Slice August 2014

Flavorto

Savor

Celebrating

Locavores

Food LoverS AND the

Joy of Eating Well

Get Back In The Game

Your Playing Days Aren’t Over You feel like you’ve been sidelined. Irritability, fatigue, anxiousness and those few extra pounds have slowed you down. It’s common.

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• Gynecology • Mammography • Diet & Nutrition • Supplements

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FEATURES

42

August 2014

Farm to Fork

Whether or not transporting food from far away is a waste of energy (and it might not be), availing yourself of Oklahoma’s bounty has the benefit of supporting area entrepreneurs who make every effort to provide top-tier cuisine with total transparency – and that should whet anyone’s appetite.

On the cover

50

Smartboard Jungle

A thorough, robust education pays colossal dividends, both for the individuals who obtain it and the communities they then go on to enrich. The problem is deciding what should be taught, and how.

4 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Flavorto

Savor

Celebrating

Locavores

Food LoverS AND the

Joy of Eating Well

A bountiful array of delicious edibles entices food lovers everywhere. Photo by Carli Wentworth

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62

THE ART OF DINING

Colorful, complex and presented with visual flair, the creative dishes at Guernsey Park constitute a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

14 From the Editor UP FRONT 18 Chatter The YMCA’s storied past, extra savor for the Salvation Army’s future and other local topics of conversation.

22 Details A suite of decorative options to give classic function a more modern form.

24 Retro-spective Remembering the way we were with a look back at the towering presence and cutting-edge luxury of the Biltmore Hotel.

22

26 By the Numbers Fast facts and statistics on the topic of Labor Day Weekend.

28 Exchange A conversational give and take about playing point guard, the power of humility and the joys of reading with community servant Dr. George Young.

issue In this

FOOD’S R LOVEIDE GU

30 Mingling Making an appearance on central Oklahoma’s social scene.

36

36 77 Counties In her ongoing travels through the state, author and photographer M.J. Alexander rolls up to Nowata County to see décor with a unique frame of mind.

FARE 60 Easy and Excellent Caryn Ross helps make dinner simpler with a recipe for Chipotle Pork Burritos.

64 Eat & Drink Take a gastronomic tour with Slice’s citywide dining guide.

6 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

August 2014

PURSUITS 70 Top 10 Prime picks for a variety of August entertainment.

72 Winds of Creativity A dual exhibit leaves Norman’s MAINSITE Gallery crowded with art to contemplate while leaving plenty of room for interpretation.

74 Burning Up the Streets Hide inside to avoid the heat? Hardly.

A foursome of fundraising 5k events is set to entice hardy metro residents into doing plenty of good.

76 Worth Stopping For From the entertainment-packed capital to tiny towns boasting surprisingly bountiful rewards for explorers, Nebraska amply rewards the curious tourist.

80 See & Do The sights, sounds and various happenings that are enlivening the metro this month.

86 Last Laugh 88 Last Look Correction: In our guide to Oklahoma museums (“Summer Road Trip,” June), we mistakenly ascribed the wrong order to Father Gregory Gerrer – the artist and namesake of the Mabee-Gerrer Museum was a Benedictine. We apologize for the error.

28

August 2014

Volume 5 Issue 8

PUBLISHER Elizabeth Meares elizabeth.meares@sliceok.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mia Blake mia.blake@sliceok.com EDITORIAL Associate Editor Steve Gill steve.gill@sliceok.com Contributing Stylists Timothy Fields, Fashion timothy.fields@sliceok.com Sara Gae Waters, Home saragae.waters@sliceok.com Contributing Writers M.J. Alexander, Sean Becker, Mark Beutler, Lauren Hammack, Jill Hardy, Caryn Ross, Elaine Warner ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel scotty.odaniel@sliceok.com Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel brian.odaniel@sliceok.com Production Assistant Tiffany McKnight Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Justin Avera, David Cobb, Simon Hurst, Claude Long, Michael Miller, Quit Nguyen, Elaine Warner, Carli Wentworth ADVERTISING Executive Director of Advertising Cynthia Whitaker-hill cynthia.whitakerhill@sliceok.com Account Executives Jamie Hamilton jamie.hamilton@sliceok.com Elizabeth Young elizabeth.young@sliceok.com Account Manager Ronnie Morey ronnie.morey@sliceok.com ADMINISTRATION Distribution Raymond Brewer WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA sliceok.com

8 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

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August 2014

Volume 5 Issue 8

READER SERVICES SLICE 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Phone 405.842.2266 Fax 405.604.9435 info@sliceok.com, sliceok.com Advertising Inquiries sales@sliceok.com Job/Internship Inquiries jobs@sliceok.com Story Ideas and Letters to the Editor Your views and opinions are welcome. Include your full name, address and daytime phone number and email to editor@sliceok.com.

Letters sent to Slice magazine become the magazine’s property, and it owns all rights to their use. Slice magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

Single Copies Single copies are $4.95 each.

For rack locations, see sliceok.com/subscribe or contact our office.

Back Issues Back issues are $9.50 (includes P&H) each. For back issue availability and order information, please contact our office.

Bulk Orders For multiple copy order information, please contact our office.

Subscriptions Slice Magazine is available by subscription for $14.95 (12 issues), $24.95 (24 issues) or $34.95 (36 issues).

Subscription Customer Service Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. CST SLICE P.O. Box 16765 North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765 Phone 818.286.3160 Fax 800.869.0040 subscriptions@sliceok.com sliceok.com/subscribe Slice Volume 5, Number 8, August 2014. Slice is published monthly by Open Sky Media, Inc. at 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, 405.842.2266. © Copyright 2014 Open Sky Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of Slice content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Slice is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. Slice 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

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Slice, P.O. Box 16765, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765.

Subscription Customer Service: Slice, P.O. Box 16765, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765, Phone 818.286.3160, Fax 800.869.0040, subscriptions@sliceok. com, sliceok.com/subscribe

10 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB IS A SPRINGBOARD FOR OKC’S FUTURE

A

S

E AF

VE A H

N,

STUDY

AN D MOTIVA TION

, AF

TE

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Juvenile crime escalates after school. Instead of going home to an empty house – or hours on the streets – Club kids learn how to succeed. Rewarding our city in countless ways, from safer streets to a better young workforce. Visit SpringboardOKC.com

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LOCAL BEAUTY

On the Web

THIS MONTH ON SLICEOK.COM

’20s

’80s

’60s

’40s

ILLUSTRATION BY TIFFANY MCKNIGHT

FASHION BACKWARD

Readers shared their favorite fashion eras in our poll last month. Here are some of your comments.

Eighties Sixties Twenties

“Satin, velvet, beads, rhinestones ... ahhh, the beautiful era of the 1920s.

Gone were the tight corsets, women cut their hair in stylish bobs and became emancipated with fashion.” - Katie “Old Hollywood glamour is definitely my favorite style era. It was so sleek and sophisticated. It’s as if they were wearing works of art!” - Sara

“Early ’80s-there was so much to choose fromshort or long hemlines, heels or flats, dresses were everywhere.

We still got dressed for work.” - Mary

“I love the ’80s fashion, which my daughter wanted me to roll up her britches the other day, and I did it Hammer style!”

- Krysten

“Earthier comfort of the late ’60s. I like the more natural way of beauty and fashion.” - Linda

“The ’40s combined simplicity and elegance.

Fabric textures abounded including fur, tweed, velvet and suede.” - Alisha

“My favorite fashion era was the late ’60searly ’70s. It was a time of warm, earthy colors, soft fabrics, minimal accessories and comfort.”

- Debbie

“The ’40s were so glamorous with the beautiful hats and gloves.

The fabrics were so elegant. Men wore hats and dressed to complement their date. People cared about how they looked.”

- Douglas

Check out some picks inspired by your comments on our website at sliceok.com/style/ and follow our style board on Pinterest at pinterest.com/sliceok/style/ 12200 Warwick Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73162 405-722-3336 4200 N. Western Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405-525-6110

The Friday $50

Back by popular demand! Readers loved it so much last month that the Friday $50 continues. Each Friday in August, we’ll be giving away $50 worth of some of the city’s finest dining, in the form of gift cards and certificates to one of these purveyors of thoroughly tempting tastes: *

edensalon.com

Visit sliceok.com/eat-drink/ to enter – we’ll draw a winner at random each Friday at noon.

Good luck, and bon appetit! (valid at Cheever’s, Iron Starr Urban Barbeque, Red Prime Steakhouse, Kitchen No. 324, Republic Gastropub and Tucker’s)

*

12 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Steaks & Seafood Italian Specialties

Bricktown . 1 Mickey Mantle Drive . 405.235.4410 . www.facebook.com/Nonnas

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From the Editor

A FEAST FOR THOUGHT

SIMON HURST

F

MIA BLAKE

Editor-in-Chief mia.blake@sliceok.com

14 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

ood is more than a basic necessity; it is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

What other vital-signs-sustaining activity brings such variety and enjoyment? I mean, I treasure breathing just as much as the next person, but I spend much less time thinking about it than I do contemplating what to have for dinner. I am blessed to be a person that actually looks forward to eating my fruits and vegetables, and so was especially excited to dig into this issue’s local food article on page 42.

If you’ve never made a Saturday morning trek to a farmer’s market, or stopped at a pickup parked on the side of the road boasting a cardboard sign advertising fresh veggies, you’re missing out. Summertime in Oklahoma is the perfect occasion to luxuriate in homegrown produce, even if your thumb is solidly black. I cannot drive past an impromptu farm stand without thinking about the “Seinfeld” episode where Kramer is obsessed with the Mackinaw peaches from Oregon, ripe for only two weeks each year. We’re much more fortunate here with our relatively long growing season, but as anyone who’s tried to grow their own fruits or veggies knows, if we don’t succumb to late frosts, freak softball-sized hail, ravenous insects or blistering heat, our crops are flavored with the sweet taste of success. And for local farmers, it’s not only the sense of accomplishment but a livelihood at stake. It logically follows that we should support our fellow Oklahomans and reap the yummy benefits of their labor.

For another look at the delicious side of life, check out our special Food Lover’s Guide insert that showcases some favorite edibles from throughout the metro. I dare you to look at the mouthwatering photos without fighting the urge to grab your keys and head out to satisfy a sudden craving.

On a more serious note, we’ve delved a bit into the labyrinthine circumstances surrounding our public education system in “Smartboard Jungle.”

If you’ve been paying attention at all over the last few months, you haven’t escaped the debate over the institution of the Common Core curriculum. At press time, the governor’s June repeal of Common Core standards has been challenged and that case is before the Oklahoma Supreme Court. If nothing else, this proves the winds of change are blowing frequently, so expect even more developments in the coming months. And though it may not seem so on the surface, this issue is personal to all of us, because the kids being educated in public schools throughout the state now may someday become your doctor, your mechanic, your pastor, your employee, your boss or your next door neighbor. We’ll watch with interest as this issue continues to play out.

I hope you enjoy the last few moments of summer before school resumes this month!

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 15

LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO WEAR

BORING GLASSES!

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UP FRONT

A GRATEFUL SPIRIT

SIMON HURST

Former pastor and lifelong community servant Dr. George Young sits down to chat about the road not taken, and his gratitude for some choices he did make. See page 28.

CHATTER Topics of conversation from around the metro 18

BY THE NUMBERS Checking our figures on Labor Day weekend 26

DETAILS Furnishings and accents to give classic function a sleek modern look 22

MINGLING Glimpses of central Oklahoma’s social scene 30

RETRO-SPECTIVE A quick look back at a piece of local history 24

77 COUNTIES Scenes from M.J. Alexander’s photographic travels across Oklahoma 36 AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 17

UP FRONT | Chatter

Walking on Starshine Getting in Tune

STEPPING BACK TO THE MIC

Every kid dreams of making it big somehow or other – few of us realize that dream as quickly as Bryan White, who graduated from Putnam City West, packed up, moved to Nashville and became an almost overnight sensation. His first two albums were certified platinum, he was named the Academy of Country Music’s Top Male Vocalist and he won a Grammy by the time he was 25. But then he backed away from the spotlight; after four albums in six years, he’s only released one since 1999 … until now.

Entirely funded by fans via Kickstarter, the EP “Shine” is White’s return to the microphone after time spent finding “my true identity, not only as an artist and a songwriter, but as a human being.” Even if nothing from this set of songs reaches the earlier popularity of “Rebecca Lynn,” lovers of introspective country should find plenty to appreciate in White’s more seasoned perspective.

“I’ve already swung the bat hard and put the ball out of the park. I have nothing left to prove, but I have a lot more to say.”

What does Oklahoma native Kristin Chenoweth have in common with Pharrell Williams, Amy Poehler, Peter Jackson, Christoph Waltz, the late Raymond Chandler and Snoopy?

They’re not all part of a new movie, outstanding as that might be; they’re about to become an even more permanent part of America’s entertainment landscape.

Each of these entertainers will have their names enshrined in stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as part of the 2015 class of additions to the famous tourist attraction. As Chenoweth’s fellow soon-to-be honorees Kool & the Gang would happily attest, it’s a career milestone worthy of celebration.

HELPING HANDS

When someone is released from prison after paying his debt to society, little things are hugely important, and often more difficult than we might realize: getting a credit card, getting a phone, staying clean (which isn’t just an admonition in black-and-white gumshoe movies, but a real necessity). Through August 30, The Education and Employment Ministry (TEEM) is seeking community support through donations to its annual Summer Hygiene Drive, which helps returning inmates get back to being productive citizens by providing items like soap, shaving cream, toothpaste and towels. It’s part of TEEM’s mission to reduce the rate of recidivism by making it easier for participants to get on their feet; to learn more or find a donation drop box, check out teem.org.

TWO DAYS TO CREATE

You’ve heard of guerilla filmmaking; this venture requires cinematic cheetahs. It’s time for the 48 Hour Film Project, a chance for teams of contestants to show off their talent for filmmaking improvisation. On a Friday night, competitors are given a genre, a prop, a character and a line of dialogue, and two days to write, shoot, edit and score a movie with those components, using volunteers and whatever equipment they can assemble.

Locally, the project gets underway with an August 8 party at 6 p.m. and the results are due – whatever state they’re in – at The Paramount by 7:30 p.m. August 10. For those who participated or simply want to see the results, there’s a screening the 16th and an awards ceremony during the Premiere on Film Row event September 19. Tens of thousands will compete worldwide; to sign up for the Oklahoma City shindig, visit 48hourfilm.com … and get some sleep ahead of time.

18 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

OKC, MEET OUR NEW LOCATION

NW 50TH & WESTERN

UP FRONT | Chatter

Calendar Watch August 4 classes begin for OKC Public Schools; watch for tykes (and harried teachers) August 10-16 Shark Week. (We’re probably fine.)

August 18, 19, 20 Student Week. Classes begin for OU, OSU and UCO; Edmond Public Schools; and Norman Public Schools respectively.

September 1 Labor Day

GROWING HOPE

Downtown OKC is in the midst of a massive renovation, including plans for a central park as part of the Core to Shore development – but the ability to help citizens in need is still a must, so the Salvation Army branch that had been within that area is relocating to a new facility near N.W. 10th and Penn. Despite the new Center of Hope’s greater size and advanced energy-efficient design, the Salvation Army is staying in touch with its roots … with a little help from volunteers. The new Hope Gardens, built onsite with help from Cole + Reed P.C., will be managed by volunteers from businesses, churches and community groups who will adopt a plot and nurture its contents. The vegetables of their labor will then help feed Salvation Army diners.

Plans for the future include adding beehives and fruit trees – like its contents, the garden will only get better as it grows.

ON THE PAGE

OVER A CENTURY OF STAUNCH COMMUNITY SUPPORT Its mission refers to helping build “healthy spirit, mind and body for all” – in Oklahoma City at least, the YMCA could add “community” to that list.

In May 1889, less than a month after Oklahoma City became an actual place, its first YMCA officers were chosen. The organization’s struggles (and early failures) to take root, and its evolution along with its city for the past century and then some, form the basis for the fascinating journey “Cornerstone,” written by veteran local historians Steve Lackmeyer and Jack Money and released to coincide with the YMCA’s 125th anniversary.

The book is loaded with photos and reproductions of advertisements and sketches, though while it eventually catches up with the modern era, the color in the first two-thirds of “Cornerstone” comes not from visuals but from the people working to build the organization – like Robert S. Kerr cheerfully posing in cowboy gear for a promotional photo, or J.B. White (“The Bull”), who came to town after three men had held the title of general secretary in four years. White closed the revolving door and remained at that post for 25 years.

As current President and CEO Mike Grady puts it, “The Y is a force for our community so that our community can be a force for good. We are truly grateful for the opportunity that has been given to us to carry on such important work.” And, presumably, for the chance to have their story told so richly and well.

THAT NEW SCHOOL SMELL

Oklahoma students are headed back to school this month, although some will be headed into brand new classrooms. Slice HQ is getting some new young neighbors at the John W. Rex Charter Elementary, a school next to the Myriad Gardens that‘s opening with K-2 instruction this fall and will add new grades in coming years. It’s also a testament to the continuing redevelopment of downtown OKC; imagine an elementary school in the heart of the city even five years ago.

Meanwhile, a focused rebuilding effort should be rewarded in a feeling of continuity for students in Moore. Both Plaza Towers and Briarwood Elementary Schools were destroyed by a deadly tornado in May 2013, but – thanks in part to an outpouring of community support totaling over $4 million in donations – both facilities are expected to be ready to resume classes when the school year begins.

“Is drought on the way out? Too early to say, but there is hope!”

- The Oklahoma Climatological Survey’s GARY MCMANUS, referring to substantial statewide rainfall in June and the Climate Prediction Center projections through September 20 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

STICKLEY LABOR DAY SALE SAVINGS OF

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Join us in welcoming Johnson to our Arvest Team.

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AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 21

UP FRONT | Details

By Sara Gae Waters // Photos by Carli Wentworth I’D LOVE TO CLAIM THAT I DON’T HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT PHONES ON THE WALL WERE LIKE. That I haven’t ever lived with green and gold shag carpet. Eight track? What’s that?

However, I do know, and have personal experience with all of the above. Truth be told, the first music I ever owned was on a 45 (that’s a record, people) and I will never forget my mom “discovering” toile.

As they say, the world keeps on spinning and with it, things change. Technology has changed the way we listen to music, use phones, cook ... and much more. Style has been influenced by the modern world as well. Sometimes it’s a look back to a genre like midcentury modern and sometimes it’s a really new take on an old idea.

I’ve written this before but I will say it again: I love mixing the old and the new. Old fashioned with modern, warm with sleek.

Because of this I really enjoyed searching out some modern gadgets and design pieces. For example, what about the dreaded desk chair?

Why does it have to be unattractive? Simply put, it doesn’t.

Just because something has function does not mean it has to sacrifice its form. A small work desk, on casters and adjustable to the perfect height? Yes please! And for music lovers, there is nothing like a cool sound system that not only looks good but has superior performance. The aforementioned are just a few of the exceptional items on these pages and only scratch the surface of what’s out there to not only make your life more modern ... but more stylish.

2.

1.

3.

4.

22 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

7.

5.

6.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

14.

13.

From Perch’d in OKC: 1. Kakkoii WOW Wireless Speaker 2. Areaware Alarm Dock 3. Native Union Curve Bluetooth Phone 4. Geneva Sound System; From Suburban Contemporary Furnishings in OKC: 5. Dirk Low Back Chair in White; From Dane Design in OKC: 6. Mission Glass Side Table 7. George Nelson Spindle Reproduction Wall Clock 8. The WorkPad Table in Green 9. Nelson Storage Ottoman; From BD Home in OKC: 10. Alessi Toaster 11. Alessi ToDo Grater 12. Chilewich Placemats 13. Alessi Watering Can 14. Modcat Litter Box

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 23

o r t Respective

Grandly Accommodating

By Mark Beutler // Photos courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society IT WAS SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16, 1977. Thousands of people turned out to see a piece of history fade into oblivion in downtown Oklahoma City.

At one time the Biltmore Hotel was unrivaled in elegance. Located at Grand and Harvey, it had 33 stories and 619 rooms, and was among Oklahoma City’s tallest buildings.

Not even the nearby Skirvin could compete for prominence on the city’s skyline.

Each room offered access to a free radio – quite a luxury at the time the Biltmore opened in 1932. Ceiling fans and circulating ice water ensured every guest was comfortable. The dining areas sported crisp white linens with fine china, crystal and silver.

Exquisite tapestries lined the walls, with rich wood-beamed ceilings.

The hotel closed in 1973, falling victim to Oklahoma City’s “urban renewal” projects. On the Biltmore’s final morning that crisp autumn day, many openly wept as they watched a piece of Oklahoma City’s legacy come tumbling down.

24 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

LABOR DAY WEEKEND

BY THE NUMBERS

By Steve Gill

1887

year Labor Day was first observed in the U.S., by the state of Oregon

7

years before it became a national holiday

30

striking employees killed during the 1894 Pullman Strike

1,807,100 Oklahomans employed in May 2014, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

36

90 2 0 0

years (and counting) OCCC has hosted Arts Festival Oklahoma on Labor Day weekend

average high temperature in Oklahoma City on Labor Day weekend

its rank among the hottest major holidays (after July 4) number of 100-degree days OKC has had in 2014, as of mid-June odds that statistic will still be true by Labor Day

26 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

4.6% 6.3% 27,100

6

days after the resolution of the strike that President Cleveland signed the holiday into law

Oklahoma’s unemployment rate in May 2014 U.S. unemployment rate in May 2014 increase in Oklahoma employment from May 2013 to May 2014

34 MILLION

estimated Americans taking trips of at least 50 miles on Labor Day weekend 2013, according to AAA

394

estimated traffic fatalities for Labor Day weekend 2013 by the National Safety Council; be careful out there

1.5 MILLION years ago that Homo ergaster (“working man”), an ancestor of Homo sapiens, roamed southern Africa

7:10

length of Rush’s furious blue-collar jam “Working Man,” give or take a few seconds of face-melting solo

1981

year Loverboy realized everybody was “Working for the Weekend”

6

Academy Award nominations for 1988’s “Working Girl,” including Melanie Griffith, Sigourney Weaver, Joan Cusack and Carly Simon

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Visit Janux today to be a part of this one-of-a-kind learning community.

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Janux is a part of The University of Oklahoma’s One University Digital Initiative, a universitywide venture aimed at enhancing the student experience by using new technologies and digital content.

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 27

UP FRONT | Exchange

STRENGTHENING THE COMMUNITY

By Lauren Hammack // Photo by Simon Hurst

Conv A e with rsation Geor Youn ge g

TO MANY OKLAHOMA CITIANS, HE’S PASTOR GEORGE YOUNG. To the rest of the community and state, the name George Young is synonymous with nonprofit service and leadership. During our recent exchange at a local restaurant (and every conversation leading up to it), we knew it would only be a matter of minutes before Young was recognized by a fellow volunteer from one board or another.

Young’s passion for endeavors that strengthen the community by helping youth to succeed may stem from his being eighth of nine children. As the recently retired pastor of Oklahoma City’s Holy Temple Baptist Church turns his sights toward a larger ministry of public service, his reflections on his own upbringing speak volumes about leadership by example.

What’s your hometown? Memphis, Tennessee.

How long have you been married to your wife, Thelma? 28 years. She’s originally from Alabama, but we met in Oklahoma City at church.

Where did you go to college?

Lambuth University in Memphis.

Do you come from a large family?

I’m the eighth of nine children.

Wow! You were practically the baby. I was the baby for a long time. I’m still mad at my little brother about that.

What do you value most in your friends? Honesty.

What do you think they value in you? Honesty.

Do you have a favorite hole-inthe-wall in Oklahoma City? Yes. VZD’s. They know my name.

What do you wish you’d never sold or given away? My old basketball trophies. After so many moves, they lost importance.

I should have left them at my mom’s.

How long ago did you enter the ministry? About 30 years ago.

What do you think you’d be doing today if you hadn’t taken that path? I’d be the head basketball coach at a major college.

28 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

How much time did you spend on the hardwood? I played all through junior high, high school and some college.

Position? Point guard.

What did basketball teach you about life? It truly takes a team to accomplish anything.

What should people learn to do?

Be kinder.

What’s the best decision you ever made? Marrying Thelma.

Who are your real-life heroes?

My mother and father.

What did you learn from your parents? The importance of getting an education. A strong work ethic. To walk with pride and conduct yourself with humility.

Is there anything you won’t eat?

Boiled okra.

What’s overrated? Power.

What’s less important now than it used to be? What I feel people think of me.

What’s more important now?

What I think about myself.

What kind of penmanship do you have? It’s pretty good.

What do you count among your greatest achievements? The relationships I have with people.

Not just a number of friends, but having real connections and mutual respect with people.

What are the odds you’ll pick the fastest drive-thru lane at the bank? About a 75 percent probability.

What do you bring to a crowded room? A smile.

When they make a movie about your life, who should play the role of Pastor George Young?

Don Cheadle.

Were your parents or teachers wrong about anything? I wouldn’t say they were “wrong” about anything, but I don’t think they really knew what a big world this really is.

What do you believe that most people don’t? Humility is powerful.

What do you hope people will never assume about you? That my thinking is limited to the context in which they may know me. For example, if someone knows me as a pastor, I wouldn’t want them to assume that I think a certain way – my thinking is broader than that.

Do you collect anything? Yes. I love to collect foreign stamps and African-American history stamps. I also love collecting foreign currency.

Are you early, late or on time?

Probably a couple of minutes late, but I’ll call if I’m running late.

Is there anything you’d change about your childhood? I’ve loved to read since I was a child. I would dedicate myself to reading even more. I truly believe the one key to life is to be able to read, to understand what you read and to enjoy reading. More than anything else, it’s a ticket to anywhere.

What are you most grateful for? My parents. When I look at it now, it’s incredible what they tried to teach us and give us.

They instilled in us to do better.

It was an expectation, but never forced or coerced.

What message would you put inside a fortune cookie? “You will encounter more obstacles in life.

Fight on!”

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www.wymanframe.com AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 29

UP FRONT | Mingling

Douglas and Kerri Tapp, Doug Sauter

Michelle Brown, Glenda Davis

BOOTS, BANDANAS & BBQ Photos by Claude Long

Guests support the upkeep of the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion by dressing Western and delighting in an evening of dining and square dancing.

Jennifer Hustis, Betsy Mantor

Jillian Bryant, Susan Scott

Bob Sommers, Senator Larry Boggs

FANDANGO AT THE HARN Photos by Claude Long

A Night on the Prairie supports the Harn Homestead and Territorial Museum, while giving party-goers plenty to celebrate.

Mary Beth Greer, Travis Beck

Ty and Lori Tyler, Jenny and David Kallenberger Shannon Price, Katie and Morgandi Collins, Kim Wallace

5X5

Photos by Claude Long

Five is the magic number in the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond’s fundraising sale of small-scale artistic creations.

Want more photos? Sign up for our Snapshot! newsletter at sliceok.com/newsletters/.

30 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Jane and Conner Helms

Courtney and Tim Melton

Robert Rogers, Tom Ward

Jane Harlow, Joel Levine

DEAN McGEE AWARDS Photos by Claude Long

Four titans of downtown OKC’s development are honored as part of an illustrious gala at the Skirvin.

Brian and Ronita Alford, Dixie and Jim Stengle

Mayor Mick Cornett, Dr. Bob Blackburn

James Pickel, Judy Hatfield

Britta Newton, Reeve Tarron

Kirk Humphreys, Jane Jenkins, Steve Lackmeyer, Leslie Batchelor

Natausha and Josh Spears

GAILLARDIA WHITE OUT Photos by Claude Long

Gaillardia Country Club continues a crisp, classy tradition with its annual social gathering and lobster boil.

Timothy Fields, Charlotte Edwards, Eddie Walker

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 31

UP FRONT | Mingling Pat Goodin, Kristine Garner, Tracy Renfro Leslie McKean, Alicia Jackson, Leah Stewart Sarah Lee, Mary Harrison

Cheryl Ramey, Joyce Wagner

Angie LaPlante, Royce Bargas

GO RED FOR WOMEN Photos by Claude Long

Marc and Debby Howard, Leslie Blair and Mark Hanstein

Jari Askins, Madison Rae Lockhart

BRENDA WHEELOCK

DAYNA ROWE

The scarlet shade represents lifesaving commitment to mutual support and sharing knowledge at the American Heart Association’s annual luncheon and educational seminar.

DAYNA ROWE

Ryan Pivonka, Carli Bishop

INFANT CRISIS AUCTION Photo by Claude Long

Babies in need will benefit hugely from the funds collected at this high-energy event organized by Infant Crisis Services’ Teen Associate Board.

32 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Rick Bott, Katheleen Guzman

ACADEMIC AWARDS BANQUET The future and present both look bright as the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence holds its annual celebration for exceptional state high school graduates.

Michael Martin, Mary Elizabeth Drake, Nathan Goodrich

Stewart and Sandy Meyers, Mark Parker Carol and Don Kaspereit

Jan McDaniel, Annie Bohanon, Mark Belcik

MEYERS YOUNG AUDIENCE THEATER Photos by Justin Avera

Organizers and supporters cheer a collaboration with OCU to share a production of “South Pacific” with a packed house of schoolchildren at no charge.

Graham and Sarah Glaser Rosalie and Gary Rahe

Allie Fleischfresser, Kane Cassil

ST. ANTHONY POP! Photos by Claude Long

Tasty treats, live music and an assortment of delicious beverages add sparkle to a fundraiser for St. Anthony’s hospital care.

Want more photos? Sign up for our Snapshot! newsletter at sliceok.com/newsletters/.

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 33

UP FRONT | Mingling

Nina Daylor, Carl Edwards, Debby Hampton

OKLAHOMANS FOR THE ARTS The nonprofit advocacy group welcomes its new director Julia Kirt at a Paseo reception.

Steve Lein, Patty Williams, Donita Thomas Rebecca Barker, Michael Gleason

Ken Fergeson, Julia Kirt, James Tolbert

Julia Kirt, Brian Hearn, Amber Sharples

Julie Cohen, Peter Dolese

UNITED WAY LEADERSHIP RECEPTION Photos by Claude Long

Canon Russell, Mandy Russell

Shelly Douglas, Garrett Hondronastas, Anna Farhat

Thanks are due to those who give back to the community in a big way, as the United Way honors major donors in a Classen Curve event.

Kristen Taylor, Jackie Davey

JDRF HOPE GALA Photos by Claude Long

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation marks the Kentucky Derby with a Run for the Roses-themed fundraiser.

Want more photos? Sign up for our Snapshot! newsletter at sliceok.com/newsletters/.

34 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

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Artist Reception Saturday, July 26th 10am - 2pm

6432 N. Western Avenue | 405.840.4437 | howellgallery.com AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 35

UP FRONT | Wanderlust

He bought the place from his parents, on a dirt road a mile north and a mile east of Nowata, near the Kansas border. Like most of his neighbors, his house is tucked behind a fence. A mailbox marks the end of the driveway.

36 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

77 COUNTIES

BOWLING BALL MAN OF NOWATA

By M.J. Alexander

UNLIKE MOST OF HIS NEIGHBORS, CHRIS BARBEE’S MAILBOX IS TOPPED BY A TROPHY AND BALANCED ON THREE BOWLING BALLS. Dozens more bowling balls dangle, suspended by chains, from his 80-foot-long, front-yard fence facing County Road 021.

All told, Barbee has collected more than 2,800 bowling balls – weighting nearly 20 tons – to create Nowata County’s only folk-art sculpture garden.

The balls are skewered on metal posts, strung like pearls, piled in a pyramid. They have been painted as ladybugs and caterpillars and spiders, nestled in the long grass. Fashioned into a robot. A rosary. The alphabet.

He began eight years ago, after pondering what to do with the old bowling balls his second wife, Carol, had used as decorations among her roses. After she died of cancer in 1997, the garden went untended.

The eighth of 15 children born on a dairy farm in nearby Chelsea, Barbee retired in 2005 after working on the farm and in the oil field, with a 10-year stint as a shipper for a printing company. He was used to keeping busy, and the question of what to do with the bowling balls kept tickling the back of his mind.

“I kicked these bowling balls around for several years. Decided I needed to do something with them, either get rid of them or make something. So I came up with the fence. The first bowling ball on it was my own, and it just took off like wildfire from there.”

He has since created works ranging from a single-ball bunny head to the 819-ball pyramid behind the house. His larger-than-life American flag took 273 red, white and blue bowling balls and twoand-a-half years to complete.

Editor’s Note: This installment is part of author M.J. Alexander’s “77 Counties” series, chronicling her travels across Oklahoma. The full series is available at sliceok.com/travel/

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 37

UP FRONT | Wanderlust

BOWLING BALL YARD ART Project began: May 2006 14: Number of original bowling balls 2,800: Number of bowling balls now on display 1,500: Visitors per year Date of first visiting bus tour: May 19, 2009 Admission: Free Earliest artwork completed: The fence Length of fence: 80 feet Diameter of each bowling ball: 8.5 inches Maximum bowling ball weight: 16 pounds 819: Number of bowling balls in The Pyramid 344: Number in the Bowling Ball House 273: Number of bowling balls in the American flag 15: Number of nations represented by visitors 49: Number of states represented by visitors Only state not listed in guest book: South Dakota

38 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

The giant rosary is in honor of his mother. The breast cancer ribbon made of pink bowling balls is a tribute to Carol and to his daughters fighting the disease. Up the drive, on the right, is a shrine encased in Plexiglas and surrounded by double rows of bowling balls with names of tornado victims. A note explains that the ball and pin were in the Moore Bowling Alley when it was hit by the EF5 tornado May 20, 2013.

He likes to ponder new projects: “I’m not in the 10th frame of life yet. I had another three or four brought to me this week. I’m open to ideas; I’m open to suggestions. We’ll just see where it goes from there.”

He wonders what his folks would think of the hundreds of visitors he gets each year. “I often think of my parents, who moved here in 1966. I bought the place in ’94. If mom and dad knew how many cars and people stop by today, they would never believe it!”

What would Carol think of the bowling ball artwork?

Barbee laughs. “It would not make her happy. She was an only child. She never even wanted me to put out a bird feeder.”

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 39

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42 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Farm to Fork

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The word “local” has become one of those labels – like green or fair trade – that represents both a growing awareness about the effects of our purchasing, and the desire to make sure that consumption is at least somewhat conscientious.

Although arguably an idea as old as the hills – calls for “buying American” have long been a hallmark of the push to provide economic stimulation and job security in the United States – the idea of limiting one’s scope of consumption as a method of reducing ecological impact gained wider popularity after the 2007 publication of “Plenty: One Man, One Woman, and a Raucous Year of Eating Locally,” a book

by Canadian writers Alisa Smith and J. B. MacKinnon. Released in Canada as “The 100 Mile Diet: A Year of Local Eating,” MacKinnon and Smith’s memoir about their decision to eat only locally produced foods for a year became a tangible example for those looking for ways to live lightly and reconnect food with a sense of place, an association sometimes lost in a time when products can often travel thousands of miles from origin to plate.

While not the only point in the book, the motivation to eat locally as a way of limiting environmental overhead was a key point, and the inspiration for many locavores, both before and after the publication of “Plenty.” The idea is that by reducing the number of miles that food travels before you consume it, you’re reducing the emissions caused by its transportation, thus slimming down your carbon footprint. It’s a concept that seems to make sense, but one that Austin-based author and historian James McWilliams calls into question.

By Jill Hardy // Photos by Carli Wentworth

In his book “Just Food: Where Locavores Get It Wrong,” McWilliams proposed that life cycle assessments of products, rather than simple distance calculations, are a more valuable way of ascertaining how much ecological “cost” should be associated with any given product.

“A life cycle assessment is simply a comprehensive look at all of the energy that’s used to bring a product from farm to fork,” McWilliams explains. “They’re valuable because they’re broken down in terms of sectors of production, so you can see where the energy to make a particular product is being most aggressively consumed. What we have found through life cycle assessments is that the stage of production that actually uses the most energy is not transportation, as a lot of people assume. Transportation actually accounts for a small percentage of the energy that’s used to get food to our plates.”

In the world of dueling scientific studies, several have been found to prove that ultimately, large-scale production of certain items may not be as ecologically devastating as it would seem – and might even, in some cases, be more economical. A Swedish study found that in terms of reducing use of fossil fuels, it was more environmentally beneficial for Swedes to purchase tomatoes grown in Spain, rather than those grown in their own country, where energy-greedy greenhouses were necessary for production. Food miles may sound outrageous when applied to a single meal, for a single individual, but when factored in to the size of shipment and divided amongst thousands of other recipients, the number shrinks dramatically. Efficiency of transportation accounts for quite a bit of ecological cost, as well; rail transport has been

revealed to be safer and more cost- and fuelefficient than using trucks, when both were compared side by side in a 2002 study.

Concern about “food miles” aside, are there still good reasons to search out local products? Despite cautions about viewing the locavore movement as a solution for worldwide food problems, the answer for James McWilliams is a hearty “yes.”

“I actively support local farms. I like the idea of sourcing our food as locally as possible when it makes sense to do so. I went to the farmer’s market yesterday, and was reminded of the social benefits that come from buying food directly from the farmer.

I think it’s really an important element of buying food that we’ve lost.”

In addition to the relational gains of reacquainting consumers with farmers, Oklahoma Food Co-op president Bob Waldrop says that getting your food locally could also be a little safer.

“When you become part of the Oklahoma Food Co-op, you become part of a community,” Waldrop says. “We have transparency in our production practices.

“There has never been a food recall of meat processed in an Oklahoma processing plant that has been inspected by the USDA. That’s a critical thing. They’re proud of that record and they’re intent on keeping that record. We have 19 different meat producers in our co-op, and it’s all done in USDA inspected plants, so they (consumers) can expect the highest degree of safety. I know the names of everyone who grew the meat in my freezer; I can call them up and ask them questions. You’re not going to find that type of transparency and relationship at a big box store.”

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Olivia and Travis Flatt

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That type of open door policy may not be feasible for every farmer in the state, but it’s firmly in place at Upward Harvest (upwardharvest.com), where the Flatt family grows microgreens and herbs. Available at metro area grocery stores (including various Uptown and Buy for Less branches), and soon through online ordering, which will allow customers to come and eyeball the unique aquaponic operation for themselves, the farm’s hyperefficient system (consisting of a 3,400-square-foot greenhouse on a single acre of land) has the ability to produce 50,000 microgreens per month.

Travis Flatt says that the microgreens’ dynamic nutritional value is magnified by the fact that the plant is still alive when sold, a perk that is at least partially due to their short travel time – another benefit of local food.

“If you eat a big head of romaine, you’re getting a lot of mass, but little nutrition, especially if it’s been shipped from somewhere. All of the plants we sell are still living, roots still intact, until you harvest them.”

Despite the ambiguity about local consumption’s lessening our tread on the earth, there’s no doubt that creating connections between people who care about where their food comes from will yield results that have positive environmental impacts. Jennifer Bloodworth of JS Farms, a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) based in Purcell, relates how such relationships are already bearing fruit in her area.

“A friend of mine runs the local farmer’s market and she owns Café 77 in Noble. We were discussing how to recreate the farmer’s market in Oklahoma, the kind you see on the east and west coast, teaching classes, etc. and the discussion just snowballed. I asked what the restaurant did with their food scraps, and she said, ‘Well, they just go in the trash.’ So I said, ‘Why don’t you give me your scraps, and we can reduce your carbon footprint and I can repurpose your waste (as compost).’ She started doing research about how to make that happen, and now we’re getting other businesses involved.

That compost helps us grow food for the community.”

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Locavore Lingo Tips and Resources to Help You Purchase Local Food

Matthew Burch

Jennifer is also an advocate for Oklahomans taking the local adventure a step closer; their own backyards.

“If it [growing] intimidates you, start small, a 12-inch diameter pot with a few things, and once that is successful you’ll want to add more to that.”

For the home-grower who develops a taste for more, Jennifer has co-founded the Central Oklahoma Homesteaders group – find them at facebook.com/oklahomahomesteader – where ambitious souls can find answers to questions about raising chickens, composting and other earthy topics. Jennifer says that even the most urban among us can indulge their green thumbs.

“There are a ton of ways to get creative. I’ve seen people use plastic shoe organizers on fences to grow vertical gardens. It’s just thinking outside the box. The more you grow in your yard, the less you’ll have to mow. If you start small you won’t be intimidated and you’ll pace yourself.”

For those starting from scratch and wondering what to plant, when, visit osufacts.okstate.edu to find an Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Fact Sheet about garden planning.

Economic advantages also play a part in the positives about locally focused consuming; generally speaking, a larger percentage of the money spent goes directly to the producer when you buy local, and you’re supporting Oklahoma jobs and a certain degree of food independence.

“California is facing a drought,” says Matthew Burch, founder of Urban Agrarian, referencing that state’s status as the producer of nearly half of the fruits, vegetables and nuts grown in the United States. “We certainly have the ability here to raise a lot of our own food. I think that this year local food may be a little more on the radar because of the drought in California … it’s important to have a local foodshed just for that reason, because you never know what the weather’s going to do and we don’t want to rely solely on one part of the country because those prices could skyrocket.”

Getting excited about the prospect of local food? If you’re new to the quest, here are a few helpful hints about sourcing local stuff.

FIND A FARMER’S MARKET. The term isn’t an automatic synonym for “locally grown;” there may be products there – depending on the size and location of the market – that have originated elsewhere, but your best chance for getting freshfrom-the-farm foodstuffs on a whim will be at a local farmer’s market. The National Farmer’s Market Directory has a page listing many of our state’s markets at nfmd.org/ok. Simply click on your town to find one.

INVESTIGATE CSAS AND CO-OPS. When you want to get serious about your sourcing, consider joining a group designed to promote ongoing relationships between farmers and consumers, like a CSA or co-op. What’s the difference? A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a subscription service that is paid for upfront, before the growing season, and provides weekly deliveries to clients during harvest times. Online green guides like Ecovian’s at ecovian.com/s/oklahomacity/csa can help locate CSAs near you, but asking at farmer’s markets and local health food stores can provide clues as well. Co-ops like the Oklahoma Food Cooperative at oklahomafood.coop/ are organizations that require a nominal fee for membership, and then give you the ability to purchase available products monthly, as needed or according to supply.

BROWSE BRICK AND MORTAR STORES. As with farmers’ markets, the title of “health food store” isn’t a guarantee of local offerings – although most have at least a minimal presence of Okie-grown food – but as demand grows, more and more shops are cropping up that are intended to fill that need.

Matthew Burch founded local food retail/distribution center Urban Agrarian in his garage in 2008, and has since graduated to a 5,000-square-foot space in the Old Farmer’s Market District downtown, providing retail and wholesale products to both individuals and entities committed to local food. The Made in Oklahoma Coalition (miocoalition.com/) branding campaign has made identifying locally produced items – ranging from Shawnee Mills flour to paper towels – easy in mainstream markets like Homeland and Crest, and herb and microgreen purveyors Upward Harvest can be found in the aisles at Buy for Less and Uptown grocery stores.

ENGAGE WITH LOCALLY FOCUSED EATERIES. With the surge in consciousness about food’s proximity of place, many restaurants have made local sourcing a part of their plan, with tasty benefits. Nonna’s Euro-American Ristorante and Bar has grown much of its own produce for years, and many of the metro’s favorite dining haunts (The Loaded Bowl, Irma’s Burger Shack, Local, Ludivine, The Mule, Packard’s New American Kitchen and Whiskey Cake, to name just a few) openly cite their use of locally-provided ingredients, while the Made In Oklahoma Coalition website has an exhaustive list for those looking to dovetail their dining out with efforts to eat local. The level to which an establishment uses local products will vary from place to place; ask if you’re curious.

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Drinking Locally Oklahoma Wines Metro eatery Nonna’s receives much of the produce used in its dishes from Cedar Spring Farms, which was established for the purpose of supplying the restaurant with fresh fruits and vegetables. Owner Avis Scaramucci places a premium on quality, and says that nothing beats fresh produce.

“When you’re serving in a restaurant,” Scaramucci says, “If you want great food, you have to begin with great ingredients.”

“I’ve never regretted it; it gives me the ability to use really nice, fresh ingredients. We have the advantage of not harvesting our products until they’re truly ripe, which gives them the ability to be at the peak of freshness and the peak of taste.”

Scaramucci also points to a heightened sense of responsibility, as a local grower/producer, that might encourage more mindful practices.

“Anybody growing local will have a different commitment because it’s used in that area; that’s just a different thing from growing and sending it halfway around the world. Everything I produce, I’m responsible for.”

The wholesomeness of the local food movement – the desire to reconnect with the people who produce what we eat, the move to connect place with nourishment – seems to echo a simpler time, one that Scaramucci believes we would do well to emulate once again.

“I think it’s past time that we come back to some things that at one point we probably called old fashioned, but were probably the very best of practices,” Scaramucci says. “We’ve kind of come full circle, even though we’ll still use supermarkets and have things shipped – you can’t have everything fresh – but to add to the possibilities, all the products that are left to grow until they’re truly ready to harvest, that are watched and properly maintained and handled … it’s just a whole different mindset and a commitment to producing something that tastes good and is good for you.

“And that’s a good combination.”

Talk of limiting one’s consuming to state or regional boundaries may cause a bit of panic among Oklahoma’s oenophiles, but the wine scene in our great state has grown considerably over the past several years, and a new development has brought its visibility – and fun level – to new heights.

Debuting this summer, the Oklahoma Wine Trails are an interactive way for natives and tourists to experience Oklahoma wine and wineries. Ten cleverly named itineraries (“All You Do Is Wine” and “Forgive Me, For I Have Zinned” are two examples) take travelers on trips that can range in length from a weekend to a few hours, depending on the trail chosen.

Part cultural enterprise, part scavenger hunt, the Oklahoma Wine Trails provide the opportunity to either discover or deepen your knowledge of our state’s wines by traveling the trails and collecting stamps in a passport which can also serve as a journal if you want to keep notes, and then redeeming them for keepsake charms which represent each trail, once all of the wineries on a given route have been visited. Maps of each trail along with instructions and more information can be found at OklahomaWineTrails. com. Self-guided and limited in scope (each trail includes two to four wineries), the venture is meant to encourage leisurely exploration that can be accomplished with relative ease.

Far from being an exhaustive list (many wineries and vineyards were not included based on limited operating hours or distance), The Oklahoma Wine Trails nonetheless serves as a winsome introduction to the unique wine culture of our state, which has expanded significantly in the last decade. Jamie Cummings, program administrator for Oklahoma Agritourism, explains that local wine production has moved beyond a quirky niche market, to being an economic force and a competitive challenger to other U.S. producers.

“The Oklahoma wine industry has seen a surge from three wineries in 2000, to more than 60 today. That’s a 1600 percent increase in the last 10 years. Although the Oklahoma Grape and Wine industry is still very young, the state ranks 31st in wine production. All Oklahoma wineries produce around 4,000 cases of wine per year.”

A survey undertaken by the Oklahoma Grape Industry Council in 2010 to gauge the economic impact of the wine industry on Oklahoma estimated the retail value of Oklahoma wine sold at around $4 million, with over 100,000 wine-related tourists visiting the state, and more than $23 million in wages paid to Oklahoma workers.

So, the encouragement to eat and buy products grown and manufactured in Oklahoma as a way to stimulate our economy and provide Oklahoma businesses with revenue would seem to translate to sipping home-grown grape products as well. But more than that, there’s an aspect of state pride that comes with learning about Oklahoma wines. Wine writer Matt Kramer says in his book “Making Sense of Wine” that great wines are unique because their taste is inextricably linked with place. That they invariably, in his words, taste as if they came “from somewhere.” Kramer maintains that “somewhereness” can’t be faked, or even fully explained, but “when you taste a wine that has it, you know.”

Most Okies have a deep and abiding love for their state, and immersing oneself in locally produced wines might be a very productive way to deepen that relationship, if for no other reason than to search out the vintage that might hold that elusive taste that clearly says, “Oklahoma.”

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SMARTBOARD JUNGLE bysean becker

A CERTAIN OFF-COLOR AXIOM ASSERTS THAT OPINIONS ARE LIKE VERY SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE HUMAN ANATOMY. IN BRIEF, EVERYBODY HAS ONE. ASSUMING THAT’S TRUE, OPINIONS ABOUT EDUCATION IN THE UNITED STATES MUST BE LIKE HAIR FOLLICLES – EVERYBODY HAS MORE THAN THEY CAN COUNT. THAT’S BECAUSE WE ALL HAVE SOME EXPERIENCE WITH SCHOOL. THIS IS, FIRST AND FOREMOST, A REMARKABLE STATEMENT. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, LAND OF THE FREE AND HOME OF THE BRAVE, PIONEERED THE NOTION OF TAXPAYER-SUPPORTED PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE NASCENT DAYS OF THE REPUBLIC.

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Education here and in the European homelands had long been the province of the wealthy, who could afford to pay for private school tuition, or the lucky – those who had an educated relative or other connection willing to impart their scholarly knowledge. While variations on tuition-free public schools have existed in parts of the world since the days of ancient Greece and imperial China, those opportunities were exceedingly rare, particularly for females.

The idea of education in the United States changed with the reform movement ushered in by Horace Mann. He posited that the education system that existed in antebellum America was based completely on inequity. It was a rich man’s game, and he wanted to change it for the good of the country. An educated populace, thought Mann, would contribute to the fledgling democracy and help eliminate the societal barriers borne of wealth and influence. He was instantly and vehemently opposed. Mann persisted and, finding favor amid the social utopia crazed reformer set of the 1830s, his Common Schools movement eventually took root.

SCHOOL GROUND CONTROL In reality, our story could end right there. Public schools, embattled from the start, still kindle heated debates. From the dawn of the one-room schoolhouse typical of the early Common Schools movement to the high-tech classrooms of

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today’s most modern edifices of education, public schools have been a hot topic. Modern popular culture shrewdly latched onto education as subject matter, helping to keep the conversation going.

Originally published in the 1930s, Laura Ingalls Wilder’s “Little House on the Prairie” books frequently take us to the rural schoolhouses of the late 1800s. The contemporary “Harry Potter” books introduce us to a different kind of school – albeit full of characters with familiar personality traits – at Hogwarts. Hollywood films from “Blackboard Jungle” to “The Breakfast Club” helped make the school flick a viable big screen genre. Television has produced such memorable (or, perhaps, forgettable) series as “Welcome Back, Kotter,” “The Facts of Life” and “Glee,” further ingraining the school experience on the collective American psyche.

Good, bad, ugly or indifferent, everybody has interacted with the education system in some way or another. While education has served as a viable vehicle for entertainment media, it has also proven to be a launching pad for political careers. Though tempting to attribute that trend to Horace Mann, it’s worth noting that his call for public education came after his stint in Congress. Regardless, public schools as a social experiment have often landed squarely in the middle of public debate – fertile grounds for concerned citizens and aspiring politicians alike.

Landmark Supreme Court cases once approved racial segregation of public places, including schools, under the “separate but equal” doctrine espoused by the Plessy v.

Ferguson decision in 1896. The same Court later tore down

those same walls of segregation in the 1954 ruling in Brown v. Board of Education. The latter case, argued by a young Thurgood Marshall, marked a milestone in America’s Civil Rights movement and helped Marshall become the first African American Supreme Court Justice 13 years later.

All too often, school violence has captured headlines, from the heinous Columbine massacre to the heartbreaking Sandy Hook slaughter. Before the dust settled after these unconscionable acts, Second Amendment fans and foes rushed to dominate the airwaves in favor of more guns or more gun control. With the proliferation of smart phones and social media, a new brand of bullying is making life miserable for a new generation of victims.

Right here in our own backyard, devastating tornadoes claimed precious young lives just over a year ago. That tragedy has brought scrutiny to the construction quality of schools and raised the question of why shelters are not available in all schools. Despite some legal setbacks, supporters led by the advocacy group Take Shelter Oklahoma are striving to put an issue on the statewide ballot in November to authorize storm shelters in all Oklahoma schools. With the unthinkable to think about when packing off the progeny for another school year, we should be able to take comfort in the fact that our kids are getting an education. But the nature of that education is just another ongoing topic in the debate.

Most of the state and federal disputes about public education in recent decades have revolved around academic standards and ensuring equal access to an as-yet-undefined high-quality education. President Lyndon Johnson’s Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), part of the War on Poverty, ushered in the era of equality debate. Subsequent reauthorizations of the initial law have masqueraded as new legislation.

President Clinton’s Improving America’s Schools Act (IASA) of 1994 added provisions to ESEA, notably for charter schools. George W. Bush kicked off his first administration with the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) in 2001. NCLB implemented increased accountability measures for states, school districts and schools; greater school choice flexibility for parents; increased local control over the distribution of federal funding; and a greater emphasis on reading in the lower grade levels.

COMMON CORE, FAMILIAR RESPONSE With each presidential reauthorization of ESEA, the clarion call against federal control over schools is heard afresh. Despite the original law’s carefully worded instruction forbidding the establishment or endorsement of a national curriculum, we find ourselves embroiled in another such controversy today. The culprit this time around is the Common Core State Standards Initiative, better known simply as Common Core. Nearly

200 years after his Common Schools movement gained traction, Horace Mann would still be right at home in this debate.

Rather than prescribing a curriculum, Common Core’s goal is to set standards. Sponsored by the National Governors Association (NGA) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), Common Core aims to create consistent standards for achievement in English language arts and mathematics across the states. The ultimate goal is for schools to produce high school graduates who are college or workforce ready upon matriculation. Mann’s original vision was to produce citizens who would be able to more fully participate in – and therefore reap the benefits of – a democratic society.

Common Core seeks to produce citizens who are immediately marketable to colleges or employers, thereby making them capable of participating in and reaping the benefits of a free-market economy. The standards are also designed to align with international standards, ideally making it easier for American kids to compete in the global economy. Economic equality – or at least the possibility of achieving it – is at the heart of both reforms. What’s not to love?

As it turns out, a lot. Liberals, conservatives, libertarians, teachers and talking heads across the media realm have lodged a litany of complaints against Common Core.

One of the more popular uprisings against Common Core questions its very value as academic standards. In several cases the proposed standards are lower than existing state standards. Most state standards are roughly on par with Common Core expectations, and a handful of others have academic standards that are considered lower. Virginia, citing existing standards already more demanding than the Common Core version, asked rhetorically why they should change. Good question. (And they haven’t, by the way.)

The most frequently heard fracas around the standards is that they represent an “overreach” by the federal government. Although the federal government did not develop the standards, the U.S. Department of Education has tied financial incentives to their adoption. The result is a de facto national curriculum. Many states hastily adopted Common Core standards before they were even finalized. The rush to adoption may have been based on the fear of losing the opportunity to qualify for grants and other federal perks.

Now that the standards have been fully developed, several states, including Oklahoma, are rethinking that decision. At press time, Alaska, Indiana, Nebraska, South Carolina and the aforementioned Virginia had joined the Sooner State in eschewing Common Core in favor of homegrown standards. Several other states are considering backing out as well. Minnesota adopted the English language arts standards but not those for mathematics. So we’re hardly alone here. Common Core has ruffled birds of many feathers across the country.

In the interest of candor, I must acknowledge that I spent several years writing and editing middle school and high school textbooks and their accompanying materials.

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we have to believe that wholesale educational reform efforts like common core begin with the best intentions in mind. we want to be the best in the world in the classroom.

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Much of my educational publishing experience involved tailoring subject matter to specific state standards. Having worked intimately with standards from a dozen or more states representing regions from around the country, it is fair to say that the states, left to their own devices, manage to craft fairly similar expectations for their students.

Most states create thorough, logical standards that are well conceived if not broadly worded and rather vague on detail. Some did manage to create absolutely baffling standards occasionally bordering on the absurd or simply unintelligible. Such instances were exceedingly rare, in my experience. Overall, few states proposed specific texts or examples of materials that had to be used in the classroom.

Despite some of the more alarmist commentary, Common Core standards mostly steer clear of stating exactly what must be used to teach a concept. The high school English Language Arts standards do prescribe instructional materials in one instance. The authors specify that “at least one play by Shakespeare and one play by an American dramatist” be used to satisfy one standard. Tennessee Williams, anyone?

Other works cited specifically are offered merely as suggestions. For example, educators are invited to use W.H. Auden’s poem “Musée des Beaux Arts” and Bruegel’s painting “Landscape with the Fall of Icarus” to demonstrate how a specific theme can be portrayed via two media. These are certainly worthy entries in the literary and fine arts canons, but do we really need to point out the callous indifference of man to ninth- and tenth-graders? At least it’s just a suggestion.

Most curiously, the one work cited most often by the Common Core standards as an example text is the Bible.

Perhaps students can read “Inherit the Wind,” watch the classic 1960 film and be done with it. Nonetheless, states that adopt Common Core standards still have the freedom to choose the material to teach specific skills to their students. Although not without merit, the federal overreach argument doesn’t really hold up under scrutiny. To be fair, the argument against federal intrusion sees Common Core as a slippery slope toward losing local control of schools.

Taken in that context, the prospect of federal overreach is a valid concern.

WILL THIS BE ON THE TEST? It’s a familiar refrain welling up from the rows of desks populating classrooms around the country. Kids in school are tested on their knowledge acquisition at all turns.

Why? No other assessment tool comes remotely close to yielding accurate results at the classroom level. Everyone there had the same information presented in the same way at the same time (assuming no absences or other statisticskewing scenarios). Therefore, an examination given to

that group should prove to be the most reliable indicator of knowledge gained. Simple enough.

But public education is not one big classroom. There are tens of thousands of schools in the country. What works on the classroom level in one school, in one city, in one state will not translate across all of the diverse scenarios presented by such a massive system. And many would argue that it shouldn’t. To expect otherwise is to demand a universal and communal educational output. Given the disdain for centralized control over local school districts, that is not a desirable outcome. Enter the standardized test.

As a means of measuring results from a multitude of school systems far and wide, the standardized test reigns supreme. Most states have implemented statewide exams administered at various points along a students’ pathway through the public education system. These checkpoints test knowledge of that state’s standards. The results can be used for everything from school and teacher evaluations to student remediation.

The Oklahoma Common Curriculum Test (OCCT) tests student knowledge in various subject areas at specific grade levels. Upon reaching the middle school grades, poor test results can result in remediation. At the high school level, failure to score at the required level can prevent students from graduating. Oklahoma’s use of a statewide exam and its results is consistent with other states across the country.

Common Core assessment presents states with a host of challenges. First, there is no existing examination. Second, upon completion and approval, there will be two exams available with states getting to choose the one they will implement. Several states, including Oklahoma but also some states that still adhere to Common Core standards, are working independently to create their own exams.

For educators in Oklahoma and elsewhere, it has added up to a lot of scrambling. Several states that have adopted Common Core standards have delayed assessment for at least two years. New York has opted to delay assessment until 2022 – eight school years from now!

Regardless of the commonality of standards, if every state has the freedom to craft its own curriculum and create its own examinations, any commonality is all but lost. If Oklahoma opted to stick with Common Core standards, for example, some educators may choose to teach Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” while others feel “Julius Caesar” works best for their kids. Everyone may have mastered the concept but nobody will know. We can hardly be expected to exchange papers with our peers in Tulsa and hope for fairly scored exams.

On the subject of tests, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is an ongoing evaluation of nationwide student achievement already mandated by law.

The NAEP is administered by the U.S. Department of Education through the National Center of Education Statistics.

The results are reported on a state-by-state basis and can be viewed online at nces.ed.gov. Compared to neighboring states and the U.S. on the whole, Oklahoma’s performance

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NATIONAL ASSESSMENT OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRESS MOST RECENTLY REPORTED GRADE 8 TEST RESULTS FOR OKLAHOMA AND NEIGHBORING STATES 8TH GRADE MATH OK 276 AR 276 TX 287 KS 289 U.S. AVG 282 MAX 300 8TH GRADE WRITING OK 153 AR 151 TX 151 KS 156 U.S. AVG 154 MAX 200

8TH GRADE READING OK 260 AR 258 TX 261 KS 267 U.S. AVG 261 MAX 300 8TH GRADE SCIENCE OK 147 TX 143 AR 144 KS N/A U.S. AVG 147 MAX 150 Note: Math and Reading data from 2011; Science data from 2009; Writing data from 2007.

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DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Summer vacation is almost over, and more than 600,000 Oklahoma kids are trudging off to another school year. If you are planning a family or planning to move, shopping around for a good school fit should be near the top of your list of priorities.

Fortunately for you, the Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA) has placed everything you need to know at your fingertips. Want to find the best elementary school for your kids in Norman?

Moving to Canadian County and want to compare school districts? No problem! Simply visit the OEQA website at schoolreportcard.org and start shopping.

In addition to school and district level comparisons, OEQA provides detailed information from around the state in their Profiles State Report. If you are moving out of the metro or just want to see how your school stacks up against the state, this free report offers a comprehensive look at classrooms from the Ouachita Mountains to the Panhandle.

holds up pretty well (see table). Common Core opponents complain that the initiative will just bring more testing.

Not necessarily better testing, just more of it. Given the legal mandate fulfilled by the NAEP, another iteration of a national test hardly seems necessary. Score one for Common Core opponents.

PENCILS DOWN All cynicism aside, we have to believe that wholesale educational reform efforts like Common Core begin with the best intentions in mind. We want to be the best in the world in the classroom. In a country that is geographically small and demographically homogenous, blanket solutions are plausible. But the United States is not Taiwan or Singapore or Sweden. There are too many sizes, shapes and colors for one-size-fits-all solutions. Taken as a set of standards, Common Core does offer a clear ideal for what students should know and when. But few things are ideal in elementary and secondary education – or elsewhere.

From Common Schools to Common Core, public education has been a hotbed of controversy since the early days of the union. Horace Mann envisioned our system of free, taxpayer-supported public schools. Lyndon Johnson, Bill Clinton and George W. Bush all had ideas for making those schools better. Common Core means to do well by our kids, and its heart is in the right place. But in the end, it probably won’t make schools better either.

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©2014 Golden Bison Distribution, LLC

BORN HERE Intriguing bison dishes are finding their way onto the most daring restaurant menus. That’s where we found our inspiration. New Prime Life: inventive bison entrées that let you enjoy a bold dining experience at home— in minutes. Learn more at PrimeLifeBison.com

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FARE A PALETTE TO PLEASE THE PALATE While an expert blend of Asian flavors fuels the cuisine at Guernsey Park, spectacular visual artistry is the icing on the (carrot) cake.

See page 62.

CARLI WENTWORTH

EASY AND EXCELLENT Bold flavor is a breeze in these sweet and spicy pork burritos 60 EAT & DRINK Variety is on the menu in Slice’s citywide dining guide 64 AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 59

FARE | In the Kitchen

CHIPOTLE PORK BURRITOS

3 pork tenderloins 4 t kosher salt 12 oz can beer, your choice 8 oz can pineapple tidbits 8 oz can crushed pineapple 1/4 c canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 1 package flour tortillas (burrito size) 1 can refried black beans, warmed Toppings to taste: shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, guacamole, sour cream, sliced radish, fresh lime juice

Rub tenderloins with salt and place in a 6 quart slow cooker. Pour beer and pineapple tidbits over the meat. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed pineapple and chipotle until smooth, and add to crockpot. Cover and cook on low 8 to 10 hours. Shred the pork and place it in a large bowl, then pour the pan drippings over the top and toss to coat. Divide the meat, saving one half in an airtight container to refrigerate for the Quick Chipotle Enchiladas recipe (or another round of chipotle burritos!) later in the week.

To assemble burrito: Spread refried beans over the middle of tortilla. Add chipotle pork, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, diced tomatoes and sliced radish to taste and garnish with a bit of chopped cilantro and squeeze of fresh lime juice. Fold in the sides and roll.

QUICK CHIPOTLE ENCHILADAS

EASY AND EXCELLENT

By Caryn Ross // Photo by Carli Wentworth

IN THE HEAT OF SUMMER, COOKING DINNER EVERY SINGLE NIGHT IS THE LAST THING YOU WANT TO DO! How about two dinners with little work or fuss so you can practically take a night off? I have just the thing for you – it’s time to get your slow cooker out. These simple ingredients will yield two phenomenal south-of-theborder meals. The best part is that these dinners are a snap to put together and don’t skimp on big, bold flavors. Pork is especially easy to cook with since it takes on the flavors you choose. In this particular dish, the pineapple adds a sweet touch to offset the bold spiciness of the chipotle peppers. Feel free to cut back on the peppers if you are a “spice weenie” like me, and get ready to rock the most flavorful pork you will put in your mouth this summer.

60 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Leftover Chipotle Pork 12 corn tortillas 2 c cheddar cheese, shredded 1 lb package Schwab’s Brick Chili, heated Fresh pico de gallo Chopped cilantro Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a 9" x 13" baking dish by lightly spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. Pour half of the warmed chili into the bottom of the baking dish. Spread it evenly over the bottom of the pan. Warm tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds, then begin assembly of the enchiladas by placing one tortilla flat on the bottom of the baking dish. Place two heaping tablespoons of pork in the center of the tortilla and then top with some grated cheese. Roll up tortilla and place seam side down. Continue until all tortillas are rolled and placed side by side in the pan. Pour the remaining chili over the top and sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake for 30 minutes or until cheese is melting. To serve, top with pico de gallo and chopped cilantro.

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FARE | Matters of Taste

GUERNSEY PARK 2418 N. Guernsey Ave., OKC 605.5272 | guernseypark.com

Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

THE ART OF DINING

By Steve Gill // Photos by Carli Wentworth

62 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

COOKING – THE ACT OF SELECTING AND COMBINING RAW INGREDIENTS, APPLYING HEAT AND PRESSURE TO COAX THEM INTO A GREATER HARMONY OF FLAVOR – IS A WONDROUS SKILL; making a meal from scratch that tastes great is a genuine art form. But the ability to make that meal also look great, to create food that dazzles the eye as well as the palate, is even more remarkable, and an excellent reason to seek out the secluded jewel called Guernsey Park.

Set off N.W. 23rd Street and Shartel on the edge of a residential neighborhood, Guernsey Park is itself a converted old house, giving a little extra undertone of domestic comfort to its coolly contemporary vibe: lots of pale wood and white cushions, dark wooden tables and chairs, huge swaths of natural light.

The genre is Asian Fusion, in the sense that the menu has a burger, but it’s topped with a papaya salad and lime aioli. You can order fried chicken, but it’s marinated in five-spice sauce before being battered and fried, and while the dish includes mashed potatoes and green beans it all sits in a soy-sriracha béchamel sauce.

Some dishes have an Asian spin, some are purely Asian, all have what I’d call high production values; a combination of tremendous visual appeal and expertly balanced complex flavors.

The server (who was great, by the way) told us that public opinion strongly favors the Chicken Lollipops appetizer – playfully presented chicken wings with a sweet chili sauce – but I’m breaking with orthodoxy on this one: you need to start with the Tuna Tower. The cylinder’s alternating strata of rice and tuna tartare are topped with a layer of green apple salsa and a dab of avocado mousse. The tiny red roe don’t seem to affect the taste much overtly, but add a little explosive crunch to the overall texture. It’s light on the palate, with a tangy, sweet, cool, amazingly complex flavor. Perhaps most impressively, no component overpowers the others.

That’s also true of the Grilled Nem Nuong, which is listed under “Salads” – probably because there’s no category for “Assemble Your Own … Something Great.” It does feature romaine lettuce in a peanut vinaigrette, but most salads don’t include grilled pork sausage bites or spheres of coiled vermicelli noodles with sprigs of cilantro and mint. You know what, though? Their loss.

Chef Vuong Nguyen even maintains the flavor balancing act with the Curry Salmon, a pan-seared filet with the crispy skin still on top laid on a bed of potato hash, in a pool of velvety yellow curry.

For dessert, the Carrot Cake is a must-try. The cake itself is fine, a little dense perhaps, but the title component is far from the star: check out the two little scoops of cream cheese ice cream, a piece of ginger wafer, translucently thin candied orange slice and wild heaps of crispy orange peel shavings, with candied pecans and a little drizzle of rum caramel.

Let me not equivocate in my sincere recommendation: everything I’ve had here has been marvelous, and that’s an open statement since I plan to become a semi-regular starting immediately. Plus, I’ve spent considerably more money on meals elsewhere that were vastly less satisfying.

That seems pretty conclusive to me … but go visit Guernsey Park and enjoy doing your own research.

QUICK TIPS

Go down under. The main dining room is upstairs from the ground bar level; the bathrooms are half a flight down and to the east, near the sushi counter. Don’t hesitate to get directions from the staff, and if you find yourself in the kitchen, you’ve gone the wrong way.

Drink responsibly. There’s a full bar including an impressive sake list, but at the risk of spirituous censorship, I might recommend sticking to something with a lighter impact on the palate or even simply water. It’d be a shame to drown some of the food’s more delicate flavors.

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 63

Eat & Drink KEY $ $$ $$$

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

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KAISER’S AMERICAN BISTRO Founded in 1918, Kaiser’s boasts a great view, a top-notch buffalo burger and an ice cream soda fountain. 1039 N Walker, OKC, 232.7632 $ LEGEND’S A casually upscale landmark for over 40 years, it still serves exceptional seafood, steaks and more. 1313 W Lindsey, Norman, 329.8888 $$ MUTT’S AMAZING HOT DOGS Inspired creations featuring varied prime meats and unexpected and tasty flavor profiles.

1400 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.3647 $ NEBU This airy provider of chef-prepared sandwiches, sushi, pizza and more is in the garden wing of the Devon tower. 280 W Sheridan, OKC $ PACKARD’S NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN They’re not kidding about the “new” – the menu is filled with innovative ideas. 201 NW 10th, Suite 100, OKC, 605.3771 $$ PARK HOUSE The staunch wine list and great view of the Myriad Gardens add to a menu filled with contemporary American tastes. 125 Ron Norick Blvd, OKC, 445.7080 $$ PICASSO CAFÉ As creative as its neighbors in the Paseo Arts District; zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises abound. 3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $ POPS A bit out of the way but worth the drive, this café has burgers, salads, shakes and an unbelievably broad soda selection.

660 W Highway 66, Arcadia, 233.2020 $

AMERICAN

REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, enchiladas and steak in a casual hacienda-style atmosphere by the lake. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995 $$

ANN’S CHICKEN FRY HOUSE A Route 66 classic with copious decorative memorabilia, and huge portions of excellent chicken-fried steak. 4106 NW 39th, OKC, 943.8915 $

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL Amply portioned and green chili-amplified burgers, breakfasts and more fill this inviting diner. 231 S Coltrane, Edmond, 562.4777 $

BOULEVARD CAFETERIA Chicken and dumplings, liver and onions - one of the last of the area’s independent cafeterias is still pounding out the hits. 525 NW 11th, OKC, 239.6861 $

RUNNING WILD CATERING Elegance is as abundant as flavor in the spreads supplied for special occasions by this full-service caterer; home to a broad menu and impeccable execution. Appointment only.

3830 N Maney Ave, OKC, 751.0688 $$

CAFÉ 7 Fast and casual, with varied salad, sandwich, pizza and pasta options, all priced under $7. 14101 N May, OKC, 748.3354; 120 N Robinson, Suite W 175, OKC, 748.3354 $ CAFÉ 501 Pizzas, salads and specialty sandwiches on artisan breads. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ CLASSEN GRILL Deftly done diner deliciousness, especially breakfast. 5124 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.0428 $ DEEP FORK GRILL Crisply elegant atmosphere complements superb seafood (cedar plank salmon is a specialty) and steaks. 5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$ DINER, THE The classics never go out of style – just ask the locals who flock here for masterful preparation of ordinary breakfast and lunch fare. 213 E Main, Norman, 329.6642 $ DISTRICT 21 This sleek, inexpensive bastion of creativity is run by Francis Tuttle’s culinary school. 12777 N Rockwell, OKC, 717.7700 $ FLINT Casual style plus outstanding contemporary cuisine makes a winning combination in the Colcord Hotel. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$ HEFNER GRILL Upscale fare and a tempting brunch to boot, with the enhancements of a live piano and a spectacular lake view. 9201 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 748.6113 $$ INTERURBAN Great food (and prices) in casual comfort – try the chicken-fried steak and anything with honey-pepper bacon. 4 metro locations, interurban.us $$

64 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

Chinese cuisine with fiery, fresh sushi.

6161 N May, OKC, 608.2388 $$

selection in 50 Penn Place. 1900 NW Expressway, OKC, 840.1911 $

GRAND HOUSE A Chinese restaurant that goes the extra mile to provide enjoyable ambiance alongside its excellent cuisine.

2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$

BLU FINE WINE & FOOD A sleek bar that stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$

GUERNSEY PARK A hidden treasure on an Uptown back street, it’s home to tasty Asian fusion with a hint of French influence. 2418 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$

CLUB ONE15 A nightclub vibe with energetic music and three bars, plus a robust menu including fajitas, pasta bowls and seafood. 115 E Sheridan, OKC, 605.5783 $$

O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in cool, vibrant digs.

105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$

DEEP DEUCE GRILL A funky, comfortable alternative to Bricktown crowds, featuring burgers, beer and a people-watching patio.

307 NE 2nd, OKC, 235.9100 $

SAII Rich ambiance boosts expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus stellar sushi. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$

JAMES E. MCNELLIE’S Designed to bring Ireland’s pub culture to OKC, this Midtown hotspot features 350 varieties of beer.

1100 Classen Dr, OKC, 601.7468 $$

VII ASIAN BISTRO A bright, sleek interior and savory spate of Chinese and Vietnamese options. 2900 N Classen, OKC, 604.2939 $

MONT, THE Tempting pub food with Southwestern zing at a Norman landmark with a primo patio. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $

BAKERY

O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies, it’s served killer burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $

BIG SKY BREAD Enjoy cookies, scones, brownies or granola, plus an incredible bevy of fresh-baked bread. 6606 N Western, OKC, 879.0330 $ BROWN’S BAKERY An incredible selection of delicious traditional and specialty cakes, cookies, breads and other baked goods. 1100 N Walker, OKC, 232.0363 $ CUPCAKES TO GO GO Love of travel (and a sweet tooth) inspire the myriad flavor combinations in this trove of treats – its rotating menu means every trip reveals a different taste destination. 2524 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 330.2190 $ CUPPIES & JOE The name is only part of the story: it’s cupcakes and coffee and pie and live music and a cozy, trendy vibe and more. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $ KITCHEN NO. 324 Seasonally inspired café, coffee curator and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $

SATURN GRILL A lunch star: inspired pizza, sandwiches and salads. 4401 W Memorial, OKC 463.5594; 6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114; 1012 N Walker, OKC, 606.8182 $

LA BAGUETTE Comfort and exquisite baking make a tres chic destination for brunch and beyond. 1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 2100 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $

SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Entrees, sides and wondrous craft cocktails are carefully concocted in-house. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$

NONNA’S BAKERY Scrumptious cream pies, cakes and much more founded on family recipes – walk in and pick or call ahead to order. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $

SYRUP The most enticing meal of the day is at this unique breakfast boutique (the crunchy French toast is something special). 123 E Main, Norman, 701.1143 $

PIE JUNKIE 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. 1711 NW 16th, OKC, 605.8767 $

VAST Steaks, seafood and globally inspired American cuisine, with a view truly unparalleled in Oklahoma. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$

SARA SARA CUPCAKES The ambiance and milk bar make great additions to the variety of specialty cupcakes in this charming little converted house. 7 NW 9th, OKC, 600.9494 $

WAFFLE CHAMPION A Midtown diner bringing joy to those addicted to its gourmet sweet or savory waffle options.

1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $

BAR // PUB FOOD

WHISKEY CAKE High-quality locally sourced food served in a homey atmosphere. Enjoy – and don’t forget the namesake dessert. 1845 NW Expressway, OKC, 582.2253 $$

51ST STREET SPEAKEASY The joint’s porch and patio are perpetually packed, and the top-shelf spirits and beers flow with joyous abandon. 1114 NW 51st, OKC, 463.0470 $

ASIAN

ABNER’S ALE HOUSE Beers and whiskies of the best, plus knockout dishes aimed at re-creating the true English public house vibe. 121 E Main, Norman, 928.5801 $$

180 MERIDIAN GRILL Blending Asian cuisine with U.S. culture: sirloin with teriyaki butter, hoisin BBQ duck pizza and sushi options. 2541 W Main, Norman, 310.6110 $$ DOT WO GARDEN Dot Wo continues its legacy by pairing sumptuous classics of

THE BARREL Drink deep of top-shelf wines, beers and whiskies, braced by thoroughly appetizing pub fusion cuisine.

4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $ BELLE ISLE BREWERY Live music, handcrafted beers and a great burger

PELOTON Brake for a handful of apps, sandwiches and salads plus a great wine and beer selection. 900 N Broadway Ave, OKC 605.0513 $ PUB W Multiple atmospheres for whatever vibe you like, and a menu of choice beer and “new classic” fare from barbeque wings to thick pork chops. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 701.5844 $$ REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Part beer bar and part upscale eatery, pairing a vast selection of quality brews with imaginative menu items. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577 $$ SAINTS An inviting Irish bar where whiskey and beer offerings pair nicely with classics like shepherd’s pie, bangers and fish and chips. 1715 NW 16th, OKC, 602.6308 $$ SEAN CUMMINGS’ Classic Irish fare delivered with engaging and gracious service. Plus, naturally, there’s Guinness on tap. 7523 N May, OKC, 755.2622 $$ URBAN WINEWORKS Made-in-Oklahoma wine paired with haute culinary creations featuring rabbit, duck, pork belly and more. 1749 NW 16th, OKC, 525.9463 $$ VZD’S The unusually broad, tasty bar menu draws a substantial lunch crowd; try the turkey burger, the chili or both. 4200 N Western, OKC, 524.4203 $ WES WELKER’S The food shows great variety and imagination, like duck nachos, and the bevy of TVs and 83 available beers ain’t bad either. 3121 W Memorial, OKC, 608.2200 $$

BARBEQUE EARL’S RIB PALACE Beloved by locals in a competitive genre, the chain pounds out hit ribs and turkey as well as a top-tier burger.

6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STARR URBAN BARBEQUE Named for notorious outlaw Belle Starr, its entrees are excellent, but the sides are equal players as well. 3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$ LEO’S BAR-B-Q Rich flavor and tender texture for commendable value – no wonder it’s a periennial favorite among Oklahoma connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $ RUDY’S Totally casual – plastic trays and utensils – with serious barbeque chops.

3450 Chautauqua, Norman, 307.0552; 3437 W Memorial, OKC, 254.4712 $$

A SHORT DRIVE WELL WORTH YOUR TIME

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AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 65

FARE | Eat & Drink

BURGERS // SANDWICHES BISON WITCHES Monster sandwiches with standout flavors, best enjoyed with a bread bowl of fresh hot soup and a bag of pretzels. 211 E Main, Norman, 364.7555 $ CAFÉ PLAID Fresh sandwiches begging to be combined with sensational salads (veggie, tuna, pasta…) – an ideal lunch spot near OU. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 360.2233 $

minds behind Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler.

121 NE 2nd, OKC, 208.4477 $

in a refined, intimate atmosphere. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$

vegetarian- and vegan-friendly menus you’ll ever see. 750 Asp, Norman, 573.5933 $

COFFEEHOUSE // TEA ROOM

MELTING POT, THE Make a meal an event to remember with an elegant fondue feast.

4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$

LOCAL Using fine, fresh regionally sourced ingredients, its menu changes seasonally but its warm atmosphere is constant. 2262 W Main, Norman, 928.5600 $$

ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and unusual concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in bright, bustling atmosphere. 3272 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.9959; 7300 N Western, OKC, 840.7725 $

METRO WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE A comfortably upscale favorite covering cuisines from vichyssoise to crème brulée.

6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ MICHAEL’S GRILL Urbane, intimate dining: steaks, chops, seafood and pastas, and Caesar salad prepared tableside. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$

BEATNIX CAFÉ, THE Get a sandwich, cup of hearty soup or powerhouse latte in the lovely laid-back vibe that pervades this dawdling spot. 136 NW 13th, OKC, 604.0211 $

MUSEUM CAFÉ, THE Inside the OKC Museum of Art, its European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$

COW CALF-HAY The selections are ample and the delicious never-frozen patties are mmmmmassive. 3409 Wynn, Edmond, 509.2333, 212 N Harvey, OKC, 601.6180 $

THE BLUE BEAN Smoothies, pastries and sweet treats, plus excellent small-batch roasted coffee – try the specialty flavor combos. 13316 S Western, OKC, 735.5115 $

NONNA’S EURO-AMERICAN RISTORANTE A cozily appointed, opulent atmosphere housing distinctive cuisine and drinks. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $$$

FLATIRE BURGERS Boasting innovations like sauerkraut, pineapple relish and habanero salsa.100 N University, Edmond, 974.4638; 6315 NW 39th Expwy, Bethany, 603.2822 $

CAFÉ EVOKE Outstanding coffee and other beverages from one of the area’s great caterers; plus soup, sandwiches, snacks or sweets. 103 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.1522 $

PARK AVENUE GRILL A soigne dining experience in the Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak and seafood with 1930s high style. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$

GARAGE BURGERS & BEER, THE The focus is on the many tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 5 metro locations, eatatthegarage.com $

COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe on Automobile Alley, it’s a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts. 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $

ICE HOUSE Big, beefy burgers (made

by Nic of Nic’s Grill), salads and shakes, with the gorgeous Myriad Gardens as a backdrop. 125 Ron Norick, OKC, 232.6427 $

DISTRICT HOUSE Pop into the Plaza District for beans from Tulsa’s Topeca Coffee, deli sandwiches and the occasional live music event. 1755 NW 16th, OKC $

IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Simply great fries, rings and burgers; try the No Name Ranch beef. 1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Dr, OKC, 235.4762 $

ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - passionate staff is always eager to share knowledge about the process. 815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $

CHARCOAL OVEN Serving premium charbroiled burgers since 1958 for the flavor of a backyard cookout via drive-in.

2701 NW Expressway, OKC $

JOHNNIE’S CHARCOAL BROILER Freshground burgers cooked over real charcoal; try the Cheese Theta or Caesar varieties.

4 metro locations, johnniesok.com $ LOUIE’S GRILL & BAR Casually cool and come-as-you-are bar-type hangouts excelling at burgers, sandwiches and pizzas. 12 metro locations, louiesgrillandbar.com $ LOUIE’S ON THE LAKE An unbeatable view of Lake Hefner from the spacious patio adds ambiance to a tasty spate of entrees under $10. 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 751.2298 $

MULE, THE Solid beer and beverage selection plus delectable gourmet grilled cheeses and melts (ingredients range from fontina to figs). 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $ ND FOODS Gigantic Boar’s Head deli sandwiches, homemade soups and freshly baked cookies, pies and other desserts.

2632 W Britton Rd, OKC, 840.9364 $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded … and it’s incredible. Mounds of fresh fries and colossal burgers, easily among the metro’s best. 1202 N Penn, OKC, 524.0999 $ S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these super-tasty burgers come as sliders too, the better to sample more selections. 5 metro locations, sandbburgers.com $ SERVICE STATION A former filling station with vintage décor, now serving up delicious half-pound burgers and fries.

502 S Webster, Norman, 364.2136 $ SOONER DAIRY LUNCH This modest little drive-in has been feeding its staunch fans delicious burgers, tots and shakes for over six decades. 1820 W Main, Norman, 321.8526 $

MICHELANGELO’S Enjoy exceptional coffees and wines, a well-stocked pastry case and even breakfast and lunch selections. 207 E Main, Norman, 579.3387 $ PARAMOUNT, THE A Film Row joint with a screening room attached, its all-day beverage menu delivers the stuff dreams are made of. 701 W Sheridan, OKC, 517.0787 $ RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle with great coffee, vegetarian-friendly specials and live music. Highly recommended! 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $ T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE This endearing retreat offers over 100 varieties and expert counsel to explore a world of possibili-teas. 7518 N May, OKC, 418.4333 $

CONTINENTAL BIN 73 Diners can fill up on filet mignon or simply top the evening off with tapas while enjoying the full bar and chic ambiance.

7312 N Western, OKC, 843.0073 $$ BLACKBIRD A gastropub with succulent creativity (pot roast nachos!) and a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes and contemporary comfort food; truly one of the city’s finest restaurants.

2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$ COACH HOUSE, THE Definitely among the metro’s most elegant dining: specialties prepared with classical perfection. 6437 Avondale, OKC, 842.1000 $$$

PASEO GRILL Intimate inside and cheerful on the patio, with an award-winning menu of distinctive flavors – try the duck salad.

2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ ROCOCO RESTAURANT & FINE WINE A diverse international menu set off by select wines. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Penn, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 Enjoy sleek, swank décor and an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$ SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; huge culinary rewards of French and Italian flavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$ WEST The staff is speedy, the décor sleek and modern, and the entrées wide-ranging but elegantly simple. 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072 $$

FRENCH LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Fine dining (linger over multiple courses often) with an exceptional bakery, deli and butcher shop on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$ WHISPERING PINES B&B A secluded getaway housing sumptuous, savory cuisine in quiet comfort. 7820 E Highway 9, Norman, 447.0202 $$$

GERMAN DAS BOOT CAMP Exceptional cuisine (and magnificent beer) in a fast-paced location downtown. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $ INGRID’S Authentic German fare, including outstanding Oklahoma-made bratwurst. Don’t overlook breakfast, or the bakery counter! 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444 $$ OLD GERMANY Justly renowned for its Bavarian delights – the schnitzels, soups and sausages are spectacular. 15920 SE 29th, Choctaw, 390.8647 $$$ ROYAL BAVARIA Excellent renditions of traditional dishes, plus fantastisch housebrewed beers. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$

HEALTHY // ECLECTIC

TEXADELPHIA The menu draws raves for burgers and wraps, but especially the monstrous made-to-order cheesesteaks.

200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 208.4000 $

KYLE’S 1025 For an evening of understated sophistication, Kyle’s magnificent steaks, prime seafood, tapas or even meatloaf are a must. 1025 NW 70th, OKC, 840.0115 $$

TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS A small menu whose bravura execution makes the meal hard to forget. 324 NW 23rd, OKC, 609.2333; 5740 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.3331 $

LOTTINVILLES Rotisserie chicken, woodgrilled salmon and a host of entrees, salads and panini; the Sunday brunch is epic. 801 Signal Ridge, Edmond, 341.2244 $$

COOLGREENS Customization encouraged; every available component in salads, wraps and frozen yogurt is naturally delicious. 3 metro locations, coolgreens. com $$

URBAN JOHNNIE’S Gourmet burgers and more in a sleek bar atmosphere from the

MANTEL, THE Marvelous steaks and seafood (don’t miss the lobster bisque),

EARTH, THE Super, super fresh sandwiches, salads and soups in one of the most

66 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$

ICE CREAM // YOGURT IL DOLCE GELATO Rich, creamy and decadently delicious, handmade daily from scratch. 937 SW 25th St, Moore, 794.7266; 1318 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 329.7744 $ ORANGE LEAF Dozens and dozens of tasty, waistline-friendly flavors and toppings, charged by the ounce. 9 metro locations, orangeleafyogurt.com $ PEACHWAVE A full 50 flavors – every one low-fat or non-fat – of the finest, freshest ingredients in customized combinations. 3 metro locations, peachwaveyogurt.com $

INDIAN GOPURAM – TASTE OF INDIA A fullservice restaurant with the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentiful lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ KHAZANA INDIAN GRILL The food is superior and very fresh; the staff is delightful, and new diners can even get a guide. 4900 N May, OKC, 948.6606 $$ MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandooricooked delicacies in splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ A tremendous set of Indian staples and delicacies, plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$

ITALIAN // PIZZA BELLINI’S Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. 6305 Waterford Blvd, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the fare keeps the booths full; don’t overlook Sunday brunch.

105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ CAFFE PRANZO The atmosphere raises first-time diners’ hopes; the execution exceeds them as classic dishes are elevated to greatness. 9622 N May, OKC, 755.3577 $$ EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style, it offers whole pizzas or slices, a full bar and a primo patio. 1734 NW 16th, OKC $ GABRIELLA’S A fresh chapter in the family’s delectable legacy; one bite of the homemade Italian sausage should win diners’ hearts with ease. 1226 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.4955 $$ HIDEAWAY PIZZA Incredible pizza in jovial surroundings; it’s amassed a devoted following for over half a century. 7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA No humility needed for this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies.

700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$ KEN’S PIZZA An old favorite returns to Edmond with its signature thin crust and spicy sauce set to win new fans. 628 W Danforth Rd, Edmond $

KNUCK’S WHEELHOUSE Homemade daily with sauces from scratch, 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 $ OTHELLO’S Warm mussels to tiramisu – all you could want in a romantic Italian café.

434 Buchanan, Norman, 701.4900; 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$ PIZZA 23 A tempting suite of specialty pies and good beer selection in crisp, urban décor. 600-B NW 23rd St, OKC, 601.6161 $$ REVOLVE PIZZA Versatility reigns in this fully customizable dining experience: guests build their dream pies from the crust up and the quick-fire brick ovens do the rest. 5500 W Memorial, OKC, 792.2858 $ SOPHABELLA’S A quiet, classy gem offering premier tastes from Chicago and beyond in style. 7628 N May, OKC, 879.0100 $$$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of tastes for a casual lunch, romantic dinner or brunch, amid stylish scenery. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ TOMMY’S An old favorite returns to the metro to provide primo pasta, pizzas and plenty of ambiance. 5516 W Memorial, OKC, 470.5577 $$ UPPER CRUST This pizzeria and wine bar specializes in thin-crust, New York-style pies. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$ VICTORIA’S A shabby-comfortable atmosphere with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – try the chicken lasagna. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377 $ VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff treat customers like guests in their home.

7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ WEDGE, THE Wood-fired pies with fresh ingredients (like figs or truffle oil) and sauce from scratch. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$

JAPANESE // SUSHI CAFÉ ICON Tempting sushi and Japanese specialties fill the menu to bursting with visually splendid and palate-pleasing treats.

311 S Blackwelder, Edmond, 340.8956 $$ GOGO SUSHI Prime for lovers of speed and convenience – go go check it out! 1611 S Service Rd, Moore, 794.3474; 432 NW 10th, OKC, 602.6333 $$ IN THE RAW DUNWELL SUSHI A chic space on the Bricktown Canal offering excellent sushi, specialty rolls and sake. 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 702.1325 $$ MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry by skilled chefs at tableside hibachi grills. 4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ SUSHI BAR, THE Sushi staples done with élan, plus more adventurous options, in a bustling, comfortable environment. 1201 NW 178th, OKC, 285.7317 $$ SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in a broad and creative menu).

4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$ TOKYO JAPANESE RESTAURANT It’s small with a traditional menu; but it’s palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$

MEDITERRANEAN AVANTI BAR & GRILL Casual elegance with contemporary Italian menu twists: crab falafel, bolognese pizza and more. 13509 Highland Park, OKC, 254.5200 $$ BASIL MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ Chicken Bandarri, Beef Souvlaki or a fresh bowl of tangy tabouli; flavor leaps from every corner of the menu. 211 NW 23rd, OKC, 602.3030 $

COUSCOUS CAFE Traditional Moroccan tagine dishes to favorites like homemade falafel and kofta, with a bounty for vegetarians. 6165 N May, OKC, 286.1533 $ HAIGET’S Vegan-friendly – and friendly in general – this gem rewards the adventurous with Ethiopian and Kenyan specialties. 308 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 509.6441 $$ MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI Selected groceries and a menu stocked with options; the food is authentic, quick and spectacular. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ NUNU’S Tangy, tantalizing, fresh and healthy flavors, reproduced from generations-old recipes. 3131 W Memorial, OKC, 751.7000 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA A 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 Family recipes proudly share flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $

MEXICAN // LATIN AMERICAN 1492 Authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant, romantic setting with perhaps the world’s best mojitos. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$ ABUELO’S The variety, plates, flavors and experience are all huge. No passport required. 17 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1422; 3001 W Memorial, OKC, 755.2680 $$ ALFREDO’S Kick back with an agave limeade and peruse the ample menu’s avocado enchiladas, fried tacos and more. 4 metro locations, alfredosok.com $$ BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s often standingroom-only at lunch, but don’t let that deter you from fresh, imaginative taco creations.

530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $ CAFÉ DO BRASIL It’s a long way to Rio, but the spicy, savory menu covers the distance in a mouthful. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$

on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner. 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ MAMAVECA Familiar Mexican favorites plus the diverse delights of Peruvian cuisine. 2551 W Hemphill, Norman, 573.4003 $$ TARAHUMARA’S This airy ristorante serves huge, tasty Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$ TED’S CAFÉ ESCONDIDO Fast, fresh and amply portioned, it’s often very crowded and always supremely delicious. 4 metro locations, tedscafe.com $$ YUCATAN TACO STAND Feisty Latin fusion cuisine plus signature nachos and combos… and over 75 tequilas. 100 E California, Suite 110, OKC, 886.0413 $ ZARATE’S The familiar joys of enchiladas and chimichangas, plus Peruvian dishes of plantains, yuca and imported spices. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$

SEAFOOD FISH CITY GRILL Shrimp and grits, oysters on the half shell… anyone who wishes Oklahoma had a coastline should feel right at home. 1389 E 15th, Edmond, 348.2300 $$ HILLBILLY PO BOYS Unassuming name; mighty appealing flavor in tasty seafood sandwiches and the licit thrill of moonshine cocktails. 1 NW 9th, OKC, 702.9805 $ JAZMO’Z BOURBON STREET CAFÉ An upscale yet casual environment boasting Cajun and Creole-inspired selections. 100 E California, OKC, 232.6666 $$ PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Crab Boil is a favorite and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial winner in “best of the metro” polls for fresh, flavorful seafood and spicy Creole-inspired dishes.

5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR, THE A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus seafood. 13801 Quail Pointe Dr, OKC, 286.5959 $$

CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant Guatemalan flavors. The breakfast specialties truly dazzle. 3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $

SOUL FOOD

CANTINA LAREDO A sophisticated take on Mexican fare, specializing in fresh fish and Angus beef. 1901 NW Expressway (in Penn Square Mall), OKC, 840.1051 $$

BIGHEAD’S Fried alligator, frog legs and simmering, savory seafood gumbo – it’s a bayou treat right nearby. 617 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.1925 $$

CHILTEPES Chuchitos to atol de elote, this Plaza District restaurant serves as a guided tour to the wondrous flavors of Guatemala.

1800 NW 16th, OKC, 601.0384 $$

THE DRUM ROOM Crispy, juicy fried chicken (among the city’s best) stars with fried okra, waffles and a fully loaded bar.

4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$

CHUY’S The portions are substantial, the Hatch chile-fueled flavors are strong and the vibe is playfully enthusiastic. 760 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 360.0881 $$

KD’S Pork chops, stuffed catfish, shrimp and grits and more of Kevin Durant’s favorite foods, presented with skill and vim – and a dose of star power. 224 Johnny Bench Dr, OKC, 701.3535 $$

FUZZY’S TACO SHOP Jumbo burritos, big salads and especially shrimp tacos – quickly and in plenitude. 752 Asp, Norman, 701.1000; 208 Johnny Bench, OKC, 602.3899 $ IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172; 6482 Avondale, OKC, 607.8193 $$ INCA TRAIL Flavors from around the world, piquant ceviches to homemade flan. 10948 N May, OKC, 286.0407 $$ JUAN DEL FUEGO This self-styled MexiDiner dishes up breakfast and lunch from both sides of the border. 223 34th Ave SW, Norman, 310.20302 $ LA BRASA Flavors of Peru make for a powerfully delicious dining experience in ceviches, sandwiches, fried rice and other entrees. 1310 NW 25th, OKC, 524.2251 $$ LA LUNA Its festive cantina-style atmosphere only adds to the enjoyment of classic fajitas, enchiladas and the bold carne ranchera. 409 W Reno, OKC, 235.9596 $$ MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN Handrolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and more,

MAMA E’S WINGS & WAFFLES A labor of love adored by locals seeking authentic Southern classics. 3838 Springlake, OKC, 424.0800; 900 W Reno, OKC, 231.1190 $ MJ’S Super-tasty individual box meals (hint: Jambalaya Sammich) or enormous feasts for parties, give this caterer some prep time and they’ll rock your taste buds.

Appointment only. 548.5657 $$

STEAKHOUSE BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$ CATTLEMEN’S This Oklahoma institution’s huge corn-fed steaks and matchless atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$ GEORGE, THE High atop Founders Tower, its spectacular view adds savor to expert chefdriven creations featuring prime beef. 5900 Mosteller Dr, OKC, 607.4360 $$$

HOLLIE’S FLATIRON STEAKHOUSE Plush and cozy, with entrees seared on a flatiron grill and a kick of Southwestern spice in the menu. 1199 Service Rd, Moore, 799.0300 $$ JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Steak, lobster or prime rib with Lebanese appetizers gratis – Jamil’s has fed Oklahoma well since 1964.

4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$ JUNIOR’S A landmark restaurant where hand-cut Angus steaks and lobster fight for attention with knockout fried chicken. 2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$ 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 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S This lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées and sides and with full amenities. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE Hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambience. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Effortless opulence, custom-aged hand-cut tenderloins and ribeyes and warm Southern hospitality.

3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$ RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities.

504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$ TWELVE OAKS Lobster, seafood and divine steak, enhanced even more by the ambiance of a hilltop Victorian home. 6100 N Midwest, Edmond, 340.1002 $$$

THAI PAD THAI Dine in or carry out beautifully executed exemplars of soups, curries and noodles. 119 W Boyd, Norman, 360.5551 $ SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, cinnamon beef... the variety is exceptional, making this 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 soups, it makes a great dinner date. 211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$ TANA THAI There’s a lot to like here, from red snapper filet to pad thai. Pay attention to the soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$

VIETNAMESE CORIANDER CAFÉ Updating traditional Vietnamese recipes, this vegetarian-friendly café makes a quick, casual dining alternative.

323 White, Norman, 801.3958 $ LIDO Spring rolls to vermicelli bowls, this venerable diner runs the gamut of Vietnamese,Chinese and even French cuisine. 2518 N Military, OKC, 521.1902 $$ PHO CA DAO Vermicelli bowls, rice platters, piping hot pho, icy cold bubble tea and more. 2431 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 521.8819 $ PHO BULOUS Super fresh and super fast, specialties like Honey Ginger Chicken or Wasabi Salmon merit closer inspection.

3409 S Broadway, Edmond, 475.5599 $

Check o ut our exp anded restaur ant li and mor stings e edible inspirat ion in ou r Fo Lover’s Guide in od sert and onli ne an at sliceo ytime k.com

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 67

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PURSUITS TIME AND TIDE

Salt-stained canvases and busy blurs of acrylic and oil – the new joint exhibit at Norman’s MAINSITE Gallery gives viewers much to contemplate. See page 72.

TOP 10 Prime starting points for making the most of the month 70 BURNING UP THE STREETS Embrace the heat; August teems with fundraising races 74 WORTH STOPPING FOR Exploring a sample of Nebraska’s unsung glories 76 SEE & DO August’s music, theater, visual arts and other delights 80

Elise Deringer, “Place of Rest” AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 69

PURSUITS | High Points

The Top

By Steve Gill

IT’S A BIG, BUSY METRO OUT THERE – IF YOU CAN’T MAKE IT TO EVERYTHING, HERE’S WHERE TO START.

Two Million Little Pieces

Through September 30, Science Museum Oklahoma Clay, bronze, marble … LEGO? The toy’s versatility allows it to make a transcendent leap into a sculptural medium in the patient hands of visionary Nathan Sawaya, who uses tens of thousands of LEGO pieces to create a spate of astonishingly detailed works. This traveling exhibition, The Art of the Brick, is the very definition of a block party.

HERE COME THE HAUTE STEPPERS August 9, Embassy Suites Norman Ten local luminaries, including last year’s champion Dr. Ronald Sutor, have been practicing their moves and are now ready to partner up with professional dancers to dazzle the crowd and take home the 2014 honors at Dancing for a Miracle. Dinner, cocktails, auction action and quite a lot of stuff-shaking make a knockout fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital Foundation; enjoy!

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August 7, Oklahoma History Center The crucial element for success is the possession and retention of knowledge that is by definition unimportant. Fun, right? The National MS Society’s Smarty Pants Trivia Night is inarguably entertaining, with raffle prizes and wine drawings to give extra enticement to rapt audiences, and great prizes for those who can maintain their brains amid the strain.

DEATH OF A SALESMAN’S CAREER

August 7-24, OKC Civic Center The OKC Theatre Company has a set of rules for this show, and they’re very simple: Always.

Be. Captivating. Always be captivating. The infinitesimal margin between a measure of success and abysmal failure leaves desperate employees little room for scruple in David Mamet’s (which means be braced for some explosively explicit expletives) Pulitzer-winning powder keg “Glengarry Glen Ross.”

A MATTER OF PUBIC INTEREST

August 8-30, Reduxion’s Broadway Theatre In an absolutely perfect selection to inaugurate its “Scandalous Season,” Reduxion Theatre Company goes back to the classics – more than two thousand years back – for Aristophanes’ comedy about gender … um, relations. A community-wide lockout forces the men of Greece to choose between love and war as Tyler Woods directs the salaciously saucy “Lysistrata.”

PHOTOS: LEGOS COURTESY SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA; DANCING FOR A MIRACLE COURTESY CHF; K.T. SULLIVAN BY STACY SULLIVAN

THAT THINKING FEELING

TO CATCH A BEEF II August 16, Cleveland County Fairgrounds

A trifle delayed but still fresh and hot: the 4th annual Battle of the Burger is back on the menu. A tug-of-war and pie making contest serve as undercards to the title bout, as restaurants, nonprofit teams and individual gurus of the grill cook for audiences and a panel of expert judges to determine who among their number will reign supreme as Commanderin-Beef … until next year.

Donald Davis

TALES: YOU WIN

August 21-23, Oklahoma History Center It’s not really a must-”see” event, since the visual element isn’t preeminent. That doesn’t make the OKC Storytelling Festival any less mandatory, though – guest experts Donald Davis, Syd Lieberman, Lynette Ford and Bil Lepp use their distinctive gifts for weaving syntax and pronunciation and judicious silences into something more than a story: a wholly mesmerizing magic spell.

THERE GOES THE SUN

K.T. Sullivan

A Star Is Home

August 22, UCO Mitchell Hall Theater The Broadway Tonight series is back at UCO, and they’re ringing in the new season with a blend of razzle-dazzle (the introductory show is called “Colored Lights,” which bespeaks a shot of theatrics) and genuine talent, thanks to the cabaret sizzle of K.T. Sullivan. The seasoned stage veteran and effervescent soprano also happens to be a native Oklahoman making a triumphant return.

August 22-23, Lions Park The midday heat is notoriously fierce during Oklahoma’s Augusts, so the Firehouse Arts Center prefers to wait a bit later before unveiling the flood of creativity known as the Midsummer Nights’ Fair. Over two dozen artists display their efforts, kids have a designated space to exercise their own creativity and there’s food and music, and a touch of magic, for all.

TASTE SENSATIONS

August 23, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Proceeds from the 7th annual Tour de Palate will benefit the Go Mitch Go Foundation’s ongoing fight against blood-borne cancers, so guests will have that much extra reason to enjoy the musical entertainment from ZuZu’s Petals, temptations of the auctions and wine pull and wide array of flavors from more than a dozen local restaurants and bakeries.

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 71

PURSUITS | Spotlight

(l to r) “A Softer Storm,” “First Study for Rain,” by Elise Deringer

WINDS OF CREATIVITY

By Steve Gill

NORMAN’S MAINSITE CONTEMPORARY ART WILL BE HOME TO A LOCALIZED METEOROLOGICAL PHENOMENON THIS MONTH, more about being weathered than weather itself, and resonant despite lacking the immediate impact of a tornado or hurricane – beginning August 8, artist Elise Deringer is sharing “A Softer Storm” with viewers.

It’s something of a homecoming for Deringer – though born on the Florida coast and possessed of a Master’s from Arizona State (“I needed to experience the strangely clarifying impact of living in 72 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

the desert,” she explains), the OU alumna has had a mental foot in Norman for most of her life so far.

“It’s been a real gift of time to be back in Oklahoma, and having the opportunity to show at MAINSITE – a space I have loved for many years, in my hometown – is a really meaningful experience for me.”

Journeying in general has been much on her mind during recent work, especially areas defined less by what they are than what they’re between. “Transitional places are important to me: shorelines, neither in nor out of the water, but both a dividing line and a blurred one.

Imagining spaces I know, memories of how I felt in a particular place at a particular moment; these kinds of things arise in me when I’m working. ” Her intent isn’t to replicate the visual appeal of a certain spot in nature, but to allow the experience of being there to shade and shape the forms in her mixed media-on-canvas hangings.

The process of their creation means Deringer never has to worry about repeating herself, as they’re unable to be exactly reproduced thanks to the erosive effects of salt. Each piece is the result of layers of inks, dyes and paints that she applies, washes partially away with salt water and repeats, allowing the natural force to give a sense of time and continual transformation to her work.

The results aren’t meant to be instantly recognizable vistas or representations; they’re meant to be engrossing. “I can’t ask viewers to instantly engage with the work in my chosen headspace. What I can ask, however, is for them to slow down, to let things come into focus, to be willing to look and to look closely. A few moments to perhaps experience a shift in perspective, to recognize that everything changes. Slow down and really see it.”

“Unknowable” by Elise Deringer (left), “Theater of Cruelty” (above) and “The Bather” (below) by Mohammad Javaheri

GET TO THE GETAWAY

Deringer’s exhibit has company from fellow former desert dweller Mohammad Javaheri, an Iranian scholar of chemistry before he too began pursuing his creative muse in Arizona. His exhibit, “Line of Flight,” is a tight whirl of motion, stroke upon stroke upon stroke forming abstract and ambiguous surroundings from which figures emerge and into which they melt.

“It offers to the viewer, as it does to me, an experience akin to entering a tangible landscape: an exploration through which all the beings involved are in the process of becoming something new.”

SET YOUR SIGHTS ON MAIN

Elise Deringer’s “A Softer Storm” and Mohammad Javaheri’s “Line of Flight” will be on display August 8-September 13 at the Norman Arts Council’s MAINSITE Contemporary Art Gallery at 122 E Main St – visit normanarts.org or call 360.1162 for more details.

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 73

PURSUITS | Spotlight

DOWNTOWN DASH August 9 Starts at: St. Anthony Plaza, 1000 N. Lee Benefits: Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc. – specifically speaking, proceeds will fund civic improvements such as the installation of public art, placemaking efforts and street activation.

BLAZE 5K August 16 Starts at: Chesapeake Boathouse, 725 S. Lincoln Blvd.

Benefits: Limbs for Life, a nonprofit dedicated to providing prosthetics and care to area amputees who can’t afford them on their own. The OKC Veteran’s Administration will also be holding its annual “Hero Homecoming” celebration for troops returning from overseas duty.

Monet and friends at the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond

BURNING UP THE STREETS

By Steve Gill

ASK AN OKLAHOMAN TO DESCRIBE AUGUST AND YOU’LL PROBABLY HEAR SOME VARIETY OF COMPLAINT about the temperature, the sun, the humidity or some combination of all three. It’s a little warm, basically. But while it might be viscerally tempting to lock yourself inside and crank up the A/C during the bitterest brunt of the day, there are still plenty of reasons to venture out during the less sunny hours … especially for those interested in working up a sweat the more competitive way. Racing in central Oklahoma doesn’t go on a summer vacation, and this month, four community-improving 5K fundraisers are giving metro residents the runaround – in the best possible way.

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MIDNIGHT STREAK August 23 Starts at: N.W. 11th & Broadway Benefits: Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, which offers exhibits and enrichment activities year-round with no admission fees. Proceeds will benefit the center’s upcoming slate of educational programming including lectures and films. By the way, while this is a venerable event, it’s in a new spot this year; the starting line is at the future location of the Oklahoma Contemporary facility.

Each of these three events begins at 8 p.m., and if you can’t make up your mind which cause to support, here’s something to bear in mind: starting in 2014, organizers have brought them together under one administrative umbrella.

Each one is a leg of the Run This Town series, and while entry to each costs $35, runners can enter all three races for $90 and receive a commemorative jacket (while supplies last).

Visit downtownokc.com/runthistown for details, and to register for any or all three.

“We liked the idea of combining efforts to maximize our budget and use of time,” said Jane Jenkins, president of Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc., “but it also shows how well nonprofit organizations can work together in our community.

It’s unlike anything I’ve seen in other cities.”

5K TO MONET August 23 Starts at: 27 E. Edwards St. Benefits: the Fine Arts Institute of Edmond, and the educational enrichment it offers the community (adults and children) in the visual and performing arts.

This race isn’t part of the Run This Town series, insofar as Edmond is technically a different town – but it would be possible for hardy road warriors to add it to their itineraries, since it begins at 8 a.m. next to the Institute’s statue of Claude Monet. Entry is $25 in advance or $30 on race day, unless you’re only in it for the 1-mile family fun run; that’s $10.

Hit edmondfinearts.com to sign up.

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Dr. Webster then practiced in the Salt Lake City area and was also in private practice for a time in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2013, he was invited to return home to Oklahoma to work with Dr. Ed Dalton and Dr. Paul Silverstein.

Dr. Webster is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery. He has performed over 1,100 surgeries while in practice, amassing considerable experience.

DEBRA RUSTER, RN

Debra is originally from Abilene, Texas, where she attended its Hardin-Simmons University and became a Registered Nurse. She moved with her husband to OKC in 1979 and was an integral part of Dr. W. Ed Dalton’s practice for 30 years before he retired.

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The Oklahoma Plastic Surgeons Team: Ariel, Katie, Rebel, Debra, Patsy (not pictured)

Robin D. Henderson, DMD, MS Chris Poore, DDS, MS Mary Hamburg, DDS, MS Specialty in Periodontics & Implant Dentistry All Doctors are Diplomates of The American Board of Periodontology

Clinton B. Webster, MD

PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY 3705 NW 63rd St, Ste 204 • 405.842.9732 AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 75

PURSUITS | Getting Away

WORTH STOPPING FOR

BY ELAINE WARNER

NEBRASKA, LIKE OKLAHOMA, IS CONSIDERED BY EAST AND WEST-COASTERS AS A “FLY-OVER STATE” – ONE YOUR PLANE SKIPS OVER WHILE GOING SOMEPLACE EXCITING. I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BETTER, BUT MY FIRST REACTION UPON BEING INVITED TO VISIT SOUTHEAST NEBRASKA WAS, “WHY?” AND THEN I GAVE MYSELF A MENTAL SHAKE. “THAT’S WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US! BUT OKLAHOMA’S REALLY COOL – SO MAYBE THERE’S SOMETHING I SHOULD SEE IN NEBRASKA.” IT TURNED OUT THAT THERE WAS A LOT! 76 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

BETTER THE SECOND TIME AROUND – BROWNVILLE

DOWN IN THE CORNER OF THE STATE – A MUDDY SWIM FROM MISSOURI AND 30 MILES NORTH OF THE NEBRASKA/KANSAS BORDER – IS THE LITTLE VILLAGE OF BROWNVILLE. Population is 131, unless it’s the spring or fall flea market weekend, and then the streets are packed with visitors looking for bargains.

Brownville is pretty much a weekend town, and summer and early fall are great times to visit.

Early on, Brownville was an important river port on the Missouri River, a prime gateway into the Nebraska Territory. Before that, Lewis and Clark’s corps camped near here. But that was then. The last century has been tough on the tiny town – until a group of retired business folk saw potential for a new kind of life and a revival of the community.

A retired bank owner and his wife now own a charming bed and breakfast, the River Inn, and the former president of the Omaha stockyards cooked my breakfast. It took some prying to get that information; folks in Brownville are too busy to tout their résumés.

The town boasts a number of historic houses. Many of the oldest buildings are gone but Main Street is being recreated from old photos and drawings, with small businesses on street level and living quarters underneath for weekend entrepreneurs.

Whiskey Run Creek Vineyard and Winery hosts Friday night concerts through the summer months and the Brownville Concert Series brings international talent to town monthly from March through December. If books are your thing, you won’t want to miss The Antiquarium, a huge collection of used and rare books and ephemera housed in the old grade school.

The biggest surprise I had in Brownville was in an old church. A gentleman in overalls stopped his hammering and sawing to show me around. Scheduled for a fall opening, this project will be a world-class folk art museum. And the carpenter creating it is George Neubert, whose bona fides include stints as director and curator of contemporary art at the San Antonio Museum of Art and associate director of art for the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Keep an eye open for the Flatwater Folk Art Museum.

Brownville is approximately a six-hour drive from downtown Oklahoma City. For more information visit brownville-ne.com.

Facing page: River view room at River Inn, Brownville This page, clockwise from top: Flatwater Folk Art Museum, scheduled to open in the fall, is housed in an 1884 church. // Whiskey Run Creek Winery, Brownville // The Carson House, Brownville, on the National Register of Historic Places

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 77

PURSUITS | Getting Away

A TREE GROWS IN … NEBRASKA CITY

NEBRASKA CITY IS THE HOME OF LIED LODGE AND ARBOR DAY FARM – all brought about because this was the home of J. Sterling Morton, the father of Arbor Day. When Morton and his wife moved to Nebraska Territory in 1854, the landscape was one vast grassland prairie. Morton changed that – and the world.

His mansion is open to the public, part of a state park adjacent to the Arbor Day property. That parcel includes a massive lodge and conference center in addition to Arbor Day Farm’s acres of orchards and vineyards, green houses, historic barns, the Pie Garden Café, the Apple House (carrying fruit in season, jams, jellies and fruit wines) and the Tree Adventure.

The Tree Adventure combines fun with education and indoor activities with outdoor exploration. With trails and tree houses, this is a kids’ wonderland.

The accommodations and amenities are first class, offering a great getaway for grown-ups. The whole experience may be so inspiring that you, like I did, may wind up joining the Arbor Day Foundation and starting your own forest with the 10 tiny seedlings you’ll get with your membership.

For more information, go to liedlodge.org and arbordayfarm.org.

78 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

This page, clockwise from top left: Lied Lodge lobby decorated with a multilanguage sign that reads “Plant trees” // Acres of apples, commercial and heritage, grace the orchards at Arbor Day Farm // Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure, educational, entertaining and offering plenty of space for kids to run and play // Lied Lodge back deck

FACING PAGE: LIED LODGE LOBBY, APPLES AND ARBOR DAY FARM TREE ADVENTURE BY ELAINE WARNER; LIED LODGE BACK DECK COURTESY LIED LODGE; THIS PAGE: BY ELAINE WARNER

This page, clockwise from right: State Capitol interior features elaborate mosaics and murals // Arbor Lodge, home of J. Sterling and Caroline Morton. // Penguins at the Lincoln Children’s Zoo have wing tags identifying each bird. The penguin in the middle is a male named Topper. // Sheldon Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden on the campus of the University of Nebraska, Lincoln

A CAPITAL CITY – LINCOLN

HISTORY BUFFS AND RETIRED SCHOOLTEACHERS HEAD FIRST FOR THE CAPITOL. That’s fine – it’s an interesting building and you can get a great view from the tower. But there’s a lot more to do in Lincoln, which is also home to THEIR Big Red: the University of Nebraska.

Campus highlights include tours of the athletic facilities, gardens, arboretum and sculpture garden. Some of the tours are self-guided; tours of the Memorial Stadium and Bob Devaney Sports Center are guided, by appointment. Museums include the University of Nebraska State Museum, with the natural, geological and anthropological history of the state, and the Sheldon Museum of Art. The Great Plains Art Museum features artists like Albert Bierstadt, William Henry Jackson and Frederic Remington. The Eloise Kruger Gallery in Architecture Hall displays four centuries of interior design in miniature, while the International Quilt Study Center and Museum on the university’s east campus has the world’s largest publicly held quilt collection.

Elsewhere in town, don’t miss the Museum of American Speed, established by Speedway Motors founder Bill Smith. You could get

lost in the three floors of exhibits – racing cars, street rods, show cars, even vintage pedal cars. And for die-hard car fans, engines and accessories add to the interest.

You don’t have to be a child to enjoy the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, one of few in the country. Designed to be intimate, the zoo is proud of having over 40 endangered animals including a very rare tree kangaroo.

Downtown Lincoln boasts bunches of restaurants, galleries and shops. The Historic Haymarket District, once home to warehouses, is becoming a major shopping, dining and entertainment area.

The most beautiful spot in all of Lincoln, however, is a tiny oneand-a-half acre park which dates back to the Depression. It’s planted primarily with annuals – about 30,000 of them – with a new theme each year. Jam-packed with color, it’s the perfect postcard shot of your visit to southeast Nebraska.

Head online to lincoln.org and visitnebraska.com for more information.

AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 79

See & Do EVENTS 1st Friday Gallery Walk Aug 1 The historic arts district’s name means “stroll,” which happens to be the preferred form of locomotion while taking in its wonders during a monthly display of arts and culture.

Paseo Arts District, 3022 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2688, thepaseo.com Jeff Dunham Aug 2 Something about his ventriloquism clearly resonates with the American psyche; he’s sold over 7 million DVDs and routinely sells out arenas (like this one) nationwide. Grand Casino, 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7263, grandresortok.com Smarty Pants Trivia Night Aug 7 Time to show what you know, to help the fight against MS go. Prizes for the very clever and fun for all enliven the National MS Society’s 8th annual to-do. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 918.488.8483, nationalmssociety.org/chapters/OKE Art After 5 Aug 7-28 Stop by the OKCMOA Roof Terrace Thursday afternoons for a drink and a bit of ambiance, with musical guests Born in November Aug 7 and 21, Lucky Aug 14 and Groove Offensive Aug 28.

OKC Museum of Art, 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 360.1162, okcmoa.com 2nd Friday Circuit of Art Aug 8 A monthly community-wide celebration of creativity, focused on historic Downtown Norman.

Norman Arts Council, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org

Battle of the Burger IV Aug 16 Bigger and beefier than ever, this year’s event features a tug-of-war and pie contest, as well as the renewed challenge for individuals, organizations and restaurants to prove themselves the best of the best. Cleveland County Fairgrounds, 615 E Robinson St, Norman, 488.7971, thebattleoftheburger.com Downtown Edmond Historic Tours Aug 16 Take a trip back through the development of the city and hear how it became the community it is today in this guided tour.

Downtown Edmond, 19 N Broadway Ave, Edmond, 285.9700 OKC Storytelling Festival Aug 21-23 A quartet of tale-spinners make verbal magic in the Arts Council of OKC’s annual celebration of an ancient art form.

Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 270.4848, artscouncilokc.com Jim Thorpe Courage Award Gala Aug 22 Integris’ Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Hospital honors extraordinary bravery and grace of spirit during its inspirational annual gala. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 951.5028, integrisgiving.org

hours street festival boasting live music, a convoy of awesome food trucks, craft beer and free socializing. Hudson Ave & 8th Street, 801 N Hudson Ave, OKC, 633.1703, h8thokc.com Gala of the Royal Horses Aug 30 A troop of incredible Spanish masters perform intricately choreographed dance routines … except they use their hooves instead of tap shoes. Lipizzaners, Arabians and Andalusians prance alongisde (human) flamenco dancers in this caliente show. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Arts Festival Oklahoma Aug 30-Sep 1 Happy Labor Day! Celebrate the long weekend at this rite of fall that draws over 25,000 visitors to enjoy the food, music and original creations by skilled regional artists. OCCC, 7777 S May Ave, OKC, 682.7576, occc.edu UPCOMING Ace High Sep 4 New fans and longtime patrons alike are invited to a doozy of a dinner and auction benefiting the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, one of the state’s true greats. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org

Through Aug 10, Myriad Gardens

80 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

O’Neal and Sohrabian Aug 1-30 The cozy gallery in the Paseo is home to intriguing art, inside and out: this month features detailed photography from Santa Fe star Janet O’Neal and fresh works from female-focused painter Behnaz Sohrabian.

JRB Art at the Elms, 2810 N Walker Ave, OKC, 528.6336, jrbartgallery.com

ONGOING This Is Our Oklahoma Land Through Aug 29 The Depot, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

MUSEUMS

Full Moon Bike Ride Aug 10 Get a new perspective on downtown OKC, as well as a nice bit of exercise, in this leisurely group bicycle tour at dusk. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 445.7080, myriadgardens.org

Premiere on Film Row Aug 15 Fowler Honda sponsors the downtown OKC street festival; it’s family-friendly, pet-welcoming, free to wander through and filled with treats for the ears and taste buds. Film Row, 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 232.6060

Cohenour and Keil Aug 1-30 Photographic stroyteller Caroline Cohenour and architectural clay sculptor Jean Keil pair their talents for an impressive dual show.

In Your Eye Gallery, 3005 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com

A Softer Storm/Line of Flight Aug 8-Sep 13 The swirling exchanges of color in Mohammad Javaheri’s acrylic works coexist in the gallery space with Elise Deringer’s salt-washed canvas creations.

MAINSITE Contemporary Art, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, mainsite-art.com

Dancing for a Miracle Aug 9 Step lively ten Oklahoma celebrities partner with pros for an epic dance-off accompanied by a lavish dinner and live and silent auctions to benefit the good works of the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Embassy Suites Norman, 2501 Conference Dr, Norman, 271.2208, okchf.org

Festival of Hope Aug 15 None of us are alone. Community connection and suicide prevention organization Heartline honors Oklahomans who have made life better for others at this joyous gala of acclamation and admiration. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 840.9396, heartline.org

GALLERIES

Devoir Aug 8-Sep 6 Contemporary female artist collective FRINGE takes a creative look at the influence of gender roles and the inspiration of transcendence in a group show of progressive new works.

Istvan Gallery, 1218 N Western Ave, OKC, 831.2874, fringeokc.com

Rendezvous for Red Cross Aug 8 Partying in the present lends hope to the future in an event benefiting the disaster response capability of the Oklahoma Red Cross - plus the OKC Thunder will receive the Ruby award for humanitarian service. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 228.9605, redcross.org/ ok/oklahoma-city

Casino Florale Aug 15 An event redolent with glamour thanks to the Vegas-style gaming tables and top-shelf food and drink, the flower-powered fundraiser helps make the aesthetic efforts of OKC Beaufitul bloom. TEEMCO Gold Dome, 1112 NW 23rd St, OKC, 525.8822, okcbeautiful.com

Sonic Summer Movies Aug 6-13 Bring family, friends, anybody you like to this free set of outdoor screenings courtesy of America’s Drive-In: Pitch Perfect Aug 6 and Stand By Me Aug 13. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 445.7080, myriadgardens.org

Children’s Summer Art Show Aug 8-23 Tour some tip-top creativity from young students of varied disciplines; you might be surprised at the level of quality.

Firehouse Art Center, 450 S Flood Ave, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com

BLOSSOMS FOR THE SOUL

Live on the Plaza Aug 8 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District, 1618 N Gatewood Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org

Engaging Men Breakfast Aug 13 The name refers not to romance, but to bringing men into the effort to stamp out the ongoing epidemic of domestic violence in Oklahoma - national speaker Mark Wynn presides over a tasty meal and lives-changing fundraiser. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 951.3333, ywcaokc.org

Aug 12, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade Aug 19 and Stand By Me Aug 26. Harkins Theatres, 150 E Reno Ave, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com

ONGOING Prix de West Through Aug 3 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, OKC 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Blossoms for the Soul Through Aug 10 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 445.7080, myriadgardens.org Vinyl Exposed Through Aug 22 Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org Midsummer Nights’ Fair Aug 22-23 Roam the park after dark to take in the wares of 30 prime artists, children’s activities, live music and more in this 37th annual fete. Lions Park, 444 S Flood Ave, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com

OKCMOA Renaissance Ball Sep 5 The Museum draws on the concept of rebirth to refuel its fundraising efforts at this annual gala that’s never less than divine. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com

Hungry Planet: What the World Eats Through Aug 31 Sam Noble Museum, Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu

Melody Lane Aug 23 Dinner and auctions charge up the child abuse prevention efforts of nonprofit Parent Promise in this heartwarming evening. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 232.2500, parentpromise.org

The Big Taste Sep 6 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Norman invites the community to show its support and enjoy the camaraderie at its annual tasting event, themed “The Big Tailgate.” Embassy Suites Norman, 2501 Conference Dr, Norman, 364.3722, bbbsok.org

Oil and Wood: Oklahoma Moderns Through Sep 14 Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma

Tour de Palate Aug 23 Incredible flavors from 15 restaurants, 3 bakeries and a host of wineries and breweries, plus live music and an inspirational presentation, help combat blood and bone cancer by supporting the Go Mitch Go Foundation. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, tourdepalate.com H & 8th Night Market Aug 29 Midtown becomes a primetime paradise in this after-

FILM Classics Series Aug 5-26 Catch a masterpiece you missed the first time around or just want to re-experience on the big screen: Raiders of the Lost Ark Aug 5, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom

Shifting Frontiers Through Sep 6 Oklahoma Heritage Museum, OKC, 523.3231, oklahomaheritage.com

Gods and Heroes Through Sep 14 OKC Museum of Art, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Fore! Looking Back at Golf in Edmond Through Sep 27 Edmond Historical Society, Edmond, 340.0078, edmondhistory.org The Art of the Brick Through Sep 30 Science Museum Oklahoma, OKC, 602.3760, sciencemuseumok.org Kachinas From the Red Earth Collection Through Sep 30 Red Earth Museum, 6 Santa Fe Plaza, OKC, 427.5228, redearth.org

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MPREYE.COM • FACEBOOK.COM/MCGEEPICK ARDROBINSONEYE AUGUST 2014 // SLICE 81

PURSUITS | See & Do

MUSIC Purple Bar Performances Aug 1-30 A cozy setting, ample menu and outstanding music from local artists. Nonna’s Purple Bar, 1 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410, purplebarokc.com Down in the Dirt Aug 2 Red dirt, that is the only possible color for this conclave of talent including the Turnpike Troubadours, Wade Bowen, Cody Canada & the Departed and Holy Moly. OKC Zoo Amphitheater, 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 602.0683, thezooamphitheatre.com Michael Buble Aug 2 He’s a born entertainer, with an effortless performing charisma and a voice that’s - well, he’s sold over 45 million albums, odds are good you know something about the man coming to share his new album, “To Be Loved.” Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Blue Door Shows Aug 2-22 Self-billed as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” it certainly has some of the best music, including Malcolm Holcombe Aug 2, Wild Ponies Aug 3, Stephanie Urbina Jones Aug 8, Patrice Pike Aug 16, Robby Hecht Aug 21 and Victor & Penny with the Low Swingin’ Chariots Aug 22 - check online for updates.

The Blue Door, 2805 N McKinley Ave, OKC, 524.0738, bluedoorokc.com

Summer Breeze: The Sunday Flyers Aug 10 Sunday it is - and the style-hopping Americana jammers will make the evening soar in The Depot’s free outdoor concert.

Lions Park, 450 S Flood Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Horseshoe Road Aug 14 Oklahoma Musical Ambassador Kyle Dillingham and friends share the Heartland Acoustic sound that got them named Slice’s reader favorites.

The Paramount, 701 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 517.0787, horseshoeroad.net The Polyphonic Spree Aug 15 A big, big bunch of musical talent and performative ebullience is in store for Bricktown listeners.

ACM @ UCO Performance Lab, 329 E Sheridan Ave, OKC, 974.4700, acm-uco.com Live Aug 16 Blistering 1990s songsmiths of inescapable hits like “I Alone” and “Lightning Crashes,” the reinvigorated rockers roll to Riverwind. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com Nichols Hills Band Concert Aug 21 A group of community volunteers show off the

SPORTS Energy Soccer Aug 2-24 Open wide for some soccer! The OKC Energy FC kick off against the Orange County Blues Aug 2, Phoenix FC Wolves Aug 14, L.A. Galaxy II Aug 16 and Charleston Battery Aug 24. Pribil Stadium, 801 NW 50th St, OKC, 235.5425, energyfc.com RedHawks Baseball Aug 2-27 OKC’s men of summer step to the plate against Colorado Springs Aug 2-5, Iowa Aug 7-11, El Paso Aug 20-23 and Albuquerque Aug 24-27.

Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, 2 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 218.1000, oklahomacity. redhawks.milb.com Tee Up for Safe Kids Aug 4 Get a team together and play a round (or just sign up for the helicopter golf ball drop) on behalf of the nonprofit dedicated to preventing unintentional childhood injury. So don’t forget to yell “Fore!” Oak Tree Golf Club, 1515 Oak Tree Dr, Edmond, 945.6709, safekidsok.org

MICHAEL BUBLE

Aug 2, Chesapeake Arena

Mayhem Festival Aug 7 It’s a good thing this concert is outdoors; it’s going to get raucous (or even rawk-ous) when Avenged Sevenfold, Korn, Trivium, Asking Alexandria and more come to town. Downtown Airpark, 1701 S Western Ave, OKC, 877.960.7882, okcairpark.com

benefits of their dedicated rehearsals with a free monthly set of standards in the park’s gazebo. Kite Park, 1500 Bedford Dr, OKC, 306.8195, nicholshills.net K.T. Sullivan Aug 22 The shimmering, sensuous Broadway veteran rings in the new season of UCO’s Broadway Tonight series with a knockout session on the mic entitled “Colored Lights.” UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco. edu/cfad/broadway Punk Rock Summer Nationals Tour Aug 22 The Offspring. Bad Religion. Pennywise. The Stiff Little Fingers. If you’re in the sweet spot of their sour views on life and authority, get in on the musical mega-collection now.

Downtown Airpark, 1701 S Western Ave, OKC, 877.960.7882, okcairpark.com

Noon Tunes Aug 7-28 Free lunchtime serenades in the Downtown Library.

Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us James Taylor Aug 9 When you’re down and troubled and need a helping flow of healing song, enjoy an intimate evening of musical bliss with the iconic voice and Grammywinning sound of Taylor and his all-star band. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com

Panic! At the Disco Aug 23 It’s true - the theatrically satisfying trio is coming to OKC, and that’s The Gospel Tour in the company of Walk the Moon and Youngblood Hawke. OKC Zoo Amphitheater, 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 602.0683, thezooamphitheatre.com

Frontier City Concerts Aug 9-23 For some extra fun in the sun-soaked amusement park, catch performances by Newsboys featuring Andy Mineo Aug 9, Z-Fest Aug 17 and the All-American Rejects Aug 23.

Frontier City, 11501 N I-35 Service Rd, OKC, 478.2140, frontiercity.com

Summer Breeze: The Handsome Devils Aug 24 A cheeky choice like that for a name is its own recommendation; the native Norman combo (all of whom are chaps, by the way) will try to live up to their cognomen and red dirt potential in a free concert provided

by The Depot. Lions Park, 450 S Flood Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

82 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

A Little Night Music Aug 5-9 Lyric Theatre sings some songs of Sondheim while recounting a musical tale of a weekend in the country - relax and enjoy. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com Glengarry Glen Ross Aug 7-24 The OKC Theatre Company begins a new season with David Mamet’s searing drama of barely successful salesmen and the razor’s edge atop which they try to keep themselves solvent. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 626.6605, okctheatrecompany.org

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Aug 22-Sep 13 Shockingly, P-R-ES-S-U-R-E doesn’t necessarily spell “success.” This charming musical about young children and grown-up kids kicks off the Pollard’s sterling 28th season. Pollard Theatre, 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, 282.2800, thepollard.org

ZZ Top & Jeff Beck Aug 22 Strange partners?

Not at all - the longtime legends are mutual admirers of each others’ music, and fans of either should have their horizons broadened under the Oklahoma sky. OKC Zoo Amphitheater, 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 602.0683, thezooamphitheatre.com

Fall Out Boy Aug 10 Good thing it’s outside; when the sonic force of Fall Out Boy meets the immutable screech of Paramore, the results justify the title of their shared summer endeavor: the Monumentour. OKC Zoo Amphitheater, 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 602.0683, thezooamphitheatre.com

THEATER

The Dixie Swim Club Aug 21-Sep 14 The more things change, the more you hope for friendship that doesn’t. Jewel Box begins its season with a sentimental, sometimes boisterous look at the decade-spanning relationship of five Southern ladies. Jewel Box Theater, 3700 N Walker Ave, OKC, 521.1786, jewelboxtheatre.org

BOBStock Aug 3 Sometimes imitation is the sincerest form of rocking - $10 gets you in front of 10 bands in what’s billed as “the ultimate tribute festival” with Guns 4 Roses, Blizzard of Ozz, Pearl Gem and more. OKC Zoo Amphitheater, 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 602.0683, thezooamphitheatre.com

The Conservatory Aug 6-24 Sonic jams of all descriptions in an OKC hotspot: Old Monk Aug 6, Our Last Night with Set It Off Aug 15, I Declare War with Oceano Aug 24 and more - adds and adjustments posted online. The Conservatory, 8911 N Western Ave, OKC, conservatoryokc.com

OU Football Aug 30 It’s football time in Oklahoma! The Sooners defend their home turf against the Bulldogs of Louisiana Tech.

Owen Field, 180 W Brooks St, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com

Lysistrata Aug 8-30 Reduxion’s “Theater in your lap” intimacy proves apropos for Aristophanes’ battle of the sexes in which women go on strike in order to force their warring men to, um, get it together, Reduxion Theatre, 914 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 604.4730, reduxiontheatre.com

Chameleon Room Shows Aug 2-30 The sound has a way of changing from show to show, but the rock is pretty consistent - this month includes Days of the New Aug 2, Soulfly Aug 12, Faster Pussycat Aug 23, Beauty in the Suffering Aug 29 and Chimaira Aug 30. Chameleon Room, 3034 N Portland Ave, OKC, 537.8136, chameleonroom.com

Twilight Concert Series Aug 3-24 The Arts Council of OKC invites metro residents to close out the week in style during its free weekly outdoor concerts: Edgar Cruz Aug 3, Shortt Dogg Aug 10, Paperscissor Aug 17 and Broke Brothers Aug 24. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 270.4848, artscouncilokc.com

NW 11th & Broadway Ave, OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org

Chicago and REO Speedwagon Aug 30 One thing is true about the classics: they keep on rollin’. Golden rock colossi show fans old and new how it’s done in this fairly epic team-up.

Downtown Airpark, 1701 S Western Ave, OKC, 877.960.7882, okcairpark.com

Downtown Dash Aug 9 St. Anthony Hospital invites runners to take a spin around the middle of the metro to benefit the public art project of Downtown OKC Inc. St. Anthony Hospital, 1000 N Lee Ave, OKC, 235.4789, downtownokc.com/runthistown OK Victory Dolls Aug 9 Blazing speed and deft athleticism … hitch your eyes to these rising stars as the roller derby dames face off against the North Texas Derby Revolution while the Wolf Pack battle the Denton County Outlaws. State Fairgrounds, 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd, OKC, oklahomavictorydolls.com Blaze 5k Aug 16 This riverside sprint supports the Limbs for Life organization, which provides prosthetics and care for amputees who cannot afford their own.

Regatta Park, 701 S Lincoln Ave, OKC, 605.5462, limbsforlife.org OKC Roller Derby Aug 16 Part graceful race, part all-out brawl, this month’s slate of spectacle sees the All Stars lace up against the Enid Rollergirls. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, okcrd.com Marlin Golf Classic Aug 18 We’re a fair way from Florida (get it? “fairway”?), but this 12th annual tourney is named for sponsor the Marlin Oil Corp., and aids the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s OKC chapter in their tireless efforts to find a cure. Twin Hills Golf Club, 3401 NE 36th St, OKC, 787.0056, cff.org/ chapters/okc 5k to Monet Aug 23 Exult in your love of running and the arts with an annual fundraiser named for its starting and finish line: the statue of Monet in front of host organization (and beneficiary) the FAI. Fine Arts Institute of Edmond, 27 E Edwards St, Edmond, 340.4481, edmondfinearts.com Midnight Streak Aug 23 This USATFcertified 5k heats up as the sun goes down to raise funds for the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center; perfect for pros and amateurs alike who don’t mind working up a sweat. Automobile Alley,

The Phantom of the Opera Aug 27-Sep 2 It’s a big-time story presented in song by a bigleague cast - there are over 50 performers in the full cast and orchestra - as Celebrity Attractions unfurls a grand romance.

OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 800.869.1451, celebrityattractions.com ONGOING Children of Eden Through Aug 2 The creation of the heavens and the earth, the first human being to draw breath, basically the entire book of Genesis up through the Flood - wouldn’t it sound better set to music? Upstage Theater is giving it a shot; see what you think. Mitch Park Amphitheatre, 1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond, 285.5803, upstagetheatreok.com Shrek the Musical Through Aug 3 Onions, earwax, mud, shouting and other subjects that are always popping up in the classics of musical theater fill the Sooner stage in a fantasy-filled PG performance about a grumpy ogre and the transformative power of love. Sooner Theater, 101 E Main St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying Through Aug 3 The corporate ladder is not without its chutes in this Pulitzer-winning tale of ambition, greed and shady dealings - fortunately, it’s G-rated.

St. Luke’s Poteet Theater, 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 609.1023, poteettheatre.com

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Last Laugh

WHAT I DID THIS SUMMER

By Lauren Hammack

DURING A THOROUGH SEARCH FOR A MISSING PHOTOGRAPH, I recently came across a box of newspaper clippings, photos and other mementos from my school days that my mom had amassed over the years.

While she is a “sensible packrat” about many things (Pyrex dishes, coffee cans, envelopes stuffed with hollyhock seeds from last summer), my mom wasn’t much of a collector when it came to my school memorabilia. Still, she dutifully preserved a few relics that give a spotty recount of my blurred progression from kindergarten to college graduation.

Encapsulated within a rather compact plastic container were 21 years of memories: an award of honor for perfect attendance in sixth grade, assorted report cards that occasionally pointed out, “Lauren hasn’t been as openly defiant the second nine weeks,” (the second nine weeks corresponding with pre-Christmas “better watch out” behavior, of course), third place ribbons for track (ribbons that would have been blue, had my mom only bought me the black and white track shoes I begged for) and a smattering of baby blue-tipped carnations from this occasion or that, ironed flat between yellowing pieces of wax paper.

Also inside the box were two or three writing awards, but no corresponding essays. The only remaining evidence of my prowess with a No. 2 pencil came from the ubiquitous, first-day-of-class “What I Did This Summer” theme, which marked my entry to the fifth grade.

Through all the years on either side of the fifth grade, the details surrounding those “What I Did This Summer” essays hardly strayed from the constant drone of summertime activities.

“I rode my bike a lot,” I’d written with feeling. “I played at my best friend’s house because she has a Slip ‘n’ Slide and a big hill in her backyard and her parents have a really good air conditioner and they buy Wonder Bread instead of Rainbo.” (This attention to detail is probably what earned the lick-and-stick silver star that had fallen off the paper and into the box.)

That particular summer had its share of low points, as well. “My hampster died and I barried him in a Pringles can in the backyard but my dog dug him up and chewed him right out of the can. My mom says no more rodents. Also she won’t let me shave my legs.”

The essay, which read more like the stream-of-consciousness prose of a nine-year-old (because that’s what it was), wandered off the more mundane subjects and into a subplot of a trip my older sister and I had taken to Grandma’s, three hours away. By ourselves.

On a Greyhound bus.

When I was nine years old, my sister (and chaperone for this trip) was 14. Our parents, for reasons still unconfessed, opted not to drive us a few hours to southwestern Oklahoma for our annual visit to Grandma’s.

Somehow – perhaps because the terms “stranger danger” and “registered sex offender” hadn’t yet entered the parental vernacular as we know it today – our parents felt it was OK to put us on a bus with the cast of extras from the “Thriller” video. In a greater leap of faith, they did so without any real confirmation that my grand86 SLICE // AUGUST 2014

mother (who had neither a telephone nor a reliable memory) would be waiting on the other side to pick us up.

During my nine years on the planet, I’d mixed it up with every walk of life, from Shotgun Sam’s on a Friday night to Saturday football games to Vacation Bible School. The huddled masses in my social circles were fairly homogenous.

Four or five hours on a Greyhound bus introduced me to a different crowd.

I’ll say this much: the old Union Bus Station was a truth-inadvertising preview of coming attractions for what awaited us on the bus, which we could smell 10 minutes before we stepped onto it.

A cursory glance across the bus station told me, “One of these things is not like the others … and that would be me.”

Unbathed travelers were strewn about the station floor, oblivious to the piercing announcements that crackled through the speakers dangling overhead. Soon enough, the Island of Misfit Toys sprang to life, with just enough energy to climb onto our bus and collapse into their seats before the stench of diesel overtook the smell of tripe that wafted through the suffocating heat.

Mercifully, Grandma was there, waiting at the other end of our Highway to Hell.

The few details I listed in the “What I Did This Summer” essay summed up our plight rather efficiently: “My mom and dad put me on a bus with my sister and a bunch of people who haven’t had a bath since I was in Mrs. Tidwell’s first grade class so next year I’m going to hitchhike to Grandma’s.”

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Last Look

Where the Buffalo Roams Photo by Lisa Lee

There are no deer nor antelope in this particular stretch of the Wichita Mountains, but the skies are not cloudy, and one resident seems to be enjoying the solitude.

To submit your photo for Last Look, visit sliceok.com/last-look

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