include pastries, special orders, teas, coffee and cocktails.

From the unique and quirky packages to custom designs, the bakery is led by owner, master baker and Oklahoma native Trisha O’Donoghue, who trained in Chicago at the French Pastry School.

Her expertise include cake, homemade marshmallows, macaroons, Danish tarts, edible party favors and more. You can customize your dream creations or choose from designs and signature techniques like the petal cake or the wee cupcakes that look like succulent plants – almost too pretty to eat. 1235 N.W. 38th St., OKC; quincybakeshop.com TRACY LEGRAND

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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WHERE & WHEN G R E AT T H I N G S TO D O I N O K L A H O M A

PERFORMANCES

IN TULSA PERFORMANCES

TULSA PAC TRUST PRESENTS: BBI – TULSA OPERA BIG SING Feb. 2 Tulsa PAC Join the PAC

Trust for the return of the Brown Bag It free, noon-time concert series. The Tulsa Opera will be joining for this incredible big sing event. tulsapac.com

IMAGINATION SERIES PRESENTS: SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE! Feb.

4 Tulsa PAC Schoolhouse

Rock Live! explodes onto the stage, updated for a whole new generation with imaginative image projections and a rock ’n’ roll feel. tulsapac.com

TULSA SYMPHONY PRESENTS: SPITFIRE Feb. 5 Tulsa PAC Principal guest conductor Daniel Hege leads the TSO in this exciting program featuring Walton’s Spitfire: Prelude and Fugue, Barber’s Knoxville: Summer of 1915 – featuring vocalist Janinah Burnett. tulsasymphony.org

WORLD STAGE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS: THE SONG OF JACOB ZULU Through Feb. 6 Tulsa

PAC Nominated for six Tony Awards, including Best Play, The Song of Jacob Zulu tells the story of a young South African man accused of a senseless act of terrorism. tulsapac.com

TULSA BALLET PRESENTS: VENDETTA, A MAFIA STORY Feb. 10-13 Tulsa PAC 1950s

Chicago: Rosalia Carbone’s wedding day is marred by a violent murder, sparking a long-standing grudge between infamous rival mob families. tulsaballet.org

THEATRE NORTH PRESENTS: JITNEY Feb.

12-20 Tulsa PAC Anyone

DANCE, OPERA, THEATER & MORE

You’d be hard-pressed to find a weekend without an enticing performance on the stage this month.

Major can’t-miss shows at the PAC this month include Spitfire, running Feb. 5, hosted by the Tulsa Symphony. Principal guest conductor Daniel Hege leads the orchestra in a program featuring Walton’s Spitfire: Prelude and Fugue. Stick around for the much-anticipated Vendetta, A Mafia Story courtesy the Tulsa Ballet, running Feb. 10-13. This stunning showcase of dance follows Rosalia Carbone in 1950s Chicago, as her wedding day is ruined by a violent murder brought on by mob ties.

Lastly, Tulsa Opera brings Emmeline, Tobias Picker’s first opera, to the PAC on Feb. 25-27. Also in T-Town, visit the TCC Van Trease PACE for Signature Symphony’s Fantastical – Firebird meets Harry Potter on Feb. 26.

OKC’s Civic Center Music Hall is also bustling this month.

February kicks off with American Gold on Feb. 5, a show created by the OKC Phil that showcases a variety of talented composers. OKC Ballet returns to the spotlight with Made in the U.S.A. from Feb. 18-20; the performance offers four ballets created in the United States by American choreographers. And the Phil rounds out the month at the Civic Center with a tribute to one of pop’s biggest legends during The Music of Whitney Houston, Feb. 25-26. You can also head to Lyric Theatre from Feb. 16-March 6 for the company’s presentation of Head over Heels.

The McKnight Center in Stillwater brings two shows this month. Bernadette Peters hits the stage on Feb. 14, and the fascinating sounds of Stomp return Feb. 18-19.

of Tobias Picker’s first opera makes its Oklahoma premiere. tulsaopera.com

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY PRESENTS: FANTASTICAL – FIREBIRD MEETS HARRY POTTER Feb. 26 TCC Van Trease PACE Experience a

symphonic journey of myth, magic and folklore. signaturesymphony.org

CONCERTS

who has witnessed ‘brothers’ telling tales in the neighborhood barbershop or at the local Mickey D’s will be familiar with the shared camaraderie that comes to the fore in a small jitney in 1970s Pittsburgh. tulsapac.com

NELLY Feb. 4 BOK Center Nelly will be

TULSA OPERA PRESENTS: EMMELINE Feb. 25-27 Tulsa

crooner Marcus King brings his show to Tulsa. cainsballroom.com

PAC A new production

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traveling with a full live band as well as a multimillion-dollar production package. bokcenter.com

MARCUS KING Feb.

9 Cain’s Ballroom Country

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

THE BEACH BOYS Feb.

10 River Spirit Casino Resort As The Beach Boys

mark more than a half century of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequalled in America’s musical history. riverspirittulsa.com

LEE BRICE Feb. 12 River Spirit Casino Resort With

eight No. 1 singles and seven CMA Award nominations, Lee Brice is a thunderous force in modern country music. riverspirittulsa.com

WINTER JAM Feb. 12 BOK

Center The Winter Jam Tour returns to BOK Center with Skillet, Tauren Wells, KB and many more of your favorite artists. bokcenter.com

BADFISH: A TRIBUTE TO SUBLIME Feb. 20 Cain’s

1

A MAFIA STORY, TULSA BALLET

Photo by Jeremy Charles

EVENTS LISTED ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK INDIVIDUAL WEBSITES FOR UPDATES.

Ballroom See this Sublime

PAINTING GROUP Through

Fritz Scholder. philbrook.org

GLADYS KNIGHT Feb.

period of great change and uncertainty, a small group of artists in New Mexico joined together in a mutual need to explore spirituality through abstraction. philbrook.org

TU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Feb. 2, 12,

tribute band live and in-person for one night only. cainsballroom.com 26 River Spirit Casino Resort The great ones

endure, and Gladys Knight has long been one of the greatest. riverspirittulsa.com

ART OBJECT RE/IMAGINATION: JOHN CHANG Feb.

4-March 20 108 Contemporary Chang’s

work expresses the dichotomy of his Chinese and American experience by juxtaposing traditional and unconventional symbols and images. 108contemporary.org

ANOTHER WORLD: THE TRANSCENDENTAL

Feb. 20 Philbrook In a

NATUREWORKS ART SHOW AND SALE Feb.

26-27 Tulsa Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center This exciting art

event features more than 50 of the top wildlife, Western and landscape artists and sculptors from 23 states. natureworks.org

NEW WAVES: A SIGNAL FOR CHANGE Through

March 13 Philbrook New Waves: Signals for Change features works by artists in Philbrook’s collection, including Harry Fonseca and

SPORTS 16, 27 Reynolds Center The lady Golden Hurricane take on Houston, Temple, Tulane and Wichita State in February. tulsahurricane.com

TULSA OILERS

HOCKEY Feb. 5-6, 25-27 BOK Center The

Oilers take on a variety of regular season foes this month. tulsaoilers.com

TU MEN’S BASKETBALL Feb. 8,

12 Reynolds Center The men’s Golden Hurricane square off against ECU and Cincinnati. tulsahurricane.

com

Photo courtesy River Spirit Casino Resort

CONCERTS BEACH BOYS

In Tulsa, see famous rapper Nelly on Feb. 4 at the BOK Center. Stick around Tulsa’s largest music venue for the Winter Jam on Feb. 12, which brings major names in Christian rock music including Skillet, Tauren Wells and KB. At River Spirit Casino Resort, The Beach Boys drop in on Feb. 10, and the crooning legend Gladys Knight

SPORTS

Photo courtesy NBAE/Getty Images

BASKETBALL, WRESTLING AND RODEO

Basketball is around every corner this month.

At OU, you can catch the men Feb. 9, 15 and 26, and women Feb. 5, 16 and 26, all at the Lloyd Noble Center. If you’re more of a Cowboys fan, visit the Gallagher-Iba Arena Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 21 for men and Feb. 9, 12 and 23 for women. And Tulsa fans can get their fill at the Reynolds Center on Feb. 8 and 12 for men and 2, 12, 16 and 27 for women. If you’re hoping to level up from college ball, the OKC Blue play at the Paycom Center Feb. 7, 9, 16, 23, and 28; and the Thunder take the court Feb. 7, 9, 16, 24, 28.

Fear not – other sporting events come to Oklahoma this month. The Tulsa Oilers play at home at the BOK Center Feb. 5-6, 25-27. The much-anticipated WWE Smackdown returns Feb. 4 at the Paycom Center, and you can stick around for the Professional Bull Riders, who will compete there on Feb. 11-12. More of an equine enthusiast? Ride over to OKC’s State Fair Park for the Prairie Classic Quarter Horse Show from Feb. 9-13.

returns on Feb. 26.

In OKC, visit the Civic Center Music Hall for married duo Amanda Miguel and Diego Verdaguer on Feb. 10.

For those with kiddos, Disney Princess: The Concert rolls into the Stride Bank Center in Enid on Feb. 1.

And at Choctaw Casino and Resort in Durant, you won’t want to miss two big names in country music: Little Big Town on Feb. 5 and Keith Urban on Feb. 26.

3 OKC THUNDER

GET LOUD Fans of live music have it made this month.

2

COMMUNITY FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL Feb. 4 Downtown Tulsa

Since 2007, the Tulsa Arts District has presented the community with rotating art displays as part of the First Friday Art Crawl. travelok.com

TULSA BOAT, SPORT AND

TRAVEL SHOW Through Feb. 6 Expo Square Be among the first to see 2022 model boats, RVs and thousands of other outdoor accessories, all under one roof, at the best prices of the year. tulsaboatshow.com

58TH ANNUAL DARRYL STARBIRD NATIONAL ROD AND CUSTOM CAR SHOW Feb. 18-20 Expo

Square For almost 60 years,

Hall Arias to enjoy include

Ellington’s Harlem; Powell’s The Cry of Jeremiah and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9. okcphil.org

SHEN YUN Feb. 12 Civic

Center Music Hall Through

the universal language of music and dance, Shen Yun weaves a wondrous tapestry of heavenly realms, ancient legends and modern heroic tales. okcciviccenter.com

LYRIC THEATRE PRESENTS: HEAD OVER HEELS Feb. 16-March

6 Lyric Theatre Journey alongside the royal family as they adventure to save their kingdom from extinction. lyrictheatreokc.com

AN EVENING WITH BRUCE DICKINSON Feb.

the Darryl Starbird National Rod and Custom Car Shows have been produced across the country by the legendary car customizer himself. star-

17 Civic Center Music Hall Bruce Dickinson is

SPLASH! Feb. 26 Oklahoma

com

unique event that brings together craft beers from area breweries, food by top local chefs and live entertainment. okaquarium.

OKC BALLET PRESENTS: MADE IN THE U.S.A. Feb.

birdcarshows.com

Aquarium Splash! is a

org

IN OKC

PERFORMANCES

JOJO SIWA Feb. 1 Paycom

considered one of the world’s most storied musicians. okcciviccenter.

18-20 Civic Center Music Hall Enjoy four ballets

created in the United States

by American choreographers. okcballet.org

OKC PHIL PRESENTS: THE MUSIC OF WHITNEY HOUSTON Feb. 25-26 Civic Center Music Hall Whitney Houston’s life

Center Dance star Jojo Siwa comes to the Paycom Center for one night only. paycom-

and career left a mark on the world. okcphil.org

OKC PHIL PRESENTS: AMERICAN GOLD Feb.

JOSHUA RAY WALKER Feb.

center.com

5 Civic Center Music

CONCERTS 2 Tower Theatre Upand-coming country star

Joshua Ray Walker visits OKC. towertheatreokc.com

AMANDA MIGUEL AND DIEGO VERDAGUER Feb. 10 Civic Center Music Hall Amanda Miguel and

Diego Verdaguer are not only a married couple, but also a team that has managed to overcome the obstacles that arise in work and life. okcciviccenter.com

THEORY OF A DEAD MAN Feb.

25 The Criterion See this band live at the Criterion. criterionokc.com

ART WESTERN WARES Feb.

11-May 1 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Through clothing,

furniture, tableware and more, Western Wares shows how designs with roots on the range came to occupy fashion runways.

nationalcowboymuseum.org

FRAMEWORK: EXPLORING THE ARTISTIC PROCESS

Through Feb. 27 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum There is

more to art than meets the eye. Behind every piece of art is a creative process.

nationalcowboymuseum.org

108TH ANNUAL SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS STUDENT EXHIBITION Through March 20 Fred Jones Jr.

Museum of Art, Norma For the first time, Fred Jones is bringing you the best in student art a little earlier in the year. ou.edu/fjjma

FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

61

BERNADETTE PETERS Feb. 14 McKnight

COMMUNITY

AROUND TOWN

The state’s ready to host a variety of occasions around town.

In Tulsa, you can support the Oklahoma Aquarium on Feb. 26 at Splash! – the organization’s annual philanthropy event.

Along with beautiful marine wildlife on display, patrons can enjoy craft beer, delicious bites and live entertainment. And at Expo Square, car lovers converge on Feb. 18-20 for the 58th annual Darryl Starbird National Rod and Custom Car Show.

In Norman, enjoy the 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk on Feb. 11. Artists, businesses and other organizations come together to transform the entire city into an artsy paradise. For fans of monster trucks, the Monster Jam roars into the Paycom Center on Feb. 19, replete with action-packed motor sports.

DARRYL STARBIRD NATIONAL

4

ROD AND CUSTOM CAR SHOW Stick around OKC for the International Dog Show, trotting into town Feb. 19-20 at State Fair Park.

For residents of Grove, visit the Grand Lake Renaissance Festival from Feb. 12-13 at 1702 Main St. There, you can “join villagers of 1540 in welcoming the ‘Triple Crown Queens’ to Queensferry, Scotland.” And at Stillwater’s McKnight Center for the Performing Arts, enjoy the National Geographic Live Speaker Series, which discusses Greenwood – A Century of Resilience on Feb. 24.

Center for the Performing Arts,

Stillwater Bernadette Peters is one of the great and enduring icons of Broadway musical theater, with a career that spans the stage, television and film. mcknightcenter.org

DAVIS-WALDORF PERFORMING ARTS SERIES PRESENTS: THE PEKING ACROBATS Feb. 17 USAO,

Chickasha The Peking

Acrobats will debut their meticulously crafted blend of both traditional and state-of-the-art Chinese acrobatics. usao.edu/ arts-and-culture

STOMP Feb. 18-19 McKnight

Center for the Performing Arts,

Stillwater The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. mck-

nightcenter.org

SANTA FE TRAIL Through May 8 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Using material

culture and art objects from the museum’s collection this exhibition will recognize the bicentennial of this most important National Heritage Trail. nationalcow-

boymuseum.org

MOTHER ROADS Through May 8 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Through pho-

tographs, rare book illustrations, maps and related ephemera, visitors will explore some of the country’s most famous thoroughfares. national-

cbowymuseum.org

PERCEPTION AND TECHNIQUE IN ABSTRACT ART Through

July 24 OKCMOA Percep-

tion and Technique in Abstract Art presents long-standing Museum highlights. okcmoa.com

SPORTS WWE SMACKDOWN Feb.

4 Paycom Center Drew

McIntyre competes against the WWE Day 1 winner of Brock Lesner vs. Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship. paycomcen-

ter.com

OKC BLUE BASKETBALL Feb. 7, 9, 16, 23,

28 Paycom Center Enjoy some basketball fun with the OKC Blue. paycomcenter.com

OKC THUNDER BASKETBALL Feb.

7, 9, 16, 24, 28 Paycom Center See Oklahoma’s NBA

team play regular season games. paycomcenter.com

PRAIRIE CLASSIC QUARTER HORSE SHOW Feb.

9-13 State Fair Park Handled

COMMUNITY FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK Feb. 4 Paseo Arts

for three high-octane events. paycomcenter.com

INTERNATIONAL DOG SHOW Feb. 19-20 State Fair

Park Canines of all breeds will compete at this exciting event. iabca.com

District Visitors can enjoy

art openings, wine tastings, live music and other activities. thepaseo.org

SEDGWICK STREET RODDERS WINTER SWAP MEET Feb. 4-5 State

THE STATE

was inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is a hilarious farce-meets-murder mystery. gaslighttheatre.org

GASLIGHT THEATRE PRESENTS: CLUE Feb. 11-19 Gaslight

THE CEMENT OPRY Feb.

PERFORMANCES

Theatre, Enid Based on the iconic

1985 Paramount movie which

12 410 N. Main, Cement The

Cement Opry is a monthly live variety show held in the Jesse James Ballroom. travelok.com

CONCERTS DISNEY PRINCESS: THE

CONCERT Feb. 1 Stride Bank Center, Enid Celebrate

the beloved music of Disney princesses during a special performance by an all-star quartet of Broadway and animated film icons. stridebankcenter.com

FILM AND CINEMA

Fair Park A variety of

gorgeous, vintage cars will be at your fingertips at this exciting swap meet. okcfairgrounds.com

BUCHANAN’S VINTAGE FLEA MARKET Feb. 5-6 State Fair Park The

Oklahoma City monthly market originated in 1980 and is the oldest and most respected antique and collectible market in the state. buchananeventco.

com/okc

2ND FRIDAY NORMAN ART WALK Feb. 11 Norman Arts

District Through a collaboration of artists, art organizations, businesses and the Norman Arts Council, the entire city of Norman becomes an arts district during the art walk. 2ndfridaynorman.com

THE MONTH OF ACTION Lots of adrenaline-pumping flicks come to theaters this month.

LIVE ON THE

PLAZA Feb. 11 Plaza District Plaza District

businesses open their doors open late to feature monthly visual artists, performing artists and live musicians. plazadistrict.org

52ND ANNUAL RV SHOW Feb. 17-20 State

Fair Park The 53rd Annual

by the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association, the Prairie Classic is a can’t-miss equine event. mane-events.com

Oklahoma City RV Super Show features hundreds of RVs on display under one roof at the Bennett Event Center. okctvshows.com

PROFESSIONAL BULL RIDERS Feb. 11-12 Paycom

MONSTER JAM Feb. 19 Paycom Center It’s time

Center Professional Bull Riders return to Oklahoma City for the Express Ranches Invitational, featuring the top

62

bull riders on the globe and rankest bucking bulls ever bred. paycomcenter.com

to fire up the engines again as the most action-packed motor sports experience roars back into Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

F

ebruary is here – the month of love!

Unfortunately, I don’t really have any romantic recommendations for you, but there are still some flicks on the horizon to check out, especially if you’re into comedy, action or mystery.

Searching for extreme physical violence mixed with bizarre comedy?

Look no further than Jackass Forever. In the fourth film of the series, veteran troublemakers Johnny Knoxville, SteveO, Wee Man and Chris Pontinus, among many others, return to cause grievous bodily harm to one another with hilarious outcomes. If the trailer is any indication, there will absolutely be a real bear

that attempts to eat fish and honey off of a chained up Jackass ... who harbors nothing but pure fear in his eyes. After multiple delays, it releases Feb. 4.

For fans of a whodunit mystery, Death on the Nile should cover all the bases.

A follow-up to the successful Murder on the Orient Express, Kenneth Branagh returns to the director’s

Photo courtesy Darryl Starbird

WHERE & WHEN | ENTERTAINMENT

MARKETPLACE 5 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant One of the biggest

bands in country music visits Durant. choctawcasinos.com

GARY ALLAN Feb.

19 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant See this crooner live in person. choctawcasinos.com

KEITH URBAN Feb. 26 Choctaw Casino and Resort, Durant Don’t

miss Australian superstar Keith Urban on tour. choctawcasinos.

com

SPORTS

fun. okstate.com

OU MEN’S BASKETBALL Feb.

9, 15, 26 Lloyd Noble Center See

the OU men’s basketball team take on a variety of foes during regular season games. soonersports.com

COMMUNITY

GRAND LAKE RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL Feb. 12-13 1702

Main St., Grove Join villagers

of 1540 in welcoming the “Triple Crown Queens” to Queensferry, Scotland, during the annual Grand Lake Renaissance Festival. wil-

liamsentertainment.org

KIWANIS KARNIVAL Feb.

4-5 Elk City Convention Center For two evenings each

winter, the Elk City Convention Center turns into an indoor carnival full of games. visitelkcity.com

18-19 Great Plains Museum, Lawton Come see hundreds

of unique quilts on display and admire the craftsmanship and dedication that is involved in quilting. wmquiltguild.com/

quilt-shows

win during regular season games. okstate.com

Trek in Keystone Ancient Forest offers magnificent views and an exciting course. travelok.com

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LIVE SPEAKER SERIES: GREENWOOD A CENTURY OF RESILIENCE Feb. 24 McKnight

OU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Feb. 5, 16,

EAGLE TOUR & LOON WATCH Feb. 5, 12, 19,

OSU MEN’S BASKETBALL Feb.

26 Lloyd Noble Center The

Sooners take on a variety of teams in February. soonersports.com

OSU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Feb. 9, 12,

23 Gallagher-Iba Arena Enjoy

regular season basketball

5 Keystone Ancient Forest, Sand Springs The Ancient 5K Trail

26 Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge and Tenkiller State Park, Vian Guests begin the tour

by watching eagles from the refuge’s webcam before taking off on the caravan tour in their own vehicle. travelok.com

Back In-Stock

WICHITA MOUNTAINS QUILT GUILD QUILT SHOW Feb.

ANCIENT TRAIL TREK Feb.

5, 12, 19, 21 Gallagher-Iba Arena The Cowboys play to

AGATE NIGHT LIGHTS

Center for the Performing

Arts, Stillwater The National Geographic Live Speaker Series brings premium storytelling and visually stunning imagery to the stage with first-hand accounts of science, adventure and exploration. mcknightcenter.org

Providing Transportation Solutions1/11/22 for Oklahomans for over 30 years.

24973 Richard Neel Home MP.indd 1

FOR MORE EVENTS IN TULSA, OKC AND AROUND THE STATE, HEAD TO OKMAG.COM. For a different helping of thrills and action, the big blockbuster Uncharted might be more your speed. Based on the series of video games of the same name, the film follows Nathan Drake (Tom Holland) as he tries to discover the greatest treasure never found ... as well as his long lost brother. Although Drake is older in the games, the film takes the prequel approach, showing him as a young and street-smart beginner while meeting Sully (Mark Wahlberg), his mentor and father figure, for the first time. It hits theaters on Feb. 18.

If you’re looking to wash the horrendous taste of The Matrix Resurrections out of your mouth (yes – it was very bad), check out The Animatrix. Released in 2003, the anthology contains nine animated shorts exploring the background and origin of the Matrix universe.

Varied and beautiful, they include action, intrigue and some stunning animation.

It’s currently streaming on all major platforms.

9:27 AM

2021

Photo courtesy Jurassic Quest

chair and the leading role again as Hercule Poirot, who is put against the clock to discover who murdered one of the passengers of S.S. Karnak.

With a colossal cast including Annette Bening, Russell Brand, Gal Godot and Armie Hammer (watch out, he might eat someone in the film!), there will certainly be no shortage of star power in this adaptation of one of Agatha Christie’s better known works.

Catch it on Feb. 11.

For your spooky date night fix, check out The Black Phone.

The film – oh…oh no. It’s pushed? We’re back to moving film release dates around, huh?

Well ... here’s a weird one that could also be a date night flick: titled Strawberry Mansion, the story is about a not-too-distant future where our dreams are recorded and taxed. A government man comes to visit an older woman to audit her dreams, and finds himself falling in love. The trailer seems to indicate a low budget indie film vibe, so prepare for some bizarre ideas and themes. It releases on Feb. 18.

Frank Buffalo Hyde, Buffalo Dancers Study, 2016, acrylic on canvas, Courtesy of Tansey Contemporary

LITTLE BIG TOWN Feb.

Moves of all types: Interstate • Local • Storage • Commercial

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104 N Gilcrease Museum Rd 918.585.9369 pawsitiveveterinarycare.us

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FEBRUARY 2022 | WWW.OKMAG.COM 8/4/21632:41 PM

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Casey Hentges

A

fter receiving her bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Oklahoma State University, Casey Hentges did commercial landscaping in Dallas.

There, she noticed that she enjoyed public discourse surrounding horticulture topics, and decided to return to school to get her master’s in public garden management from the University of Delaware. Hentges then got connected with the OSU Extension office in Canadian County, where she addressed consumer horticulture concerns and trained Master Gardeners, then later worked at Myriad Botanical Gardens.

About six years ago, Hentges accepted a position as an OSU State Extension Horticulture Specialist, with a primary responsibility of hosting and producing the Oklahoma Gardening television show. We caught up with Hentges and got her thoughts on ...

... her love of horticulture.

I was a very inquisitive child and loved being outside, and I knew I wanted to be in the field of horticulture at a very early age. My parents, who were both teachers, fostered my interest in plants. When I was in middle school, I didn’t like reading but enjoyed looking at my mom’s gardening magazines. My dad made a deal with me: if I learned the name of a plant and how to care for it, then he would buy the plant for me. After seeing flowering water plants growing in nearby ponds and streams, water garden plants became my main interest. In high school, this became my FFA project, which led to more FFA horticulture contests ... which then introduced me to possible careers within horticulture.

... gardening tips.

Start small! Regardless of what you are trying to grow – tomatoes, roses or basil - the number one thing you are trying to grow is your confidence in this new interest. Too often people have grand ideas, and then quickly get overwhelmed or may have some plants that don’t perform, and then just quit because they think they failed. Gardening is, in a sense, an experiment, and each season brings new variables – rainfall, temperatures, insects, diseases. If you approach it knowing that it won’t always be perfect, it is less discouraging. There is not a single gardener who hasn’t lost a plant because of something they did or didn’t do, or because of something out of their control like the weather.

All you can do is learn from it, move forward and enjoy the process.

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2022

Photo by Kane Kinion

ONLINE

TO READ MORE, VISIT OKMAG.COM/ CASEY_HENTGES

... her average day.

No two days are alike and that is part of what I love about my job. Some days in the summer are spent outside all day in the heat, either shooting segments or prepping for them, while other days may be spent inside writing and researching future shows. While the majority of our shows are filmed at the botanic garden at OSU, considering how diverse the climate is in Oklahoma I also enjoy traveling with the show to highlight different aspects of horticulture around the state. In the winter, our show production slows a bit, giving me a chance to plan out the next season and also conduct Master Gardener trainings.

... her favorite plant.

Oh, this is Sophie’s choice…. Just for pure beauty I have always loved delphiniums.

Unfortunately, we can’t grow them here but can grow a smaller but similar plant called larkspur.

... Oklahoma Gardening.

Oklahoma Gardening is a how-to garden show that is in its 48th season. I grew up watching it and never dreamed I would be hosting.

Gardening can be challenging, especially

in Oklahoma. Our show focuses on demonstrating how to do various gardening tasks, introduces new plants that are proven to do well in Oklahoma, and travels around the state to see beautiful garden and landscapes.

We also learn from other Oklahomans about gardening lessons they have learned. We provide the most accurate research-based information on everything from trees to turf grass and water gardens to watermelon.

... Master Gardener training.

Oklahoma Master Gardeners are a vital part of the University Extension’s ability to provide consumers with up-to-date, research-based information. A Master Gardener is someone who undergoes in-depth horticulture training coordinated by local Extension staff with the assistance of state specialists. After their training is completed, the participants engage with Oklahoma gardening enthusiasts in activities and services coordinated through local OSU Extension offices and centers. It is a popular volunteer activity that gives its participants a sense of community spirit, accomplishment and intellectual stimulation through collaboration, service and stewardship.

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