Slice June 2014

Road Trip!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS TO VISIT THIS SUMMER

PASS THE POPCORN: DEADCENTER IS BACK

KELLI O’HARA ON HER JOURNEY FROM MAIN STREET TO THE GREAT WHITE WAY

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FEATURES

46

June 2014

Summer Road Trip: Oklahoma Museum Guide

Summer’s here, and for many families that means it’s time to hit the road. But don’t pack for a long trip just yet; there are plenty of wonders to see, do and explore in Oklahoma’s network of over 500 museums. Whether kids’ interests lie under the sea or up in the stars, consider this a guidebook to family fun.

On the cover

38

The Movie Mother Lode

Become immersed in movies, feast your eyes on films, sate yourself on cinema – deadCENTER is back in downtown OKC. The annual independent film festival is fully stocked with features in every genre for its strongest lineup yet; read on for a closer look at some of our favorites, and plan a trek of your own.

6 SLICE // JUNE 2014

Road Trip!

FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS TO VISIT THIS SUMMER

PASS THE POPCORN: DEADCENTER IS BACK

KELLI O’HARA ON HER JOURNEY FROM MAIN STREET TO THE GREAT WHITE WAY

Hitting the highway in search of education and fun in Oklahoma museums. Special thanks to Cable Volkswagen for the yellow convertible.

Photo by Simon Hurst

DEPARTMENTS 66

FLAVORS IN BLOOM

A spectacular view and menu filled with prime tastes make the Park House a tempting choice for summertime dining.

16 From the Editor UP FRONT 20 Chatter National praise for the Sam Noble Museum, fresh local music and other topics of conversation.

24 Details Cracking the code to find seriously cool gift items for the great men in our lives.

26 Retrospective Remembering the way we were with a look back at the precursor to the Cox Center: the marvelous music-filled Myriad.

24 S ON FOCU INING TA MAIN HEALTH 53 MEN’S Page

28 By the Numbers Fast facts and statistics on the topic of Father’s Day. 30 Exchange A conversational give and take about cartoons, the value of friends and avoiding things that sting with a zany quartet from OKC Improv.

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

34

PURSUITS 76 Top 10 Prime picks for a variety of June entertainment.

78 Keeping the Heat Three nights of sweet, sizzling jazz and blues are free to enjoy as Jazz in June fires up another set of masterful performances.

80 The Power and the Glory Figures of myth and legendary painters star in an epic exhibition of French masterpieces coming to the OKC Museum of Art. 82 Watery Worlds The Water Garden Society of Oklahoma’s pond tour invites travelers to help themselves to a splash of inspiration.

85 A Ride to Remember Mountainous Durango, Colorado boasts magnificent scenery, mouthwatering cuisine and enough pet amenities to make it a paradise for canines.

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

94 Last Laugh 96 Last Look

34 77 Counties In her ongoing travels through the state, author and photographer M.J. Alexander visits with Oklahoma native, and Broadway sensation, Kelli O’Hara.

FARE 64 Home Run Caryn Ross’ quest for the ultimate fried chicken recipe yields delectable results.

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

8 SLICE // JUNE 2014

June 2014

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June 2014

Volume 5 Issue 6

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

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Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Justin Avera, David Cobb, Simon Hurst, Claude Long, Michael Miller, 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

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10 SLICE // JUNE 2014

WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA sliceok.com

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On the Web

THIS MONTH ON SLICEOK.COM

SEASON OF GLAMOUR

June 2014

Volume 5 Issue 6

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.

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As the days keep getting longer and sunnier and the temperature continues to edge higher and higher, we’d like to get in on the act by adding a bit of sizzle to your wardrobe – with the help of some of our friends among the metro’s greatest names in high fashion. Slice is giving away gift cards to three extremely fortunate readers:

$100 to LIBERTE in Classen Curve $200 to r meyers in Nichols Hills Plaza $500 to Balliets in Classen Curve

Tell us what your favorite era of fashion has been - the jubilant motionemphasizing flapper ensembles, the sleek refinement of Old Hollywood, the earthier comfort of the late ‘60s - and why that style is at the top of your own personal all-time Best Dressed list, and we may share your thoughts with our readers in our August issue … while you look sensational this summer.

Visit sliceok.com/style/ to enter, and don’t try to be fashionably late; we won’t take any entries after June 30. Good luck!

12 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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 6, June 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

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Honoring Tradition

The 73 seniors of the Casady Class of 2014 will be matriculating to the 34 following colleges and universities in the United States and abroad: Baylor University* Boston University Cornell University Duke University Earlham College Florida State University Grinnell College Harding University Harvard University Indiana University Bloomington Inst Tecnologico de Buenos Aires Massachusetts Institute of Technology New York University Oklahoma Baptist University Oklahoma State University* Pomona College

Rhodes College Rice University* St. Edward’s University St. Louis University St. Olaf College Texas Christian University* The University of Texas - Austin Tufts University University of Arizona University of Arkansas* University of Georgia University of Oklahoma* University of Pennsylvania University of Puget Sound* University of Tampa University of Wisconsin Madison Vanderbilt University Xavier University

* two or more will be attending

Casady School admits students of any race, color, creed and national or ethnic origin.

Honoring Tradition Since 1947, Casady School has developed excellence, our students by equipping them with the skills and knowledge that serve as the foundation for success.

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A First-Class Frolic Summer is on the horizon, the warmer weather is already here – isn’t this the perfect time to head out and have some fun?

Two of the metro’s prime retail destinations think so, and you’re invited to share in the monthly festivities:

FIRST THURSDAYS Thursday, June 5 6-9 p.m. (until dark) Nichols Hills Plaza (amphitheater area) Classen Curve (fountain area, south Curve, between Green Goodies and Steven Giles)

“Dad called…

Laura Leighe

He LOVES the Bison!”

Enjoy artist markets, live entertainment, food trucks, giveaways and plenty of kids’ activities on both sides of N.W. 63rd Street – the Curve features live music by Laura Leighe on the main stage near the fountain, an Artist Market in the parking lot north of the fountain area and a Kiddie Area with a performance by Matt Blagg, caricature artists, face painting and a bouncy house. In the Plaza, Dylan Hammett holds musical sway over the amphitheater near another Artist Market, and the kids’ area will boast a bouncy house, balloon artist and magician, plus life-size Jenga and checkers.

There’s lots of fun to be had and no cost to enjoy it – make it a family date!

CLASSEN CURVE 5825 N.W. Grand Blvd., OKC classencurve.com

Stainless steel sculpture by Kevin Box (in collaboration with Dr. Robert J. Lang)

NICHOLS HILLS PLAZA 6400 Avondale Dr., OKC nicholshillsplaza.com

14 SLICE // JUNE 2014

6432 N. Western Avenue | 405.840.4437 | howellgallery.com

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 15

From the Editor

SUMMERTIME: HOT AND TOTALLY COOL

SIMON HURST

J

MIA BLAKE

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

16 SLICE // JUNE 2014

une is probably my favorite month … because it kicks off summer, my favorite season! Vacations, weddings, barbeques and pool parties – sounds like a great time. I think this world is comprised of hot-natured people and cold-natured ones, and since I am huddled up next to my space heater while everyone around me is in shorts and sandals, running the office A/C at meat-locker temperatures, you can guess which one I am. I try not to complain when the temps finally top 100 degrees, because I would much rather that than the alternative and I try to refrain from complete hypocrisy whenever I can (even though 100 degrees is hot to me, too. I am not insane). Here in Oklahoma, June is generally our best hope for that rare interlude that skirts the border between “Brrr! That was an unseasonably cool spring day” and “OMG. It is like a blast furnace out there.” I hope I’m not jinxing it by giving voice to these hopeful thoughts. With our ongoing drought, I wouldn’t even mind a good rain like we had in 2010 on my wedding anniversary, when nearly a foot of rain in just a few hours found me getting up close and very personal with a wet vac instead of keeping the reservation at my favorite Japanese steakhouse to see a flaming volcano created from a stack of onion rings.

If you are one of those people who wants to stay cool, where better to escape the heat than an air-conditioned movie theater? deadCENTER Film Festival is back for its 14th annual event in our fair city, and the organizers have brought together a fantastic slate of feature films, documentaries and shorts for movie buffs to enjoy. With a more competitive slate than ever before, the bar on this rite of summer continues to be raised. Some movies are screened in traditional movie theaters, and some make use of more unorthodox locations like outdoors on the lawn at the Myriad Gardens. This is such a fun event to attend – I highly recommend an All-Access Pass to dip into as many movies as tickle your fancy and your schedule allows during the multiday event. Arrive early for the best seating!

This is also the perfect month to spend your free time exploring our great state. If you have kiddos at home and worry about their brains atrophying over the long break, or maybe you just want to get out of the house because if you hear “Mooooommm, Daaaaadddd, we’re booooorrrreeedd” one more time you might say something you regret, it’s time to head out to some of Oklahoma’s fabulous museums. Writer Jill Hardy has vetted over a dozen destinations, some purely fun, and some sliding into the “edu-tainment” category. She shares them in “Road Trip: Summer Museum Guide” on page 46.

From off-the-beaten-track quirky locales to more familiar mainstays, there is something for everyone just a short car ride away.

Come on, summer!

Anthropologie Balliets Barre3 BD Home Black Optical Blo Café 501 Carwin’s Shave Shop Green Goodies Liberté lululemon athletica On a Whim Republic Red Coyote Steven Giles Tamazul Tucker’s Onion Burgers Upper Crust Uptown Candy Uptown Kids Whole Foods Market

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 17

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18 SLICE // JUNE 2014

UP FRONT

REACHING THE MAGIC From Elk City to Broadway, Tony-nominated actress Kelli O’Hara has reached musical stardom … and she still dreams big. See page 34.

CHATTER Topics of conversation from around the metro 20 DETAILS Manly, mighty thoughtful gifts for guys 24 RETROSPECTIVE A quick look back at a piece of local history 26

BY THE NUMBERS Checking our figures on Father’s Day 28

M.J. ALEXANDER

EXCHANGE An unscripted conversation with members of OKC Improv 30 MINGLING Glimpses of central Oklahoma’s social scene 32 JUNE 2014 // SLICE 19

UP FRONT | Chatter

Jon Kimura Parker

Getting in Tune

It’s time once more to celebrate one of history’s greatest composers with one of Oklahoma’s great music festivals: OK Mozart returns to Bartlesville June 7-14. It’s the 30th season for the powerhouse presentation of classical pieces performed by nationally renowned musical folk; this year’s roster includes master pianist Jon Kimura Parker, angel-voiced multi-instrumentalist Sarah Jarosz and chamber music stars the Miro Quartet, as well as the magnificent Amici New York orchestra.

An outdoor performance featuring the 1812 Overture, a massive production of “The Magic Flute,” even a formal Viennese ball … if you’re up in the northeast part of the state, it’s absolutely worth a detour. See okmozart.com for schedules and info.

While it’s not quite on the level of Babe Ruth calling his shot, a recording artist announcing that her new album will be named “Platinum” might be construed as bordering on the cocky. In this case, though, Miranda Lambert thinks it’s justified, since the title refers not to the RIAA’s label for records that sell over a million copies, but to herself. “Platinum is my hair color, and my wedding ring, and the color of my Airstream and the name of one of my favorite beers,” said the Grammy-winning Okie singer, who wrote eight of the album’s 16 tracks. Give it a listen June 3. Oh, and in case you’re wondering, her last album, 2011’s “Four the Record,” did indeed go Platinum.

20 SLICE // JUNE 2014

A Noble Prize

RECOGNITION AS ONE OF THE NATION’S PREMIER DESTINATIONS

A job done well is its own reward, and any praise that might accrue from someone noticing is merely icing on the cake. Then again, being named as among the very best in the country at what you do is pretty sweet icing.

Congratulations to the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, recipients of the Institute of Museum and Library Service’s 2014 National Medal for Museum and Library Service – one of 10 total handed out to the nation’s most outstanding facilities in service to the community.

“This prestigious national award confirms that our museum is one of the most important university-based natural history museums in our nation and indeed, in the world,” said OU President David L. Boren. “As Oklahomans, we are privileged to have it in our state.”

The Sam Noble Museum has been here since before the state has, and now houses more than 10 million objects tracing over 1 billion years of Oklahoma history. Director Michael Mares expressed pride and gratitude at the honor, saying “We share this award with the people of Oklahoma who made this museum and its programs possible, and who continue to support us in every way.”

The museum is hosting a free community party June 1 with free music, food trucks and congratulatory cake; stop by and share in their celebration.

HOLIDAY JUMP-START

Christmas has come early this year for the Oklahoma City Ballet; visions of themselves are already dancing in the company’s heads – only better. Devon Energy recently announced a $500,000 donation to the Ballet so it can revitalize its venerable annual presentation of “The Nutcracker.” December 2013 marked the 50-year anniversary of the holiday favorite in OKC, but it’s definitely time to update some aspects of the tradition, as some of the sets and costumes are pushing 25 years old. This arrangement – Devon will serve as the Nutcracker’s presenting sponsor for the next decade – will allow for a production overhaul that keeps the spirit alive while making the experience more magical for everyone. Tidings of comfort and joy!

PHOTOS: OKC BALLET BY ROCKY CHEN; SAM NOBLE MUSEUM COURTESY SAM NOBLE MUSEUM

AN OKLAHOMA BLEND OF MUSIC OLD AND NEW

I

n celebration of the 100th anniversary of artist Allan Houser’s birth, a first-ever, statewide collaboration of Oklahoma museums and cultural institutions, in conjunction with the Oklahoma Museums Association, are honoring his memory, works and legacy. Special exhibitions, events and educational opportunities are available across Oklahoma now through 2014.

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5/7/2014 11:55:46 AM

UP FRONT | Chatter

Calendar Watch June 15 Father’s Day; tell your pops he’s the tops June 21 Hello, summer!

June 22 70 days until the first football games for OU and OSU (hello, autumn!)

June 28 Ramadan begins at sundown

FAN-TASTIC

Part of the joy of really really liking a concept is sharing that enthusiasm with other like-minded fans. Case in point: the annual pop culture event dubbed SoonerCon is turning 23 years old June 27-29 at the Reed Conference Center in Midwest City, featuring special guests Glen Cook (creator of the Black Company series) and award-winning Oklahoma author C.J. Cherryh. It’s a cornucopia of comic books, sci-fi, fantasy and horror, plus an art show, board gaming, costume displays and more. Maybe you’ll find something new to love.

STARTING SMALL

NBA Most Valuable Player Kevin Durant wasn’t born six-foot-nine with an incredible step-back jump shot. All stars have to get their starts somewhere, and even if they go on to succeed at other pursuits instead, basketball is one way to instill more versatile attributes like teamwork, dedication and respect. The OKC Thunder’s Youth Basketball Camps offer fiveday camps June 2 through August 1 for kids ages 5-9 and 10-16, at the Thunder event center and around the metro – visit nba.com/thunder for details.

ON THE PAGE THE ROCKY ROAD TO RESTAURATEURISM What do espresso making, musical composition, crafting canoes and running a gourmet ice cream parlor have in common? If you answered “besides being generally concerned with creating things, not a lot,” you’ll understand why Molly Wizenberg wasn’t all that concerned when, six months into their marriage, her husband Brandon started talking about opening a restaurant.

He had a flair for avocational flights of fancy, and odds were excellent that this idea would fall quickly by the wayside like those previous hobbies and career paths.

That’s foreshadowing. It’s also the setup for “Delancey,” Wizenberg’s memoir of that restaurant’s beginning days and the strain involved on the couple’s finances and fledgling marriage.

Fortunately, readers already know it turns out okay, and the Oklahoma-born author of the blog Orangette has a deft hand with turning a sentence, as seen in this description of the idea of marriage: “You’re hitching your wagon to someone else’s, and if you’re totally honest about it, neither of you really knows how the steering column works, which road you’d be smartest to take, and whether, somewhere down that road, your spouse’s wheel hubs will open to reveal blades designed specifically to tear your wagon apart, ‘Ben-Hur’-style.”

It’s a quick read, she’s an immensely charming writer and when you finish, you can start working on some of the recipes included as chapter breaks. Now that’s a happy ending.

THE LONG HAUL

Classic car shows make inviting venues for a day of exploration, but for the owners, they can be a little … static. The very purpose of an automobile is transportation, after all.

So vintage auto owners who have a need for – well, if not speed, then at least motion, might be interested in signing up for the Hot Rod Hundred. The June 14 classic car rally starts in Mustang’s Wild Horse Park and meanders down to Lake Murray State Park in Ardmore, with several planned stops to hang out, picnic and shoot the breeze. Think of it as a car show that actually uses those wheels.

“Too many people opt out and never discover their own abilities, because they fear failure. They don’t understand commitment. When you learn to keep fighting in the face of potential failure, it gives you a larger skill set to do what you want to do in life.”

- Former Tennessee Lady Vols coach PAT SUMMITT, whose 1,098 victories are the all-time record for any NCAA basketball coach. She will be honored by the Annie Oakley Society at a June 12 luncheon.

22 SLICE // JUNE 2014

BRI G HTMUS I C P RES E NTS

CHAMBER MUSIC MASTERWORKS

BY DEBUSSY, RAVEL, SAINT-SAENS, BERLIOZ, POULENC AND MORE

JUNE 12, 14, 15, 17 ST. PAUL’S CATHEDRAL N.W. 7th at robinson

more info at:

NICHOLS HILLS PLAZA 63RD & N. WESTERN | 405.842.1478 rmeyersokc.com

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 23

UP FRONT | Details

THIS ONE’S

FOR THE BOYS

1.

2.

By Sara Gae Waters // Photos by Carli Wentworth JUNE IS THE MONTH THAT WE CELEBRATE THE MEN IN OUR LIVES. It could be the groom, the groomsmen or, of course, the father … anyone from the first-timers to the experts. We all expect to fire up the grill, let the man of the hour cook up some burgers and then gift him the traditional tie, grilling utensils or T-shirt emblazoned with his favorite team. Today, more than ever, you can find something unique and special for these guys, even if it’s a new take on an old gift.

Finding the unusual can be tricky, and finding high-quality unusual items can seem impossible. I have to admit, though, I think I have cracked the code this time.

The shops represented here are going out of their way to supply great stuff for great men. Locally and/or responsibly made. Re-purposed and re-vitalized.

And I have to say it, just downright cool. Maybe instead of a new spatula for the grill, it’s a travel bag of all the drink-making utensils he could ever need.

Or perhaps a crocheted tie? That’s definitely different. A vintage tie pin, locally made shaving cream or some Grenadine for a mixed drink … these are just a few of the unusual gifts to think about this year – perfect for that oneof-a-kind of man in your life!

24 SLICE // JUNE 2014

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

1. Conversion backpack by Simpleton Goods from Weldon Jack in OKC, 405.568.8171 // 2. Vintage aluminum shot glasses, vintage glass decanter and small batch Grenadine by Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. from Dutch in OKC, 405.609.2808 // 3. Hawford Dopp kit by British Belt Co., handmade cotton suspenders, Stetson fedora, Dovo acrylic pearl handle straight razor and Dovo faux tortoise handle straight razor from Carwin’s Shave Shop in OKC, 405.607.1197 // 4. Henley Brands barware set from The Social Club in Norman, 405.310.3388 // 5. Walnut and brass key fob by Simpleton Goods, Oklahoma pocket knife by Moore Maker, shave cream by Halston & Henley, maple and cherry bottle opener by Kahoy, hand-blown shave bowl by Blue Sage Studios and travel shave brush by Imperial from Weldon Jack // 6. Playing cards and box, vintage tie clips, wide-mouth flask

by Stanley, Mariposa coffee, compass and leather case from The Social Club // 7. The Truman Razors in nautilus blue, ivory and olive by Harry’s, The Essential Handkerchief by TEM, Lincoln crocheted bowtie by Krochet Kids International and Local 405 T by Shop Good from Shop Good in OKC, 405.702.0517 JUNE 2014 // SLICE 25

o r t Respective

A Musical Mecca

By Mark Beutler // Photos courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society BACK IN 1969, OKLAHOMA CITY BROKE GROUND ON A NEW STATE-OFTHE-ART CONVENTION CENTER. Simply known as “The Myriad,” the complex was located downtown at Sheridan and Broadway, and took three years to complete.

The 13,000 seat arena opened in 1972 and saw some of the hottest musical acts of the day: Elvis Presley performed there; Sonny and Cher checked in. Tina Turner’s “Private Dancer,” the Captain and Tennille’s “Muskrat Love” and Olivia Newton-John’s “Let’s Get Physical” tours all graced the Myriad stage. Country acts ranging from Garth Brooks to Vince Gill and Reba McEntire all played the Myriad.

After completion of the Ford Center (now the Chesapeake Energy Arena), the Myriad was given a multi-million dollar facelift and renamed the “Cox Center,” breathing new life into the 40-year old landmark.

26 SLICE // JUNE 2014

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 27

FATHER’S DAY

BY THE NUMBERS

By Steve Gill

53,238

births reported in Oklahoma in 2010

3.9 MILLION

U.S. births during the last 12 months (that’s a lot of cigars)

203 12

4

episodes during which Father Knew Best

seasons during which Gerald McRaney served as “Major Dad”

total Emmys won by the cast (Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Julia Louis-Dreyfus) of the 1997 comedy “Father’s Day”

1.25

inches wide the tenderloin portion of a T-bone steak must be for the USDA to consider it a Porterhouse

700,000,000

different opinions on the only correct way to cook a steak (approximately)

28 SLICE // JUNE 2014

1914

6

years after the first major celebration it took to make Mother’s Day a national holiday

1972

year the U.S. officially established Father’s Day

62

years after the first major celebration it took to make Father’s Day a national holiday

75

percentage of 1,500 fathers in a 2012 survey that said they are more involved in their kids’ lives than their own fathers were

1862 1986

year the U.S. officially established Mother’s Day

year Ivan Turgenev wrote “Fathers and Sons” (it’s pretty good)

year Bill Cosby published “Fatherhood”

2.1 MILLION

copies of the book sold in a little over four months, making it a Guinness record-breaker

57

inches in length of a standard necktie; if your dad is over 6’2” or has a thick neck, consider an extra-long (63 inches)

48

age when David L. Payne died. He led the “Boomer” movement for U.S. settlement of the “Unassigned Lands” of the Indian Territory and became known as the Father of Oklahoma

1988

year Chet Atkins sang “I Still Can’t Say Goodbye,” about spending his whole life trying to emulate his dad, and I’m literally getting choked up just typing this. Happy Father’s Day, dads everywhere.

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UP FRONT | Exchange

OFF THE CUFF

By Lauren Hammack // Photos by Simon Hurst

Conv A er with sation O Impr KC ov

BY DAY, OKC IMPROV ARTISTS KRISTY BOONE, CLINT VRAZEL, SUE ELLEN REIMAN AND KYLE GOSSETT have conventional careers, but when the four join ranks with their fellow improv performers, unscripted hilarity always ensues, as it did this month during our very entertaining exchange about stingers, lists and free cigarettes for the “newly released.”

Are you each from Oklahoma?

KB: I’ve grown up here.

KG: Yes. SR: Yes. CV: By way of Texas.

What are you currently obsessed with?

KB: Improv. And volunteering.

KG: “Game of Thrones.” Also, making OKC an improv city.

SR: Beating level 350 of Candy Crush.

CV: Cracking the pattern for improv.

Do you have any irrational phobias?

KB: I’m claustrophobic and I have a fear of being pinned down by something after a tornado.

KG: Anything with a stinger: bees, wasps, scorpions …

SR: Answering the home phone.

CV: Being alone in the dark. I have an over-active imagination and I think, “What if that IS a werewolf?”

What song on your iTunes/ Pandora has had the most plays?

KB: “Folsom Prison Blues” by Johnny Cash KG: “Get Lucky” by Daft Punk SR: Anything by The Monkees from their later years CV: “Californication” by Red Hot Chili Peppers Do you have any hidden talents?

KB: I can do a serious backflip and I’m a good mediator.

KG: I keep a wealth of lists of all kinds.

SR: Hand farts.

CV: I write haiku poems. I still remember my first one that I wrote in grade school: Nitroglycerin is poured into the test tube.

Kaboom! All is gone.

30 SLICE // JUNE 2014

Is there anything you absolutely won’t eat?

KB: Scorpions, but I’d eat one to save Kyle from his stinger phobia.

KG: Anything with an exoskeleton.

SR: Olives. Rabbit, which is a “friend, not food.”

CV: Pig’s feet.

Who do you think you could be mistaken for?

KB: Stacy Keibler, the female wrestler.

KG: Clint.

SR: My sister, back in the day.

CV: My twin brother, Buck.

What’s not as important as it used to be?

KB: I worry less about peoples’ opinions of me.

KG: Where I’ll be on Friday or Saturday night.

SR: Appearances.

CV: Being right.

What’s more important now than it used to be?

KB: The kind of connection you make with people when you’re not trying to please everyone around you.

KG: Keeping track of my money.

SR: Retirement.

CV: Everyday moments.

What do you wish you’d never parted with?

KB: My game consoles from when I was a kid: Sega, Atari, Intellivision; my Barbies, my Cabbage Patch Kids …

KG: My hard drives from previous computers. I lost a bunch of lists.

SR: Baseball cards and comic books, particularly Sergeant Fury and His Howling Commandos.

CV: An old Betty Crocker cookbook that my mom had, which her mom had given her.

The recipes in there would probably kill you today.

What do you value most in your friends?

KB: Being a good listener.

KG: Being supportive. Bringing a balance to the relationship.

SR: Generosity, if they’re rich.

Otherwise, a sense of humor.

CV: Honesty.

What’s your favorite OKC hole-in-the-wall?

KB: The Neighborhood Lounge, where they give you free cigarettes and one free drink when you get out of jail. (Clint jumps in: What brand of cigarettes?)

KG: Beverly’s Pancake House SR: Freimer’s Liquor Which movie can you recite the words to?

KB: “Anchorman” and “Zoolander” KG: “Lord of the Rings” SR: “Harold and Maude” CV: “The Princess Bride”

Can you get out of a ticket on charm alone?

KB: Define “charm.”

KG: If I’m being polite.

SR: I did once in 1974.

CV: No. What was your favorite Saturday morning cartoon?

KB: Bugs Bunny, Roadrunner, Tom and Jerry – the classics KG: I didn’t watch cartoons but I had a bunch of Winnie the Pooh tapes that I loved.

SR: Rocky and Bullwinkle CV: All Looney Tunes What would surprise your first grade teacher if she knew?

KB: That I speak publicly and do improv. I was very shy.

KG: That I still have crappy penmanship.

SR: That I speak loudly without being forced. I was pretty shy, too.

CV: That my car is as messy as my desk was.

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What were your teachers wrong about?

KB: My seventh grade music teacher discouraged me from singing, but I now have a decent singing voice that doesn’t hurt anyone’s ears.

KG: I had a high school piano teacher who discouraged me from improvising on the piano.

I get paid to do that now.

SR: You shouldn’t let classmates vote on who gets the parts for the class play.

CV: “He’s such a nice young boy.”

Do you have any personal rituals?

KB: I eat candies (like M&Ms) by even numbers, then I chew two on one side and two on the other.

KG: “Cheers” before alcohol SR: Singing a random version of “Happy Birthday” to my friends CV: I take one bite out of a piece of bread or a tortilla before I commit to eating it.

Do you collect anything?

KB: OKC Thunder and movie ticket stubs, access passes KG: Assorted memorabilia like tickets, birthday cards, photos SR: Christmas ornaments and shot glasses CV: Improv festival badges and t-shirts from all the places I’ve been

OKC IMPROV SUMMER DATES • Improv Classes run from June 2 through July 1 (five levels of classes) • “Showcase of Shows,” Fridays and Saturdays from July 5 through July 26 Learn more at okcimprov.com.

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 31

UP FRONT | Mingling Pete and Karen Delaney

Randy Wallace, Larry Nichols

Daniel and Kim Holloway

Donna and Bruce Lawrence, Terri Cooper

INTEGRIS GALA Photos by Claude Long

A lighthearted evening of celebration at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum collects over $663,000 to benefit the hospital’s burn center.

Kevin Durant, Serge Ibaka, Russell Westbrook

Dr. Paul Silverstein, Dr. Amalia Miranda, Dixie Reid and Dr. Chris Lentz

WHY NOT? BOWLING Thunder star Russell Westbrook’s Why Not? Foundation continues its push to inspire underserved youth while sharing some fun with kids at Edmond’s Boulevard Lanes.

Westbrook helps a fan line up a shot.

Smiles all around

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

32 SLICE // JUNE 2014

Ann Gilliland, Ann Alspaugh, Cheryl Browne

Honoree Susan Bergen, Terry Bradley

David Leader, Brenda and Tom McDaniel

Sherry and Ike Bennett Carla Sharpe, Spencer Smith, Mary Pointer Nathaniel and Amanda Harding

Beth and Jim Tolbert, Josie Freede, Dr. Khaled Hosseini, Elaine Levy, Cindi Shelby

LITERARY VOICES Photos by Justin Avera

Bestselling author Khaled Hosseini holds an audience spellbound at the Library Endowment Trust’s fundraising dinner at the OKC Golf & Country Club.

OKC BEAUTIFUL LUNCHEON

Casi Peters, Amber Thompson

Photos by Claude Long

OKC Beautiful honors those who have improved the city’s visual appeal at its lovely annual Distinguished Service Awards.

Michelle Lennox, Rubye Portis

Debbie and Richard Forshee

REACH FOR THE STARS Photos by Claude Long

Youth Services of Oklahoma County deals in inspiration; this gala evening at the Skirvin Hilton helps fuel their drive to make a difference in young lives.

Dan and Hailey Hopper

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 33

UP FRONT | Wanderlust

Editor’s Note: This is the 22nd installment in a continuing series as author and photographer M.J. Alexander chronicles her travels across the state of Oklahoma.

34 SLICE // JUNE 2014

FOURTH-GENERATION OKLAHOMAN, FIVE-TIME TONY NOMINEE

KELLI O’HARA

77 COUNTIES: BECKHAM ON BROADWAY

By M.J. Alexander

HER STORY READS LIKE A SCRIPT FOR A ROMANTIC BROADWAY MUSICAL: spunky tomboy with a voice like an angel, hair like corn silk and a smile as wide as the open plains makes her way from the family farm in Oklahoma to New York City. Destination: Broadway stardom!

In less able hands, the cliché would fall flat. And yet, like most every role she has tackled, Kelli O’Hara makes it work with an alchemy of talent, hard work, determination and the gift of making it all look effortless.

The New York Times has dubbed her “one of the most exquisitely expressive stars in musical theater.” In her latest starring role in “The Bridges of Madison County” – as Francesca, the character played by Meryl Streep in the movie – the Times critic waxes poetic about her utterance of the three-syllable single-word opening that starts the show: “Iowa.”

“When Kelli O’Hara sings that word, a plain place name becomes a prism of rippling ambivalence ... you hear both the heady hope of liberation and the hopeless acceptance of captivity. And suddenly, Madison County starts to seem like a far more exciting place to visit than you might have imagined.”

Although the show did not receive a coveted Tony Award nomination for Best Musical, O’Hara was singled out for accolades. The role earned her a fifth nomination for a Tony Award, Broadway’s highest honor. The winner will be announced in a live national broadcast June 8 from the stage of Radio City Music Hall.

Many believe this is her year to win.

A fourth-generation Oklahoman, Kelli O’Hara was born April 16, 1976, and raised on a farm in western Oklahoma, near Elk City.

Both sides of her family set down roots on the territorial frontier. Her mother’s grandmother Ethel Snider was born in 1889 in Old Greer County, during a trip from Alabama by covered wagon by her parents – George Washington Snider and his wife, Martha – to stake out a position for the Land Rush. Ethel would one day meet and marry Dr. Will Hus-

band, who became so beloved by the town of Hollis that city leaders named their hallowed rock-hewn football stadium after him. On the O’Hara side, three Irish immigrant brothers – Michael, James and her dad’s grandfather, Peter O’Hara – first settled near Mangum around the turn of the century, and sent out roots from there.

Kelli O’Hara always loved singing. Inspired by the success of Miss America 1981 Susan Powell – improbably from the same town of Elk City, population 12,251 – she was determined to receive the same vocal training.

The O’Haras moved to Edmond so her father could attend law school, and Kelli O’Hara graduated from Deer Creek, where she studied under drama teacher Dixie Lee Jordan. She followed in Powell’s footsteps and studied at Oklahoma City University with Professor Florence Birdwell, who also mentored the acclaimed Kristin Chenoweth. After her OCU graduation in 1998, she headed for the big city.

She has channeled the grit of her forebears and small-town upbringing in a city of cynics, and made them adore her. A Google search of her name with the adjective “luminous” turns up more than 14,000 results.

She has inhabited mid-20th century roles – first the ingenue, now the fully grown, conf licted woman – and infused the words and music with such sincerity as to search for new ways to praise her. After her third Tony nomination, in 2008 for her portrayal of Nellie Forbush in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” Charles Isherwood in The New York Times gushed of her “unforced sincerity and a reserved tenderness that occasionally blooms into an exuberant joy ... she sings with a radiance that is the sound of hope and happiness made manifest, in a voice that could melt the heart of the most unregenerate musical hater.”

Mary Rodgers Guettel – the daughter of the show’s composer, Richard Rodgers – says simply: “Kelli is a phenomenon.”

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 35

UP FRONT | Wanderlust ON MAY 3, 2014, BEFORE THE SATURDAY MATINEE PERFORMANCE OF “THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY,” Kelli O’Hara breezed up the stairs and into her dressing room in the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre.

The theater, then named the Plymouth, is the stage where she made her Broadway debut in 2000, as part of the ensemble in “Jekyll & Hyde.” At the time, this very dressing room was occupied by the show’s headliner: David Hasselhoff.

But now Kelli O’Hara is the star. She takes a seat and an assistant works to secure the wireless mic to her tucked-up blonde hair, arranging the dark wig that would help her become Francesca.

I have one question to ask: Is she succeeding on Broadway not despite her Oklahoma background, but – just maybe – because of it?

The backstage loudspeaker announced 30 minutes to curtain, and Kelli O’Hara chats as she applies her own stage makeup to complete her transformation: “The truth of it is, you know ... there wasn’t cynicism in my life. I mean, I didn’t have … People believed in things, and kind of, dreamed of things.”

She pauses, and looks down for a full 20 seconds as she gathers her thoughts.

“Gosh – there’s so much ...”

She picks up her eyebrow pencil and darkens her brow as she talks of what is important in Beckham County, and how that has shaped her life: “Belonging to something. The pride you have.

In my little town, my grandfather was the town doctor. Both families – You’d walk along and they’d say ‘You’re an O’Hara girl,’ ‘You’re Dr. Husband’s granddaughter,’ or ‘You’re George O’Hara’s granddaughter,’ or ‘You’re Pat O’Hara’s daughter.’

Y’know, you belong to something?

“When you feel a part of something, you’re not going to louse that name up. You take pride in your name. You’re not going to go out and make a lot of trouble. You wouldn’t disrespect your family that way, your grandparents. When you have your grandparents there in the town, having made a life for themselves for 50 years. You’re not going to go get yourself on the newspaper docket saying you got a minor in possession after the football game.

I remember feeling that way. I remember thinking, ‘Well, I’m never going to do that. That would be too embarrassing for my family.’

“But also, I had a lot of people inspiring me, people who had come before me. I really think it comes down to that. And my cousins would say the same thing. When you belong to something, then there is worth. You have self-worth. It’s just ingrained.

“Even after 15 years in New York City, I’m still making decisions based on ‘What will they think back home?’ Which is maybe good and bad, because there’s always going to be someone to say: ‘Don’t get your britches too big, you know, because I know where you came from!’

“Honestly, I mean when I moved here I can’t remember how many people – if I had a dollar for everybody who asked me – ‘Well, where you gonna live? What’s your job going to be? Do you have a job?’

“And I’d be like, ‘No. I’m just gonna try ... ’ and feeling really nervous about that.

“So the drive, the ambition to get something going just to have something to say was probably one of the biggest pushers I had. ’Cause you had a thousand people being like, well – not so much ‘She’s not going to make it’ – but more like ... ‘Well, what are you doing?’

“And you want to be understood. And you say, ‘THIS is what I’m doing. I just got my first Broadway show!’ You know, the dream of being able to say that. I used to dream of that.

“I used to dream less about – and this is actually disclosing a lot about who I am, the kind of person I am, which is insecure in a lot of ways, though I have a healthy ego, but it was less about doing a Broadway show myself and more about being able to tell my family I just got a Broadway show.

“Like winning a Tony. It’s always less about me winning a Tony and more about being able to stand up on the podium and say, ‘Thank you.’ “‘Thank you to all the people who made me believe I could.’

“I don’t know if it was my parents who made me that way, or if it was the mean girls in sixth grade who made me that way, or if it was being chubby that made me that way. You think of all the things that lead you to somewhere, and there are a million of them.

“There are so many kids up here from places like Oklahoma. And I see the same drive. There’s something in us. We’re still dreamers.

“No one told us to stop believing. No one told us to get real. You know what I mean?

“And it starts to happen, to change as you get older, when you live here for a while. I try to keep myself from it. I hang out with people and they’re like, ‘You’re so fresh.’

“Well, I don’t want to change. For the most part, I don’t want to look at the statistics and I don’t wanna know who everybody is and therefore be frightened of them.

I want to have a little bit of mystery, you know?

“We just had this roundtable with the five nominees for Best Actress. Me and Sutton Foster and Idina Menzel and Mary Bridget Davies and Jessie Mueller – who’s become one of my really good friends, she comes from two parents who are actors and all four siblings who are actors. So she grew up with the thought of acting as being a job that you’d better get started with, start thinking about your insurance, and ‘How many work weeks can I get on this job?’

She started out thinking about acting as an obvious, a normal thing you’d go into. A career path.

“And Sutton and I talked about it – she’s from Alabama – we thought about the theater literally as golden, a magical universe that you never even imagined you could reach, but that you were going to go try. I like that. I totally like that I did something like that.

“My husband and his sister grew up thinking of acting like a vocation, something you just do. You make work and you get it done. Which I think sometimes it can hold you back. We’ve talked about that.

“If you just think, you think: ‘Let’s make it work. Let’s make it enough.’

“But if you dream, you dream big.”

KELLI O’HARA TONY AWARD NOMINATIONS

2008 Best Actress in a Musical as Nellie Forbush, “South Pacific”

2014 Best Actress in a Musical as Francesca Johnson, “The Bridges of Madison County”

2006 Best Actress in a Musical as Babe Williams, “The Pajama Game”

2012 Best Actress in a Musical as Billie Bendix, “Nice Work If You Can Get It”

2005 Best Featured Actress in a Musical as Clara Johnson, “The Light in the Piazza”

36 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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38 SLICE // JUNE 2014

ONE SHORT FILM (THE OPERATIVE WORD BEING “SHORT”) IS LITERALLY ONE MINUTE LONG; ONE FEATURE SPILLS OVER ITS 95 MINUTES ON SCREEN INTO A LIVE CONCERT THAT WILL ROCK LATE INTO THE NIGHT. GLEEFULLY THRILLING SCIENCE FICTION, DOCUMENTARIES BOTH HARROWING AND INSPIRING, A SHOWCASE FOR COMEDIAN NICK OFFERMAN AND A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY REVISITATION OF A TOWN RULED BY THE “CHILDREN OF THE CORN” – ON FRIDAY THE 13TH, NO LESS. FILM LOVERS, REJOICE: IT’S TIME FOR deadCENTER. The 14th annual deadCENTER Film Festival shares over 100 movies and a spate of special events with downtown OKC viewers and guests over the course of five days, June 11-15. If that sounds like a lot, consider that over a thousand entries were submitted – resulting in a tough job for the selection committee, but a great bounty for OKC. Executive Director Lance McDaniel sounds extremely confident when he avers, “This is, I believe, our strongest slate of films ever.”

We’ve selected a few features to investigate in a little more depth, but this is only the very tip of an awesome cinematic iceberg. Visit deadcenterfilm.org to peruse the full schedule and make some strategic selections, and consider an All-Access Pass for priority entrance to every film, party and special event. We’ll see you at the movies!

THE POSTHUMAN PROJECT 93 MINUTES, DIRECTED BY KYLE ROBERTS

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION IS A FREQUENTLY USED EVENT IN COMING-OF-AGE STORIES BECAUSE IT’S SUCH A PIVOTAL MOMENT FOR ADOLESCENCE: you start making meaningful choices that will have a direct impact on your future, you find yourself carrying a lot more responsibilities, you have to deal with the idea of leaving behind a lot of the life and people you knew, you develop superpowers … wait, what?

Five teens, each dealing with their own personal dramas (rehabilitating from a serious injury, recovering from heartbreak, rethinking college, resenting other family members, recoiling from an abusive stepfather) decide to take a group mountainclimbing trip and abruptly have their lives thrust into the realm of the extraordinary. Suddenly, shadowy forces maneuver them into an experiment that imbues them with powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal high-schoolers, and they must band together to use those strengths against their would-be captors or risk becoming laboratory specimens … or worse.

If that description sounds at all interesting, you’ve come to the right place – this is a comic book movie through and through, right down to the occasional nifty transitions in which the action freezes and turns into a sketch with text boxes. “The Posthuman Project” also leavens its action beats with teen drama that’s sold well by the ensemble, and even manages to find room in its script for comedic moments and sarcastic quips.

While the cast doesn’t always seem to be on the same page tonally (the evil mastermind is considerably more over-the-top than anyone else), some really nice work is done by Rett Ter-

rell as Finch, the villain’s casually scornful lieutenant, and Kyle Whalen as oft-confused protagonist Denny Burke.

A word of sincere praise about the visuals: there are times during the film when you may find yourself thinking something like, “That looks pretty good for being shot in Oklahoma,” or being done on an indie budget, or being put together without a big effects team. And then there are times when you’ll just think, “Wow. That looks great.” Period, no qualifiers. Roberts deserves major kudos for doing the visual effects work himself, a monumental task even if he weren’t also directing and producing. In his feature film debut, he swung for the fences … and with a corps of Oklahoma talent, made a solid, briskly told story that’s genuinely entertaining. Enjoy, and since it’s a comic book movie, be sure to stick around after the credits.

SOONER POWER

While superhuman abilities are in these characters’ DNA, Oklahoma is in the movie’s: writer Sterling Gates lives in L.A., but was born in Tulsa and attended OU with Steve Gill, Slice associate editor and author of this review. Writer Matt Price owns Speeding Bullet Comics in Norman. Director Kyle Roberts doesn’t just work in OKC, he’s a staunch advocate for our state’s ongoing presence in the film industry. “The Posthuman Project” was filmed entirely in the state, and according to Roberts, 98 percent of the cast and crew was from Oklahoma.

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 39

THIS MAY BE THE LAST TIME 95 MINUTES, DIRECTED BY STERLIN HARJO

FROM THE OPENING SHOT OF A SERENE, CLOUD-FILLED SKY, Sterlin Harjo’s “This May Be the Last Time” strikes a spiritual chord that’s maintained throughout the film, bolstered by a haunting soundtrack that fades in and out seamlessly with the outdoor sounds of rural southeastern Oklahoma.

The documentary’s main subject is the hymns of the Christian Muscogee (Creek) community, traditional songs sung in a unique style (with a surprising origin), but the individual stories used to flesh out the larger theme are more than points to bolster a premise; they are living facets of several very poignant truths, which Harjo’s filmmaking deftly reveals. The directorial style is organic, never contrived or controlling, and there is a very real sense of a story being allowed to simply unfold.

Armchair (and genuine) anthropologists will be fascinated by the film’s revelations, students of history and those who love a good mystery will be intrigued (the disappearance of Harjo’s grandfather is one of the threads woven into the narrative), but anyone who wants to see a beautiful film imbued with meaning will be well rewarded.

KEEPING A LANGUAGE ALIVE

Oklahoma is a pretty good place to live, if you want to keep a Native American dialect viable. In addition to a natural history museum (Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural

40 SLICE // JUNE 2014

History) researching and building databases of Oklahoma’s indigenous languages and a state university (OU) offering classes in five Indian languages (more than any other university in the world), the state also has one of the most valuable resources for preserving Indian languages; the second largest Native American population in the country.

However, the sobering truth is that the older generation is aging and passing on … often before they can give their knowledge to younger Native people.

“I think back to when I was my son’s age,” says Jess, a Creek mother of two who grew up with parents who were fluent in Muscogee (Creek), “My dad tried to sit me down to teach me the language and I wish I would have listened. I was a kid, and didn’t have the desire to learn like I do now.”

Busy schedules are a challenge for any family in the 21st century, but for those who are trying to hold on to a cultural legacy as well as build a future, the situation can be especially trying. Jess works full time in addition to going to school to finish a bachelor’s degree, and points to a lack of time and resources as a serious impediment. While the rise of technology is often blamed for adding to the busyness of modern life, Jess also believes it could be a key in preserving indigenous language.

“I do want to teach my kids the words that I know, but there’s only so much time in a day. It would also be nice if there were classes easily available – maybe online – at a reasonable cost. I’d also like to see classes offered at high schools across the state.”

LIGHT FROM THE DARKROOM 92 MINUTES, DIRECTED BY LANCE MCDANIEL “I WANT YOU TO SEND ME HOME REAL PICTURES; NONE OF THAT DIGITAL NONSENSE.” That’s gallery owner Blanca’s instruction to her friend Francisco as he and Jaime embark on a pilgrimage to China, and the prime mover for this “Catholic thriller” of life-and-death drama infused with contemplation of a higher power.

The men’s journey is halted by a squad of soldiers trying to extinguish religious practices, and when the pilgrims attempt to detour the troops gun them down. In the midst of the chaos and death, the men witness an astonishing event that makes for the film’s most powerful moment: a woman felled by gunfire abruptly sits up and points to the sky, the motion and soundtrack suddenly grind to a near-halt and a wash of unearthly light floods the sky and screen. The light fades, speed and sound return to the world and the woman dies while the travelers flee and soldiers pursue.

The remainder of the film unfolds in Panama, where an officially tailored report of Francisco and Jaime’s “accidental” deaths reunites Blanca with childhood friend Carmen, a bitter, driven young doctor too busy healing to care about feeling. Blanca receives two of Francisco’s photos; one proving the true carnage and one of the mysterious event, which a starry-eyed Blanca identifies as a visitation from the Virgin Mary. Now Blanca, driven by hope and faith, and the skeptical, more pragmatic Carmen must decide what to do with their evidence, and how to stay alive once word of the pictures begins to spread.

Dialogue isn’t the film’s strongest suit. Some of the conversations and arguments start to feel a trif le repetitive. But the sound quality and score are great at establishing a vivid atmosphere, and the acting from Lymari Nadal, Patricia de Leon and Steven Quesada is really a strength overall; it’s genuinely moving when Blanca – tied to a chair and beaten, bleeding from the nose and mouth, menaced by the behemoth who has already killed two people close to her – ignores her situation entirely to search intently for a sign that the miraculous photo is ref lecting any spark of goodness in the soul of someone she has known for decades.

SETTING THE SCENE

One major Oklahoma connection is obvious without even seeing the movie, since director Lance McDaniel is also the Executive Director of deadCENTER itself. But another is a little sneakier, revealing itself gradually to those familiar with metro geography: while “Light From the Darkroom” is set primarily in Panama, with a side trip to China and only a brief sequence of scenes in OKC, the reality is that almost everything was filmed in Oklahoma. One major location, Blanca’s “Bella Lux” art gallery (which is a nice touch thematically, by the way), is recognizable as the Paseo’s JRB Art at the Elms. If viewers can tear their attentions away from the story, it might be fun to play “spot the local background scenery.”

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 41

LAST DAYS IN VIETNAM 98 MINUTES, DIRECTED BY RORY KENNEDY

FOR AT LEAST ONE GENERATION OF AMERICANS, AN ENDURING IMAGE OF THE VIETNAM WAR is of a helicopter perched atop a Saigon rooftop, a queue of would-be evacuees trailing down a ladder. If any picture is worth a thousand words, that extraordinary photo is well worth the hour-and-a-half running time of “Last Days in Vietnam.”

Though the action is focused on the evacuation of the American embassy in Saigon in April 1975, the film offers generous perspective on the run up to those events. Beginning with the Paris Peace Accord crafted in 1973, proceeding through the resignation of President Nixon in 1974 and ending with the pleas to Congress for one more round of support by President Ford, the documentary reveals a disarmingly human side to the closing days of the lengthy conflict.

Highlighted by interviews with Henry Kissinger, Richard Armitage and many of the last Marines “in country” at the American embassy, and aided by superb graphical representations of the North Vietnamese Army’s advance on Saigon, “Last Days in Vietnam” provides a riveting portrayal of the closing moments of the war. While spectacular – and occasionally graphic – archival footage of the events drives the action, the candid interviews provide perspective on the events and players from decades away.

Emmy Award-winning director and producer Rory Kennedy deftly traverses the complex political and personal landscape in crafting an exceptionally evenhanded portrait of a harrowing – and heroic – episode in American history. In addition to American military personnel, the interview credits include South Vietnam-

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ese evacuees and military officers. Some of the most gripping interviews are those with South Vietnamese civilians who did not make it out of the country on that last day, yet persevered and eventually found their way to freedom in the United States.

“Last Days in Vietnam” may not make you stand up and cheer.

It may not make you proud – or ashamed – to be an American. It may, however, make you appreciate more fully the fragile state of humanity in which we all exist. For the student of history, the avowed patriot or the empathetic observer of both human destruction and decency, it is a film worth seeing.

A CONTINUING JOURNEY

Growing up in Edmond, “Last Days in Vietnam” associate producer Taylor Johns lived just up the road from one of the largest Vietnamese populations in the country. For anyone who has visited the metro’s bustling Asian District, “Last Days in Vietnam” will shed some light on the obstacles many of the city’s residents overcame on their trek to the United States.

This film represents Johns’ first feature-length assignment. The Edmond Santa Fe and Pepperdine University graduate is understandably excited to share the film with a local audience. “I am thrilled with the success it has had,” Johns says, “and to have it screen for my home crowd.” The home crowd will undoubtedly be thrilled at the Oklahoma premiere of this outstanding documentary.

LADONNA HARRIS: INDIAN 101 63 MINUTES, DIRECTED BY JULIANNA BRANNUM THE TITLE OF THIS FILM ABOUT NATIVE AMERICAN ACTIVIST AND LEADER LADONNA HARRIS is a reference to the role that Harris, a Comanche woman who grew up in Walters, Oklahoma, played in Washington, D.C., after her husband was elected to the United States senate. Harris was instrumental in educating government officials and lawmakers about Native people, in an effort to better understand how to form policies concerning them.

“Indian 101” is both an informative experience (even people with a good understanding of civil rights issues may learn something new from Harris’ explanation of how Indian issues differ from the struggle of other people of color in the United States), and an examination of how Harris’ personality and singular approach to social action made her a unique force in the volatile world of political activism in the ’60s and ’70s.

The film blends Harris’ biography and the bigger picture of issues together from the beginning, outlining how her upbringing – complete with cherished memories and painful ones – molded her character and consciousness into one well-suited for navigating political waters. Devotion to her heritage coupled with great personal strength and a rare trait in Washington – likeability – helped Harris to influence policy and achieve great victories for Native people.

At just over an hour, the film stops while it’s ahead, and contains just the right amount of detail to both honor Harris, and reaffirm an always-relevant message: activists can be sweet, as well as strong, and education remains the most powerful weapon against social injustice.

AN UNLIKELY ALLY

It’s a historical fact that in addition to their list of political accomplishments, the most memorable American presidents tend to leave a legacy of one-liners; JFK’s “Ask not” chiasmus, the elder Bush’s “Read my lips” and his successor’s famous musing about the precise definition of “is”… all are noteworthy, but perhaps the most quoted (and imitated) is Richard Nixon’s “I am not a crook” statement, made in response to accusations about financial misdeeds in his presidency.

Almost every American past the third grade knows that Nixon is the only President of the United States who has resigned. They can also tell you that it had to do with something called “Watergate,” even if they have no idea what that entailed.

When Nixon’s term is put under the microscope on issues concerning Native Americans, however, there are a surprising number of decisions that did much to bring about change in the federal government’s policy. In addition to the repudiation of the termination policy designed to assimilate Indian tribes, the Nixon administration saw the passage of the Indian Financing Act, the bill for federal (re)recognition of the Menominee tribe, an increase of 214 percent to the Bureau of Indian Affairs budget and the return of the sacred Blue Lake to the people of Taos Pueblo, among other things.

Even the passage of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, a landmark piece of legislation for Native American interests, was built on a foundation laid by Nixon, although his resignation came before he could be the one to sign it.

Famous for having to insist he wasn’t a thief, Nixon’s greatest contribution to U.S. history might have been trying to give things back to their rightful owners.

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 43

THE QUIET PHILANTHROPIST: THE EDITH GAYLORD STORY 45 MINUTES, DIRECTED BY BRYAN BEASLEY

WHEN YOU HEAR THE NAME E.K. GAYLORD AROUND THESE PARTS, your first thought is likely of Edward King Gaylord, longtime publisher of the Oklahoman. Or maybe that street just adjacent to Bricktown. While that E.K. Gaylord certainly made his mark on the state, a different E. K. is the subject of “The Quiet Philanthropist.”

The film chronicles the life of Edith Kinney Gaylord, eldest child of the media magnate. While her father built a statewide empire, Edith followed in his footsteps. After a stint at the family paper, Gaylord moved to New York and stepped into the male-dominated newsroom.

She quickly made a name for herself working for the Associated Press in New York and Washington, D.C. She spent the next two decades covering high profile individuals and events domestically and abroad. As a pioneering figure among female journalists, Edith Gaylord blazed a trail for other women to follow.

While the short documentary more than adequately chronicles Gaylord’s early life and exceptional career achievements, the focus throughout is on what she helped others accomplish.

Upon returning to Oklahoma in the early 1960s, Gaylord spent much of the ensuing 40 years championing causes ranging from the fine arts to family planning. As the film title suggests, public recognition was never her motive for donating. In typical fashion, she would choose to honor others instead.

Interview subjects include family members, close personal friends, business associates and even hotel staff at a beloved Colorado retreat. Although this film comes well over a decade after Gaylord’s passing in 2001, all of the interviewees speak as if she had just been in the room.

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In many respects, Gaylord was – and still is – in rooms all around the city and state. The Inasmuch Foundation and Ethics and Excellence in Journalism Foundation, both of which she founded in the 1980s, continue to provide millions of dollars of support annually to a wide spectrum of causes and organizations.

Although Edith Gaylord was decidedly small in stature, she became a towering figure in the field of journalism. Through her philanthropic pursuits she left an indelible mark – often silently – on her city, state and country. At the conclusion of the film, one gets the feeling that this is not so much a legacy piece as it is the story of a tremendous life that continues to this day.

A fitting tribute to a quiet philanthropist.

HOMETOWN ROOTS

Oklahoma City native and Bishop McGuinness alum Bryan Beasley wrote and directed “The Quiet Philanthropist.” After leaving home and attending film school at New York University, Beasley has made his home in Los Angeles since 1996.

Despite his local upbringing, Beasley admits, “I had no idea of the profound effect Edith Gaylord had on Oklahoma City and Oklahoma as a whole.” He is surely not alone in that department.

A deadCENTER screening veteran, Beasley continues to seek projects that are relevant to his home state. “It’s gratifying to bring a film back that has its roots in Oklahoma,” he says, “and it’s a pleasure to come back and present here.”

CHECK DEADCENTERFILM.ORG FOR UPDATES

FEATURES

Aerosmith: Rock for the Rising Sun Sunday at 9:30 p.m.

Myriad Gardens

Alive Inside Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Army of Frankensteins Friday at 9:30 p.m.

Devon Energy Auditorium Sunday at 6 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Before I Disappear Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater Sunday at 6:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Born to Fly Friday at 2 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Saturday at 3 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Children of the Corn (30th anniversary) Friday at 9 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Footloose (30th anniversary) Friday at 9:30 p.m.

Myriad Gardens

Harmontown Friday at 7 p.m.

Devon Energy Auditorium

Hellion Friday at 8 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater

LaDonna Harris: Indian 101 Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Sunday at 5:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater Last Days in Vietnam Saturday at 5 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Sunday at 3:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Light From the Darkroom Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

Devon Energy Auditorium Sunday at 3 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Nick Offerman: American Ham Friday at 9:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater Saturday at 8 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Rough Cut Saturday at 1 p.m.

Harkins Theater Sunday at 8:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Friday at 5:30 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Sunday at 2 p.m.

Harkins Theater

This May Be the Last Time Saturday at 8 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Sunday at 4:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater

To Be Takei Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater

SHORTS

All showings in Harkins Theater Sewing Hope Saturday at 12:30 p.m.

Devon Energy Auditorium Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater

Take Me to the River Saturday at 9:30 p.m.

Myriad Gardens

The Case Against 8 Saturday at 2 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Sunday at 4 p.m.

Harkins Theater

The Dramatics (A Comedy) Friday at 7:30 p.m.

Harkins Theater Saturday at 6 p.m.

Harkins Theater

The Posthuman Project Saturday at 3 p.m.

Devon Energy Auditorium Sunday at 1 p.m.

Harkins Theater

The Quiet Philanthropist: The Edith Gaylord Story

All in the Family Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

Sunday at 7:30 p.m.

Artists, Amateurs and A-Types Thursday at 9:30 p.m.

Saturday at 5 p.m.

Comedy Shorts Thursday at 7 p.m.

Saturday at 7:30 p.m.

Equality Showcase Saturday at 12 p.m.

Friday the 13th Friday at 11 p.m.

Love, Sex and Death Friday at 8:30 p.m.

Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

The Network Friday at 6 p.m.

Sunday at 12 p.m.

Okie Shorts Friday at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday at 5 p.m.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Opening Night Party Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

OKCMOA Rooftop Opening Night After Party Thursday at 10:30 p.m.

Iguana Mexican Grill Making Movies in Oklahoma Panel Friday at 11 a.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Distribution Panel Friday at 12:30 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater OK Film & Music Office Filmmaker Reception Friday at 5 p.m. IAO Gallery Outdoor Concerts Friday, Saturday, Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Myriad Gardens Friday Night Film Row Frolic Friday at 10:30 p.m. The Paramount and IAO Gallery kidsFEST Saturday at 10 a.m.

Myriad Gardens Screenplay Table Read Saturday at 12 p.m.

OKCMOA Noble Theater Stella Artois Happy Hour Saturday and Sunday at 5 p.m. Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Special Encore: Take Me to the River Saturday at 11 p.m.

Myriad Gardens Brunch Around Downtown Sunday at 11 a.m. throughout downtown OKC Closing Night After Party Sunday at 10:30 p.m. Flint

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 45

Summer Road Trip OKLAHOMA MUSEUM GUIDE

By Jill Hardy // Photo by Simon Hurst // Illustration by Tiffany McKnight

THE TRADITIONAL IMAGE OF SUMMERTIME, FOR A SCHOOL-AGED CHILD, IS ONE OF LAZY MORNINGS SPENT SLEEPING IN, FOLLOWED BY DAYS AND NIGHTS FILLED WITH ROLLICKING EPISODES OF THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY FUN.

They’re not alone; even if adults are forced to be a little more realistic in their aspirations, they aren’t immune to the hopes and dreams that warm weather stirs up, especially after a cold winter spent dealing with icy roads and bitter temperatures.

Maybe finances and work schedules preclude jetting off to a beach somewhere this summer and you need a staycation that will provide a little fun within a reasonable distance and budget. Perhaps your getaway is to Grandma’s and you need a little diversion on the drive to keep spirits high and legs awake. Even if you do get to fly off to the Caribbean (you lucky duck), maybe you’re just curious about the wonderful museums our state has to offer, and want to support local endeavors and culture, or want to have a few fun ideas for places to take visiting guests. There are a multitude of good reasons to go on a museum quest this summer (and fall, winter and spring), and this guide, hopefully, will get you started.

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Key

State Standards These are locations that are almost required visits; sites that are practically synonymous with “Oklahoma” and “Fun.” Offbeat Add-Ons Unique attractions that you may not even realize exist, or would have dreamed could have a museum devoted to them. Often small and quickly toured, these are great detours to fold into larger trips.

Worth the Drive – Substantially distant from the metro area, but well worth your time, and a day’s drive, to visit.

Hidden Treasures – Little-known institutions that merit more attention.

Special thanks to Cable Volkswagen for the fun yellow convertible.

OKLAHOMA HISTORY CENTER

Oklahoma City, www.okhistory.org/historycenter, 405.522.5248

MABEE-GERRER MUSEUM OF ART

Shawnee, mgmoa.org, 405.878.5300 Oklahoma art enthusiasts will already be aware of the more publicized options for viewing and engaging with works of beauty in our state, but some may not be aware of the gem that is the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, located on the campus of St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee.

Home to an array of artifacts and art dating from antiquity to the 20th century (including Egyptian, Greek and Roman objects, as well as European and American), the Mabee-Gerrer is one of the oldest museums in Oklahoma, and is named for Father Gregory Gerrer, a Franciscan monk (himself an artist) who wanted to share the treasures that he had acquired during world travels with the Oklahomans that he served. That intent is palpable in the museum’s presentation, as is the sentiment that drove its founding, making it one of the rare examples of an art museum that goes beyond its purpose of merely exhibiting art to help foster a love for it, as well.

Pace Yourself:

A division of the Oklahoma Historical Society, the Oklahoma History Center does a fabulous job at a daunting task; serializing and encapsulating the scope of our state’s rich and unique past. In addition to making the nuances of so many aspects of Oklahoma’s heritage accessible, the Center serves as a serious historical resource, to boot (the History Center is a Smithsonian affiliate and also houses the John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick Research Center – a wealth of genealogical and historical information is available to the public on its first floor). In addition to the five permanent galleries that showcase various facets of Oklahoma history, the Center also hosts rotating exhibits and offers a wide variety of educational programs for kids and adults. The learning isn’t limited to the indoors, either; outdoor sites provide a fresh air examination of everything from the flags that have flown over Oklahoma (14 of them – take that, Six Flags), to the topography of the Red River Valley, minimized in a quarter mile walking trail. A wonderful way to spend an afternoon, or an ongoing opportunity to flesh out your state knowledge through a membership. A true state treasure.

OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM

Jenks, okaquarium.org, 918.296.FISH

If you have a yearning for the sea but no means to get there, a glimpse of some of its treasures is as feasible as a trip towards Tulsa. With a variety of exhibits that present aquatic life both global and local – from a coral reef to an Ozark stream – the Oklahoma Aquarium is an educational and engrossing way to spend a day. The museum’s mission is to “educate and inspire conservation” and the means they’ve chosen to carry that out do a fantastic job, whether it’s through simple observation at the Shark Experience tunnel and dome, or the hands-on interaction available through a number of touch tanks throughout the aquarium.

OKLAHOMA HAS OVER

500 MUSEUMS

THE TOY AND ACTION FIGURE MUSEUM

Pauls Valley, actionfiguremuseum.com, 405.238.6300 Just a short jog from I-35 in Pauls Valley, the Toy and Action Figure Museum is a great way to break up a drive to Dallas, although for the action figure/comic book devotee, it might merit a trip all its own. Don’t let its diminutive outer appearance fool you; the museum’s modest square footage houses a staggering number of action figures (over 13,000), as well as drawings, models and other memorabilia, which represent an impressive array of subjects from Marvel superheroes to Hopalong Cassidy. Although the primary focus is action figures (many of which are displayed in a bedroom setting that’s sure to relax many parents’ complaints about the condition of their children’s chambers), the museum also hosts exhibits of the work of Oklahoma cartoonists and designers, and a variety of multimedia presentations help to communicate the impact of the fantasy world and its corresponding accessories on our culture. (Although the most effective visual illustration for this is probably the superhero underwear display.)

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 47

OKLAHOMA CITY ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDEN

Oklahoma City, okczoo.com, 405.424.3344

It seems almost superfluous to name the Oklahoma City Zoo, given its status as a worldclass zoological park and automatic year-round destination for Oklahoma families with kids, but it merits mentioning that even if you think you’ve seen it all, you may be missing out if your last trip was some time ago. In addition to new habitats developed within the last several years, the zoo offers a wealth of classes and programs designed to help you make the most of this wonderful resource. And don’t think for a minute that those offerings are limited to kids only; adults with animal-related interests can take behind-thescenes tours and classes, also, and the natural beauty found in the landscaping (the zoo is also an accredited botanical garden) makes it a unique option for a day of thoughtful solitude, or a fantastic choice for a first date.

NATIONAL COWBOY AND WESTERN HERITAGE MUSEUM

Oklahoma City, nationalcowboymuseum.org, 405.478.2250

A longtime staple for visitors to our state looking for insight into the Western landscape and mindset, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage museum is an ever-evolving collection of art, artifacts, exhibits, educational programs and events that are designed to preserve – and interpret – various touchstones of Western culture. Opportunities abound to both appreciate and interact, from viewing the state-of-the-art collection of sculpture and paintings to walking through Prosperity Junction, the detailed reproduction of a turnof-the-20th-century cattle town. A fun way to share a part of our state’s heritage with visitors, or brush up on your own western history.

OKLAHOMA TERRITORIAL MUSEUM

Guthrie, okterritorialmuseum.org, 405.282.1889

While the Oklahoma History Center wins points for its panoramic presentation of our state history, the Oklahoma Territorial Museum shines for the opposite reason; fleshing out a single era in time with exciting detail. Rather than relegating what could arguably be called our most interesting stage of development to a single chapter in a history book, or a section of a larger exhibit, the Territorial Museum explores elements of life in pre-state Oklahoma with artifacts, documents and exhibits designed to elaborate on the facts you might have learned in grade school and introduce you to some that you may not have known. I walked out a richer woman simply for having learned more about Kate Barnard. The three main galleries catalog life in Oklahoma from the time of the Louisiana Purchase up through statehood, and hold treasures like an ’89ers cabin, everyday items from the Victorian era and explanations of customs and manners of the time, along with a wealth of information about lawmen, outlaws, native tribes and the Land Runs that’s sure to appeal to the whole family. An incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff rounds out the experience, which doesn’t have to end when you go home; the museum’s Facebook page is a stand-alone resource, regularly updated with new facts and finds.

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AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM

Oklahoma City, americanbanjomuseum.com, 405.604.2793

Synonymous with American folk music (and also, unfortunately, with jokes about the rural South), the banjo is often not given its due as a historically pivotal instrument. The American Banjo Museum seeks to rectify this with an explanation of the banjo’s background (the first floor display is a mini music history course that highlights the instrument’s first appearances and importance), and a collection of over 300 banjos – ranging from the humble to the incredibly ornate – that demonstrate its versatility and growth over time. There’s even a self-deprecating nod to the less-than-complimentary associations of the banjo with a visual exhibit that includes a clip from the movie “Deliverance;” a good-natured inclusion in the context of the rest of the museum’s tribute. The Bricktown location makes it an easy visit after a matinee or a great way to take an air-conditioned break if you’re downtown following other pursuits, but music lovers (in particular bluegrass or country fans) would consider it a great destination in its own right.

MUSEUM OF OSTEOLOGY

Oklahoma City, museumofosteology.org, 405.814.0006 If a museum devoted to skeletons sounds tedious and/or macabre, you aren’t envisioning the sort of imaginative interpretation that the Museum of Osteology gives to its subject matter.

From the Explorer’s Corner, where kids can handle various animal skulls and challenge their newfound osteo-knowledge to try and identify them, to the multiple exhibits that catalog and explain skeletons ranging in size from a mouse to a humpback whale, the museum offers an in-depth look at the things we can learn from bones. A heads-up for parents trying to get by without buying souvenirs; the clever planning evident in the museum’s arrangement of its collections extends to the architectural design, which forces you to leave through the gift shop.

THE CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER

Sulphur, chickasawculturalcenter.com, 580.622.7130

SAM NOBLE OKLAHOMA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Norman, snomnh.ou.edu, 405.325.4712

More than just a diversion for dinosaur lovers, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is a synthesis of archeology and state pride, a peek at the very earliest Oklahoma history and a valuable academic asset in several fields of research. (The SNOMNH is a functional research division of the University of Oklahoma). Several dioramas depicting world cultures, the ancient people of Oklahoma, and yes, dinosaurs, are bolstered by interactive opportunities like the Discovery Room, which houses drawers of collections and tabletop activities designed to make the museum experience a little more tactile for the smaller visitors. A wide range of classes and events for all ages – children to adults – set the SNOMNH apart as a leader for family and individual educational fun.

Oklahoma has one of the largest populations of Native Americans in the United States (second only to California), and Native American culture figures into our state’s history at every turn. While there are a number of museums that are dedicated to various Native nations (and most Oklahoma history-related museums include much of the Native narrative in their presentation), the Chickasaw Cultural Center offers a unique opportunity for those interested in learning about a singular Native American culture. In addition to exhibits and live demonstrations that educate visitors about Chickasaw culture, the Aaimpa’ Café offers traditional Chickasaw food (as well as mainstream fare), and the outdoor spaces (including a recreation of a traditional Chickasaw village) are populated with plants native to both Oklahoma and the original Chickasaw homelands in the southeast, making even a simple stroll through the grounds educational.

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 49

Children’s Museum Showdown

JASMINE vs. LEONARDO’S vs. THE WONDERTORIUM

THERE ARE A FEW DIFFERENT CHOICES AVAILABLE FOR OKLAHOMA PARENTS LOOKING FOR AN ENRICHING, INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE FOR THEIR YOUNG CHILDREN. “Children’s museums” typically avoid mentioning specific age ranges (most strive to have a spectrum of appeal for the whole family), but are usually focused on interactive, hands-on activities that include elements of play. For younger kids who have learned to associate “don’t touch” with museum visits, this can be a welcome change of pace and a chance for parents to relax and let them explore.

There are several such museums throughout the state (with more cropping up all the time), and while all are worth visiting, there are three that continually top lists as favorites among those with younger children; the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum, the Oklahoma Wondertorium and Leonardo’s Children’s Museum and Adventure Quest.

All three are located at a considerable driving distance from the metro, with Leonardo’s in Enid, Jasmine Moran’s in Seminole and the Oklahoma Wondertorium situated in Stillwater, but they vary a little as far as their merits in what many think of as the three big areas of evaluation for children’s museums: age range appeal, activity variety and exercise opportunity. (The last one may be puzzling for those who have never needed to physically exhaust a preschooler or toddler before or after a long drive, but it’s no accident that most of these places are equipped with playgrounds.)

Individual family preferences will vary, of course, and be sure to call ahead to confirm operating days and hours and check for any instances of exhibits that have been removed or are undergoing repairs. Any unexpected change in plans can be disappointing when visiting museums, but when children are involved, the consequences are often magnified.

LEONARDO’S CHILDREN’S MUSEUM AND ADVENTURE QUEST

OKLAHOMA WONDERTORIUM

JASMINE MORAN CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Enid, leonardos.org, 580.233.2787

Stillwater, okwondertorium.org, 405.533.3333

Seminole, jasminemoran.com, 405.382.0950

Invoking the name of one of history’s most famous geniuses is a surefire way to appeal to parents looking for educational experiences for their children, and Leonardo’s certainly amps up expectations with their choice to name themselves after the original Renaissance Man. The medieval décor provides a quaint continuity for the theme and homage is paid to da Vinci’s inquisitiveness through the wide variety of activities available. From a real woodworking station, complete with saws, hammers and nails (sure to fire up kids’ creativity and keep parents on their toes) to an animal room with a staggering assortment of mammals, reptiles and aquatic life, Leonardo’s makes up for its few shortcomings (more bare space than other museums, exhibit descriptions printed on paper and stapled to walls) with diversity. While geared towards younger children, there’s an effort to engage the whole family, and older kids and adults will find a few things to enjoy while the younger set explores – including a surprisingly thorough display about nano science. But an area that truly shines is the outdoor play department and three-story Adventure Quest playground. This marvel boasts bridges, swings, mazes, a water table and more, providing a fantastic way for kids to expend energy. The playground was built with the help of 150,000 volunteer hours from the community.

The exterior of the Oklahoma Wondertorium is underwhelming at best, and if you’ve just driven an hour or so to get there, it may actually count as disappointing. The building looks like a repurposed (small) strip mall and the windows are painted, obscuring any peeks inside. Relocation and expansion plans are in the works. However, the unassuming outer appearance is a stark contrast to the bright, shiny interior, and the fantastically designed (on the inside) Wondertorium packs a huge fun wallop for the younger crowd. Opportunities to make art, poke around in a replica doctor’s office and even experience a few aspects of life long ago (by using a washboard and hand wringer) or far away (in the Japanese-themed Kameoka Kids’ corner) give this place an off-the-chart rating on the activity variety meter. Despite the lack of an outdoor playground, there are still lots of large motor exercise opportunities, with a miniature rock climbing wall and indoor play equipment. While the Wondertorium is probably best suited for younger kids, older siblings – even including patient teens – could be kept happy for a couple of hours with the impressive Keva plank room (complete with models and instruction booklets), or the Physics Fairway, and the Stillwater location means plenty of good eateries to choose from, to fuel up for the trip home.

A miniature world where kids can pretend to preside at a judge’s bench, buy or sell groceries in a market and sit in a scaled-down airplane cockpit, the Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum offers a multitude of opportunities to learn through exploration and play.

Many of the activities, such as learning about the mechanics of movie film through hands-on art projects, have an age-spanning appeal, and the Water Works exhibit is a fascinating way for kids of all ages to construct systems to move water, change its speed and conduct rubber duck races. There’s a train ride and Castle Maze playground, which bumps up the outdoor appeal, but the genius of this particular establishment lies with the hands-on focus of its exhibits. One of the best offerings, in my opinion, is one that’s deceptively simple; a wheelchair next to a ramp, which has been enabled for access on one side, and left at curb height on the other. A few simple tries to get up the non-adjusted side, or drink from a standard water fountain while seated in the wheelchair, brings all of the intellectual arguments for equal accessibility into sharp focus, proving that activity can indeed be a powerful teaching tool, no matter what your age or size.

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1 2

3

4 9 5 6 8

7

10

11

12

13 14

1. Leonardo’s Children’s Museum

and Adventure Quest Enid 2. Oklahoma Wondertorium Stillwater 3. Oklahoma Aquarium Jenks 4. Oklahoma Territorial Museum

Guthrie 5. Oklahoma History Center

Oklahoma City 6. Oklahoma City Zoo

and Botanical Garden

Oklahoma CIty 7. American Banjo Museum

Oklahoma City

8. National Cowboy and

Western Heritage Museum

Oklahoma City 9. Museum of Osteology

Oklahoma City 10. Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art Shawnee 11. Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum

of Natural History Norman 12. Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum Seminole 13. Toy and Action Figure Museum

Pauls Valley 14. The Chickasaw Cultural Center Sulphur

Chart Your Own Course AN OKLAHOMAN COULD SPEND HIS OR HER LIFETIME INVESTIGATING ALL OF THE PLACES WHERE OUR STATE DISPLAYS ART, SCIENTIFIC OBJECTS OR OTHER ITEMS OF CULTURAL VALUE. “Oklahoma is so fortunate to have over 500 museums to enjoy,” says Brenda Granger, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Museums Association. “These museums offer so much for all ages throughout the year, and especially in summer. You can sign up for a yoga class at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, try Funday Sunday at the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa or research

your family at a local historical society. No matter your age or interest, I promise there is an Oklahoma museum which will pique your interest, knowledge and creativity.”

Put together your own “Road Map” by searching through the list on the Oklahoma Museums Association website: okmuseums. org/oklahoma-museums (a handy tool which features downloadable lists of Oklahoma museums by area, name or city and a map to give you a visual on what’s located where).

Investing in memberships (often cheaper than paying individually for multiple visits) at your favorite places can often yield finan-

cial rewards beyond their own establishment; check for reciprocal admission to other museums nationwide, and look for deals like the $40 OMN affiliate upgrade, which gets five people into Leonardo’s Children’s Museum, The Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum, Science Museum Oklahoma, the Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium and the Museum of the Great Plains when a family membership is purchased at any of the partner museums. (Upgrade must be purchased at the same time as a membership. Ask for details at any of the participating museums).

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 51

before

Exilis

5740 NW 135th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73142

52 SLICE // JUNE 2014

after

Exilis

Men’sh Healt

GUYS AND DOCS

By Sean Becker

THE AVERAGE AMERICAN MALE AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS SPEND ABOUT AS MUCH TIME TOGETHER AS HUMANE SOCIETY VOLUNTEERS AND BABY SEAL HUNTERS. WHILE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE TWO FACTIONS IS NOT NECESSARILY THAT ADVERSARIAL, YOU’RE JUST NOT LIKELY TO FIND TOO MANY MEN (MYSELF INCLUDED) RUNNING OFF TO THE DOCTOR’S OFFICE ALL THAT OFTEN. JUNE 2014 // SLICE 53

Men’sh Healt

Why? Because we’re fine – just ask us. That sore knee/nagging chest cold/severed digit will feel better/clear up/magically reattach itself. Give it a couple of days and it will be as if nothing happened.

We know a coworker/college roommate/anonymous stranger who did the same thing a few years ago and he survived. Didn’t need no stinkin’ doctor. Now please stop nagging and telling us we should go see someone. Mother.

Some of the scenarios above may be slightly exaggerated, but you get the idea. And while male teens and 20-somethings might get away with that cavalier, devil-may-care attitude toward personal health and preservation for a while, the long-term risk outweighs the reward.

Statistically speaking, men have plenty of experience with risk.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), men are more likely to make unhealthy choices, put themselves in dangerous situations (i.e. “do stupid things”), and avoid medical checkups and doctor visits, even when they are sick or in pain. So it’s likely – or at least possible – that you or a guy you know has skipped a routine physical examination appointment in favor of an all-you-can-eat bacon buffet and an afternoon of bungee-jumping from a precariously low bridge.

Even the workplace is worrisome, as men disproportionately work in strenuous or potentially dangerous occupations. In its delightfully titled “National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries 54 SLICE // JUNE 2014

in 2012” news release, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that men accounted for a staggering 92 percent of workplace deaths for that calendar year.

The upshot is that compared to our female counterparts, we wild and crazy guys can expect a considerably shorter lifespan. Like around 5 years shorter, according to Social Security Administration actuarial tables. Clearly the numbers are not in our favor. As we sprint, saunter or stagger toward Men’s Health Week (June 9-15), why not take a little personal inventory and see if we can do something to close that vexing age and gender gap?

PHONE HOME

Before doing anything else, pick up the phone and call your mom. Yes – mom. Our goal for this call is to get a little family medical history. Not to be overly stereotypical, but the odds of getting this information out of your father are microscopically small.

Remember, your dad is fine, has always been fine, and doesn’t have any money for you to “borrow.”

Mom, on the other hand, is more likely to know who suffered from what aff liction on what side of the family going back a good 280 years or so. Share your newfound knowledge of your genetic goods (and bads) with your doctor when you show up for your checkup.

AMERICA’S

Silent Crisis Why Aren’t Men Living Longer?

On average, women live seven years longer than men. That means more than 14% of women in Oklahoma will enter retirement as widows. But these statistics are not out of your control. In fact, changing them is as easy as seeing your doctor as often as you change your oil.

Maybe you feel like seeking medical attention or preventive screenings is a sign of weakness, but seeing your doctor and taking care of your own health – and therefore your family – is nothing but strength.

Men’s Health University (Men-U) was initiated by INTEGRIS to help raise awareness and turn the tide, giving Oklahoma men easy access to crucial health screenings, health resource information and more. Isn’t it time you stepped up for your health?

Visit integrismenshealth.com or call 951-2277 to learn more about upcoming Men’s U events.

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See Better, Live Better.

Men’sh Healt

TAKE THE PLUNGE

OKC’s Dr. Darrell Pickard

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56 SLICE // JUNE 2014

I’m going to assume you (and I) visited our new/old doctor for a routine physical examination. Humor me. The bestcase scenario? Your height and weight are proportionate, you can walk down the hallway and not pass out from exertion, all blood work and screenings came back fine and your vaccinations are up to date. You may now cease reading this article and continue doing whatever it is you have been doing to keep yourself in such great health. You are to be commended.

If, however, your doctor informs you that you are overweight, have borderline high cholesterol and blood pressure readings and your organs seem to be displaying a bit of atrophy, some lifestyle changes may be in order. It’s the old one-two coming at you: diet and exercise.

In its simplest form, diet “American style” usually means eating less food overall. It can also mean incorporating more healthful foods into your menu. This part isn’t rocket science, and we’ve been hearing it since we got ears: eat fresh foods and cut back on fried stuff, red meat and sweets. Skip the chips and grab a bag of carrots. Swap out the steak for baked or grilled chicken or fish. Grab the check instead of dessert. OK, that last part is no fun, but work with me here.

In terms of longevity, men are losing the battle of the sexes. Fortunately, we can take some control of the situation. We can start at any age, and we can start right here – Oklahoma City has some terrific resources available to help men get and stay healthy. Really healthy – not “it’s only a flesh wound” healthy.

Integris has local events and services geared toward men.

You can check out their user friendly and informative men’s health website at integrisok.com/mens-health-oklahoma.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website (hhs.gov) also provides a bevy of male-specific health information.

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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.

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 57

“Now I am able to get on with my life.”

Men’sh Healt

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS FOR THE TIMES OF YOUR LIFE:

General: Physical examination, blood work, urinalysis every three years

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58 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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Doctor’s Orders: If you don’t have a regular physician, now is a good time to begin that relationship as you establish some medical baseline measures. Get in the habit of visiting your dentist annually and your eye doctor every other year if you have vision problems.

The NIH suggests having your blood pressure checked every two years. Getting it checked every year isn’t going to hurt you, though. If you are at risk for heart disease, it’s a good idea to have your cholesterol checked starting at age 20. An electrocardiogram (EKG) screens for heart problems and establishes a baseline for the future.

Depending upon your (ahem!) lifestyle choices, you may request screenings for sexually transmitted diseases and other infections. Using your overall health and medical history as a guide, your doctor may recommend additional screenings or vaccinations. The NIH recommends getting a flu shot every year and also recommends getting the HPV vaccine.

General: Physical examination, blood work, urinalysis every three years Doctor’s Orders: If you got on top of things in your 20s, your 30s should be a decade of fairly straightforward health maintenance. Keep up with the blood pressure and cholesterol checks. Vaccination boosters may also be required.

Help yourself – and your doctor – by performing self-examinations. Check testicles for lumps and skin for changing moles or freckles. Depending upon your history and condition, your doctor may suggest annual rectal exams starting in your 30s.

General: Physical examination, blood work, urinalysis every two years Doctor’s Orders: Routine examinations and screenings should be performed more frequently as you approach your middle years. Colon and prostate cancer screenings may be recommended at each checkup, and the EKG will probably reappear in your physical examination repertoire.

In addition to continuing your self-examinations, be mindful of the warning signs of low testosterone and let your doctor know if you are concerned.

General: Physical examination, blood work, urinalysis, EKG, rectal exam every year Doctor’s Orders: As the years advance, that routine physical examination will consist of more and more tests and screenings. Once every few years or so, your doctor will probably order a colorectal exam. Yeah, that one. As with other screenings, this cancer and other abnormality check is precautionary when introduced to the exam docket. You don’t have to like it, but you’re better safe than sorry.

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 59

Father’s Day – June 15th

Men’sh Healt

LET’S BE CAREFUL OUT THERE

Carwin’s Classic Father’s Day Gifts Gift Certificates Available for Hot Towel Straight Razor Shaves

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60 SLICE // JUNE 2014

Where we really tend to trip up – literally – is on that exercise part. What’s the biggest mistake people make? “Not being in shape, then trying to do too much,” says Scott de la Garza, M.D., of the Oklahoma Sports & Orthopedic Institute. If you’re overweight, hitting the ground running is not the best plan of action.

That extra weight will wreak havoc on your joints.

Instead, de la Garza recommends low-impact activities such as walking and swimming. “Start slow,” he advises, “and do what you enjoy.” Tread lightly as you embark on even the most modest of exercise routines, too. “Stretching is more important than anything,” de la Garza says. “Just stretching your hamstrings decreases your risk of everything from back strains to Achilles tears.”

Should you choose to take advantage of the weather and exercise outdoors, take care of your skin while you do it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Overall, men have higher rates of melanoma, the third most common type of skin cancer.

Melanomas are often deadly. They are also very preventable.

Melanomas are predominately the result of exposure to ultraviolet light rays, frequently from the sun. If you are working or playing outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and wear long pants and long sleeves. Take frequent breaks in the shade as well. You won’t get cold.

You don’t have to wrap yourself like a mummy to go outside in the summertime. If shorts and t-shirts are more your thing, arm yourself with sunscreen. If you swim outdoors, opt for a water-resistant formula. Apply broad-spectrum UVA- and UVB-blocking sunscreen with an SPF-30 rating or higher to any skin exposed to sunlight.

If you don’t want to smell like a pina colada, Neutrogena and Nivea offer products specifically formulated for men. But if your only option is your wife’s Banana Boat, by all means use it. You’re coconuts to be in the blazing Oklahoma sun without protection.

Gentlemen, we have all the knowledge we need to eat healthy, be active and live longer. Even if we’ve made some poor choices along the way, there’s time to build a new and better you (and me!). Why not start today?

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 61

The Perfect Spread.

Try it at The Meat House®

More Perfect With Bison.

High Plains Bison. All kinds of delicious and surprisingly lower in fat and calories than pork.

62 SLICE // JUNE 2014

©2014 High Plains Bison, LLC

FARE BITE INTO NATURE’S BOUNTY Fresh flavor and plenty of visual appeal, inside and out, go hand in hand at the Park House in the Myriad Gardens. See page 66.

CARLI WENTWORTH

HOME RUN Treat Dad to the ultimate in homemade fried chicken 64 EAT & DRINK Variety is on the menu in Slice’s citywide dining guide 68 JUNE 2014 // SLICE 63

FARE | In the Kitchen

HOME RUN

By Caryn Ross // Photo by Carli Wentworth

64 SLICE // JUNE 2014

NO MATTER THE MEAL, I ALWAYS START BY ASKING MYSELF THE QUESTION, “WHO AM I COOKING FOR?” Pretty basic, but it gives me direction of what to do.

Are they fancy? Do they like country-casual meals? Maybe barbecue is their favorite.

Whatever the answer, it gives you a purpose when cooking. You will be amazed at what you will do for those you love. This Father’s Day, I was thinking of my father-in-law and hubby specifically. Both named Jack and lovers of a home-style fried chicken dinner served with loaded mashed potatoes and warm honey biscuits: simple but delicious.

The perfect meal for two wonderful Daddies!

Fried chicken has been a staple in southern homes for over 100 years. Traveling through the South, you will find that fried chicken is cooked in a multitude of ways: double dredge, flour or self-rising flour, buttermilk soak or brine. The variations are endless. I mastered my recipe for the fried bird after taking numerous trips to Savannah and working with Paula Deen. Eating countless servings of fried chicken. Talking “bird” with every restaurant I visited. You might say I was on a quest for the ultimate fried chicken … and here are the results.

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THE ULTIMATE FRIED CHICKEN 1 whole chicken, cut up 1 can evaporated milk 3 c all-purpose flour 1 t kosher salt 1/2 t black pepper 2 t baking powder peanut oil 1/2 c Crisco Place the cut-up chicken in a large bowl and pour the evaporated milk over the top. Allow the chicken to soak in the milk for one hour in the refrigerator. Place the dry ingredients in a shallow pie pan and mix together. Heat a large cast iron skillet, filled halfway with peanut oil and Crisco, to 300 degrees.

To prepare the chicken, simply remove from the milk bath and dredge in the f lour mixture. Place skin-side down in the hot oil, making sure that the oil covers the chicken completely, and do not overcrowd the skillet. Using metal tongs, f lip the chicken to ensure that it gets an even golden-brown color. This will take 18-20 minutes. Once the chicken is done, place on a cooling rack to drain any excess oil.

Serve with stuffed mashed potato casserole and hot honey biscuits!

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STUFFED MASHED POTATO CASSEROLE 3-4 c leftover mashed potatoes 1/2 c sour cream 1/2 c crisp crumbled bacon 1 c cheddar cheese, shredded 1/4 c green onions 1 c seasoned bread crumbs 3 T unsalted butter, chilled 1/4 c Parmesan cheese, grated Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 8" x 8" baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed potatoes and sour cream. Stir in the bacon, shredded cheese and green onions. Spoon into the baking pan. Prepare the topping by using a fork or your fingers to crumble together the butter, bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.

Bake for 30-40 minutes, until topping is browned and potatoes are bubbly.

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 65

FARE | Matters of Taste

FLAVORS IN BLOOM

By Steve Gill // Photos by Carli Wentworth

SOMETIMES A RESTAURANT MUST WORK FAIRLY HARD AT DECOR IN ORDER TO COMPENSATE FOR ITS LOCATION – a gourmet paradise or lavish steakhouse will be more successful if it doesn’t feel like it’s in a nondescript strip mall, or the basement of an office complex. But other restaurants have their decorative work practically done for them by virtue of their surroundings; in a spot as redolent with charm as the Myriad Botanical Gardens, the primary goal would be to concentrate on making the food marvelous and let the scenery work its own magic.

Presto – presenting the Park House.

A massive spread of floor-to-ceiling windows dominates the space’s perimeter, offering a panoramic view of carefully tended natural beauty with which designers wisely chose not to contend. The interior is comfortably minimal in furnishings, with well-spaced tables and a sweeping curve of bar. Incidentally, the copper mugs thereon are used to serve the cocktail picturesquely named “Scent of a Mule,” which has a heck of a jalapeno-laced kick.

While it might be difficult for diners to tear their attentions away from the view (even at night, the soft glow of the Crystal Bridge is mesmerizing), focusing on the fare provides its own reward.

The Deviled Egg Flight is a tempting choice for starter; the sampler of four different recipes 66 SLICE // JUNE 2014

is a cute idea, with nice visual appeal and solid execution (for the record, the bacon and blue cheese entry is the clear standout) – but even though it’s a very good dish I’d be remiss in my delicious duty if I didn’t try to steer you toward the Chicken and Waffle Fry Nachos, which are simply fabulous. Perfectly chewy with crispyoutside waffle fries smothered in melted cheddar cheese and pulled strips of rotisserie chicken marinated in a tangy tomato sauce, topped with bits of avocado, grilled jalapeno and a drizzle of slightly sour crema … the portion is ample, but also not big enough. This is one of those “keep eating until it’s gone and then look for more” dishes.

The tender chicken that adds such savor to the nachos also stars elsewhere on the menu: in a couple of sandwiches, in a bowl of soup, served whole with a pair of side dishes and bolstering a terrific “entrée salad” of spinach leaves, slivered Granny Smith apples and crunchy clusters of roasted nuts dressed with a bacon vinaigrette (two words that should be paired more often) for a solid lighter option.

Speaking of lighter fare, I didn’t order one myself, but the Park House managed a first for this fairly dedicated carnivore: I tried a Veggie Burger that was actually pretty good. I can’t speak to the quality of the piquant romesco sauce or what it adds to the overall flavor since my companion was guarding her portion jealously, but I enjoyed how the chef didn’t try too hard to mimic beef by making the substitute homogenous. Leaving the “patty” more loosely packed lets the textures of the quinoa and black beans assert themselves and play off each other to beneficial effect.

My chosen entrée was the Pasta Carbonara, and I stand by it – while it definitely needs a dab of pepper and I personally might have enjoyed a slightly creamier sauce, the pasta was perfectly cooked, the flavors bal-

PARK HOUSE 125 Ron Norick Blvd, OKC 405.232.7275 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun-Thurs, 11 am-10 p.m. Fri-Sat

anced well … and it’s hard to argue with such massive, tender cubes of pork belly. (See above, re: carnivore.)

If all that bounty leaves you with any appetite at all, soldier on – the dessert Donuts and Coffee is an ideal capper featuring a trio of miniature confections and a mug of espressoflavored mousse in which to dunk them.

All in all, I’m a Park House fan. It’s not the cheapest date in the OKC metro, but the menu is broad and creative, the execution is deft and the location amid the luxuriant splendor of nature is a thing of beauty.

QUICK TIPS

Make time for a stroll. Depending on where you parked and how hot it is, you might not have much spare energy to invest, but the Myriad Gardens are more than a splendidly scenic backdrop; they’re thoroughly worth an exploratory ramble.

Season with certainty. They’re unmarked, so this could be crucial – the shaker with two holes is salt, the pepper has three.

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Eat & Drink KEY $ $$ $$$

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

Have an addition that you’d like us to consider?

Send establishment name, address, phone number and a brief description (40 words or less) to dining@sliceok. com. Submissions must be received two months prior to publication.

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 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 $ 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 $

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

231 S Coltrane, Edmond, 562.4777 $ 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 $

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 $

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 $$

CAFÉ 501 Pizzas, salads and specialty sandwiches on artisan breads. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$

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 $

CLASSEN GRILL Deftly done diner deliciousness, especially breakfast. 5124 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.0428 $

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

DEEP FORK GRILL Crisply elegant atmosphere complements superb seafood (cedar plank salmon is a specialty) and steaks. 5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$

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

1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $

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 $

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 $$

DISTRICT 21 This sleek, inexpensive bastion of creativity is run by Francis Tuttle’s culinary school. 12777 N Rockwell, OKC, 717.7700 $

ASIAN

FLINT Casual style plus outstanding contemporary cuisine makes a winning combination in the Colcord Hotel. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$

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 $$

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 $$

DOT WO GARDEN Dot Wo continues its legacy by pairing sumptuous classics of Chinese cuisine with fiery, fresh sushi. 6161 N May, OKC, 608.2388 $$

INTERURBAN Great food (and prices) in casual comfort – try the chicken-fried steak and anything with honey-pepper bacon. 4 metro locations, interurban.us $$

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

2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$

68 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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 $$ 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 $$ SAII Rich ambiance boosts expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus stellar sushi. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$ VII ASIAN BISTRO A bright, sleek interior and savory spate of Chinese and Vietnamese options. 2900 N Classen, OKC, 604.2939 $

BAKERY 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $

BAR // PUB FOOD 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 $ ABNER’S ALE HOUSE Beers and whiskies of the best, plus knockout dishes aimed at recreating the true English public house vibe.

121 E Main, Norman, 928.5801 $$ THE BARREL Drink deep of top-shelf wines, beers and whiskies, braced by thoroughly appetizing pub fusion cuisine. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $ BELLE ISLE BREWERY Live music, handcrafted beers and a great burger selection in 50 Penn Place. 1900 NW Expressway, OKC, 840.1911 $ BLU FINE WINE & FOOD A sleek bar that stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$ 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 $$ DEEP DEUCE GRILL A funky, comfortable alternative to Bricktown crowds, featuring

burgers, beer and a people-watching patio.

307 NE 2nd, OKC, 235.9100 $ 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 $$ MONT, THE Tempting pub food with Southwestern zing at a Norman landmark with a primo patio. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $ O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies, it’s served killer burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $ PELOTON Brake for a handful of apps, sandwiches and salads plus a great wine and beer selection. 900 N Broadway Ave, OKC 605.0513 $ PUB W Multiple atmospheres for whatever vibe you like, and a menu of choice beer and “new classic” fare from barbeque wings to thick pork chops. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 701.5844 $$ 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 $$

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 $

dinner at

no more es b a r r ic a d

FARE | Eat & Drink CHARCOAL OVEN Serving premium charbroiled burgers since 1958 for the flavor of a backyard cookout via drive-in. 2701 NW Expressway, OKC $ 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 $ FLATIRE BURGERS Boasting innovations like sauerkraut, pineapple relish and habanero salsa.100 N University, Edmond, 974.4638; 6315 NW 39th Expwy, Bethany, 603.2822 $ GARAGE BURGERS & BEER, THE The focus is on the many tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 5 metro locations, eatatthegarage.com $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $

70 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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 $

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 $

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 $

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 $

SERVICE STATION A former filling station with vintage décor, now serving up delicious half-pound burgers and fries.

502 S Webster, Norman, 364.2136 $

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 $

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 $

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 $$ BLACKBIRD A gastropub with succulent creativity (pot roast nachos!) and a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$

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 $

CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes and contemporary comfort food; truly one of the city’s finest restaurants.

2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$

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

200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 208.4000 $

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 $

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

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 $

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 $

GRILLE SIXTEEN Downtown Edmond’s hot spot serves gourmet tapas and entrees to complement the perfect glass of wine. 16 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.5333 $$

URBAN JOHNNIE’S Gourmet burgers and more in a sleek bar atmosphere from the minds behind Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler.

121 NE 2nd, OKC, 208.4477 $

MICHELANGELO’S Enjoy exceptional coffees and wines, a well-stocked pastry case and even breakfast and lunch selections. 207 E Main, Norman, 579.3387 $

COFFEEHOUSE // TEA ROOM 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 $

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

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 $$ LOTTINVILLES Rotisserie chicken, woodgrilled salmon and a host of entrees, salads and panini; the Sunday brunch is epic. 801 Signal Ridge, Edmond, 341.2244 $$ MANTEL, THE Marvelous steaks and seafood (don’t miss the lobster bisque), in a refined, intimate atmosphere. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$ MELTING POT, THE Make a meal an event to remember with an elegant fondue feast.

4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$

WEEKEND BRUNCH VEGETARIAN BREAKFAST TACOS Corn tortillas filled with scrambled eggs and soyrizo, served with sour cream, guacamole, UJ salsa and a side of black beans PECAN PULL APART BREAD House made pull apart bread with cinnamon, pecans, orange cream anglaise (limited supply) UJ BLOODY MARY Absolut Peppar with house made Bloody Mary mix and Roughtail IPA MIMOSAS FIND THESE AND MANY MORE ITEMS ON OUR WEEKEND BRUNCH MENU SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 10-3

INSPIRED FOOD AND DRINK 121 NE 2ND ST // 405.208.4477 // URBANJOHNNIE.COM MON-WED 11-11PM // THURS-FRI 11-MIDNIGHT // SATURDAY 10-MIDNIGHT // SUNDAY 10 -9PM

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

6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ MICHAEL’S GRILL Urbane, intimate dining: steaks, chops, seafood and pastas, and Caesar salad prepared tableside. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$ 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 $$ NONNA’S EURO-AMERICAN RISTORANTE A cozily appointed, opulent atmosphere housing distinctive cuisine and drinks. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $$$ 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 $$$ PASEO GRILL Intimate inside and cheerful on the patio, with an award-winning menu of distinctive flavors – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ 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 $$ OLD GERMANY Justly renowned for its Bavarian delights – the schnitzels, soups and sausages are spectacular. 15920 SE 29th, Choctaw, 390.8647 $$$

LOCAL Using fine, fresh regionally sourced ingredients, its menu changes seasonally but its warm atmosphere is constant. 2262 W Main, Norman, 928.5600 $$ LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$

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 $

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 $$

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 $

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 $

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 $$

INDIAN GOPURAM – TASTE OF INDIA A full-service restaurant with the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentiful lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$

HEALTHY // ECLECTIC

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 $$

EARTH, THE Super, super fresh sandwiches, salads and soups in one of the most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly menus you’ll ever see. 750 Asp, Norman, 573.5933 $

BELLINI’S Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. 6305 Waterford Blvd, OKC, 848.1065 $$

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 $$

ROYAL BAVARIA Excellent renditions of traditional dishes, plus fantastisch housebrewed beers. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$

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

ITALIAN // PIZZA

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 $$

HIDEAWAY PIZZA Incredible pizza in jovial surroundings; it’s amassed a devoted following for over half a century.

7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA No humility needed for this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies. 700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$ 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 $$

Join us for PUB HOUR! every weekday from 3p to 7p

Our patio is now OPEN!

FATHER’S DAY Open Noon to 8 pm Sunday, June 15

4308 N Western Ave

(405) 525-6682

www.barrelokc.com

72 SLICE // JUNE 2014

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED • MELTINGPOT.COM (405) 235-1000 • 4 E SHERIDAN AVE., OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73104

PIZZA 23 A tempting suite of specialty pies and good beer selection in crisp, urban décor. 600-B NW 23rd St, OKC, 601.6161 $$

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 $$

SOPHABELLA’S A quiet, classy gem offering premier tastes from Chicago and beyond in style. 7628 N May, OKC, 879.0100 $$$

MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry by skilled chefs at tableside hibachi grills. 4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$

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 $$

SUSHI BAR, THE Sushi staples done with élan, plus more adventurous options, in a bustling, comfortable environment. 1201 NW 178th, OKC, 285.7317 $$

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 $$

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 $$

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 $

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 $$

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 $$

MEDITERRANEAN

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 $$ GOGO SUSHI Prime for lovers of speed and convenience – go go check it out! 1611 S Service Rd, Moore, 794.3474; 432 NW 10th, OKC, 602.6333 $$

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 $$ ABUELO’S The variety, plates, flavors and experience are all huge. No passport required. 17 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1422; 3001 W Memorial, OKC, 755.2680 $$

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 $$ CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant Guatemalan flavors. The breakfast specialties truly dazzle. 3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $ CANTINA LAREDO A sophisticated take on Mexican fare, specializing in fresh fish and Angus beef. 1901 NW Expressway (in Penn Square Mall), OKC, 840.1051 $$ 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 $$ CHUY’S The portions are substantial, the Hatch chile-fueled flavors are strong and the vibe is playfully enthusiastic. 760 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 360.0881 $$ 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 $$ INCA TRAIL Flavors from around the world, piquant ceviches to homemade flan. 10948 N May, OKC, 286.0407 $$

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 $$

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 $

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 $

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 $$

Casual, YET

SOPHISTICATED DINING

Vintages, a wine program for your own private wine list ~ Romantic and intimate Catering & private events ~ Fresh, chef driven features daily, weekly and monthly Located in the heart of the Paseo Arts District ~ First Friday Gallery Art Walk

2909 PASEO, SUITE A ~ 405.601.1079 ~ PASEOGRILL.COM ~ MON-THU 11AM-9:30PM ~ FRI 11AM-10PM ~ SAT 5:30PM-10PM

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 73

JAZZ

31st Annual

NE

inJU

JUNE 19-21 NORMAN, OK

Thursday Friday June 19 June 20 Blues Under the Stars Samantha Fish Dirty Red & The Soul Shakers

After-concert Blues Jam

Saturday June 21

Jazz Under the Stars

Jazz in the Park

The Charlie Hunter and Scott Amendola Duo

Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks

Edmond Jazz Orchestra

Pidgin

Clinics with the Artists After-hours Jazz Jam

Boyd Street Brass

jazzinjune.org

FARE | Eat & Drink 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 $$

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 $$

MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN Hand-rolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and more, on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner. 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$

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 $$

MAMAVECA Familiar Mexican favorites plus the diverse delights of Peruvian cuisine. 2551 W Hemphill, Norman, 573.4003 $$

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 $$

TARAHUMARA’S This airy ristorante serves huge, tasty Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like mole poblano.

702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$

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 $$$

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

OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE Hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambience.

800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Effortless opulence, custom-aged hand-cut tenderloins and ribeyes and warm Southern hospitality. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$

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 $

RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities. 504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$

JAZMO’Z BOURBON STREET CAFÉ An upscale yet casual environment boasting Cajun and Creole-inspired selections. 100 E California, OKC, 232.6666 $$

TWELVE OAKS Lobster, seafood and divine steak, enhanced even more by the ambiance of a hilltop Victorian home.

6100 N Midwest, Edmond, 340.1002 $$$

PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Crab Boil is a favorite and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$

THAI

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

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

JASON WILLAFORD VINYL EXPOSED

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 $$$

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 $$

PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial winner in “best of the metro” polls for fresh, flavorful seafood and spicy Creoleinspired dishes. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$

74 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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 $$$

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 $$ 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 $$

Jason Willaford Vinyl Exposed 05/27 – 8/22

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 $

Opening Reception Tues, 05/27/2014, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

STEAKHOUSE

For more information, visit our website at OklahomaContemporary.org

BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$

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 vegetarianfriendly 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 $

PURSUITS FIRE IN THE SKY

Still scorching hot after three decades, the free festival Jazz in June returns to light up Norman musiclovers’ lives. See page 78.

TOP 10 Prime starting points for making the most of the month 76 THE POWER AND THE GLORY French masterpieces fill the OKC Museum of Art 80 WATERY WORLDS Explore liquid paradises on a pond tour 82 A RIDE TO REMEMBER Make tracks for the mountains of Durango, Colorado 85

COURTESY JAZZ IN JUNE

SEE & DO June’s music, theater, visual arts and other delights 88

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 75

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.

PRIDE AND PAGEANTRY

June 5-7, Remington Park Oklahoma means “Land of the Red People”; for three days in June Oklahoma City becomes the land of the Red Earth Festival. Thousands of Native American artists, dancers, leaders and citizens gather from tribes across the continent to share elements of their cultures and collective heritage with each other, and with the world.

As an art show, as a performance festival, as an experience, it is truly incredible.

A DATE WITH MYSTERY

June 7, Skirvin Hilton Canterbury Choral Society is ramping up the luxury for this edition of its annual Masquerade Ball: themed “Glamour, Glitz and Gatsby,” it boasts a signature cocktail running down a spiral ice sculpture; dancing to the band Time Machine; live and silent auction temptations; a performance from the children of Canterbury Youth Choruses, the beneficiaries of this extravagant bash … the main mystery is why you aren’t getting tickets right now.

L’AMOUR DE LA MUSIQUE

June 12-17, St. Paul’s Cathedral The members of Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble are putting a triumphant coda on their season with one last performance. Actually, make that four last performances. The overall theme for the Brightmusic Spring Festival is “The Music of France,” meaning audiences to any of the quartet of shows can expect a mellifluous flood from the likes of Saint-Saens, Debussy, Ravel et beaucoup des autres. Allons-y!

WE HAVE LIFTOFF

June 12-22, UCO Mitchell Hall Theater Perpetual adolescence is a lousy life plan, but it does make for a smashing evening’s worth of fun and adventure as long as audiences remember to bring their imaginations and believe in magic. Come fly with Summerstock Productions as the seasonal troupe of thespians present their take on the original Broadway version of “Peter Pan.” 76 SLICE // JUNE 2014

The Fire Inside

June 5-8, UCO Wellness Center It’s not about the athletes’ physical disabilities; it’s about the competitive spirit that drives them to push themselves to their personal peak performances and beyond. The Endeavor Games is a nationally recognized collection of sporting showdowns in archery, swimming, track and field events, wheelchair basketball, powerlifting and multiple other competitions for athletes of all ages and abilities.

A PRIZE FOR THE EYES

June 13-August 3, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum There’s good, and there’s better, and then there’s the Prix de West. The annual exhibit features more than 300 premium pieces by the nation’s finest contemporary Western artists in multiple media and genres – join the seminars and educational festivities during its opening weekend or browse the compendium of works for sale throughout the exhibition … or, ideally, both.

Tim Cox, Maybe This Will Be a Good Year

Izzn’t It Grand?

June 21, Rose State PAC Anyone could, in theory, announce him- or herself as a cheerfully absurd comedian. Crafting a multi-continentally successful career so purely entertaining that John Cleese himself refers to you as “the Lost Python” takes skill. And natural talent. Oh, and comedic timing, and also rambling stories that don’t go much of anywhere but then end with a sudden burst of silliness. Speaking of Eddie Izzard, he’s bringing his Force Majeure tour to the metro; it should be glorious.

TO CATCH A BEEF

EDDIE IZZARD PHOTO BY AMANDA SEARLE

June 14, Crest Foods The citywide quest for the meat-lovers’ best returns to Norman for a fourth straight bout leaving no room for doubt – it’s tiiiiiiiime for the Battle of the Burger! 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 experts to determine who among their number will reign supreme as Commander-in-Beef … until next year.

PLAY ON, PARTNER

June 26-28, Downtown OKC City and country are all set to collide with jubilant results, as the shining stars of country music – Lady Antebellum, the Randy Rogers Band, Dierks Bentley, the one and only Merle Haggard and many more – descend on the metro for the inaugural OKC Fest.

The three-day outdoor music event may experiment with more genres in the future, but for now, let your ears ring in the new.

FREEDOM TO CELEBRATE

June 26-July 4, Downtown Edmond A wide-ranging 12 events spread over 10 days culminating in a truly spectacular explosion of patriotic fervor – welcome to celebration country. LibertyFest roars back into Edmond with a classic car show, kite flying festival, tasting event, concerts, parade and much more, and that’s all before the unbelievably grand finale fueled by a massive fireworks display to mark Independence Day with a bang.

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 77

KEEPING THE HEAT

By Steve Gill

NORMAN IS ABOUT TO GET HOTTER, and that’s cause for celebration. Yes, really. It might seem counterintuitive to get excited about a temperature increase when it’s nearly 100 degrees in the shade, but it truly isn’t: the city’s music scene is catching fire for one sizzling weekend, and a free three-day festival of top-tier acts is no time for audiophiles to play it cool – that’s the job of the jazz and blues-slinging stars performing June 19-21 during Jazz in June.

This will be the 31st annual set for the venerable festival; that’s three solid decades and counting, which means hundreds of thousands of music-lovers have been given reason to smile

78 SLICE // JUNE 2014

despite sweltering summer temperatures.

The streak continues in 2014, thanks in part to a spotlight appearance from a bandleader who knows a little something about pleasing crowds for many years, and one of the greatest band names you’ll hear in many a long day: Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks.

Hicks performs a special blend of musical genres and influences – country, jazz, swing, pop, even a little bluegrass – that he’s been tinkering with and refining in a career that has seen him go from promising newcomer to mainstay to performance legend. He’s on the north side of 70 now, still dressing sharp and raring to share a few chords and his cheerful voice with listeners, wherever they may be.

Hicks describes his music – self-styled “folk jazz” – as a blend that starts out with a folk music sound to which a jazz beat, solos and singing are added. “It’s kind of light in nature. It’s not loud,” he said. “In a way, it’s carefree.” Listeners during the band’s set anchoring Saturday’s “Jazz in the Park” performances may recognize hints of influences from Tom Waits to Bob Dylan to Django Reinhardt, but the overall voice is unmistakably original, and not a little lighthearted. You don’t spend more than five decades on the road without a sense of humor, after all, and song titles like “How Can I Miss You When You Won’t Go Away?” are evidence of a man still having a good time with his craft.

The dapper chap and his instrumental crew (Hicks and Licks) are far from the only performance draws, too – this isn’t a concert, it’s a conclave of talents spanning three days: Thursday’s show, titled Blues Under the Stars, Dan Hicks is headlined by the powerful roadhouse swagger of Kansas City singer and guitarist Samantha Fish, whose 2011 debut album “Runaway” was honored with the prestigious Blues Music Award. She’s been touring steadily since, mixing and matching influences from Steve Ray Vaughan to the Black Crowes to Tom Petty to Son Volt on the road and on her fierce sophomore album “Black Wind Howlin.’” Simultaneously young and seasoned, Fish is a standout on the crowded KC blues circuit; she’s likely to light Norman up with serious energy.

First of all, though, opening the festival will be Dirty Red and the Soul Shakers, whose soul-drenched vocals and blistering licks on harmonica capture the spirit of our own Oklahoma blues scene.

The focus shifts genres on Friday, as the Edmond Jazz Orchestra rings in Jazz Under the Stars. The group pounds out plenty of sound, operating as a 25-piece orchestra that features trumpets, trombones, mellophones, saxophones, drums, percussion, bass and piano. Once they finish their set and clear the stage (however long that takes), it’ll be time to welcome The Charlie Hunter and Scott Amendola Duo. Renowned guitarist Hunter and drummer Amendola have recorded five albums together over the last several

PHOTOS COURTESY JAZZ IN JUNE

PURSUITS | Spotlight

IN E IN IDE LLID COLL IA CO EDIA MED NALL M IONA ITIO ADIT TRAD & TR TALL & GITA DIGI DI

G OG ALLO NA AN HA CH ITC G GLLIT

EXTRA FLAVOR

There’s even more to the festival than the open-air concerts; for those interested in a bit of an encore, conceptually speaking, Jazz in June holds clinics with the artists and after-hours jams. This year’s schedule is:

CLINICS WITH THE ARTISTS 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, The Performing Arts Studio, historic Norman Santa Fe Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave. “Two = One Very Big Sound (The Non-Traditional Jazz ‘Band’),” Charlie Hunter & Scott Amendola “History of Hick Jazz,” Dan Hicks

E CONCEPT: M

“The Cigar Box Guitar: Inspiration Through Limitation,” singer, songwriter, guitarist and guitar-builder Kyle Reid

R A SELF-PO

HIBITIO TRAIT EX

N

BLUES JAM 10 p.m. Thursday, June 19, Trés Cantina & Grille, 305 E. Main St.

JAZZ JAM 10 p.m. Saturday, June 21, Hotel Norman (formerly Holiday Inn Express), 1000 N. Interstate Dr., hosted by members of Boyd Street Brass and Pidgin.

J U N E 1 3 T H R O U G H J U LY 1 2 , 2 0 1 4 OPENING RECEPTION:

122 E. MAIN, NORMAN, OK 4 0 5 . 3 6 0 . 1 1 6 2 NORMANARTS.ORG M A I N S I T E - A R T. C O M

6-10 P.M. FRIDAY, JUNE 13

CLOSING RECEPTION:

6-10 P.M. FRIDAY, JULY 11 OPEN 11 A.M. - 4 P.M. TUES-SAT

The Charlie Hunter and Scott Amendola Duo

FREELY FLOWING

Partaking of the musical mélange doesn’t cost a dime; all you have to know is when and where to go.

Thursday, June 19 Brookhaven Village 3700 W. Robinson St. 7 p.m. - 10:45 p.m.

Friday, June 20 Brookhaven Village 3700 W. Robinson St. 7 p.m. - 10:45 p.m.

Saturday, June 21 Andrews Park 201 W. Daws St. 6 p.m. - 10:45 p.m.

Life sometimes finds a way to add its own little improvisations, so for the latest scheduling adjustments or a little extra sting of information, visit jazzinjune.org.

ENJOY

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years (including 2013’s sensational “Pucker”), happily honing their shared affinity for interplay between their instruments while oscillating between intense grooves and sensual melodies.

In addition to Dan Licks and His Hot Licks (we never get tired of saying that name), Saturday’s slate also boasts an appearance from the Boyd Street Brass, which slings a carefully tuned brew of New Orleans-oriented blues, jazz and funk; and Pidgin, a group whose psychedelic approach to afro-soul music is fueled and boosted by a powerful horn section.

Sound like a sweet enough deal? It’s all thanks to festival underwriters the Oklahoma Arts Council and a marvelous combo of sponsors. Enjoy the sounds of summer!

.

OKC/Edmond 15th & Bryant 405-330-0100

www.thevintagepearl.com JUNE 2014 // SLICE 79

PURSUITS | Spotlight

THE POWER AND THE GLORY

By Steve Gill

IT’S ALWAYS HELPFUL TO HAVE A SITUATION THAT PROVIDES A CONCRETE DEFINITION FOR A SUBJECTIVE TERM; if you have any doubts or confusion about what “masterpiece” truly means, it’s time to head to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. The OKCMOA is the opening venue for the national tour of a new exhibit with a name that isn’t shy about proclaiming its excellence: “Gods and Heroes: Masterpieces from the École des Beaux-Arts, Paris.”

Opening June 21, it’s a showcase of highlights from the namesake school’s long and storied history, and while the title refers to the subject matter of much of the works contained therein, for French art aficionados it would be difficult to hope for a roster of talent more divine.

Jacques-Louis David, Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, Jean-Honoré Fragonard, François Boucher, Charles Le Brun, Théodore Géricault 80 SLICE // JUNE 2014

and Nicolas Poussin are some of the greatest painters ever to hail from la belle France, and each honed his craft at the venerable École des Beaux-Arts. Gods and Heroes tells the story of their alma mater’s unparalleled creative legacy through more than 140 examples of their work and their fellow scholars’.

Organized by the American Federation of Arts and the École itself, the exhibition draws on more than two centuries of work to provide visitors an overview of an institution that produced some of its country’s most accomplished artists.

Half the original U.S. colonies hadn’t been founded yet when the school came into being. Harvard was only 12 years old; Yale wouldn’t exist for decades. A highly competitive school that provided rigorous training, the École des Beaux-Arts’ impact on the visual culture of France, Europe and the world is incalculably vast.

“The legacy of the École des Beaux-Arts cannot be understated,” says OKCMOA President and CEO E. Michael Whittington. “Until World War II, Paris was the center of the art world, and generations of American artists made their pilgrimage to study at the École.

[A list that included Mary Cassatt, Thomas Eakins and James Gamble Rogers.] To have this great collection with its star-studded cast of artists now coming to the United States is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the people of Oklahoma.”

With exceptional works crossing the breadth of more than two centuries, the exhibition will provide an immersive experience into the École and its program of demanding study, revealing how artists were as much “made” as born, as they systematically learned how to create prescribed images. Generations of artistic masters depicted the epic deeds of gods and heroes as portrayed in the words of the Bible, Homer and other classical sources. Key themes carried through these works include the way in which art was used in service to power, the significance of subjects drawn from ancient history and myth and the importance of convincingly rendering the human form in action.

The exhibit also provides extra context with paintings created by some titans from other cultures, giving metro aesthetes a chance to see pieces by Rembrandt van Rijn, Albrecht Durer and other masters as part of an incredible assemblage of the great works of the Western canon. And for fans of Neoclassicism, this is a perfect opportunity to – so to speak – look back in Ingres.

IMAGES COURTESY AMERICAN FEDERATION OF ARTS

(this page) Pierre-Charles Jombert, Apollo and Diana Killing the Children of Niobe, 1772. (facing page, clockwise from top left) Jacques-Louis David, Erasistratus Discovers the Cause of Antiochus’s Disease, 1774; Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Jeroboam Sacrificing to the Idols, 1752; Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry, Zenobia Discovered by Shepherds on the Banks of the Araxes, 1850; David d’Angers, Pain, 1811.

BEHOLD!

While the stunning works of art starring in Gods and Heroes have maintained their majesty for centuries, its tenure in Oklahoma City will be far from timeless. Catch it June 21-September 14 at the OKC Museum of Art, 415 Couch Drive, and call 236.3100 or visit okcmoa.com for more details.

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 81

TOM THOMPSON

PURSUITS | Spotlight

WATERY WORLDS HOMEOWNERS, TAKE NOTE – whether or not mathematics is among your strong suits, this set of equations could be immensely rewarding to remember: Vegetation + Irrigation = Relaxation (Vegetation + Irrigation) + Observation = Inspiration It’s hardly rocket science; more like fluid dynamics. Think of it as the formula for one of the OKC metro’s most widely spread and calmly appealing events of the year. Members of the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma have discovered the joys of incorporating water features into their backyard gardens, and many of them are both proud of the oases they’ve built and eager to share those joys with interested visitors. Two dozen aquatic Edens await exploration June 21-22 on the annual WGSO Pond Tour.

Committed completists will have no problem staying busy, since the 24 tour stops are spread far and wide across the metro – from Yukon to Edmond to Moore – but there’s no reason for less fanatical tour-goers to feel any (water) pressure. Since it’s an entirely selfguided tour, visitors can make a single stop, or visit four homes, or chart a course for 20, or hit the road and play it by ear. There’s no set order, and no wrong way to go.

The more stops you visit, the more variety you’ll see: tour stops run the gamut from fairly minor ponds with a handful of lilies to expansive masterpieces of stacked stone, lush greenery, multiple waterfalls and placid koi. After a dazzling debut last year, the 2014 82 SLICE // JUNE 2014

By Steve Gill

tour will also reincorporate a nighttime element in which certain stops will show off the effects of illumination rippling across their quiet waters.

It’s perfectly fine to take the tour purely to enjoy the aesthetics … but don’t be surprised if you find yourself pondering the prospect of a pond of your own. It’s actually a common occurrence as a result of this event (that’s the second part of the formula above); just ask current WGSO president Diane Clark, who is quick to point out that she took the tour for three years LIQUID ASSETS and then started making plans The Water Garden Society for her yard. If you’re already of Oklahoma’s annual Pond interested, she advises bringing Tour crisscrosses the metro a camera to take visual notes.

June 21-22.

“Last year,” she says, “there was Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. a pond on the tour that was only Sunday 1-6 p.m. half finished, and it wound up being one of the most popular Some tour homes will be open stops because people were askSaturday night; they’re marked ing questions about the process in the guidebook and reopen of building it.” from 9-11 p.m.

This is a prime opportunity to An illustrated guidebook start conversations and get tips – including a map to each tour and the society is always accepthome is available for purchase ing new members, if your interat local retailers. Visit wgso.org est happens to flow that way. for participating locations.

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PURSUITS | Getting Away

A RIDE TO REMEMBER

BY ELAINE WARNER

DOGGONE IT! YOU JUST WON’T FIND A MORE DOG-FRIENDLY TOWN THAN DURANGO, COLORADO. THAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR A ROAD TRIP WITH OUR DOG ROXIE, WHO LOVES THE CAR AND HATES TO BE BOARDED. BUT WHETHER YOU TRAVEL WITH A POOCH OR WITHOUT, DURANGO IS A GREAT DESTINATION.

The 1888 Strater Hotel is a Durango landmark. Louis L’Amour loved the hotel and insisted on Room 222 above the Diamond Belle Saloon because the music put him in an “Old West” mood.

JUNE 2014 // SLICE 85

PURSUITS | Getting Away

Clockwise from left: Steam locomotive #42 at the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum was built in 1887 for the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. // “Gaming Clowns” by Roxanne Swentzell from the Pueblo of Santa Clara // Santa Clara Pueblo artist Rose Bean Simpson created a towering stained glass mural, “Dancer Descending a Staircase” for the lobby of the Buffalo Thunder Resort.

MAKING HAY OUT OF HISTORY

WHILE NATIVE AMERICANS CAMPED AND LIVED ALONG THE ANIMAS RIVER FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS, it was the mineral wealth in the mountains that brought many new people to the area.

The coming of the railroad in 1881 fueled the boom, and the railroad is still doing so today. But instead of hauling miners and ore, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad takes tourists on scenic excursions from Durango through valleys and canyons, along the Animas River, to the old mining town of Silverton. The Durango depot, built in 1881, is one of the oldest buildings in town. Don’t miss the Railroad Museum behind the depot. It’s full of railroad history, memorabilia and a great model train layout.

Another historic attraction is the 1893 Mission-style Powerhouse, one of the earliest alternating current electric plants in the world. Now it houses an interactive science museum in and amongst the old generating equipment. For a fascinating history tour of the plant, call ahead and make sure someone will be available. My docent, 13-year-old Liam Foster, was articulate and patient as he explained the components of the three-phase AC system – he tossed around terms and names like a French chef flipping an omelet. When he said, “Of course, you know who Tesla was?” I simply smiled and nodded. You don’t get to be my age without knowing when to keep your mouth shut!

The whole downtown area is a hotbed of history. Armed with a great little guidebook, “Walking Durango,” Roxie and I followed a mile-and-a-half route past interesting old buildings. Several of the downtown stores offered doggy treats to Roxie, but her favorite spot was the Durango Coffee Company with two bowls of water on the sidewalk. One was labeled regular, the other, decaf.

Durango Tourism Office. They’ll even steer you to good doggy day care if you’re taking the train ride or checking out Mesa Verde.

Our bed was every bit as comfy as Roxie found hers to be. And our room, like all the Rochester rooms, was decorated with pictures and posters from movies made in the area. Also in the room was a cool little book, “Hollywood of the Rockies,” with insider stories about the many movies (and their stars) that have been shot here.

The breakfast was super and the location couldn’t have been better – two blocks off Main Avenue – quiet but close to the action.

There are over four dozen eateries in the historic downtown area alone, ranging from snacks and sandwiches to fine dining restaurants. We tried Seasons Rotisserie and Grill – a good choice. The menu changes seasonally and the chef makes maximum use of local products when available ... and that includes local rainbow trout.

ZZZZS AND NOMS

NO PLACE WAS FRIENDLIER THAN THE ROCHESTER HOTEL, a 15-room boutique hotel in an 1892 building. Two of the rooms are pet-friendly. Be sure to reserve in advance and they’ll be ready with a comfy pet bed and a “Wagging Welcome Package” from the 86 SLICE // JUNE 2014

A vintage sign points to the wonderfully renovated, boutique, Rochester Hotel

Another night we tried El Moro, which is located in a historic saloon. The menu was one of the most intriguing I’ve encountered. For appetizers we chose garam masala dusted scallops and pickled shrimp. Jack’s a lamb fan, so he opted for the lamb burger on a potato sage bun, and I couldn’t resist the grilled cheese sandwich with local James Ranch Belford cheese, Gruyere, tomatoes and house-cured bacon.

For dessert was muscato-raspberry gelee topped with vanilla whipped cream (think Jell-o that struck it rich and bought a chateau on the Loire). The menu changes frequently and the gelee isn’t on the current menu, but maybe it will be when you visit!

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

THINK COLORADO AND THINK SKIING – except we were there in July. Never fear. Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort has plenty to offer.

The ski lift is great for getting a beautiful view of the mountains, but for those who are more adventuresome, it’s a way to get you and your mountain bike to the top for an exciting bike ride down. The resort has 10 bike trails for peddlers of varying abilities. You can also get off the lift about halfway to the top and slide down the quarter-mile-long Alpine Slide – or take the round-trip on the lift.

Other summer activities include zip-lining, miniature golf, disc golf and hiking – or renting a Diggler scooter. Some children were tumbling around like gerbils in large colored balls on a pool while others climbed overhead on a ropes course. One of Durango’s July highlights is the annual Music in the Mountains festival, with the majority of concerts performed at Durango Mountain Resort.

Overnight guests can enjoy the swimming pool and foosball, shuffleboard, Wii, movies and board games in the game room, an exercise room and day spa. Pets are allowed in some units at Purgatory Lodge, one of several choices of accommodations on the property. The only problem with pups in the summer is the cleated metal outside steps – safer in winter – are rough on tender paws. Roxie required carryon service.

Whether you stay on the mountain or in town, activities and attractions can keep you as busy as you want to be – or just relax in some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere.

Make no bones about it, Durango is a great destination.

Roxie gives it four paws up!

Clockwise from top: Durango Mountain Resort viewed from the Purgatory ski lift on the property // Roofline, Buffalo Thunder Resort // Ropes and Water Runners provide active kids with great outlets for their energy. // Roxie loves her bed at the Rochester!

GETTING THERE IS HALF THE FUN It’s an 11- to 12-hour drive from OKC to Durango, drivable in a long day, but we decided to take a quick detour to Santa Fe. The sprawling pueblo-style Buffalo Thunder Resort north of town sits scenically at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Its many amenities include a large casino with headliner entertainment, an elegant spa, indoor and outdoor pools, plus a 27-hole golf course. Beautiful Native American art is on display throughout the facilities. Foodies will find everything from fine dining to snacks in over half-a-dozen eateries. Add pet-friendly and you have a complete package!

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See & Do EVENTS Urban Pioneer Awards Jun 4 The community builders known collectively as Midtown Renaissance are the honorees at the Plaza District’s 10th annual celebration of civic commitment and leadership. OCU University Center, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org

portraits titled “Concept: Me.” MAINSITE Gallery, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, mainsite-art.com

ZOOBILATION

ONGOING Fiberworks Through Jun 10 IAO Gallery, OKC, 232.6060, fiberartistsok.org

June 20, Oklahoma City Zoo

A Walk Through the Soul & SiO2 Through Jun 15 Paseo Originals Gallery, OKC, 604.6602, paseooriginals.com Oklahoma Colors: Earth, Sky and Water Through Jun 28 Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

Red Earth Festival Jun 5-7 An event truly like no other; hundreds upon hundreds of Native American dancers, artists and performers converge on OKC from across the country to share elements of their cultures with one another and with throngs of spectators. Remington Park, 1 Remington Pl, OKC, 427.5228, redearth.org

Info Nation Over/Load Through Aug 22 Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org

MUSEUMS

1st Friday Gallery Walk Jun 6 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

Fore! Looking Back at Golf in Edmond Jun 5-Sep 27 Today there’s Oak Tree National and half a dozen other premier courses, but 50 years ago … not so much.

The EHS takes a swing at chronicling the development of the gentleman’s game in Edmond in this pictorial exhibit. Edmond Historical Society, 431 S Boulevard St, Edmond, 340.0078, edmondhistory.org

OKC Nationals Jun 6-8 Pure power and blistering speed light up the river during this set of furious races, a star event in the National Drag Boat Association Race Series. Oklahoma River, 725 S Lincoln Ave, OKC, 630.7668, okcmotorsports.com A Night on the Orient Express Jun 7 A name synonymous with romantic adventure and mystery sets the scene for Upward Transitions’ annual American Tourist fundraising gala, featuring music, auctions, a wine pull and more.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 232.5507, upwardtransitions.org Canterbury Masquerade Ball Jun 7 Guests might not recognize all their fellow party-goers - it is a masquerade ball, after all - but that only adds a touch of intrigue to an already glitz-fueled, Gatsby-inspired, glamour-suffused evening benefiting Canterbury Choral Society. Skirvin Hilton, 1 Park Ave, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com Ruffles & Rust Expo Jun 7 A travelin’ show combining merchandise from more than 80 vendors - home décor, vintage fashions, crafts and cool old stuff, all rolled into one big sale. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 806.231.9822, rufflesandrustexpo.com Wines of the West Jun 7 No Cotes du Rhones or Sangioveses here, but a fabulous assortment of varietals from some of Oklahoma’s top wineries. Adults only! Stockyards City, 1305 S Agnew St, OKC, 235.7267, stockyardscity.org Annie Oakley Society Luncheon Jun 12 Pat Summitt and Kristin Chenoweth receive commendation as examples of leadership and entrepreneurial spirit in the Museum’s annual midday fundraiser.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org 2nd Friday Circuit of Art Jun 13 A monthly community-wide celebration of creativity, focused on historic Downtown Norman.

Norman Arts Council, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org Live on the Plaza Jun 13 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District, 1618 N Gatewood Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org Battle of the Burger IV Jun 14 Bigger and beefier than ever, this year’s event features a tug-of-war and a pie contest, as well as the renewed challenge for individuals, organizations and restaurants to prove themselves the best of the best. Crest Foods, 2550 Mount Williams Dr, Norman, 488.7971, thebattleoftheburger.com Premiere on Film Row Jun 19 Fowler Honda sponsors the downtown OKC street festival; it’s family-friendly, pet-

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welcoming, free to wander through and filled with treats for the ears and taste buds. Film Row, 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 232.6060 Zoobilation Jun 20 Enjoy a wild time for a great cause in the Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser - music from Avenue, food from local restaurants, silent auction items and general ebullience. OKC Zoo, 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 425.0618, zoofriends.org Eddie Izzard Jun 21 Sometimes flamboyant, often rambling, always a force for comedic brilliance ... the stand-up wizard is ready to make a splash in the metro. Rose State PAC, 6420 SE 15th St, Midwest City, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com WGSO Pond Tour Jun 21-22 Drink in the beauties of nature - coaxed along with a little help from homeowners - in the Water Garden Society of Oklahoma’s annual tour of backyard edens cultivated by its members. Throughout the metro, 802.6800, wgso.org OKC Summer Classic Dog Shows Jun 25-29 Five days of exhibitions, merchandise and accessory sales, informative seminars, opportunities to meet exemplars of popular breeds - and the competition to determine which one of man’s best friends is the best of all. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 800.745.3000, okcsummerclassic.com LibertyFest! Jun 26-Jul 4 An incredible collection of family events, activities and entertainment, culminating in an Independence Day extravaganza with concerts, a car show and much more along the way. Throughout Edmond, 340.2527, libertyfest.org Cardboard Boat Regatta Jun 27 Contestants set sail (gingerly) in craft of their own design and construction from strictly controlled materials in a test of who can stay high and dry. Arcadia Lake, 9000 E 2nd St, Edmond, 359.4630, edmondparks.com H & 8th Night Market Jun 27 Midtown becomes a primetime paradise in this afterhours 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 Wheel and Deal for Easter Seals Jun 27 This year’s annual Blast From the Past event takes on a game show theme; fill up on music and food and embrace the zaniness.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 239.2525, eastersealsok.org

FILM Classics Series Jun 3-24 Catch a masterpiece you missed the first time around or just want to re-experience on the big screen: Jaws Jun 3, Dirty Dancing Jun 10, Happy Gilmore Jun 17 and The Great Outdoors Jun 24. Harkins Theatres, 150 E Reno Ave, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com deadCENTER Film Festival Jun 11-15 The massive fest features the finest in independent film, with plentiful options in narratives, documentaries, Oklahomamade movies and short films of every description. Downtown OKC, 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 246.9233, deadcenterfilm.org

GALLERIES Imboden & Brenner Jun 6-28 The cozy gallery in the Paseo is home to intriguing art, inside and out: this month features Connie Imboden’s haunting stylized photographs and the cheerfully colorful landscapes of Karl Brenner. JRB Art at the Elms, 2810 N Walker Ave, OKC, 528.6336, jrbartgallery.com FAC Faculty Art Show Jun 6-Jul 26 Those who teach, also can create - instructors from the Firehouse Art Center’s experts show off the skills they strive to imbue in others in this annual show. Firehouse Art Center, 444 S Flood Ave, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com Janice Mathews-Gordon Jun 7-28 Vivid colors ebb and flow in Mathews-Gordon’s abstract oeuvre; her experiments in acrylics and mixed media continue to bear intriguing fruit after decades of practice. In Your Eye Gallery, 3005 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com

Oil and Wood: Oklahoma Moderns Jun 7-Sep 14 George Bogart and James Henkle were both longtime OU art professors, one an oil painting experimentalist and one a craftsman of sculptural furniture.

This exhibit’s retrospective of their work showcases the best of two worlds. Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Prix de West Jun 13-Aug 3 The painters and sculptors represented in this incredible collection of over 300 pieces of Western art represent the absolute finest working anywhere; take advantage of the sale and opening weekend festivities.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Gods and Heroes Jun 21-Sep 14 A monumental collection of matchless masterpieces from the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris - works by David, Ingres, Rembrandt and more all-time titans.

OKC Museum of Art, 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com ONGOING Ansel Adams: An American Perspective Through Jun 1 OKC Museum of Art, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Brett Weston: Land, Sea and Sky Through Jun 1 OKC Museum of Art, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Ramp It Up: Skateboard Culture in Native America Through Jun 15 Sam Noble Museum, Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu Making Change Through Jun 30 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Oklahoma Textiles Through Jun 30 Red Earth Museum, OKC, 427.5228, redearth.org Ying Kit Chan Through Jul 26 [Artspace] at Untitled, OKC, 815.9995, artspaceatuntitled.org

Spring Stampede Jun 8 A portion of sales from this 9th annual event will benefit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, so don’t hesitate to stock up on original small works by Southwestern artists.

Rusty Gables Art Gallery, 3800 NE 50th, OKC, 424.1015, rustygables.com

Allan Houser: On the Roof Through Jul 27 OKC Museum of Art, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com

Seasonal Shows Jun 13-21 The comfortable showplace for emerging and established artists marks the month’s holidays with “The Manly Show” Jun 13-14 and a summer solstice exhibit Jun 21.

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

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

Glitch Analog Jun 13-Jul 12 A compilation of works in which digital and traditional media collide forms a double bill with a suite of self-

Master Artists at the Jacobson House Through Jul 31 Jacobson House, Norman, jacobsonhouse.org

Shifting Frontiers Through Sep 6 Oklahoma Heritage Museum, OKC, 523.3231, oklahomaheritage.com Born to Freedom: Allan Houser Through Dec 31 Oklahoma History Center, OKC, 522.0765, okhistory.org

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PURSUITS | See & Do

MUSIC OK Community Orchestra Jun 1 The orchestra welcomes guest conductor Dr. Irvin Wagner to the podium to lead the mighty ensemble in a special performance that’s less classical and more jazz. OC Hardeman Auditorium, 2501 E Memorial Rd, Edmond, 425.1990, okorchestra.org Allied Arts Community Concert Jun 1 At the end of its annual fundraising campaign, the artistic support collective and sponsor Devon Energy say “thank you” to the metro with a free twilight concert and activities for the whole family. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 278.8944, alliedartsokc.com Summer Breeze: The Salsa Shakers Jun 1 Don’t be surprised if your hips start wiggling a bit (it’s right there in the name, after all) as Armando Rivera and company’s South American sound fills the park during this free concert. Lions Park, 450 S Flood Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Diamond Ballroom Concerts Jun 1-18 Crank it up down by the river with a month-long set of seriously good times:Vampire Weekend Jun 1, Toadies Jun 12, an acoustic evening with Sevendust Jun 17 and Tech N9ne Jun 18. Diamond Ballroom, 8001 S Eastern Ave, OKC, 866.977.6849, diamondballroom.net Blue Door Shows Jun 1-27 Self-billed as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” it certainly has some of the best music: The Milk Carton Kids Jun 1, The Haunted Windchimes Jun 8, James McMurtry Jun 18 and a combined show from John Calvin, Kierston White, Ali Harter and Kyle Reid Jun 27 - check online for updates. The Blue Door, 2805 N McKinley Ave, OKC, 524.0738, bluedoorokc.com Twilight Concert Series Jun 1-29 The Arts Council of OKC invites metro residents to kick back and close out the week in style during its free weekly outdoor concerts.

Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 270.4848, artscouncilokc.com Swearin’ Jun 2 Brooklyn-based punk rockers Swearin’ anchors an evening lineup stacked with sound, including Glow God, Sex Snobs and Power Pyramid. MAINSITE Contemporary Art, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org Bricktown Concerts Jun 5 Follow the sound down to Bricktown to hear Reel Big Fish with Survay Says and This Magnificent - ska lovers rejoice! Bricktown Music Hall, 103 Flaming Lips Alley, OKC, 600.6092, bricktownmusichall.com Concerts in the Park Jun 5-26 Bring a blanket, grab a snow cone and enjoy a variety of free music from local bands during a weekly performance. Hafer Park, 1034 S Bryant St, Edmond, 359.4630, edmondok. com/parks/rec Noon Tunes Jun 5-26 Free lunchtime serenades in the Downtown Library: the Oklahoma Conservatory of Music Jun 5, Evangeline Vournazo Jun 12, Wendi and Lisa Jun 19 and Mark Galloway and Steve Crossley Jun 26. Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us

Don Williams Jun 10 When your resume has live performance dates spanning 70 years, it probably shouldn’t be surprising that you’ve made a name for yourself. Picker and singer Williams was named to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010 but remains a welcome presence on the road. Rose State PAC, 6420 SE 15th St, Midwest City, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com The Conservatory Jun 11-24 Sonic jams of all descriptions in an OKC hotspot: The Courtneys Jun 11, Blood on the Dance Floor Jun 15, A Wilhelm Scream Jun 19, Andrew Jackson Jihad Jun 23, Diarrhea Planet Jun 24 and more - adds and adjustments posted online. The Conservatory, 8911 N Western Ave, OKC, conservatoryokc.com

Summer Breeze: honeyhoney Jun 15 With a hybrid style that falls somewhere between folk, country and rock, the L.A. duo of Suzanne Santo and Ben Jaffe manage to sound as doubly sweet as their combination’s name. Lions Park, 450 S Flood Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Nichols Hills Band Concert Jun 19 A group of community volunteers show off the 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 Jazz in June Jun 19-21 A sultry, sizzling spate of blues and jazz acts bringing free music to Norman’s great outdoors; as an idea and an experience, it sounds fantastic. Brookhaven Village & Andrews Park, 3700 W Robinson St & 201 W Daws St, Norman, 325.2222, jazzinjune.org

Horseshoe Road Jun 12 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

Backstreet Boys & Avril Lavigne Jun 6 In what kind of world are the Backstreet Boys still packing major venues in 2014? Check the name of the massively popular tour they’re sharing with snarling singer Avril Lavigne: A World Like This. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com

Ronnie Milsap Jun 21 Six Grammys, 40 Number 1 hits and a ticket punched for induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame later this year - not bad for a blind Carolina kid, is it? The legendary Milsap is a performer not to be missed. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com

Brightmusic Spring Festival Jun 12-17 The sonorous chamber ensemble’s fourperformance festival brings the joie de vivre to audiences via “The Music of France,” featuring Debussy, Ravel and Saint-Saens, plus underappreciated gems from Chausson, Destenay and more. St. Paul’s Cathedral, 126 NW 7th St, OKC, brightmusic.org

OKC Fest Jun 26-28 Country stars like Lady Antebellum, the Josh Abbott Band and the one and only Merle Haggard fuel this inaugural outdoor music festival - get on it! Downtown OKC, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, okcfest.com

Purple Bar Performances Jun 6-28 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

Opolis Shows Jun 13-23 Metro, meet Opolis.

You’ll make beautiful music together, courtesy of a vast and varied lineup of bands - including Margot & the Nuclear So-and-Sos Jun 13 and the one and only Electric Six Jun 23. Check online for the fresh scoop.

The Opolis, 113 N Crawford Ave, Norman, opolis.org

Summer Breeze: Red Dirt Rangers Jun 29 A quarter century after bringing their eponymous sound out of Stillwater, the Red Dirt pioneers are takin’ it to the dusty back streets; Norman is just one of a bundle of stops on their Oklahoma World Tour. Lions Park, 450 S Flood Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

Frontier City Concerts Jun 7-28 For some extra fun in the sun-soaked amusement

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park, catch performances by country duo Thompson Square Jun 7, Zendaya Jun 14, Karmin in the Summer Jump-Off Jun 21 and Chris Young Jun 28. Frontier City, 11501 N I-35 Service Rd, OKC, 478.2140, frontiercity. com

5/8/14 12:45 PM

SPORTS

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RedHawks Baseball Jun 1-29 OKC’s men of summer step to the plate against Memphis Jun 1-3, Salt Lake City Jun 9-12, Las Vegas Jun 13-16 and Omaha Jun 26-29. Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, 2 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 218.1000, oklahomacity.redhawks. milb.com Wayman Tisdale Memorial Golf Tournament Jun 2 Orthopedic Associates helps organize this annual good-natured competition inspired by the late basketball great, with a goal of funding exceptional prosthetic care for those in need. Rose Creek Golf Course, 17031 N May Ave, Edmond, 401.8994, okortho.com ALN Golf Tournament Jun 3 The Assistance League of Norman aims to continue funding its community support programs like Operation School Bell, which gives books and supplies to needy kids.

Want to chip in and help? Jimmie Austin Golf Club, 1 Par Dr, Norman, 321.9400, assistanceleaguenorman.org Endeavor Games Jun 5-8 Some of the world’s finest athletes - period - compete for glory in 11 sports during this event for people with physical impairments. UCO et al., 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3160, ucoendeavorgames.com NAMI Walk Jun 7 A health fair for the mind, body and spirit augments this 5k supporting the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 230.1900, namioklahoma.org Mayors’ Golf Tournament Jun 9 The 15th annual opportunity to play a round in the company of present and former mayors benefits the aesthetic efforts of OKC Beautiful. OKC Golf & Country Club,

Energy Soccer Jun 14-28 Open wide for some soccer! The OKC Energy FC kick off against Sacramento Republic FC Jun 14 and 28 and the Rochester Rhinos Jun 22. Pribil Stadium, 801 NW 50th St, OKC, 235.5425, energyfc.com Swing From the Heart Jun 20 The third annual challenge hosted by former OSU star Brandon Weeden and Children’s Hospital Foundation helps fund treatment of pediatric heart defects. Oak Tree National, 1515 W Oak Tree Dr, Edmond, 503.807.0960, okchf.org National Reining Horse Derby Jun 20-29 The National Reining Horse Association’s annual showcase tests the speed, skill and poise of both rider and mount, and especially the communication between the two. State Fairgrounds, 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd, OKC, 946.7400, nrhaderby.com OKC Roller Derby Jun 21 Part graceful race, part all-out brawl, this month’s slate of spectacle sees the All-Stars lace up against the Cowboy Capital. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, okcrd.com OK Victory Dolls Jun 28 Blazing speed and deft athleticism … hitch your eyes to these rising stars as the roller derby dames face off against Memphis and the 580 Rollergirls.

State Fairgrounds, 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd, OKC, oklahomavictorydolls.com ONGOING NCAA Women’s College World Series Through Jun 4 ASA Hall of Fame Stadium, OKC, 866.208.0048, okcallsports.org Redbud Spectacular Through Jun 8 State Fairgrounds, OKC, 440.0694, okqha.org

THEATER Twelfth Night Jun 5-28 Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park begins its 30th season with a strong shot of silliness - including, since it’s a Shakespearean comedy, cross-dressing and identity confusion. Myriad Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 403.1750, oklahomashakespeare.org The Vagina Monologues Jun 6-14 By turns provocative and poignant, the collection of thoughts about femininity and humanity as a whole is for mature audiences, but rewarding for those who listen. Pollard Theater, 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, 282.2800, thepollard.org Peter Pan Jun 12-22 Sign up for a dose of adventure with pirates, pixie dust and a boy who refuses to grow up as Summerstock Productions believes in theatrical magic.

UCO Mitchell Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, summerstockok.com The Wedding Singer Jun 19-28 Love lost and perhaps found, ambition warring with insecurity, a frustrating amount of miscommunication and some sweet, sweet ‘80s music fill Upstage Theatre’s summer jam. Mitch Park Amphitheatre, 1501 W Covell Rd, Edmond, 285.5803, upstagetheatreok.com Jesus Christ Superstar Jun 23 A onenight-only take on the passion-ate musical revamped as an arena-rock spectacular, this touring production boasts Johnny Rotten, JC Chasez and Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Les Miserables Jun 24-28 When the beating of your heart echoes the beating of the drums, it’s past time to get tickets for Lyric’s lavish production of the smash Broadway

musical. Allons-y! OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com Honk! Jr. Jun 25-29 A wayward duckling - poor little guy is actually named Ugly - tries to navigate a world of woes and perils in search of survival … and his true beauty in this Oklahoma Children’s Theatre production. OCU Burg Theater, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 951.0011, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Mistakes Were Made Jun 27-Jul 19 Technically a play about a play, it’s more accurately described as a riotously comic play about desperately attempting to stage what’s turning out to be a disaster of epic proportions. Fun! Carpenter Square Theater, 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com ONGOING One-Man Star Wars Trilogy Through Jun 1 OKC Civic Center, OKC, 848.3761, cityrep.com Other Desert Cities Through Jun 7 Carpenter Square Theater, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com

SPREAD THE WORD

Like to list your upcoming event in Slice? Visit sliceok. com/calendar, click the link for “Submit an event” and tell us about it – and remember that submissions must be received two months prior to publication for consideration.

“Magnificent”

—The Wall Street Journal

SEPT. 15 - MAY 6

Explore the world exposed when 101 ancient canoes were found in a dry lake bed. The acclaimed exhibit, with videos and interactive play. And canoes, old and new.

canoes2014.com • Sulphur, OK • 580-622-7130 Produced by the Florida Museum of Natural History with support from the AEC Trust, Lastinger Family Foundation, State of Florida and VisitGainesville.

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Last Laugh

If This Doesn’t Kill You …

By Lauren Hammack

I JUST PICKED UP A PRESCRIPTION FOR PROGESTERONE, THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH HORMONE. And while I usually give nothing more than a cursory glance before tossing out the patient information sheet that comes in every prescription bag, this pamphlet caught my attention because it was so long, with so many warnings in ALL CAPS, as if to say, “If this doesn’t kill you, it will just make you wish you were dead.”

Possible side effects are listed as: “Drowsiness. Tiredness. Dizziness. Nausea. Vomiting. Bloating. Fluid retention.”

Sign me up!

“Diarrhea. Headache.

Breast tenderness. Stomach pain or cramping. Spotting or breakthrough bleeding. Muscle pain. Mild hair loss. Irritability.”

Irritability? What about “diarrhea, headache, bloating, fluid retention, breast tenderness and vomiting” would possibly make anyone irritable?

“If these side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.”

Why does that sentence begin with the word “if,” as if to suggest that some people really aren’t bothered by bleeding, dizziness and hair loss?

Should I really call the doctor for those things? Or should I wait and call about … “bulging eyes, calf or leg pain, coughing up blood, fainting, mental or mood changes, such as depression or anxiety?” Probably best to make the phone call now, while I can still remember and before “new or worsening memory problems and seizures” set in.

If the patient information leaflet were a television commercial for a pharmaceutical product, the commercial would be one of those that have a few seconds of product name, description and benefits, followed by a list of side effects for the rest of the commercial, which, in the case of progesterone, would be about 85 minutes long.

“Shortness of breath” (most likely to occur while reading about these side effects), “swelling of the hands, ankles or feet” (of course, that could just be from that bag of beef jerky I’ve been working on for three days), “symptoms of liver problems or trouble walking” (which might also be the repercussions of a weekend bender),

94 SLICE // JUNE 2014

“vision problems or changes, i.e., double vision, sudden, partial or full loss of vision” … WHAT? Maybe I’m just irritable from the “bloating and coughing up blood,” but “full loss of vision” seems like the kind of side effect that deserves top billing. At the very least, it merits prime real estate under the banner of “if these side effects are bothersome, contact your doctor.” Instead, “full loss of vision” is casually sprinkled deep into the abyss of side effects. “Hair loss, fainting and bulging eyes” now sound like mere previews of coming attractions.

“Rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness of the chest, swelling of the mouth, face or tongue.” At this point, I can no longer remember why I needed progesterone in the first place. The cure is worse than the illness.

The warning I want to read is, “Many patients report the sudden onset of ‘FIERCE BADASSERY’ and ‘SEVERELY MAGNETIC PERSONALITY,’” but that warning never comes.

Scrolling down the interminable list of additional side effects and warnings about not operating heavy machinery, such as a car, I notice this admonition: do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Reading that instantly brings up the names attached to every unsettled score in my life. “You will rue the day you crossed me! I will get you back … not with a gun, a knife or by the wrath of my hands, but with progesterone!

Mmmwwwwaaaaahahahahahahaha!”

Reaching the bottom of the page, I have a “reading migraine” (probably a side effect). “Continued on the next page,” the information sheet says. The warning list requires an addendum.

On page three: Check with your pharmacist “about how to dispose of unused medicine,” meaning you’ll probably need a HAZMAT suit.

“This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine,” the patient information leaflet helpfully states, reminding me that I am an intelligent consumer who, prior to progesterone-induced memory problems and seizures, could make up her own mind about taking the drug.

Finally, at the bottom of page 3, just under “jaw pain, slurred speech and yellowing of the skin or eyes,” the pamphlet offers as much relief as the drug with this statement: “This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur.”

We need your help!

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JUNE 2014 // SLICE 95

Last Look

At the Zzzzzzzzzoo Photo by Alex Fitch

A grizzly catches a quick snooze during a lazy afternoon at the OKC Zoo.

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

96 SLICE // JUNE 2014

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