Cleveland County, OK December 2017

Cleveland County DECEMBER 2017

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

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Lifestyle Letter

Season's Greetings

DECEMBER 2017

W

ith all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I hope you’re taking time out to enjoy this special time of year.

Perhaps you’re dreading those trips to the mall, where you’ll battle for space with other stressed-out shoppers, all still searching for the ideal gifts for those on their shopping list. (Tip: peruse our first-ever Holiday Shopping Guide inside this issue for some great local gift ideas.) Or maybe you’ve been staying up late making candies, cookies or fudge for your child’s school party or appetizers for your or your spouse’s company get-together.

It’s important to take a “time out”—to enjoy the things that make this season so special.

Attend a holiday concert or performance, or one of the holiday-themed events planned by Pioneer Library System (related story inside). Invite friends over for a gift-wrapping session; make it fun by offering them wine or mulled spiced cider and other simple refreshments while seasonal music plays in the background. Schedule a classic Christmas movie-viewing night with your family. Take a walk in your neighborhood, park or favorite trail and observe nature in its winter glory, and maybe even attend an eagle watch at Lake Thunderbird.

It’s also hoped, of course, that you’ll take time out to look through this issue of Cleveland County Lifestyle. We’ve included several seasonally oriented pieces, including Financial Buzz, on ways to keep the holidays fruitful and enjoyable without breaking the piggy bank, and Culinary Creations, featuring quick, simple recipes for a seasonal fruit tart and brandy ice.

You’ll also read about a recent dinner hosted by this magazine and Benvenuti’s Ristorante and featuring an inspirational keynote address by University of Oklahoma head softball coach Patty Gasso honoring our inaugural cohort of Cleveland County Women of Influence. The 2017 honorees represent a broad cross-section of professions, from the arts and business to education and mental health care..

Also featured in this issue: • Artist’s Palette–featuring a veteran pottery artist who went from having a modest following to becoming an overnight sensation, thanks to the power of social media • Giving Back–focusing on the Norman Art Council, which since its founding in 1976 has served as the community’s face and voice of arts advocacy This holiday season, let’s all make a pledge to try to “live in the moment.” For most people, the fondest memories lie not with the gifts they received, but with the precious time spent together with beloved family and friends.

May the magic of the season fill you with wonder and joy (and perhaps even some peace).

PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | Jimmy.Darden@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Jerri Culpepper | Jerri.Culpepper@LifestylePubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Shawn Irie | Shawn.Irie@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies, Staci Elder Hensley, Mariann Lawson, Christian Potts CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Teresa Byrd, Ryan Lassiter, Amber Videa

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

| Sara Minor | Janeane Thompson

EDITORIAL MANAGER EDITORIAL

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Nicolette Martin

| Victoria Perry, Lindsey Howard

AD MANAGER AD COORDINATORS

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| Cyndi Harrington, Alicia Huff, Adella Wrisinger

| Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph, Emily Stout

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PUBLISHER SUPPORT

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EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

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Jerri Culpepper, Editor Jerri.Culpepper@LifestylePubs.com

ON THE COVER Baccarat, by Maison Fran-

cis Kurkdjian of Paris, is the best-selling perfume at Cayman’s Clothiers. It’s described as a

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

Proverbs 3:5-6

sweet, spicy fragrance and as a hypnotic blend of jasmine, cedar wood, almond and amber. Our first-ever Holiday Gift Guide offers some great ideas for almost everyone on your shopping list.

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEA STUDIOS 6

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

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Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Cleveland County’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

December 2017

Departments

22

18 5 Financial 'To-Do's'

10

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Financial Buzz

20

Culinary Creations

36

Artist’s Palette

38

City Scene

40

Giving Back

43

Realty Report

44

Lifestyle Calendar

50

Parting Thoughts

Keep Your Holiday Season Fruitful & Enjoyable

22 Paying Tribute to...

Our Inaugural 'Women of Influence'

26 2017 Holiday Shopping Guide

Shop Local for Unique Gifts, Great Finds

36 Amanda Wells

For This Norman Potter, Success Is ‘Sublime’

18

26

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Good Times

Mix on Main

Turnout was robust for the third annual Mix On Main, held Oct. 21 in Norman. Hosted by The Main District, the event features local businesses promoting the continued renaissance of one of Norman’s premier corridors. The event includes live music, food trucks, beer/wine gardens and outdoor family fun.

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

Amanda Clark, owner of The Clothing Bar

Kristen, Catherine and Ben Pierce

Jeremy and Kelsey Philo

John Miller, Melissa Diacon, Austin Miller

Republic Bank & Trust After Hours

On Nov. 17, Republic Bank & Trust hosted Business After Hours at its Downtown Norman Banking Center for Norman Chamber of Commerce members. Approximately 200 guests attended the event.

Andy Sherrer, Deidra Peters, Jeff Kimpel

Brandy Menzie, Cami Choate

Greg Bilbrey, Jay Nettles, Brittany Jenson, Kelley Eyler

John Richardson, DJ Nuzum, Philip Wong, Jimmy Darden Lainey Philips, Daren Wilson and Lindsey Mary Sallee Quartet Stewart, new development director at Able

Pioneer Library System Connect Download our app on your new device to read eBooks, send to Kindle, stream audiobooks, read magazines, renew items, place holds and more.

pioneerlibrarysystem.org December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

11

Good Times

Spike's Spooktacular Fall Fest

Hundreds of costumed families from across the region attended Spike’s Spooktacular Fall Fest, sponsored by Yelp OKC, Oct. 26 at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. They enjoyed an evening of spooky tunes, face-painting, costume contests, crafts with the museum’s education department and a museum-wide scavenger hunt.

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN UNIVERSITY THEATRE TO PERFORM FAIRY TALE OPERA ‘HANSEL AND GRETEL’ Engelbert Humperdinck’s fairy tale opera Hansel and Gretel will take the stage at the Reynolds Performing Arts Center on the University of Oklahoma Norman campus this holiday season.

Jonathan Shames conducts the sweeping score and William Ferrara takes the helm as stage director for the holiday production that opens at 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30. Additional performances are scheduled for 8 p.m. Dec. 1, 2 and at 3 p.m.

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Sunday, Dec. 3. This production will be performed in English and is suitable for the entire family.

The University Theatre production is brimming with storybook costumes designs by Ciara Smith and whimsical scenic design

by Elise Christensen.

A children’s choir with students from Alcott Middle School will participate in the production.

Advance purchase tickets are $20 for adult; $15 for senior adult, OU employee and military; and $10 for student, plus processing fee.

Tickets at the door are $30 for adult and $15 for student, cash or check only. Tickets also may be purchased online at theatre.ou.edu by calling 325.4101 or visiting the OU Fine Arts Box Office in the Catlett

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and a craft event for adults are among activities scheduled this month at the branch libraries of the Pioneer Library System serving Cleveland County.

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“The Tech-citement!” 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 27-29–Come to the library’s computer training center and check out new hands-on STEM activities.

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

NORMAN WEST

Star Wars: The Last Jedi Day, 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3–Get ready for the latest offering in the movie series with crafts and activities for all ages of Star Wars fans.

CONTINUED >

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Around Town

(CON TI N UED)

NOBLE

Genealogy 101: Getting Started, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 5–Get an introduction on the resources the library has to help with family history research.

MOORE

Cozy DIY for Adults, 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9–From making gift cards to felt ornaments to Mason jar gifts, this afternoon has multiple

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craft events for adults.

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Sewing for Teens, 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14–Sewing is not a lost art, and the library will give a beginner-level class for students in sixth through 12th grades.

INTEGRIS Community Hospital rendering

INTEGRIS BREAKS GROUND ON MICRO-HOSPITAL IN MOORE INTEGRIS broke ground Nov. 1 on the health care system’s first micro-hospital, which will be called INTEGRIS Community Hospital. It will be located at 3391 S. I-35 Service Road at the S.

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“We chose Moore as our first such location for a variety of reasons.

It is one of the fastest-growing, most progressive, most resilient communities in central Oklahoma,” said INTEGRIS President and Chief Executive Officer Bruce Lawrence.

Last October, INTEGRIS officials announced they would be working with Emerus to open small-scale, fully licensed inpatient hospital facilities in different quadrants of the metro, to bring high-quality care closer to home.

Each joint venture facility will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will be equipped to respond to almost any medical issue a patient may present with, including those that may be life-threatening or require complex, critical care.

Each will house between eight and 10 inpatient beds for observation and short-stay use, and include a similar number of emergency treatment and triage rooms, along with primary and specialty care physicians, diagnostic and other outpatient clinic services.

While the Nov. 1 groundbreaking was held at the future Moore location, it was meant to signify and celebrate all four of the community hospitals INTEGRIS plans to build in central Oklahoma. The Moore facility is scheduled to open in early 2019, and the remaining locations should be up and running by the end of that year. Additional

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

INTEGRIS micro-hospitals could be on the horizon in the future.

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

17

Financial Buzz ARTICLE MARIANN LAWSON

FINANCIAL 'TO-DO'S' KEEP YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON FRUITFUL & ENJOYABLE

T

he holiday season can be a really big proj-

weekday for your shopping trip. Remember to head out

ect at our house. Menu planning, shopping,

early, and dress for success. Think comfort.

school programs … it can be a whirlwind of

activity. I have found that some proactive planning is

4. SHOP LOCAL–FIRST. Shop the local stores that make

the key to my preparations and getting all those important

Cleveland County what it is. Often, it is in these stores

things accomplished. It also helps me stay fiscally respon-

that you find the treasures that become the memorable

sible and keeps my budget realistic.

gifts, the gifts that will be used or cherished for years to

Below is a checklist of five financial “To-Do’s” that I find helpful in keeping the season both fruitful and enjoyable.

FIVE BEST FINANCIAL PRACTICES HOLIDAY SHOPPING 1. SET A REALISTIC BUDGET. Have you set a reasonable

budget? It’s never too late. Ask yourself: How much can

come. And remember, shopping locally helps provide jobs and increase local tax revenue that in turn provides for stronger and safer communities. Studies show that for every dollar spent at a locally owned business, 68 percent stays in the local economy. So, shop your neighbors; your community will thank you for it.

I really afford? You may review your current budget and determine how much you spend per month on extras such

5. OPEN A DESIGNATED SAVINGS ACCOUNT. If planning

as dining out, clothes or that cup of coffee. Consider real-

for the holidays continually creeps up on you, now is the

locating much of your monthly discretionary budget items,

time to think about next year. Start setting aside money for

at least in December, to your shopping budget.

your expenses on Jan. 1 and establish a separate savings account specifically for 2018. Set up an automatic transfer

2. SCRUB YOUR GIFT LIST. Who is at the top of your list?

each month from your checking account to your savings

It’s most likely your immediate family members. Write down

account. Doing this every year will allow you to see how

each name, a spending limit for each and a gift idea. Go to the

much you’ve allocated for food, gifts and other celebration

next tier: probably close friends and relatives. Do the same

planning. It’s also a good preventative from accidentally

thing: write down their names, but allocate smaller purchases

using that money on other things.

per person. Next might come colleagues, teachers, neighbors—anyone you might want to do something for during the

My hope is that the tips outlined above will help you enjoy

season. Look at those and see who you could possibly make

the season, give the perfect gifts–those that will be a joy for

that awesome fudge recipe for instead of buying a gift. Keep

others and your budget, and begin a plan for years to come.

writing until you have accounted for everyone important to you. After you set giving guidelines, stick to them.

Mariann Lawson is senior 3. DESIGNATE A SOLO SHOPPING DAY. Plan one day

marketing and

Shopping with friends is fun, but when you shop alone,

community relations for

you are a well-oiled shopping machine—you can make

Republic Bank & Trust.

it through your gift list much easier and faster. Consider avoiding retail crowds on the weekends by selecting a

18

vice president and director of

to knock out the majority of your buying list—alone.

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

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December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

19

Culinary Creations

From Benvenuti's Ristorante

decorated, sending out holiday cards and wrapping presents. So ... Chef Compagni is sharing with our readers two recipes, one for a seasonal fruit tart and another for brandy ice, both of which are sure to please those with the most discerning tastes, but without the detailed prep work involved with many other recipes.

Cheers!

EASY-TO-MAKE SEASONAL FRUIT TART AND BRANDY ICE PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN LASSITER OF DEFINING IMAGE The holidays are upon us, and for many, that means precious time spent in the kitchen, preparing meals, desserts and cocktails for sitdown dinners, parties large and small, and of course, drop-in guests.

The good folk at Benvenuti's Ristorante know that the holidays also mean last-minute, frantic outings to find just the right gifts for family, friends, co-workers and others, as well as other seasonal activities such as purchasing the Christmas tree and getting it

pastry flour butter

oranges

eggs

sugar 20

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

blueberries

Benvenuti’s Seasonal Fruit Tart (Makes 1 10” Tart) SHORT DOUGH TART SHELL

1/2 lb. unsalted butter 3 oz. sugar 1/4 tsp. salt 1 egg 12 oz. pastry flour Preheat oven to 350° for non-convection; 400° for convection.

Using paddle attachment, mix the butter, sugar and salt at low

Brandy, creme de cacao, vanilla gelato, nutmeg, cinnamon stick

speed until smooth and evenly blended. Add the eggs and mix just until absorbed. Add the flour. Mix just until evenly blended. Wrap dough ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours. Remove from plastic wrap and roll out into sheet slightly larger than the diameter of the tart pan. Gently place over tart pan and press the dough into the sides of the pan and trim excess dough from the top. Puncture dough on bottom of pan evenly with fork to prevent bubbling.

Place in oven and bake for 10 minutes. Rotate 180° and bake for another 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Let cool completely before adding pastry cream.

PASTRY CREAM

2 qt. milk 1 lb. sugar 8 egg yolks 4 whole eggs 10 oz. corn starch 5 oz. butter 1 tbsp. vanilla Boil the milk with the sugar. Whisk the whole eggs, egg yolks and cornstarch together. Slowly temper in the milk and continue stirring.

Continue cooking and stirring until the starch taste is gone (approximately 7 to 10 minutes of stirring). Remove from heat and add butter and stir until melted.

Cool over an ice bath. Once cool, pour into tart shell. Cover in seasonal fruit (suggestions: orange and blueberries) and glaze with melted apricot jelly using a pastry brush.

Benvenuti’s Brandy Ice 1 ½ oz. brandy ½ oz. crème de cacao ½ cup ice 2 scoops vanilla gelato Blend until smooth. Garnish with ground nutmeg and cinnamon stick (optional).

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

21

PAYING TRIBUTE TO...

OUR INAUGURAL 'WOMEN OF INFLUENCE' ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN LASSITER OF DEFINING IMAGE

ABOVE: From left: Krystyn Richardson, BOLD Multimedia; Erinn Gavaghan, Norman Arts Council; Elaine Lyons, South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce; Cassie Gilman, Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma; Brenda Wheelock, Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence; OU Head Football Coach Patty Gasso; Summer Wesley, community advocate/founder, Live Indigenous OK; Agi Lurtz, OMS Technologies Inc./entrepreneur; Michelle McNear, Moore Public Schools; Chris Olsen, Central Oklahoma Community Mental Health Center; CCL publisher Jimmy Darden. Not pictured: Karen Holp, formerly with KGOU; Janie Milum, Moore Public Schools; and Cindy Simon Rosenthal, director, OU Carl Albert Congressional and Research and Studies Center and former Norman mayor.

22

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

THE QUESTION ISN’T WHO’S GOING TO LET ME; IT’S WHO IS GOING TO STOP ME.”– AYN RAND In February, we featured in this magazine our inaugural cohort of Cleveland County Women of Influence. The 12 women represent the arts, business, education, nonprofits, mental health care, the media, civic affairs and beyond.

In addition to serving as leaders in their respective professions, the honorees showed a remarkable commitment to giving back to their community. Most of the women serve on multiple boards and councils with missions ranging from feeding the hungry to training future leaders. Many serve as mentors as well.

One of the questions posed by Cleveland County Lifestyle publisher Jimmy Darden and I as we were discussing launching this effort was, “What do we mean by ‘influential’”? After some discussion, we agreed the term implies peers’ perception of their effectiveness as leaders in their profession (determined through nomination letters) and their involvement in the larger community (as shown on their resumes).

One common thread we found woven throughout the nomination letters and resumes was a sense of determination (much like that voiced by novelist Ayn Rand in the accompanying quote), to not only succeed in their professions, but to help others succeed as well. So, going forward, those are the qualities we will be looking for going forward, with the help of the 2017 Women of Influence honorees, as we have decided to make this recognition an annual endeavor.

Our 2017 Cleveland County Women of Influence honorees

become a coach and listed some of the qualities that make

were feted during a reception and dinner Oct. 17 at Benvenuti’s

up a “woman of influence.” She graciously stayed afterward

Ristorante, a locally owned and operated fine-dining establish-

for photos with the honorees and to sign posters of the OU

ment. Nine of the 12 recipients, along with spouses and their

women’s softball team.

nominators, attended the elegant reception and dinner, hosted

by Benvenuti’s general manager Tarasina Compagni.

In his introduction for Gasso, Darden spoke about how his mother, who was involved in numerous community service

Our sincerest compliments to Tarasina, who artistically and

activities, also was a major inspiration in his life, and memorial-

beautifully decorated the tables with an autumn theme com-

ized Linda Irie, the magazine’s lovely and talented photographer

plete with gold ribbon and gourds. Attendees were treated to

who tragically lost her life, along with two granddaughters, in an

wine and a choice of four delectable entrees, plus dessert.

accident on the Turner Turnpike earlier this year.

University of Oklahoma head softball coach Patty Gasso

Darden also announced that Lewis Jewelers has graciously

delivered the keynote address. In her inspiring talk, she cred-

agreed to create a sterling silver pendant for this year’s and

ited her mother with inspiring her to pursue her dreams to

future Women of Influence honorees.

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

23

H

ampton O

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WWW.HAMPTONHOMESOK.COM or

CALL FRED THOMAS IV AT 405-409-5430

S

2017 Holiday

Shopping Guide SHOP LOCAL FOR UNIQUE GIFTS, GREAT FINDS ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

T

his holiday season, say goodbye to big-box-store gift certificates. Forget those boring old men’s ties. Instead, keep your dollars local and purchase thoughtful, personalized gifts for your family and friends that show you really care and that are sure to be enjoyed and cherished. We've included gift ideas to fit even the most discerning person on your shopping list in this, our first-ever Holiday Shopping Guide.

And if you still need to add some Yule-time decorative touches to your home, check out the Wonder Wreaths by

Shelley Facebook page, featuring beautiful wreaths created by local artist Shelley Ogle. The wreaths also make an awesome Christmas present.

For details and pricing, see the directory on the last two pages of this guide.

26

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

You'll discover unique, artisan-quality gifts, such as these elegant horsehair bowls and vases by Wewoka artist Paul Pfrehm, at the Firehouse Art Center's Christmas Gallery.

TinyMite's Photography

Celebrate the many aspects of a woman that make her the ONE you cannot imagine your life without with a ring or rings from Lewis Jewelers’ Forevermark collection.

At Oliveto Italian Bistro, neighborhood dining meets Italian bistro. Tuscany meets hometown. And friends meet friends for artisan-inspired cuisine. This year, give a gift that's sure to please: a gift certificate from Oliveto.

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

27

SHOPPING GUIDE (CON TI N U ED)

Give the gift of health this holiday season by signing up a family member or friend for a membership at Orangetheory Fitness Moore. OTF offers one-ofa-kind, group personal training workouts.

For the wine aficionado, Moore Liquors suggests an ideal gift: the 2014 Opus One, which exudes subtle aromas of fragrant florals, fresh garden herbs and forest floor that give way to a concentrated blend of red cherry, blackberry and black currant.

Baccarat, by Maison Francis Kurkdjian of Paris, is the bestselling perfume at Cayman’s Clothiers, It's described as a sweet, spicy fragrance and as a hypnotic blend of jasmine, cedar wood, almond and amber.

Photography Amber Videa of Videa Studios

28

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

This set of three rice bowls, available in Excavations, the gift shop of the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, features adorable owls— a Japanese symbol of luck and good fortune.

Photography Amber Videa of Videa Studios

Celebrate the joy of a lasting love and symbolize the experience with a breathtaking 2-stone diamond ring she will cherish this Christmas and every day after.

The "Twogether ring" is available at Huntington Fine Jewelers.

Sometimes gift cards offer the greatest flexibility while still showing that thought was used in their selection. Benvenuti's is offering a $20 bonus gift card for each $100 in gift card purchases through the holidays!

Truly a tasteful gift!

These striking Frank Lloyd Wright Nakoma (female) and Nakomis (male) sculptures are available at Muse, the gift shop of the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art.

For the serious beer connoisseurs on your list, Royal Bavaria is offering their 64oz glass and 68-oz stainless growlers and a selection of beautiful imported German beer steins, along with a gift certificate for the handcrafted beer to go inside them.

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

29

SHOPPING GUIDE (CON TI N U ED)

Give the gift of the latest in LUXURY hair care from Salon Audace. (Model’s makeup by Merlyn at Aura Spa) Photography Amber Videa of Videa Studios

30

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

For that special dog or cat on your list, Boyer Veterinarian Clinic is offering a special holiday package that includes a wellness check-up, collar, leash (for dogs), shampoo, flea and tick prevention, wellness supplements and food.

A thoughtful gift that's sure to please and elevate the senses, JD Home’s illuminating candles are developed from a unique combination of fully refined paraffin and soy.

Photography Ryan Lassiter of Defining Image

Gina Mitchell at Mitchell's Jewelry models one of her favorite necklaces: a four-strand beaded pyrite necklace with 22-karat yellow gold plating

by NEST Jewelry.

Photography Amber Videa of Videa Studios

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

31

SHOPPING GUIDE (CON TI N U ED)

2017 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE DIRECTORY BENVENUTI’S RISTORANTE

HUNTINGTON FINE JEWELERS

105 W. MAIN ST., NORMAN 310.5271

10633 S. WESTERN, OKLAHOMA CITY 692.4300

Through the holidays, Benvenuti's—known far and wide for its artful, un-

Celebrate the joy of a lasting love and symbolize the experience with a

derstated dining—is offering a $20 bonus gift card for each $100 in gift card

breathtaking two-stone diamond ring she will cherish this Christmas and

purchases! Give them an evening to remember! Through the vision of Chef

every day after, available at Huntington Fine Jewelers. Huntington Fine

Compagni, Benvenuti's offers old-world Italian with a new-world twist.

Jewelers has been specializing in creating special moments and lifetime

Gift cards may be requested for amounts from $20 and up.

BOYER VETERINARY CLINIC 13500 S. WESTERN AVE., OKLAHOMA CITY 794.8504 Boyer Veterinary Clinic, whose tagline is “Small Town Feel in the Big City,”

memories for their clients for over 30 years.

Starting at $299

JD HOME MULTIPLE LOCATIONS AND ONLINE (JDHOME.CO/) SALES@JDHOME.CO; 595.9193

put together this special package for our readers whose holiday “nice” list in-

JD Home’s illuminating candles are developed from a unique combination of ful-

cludes pampered pooches and/or kitties; package includes a wellness check-

ly refined paraffin and soy, and are blended with maximum fragrance loads, greatly

up, flea and tick prevention, food, and more.

surpassing industry standards of scent concentration. JD Home’s award-winning

Pampered pet package valued at $300

CAYMAN’S CLOTHIERS 2001 W. MAIN ST., NORMAN 360.3969 Baccarat, by Maison Francis Kurkdjian of Paris, is the best-selling perfume

candles transfer scents into visions of life at its best to elevate your senses.

Mix and match your own candles as desired. Crate and candles as depicted $360.

LEWIS JEWELERS 2705 S. I-35 SERVICE ROAD, MOORE 703.4644

at Cayman’s Clothiers, a lifestyle store that carries men’s and women’s cloth-

Celebrate the many aspects of a woman that make her the ONE you cannot

ing and accessories, designer jewelry, cosmetics and home décor. Baccarat

imagine your life without with a ring or rings from Lewis Jewelers’ Forevermark

is described as a sweet, spicy fragrance and as a hypnotic blend of jasmine,

collection. Forevermark diamonds represents the top 1 percent of all the dia-

cedar wood, almond and amber.

monds in the room, hence bearing the identity of the Forevermark trademark

2.4 oz. Baccarat perfume $300

and a unique identification number.

The rings pictured represent a series of rings referred to as the "Tribute col-

FIREHOUSE ART CENTER

lection" and are sold individually. Prices begin at $798.

444 S. FLOOD AVE., NORMAN 329.4523

MITCHELL’S JEWELRY

You can’t go wrong with a gift of original art. The FAC Christmas Gallery offers a large selection of artwork crafted by local and state artists, including

2201 WEST MAIN ST., NORMAN 360.2515

the horsehair pottery by Wewoka artist Paul Pfrehm featured inside. Other

Mitchell’s Jewelry, a family-owned store that has been providing fine jewelry,

selections include glass ornaments, wood boxes and bowls, and jewelry. The

custom design and quality repair work to its customers since 1981, offers this

Firehouse Art Center, a nonprofit 501(c) (3) corporation, was founded in 1970

four-strand beaded pyrite necklace with 22-karat yellow gold plating by NEST

as a community arts center, operating out of a vacated, city-owned building,

Jewelry as the ideal gift for that special woman on your shopping list.

which previously served as a fire station.

Paul Pfrehm’s horsehair pottery sells for between $70 and $200.

FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART – MUSE GIFT SHOP 555 ELM AVE., NORMAN 325.3272

17” pyrite necklace with 3" extender (handmade in the USA) is being offered for the special price of $300 through Christmas (price the rest of the year is $350).

MOORE LIQUOR 914 SW 4TH ST., MOORE 735.5555 The 2014 Opus One. Fine-grained tannins offer a velvety texture and com-

For those who already seem to “have it all” or simply love fine art, these

plex structure that builds to a long, vibrantly fresh finish with a touch of mocha.

Frank Lloyd Wright Nakoma (female) and Nakomis (male) sculptures, avail-

Enjoyable now, the wine will delight for years to come. Blend: 80% Cabernet

able at Muse, the gift shop in the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on the

Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 2% Malbec.

University of Oklahoma campus, may be the ideal gift. Muse offers a wide

2014 Opus One $313 per bottle, or $1,700 for a case of 6

range of unique and beautiful gift ideas, including handcrafted pottery, Pendleton wool blanket robes and assorted items inspired by Tulsa modern

OLIVETO ITALIAN BISTRO

artist Olinka Hrdy, which are exclusive to the museum.

1301 S. I-35 ROAD, MOORE 735.5553

Frank Lloyd Wright Nakoma sculptures 250/pair

Meet. Eat. Unwind. At Oliveto, neighborhood dining meets Italian bistro.

Tuscany meets hometown. And friends meet friends for artisan-inspired cuisine. This year, give a gift that is sure to please: a gift certificate from Oliveto.

32

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

Gift cards may be requested for amounts from $20 and up.

ORANGETHEORY FITNESS MOORE 825 SW 19TH ST., MOORE 703.5259 Give the gift of health in 2018 to that special person on your holiday list with a membership to Orangetheory Fitness Moore. OTF offers one-

NOT ALL LENDERS ARE CREATED EQUAL...

of-a-kind, group personal training workouts that lead to more energy, visible toning and extra calorie burn for up to 36 hours. Backed by the science of Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption, Orangetheory’s heart rate-monitored training is designed to maintain a target zone that stimulates metabolism and increases energy (called the “afterburn”).

Cost varies according to membership package selected.

ROYAL BAVARIA 3401 S. SOONER ROAD, MOORE 799.7666 For the serious beer connoisseurs on your list, Royal Bavaria is offering both their 64-oz glass and 68-oz stainless growlers, as well as a selection of beautiful imported German beer steins. Also available is a special gift card good for a half-gallon of any of their handcrafted beers. The lucky recipient/s will be certain to say “danka.”

Glass growlers $7; stainless growlers, $20; imported German beer steins, $59.99. (If you want to be truly generous, purchase the $13 gift card for a half-gallon of beer, and place it inside the growler or beer stein.) Beer

405.799.LEND

stein pictured is for illustrative purposes only.

1700 S. Broadway · Suite H Moore, OK 73160

SALON AUDACE

www.LincolnOK.com

3750 W MAIN ST., # 5C, NORMAN 234.0456

NMLS #398026

A great gift for the man or woman on your gift list with great locks.

This gift set includes one shampoo, one conditioner and two styling products. Created by award-winning stylist Nathan Andrew, Salon AUDACE spotlights continued education (for its stylists and clients alike) and prestige products, enabling a best-in-class service experi-

The Sooner Theatre

Theatre • Concerts • Classes

ence that’s second to none.

Salon hair care package exclusively priced at $130.

SAM NOBLE OKLAHOMA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY – EXCAVATIONS GIFT SHOP 2401 CHAUTAUQUA AVE., NORMAN 325.4712 This set of three rice bowls features adorable owls—a Japanese symbol of luck and good fortune. Made by Jewel Japan, a family-owned business specializing in ceramics, these 4.75”-diameter bowls are great for snacks, rice, ice cream and even soaps and candles. Excavations’ many offerings include natural history-themed gifts from around the world, from Native American art and pottery to beautiful fossils.

Owls rice bowl set: $25

WONDER WREATHS BY SHELLEY Shelley Ogle creates wreaths. But not just any wreath. Hers are truly works of art. The local artist takes custom orders for wreaths

Dec. 8-10 & 15-17, 2017

celebrating any occasion, including other holidays, graduation and birth announcements. She can even make wreaths for your favorite sports team. Look her up on Facebook; just do a search for Wonder Wreaths by Shelley to see samples and for more information.

Wreaths vary from 18” to 20” across and from $65 to $85. The 20” wreath depicted on page 26 is $65.

www.soonertheatre.com

101 E Main St. • Downtown Norman • (405) 321-9600 December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

33

34

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

Private

Exec ut iv e

O f f i c e s fo r

le ase Price: $350.00 PER MONTH CONFERENCE ROOM HIGH-SPEED WIFI AVAILABLE PRIVATE PHONE LINES KITCHEN

Contact Loren Coburn KEVO PROPERTIES I-35 & INDIAN HILLS RD.

405-409-5834

Artist’s Palette Photography Catie Knight Photography Catie Knight

Amanda Wells FOR THIS NORMAN POTTER, SUCCESS IS ‘SUBLIME’

36

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

ARTICLE STACI ELDER HENSLEY

W

hen Amanda Wells first began creating pottery some 20 years ago, she had no idea that a then-unknown phenomenon called

social media would make her an “overnight” sensation.

That’s just what happened in February of 2017, however, when a photo of her unique, hand-crafted mugs landed on the front page of Instagram. Actor Wil Wheaton (of Star Trek fame) shared her work.

Then came profiles by Martha Stewart, House Beautiful and the popular Facebook page Bored Panda. The impact on her business, Sublime Pottery, has been life-changing.

“I don’t know how I wound up on the first page of Instagram, but within a three-week period I went from 300 hard-earned followers to over 10,000,” Wells said. Since then, the orders continue to flood in, and her customers now stretch across the globe–from Europe to Australia to Singapore and beyond.

No two pieces of Wells’ pottery are exactly alike, but all make a strong statement, with striking colors and clean lines. She focuses primarily on

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY BY

mugs, due to their practicality and the satisfaction she gets from creating something that is enduring and often highly personal to the user.

“As a creative person, I like to make things people can use,” she said.

“When I drink coffee from my mug, it’s a time that’s very grounding for me personally. It helps me stay centered, and it’s also when I hatch ideas and dream dreams. That experience is what I hope my work is passing along.

“Pottery is one of the only artistic mediums that lasts; we are still digging up pottery from ancient times,” she added. “I like to think that my work may be around long after I’m gone.”

Along with her signature mugs, Wells creates smaller items, includ-

CALL/EMAIL TO BOOK A WEDDING BEFORE JAN. 1 2018 AND RECEIVE A FREE ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SESSION! VIDEASTUDIOS@GMAIL.COM 405-788-8083 VIDEA STUDIOS ON FACEBOOK

ing espresso cups, shot glasses, incense holders, ring cones and small “treasure dishes,” which can be used to hold just about anything.

Wells said she has always been interested in art, but entered college with the intention of becoming a painter. Instead, she “fell madly and instantly in love” with pottery and never looked back. To earn a living, she worked a day job with a mural painting group for 12 years and pursued a few other interests. Pottery remained her first love, however, and she began focusing on it full time in December of 2015. She also maintains a strong presence locally and is an active participant in Norman’s downtown Art Walks.

With an eye to expanding her business, Wells joined a seller’s group called Flourish, which maintains a strong presence on Facebook and other sites. From them she learned the ins and outs of social media marketing. Then came Instagram and the resulting jackpot. With orders continuing to flood in, she has since acquired two assistants to help manage the growing enterprise. She restocks her site regularly and typically sells out within a couple of hours.

Most of Wells’ designs remain consistent, but “I try to experiment with at least one piece every kiln load,” she said. “I also sometimes post prototypes, and I get good feedback from about 100 collectors.

“ Creativity is not about any artistic medium; it’s a state of mind,” she added.

“Twenty years of paying my dues, and I feel like I’m finally living the artist’s dream!”

December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

37

City Scene

Q

uestion: What do penguins, golden anniversaries, holiday music, Santa and thousands of

books have in common?

Answer: They’ll all be part of the scene in the home-

town libraries of the Pioneer Library System this month for annual holiday celebrations in multiple area communities.

It’s a special year at the Moore Public Library, which is marking 50 years for the library in its location at 225 S. Howard Ave. A seasonal favorite in those 50 years has been the library’s Holiday Gala, set for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 1. The event features photos with Santa, crafts, activities for the whole family and a visit from the library system’s Maker Mobile. Special refreshments from Raisin’ Canes and Platt College will top off the evening.

Norman Public Library Central’s annual Holiday Open House and Holiday Sing-Along is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1. This year’s theme is “A Cool Yule” and decorations around the library will feature penguins in many shapes and sizes. Activities will include music, crafts for children and adults, refreshments, and a green screen photo opportunity. Those in attendance will take home a commemorative songbook that includes holiday activities and book lists.

Music is a big part of the December schedule at Norman Public Library West, 300 Norman Center Court, which will present multiple musical offerings to celebrate the holiday season. At 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, the MG Quartet presents holiday favorites with a jazz music style. The OU School of Music brings Sunday Serenades at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10.

St. Stephen’s United Methodist Church brings its handbell choirs for a 6:30 p.m. performance Saturday,

Holiday HAPPENINGS

Dec. 16. And at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, the Temple B’Nai Israel Youth Choir returns for another year of Hanukkah tunes in the midst of the holiday.

The Noble Public Library’s annual Holiday Gala, from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7, includes a return visit from Santa as part of a variety of activities and performances for all ages.

The library’s collection also continues to grow and develop, with new items added almost daily.

It features about 720,000 items in print, DVD and downloadable eBooks and audiobooks. Also, library card holders have access to about 60 online databases for topics ranging from genealogy to home-

LIBRARIES RING IN THE SEASON WITH DECEMBER EVENTS ARTICLE CHRISTIAN POTTS

work help to small business resources.

Find out more about the library by visiting any of the 11 branches in Cleveland, McClain or Pottawatomie counties, going online to pioneerlibrarysystem.org, or through the Pioneer Library System Connect App, available through a free download via the App Store for iPhone or Google Play for Android.

38

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

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any Zerona Package

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405-364-8501 709 26th Ave NW, Norman, OK 73069 December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

39

Giving Back ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES

Norman Arts Council THE FACE AND VOICE OF ARTS ADVOCACY

W

hen you think of the holiday season, what comes to mind?

HOW HAS YOUR ORGANIZATION GROWN?

Do you have visions of sugarplums dancing in your head? Or

2008–NAC creates the Norman Music Festival, a

how about a beautiful rendition of “White Christmas” playing while

multi-genre music festival that has grown into a three-

you browse a local gallery opening? What would the holidays be

day event featuring over 300 bands from across the

without the arts? The Norman Arts Council makes sure your holiday

country each year. In 2012, the NMF became its own

season is filled with one-of-a-kind sounds, gifts and cheer.

501C3: Norman Music Alliance.

I spoke with Erinn Gavaghan, executive director of NAC, about

2009–NAC and the City of Norman creates the

the tremendous impact the arts have on our community year-round,

Norman Public Arts Board, with the mission to create

how to get involved and how to support their cause.

exciting, appealing and harmonious public spaces by integrating art into the public place. PAB currently over-

WHAT IS YOUR MISSION?

sees the care of a public art collection of over 130 works.

The Norman Arts Council shall enrich the Norman community

NAC also begins the 2nd Friday Art Walk, a monthly,

by stimulating artistic, cultural and economic growth through the

city-wide celebration of art and a collaboration between

support and promotion of the arts.

artists, arts organizations and businesses.

2011–NAC moves its headquarters to MAINSITE

WHEN WERE YOU FOUNDED AND

Contemporary Art Gallery on Main Street and takes

WHAT ARE SOME DETAILS OF YOUR ORGANIZATION?

over the programming of the gallery, creating a com-

NAC was founded in 1976. At its inception, it became the face

munity arts destination.

and voice of arts advocacy. Since then, the NAC has continued to uphold its mission through a variety of programs and initiatives.

In 1981, the NAC, along with the Chamber of Commerce and other civic leaders, campaigned for the successful passage of the

2015–NAC launches Cultural Connections, an internationally recognized series that promotes the exchange of ideas, art and culture, opening world-wide dialogue between the City of Norman and our Sister Cities around the world.

Norman Transient Guest Room Tax. Each year, the NAC uses the

2016–NAC designates The Walker Arts District in

arts portion to sponsor festivals, programs, workshops and arts

Downtown Norman in memory of longtime NAC board

education through its grants program.

member and arts advocate Larry Walker.

40

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR PROGRAMS?

ARTS GRANTS—Since the creation of the Hotel Motel tax fund by the City of Norman in 1982, the NAC has administered over

You are cordially invited to

$2 million in grants to eligible organizations.

UNDERCOVER ARTIST SERIES—a series of art workshops celebrating the creativity of amateurs and practiced artists, alike CULTURAL CONNECTIONS—a program to further the bonds between Norman and its Sister Cities across the globe by bringing visiting artists from abroad to share their heritage with us through their art while sending off Norman artists to further our city's history internationally 2ND FRIDAY ART WALKS—a monthly celebration of art and creativity in the Walker Arts District MAINSITE Contemporary Art—hosts numerous exhibitions, events, workshops, performances and concerts (also available as a

Sam Noble Museum Saturday, December 9 at 6 p.m.

venue for event rentals!)

ARTS EDUCATION—provides support for Norman students in grades K-8 to attend arts education programs with an established arts organization or educator WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS?

December is BIG for the arts! December’s 2nd Friday Art Walk will be on Friday, Dec. 8, AND Saturday, Dec. 9! That’s right–two nights of Art Walk. Join us Saturday night on Main Street to watch the Annual Holiday Parade, happening at night for the first time!

WHO DO YOU PARTNER WITH IN THE COMMUNITY?

We regularly partner with the arts organizations in the community on many, many projects. Other partners include the Downtowners Association, Norman Economic Development Coalition, Visit Norman, Norman Chamber of Commerce, University of Oklahoma School of Visual Arts and the National Weather Center.

featuring

Leslie Morgan Steiner author of Crazy Love In support of the

WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE?

FUNDING! Even though we receive 25 percent of the Hotel Funds in Norman, we still have to raise about 65 percent of our annual budget for administration and the programs we run—that is about $250,000 annually!

WHAT CAN PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY DO TO HELP YOUR ORGANIZATION?

Support the NAC with an annual gift. Gifts can be made on our website at www.normanarts.org.

NAC Contact Info: 360.1162 | erinn@normanarts.org

Tickets available for $75 wrcnormanok.org/wrc-gala/ Sponsorships available kyla@wrcweb.net or (405) 364-9424 Event Sponsors

www.normanarts.org | www.mainsite-art.com www.2ndfridaynorman.com FB - @normanarts @normanpublicarts @2ndfridaynorman @mainsiteart December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

41

TRADITION INNOVATION SATISFACTION

QUALITY

VISIT OUR FURNISHED SHOWCASE HOME OPEN DAILY 1-6 AND WEEKENDS 2-5 AT 3001 LOCHINVER DRIVE OR CALL APRIL AT (405)292-5225. | MUIRFIELDHOMES.COM

Realty Report

Cleveland County Realty Report

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

Fountain View Sec 1

$825,000

$809,320

98%

0

4

4.1

Carrington Lakes

$749,990

$730,000

97%

136

4

4.1

Brookhaven

$669,500

$670,000

100%

43

4

3.1

Southern Preserve

$559,900

$550,000

98%

104

4

4

The Willows

$491,500

$483,423

98%

56

4

3.1

Rio de Bella

$461,200

$457,500

99%

41

4

3.1

Rockport

$415,000

$412,000

99%

101

3

2.1

Cascata Lakes

$423,900

$408,500

96%

124

4

3.1

Hallbrook

$399,900

$390,000

97%

16

4

3.1

Arbor Meadows

$381,898

$381,898

100%

0

5

3.1

Timbers Blackstone

$379,899

$370,000

97%

117

3

2.1

Bookhaven

$374,900

$360,000

96%

18

4

3

Pepperwell Oaks

$355,000

$355,000

100%

39

4

3.1

Cascata Estates

$341,900

$341,900

100%

37

3

2

Rivendell

$350,000

$335,000

95%

22

4

3

Whispering Pines

$325,000

$325,000

100%

8

2

2.1

Highland Village

$320,000

$320,000

100%

71

4

3

Southern Preserve

$314,900

$314,900

100%

8

4

2.1

Rockcreek

$305,900

$305,900

100%

165

4

3.1

Lost Creek

$309,000

$298,000

96%

25

3

2.1

*Realty Report is compiled from public information. All information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.

Kathy & Steve Griffith (405) 759-3570 Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com

Without integrity, nothing else matters.

1530 SW 89th St. Oklahoma City 73159 PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

43

Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 1 - 31

FIRST 3 SATURDAYS IN DECEMBER BREAKFAST WITH SANTA ORR FAMILY FARM, OKC

CHICKASHA FESTIVAL OF LIGHT

Join us at the Orr Family Farm Event Barn to enjoy a pancake break-

CHICKASHA

fast, story time, a Christmas craft and carols with Santa Claus! Make

Drive through in your car and gaze at more than a hundred dazzling light

sure to bring your camera for photos with Santa! Admission includes

scenes, animated displays and a computer-animated light show syn-

one train ride and carousel ride. Reservations are required, and spots

chronized to favorite holiday tunes. When you visit, you'll find more than

for each breakfast are limited. OrrFamilyFarm.com

just a drive-through experience. Get out of the car and experience horsedrawn carriages, photos made with Santa Claus, gift shops, snack stands

DECEMBER 3, 7 P.M.

and more. Facebook.com/ChickashaFestivalOfLight

CANTERBURY CHORAL SOCIETY PRESENTS: MESSIAH

DECEMBER 1 & 2

CIVIC CENTER MUSIC HALL, OKC Celebrate the reason for the season with a performance of Messiah by

OKC PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS: THE CHRISTMAS SHOW

the Canterbury Choral Society at Oklahoma City's Civic Center Music

CIVIC CENTER MUSIC HALL, OKC

Hall. The arrangement, written in 1957, features an unforgettable stage

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic presents its annual holiday perfor-

filled with instruments only seen in large, romantic orchestras, including

mance, "The Christmas Show," at 8 p.m. December 1 and at 2 and 8

two harps, four horns and a full wind section. OkcCivicCenter.com

p.m. December 2. This show is a family favorite and features special guest stars and favorite holiday tunes. The Christmas show dazzles

DECEMBER 8-10 AND 15-17

audiences with dancers, singers, impressive sets, fantastic light ef-

SOONER THEATRE PRESENTS "A CHRISTMAS STORY”

fects and amazing costumes. Don't miss out on this Oklahoma end-

SOONER THEATRE, NORMAN

of-the-year tradition. OkcCivicCenter.com

This musical is based on the movie classic that runs round-the-clock

NIGHTLY 6 P.M. TO MIDNIGHT THROUGH JANUARY 1 DOWNS FAMILY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

on television every Christmas. Set in the 1940s in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts. SoonerTheatre.org

2900 72ND AVE. SE, NORMAN

DAILY DECEMBER 8 AND 9

The Downs Family Christmas Lights is one of the most spectacular

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR

light displays at a private residence in Oklahoma. Each year, nearly two

HOMES AROUND NORMAN

months of work go into creating this wonderful display created out of

Get in the Christmas spirit with a tour of five beautiful homes through-

over 280,000 lights. Each strand of lights is synchronized to a specific

out Norman. The Holiday Home Tour opens five stunning homes to the

playlist of cheerful Christmas songs. DownsFamilyChristmas.com

public. These homes will feature breathtaking holiday decorations from

VARIOUS DATES AND TIMES LYRIC THEATRE PRESENTS: "A CHRISTMAS CAROL"

traditional to trendy. Enjoy a festive day browsing all five houses to get in the mood for holiday season. AssistanceLeague.org/Norman

PLAZA THEATRE, OKC

DECEMBER 9, 8-10 A.M.

A spectacular new Oklahoma holiday tradition returns with Lyric The-

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE STATION

atre's production of the Charles Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Car-

THE STATION, MOORE

ol." Capture the magic and joy of Christmas as the ghosts of past,

Join us for breakfast, holiday crafts, a candy cane hunt and a picture

present and future lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a powerful

with Santa Claus. For ages 2-8. CityOfMoore.com/Special-Events

journey of transformation and redemption. "A Christmas Carol" is a great production for the whole family. Runs through December 24.

DECEMBER 9, 5 P.M.

LyricTheatreOkc.com/Shows/Lyrics-A-Christmas-Carol-2017/

NORMAN MAIN STREET CHRISTMAS PARADE

DECEMBER 2

DOWNTOWN NORMAN Jack Frost may be nipping at your nose, but you won't want to

HOLIDAY SIP & SHOP WINERY HOP

miss this Norman holiday tradition. The Norman Main Street

CANADIAN RIVER, NATIVE SPIRITS AND REDBUD RIDGE WINERIES

Christmas Parade features bands, floats and horses. Set in a fes-

Three local wineries in Norman and Lexington join forces for a holi-

tive spirit complete with a variety of Christmas characters, this

day shopping event with local vendors and wine tasting. Check Face-

annual holiday parade also will feature an appearance by Santa

book or respective wineries' websites for details.

Claus. NormanChristmasParade.com

44

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

CONTINUED >

(405) 360-5369 • rbt.com • Member FDIC

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N UED)

DECEMBER 9 WRC GALA SAM NOBLE MUSEUM 3824 N. MacArthur Blvd. | Warr Acres, OK73122 www.fandfaccounting.com

The WRC Gala is the Women's Resource Center's annual event raising

405.384.3177

als, families and the community. This year's keynote speaker is Leslie Mor-

Big Firm Capability, Small Firm Personality Individual | Business | Payroll & Bookkeeping

Recommended by America’s Most Trusted Financial Voice

awareness about the effects of domestic and sexual violence on individugan Steiner, author of Crazy Love. Steiner discusses her experience in a domestic violence relationship and how she survived. wrcnormanok.org

DECEMBER 9, 7-8:30 P.M. CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR THE STATION, MOORE The Christmas Spectacular will feature inflatables, Polar Express barrel train, Christmas music, a visit from Santa Claus and Holiday Fireworks. CityOfMoore.com/Special-Events

DECEMBER 9 AND 30 EAGLE WATCH LAKE THUNDERBIRD, NORMAN Meet at the Discovery Cove Nature Center for an information session at 1 p.m., then tour several sites to catch a glimpse of magnificent eagles in their winter home. Be sure to bring your binoculars and dress appropriately. Reservations are required. You won't want to miss this bird-watching event at Lake Thunderbird State Park. 321.4633

VARIOUS DATES AND TIMES DECEMBER 9-19 OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET PRESENTS: "THE NUTCRACKER" CIVIC CENTER MUSIC HALL, OKC Share the magic of the season with Oklahoma City's most endearing holiday tradition, "The Nutcracker." Glowing with holiday cheer, this classic ballet has enthralled for generations. With Robert Mills' traditional staging and Tchaikovsky's familiar score played by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, "The Nutcracker" is a masterpiece not to be missed. OkcCivicCenter.com

3 P.M. AND 7 P.M. TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA IN CONCERT CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA, OKC The exciting, one-day event features two performances that will get you in the mood for the holiday season. Titled "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve," the TSO performance features an amazing light show and rock hits that will have you on the edge of your seat.

ChesapeakeArena.com CONTINUED >

46

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

MEET. EAT. UNWIND. Try Our Signature Bruschetta "Sundae"

THE HOLIDAYS ARE HECTIC, SO LET US DO THE COOKING! “CURB SIDE TO GO” Drive up around back.

WE CATER CASUAL TO FORMAL PARTIES • OFFICE EVENTS • WEDDINGS

Here, neighborhood dining meets Italian bistro.

Tuscany meets hometown. And friends meet friends for artisan-inspired cuisine.

Happy Hour 4 to 6 M-F Half Price Apps and Pizzas after 8 PM Everyday

1301 S I-35 Service Rd Moore, Oklahoma 73160 | 405.735.5553 | olivetobistro.com

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N UED)

DECEMBER 12, 7:30 P.M. RIDERS IN THE SKY CHRISTMAS THE COWBOY WAY OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE For more than 30 years, Riders in the Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, while remaining true to the integrity of Western music. They have become modern-day icons by branding the genre with their own legendary wacky humor and way-out Western wit. tickets.occc.edu

DECEMBER 14 BADGES & BACKPACKS' HOLIDAY WINE AND PALETTE FUNDRAISER NOSH RESTAURANT, MOORE Badges & Backpacks announces its upcoming Wine and Palette fundraiser to support rescue first-responders suffering from PTSD and Acute Stress Disorder with a fun, old-fashioned #ChristmasVacation. Registration is $30; sign up at wineandpalette.com/ Class_Detail.asp?CalID=6152

DECEMBER 23, 1-3 P.M. CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT WORKSHOP LAKE THUNDERBIRD, NORMAN Bring pine cones, acorns, seed pods or anything that can be made into a Christmas tree ornament. You can bring any tools you want, but there will be a limited supply available.

Come to beautiful Lake Thunderbird State Park and make a one-of-a-kind holiday gift at this fun state park event. 360.3572

48

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

Introducing fast-paced business solutions through graphic design, printing, and social media.

ENERGETIC IS ENTHUSIASM. 405-361-1005

FAST IS EXCITING. velocityokc@gmail.com

DRAMATIC YET CALCULATED. www.velocity-okc.com

Is Your Home Ready For the Holidays?

Let us get your home ready for your holiday visitors.

Book a deep cleaning, get all inside windows cleaned for FREE! 100% satisfaction guarantee or your money back!

maidok.com • 405.447.4964

Over a thousand wines in stock.

Quality cigars right next door.

Enjoy the cooler weather with your favorite drink and a top-notch smoke.

914 & 916 SW 4th St. Moore, OK 73160 December 2017 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

49

Parting Thoughts

7.

6.

1.

2.

How to Make a Ribbon Wreath

3.

ARTICLE CATHY BARNHARDT

T

his is a great way to repurpose ribbons from past Christmases, making an elegant deco-

ration for your holiday celebration. Coordinate

colors with your Christmas theme or with your home’s interior design to create a festive and stylish seasonal design. Have fun and be creative!

5.

4.

YOU WILL NEED: • A 14” straw or Styrofoam wreath form found at floral and craft stores

Next, twist the chenille stem around the wreath to form a hanger (Fig. 3).

• Around 12 yards each of 4 different but coordinating ribbons of

Now, create several bows of various ribbons, with the loops being

varying widths and textures • A chenille stem to make the hanger, found at craft stores (looks like a pipe cleaner) • About 50 to 75 fern pins, found at floral and craft stores (looks like a long staple or hairpin)

INSTRUCTIONS:

about the same size. Leave the tie ends as single “tails” and cut the loose ends into a swallow tail. You may also create single loops and tails to fill in between bows (Fig. 4).

Pin the bows and loops and tails onto the covered wreath form with the fern pins, pushing the pins through the center point of the bow or end of the loop and tail (Fig. 5).

First wrap the entire wreath form with a wider and simpler length of

Continue adding bows and loops and tails until all but the back

ribbon. Attach one end of the ribbon to the back of the form with two

surface of the wreath form is covered. The closer the bows, the fuller

of the fern pins pushed at a slight angle through the ribbon and into

and fluffier the wreath will appear, but don’t crowd them so much that

the form to secure (Fig. 1). Then tightly spiral the ribbon, overlapping

the wreath looks stiff and tight (Fig. 6).

slightly, and continue to wrap the form to cover, attaching the end with two more of the fern pins, securing tightly (Fig. 2).

50

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2017

Be sure to hang your wreath indoors unless you have used weatherproof ribbons (Fig. 7).

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51

Exquisite Villa

Rivendell on the Lake

13109 Rohan Court, Rivendell

2701 SW 121st, Rivendell

Turrets and Arches reflect pride in craftsmanship in this 6,585 sf home.

Gourmet kitchen, double sinks and dishwashers, 6 burner stove, two Thermador fridges, wine fridge. 4 bedrooms, 4.2 baths. Handicap accessible, elevator, above and below ground storm shelters. Stunning lake views.

Gated for privacy, spacious for entertaining or comfortable enough just for you. Lush landscaping, spacious front yard, impressive columns frame the front of this home. Warm woods, soaring ceilings set the tone for a grand entrance. Sunlight fills this home. Covered patio. The gazebo on the lake and fountain are a peaceful retreat.

$1,199,000

$419,500

Rural Acreage

Suburban Acreage

1906 Quail Creek, Norman Stunning home on 2.29 acres tucked away back of the neighborhood.

Copper window awning, porte co¡chère and 4th car garage. Gleaming wood floors throughout. Gorgeous chandeliers, framed transom windows, soaring 2-story ceilings. Gourmet granite/stainless kitchen, Viking gas stove w/griddle, oven/warming drawer.

$487,500

Kathy & Steve Griffith (405) 759-3570 Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com

1520 SW 35th, Moore

Expansive front yard and tree lined circle drive. 3,864 sf home.

Brick pavers in large country kitchen, breakfast room. Huge Master bedroom, double tray ceiling, glamour bath, double sinks, linen closet, chin-deep jetted tub and is bright and sun filled.

Secondary bedrooms are large. Fitness room/5th bedroom upstairs. Firepit, smoker, built-in gas grill, buffet bar for al fresco dining/entertaining. Storm shelter in huge back yard.

$429,900

Without integrity, nothing else matters.

1530 SW 89th St. Oklahoma City 73159 PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com