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LIFESTYLE LETTER

APRIL 2020 PUBLISHER

Brian Ihnat | brian.ihnat@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Heide Brandes | heide.brandes@lifestylepubs.com

Singing in OKC

AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER

DO YOU SMELL THAT, OKC? It’s the fresh, spring scent after a cleansing rain. Ah,

Dana Rudolph

April. What a wonderful month to reconnect with the Earth and spend some time

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

outside. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a new raincoat and matching

Heide Brandes

boots, you have one now. Go out and explore—maybe get some new Instagram shots a la Singing in the Rain?

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kimberly Richelle

While you’re out, take a moment to appreciate the gifts our planet gives us each day. How can you show your thanks? Maybe you join a neighborhood cleanup or check out some new, sustainable brands popping up in our local boutiques. This April issue is filled with community stories and ideas to get you in the Earth Day spirit. We can’t wait to see how you decide to celebrate. Be sure to share your photos with us! Thank you for all you do to keep OKC clean and healthy. We wouldn’t be this wonderful city without each and every one of you doing your part. Happy Earth Day!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Brian Ihnat, Publisher Brian.Ihnat@LifestylePubs.com

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

p.s. With the ongoing, fast changing environment we are in, we at OKC Lifestyle hope that all of our readers are taking the proper precautions to keep safe. We hope that OKC Lifestyle is a way for you to forget about the craziness in the world. Please stay safe and know that we will get through this and life will return to normal soon!

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OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 OKC Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the OKC areas’ 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 OKC Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE APRIL 2020

FEATURES 14 Water4 Sustainability From Oklahoma to Africa, Water4 Ensures Clean, Safe Water Across Africa

18 Three Days in Gatlinburg The Smoky Mountains beckons with arts, fun and world-class museums

34 Wild and Wonderful, OKC Zoo Has Big Plans for 2020 OKC Zoo continues mission to support a world where people, wildlife and wild places thrive

18 14

40 Room For More VW Atlas Combines Plenty of Legroom With Solid Performance

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Locally Owned

Travel Destination

28 Trend Setter 34 Animal Kingdom 40 Driverâ€™s Notebook 46 Financial Buzz

NEED SPACE? OWN IT! Space to Play

All in the Details

When Ralph Heatly retired from the oil and gas business a year and a

Top-notch security, first class construction and a blank slate space

half ago, his goal was to spend more time with his classic rock band,

that Heatly could design himself were three of the most compelling

The Changing Times. To achieve that goal, he needed more space

factors in deciding to purchase a garage condo. Heatly explained,

than the room at his house to accommodate the five-member

"The more I watched the quality of what Chris Carllson, Garage

band and equipment.

Condos owner, was doing here, the more it swayed me. The

Buy vs. Rent After considering commercial space or an outbuilding on his property, Heatly discovered Garage Condos and was immediately impressed. He not only liked the idea of building equity, which a rental wouldn't provide, but found that purchasing a luxury work and storage space was a recent trend in bigger cities that hadn't been tapped into locally, until now. "I thought about it over a year, and looking at the market, the options and the cost involved, it all fell into place and made the most sense. A garage condo was the cleanest, easiest and most direct way to get where I wanted to go."

materials are impeccably chosen, from the tilt-up construction of the 9 1/2 inch steel reinforced concrete walls, to the detailed finishes." Heatly's 1000sf space includes a decked out man-cave in the mezzanine and will eventually include rehearsal and recording areas downstairs.

Added Amenities Whether you need storage space or a comfortable area dedicated to your work or hobby, you can invest in owning your own space for the same cost that you can rent it. Garage Condos in Edmond offers 85 luxury, climate-controlled units in various sizes, plus 24-hour surveillance, gated entry and a clubhouse.

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GOOD TIMES 1.

Shangri-La Resort Breaks Ground on New Activity Park Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell was the featured guest on Valentine's Day for the groundbreaking ceremonies for a new $5.5 million Activity Park at Shangri-La Resort on Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees. The Shangri-La Activity Park will be developed adjacent to the hotel, which also includes marina facilities and a 27-hole Championship golf course.

1. A host of dignitaries were present to help with the groundbreaking. | 2. Barry Willingham, Barbara DeBolt, Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell | 3. Owner Eddy Gibbs speaking about the new facility. | 4. President & CEO Barry Willingham giving details of the new complex. | 5. Rendering of the new Activity Center. | 6. Shangri-La Clubhouse

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OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

Beautiful Home P lans For The Way We Live Today

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AROUND TOWN

INAUGURAL CHEROKEE MINI MARKET HIGHLIGHTS CHEROKEE POTTERY

civic, business, tourism and a wide variety of industry partners. With research showing only one in

Experience an up-close look at Cherokee pot-

three people are familiar with OKC, the branding

tery at the inaugural Cherokee Mini Market at the

exercise was conducted to cultivate a distinguish-

Cherokee National History Museum. Cherokee

able identity for Oklahoma City.

National Treasure Jane Osti, along with artists Eva

The Modern Frontier phrasing was developed

Cantrell, Crystal Hanna and Tama Roberts, will

from the key values that were identified during

demonstrate their work and have items available

the interview process: collaborative, diverse,

for purchase from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on April 18.

honest, resilient, authentic, kind and daring. The

Cherokee Nation museum locations include

Modern Frontier campaign is a nod to Oklahoma

the Cherokee National History Museum, located

City’s Western heritage while recognizing of the

at 101 S. Muskogee Avenue; Cherokee National

city’s enterprising nature and ability to determine

Prison Museum, located at 124 E. Choctaw St.;

its own future.

Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum, located at 122 E. Keetoowah St.; John Ross Museum, located at 22366 S. 530 Rd. in Park Hill; and Sequoyah’s Cabin Museum, located at

OKC POSITIVE JOB GROWTH EXPECTED TO CONTINUE According to the upcoming Greater Oklahoma City Economic Forecast, the Oklahoma City MSA

470288 Highway 101 in Sallisaw.

is expected to have positive job growth for the

OKC MEMORIAL MARATHON SET FOR OCTOBER 4

fourth consecutive year in 2020. Approximately, 2,900 jobs will be added to the Oklahoma City

The 20th Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon,

metro next year.

Run to Remember will take place Sunday,

Last year was a healthy one for the local econ-

October 4, 2020. The marathon is a Boston qual-

omy as job growth was 1.2% or 7,900 jobs. While

ifying USATF sanctioned event on a certified

positive job growth is expected for 2020, the

26.2-mile single-loop course. Races include Full

rate might soften to 0.5%. The report states that

Marathon, Half Marathon, Wheelchair Division,

while the metro is less dependent on the national

Relay, 5K and Kids Marathon.

economy and energy industry than the rest of the

The

Oklahoma

City

Memorial

Marathon

is the single largest fundraiser each year for the

state, it is not wholly immune to the uncertainties they might cause.

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and

Looking back at 2019, the largest year-over-

because the museum receives no federal or state

year job gains came from construction, whole-

funding, the success of this event is absolutely

sale trade, scientific and technical services and

critical to their mission.

health services.

Find information on volunteering, race registra-

Another bright spot for the Oklahoma City econ-

tion, runner tracking and cheering for the partici-

omy is the continued low unemployment rate. 2019

pants at OKCMarathon.com. Due to the Corona

saw an average unemployment rate of just 3.1%.

virus, the race has been rescheduled.

This ranked among the lowest 25 for metros with

MODERN FRONTIER - OKC CVB UNVEILS NEW BRANDING IDENTITY

more than one million population.

The Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau (OKC CVB) launched an all-new branding campaign to evolve the current perception of Oklahoma City. The Modern Frontier is a citywide campaign that meshes Oklahoma City’s rich history and innovative future.

The OKC CVB engaged in a 10-month-long

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

branding project that included more than 75 one-

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

on-one interviews, extensive research, news media

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

and competitor city analysis, as well as input from

Us tab at OKCLifestylePubs.com.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

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April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

LOCALLY OWNED

WAT E R 4 S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

FROM OKLAHOMA TO AFRICA, WATER4 ENSURES CLEAN, SAFE WATER ACROSS AFRICA

ARTICLE MANDY GOKSU, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

NEXT TO SAVING ENERGY, SAVING WATER

“And staying in business requires saving on big costs,

MAY BE THE ECO-FRIENDLIEST BUSINESS

like energy, while ensuring no water is wasted.”

OUT THERE. Water4 is an Oklahoma-based nonprofit that’s doing both across Africa.

Water4’s partners use pre-paid meters on their water taps. By requiring customers to pay an

The organization is out to prove how being good

affordable fee, less water goes to waste. Entire

to the environment is also good for business. Today

towns practicing conservation builds resilience

in 2020, 60% of people living in rural areas of Africa

to drought while also ensuring the enterprise has

still don’t have access to running water. To meet

sufficient revenue to reach more people with water.

their daily needs, they collect untreated water from

With reductions in the price of solar panels,

streams and rivers, and when those rivers run dry in

Water4 is able to pump water from deep aquifers

times of drought, they are forced to ration it.

for a low cost, all the while reducing carbon emis-

Water4 works with small water businesses

sions. Together, these sustainability approaches

across Africa to ensure people can afford safe,

help Water4 achieve a triple bottom line that sup-

clean, water 24/7.

ports people, planet, and profit.

“Sustainability is about making sure the water flows

Learn more by participating in the September

for the next generation, and that requires a strong busi-

19, 2020 Walk 4 Water. For more information about

ness model,” says Matt Hangen, president and CEO.

Water4, or to sign up, visit Water4.org/Walk.

April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

Here to Help You Rebuild Your LifeÂŽ

Stock Options Often Overlooked in Divorce Settlements

In any divorce, all marital property and debt have to be divided. In an equitable division state, marital property and debt are to be divided in a just manner when considering all the statutory factors. Stock options are often overlooked by many parties when dividing marital property and debt. Some parties might forget to include them on their financial statements inoccently. In other cases, a party might, unfortunately, fail to disclose them in hopes that the other party does not discover it. In a divorce, it is vital that both parties act in an aboveboard manner. One way to do this is to inform the other party of all marital property and debt that exists. This means that parties going through a divorce should check with their employer, if they do not know, about whether they have any stock options. Often, the best place to inquire is through the human resource and/or benefits department. It also might mean the party who suspects that their spouse might have stock options ensures that the lawyer inquires about this in the discovery process or otherwise. In an uncontested divorce where parties desire to settle the parties need to be able to trust that their spouse will voluntarily disclose if stock options exist.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

If stock options do exist, there are a few different ways in which these stock options can often be dealt with in a divorce. First, if possible, these stock options can be divided as the date of divorce in an equitable manner. But in some cases, dividing the stock options as of the date of the divorce is not possible. This may be because the options are not vested yet. Some employer terms may also not allow stock options to go to a non-employee. In these cases, there are really two options. One, the stock options may end up being divided later into the future once they vest. That said, the spouse who has the stock options might argue that since the option interest has not vested, they have not acquired them yet and, thus, they should be off the table. Or, two, sometimes the stock options can be offset by other marital property. But to do this, the parties will need to have the value of the stock options properly valuated. Otherwise, a fair offset cannot be reached. Valuating stock options can be somewhat complex. However, with the help of a financial expert, a value can almost always be determined. A valuation typically takes place with the help of a forensic accountant Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to fami-

ly law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

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

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A $9 gift to Water4 provides safe water to one person for life.

The water crisis is real, but you can help end it by partnering with Water4, an Oklahoma City based nonprofit working to eradicate the water crisis in 13 African countries. Will you join the fight to provide safe water for all by becoming a monthly supporter? Your $9 a month gift will provide lasting safe water to one new person each month.

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10:06 AM17 April 2020 | 12/13/19 OKC Lifestyle

TRAVEL DESTINATION

T h r e e D ays i n G at l i n b u r g

THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS BECKONS WITH ARTS, FUN AND WORLD-CLASS MUSEUMS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY HEIDE BRANDES

THREE DAYS IN GATLINBURG The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee serves as the front porch to this natural wonderland. With dozens of affordable lodging options, its a perfect three-day family vacation as well. You might pass bear cubs playing by the side of the road, see sharks swimming over your head, or take in a view that takes you above the clouds — all in the same afternoon. So give East Tennessee a visit to give

+ day 1

your family something they’ll never forget.

MORNING: Get a taste of Appalachian history with a

self-guided drive through Cades Cove or a guided tour with Cades Cove Heritage Tours. Cades Cove is the most visited part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is a looped drive that winds through a small valley. You can view historical small pioneers farms, still working

country churches and learn more about the rugged life of settlers at the Cades Cove Visitor Center with its exhibits on 19th-century rural life. LATE MORNING: try some winter skiing on Ober

Gatlinburg’s manmade ski hill if you’re lucky to be in the Smoky Mountains during the winter. But, at any time of year, enjoy the German-themed adventure park that offers skiing, snow tubing, summer tubing, off-roading and more. If you don’t feel like driving, you can soar over 11,000 feet above Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg on their two 120-passenger counter-balanced tramway cars that provide an

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

Eastern Tennessee is gateway to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

amazing aerial experience from the city up the mountain to this unique family-friendly destination. For information, visit obergatlinburg.com. If you’re still up for adventure after that, tour Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This is the 20th Anniversary of Ripley’s, which was named “America’s #1 Aquarium” by TripAdvisor patrons. See 12-foot sharks, giant sea turtles, penguins and thousands of exotic sea creatures as you enjoy state-of-the-art clear underwater tunnels throughout the aquarium. Visit ripleyaquariums.com/gatlinburg. LUNCH AT OLE RED: Oklahomans are already familiar with this country restaurant, which gets its name from Blake Shelton’s breakout hit, “Ol’ Red.” Being here is a lot like hanging out with Blake himself and live music is often featured at one of Gatlinburg’s newest restaurants. AFTERNOON: Dollywood’s Wildwood Grove. If you love Dolly Parton - or even if you aren’t familiar with this country music legend - Dollywood is a fun-filled amusement park full of rides, attractions, crafts, music, shows, and special events, all with an Appalachian flavor. The park includes a major collection of Dolly’s own memorabilia, restaurants featuring delicious Southern cooking and the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame & Museum. Visit an 1890s one-room schoolhouse and Dolly Parton’s two-room Locust Ridge childhood home, as well as a detailed museum of the singer’s costumes, memorabilia and even her famous wigs. New in 2019 is the Wildwood Grove, where you and your children journey through a fantasy forest with rides, creeks, a delightful village and the mighty limbs of the great Wildwood. There’s plenty of fine dining and casual restaurants at Dollywood, so you’ll have no problem finding a dinner that pleases everyone.

CONTINUED >

The Ripley's Believe or Not Aquarium in Gatlinburg is full of aquatic species ready to be discovered. April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

+ Day 2

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

BREAKFAST: Eastern Tennesee loves its pancake houses, and you’ll find one on almost every corner. Try out at Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg for made-from-scratch pancakes with real whipped butter. MORNING: Take in the rich history of eastern Tennessee this morning with a visit and tour of Tour Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, which celebrated its 50th Anniversary. The Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont provides in-depth experiences through education programs that celebrate ecological and cultural diversity, foster stewardship, and nurture appreciation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take part in the hands-on learning experiences and explore how the park came to be. Visit gsmit.org. Follow up that visit with a tour through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, which is an eight-mile loop with more than 120 artist studios. Nationally recognized as the largest group of independent artisans in North America, with craftsmen whittling, carving, casting, sewing and weaving to transform raw materials into works of art. LUNCH: Sample the fare at any of the restaurants in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, like the Wild Plum Tea Room or Delauder’s BBQ. AFTERNOON: Get a taste of adventure at the Adventure Park at Five Oaks in Sevierville. In addition to a relaxing horseback ride through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, you can also test your bravery with a thrilling zip line course and ropes challenge course. Visit adventureparkatfiveoaks.com. DINNER: Taste the flavors of the Smokies at the Apple Valley Cafe, an old-fashioned diner that specializes in Tennessee homestyle Southern meals, followed by a cold brew from Blackberry Farm Brewery. Be sure to sample the farm ales, table beers and Belgian-inspired beers like the Classic Saison.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

View handmade crafts at the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community

+ Day 3

BREAKFAST AT CROCKETT’S BREAKFAST CAMP: This

rustic local’s favorite is the legacy of David C. “Crockett” Maples, an original frontiersman, honored soldier and devoted family man. The popular breakfast spot serves up time-honored griddle cakes and the Crockett Maples. 10 A.M.: Have some fun at The Island in Pigeon Forge. The

Island has something for everyone, including a 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Ferris Wheel, amusement park rides, local and national retail stores, entertainment, dining, a trampoline bungee jump and the Island Show Fountains. The Margaritaville Island Resort is a fantastic lodging option that puts you in the middle of the action and in proximity to the 11 dining establishments like Margaritaville and Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. AFTERNOON: Step back in time with a visit to the Titanic Museum. The history of the Titanic and its doomed voyage is put on display with meticulous detail that allows you to connect with the famous ship, from its construction to its final hours. The attraction tells the ship’s history through the stories of those on board, passen-

gers and crew alike, whose lives are recounted in precise detail. Parts of the ship are replicated exactly and there are hundreds of personal and private artifacts on display. Visit titanicpigeonforge.com. LATE AFTERNOON: Tour Uncle Hank’s Knives. You’ll have a chance to make your own crafted knives while learning about Uncle Hank’s passion in crafting knives. Follow up your visit to the top-of-the-mountain playground of Anakeesta. In 2014 with a vision of environmental stewardship, the Bentz family began developing a 55- acre mountaintop attraction in the heart of the Smokies in downtown Gatlinburg. Anakeesta opened in 2017 and just one year later was awarded the Best Attraction of the Year by the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association. SUNSET STROLL ON SKYBRIDGE: Located at the top of the SkyLift, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America and one of the most spectacular experiences in the Smokies. From the mountain-top SkyDeck, the SkyBridge quite literally crosses the sky as it stretches 680 feet across a deep valley in a single span. DINNER: Song & Hearth: A Southern Eatery at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort does home cooking the Southern Way. Located on the DreamMore Resort, this restaurant serves breakfast and dinner - all with a touch of regional flavors. Whatever time of year, Eastern Tennessee offers a bit of fun and history that appeals to all tastes.

The Titanic Museum brings the history of the doomed ship alive, meticulously displaying artifacts and passenger stories. The Titanic Museum brings the history of

April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

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ARTICLE HEIDE BRANDES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

OSU FARMERS MARKET SPROUTS THIS MONTH AT OKC SCISSORTAIL PARK

GET TING FRESH IN S C I S S O R TA I L PA R K 24

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

More than 80 percent of vendors will sell foods grown in Oklahoma.

Local artisans also have a place at the Farmers Market.

“IT’S REALLY GOING TO BRING SOMETHING SPECIAL TO OUR CITY AND THE LIFESTYLE OF THE PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY.”

IS THERE ANY SWEETER TASTE OF SPRING THAN LOCALLYGROWN FRUIT AND VEGETABLES?

Plans call not only for growth in the number of vendors, but the regular addition of performers, food demonstrations and seasonal activi-

On April 4, the famed Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma

ties to make the market into a weekly experience all guests can enjoy.

City’s Farmers Market will open in a new destination. Formerly held

The Scissortail market opening on Saturday, April 4, will be

at the OSU-OKC campus, the booths full of vegetables of all colors,

located at the northeast corner of Scissortail Park, adjacent to

locally-made soaps, sweet honey and more will move to the new

the performance stage.

Oklahoma City Scissortail Park. The move from the OSU-OKC campus to Scissortail Park allows the market to expand exponentially and provide a more robust and enriching experience for visitors, said organizers.

The Farmers Market currently has over 65 market members registered with more than 80 percent of them selling grown in Oklahoma foods with the other 20 percent made up of a great selection of local artisans. “This market is really going to be the place to be on Saturday morning

“Great cities have great public parks and great farmers mar-

in downtown Oklahoma City. You can bring the pups out for a walk with

kets. The OSU-OKC Scissortail Park Farmers Market hopes to

the kiddos and grab a cup of coffee and a pastry while you stroll through

highlight this fantastic new green space with a destination mar-

our beautiful new gardens and grand promenade,” said Swearengin.

ketplace that highlights our local food systems and made and

“It’s really going to bring something special to our city and the

grown in Oklahoma products,” said Lance Swearengin, director

lifestyle of the people in the community. It’s been great to see

of Horticulture and Grounds for Scissortail Park.

people using the park since it opened. I really didn’t understand

“This market will feature entertainment and cooking demonstrations

how much our city needed Scissortail Park until we opened last

from some of Oklahoma City’s top chefs and restaurants. This will bring

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treating it as their own personal backyard.”

April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

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TREND SETTER

one stop shop of wellness ELYSIAN WELLNESS GOES BEYOND WEIGHT LOSS AND AESTHETICS FOR WHOLE BODY HEALTH

SUMMER IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, AND IF WEIGHT LOSS IS ON YOUR AGENDA, IT’S TIME TO STOP THE FAD DIETS. At Elysian Wellness at 13150 N. MacArthur Boulevard, weight loss goes hand in hand with full-body wellness. If you don’t feel your best, you won’t ever achieve long-term healthy weight loss. Elysian Wellness and Aesthetics is a medical clinic specializing in wellness, including weight management, metabolic and other endocrine disorders, and hormone imbalance for both men and women. The center also offers cosmetic injectables, such as neurotoxins and fillers, as well as skin care.

Dr. Lauri Stucki 28

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

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“Our mission is to provide an individually tailored program for every patient, to give comprehensive, compassionate care, and to promote wellness throughout the lifespan. Elysian also carries a selection of skin care and wellness products.

Our goal is to help patients achieve optimal health, well-being, and quality of life,” said Founder Dr. Lauri Stucki. Dr. Stucki opened Elysian in late June to offer services and education about how to look and feel your best. A nurse since 1995, she has more than four years of experience in nutrition, weight loss, and hormone replacement therapy, including hormone pellet insertion. She has been trained by world-renowned hormone guru, Dr. Neal Rouzier through World Link Medical and Evexipel. Today, Elysian Wellness and Aesthetics focuses on medically-supervised weight loss, hormone replacement therapy, cosmetic injectables, and skincare. “So many of us have learned bad diet habits. One calorie doesn’t mean one calorie, for instance. We are focused on education like how to read nutrition labels and know what you are actually eating and how it affects you,” she said. “It’s about explaining that it takes long-term changes to make long-term results.” Elysian Wellness’s unique weight management program starts with an in-person consultation in which a full lab panel is done to measure such things as cholesterol levels as well as a full body analysis. After the first appointment, clients return for a more in-depth discussion about their unique issues. “Our program is very individualized,” said Dr. Stucki. “We develop an individual eating plan so they can get their body back into balance and feel good enough to do exercise. We see patients every four weeks.”

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

Elysian Wellness uses science-backed weight management techniques.

One of the services and supplements used is HCG, which helps those with more than 30 pounds to lose jumpstart their weight loss. A highly regimented plan, the HCG can result in an 8 to 10 percent body weight loss in six weeks. Elysian also specializes in hormone therapy. Dr. Stucki said hormone therapy isn’t just for post-menopausal women, but for anyone who is feeling sluggish or off-balance. “Progesterone is like our happy hormone, and testosterone can really affect your sex drive, energy and mood,” she said. “We have lots of patients who are in their late 30s and 40s. Hormones don’t cause you to lose weight, but they do help your body work at its optimal level so you do have the energy to exercise and feel better.” In addition to weight loss and hormone therapy, Elysian also offers a full range of beauty treatments like Botox, fillers, micro needling, chemical peels and more. The center can also do lashes, facials and waxing. “We really are a one-stop-shop for wellness and becoming your best,” said Dr. Stucki. “It’s about giving you the most life in the years you have left. So many times, we are under stress and so busy and we don’t take time to take care of ourselves. I feel like I’m a much better mother, wife and friend when my body is in balance. So many people tell me that they don’t realize just how bad they feel until they start to feel better.” For more information on Dr. Stucki and the Elysian Wellness, visit elysianwellnessokc.com.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

Dr. LauriÂ Stucki specializes in wellness, weight management and hormone imbalances, as well as a wide range of aesthetic treatments.

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ANIMAL KINGDOM

WILD AND WONDERFUL, OKC ZOO HAS BIG PLANS FOR 2020

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OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

IN FEBRUARY, THE OKLAHOMA CITY ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDEN ANNOUNCED THAT ITS FEMALE INDIAN RHINOCEROS, NIKI, IS EATING FOR TWO! Niki, 13, one of the OKC Zoo’s adult, female Indian rhinos–also known as the greater onehorned rhino–is expecting a calf with the Zoo’s male, Indian rhino, Arun, 29. This will be the first offspring for this breeding pair. “Rhino births are significant events at the Zoo so we are thrilled to share news of Niki’s pregnancy and cannot wait to welcome this new addition to our herd,” said Rachel Emory, OKC Zoo curator of pachyderms. “The Zoo is committed to the conservation of this amazing species and recognizes the vital role this calf plays in helping ensure our world’s rhino populations survive for future generations.” The good news kicked off the OKC Zoo’s 2020 year, and in addition to an expecting mother, the zoo has a full slate of news and activities. The Oklahoma City Zoo supports and helps expand the conservation of imperiled species, habitats and their surrounding communities. One small, but wide-ranging, way to fulfill this mission is through the Zoo’s annual Conservation Action Now (CAN) small grant program. The Zoo awards these competitive small grants each December in amounts up to $2,500 each. The selected projects span the globe and are based on the conservation ideals of education, scientific research and species preservation. “Last year we raised $175,000 that went to our initiatives globally and locally for 2020. We have two major projects that we’ll be supporting. One is the International Elephant Foundation and we’ll be supporting EEHV research,” said Candice Rennels, director of Public Relations. “EEHV is the herpes virus that elephants in the wild and in care can actually get. We’re also supporting the North American Bird Conservation project. We will work here in Oklahoma on some projects for that.” Other new happenings include the introduction of the Galapagos tortoise barn and turtle habitat and large bird habitat, allowing such avian giants as condors and vultures to have space to fly. The Zoo is also bringing back Zoo Keys. Visitors can get a key as they buy tickets that unlocks educational boxes that have pre-recorded messages The OKC Zoo's female rhino, Niki, is pregnant!!!

about animals and habitat in partnership with Oklahoma’s Own News 9.

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)

EVENTS FOR 2020 The Oklahoma City Zoo is looking to get wild with exciting events this year.

ALL YEAR - OKC Zoo continues its statewide literacy program, “Read for Adventure.” Presented by OGE, Oklahomans can check out the program’s brand-new book from any of the state’s 247 public library locations to receive four general admission ticket vouchers to the OKC Zoo. APRIL 9 - If you think you know animals, then the Brainy Beasts Trivia Night on April 9 is your chance to prove you are the King of the Jungle. This event is hosted by ZooTroop. APRIL 24 - Safari Soirée on April 24 is the ZOOfriends’ signature fundraising event in support of the OKC Zoo. This nighttime event features food, exotic drinks, rare animal experiences and live music! Must be 21 or older to attend. Visit zoofriends.org. MAY AND JUNE - The wildly popular Date Nights are back at the OKC Zoo. This 21 and older event is held on Thursdays in May and June, and couples and singles are invited. Almost the entire Zoo will be open for couples or friends to explore together. MAY 9 - ON MAY 9 - rise and shine for the Zoo’s most anticipated family event, Ostrich Egg Breakfast. Enjoy early hours at the Zoo and feast on all-you-can-eat breakfast treats. Tickets range from $10-15 per person plus, special event T-shirts available. To learn more, visit zoofriends.org.

A new Galapagos Turtle habitat is on the way to the Oklahoma City Zoo.

JULY - Help endangered rhinos during the Bowling for Rhinos Fundraiser in July. This annual conservation fundraiser helps save wild rhino populations with the roll of a bowling ball! SEPT. 12 - OKC Zoo’s Monarch Madness 5K/Fun Run and Monarch Festival is Saturday, September 12. The fundraising run benefits local monarch butterfly conservation. The officially timed course simulates the migration monarchs make from Canada to Mexico for the winter. SEPT. 25 - ZOOfriends’ ZOObrew on September 25 lets you sample beer to save animals. ZOObrew is the Zoo's most anticipated fundraiser that combines food and beverages with music and fun for a wild cause– the OKC Zoo! Patrons will enjoy tasting over 200 beers, great food and live music. To learn more, visit zoofriends.org. Don’t forget about Haunt the Zoo in October and dozens of other events that help the Zoo’s mission toward conservation! For more information about upcoming events or news at the Zoo, visit zoofriends.org or okczoo.org.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

ZooFriends members can enjoy added perks, like new summer hours and entry into exciting adventures.

The Safari Soiree is one of the biggest events at the OKC Zoo.

Starting this summer, the OKC Zoo will also have new summer hours, opening at 8 a.m. to allow ZooFriends members to visit early to beat the heat. In 1954, the Oklahoma Zoological Society (OZS/ZOOfriends), a nonprofit organization, was created to help support the Oklahoma City Zoo in its mission.

Date Nights return to the OKC Zoo in May and June this year. April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

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DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK

Room For More

VW ATLAS COMBINES PLENTY OF LEGROOM WITH SOLID PERFORMANCE ARTICLE HEIDE BRANDES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WELCOME TO A NEW BREED OF SUV. The 2020

VW Atlas more than fits the bill. It boasts of carlike

Volkswagen Atlas has been claiming the top spots

handling, a user-friendly infotainment system and a

on reviews of midsize SUV rankings, thanks to its

gigantic cargo bay.

smooth ride, spacious seating and great fuel economy

For decades, VW is known for covering the basics,

estimates. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly

especially with vehicles designed for families needing

SUV option that packs in tons of legroom, the 2020

tons of space. Each seating row is spacious and roomy.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

You could fit seven family members into the Atlas and still have more luggage room than most mid-sized SUVs. Yes, the Atlas is roomy, but donâ€™t think that the size will increase the price. This SUV is competitively priced and well equipped, compared to its competitors. It also comes with an extra year of warranty beyond most other

CONTINUED >

April 2020 | OKC Lifestyle

DRIVER’S NOTEBOOK (CONTINUED)

SUVs. Flashy it isn’t, but reliable it is. The Atlas has a base four-cyl-

front and back easier than competitors, so you can free up even

inder engine but accelerates quite quickly.

more third-row legroom.

Having less weight in the body makes the Atlas sprier on its feet

The cargo capacity of the Atlas’ 20.6 cubic-feet of space behind

and takes corners like a breeze. In the VR6 model, the steering is

that raised third row is also impressive. Go ahead and pile in those

smooth and adds that extra four-wheel drive some families crave.

roller suitcases and overnight bags. You’ll have plenty of space.

As for the ride, it’s glides over hills and dales, yet can stand up to

This year, VW upgraded the crossover’s infotainment software, and

manholes and potholes with stout German determination. You’ll find

it still comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability.

the Atlas gives a soft, smooth ride. But the true beauty of the 2020 Volkswagen Atlas is its space. The Atlas is ginormous. Like most SUVs, the Atlas comes with a second-row bench for eight-passenger load or captain’s chairs for seven people. The Atlas’ bench, which is 60/40-split, moves 42

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

The Atlas also comes with an impressive range of collision-avoidance safety technology. So if safety, lots of space, and a smooth ride are what you are looking for, the 2020 VW Atlas is a solid win. For more information on the VW Atlas, visit Allen Samuels Volkswagen of Oklahoma City at allensamuelsvw.com.

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“It’s important that you have a notary and witnesses who can sign off to prove that you had the mental capacity to sign it.”

1. Digital wills are not recognized in Oklahoma.

Throughout the country, some organizations are pushing to legal-

While these services exist in other states,

ize e-signatures for wills and trusts, which would allow people to

Oklahoma has yet to adopt statutes that allow

complete their will online without a lawyer or notary.

for digital wills and electronic signatures. You still have to have witnesses that can attest to your sound mind and a notary to make it official. 2. Online wills could be easy to forge. Who’s to say that the DocuSign signature on that online will was actually placed there by you? Having no witnesses to sign means anyone could conceivably change your will or forge your signature. 3. You’ll have to print it out anyway. Even if you do an online service, you still have to print out the will and have it signed by a notary and witnessed by two people. Otherwise, it’s not worth the computer paper it was printed on. “These kinds of documents should never be paperless,” said Jackson. “Your will needs to be with an attorney. It shouldn’t be easy to fill out documents like this, because if it was, anyone could do it and they would be easy to forge.” For more information, visit okcestatelawyer.com.

OKC Lifestyle | April 2020

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