Happy Independence Day!
Happy Independence Day! Have you made your plans yet? You have several 4th of July celebrations from which to choose here in Cleveland County, plus scores more in neighboring OKC! Below are just two planned in our neighborhoods:
Moore's Celebration in the Heartland, set from 2-10 p.m. July 4 at Buck Thomas Park, will include a children's craft tent, inflatables, live music, food trucks, crafts and small-business booths, a mechanical bull and more. Admission to park is free; wristbands $20. Helicopter rides will be offered for $50. Fireworks are planned beginning at about 9:45.
Norman’s Fourth Fest at Reaves Park will feature food trucks, yard games and dancing to live music by Hook and Lip Service. Cap off the evening with a fireworks display, set to music by KGOU 106.3 FM. Also planned are the annual Westwood Invitational, July 5-7, Westwood Golf Course, presented by Oklahoma Tickets, and Throwback Party at the Pool., 8:30-11 p.m. July 12, Westwood Family Aquatic Center, for ages 21 and older.
July is our Explore issue, though personally I find autumn a much nicer month for exploring the outdoors in this area. But if you're experiencing wanderlust, there are lots of closeby options that feature water in the form of lakes and rivers, as well as swimming pools, waterparks and splashpads .
Lots of us also take our vacays in the summer because that's when the kiddos are out of school. Travel writer Elaine Warner takes us to some small towns in southwest and central Missouri, where she shows us where to find luscious peach stands, an unusual B&B and much more that will appeal to history- and nature-lovers and others looking for new sights and adventures.
In our Fashion Forward column, look for some cute and trendy ideas from Pink Attitude Boutique for our women readers seeking summertime adventures while looking their best, all while staying comfortable in the process.
You'll also read about the late Moore mayor, Glenn Lewis, who will long be remembered for his capable handling in the aftermath of the destructive May 3, 1999, tornadoes, followed by another in 2013, as well as his unwavering compassion, leadership and support given to neighboring communities in the wake of the April 19, 1995, Murrah Federal Building bombing.
Wishing you a fun (and safe) 4th of July and a month filled with opportunities to explore the world, near and far.
JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650
MANAGING EDITOR
Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Tiarra “Tea” Harper
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Harlea Robinson
Melissa "Mel" Drake
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jerri Culpepper, Logan Reglin, Elaine Warner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Elaine Warner, Lindsey Davies, Shauna J. King, Kyle Phillips
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier Learn
Proverbs 3:5-6
HEALTHY SMILES for life.
Explore the DDS Difference
Whether
Cutting-Edge Technology
Same-day crowns available.
Commitment to Comfort-
Specialized equipment to numb your mouth and keep you relaxed during your visit.
Allow
Salivary Diagnostics
Digital Scans
enable us to impress your mouth without the mess.
3D Printers & Cone Beam Scans
Guided Biofilm Therapy ® (GBT)The
inside the issue
Kimberly Wise, M.D., & Meghan Saumur, M.D
1:
4:
city scene
3:
7:
6:
Eric Bailey is all smiles at Pantry Partners Inc.’s “Beacon of Hope” luncheon April 27 at the Railhouse. 2: Polly Henderson, Elizabeth Aur, Michelle Carbone, Mark Calhoun, Angela Jiménez-Calhoun, James White, Samantha White, Jeanne Ozinga
Maureen Crook, Angela JiménezCalhoun, Lela Odom
Elizabeth Aur speaks to a guest at the Beacon of Hope fundraiser. 5: Cruz Figueroa and son, Angela Jiménez-Calhoun
Polly Henderson, Shon Williams-Jennings, Angela Jiménez-Calhoun, Samantha White
Paul Tryggestad, Carla Atkinson, Kennedy Isaac
8: Janae Hartley, Samantha White 9: Guests were entertained by Norman High School teen musicians Ben Blankier, Marcus Keisel, Cale Rhynes. 10: Jeanne Ozinga, Tina Holasek 11: Eric Bailey, Charlotte Gordon, Kathy Bailey 12: Mark Calhoun, Fred Henderson 13: Emcees
Samantha and James White 14: Ashley Merzon, Angela Jiménez-Calhoun Photography by Kyle Phillips
city scene
1-7: The SOKC Chamber honored outstanding educators and students in the community at the recent Excellence in Education Banquet. 1: Metro Technology Centers Teacher of the Year Lisa Knox with Aaron Collins (Metro Technology Centers) 2: 2024 Moore Norman Technology Center Teacher of the Year Amy Smith (second from right) 3: Moore Norman Technology Center Student of the Year Makaela Hughes with Glen Cosper (Moore Norman Technology Center) 4: Teacher of the Year Jana Delong, Westmoore High School, Moore Public Schools, and presenters 5: Administrator of the Year Jace Kirk, Santa Fe South High School principal, and Karl Hillerman (MidFirst Bank). 6: Metro Technology Centers Student of the Year Johnathan Montoya with Aaron Collins (Metro Technology Centers) 7: 2024 Student of the Year Brynlee Clopton, Southmoore High School, Moore Public Schools Photography by Shauna J. King/Ahh Shoot! Photography
1-3: Celebrate milestones, birthdays and more while losing weight the fun way at Orangetheory Fitness Moore! 4-6: Moms brought their sons and daughters and other family and friends to the Norman Parks & Rec’s 2024 Mom Prom May 4 at the NOUN Hotel.
LINDSEY DAVIES
LINDSEY DAVIES
LINDSEY DAVIES
1-3: A wide variety of arts, from fun robots to cigar-box musical instruments, were featured at the Assistance League of Norman and Campus Corner Association’s 2024 May Fair Arts Festival May 19. Photography by Lindsey Davies
Want to be seen in the magazine?
YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @CITYLIFESTYLE_CLEVELANDCOUNTY
business monthly
Complete SLC 2024 With 1,000 Points
Summer Learning Challenge time continues through Aug. 15—keep the adventure going by logging those points for time spent learning, reading and attending library programs! All ages can earn prizes along the way and complete the challenge with 1,000 points. Upon meeting the community goal of 15 million points, the Pioneer Library System Foundation will donate books to children in WIC programs. Register at Pioneer.Beanstack.org
Scan to read more
Chamber Honors Outstanding Educators and Students
South OKC’s Education Banquet honorees included: Women of the South HS Scholarship: Angela R. Okeefe, Sherry R. Howell, Emily Le, Western Heights; Estrella Rodriguez, Santa Fe South Charter School; Arlyn Samaniego, U.S. Grant; Evie Alvarado, Western Heights; Allessia Antwine, Southmoore; Linda Neimann; Elyce Campbell; and Brandi Mertens. Arvest Bank Special Participation Scholarship: Carson Osborne. Tinker Federal Credit Union Special Participation Scholarship: Savonja Washington, MWC High School. Walmart Scholarship: Kahmai Flowers. Related photos, p. 14.
Photography: Shauna J./Ahh Shoot! Photography
Shakespeare Comedy to Be Staged
Storyteller Theatre (StorytellersOKC.com), a production company and education studio grown and based in Moore, will present Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” July 26-27 at the Southmoore Performing Arts Center, 2901 S. Santa Fe Ave. Rated PG (best enjoyed by ages 8 and up), tickets are $15 each and may be purchased at StorytellersOKC.com/tickets
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HARLEA ROBINSON
OKC ZOO’S NEWEST EXPANSION A DREAM DESTINATION FOR WILDLIFE LOVERS AND ADVENTURERS OF ALL AGES
EXPEDITION AFRICA
Colorful flamingos strut their stuff in the OKC Zoo's newest exhibition space, Destination Africa.
With 12 acres of new habitats for more than 60 species, renovations and experiences, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden has much to offer adventurers, young and old. And this year, the zoo celebrates a century of wildlife and wild memories at Lincoln Park!
Facebook include: “Such a wonderful exhibit! My kids loved the animals!” and “Fabulous addition to the zoo!”
Among the new expansion’s standout features is the renovated Love’s Pachyderm Building, home to some of the zoo’s most captivating resi-
“SUCH A WONDERFUL EXHIBIT! MY KIDS LOVED THE ANIMALS!”
Expedition Africa, a dream destination for wildlife lovers, is now a reality for visitors to the OKC Zoo. Presented by Inasmuch Foundation, it’s the zoo’s largest-ever expansion, encompassing new habitats, building renovations and enticing features that truly elevate the guest experience.
Foremost among the expansion is room for over 60 species native to the African continent. The spaces are intricately crafted to provide giraffes, lemurs, wildebeest, hyenas and more with welcoming homes that mimic their native habitats.
“One of the most exciting parts of Expedition Africa is that we’re able to provide natural enclosures for the members of our animal family,” said Dwight Lawson, OKC Zoo’s executive director and CEO prior to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the expansion on March 26.
“It’s another vital step in our mission to connect people with wildlife and wild places all around the world.”
Since its opening, thousands of guests have visited. Comments on
dents. The building, which joined the National Register of Historic Places in 2021, retains its Midcentury Modern architecture with an enhanced and visitor-friendly interior housing African lungfish, dwarf mongooses, naked mole rats and more.
It also includes a new events space for meetings, parties and more, plus a new play area behind the building: Pachyderm Heights Adventure Tower, including a rock-climbing wall and a slide, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Oklahoma City. The building was originally constructed in the 1960s to house the zoo’s elephants, rhinoceroses and hippopotamuses.
Outside the Pachyderm Building is a new savanna overlook, where the zoo’s herd of giraffes mingle with ostriches, Nile lechwe and Common eland. The savanna area connects to the newly constructed state-of-the-art giraffe barn, allowing visitors to see the herd all year round. One of the premiere attractions for guests, the giraffe barn not only shelters the herd when the
weather is unpleasant, it makes the perpetually popular giraffe feedings available no matter the season.
The expansion includes new covered areas for guests to sit and relax in the shade, as well as misters (especially appreciated in July and August!), while enjoying views of hyenas and African painted dogs and the habitat’s original sculpture, The Baobab: Home, Story and Survival on the Savannah. Baobab trees are often called the “Tree of Life” because they can live to be more than 1,000 years old!
Surrounding The Baobab sculpture are a new dining area and restaurant, Savannah Snacks, and the Africa-themed Baobab Gifts.
FUNDING
The $35 million Expedition Africa expansion was designed by PGAV Destinations, St. Louis, Missouri, and constructed by Timberlake Construction, Oklahoma City. It was funded through private donations, Historic Tax Credits and a dedicated 1/8-of-a-cent sales tax, approved by Oklahoma City voters in 1990.
ZOO HOURS, ADMISSION & MORE
The Oklahoma City Zoo is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Purchase advance zoo admission tickets at OKCZoo.org/tickets and avoid the entry lines. Admission is $16 for adults; $13 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children 2 and under admitted free.
The zoo wants ALL adventurers to feel welcomed. Strollers, wagons, wheelchairs
A tortoise explores his expansive new habitat.
The new habitat features an original sculpture, The Baobab: Home, Story and Survival on the Savannah.
“EXPEDITION AFRICA IS A FABULOUS ADDITION!”
and electric convenience vehicles are available for rent. In addition, the zoo has partnered with KultureCity to become certified as a sensory-inclusive location. Guests may check out sensory bags, designed to help sensory needs in both adults and children. Filled with items that can lessen sensory overload and also engage, each bag includes headphones, a marble fidget, noodle fidget, tangle fidget and an ID card. Available at no cost at the Guest Services office.
Membership has its perks! As a ZOOfriends member of the Oklahoma City Zoo, enjoy free admission all year long, plus many additional benefits and discounts. Through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2, the zoo is open daily at 8:30 a.m. for ZOOfriends with current memberships.
ZOOfriends members also support the zoo’s animal family, education programming and conservation initiatives both locally and globally. Join or renew today at okczoo.org/membership.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Stay connected with the zoo on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, Linktree and TikTok, and by visiting the zoo’s blogs. To learn more about zoo happenings, visit OKCZoo.org.
Expedition Africa, the zoo’s largest-ever expansion, encompasses new habitats, building renovations and enticing features that elevate the guest experience.
A honey badger checks out a tree trunk.
Children check out some of the smaller habitats in the renovated Love’s Pachyderm Building.
Moore Mayor Glenn Lewis surveys damage from the destructive May 3, 1999, tornadoes.
Glenn Lewis
A STALWART LEADER IN TIMES OF ADVERSITY
ARTICLE BY LOGAN REGLIN
The passing earlier this year of Glenn Lewis, a jeweler who later made his mark as the longtime mayor of Moore, continues to reverberate throughout this close-knit community in Cleveland County.
Glenn Delbert Lewis, who passed away at home April 28 after a lengthy illness, was born in Shawnee but moved with his family to Moore in July 1960. He graduated from Moore High School as Senior Class President in 1973, then attended the University of Oklahoma before transferring to the University of Central Oklahoma, where he graduated with a degree in municipal management.
At a young age, Glenn developed an interest in rock hunting and became a jeweler apprentice at age 16. He and his younger brother, Tim, opened Lewis Jewelers in 1976. Glenn’s focus was on the manufacturing of wholesale and retail jewelry, serving multiple generations of customers for 45 years.
Eighteen years into his jewelry career, in 1994, Glenn was named mayor, embarking on a journey that would see him become one of the city’s longest-serving and most beloved leaders. During his 30-year tenure as mayor, he helped the city navigate several challenges, including devastating tornadoes and the tragic Oklahoma City bombing.
Yet, according to family, friends and supporters, it was during these tumultuous times that his steadfast commitment to his constituents shone brightest,
guiding Moore through the darkest of days and inspiring hope in the face of adversity.
The tornado outbreak of May 3, 1999, forever altered the landscape of Moore, claiming numerous lives and leaving widespread devastation in its wake. As the community grappled with the enormity of the disaster, Lewis wasted no time in mobilizing resources and coordinating relief efforts. Under his guidance, the city rallied together, demonstrating resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. Lewis played a pivotal role in securing federal aid and implementing stricter building codes to mitigate future risks, laying the foundation for a more resilient Moore.
However, the resilience of Moore would be tested once again in 2013, when another powerful tornado tore through the city, leaving a path of destruction eerily reminiscent of the events of 1999. Once again, Lewis rose to the occasion, leading the city through the arduous process of recovery and rebuilding. His leadership proved indispensable as Moore navigated the challenges of restoring homes, businesses and infrastructure while providing support and solace to those affected by the tragedy.
It was not only natural disasters that tested the resolve of Moore and its mayor. On April 19, 1995, Oklahoma and the nation were rocked by the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. In the aftermath of this horrific event, Lewis demonstrated unwavering
“I think he will be remembered as a man of integrity and as a man who loved his hometown and worked very hard for the city he called home.”
— Tim Lewis, Brother of Glenn Lewis
compassion and leadership, offering support to neighboring communities and aiding in relief efforts. His ability to unite Moore with the broader Oklahoma community was instrumental in fostering healing and resilience in the face of tragedy.
Throughout his tenure, Lewis’s leadership extended beyond crisis management to encompass a vision for long-term growth and prosperity. He championed economic development initiatives, attracting businesses and investment to Moore while preserving its unique character and sense of community. Under his guidance, Moore experienced steady growth and prosperity, emerging as a vibrant and resilient city poised for the future.
“Glenn’s legacy is that of a stabilizer; he stabilized a very tumultuous city management situation,” said Deidre Ebrey, director of public affairs/economic development for the City of Moore, who worked alongside Glenn for many years.
“Not everyone saw eye-to-eye before he came into the picture,” she added. “When he came in, he immediately wanted to hear everyone out and bring communication back to the city. He wanted egos to be checked at the door and for solutions to be presented through discourse. He had a real knack for getting people to corroborate and come together as a team. He gave us stability so that we could push forward in the future.”
“I think he will be remembered as a man of integrity and as a man who loved his hometown and worked very hard for the city he called home,” said his brother, Tim Lewis. “I think Glenn ultimately will be looked back on as a man who truly did a lot for this town.”
The late Moore Mayor Glenn Lewis was known for helping the city navigate several challenges, including devastating tornadoes and the tragic Oklahoma City bombing, and for helping build consensus.
Megan Cox is rocking it in a Summer Skies beaded strapless mini-dress ($82) that’s sure to dazzle at any event with its elastic top and sparkling sequins.
FASHI O N THAT EXCITES
FORGET THE SAFARI HAT: PINK ATTITUDE BOUTIQUE OFFERS GREAT ON-THE-GO LOOKS
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HARLEA ROBINSON
Attitude Is Everything!
At Pink Attitude Boutique (ShopPinkAttitude.com), it’s all about looking fun and flirty, but also about comfort, indoors and out. Our models are shown at Riversport OKC, the go-to place for rowing, paddlesports and outdoor recreation.
Opposite Page:
The blue-and-white color scheme of this beaded strapless mini-dress adds a touch of elegance and fun. Perfect for dancing the night away!
This Page:
Pair this fun ruffle-trimed tiered mini-dress with a pair of hot pink, multi-platform heels by Beach by Mattisse Cruz ($52.) With tie straps and an elastic waistband, you’ll be both comfortable and stylish.
Clare Dooling looks stunning in a Floral Dreams ruffle trim tiered mini-dress ($48).
This From Now Til Forever white-ruffled tiered maxi-dress ($62), modeled by Maggie Burroughs, is sure to turn heads. The cotton, tie-back dress with spaghetti straps and a flirty cut-out is perfect for a casual day out.
Modern Moves
Made of soft, breathable cotton and featuring a scrunch design, this set by Modern Moves is perfect for a fun day out. Versatile for both strapless and halter styles, and it comes with a skirt for a playful touch. Can be worn as a set or separate.
Clare sports a Modern Moves redcropped halter top ($42) and Modern Moves pocket detail skirt ($52).
Embrace your playful, adventurous side with this Last Girl Standing white bubble-hem mini-dress ($65), modeled by Basha Garner.
Embrace Adventure
This white cotton tank dress by Last Girl Standing features a super fun balloon skirt. Its stretchy and soft material ensures a comfortable fit, making it perfect for any occasion.
Get ready to float on a cloud of comfort and style with Pink Attitude Boutique’s If You’re Happy blue floral maxi-dress ($58) modeled by Megan.
Made from lightweight cotton, you’ll love the flutter sleeves and tiered design of this maxi dress. Pair with Beach by Matisse Lucy natural heels with buckles shoes ($59).
The cotton, tie-back dress with spaghetti straps and a flirty cut-out is perfect for a casual day out.
A Touch of Whimsy
The lightweight fabric and elastic waist provide a comfortable fit while the bright floral design adds a touch of whimsy. Pair with a cute heel or trendy sneaker. You will love this fit for summer!
Basha models a Finest Hours’ orange summer blazer ($44), Heartbreak Away cream-ribbed tank top ($24) and Mandatory Motives’ mint floral print shorts ($36).
A True Standout
Pair this floral pant set with Beach by Matisse Lucy natural heels shoes with buckle ($59). This lightweight, breathable set includes a self-tie scrunch top and smocked waist flowy pant for a comfortable and flattering fit. With its vibrant colors, you’ll stand out in any crowd.
Maggie strikes a dramatic pose in a puff-pink top ($32) and pink print Pilazzo pants ($44).
Small Towns, Big Treats
Top: Nice but a twist macabre, this elegant suite with living area is situated in The Morgue B&B in Ozark. | Bottom left: Always scenic, the lighted bridge on the Finley River adds a romantic note for diners at The Ozark Mill. | Bottom right: The signature 18th hole at Old Kinderhook gives golfers a great view of the lodge.
Our trip took five days—and yet there was so much more to see and do! Missouri is not only the “show me” state, it’s also an all-season state.
Sometimes the smallest towns have some of the biggest treats. With that in mind, my husband, Jack, and I embarked on a nearly 1,000-mile road trip through southwest and central Missouri.
Diamond, Missouri, southeast of Joplin, is so small it doesn’t have outskirts—maybe just a sliver of a petticoat. A few miles from the community is the George Washington Carver National Monument. While most familiar because of his work with peanuts, he was a giant in his time. His struggle for education to match his abilities was fierce. His biography as a scientist, an educator and a humanitarian is nicely laid out in the park museum. A visit here is worth more than an hour’s stay, especially if you walk the one-plus-mile trail.
Nearby in the World’s Largest Small Electric Appliance Museum, collector Richard Larrison has amassed over 3,500 items, from toasters and coffee pots to fans and razors. My favorite—a machine to “electrocute” hot dogs by skewering them on two heavy wires and running electricity through them. Among the surprises—a porcelain toaster with matching china.
Next destination: Ozark, tucked between Springfield and Branson, where we planned to sleep, literally, like the dead.
A small church built in Ozark (circa 1906) subsequently became a mortuary. It was associated with various funerary activities until late in the 20th century.
The current owner has brought it back to life with deadly intent. There’s an embalming table in the bathroom; the coffee table top sits on a coffin trolley; an 1800s cooling table, minus an ice block beneath it, sits at the foot of the bed.. Décor runs to skulls and skeletons.
The bed was great; the kitchen stocked with snacks and drinks. No ghosts appeared and we slept well. Many guests, however, report sounds, sights and feelings that are decidedly spooky. The Morgue B&B was a great stay, but I’m glad I wasn’t alone!
While Lambert’s in Ozark is a family fave for its “throwed rolls,” we decided on something a bit more elegant. The Ozark Mill on the Finley River, built in 1833, serves wonderful food in a beautiful setting. The Green Tomato Cake took the cake; sounds odd, but so does carrot cake, if you think about it.
Lake of the Ozarks, about an hour-and-ahalf drive, is a perfect place for all ages. For rest and relaxation Old Kinderhook Resort, Golf Club and Spa is one of the quieter spots on the busy lake.
The Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course set in tree-covered, rolling hills is a highlight here. Golf is big in the area, with 12 courses from which to choose.
At Old Kinderhook, indoor and outdoor pools and a hot tub provide water activities, and the spa has a good menu of massage, facial and wellness therapies. Tennis, pickleball, basketball, volleyball and lawn games are available and, in winter, the volleyball court turns into a skating rink. While not on the lake, the resort has a dock and access.
Ha-Ha-Tonka State Park with its picturesque ruins and Bridal Cave featuring spectacular geology are handy from Kinderhook.
For families, the 440-acre Margaritaville Resort on the lake offers activities for all ages. Besides lake fun, an indoor water park, pool, arcade and game room, mini-golf and bowling (and more) are available. The Oaks Golf Course and Driftwood Spa are added adult attractions.
Nearby Lake of the Ozarks State Park is the largest, most popular state park. With 17,000+ acres and access to the 54,000-acre lake, there’s plenty of room here. Check out the State Park Marina—it’s a good place to rent watercraft and pick up necessities and a self-guided aquatic trail map.
In Osage Beach, don’t miss the Ozark Turtle Sundae at Randy’s Frozen Custard—vanilla frozen custard, chocolate, caramel. pecans, whipped cream and a cherry!
For dinner, we chose MaMa Cita’s and had the best Mexican meal I’ve had in a long time. Everything is from scratch with authentic family recipes…lots of “Best of the Lake” awards.
Next stop: Fulton and the Loganberry Inn, an 1899 Victorian home. Previous visitors included British P.M. Margaret Thatcher and Polish President Lech Walesa. Why Fulton? In 1946, Sir Winston Churchill was invited by Westminster College and President Truman to visit. There he made his prescient Iron Curtain Speech.
Now the town is home to America’s National Winston Churchill Museum, a biographical and historical collection of a significant portion of world history. The site is capped by a reconstructed Christopher Wren London church, which was badly damaged in World War II. I don’t have enough words to tell you how impressive and important this place is.
Auto World Museum on the north side of townhouses has an excellent automobile collection. Many cars here were unfamiliar to me: names like Kelsey, Marmon and
Scripps Booth. Expect beauties from Cord, Rolls Royce and Cadillac to a 1997 solar experimental vehicle.
Last stop: Joplin, once the queen of the Tri-State mining area. You could actually walk from Joplin to Miami, Oklahoma, underground in the mine tunnels. See the mining story and local history—plus the National Cookie Cutter Museum—in the Joplin History and Mining Museum.
My highlight was Thomas Hart Benton’s last mural.
The painting, Joplin at the Turn of the Century, 18961906, in City Hall, contains historic references and local figures, including himself as a teenage cartoonist for the Joplin newspaper.
On the mezzanine level is a display about the mural, including drawings and correspondence. A clay maquette created by Benton helped him see light and shadows for the mural.
Near Benton’s painting is one by his grandson, Anthony Benton Gude. Route 66 – Joplin, Missouri, depicts the popularity of the famous road in mid-20th century. Look for his grandfather and grandmother in this mural.
A last driving tour took us through the Murphysburg Historic District, where elegant mansions built by city fathers still stand. A less glamorous detour went by an apartment occupied by the infamous Bonnie and Clyde.
Our trip took five days—and yet there was so much more to see and do! Missouri is not only the “show me” state, it’s also an all-season state. Spring is delightful; summers can get hot, but the lakes are cool; fall is full of leaves; and winter—well, there’s that ice rink at Old Kinderhook.
Lighted windows in the church at the Winston Churchill Museum in Fulton, are lit each night, a beacon of hope during COVID and still today.
Sometimes the smallest towns have some of the biggest treats. “ ”
Top: A display of materials and information used in the creation of Joplin’s mural includes this photo of the artist, Thomas Hart Benton, with the work in progress. | Bottom left: The Loganberry Inn in Fulton provides a warm welcome for all guests. | Bottom right: Churros with caramel centers, ice cream, chocolate sauce and whipped cream topped off a superb meal at MaMa Cita’s in Osage Beach.
Only trust your home to a Pearl Network Contractor...
Gain peace of mind knowing your Anova installation is third-party certified by Pearl.
Improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Increase your home’s value by 5% or more!
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 2ND
Blanchard's Independence Celebration
Hwy 62 & NE 10th St., Blanchard 6:00 PM
Listen to live music by the Oklahoma City Symphonic Band while shopping from local vendors or enjoying various food options. This exciting event will also feature helicopter rides and presentation of military honors before the fireworks display at dusk. CityOfBlanchard.us/Community
JULY 4TH
A Celebration in the Heartland
Buck Thomas Park, Moore | 2:00 PM
A Celebration in the Heartland at Moore's Buck Thomas Park will feature a wide variety of food trucks, vendors and activities suitable for all ages. Kids can enjoy everything from inflatables and a mechanical bull to a children's tent by Moore Public Library and on-site helicopter rides. CityOfMoore.com/Upcoming-Events/ Celebration-Heartland-2
JULY 4TH
Red, White, and Blue Swim
Westwood Family Aquatic Center, Norman | 12:00 PM
Join Westwood Family Aquatic Center for its annual 4th of July Festivities. Activities and competitions for the whole family (details will be available at admissions and on social media); as well as a cookout in the concession stand area. Make sure to stop by before going to Reaves Park for fireworks. NormanOk.gov/ Residents-Visitors/Parks-Recreation/ Westwood-Family-Aquatic-Center
JULY 13TH & 20TH
Water Garden Tour
South OKC Metro | 9:00 AM
Get inspiration during the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma's Water Garden free self-guided water garden tours, set from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on July 13 and 20. Water gardens are located south of 39th Street in OKC, Moore, Mustang and Yukon. Select homes will reopen from 9-11 p.m. for the night tour. Map and pond descriptions can be found at WGSO.org.
JULY 13TH
Norman Conquest Ride
J.D. McCarty Center, Norman | 7:00 AM
This all-day, annual ride is open to cyclists of all skill levels, with individual, family and tandem rides ranging from an introductory 10 to a punishing 64-mile ride through the hills surrounding Norman and nearby Lake Thunderbird. In addition, Norman Conquest Ride also offers a more laidback tour of the town, perfect for families and casual riders. BicycleLeague OfNorman.com/NormanConquest
JULY 15TH - 27TH
Oklahoma International
Dance Festival
Summer Intensive
University of Oklahoma Fine Arts Center, Norman
This festival will offer up to four classes a day, six days a week in genres including ballet, modern dance, Pilates and more. Beyond dance education, the festival also offers residencies for practicing dance companies and choreographers. OkDanceFest.org/SummerIntensive
Holistic Care for Your Body & Mind
Primary
Body
IV Therapeutic Infusions
Kathy & Steve Griffith Broker | Owners (405) 759-3570
PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com
Embrace a lifestyle of tranquility and natural beauty at Hummingbird Haven, Roman Nose State Park, where connecting with nature is a daily delight. Income opportunity downstairs, an efficiency bedroom apartment with a full bathroom and space to add a kitchenette provides an excellent opportunity for rental income, whether short-term or long-term. Outside, enjoy peekaboo views of Boecher Lake and take advantage of the close proximity to trout fishing, golfing, horseback riding, camping, canoeing, paddle boats, mountain biking, and hiking. Guests can stay at Roman Nose Lodge, dining, shopping, swimming and events as the gathering hub. Close proximity to Watonga’s ‘fly in/fly out’ airport. 2738 St Hwy 8A, #7, Roman Nose State Park | List price $300,000
ROW 1: Tracie Woods, Tiffany & Boomer Elcyzyn, Amber Dawson, Lisa Elrod, Jerry Flowers, Kirk Holloway, Matt Thomas, Nguyet Kieu
ROW 2: Cami Martz, Tera Painter, Lisa Ray, Susan K. Ford, Dustin Whittern, Leslie Switzer, Lonny McMillan, Jennifer McMillan, Wes Brozek