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May 2022 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com 405.541.5650 EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Heide Brandes | heide.brandes@citylifestyle.com

Honoring the Strength of Mothers & Women Everywhere

AD DESIGNER

May is a month in which the U.S. honors mothers everywhere with Mother's Day, so it fits that May is our annual Women's Issue. In this issue, you will read about seven women who are making a difference in Central Oklahoma. Honored as Women of Influence, these women are leaders, dreamers, advocates and inspirations. They are part of the magic that makes Central Oklahoma so vibrant. In this issue, you'll also read about Casady School - where they have been and where they are going in the future. Rooted in faith, this school has been making a difference in the lives of Central Oklahoma's children for decades. If you are a small business owner, you'll want to check out our feature on Quail Creek Bank. This hyper-local bank has been boosting up the economy by supporting women-owned and other small businesses for years, and they absolutely have programs for you too. Need an idea for a girls' trip that is out of the ordinary? We've got that as well. Lastly, Peter Levinson brings home why mothers and wives are so important to the success of a family, a community and a nation. It's an inspiring essay that honors all women and the impact they have in our lives. As always, thank you for reading OKC City Lifestyle. Don't forget to reach out to us if you have a story idea, know of someone who deserves some attention or have some great photos from an event you attended. Happy May and Happy Mother's Day!

Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Peter Levinson

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

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Proverbs 3:5-6 OKC City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the OKC area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in OKC City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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M AY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Ladies’ Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Casady School - Faithfully & Bravely

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Education Corner

Financial Buzz

Inspired By

Travel Journal

Events

Realty Report

Local Limelight

Casady fosters a learner-centric environment

19 A Bank For the Community

Quail Creek Bank Stays True To Its Mission of Supporting Small Businesses

22 Women of Influence

Celebrating Women Who Make A Difference In Central Oklahoma

27 Girls’ Trip

Break Out of the Norm With These Girls’ Trip Ideas

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Compilation of the 2022 Women of Influence Seven Central Oklahoma women are honored as the 2022 Women of Influence.

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: The 2022 OKC Ballet Ball. Natalie Bramlett & Jeremy Fitzpatrick 2: OKC Ballet Dancers Courtney Connor Jones and Gabrielle Mengden at the 2022 OKC Ballet Ball. 3: The OKC Ballet Ball held in April featured past presidents of the OKC Ballet. 4: The OKC Ballet Ball attracts local celebrities and supporters. 5: Supporters flock to the 2022 OKC Ballet Ball, held April 2. 6: OKC Ballet Dancers Alejandro Gonzaléz and Mickayla Carr at the 2022 OKC Ballet Ball. 7: The OKC Ballet Ball with Miss Oklahoma Ashleigh Robinson with Patricia McGarrity

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M AY 2 0 2 2

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

Paycom Recognized as Top 10 In Innovation Enterprise

Oklahoma Series 'Reservation Dogs' Earns Best New Series

Oklahoma State Capitol Museum Hosts Grand Opening

Paycom Software, Inc., a leading provider of comprehensive, cloudbased human capital management software, has been named to Fast Company’s World’s Most Innovative Companies list for 2022, which emphasized Paycom’s latest innovation Beti™, an industry-first technology that empowers employees to do their own payroll. Paycom is the only HR and payroll technology company to make the global list and the only Oklahomabased company in the Enterprise category, ranking seventh.

The Oklahoma series “Reservation Dogs” won for best new scripted series and best ensemble cast in a new scripted series at the Independent Spirit Awards in March. Co-created by Tulsa filmmaker Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, season one of “Reservation Dogs” premiered on FX on Hulu and follows the trials and tribulations of youth on an Oklahoma reservation.

The Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) debuted the Oklahoma State Capitol Museum, a state-of-theart gallery space in the Oklahoma State Capitol. Created as part of the Oklahoma Capitol Restoration Project, the Oklahoma State Capitol Museum contains 4,400 square feet of exhibit space and 13 exhibit cases, featuring more than 125 artifacts relating to the history of the Oklahoma State Capitol and the work of Oklahoma’s state government.

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

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

M AY 2 0 2 2

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

Grab a friend and enjoy a day out brunching, shopping, enjoying the outdoors and visiting the many things to do in our city. Whether it’s an outdoor patio, an art gallery or boutique shopping you prefer, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Gals on the Town R OCOCO R ESTAUR ANT & FINE WINE: No one does a cozy East-coast style brunch better than Rococo Restaurant and Fine Wine. With two locations, it's a perfect gal pal hangout. 2824 N Pennsylvania Avenue, Oklahoma City YMCA: Workouts are more fun with a friend, so load up your gal pal for a good sweat at the local YMCA centers in OKC. 500 N Broadway Avenue, Suite #500, Oklahoma City AALIM BELLYDANCE ACADEMY: Try something fun and new like bellydancing classes at The Aalim Bellydance Academy, which offers intro classes and girls' night private classes. 2520 N Meridian Avenue, Oklahoma City UDANDER : What's better than a day of rejuvenation and relaxation with your best friend? Head downtown for ultimate luxury at the Udander Spa and relaaaaaaaaax. 1001 NW 71st Street, Oklahoma City PAINTING WITH A TWIST: Unleash your creative spirit and enjoy fine wine at Painting With a Twist for your next girls' night out to paint a masterpiece while sipping. 9217 N Pennsylvania Place, Oklahoma City

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASADY SCHOOL

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS, CASADY FOSTERS A LEARNER-CENTRIC ENVIRONMENT THAT DRAWS OUT THE STRENGTHS, INTERESTS, AND PASSIONS OF EACH STUDENT

B R AV E LY CHO S DY A AS OL - FAITH FU LL Y

As the country was emerging from the trauma of World War II, some farsighted OKC citizens, together with Bishop Thomas Casady, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma, were exploring their dream to establish a diocesan center which would include a cathedral, a conference facility, and a boarding school for the city. At the same time a group of Oklahoma City businessmen were discussing the possibility of starting a college preparatory church school in the classical tradition. They envisioned a school that would offer small classes, personal attention, and worship in an atmosphere fostering healthy competition. Named after Bishop Thomas Casady, Casady Hall began with the first meeting of its Board of Trustees on Feb. 17, 1947. A donation of property located at the corner of Britton Road and Pennsylvania Avenue provided the land and first buildings for the School: a tract of 38-acres, a small lake, one house, and two barns. The Reverend Michael Martin was hired as headmaster, and in September 1947 Casady Hall opened its doors to 36 students in three grades: seventh, eighth and ninth. The School was renamed Casady School in May 1948, and that same year the Chapel of St. Edward the Confessor was built. The Chapel has always been the spiritual center of Casady School. More than 600 daily services are conducted during the school year, involving students of all ages. Christmas and Easter services have become a tradition for many, and the Chapel is also used for baptisms, weddings, funerals, and celebrations throughout the year. Casady is an Episcopal school that seeks to be welcoming to students and families of a variety of faith traditions, as well as for families who have no religious practice. This is the inclusive nature of the Episcopal Church and helps form one of the most needed skills in a student’s education - learning to live in a diverse and multicultural world. The heart and soul of the religious life at Casady is the daily Chapel services for first through 12th graders. Chapel services include education and recognition of other faith traditions, as well as moral and ethical formation. Students also participate in faith education outside of Chapel, including Bible class, close readings of the Scriptures, and broader Christian theology and devotion education. Casady School prepares its socio-economically diverse student body with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for successful lives--wherever their lives lead them in this rapidly changing world. Students receive the very best education, which is built upon developing excellence, confidence, and integrity in each student. This passion for individualized, student-driven, durable, and engaging education has remained steadfast since the School’s inception, but the way students learn has evolved, and their school must meet them where they are today. Casady fosters a learner-centric environment that draws out the strengths, interests, and passions of each student to help them grow toward mastery of skills and knowledge.

Students receive the very best education, which is built upon developing excellence, confidence, and integrity in each student.

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Casady fosters a learner-centric environment that draws out the strengths, interests, and passions of each student. Casady School prepares students with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for successful lives. TOP RIGHT: A donation of property located at the corner of Britton Road and Pennsylvania Avenue provided the land and first buildings for the School.

Students are charged to read with comprehension, to communicate intelligently and convincingly, to understand the scientific nature of our world, to think creatively, analytically, and divergently, to empathize and connect with others who view and experience the world differently, and to value artistic expression. All of these invaluable ideals move students thoughtfully and intentionally towards the goal of becoming individuals who honor, learn, engage, innovate, serve, and thrive. As the School approaches its 75th Anniversary, it is worth reflecting on what Casady has been to its many inhabitants. It has been a place of learning, where students strive for the highest reaches of academic achievement. It has been a place of gathering, bringing together the Casady Community to celebrate victories and mourn losses. It has been a place of character development, teaching individuals to work as a team through the crucible of

EDU CAT ION COR N E R | EDUCATI ON

athletic competition. It has also been a place of worship, inviting students to participate in the faith traditions that serve as the bedrock of a life well lived. From its original 36 students, Casady has grown to a campus of more than 990. Its graduates are restaurant entrepreneurs, leaders of infectious disease teams, shoe designers, investigative reporters, CEOs, award winning writers, athletes, pioneers in computer science and technology, and so much more. Their impact on the Oklahoma City Community, the country, and even the world is positive and real, and they continue to exemplify the ideals instilled in every Cyclone long past their graduation. Casady School remains committed to providing a foundation of excellence for all our students, instilling them with the confidence and integrity that prepare them with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for success.

A Bank For the Community

Services and technology like online banking makes it easy for business owners to handle finances at Quail Creek Bank.

Quail Creek Bank Stays True To Its Mission of Supporting Small Businesses ARTICLE BY HEIDE BRANDES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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For many small businesses and women-owned small businesses in Central Oklahoma, having a partner bank that not only offers the services a business needs, but also treats entrepreneurs like family, can make the challenges of running a business that much easier. More than 48 years ago, Quail Creek Bank started serving the unique needs of the Central Oklahoma community. The bankers know each person by name and provide the guidance customers need to achieve their financial goals. Unlike the sometimes cold and distant “national” banks, Quail Creek Bank is truly a partner for women-owned and minority-owned businesses because the bank’s goal is to uplift its customers and its community. “Our primary focus is to support our communities and small business owners in Oklahoma City. We help them by providing loans to either expand or start a business, to purchase buildings and equipment, or to finance large projects or contracts,” said Erin Batey, CCIO & SVP of Quail Creek Bank. “We also offer a full spectrum of deposit products that business owners need to manage day to day operations including electronic payments, collections, mobile deposits, online reporting, and positive pay to name a few. ” Unlike some of the larger, mega-banks, women-owned and small businesses can see the difference the moment they come through the doors. The Quail Creek staff know their customers by name, and with

F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FIN ANCE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

85+ people in the building, there are plenty of advocates available to help. “We still have a switchboard operator intentionally because we don’t want to force our customers into a call center or phone queue. We want you to talk to a live person so we have actual humans in our building who are here to help you with anything you need,” said Batey. We value that personal connection and we are here to help you accomplish your financial goals.” “ In addition to our direct business lending programs, we also partner with the Small Business Administration which allows us to offer more flexible terms and conditions and extend credit in that situation when we might not otherwise.” Quail Creek Bank also offers business checking accounts, including a basic small business checking account that is free to business owners. Then as the business grows, additional products can be added such as direct deposit for payroll , help with collecting accounts receivable, credit card acceptance services and more. “We love working with businesses because they are the lifeblood of the Oklahoma City economy. Those small businesses create jobs, and that’s vital to the success of our economy,” Batey said. “We were founded to support business owners and consumers in Oklahoma City and that continues to be our mission today.” For more information on Quail Creek Bank and its small business services, visit quailcreek.bank.

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METRO WOMEN of I N F L U E N C E ARTICLE BY HEIDE BRANDES AND JERRI CULPEPPER

This month, we honor seven of our community’s outstanding women leaders as Metro Women of Influence. Here, they share their personal philosophies on the importance of giving back to the community.

(Photo by Jen Kubes)

KATHERINE MAZAHERI F O U N D E R A N D M A N AGIN G ATTORN E Y, MAZAHE RI L AW FIRM

“The best part of what I do is building relationships with the people I meet and offer legal service with a compassionate spirit that makes a difference in a real way. It is such an honor to advocate for someone who has been wronged and be able to find a creative way to assist them moving forward.”

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

Spotlighting Seven of Our Community’s Outstanding Female Leaders

(Photo by Ryan Lassiter)

K R IST IE D OWDY

JU L I A FEH R

T H E PL AY PI T C O - OWN E R

THE P L AY P IT CO- OW N E R

“Giving back to the community doesn’t have to be a financial donation to a nonprofit. Giving back could be paying the bill for the person behind you at a drive-thru, shopping and supporting a local small business or cleaning an area park. Giving back is also a great way to meet a diverse group of people and make new connections with those in the community— and doing something for someone else will always make a difference in their life as well as yours.

“Being part of and giving back to the community can be done in so many different ways. I am a strong believer that great things happen when you’re able to bring people together for a common cause. Giving can be done with your time and through acts of service, not just monetarily. Additionally, be open-minded. There are needs in the community that you might not have ever thought of, and help can be given in ways you never imagined.”

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PATTY GASSO SO ON E R S S O F T BA L L H E A D C OAC H

“I think a lot of people in our community and state get joy from watching us play. I can go back to that 2013 May tornado and what that did. Although it didn’t affect my house or my family, it changed my life. I learned about ‘Oklahoma Strong’. It was a real thing. I knew I was living in the right community around the right people. It really opened my eyes to doing whatever I could do to help any family. … And in that one moment, as devastating as it was, I have always felt this responsibility to have a giving heart, and I think God kind of made my heart, my family’s heart, that way –where we just want to help and give. This is our community, there is no other community I would rather be a part of.”

SHANNON LEE HANCHETT P R O PR I E TO R , O K I E B A K I N G C O.

“My personal philosophy about being a part of and giving back to the community is based on a quote by Pablo Picasso: ‘The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.’ Now, as a small-business owner, I have to make SOME money, but if it wasn’t for pesky bills and expenses, I would happily give everything back to the community because it has given so much to me. Even when things were looking very scary when COVID first started and so many businesses were shutting down, it was because of the support and love of people in and around Norman that I was able to keep my little cookie company afloat. I make it a point to donate as much as I can to various nonprofits, schools, groups/events and other causes around the community because I truly believe that small businesses are the lifeblood of strong communities, and the people of Norman are amazing at supporting small businesses.”

LOUISA MCCUNE EX ECU T IV E DI R E C TO R , T H E K I R K PAT R I C K F O U N DATION

Louisa’s advice is short and to the point: “High standards, no fear.”

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

KIM GARRETT CEO AND FOUNDER, PA LO MA R: O K L A H O M A C I T Y ’ S FA M I LY J U ST I C E CE N TE R

“Serving others is a core value of mine. Just like one needs food and shelter, serving others is a basic need of mine.”

OUR 2022 METRO WOMEN OF INFLUENCE SHARE ACCOMPLISHMENTS & ADVICE We asked our seven 2022 Metro Women of Influence three questions: their proudest professional achievement, their proudest personal achievement, and their advice for other women in the community who wish to make a difference. Unfortunately, space limitations made it impossible to run all their responses, so we selected one response per influencer (the one we think speaks best to their character).

KRISTIE DOWDY AND JULIA FEHR (SHARED HONOR) For 20 years, Kristie Dowdy engaged the community in numerous ways as a member of the staff of the Cleveland County Family Y, where she got her start as an executive assistant and retired as director of member engagement. Two days after her retirement, she and Julia Fehr began work on establishing their own business—The Play Pit, opening this summer as Norman’s only indoor playground. Julia Fehr started her professional career with Norman Public Schools in the Special Services office, transitioning into the nonprofit world at the Cleveland County Family Y, where she held several positions, including her last one as director of member and community services. Proudest professional accomplishment: Kristie: “In 2001, while at the Y, the very popular Tie-Dye Tri(athlon) fundraiser was born. After two years, I became the race director for its remaining 13-year run. This event involved several community partners from the Police

Department to those who just love to volunteer. We had several obstacles along the way, but with the help of our community partners it was always a huge success.” Julia: “By far, my most proud professional moment was during the height of COVID. At the time I was working at the YMCA. I heard so many stories of members in the Norman community who were unable to put food on the table due to their loss of income. I reached out to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and got connected with their Farmers to Families program. Within one week, we were hosting our first drive-through food distribution event. At that event alone, we served over 450 people. We continued to hold these events for the next several months.”

KIM GARRETT Kim Garrett is CEO and founder of Palomar: Oklahoma City’s Family Justice Center, a successful collaborative that brings agencies together to help victims of crime. Kim has

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passionately worked in victim services for 20 years and is nationally certified as an Advanced Advocate through the National Organization for Victim Assistance. In 2011, she established Oklahoma City Police Department’s Victim Services Program, which later received Honorable Mention for Excellence in Victim Services from the International Association of Chiefs of Police. In 2017, she was the first civilian to receive the Medal for Meritorious Honor from Oklahoma City Police Department. Proudest professional accomplishment: “I am most proud of founding Palomar: Oklahoma City’s Family Justice Center. In just five years, we’ve helped over 19,000 adults and children who have been struggling with trauma and abuse and I have no doubt our collaborative is making a profound impact on our city. Our programming is literally breaking cycles of violence and keeping kids safe and healthy.”

PATTY GASSO Now in her 28th season at the University of Oklahoma, National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame head coach Patty Gasso has molded the OU softball program into a national power and permanently placed herself among the elite college softball coaches in the country. Under her leadership, Oklahoma has won five national championships: in 2000, 2013, 2016, 2017 and 2021. She’s reached the Women’s College World Series 14 times, won more Big 12 games than any coach in the league’s history, and has more than twice as many overall wins as any other coach in OU history. Advice for other women: “Keep your priorities in order; keep your faith and your family above all else. In your job, connect them with you, have them with you, share those moments with them. Always trust your gut, what your heart says to do … and you will always be able to look in the mirror at the end of the day know that you did right and followed what your conscience and your heart told you to do.”

SHANNON LEE HANCHETT Shannon Lee Hanchett is a proud fourth-generation Oklahoman. She worked for the Children, Youth, and Family Services Division of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services for nearly 11 years. In 2018, after receiving a diagnosis of Lupus SLE, she changed direction and started a small, home-based bakery. What started as a dream in Shannon's kitchen grew into Okie Baking Co., a cookie

I NSP IR E D BY | L IFE + CULTURE

company that specializes in homestyle cookies inspired by the people and places that make our state great. Proudest professional accomplishment: “Seeing my dream of my own storefront come to life. I had been telling people for years that I would someday have a Cookie Cottage, and after years of hard work, I was able to move into my dream cookie cottage a little over six months ago. What's more, I was able to do this without any business loans. I've invested everything that I've made from my company right back into it, so I have no business debt.”

KATHERINE MAZAHERI Katherine Mazaheri is a trial lawyer who regularly represents plaintiff employees in all areas of employment law. A portion of Katherine’s trial practice is devoted to assisting families in times of crisis. In 2021, Katherine founded Maz Modern, her passion project to inspire professional inspiration for modern-day working women whose purpose is to empower local women in the workforce. She also launched a scholarship program with William & Lauren; “Suited for Social Justice” gifts a custom suit and a $5,000 scholarship to a deserving new Oklahoma law school graduate who demonstrates a heart for social justice and pledges to make a difference in their community though their degree. Proudest professional accomplishment: “I have a heart for social justice and wanted—and still want—to be a part of a change in my community. Impacting the lives of others positively is a passion and a purpose for me in my career, and I hope it reflects in all I do.”

LOUISA MCCUNE Louisa McCune is the executive director of Kirkpatrick Foundation and served as 2020 president of the Animal Grantmakers board of directors. She is an advisory trustee to the Kirkpatrick Family Fund and Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center and an adviser to Green Box. In 2020, she co-founded the Oklahoma Killer Whale Project and served as executive producer of The Odyssey Project (a livestream complete reading of Emily Wilson’s translation) with Oklahoma Contemporary. She is also editor-in-chief and co-founder of ArtDesk. Advice for other women: “Trust yourself. I would say this to any man, woman, or child. Listening to your intuition—and heeding your intuition—will always put your present and future into alignment with your core values. Sometimes the answers don’t come right away. That’s OK. Just attune yourself, and they’ll be forthcoming.”

GIRLS’ TRIP BREAK OUT OF THE NORM WITH THESE GIRLS’ TRIP IDEAS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDE BRANDES

As travel opens back up, the typical girls’ trip can be anything but typical. From luxurious staycations to exotic locales and adventure destinations, try these options for the most engaging and unique girl trip ideas this summer.

A beach escape is just a few hours south of OKC in Galveston Island.

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MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

THE “STAYCATIONS” History comes to life yet again in Oklahoma City with the grand debut of the region’s restored crown jewel, The National, Autograph Collection, at the First National Center which opened in April. The building originally opened in 1931 as an iconic bank and landmark monument, and stands proudly at 32-stories high to this day. Following an extensive restoration and one of the biggest renovations in the state’s history, the former bank office tower has been transformed into a hotel with 146 guest rooms alongside opulent new apartment homes, restaurants, bars, and retail offerings. The historic property will unveil multiple food & beverage concepts under bespoke hospitality management and development company, Apicii, and Michelin-starred Chief Culinary Officer Jonathan Benno. From Tellers and The Great Hall, to Stock & Bond and The Library of Distilled Spirits, each concept is imbued with a distinct personality and offerings that embody traditional Oklahoma City hospitality.

Breckenridge comes alive with a patriotic parade and the annual Firecracker 50 mountain bike race. Other festivals include: • Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival (Jul. 9) • Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival (Jul. 29 - 31) • Breckenridge Bacon and Bourbon Festival (Aug. 26 - 27) • Breckenridge Wine Classic (Sept. 15 - 17) • Strings Ciders & Sours (Sept. 16 - 18) • Oktoberfest (Sept. 23 - 25) Visit GoBreck.com Enrich the mind and soothe the soul with a small group nature hike led by Summit Nature Guides, a NEW non-profit eco-tour provider. Learn about biodiversity and see wildlife on a guided tour of Cucumber Gulch with a local naturalist.

THE BIG TRIP -

ALASKAN SUMMER CRUISE

THE MOUNTAIN GETAWAY With easy flights from Oklahoma City and within a day’s drive, Breckenridge, Colorado is a mecca of outdoor adventure, arts and culture and fun events. Summer events are ready to rebound with in-person festivals celebrating bikes, beer, history, food, art and music. Every Independence Day, downtown

Alaska cruises are your ticket to adventure amidst the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife and national parks. What better way to see the untamed beauty of Alaska than a Princess Cruise on one of Princess’ world-class ships, exclusive rail service and Princess Wilderness Lodges near national parks. Choose from a variety of Alaska cruise and cruise tour itineraries and connect with loved ones, locals and Alaska’s wilderness with Princess. Women traveling together can expect adventure on the cruise because you don’t just visit this famous land, you live it on Alaska excursions. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience. For Princess Cruise options in Alaska, visit princess.com.

Though a popular ski resort town, Breckenridge is a gorgeous destination in the summer as well.

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L

BEACH AND OCEAN WAVE You don't need to head to the Caribbean for a fantastic beach vacation. Just a few hours down south is Galveston Island, a pleasure resort community that has everything from fine dining and stellar museums to adventures you won't find anywhere else. The Galveston Bay Area is home to some of the best attractions Texas has to offer, including Moody Gardens, Schlitterbahn Waterpark, the Kemah Boardwalk, and miles of sun-kissed beaches along the Bolivar Peninsula and Galveston Island. For a truly unique adventure, sign up for Moody Gardens Aquarium's Penguin Encounter, which is a private 45-minute encounter that lets you learn about penguins and take home a piece of Penguin Art. Visiting and sailing on the tall ship Elissa harkens back to a time when Galeveston was considered "The Ellis Island of the South." If you are lucky, you can opt for a six-hour Ship to Shore cruise on the tall ships as volunteer sailors work the masted sails. For a truly luxury experience, book at stay at the San Luis Resort or the newly renovated masterpiece that is The Grand Galvez. The Sunday brunch at the Grand Galvez features towering mounds of fresh shrimp and crab legs, an omelet station, a carving station and a whole room of desserts. For more information, visit galveston.com.

TOP: Visit Alaska’s small communities on the Princess Alaska cruise this summer. BOTTOM: The Grand Galvez historic resort in Galveston is getting a whole new facelift.

MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

M AY 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. M AY 6T H

The Sleeping Beauty

CIVIC CEN TER MUS IC HALL, 20 1 N. WA L KE R AV E . The Sleeping Beauty is one of the greatest, most treasured story ballets of all time. OKC Ballet presents the Marius Petipa’s work, considered one of the most challenging roles for a principal ballerina. This cherished fairy tale is about an enchanted 100 year sleep, and the purest love between a beautiful princess and a handsome prince. For tickets, visit okcciviccenter.com .

M AY 1 1 T H

Disney's The Lion King

CIVIC CEN TER MUS IC HALL, 20 1 N. WA L KE R More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of Disney's Broadway spectacular The Lion King. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, The Lion King comes to OKC. Visit okcciviccenter.com for tickets.

M AY 2 1 ST

Calderon Dance Festival

PLAZA DISTRICT, N W 16TH STR E E T The Calderon Dance Festival is set for May 21 in OKC's Plaza District to celebrate the life's work of Shannon Calderon. With dance performances and dance classes, the free event celebrates Calderon's mission to build a community of inclusiveness in dance. For information, visit plazadistrict.org .

M AY 2 8T H

Chuck Wagon Festival

NATION AL COW BOY & W ESTER N H E R I TAG E MUS E UM, 1 7 0 0 NE 6 3R D ST, For family fun, head to the 31st annual Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum each May. This fun-filled two days features chuck wagon food samples, First American food samples, butter-making, artisan demonstrations, bandanna decorating, live music, rope making, children’s craft stations, photos with a longhorn, giant puzzles, dress up areas and more.

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EVE N TS

Should We Live in the Same Home During a Divorce? When a divorce is filed, the couple often begins the process while living together in the same home. The question then for many is whether or not this is sustainable. Should the parties continue to live in the same home during the divorce? Or is it better that one party moves out of the house? And when there are kids involved in the divorce, does this change the analysis? These are all questions that many ask. The reality is that like anything else, there really are no black and white answers. Every case is different and every circumstance is different. Thus, it’s vital for parties to speak to an attorney about their particular situation. However, in a general sense, there are some factors that most parties ought to at least consider: 1.) Can the parties peacefully live together in the same home during the divorce? If they can, then perhaps it’s possible to stay in the same home. But if there are arguments, fighting, and any signs of domestic violence, then one party should almost always move out. 2.) Can the parties afford two residences? In some divorce actions, there is enough money and assets for the parties to pay for two residences. But in other cases, money is

extremely tight. There might be debts and other obligations. Further, there might not be any arguing, fighting, or domestic violence. In these cases, maybe the parties can stay in the same home while the divorce is pending. 3.) When there are kids involved in the divorce, bickering and fighting can have an adverse impact on the children from an emotional and psychological standpoint. Thus, in many of these cases, it makes sense for one party to move out for the benefit of the children. 4.) What are the goals as to child custody and can an agreement be reached as to custody and visitation in conjunction with one party moving out? Some would argue that if one parent moves out and leaves the children predominately with the other parent, it can impact that parent’s custody and visitation time in the end. In some ways, this can be true where there is a pattern established of the children spending more time with one parent or the other. But where a temporary visitation plan is put in play in conjunction with one party moving out, that concern can often be negated. Further, where there is fighting, arguing, and worries about domestic violence, and concerns that the police may be called, that can often hurt a custody case much worse than one party moving out in the interests of peace.

5.) Some judges can be leery of granting a divorce where the parties are still residing in the same residence. They might believe that the marriage is not irretrievably broken and savable if they are still living in the same home. This can be true even where emotional separation is enough legally in certain states to grant a divorce. Thus, for parties who want a divorce, one party might have to move so that the judge grants the divorce. In this regard, it is important for a party to speak to a lawyer who is licensed and competent to practice law in their jurisdiction. At the end of the day, deciding whether to stay in the home during a divorce, or one party moving out, is a big decision. It’s important for parties to consider this thoroughly and discuss it with an attorney. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family 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.

To schedule a consultation:

855-805-0595

WWW.STANGELAWFIRM.COM 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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MAY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / O KC

MAY 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in OKC. N E I GH BO RH O O D

OR IGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Gaillardia

$3,000,000

100%

6.1

Nichols Hills

$2,450,000

100%

4.2

Nichols Hills Add

$2,425,000

100%

4.2

Nichols Hills

$2,150,000

100%

3.1

Nichols Hills Wilshire

$1,895,000

$1,819,000

96%

5.2

Unplatted

$1,650,000

$1,500,000

91%

367

Oklahoma City Township

$1,650,000

$1,445,000

88%

6.2

Rose Creek Blks 14-19

$1,485,000

$1,400,000

94%

4.2

Nichols Hills

$1,449,940

$1,380,000

95%

156

4.3

Villagio At Deer Creek I Repla

$1,324,990

$1,250,000

94%

Black Oak at Iron Horse Ranch

$1,249,900

$1,242,400

99%

4.1

Creekside Estates

$1,375,000

$1,200,000

87%

4.2

Nichols Hills Add

$1,150,000

100%

4.1

Iron Horse Ranch IV

$1,150,000

$1,110,000

97%

4.2

Oak Tree Blks 118 & 119

$1,170,000

$1,100,000

94%

4.1

Woody Creek 2nd

$1,225,000

$1,100,000

90%

199

5.1

Duffners Country Club Sec

$1,125,000

$1,100,000

98%

367

3.1

Montmartre I

$1,085,900

100%

4.2

Crown Heights Add

$1,050,000

$1,025,000

98%

3.2

Hidden Lake Sec 2

$979,000

$1,009,000

103%

4.2

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

DESIGN + BUILD SINCE 1975 Custom Homes | Renovations | Kitchens | Baths randophdb.com 405.226.3560 6440 Avondale Drive, Ste 200 in Nichols Hills Plaza

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Peter and Tara Levinson and their family.

The Strength of Mothers The movie “300” elevated the Spartan battle of Thermopylae to everyday knowledge. The actors depict the Spartan Warriors as having the highest levels of courage, valor, and strength. Though historically, there is not a written account of how out of the thousands of Spartans, King Leonidas chose the 300 to go into battle with him and ultimately sacrifice their lives for Sparta. There is, however, a mythos around it. He did not choose them for their battle prowess, proven bravery, or close companions. A tradition holds that the 300 Spartans were chosen for their mothers and wives. No doubt was in King Leonidas’ mind that he and his 300 warriors would die. It would be whether or not Sparta would rally behind their sacrifice. To raise the entire Spartan Army against the invading force of the Persian Empire. If the mothers and wives fell into a depression and despair, so would Sparta. If the mothers and wives were strong, so would Sparta be. Sparta remained strong after the loss of the 300 men because the mothers and wives of the fallen rallied not only Sparta but all of Greece against the invading Persians. This month we celebrate Mothers Day. Mothers Day celebrates the influence mothers have on children and society. Mothers are the sculptors of society’s children. It is in their hands that our future generations’ success, values, culture, and growth will be decided. That is no small task. It is a heavyweight that every mother carries at the birth of their child. We honor the men and women who sacrifice so much for others. Let's take this opportunity to celebrate the mothers behind men and women who would not have the values they have if it was not for the mothers and wives in their lives.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

Suppose I can offer up a challenge to you, the reader. Take a moment and write down the values, ethics, and accomplishments in your life. How did your mother shape those ideals in your life? Now that you know, let her know.

Tara and her grandson

MOTHERS ARE THE SCULPTORS OF OUR SOCIETY’S CHILDREN

ARTICLE BY PETER LEVINSON, LEVINSON REALTY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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