Cleveland County, OK December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

Winter & Revels THE ART OF PHILANTHROPY

THE MAKING OF "THE NUTCRACKER" AT OU

CHRISTMAS LIVES YEAR 'ROUND IN COUPLE'S HEART AND HOME

Meet. Eat.

Happy Hour 4 to 6 M-F

Half Price

Apps and Pizzas after 8 PM Everyday Dine In Only

Italian food without all the carbs? Ask for our new cauliflower pizza crust and substitute our new cauliflower rice for any pasta!

The Holidays are Hectic.

So let us do the cooking!

Shopping

Kids Out of School

Visiting Friends + Family

CURB SIDE PICKUP (DRIVE AROUND BACK)

Here, neighborhood dining meets Italian bistro. Tuscany meets hometown. And friends meet friends for artisan-inspired cuisine. Take the stress out of your holiday season and spend time with those you care about most – let Oliveto do your Holiday catering, office events, or even weddings!

AVAILABLE

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

Merry Christmas from your Friends at (405) 329-3500 3441 W. ROCK CREEK ROAD www.OklahomaDIOS.com Dental Implants

Bone Grafting Sedation

Wisdom Teeth

Exposure of Impacted Teeth

Orthognathic Surgery Implant-Supported Dentures

Seth R. Brooks DDS Perry L. Brooks DDS

Patient care and comfort always come first at Oklahoma Dental Implants and Oral Surgery.

www.OklahomaDIOS.com

CALL ME SOONER RATHER THAN LATER TO

SELL YOUR HOME! SWITZER SOONER LIVING LLC • PROVERBS 16:3

LESLIE SWITZER REALTOR®

580.421.1075 1624 SW 122ND ST OKLAHOMA CITY

www.switzer.kw.co | switzer@kw.com December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

3

Press & Plow

FINE WINE • SPIRITS • COFFEE • PROVISIONS

2596 West Tecumseh Road • Norman

Now Serving Brunch 7 DAYS A WEEK • 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM

www.pressandplow.com Press & Plow @pressandplow

4

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

Celebrate Tuesdays at Volare with $2 food & drink specials from 4:00 p.m. to midnight.

315 White Street, Norman

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@lifestylepubs.com 405.541.5650

Happy Holidays!

MANAGING EDITOR

Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

AS I WRITE THIS, IT'S STILL A BIT SHY OF THANKSGIVING. The lighted holiday wreaths have gone up on Main Street, and the parking lots are filling up as the early shoppers hit the stores. In the midst of all this hustle and bustle, however, I've moved into the slow lane. Not because I wanted to, but because on a recent mini vacay to Quartz Mountain, I managed to trip and fracture my ankle, resulting in a plate and 11 screws that will forever set alarms off at airports and other places with security measures in place.

While I can't say I'm relishing this forced trip to the sidelines, the glass-half-full part of me says, "Whoa! Maybe Fate is trying to tell you something.” So, from time to time, I have been practicing what my good friend Haven Tobias advises people to do: be in the present.

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Brooke Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies, Mark Johnson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ryan Lassiter, Krystyn Richardson

Observe the surroundings. Feel. Smell. Taste. The slower pace also has allowed me more time for reflection: on the wealth that surrounds me in the form of a loving family, faithful friends, a roof over my head, and my good fortune to live in this community.

Among its other assets, area residents have a wealth of entertainment opportunities in December. Check out this month's calendar for just a sampling of some of the holiday-themed events scheduled from south of Norman up into Oklahoma City. There's something for all ages, from the Sam Noble Museum's annual Holiday Happening to performances of "The Nutcracker" and "Scrooge."

Of course, we hope readers will take time out of their busy schedules to peruse this, the Winter & Revels issue, of Cleveland County Lifestyle. Inside, you'll find a recipe for the

CORPORATE TEAM

perennial holiday favorite candy, peanut brittle, and some advice for those of you about to

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

do your end-of-year financial planning. You'll read about the behind-the-scenes making

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

of the University of Oklahoma's production of the beloved holiday ballet "The Nutcracker"

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

and about a local artist who mixes his art with a goodly measure of philanthropy. In another

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

story, you're read about a couple for whom the Christmas spirit lives on all year long, both in

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

their hearts and in their home. (Related photo accompanies Lifestyle Letter.)

May you have a joyful and wondrous holiday season.

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

ON THE COVER For over 21 years, True Sky Credit Union, through its Credit Union for Kids, has partnered with the

Jerri Culpepper, Editor

Children’s Hospital Foundation to raise funds to improve the health of Oklahoma’s children. Pictured: True Sky Credit Union

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

President/CEO Sean M. Cahill; Miracle

IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA

Child Samantha Lancaster; True Sky Board

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON

of Directors Chairman Terry Davidson; and

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Children’s Hospital Foundation Executive

Proverbs 3:5-6

Director Kathy McCracken. See Around Town for related story.

PHOTOGRAPHY KRYSTYN RICHARDSON/BOLD MULTIMEDIA 6

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Cleveland County 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 Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 18 Tis the Season ... for Peanut Brittle!

20 A Christmas Tradition Actor Michael Todd Shares Favorite Christmas Traditions

26 Holiday Gift Giving Guide This Year, Why Not Shop Local?

38 18

38 For Local Couple Christmas Spirit Lives On All Year Long

20 DEPARTMENTS

26

6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Good Times

14

Around Town

16

Financial Buzz

18

Culinary Creations

20 Local Limelight 23 Realty Report 24 Giving Back 36 Artist’s Palette 38 Renovate & Refine 44 Inspired By 46 Lifestyle Calendar 50 City Scene

Treasury Services

Come See Your Friendly Frontier Banker

The New Frontier in Banking 5100 SOUTH I-35 SERVICE RD | OKLAHOMA CITY , OK 73129 405.672.7831 | FRONTIER-OK.COM

I-35, EXIT 123A

GOOD TIMES

SOKC Chamber's Business Fiesta Expo The South OKC Chamber of Commerce held a Business Fiesta Expo Oct. 17 at the Cantera Event Center. The event served as a combined Business After Hours and Trade Show. Attendees were able to network while also visiting with local businesses.

1.

2.

3.

Norman Public Library Central Opening Hundreds of area residents showed up for the Ribbon Cutting/Grand Opening of Norman Public Library Central Nov. 3. The new library is more than 1.5 times larger than the previous Norman Central. It will have 270,000 items in its in-house collection, with card holder access to more than 700,000 items owned by the Pioneer Library System.

4.

5.

6.

1. Hundreds of local residents enter Norman Public Library Central after the ribbon cutting for the building on Nov. 3. | 2. Anne Masters and Mary Sherman, former directors of the Pioneer Library System, tour the new Norman Public Library Central at its opening. | 3. Readers enjoy a book in the Children’s Area of Norman Public Library Central during the library’s Grand Opening. | 4. Longtime children’s librarian Susan Lura came out of retirement to conduct the first-ever Story Time inside Norman’s newest library. | 5. A youngster waits patiently during the presentation before the Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening of the new Norman Public Library Central. | 6. City of Norman Mayor Breea Clark speaks during the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for Norman Public Library Central.

10

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Assistance League's Halloween-Themed Gala Assistance League®️ Norman’s annual fundraiser took on a spooky twist this year as attendees enjoyed a Halloween party atmosphere at the All Hallows Gala at The Nest at Terra Verde. Over $109,000 was raised through donations, silent and live auctions, drawing and a costume contest. The money raised will benefit the league's main philanthropic program, Operation School Bell®️.

4.

5.

6.

1. Tiffany Bodenhamer, Lindsey Martin and gala chair Stephanie Clinton | 2. Costume contest winner Adrienne Jablonski and husband Mike Jablonski | 3. Past gala chair Jeri Saliba and current gala chair Stephanie Clinton | 4. Susan and Bob Aikman | 5. Lela Odom, Angela Jimenez-Calhoun and Linda Everett | 6. The Mystery Dates provided entertainment.

1.

2.

3.

SOKC Chamber October Happenings The South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce hosted or took part in numerous events in October, including a Membership Luncheon and a Casino Night as well as several grand openings and ribbon cuttings. Find out more about this worthy organization at SouthOKC.com.

4.

5.

6.

1. Membership Luncheon Oct. 1 at Moore Norman Technology Center-South Penn Campus, featuring a talk by Tim Faltyn of Oklahoma Panhandle State University | 2. Oklahoma County Commissioner Carrie Blumert spoke to the South OKC Chamber of Commerce membership on Oct. 29 at Hidden Trails Country Club. | 3. Ribbon cutting at Brookdale Oklahoma City Southwest, 10001 South May Ave., Oct. 8 | 4. Members of the South OKC Chamber of Commerce enjoyed a Casino Night at Newcastle Casino on Oct. 22. | 5. Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at Rose Rock Ophthalmology PLLC, 608 Northwest 9 St., Oct. 10 | 6. Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at Southwest Urgent Care, 4901 South Pennsylvania, Oct. 28 12

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

GIVE THE

THE TRAILS

Gift of Golf

T H IS HO L IDAY S E A S ON

GOLF CLUB

NORM AN’S CLUB OF CHOICE!

Where Championship Golf and Family Fun come together.

Contact us for Memberships , Tournaments , Banquets & Events.

For information please contact Kathy Hess at khess@trailsgolf.com or call 405-229-1078 // TrailsGolf.com // 3200 S Berry Rd. Norman, Oklahoma 73072 December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

13

AROUND TOWN

TRUE SKY GOLF TOURNEY RAISES FUNDS FOR CHILDREN’S HEALTH

NOBLE, 204 N. 5th St.—Holiday Gala, 6 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 5;

On Sept. 16, True Sky Credit Union hosted its

NORMAN CENTRAL, 103 W. Acres St.—Holiday

12th Annual CMNH Golf Tournament at the River

Open House and Tree Lighting at Andrews Park,

Oaks Golf Course in Edmond. For over 21 years,

5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6;

Credit Union for Kids have partnered with the Children’s Hospital Foundation in raising money to improve the health of Oklahoma’s children.

Children’s Hospital serves all 77 counties and all funds raised stay in Oklahoma, giving children

MOORE, 225 S. Howard Ave.—Holiday Gala, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7; SOUTHWEST OKLAHOMA CITY, 201 SW 134th St.—Winter Festival, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 19;

access to exceptional pediatric specialist with-

NORMAN WEST, 300 Norman Center Court—

out having to leave the state. This year, True Sky

Multiple holiday events, including St. Stephens

raised $53,000 to help our local children have

United Methodist Church Handbell Choir concert,

access to life-saving treatments!

3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7; OKC Handbell Ensemble concert, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14; Last Minute Gifts, 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20.

A reminder to readers is that PLS libraries will be closed for the holidays on Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 24 and 25, as well as Wednesday, Jan. 1. Libraries also will close at 6 p.m. on both Monday, Dec. 23 and Tuesday, Dec. 31. Otherwise, libraries are open for their regular hours throughout December.

EVENT RAISES MONEY FOR OPERATION SCHOOL BELL Assistance League®️ Norman’s annual fundraiser took on a spooky twist this year as attendees enjoyed a Halloween party atmosphere at the All Hallows Gala, held at The Nest at Terra Verde.

Over $109,000 was raised thanks to the generos-

NORMAN EDUCATOR RECEIVES PRESIDENTIAL AWARD

ity of supporters of Assistance League Norman through donations, silent and live auctions, draw-

Julie Klingensmith, who teaches math at Norman High School, was one of four Oklahoma educators

named

recipients

of

the

The money raised will benefit Assistance League

presti-

Norman’s main philanthropic program, Operation

gious Presidential Awards for Excellence in

School Bell®️. Each year Operation School Bell

Mathematics and Science Teaching. Established

works with Norman and Little Axe Public School

in 1983, the award is the highest recognition a

counselors to identify children in need of new

K-12 mathematics or science teacher may receive

school clothes, shoes and grooming items. Over

for outstanding teaching in the United States.

2,000 students (kindergarten through 12th grade)

The educators, recognized as the 2017 and 2018

will participate in a one-to-one shopping expe-

awardees, will travel to Washington, D.C., for an

rience at the Assistance League chapter house,

awards ceremony and receive a $10,000 award

where they have an Operation School Bell “store”.

from the National Science Foundation:

Operation School Bell has been serving children

METRO LIBRARIES PLAN HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

14

ing and a costume contest.

and families in Norman since 1975.

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

Celebrate the holiday season with the libraries

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

of the Pioneer Library System and multiple special

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

activities planned during December.

Us tab at ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com.

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

FINANCIAL BUZZ Mark Johnson is a financial adviser with Heartland Wealth Management, 3351 W. Rock Creek Road, Suite 130, Norman. He can be reached at 561.7051 or via email at Mark.Johnson@heartlandwm.com.

1

REVIEW CASH FLOW Review your monthly expenditures and see where you might be spending unnecessary money. Make a plan to

cut out those unnecessary expenses and allocate that money to savings. This is a fairly painless way to increase your savings.

4

HARVEST TAX LOSSES Tax-loss harvesting is when you sell investments at a loss to reduce your tax liability. You can harvest losses

to offset gains, as well as up to $3,000 in non-investment income. According to the wash-sale rule, when you harvest losses,

2

you cannot repurchase substantially identiCHECK YOUR ASSET ALLOCATION

cal investments for 30 days. However, you

An asset allocation strategy is

could buy back the same investment after 31

designed to have balance in your

days and still record the loss.

portfolio by apportioning the portfo-

lio’s assets according to your goals, risk tolerance and investment time horizon. Often after a long period of growth, as we have seen the last 10 years, your portfolio can get out of the allocation balance you are comfortable with. Take time to rebalance your portfolio accordingly.

Expert Tips for End-of-Year 3 Financial Planning ARTICLE MARK JOHNSON 16

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

5

MANAGE MUTUAL FUND CAPITAL GAINS Each year, generally in November and December, mutual fund share-

holders face the possibility of receiving capital gains distributions from their mutual funds. These capital gains distributions are the result of the management MAXIMIZE YOUR

selling shares of one or more of the fund’s

IRA CONTRIBUTIONS

holdings during the taxable year. Mutual

IRA contribution limits for 2019 are

fund capital gains distributions are taxable

$6,000 per year if you are below age

events resulting from the fund’s manager

50 ,$7,000 if you are age 50 or over. For a

selling shares of securities held within the

couple, adding that extra $2,000 a year to

fund. Taxes from capital gains distributions

their IRAs over 15 years could add more than

can catch you off guard if you’re not famil-

$73,000* to their balances in retirement.

iar with what they are and how they work.

*based on investing in Growth Fund of

Consider taking the capital gains in cash

America (GFFFX) which averaged 10.68%

rather than reinvesting and then diversify

over the last 15 years

your portfolio by investing in other areas.

pioneerlibrarysystem.org

Pioneer LIBRARY SYSTEM

The Sooner Theatre Theatre • Concerts • Classes

December 6-8 & 13-15 Book by Thomas Meehan & Bob Martin Music by Matthew Sklar Lyrics by Chad Beguelin Based on the New Line Cinema film by David Berenbaum

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www.soonertheatre.com December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

17

CULINARY CREATIONS

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

APPLE TREE CHOCOL ATE’S PEANUT BRIT TLE

WHAT YOU'LL NEED: + A large pot + Candy thermometer or an infrared thermometer + Food scale that can do lbs. and ounces + Heat-resistant spatula + Two 18x13-inch cookie sheets PRO TIP:

TIS THE SEASON

Spice it up by adding 2-3 teaspoons of red pepper flakes!

Yields approximately 5 lbs. of peanut brittle. Using weights on most of the ingredients helps to ensure that our formula is correct—because candymaking is high science!

... FOR PEANUT BRITTLE!

+ Cooking spray or a stick of butter INGREDIENTS: + 2 lbs. white sugar + 1 lb. light corn syrup + 1 oz. salted butter + 1.5 lbs. raw or Spanish Peanuts + 1/2 tsp. sea salt + 1 cup water + .6 oz. baking soda INSTRUCTIONS: Grease pan with cooking spray. *Optional: heat oven to 250 degrees F. Add cookie sheets to oven while brittle is cooking, apply cooking spray once you've removed them from the oven.

Place sugar, corn syrup and water in a large pot and marry the ingredients; cook on medium high heat. Stir frequently. Bring to a boil, trying your best to scrape the sides of the pot as you go. Minimal stirring is needed at this point.

Bring mixture to 240 degrees F. and add your peanuts (for best results, use raw

FOR MANY PEOPLE, IT’S JUST NOT THE HOLIDAYS

peanuts) and stir. Cook to 290 degrees and

UNTIL THEY’VE TASTED SOME PEANUT BRITTLE. Scotty

add the butter. It is very important to wait

Jackson, owner and operator of Apple Tree Chocolate, located

until this point to add the butter, as it helps

on Campus Corner in Norman, offers the following recipe so

ensure that your end result is not too sticky.

you can whip up a batch in your own kitchen—for you and

Continue to stir. Cook the mixture to 300-

your family to enjoy or for holiday gift-giving.

310 degrees, depending on desired color.

Since 2015, Apple Tree Chocolate has been a popular stop

Add baking soda and stir. Mixture will puff.

for all kinds of delicious, handcrafted caramel apples, choco-

Give it another stir, let it lower, and puff up a

lates and unique gifts. Life is sweet! At Apple Tree Chocolate,

second time. Now it's time to pour mixture

they are still doing their candy the old-fashioned way.

out. Each cookie sheet should be able to

So, give a gift that’s made with care, made with love and made locally. Check out their selection at AppleTreeChocolate.com!

hold half the mixture. Pour as evenly as you can. Spread the mixture with your spatula as thin as possible. Let cool for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Break up the brittle and enjoy!

18

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

Save thousands by joining our exclusive Charter Club!

Call today!

Sales Gallery Now Open!

South Oklahoma City 10801 South May Avenue Oklahoma City, OK 73170

(405) 378-4442

www.HarborChase.com

Since 2015, Apple Tree Chocolate has been a beloved stop for all kinds of delicious, handcrafted caramel apples, chocolates and unique gifts. Life is sweet!

We’re still doing our candy the old fashioned way and folks seem to like it.

made with care, love and made locally.

Give a gift

For chocolate, candy baskets, sweet gifts, and all your favorites

Holiday Desserts

Pick Up Your Holiday Stocking Stuffers - Online Shipping Available!

AppleTreeChocolate.com | 754 Asp Ave Norman | (405) 310-3959

Give Thanks F O R H A P P Y & H E A LT H Y F R I E N D S BOYER VETERINARY CLINIC SMALL TOWN FEEL IN THE BIG CITY!

Office Hours: M/F 8am-5:30pm, T/W/Th 8am-7pm S/Su Closed

BOYERVETCLINIC.COM 1 3 5 0 0 S W E S T E R N AV E , O K L A H O M A C I T Y | ( 4 0 5 ) 7 9 4 - 8 5 0 4 | December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

19

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

ACTOR MICHAEL TODD SHARES FAVORITE CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS OKLAHOMA CITY ARTIST/SINGER-SONGWRITER/EDUCATOR MICHAEL TODD, WHO PLAYS BUDDY THE ELF IN THE SOONER THEATRE PRODUCTION “ELF: THE MUSICAL,” HAS DEDICATED HIS LIFE TO THE CREATION OF ART AND THE EDUCATION OF YOUNG PEOPLE, FOR THE PAST YEAR, AS PRODUCTION MANAGER AT THE HISTORIC SOONER THEATRE IN DOWNTOWN NORMAN. “It’s a pretty remarkable job; working with kids, directing, designing, teaching, acting, building Photo taken by Flora Riffett in Tours, France

sets and projections. It’s a community, a huge machine, with many moving pieces. I’m lucky to be a part of it. We all are!” he says.

Michael has toured the world with music, singing around campfires in Alaska and subway platforms in New York City, as well as two European tours. He’s performed in children’s institutions from Chicago to Boston, on the stage in Baltimore and Connecticut, and along the turnpikes of Oklahoma.

With his band, The Wild Frontier, Michael has opened for Starship, Sawyer Brown, Tracy Lawrence, BJ Thomas, Sammy Kershaw, Joe Diffee, Aaron Tippin, Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan, and Ray Stevens.

He has recorded seven albums and writ-

A

ten three musicals, including two children’s

Christmas

ues ranging from the Fairbanks Shakespeare

albums, JAMINALZ JAMZ A-Z with his kid’s band MICROgiant.

This versatile performer also has taught in the music and theatre programs at Oklahoma City University and Towson University.

Early in his career, he performed with ven-

Tradition 20

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

Theatre, to Baltimore’s Silver Penny Program, to the Goddard School and Chicago’s Windy City Players, to Oklahoma Children’s Theatre.

“ELF: The Musical” will be staged at 2 p.m. on Dec. 7, 8, 14 and 15 and at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 6, 7, 13 and 14 at the Sooner Theatre, 101 E. Main St., in Norman. Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. For tickets, please visit SoonerTheatre.org.

Michael Todd is starring in the Sooner Theatre production of "ELF: The Musical."

/02

PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN LASSITER/DEFINING IMAGE

My family gets together at my house, and we cook all day. Last year we started with French toast made from challah bread and a whiskey maple sauce. Then we started working on the Italian food. I made a rosemary lasagna. My brother made an Alfredo sauce, but it broke and was a little mealy...

Too bad for Chris. (My mom said my French toast was the best breakfast she ever ate.)

/03 When I was little, my Nana made a cornbread stuffing that was whipped into a texture like mashed potatoes. We’ve tried to recreate that over and over, but we never got it just right. She wrote down the recipe, but I never saw her use it. Handfuls of thyme, crackers, bread, celery and onions, so many ingredients, it was an art!

/0 1

/04 I have my own Christmas style. I have a

We hang stockings over the fireplace just

black Christmas tree. With only red orna-

after Halloween. We fill them with candy.

ments. And my holiday wrapping has been

Even for the cats. Last year the chocolate

called “unconventional.” I’ll rip open a box of

truffles melted, and it was a mess. This year,

Cap’n crunch, stick the gift inside, wrap it in

I’m about to be a father so we’ll make a

three kinds of tape and scrawl a name with

stocking for our little girl, even though she

a magic marker. Everyone knows when

isn’t alive yet. And no truffles for her!

they get a gift from Michael.

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

21

LIFE MOVES FAST! AND SO DO WE.

• Online scheduling • 2 hour service windows • Text notifications with tech’s picture and bio • GPS tracking right to your door

405.823.9641 • NORMANAIR.COM

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elegance!

Creating outdoor

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I

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

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| BUILD

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

CLEVELAND COUNTY

NEIGHBORHOOD

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

Westbrook, Norman

$825,000

$750,000

90%

144

4

3.1

Marlatt, Norman

$649,000

$645,000

99%

221

3

2.1

Shady Creek, Moore

$470,000

$455,000

96%

22

4

4.1

Sterling Canyon, SE OK

$449,800

$440,900

98%

50

3

2.2

Apple Estates, Moore

$421,067

$421,067

100%

0

5

3.1

Willows, Moore

$424,900

$407,000

95%

36

4

3.1

Rio del Sol, SW OKC

$398,900

$397,900

99%

108

4

2.1

Willows, Moore

$412,500

$375,000

90%

145

4

3.1

Sterling Canyon, SE OK

$375,000

$370,000

98%

13

3

2

Vineyard 3, Norman

$379,000

$365,000

96%

65

3

3.1

Pepperwell Oaks, SE OKC

$370,000

$358,000

96%

6

5

3

The Waters, Moore

$346,290

$346,290

100%

0

4

3

Rural SE OKC

$349,900

$340,000

97%

30

3

2

Cascada Lakes, SW OKC

$350,000

$340,000

97%

59

4

3.1

Rio del Sol, SW OKC

$350,000

$322,000

92%

79

4

2.1

Williamson Farms, SW OKC

$340,000

$320,000

94%

8

4

3

Rivendell 7, SW OKC

$330,000

$315,000

95%

72

4

3.1

$311,615

$311,615

100%

25

3

2.2

Cascada Lakes, SW OKC

$349,900

$310,000

88%

227

4

3

The Waters, Moore

$306,440

$306,440

100%

28

4

3

Native Plains, SW OKC

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

Without integrity, nothing else matters.

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

Luxury Homes

1530 SW 89th St. Oklahoma City 73159 PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

23

GIVING BACK

ON JUNE

24,

7-YEAR-OLD

HAYLEE

BISCHEL'S LIFE TOOK AN UNEXPECTED, AND TERRIFYING, TURN.

The child was mauled by two large dogs, suffering severe injuries to her face, back and arms. Over the coming months, this courageous young girl has made a miraculous recovery and kept a very positive attitude, but many challenges lie ahead for her.

To support her medical provider, Children’s Hospital, and Haylee and her family, the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Ride Oklahoma Charities to put on a poker run to benefit Haylee and Department of Pediatric Surgery at Children’s Hospital (through the Children's Hospital Foundation).

During the ride, which was hosted

haylee's story

on Sept. 8, Sheriff Todd Gibson and his deputies escorted riders from CCSO headquarters in Slaughterville through Cleveland County to Hollywood Corners in Norman, where an auction was being put on. Haylee and her family received several needed items, cash and a gasoline card from the successful event, and a check was recently presented to the hospital foundation.

CHILD'S MAULING BY DOGS PROMPTS OUTPOURING OF SUPPORT (EDITOR'S NOTE: Thank you to Joy Hampton of the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office for sharing Haylee's story.)

24

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

25

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

H G G G

O L I D A Y I F T I V I N G U I D E

THIS YEAR, WHY NOT SHOP LOCAL?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! How are you making out on your holiday shopping list? Do you have people on your list who are, well, difficult to shop for? Tired of the "same ole things" found at big-box stores and the lack of originality of gift cards? By shopping locally, you'll not only be highly likely to find gifts that'll please even the most difficult to buy for people on your list, your purchases will benefit local merchants and help boost the local economy.

This year, we found some pretty great gift ideas that fall into three categories: Health & Wellness, Fine Jewelry, and Accessories.

26

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

Give the gift of fitness from Orangetheory Fitness Moore with a gift certificate good for 10 classes and the OTbeat Burn Heart Rate Monitor.

Between the inspirational coaches, mind-blowing science and cutting-edge technology, Orangetheory fitness offers phenomenal, fun workouts. 10-class pack, $199; OTbeat Burn, $109 (Total cost: $308). To purchase, visit the studio, located at 825 SW 19th St., Suite 6, in Moore. FMI: 703.5259 For the physical fitness buffs (or those aspiring to be) ages 35-55 on your list, Solid Rock Training is offering a “New Year, New You 12-Week Ultimate Fitness Transformation Challenge,” which includes an InBody, Movement and Fitness Assessment, 36 personal group training sessions with a Certified Fitness Trainer, and much more. Challenge starts Jan. 6. Only five spots available. Total package value of $1,685, but Cleveland County Lifestyle readers receive a 35% discount. FMI: text, “Reserve my 12-Week Transformation Challenge” to 405.571.9509 or visit SRT at 4310 48th Ave NW in Norman.

For the adult men and women on your list, Weaver Clinics offers Obagi Skincare products starting at $20, Botox starting at $300, Juvederm fillers starting at $640, Latisse starting at $179, and gift certificates available starting at $50. Watch Weaver Clinics’ social media or visit them online at Weaverclinics.com for Christmas specials!

Golfers on your shopping list? The Golf Shop at The Trails Golf Club is offering FREE personalization on any Titleist Golf Ball Package (prices start at $25 per dozen). Other gift suggestions include a US Kids’ five-club set with bag for juniors ($199-up) and the brand-new Titleist T-Series irons ($999-up for eight irons; includes a free custom club fitting with head golf pro Alan Hager). FMI: Visit The Trails Golf Club, 3200 S. Berry Road, Norman, or call the gift shop at 360.1920.

Orangetheory Fitness Moore gift of fitness. $308 Solid Rock Training "New Year, New You" Challenge.

From Weaver Clinics, products and treatments to help you look and feel your best. ($20 and up) Free personalization on Titleist Golf Ball Packages from the Golf Shop at The Trail Golf Club. ($25 up per dozen)

Health & Wellness

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

27

GIFT GUIDE

(CON TI N U ED)

From Cayman's: Marla Aaron Designer Jewelry ($690 and up) From Cayman's: Barefoot Dreams Blankets ($119 - $198) From HayVic's: Twinkles jewelry ($12) From Cayman's: Emu slippers ($60) From HayVic's: Black booties ($27) From Cayman's: works by Michael Aram ($95-$175) From HayVic's: Bella Marie open backed shoe ($15)

Accessories

A household name in Oklahoma for 37 years,

Cayman’s Clothiers is an upscale women and men’s boutique offering collections from the finest names in the fashion industry, but also home décor, beauty and living. Cayman’s is located in Carriage Plaza, 2001 W. Main St., Norman.

HayVic’s carries a wide variety of gifts, shoes and accessories. Check them out at their shop, 111 W.Main St., Moore. They're also on Facebook.

28

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

Fine Jewelry For

40

years,

Lewis

Jewelers has been offering some of the most beautiful fine jewelry on the planet. To view more selections, visit Lewis Jewelers at 2705 S. I-35

LET US HELP YOU DECK THE HALLS!

Watch our social media for Christmas specials!

Vaginal & Labial Rejuvenation Body Sculpting with truSculpt miraDry sweat & odor elimination Laser hair removal IPL / Laser Genesis / Microneedling Obagi Blue Radiance chemical peels Botox / Fillers / PDO facial threading Medical Weight Loss Hormone Therapy & Low T Therapy

Service Road in Moore or visit Lewis-Jewelers.com.

2125 Riverwalk Dr. Moore, OK 1-844-DrWeaver www.weaverclinics.com

Does your furry friend have itchy or dry skin?

Give the gift of a Thera-Clean Treatment!!!

14 karat white gold and diamond fan dangle earrings set with 1.22 carat total weight of diamonds ($2,565) 14 karat yellow gold and diamond earrings with a geometric design ($350) 14 karat rose gold and diamond stackable set with 0.25 carat total weight of diamonds ($975) 14 karat yellow gold and diamond bangle bezel set with 12 round-cut diamonds ($965)

Mention this ad Receive Half Off All Thera-Clean Spa Treatments Free Christmas Bows and Bandans for the month of December!

BA R KON MA IN . COM 2459 W Main St, Norman | 405.364.2275 December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

29

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY SANDRA BENT

Gabrielle Landsgarrd places the finishing touches to the Nutcracker.

THE MAKING OF THE NUTCRACKER AT OU STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT THE HARD WORK BEHIND THE "MAGIC"

30

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

THE

BELOVED

HOLIDAY

CLAS-

SIC BALLET, THE NUTCRACKER, AS PRESENTED

ON

STAGES

ACROSS

THE WORLD FOR OVER 100 YEARS, OFFERS AUDIENCES YOUNG AND OLD A CHANCE TO BELIEVE IN MAGIC, IF ONLY FOR A BRIEF TIME. Students performing in, and working behind the scenes for, this year’s production of The Nutcracker at the University of Oklahoma, are getting a unique opportunity to learn firsthand the hard work that goes into making this treasured fairy tale ballet, with its signature swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, handsome prince

Elena Damiani and Justin Rainey prepare as the Snow Queen and her cavalier.

and Sugar Plum fairy, come across as magical on the stage.

Painting the set piece for the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy

Ben Burton adds ribbon to the Mirliton costume.

OU School of Music Director Michael Bearden, who is directing the University Theatre production of The Nutcracker, says the OU students also are fortunate to be involved in this year’s production, which celebrates the 75th anniversary of Willam Christensen’s version of the holiday favorite. Christensen’s version was premiered in 1944 by the San Francisco Ballet.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

31

THE MAKING OF THE NUTCRACKER AT OU

(CON TI N UED)

“I am so pleased that our students have the opportunity to learn and benefit from working in and presenting this historic production that inspired a cultural tradition in the United States,” said Bearden, who performed various roles in the Christensen version of The Nutcracker as a principal dancer with Ballet West.

OU’s production of The Nutcracker is set to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s magical score and based on the story The Nutcracker and the King of Mice by E.T.A. Hoffman. Children from the Oklahoma City metro area will also take the stage, performing the roles of soldiers, mice, buffoons, pages and party guests.

Dancing key roles are School of Dance faculty Karel Cruz, as Herr Stahlbaum and the Sugar Plum Cavalier, and Boyko Dossev as Dr. Drosselmeyer.

Kel Martin in a costume fitting for the Russian Divertissement

SHEVAUN WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY 32

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

Lloyd Cracknell and Bent Burton work on the costumes.

The design staff are Emma Antongiovanni, Anne Sheffield and Michael Sullivan, scenic designers; Michael Buchwald and Lloyd Cracknell, costume designers; and Richard Sprecker, lighting designer.

The production staff consists of Karen Crus, Jan Fugit and Mary Margaret Holt, ballet masters; Christa St. John, young performer ballet master; Keita Maloy, stage manager; Jeff Baldwin, technical director; Kasey Allee-Foremen, associate producer; and Mary Margaret Holt, producer.

The remaining performances of the holiday classic are scheduled for 8 p.m. Dec. 5, 6 and 7 and at 3 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8 in the Elsie C. Brackett Theatre, Rupel J. Jones Fine Arts Center, 563 Elm Ave., on the OU Norman campus. Tickets at the door are $35 for adults and $15 for students.

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

33

Executive Executive Headshot Photography Photography 405.795.3107 405.795.3107

deeningImage.co deeningImage.co

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

35

ARTIST’S PALETTE

T H E A R T O F

P H I L A

NORMAN’S TIM KENNEY GIVES BACK

N T

WHEN YOU ASK TIM KENNEY TO DESCRIBE HIS LIFE AS AN ARTIST, HE USES WORDS LIKE “INCREDIBLE,” “UNINTENDED,” “CRAZY” AND “WONDERFUL.” The Norman-based artist was 52 years old when he left an established marketing

H

career at St. Anthony Hospital for a new adventure.

R

a relative who is an art dealer in Santa Fe.

O

with the art business. I saw so many possibilities. It never left

P Y 36

ARTICLE BROOKE BARNETT

“My mother was having medical issues,” Tim explains. “I needed to be able to stay home and take care of her.”

After stepping out of his corporate job, Tim received a call from “He asked if I was willing to deliver a painting to Dallas, which I accepted,” he explains. “That was the moment that I fell in love my mind from that moment.”

He started taking lessons from award-winning Norman artist Carol Armstrong, who helped him develop his signature style.

“I never thought it would be easy to become an artist, but I genuinely thought I could do it,” he reminisces.

Tim paints as an abstract impressionist, often using bright colors and multi-dimensional textures that give his art instant recognition.

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

“My first year, I made exactly zero dollars,” he laughs. “But I never imagined the experiences I would have.”

Shortly after he began painting, the Norman Chamber of Commerce approached Tim to donate a painting for a fundraising auction.

“After giving it a lot of thought, I created and donated a piece,” he says. “It sold for $500 and I was thrilled.”

To purchase tickets to see Tim as the featured speaker at the 2019 Winter Gala or to learn more about the Nicole Jarvis M.D. Parkinson’s Research Foundation, visit JarvisMDParkinsonsFoundation.org.

Follow Tim on Facebook at Tim Kenney Art and learn more at TimKenneyFineArt.com.

He has since donated paintings to the American Heart Association, Assistance League of Norman, United Way of Norman, Children’s Hospital, and more than 25 other nonprofit organizations.

“PHILANTHROPY IS A BIG PART OF WHO I AM,” HE ADDS. “THIS IS AN UNEXPECTED, WONDERFUL PART OF THE PAINTING BUSINESS. I AM THANKFUL FOR THE GREAT PEOPLE THAT I HAVE MET AND THE ABILITY TO GIVE BACK TO MY COMMUNITY.” One cause that has grown near to Tim’s heart is the Nicole Jarvis, M.D., Parkinson’s Research Foundation. Eight years ago, he was asked to donate a painting to the first Winter Gala that Dr. Jarvis, who has early onset Parkinson’s Disease, held to raise money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. He has continued to support the foundation for the past 12 years and will serve as the featured speaker at this year’s annual gala on Dec. 12.

Tim’s dedication to helping those with Parkinson’s Disease led to him being one of three featured artists nationwide in the

Tim has also donated more than $18,000 to the Foundation in

“Live Well, Do Tell” awareness campaign, sponsored by Acorda

2014 through a special project where he visited 50 states in 50 days

Therapeutics. For the project, Tim created two paintings inspired

and created 50 unique paintings. In 2017, he created 77 paintings

by the stories of two individuals with Parkinson’s; they can be

of the 77 counties in Oklahoma in 77 days, again with a portion of

viewed at LiveWellDoTell.org.

proceeds benefiting the Jarvis Foundation.

“I like to say that I am an old man, but a very young artist,” he

“The trip was a wonderful journey through our country, where I

concludes. “I am nowhere near the best artist that I will be in the

got to meet so many people who were connected to Parkinson’s

future. But I believe I improve with every painting. This journey

in one way or another,” he adds.

has been amazing.”

Since 2015, Apple Tree Chocolate has been a beloved stop for all kinds of delicious, handcrafted caramel apples, chocolates and unique gifts. Life is sweet!

We’re still doing our candy the old fashioned way and folks seem to like it.

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AppleTreeChocolate.com | 754 Asp Ave Norman | (405) 310-3959

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

37

RENOVATE & REFINE

For Local Couple CHRISTMAS SPIRIT LIVES ON ALL YEAR LONG

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY KRYSTYN RICHARDSON OF BOLD MULTIMEDIA

38

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

FOR BRENDA AND PHILLIP GRAHAM, DECORATING THEIR HOME FOR CHRISTMAS MAY NOT BE AN ALL-YEAR VENTURE, BUT IT’S CLOSE! “Christmas, well... all joking aside, it sometimes starts in January,” Phillip says.

The proprietors of Vanguard Property Inspectors, LLC, the couple host two company Christmas parties in their home each year.

“We start scouting musical entertainment in January and continue making plans and arrangements throughout the year. Our Christmas gift to each other is all about giving back to everyone who has helped our business grow that year by celebrating with our friends, clients and associates.”

He notes that they change out some of their decorations each year in different parts of their home.

“This year, our patio area has changed from a lighted woodland forest to a lighted woodland forest with a blue-lit pond and waterfall, including white swans and other woodland creatures,” he says.

Indoors, lit garlands and tear-drop-style greenery adorn their balcony, which overlooks the great room. The greenery spills onto the stairway railing, mantel and window cornices.

“And of course,” Phillip says, “there is always room for the proverbial family collectibles.” While some folk may collect Santa Clauses, reindeer, snowmen, etc., the Graham family collects Mark Roberts fairies, which they hang from a spiraled garland on the kitchen column.

“Looking past the kitchen bar top,” Phillip says, “you’ll see our gingerbread village collection. And our front room and living room display our Victorian Christmas carolers.”

Brenda and Phillip Graham in their beautifully decorated living room

“WE START SCOUTING MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT IN JANUARY AND CONTINUE MAKING PLANS AND ARRANGEMENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. OUR CHRISTMAS GIFT TO EACH OTHER IS ALL ABOUT GIVING BACK TO EVERYONE WHO HAS HELPED OUR BUSINESS GROW THAT YEAR BY CELEBRATING WITH OUR FRIENDS, CLIENTS AND ASSOCIATES.”

Finally, he says, “our Christmas decor would feel incomplete without the Nativity; it, too, changed this year from a multi-piece set-up to a three-piece set, but none-the-less, it delivers the same pow-

A Nativity scene takes center place in this space, along with more greenery.

erful statement: the birth of our Savior. He is ‘the Reason for this Season.’”

Decorating for the holidays is a joint venture; likewise, the pair enjoy selecting furniture and other accessories for their home, a French Chateau-style home located in the Chatenay addition in south Oklahoma City where they have resided for seven years.

Neither Brenda nor Phillip have a formal education in interior design or interior decorating. However, they look for inspiration everywhere, then purchase those pieces they both like and that will blend well with their other furniture.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

39

RENOVATE & REFINE

(CON TI N U ED)

The Grahams' exquisitely decorated living room features Victorian Christmas carolers on either side of the fireplace, lots of garland and other special touches.

“We love to tour beautiful homes while traveling and online,” Brenda notes. “We are both out-ofthe-box, creative thinkers and tend to make an ‘adventure’ out of every shopping trek. A quick trip for a three-day holiday to Van Buren resulted in a 100-plus-year-old, 8-foot buffet that now anchors a main wall in our front room.”

They also find inspiration in their travels and visiting antique shops.

“As an example,” Phillip says, “we found the perfect scaled sofa and side chairs in Dallas but knew we would need to find just the right coffee table to tie it all together. At a random stop at one of our favorite haunts, we stumbled upon a 500-lb. petrified Cyprus tree stump that is now the center piece to the living room ensemble.

“I guess you could say we find main pieces of furniture for each room and accessorize around that piece to achieve the ultimate look for that room. Neutral-colored rugs are used in the main living area to complete and contain each furniture grouping within the room.”

40

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

The patio features a lighted woodland forest with a blue-lit pond and waterfall, including white swans and other woodland creatures.

“We enjoy a ‘collected over time,’ eclectic, traveled, old-world, semi-Victorian look, blending the old with the new for comfort and practicality,” Brenda says.

“We were also trying to achieve a more open look in the living room while being arranged in a way to keep guests engaged when in use. So, when we recently purchased new living room furnishings, we

when you participate as a couple, the added time

purposely chose smaller, easy-to-rearrange pieces

together shopping and discussing will help rein-

that could be easily shifted to form different types of

force and forge a tighter bond between you. It also

seating arrangements or moved out, as needed.”

gives us a higher appreciation of the end result

The couple offers advice to homeowners who want to change up their surroundings but don’t really know how to get started.

because of our direct involvement.”

She adds, “You can’t be afraid to entertain new ideas that pop into your head, and don’t be afraid

“Wait until you find one or two pieces that you

to use your spouse as a springboard for your ideas.

absolutely love, then collect additional items to

Doing all things together is a blessing for both of us,

build/layer upon those,” Brenda says. “We think,

and we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

41

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

YOUR HOME, YOUR WAY. 405-701-5557

www.Okchomebuilder.com

INSPIRED BY WEIGHTED BLANKETS, SPECIAL YOGA CLASSES TAILORED FOR SPECIAL-NEEDS KIDS

MOM DRAWS ON PERSONAL EXPERIENCE TO BECOME AUTISM ACTIVIST IN 2018, THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION DETERMINED THAT APPROXIMATELY ONE IN 59 CHILDREN IS DIAGNOSED WITH AN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER. Early intervention can improve learning, communication and social skills, as well as underlying brain development, but there is no known “cure.”

This has left many parents feeling alone and searching for answers. One local mother, Sarah Maness, owner/ operator of Spectrumtalk Inc., decided to do something with these questions and come up with some proactive solutions. Here, Sarah discusses her special weighted blankets, her one-of-a-kind yoga exercises for children with autism, and her work as an autism activist.

TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR BUSINESS. I’m a special needs mom to a high-functioning ASD kiddo and I own and operate SpectrumTalk, Inc. My business has morphed and added different things along the way, but the overall mission has always been to provide services, products and a voice for the specialneeds community.

WHAT ARE WEIGHTED BLANKETS? WHERE HAVE YOU SOLD THEM? Weighted blankets are a therapeutic tool that have been shown to help with sleeping issues, pain and anxiety, among many other things. They are basically blankets with added weight to add pressure when it is on the user.

HOW TO FIND OUT MORE: Visit: .505 E Main St #B, Moore OK 73160 Call: 982.9539 Email: spectrumtalkemail@gmail.com Visit: SpectrumTalkWithSC.com and Facebook

I have sold weighted blankets all over the United States, but primarily in Oklahoma and the surrounding Midwest states. International shipping costs have made it difficult to ship to my clients outside the States.

44

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES

HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT ORDERING

there is a deeper, more important level

A WEIGHTED BLANKET?

of structure to them other than a flowing

You

can

order

on

our

website,

sequence of poses.

SpectrumTalkWithSC.com, or directly via our Facebook page. I usually like to talk with

HOW CAN PEOPLE GET INVOLVED

the client as they order because the weight

IN EITHER YOUR YOGA PROGRAM OR IN

and everything ranges depending on the

PURCHASING A WEIGHTED BLANKET?

purpose they want to use it for, age and

The best way to inquire about any

weight, etc., but a good starting rule of thumb

of our programs is on our website,

is about 10% of the user’s bodyweight.

SpectrumTalkWithSC.com,

or

on

our

Facebook page.

TELL US ABOUT THE SPECIAL-NEEDS YOGA YOU TEACH.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR ASD ADVOCACY.

I specialize in special-needs kids’ yoga for

At this point, I am deeply involved with

ages 2-12. Working with kiddos with spe-

most of the special-needs programs and

cial needs is VERY different than any other

communities in the state. Part of that is for my

kids’ yoga program and requires a passion

son and his involvement and the other part is

and specific training. Being a special-needs

for support and to help be a voice for those

mom helps a lot, and of course I’ve taken

that aren’t always heard, no matter how loud

several training and certification programs

they are. I’ve made full orders of blankets for

specific to special needs and yoga practice.

special needs school classes and programs

Programs are specifically designed to

and I’ve been able to offer special-needs

help the kiddos recognize their own great-

yoga to schools, pediatric clinics and others.

ness, boost self-confidence, build social

It all starts with stepping up and either offer-

skills, coping skills and most importantly

ing something or helping to get something

better their emotional control so that they

offered for the special-need’s community, as

can better understand their emotions

it’s not always easy to find things specifically

and deal with them in a healthier manner.

for them. I have a lot of future plans of advo-

My classes are very unstructured, but

cacy that will be direct from SpectrumTalk.

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

45

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

THROUGH DEC 24

5-7

Claus at 8 a.m. The evening will

fireworks celebration and a visit and

LYRIC THEATRE PRESENTS: "A CHRISTMAS CAROL"

OKC PHILHARMONIC PRESENTS: THE CHRISTMAS SHOW Civic Center Music Hall, OKC

CityOfMoore.com/Events/

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic pres-

Christmas-Spectacular-1

by community groups, a holiday photos with Santa Claus.

Plaza Theatre, OKC

ents its annual holiday performance

A spectacular new Oklahoma holiday

"The Christmas Show." This show is

tradition returns with Lyric Theatre's

a family favorite and features special

production of the Charles Dickens

guest stars and favorite holiday tunes.

classic, "A Christmas Carol." Capture

The Christmas Show dazzles audiences

the magic and joy of Christmas

with dancers, singers, impressive sets,

as the ghosts of past, present and

fantastic light effects and amazing cos-

future lead the miserly Ebenezer

tumes. Don't miss out on this Oklahoma

The exciting, one-day event features

Scrooge on a powerful journey of

end-of-the-year tradition. OkcPhil.org

a performance that will get you in the

transformation

and

8 TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA IN CONCERT

Chesapeake Energy Arena, OKC

mood for the holiday season. Titled

redemption.

6-8 AND 13-15

"Christmas Eve & Other Stories," the

5

SOONER THEATRE PRESENTS ELF: THE MUSICAL

have you on the edge of your seat.

OU UNIVERSITY THEATRE PRESENTS THE NUTCRACKER

Based on the beloved holiday film,

Brackett Theatre, 563 Elm Ave.

of-water comedy following Buddy the

University Theatre and the School

Elf in his quest to find his true identity.

of Dance present The Nutcracker.

SoonerTheatre.org/Tickets

LyricT heatre Okc .com/Shows/ Lyrics-A-Christmas-Carol-2019

Sooner Theatre, Norman

Sooner Theatre will present a fish-out-

Oklahoma Festival Ballet will enchant audiences with Tchaikovsky’s beloved fairy tale ballet, a holiday favorite! 8 p.m. Dec. 5, 6 and 7 and 3 p.m. Dec. 7 and 8, Brackett Theatre. Tickets on sale

TSO performance features an amazing light show and rock hits that will ChesapeakeArena.com/Events/ Detail/Tso2019

8 CHRISTMAS AT OU CONCERT 500 W. Boyd St., Norman

7

OU

CREATIVE CHRISTMAS CRAFT SHOW

for the holidays. This year's con-

School

of

Music

pres-

ents CHRISTMAS AT OU, with heart-warming

music

and

song

Cleveland County Fairgrounds, Norman

cert features the OU Combined

Bring your list and check it twice at

Choirs, Percussion, and Sax Studio.

the Creative Christmas Craft Show in

Music directors are David Howard,

5

Norman. This one-day event is filled

Women's Chorus, and Men's Glee

with a mix of handcrafted items and

Club; Andrew Richardson, percus-

HOLIDAY HAPPENING

goods from across the region. Come out

sion; Jonathan Nichol, Sax Studio;

to browse one-of-a-kind gifts, books,

and Richard Zielinski, OU Chorale.

now or may be purchased at the door.

Dance.ou.edu/Performances

Sam Noble Museum,

quilts, candles, clothing, home decor,

2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman

treats and more. Parking and admis-

Get in the holiday spirit with cookie

sion to the Creative Christmas Craft

decorating,

Show are free. ClevelandCountyFair.

pictures

with

Santa,

games, winter crafts and a blizzard

org/31/Craft-Shows

of fun! This FREE, annual event features craft tables, chances to win prizes and a face-painting station. Don’t miss out on special discounts in Excavations, the museum store! Admission is complimentary.

46

include Inflatables, Christmas music

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

7 CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

12 2019 PARKINSON’S RESEARCH FOUNDATION NICOLE JARVIS MD WINTER GALA Embassy Suites, Norman

The Eighth Annual Winter Gala presents a social hour, silent auction,

Central Park Amphitheater, Moore

seated dinner and guest speakers.

Start the day with breakfast, Holiday

The gala seeks to raise awareness of

Crafts and story time with Santa

Parkinson’s Disease and raise funds

and services for 15,000 Parkinson’s Disease patients in Oklahoma as well as the Michael J. Fox Foundation for cutting-edge research to develop better treatments and ultimately a cure.

JarvisMdParkinsonsFoundation.org

13 CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE AT THE MOORE-LINDSAY HISTORIC HOUSE Moore-Lindsay Historic

House Museum, Norman

Sample some wassail and holiday treats while you tour the fully decorated Historic House and listen to the beautiful singing of two local choirs. There will be holiday crafts for the children, horse-drawn carriage rides, and the chance to meet Santa Claus. There is no charge for this event, but donations are always appreciated.

NormanMuseum.org

14 NORMAN MAIN STREET CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY PARADE Downtown Norman

Jack Frost may be nipping at your nose, but you won't want to miss this Norman holiday tradition. The Norman Main Street Christmas Holiday Parade features bands, floats and horses.

Set in a festive spirit complete with a variety of Christmas characters, this annual holiday parade will also feature an appearance by Santa Claus.

VisitNorman.com/Events/MainStreet-Christmas-Holiday-Parade

14

(405) 360-5369 • rbt.com

A NORMAN ROCKWELL CHRISTMAS PARADE

Downtown Old Town Moore

Parade of Lights in Downtown Old Town Moore starting at Central Jr. High to Main St. then west on Main to

Member FDIC

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

47

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR Howard St. Come to the Parade and light up downtown Moore.

CityOfMoore.com/Events/A-NormanRockwell-Christmas-Parade

21-22

THE OKLAHOMA NUTCRACKER Nancy O'Brian Center for

Performing Arts, Norman

The 2019 production features guest artists from the New York City Ballet

Company. Keeping the Tchaikovsky

score and traditional storyline, this version of the holiday classic deftly

weaves elements of Oklahoma history and themes of nature into the beloved plotline, creating a holiday experience

that has become a Norman tradition for Sooners young and old.

NormanBalletCompany.org

THE COOKIES WE’RE MAKING ARE MISSING A CRUCIAL INGREDIENT: YOU. The best holidays are made with friends. And we’re extra dedicated this year to seniors who might be alone and really need a happy holiday. Just come by. There’s a smile waiting for you at the door, new friends waiting for you at our holiday festivities, and happier holidays ahead. You’ll see how Senior Living means more than help with health and housekeeping. Here, it means happiness for the whole person. And that takes caring, loving people – never in short supply around here.

22 BRICKTOWN LIGHTS CHANUKAH CELEBRATION

2 S. Mickey Mantle Drive, OKC

Gather the whole family for a fun evening during the Bricktown Lights Chanukah Celebration. This all-ages event will include a giant menorah lighting, live music, unique entertainment and an exciting chocolate coin drop that kids will love. Have your picture taken with Dreidel Man, dig into some hot latkes and enjoy connecting with the community during this festive event.

JewishOkc.com

Call (405) 360-0606 to find out what we have planned or check our activity calendar at LegendSeniorLiving.com .

We are always accepting sub-

800 Canadian Trails Dr Norman, OK 73072

missions for events you'd like to

A Residence of Legend Senior Living

®

LegendSeniorLiving.com

see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via

the

Contact

Us

tab

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com.

48

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

at

DECEMBER

BE STRONGER THAN THE HOLIDAYS MAKE YOURSELF #HOLIDAYPROOF The holidays are filled with parties, tempting treats, shopping and other excuses to put your fitness goals on hold. Don’t sweat it. We’re here to help you be stronger than the holidays.

Our 1-hour, full-body workout is designed to make you #HolidayProof.

Happy Holidays from Your Neighbor and Trusted Financial Advisor We are very thankful having the pleasure of serving some of the best clients in this community for more than 20 years and wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Start the New Year out right with a Free, No Obligation, Full Financial Review

HEARTLAND WEALTH MANAGEMENT

STOCKS | BONDS | MUTUAL FUNDS | ETFs ANNUITIES | LIFE INSURANCE

BOOK A FREE WORKOUT* AT ORANGETHEORY.COM 825 SW 19th St Moore, OK 73160 405.703.5259 * First-time visitors and local residents only. Certain restrictions apply. $28 minimum value. At participating studios only. See studio for details.

Orangetheory® and other Orangetheory® marks are registered trademarks of OTF IP Holder, LLC. ©Copyright 2019 OTF IP Holder, LLC and/or its affiliates.

Mark Johnson Financial Advisor

3351 W. Rock Creek Rd Suite 130, Norman OK

405-561-7051

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. In vestment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Heartland Wealth Management is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

December 2019 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

49

CITY SCENE ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES

I N 2 0 2 0

I WANT TO... /LEARN TO COOK

/LEARN DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

/LEARN COMPUTERS

Looking to expand your menu and

Turn your love of the camera into a

If you hope to learn a little, or a lot,

cooking skills in 2020? International

fulfilling hobby or even a career. At

about computers, internet and software

Pantry offers cooking classes taught

Moore-Norman

Center,

programs, look no further than the

by local chefs. The classes are fun for

you can learn to use your camera's

Pioneer Library System. Regular com-

a date night, girls' night out, a club

basic controls and features to gain a

puter classes resume around January.

outing or birthday/anniversary pres-

better understanding of the elements

Library staff also are available to answer

ent. Classes include both observation

of photographic composition and tech-

questions, ranging from the basics to

and

Observation

niques. A brief overview of photo-edit-

the complexity of robot programming.

classes are structured like “dinner and

ing techniques is covered, along with

The library offers one-to-one-teaching.

a show.” You receive recipes of each

standard shooting modes, image qual-

Patrons also may pull together their own

dish, observe the chef prepare each

ity and image size, white balance, ISO,

groups for a specialized course. The

course, and then enjoy their creations.

shutter speed and aperture settings,

library offers flexible scheduling and a

The 2020 schedule will be released

exposure metering modes, exposure

roster of knowledgeable teachers.

in January, and their next session of

compensation, media card formatting

classes will begin February 2020.

and focusing.

50

hands-on

styles.

Technology

INTERNATIONAL PANTRY

MOORE NORMAN

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM

1618 West Lindsey, Norman 360.0765 IntlPantry.com/cookingclasses

TECHNOLOGY CENTER

PioneerLibrarySystem.org

Cleveland County Lifestyle | December 2019

13301 S. Pennsylvania Ave., OKC 360.0765 mntc.edu

AT HOME FOR THE

HOLIDAYS is where our lives are the threads of our legacy that sparkle with hope and bring context to all of our stories in history. As we gather around the tree we are creating new stories in the experiences we have with each other.

OUR LIVES

are woven together in a giant tapestry of story that reflects the heart of what we share and we remember those stories through creativity.

OUR CULTURE’S

holidays are times that bring Families and Friends together, so that we never lose sight of traditions to celebrate.

And this Holiday season has the potential for the best beginnings!

Prime Realty Luxury Homes

KATHY & STEVE GRIFFITH BROKER / OWNERS

Our Realtors are connected with the fibers of this community – not only do we live, work and play here, we watch trends affecting financing and mortgage rates, the stock market and local, national and global economics – all of which can affect the final price and terms.

We believe that without integrity, nothing else matters.

And for buyers wanting to find their perfect home, to those wishing to list their distinguished property we will be honest, dedicated and determined.

K A T H Y 405-213-7839

& S T E V E 405-613-4141

Kathy@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com | Steve@PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com 1530 SW 89th St. Oklahoma City 73159 | PrimeRealtyLuxuryHomes.com