405 Magazine September 2017

MORE RESOURCES TO FIGHT STUDENT HUNGER

page 44

Fashions for Fall LOOK WEST FOR INSPIRATION

AIMING TO INSPIRE

Annie Oakley Society trailblazes for women

THE NEXT STAGE

Aubrey McClendon's OKC Ballet legacy

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in this issue

Features

32

OKLAHOMANS ON PARADE

Wiley Post, the Abernathy boys, the Thunderbirds of the 45th Infantry Division … Oklahomans have a proud presence in the section of New York City labeled the Canyon of Heroes, which commemorates those who have been honored in ticker-tape parades.

36

THE CALL OF FALL The dog days are over, and the new season is shaping up to be a cool one … visually, at least. Inspired by sunsets, country roads and Western details, we’re champing at the bit to fill our closets with fall fashions such as these.

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017

in this issue

SEPTEMBER 2017

Travel

In the 405

15 As the OKC Ballet moves into its new home, director Robert Mills discusses Aubrey McClendon’s legacy and the company’s plans for the community; former Edmond Mayor Randel Shadid remembers his role in shaping the city’s growth; examining the Price Tower in Bartlesville and its (Frank Lloyd) Wright stuff; stationery and pleasant surprises at Campus Corner boutique PostScript; carry-on bags that are totes stylish; the inspirational aspirations of the Annie Oakley Society; country star Tanya Tucker eagerly prepares for a visit to the 405.

70 Oklahoma’s highest point is almost entirely empty, but an overnight trip to Black Mesa reveals how nothingness can be full of benefits for the mind and spirit.

Dining 75 Chef Sean Cummings gives diners a delicious dose of creativity at Bacon; Kacy Messerly shares a recipe reflecting her lifelong love of baking; distinctive excellence is on the menu at Edmond’s Signature Grill; sample Jazz Age inspiration with a Pub W cocktail.

Events 91 A cavalcade of

Culture

44 Chronic hunger should never be a part of growing up. Individually or as contributors to larger efforts, Oklahomans are coming together to find ways to help underserved kids get the nutrition they need.

Home

59 Daniel Billingsley’s Heritage Hills roost combines an appreciation of history with a carefully edited personal style; a selection of linens to give your dinner table the perfect crowning touch.

ON THE COVER

6

Towering Taste

76

The north OKC restaurant called Bacon isn’t shy about piling on its namesake pork products, but – as seen in dishes such as this tower of focaccia, mozzarella, tomatoes and fresh basil – variety is one of the menu’s key ingredients.

entertainment and tasty treats is on tap for the State Fair of Oklahoma; the Norman Arts Council gives visitors the opportunity to make a French connection; Armstrong Auditorium prepares to kick off a new season with a bravura ballet performance; outstanding art comes in small sizes at the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s 12 x 12 sale and fundraiser.

In Every Issue 10 From the Editor 12 Web Sights 28 On the Scene 80 Food and Drink 93 On Location 94 On the Radar 96 Backstory

Model Lenny Lamprecht shows off one of our favorite fashions for fall. Photo by Charlie Neuenschwander

405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

TM

SEPTEMBER 2017 Editor-in-Chief Heidi Rambo Centrella heidi.centrella@405magazine.com

VOLUME 3 • NUMBER 9 ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Tom H. Fraley III tom.fraley@405magazine.com

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Steve Gill steve.gill@405magazine.com brace Ready to em ns hio Western fas 36) this fall (p.

Editorial Coordinator Louise Scrivens louise.scrivens@405magazine.com

Style Editor Sara Gae Waters saragae.waters@405magazine.com Fashion Editor Jennifer Salyer jennifer.salyer@405magazine.com Contributing Writers M.J. Alexander, Mark Beutler, Christine Eddington, Greg Horton, Lance McDaniel, Matt Payne

Holiday Wishes

Capture the holiday spirit, showcase your perfect gifts and spread the joy to our 130,000+ monthly 405 Magazine readers!

Don’t miss out!

Be part of our special Holiday Wishes Gift Guide featured in our November issue Contact an account executive for details

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel scotty.odaniel@405magazine.com Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel brian.odaniel@405magazine.com Design & Production Coordinator Tiffany McKnight tiffany.mcknight@405magazine.com Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Shannon Cornman, Terrell Fry, J. Christopher Little, Charlie Neuenschwander, Matt Payne, Don Risi

405 Magazine Volume 3, Number 9, September 2017. 405 Magazine is published monthly by 405 Magazine, Inc. at 1613 N. Broadway, Oklahoma City, OK 73103, 405.842.2266. © Copyright 2017 405 Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of 405 Magazine content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. 405 Magazine is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. 405 Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed detrimental to the community’s best interest or in questionable taste. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ownership or management. Basic annual subscription rate is $14.95. U.S. single-copy price is $4.95. Back issues are $9.50 each

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FROM THE EDITOR

Cooler Weather and Community Support

HEIDI R A MBO CEN TRELL A Editor-in-Chief heidi.centrella@405magazine.com

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

PHOTO BY SIMON HURST

I L OV E T HIS T I M E OF Y E A R , and it never fails to bring to mind certain signs of the season: school being back in session, shifting our wardrobes to accommodate cooler temperatures (see pg. 36 for some stylish ideas) and selecting which events to attend out of the many on our calendars (we have some suggestions beginning on pg. 91). And football – although I’m not much of a fan personally, it’s impossible to miss the excitement that consumes a great deal of peoples’ attention in central Oklahoma … at least until Thunder season starts.

While I typically use this page to discuss the myriad topics in an issue, such as fashion, travel, décor and food, this time I’m going to focus on the latter – or lack thereof.

My son started his sophomore year of high school this month, which is almost as terrifying as the thought of enrolling him in driver’s education classes. It amazes me how these kids change and grow, even just over the summer months. His braces came off a few weeks ago, he grew even taller (guess he’s well fed and watered, with just the right amount of sunlight), and I still think of him as the 4-year-old boy I once doted on … and still do. He regularly reminds me, “I’m not 4 anymore, Mom. I know to look both ways before I cross the street (eyeballs rolling).” I think back to when I was 15, and my heart aches for my parents back then. He’s right. He’s not 4 anymore.

It’s difficult watching our children grow into young adults. But it’s even more difficult knowing that so many children and young adults just as special as our own aren’t afforded the basic essentials of food, clothing or shelter. The numbers in Oklahoma alone are in the hundreds of thousands. Schools are the one place many students rely on for one or two meals a day – sometimes their only meal(s) of the day – if they can afford them. But that’s all changing, I hope, with a new program and renewed efforts in the state, working to ensure food gets to youngsters whether they live in a metro area or a rural community.

Oklahoma City Public Schools has implemented a program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture that serves students free meals at school, and since it is open to everyone throughout the district, children need not feel ashamed to participate or fear ridicule. And that’s just one of the many programs across the metro area available to the hungry and the homeless; see pg. 44 for a more in-depth look.

There are ways for all of us to ensure many of these programs remain in place by contributing time and/or dollars: supporting food pantries and volunteering can buy so much for so many of our underserved population. I don’t mean to sound like an infomercial, but helping others lifts up the entire community, including ourselves. It’s a great way to start a new season.

Welcome to the start of fall (officially on Sept. 22)!

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Web Sights What’s online at 405magazine.com

Northern Writes

Managing Editor Steve Gill isn’t a travel writer by trade – in fact, he’s a pretty infrequent traveler – but his recent cruise to Alaska was more than inspiring enough to put together a few words. Icy Strait Point, haute cuisine, captive eagles and unwelcome bears are all discussed at 405magazine.com/SGAlaskaCruise.

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COMMUNITY DRIVEN FITNESS

Appetite for Triumph

A new season is waiting in the wings this month, but we’re still hungry for an opportunity to share some of the metro’s outstanding dining options with you – so we’re continuing the giveaway we call the Friday $50. Each week in September, we’ll be giving away $50 worth of gift cards, featuring an eatery found in this month’s issue or one of our office’s other local favorites. For your chance to win, sign up for our e-newsletters if you aren’t already (it’s free, just visit 405magazine. com/newsletters/) and keep an eye out for the link to click.

We’ll draw a winner at random each Friday afternoon, which means having something delicious to celebrate could easily be in your future.

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

More of a good thing is generally better, right? As OKC, Edmond, Norman and their surrounding communities continue to boom with growth, development and new things you should know about, we’re attempting to do our part in sharing that information with you. Keep an eye on 405 Now, a section atop our home page that updates multiple times each week to share brief articles about everything from restaurants under construction to events worth building your weekend around. And please feel free to send tips or thoughts to feedback@405magazine.com. Thanks for reading!

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

405

in the

A Greater Stage

PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

As the OKC Ballet prepares to lift the curtain on its architecturally impressive (and much larger) new home, artistic director Robert Mills looks back on the organization’s connection with longtime patron Aubrey McClendon, and forward to what this capacious facility should mean for the ballet corps, as well as the greater community.

SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

15

in the 405 PLACES

Estate of Grace

The OKC Ballet’s soaring new home

City has grown remarkably. The Bricktown area is a favorite among tourists, while the Thunder put OKC on the NBA map. Lyric Theatre and a number of other cultural enhancements have increased the city’s visibility. One of the greatest, perhaps, is the Oklahoma City Ballet. What was once a struggling dance troupe is now one of the premier companies in the nation – Artistic Director Robert Mills has taken the ballet corps to new heights, and the board shares his vision of a world-class ensemble.

This summer, they set up shop in a new building at 6800 N Classen, in what once was part of the late Aubrey McClendon’s final venture, American Energy Partners.

“The story I was given is that Aubrey was building a wine cellar, and when the recession hit, he stopped building on it,” Mills explains. “So if you drove past this property on Classen, for many years you saw the bones of what we have today. He eventually scrapped the wine cellar idea, but kept the original design and made it bigger. When he left Chesapeake and started American Energy Partners, he decided to make this a gym for his returned to assume his new role as “Instead of the building going to artistic director in 2008. employees – and he also sold private memberships to the locals in nearby “When I started, we had 64 stusome 24-hour fitness facility or Nichols Hills.” dents,” Mills says. “Now we have over some corporate entity without After McClendon’s death in March 300 students year round. This facility roots and ties to Oklahoma City, has over 29,000 square feet – comof 2016, the building went up for auction. Although it originally was pared to our old building, which had it was taken by a nonprofit arts constructed at a price of $12 million, group that serves the community.” about 8,000. It will eventually have the ballet paid $4.1 million, raising space for six dance studios, as well ROBERT MIL L S the money in just six weeks during as artistic and administrative office the holidays. space and a boardroom. So it’s really “Aubrey was so generous to Oklahoma City Ballet,” Mills says. quite significant, what we will be able to do for the community.”

“When I took over as artistic director, we were half a million The new facility will have classes for parents, Mills added, dollars in debt. He bought our old building and let us work out so instead of just dropping off the kids for class, parents can of there essentially rent-free. So just being in this new space, one stay and take their own Pilates, yoga or adult ballet class in built by Mr. McClendon, is so meaningful to us. Instead of the another studio. building going to some 24-hour fitness facility or some corpo“This significantly opens up our ability to serve our commurate entity without roots and ties to Oklahoma City, it was taken nity better,” Mills says. “I was always adamant that in a city by a nonprofit arts group that serves the community.” of over a million people in central Oklahoma … we could be Mills originally performed with the company back when it touching more lives than we do. This building will really allow was known as Ballet Oklahoma. He left Oklahoma briefly, and us to do that.” - MARK BEUTLER

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

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in the 405 CONVERSATION

but was close to [the] amenities of Oklahoma City, without the headaches. Edmond had great potential for a young lawyer looking to build a practice. Now, 44 years later, I am still practicing.

Someday, maybe I will get in the game!”

Did Edmond have any favorite watering holes back in the day? “Yes, the Green Hog was an old dive in downtown. I went there, but not regularly. It was one of a kind: dirt floors and beer.

Being of slight physique back then with a loud mouth, I learned early on to stay out of places like that, because trouble always found me.”

How does today’s Edmond compare to the 1970s? “It has multiplied in size by four. Bigger city, more restaurants and shopping, better parks, great public art. Downtown still has that small-town feel, and is viable – which you can’t say for many downtowns nowadays. I remember what a big deal it was when the first McDonald’s came to town. Edmond had arrived.”

Randel Shadid and the ongoing evolution of Edmond ONCE U PON A T I M E , there was a sleepy little town called

Edmond. A narrow two-lane expanse of asphalt separated it from the larger metropolis of Oklahoma City – and sure, it had a TG&Y and an Anthony’s, but for the most part, Edmond was a quiet little suburb with a small-town charm all its own.

In 1973, a young attorney named Randel Shadid came to town, and decided to call Edmond home. A few years later – in 1979 – he was elected to City Council, and he went on to serve 16 years as Ward One Councilman, before being elected Mayor in 1991. Still an Edmondite, Shadid has been an eyewitness to the city’s growth through good times and bad.

What was Edmond like when you first came to town?

“Edmond in 1973 was much like Altus, in that the population was the same and even the mascot for the high school was the Bulldog. I graduated from Altus High School in 1965, then received my law degree from the University of Oklahoma before moving to Edmond. Back then, it had a small-town atmosphere

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

On a much happier note, what were some of your accomplishments during your terms in office? “During my time on the council and as mayor, we bought land for Mitch Park, and we built Lake Arcadia. We fought with the Corps of Engineers over costs, implemented restrictive sign ordinances, passed the first no-smoking ordinance in the state and enacted commercial landscape standards. Then we built the Covell and I-35 interchange, passed stronger site plan standards, passed drainage utility ordinance and gained knowledge on how to get a public art ordinance drafted and then implement the program.”

Tell us about your family. “My first wife was Mitzie; she died in 1990. We have two grown sons – Jerame lives in Dallas and Jerod works with the Oklahoma City Planning Department and lives in Oklahoma City’s Paseo District. I married Dana Hieronymus Shadid 21 years ago. I needed some eye candy! She is a political activist, and has been active and passionate about nonprofit work her entire adult life. She ran my phone bank the first time I ran for mayor. We also share a passion for art; she was the impetus behind my art affliction and establishment of the public art program in Edmond.”

Do you still frequent the Green Hog? “No Green Hogs [are] left in Edmond. Sad to lose cultural icons. But now we have the Martini Lounge, so we are movin’ on up!” - MARK BEUTLER

PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

At the Helm of History

One of the darkest days in the city’s history came in the summer of 1986, in what’s become known as the “Edmond Post Office Massacre.” What do you remember about that?

“I was acting mayor that day. Worst day of my life. I try to put those memories behind me, but never will be able to. I try to be out of town on the anniversary date so the press can’t find me. It still makes me cry to talk about going through the building with Oklahoma County District Attorney Bob Macy and Police Chief Clint Dedick, after the officers left the building. I never felt rage like I did that day, standing over the shooter’s body and viewing all those innocent victims.”

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in the 405 OKLAHOMYTHS

Knowing Wright and Wrong Spending the night with Frank Lloyd Wright

T HE BA RT L E SV IL L E L A N DM A R K named Price Tower, commissioned from legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, served as offices for the H.C. Price International Pipeline Company for a quarter-century, from 1956 to 1981.

When the Price businesses relocated to Dallas in 1981, Phillips Petroleum purchased the 19-story tower. After falling into disrepair, it was refurbished in 2000 and

Editor’s note: Oklahoma is rich with history, lore and fun facts, but some of them aren’t quite factual. In this series, M.J. Alexander hunts for the accuracy – or lack thereof – behind some of our state’s stories.

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405 MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2017

THE PRICE IS RIGHT

The Price Tower wasn’t meant to be a hotel. It wasn’t even meant to be a skyscraper.

Bartlesville businessman Harold Price’s vision for his pipeline company’s new corporate headquarters was a straightforward low-rise: maybe three stories tall, maybe four, with 8,000 or so square feet per floor.

Budget: $750,000.

Bruce Goff, the dean of Oklahoma architects, was approached by the family to take on the project. But he suggested they might want to discuss their plans with America’s best-known architect: Frank Lloyd Wright, then in his 80s. And they did.

The result made history.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of Wright’s birth and the 61st anniversary of the unveiling of the Price Tower, at Sixth Street and Dewey Avenue in Bartlesville.

The building’s design was based on a concept Wright had devised in 1929, just before the stock market crash, for an unbuilt New York skyscraper. The octogenarian was thrilled to resurrect his quarter-century-old design on the Oklahoma prairie. Final total cost: $2.1 million.

Manhattan’s Guggenheim Museum and the Price Tower would be Wright’s last major projects before his death three years later at the age of 91.

It was dedicated on Feb. 10, 1956, and would be his only realized skyscraper. He liked to call it “the tree that escaped the forest.”

donated the following year to the nonprofit Price Tower Arts Center, formerly known as the Bartlesville Museum.

The transformation of the Price Tower into a gallery and hotel was led by New York-based architect Wendy Evans Joseph, who strove to avoid a sense of “Fake Lloyd Wright” while updating offices into guest lodgings.

The beautifully renovated 21-room boutique hotel, named the Inn at Price Tower, opened in 2003. And it’s unique in one sense, but possibly not the one you’re thinking of.

THE CLAIM: Bartlesville’s Price Tower is “the only one of Wright’s structures where you can book a hotel stay.”

THE SOURCE: “First, Best & Only,” published by the State of Oklahoma Tourism Department, travelok.com FACT CHECK: False It’s his only skyscraper, but the Bartlesville building is not the only Wright creation welcoming overnight guests: 515 miles northeast of Price Tower is the Iowa town of Mason City, home to The Park Inn. Planned by Wright in his early 30s, the landmark hotel opened its doors in 1910.

Of the six hotels for which Wright was the architect of record, it is the only one left standing.

A 33-year-old Wright envisioned The Park Inn as home to a bank, law offices and a hotel with 41 rooms, each measuring 10 feet by 10 feet. Scholars consider its design as inspiration for later work at Chicago’s Midway Gardens and Tokyo’s Imperial Hotel. After a gala opening and several years of brisk business, The Park Inn was converted into rental apartments before falling onto even harder times and closing in 1972.

Following decades of neglect – and attempts to find a buyer that included a 2004 listing of the property on eBay, with a minimum bid of $10 million – Mason City residents took charge and formed the nonprofit Wright on the Park to spearhead the restoration. Bolstered by state grants and tax credits, original architectural elements and stained glass

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SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

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in the 405

HEADING

OKLAHOMYTHS

BACK TO

SCHOOL? OPEN A

windows were tracked down, and the hotel rooms were combined and refashioned into 27 modern suites.

The Park Inn reopened in 2011, after an $18.1 million restoration and under the approval of the Wright Foundation.

The building is credited with sparking an economic renaissance in Mason City, which bills itself as home of “the last Frank Lloyd Wright designed and built hotel in the world.”

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MEMBER FDIC

12201 N May Avenue | quailcreek.bank | 405.755.1000 Around the nation, several Frank Lloyd Wright structures also are available to rent for the night. Among them: Palmer House in Ann Arbor, the Emil Bach House in Chicago, the Writer’s Cabin at Montana’s Alpine Meadows Ranch and the Duncan House in Western Pennsylvania’s Polymath Park, not far from Fallingwater.

So even if you find yourself far from the Sooner State, you can still get the Wright kind of sleep at night. - M.J. ALEX ANDER

THE EARTHQUAKE-PROOF IMPERIAL HOTEL

The most famous of Frank Lloyd Wright’s six hotels was the 280-room Imperial Hotel, completed in 1923 across 40 acres of central Tokyo. Soon after its opening, the hotel became one of a handful of major buildings to survive the city’s 7.9-magnitude Great Kantō Earthquake.

Damage was repaired after incendiary bombs hit the hotel’s south wing in 1945, during World War II. Over the years, however, the building’s foundation had sunk more than 40 inches (that’s not ideal). The hotel was demolished in 1968 to make way for a new high-rise. Its front lobby and reflecting pool were saved by Dr. Yoshiro Taniguchi and Motou Tsuchikawa, and remain on display at the Museum Meiji-Mura near Nagoya.

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in the 405 FAVORITE THINGS

Nintendo Famicon card from The Little Red House, $4: “I want to frame all

Erlenmeyer flask wax seal kit from Cognitive Surplus, $29.95: “Science

of Aggie’s cards. I played so much Nintendo growing up, so this card speaks to me.”

Small Victories, $35: “One of the most highly anticipated cookbooks of 2016. I’m a huge fan of Julia Turshen on social media. She has co-authored many cookbooks, so it was exciting when her very own cookbook came out.”

was my favorite subject growing up, and Cognitive Surplus appeals to the science nerd in everyone. Snail mail and science; even better!”

Ashleigh Barnett

P.S. We Love You

Interstellar Cinderella, $16.99: “Such

a great interpretation of a classic story. This Cinderella helps repair the prince’s rocket ship. I love the art style; it has a graphic novel feel to it.”

PostScript’s Campus Corner coolness A F T ER OPE N I NG T HE NOW-BEL OV ED bakery and coffee

“Probably the best card of the year.”

Marie Curie pint glass from Cognitive Surplus, $15: “I actually ordered

these scientist pint glasses because my boyfriend, Alex, loves Curie and craft beer.”

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Venus flat notes set from Fox & Fallow, $18: “One of my favorite recent

additions to PostScript is Fox & Fallow from Australia. I love their botanical designs.”

Americano candle from Good Candle, $29: “Even though I own a coffee

shop, I never tire of the smell of coffee. Americano is my favorite scent from Good Candles, which are hand-poured in Brooklyn. They even have a delivery bike for local stockists – I’m so jealous.”

PHOTOS BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

Congrats Bey! card from By Ms James, $5:

shop Crimson & Whipped Cream, owner Ashleigh Barnett decided to take over the vacant space next door at 329 White, not exactly sure what the future would hold. Having had some success selling cards alongside her bakery’s most delicious whoopie pies, cupcakes and cookies (just to name a few), she decided to tap into her love of snail mail, pens, planners, etc.

On July 24, 2015, PostScript was added to Norman’s Campus Corner landscape. It is nothing short of charming. The two work in tandem so well that it seems now as though one could not exist without the other. Grabbing a latte with a friend and then perusing this gem of a store for the perfect card, a delectable scented candle or a unique children’s book is definitely time well spent.

The fresh mint-colored walls give a perfect backdrop to the “whimsical, empowering and snarky at times” products of the shop. Everything about PostScript is chosen for a reason. “I really strive to create a variety of emotional responses in the shop,” says Barnett, although the overwhelming response is a smile. Whether it is something beautiful or funny, each well-placed item just makes you feel good.

When asked about her location, Barnett says, “I love the walkable area of Campus Corner, and the full experience of dining, shopping and entertainment that customers can have here. I love doing business in Norman because of the diversity created by the University.” - SAR A GAE WATERS

in the 405 TRENDS

White and red striped cotton tote, $54 from Stash OKC market bag, $68 from Shop Good

“Peaceful Warrior” black tote with carpet front pocket, $179.95 from Stash

Messenger foldtop, $289.99 from Plenty

Simpleton Rosette tote, $150 from Stash

Totally Totes Keep calm and carry on

A F T ER MON T HS of throwing all your summer gear – think sunscreen, sunglasses, reading material and all other on-the-go outdoor essentials – into your favorite bag over and over, it’s the perfect time to retire the old and bring in the new. Now is the time for bags full of new notebooks, agendas, pencils and laptops … and no one wants to get melted lip balm on all those new supplies.

While backpacks and messenger bags are great for their purposes, for all-around style and versatility you can’t beat the old-fashioned tote. Here are a few that we think are “tote-ally” perfect. - SAR A GAE WATERS

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Sea & Lake “Awkward Human for Life” tote, $20 from PostScript

PHOTOS BY DON RISI

Plenty Mercantile, 807 N Broadway, OKC and 1466 S Bryant, Edmond; PostScript, 329 White, Norman; Shop Good, 3 NW 9th, OKC; Stash, 412 E Main, Norman

Bloom and Give denim tote, $88.89 from Plenty

THURSDAY NIGHTS ONLY $5 AFTER 5 PM

Kehinde Wiley (American, b. 1977). Shantavia Beale II (detail), 2012. Oil on canvas, 60 x 48 in. (152.4 x 121.9 cm). Collection of Ana and Lenny Gravier. © Kehinde Wiley. (Photo: Jason Wyche, courtesy of Sean Kelly, New York)

Em p owering Trailblazing Women Financing for the next big idea

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SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

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in the 405 ON THE SCENE

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Dealing for Dreams

It’s casino night in the Cox Center, and the big winners are the ill children whose dreams will be coming true thanks to funds raised to benefit Make-A-Wish Oklahoma.

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1. Heather and Chris Lens, Shannon Somers, Sam Lionelli 2. Kelsey Sistrunk, Nicole Berkley, Brent Mills 3. John and Valerie Thomas 4. Malissa Denny, Macy Smith, Kim Denny, Brian VanLandingham 5. Shawn McDavid preparing to roll the bones

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Her | Art

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1. Justine Ngasambe, Chantal Munanayire, Nuriat Kaka 2. Joyce Clark, Kabra Dasfgirzada, Somaya Rezaie 3. Ensembles by female designers star in the fashion show 4. D.G. Smalling live-paints model Rachel Skief-Peters 5. Terry Neese, Mick and Terri Cornett

To see more On the Scene photos, visit 405magazine.com

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PHOTOS BY TERRELL FRY

Female creativity is in the spotlight at 21c Museum Hotel for this inspiring show and fundraiser benefiting the international Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women.

in the 405

LEADERSHIP

Cathy Keating and Judy Hatfield

Sure Shootin’ Inspiration The Annie Oakley Society welcomes a best-selling author

PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

OU R STAT E H A S A R ICH, colorful

and storied western heritage. Long before Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical, Oklahoma was the setting for some of the most beautiful scenery on the plains.

The cowboy lifestyle and legacy survives and thrives in vivid, living color at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. But for every cowboy wrangling a herd of cattle on the prairie, there was usually a woman nearby, as well.

For the past several years, the museum has celebrated the leadership roles women played in the state’s western heritage by establishing the Annie Oakley Society.

“Our mission is to build and sustain world-class educational experiences for children and families, to teach the rich history of the American West for generations to come,” says Cathy Keating, former Oklahoma First Lady and national chair for the Annie Oakley leadership team.

Oakley herself was an American sharpshooter and entertainer in the 19th and early 20th century who gained international celebrity.

“Her talent first came to light at age 15, when she won a shooting match with traveling show marksman Frank E. Butler, whom she later married,” Keating says. “Known as ‘Little Sure Shot,’ Annie Oakley was a remarkable and inspirational woman who trailblazed the way for generations of women to come.”

The Annie Oakley Society was formed seven years ago, Keating said. Since then, the group has gained more than 150 members throughout Oklahoma and the nation who support its vision and mission.

The annual Annie Oakley Society Luncheon also has grown to be their

largest event and fundraiser, with all proceeds benefiting educational initiatives at the museum. An awards ceremony held during the luncheon has some celebrated names on its roster: “Past inductees include the Honorable Sandra Day O’Connor, Reba McEntire, Nadia Comaneci, Kristin Chenoweth, Admiral Michelle Howard and Donna Shirley,” Keating says.

“Our members are invited to all events hosted for museum society members.”

This year’s luncheon honors New York Times best-selling author Mary Higgins Clark.

“She is known as the ‘Queen of Suspense,’” Keating says. “Clark has sold more than 100 million copies in the United States alone. Additionally, each of her 51 books has been a best-seller in the U.S. and various European countries.”

Besides the induction ceremony, entertainment will be provided and the unique décor always lends a festive atmosphere, Keating said. And the money raised goes right back into the society’s educational campaign.

“Since our founding, we have raised nearly $4 million for a unique educational opportunity at the museum,” Keating says. “It is called ‘Liichokoshkomo,’ which in the Chickasaw language means ‘Let’s play!’ Also, this year we are introducing a market that will be open from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. the day of the luncheon, and it is being sponsored by the ‘Little Sure Shots’ of the society. We are also introducing a special ticket price for the many fans of Mary Higgins Clark who will not want to miss this extraordinary opportunity to meet her, hear her speak and buy her latest best-seller for her to autograph.”

The luncheon is a high-energy, fun and memorable event, Keating said, and plans are underway to expand the society.

As the work continues, the legacy grows more illustrious for Oakley and the society that bears her trailblazing name. - MARK BEUTLER

PUNCH YOUR TICKET

The Annie Oakley Society Annual Luncheon takes place at 11:30 a.m. Sept. 14 in the Museum’s Sam Noble Special Events Center. Tickets are $100, and reservations are requested in advance at nationalcowboymuseum.org/attend-an-event/ annie-oakley-society-luncheon/.

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in the 405 CREATIVES

Shining On I T WA S 1974 when Rolling Stone magazine ran a cover story on a 15-year-old singer named Tanya Tucker, with a headline that said, “You’re Gonna Hear From Me.” The publication wasn’t wrong: More than 40 years later, Tucker is still out there kicking it.

She makes her way back to Oklahoma for a show on Sept. 9 at Hinton’s Sugar Creek Casino, bringing with her a roster of hits that have made her a staple of radio airplay.

“Oh, I just love Okies,” Tucker says in an interview from her Nashville home. “Oklahoma is such a beautiful state – and the people are just the best. I’ve played there so many times, and I always leave feeling so blessed and thankful, because we have the best fans there.”

Tucker prides herself on being “half Okie,” she said. Her father was from Coalgate and her mother from a small town in Texas.

“I always say, ‘What do you get when you cross an Okie with a Texan?’ Me!” she says with a laugh. “When I come back to Oklahoma, it also reminds me of my dear friend Merle Haggard, and his song ‘Okie from Muskogee.’ I loved him dearly.”

Tucker has been in the music business almost since the day she could walk. Legendary singer Mel Tillis discovered her and was so impressed that he brought her on stage with him. A few years later, at age 13, she signed her first deal with CBS Records, and her version of “Delta Dawn” put her at the top of the charts.

Through the years, she has racked up an impressive string of No. 1 hits and Grammy nominations, and even landed the coveted “Female Vocalist of the Year” award from the Country Music Association in 1991.

Today, Tucker is enjoying a career resurgence and still performs for sell-out crowds.

“We’ve been on the road a lot this summer and seeing all the folks out there,” she says.

“Most days are spent on the bus heading to our next gig. When we’re not playing shows,

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PHOTO PROVIDED

Tanya Tucker still letting fans hear it

SPECIALIZING IN: WISDOM TEETH • DENTAL IMPLANTS CORRECTIVE JAW SURGERY • FACIAL INJURIES • MOUTH & LIP CANCER we’re here in Nashville working. I love starting my day with a big ol’ cup of coffee with my dogs, and then I start calls and meeting with my team.”

A few years ago, Tucker took a break from touring following the death of her parents. Her song “Two Sparrows in a Hurricane” deals with an aging couple, and she said there are still some nights she has trouble performing it.

“I’m out there in the spotlight, but I’m just like so many other 50-somethings, dealing with this ‘circle of life’ thing,” she says. “You just have to be there for your parents and enjoy every moment. I knew ‘Sparrows’ was going to touch so many lives … and it sure did. I still perform it in every show.”

Tucker’s children are a big part of her life, and her oldest daughter Presley has a band of her own. Son Grayson travels with his mom as part of her road crew, and youngest daughter Layla occasionally joins Tucker on stage as a backup singer.

“They’re all very musical, and they’re blazing their own trail,” Tucker smiles.

“They’re all such good kids. Well, now they’re young adults.”

It has been nearly a decade since Tucker released an album of new material, 2009’s “My Turn,” but she has a new project in the works.

“I’m going to break a record making a record,” she laughs. “I’m telling you, we’ve got a great album lined up, but we don’t want to just give it away to anybody. It’s a really special collection of songs, so we’re looking at different deals to make sure we get it to all the fans.”

As she prepares to climb onto the bus heading down I-40 toward Oklahoma, Tucker said she always remembers the fans who have kept her going.

“I’m so thankful for fans like y’all in Oklahoma, who’ve stuck with me for so many years,” she says. “I now have grandparents bringing their grandkids to the shows. That’s just so neat and I’m so thankful for that. Fans are the reason I have my career; they’re the reason I could raise my kids and take care of my parents when they got older.

If it wasn’t for y’all coming out to the shows and buying my music, I don’t know where I’d be. I can’t wait to see everyone in Oklahoma!” - MARK BEUTLER

(L-R) Dr. Tracy McIntire, Dr. Michael Saumur, Dr. Drew Wendelken, Dr. Vincent Montgomery, Dr. Scott Searcey, Dr. Ross Martin and Dr. Kent Cohenour

Oral & Maxillofacial Associates, LLC North OKC • 3601 NW 138th St., Ste. 100 • 405.848.7994 Norman • 1112 Rambling Oaks • 405.292.8900 Midwest City • 2828 Parklawn Dr., Ste. 3 • 405.733.4296 Edmond • 2880 N Kelly Ave. • 405.341.4022 Connect with us: www.omaok.com • “Like” us on Facebook Our Partners are Board Certified by the American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons.

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SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

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territory ahead

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The Big Apple’s Sooner Celebrations Oklahomans remembered in Manhattan’s Canyon of Heroes

BY M.J. ALEX ANDER

I was bustling up Broadway in the rain, in the thick of a Manhattan lunchtime crowd, when the letters flashed by underfoot in a blur of silver: THUNDERBIRD. What? I tried to look back without breaking stride, and also glimpsed the number 45. Really? Ducking into the nearest alcove, I doubled back to join the crowd heading downstream.

Sure enough, embedded in the rain-slicked sidewalk in the heart of New York City’s financial district is the name of Oklahoma’s most famous military regiment: the 45th Thunderbird Infantry Division. Its block silver letters read: “April 22, 1954 – Veterans of the 45th ‘Thunderbird’ Infantry Division On Their Return From The Korean War.” The black granite strip is one of 206 markers immortalizing every ticker-tape parade ever held in New York City.

Dubbed The Canyon of Heroes, the parade route is New York’s equivalent of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, memorializing each time the city turned out to extend the ultimate salute for a job well done, for icons from Amelia Earhart to Jesse Owens to Winston Churchill to Nelson Mandela.

On April 22, 1954, New York’s guests of honor were the first division to return home as a unit from the Korean War: the 45th Infantry. Newspaper reports of the time noted “The Oklahoma outfit spent four years in Korea, 429 days of that time on the front lines,” fighting at Old Baldy, Heartbreak Ridge and the Punchbowl.

“A crowd estimated at 250,000 cheered and set up a snowstorm of ticker tape and confetti as the ‘canyon of heroes’ echoes to the measured tread of marching boots and the blare of martial music,” United Press reported. Speaking to the 1,130 infantrymen, New York Mayor Robert F. Wagner declared, “I believe that more than the fear of atomic warfare – more than the fear of hydrogen devastation – Russia fears the indomitable will and unified courage of the American solider.”

The tradition of the ticker-tape parade dates back to Oct. 28, 1886, when a spontaneous celebration spilled onto Broadway following the dedication of the Statue of Liberty. Long strips of

ticker tape – thin, inch-wide paper containing stock quotes – were tossed from windows with impromptu glee, and spectators cheered the serpentine snakes that formed as the coils twisted and fell on the festivities.

The second ticker-tape parade was held April 29, 1889, marking the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration on the balcony of nearby Federal Hall. Ten years later, on Sept. 30, 1899, Admiral George Dewey became the first living person honored by a ticker-tape parade, as the city welcomed him home as a hero of the Battle of Manila Bay after the Spanish-American War. Two Oklahoma brothers played an unexpected role in the first ticker-tape parade of the 20th century, which was set for June 18, 1910, in honor of Teddy Roosevelt.

For weeks beforehand, newspapers anticipated the elaborate welcome marking the homecoming of Roosevelt, former president of the United States, after a yearlong trip that included accepting a Nobel Peace Prize and hunting on African safari.

Among those reading the news were 10-year-old Bud Abernathy and his brother Temple, age 6. The duo had made headlines earlier in the year when they rode alone from their family ranch outside Frederick to Santa Fe. The boys had met Roosevelt when he came to watch their father, Jack “Catch-Em-Alive” Abernathy, snare wolves with his bare hands, a feat that moved the president to declare: “This beats anything I have seen in my life, and I have seen a good deal!”

Determined to be on hand in New York to welcome their old friend, the Abernathy boys became a national sensation when they rode more than 2,000 miles from Oklahoma to New York City. An account of time noted: “Kids envied them. Women adored them. Grown men pulled hair from their horses’ tails to keep as souvenirs.”

They made it in time for the ticker-tape parade, riding astride their horses – Sam Bass and Wylie Haynes – in a place of honor just behind Roosevelt’s carriage and in front of the reunited Rough Riders, who marched on foot through the Canyon of Heroes and up Broadway.

More than 100 years later, the scene has been commemorated by artist Mike Wimmer in an epic painting, commissioned by the State Senate and dedicated at the Oklahoma State Capitol on May 14, 2014. Now removed for Capitol renovations, the artwork will SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

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territory ahead be reinstalled outside the State Senate chambers, memorializing the Abernathys’ ticker-tape moment.

Although not listed in granite as an official honoree, Oklahoma baseball legend Mickey Mantle rode in the first two ticker-tape parades that featured the New York Yankees – held on April 10, 1961, the year the team won the American League pennant, and the following April, after New York won the World Series. The Spavinaw-born, Commerce-raised Mantle, who played his entire major league career with the Yankees, was front and center for both.

On May 22, 1963, Major L. Gordon Cooper Jr., the Shawnee-born Mercury astronaut who orbited the Earth 22 times, was honored with a parade solely in his honor.

His coolness under pressure when the systems of his Faith 7 capsule failed electrified a concerned nation, which breathed a sigh of relief when he pulled off the space program’s first manual reentry.

Writing in the Chicago Tribune that crowds along the extended route topped 4 million people, Vincent Butler reported: “Alone and whirling in space just seven days ago, Maj. L. Gordon Cooper Jr. today bowed to the roars of millions as New York give him the welcome it reserves for its heroes … along Broadway, spectators hung from skyscraper windows and jammed the sidewalks. Placards read ‘Gordon Cooper, You’re Super-Duper!’”

From the steps of City Hall, Cooper said, “I’m certainly very impressed. I never dreamed that I would find myself at a reception like this. Thank you for turning out and paying us this tremendous honor.”

His exploits later inspired Tom Wolfe’s best-selling book The Right Stuff. In the 54 years since, only one

“THESE MARKERS PORTRAY HISTORY AS IT WAS – FULL OF CONTRADICTIONS AND REGRETS” The history of New York’s ticker-tape parades began with a spontaneous march on Oct. 28, 1886, following the dedication of the Statue of Liberty. The most recent: the July 10, 2015, parade honoring the U.S. women’s soccer team and its World Cup victories.

In the century and a half of celebrations on the mile-long route from the Battery to City Hall, honorees have included presidents and a pope, visiting royalty and champion athletes, astronauts and Arctic explorers, Nobel Peace Prize winners and a concert pianist.

Although pioneers such as Wiley Post and Gordon Cooper are still remembered fondly, history has not been as kind to other notables on the Canyon of Heroes.

New York’s Downtown Alliance, which installed the plaques in 2003, responded earlier this year to calls from groups urging the removal of names such as French leaders who were celebrated after World War I but collaborated with Nazis during World War II. Henri Philippe Pétain, who commanded Allied forces during World War I, colluded with the Nazis to head the Vichy government in the next world war, assisting occupiers in sending 75,000 French Jews to death camps. French Prime Minister Pierre Laval, festooned with ticker tape in 1931, would go on

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to serve under Pétain in World War II. After the war, both were convicted of high treason and sentenced to death. Laval was executed; Pétain’s sentence was commuted to life in prison, where he died in 1951 at age 95.

“Some of the figures who marched in those parades are controversial and, in hindsight, disreputable. But we can’t erase the moment they marched up Broadway, nor whitewash history,” the Downtown Alliance noted. “These markers portray history as it was – full of contradictions and regrets. They do also mark the steps of true giants, like Nelson Mandela and like David Ben-Gurion, and remind us that the course of history is a difficult and complicated one.”

other American – Chicago Cubs slugger Sammy Sosa, feted in 1998 in recognition of his relief efforts for hurricane victims in his native Dominican Republic – has been honored with a solo ticker-tape parade.

Among the seven Americans to be a guest of honor at multiple ticker-tape parades is included Oklahoma’s most famous aviator: Wiley Post.

Post stands among the pantheon of golfer Bobby Jones (1926, 1930), pilot Amelia Earhart (1928, 1932), sea captain George Fried (1926, 1929), general-turned-president Dwight Eisenhower (1945, 1960) and astronaut John Glenn (1962, 1998), who were honored twice (sometimes as part of a larger group). Only Arctic explorer Richard Byrd (1926, 1927 and 1930) has been named guest of honor at three ticker-tape parades.

Post and his navigator, Australian Harold Gatty, were honored with a parade on July 2, 1931, following their astounding round-the-world flight that covered 15,474 miles in eight days, 15 hours and 51 minutes – shattering the previous record of 21 days set in 1929 by the Graf Zeppelin.

Two years later, Post was honored with a solo parade on July 26, 1933, after becoming the first person to complete a solo round-the-world journey. He and the Winnie Mae set a new record of seven days, 18 hours and 49 minutes. Tossed from windows along with the streaming ticker tape were tiny celebratory parachutes.

Mayor John O’Brien addressed the crowd at City Hall, declaring that Post’s flights around the globe made him a symbol of man’s triumph over the elements. The New York Times reported: “Although it is probable that later discovers and inventions someday would ‘make our airplanes seem as old-fashioned as Magellan’s sailing vessels,’ the mayor said, ‘the first flight around the world by one man alone in a plane will very likely still rank high among aviation’s thrilling exploits.’”

In July 1938, Howard Hughes and his crew would circle the globe in a state-of-the-art Lockheed Super Electra. When asked how his flight compared to Post’s, completed five years earlier, Hughes responded, “Wiley Post’s flight remains the most remarkable flight in history. It can never be duplicated. He did it alone. It’s like pulling a rabbit out of a hat or sawing a woman in half.”

Two years later, Post would be killed in the Alaska crash that also took the life of his friend, Will Rogers.

In Edmond today, his gravestone marker at Memorial Park Cemetery catalogs his achievements. Under block letters announcing the final resting place of “Wiley Post: Father of Modern Aviation,” the granite slab lists his proudest moments: “first to solo around the Earth, discoverer of the jet stream, selftaught scientist.”

Among the highlights of his career, chiseled into granite: his ticker-tape parades in New York.

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Theof Call

Fall

BY JENNIFER SALYER PHOTOS BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

Farewell to another summer - and hello to the rich, vibrant variety of possibilities for fall. This time of year never fails to spark our sense of adventure and exploration, so country roads and sunsets serve as our inspiration at a time when we're seeing more back-to-nature looks, western wear and accessories. kick up your heels in Santa Fe style, as Mother Nature shifts the seasons and cooler temperatures beckon.

Pendleton Chief Joseph saddle mountain coat from the Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum; Pendleton starburst striped cardigan from Mode SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

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(above) Handmade lace top and Canyon Valley French fringe skirt from Rawhide; Sleeping Beauty cuff, Christina Greene gold Southwestern pendant and Colorado horsehair tassel necklace, all from the Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (opposite page) Floral bell sleeve top and mini Aspen skirt, both from Rawhide; authentic Louis Vuitton monogram Spontini from Mitzy’s Purses and More

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(above) Embroidered Mabel top and Crystal Canyon pleated skirt from Rawhide; Navajo pearl with turquoise Naja pendant and Adam Fierro Kingman turquoise necklace from the Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (opposite page) Sueded lambskin top and Raton Pass concho belt from Rawhide; Free People Modern Femme vegan black leather skirt from Mode; turquoise and silver Naja necklace, chunky turquoise necklace and Royston turquoise flower cuff from the Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum SEPTEMBER 2017 405 MAGAZINE

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Floral embroidered dress from Rawhide; The Perfect Angels trim hat from Mode; Navajo pearl and chunky turquoise necklace from the Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Cold shoulder rose romper in wine from Mode; Scully leather fringe vest, Navajo pearl and turquoise Naja pendant and turquoise stud earrings all from the Museum Store at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Special thanks to hosts Elizabeth and Lance Miller, models Lenny Lamprecht with Brink Model Management and Ekoh Palmoa Pearl, hair and makeup stylist Malorie Avaline with Beauty Unveiled, Rawhide Ranch Co., Mode Boutique, The Museum Store at The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Mitzy’s Purses and More.

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culture

BLURRED LINES

Young AND Hungry Community efforts to feed children in need

BY GREG HORTON PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER LIT TLE

You might not think of Pepsi and good nutrition in the same mental breath, but the corporation is doing more than making refreshing cola: Oklahoma City is one of 18 major cities nationwide to participate in PepsiCo’s Food for Good program. PepsiCo employees started the outreach to young people in Plano, Texas, in 2009 as part of a company strategy to meet tangible needs in the community.

“Our employees talked to people in the community, and one thing kept coming up: childhood hunger,” says Jonathan Lauren, the innovation manager for the Food for Good program.

As a result of the community conversations, PepsiCo dedicated trucks, technology and food to an outreach effort to deliver nutritious food to underserved children in Plano. The program now reaches 18 cities, and Lauren said the goal is 25 cities by 2025. In Oklahoma City, PepsiCo partners with Feed the Children to identify ideal locations to send trucks carrying nutritious food and juice, in order to help feed kids around central Oklahoma.

Thanks to innovative cold-box technology, the food can be kept at a stable temperature for up to 10 hours, which means the trucks also can hit rural communities between OKC and Tulsa.

“Large cities have after-school programs and summer programs for feeding kids,” Lauren says, “but rural communities have fewer resources, so we developed technology that allows us to reach those underserved, rural communities.”

According to Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks, more than 600,000 people in Oklahoma are food insecure every year – a number that includes homeless and underserved youth and children.

PepsiCo has joined with an informal network of community, government, individual and school-based programs to try to solve the problem.

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The easiest place to find children – most of them, anyway – is in school, so beginning with the Fall 2017 semester, OKC Public Schools is implementing the Community Eligibility Provision, a program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that feeds students living in low-income areas free meals at school.

Kevin Poncé, the school nutrition services director for OCPS, said that expenses related to all food, materials, equipment and labor associated with CEP will be reimbursed by the USDA. “It’s a win-win for students and the school district,” Poncé explains. “There has always been a stigma attached to students who got free and reduced lunches; many kids would eat nothing so as to avoid that stigma. Thanks to CEP, the stigma goes away.”

OCPS has approximately 45,000 students enrolled, and CEP applies to all of them district-wide, but Poncé said the district calculates that it only feeds about 24 percent of high school students, a number that is consistent nationally. That means 76 percent of high school students have other food sources, including work revenue, or they don’t access school services.

Some of those kids – approximately 2,000 young people and their families in 2016 – go to Youth Services of Oklahoma County for assistance. The nonprofit offers comprehensive services to youth, including counseling, shelter and vocational

Oklahoma City Public Schools School Nutrition Services Director Kevin Poncé

assistance, but its first set of services is related to basic needs: food, clothing, shelter.

Kami Kuykendall, president and CEO of YSOC, said the organization keeps a stocked pantry on-site with food that youth can prepare “in their circumstances.” That means non-perishable food items that can be consumed without preparation, as well as food products that can be microwaved or prepared on a stovetop.

OCPS, Putnam City Public Schools, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and the United Way. Kathy Brown is the homeless education coordinator for OCPS, and she partners with YSOC regularly to help provide food and support for the more than 5,400 homeless youth in Oklahoma City.

“All of those kids aren’t unaccompanied,” Brown says, “but many are. Some families are living in their cars, and many are living on the street. Because students lose years to homelessness, we also have students who are 18 and 19 years old in the programs.”

“There has always been a STIGMA attached to students who got free and reduced lunches; many kids would EAT NOTHING so as to avoid that stigma. Thanks to CEP, the stigma goes away.”

K E V I N PONCÉ

“We teach young people how to budget, how to shop and how to cook for themselves on-site,” Kuykendall says. “Some of them live with parents, but many live and work on their own, so circumstances vary greatly.”

YSOC typically serves young people between 12 and 21 years of age, but Kuykendall said they have had older and younger clients, too. The food is provided by donations and in-kind support, as well as through the efforts of strategic partnerships with

Oklahoma City Public Schools Homeless Education Coordinator Kathy Brown

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culture

BLURRED LINES

Regional Food Bank’s Cathy Nestlen and Angie Doss (above), volunteers from St. Charles Borromeo (right) packing food backpacks at the Regional Food Bank

Older teens are the hardest demographic to care for in terms of food security. Mobility, willingness to access services, jobs and other concerns make teenagers hard to wrangle. After-school programs, including OCPS’s new pilot supper program, work better for elementary and middle school students. The schools have become the center of efforts to combat childhood hunger, and community and government agencies rely on expertise, support and identification to make programs successful.

The backpack program is a model example of what schools and nonprofits can do when they coordinate efforts. Angie Doss, marketing and communications director for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, said that in 2016, the backpack program served 19,000 students in 512 schools in 53 counties, making it one of the most effective, far-reaching tools in the state.

“The backpacks are distributed on Fridays, and the kids bring them back on Monday,” Doss explains. “They contain kid-friendly food that is easy to eat, because we can’t assume they have access to kitchen equipment or even microwaves in their circumstances.”

Aley Cristelli with the Pine Pantry

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Each backpack is equipped with enough food for a child to eat three meals a day for the entire weekend. They are stocked with applesauce, canned fruit with pop-tops, dry cereal, shelf-stable (powdered) milk, etc. The food comes from donations to and purchases by the RFBO. The organization also stocks 42 pantries in middle and high schools in 13 counties in central and western Oklahoma.

In addition to the nonprofit, school-based, corporate and community programs, individuals can get involved with the fight against hunger, too. Aley Cristelli runs the new Pine Pantry in the Plaza District. The idea came from a Facebook post featuring a similar pantry idea in McKinney, Texas. Cristelli researched the legal issues, because she, like many people, was afraid that giving away food could lead to liability issues – and when she was satisfied that so-called Good Samaritan laws covered her philanthropic goals, she launched the pantry.

Pine Pantry is based on the “take what you need; leave what you can” approach to charity. The pantry is located between Aurora and Sasquatch in the Plaza District, and it’s slightly hidden from the street so that people in need can “shop” with some privacy. Cristelli checks on it every couple of days, but because she doesn’t know who takes what, it’s impossible to gauge the reach of the food pantry. Still, food is moving through there, and on the occasions when she has left toys, they disappear quickly, which she takes to mean that families are accessing her pantry to feed children.

The Pine Pantry has been so successful that Sunnyside Diner intends to open a similar version adjacent to the restaurant very soon. Cristelli has been consulting with Sunnyside on best practices, and she’s excited to see her idea grow in the metro.

All the organizations we spoke to said they are happy to receive donations, and nonprofits such as YSOC are in need of volunteers, as well. Getting food to more than 50,000 kids is not impossible, but it does take a network of concerned Oklahomans to move kids from food insecurity to well fed.

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home Well-Honed Appeal Nonprofit maven Daniel Billingsley chose his Heritage Hills home in part because of his appreciation for the visual appeal of historic buildings, but he’s not afraid to keep a critical eye on his decor and update it with regularity. “A person develops style in part by trial and error,” he says, and the carefully chosen results speak to his well-traveled and warm character.

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home HABITAT

EDITING A PERFECT LOOK Daniel Billingsley’s Heritage Hills roost

BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON PHOTOS BY DON RISI

DA N IEL BIL L I NGSL E Y ’S beautiful, circa 1922 apartment smells fantastic. He’s inclined to burn one of two candles, either Cire Trudon in Ernesto or Diptyque’s Essence of John Galliano.

He couldn’t have chosen better. He’s washed the space in a scent that complements the visual tableau he’s created to a T. The place smells like it looks: woody, deep, civilized and calming. All of these attributes perfectly suit Billingsley, himself supremely urbane, articulate, well-traveled and genteel while still retaining the warmth of his staunchly Midwestern upbringing.

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He serves our state’s nonprofit community, and is the vice president of external affairs for the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. He is committed to being of service to others. “I was raised on the John Wesley ideal of doing all the good that you can, by all the means that you can, in all the ways that you can, for all of the people you can,” he says. “I believe in the work of nonprofits and all of their volunteers who get up every day and say, ‘I’m not in it for me, I’m in it for my community.’”

Billingsley’s f lat is a second-f loor walk-up in Oklahoma City’s gracious Heritage Hills neighborhood, and it’s quite a score, almost as rare as a unicorn. “I moved in July 11, 2016; I found it through a friend of a friend,” he says. “I’ve lived in cities all around the country, and when I was in Chicago, I lived in a high-rise, but had always wanted to live in one of those beautiful pre-war buildings in an historic neighborhood. They are not plentiful, but there are several buildings like this scattered through the neighborhood. They were originally often used by legislators from out of town who worked here during the week.”

Soothing, sophisticated neutrals fill the Billingsley flat. Here in the guest room, family antiques cohabitate happily with a high-low mix of furnishings and accessories. The large trunk in the center of the room comes from Billingsley’s mother’s side of the family. An industrial cart holds beverages now, after being rescued from a dumpster. A heathery gray French linen coverlet matches the upholstery on the two cushy chairs, one of which is topped with a sumptuous Hermes throw. Quirky elements, such as the preserved, framed tarantula and taxidermied bat, can be found here and there throughout the space. Atop the trunk is a cache of ceramics from Jayson Home, mixed with a tray and tables from Target.

Above: In the living room, a vast collection of Frankoma pottery that had belonged to Billingsley’s grandmother fills one side of the built-in cabinetry. “I already owned the couch and the main pieces when I moved in,” he says. “My style had already begun to evolve in this direction.” A rug from Williams Sonoma Home harmonizes with a collection of prints and woodcuts from Billingsley’s extensive travels, gathered atop the mantel. A freeform-shaped side table with iron legs was sourced at Target, while the deer-hide stool was a find at local market event Industry Flea. “I got it for $20. Another tip? Wait until the end of the day to shop at events!” The small, preserved alligator head on the mantel is from Interior Gilt.

Billingsley has no television, and while he does own a microwave, he has never plugged it in. He explains, “If I have a TV, I just sit and watch it. Now, if I want to watch something, I download it and watch it on the computer.”

The woodwork is original, as are the light fixtures, although thankfully those have been rewired. The original floors have been gently refinished, and the kitchen cabinetry is unchanged.

“You can tell because modern dishes are too wide to fit in them,” Billingsley says.

His approach to styling the place is an exercise in restraint. The palette used throughout is of warm browns, neutral and cool

Mixing textures is one of Billingsley’s fortes, seen here in the brass studs, soft leather and a contemporary brushed-brass lamp, leather-bound antique book and orchid atop a vintage side table. A non-stop editor of home décor, Billingsley regularly haunts Embellishments in Tulsa; in Oklahoma City he checks in at Sabi, Antique Avenue, Interior Gilt and The Rink; and farther north in Kansas City, he heads for Sid and Company, Parrin & Co. Antiques and George Terbovich Design.

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home HABITAT

In the dining room, Billingsley’s great-great-great grandmother’s pie safe now houses serving pieces and other necessities.

The room is perfectly balanced, but not symmetrical, with a foldaway table on one side and a spool-legged piece on the other. Slightly rustic fabrics on two of the dining chairs and the bench mimic that of the screen placed against the wall. Above, an original chandelier shines.

grays veering almost to smoky purples … natural hues. “I spend a great deal of my free time shopping, trying out restaurants and traveling,” he says. “I have my regular haunts for antiques and home décor. My advice is to always edit, edit, edit; I have to be very careful in this small a space. I tend to be very picky about things – I may buy a piece, try it for a month or two, only to then give it away. A person develops style in part by trial and error.”

More sage decorative advice from Billingsley? “For key pieces, buy once and buy high quality. Read design blogs. I read them constantly because early on, I discovered that in design, it is actually very helpful to learn from others.”

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One of Billingsley’s most recent finds, a beautiful, multi-panel, antique Japanese screen from Sabi in Oklahoma City anchors one corner of the room. The massive leather headboard is from The Raven in Santa Fe, and the bedding is a combination of West Elm and Parachute. Bedside photos are of Billingsley’s father racing his Austin-Healey Sprite. The sculptural Edison bulb lamp is a find from Rust & Rot, 1013 NW 36th, and is fashioned from an antique train jack.

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home DÉCOR

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PHOTOS BY DON RISI AND SCOTTY O’DANIEL

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travel

DESTINATION

NOTHING, OKLAHOMA The inviting emptiness of Black Mesa

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BY MAT T PAYNE

“Make sure you bring everything you need,” says Vicki, who along with her husband, Monty Joe, owns the Black Mesa Bed and Breakfast located in the northwest corner of the Oklahoma panhandle. “Water, snacks, medicine … if you don’t bring it, you won’t have it.” After a punctuated silence, finally I say, “OK …” feeling suddenly less “intrepid Oklahoma adventurer” and more “pale kid being told to put on sunscreen.”

“There’s nothing out here,” she says. According to the internet, Black Mesa State Park and Preserve is on the fringe of the town Kenton, so when Vicki says the last stop for snacks and gas is the town of Boise City, 36 miles before the park’s entrance, I simply say “I understand.”

The next day, with an evening of hiking and a night of stargazing ahead, I pass two service stations in the “last stop” town Boise City. I’m hungry, but more excited to arrive, so I press onward despite her warning.

I’m sure there will be something in the town of Kenton, even if it’s just a dried-out taquito spinning behind a sneeze guard or a depressing bag of Fritos from a dusty filling station.

Thirty-six miles later, the world turns from the endless flat plains of the panhandle to the unexpected lush green buttes, small cacti and otherworldly rocky spires of Black Mesa.

It is at once inviting and foreboding; the kind of place that at a distance appears almost pastoral in its beauty, but as you get closer, reveals an unexpected ruggedness that requires respect.

I am officially hungry when I pull up to the little farmhouse that is the Black Mesa Bed and Breakfast.

The charming home sits on a once-working cattle ranch and includes a ground-level, double-occupancy room, a second-story suite that sleeps eight, a bunkhouse with two separate rooms that sleep four each and an upper room that may sleep two, and the Sunrise Cabin that sleeps four. Vicki greets me as though she’s known me my whole life. I like her instantly. When I tell her I thought I’d run to Kenton

and grab something to eat before taking off on a small hike, she, like the Mesa, goes from inviting to foreboding concern: “You didn’t bring anything to eat?” I shake my head, feeling curiously ashamed. “I told you there’s nothing out here,” she says empathetically. “Next meal’s breakfast tomorrow.”

“What about Kenton?” I protest, thinking about heat lamps and dizzy taquitos.

“There’s nothing out here.”

An hour and a half later, after adding another 72 miles onto my Subaru with a trip back to Boise City, I pull back into Black Mesa. Henceforth, I will take Vicki’s word as fact. I ask her what there is to do.

“You can come out here and you can just chill. You can just relax. You can renew your strength. You can just calm down. Smell the roses. Meet with God,” replies Vicki.

There is Black Mesa State Park, as well as the Black Mesa Preserve, which is managed by the park but located several miles away. The Preserve is home to the actual Mesa, the highest point in the state of Oklahoma. The Black Mesa Summit hike is the most popular draw to the park, an 8.5-mile trek taking roughly four hours into Oklahoma, Colorado and New Mexico. For those interested in visiting three states at once but not in that long a hike, there is a marker where the three states merge.

The state park also features a hike through a petrified forest, and because it’s located where the plains meet the Rockies, it boasts unrivaled opportunities to see diverse wildlife ranging from bobcats and coyotes to very rare sightings of black bears and mountain lions.

What perhaps makes the park most beautiful though, the night sky.

Because the nearest town is 36 miles away, Black Mesa boasts some of the country’s darkest skies accessible to the public – truly a stargazer’s paradise. When the moon isn’t out, the Milky Way explodes overhead and millions of stars stretch from horizon to horizon.

As I take in the night sky, I think back to what Vicki said on the phone, that at first sounded foreboding if not bothersome to an ignorant, hungry traveler: “There is nothing out here.” In some ways, she was right: There is nothing out here. But as I consider the stars and the owls and the coyotes whose calls fill the night, I can’t help but think about what she said later.

“You can just calm down. Smell the roses. Meet with God.” As I absorb the calm, I understand what she’s talking about. A meeting with God indeed.

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Lanh Nguyen

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Spa at the Artesian Hotel began its journey with you in Mind, Body, Spirit, and Soul to bring restoration and healing through holistic methods while stimulating your senses and soothing your soles.

Hydrotherapy and Medical Spa treatments available.

Voted #1 Best Spa of 2017 by Best Things Oklahoma!

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dining The Secret Ingredient

PHOTO BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

Thick slabs of Texas toast, a blend of four cheeses, a little heat to fuse them … this combination of ingredients has the makings of a pretty good sandwich already, but the element that puts it over the top into true deliciousness is also the name of the restaurant where diners can (and should) find it: Chef Sean Cummings’ newest creation, Bacon.

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LOCAL FLAVOR

a delicate balancing act – basically like finding a way to have your cake and eat it, too.

Chef Sean Cummings is more than up to the challenge, and the key ingredient in question is far from secret, considering that the name of his newest venture is Bacon. For anyone who has an appreciation for that prince of pork products, this little space near May and Grand is pure paradise.

Formerly Land and Sea, formerly Sean Cummings Irish Pub, still next door to his spouse Cathy’s justly beloved Italian restaurant Vito’s, it remains a small, inviting café, cozy and dim inside with a penny-topped bar and comfortable blend of wood tones in floor and table and chairs. And if you’re not looking too closely, it might take you a second or two to realize that all the framed pictures on the walls are of various slices of bacon and pro-pigging-out slogans.

And what a feast awaits: appetizers range from smoked jalapenos stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon to the architecturally impressive tower crowning a base of focaccia with slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes and basil (and bacon), drizzled in a balsamic glaze. But your best bet comes right to

BY STEVE GILL the heart of the theme, albeit in a slightPHOTOS BY SCOT T Y O’DANIEL ly Forrest Gumpian manner – the Bacon Sampler serves up astonishingly tender W HE N I T COM E S to restaurants, people are apt to think first of categories and jowl bacon, shoulder bacon, homemade genres. If I invited you to try a new place called Savor, your immediate reaction would Canadian bacon, Kentucky bacon sauprobably be to ask, “Oh yeah, what kind of food do they serve?” sage, bacon jam and even a phenomenal Giving your eatery a distinctive theme gives prospective diners a hook, something praline-like dessert bacon topped with to focus their attention. But, since they are by their nature limiting, structuring a pecan and sugar. complete restaurant around a food theme can be hard. A specific theme ingredient For the main course, visis harder still – if any particular dish doesn’t include enough of the good itors face a near-impossible stuff, diners might feel let down, but a successful restaurant can’t consist BACON choice among such options as a solely of a big pile of one foodstuff; you want to provide enough variety to PBLT starring tender strips of make a meal and give diners options, while doing enough chefcraft that 7523 N May, OKC pork belly; a sandwich whose it feels as though care and thought went into the execution. I’m sure it’s 405.848.4868

BACON BONANZA Sean Cummings’ meaty new marvel

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THE OTHER SECRET INGREDIENT I suspect there’s another, nonpork-based reason that Bacon works as well as it does: Chef Cummings is visibly enjoying himself. The word “fun” comes up quickly and often when he starts talking about his project, and his mischievous sense of humor was evident as he regaled us with anecdotes about people asking whether everything on the menu has the key ingredient (“You walked into a restaurant that is literally called Bacon! What did you think we served?”) or how he manages to come up with edible ideas (“Welllll,” he drawls with an air of amused innocence, “I am a chef, you know.”) And aside from the occasional baffling online complaint about the mac and cheese being “too cheesy,” his craft seems to be catching on. His grin lapsing into an actual smile of pride, he asserts, “This place has worked.”

(bacon-wrapped) meatloaf is some of the best I’ve ever had; a chicken sandwich topped with smoky Gouda and surprisingly spicy candied bacon; even a rich lasagna packed with chicken, spinach and alfredo sauce where the savory nuggets of bacon represent added complexity rather than the primary protein.

There are even a couple of light, colorful salads that just happen to include a hint of bacon here and there.

The key is variety; rather than identical heaps of meat on everything, multiple textures and flavors of bacon are used in different ways, including as crumbles mixed with candied walnuts in a grilled

peach half a la mode, or infusing the signature cocktails with extra jolts of flavor. Yes, you can order a Bacon Old Fashioned, and yes, it is a new source of light and joy in my life. If you only try one thing, though, the piece de resistance is the triple bacon bypass: layers of soft chocolate cake, marshmallow crème and caramel laced with cinnamon and bacon bits. It is incredibly rich, and so, so worth it – an ideal conclusion you won’t find anywhere else.

Imagination, balance, a hefty dollop of palpable enjoyment … chef Cummings has pulled off an impressive balancing act here.

So have your Bacon; eat it, too.

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CHEF’S TABLE

HOW IT’S DONE Buckle

9 ounces AP flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 cup whole milk 4 tbsp room-temperature, unsalted butter 5 ounces sugar 1 large egg 15 ounces fresh blueberries

Streusel Topping 3 1/2 ounces sugar 1 1/2 ounces AP flour 4 tbsp chilled, unsalted butter cut into small cubes Using your fingers, mix together all ingredients until completely combined and crumbly.

Kaci Messerly’s baked goods (and greats) K ACI M E S SER LY wrote an essay about wanting to be a chef when she was 9 years old, and according to her, she’s never really wanted to do anything else. As the new front-of-house manager at The Pritchard, she’ll be expanding her resume, but she’s not leaving the kitchen behind.

“It’s hard to pinpoint what I love about baking,” she says. “Whether I’m elbows deep, literally, in a 35-kilo batch of sourdough or at home scooping blueberry muffins, I’m genuinely just happy. Kitchens, ovens, mixers, those are my happy places.”

Messerly started the culinary program at Francis Tuttle when she was 16, where she focused mainly on pastries. Her first professional, kitchen job was working with raw/vegan pastry, and a gig as a bread baker followed.

“I expected to hate it,” she recalls. “I had always preferred pastries, but I ended up loving it – probably largely due to a fantastic mentor – and that opened up my career quite a bit.”

Baking is a precise science, a mixture of chemistry and math, and details are incredibly important. “You have to think of every factor every time,” Messerly stresses. “It seems contradictory, but you have to adapt to maintain consistency. In an industry where consistency is a must, you have to know your product one hundred percent. Everything will affect your product – including hot, humid days versus cold, dry days.”

Tweaking recipes is important, too. Growing up, the recipes came from the backs of boxes in her household, but now, she and her husband – also an avid baker – experiment with their own recipes.

“I spend a lot of time at home experimenting with gluten-free, vegan and allergen-free desserts.

Taking a classic like pumpkin pie or chocolate chip cookies and making them accessible to everyone is always fun to me.”

For her recipe, Messerly wants to do what she loves: expose a broader audience to something great; in this case, a buckle. It’s not really a common term, especially in this part of the country, but she loves them.

“If a coffee cake and a cobbler had a love child, it would be a buckle,” she says. “It’s a lot of fruit packed into a moist, streusel-topped cake. I put blueberries in this recipe because they’re my favorite, but you can make it with other fruit, like cherries and even rhubarb.” - GREG HORTON

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Put flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Whisk until well combined. Set aside.

In a small bowl, add vanilla extract to milk and stir. Set aside.

In a bowl attached to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine butter and sugar. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Reduce speed to low, add egg and mix until well incorporated.

Turn off mixer, scrape the sides of the bowl, and add 1/3 of the flour mixture. On low speed, mix just until combined, being careful not to over-mix.

Turn off mixer, scrape the sides again, then add 1/3 of the milk mixture. Repeat until all the flour and milk have been added.

Gently stir in the blueberries with a spatula, being careful to smash as few as possible.

Spread the buckle into your baking dish and top evenly with the streusel topping.

Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy and the center springs back when pressed.

Allow to cool in the dish for approximately 30 minutes.

Slice. Enjoy!

Pro Tip: Make a large batch, cut into squares, wrap in plastic, keep in the freezer and pull out and thaw one by one for an easy breakfast.

PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN

The Sweet Life

Adjust your oven rack to the middle position and heat it to 375°F. Spray a 9-inch glass baking dish with nonstick spray.

S E E D -T O - C U P COFFEE IS ALL THE

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food drink Symbols

$ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $10 to $25 $$$ most entrees over $25 outdoor dining reservations accepted valet parking new or updated entry

American

and a full suite of tempting cocktails, wines and spirits. 6437 Avondale, OKC, 842.1000 $$

HEFNER GRILL Upscale fare of handcut steaks and seafood plus a tempting brunch to boot, enhanced by a live piano and a spectacular view overlooking scenic Lake Hefner. 9201 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 748.6113 $$ THE JONES ASSEMBLY It’s noteworthy as a spectacular concert venue, but don’t overlook the kitchen’s output the rest of the time. The bar (try a Frosé) and main menu (try everything) are sufficient to make memories even on non-special occasions. 901 W Sheridan, OKC, 212.2378 $$

ANCHOR DOWN Sip a beer or specialty cocktail and munch on a selection of gourmet corndogs in this fresh Deep Deuce concept housed within repurposed shipping containers. 30 NE 2nd, OKC, 605.8070 $

KITCHEN NO. 324 A seasonally inspired café and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine.

Open for lunch and dinner, and a thorough treat for breakfast or brunch.

324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $

AURORA Its warmly comfortable atmosphere makes a perfect backdrop for a quick cup of Hoboken coffee or hearty breakfast or lunch assembled from superb ingredients – just be certain not to miss the beautiful secluded backyard area. 1704 NW 16th, OKC, 609.8854 $

MARY EDDY’S Inside the inviting environs of Film Row anchor 21c Museum Hotel, this showplace of a restaurant turns out a seasonally driven menu of expertly tuned flavors and dishes meant to be shared. 900 W Main, OKC, 982.6900 $$

BACON Sometimes the name says it all.

Noted OKC chef Sean Cummings fills a menu – from soup and salads through sandwiches, entrees and desserts – with tempting taste combinations that feature one of America’s favorite theme ingredients. 7523 N May, OKC, 848.4868 $$

MEATBALL HOUSE The focus in this Campus Corner restaurant is right where the name says, but the variety in salads/sandwiches/pizza/pasta gives a surprising breadth of satisfying dining options. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 701.3800 $$

CAFÉ 501 Rustic stone oven pizzas, fresh salads and specialty sandwiches on house-made artisan breads. Add welcoming atmosphere and enjoy. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ EDDIE’S BAR & GRILL This stylish spot not far from UCO is equally ideal for a casual drink, appetizers while watching the game or a dinner date. And bear in mind that the wings are outstanding. 930 E 2, Edmond, 285.7725 $$ FLINT Approachably casual style, plus the kitchen’s impeccably serious attention to detail in the outstanding contemporary cuisine, winningly combined in the Colcord Hotel. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$ HATCH They call it “early mood food,” and if you find yourself in the mood for a sumptuous made-from-scratch breakfast (or lunch), it should be right up your Automobile Alley. 1101 N Broadway, OKC, 232.3949 $$ THE HUTCH ON AVONDALE The all-time classic Coach House receives an update with a more modern menu sprinkled with experimental twists,

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NASHBIRD Make tracks to this 9th Street spot serving Nashville-style “Hot Dang!” chicken, with whatever spice level you like. Speedy service, whiskey cocktails and beer and a spectacular patio add extra savor. 1 NW 9th, OKC, 388.0033 $ NIC’S PLACE Already justly renowned for his skill at the grill, burger master Justin Nicholas offers breakfast, dinner, drinks and late night treats served in outstanding style at this Midtown diner and lounge. 1116 N Robinson, OKC, 601.

9234 $$ PACKARD’S NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN They’re not kidding about the “new” – the entire lunch and dinner menus are filled with innovative tastes for a distinctive dining experience. 201 NW 10th, OKC, 605.3771 $$ PICASSO CAFÉ Their neighbors in the Paseo are painters, potters and sculptors, so it’s apt that creativity abounds in these zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises, including plentiful selections for vegetarians.

3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $ THE R&J LOUNGE AND SUPPER CLUB A sentimental dining experience

with vintage recipes and atmosphere.

Seating is limited but the patio is a year-round treat, and the drinks menu is a thing of beauty. 320 NW 10th, OKC, 602.5066 $$

REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, enchiladas, pork chops and steak by the lake in a casual, energetic, hacienda-style atmosphere of stone walls and mahogany beams around an open kitchen. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995; 1820 Legacy Park, Norman, 701.5501 $$ SATURN GRILL A star of the lunchtime stage in Nichols Hills Plaza, its rotation of daily specials and tasty twists on pizza, sandwiches and salads keep it crowded on weekdays. Calling ahead is recommended.

6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114 $ SCOTTIE’S DELI Soups, salads and especially sandwiches, all made from scratch and featuring meats that are cured, smoked and cooked in-house.

Start with the pastrami and get ready to fall in love. 427 NW 23rd, OKC, 698.3696 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Top-of -the-line ingredients are combined into entrees and sides that are carefully concocted in-house, as are the bevy of wondrous craft cocktails. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$ SUNNYSIDE DINER A new day dawns for breakfast and lunch on the west side of downtown as a former service station becomes a no-pretense, made-fromscratch diner. Order up! 916 NW 6th, OKC, 778.8861 $ SYRUP The most important meal of the day is also the most enticing at this unique breakfast boutique serving a heaping helping of signature dishes (the crunchy French toast is something special) and Stumptown coffee. 123 E Main, Norman; 1501 NW 23rd, OKC, 701.1143 $ VAST Keeping your attention on the steaks, seafood and other temptations might be difficult; the view from atop the Devon Tower is truly unparalleled in Oklahoma, making this a fantastic date spot. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$$ VICEROY GRILLE Opulent décor, comfortable environs and some outstanding cuisine make a strong recommendation for the Ambassador Hotel’s in-house restaurant; don’t overlook the brunch options. 1200 N Walker Ave, OKC, 600.6200 $$ WAFFLE CHAMPION A food truck that expanded into a brick-and-mortar location in Midtown, its gourmet flavor combinations use waffles as the foundation for sweet and savory sandwich treats. 1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $

WHISKEY CAKE High-quality locally sourced ingredients, prepared using slow cooking techniques that’s a prime recipe for outstanding dining. Enjoy – and don’t forget the namesake dessert. 1845 NW Expressway, OKC, 582.2253 $$

Asian CHAE This pan-cultural treat puts a delectable influence on embracing traditional Korean cuisine and showcasing its versatility by blending its ingredients with dishes from around the world. Grab your chopsticks and enjoy.

1933 NW 23rd, OKC, 600.9040 $$ CHICK N BEER Wings and brews are food for the soul; these freshly fried beauties are done Korean-style, and with serious flavor. Grab some kimchi fries and a local beer and enjoy. 715 NW 23rd, OKC, 604.6995 $ EL TORO CHINO Big, bold flavors from disparate cuisines are blended in this self-described “Latin + Asian Kitchen” - creating results that are as excitingly distinctive as they are delicious. 2801 NW 36th, Norman, 708.9472 $$ GUERNSEY PARK A hidden treasure on an Uptown back street, reflecting traditional Asian flavors expertly fused with a hint of French influence. Try the chicken lollipops and curry salmon. 2418 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$ O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in cool, vibrant digs. Call ahead for dinner, because it becomes a packed house in a hurry. 105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$ SAII With a dark, rich ambiance that elevates it over its surroundings, the captivating Saii serves expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus an extensive and adventurous sushi menu.

6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$

Bakery BELLE KITCHEN Doughnuts, macarons, pastries and ice cream created from scratch, in small batches – making treats like these with care and passion makes a difference that’s easy, and a pleasure, to taste. 7509 N May, OKC, 430.5484; 30 NE 2nd, OKC, 541.5858 $ CUPPIES & JOE The name is only part of the story: the Uptown nook holds cupcakes and coffee as well as pie, live music, a cozy, trendy vibe and more.

Park around back and take a peek. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $ ESCA VITAE Food for Life, the name promises, and visitors may well find

Signed, Seared, Delicious

The taste of distinction at Signature Grill

themselves feeling revitalized after sampling this European bakery and café’s espresso drinks, selection of deli sandwiches and vast selection of tempting breads and baked goods. 1114 N Classen Drive, OKC, 601.0402 $ LA BAGUETTE Comfort and exquisite baking make a tres chic destination for brunch and beyond. They supply pastries throughout the metro, but the source is especially delicious. 1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 2100 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $ PIE JUNKIE A Plaza District haven for serious pie aficionados. Call ahead to order a whole pie or quiche or walk in and choose from what’s on hand; either way the flavors are incredible, and you may never find a better Key lime. 1711 NW 16th, OKC, 605.8767 $ SARA SARA CUPCAKES The ambiance and milk bar make great additions to the variety of specialty cupcakes - selections range from traditional chocolate to blueberry honey and even bacon, egg and cheese. 7 NW 9th, OKC, 600.9494 $

Bar & Pub Food THE BARREL The menu is wellstocked with intriguing and delicious twists on pub cuisine like shepherd’s pie and shrimp and chips, but the equally ample bar makes it a great spot to relax over drinks as well. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $

WH E N ON E OF the metro’s most outstanding chefs opened

his own restaurant, he didn’t put his name on it – it’s not called Clay’s or The Falkner – but he has put his personal stamp on every dish, and the full dining experience, in the course of making Signature Grill a masterpiece.

The little spot in Edmond’s Kickingbird Square, 1317 E Danforth, is intimate, elegantly appointed … and home to meals that routinely clear the bar of excellence and enter the realm of the sublime. A veteran of Tommy’s and Deep Fork Grill before setting out on his own, chef Clay Falkner lets quality ingredients speak for themselves through classic French and Italian influences. Take one of the house specialties, a chicken breast stuffed with spinach, crab, bacon and mushrooms before being breaded, fried and bathed in a rich Boursin cream cheese sauce, or the Chilean sea bass – pan-seared to form a perfect outer crust, and served with roasted tomato butter.

Although, speaking of seafood, it might be extremely difficult to top the Alaskan halibut paired with jumbo lump crab in panko breading, accompanied by grilled broccolini and herbed tomatoes and a decadent bacon-crimini risotto.

Now approaching its 10th anniversary, the restaurant continues to resonate with diners, as seen in its glowing reviews: On a 5-point scale, it’s currently averaging 4.5 on Yelp and Zomato, 4.7 in Google reviews and 4.8 on Facebook – definitely not a flash in the (cast iron) pan.

Signature Grill does a brisk business and its few tables tend to be in demand, so reservations are recommended – it’s more than worth signing up for on a special occasion. - STEVE GILL

BLU FINE WINE & FOOD Just south of Main Street, this sleek bar stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range from mojitos to barbeque chicken pizza to fresh hummus. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$ THE MANHATTAN A stylish neighborhood bar in the heart of downtown, its cocktail menu is packed with variations on its namesake classic, and don’t overlook the selections of sandwiches, salads and tasty treats from chef Bruce Rinehart. 210 Park Suite 150, OKC, 605.5300 $ THE MONT While the food should tempt palates inclined toward a Southwestern zing, it’s beverages like the beloved Sooner Swirl and the primo patio (with misters) for which this landmark is justly renowned. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $ OAK & ORE A Plaza District port of call built with repurposed rustic materials, it offers more than a handful of creative sandwiches that practically require a knife and fork, as well as a tantalizing selection of lovingly chosen craft beers. 1732 NW 16th, OKC, 606.2030 $ O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies alike, it’s served up killer burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. A St. Patrick’s Day must. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $ PUB W Multiple sections provide a choice of atmosphere, but the menu filled with choice beer and “new classic”

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fare from barbeque wings to pork chops is a constant pleasure. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 701.5844; 3121 W Memorial, OKC, 608.2200 $$ REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Part beer bar and part upscale eatery, this noisy, amply attended locale pairs a vast selection of quality brews with tasty menu items, including a great burger selection. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577; 13230 Pawnee, OKC, 907.5900 $$ SLAUGHTER’S HALL A good-vibe hangout in the heart of Deep Deuce, it’s home to great sandwiches and brunch options, a strong beer selection, a notoriously tasty take on poutine and some of the best mac and cheese in the city. 221 N Central, OKC, 606.6063 $$

Barbeque EARL’S RIB PALACE A popular choice among locals in a genre that’s hardly lacking in options, the local chain pounds out hit ribs and turkey as well as a top-tier burger. 6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STAR URBAN BARBEQUE Iron Star specializes in “a unique and tasty spin on comfort food.” While its entrees are excellent, the sides here are equal players as well. 3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$ LEO’S BAR-B-Q Dense, rich flavor and tender texture, delivered in genuine unpolished style for commendable value – no wonder its ribs and brisket are favorites among Oklahoma connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $ MAPLES This Texas-style BBQ stand does serve brisket, pulled pork and sausage in sandwiches, but considering the quality, you might prefer them, or the pork ribs, by the pound. And get in the habit of going early, because they’re in the habit of selling out regularly. 320 NW 11th, OKC $$ TEXLAHOMA BBQ Family owned and fabulously flavorful, its meats (especially the beef ribs) are eye-rolling good. Don’t forget the espresso barbeque sauce! 121 E Waterloo, Edmond, 513.7631 $$

Burgers & Sandwiches COW CALF-HAY This tempting burger spot offers ample flavor combinations, and the delicious neverfrozen patties are mmmmmassive.

Don’t forget the onion rings. 3409 Wynn, Edmond, 509.2333; 212 N Harvey, OKC, 601.6180 $ THE FIXX Massive, monstrous burgers and hot dogs, put together with thought and care. Don’t forget to get a shake or something from the full bar. 644 W Edmond, Edmond, 285.2311 $ THE GARAGE BURGERS & BEER It can get noisy in the sports-bar atmosphere, but even so your focus will likely be on savoring the many

PHOTO BY SHANNON CORNMAN

GOOD TASTE

tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 8 metro locations, eatatthegarage.com $ IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Hand-cut fries, hand-breaded onion rings and simply great burgers, especially with No Name Ranch patties - lean and flavorful thanks to a local breed of cattle. 1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Drive, OKC, 235.4762 $ KAISER’S GRATEFUL BEAN Located in the heart of Midtown, OKC’s authentic ice cream parlor and soda fountain (it’s on the National Register of Historic Places) serves up shakes, malts, egg creams and homemade ice cream, plus burgers and meals for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. 1039 S Walker, OKC, 236.3503 $ THE MULE Solid beer and beverage selection plus a delectable array of gourmet grilled cheeses and melts fill the menu at this relaxation destination in the Plaza District. 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded … and it’s incredible. It’s only open for lunch and the lines are often long, but the colossal burgers are easily among the metro’s best. Don’t forget some money, since it’s cash-only. 1202 N Penn, OKC, 524.0999 $ S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these burgers’ exquisite flavors - including

such ingredients as peanut butter or a coffee crust - come as sliders too, all the better to sample more kinds. 5 metro locations, sandbburgers.com $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS With one burger, one side (fries) and one salad, the menu is easy to remember - and the execution makes the meal unforgettable.

Add a shake and enjoy. 4 metro locations, tuckersonionburgers.com $

Coffeehouse & Tea Room ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and unusual concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in a cheerful atmosphere; the food options are worth investigating, as well. 5 metro locations, allaboutcha.net $ CLARITY COFFEE The vibe is crisp, clean and cool while remaining welcoming and comfortable – including seating for sipping or getting some work done – and the brewers have their beverages down to a science. As the sign says, “Drink the Coffee.” 431 W Main, OKC, 252.0155 $ COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe on Automobile Alley, it has become a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts, especially during its periodic educational sampling seminars. 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $

ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - the passionate staff is always eager to share knowledge about the process - augmented with locally sourced salads, breakfast options and other treats. 815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $ ELLIS ISLAND Their brews use Eote Coffee (thumbs up), but there’s much more in store in this clean, cozy hangout spot – local beers, a selection of wines, treats from La Baguette and Epic Pops and more are waiting to be enjoyed. 130 N Broadway, Edmond, 726.8831 $ RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle surroundings encourage curling up for conversation over great coffee, baked treats, vegetarian-friendly breakfast and lunch specials, and live music. It’s highly recommended. 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $ T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE Proving that an establishment’s focus can be at once narrow and broad, these retreats offer over 100 varieties and expert counsel to explore a world of possibili-teas. 519 NW 23rd, OKC $

enjoying the full gamut of libations and chic ambiance. 7312 N Western, OKC, 843.0073 $$ BLACKBIRD A Campus Corner gastropub pairing succulently creative dishes like pot roast nachos with a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. There’s little on the menu that won’t tempt palates. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes (the chicken-fried steak is a house specialty) and love of seafood drive the contemporary comfort food in one of the city’s finest dining destinations. 2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$ EN CROUTE A warmly welcoming, comfortable café in Nichols Plaza offers treats all day long, from fresh pastries to select spirits and beer, with special emphasis on artisanal cheese and charcuterie. 6460 Avondale, OKC, 607.6100 $

Continental

LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients - but every dish is the result of genuine culinary artistry. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$

BIN 73 Think of it as a wine bar but don’t overlook the tasting menu - diners can fill up on filet mignon or simply top the evening off with tapas while

THE MANTEL Marvelous steaks, seafood and other specialties combine with a refined atmosphere and outstanding service to set the stage for a

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AT THE BAR

truly memorable meal, especially if you have a date to impress. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$

combines fine dining with a great bakery, deli and butcher on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$

A Jazz Age Gem

THE METRO A perennial favorite that feels comfortably upscale without exerting pressure to impress on its clientele, the far-reaching menu covers culinary high points from vichyssoise to crème brulée. 6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$

German

PU B W BAR MANAG E R Rick Patino recently told us that coming

up with new names for cocktails is “the hardest part of the job,” but if you’re trying to evoke the spirit of a time renowned for its wild, jubilant, often drink-based revelry, history has done the lion’s share of the work for you: presenting the F. Scott Fitzgerald.

The drink is driven

by Plymouth gin, whose softer juniper flavor is braced up with rosewater honey and a splash of lemon juice. The result is a bright, refreshing citrusy beverage that Pub W points out is a close cousin in style to the Bee’s Knees, a classic cocktail from the Prohibition era – i.e., the Roaring Twenties, i.e., the Jazz Age. The Bee’s Knees was somewhat optimistically named for the contemporaneous expression of utter excellence, but prob“The drink made past happy ably also influenced by things contemporary with the the inclusion of honey, which was added to present, as if they were still mask the smell of the going on, contemporary even often-harsh gin being with the future as if they were produced during that era. As a matter of about to happen again.” fact, gin was FitzgerF. SCOT T F I TZGER A L D, ald’s liquor of choice, f rom Ten d er Is th e Night in part because he believed it left less of an odor on the drinker’s breath – so the fragrant honey in Pub W’s cocktail that bears his name is an especially apt choice.

All three Pub W locations – 3121 W Memorial, 10740 S May or in Norman’s Brookhaven Village at 3720 W Robinson – should be able to shake an F. Scott Fitzgerald up for you. Whether you’re raring for a giddy rumpus or quietly musing on the intertwined fluidity of past and present, this modicum of gin in a marvelous concoction should prove a delightful lubrication. Enjoy, old sport. - STEVE GILL

MICHAEL’S GRILL Thoroughly urbane dining in an intimate setting: the steaks, chops, seafood and pastas are all reliably excellent, and the Caesar salad prepared tableside is the stuff of legends. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$ THE MUSEUM CAFÉ A setting as inspiring as the OKC Museum of Art warrants something special in cuisine: delicately light or delectably robust, its European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$ PARK AVENUE GRILL A one-ofa-kind dining experience inside the luxurious Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak and seafood with the high style of its 1930s setting. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$ PASEO GRILL Quiet and intimate inside, cheerful and comfortable out on the patio, with an award-winning menu filled with distinctive flavors inspired by the cuisines of Europe in both areas – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ THE PRITCHARD WINE BAR Tempted by tempranillo? Musing about muscat? This Plaza District stop is amply stocked with an extensive list of exceptional wines, and sampling the varied dishes is a pleasure in itself. 1749 NW 16th, OKC, 601.4067 $ ROCOCO An “East Coast-style” restaurant with a diverse menu of international dishes, all set off by carefully selected wines to create the perfect dinner pairing. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Penn, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 A Campus Corner hotspot boasting sleek, swank décor, an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch and a consistently celebratory vibe - in toto that makes this a winner. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$ SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; magnificent culinary rewards. The expertly considered menu mixes French and Italian flavors to present a wide spectrum of amazing flavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$ WEST Expert staff and stylish décor augment a menu filled with treats from beef pad thai to roasted airline chicken.

Don’t forget the zuccha chips! 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072 $$

French LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Les Freres Buthion have deep roots in the city’s culinary landscape, and this flagship

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FASSLER HALL Bringing German flavor to Midtown via house-made sausages, warm soft pretzels with cheese sauce, duck fries and a heftig beer menu, plus a weekend brunch – what’s not to love? 421 NW 10th, OKC, 609.3300 $ INGRID’S Authentic German fare at its best, including outstanding Oklahomamade bratwurst. Join weekend regulars for breakfast, and remember the bakery counter. 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444; 6501 N May, OKC $$ ROYAL BAVARIA Superb takes on traditional dishes like Weinerschnitzel, Jagerbraten and sausages, plus fantastisch house-brewed beers. The time spent is a worthy investment in this family-style dining hall. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$

Indian GOPURAM - TASTE OF INDIA A full-service restaurant whose richly appointed interior and attentive staff accord patrons the feel of fine dining, even during the plentifully stocked lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandooricooked delicacies and boasting healthy, natural, delicious cuisine served amid splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ A tremendous set of Indian staples and delicacies - the menu has sections for vegetarian, tandoori, South Indian and Indo-Chinese specialties - plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$

Italian & Pizza BELLINI’S Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. It’s worth a visit even if only for a couple of the namesake beverages on the shady patio. 6305 Waterford, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the splendid menu keeps the booths full and diners planning return trips to this vintage building by the railroad tracks; don’t overlook Sunday brunch. 105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style (that means thin, flexible crust with a lot of surface area to cover in cheese and tasty toppings), it offers whole pizzas or slices,

PHOTO BY SHANNON CORNMAN

Pub W puts on the ritz

DAS BOOT CAMP Longtime fixture for Deutsch festivities Royal Bavaria has brewed up a second round of exceptional cuisine and magnificent beer in a less expensive, faster-paced location in downtown Norman. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $

a full bar and a primo patio. 1734 NW 16th, OKC $ FLIP’S WINE BAR & TRATTORIA Managing to feel rustic despite its location in a busy corridor of OKC, this cozy Italian joint keeps extended hours, and tends to get busier and louder as the hour gets later.

5801 N Western, OKC, 843.1527 $$ THE HEAT There’s really no need to be humble about this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. It’s one of our favorites; choose your toppings and think deep thoughts. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ HIDEAWAY PIZZA If you’ve been serving a devoted following for over half a century, you’re doing something right.

In this case, that’s incredible pizza in jovial surroundings. 8 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ KNUCK’S WHEELHOUSE Homemade daily with sauces from scratch and local beer in the crust, it’s a tasty and varied stopover for Bricktown wanderers as well as a pizza-lover’s destination in its own right. 103 E California, OKC, 605.4422 $ MONI’S Handmade, New Jersey-style brick oven pizza and authentic pasta recipes from Southern Italy in a casual, comfy ambience (ideal for dates). 17200 N May, Edmond, 285.5991 $$

OTHELLO’S Garlic bread and warm mussels to tiramisu and coffee – all you could want in a romantic Italian café. ; 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$

metro to provide fresh, plentiful doses of primo pasta and pizzas, always served with plenty of ambiance. 5516 W Memorial, OKC, 470.5577 $$

PIZZA 23 The tempting selection of specialty pies on especially buttery, flaky crusts is available for takeout, but dining in is recommended; the Uptown joint’s good beer selection and crisp, urban décor add savor to the flavor. 600-B NW 23rd, OKC, 601.6161 $$

UPPER CRUST A chic, contemporary pizzeria and wine bar specializing in wood-fired, thin-crust New York-style pies complemented by a full menu and wine list. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$

PIZZERIA GUSTO Neapolitan-style pizza (which harnesses an extremely hot fire to quickly cook superfine flour crusts and quality ingredients) stars alongside Italy-inspired salads, pastas and appetizers. 2415 N Walker, OKC, 437.4992 $$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of legitimately Italian tastes for a casual lunch, or romantic dinner, amid stylish scenery. The weekend brunch offerings are especially superb. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ STONE SISTERS Seeking a healthier take on one of the world’s most popular foods? Stone Sisters aims to dish out deliciousness while focusing on superior ingredients, especially in its organic spelt crusts and vegan-friendly options.

2124 N Broadway, OKC, 609.6599 $$ TOMMY’S ITALIAN-AMERICAN GRILL An old favorite returns to the

VICTORIA’S A comfortable atmosphere, with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – the chicken lasagna and linguine with snow crab are especially excellent. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377; 3000 SW 104th, OKC, 759.3580 $ VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff and management treat customers like guests in their home.

It’s a small space, so calling ahead is recommended. 7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ VOLARE A flavor-filled variety of Neapolitan-style pizzas, produced with haste from a specially imported oven, fill this stylish Campus Corner space boasting a serious rooftop patio. 315 White, Norman, 310.3615 $$ THE WEDGE Wood-fired pies crafted from fresh ingredients (the possibilities range from pepperoni all the way to figs or truffle oil) and made-from-scratch sauces.

230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$

Japanese // Sushi CAFÉ ICON Tempting sushi, Japanese specialties and delicious spectacles like steak cooked at the table on a sizzling stone fill the menu to bursting with visually splendid and palate-pleasing treats. 311 S Blackwelder, Edmond, 340.8956 $$ DEKORA Splashy, neon-accented décor sets off a sea of delicious sushi creations in a Bricktown dazzler. Lots of variety, big drinks menu, extreme yum. 200 S Oklahoma #130, OKC, 702.1325 $$ GORO An “izakaya” is a Japanese pub; visitors to the Plaza District will quickly come to associate the term with expertly crafted deliciousness thanks to this cheerful spot for ramen, yakitori, bar snacks and more. 1634 Blackwelder, OKC, 606.2539 $ MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry, thanks to the skilled chefs executing culinary performance art at tableside hibachi grills. It’s a great spot for a special occasion. 4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk,

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classy) with substance (in the form of an especially wide-ranging and creative sushi menu). 4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$ TOKYO It’s neither huge nor lavishly appointed, and the menu focuses on tradition rather than creativity; but it’s palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best sushi. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$ VOLCANO Creations from the hibachi grill or dazzling displays of handcrafted sushi prowess – this restaurant might not have much seating, but it’s certainly far from short on flavor. 2727 S I-35, Moore, 759.3888 $$ YOKOZUNA The noodles, entrees and snappy drinks menu beckon, but it’s the rolls that stand out in this heavyweight contender for local sushi supremacy – personally, we’re partial to the 405 Roll.

13230 Pawnee, OKC, 500.1020 $$ YUZO Variety is the word in this sushi tapas bar, boasting a tempting swirl of Colombian, Brazilian and Japanese culinary influences. 808 N Broadway, OKC, 702.9808 $$

Mediterranean & African HAIGET’S Vegan-friendly – and friendly in general, due to the influence of the warm, patient namesake owner – this gem rewards the adventurous with Ethiopian and Kenyan specialties to explore and share. 308 W Edmond Road, Edmond, 509.6441 $$ MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI The menu is stocked with authentic, quick and savory options from Greek salad to eye-watering cabbage rolls, and there’s even a mini-grocery stocked with select staples. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA Practically the definitive example of a hidden treasure, the spicy, vegan-friendly menu of Ethiopian delights awaits the bold. Bring friends and be prepared to linger. 2308 N MacArthur, OKC, 606.8616 $$ ZORBA’S For well over 20 years, Zorba’s has satisfied appetites and pleased palates.

Serving dishes from recipes passed down through generations, they proudly share flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $

Mexican & Latin American

BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s nearly always standing-room-only at lunch, but don’t let that deter you; spend a few minutes in line and get an ample reward in the form of fast, fresh, imaginative taco creations. 530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $ CAFÉ DO BRASIL It’s a long way from OKC to Rio, but the savory menu in this Midtown hot spot covers the distance in a mouthful. Even brunch is a spicy, inimitable treat. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$ CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant flavors from the zesty traditions of Guatemala. Lunch possibilities beckon, but it’s the breakfast specialties that truly dazzle. 3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $ CULTIVAR A farm-to-fire Mexican kitchen that stresses sustainability, local sourcing and fresh, fast, flavorful food.

Gluten-free options, chef-crafted tacos, a substantial bar and plenty more are on the menu. 714 N Broadway, OKC $$ HACIENDA TACOS Quality, of both ingredients and execution, and variety make this restaurant in the Shoppes at Northpark a pleasure to visit, and to explore the menu again and again. 12086 N May, OKC, 254.3140 $ IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices - a treat from the housemade salsas to the handcrafted cocktails, and all the tastes between. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172 $$ MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN A festive atmosphere on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner sets off a menu loaded with hand-rolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and signature dishes. 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ REVOLUCION You say you want a Revolucion? You easily might once you try this spicy taco-centric haven – start with the queso fundido and don’t stop until you reach the delectable arroz tres leche dessert. 916 NW 6th, OKC, 606.6184 $$ TARAHUMARA’S Beloved by locals (there’s usually a line but it moves quickly), this airy ristorante serves huge, tasty TexMex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like carnitas de puerco and mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$ YUCATAN TACO STAND A Bricktown haven for feisty Latin fusion cuisine such as paella and tamales wrapped in banana leaves plus signature nachos and combos … and a selection of over 75 topshelf tequilas. 100 E California, OKC, 886.0413 $

serves chef’s creations featuring the sea’s finest, plus an oyster bar and tempting cocktails. 519 NW 23rd, OKC $$$ PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Cajun Crab Boil is a favorite, guests are encouraged to “leave the silverware at home and dig in,” and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial OKC favorite for its flavorful seafood and spicy Creole-inspired dishes: Shrimp Diablo, Tabasco-infused Caesar salads, Andouille omelets at Sunday brunch and more. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ TRAPPER’S FISHCAMP Zesty, widely varied f lavor from the Pearl’s family of restaurants finds a comfortable home in a backwoods fishing lodge atmosphere. Don’t forget the bountifully stocked bar, either.

4300 W Reno, OKC, 943.9111 $$ THE SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus fried and grilled seafood, in an atmosphere that’s not shy about being as casual as it can be.

3 metro locations, theshackok.com $$

Soul Food BRENT’S CAJUN Sit down to a massive platter of jambalaya, crawfish etoufee, Pasta Orleans or any of the wellseasoned temptations on the weekend brunch menu – and spice up your life.

3005 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.0911 $$ C’EST SI BON The name is accurate: it is impressively good for lovers of Cajun-style catfish and po-boys.

Crawfish etouffee, frogs’ legs, fried chicken and shrimp po-boys are among the highlights, but the award-winning catfish is a must-try. 101 N Douglas, Midwest City, 610.2555 $ THE DRUM ROOM March your own drumsticks in for a heap of crispy, juicy fried chicken (among the city’s best) starring alongside fried okra, waffles and a fully loaded bar. 4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$

Steakhouse BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance down to the last detail and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$ BROADWAY 10 Cruise into the Buick building in Automobile Alley to savor steak supremacy or seafood selections (even sushi) in a cozy enclave amid urban bustle. 1101 N Broadway, OKC, 212.3949 $$$

1492 Authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, combining its caliente flavors with fusion decor to make an ideal spot for a romantic evening ... including perhaps the world’s best mojitos. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$

ZARATE’S In addition to the familiar joys of enchiladas and the like, the chef’s Peruvian heritage shines in dishes featuring plantains, yuca and imported spices. Try something different; find something tasty. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$

BARRIOS A serious collection of Latin-flavored deliciousness, including a brunch that’s maravilloso, in a cool Midtown space with a back patio that’s pure paradise. 1000 N Hudson, OKC, 702.6922 $

Seafood

CATTLEMEN’S Almost as old as the state itself, this Oklahoma institution’s immense corn-fed steaks and matchless atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$

THE DRAKE The Good Egg Group’s flagship and a standard-bearer for diners who crave excellent seafood, it

JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Saving room for your steak, lobster or prime rib is difficult when your gratis appetizers

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arrive in the form of a Lebanese bounty, but make the effort. Jamil’s has been feeding Oklahoma exceptionally well since 1964. 4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$$ JUNIOR’S The classic restaurant’s decor sets the perfect stage for hand-cut Angus steaks and lobster to fight for attention with knockout fried chicken. 2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$ MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE The ambiance and service are sublime, but fine aged steak broiled to perfection is the star. 3241 W Memorial, OKC, 748.5959; 100 W Main, OKC, 208.8800 $$$ MEAT MARKET REFECTORY The steaks are excellent, but they’re the tip of the ample menu’s iceberg: fresh seafood and Australian lamb chops command attention as well, and from Hatch green chili crab cakes to champagne sabayon, the carefully selected flavors pop and sparkle in this prime dining experience.

2920 NW 63rd, OKC, 608.8866 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S This lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées and sides with a full complement of amenities destined to impress. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE It aspires to the ultimate in upscale dining via hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambiance. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Customaged hand-cut USDA Certified Prime tenderloins and ribeyes, served amid warm Southern hospitality. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$ RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities to make some of the state’s best dining. 504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$ TEXAS DE BRAZIL Inspired by Brazilian churrascarias, this festive establishment offers diners cuts from their choice of skewers laden with beef, pork, chicken and sausage, in addition to excellent sides and a massive salad bar. 1901 NW Expressway, OKC, 362.9200 $$$

Thai SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, fried rice with crab, cinnamon beef ... the variety is exceptional, making this Midtown diner a popular midday option. 1614 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.8424 $ SWEET BASIL The enormous aquarium adds to the cozy ambiance; with its outstanding curries and specialty dishes, it makes a great venue for a dinner date. 211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$ TANA THAI There’s a lot to like about the food in this little spot, from red snapper filet to pad thai. Pay special mind to the varied soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$

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events

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Big Deal You’ll find Disney on Ice performances, concerts from country troubadours Gary Allan and Josh Turner and dozens of rides and games. Also a glamping cooking show, martial arts demonstrations and live sharks. Oh, plus a truly overwhelming array of tempting tastes (yes, several of them are on sticks) and a vast collection of agricultural, commercial and artistic exhibits ‌ the State Fair of Oklahoma, running September 14-24, keeps bringing the hits.

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events PRIME PICKS

All This Jazz September 8, UCO Mitchell Hall Theater In addition to being a skilled composer, bandleader and educator, he’s a multi-Grammy-winning performer of exceptional, near-unparalleled musical presence and finesse. Simply put, there’s only one Branford Marsalis. UCO’s Broadway Tonight series kicks off with a visit from the legendary jazz man, and even if you’re feeling lucky, don’t take a chance on this one – you’re looking at a sellout show.

The Baton Rises September 16, OKC Civic Center The coda of Maestro Joel Levine’s illustrious career at the podium of the OKC Philharmonic has begun, but he’s not ready to hand over the reins to incoming music director Alexander Mickelthwate just yet – there’s a full season yet to be played, and the Classics Series is starting in style. Fewer than two dozen performers have been awarded the Avery Fisher Prize in its 43-year existence; that puts guest pianist Richard Goode in exceptional company.

September 11, Full Circle Bookstore

“Lapin Impression” by Cecile Gambini

Guests of Honor September 8-November 11, Mainsite Contemporary Art

What does Norman’s artistic community have in common with counterparts living in Italy, France, Mexico and Japan? The drive to create, and the ambition to pull off a project as big as Cultural Connections. The second phase of this ongoing exchange program brings Hervé Bréhier, Cecile Gambini and Annemarie Rognon to Norman to explore, interact and see what they can make – c’est une opportunité formidable.

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Bruce Campbell, that is – the dedicated thespian who’s often hailed as a king (so to speak) among B-movie stars also has written a book or two over the years. And since he’s done filming season 3 of “Ash vs. Evil Dead,” he’s got a little time in his schedule to tour promoting the release of his new autobiography, Hail to the Chin: Further Confessions of a B-Movie Actor. His visit to OKC will include a brief address, followed by some Qs and As and a signing. Sound groovy?

PHOTOS: COURTESY NORMAN ARTS COUNCIL; BRANFORDMARSALIS.COM; STEVE RISKIND, FRANK SALOMON ASSOCIATES

His Name Is Bruce

events

ON LOCATION

But production work is only half of the story. Gardocki was equally quick to understand that the people making a living in the film industry weren’t just working production to production; they owned their own side businesses, such as hair salons or catering companies. He looked around to see what was needed and acted quickly to address it. with Lance McDaniel “In college, there was not a lot of equipment available,” Gardocki admits. “A fellow Nathan Gardocki student said he was looking to rent a specific camera. I asked if he would rent it from me if I bought one. He said yes and rented it for four days, and he connected me with Skyline Media, who also wanted to rent my camera.

Then Skyline asked if I had sound equipment, so I went out and bought it. The demand from locals started growing.”

Nathan Gardocki gears up for success Nathan Gardocki Productions started in 2008 in Nathan’s garage. The company moved into a warehouse and incorporated in NAT H A N GA R DOCK I has spent most of his life in Oklahoma 2011, and moved into its present location – with triple the size and a – he grew up here, graduated from Bishop McGuinness High full-time staff – in 2014. Now Nathan Gardocki Productions is the School and started his own equipment rental business while still largest film and video equipment rental house in Oklahoma, proin college – and almost as much in film. viding camera, sound, grip, electric and production gear to nearly “In fifth grade, I started borrowing my dad’s camera and writevery film, television show and commercial produced in Oklahoma. ing scripts with my friends,” Gardocki says. “I filmed plays at my “Our first clients were student films, then small ad agencies, school. Then in high school, my friends and I made a couple of then small independent films, then big ad films for a film contest, and even made a twoagencies, then big movies,” Gardocki says. hour James Bond movie. It wasn’t all great.

“That’s how my “Now we can do three movies with full But I kept feeding that passion. I always brain is wired. I was production and sound. We have been buying knew I wanted to go to film school.” to meet demand; now we are starting to get immediately drawn to After researching film programs, Gardocki ahead of the demand.” found what he was looking for at Oklahoma the production side.”

Gardocki is quick to point out that family City University. Fritz Kiersch, director of the NAT H A N GA R DOCK I has been key to his success. His wife, Angela, original Children of the Corn and co-founder has been with him since the beginning; his of the film program at OCCC, had launched older brother, Matt, does freelance visual effects and DIT work on a four-year program at OCU and was executive producing a their productions; and the man who helps keep the rental business feature film called Unsolved on campus that summer. running is his younger brother, Jonathan.

“I applied and got accepted to OCU the summer they made the “ … Jonathan got interested in film at OCU and started movie Unsolved,” Nathan recalls. “I was shocked at how many working part time for me,” Gardocki says. “After college, he took people it took to do the film, but I was excited to get to work on a over the organization of the equipment, streamlined the rental feature film before entering college.” process, took everything online and created a database and a “Growing up, I really wanted to be a director, because I thought website. It was not a dynamic I had counted on, but it has been that was the person that put everything together,” Gardocki crucial to our success.” continues. “On Unsolved, I saw that the director ran the creative Now Nathan Gardocki is looking to the future. Last month, he side and the producers handled all of the logistics, scheduling, launched a film workshop for 45 students to help them get onbudgeting and managed the crew. That’s how my brain is wired. I set experience working with professionals on an actual film. was immediately drawn to the production side.”

“My main interest is growing the workforce and providing a Since Unsolved, Gardocki has worked on 25 feature films, bridge between the local college programs and the professional including Rudderless, The Killer Inside Me, Crazy Enough and film community,” Gardocki concludes. “We are here to stay, so Te Ata. For 12 of those films, he has served as unit production we want to do whatever we can to help build the industry in manager, the person who hires the crew and oversees every Oklahoma, and help others succeed.” aspect of the production.

ILLUSTRATION BY BRIAN O’DANIEL, PHOTO BY JON ROMAN

Growing Production

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events SPOTLIGHT

Dublin Irish Dance

Brooklyn Rider, appearing in January with Bela Fleck

High-Kicking Cowboys Meet Fantasy Figures Armstrong’s new season of ballet and big band T HE A R MST RONG AU DI TOR IU M will host Oklahoma City

Ballet for the first time for its new season filled with groundbreaking shows featuring performers from around the world.

September signals the 19th performing season for the Edmond arts center, opening with world-class choreographer Agnes de Mille’s cowboy kicking western “Rodeo.” This simple love story of a cowgirl desperate to be seen outside her tomboy persona was an immediate success when it was first staged in 1942, with de Mille playing the lead role.

EVENTS SEP 8-16 Oklahoma Designer Show House This third annual domestic design extravaganza gives 13 of the metro’s top firms free rein to create visual wonders in a massive home. Proceeds benefit Free to Live Animal Sanctuary. 13300 Hickory Hill, Arcadia, 361.5006, oklahomadesignershowhouse.com SEP 15 Boots & Bourbon Community improvement takes a turn toward fun and deliciousness in Bricktown Rotary’s booze-fueled fundraiser - expect live music, outstanding auction items and great taste from local restaurants and top-tier distillers. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi, OKC, 706.4526, bricktownrotary.org SEP 22 Canterbury Ball However beautiful a single singer may sound, it takes many voices to make a choir, so Mosaic is an apt name for the lavish, lively gala supporting the work of premier choir Canterbury Voices.

OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com

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WANT TO SEE MORE? VISIT OUR ONLINE CALENDAR AT 405MAGAZINE.COM SEP 22 Cattle Baron’s Ball Fighting cancer is a cause everyone should get behind, so dust off your black-tie best (spurs not required) and get ready to join the ACS for an evening of lifesaving fun. The Criterion, 500 E Main, OKC, 841.5800, acshpokc.org SEP 24 Mesta Festa Come join the block party, neighbor! Mesta Park puts its friendliest face forward in this annual free fiesta featuring a beer and wine garden, outdoor games, live music, pop-up shops, food trucks and more. Perle Mesta Park, NW 18th and Shartel, OKC, mestapark.org SEP 30 Classics on the River Vintage and modern Porsches, Mercedes-Benzes and more - some seriously beautiful automobiles - star in this show that’s a car enthusiast’s dream. Admission is free, but donations will benefit the good works of Sunbeam Family Services. Devon Boathouse, 725 S Lincoln, OKC, centralok.mbca.org SEP 30 Plaza District Festival The free bash brings tens of thousands to the ever-more-popular

locale to enjoy art, food, tip-top shopping, kids’ games and music from Jabee, Bowlsey, Ali Harter and many more. Plaza District, 1618 N Gatewood, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrictfestival.com

MUSIC SEP 15 Old 97’s The alt-country ramblers’ train keeps rolling along, as the Austin-based quartet continues to churn out mournful ballads, wry ravers and music that’s just fun to listen to - catch them as they ride through OKC to promote Graveyard Whistling. Diamond Ballroom, 8001 S Eastern, OKC, 866.977.6849, dcfconcerts.com

SPORTS SEP 30 Walk to End Alzheimer’s The course is only 2 miles, but participation can go a long way toward helping a nationwide effort to investigate, cope with and ultimately overcome this massive, deadly epidemic. Bicentennial Park, 500 Couch, OKC, 319.0780, alz. org/oklahoma

SEP 30-OCT 1 Bike MS With two wheels and determination, you can help defeat a crippling condition - routes of 35, 59, 69 and a whopping 100 miles (that one has an overnight stop) are ready to ride in this well-organized fundraising challenge. NCED Marriott, 2801 Hwy 9, Norman, 918.770.7266, nationalmssociety.org/chapters/oke

THEATER SEP 5-10 The Little Mermaid OKC Broadway is ready to blow its previous productions out of the water by heading under the sea in a traveling adaptation of the Disney-inspired stage spectacular. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 877.737.2929, okcbroadway.com SEP 14-24 A Closer Walk With Patsy Cline One of the first female country stars and one of America’s all-time great singers, the divine Ms. Cline’s life and legend get a closer look in this CityRep production starring Broadway wonder Julie Johnson. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 848.3761, cityrep.com

PHOTOS COURTESY ARMSTRONG AUDITORIUM

ON THE RADAR

Also headlining the Armstrong season opener is Russian composer Igor Stravinsky’s “Firebird.” Both ballets, though very different in content, had a significant impact on musical and dance thought, with both Stravinsky and de Mille breaking away from the expected norms of their time.

The season continues in November with an evening of tango compositions from pianist and radio host Christopher O’Riley and Latin Grammy-winning pianist and composer Pablo Ziegler, followed by violinist Ray Chen’s “Journey across Europe.” Returning to ballet in January, The Moscow Festival Ballet will perform two shows: “The Best of Russian Ballet” and “Romeo and Juliet & Best of Tchaikovsky.” The world-champion Dublin Irish Dance troupe and the Glenn Miller Orchestra close out this illustrious season, described by Armstrong’s concert manager Ryan Malone as one of their most “exciting seasons yet with performers from five continents.”

More information on tickets and shows can be found at ArmstrongAuditorium.org - LOUISE SCRIVENS

events SPOTLIGHT

Small Things of Beauty

PHOTOS COURTESY VISUAL ARTS COALITION

OVAC’s 28th annual 12x12 supports artists, community BE AU T IF U L T HI NGS are found in small packages. Art lovers may choose from a complete visual delight created by 175 carefully chosen artists, and ensure our state’s talent continues to grow through artist grants, professional development workshops and numerous exhibitions, at Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s captivating fundraiser.

The 12x12 event fuses clever creations – in the form of painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry and ceramics – with tastings from local establishments and live music in an evening of delicious artistic fun at 50 Penn Place.

The 28th annual art show restricts artists to creating a piece no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches. Visitors can delve deep into all that Oklahoma artists have to offer, while enjoying the perfect opportunity to start their own collection with so many affordable pieces from which to choose.

Krystle Brewer, OVAC executive director, said the funds raised are vital to the arts community, adding “12x12 is not only one of the most exciting art events of the year, it is also our only fundraiser. The funds raised from 12x12 go directly back to our artists and community.

“This event highlights 175 Oklahoma artists working in a myriad of media and styles, and includes local talent in both food and entertainment. A night to not be missed.”

A preview exhibition is being held until Sept. 25 at Leadership Square’s Bank of America Gallery before the big showcase and sale on Sept. 29.

For more information, including tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit ovac-ok.org/programs/12x12/. - LOUISE SCRIVENS

INDUSTRY LEADING STYLING TEAM 405.810.5599 | 9329 N. PENN, OKC | MALORIEAVALINE.COM

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BACK TO THE BRONCHO Edmond’s downtown movie palace

BY MARK BEUTLER

L ONG BEFOR E T HE DAYS of immense, multi-screen theaters

with IMAX and ear-blasting surround sound, the local movie house was the place to go for a night on the town – or a Saturday morning with your friends.

Most every community of a certain size had a theater, including what was then the sleepy little town of Edmond. You see, before the sprawling mass of shopping centers, restaurants and auto dealers it is today, Edmond was a tiny little burg home to mom-and-pop shops and a quaint downtown district.

At the corner of Main and Broadway, the Spearman Building was home to a unique combination of businesses: Downstairs was the Broncho Theater, where patrons saw everything from Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? to the shoot-em-up Bonnie and Clyde with Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway. But upstairs, the scent of fresh buttered popcorn gave way to the stench of antiseptic at what was then Edmond Hospital.

“I remember, in the early ’60s, riding my bike to the theater on Saturday morning to catch the latest western,” says Edmond attorney Barry Rice. “Sometimes we would line all the way up to McCall’s, waiting to get in and pay our 15 cents.”

Rice grew up in Edmond, graduating from the University of Central Oklahoma and then earning his law degree at

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Oklahoma City University. Like his parents and grandparents before him, he and his wife Arleather raised their family in Edmond.

“Back in the day, my friend Steve Gibson and I used to go to movies at the Broncho,” he says. “Steve’s dad, Hoot, was the proprietor of McCall’s, an upscale men’s clothier just down the block from the Spearman Building. It wasn’t unusual to see a line of kids waiting to get in.”

The Spearman Building was built in 1935, and the Broncho Theater’s first show was held on Jan. 10, 1936. By 1947, the building’s second floor became home to Edmond Hospital, and a generation of baby boomers was born there.

“Not only did I go to the movies in that building, I was also born upstairs in there in 1953,” Rice recalls. “As I grew older, I remember in junior high school going on dates to the movies. It was a fun time in my life. Popcorn was something like a nickel, and a Coke cost about a dime.”

Named after the University of Central Oklahoma (then Central State College) mascot, the Broncho Theater operated until the 1970s, when other larger screens began popping up, including the old Edmond Plaza Theater at 15th and Broadway.

The hospital closed in 1967 when a new, state-of-the-art, 35bed hospital opened at Second and Bryant.

Eventually, the interior was renovated as a restaurant space, where Garfield’s opened in the mid-1980s. Today the scent of simmering garlic wafts over downtown Edmond from the comfortably posh Othello’s Italian eatery.

“Edmond has grown and changed a lot,” Rice says. “And those of us who grew up here have some fond memories of the way it used to be. My law office is just down the street from the Spearman Building, and remembering the days of the Broncho Theater always brings a smile.”

PHOTO COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

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