OUTSTANDING SCHOLAR-ATHLETES
Presented by
OAKLEE WREN
SOUTHMOORE HIGH SCHOOL
Recent sports or academic highlight?
I am a member of the National Honor Society, a full-time college student, and a Varsity linebacker and halfback for the Southmoore High School football team.
Personal highlights?
I’m the son of Chris and Lindsey Wren, and I have a younger brother, Tripp, who also plays football. I’ve been playing football for the past six years and previously played baseball for twelve years. When I’m not involved in sports, I enjoy weightlifting, cooking, playing video games, hanging out with friends, and watching movies. My favorite movies are Django Unchained and Real Steel.
How do you maintain balance?
I focus on self-improvement and avoid getting caught up in others’ personal lives. I work on small tasks daily to make life easier in the long run. For sports, I eat clean, watch game film, and practice outside of regular training sessions.
Plans for the future?
I plan to earn a bachelor’s degree and hope to become a football coach. Additionally, I’m interested in real estate and plan to start studying for the exam as soon as I turn eighteen. I aim to sell homes part-time while finishing school to be more financially secure.
Turning Setbacks into Comebacks
James Bond, MD
Ted Boehm, MD
Brian Clowers, MD
Carl Fernandes, MD
Richard Kirkpatrick, MD
Zakary Knutson, MD
Jeremiah Maupin, MD
Aaron Smathers, MD
Joshua Wilson, MD
KATE SEATON
SOUTHMOORE HIGH SCHOOL
Recent sports or academic highlight?
Winning the 6A fastpitch state championship last year is one of my favorite memories and biggest accomplishments! This was done while maintaining a 4.0+ GPA!
Personal highlights?
I’m the daughter of Matt and Amber Seaton and I have two older brothers; Gabe and Ryan who are both enrolled at the University of Oklahoma. I’m involved in both fastpitch and slow pitch softball, and I also enjoy playing volleyball and basketball for fun
How do you maintain balance?
I always prioritize school to keep my grades high. Balancing life and sports is natural for me because sports are a significant part of my life. My teammates are also some of my closest friends, so it’s easy to enjoy my time both on and off the field.
Plans for the future?
I’m still exploring my college options and career paths. However, I do know that wherever I go, I want to continue playing softball throughout college.
Woo-hoo ... Fall’s Here!
Woo-hoo! Fall is full on now, and wowzers ... was I ready?!
• My abbreviated fall checklist:
• Purchase pumpkin spice coffee and creamer
• Buy or make autumn wreath and decorations
• Change out wardrobe (hello, sweaters!)
• Plan fall road trip!
What's on your list?
I'm always excited about pulling together the October (Food & Drink) issue, and this one was no exception!
Our intrepid travel writer Elaine Warner talks about visiting San Antonio, Texas, in our Travel Journal this month. She says this city is one of her favorite travel destinations any time of the year, but it's even better in October, when the Día de los Muertos celebrations take place. There are so many things to see and do in this popular Texas city, not least the food! See page 20.
If you love fine dining, along with carefully curated wines to go with them, you'll want to read our story starting on page 26. Last October, Selah founders Brett and Tina Adkins and Brett's parents, Scott and Libby Adkins, launched what has proven to be a popular offering—Wine Dinners—at The Reserve at Selah, a versatile space with a 1930s Speakeasy flair. Each themed four-course dinner offered once a month on Wednesday evenings, is masterminded by Chef Keenan” (aka Keenan Hersey) for an average of 50 to 55 people. Learn more starting on page 38.
We're also proud to launch a new column in this issue written by Melissa "Mel" Drake and Lestari Kusumawardani, titled "Cleveland County Vibes: Mel & Lestari's Insider Scoop!" which I'm really excited about and that I'm sure our readers will love, too. Check it out on page 44.
There's lots more inside as well, but I'm going to let you discover it as you savor this, our Food & Drink issue.
Don't forget to check us out on Facebook. Happy October!
JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_CLEVELANDCOUNTY
October 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
Melissa "Mel" Drake, Harlea Robinson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brooke Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Elaine Warner
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jana Carson, Kylie Masters, Shevaun Williams
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
SARA K. SPURLOCK, DDS
JENNIFER M. JENKINS, DDS
We are excited to welcome Norman’s own, Dr. Lauren Parker to our practice! Dr. Parker is a former T-Wolf, Sooner, and graduate from OU College of Dentistry. Dr. Parker spent the last year honing her skills at AEGD in oral surgery, dental implants, and advanced comprehensive and rehabilitative dentistry. Dr. Parker is passionate about dental health, striving to provide excellent comprehensive dental care while expanding the procedures we can offer in our practice. Make sure to meet her the next time you visit!
LAUREN N. PARKER, DDS SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT
321-6166
inside the issue
Día de los Muertos Via San Antonio
San Antonio in October: A Truly Spirited Adventure Awaits Visitors (Great Food Included)
Where the Water Meets the Wine
Moore’s 1st Winery & Bistro Features Family Atmosphere, Fun Events
Eating Good on the Mother Road
The Chicken Shack and Pizza Shack Offer Culinary Delights Fin
Chef-curated Four-course Dinners With Wine Proves Popular at The Reserve at Selah
Themed dinners are served Wednesday evenings at The Reserve at Selah. Chef Keenan (aka Keenan Hersey) oversees the four-course dinners, which are paired with wines selected by himself and Erica Vasquez. Related story, page 38,
city scene
included ambulance, fire and police demonstrations, activities for children, safety demonstrations, food and giveaways.
1-7: The Moore community turned out for National Night Out 2024 in the Warren Theatre parking lot the evening of Aug. 6. National Night Out is a unique crime prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. Activities
1-3: Blessed Stanley Rother’s feast day, held this year on July 28 at the shrine in OKC, honors Rother’s life and spiritual legacy. Rother was an American Roman Catholic priest and missionary who served in Guatemala in the late 20th century who was martyred in 1981 during Guatemala’s civil unrest. 1: Mass for the Feast Day of Blessed Stanley Rother 2: Father Don Wolf presiding on Feast Day 3: Altar servers prepare for the procession at the end of the Feast Day Mass 4-6: Solid Rock Training staff joined Doing What I Can volunteers to serve 200+ lunches recently. This local nonprofit provides meals for our neighbors experiencing homelessness. Learn more about Doing What I Can and how you can help at doingwhaticanok.org
Junior League of Norman Sets Monster Ball
Join the Junior League of Norman for a spooktacular Halloween-themed ball exclusively for adults! Come dressed in your most creative costumes (there will be a prize for the best one!) and dance the night away in a hauntingly festive atmosphere. Event is scheduled from 7-11 p.m. Oct. 5 at The Standard, 315 E. Gray St., Norman. Tickets $75. FMI and purchase tickets, visit givebutter.com/ JLN2024MB
Norman Phil to Perform Fall Classics
The Norman Philharmonic will kick off its 14th season with Fall Classics featuring works by Bach, Handel and Mozart and including performances by the Zielinski Singers. Tickets available online at normanphil.com
Pink Attitude Boutique Is Growing!
Pink Attitude Boutique (ShopPink Attitude.com) is growing! When owner Trina Roberts, saw that Painted Tree (PaintedTree.com/locations/moore-ok) was coming to Moore, she just knew she had to have a space there. Their curated collection of other small businesses made Painted Tree the perfect place for Pink Attitude to expand. With game-day looks, accessories and more their booth is sure to bring some flair to your wardrobe.
Sunday, Oct. 6, 3:00 pm - Bach, Mozart & Handel
Thursday, Nov. 7, 7:30 pm - Songs of Nations works by Jerod Tate, Von Weber, Mahler, Milhaud, and an American tribute
Sunday, Jan. 19, 3:00 pm
Saturday, May 3, 3:00 pm Choral and Organ Masterworks
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration with a performance of Copland’s Lincoln Portrait featuring Mozart’s Requiem & Rheinberger’s Organ Concerto No. 1
on a season subscription! McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church
A program of A to Z Productions, Inc. Richard Zielinski, conductor
Tickets available online at normanphil.com $18 adults; $9 students Enjoy discount
of
9,000 sq. ft. of Party Supplies, Popcorn and Concession Supplies Oklahoma City’s largest celebration store. Your one stop for all things balloons, party and concessions.
Birthday Balloons, Graduation Balloons, Custom Balloon Garlands & everything in between!
ARTICLE BY ELAINE WARNER
Via San Antonio Día de los Muertos
SAN ANTONIO IN OCTOBER: A TRULY SPIRITED ADVENTURE AWAITS VISITORS (GREAT FOOD INCLUDED)
Thousands of people line the River Walk to watch the Dia de los Muertos parade (Credit: Visit San Antonio)
San Antonio is one of my favorite cities—a worthy destination any time of the year—but visiting during the Día de los Muertos celebrations provides a truly spirited adventure.
The festival, honoring the lives and legacies of ancestors, is centuries old—dating back to the ancient Aztecs. With its roots in Mexico, the traditions have spread wherever settlement has taken its descendants. San Antonio, with its large Mexican-American population, hosts one of the largest observances in the country.
The celebration kicks off Oct. 25 with a parade of more than two dozen highly decorated barges—some with musical entertainers—floating down the River Walk canal. For the best experience, buy tickets for seats; premium ones include dinner.
Other activities take place in historic La Villita and Hemisfair Park, site of the 1968 World’s Fair. Expect lots of food, music, entertainment, crafts, flowers and ofrendas (altars to honor passed family and friends). It’s a great homage to the city’s history and heritage.
In delving into San Antonio’s past, many people first think of the Alamo due to its participation in the struggle for Texas independence. But that’s just part of a bigger story, that of the San Antonio Missions, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the story of Texas colonization by Spain with the founding of five missions—the Alamo, originally named San Antonio de Valero, being one of them.
The missions were established in the early 1700s to colonize the area, convert the indigenous people and secure Spain’s hold on the territory. Four of the five missions are now part of the National Park system.
Colorful costumes are a highlight of Dia de los Muertos festivities (Credit: Visit San Antonio)
Melted Swiss raclette, also popular in alpine areas of France, Germany and Austria, is a treat at Mon Chou Chou in the Pearl District. (Photo by Elaine Warner)
The best way to understand the history is to start with the Visitor Center at Mission San Jose. For a great overview, ranger-guided walks are offered at 10 and 11 a.m. almost every day. Passionate history buffs will want to visit the other four missions and the Alamo, which was secularized, renamed and turned into a fort in 1803.
For a fast trip through several centuries—kaleidoscopic colors and a mix tape with music from classical, folk, ragtime, jazz, blues and, of course mariachi melodies—check out the sound and light show on the facade of the San Fernando Cathedral. Twice a night, Tuesday through Sunday, The Saga, a 24-minute presentation created by internationally famous artist Xavier de Richemont, is a definite do-not-miss—and it’s free!
Not far away is the Historic Market Square, home to another spot I visit every time I go to San Antonio: Mi Tierra Café y Panaderia. Touristy, yes, but in the best possible way, this huge complex is a rainbow of bright colors—and strolling mariachis. There’s always a line but this is worth the wait. And the market is the best spot to shop for souvenirs, piñatas, pottery and Day of the Dead paraphernalia.
Tied with the Alamo for the San Antonio icon has to be the River Walk, a river bypass created in the 1930s for flood control and beautification. Today it’s a lovely waterway lined with cafes, hotels and spots to rest and reflect.
It also runs by La Villita, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. With roots going back 300 years to a Native American village, the area, now on the National Register of Historic Places, retains
The Saga, a sound and light performance, is projected on the façade of San Antonio’s San Fernando Cathedral. (Photo by Elaine Warner)
Classic and contemporary art is on display in the beautiful 1926 McNay mansion. (Photo by Elaine Warner)
In addition to pastries, breakfast at La Panaderia features hearty entrees like Ranchero Eggs Benedictine and El Buenos Dias. (Photo by Elaine Warner)
The festival, honoring the lives and legacies of ancestors, is centuries old— dating back to the ancient Aztecs.
remnants of the city’s earliest colonial and military activity. Today it is an arts hub—a wonderful place to shop for local (and not-so-local) arts and crafts.
My home base on my latest trip to the city was the Valencia Hotel Riverwalk. The décor of the hotel is a blend of Spanish Colonial—a tribute to the city’s history—and modern Mediterranean styles. A central courtyard is often the site of special events. When we were there, there was an evening of wine and cheese and an elegant tango demonstration. The hotel is easy walking distance from many of the major downtown sites: the Alamo, the Market, the Cathedral, and more.
Just a short walk from the hotel, my husband, Jack, and I had breakfast at La Panaderia. We got royal treatment with four different breakfast entrees! I was served avocado toast with cherry tomatoes, pink onion and queso fresco and French toast with whipped cream and berries, while Jack was given Ranchero Eggs Benedictine with smoked pork and a dish named El Buenos Dias, sort of an open-faced BLT with turkey, egg whites, avocado and cilantro mayo. Of course, we both had to try a bit of everything—which is why we skipped lunch.
CONTINUED >
Enchiladas Verdes with two chicken enchiladas topped with green tomatillo sauce, Monterrey Jack cheese and sour cream with guacamole, rice and black beans is a favorite dish at Mi Tierra in the Market Square. (Photo by Elaine Warner
Another of my favorite places for breakfast is the Guenther House—home of the founder of Pioneer Mills. Expect wonderful baked goods, good gravy, even their own brand of coffee. The cinnamon rolls are the size of cantaloupes!
The Guenther House is in the King William neighborhood, named for the King of Prussia by German immigrants who settled the area. It’s a neighborhood of elegant mansions, several of which are open for tours.
The Germans also brought a beer-brewing heritage. William Menger opened Texas’s first commercial brewery in 1855. This was followed by Lone Star Brewery and Pearl Beer. The latter gave name to one of the city’s liveliest areas, the Pearl District.
Many of the old brewery buildings add interest to the Pearl architecture. The San Antonio Museum of Art is actually housed in the old Lone Star Brewery. The area has a beautiful gathering place, cool boutiques and interesting restaurants. It was a real treat to try raclette at Mon Chou Chou, a French Bistro there.
Other do-not-miss spots include the McNay Art Museum and the Briscoe Western Art Museum. The Witte Museum is an omnibus museum, with exhibits covering everything from nature, science, art and history, as well as a great children’s area.
For those traveling with children, popular stops include Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Sea World San Antonio and Morgan’s Wonderland, the only Ultra-Accessible™ Park in the world.
There’s way too much to do in San Antonio—I could fill a book. Go discover the city for yourself. Eat your heart out at wonderful restaurants. Enjoy the scenery, culture and history. And have the time of your life celebrating the Day of the Dead.
The Valencia Hotel Riverwalk is conveniently situated on San Antonio’s River Walk. (Photo by Elaine Warner)
MOORE’S 1ST WINERY & BISTRO FEATURES FAMILY ATMOSPHERE, FUN EVENTS
Where the Water Meets the Wine
ARTICLE BY STACI ELDER HENSLEY
“
“Our being here for our community is solving a problem by providing a place for people to come and socialize and hang out that’s not a bar.”
Compared to other states, Oklahoma still doesn’t have very many wineries, even in the metro area.
However, residents on the south side of the metro area are in luck. Water’s Edge Winery, at 2001 S. Broadway Ave. in Moore, offers the best combination imaginable: a bistro/restaurant with a wine-tasting area, ongoing special events, and a family-friendly atmosphere that encourages visitors to relax and hang out.
It’s the first winery to be located in Moore, and is both a partnership and a labor of love for the owners, Mara and Mike English.
The Englishes already were the owners of two businesses: ACE (Always Celebrate Everything) Party Supplies and Abby Candles. They also were frequent patrons of the original Water’s Edge, located in downtown Oklahoma City.
When they learned the owner planned to sell, they decided the time was right and made an offer. The business’s primary winemaker agreed to join their team for a year in order to teach Mike the wine-making process, which removed the last obstacle.
The couple opened Water’s Edge Winery three years ago, and the number of patrons has grown steadily.
Mike continues to handle the wine-making side of the operation—which includes 34 distinct varieties—while Mara operates the front house restaurant, including a wine-tasting area, special activities and marketing, plus supervising employees.
“We just knew that Moore needed it,” Mara said. “I always wanted to bring more stuff to the south side of OKC, and Moore doesn’t have a lot of attractions that are social establishments that are also family-friendly. There are wine bars, but no actual wineries. So, when the opportunity came up, I knew it would be a good fit.
“We are doing really well; new people are finding us every day,” she added. “So far, word of mouth is still our best form of marketing.”
Along with the wine tasting and enjoying their preferred vintage, special activities are part of the Water’s Edge menu each week. “Singo,” aka singing
bingo, is a hit each Thursday, while there’s live music on Fridays and trivia contests on Sundays.
The restaurant and wine-tasting area are open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 1 to 6 p.m. Sundays. More information is available on its Facebook page, Water’s Edge Winery–Moore, at www.wewmooreok. com, and by calling 405.232.WINE (9463).
The winery is closed Mondays and Tuesdays in order to cater private events, which can range from wedding showers to workplace gatherings, client meetings, sports-watching parties or other types of private gatherings. They’ve even hosted a wedding.
“One of the little extras we do for our wine club members is, after they’ve been members for a year they receive a free space rental,” Mara noted.
HOW IT WORKS
Water’s Edge wine-making operation begins with the importation of fresh juice from already crushed grapes.
“We source juices from all over the world, and we work with brokers who have relationships with vineyards around the world, so we bring it in as juice and then we ferment and bottle in-house,” Mara explained.
The actual wine-making process takes six steps, and Mike is responsible for the last four. Once the juice is purchased, the next step is to add yeast to begin the fermenting process.
“Wine is fermented by heat, and once the yeast has done its job and the solids have settled to the bottom, then we separate, filter, bottle and serve,” Mara said. “It’s time-consuming, but still a very straightforward process.”
CREATE YOUR OWN BRAND
One of the more popular features is the ability to create custom labels for clients. They’ve done everything from holidays to weddings, graduations and other special events. Customers are invited to submit their own label designs, or work with Mara to achieve the look they’re after.
Top: Water's Edge Winery's elegant bistro/restaurant | Bottom left: Mike English handles the wine-making side of the business Bottom right: Mike and Mara English opened the family-friendly Water’s Edge Winery three years ago.
“We also provide wine for the Oklahoma City Thunder; they purchase from us and use their own private labels on it,” Mara said. “We have a lot of professionals who will get bottles with thank-you labels on them for their clients or as holiday gifts. We just need to know what someone is looking for. Including approval time, and we can usually turn labels around within 48 hours.”
Mara said that she loves the problem-solving aspects of operating a business, especially one that brings smiles to people’s faces.
“Our being here for our community is solving a problem by providing a place for people to come and socialize and hang out that’s not a bar,” she said.
“Our restaurant feels more like a living room. You can come and play games with your kids; you can have a meeting for coworkers or clients. We even have bakers
who come here for tasting meetings with their customers, for weddings and such.
A lot of people who haven’t been exposed to it are intimidated by wine, she said.
“I try very hard to make this place comfortable, where people can try things and experiment with wine in a space that makes them feel welcome. People try new things here, and learn about wine, and later when they go out to a steakhouse or Italian restaurant they’re not so intimidated by the wine menu.
“When it was downtown, the winery was Mike’s and my happy go-to place, and I wanted to bring that to the south side,” she added. “My goal is to eventually open a couple of other locations around the metro area. It takes community support and local support, so I’m hoping more people will find us.”
One step in what's a six-step process of making wine at Water's Edge Winery
COMMUNITY AMENITIES
Activity Rooms | Elevators | Game Room
Movie Room Events & Activities | Valet Trash
Fitness Room | Storm Shelter | Garden
Beauty/Barber Shop | Shuttle Services
Full Service Dining Room | Dog Park
Light Housekeeping | Utilities Included
APARTMENT AMENITIES
2" Blinds | Basic Housekeeping | Basic Internet
Handicap Accessible | Individual Heat/Air
Large Closets | Spacious Units | Walk-In Showers
Ceiling Fans | Washer/Dryer | All Utilities Paid
The Chicken Shack and neighboring Pizza Shack are located on historic Route 66 in Arcadia.
THE CHICKEN SHACK AND PIZZA SHACK OFFER CULINARY DELIGHTS
Since 2022, The Chicken Shack has been a popular eatery and tourist destination along the stretch of Route 66 that winds through the heart of Arcadia.
The Chicken Shack now shares a parking lot with its partner restaurant, The Pizza Shack, creating a one-of-a-kind culinary destination.
The two restaurants were born from the creative vision of three friends who grew up together in Iowa. Ed Gochenour,
ARTICLE BY BROOKE BARNETT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEL DRAKE PHOTOGRAPHY
Bob Protexter (left), manager, Pizza Shack, and Ed Gochenour owner, Chicken Shack and Pizza Shack
Bob Protexter and Troy Bohlke were childhood friends in Sioux City, and they have reunited to bring their unique talents to the table in Arcadia.
Ed is the founder and creative force behind the Chicken Shack. Situated among large shade trees, the restaurant offers a comfortable, backyard-style vibe. With ample outdoor and indoor seating, the Chicken Shack can comfortably accommodate large
groups and is a popular choice for parties, celebrations and live music.
“The Shack was built for families. It is designed to be a place to gather together, and be a place where everyone is welcome. Our only requirement is you like chicken, but we even have options for those that don’t,” Ed said with a laugh.
The Chicken Shack is popular for its perfectly seasoned, crispy pressure-fried
Both "Shacks" are rich in ambiance.
“I AM TRULY GRATEFUL FOR ALL OF THE FOLKS THAT HAVE COME AND THOSE THAT KEEP COMING BACK.”
chicken, as well as chicken wings, pork chops, smoked meat and delectable side dishes.
For those who are new to the Shack, Ed recommends the Thursday Prime Rib special, or Saturday’s Shrimp & Crab boil. Some of his favorite menu items are the broasted pork chop, the mini corn dog appetizer and mashed potatoes with chicken gravy.
“If I had to pick only one thing on the menu, I would pick our broasted chicken wings. The taste is just priceless,” he adds.
After experiencing success with the Chicken Shack, Ed wanted to bring a taste of home to the Sooner State. While thin crust tavern-style pizza is widely loved in the upper Midwest, it hadn’t yet become widespread in Oklahoma.
“The Pizza Shack serves the type of pizza that Bob, Troy and I grew up eating back when we were kids,” Ed says.
“It’s fun to bring something that you loved as a kid for others to fall in love with it, too.”
A former 1920s gas station building sat on the edge of the Chicken Shack’s parking
lot, and Ed saw it as the perfect location for a partner restaurant.
To create the perfect pizza, he called upon the expertise of his childhood friend, Bob. Bob was still living in Iowa, having worked in the baseball and pizza industries for more than 30 years. He started delivering pizzas for a local pizzeria, Jerry’s Pizza, in high school, and continued working there during the baseball offseason for the next three decades.
“Jerry’s Pizza is an institution in Sioux City. There just isn’t anything else like it,” Bob reminisces.
“I always valued being able to return to my job there, I just didn’t know that I was really going to pizza school for 34 years.”
Bob moved to Oklahoma at the end of May 2023, and the trio opened the doors to the Pizza Shack on July 1. Troy serves as the director of special projects for both restaurants.
“We brought this historic space back to life,” Bob recalls. “We went from zero to 60 in about 30 days. We built it from the ground up. Everything from the dough to the employees were specifically chosen.”
After many taste tests, he found the perfect dough, sauce, spices and cheese mix that would become the signature flavor of The Pizza Shack.
CONTINUED >
Top: Chicken’s the star at the Chicken Shack, but the selection goes far beyond just chicken.
Bottom: Specialty of the house: Midwest-style, thin crust tavern-style pizza
“SO GRAB THE FAMILY, CALL YOUR FRIENDS AND HEAD
DOWN ROUTE 66 TO A GREAT SPOT TO ENJOY EACH OTHER.”
Pizzas feature a wide variety of toppings, including pepperoni, Canadian bacon, jalapenos, banana peppers, sauerkraut, spinach and green olives. Customers can build their own pizza, or enjoy “The Everything” pizza, which is loaded with three meats and four vegetables.
“We jokingly started calling our pizza ‘Iowa Stone Pizza’ as a throwback to our childhood, and the name just stuck,” Bob adds.
With the two restaurants in such close proximity, customers can enjoy food from both restaurants at either location. Staff members known as “Chicken Runners” move between the two locations, delivering hot and fresh food.
In its first year, The Pizza Shack was named as a Top 16 pizza restaurant by The Oklahoman . Bob lists the pepperoni, pineapple and mushroom pizza as his favorite, while
Ed prefers Canadian bacon, sauerkraut and green olive. Bob also recommends the Savannah Sticks, a delectable cheese bread sprinkled with banana peppers. The popular appetizer is named in tribute to the Savannah Bananas baseball team, which visited the Chicken Shack last summer and proclaimed it one of their favorite spots to visit.
In addition to the Chicken Shack in Arcadia, Ed operates two other Chicken Shack locations in Mulhall and Harrah. He plans to open a fourth Chicken Shack on Western Avenue in Oklahoma City this October.
“When I started on this vision back in 2016, I had a 10-year plan to get ready for the 100-year anniversary of Route 66 in 2026, and I look back and see how far we have come. I am truly grateful for all of the folks that have come and those that keep coming back,” Ed concludes.
“So grab the family, call your friends and head down Route 66 to a great spot to enjoy each other.”
The Chicken Shack and The Pizza Shack are located at 212 E Hwy 66 in Arcadia. Follow them on social media at facebook.com/ ChickenShackArcadia or instagram.com/ pizzashackarcadiaoklahoma. Find more at ChickenShackRT66.com.
Top: Chicken art can be found throughout the Chicken Shack.
Bottom: Bob Protexter with a pizza straight from the oven...yum!
FINE dining AT ITS BEST
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYLIE MASTERS
CHEF-CURATED FOUR-COURSE DINNERS WITH WINE PROVES POPULAR AT THE RESERVE AT SELAH
Sure, life in central Oklahoma is usually chill (meaning laid back, not the weather! LOL), and most days you’ll find us in jeans or shorts and a T-shirt. Meals tend to be informal affairs, with burgers, hotdogs, sandwiches, tacos and other simple fare the norm.
But sometimes, one gets a hankering for something a little more, well, fancy, for lack of a better word.
Both kinds of dining—no-fuss, no fancy dress required, and fine dining at its best—are available in Selah (SelahOK.com), a new urbanism community located south of Norman off Highway 9.
Pryor’s Pizza Kitchen ( PryorsPizza.com), a former Norman favorite, serves a diverse selection of seriously delicious “pies” (pizzas), along with appetizers, salads and pastas at its current location, nestled in the heart of Selah. (We’ve featured this establishment in prior issues.) Reservations aren’t required to eat at this family-friendly restaurant, with the exception of the firepit areas.
Selah founders Brett and Tina Adkins and Brett's parents, Scott and Libby Adkins, added what has proven to be a popular offering—Wine Dinners—last October at another of this unique community’s venues: The Reserve at Selah ( ReserveatSelah.com), a versatile space with a 1930s Speakeasy flair and an elegance designed to host celebrations that transcend expectations.
“FOOD IS SOMETHING THAT WILL ALWAYS BRING people together. THEY ARE LIKE the hinges ON THE DOOR; A DOOR DOESN’T WORK without something TO ANCHOR IT.”
Overseeing both restaurants is “Chef Keenan” (aka Keenan Hersey), who recently took time out of his busy schedule to discuss The Reserve’s new Wine Dinners, which this month celebrates its one-year anniversary.
Offered once a month on Wednesday evenings, the Wine Dinners at The Reserve feature a four-course, themed meal expertly curated with four wines, selected by himself and Erica Vasquez, the chef at Sip at Selah coffee shop. Erica also creates the desserts served at the dinners. Typically, 50 to 55 people sign up for each dinner.
Keenan said that probably the most popular dish he has created for these dinners is the Chilean sea bass.
“By the time the first 10 plates went out, the servers were already being asked if seconds were available,” he recalled, laughing.
All dishes are made from scratch, much of it from ingredients sourced locally and personally selected by Keenan.
“These dinner and wine gatherings are done with love,” Keenan said, noting that they echo Selah’s overall mission of creating a sense of community.
"Our success with the gourmet paired wine and bourbon dinners at The Reserve at Selah is a testament to the collaborative spirit of our team, especially under the leadership of Chef Keenan and Chef Erica,” Brett and Tina Adkins said.
“Their passion and expertise have not only fueled monumental growth but also fostered a loyal following of returning patrons who appreciate the unique environment offered in our 1930s-inspired atmosphere and experience.”
“Food is something that will always bring people together,” Keenan said. “They are like the hinges on the door; a door doesn’t work without something to anchor it. This is what drives (Selah founders) Brent and Tina, and what drives me as well. In a world that is so divisive, food brings people together.”
For more information on the Wine Dinners and for reservations, call 405.267.4663.
ABOUT CHEF KEENAN
Before coming to Selah to manage Pryor’s Pizza Kitchen (and before the launch of the Wine Dinners at The Reserve), Keenan served as Brent and Tina Adkins’ chef de cuisine at their Southwind Hills wedding venue in Goldsby and helped open the original Pryor’s Pizza Kitchen in Norman, both ultimately victims of the COVID-19 pandemic.
He was also an integral part of the team that first envisioned, then built the community of Selah.
Early in his career, a now more mellow Keenan employed a more intense celebrity restaurateur/ chef “Gordon Ramsay” persona in
his capacity as a trainer of restaurant managers through Applecreek, the umbrella LLC under which Applebee’s and Up The Creek operated.
“I started with them in my early 20s and worked there for six years. I opened four restaurants before I was legal to drink a beer,” he recalled, chuckling.
Atlanta was home base for Keenan for many years, though he twice relocated to Tulsa, and finally Norman. He managed Applecreek at 71st and Memorial, then Fire Rock Grill & Bar, across from the Woodland Hills Mall on Memorial. When the owner closed the latter, he returned to Atlanta, later returning to T-Town to open Utica Square Restaurant, a spin-off of B.G.B. (Brownies Gourmet Burgers), Tulsa’s iconic classic ‘50s diner.
For a while, he also owned a non-foodrelated business in Atlanta, Spectrum Technology, one of the largest in the southeast region.
“But it seemed like whenever I ventured away from food, something brought me back to it. I believe it’s my calling.”
CLEVELAND COUNTY VIBES:
ARTICLE BY MEL DRAKE AND LESTARI KUSUMAWARDANI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANA
CARSON
Hey there, fabulous Cleveland County enthusiasts! We’re Mel and Lestari, your go-to gals for all things amazing about our beloved communities of Norman, Moore, South Oklahoma City and beyond! Whether you’re a longtime local Okie or just breezing through this vibrant area, we can’t wait to share our personal picks with you!
Fall is in full swing, and we’ve got the inside scoop—from new and amazing beer beverages (think Dole Whip) to lively annual autumn festivals and so much more!
Are you ready to dive headfirst into the wonders of Cleveland County? Buckle up and get set to “fall” in love with the vibrant spirit of our community alongside us! Let’s celebrate the creativity and diversity that makes Cleveland County!
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
Sip, Sip, Hooray: 405 Brewing Co.
Get ready to say goodbye to the phrase, “but I don’t like beer!” because 405 Brewing Co. is here to shake things up! With their ever-changing lineup of delightfully unique sweet, infused, and traditional craft brews, there’s always an exciting new flavor waiting for everyone—yes, even you non-beer lovers! Trust us; we were once skeptics, too! Plus, the laid-back vibe and friendly staff make it the perfect, unpretentious hangout to kick back with friends. So, what are you waiting for? Come join the fun and discover your new favorite brew!
Here’s what to order:
Frozen -
• Strawberry Pineapple (This was a top pick!)
House Specialties -
• Magic Whip Sherbet (think Disney’s Dole Whip but with a softserve boozy twist!)
• Cherry Lime Tart
• Pickle Nite Lite
405 Brewing Co. 1716 Topeka Drive, Norman, OK 73069 | 405brewing.com
WHAT TO DO Free & Festive Family Fun Downtown Norman Fall Fest | Oct. 25, 2024 NormanFallFest.com
WHERE TO SHOP A Lot of Something for Everyone Human Interaction 224 E Main St., Norman, OK 73069 TheHumanInteraction.com
WHERE TO GIVE Adult Day Center Full Circle FullCircleOK.org
UNTIL NEXT MONTH!
We hope you absolutely loved our inaugural issue of “Cleveland County Vibes: Mel & Lestari’s Insider Scoop!” Ready for more insider tips and recommendations next month? We’re just getting started exploring the vibrant heart of Cleveland County! Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @ThisIsMelDrake and @_le.star_ for even more adventures!
Happy fall, y’all! Cheers, Mel & Lestari
Originally from Jakarta, Indonesia, Lestari has made OKC her home since 2001. As the Oklahoma City Ballet's marketing manager, she has a stellar track record of successful campaigns. In her downtime, she enjoys exploring the local performing arts and culinary scenes.
MELISSA “MEL” DRAKE
Melissa “Mel” Drake is a talented photographer and dedicated classroom teacher based in Oklahoma City. In her free time, she enjoys discovering fun local OKC activities, traveling domestically and internationally, and whipping up delicious cocktails.
LESTARI KUSUMAWARDANI
realty report
Dr. Roberta Wright
Dr.
Lars Bouma
The Ultimate Care for Your Ultimate Smile
OCTOBER 5TH
Christmas Market at the Farm
Wells Christmas Tree Farm, Norman 10:00 AM
During your visit to the local Christmas tree farm, relish delicious bites from food trucks, groove to live entertainment and explore unique treasures. The stage is set to amaze attendees during this delightful holiday adventure. WellsChristmasTrees.com/Pages/ Christmas-Market-At-The-Farm
OCTOBER 5TH
Rotary Road Rally & Festival
Young Family Center, Norman 8:00 AM
There are three ride distances to choose from (16, 13 and 53 miles), all of which are followed by a free lunch as well as local craft beer and live music. This event supports the Norman Rotary Success Cycle, a partnership with Norman Public Schools, which aims to strengthen reading education throughout the city's youth. RotaryRoadRally.com
OCTOBER 6TH
Norman Phil to Perform Fall Classics
McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church, Norman 3:00 PM
The Norman Philharmonic will kick off its 14th season with Fall Classics featuring works by Bach, Handel and Mozart and including performances by the Zielinski Singers. Tickets available online at normanphil.com
OCTOBER 25TH
Monster Mash Halloween Dance: Throwback Thrillers
Moore Community Center 6:00 PM
This new family-friendly Monster Mash Halloween Dance, Throw Back Thrillers, features a haunted room, treats and games. Costumes are encouraged. All kids 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Participants must have a ticket to enter. CityOfMoore.com/Upcoming-Events
OCTOBER 26TH
Haunt Old Town Moore
Old Town Moore 4:00 PM
Features family fun activities including trick or treating, food trucks, inflatables, games, music and candy. The Moore Community Center (301 S. Howard Ave.) will host Haunting on Howard Street with trick-or-treating and a haunted room. CityOfMoore. com/Upcoming-Events
OCTOBER 26TH
National Weather Festival
National Weather Center, Norman 10:00 AM
The annual National Weather Festival in Norman highlights the many weather-related organizations and activities in central Oklahoma. Visitors can view the National Weather Center’s premier facilities including National Weather Service forecast operation areas. Ou.edu/NWC Want
Orangetheory is a 1-hour, full-body heart rate zone workout that delivers a more personalized experience in a group setting. Designed to be effective and efficient, our workout boosts your metabolism, burns fat and burns more calories. And these are just some of the results you see.
THE 90/10 RULE
Nutrition, Paired with Fitness and Accountability, the 3 Pillars Used to Transform Lives
ARTICLE BY DEREK GEIGES
In the eight-plus years Solid Rock Personal Training has been in business, we have helped literally thousands of people of all ages and body types in the Norman and Moore areas get in the best shape of their lives. Our approach is simple, but not easy. Most join a fitness program thinking it will solve all their issues. This is a great first step, but there are two missing pieces. The other two pieces to round out a well-thought-out training program are nutrition and accountability. Fitness, Nutrition and Accountability are the three pillars we use to transform lives every day.
The pillar I specifically want to talk to YOU about today is Nutrition. This is the hardest thing for most people to master. We understand that there is so much confusing information in the marketplace, so we want to take the guess work out of it for you. The simple answer, ultimately, is that good (and bad) health can be laid at the feet of one’s daily habits.
Here are the four habits involving nutrition that the healthiest people on earth have mastered:
1) Drinking half one’s body weight in ounces of water daily
2) Eating whole nutrients (fruit, vegetables, fish and lean cuts of meat)
3) Controlling portion sizes
4) Following the 90/10 rule.
THE 90/10 RULE
On average, most people partake of three meals a day, or 21 meals a week. Under this rule, you may partake of two meals weekly that are not whole-nutrient meals (aka “cheat meals,” such as chips & guac, pizza, cake, alcohol).
If you are serious about changing your life, you must learn to play the long game instead of seeking instant gratification. If you commit to these four habits and execute them consistently, you are going to see your health change drastically. You will start to drop body fat and your energy is going to go up significantly.
If you want to turn it up a notch, add strength training three days per week and walk approximately 10,000 steps daily. This will also set you up for a better quality of life in your later years.
Here at Solid Rock Personal Training, we are on a mission to help transform our community to LOOK GOOD, MOVE WELL & FEEL GREAT! We even offer a free initial workout session to get you started!
DEREK GEIGES is owner/operator of Solid Rock Personal Training, 4310 48th Ave NW, Norman, OK 73072. For more information call 405.928.0625, visit SolidRockPersonalTraining.com, or look for them on Facebook and Instagram.
ROW 1: Tiffany & Boomer Elcyzyn, Amber Dawson, Lisa Elrod, Jerry Flowers
ROW 2: Kirk Holloway, Matt Thomas, Nguyet Kieu, Cami Martz
ROW 4: Leslie Switzer, Lonny McMillan, Wes Brozek, Kirk Little OUR TEAM
ROW 3: Tera Painter, Lisa Ray, Susan K. Ford, Dustin Whittern,
Hello Autumn, welcome to your modern luxury cabin, in the ideal location and space for a cozy getaway. Two king en-suites and a queen bedroom upstairs, plus a 4 twin sized bunkbed room offers plenty of room for multiple families to enjoy a great leaf-peeping vacation together. There are two other recreation rooms that can function as bedrooms, sleeping more guests. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking a gourmet meal while interacting with Family and Friends. Outside you’ll discover a deck with a bubbling hot tub and crackling fire pit, perfect for enjoying the sights and sounds of the woods at night. Located in central Hochatown, this get-away offers plenty of opportunities to visit some amazing restaurants in the area, Broken Bow lake, and Choctaw Landing. Respectfully priced at $1,100,000.
