Cleveland County, OK November 2022

Thankful

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909 S Meridian Ave • Oklahoma City, OK 73108 • 405.949.7000 • Fax: 405.947.3795 DOWNTOWN: 115 Park Ave • Oklahoma City, OK 73102 • 405.946.2265 • Fax: 405.949.2600 NMLS #449326

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12100 S. WESTERN AVE.

Accepting new patients at our 3 METRO LOCATIONS

NORMAN • S. OKC • MUSTANG

405.321.1926

OUTSTANDING SCHOLAR-ATHLETES OF THE MONTH KAMDEN SIXKILLER NORMAN NORTH HIGH SCHOOL

Recent sports or academic highlight?

I am very fortunate to get to start my senior year as the starting quarterback. During the offseason, I had the opportunity to play 7on7 for a team in Durant called C4, which had members from Oklahoma and Texas. I learned a lot, met a lot of really good players, and ended the season being named C4’s 7on7 MVP. At Norman North, I have successfully completed many AP classes and hold a weighted GPA of 4.14. I am also a member of the National Honors Society, which offers opportunities for me to volunteer in the community.

Personal highlights?

I am the youngest son of Darin and Amy Sixkiller. In the past, I played multiple sports, but in the last few years, I have focused on football. In my free time, I enjoy listening to Zack Bryan, spending time with family and friends, watching my girlfriend play volleyball, and watching lots and lots of football.

How do you maintain balance?

Trying to keep my focus on what I need to get accomplished daily is my goal. Sleep is important, making mental lists, and being sure to keep myself on a routine and schedule helps me keep things balanced and achievable.

Plans for the future?

At this point, I am not sure what college I will be attending. I really hope to play football somewhere, so that is guiding my choices as I currently look at various programs. As far as a major, science and math have always been my strengths, so my future career path will most likely include those areas of study.

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Turning Setbacks into Comebacks

orthocentralok.com | 405-360-6764 Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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James Bond, MD Ted Boehm, MD Brian Clowers, MD Richard Kirkpatrick, MD Zakary Knutson, MD Jeremiah Maupin, MD Aaron Smathers, MD Joshua Wilson, MD

ABBY GRAY

NORMAN NORTH HIGH SCHOOL

Recent sports or academic highlight?

I was recently named an AP Scholar and am ranked first in my class.

Personal highlights?

I am the daughter of Ryan and Kristi Gray, and I play volleyball at Norman North High School. I enjoy hanging out with friends and spending time with my family.

How do you maintain balance?

It’s difficult to balance my school work load with volleyball and my social life. I’ve learned it’s easiest to take everything one day at a time and only worry about the next practice or whatever is due next.

Plans for the future?

I am committed to play volleyball at Tufts University in Boston. I plan to major in early childhood development on a pre-medicine track.

November 2022 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MANAGING EDITOR

What Are You Most Thankful For?

Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com ADMINISTR ATIVE ASSISTANT

Lindsey Nantze | lindsey.nantze@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

As I wrote and edited the stories featured inside these pages, it warmed my heart to read the gratitude and love expressed by several of those featured for this community in which we live and work, dream and aspire.

And they, in turn, give back to the community in various ways, including financial support, service on boards and committees, and volunteer work at various nonprofits.

You'll read about Jesse and Katy Wells (see related photo, this page), who started a Christmas tree farm in northeast Norman a few years ago on a dream, and little else. But with the support of friends and the community, the Wells Christmas Tree Farm has prospered and enlarged its scope to include several festive holiday events between Thanksgiving and New Year's. Their ambitious goal is to accomplish what Joanna and Chip Gaines have for their community of Waco.

You'll read about Dr. Gabriela Restuccia, a junior partner at Orthodontics Exclusively, who grew up in a country she loved (Venezuela) but eventually was forced to leave when communism took a solid foothold there. Today, she says being a Sooner "means commitment, responsibility and happiness," adding, "I wake up every single day thankful to be here. The state of Oklahoma and its people took in a stranger and made me feel at home from day one. ...There is never a day that I take for granted that I get to live in this beautiful state.”

Inside this issue, you'll read about things to do and see this holiday season, about a locally owned business that sells gourmet caramel apples as well as other savory treats, and much more.

Publisher Jimmy Darden and I wish you and yours a joyous Thanksgiving.

We're grateful to you, our readers and advertisers, who continue to lift our spirits and affirm our commitment to this community.

Kirstan Lanier CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Debbie Copp, Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies, Staci Elder Henley, Andrew Griffin, Susan Grossman CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Ana Covey, Lindsey Davies, Marie Mentesana, Shevaun Williams & Associates

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_CLEVELANDCOUNTY

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/CLE VEL ANDCOUNT Y |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Cleveland County City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cleveland County area’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 City Lifestyle™ is gathered from

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

HEALTHY SMILES

for life.

SARA K. SPURLOCK, DDS JENNIFER M. JENKINS, DDS

& associates

We are excited for our kids to be back in school and back to routines. Did you know dental decay is one of the leading causes of health-related school absences and can lead to poor attention, focus, and speech development due to pain?

Making oral health part of your routine is essential to overall health and well-being. Ensure your family is set up for success this year!

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

to come see

(405) 321-6166

dental design studio | www.normandentist.com 561 MERCHANT DRIVE, NORMAN, OKLAHOMA

Our smiles really shine during the holiday season See the joy a healthy and straight smile from Orthodontics Exclusively can bring to your family!!

Call Today! 405-321-2735 Moore / South OKC Norman Dr. Tim Shannon, DDS, MS Dr. Mark Revels, DDS Dr. Gabriela Restuccia, DDS MS

orthoexc.com

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inside the issue The Thankful Issue

40

31

36

22

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

22 Meet Dr. Gabriela Restuccia

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Lifestyle Letter

31

Inspired By

FO O D + B EV E R AG E

12

Business Monthly

36

Athlete Life

LI FE + C U LT U R E

16

Local Experiences

40

Our Town

18

Healthy Lifestyle

44

Realty Report

22

Local Limelight

46

Events

28

Get Active

50

Must See

For This Former South American, Creating Beautiful Smiles Is Her Life’s Work

31 Sweet & Savory

HEA LT H + WELLNES S

HEA LT H + WELLNES S

ENT ERTA I NMENT

LI FE + C U LT U R E R EA L ESTATE

S PO RTS + R EC R E ATION

Apple Tree Chocolate Gears Up for the Holidays

36 An Amazing Dream So Far

Becoming a Sooner Truly a Gift, Says Kelbie Washington

40 The Wells Christmas Tree Farm Couple Striving to Make the Farm a New Holiday Tradition

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O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Ana Covey Apple Tree Chocolate in Norman and OKC offers an enticing range of autumn-oriented treats ranging from pumpkin vanilla swirl bars to pumpkin spice-flavored caramel apples, always a fall favorite. See related story, p. 31.

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business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Turkey Day 5K Fundraiser Set for Nov. 24 Turkey Day 5K, a Thanksgiving Day run held every year since 2012, is set for Nov. 24. This year is the organization's 10-year anniversary and proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Norman. The race is timed, but there is no pressure; participants may walk, crawl, skip, run or roll across the finish line! Register today at TurkeyDay5krun.com and run your turkey off!

Pioneer Library System Welcomes Philippe Cousteau Capping off the 2022 PLS Reads initiative, join us for an engaging conversation about the environment and conservation efforts with filmmaker and explorer Philippe Cousteau at 6:15 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at Norman Public Library Central.

This event will be moderated by the Oklahoma State Director of The Nature Conservancy, Mike Fuhr, whose nature photography will be revealed in an exhibition prior to the event. Attendance limited to 300.

Scan to read more.

CONTINUED >

HOME | AUTO | TOYS | BUSINESS | LIFE

Our customer reviews, say it all.

Call us today to see for yourself.

Jonathan Brassfield Your Local Farmers® Agent (405) 310-4719 jbrassfield@farmersagent.com 120 SE. 19th St., Ste. 100 | Moore, OK 73160

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

BIRTHDAYS | FOOTBALL PARTIES | THANKSGIVING

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CELEBRATION SUPPLIES

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NORMAN PHILHARMONIC Richard Zielinski, Music & Artistic Director

Join Us for this Live Concert Event

Thursday, Nov. 17, 7:30 pm*

underwritten by the Chickasaw Nation

GOOD WINE. FUN TIMES. GREAT FRIENDS.

featuring Chickasaw composer,

Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate Larry Hammett, guitar

Tate: Shakamaxon Copland: Appalachian Spring Suite Rodrigo: Fantasia para un Gentilhombre

Happy Thanksgiving

*McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church

Tickets available online

at normanphil.com

$15 adults; $7 age 16 & under wewmooreok.com 405.232.WINE (9463)

A program of A to Z Productions, Inc.

2001 S. Broadway Ave, Moore NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

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B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY C O N T I N U E D

Curiousiday to Focus on Dia de los Muertos Visit the Sam Noble Museum from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, to learn all about Día de Los Muertos! The Hispanic American Student Association is collaborating with the museum to provide Spanish content on-site. Visitors will learn about celebrating the life that is no longer with us.

Magic Noodle Offers Alternative to Turkey They may not offer turkey and dressing, but you'll get delicious, authentic Chinese noodles—and more—at Magic Noodle in Norman, 1915 Classen Blvd. Eva Sun and Steven Yu are from northern China and have lived in the U.S. for 12 years, perfecting their noodles and dumplings. “We handmake our noodles and cook our beef bone broth for eight hours a day," Eva says. During the Thanksgiving holiday, online orders to magicnoodlenorman.com will receive a 10% discount.

Photography: Andrew Griffin

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty

Services Hydrafacial

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK OCT. 22

Christmas Market at the Farm

SHOP LOCAL

NOV. 12

Christmas Vacation Movie Under the Stars NOV. 13

Elf Movie Under the Stars NOV. 25 – DEC. 21

Christmas Tree Farm is Open!

YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N F O R LO C A L L I V I N G

VISIT US ONLINE AT

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local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

The holidays are here and it’s time to enjoy all that Cleveland County (and the surrounding area) has to offer this time of the year. From lighted Christmas tree parades to the zoo’s popular Safari Lights to holiday markets, we have you covered to help you jump into the holiday spirit.

Seasonal Pastimes SAFAR I LIGHTS: OKC Zoo Safari Lights features a larger-than-life light display showcasing over 59 wildlife-themed light sculptures viewable on a driving tour through the zoo. FMI: 405.424.3344 2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City FESTIVAL OF LIGHT: Recognized as one of the nation's top 10 holiday light shows, the Chickasha Festival of Light features 3.5 million+ twinkling lights.

2400 S 9th St., Chickasha POLAR BEAR EXPR ESS: Passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on a magical one-hour trip. Host: Oklahoma Railway Musem. FMI: 715.721.2093 3400 Northeast Grand Boulevard, Oklahoma City WINTER GLOW R IVER SPOR T: This new, exciting winter experience includes ice skating, curling, climbing, skiing and snowboarding, plus hot chocolate, firepits, holiday lights and Santa on Saturdays. 800 Riversport Drive Oklahoma City NOBLE: Multiple Christmas-themed events, including a lighted Christmas parade, are planned in Noble Dec. 2 and 3. Learn more: 405.872.5535

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Winter Glow Riversport

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Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

ARTICLE BY SUSAN GROSSMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYAN LASSITER

Kundalini at The Well

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H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HE ALTH + W E LLNE S S

Elisabeth Waltman wasn’t sure what to expect when she arrived for class. Although she had practiced different yoga styles, from ashtanga to vinyasa, Kundalini yoga was a new discipline. Elisabeth approached her first class last spring with some trepidation. As she rolled up her mat at the end of the session, his seasoned fitness buff recalls feeling something different.

“I was surprisingly relaxed,” she said. “That was the main thing I discovered right away. Since Kundalini was unfamiliar to me, I was a little unsure at first because the practice is unlike anything I have done before. In thinking about it later, I realized that my mind didn’t wander, and I concentrated throughout the session. And every time I have attended a class I sleep well.”

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In Sanskrit, the word yoga means union and refers to a combination of movement and breath as practitioners move through a series of poses. These poses can be prescribed sets of sequences or a more free-style flow. The purpose is to help promote wellness by balancing physical and emotional health.

Newcomers to a Kundalini yoga practice will discover that the class features more than just physical poses. Each begins with a traditional tune-in chant, called the Adi Mantra, a warm-up, and is then followed by a kriya or set of physical actions, deep relaxation, a group meditation mantra, and a closing salutation. This sequence is designed to target the meridians, a set of energetic pathways in the body, as well as to awaken Kundalini energy coiled in the spine.

Yogis in Cleveland County have the opportunity to explore this type of yoga in a free class on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at The Well, located at 210 S. James Garner Ave. Led by longtime Kundalini teacher and practitioner Gwenn Agiapal, the sequence is accessible to all fitness levels. Most of the class is done from a seated position on the floor, but also can be performed in a chair.

“We are moving the meridians in a way that does not happen in our daily activities, like waving our arms to stimulate the heart,” Gwenn explains. “Much of our psychic pain centers around the heart, and moving the arms helps move that energy.

This sustained, rhythmic movement has a way of stimulating the brain and that makes us feel good. No matter how terrible

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H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HE ALTH + W E LLNE S S

someone is feeling, or what kind of day they have had, whether they are sad or mad, everyone can feel better after a class.”

Gwenn adds a brief anatomy lesson to her classes as well to explain the effect that the combined postures and movement (asanas), breath work (pranayama), mantra (chanting), and mudra (hand gestures) have on the meridians. This network of 12 fibers functions like a highway system, each connecting to a major organ.

In fact, the class at The Well is called Yoga and the Meridians.

This scientific aspect of the practice appeals to Elisabeth. With an intense job that requires frequent overnight travel throughout the state, yoga has always been something that helps her feel grounded.

“I really connect with Gwenn’s explanations of the science associated with Kundalini,” she said. “The practice makes a lot of sense to me as I understand that the benefits are based on research and science. I enjoy it and am excited about adding this type of yoga to my repertoire.”

Gwenn arrives 30 minutes early to set up the room and be available for questions, particularly for newcomers.

“What students can expect from Kundalini yoga above all else is to feel good,” she said. “This is an all-level class and can be done by anyone.”

Registration for the free Yoga and the Meridians class is encouraged at TheWellOK.org Susan Grossman just completed the Level 1 Kundalini Teacher Training and is a Norman-based freelance writer.

“ I R E A L LY C O N N E C T W I T H G W E NN ’ S E X P L A N AT I O N S O F T HE S C IE N C E A S S O C I AT E D W I T H K U ND A L INI. T HE P R A C T I C E M A K E S A LOT OF SENSE TO ME AS I U ND E R S TA ND T H AT T HE B E N E F I T S ARE BASED ON RESE ARCH AND S C IE N C E . I E N J O Y I T A N D A M E X C I T E D A B O U T A D D IN G T HI S T Y P E O F Y O G A T O M Y R E P E R T O IR E .”

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From left: Dr. Gabriela Restuccia with her sisters Antonietta Restuccia and Anna Maria Restuccia (photo provided)

FOR THIS FORMER SOUTH AMERICAN, CREATING BEAUTIFUL SMILES IS HER LIFE’S WORK

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

MEET

DR. GABRIELA RESTUCCIA It’s a long way from Caracas, Venezuela, to the Sooner State, but for Dr. Gabriela Restuccia the winding road that led her to Oklahoma has also led her to a new home, new friends and a very fulfilling career.

As the junior partner at Orthodontics Exclusively, Restuccia is providing life-changing orthodontic care for both child and adult patients. She joined the Norman-based practice–owned by Dr. Mark Revels and Dr. Tim Shannon–in 2016 and is the sole practitioner at their satellite office, 1516 SW 119th St. in Oklahoma City.

Her love of dentistry came naturally, and her career decision did as well.

“My aunt is a general dentist in Venezuela, and I have always been very close to her,” Restuccia said.

As a small child, she attended dental school classes with her aunt, and later would “help” her at her practice every day. As a teenager, she continued to assist at the practice, eventually graduating from her aunt’s alma mater, the Universidad Central de Venezuela.

Once she started rotating through different specialties in dental school, Restuccia said she fell in love with orthodontics.

“For me, it’s an art,” she said. “I truly love learning about human growth and development, and that is something that we orthodontists use on a daily basis to treat our growing patients. Orthodontics is a great combination of art, physics, biology,

ARTICLE BY STACI ELDER HENSLEY

physiology, plus a lot of patience and fun!”

Restuccia is the granddaughter of Italian immigrants who fled to Venezuela in the wake of World War II. A large Italian community was established in the country post-war, and her childhood was a wonderful blend of both cultures.

“I grew up with everything Italian at home, amazing pasta, pizza, cannoli, music and soccer, and at the same time, all that was mixed with fun, friends dancing merengue, going to crystal clear beaches every single weekend and eating arepas,” she said. “I had the best childhood there until things started getting really bad once communism showed up, around 1999-2000. Once communism came to stay, a lot of families started suffering, most of my friends left the country, and many, many people lost everything they had.

“I remember being 12 or 13 years old when I knew that eventually I would have to leave my country, which is something that no one, let alone a child or teenager, should have to think about doing – ever,” she continued.

“Most people usually take for granted that you get to be born, raised and grow old in the same country with your family, friends, culture and activities. That’s something I didn’t get to know. Communism took more than just a job, money or private property from me, my family and friends. It robbed us of a country, a patriotism and a future at the place we called home.”

CONTINUED >

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANA COVEY AND SUPPLIED NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

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Dr. Gabriela Restuccia (top right) with parents Angelo Restuccia and Anna M. Bucciarelli and her sisters Anna Maria Restuccia (top left) and Antonietta Restucci (Photo Provided)

To prepare for her eventual departure from her home country, after high school Restuccia wanted to improve her English by living in an English-speaking country. She would end up in Norman, where one of her father’s cousins lived, where she enrolled at the University of Oklahoma’s Center for English as a Second Language.

“I was 17 years old when I moved to Oklahoma for the first time, and I loved it,” she said. “It was my first time getting to know and appreciate (American) culture, its people, the air of freedom we were losing back home, and all the responsibilities that come with it. After that experience, I knew I would eventually come back for more. It was also an opportunity that I was able to open up for my two sisters in their turn, as they did the same thing after me, and stayed at OU for their education.”

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

She would return to Venezuela to graduate from dental college, which was followed by a return to the United States and a residency in orthodontics through the OU College of Dentistry. She met Drs. Revel and Shannon during that residency and joined their practice a year after its completion. All three are faculty members in OU’s graduate orthodontic program, and Restuccia also helps teach some classes for junior dental students.

Anyone interested in a free consultation, either virtual or in-house, is invited to contact Restuccia’s team at 405.829.6498 or through OrthoExc.com.

“Truth is, every patient that comes to see me is special and has a great story,” she said. “I love to create relationships with my patients and their families, hear their stories, their achievements and dreams. I want to make sure they have a smile they feel confident with, that will help them achieve anything they want in life! Seeing a smile on their faces is that I enjoy and treasure the most in my work.

“I believe we are more than just an orthodontic office,” she added. “Something that I really valued when I decided to join Dr. Shannon and Dr. Revels was how much they care not only for their patients but for their team and the community. We try to be as involved as we can.”

When she’s not caring for patients, Restuccia spends time with her sisters, Antonietta and Anna Maria, and their families. She’s also a cook, a huge fan of both soccer and car racing, and enjoys traveling.

“To me, being a Sooner means commitment, responsibility and happiness,” she said. “I wake up every single day thankful to be here. The state of Oklahoma and its people took in a stranger and made me feel at home from day one. To me, a perfect day is during Thanksgiving, at Broken Bow with my family, enjoying the nature, hiking and cooking together, while watching an Oklahoma sunset. There is never a day that I take for granted that I get to live in this beautiful state.”

nknk

“

We love how professiona l a nd fr iend ly the sta f f is! Dr. Wa rd is ver y thorough a nd put s her hea r t i nto her work !

”

405 . 360. 5233

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Fall/Winter Bucket List

1.

From Fall Foliage Drives to a Polar Express Train Ride, There’s No Shortage of Things to Do There’s much to do in November and December in Cleveland County and the OKC metro area that the problem may be not finding any fun activities but rather deciding which to choose.

We selected four very different events to spotlight here, from fall foliage drives that you can fit into your own schedule to a Polar Express Train Ride that’s sure to appeal to families with young children.

Riversport’s Winter Glow This new winter experience at Riversport, 800 Riversport Drive in OKC, continues through Dec. 30 (closed Christmas eve and day), includes ice skating, curling, climbing, skiing and snowboarding, plus hot chocolate, firepits, holiday lights and Santa on Saturdays.

405.552.4040 riversportokc.org/events/winter-glow 28

G E T ACT IV E | EN TERTAINME NT

ARTICLE BY LINDSEY DAVIES

2.

3.

4.

The Polar Express Train Ride

Chickasha Festival of Light

Fall Foliage Drive

Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at the Oklahoma Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand Blvd. in OKC, for a magical one-hour trip to meet Santa.

The Chickasha Festival of Light, 2400 S. 9th St. in Chickasha, has been recognized as one of the top 10 holiday light shows in the nation and features over 3.5 million twinkling lights.

The changing of the seasons ushers in new opportunities for rest and recreation when fall colors decorate the landscape. Enjoy a scenic drive through one of the state’s prime foliage areas with the windows down or hike through an outdoor recreational area, watching as the autumn leaves seem to change colors before your eyes.

405.261.9505 ChickashaFestivalofLight.org

TravelOK.com/ fall_foliage_and_festivals

715.721.2093 oklahomarailwaymuseum.org/ polar-express

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

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Swe e t & S avo r y Apple Tree Chocolate Gears Up for the Holidays

ARTICLE BY ANDREW GRIFFIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANA COVEY CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

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FA LL

Back in 2015, Scotty and Ashley Jackson took a chance on crafting a new business—one that would be a sensory treat for those with a sweet tooth and a deep appreciation for genuine chocolate, caramel and assorted confections that are sought after the world over.

Starting out on Campus Corner in Norman, the Jacksons saw continued interest and growth in their sticky, sweet and sugary delights. They have placed first in the annual Norman Chocolate Festival four times so far. The word is getting out about Apple Tree Chocolate.

The Oklahoma City store, at 1332 W. Memorial Road in the mixed-use, Chisholm Creek shopping center, opened in June 2020, as the pandemic was in full swing.

But Ashley said she and her husband and Apple Tree crew buckled down and got through the worst of it. And now they are busy enough that this month they will be sending out catalogs for folks looking for holiday shopping ideas.

“The caramel apples are what we are known for,” Ashley said.

In the glass display case, the autumn-oriented treats were exceedingly enticing, ranging from pumpkin vanilla swirl bars to pumpkin spice-flavored caramel apples, always a fall favorite.

Ashley smiled as she explained that fall is her favorite season as well as her busiest.

“We are gearing up for a lot of gift orders … and a lot of corporate orders. We get them early so we can make sure they get them in time.”

And while 2021 was difficult in terms of supply chain issues, this year has been a lot better for both the Oklahoma City and Norman stores.It’s a relief that supply issues are returning to normal as the holiday season rapidly approaches.

“There was a chocolate shortage in 2021, and that is difficult when your business is chocolate. But the chocolate is well represented, along with truffles, fudge, bark and delicious strawberries dipped in, well, chocolate, of course!”

SW EET

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Oklahoma Sooners Women's Basketball guards Kelbie Washington and Taylor Robertson enjoy themselves at a cafe in France. (Photo by Johnny Smiley)

An Amazing Dream So Far Becoming a Sooner Truly a Gift, Says Kelbie Washington ARTICLE BY DEBBIE COPP

She fell in love with basketball. She knew she wanted to play basketball to represent her hometown and the state’s premier institution. There was one challenge.

“My mom told me I wasn’t very good, that I needed help if I was going to play, DI, Power 5,” Kelbie Washington shared.

“She knew former Sooner Coach Michael Neal from school—had known him forever through her work with Norman Public Schools. She told Coach Neal, ‘This girl needs help. Could you work with her?’ I was blessed to have him work with me, and we built a great relationship.”

36

AT H LE T E LIF E | L IFE + CULTURE

They continued to work together, then fate stepped in and Neal became her freshman coach at Norman High. The working relationship continued to thrive, and Kelbie continued to improve as her dream became more defined.

She was named The Oklahoman’s Super 5 Player of the Year as a senior and was a three-time coaches association All-State selection. She was named coaches’ association player of the year as a senior and was the association’s defensive player of the year twice.

Her dream to play for her hometown, DI Power 5 team, the University of Oklahoma, appeared to be coming true.

(Photo by Michael Lark)

“I always wanted to play for my hometown. I wanted to have that hometown support. I wanted to rep my state—that was the dream.”

Kelbie signed with then-OU head coach Sherri Coale, who retired at the end of the 2020-21 season. The new staff, led by Jennie Baranczyk, were quick to help Kelbie’s realize her dream. And once again, she would have a familiar face on the sideline as Neal was named to Baranczyk’s staff.

There would be another challenge that Kelbie and her Norman High team had to face. A hot radio microphone picked up a conversation in which one of the broadcasters used the “N” word. Kelbie and her teammates stood up to the racist comment and repeated as state champions.

“As a black female, I wasn’t surprised, but we were not going to let it push us back. We battled through the tournament and winning was the cherry on top. We had to prove people wrong, and no way were we losing. Racism is still a thing. I was a senior leader on that team and those are my girls. I took it personally because it really hurt to hear that and to see the impact on my girls. It’s how you respond to it. We handled it in a very mature way, and I really felt like I was ready for college.”

Kelbie enjoyed the new start.

“With the new staff, we were all learning at the same time. It took the weight off our shoulders, and we had really good leaders. We all held each other accountable and did that in a respectful way. We built a great foundation last year and we have continued to build since the season ended.”

A trip to France in August gave the team a chance to practice and play games

“I always wanted to play for my hometown.

I wanted to have that hometown support.

I wanted to rep my state—that was the dream.”

against two pro teams while continuing to add to the building process. The trip started in Cannes, went to Monaco and Lyon, then ended in Paris. In addition to the games, the team visited the sites of a new country, including the French countryside, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre in Paris. One Sooner really enjoyed her visit with the Mona Lisa.

“I had this dream … to play at the DI level for a Power 5 team, preferably in my hometown. Becoming a Sooner is truly a gift, and I am forever grateful,” Kelbie added. “I am excited to see what comes next. It has been an amazing dream so far.”

(Photo by Ty Russell)

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ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHEVAUN WILLIAMS & ASSOCIATES

A family selects a Christmas tree.

THE WELLS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM COUPLE STRIVING TO MAKE THE FARM A NEW HOLIDAY TRADITION

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O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

A few years ago, Jesse and Katy Wells visited a Christmas tree farm to pick out a beautiful specimen that would take center stage in their home through the holiday season.

While there, a seed was planted in both of their minds.

After loading the tree and heading toward home, the couple discovered the visit had sparked the same idea for both: why not start up their own Christmas tree farm?

The couple coordinate all activities during the holiday season, including the farm's gift shop.

JESSE & K AT Y WELLS

Jesse and Katy Wells are owners of Wells Christmas Tree Farm.

Jesse confesses neither had any real idea what all is involved in establishing a business and specifically a tree-growing business. But once decided, they never wavered.

The couple, who in 2014 had bought a home on 12 acres of land off Franklin Road, located in the northeast part of Norman, already had the “where”; now they needed to answer the “when” and “how”. By February 2015, Jesse and Katy began planning in earnest.

They conducted research on types of trees that will grow in Oklahoma and starting a business, and they joined the Oklahoma Christmas Tree Association, where they found like-minded individuals who generously shared information and supported and mentored the couple. (Jesse rotated off as president of the organization last year.)

They started by planting two kinds of trees, but only one, the Virginia pine, flourished.

“We really didn’t have a clue, even with all the reading and research,” Jesse said. “We found you have to experience everything firsthand to really understand it. There’s a five-year crop rotation, and each of those years was a new learning experience.”

The couple launched their first Christmas tree sale in 2017, before their own trees had reached maturity, offering pre-cut trees from other northern states. They sold some 400 trees that first year.

Along the way, Jesse and Katy discussed ways they could grow their business and begin building a new holiday tradition in their community.

In 2018, Jesse and Katy started what was to become an annual event: an “under the stars” viewing of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Despite the cold, some 125 people showed up. This year’s movie weekend is set for Nov. 12 and 13 at 4:30 p.m.; Christmas Vacation will be shown on the 12th, Elf on the 13th.

In 2019 they launched Christmas Market at the Farm; the event, held in October, was a hit and is now an annual offering. This year’s market has grown like everything else they do. The farm was abuzz with over 60 vendors selling everything from holiday decor and apparel to sugar cookies and cocoa bombs, food trucks, two music acts, a magician and pet adoptions. With around 2,000 visitors during their one-day market, it just proves they are well on the way to establishing that new holiday tradition in their community.

This year, the Wells have amped up their offerings. The farm opens the day after Thanksgiving at 10 a.m. This year, they will have some 300 of their own trees for sale, along with different varieties of pre-cut trees for a total of 1,600 trees.

CONTINUED >

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

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They have also become the experts on delivering large trees to local businesses. This year, they have secured a 52’ White Fir for Selah’s Christmas celebration, along with several trees over 20’ tall.

In addition to the Christmas trees, tree stands and lights, the farm has many beautiful live fresh wreaths and garlands. The farm also operates a gift shop during the holidays, where visitors can buy Wells Christmas Tree Farm merchandise as well as other items, many suitable for holiday giving, and Christmas decorations. You will find everything you need to start off your holiday season. In addition, people may book the farm for small special events throughout the year.

Noting that the farm is truly a husbandand-wife effort, Jesse said they just continue “to follow our hearts and trust God will get us through—whether we get it right or wrong!

“We had to learn everything, from growing trees to supply chain issues, to marketing and special events, and more. But we are blessed with a huge community of supporters who we see more as an extended family rather than just customers.”

Jesse and Katy keep an eye out for other ways they can help their extended family. For example, when a friend of theirs from church mentioned they had a car to give away and was looking for someone in need of one, the couple contacted Food & Shelter to help identify someone. They then invited the woman out to the farm on the pretext of letting her select a tree for free. When she arrived, she was presented with the free tree—and the car.

In another instance, when another woman called asking about the price of a tree for her and her nine adopted and foster children, they gave her the tree for free and even had other friends donate cash to help them with their Christmas expenses.

The couple, who both have other “day” jobs—he’s in Devon Energy’s IT department, she’s an instructor at Stoic Strength and Fitness in Norman—also give of their time and money to their church (Victory Family Church), their son Luke’s school (Community Christian) and various philanthropic causes, including Bridges in Norman and Possibilities in Oklahoma City, as well as several organizations that help addicts and alcoholics in recovery. Jesse additionally serves on the Robin Hill School boar Looking to the future, Jesse remarked: “We always go back to our start, and as we mentioned our ‘where’, ‘when’ and ‘how,’ our most important question is always our ‘why’ we do what we do. Our purpose and desire is to continue to honor God and try to live a life of service, to give back to our community, and to stay focused on that and not get too tied up in the future. Our immediate business goal is to make the farm the best experience that it can be every time you visit. We want it to be a true “Hallmark” experience, complete with live Christmas music, Santa, hot chocolate, apple cider and pumpkin cookies. Ultimately, our audacious goal is to do for our community what someone like the Gaines have done with Magnolia in Waco.”

THE WELLS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 4091 E. Franklin Road | Norman, OK 73026 WellsChristmasTrees.com | Facebook @wellschristmastrees

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O UR TOWN | L IFE + CU LTURE

NOVEMBER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C L E V E L A N D C O UN T Y

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N OVE MBE R 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Cleveland County.

N E I G H BO RH O O D

OR IGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Olde Tuscany, SW OKC

$1,999,999

$1,750,000

87%

17

3

2.3

Rural, SW OKC

$995,000

$825,000

82%

74

4

3.1

Arbor Lake 5, Norman

$785,000

$715,000

91%

21

5

4.1

Carrington Place 14, Norman

$664,990

$664,990

100%

1

4

3

Larshs University, Norman

$599,000

$584,000

97%

2

7

4.1

Brookhaven 41, Norman

$545,000

$515,000

94%

33

4

3

Prairie Meadows, SW OKC

$525,000

$525,000

100%

6

3

2.1

Rockport, SW OKC

$489,900

$499,900

102%

2

5

4.1

Rural, Moore

$489,000

$489,500

100%

3

5

3.1

Park Glenn Acres, Moore

$479,000

$485,000

101%

4

4

3

Lewis Bryant, Norman

$471,000

$471,000

100%

5

4

3

Vintage Creek, Norman

$459,900

$468,000

101%

225

4

3

Turtle Lake, SE OKC

$435,000

$425,000

97%

13

4

2.1

Sendera Lakes, Moore

$418,355

$407,000

97%

72

5

3

Rock Creek Estates, Moore

$415,000

$399,900

96%

20

3

2.2

Lakeridge Run IV, SW OKC

$379,900

$380,000

100%

22

3

2

Edgewater, Moore

$378,300

$378,300

100%

7

4

2.1

The Waters, Moore

$362,570

$362,570

100%

0

4

2

Talavera, SW OKC

$359,900

$359,650

99%

2

3

2

Pennsylvania Pl 2, SW OKC

$324,900

$324,000

99%

12

4

2

This data is a sampling of sold properties from last month. Source: OKC/Norman Multiple Listing System.

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R EA LT Y R E P ORT | R EAL E STATE

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N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

NOVEMBER 10 TH

Brews & Brushes

T H E STAT I O N R E C R E ATI ON C E NT E R | 6 :0 0 P M Have a date night or a Girl's Night Out at this Sip and Paint event set at the Station in Moore. TipsyArtist. com/11-10-Park-Recreation-MoorePainting-Class

NOVEMBER 11TH

Loveworks Leadership’s Greatest Showcase

8 0 0 36T H AV E S E , NO R M A N 5 :30 P M Featuring young, courageous entrepreneurs to talented musicians as well as Master Chefs from around the country, you and your friends will be delighted and encouraged by the next generation of leaders.

Facebook.com/LoveworksLeadership

NOVEMBER 11TH

Veterans Day Ceremony 2022

V E T E R A NS ME MO R I A L PA RK , MO O R E | 1 0 :0 0 A M Come to Moore's yearly ceremony to honor all those that have served in the military. CityOfMoore.com/ Upcoming-Event s/ Veterans-DayCeremony-2022

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EVE N TS

I F YO U A R E READING THIS...

S O I S YO U R B E S T C L I E N T. N OV E M BE R 11TH - 30TH

Crest on Ice

2 O UT O F 3

CREST, NOR MAN Crest on Ice is returning for its second season at Crest Foods in Norman.

of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

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N OV E M BE R 12 TH

Curiousiday: Día de Los Muertos para Los Animales

SAM NO BL E MUS EUM, NO RM AN | 10:30 AM Learn about celebrating the life that is no longer with us at this Curiousday event, Día de Los Muertos para Los Animales. The Hispanic American Student Association will be collaborating with the museum to provide Spanish content on-site.

SamNobleMuseum.ou.edu/Calendar/ Curiousiday-Dia-De-Los-MuertosPara-Los-Animales

N OV E M BE R 17 TH

Norman Philharmonic & Chickasaw Nation Present: American Heritage Concert

MCFARLIN MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, NORMAN 7 : 3 0 PM This concert celebrates our American heritage through the unifying influence of music by highlighting works of a Native American, European American and Spanish composer.

NormanPhil.com

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EVENTS CONTINUED

NOVEMBER 18TH - 20 TH

Grand Reopening of the Crystal Bridge Conservatory

MYR I A D B OTA NI CA L GA RD E N S & C RYSTA L B R I DG E T R OP I CA L C O NS E RVATO RY As visitors go through the beautifully redesigned and accessible space, they will enjoy new features like a reflecting pool, new plant collections, overlook terraces and a new waterfall feature. The new space includes interpretative signage and exhibits and educational programming.

MyriadGardens.org

NOVEMBER 18TH - 23 R D

Sasquatch Hunt

C E NT R A L PA R K & L I T T L E R I V E R PA R K , MO O R E Are you ready to catch some ‘Squatch? These critters plan on checking out Central Park and Little River Park in Moore. Find a hidden Sasquatch on the playground, along the walking trails, or hiding in their special places, and then bring the critters to The Station, to win a special Sasquatch prize.

CityOfMoore.com/Upcoming-Events/ Sasquatch-Hunt-0

NOVEMBER 24 TH

Turkey Day 5K

NORMAN HIGH SCHOOL | 8:30 AM This community-focused run on Thanksgiving Day benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma – Norman. Leashed dogs and kids in strollers welcome. TurkeyDay5kRun.com

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/ClevelandCounty

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EVE N TS

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THE SELMON BROTHERS Legendary Sooners Defensive Linemen Sculptures Unveiled

ARTICLE BY ANDREW GRIFFIN The Selmon Brothers statue unveiled at University of Oklahoma in September.

The anticipation was palpable when the University of Oklahoma unveiled the three statues of legendary Sooners defensive linemen Lucious, Dewey and Lee Roy Selmon.

“We are moved by your presence and your commitment and your love,” said Dewey Selmon prior to the unveiling, which took place outside the Gaylord Family–Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on the OU Norman campus Sept. 24 prior to OU’s game against the Kansas State Wildcats.

Complete with confetti and cheers from Sooner Nation, Dewey and Lucious were there; their third brother—Lee Roy— was there only in spirit; he died in 2011.

Lucious, who was an OU All-American in 1973, recalled growing up in Eufaula, Oklahoma, playing football in the yard and then going to OU and playing for the Sooners.

“To say I’m happy to be here is an understatement,” Lucious said, adding that he hopes the statues will inspire the next generation of athletes. Ending on an inspirational note, Lucious said, “Just be willing to be consistent and give it your best, and who knows what can happen.”

Lee Roy’s son, Lee Roy Jr., was present on the stage with his legendary uncles, whose towering likenesses are cast in 7,000 pounds of bronze.

“They were hard-hitting, powerful defense,” said Lee Roy Jr. “The opposition never knew what hit them, didn’t have a way to prepare for them.”

Cheers erupted as he shared these words.

“This statue here means so much to me. It means so much to my uncles. I’m so proud of them and the accomplishments that they have made, not only on the field—the blood, sweat and tears—but in the classroom as well, and excelled,” Lee Roy Jr. said.

Present at the event were former Oklahoma Sooners coaches Bob Stoops and Barry Switzer, along with Heisman Trophy winner Steve Owens and many other Sooner legends.

Switzer, who coached the Selmon brothers in the early-tomid 1970s, took the lectern, proudly wearing a T-shirt featuring

50

M UST SE E | SPORTS + R ECRE ATI ON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIE MENTESANA

the Selmons in their Sooner football glory, noting how amazing they were: “When they played, we won 54 games, only lost three and tied one.”

Under Switzer, the Selmon brothers made history when all three were named as starters on the Sooner defensive line.

Dewey, speaking about his late brother, who succumbed to the effects of a stroke 11 years ago, said that Lee Roy always made eye contact and was quick with a hug.

He added that if Lee Roy was there today, he would say the statue unveiling “was not about him, it was about you.”

GIVING BACK Days later, I spoke with Dewey Selmon, who lives in Norman with his wife, Kathryn. The couple met when he was graduating in 1977 and she was a sophomore journalism major.

The statue unveiling ceremony was “great,” he said. “Just a lot of love from a lot of people.”

Dewey, now approaching the age of 69, often talks of this love and support which he and his family have received over the years from so many. It is only natural for it to be reciprocal—to give back, after having received so much.

“When it comes to giving back, it goes back to our farm days in Eufaula—myself, Lucious and Lee Roy,” Dewey said. “We started playing football there, and the people there, in town, supported us. Coach Paul Bell taught us. “[We’re] coming into the Thanksgiving season, surrounded by people and their generosity … and people who have a love for God. It’s a reminder that we were three country boys who, through a sport, were given the opportunity to come to Oklahoma University. And a whole new world explodes …”

It’s clear in talking to Dewey Selmon that he is overwhelmed by the love and generosity he and his brothers and family have received since those glory days on the OU football field, so many years ago.

[Andrew Griffin is editorial coordinator for OKC Lifestyle.]

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