Slice November 2014

Let’s Rumble Lesser-Known Sports Take the Spotlight

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FEATURES

48

November 2014

Creative Catalysts

All art is personal, but every person can be an inspiration. In painting as a cathartic means of healing, in wearable ceramic celebrations of the female form, in photography rooted in an imperfect focus, in emotionally resonant music, these Oklahomans are individually helping to shape their state’s artistic voice.

40

A League of Their Own

Central Oklahoma has a reputation for devotion to NBA basketball and college football.

OKC residents turn out in droves to cheer for the RedHawks and Barons and Energy.

But love shared is not love diminished – you may find room in your affections for a new form of competition as we take a closer look at rugby, lacrosse, pickleball and more of the metro’s lesser-known sports.

4 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

On the cover

Let’s Rumble Lesser-Known Sports Take the Spotlight

JOURNEYS HOSTING FOR MEET THE OLDEST THROUGH ART THE HOLIDAYS OKLAHOMAN

A trio of kickball enthusiasts preparing to storm OKC’s Douglass Park.

Photo by Simon Hurst

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Bright flavors, lively décor and a prime location make Guatemalan restaurant Chiltepes a pleasure to explore.

14 From the Editor

UP FRONT 18 Chatter Kyle Reid & the Low-Swinging Chariots get up and go, area students run for funds and other topics of conversation.

22 Details Hosting for the holidays? These decorative tips will help you set your table with natural appeal.

26 Retro-Spective Remembering the way we were with a look back at the iconic design and departed dining options that elevated Founder’s Tower.

84 ion l Sect ia c e Sp M&

U MUSELERY GAL IDE GU e 55 Pag

28 By the Numbers Fast facts and statistics on reasons to be grateful for life in Oklahoma.

6 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

PURSUITS 84 Top Ten Prime picks for a variety of November entertainment.

86 A Paseo Triple Play Horsehair pottery, luminous landscapes, brightly inexplicable flights of imagination … marvels await this month in the Paseo Arts District.

88 The Deep South(West) The Howell Gallery opens a window onto the engrossing visual breadth of a creative paradise in “The Art of Santa Fe.” 90 On the Bayou Cajun cuisine and historic charm make a spirited combination to explore along Louisiana’s Bayou Teche.

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

102 Last Laugh 104 Last Look

30 Exchange A conversational give and take about aiding animal shelters, finding time to exercise and practicing what you preach with personal trainer Vicki Tri. 32 Mingling Making an appearance on central Oklahoma’s social scene.

36 77 Counties In her ongoing travels through the state, author and photographer M.J. Alexander shares a moment of remembrance with the oldest living Oklahoman.

FARE 70 Family Traditions In this season of feasts, Caryn Ross shares her recipes for side dishes to elevate any meal.

22

November 2014

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

88

© D.YURMAN 2014

November 2014

For all of life’s celebrations...

Volume 5 Issue 11

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, Russ Tall Chief, 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 tiffany.mcknight@sliceok.com

N AIFE H PR I VATE L A B E L Allow us to be part of your love story.

Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Justin Avera, David Cobb, Terrell Fry, Simon Hurst, Chris Little, Claude Long, Michael Miller, Quit Nguyen, Elaine Warner, Carli Wentworth ADVERTISING Executive Director of Advertising Cynthia Whitaker-hill cynthia.whitakerhill@sliceok.com Account Executives Jamie Hamilton jamie.hamilton@sliceok.com Coleen VanSchoyck coleen.vanschoyck@sliceok.com Account Manager Ronnie Morey ronnie.morey@sliceok.com

405-607-4323 | www.naifehfinejewelry.com 9203 N. Pennsylvania · Oklahoma City, OK 73120

8 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

ADMINISTRATION Distribution Raymond Brewer WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA sliceok.com

On the Web

THIS MONTH ON SLICEOK.COM

CHAIN REACTIONS

As inspiring as we hope you find this issue’s feature “Creative Catalysts” to be, the article only portrays part of the picture that is formed by these five artistic minds and the varied beauty they have brought into being. To go beyond the magazine and get an even more indepth experience of the individual oeuvres of Zach Burns, Samantha Crain, Nicole Moan, Soni Parsons and Eleazar Velazquez, visit sliceok.com/creative/ and go exploring.

November 2014

Volume 5 Issue 11

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Nicole Moan

HEAT UP THE HOLIDAYS

Christmas is coming closer by the minute, but if you act quickly, we’re eager to help you make the season even brighter for someone on your shopping list (a list that should, by the way, include you).

Just in time for Christmas, we’re giving two readers an extra treat: a $250 spree at The Outlet Shoppes of Oklahoma City, and a $500 gift card to Naifeh Fine Jewelry in Casady Square. Keep an eye on our Facebook (facebook.com/sliceok) and Twitter (@sliceok) feeds to get information about when and how to enter … and then be ready to move as quickly as Santa himself. Merry Christmas to all, and to all some good luck!

10 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Phone 818.286.3160 Fax 800.869.0040 subscriptions@sliceok.com sliceok.com/subscribe Slice Volume 5, Number 11, November 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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Not only is the New Mexico capital a beautiful place in its own right, it’s also one of the country’s most vital and vibrant artistic centers. A wealth of creativity in a vast range of subjects can be found there – or rather, here, as the Howell Gallery is bringing some of that city’s finest to Oklahoma City in a new group exhibit.

The Art of Santa Fe November 6-26

It’s a collection of works by seven artists, with “Awaiting the Next Chapter,” Dick Evans expertise spanning media from bronze sculpture to watercolors to acrylic abstracts, united by their addresses: they all live and work in Santa Fe.

Kevin Box – Dick Evans – Susan Stamm Evans – Tom Perkinson – Aleta Pippin Greg Reiche – Poteet Victory

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Fashion for Health

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From the Editor

GIVING THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES (AND MAKING MORE)

SIMON HURST

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14 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

urkey, pie, turkey, pie, TURKEY, PIE! Can you tell someone is excited for Thanksgiving? I know I say it every single year, and even I get a little tired of hearing my own chirping about it – trust me, peppy is not my default setting, especially before 10 a.m. But my favorite of all the holidays (and the bright, shining spot in the bell curve of my self-diagnosed Seasonal Affective Disorder winter arc) is coming this month. And there will be turkey. And pie. Mmmmmm … good.

One year, we were at a huge gathering composed of my assorted relatives and acquaintances with about a zillion kids and our beloved elders and maybe even a few random pets – a pell mell, come-and-go potluck that was hosted by an aunt in Ponca City, if I recall correctly. Bless her, she must have had nerves of steel to deal with the chaos. Someone had placed several tree branches in a vase and laid out pens and note cards with ribbon threaded through a hole in the corner. A small sign instructed you to write down something you were thankful for and add the “ornament” to the “gratitude tree.” Later, during dessert, cards were plucked off the tree and read aloud to the assembled guests … and that has to be one of the most special memories of Thanksgiving that I possess. No one was put on the spot to extemporize (we’ve got some wallflower branches on the family tree, I think) but the outpouring of love and gratitude expressed in those simple notes was really wonderful. Not much cost, not much time, just a simple way to take a few moments to be truly thankful.

And that, folks, is why I love Thanksgiving above any and all other holidays.

After all that family togetherness and conspicuous consumption, you might guilt yourself into some exercise. We’ve got you covered with “A League of Their Own,” our fun feature on lesser-known sports on page 40. If you’re tired of the same old, same old, there are some ideas here well worth checking out. Did you know dodgeball is making a comeback with 20-somethings? I feel certain that these must have been the popular kids, because just thinking about dodgeball makes me want to curl into the fetal position and claim that I twisted my ankle so I need to sit out. Permanently.

If you are more the “I have a note from my mom,” type as well, there are several other options ranging from moderate to intense, including some games I had never even heard of (pickleball, anyone?) I think the disc golf sounds really fun, too, if only because it’s fairly self-paced and you can ramble around and probably drift in and out of the course at will. That’s more my speed.

Another in-depth story we’ve cooked up this month is “Creative Catalysts,” featuring several area artists who are shaping the sights and sounds in the metro in interesting ways. I’m consistently impressed at the wealth of shows and styles that are available to peruse as the local talent pool has grown so deep over the last many years. Far from being a cultural wasteland, Oklahoma has become a place where the arts are embraced and welcomed. And we are grateful for that!

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Call 843.4222 or 843.3038 Donations may be mailed to ARF c/o Town Hall | 6407 Avondale Drive | Nichols Hills, OK 73116

UP FRONT A BOUNTY OF BEAUTY As we enter a season of entertaining and dinner parties,

CARLI WENTWORTH

it’s time to augment your table decoration; consider these nature-inspired suggestions. See page 22.

CHATTER Topics of conversation from around the metro 18

EXCHANGE Talking personal fitness and pet rescue with trainer Vicki Tri 30

RETRO-SPECTIVE A quick look back at a piece of local history 26

MINGLING Glimpses of Central Oklahoma’s social scene 32

BY THE NUMBERS Checking our figures on reasons for gratitude 28

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

UP FRONT | Chatter

Getting in Tune

LAYING DOWN A JOYOUSLY VINTAGE SOUND

TAKE A FRESH LOOK

Back in April for our “Best of the City” feature, Slice’s editors picked the SkyDance Bridge as Best Public Art in the metro – Simon Hurst even photographed it for our cover.

Months later, the OKC Convention and Visitors’ Bureau updated its logo and decided to use that very piece as its focal point. Coincidence?

Probably! But it’s hard to argue with the striking structure’s effectiveness as an eye-catcher, much like the metropolitan area it represents.

That’s why the tagline for the CVB’s latest awareness-building campaign is “OKC-ing is Believing,” as people tend to find themselves enamored with the metro once they actually see OKC. Or, as Twitter would have it, #SeeOKC. Most of us who live here have already found much to love about central Oklahoma, but sharing the wealth only makes the metro more appealing for everyone. Hashtag awesome.

Sizzling trumpet stings, the grumbly “wah-wahhhhh” of a muted trombone, baritone vocals by turns raspy and bitter, confident and sly … there’s a lot to love for fans of oldschool New Orleans-style jazz on the new Kyle Reid & the Low Swinging Chariots album “Alright, Here We Go.” The Norman-based band will get toes, fingers or both tapping within the first four bars of the Dixieland swing of “When I Was Young” – with the call-and-response between Reid’s vocals and the frolicking trumpet, plus a couple of strummy guitar breaks and a little flick of “When the Saints Go Marching In” for good measure, it’s a clear standout.

With its slower pace and instrumentation trimmed down to a plinky guitar, “Dancing” feels like a slight stumble, but the album immediately gets its momentum back with “Eileen,” a gleefully sprawling track that could practically have been lifted straight from Benny Goodman’s music stand, stomping percussion break and all.

Reid is clearly having a ball, whether intoning “They’re walkin’ me down to the hangin’ ground” on “Pride and Swing,” belting the track title of “Eileen” or snarling “Tell the engineer to go as fast as he can; run you over with your new man” from “Minor Iko” – there’s an audible grin on his face through most of the album’s first seven tracks (the last is an instrumental), and his enthusiasm is infectious.

“Alright, Here We Go” is available online at Amazon and Spotify, with CD versions at least a couple of places in the metro – we got our office copy at The Paramount on Film Row – and is absolutely worth tracking down.

AND MANY, MANY MORE

A very happy birthday to a state institution – the venerable Skirvin Hilton, grande dame of Oklahoma hotels, just turned a sprightly 103. While celebrating with about 200 employees and guests, Mayor Mick Cornett called the occasion “a testament … to the passion of this community” and the partnership that brought the historic building back to life and into the 21st century. Naturally, cake was served … although without the hundred-plus candles. Hotels have rules about fire hazards, after all.

18 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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UP FRONT | Chatter

Calendar Watch November 2 Daylight Saving ends (a.k.a.

Darkness Falls Day) November 4 Midterm elections; don’t forget to vote!

November 11 Thank a veteran.

November 16 Statehood Day November 27 Give thanks in general.

November 28 Try to retain some of that gratitude for a while. Life is pretty good.

“I believe Russell [Westbrook] is the best point guard in basketball.”

-OKC Thunder coach Scott Brooks, in response to Sports Illustrated naming Westbrook #4 on its preseason list of the top 100 NBA players. Who’s ranked ahead of the stylish dynamo? LeBron James, Chris Paul and some fella named Kevin Durant.

ON THE PAGE

A STREET-LEVEL VIEW OF LIFE THROUGHOUT OKLAHOMA

When she began working on a new book to be published by The History Press, roving reporter Kristi Eaton decided to take her show on the roads – dozens of them. In “The Main Streets of Oklahoma,” she visited the main drag of a town in every one of our state’s 77 counties, meeting new people, poking into local legends, sharing the stories and flotsam of history that give the communities their character … sort of a self-imposed exile on Main Streets.

Eaton’s travels focused on the more minor burgs – Noble rather than Norman, Arcadia instead of OKC – which gives her discovered tales the closely knit small-town vibe she praises in the introduction, but also shades the book with an undertone of melancholy: many small towns aren’t doing so well, and a number of entries discuss rocky economies and dwindling populations. Still, there’s plenty to see and stories to relish from towns near (Lucille’s Restaurant in Mulhall or the recently re-illuminated Yukon’s Best Flour Mill) and far (a monument to the time the panhandle’s Boise City was accidentally bombed by the U.S. Air Force during World War II). One anecdote is a handy antidote to gloom: Wetumka’s Sucker Day Festival. The town was once bamboozled by a fast-talking flim-flammer into preparing for a nonexistent circus, but rather than sweep their embarrassment under the communal rug, they took matters into their own hands. Over 60 years later, they’re still marking the occasion with a party all their own. That’s a spirit worth celebrating.

SUPPORTING STAR

A FUNDRAISING FLOCK

Many of us remember being handed something to sell as a school fundraiser, pestering our relatives and neighbors to buy candy bars or magazines or wrapping paper. Parents likely remember the process as a hassle, and a portion of the proceeds goes not to the school, but to the company supplying the goods.

That’s why some Edmond students skip that runaround for a more literal one: this month the Eagles of Russell Dougherty Elementary School become jakes and jennys for the annual Turkey Trot. Parents and supporters donate to sponsor kids in the 1-mile fun run November 14, and every cent goes to fund classroom technology, field trips, arts activities and other programs that directly benefit the young learners. Find out more at rdpto.org/turkey-trot.

20 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Kaylee Young

THE NEW GOODNESS

Norman resident Kaylee Young is an old hand at helping others, and she hasn’t even graduated yet. Already a volunteer and spokesperson for the Hugs Project, an Oklahomabased nonprofit that supplies care packages to soldiers overseas, Young organized a project called the Cool Relief Team that distributed water and cooling neck wraps to help relief workers stay hydrated after the 2013 Moore tornadoes. We aren’t the only ones to find that energetic dedication pretty impressive: in addition to cleaning up at the Cleveland County 4-H awards in August, Young was named a finalist in the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards for young volunteers and won a $1,000 scholarship from Kohl’s. Brava!

When it was time to retire after 20+ years of operating their Edmond literary treasure trove, Julie Hovis and Kathy Kinasewitz wanted to find replacements who would continue their commitment to superlative service – after all, the store is named “Best of Books,” and not “Mostly Okay Books.” After a lengthy search, the excellence is set to continue thanks to new owners Joe, Elena and Nan Hight, names familiar to many Oklahomans considering Joe is a member of the state’s Journalism Hall of Fame and Nan has directed school bands in Edmond and OKC. Best wishes to the new owners; an independent bookstore is a great asset for a community, and they have some exemplary shoes to fill.

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UP FRONT | Details

22 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Set It Up

By Sara Gae Waters // Photos by Carli Wentworth

WELCOME TO THE UNOFFICIAL “ENTERTAINING SEASON.” Right after Halloween, we slide into November and Thanksgiving kicks it off with the family dinners and holiday parties with friends. It won’t surprise you that I love the holidays ... it’s a great excuse to set up the table, bring out all your treasured table top items and gather around for a long meal with family and friends. Turkey? Yes, please. Pie? Absolutely. Pumpkins, fall foliage, candles … count me in for all of the above. Pressure? Definitely not. Now, I can’t do anything about the pressure of remembering to thaw the turkey or baste it just right. I can, however, help on the décor front.

Ingredients: old farm table, foliage garnered from both outdoors and floral shops, unique housewares and a little food to get the recipe juices flowing. Enjoy!

For the garland, weeping willow branches are laid across the table. For a simpler look, use the willow branches (or other greenery) by itself, but to dress it up a bit, add in fresh-cut flowers. Here I used rose hips, dahilas and gooseneck loosestrife. Using the same flowers, two different fresh arrangements are made. A more casual arrangement in a vintage glass pitcher could be rose hips and a few pieces of loosestrife, and a more formal arrangement is placed in a pewter vessel with the addition of a few stems of green wheat. Personally, my favorite look always leans towards the simpler option.

Plates, glasses, linens and cake stands all from Anthropologie in OKC | Vintage pitcher from The Social Club in Norman

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 23

UP FRONT | Details

A few pumpkins, a little garland and maybe some pillar candles scattered about are appealing to me. Add in your plates and glasses and then the food and you’ll find your table is more than full. It’s my mantra and something I can’t help but repeat every year ... It’s the people gathered around the table that are important.

Don’t let the stress of the perfect table setting get in the way of that one truth. Happy holiday season to you and yours!

Plates and bowls, glasses, linens, silverware, small bowls and large bowl all from West Elm in OKC | Match pewter bowl from Cayman’s in Norman 24 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 25

o r t Respective

SPACE-AGE STYLE

By Mark Beutler

POSTCARD COURTESY OKLAHOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY; FOUNDERS TOWER PHOTO BY K.O. RINEARSON

LONG BEFORE THE DEVON SKYSCRAPER, ONE OF OKLAHOMA CITY’S MOST ICONIC BUILDINGS WAS FOUNDER’S TOWER. The art-deco structure was completed in 1964, and is a George Jetson-style throwback to the modern marvels of the mid-20th century.

Founder’s Tower was originally constructed as an office complex. The rotating “Chandelle Club” occupied the 20th f loor, while the delectable Queen Anne cafeteria was situated just off the main entrance. Also nearby was Founder’s Fair, a large Woolworth’s-style department store that faced May Avenue.

A $50 million renovation launched in 2005, and today it is an exclusive residential complex. According to its website, Founder’s Tower is now “one of Oklahoma City’s most sought-after addresses.”

26 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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Proceeds from card sales benefit Payne Education Center.

Premier Cards can be purchased at merchants listed with the apple ( ) icon in this ad. For more information, contact Payne Education Center at (405) 755-4205.

Bethany Cedarburg Square Mariposa Design & Accessories, Inc. Edmond, 33rd & Broadway Courtyard Antique Market Kern’s Antiques & Interior Design J. Spencer Jewelry & Gifts Edmond, 33rd & Boulevard TSO Optical Edmond, Downtown Fashion Boutique McCall’s Sterling’s Home Décor & Gifts Silver Leaf Gems Edmond, Kickingbird Square Allton’s Clothiers for Men Best of Books Hip & Swanky It’s A Party Kickingbird Flowers & Gifts Edmond, Spring Creek Plaza New Balance Edmond Edmond, Spring Creek Village Pinkitzel Cupcakes & Candy The Paper Lion Norman, Brockhaus Plaza In Your Dreams Mel’s Kloset

OKC, Automobile Alley/Midtown URBANE HOME & LIFESTYLE OKC, Britton Road French Quarter Antiques Pirate’s Alley Picture Frames OKC, Broadway Extension Trochta’s Flowers OKC, Casady Square The Consortium The Green Attic Casey’s Gifts Essentials Naifeh Fine Jewelry No Regrets Red Chateau OKC, Classen Curve Uptown Kids Balliets Kendra Scott Design West Elm BD Home Black Optical Carwin’s Shave Shop Liberte On A Whim Red Coyote Running & Fitness Steven Giles Winter House Interiors

Norman, Campus Corner Tulips Bed, Bath & Tabletop

OKC, Downtown BC Clark Jewelers Nancy Farah’s Pinkitzel Cupcakes & Candy Teena Hicks Company

Norman, Carriage Plaza The Webb Cayman’s Kern’s Antiques & Interior Design Occasions…Fine Stationery, Gifts and Gourmet

OKC, May & Grand Shoppes Portland Optical Paper ‘N More Blue 7 Olive & Co. Prim: The Bridesmaid Boutique

Norman, Downtown Mister Robert Fine Furniture & Design

OKC, Nichols Hills Plaza Spencer Stone Co. Lush Blow-Dry Bar Suzanne’s Linen Closet R Meyers Always Greener CK & CO. Bebe’s Gretta Sloane Luxe Objects The Curtain Exchange of OKC Van Cleef’s Salon

Norman, Metro MetroShoe Warehouse The Tulip Tree Norman, Sooner Mall Sun & Ski Sports OKC, 50 Penn Place Route 66

OKC, North May Avenue J.J. Kelly Bridal Classic Home Interiors Classic Silks Sun & Ski Sports Wild Birds Unlimited OKC, North Penn Plaza Koslow’s Furs Avondale Galleries, Inc. Dick Story Optical Koslow’s Furs OKC, Northwest Portland Optical

By Invitation Only Cindy Ritchie Photography Eden Salon & Spa Lynda’s Birkenstock Swiss Cleaners OKC, Penn Square Mall Williams-Sonoma BC Clark Jewelers Mr. Ooley’s Ladies Department Pottery Barn OKC, Quail Springs Area MetroShoe Warehouse Nothing Bundt Cakes Starr Home OKC, Shoppes at Northpark Mystique Fragrances Norwalk Furniture and Design Kokopelli BC Clark Jewelers Geno’s Furs KEEDO Kids Clothes Nancy’s at Northpark Room to Dream Room 22 Silks, Etc. S.J. Haggard & Co. The Lime Leopard OKC, Uptown Shopping Pirate’s Alley Picture Frames OKC, Western Avenue 42nd Street Candy Co. Big Sky Bread Company Culinary Kitchen Cameo Salon and Spa Designer Rugs Eden Salon & Spa Gordon Stuart Kamber’s on N. Western

Mockingbird Manor Antiques & More Nichols Hills Pack ‘n Ship Soup Soup Sabrina’s Backroom The Howell Gallery The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro True North Living OKC, Wilshire Boulevard Wilshire Garden Market Mitchener-Farrand Fine Jewelry OKC, Wilshire Village The Wood Garden Dulaney’s Gil’s Clothing and Denim Bar KS Design Learning Tree The MakeUp Bar The Lingerie Store

Our Mission: Payne Education Center trains teachers to prevent reading difficulties in children, and to remediate dyslexia, while serving as a resource and referral center.

www.payneeducationcenter.org 10404 Vineyard Boulevard, Suite A Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Office: 405.755.4205 Fax: 405.755.4281

WHY WE’RE THANKFUL

BY THE NUMBERS

By Steve Gill

percentage of population growth in the OKC metro from 2010 to 2013

7

OKC’s national rank among fastest-growing cities

1,400,000 7.1 4.6 6.2

metro residents, give or take, depending on when you read this

OK unemployment rate in July 2009

4 $3,510,498 119 OK’s 2013 rank among fastest-growing state economies

record-breaking amount raised by Allied Arts in 2014 to support central Oklahoma arts organizations

15,000 173 1

approximate number of high school seniors who qualify as National Merit Scholars annually (less than 1 percent of applicants)

National Merit Scholars in OU’s Fall 2013 freshman class

OU’s rank nationally in National Merit Scholar enrollment

28 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

OK unemployment rate in July 2014 U.S. unemployment rate in July 2014

first-place votes (out of 124) OKC Thunder star Kevin Durant received for 2013-14 NBA MVP

3

Indian rhinos now living at the OKC Zoo, with the June 2014 birth of Rupert

550+

total number of museums in Oklahoma

9

OKC’s rank among most affordable cities by Forbes

3

OKC’s rank in Women’s Health’s “5 Best Up & Coming Cities for Food”

68

percentage of the time between dawn and dusk the OKC metro receives sunlight annually

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NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 29

UP FRONT | Exchange

RESCUE ME

By Lauren Hammack // Photo by Quit Nguyen

MAYBE IT’S THE HALLOWEEN CANDY THAT’S STILL STUCK TO OUR DENTAL WORK (Mom should always test the Snickers and 3 Musketeers for “safety reasons”) or maybe it’s because we’re face-to-face with the two highest-calorie months of the year. Whatever it is, we’ve developed a sudden interest in working out since our conversation with Vicki Tri. With enough energy to power an entire city, Tri moves like the Roadrunner throughout the metro, coming to the rescue of computer-bound sloths like us to change our wicked ways through her boot camp training business. But when Tri takes things a step further by combining her passion for fitness with a passion for rescue animals, we’re especially thankful.

Conv A ersat with ion Vick i Tri

What’s your hometown? Oneida, New York.

What brought you to Oklahoma?

My husband, Brian, was stationed at Tinker before he retired.

What about Oklahoma makes a couple of Northeasterners decide to stay? The people are so nice here! There’s a small-town feel that’s very comfortable, the economy’s good and I don’t want to live through another winter in the Northeast.

You have a list of personal training certifications (for humans!) a mile long. How did Boot Camps 4 Paws come about? When I started the boot camps about six years ago, the economy was in a downturn and people were starting to give up their dogs because they couldn’t afford to take care of them. I wanted to help these animal shelters that struggle all the time to provide food and necessities for the animals they rescue, so Boot Camp 4 Paws was a way to combine a great workout with a great cause.

How does a Boot Camp 4 Paws work? The boot camps are generally scheduled around holidays – I always say, “The workout before the 30 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

pig out!” I usually have anywhere from 30-60 people who come with donations for the rescue shelters – dogs are invited, of course – and we have a great workout at South Lakes Regional Park (SW 119th and Meridian). The workouts are adapted to any level of fitness and afterwards, we donate the food and gently used supplies to local animal shelters. And donations are welcome, even if you don’t participate in the Boot Camp.

How many pounds of pet food have been donated so far? More than 7,300 pounds. My goal is to reach 10,000 pounds.

Your entire career is focused on physical fitness. If you weren’t doing that, what would you be doing with your life? Working with animals. Somehow, somewhere, I’d be rescuing them and taking care of them.

Do you have any rescue pets at home? Yes. I have five rescue dogs.

What’s the best part of being a fitness professional? Seeing people smile when they’re working out. That’s when I know they’re

succeeding – it shouldn’t feel like slave labor.

Is that a motto of sorts? My motto is the way I live. I live what I preach and I never ask something of anyone else that I don’t do or haven’t done.

I’m sure you’ve heard every excuse people have for not working out. I’ve been working on a list of them my entire life. Whyyyyyyyyy is it such drudgery? A lot of people say they don’t have 30 minutes to take a class somewhere. I say, just get in 10 minutes in the morning.

Take the stairs at work and get in 10 more minutes during the day.

Then, take the dog out and get in 10 minutes after dinner.

How do you make it happen for that person who sits at a computer all day? I work with companies to teach their employees how to incorporate chair yoga into their workday. It’s important to build and maintain strength in the core and spine if you’re staring at a monitor all day. You can also work in some weight training at your desk. For women, especially, strength training and rebuilding

muscle mass is where it’s at! Everybody can do something and even if it’s just for a short amount of time, it’s better than doing nothing.

How do you define happiness?

Being happy with who you are as a person and not by what you do.

BOOT CAMP 4 PAWS The next Boot Camp 4 Paws will take place from 8-9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day at South Lakes Regional Park (4210 SW 119th St., OKC). To participate, please bring a donation of dog or cat food, or any of these necessities for local animal shelters:

Gently used blankets, towels, pillows or pet beds

Gently used pet toys

Bleach and/or cleaning supplies for the shelters

Dogs are welcome at Boot Camp 4 Paws, as long as weather permits an outdoors event. In case of rain, the party goes indoors (but the pups do not) at Antioch Christian Academy (3616 SW 119th St., OKC).

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MIDTOWNVETS.com NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 31

UP FRONT | Mingling

Saige Bilyeu, Destiny Wilson

INTERNET CAT VIDEO FEST Photos by Claude Long

Michelle Hopkins, Evan Mace

Michael and Autumn Klein

The Myriad Gardens is filled with fans of feline follies for a public screening of a compilation featuring some of the world’s finest cat-based video clips.

Chelsea Ryan, Maggie Fair

Charles and April Avery

Beverly Grose, Melodie Osburn

CLASSEN CURVE FASHION EVENT Photos by Michael Miller

An evening at the Curve looks very good as retailers partner with the Junior League of OKC and familiar faces from the community to model fall styles.

Alexandra Urice, Megan Husman, Ali Foltz Ally and Ricardo Noriega

Wade Tower 32 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Natausha and Dr. Josh Spears

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

Ethan Bateman, Camille Thompson

DANCING FOR A MIRACLE Photos by Claude Long

Local luminaries trip the light fantastic in a dance competition that’s the highlight of a soiree benefiting the Children’s Hospital Foundation – congrats to Cynthia Black, who pulled in over $90,000 of donations.

Damon and Melissa Lane Beth and Greg Chansolme

Marilyn and Ron McAfee

Hal Smith, Evelyn Bollenbach

Joann Henry, Yen Vuong

CASINO FLORALE Photos by Claude Long

OKC Beautiful gives guests a lovely evening of VIP gaming (for fun, naturally), tempting tastes and raffle excitement in its beautifying fundraiser.

Chad and Jennifer Benoit Whitney and Shawn Driver

John and Lynne Trigg

Jessi Chapman, Kris Murray

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 33

UP FRONT | Mingling

Jennifer Fritsch, Nichole Glover, Amber Fritsch

Shayne and Megan Chamberlain

Taylor Mallia, Beth Snyder

Conor Walsh, Kelli Hayward

Cheryl Kitchens, Lam Nguyen

SMARTY PANTS TRIVIA NIGHT Photos by Claude Long

The National MS Society’s brain-stretching contest isn’t just a test of total recall; it’s also a lot of fun.

Jim Austin, Phil and Pat Kramer

Marvin Gibson

Steve and Yoli Ford, Craig Moody, Bob Eskridge

Helen Frazier-Southerland, Kim Pickens Stubbs, Rhonda Burroughs Hooper

Rob McAfee, Paul Belflower, Sandy Rothe

JOHN MARSHALL HS 40TH REUNION Photos by Justin Avera

They say 58 is the new 18 … at least, that’s what they’re saying as the 40th reunion of John Marshall High School’s Class of 1974 fills the Will Rogers Theater. Go Bears!

34 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Jay and Lindsey Gillispie, Sandi Gillispie

David and Yenni Vance

SPORTS HEADLINER BANQUET Photos by Claude Long

Carson Epps, Tori Trimble, Jake Sabin

Scott and Mellyn Wells

Stars of the state sports world who have brought national attention to Oklahoma are honored in a celebratory dinner benefiting the March of Dimes’ efforts to improve babies’ health.

Brian Jacobson, Laurie Maxwell

Bruce and Donna Lawrence, Kathey Sandler and Dr. Al Moorad

National Courage Award winner Gary Linfoot with Mari Linfoot, Dr. Al Moorad and Keith Wilton

Janie and Kerry Billington, Cory and David LeNorman

JIM THORPE COURAGE AWARDS GALA

Christina Fallin, Stella Thomas, Governor Mary Fallin

Photos courtesy Integris Foundation

An inspirational event celebrates success stories of overcoming impairment with determination, and raises over $1.1 million to bolster the Integris Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation center.

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

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 35

UP FRONT | Wanderlust

77 Counties: ‘Nothing Makes Me Sad’

THE OLDEST OKLAHOMAN

APPROACHES 114 IN CANADIAN COUNTY

By M.J. Alexander

AUTUMN RAIN IS FALLING ON THE WINDOW OF ORA REED HOLLAND’S ROOM IN A NURSING HOME IN CANADIAN COUNTY. It’s the hour after lunch and she has nestled back into her brass bed for a nap, her second since breakfast.

The rest is well-deserved. On this September day, Mrs. Holland is 113 years, 263 days old.

Ora Reed Holland is the oldest Oklahoman ever documented, the ninth-oldest living American and 15th-oldest person in the world, according to the Gerontology Research Group.

She has lived 996,864 hours since she was born in Rosebud, Missouri, on December 24, 1900, the third of 12 children of Nathan and Stella Reed. This Christmas Eve will be her 114th birthday.

This is the second time in two days I have stopped by. The day before, she was sound asleep. She sleeps a lot. Today she is very tired, and about to drift off again.

It used to be I would visit on her birthday, or just after, to see what she had to say and make a new portrait. Since she moved to the nursing home, I have come by more often.

We were introduced in 2006, when she was 105. She was living independently in Tulsa, cooking for herself and cutting the lawn with a push mower. She told me then her longevity was a surprise. “I had bone troubles. When I was five, they didn’t think I’d live to be 10. When I was 10, they said I wouldn’t live to be 15. Boy, they’d be surprised now.”

She married twice. Divorced twice. Had one child, a daughter, survive to adulthood. Her first car was a 1918 Model T. Her last was a Buick Century, in which she received a speeding ticket at age 99.

On her 112th birthday, she remembered, “I always worked hard. You can tell by looking at me I worked hard ... I had to work to live.” She staffed the counter at Kress department store in Tulsa. In Dallas, she founded one of the first professional babysitting services. During World War II, she worked in the office at a Texas shipyard.

Afterward, she owned and operated a hair salon.

Her memories are fading now, as are her hearing and sight. On some visits she’d be disappointed when I showed up. “You’re M.J.? Humph! I thought you’d be a man!”

She enjoyed the company of men, so I learned to bring one along whenever I could.

She was sharp-witted and outspoken, critiquing the gifts I would bring: roses were not a favorite. Candy was a hit. Cookies were the best.

She is often asked about her secret to a long life. She has no easy answers. On her 112th birthday, she said, “Well honey, I lived long because that’s what God wants. It’s not what I want. It’s what he wants. I think everything about me’s what he wanted. I don’t have any much to say about myself ... That’s just the way I look at it. I don’t know why he wants me in this condition, but he does.”

On her 113th, she refused to believe the number of birthdays she’s seen, and insisted. “I’m not a day older than 99.”

36 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 37

UP FRONT | Wanderlust

SHE IS RESTING NOW, BATTLING TO KEEP HER EYES OPEN. She spies the box from the bakery, being held by an aide.

“What she got? What she got there?”

Cookies, chocolate-chunk cookies. They’re for when you wake up.

She nods.

Mrs. Holland, I have one question.

“Alright.”

What makes you happy now?

But she can’t hear. She asks me to repeat the question, again, and then again. She pulls me close, takes my hand and rubs the fingers ’til they warm hers.

What makes you happy, Mrs. Holland?

38 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

She deciphers what I’m saying, and puts her head back on the pillow to think.

“Well, really ... ” she pauses and smiles a little. “Nothing makes me sad!”

We laugh.

“Y’all don’t need to worry about me. Y’all just leave me like I am.

Leave me just like I am.”

OK, ma’am, you get a good sleep.

“Come back to see me sometime.”

I will. You get a good rest. Sweet dreams.

“Bye sweetie.”

And Ora Reed Holland settled in for a nap, as the Oklahoma rain continued to fall on her 41,536th day.

ORA REED HOLLAND NEARS LONGEVITY MILESTONE ONE MILLION HOURS

O

CALVERT Your Holidays

f every claim sorted through by the administrators of the Guinness Book of World Records, editors note that, “No single subject is more obscured by vanity, deceit, falsehood and deliberate fraud than the extremes of human longevity.”

As of September 2014, the oldest documented living person in the world is 116-year-old Misao Okawa of Japan, born March 5, 1898. The oldest living American is Gertrude Weaver of Arkansas, born July 4, 1898. The longest human lifespan ever to be documented was that of Jeanne Louise Calment, who died in France on August 4, 1997, aged 122 years, 164 days.

Ora Reed Holland, born December 24, 1900, is one of 71 verified living supercentenarians – aged 110 and older – worldwide.

Among the supercentenarians, women outnumber men 69-2.

The millionth hour since her birth will come on January 21, 2015. Reaching that milestone would make her one of the top 100 verified oldest of the 108 billion people born over the course of human history.

She became the oldest Oklahoman four years ago, succeeding Martha Berryhill, who was born in Okmulgee on July 12, 1900, and died there December 18, 2010 at the age of 110.

Ms. Berryhill, the last remaining Muscogee (Creek) Nation grantee on the Dawes Roll, succeeded Haddie Hottle Austin Payne of Stratford. Mrs. Payne was born September 27, 1898 in the Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory – the oldest of 19 children – and died New Year’s Day 2008 at the age of 109.

Mrs. Payne, whose first husband died from the effects of World War I mustard gas, had held the title of oldest Oklahoman for less than a month. Her predecessor – Kristine Klostermyer Brown of Alva, a retired math professor from Northwestern Oklahoma State University – died December 19, 2007 at the age of 110.

The oldest Oklahoma man on record is Benjamin Harrison Holcomb, who in the year 2000 was declared the world’s oldest living man by the Guinness Book of World Records; the title later was rescinded when older men were found in Europe. He was born in Robinson, Kansas, on July 3, 1889, and named for the newly inaugurated president of the United States. The Holcombs moved to Oklahoma Territory when he was a boy. He lived in Caddo County for more than a century, farming at the edge of Cache Creek until 1996, when he moved into a nursing home in Carnegie. He was featured in Outdoor Life magazine as being the oldest man to shoot a deer, at the age of 107. He died December 2, 2000 at the age of 111, and is buried in the Fairview Cemetery in Apache.

The second-oldest known Oklahoman man is the Rev. Otis Granville Clark, a survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot. He was born February 13, 1903 in Meridian, Oklahoma Territory, and died May 21, 2012 at 109.

Stop in our greenhouse for unique hostess gifts and holiday arrangements

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NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 39

A League of Their Own

By Sean Becker // Photos by Simon Hurst

40 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

PIXEL WORX

There were only four television channels available under the roof of my childhood home. And that was on a good day and only if my mother wasn’t using the vacuum cleaner. The three major networks (yes, only three – ABC, CBS and NBC) dominated the airwaves. That eccentric oddball uncle, PBS, had some clever shows for little kids, heady news and political roundtables and a bunch of other programs populated by actors speaking a foreign language – British.

For one ignominious television season, NBC aired a campy, segment-driven series titled “Games People Play.” The dark, fuzzy amateurish video was oh-so-tantalizing to my preadolescent imagination. Skiing down a snowy hill into an icy pond while wearing nothing but a bikini? Yes! Playing polo – with cars? Yes! School bus demolition derby? YesyesyesyesYESSSS! The world’s toughest bouncer contest? Huh?!? Well, I didn’t know what that meant, but it did introduce the world to Mr. T. Despite the mouthwatering, endorphin-releasing teasers promising a sporting world gone mad – MAD, I tell you! – the show was a terrible disappointment. Not even the occasional cameo by Binger-bred Big Red Machine superstar Johnny Bench could salvage the program. He never looked comfortable in that sports coat. And yet for a little kid on a school night, “Games People Play” succeeded in providing a glimpse into the world beyond the front porch, outside the county line and even around the world. Somebody else got the message, because nowadays there are games aplenty to play or watch beyond the traditional major American sports … check out this sampling of the many things to see and do locally to get your heart pumping.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 41

42 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Football’s Big Brother American football, as we now know it, rules the roost here in Oklahoma and around the country. But the popular sport that we embrace today evolved from the game of rugby over 100 years ago. Rugby came to Oklahoma City in the mid-1990s after emerging on the University of Oklahoma campus in the ’70s.

Even if your college days are over, you can still take the field. The Oklahoma City Crusaders Rugby Club will happily introduce you to the sport. The Crusaders are a rugby union squad, playing with 15 people on the field. Many of the positions and player types are similar to football, explains Crusaders President Brad Allen. “Big guys play offensive line in football, and the fast guys are the running backs and receivers.”

In rugby, the idea is the same but the positions have different names. Bigger, stronger players take the forward eight positions – think offensive and defensive linemen. Their role is to gain possession of the ball, relying mostly on strength to accomplish the task. Having gained possession, the forwards relinquish the ball to the seven remaining players called backs. These are faster players who are skilled at advancing the ball, eluding would-be tacklers, and scoring points for their team.

Players can advance the ball only by running with it or kicking it down the field.

Passes to teammates are permitted, but the ball can only be tossed laterally or backward. Points are scored via the try – similar to football’s touchdown but worth five points instead of six. A conversion kick following a try is worth two points if successful.

Penalty kicks and drop kicks, worth three points each, round out the scoring options.

Rugby action can be fast and furious, but it’s hardly a free-for-all. The scrum, a fairly recognizable setup to those unfamiliar with the sport, resembles a street brawl outside a public house.

In reality, it is a highly coorCobb Brandon, Matt Mason, Tucker Cason dinated contest for possession of the ball, in which brute force and finesse must both be employed diligently to win the struggle. The speedy backs must also be skilled at catching, passing and kicking the ball, often while on the run and under hot pursuit.

Like soccer, the game is played in two halves. Rugby halves are timed at 40 minutes each with additional time added on for stoppages in play. Limited substitutions are permitted, but players who leave the game may re-enter only under certain conditions. In addition to the 15-per-side union matches, the Crusaders play a seven-on-seven version of rugby in the summer. To find out how you can get in on the action, visit the Crusaders website at okccrusaders.com or contact Brad Allen at osurugby10@gmail.com. If you would rather start by watching from the sidelines, you can still catch the Sooners in action at the OU Rugby Fields in Norman. For dates and times of remaining home matches, visit ousoonersrugby.org.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 43

Grab the Reins and Go Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 mandated equal accessibility to sports programs for girls and young women. Nearly a quarter of a century before that, a group of cowgirls took the bull by the horns and established the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association. Founded in 1948, the WPRA predates the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) by two years. According to the WPRA website, it’s the oldest women’s sports association in the country and the only such organization governed entirely by women.

While roping events still exist, nowadays barrel racing is the WPRA’s signature event. Barrel racing is pretty simple in concept: a rider and her mount take off from a start/finish line, circle three individual barrels and race back as quickly as possible. The barrels are arranged in a triangular pattern, with the two barrels closest to the start/finish line positioned 60 feet apart. The third barrel, at the top of the triangle, is 105 feet away from the other two barrels. Riders circle the nearest two barrels first, round the furthest barrel last and then make a mad dash for the finish line.

The best barrel racers and their equine partners can run the route in the neighborhood of 15 to 16 seconds. Norman-based Better Barrel Races sanctions events throughout the state and region. BBR’s Robin Hofmann describes barrel racing as a partnership between horse and rider, albeit a slightly skewed one. “I like to say it’s 80 percent horse and 20 percent rider,” Hofmann says with the confidence of one possessing serious insider knowledge.

In a sport where winning times can be determined by as little as one-thousandth of a second, Hofmann explains, “Horsemanship sets 44 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

the best racers apart from the rest. It takes a real bond with your horse.”

Accordingly, barrel racing adheres to a strict code of ethics regarding the care and treatment of the animal athletes. “Participating in western sports is a great responsibility for kids,” adds Hofmann. Race administrators are also responsible for the safety of both horse and rider. The racecourse surface must be even and groomed continuously throughout the competition to ensure a fair and safe playing field.

Contestants compete in the youth (16 and under), adult (17-49), and senior (50+) divisions. Their horses typically have come from all areas of the industry, including cutters and thoroughbreds, but that is starting to change. As traditional rodeo and horse racing decline in popularity, barrel racing has emerged as the next big driver of equine economics. BBR events paid out over $4 million in prize money this year, and similar circuits around the country distribute as much or more in winnings. Not surprisingly, “Horses are now being bred for barrel racing,” says Hofmann.

The BBR circuit of qualifying races culminates with the BBR World Finals, held in April at the Oklahoma State Fair Grounds. This year’s finals featured over 2,000 racers. The traditional notion of rodeo evokes images of such spectator-driven events such as cattle roping and bull riding. But barrel racing should hardly be cast off as a purely participantdriven event. The sport offers viewers a family-friendly atmosphere in the stands and more than its share of excitement in the arena.

Barrel racing events take place through November around the state. To see the best in the business, saddle up and mosey on down to the BBR World Finals next April right here in Oklahoma City. For more information on events, visit Better Barrel Races online at betterbarrelraces.com/shows, call the office at 405.230.7167 or email betterbarrelraces@gmail.com. You won’t be disappointed!

BARREL RACING PHOTO BY PIXEL WORX

2014 BBR World Finals Formula 707 Futurity Champion Kelsey Lutjen aboard KN Fabs Mist of Fame

Get on the Stick!

With a history of perhaps 1,000 years behind it, lacrosse is hardly a new sport. Yet the modern version, more or less unchanged for the past 500 years, has been excruciatingly slow to spread outside the game’s traditional stronghold of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states. That sphere of interest is rapidly expanding, and kids are leading the charge. Field lacrosse is now the fastest-growing youth sport in the United States.

Field lacrosse is played outdoors on a grass or artificial turf surface that is 110 yards long and 60 yards wide. A 6-foot by 6-foot goal is positioned at each end of the field. Teams consist of 10 players per side. Three attackers play exclusively on the offensive side of the field and are focused on putting the ball in the goal by tossing it in with their sticks. Three defenders are confined to the defensive half of the field and are concerned with protecting their goal. Three other players roam freely between the offensive and defensive halves of the field. The goalkeeper stands in front of the net and attempts to prevent the opposition from scoring. Games consist of four timed quarters of play.

Add all that up and you get a sport that is part soccer, part ice hockey and part basketball mixed with a dash of water polo. The strategy and skill sets are easily identifiable as a result. Dave Heaton, Director of Lacrosse for the Oklahoma City Knights lacrosse club, explains, “There’s a lot of the same movement and physicality as in ice hockey.” Offensively and defensively, some familiar basketball terminology emerges. “We use a lot of the same plays to try to score – pick and roll, give and go.” On defense, man-to-man and various zone defenses will look reminiscent of what you see on the basketball court. It’s a fast-paced game with plenty of scoring and action. “It’s a great spectator sport,” adds Heaton. “There’s a lot going on.”

Lacrosse has been on the scene in Oklahoma City for about 10 years. Most of the focus is on youth camps, leagues and club teams.

If you’re trying to get your kid off the couch and think lacrosse is just the thing, visit the Knights’ website at okclacrosse.com or give Heaton a call at 405.315.1900. The Edmond Lacrosse Club also offers programming for boys and girls. Visit their site at edmondlacrosse. com for more information.

If you are the one in need of some heart-starting activity, Box Lacrosse might be what you’re looking for. “BoxLax” is played indoors on an ice-hockey arena where the ice has been removed or covered by an artificial surface. Like hockey, teams feature six players per side including one goaltender. Box lacrosse shares elements with basketball, including a shot clock and time requirements for advancing the ball. Unlike field lacrosse, cross-checking is legal in box lacrosse (think full-on assault to disengage your opponent from possessing the ball). The result is a faster and rougher game than the outdoor version. Adult men’s leagues are available in Oklahoma City through okclacrosse.com. If you’ve never played before, you won’t be alone. Pick up a stick and give it a shot!

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 45

Put on Your Dancing Shoes Go ahead and admit it – you’ve watched at least one episode of “Dancing With the Stars.” And you’ve marveled at the grace and skill demonstrated by the top performers. Witnessing a well-performed dance routine is exhilarating, but it can also be intimidating for those of us with two left feet. How do they do that without killing themselves?!?

Dance Makers, located on South Kelly Avenue in Edmond, can answer that question. Co-owner and dance instructor Michael Pone assures newcomers, “If you can walk in, we can teach you how to dance out.”

Unleashing your inner Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers is as easy as making a date with your sweetie.

Instead of dinner and a movie, try dinner and dance lessons. “Most people who come in for their first lessons are getting ready for something like a wedding, a cruise or a Christmas dance,” says Pone. Once bitten by the ballroom dancing bug, many newbies become converts who return to learn more dances or improve their technique.

Ballroom dancing is a general term for any form of lead-follow, couple-style dances. Over a dozen competitive styles fall under the ballroom dancing umbrella. The styles range from the slower waltz, foxtrot and tango to the peppier swing and “insanely fast” quick-step.

Latin style ballroom dances include the cha-cha, salsa and rumba.

Each style of dance is performed to a specific type of music and includes techniques that involve footwork (of course) as well as leg, hip, torso, arm and hand actions. You don’t necessarily want to waltz to a swing tune in dance-floor traffic. Pone and company can help you avoid committing that dangerous faux pas.

Like any sport, dancing takes practice and repetition to establish muscle memory. “It’s like golf or bowling,” posits Pone, “except instead of repeating one action, you’re coordinating eight or 10 techniques for each style of dance.” Dance Makers offers everything from one-on-one instruction to group lessons, so you can learn at your own pace while staying within your comfort zone. Some students make ballroom dance a hobby and rehearse to perform at a recital for peers, friends and family. Others take the leap into competitive or sport dance arenas, traveling to compete with other dancers or perform in shows.

Dance Makers also hosts the Oklahoma Challenge in February at the Cox Convention Center. Competitors from around the country participate for fun and prizes. Admission is free for the morning session, but tickets must be purchased to see the professionals perform in the evening. Vendors of everything from dancing shoes to dazzling costumes will be there as well, so you can look like a pro even if you’re just a casual dancer.

After delighting in the dances of others for a day, you’ll be eager to try your hand – or feet – at it. Dance Makers will be ready to make your dance dreams a reality. “We make it easy, fun and quick,” says Pone. Take the first step by visiting Dance Makers online at dancemakers.net or call the studio at 405.285.0095. Remember: if you can saunter in, you can sashay out.

David Wood and Patti Mellow 46 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Old School Favorites If a completely new sport is too daunting a challenge for you, plenty of other options are available. The Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department offers some familiar games and other activities that are easier to pick up. If you desire the fun and camaraderie that team sports have to offer, the city has games that everyone can play.

Take kickball, that timeless schoolyard classic. “Anyone can play, regardless of their ability level,” says Jennifer McClintock, Spokesperson of the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department. Since it’s an organized league with teams registering in advance, you don’t have to worry about being picked last. Now you can exorcise those painful elementary school memories by playing a fun game with friends who have a lot more to do than antagonize their uncoordinated peers at recess. “A lot of 20-somethings get a big kick out of it,” puns McClintock. “It’s competitive but people have a lot of fun.” The city offers leagues for men, women and co-ed teams, and competition continues in other leagues like the World Adult Kickball Association’s.

For the more rough-and-tumble types, the city plans to offer dodge ball leagues again in the spring. As far as playground games go, dodge ball is a notch or two above kickball in terms of competitive spirit, but it’s still all in fun. “People get intense about it, but in a fun way,” laughs McClintock. The game is played indoors at some of the city’s recreation centers, so there’s potentially a lot of contact with a hard gymnasium floor. “You can get pretty bruised up playing dodge ball.” Like kickball, dodge ball is most popular with the young adult crowd.

If you are past your playground prime and want to enjoy some lower-impact activities, the parks and rec people have other games off the beaten path that you may enjoy. The city maintains three disc golf courses around town at Will Rogers Gardens, Woodson Park and Dolese Youth Park. Disc golf combines the sports of Frisbee and golf. Rather than swinging a club to hit a ball, disc golf entails

throwing a specialized disc (it’s not really a Frisbee in the traditional sense) toward a target. In disc golf, the target is a raised metal basket positioned a few hundred feet from the “tee” area.

While golfers use different clubs depending upon their ball’s distance from the hole, disc golfers use different types of discs. Some discs are designed to be thrown long distances, much like a driver is designed to hit a golf ball far off the tee. Other discs are made for shorter throws closer to the basket, similar to irons or a putter. Hazards at the various city courses are presented in the form of trees and even water, so it is possible to lose a disc on the course. The object is the same as “regular” golf – put the disc in the basket in the fewest number of shots possible. If you are on a budget or in a time crunch, this may be the sport for you. It’s free to play disc golf and you can show up whenever you like without having to reserve a tee time.

Pickleball, a combination of paddle ball and badminton, has emerged as a popular sport among the city’s 50-and-over crowd.

Pickleball is played indoors on a court roughly similar to the singles area on a regulation tennis court. Playing singles or doubles, competitors use the equivalent of a large table tennis paddle to strike a wiffle ball back and forth over a net. The ball is roughly the size of a baseball, and the net is a little lower than a tennis net. Players have to strike the ball while it is in the air and keep it from hitting the ground when it is returned.

If you are interested in testing the pickleball waters without making too much of an investment, the city provides all of the equipment necessary to play. While wooden paddles are still in use, higher-end paddles made of graphite or composites are available on the market. Serious players will likely want to upgrade to these better products. After all, Roger Federer probably wouldn’t have won too many tennis tournaments playing with a wooden racket.

Information about all of the adult sports available through the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department is available online at okc.gov/parks. You can also call the adult athletics department directly at 405.669.8415 or the main recreation line at 405.297.2211.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 47

CREATIVE CATALYSTS

By Russ Tall Chief // Photos by Quit Nguyen

CENTRAL OKLAHOMA CONTINUES ITS TRANSFORMATION INTO A MORE DIVERSE, ECLECTIC AND COSMOPOLITAN DESTINATION. PICTURE THE DEVON TOWER PUNCTUATING THE OKLAHOMA CITY SKYLINE LIKE AN ARM RAISED IN TRIUMPH AS THE THUNDER FANS ROAR BELOW IN CHESAPEAKE ARENA. BRICKTOWN, ONCE A CEMETERY OF ABANDONED BUILDINGS, HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A VIBRANT DESTINATION FOR FINE FOOD, LIVE MUSIC, HORSE AND CARRIAGE RIDES AND REDHAWKS BASEBALL AT THE CHICKASAW BRICKTOWN BALLPARK. AS WE CONTINUE THE COLLECTIVE EVOLUTION OF OUR AREA, THE TRANSFORMATIVE NATURES AND JOURNEYS OF FIVE TALENTED OKLAHOMA ARTISTS CHARACTERIZE THE CREATIVE CATALYSTS PRESENTLY SHAPING AND RE-SHAPING OUR STATE’S ARTISTIC VISION AND VOICE. MEET THEM HERE.

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ART PHOTOS COURTESY ZACH BURNS

FOCUSING AND FILMS

Zach Burns has always had an interest in photography and visual art, so it comes as no surprise that he earned his Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Photography and Design from Oklahoma City University in 2010. Since then, Burns has exhibited his photography across Oklahoma and has works in numerous private collections. A particularly intriguing aspect of Burns’ photographic oeuvre is that he is legally blind in his left eye, which inherently adds a unique perspective on the world. While some might consider this a challenge for a photographer and designer, Burns has embraced his “unfocused” view of the world and made it central to his photography exhibitions.

By juxtaposing an unfocused image next to an image that is more sharply focused, Burns reveals to the viewer insights into his visual experience. In addition to his candor about his condition, he also has a positive sense of humor about himself. “I am a half-blind, curly-haired, freelance artist and illustrator improving our galaxy through photography, design and geekery,” he says. While experimenting with focus in gallery settings, Burns often creates an interactive experience, offering the viewer an active role in the exhibition.

Burns is currently preparing for a photography exhibition at IAO to be held this spring. However, he says he is moving away from blurred focus experience, which he worked on exclusively for two or three years. “This show will be more about landscapes and urbanization and the clashes between them.”

Burns and his brother, Jacob Leighton Burns, grew up on movies. “We watched tons of movies and admired all of the creative things photographers could do with composition,” he says. So the brothers decided to collaborate on their own film projects. After successfully completing a series of short films, the brothers began producing their first feature, “The Fable of Shannon Cable,” written and directed by friend and frequent collaborator Vinnie Hogan, and screened at the Austin Film Festival in 2013.

The Burns brothers’ current feature-length collaboration, called “Electric Nostalgia,” is written and directed

by Jacob, while Zach has been producing the film along with Hogan. Zach also has been the on-set photographer and head of props, among other jobs. “Making a movie on a small budget is very difficult – you have to wear many hats,” Burns says.

According to “Electric Nostalgia’s” trailer, “Unfamiliar memories haunt a young woman after she has been brought back from the dead, but in a different body. How is that possible? Robots.”

“What distinguishes this film from other sci-fi films is that rather than focusing on large conspiracies and action ... we are focusing on the personal implications in someone’s life if they suddenly woke up in a body that was completely different from their previous body; what that would do to them and their relationships with other people.”

Among the talented local cast are Page Tudyk, Lauren Analla, J. Alan Davidson and Stephen Goodman. “Finding and utilizing local talent was a must on this production, and I truly believe we found some of the best Oklahoma has to offer.” Much of the filming has taken place in and around Oklahoma City, with a large portion conducted in the Paramount building on Film Row. “Melodie Garneau, the owner of the Paramount, was very nice to work with, allowing us to take over nearly an entire f loor of the building for a week,” Burns says.

The Burns brothers have finished filming “Electric Nostalgia” and are now in post-production. To find out more about the film, check out electricnostalgiafilm.com. To see more of Burns’ unique perspective on the world as seen through the lens of a camera, visit lefteyeburns.com.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 49

Born in Mexico’s Ciudad Guzman and raised in Oklahoma City, Eleazar Velazquez has been drawing since the time a crayon was placed in his hand. He vividly remembers, “Drawing and doodling on walls just like the great artists of the 21st century.” Velazquez also recalls sitting in his art teacher’s class when he heard the news that he had placed as runner-up in a statewide art contest. “It felt like a Matisse had been sold,” he says.

It was the first time he had ever won an award for his art. However, based on his current work in acrylic on wood, drawing and fashion sketching, that award will not be the last.

Velazquez attended Millwood High School in Oklahoma City, and his passion for creativity blossomed in art classes. He later attended the School of Architecture at the University of Oklahoma. Although he embraced his love for architectural design (and still does), his professors felt differently about his drawings. “My professors kept telling me that my work was ‘too artistic,’” he says. Discouraged that his work was not compatible and practical with architecture, Velazquez left school for a job at a bank. “I had lost some of my passion for art during that time, but I kept drawing and sketching on deposit slips and loose paper.”

Although he learned line work in architecture school, Velazquez still considers himself a self-taught artist who has learned many techniques through experimentation and research. “I treat my art like a muscle,” he says. “As long as I keep exercising it every day then I can continue to get stronger as an artist.”

His admiration for Mexican artists Frida Kahlo’s brightly colored paintings and Diego Rivera’s murals has made the most impact in his work today. “The Power of My Soul” is one of Velazquez’s earlier works, featuring a portrait of Kahlo painted on an old piece of plywood. The piece is one of three portraits of Kahlo in his current collection.

“Frida was famous for her self-portraits, so I studied her particularly to develop my skills in painting faces.

But I also see Frida as a warrior. I admire her so much because of the tragedy she endured in her life, and yet she still accomplished so much. I have developed her in various different artistic forms and have created a modern Frida.”

50 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Velazquez’s work appears to be becoming more tribal over time as he draws inspiration from warriors, such as Kahlo. Nevertheless, some of Velazquez’s strongest work is also in line drawings. “One Night in Paris” reflects a bold and abstract style in Velazquez’s drawings, while “Twin Flames” appears to reflect a more controlled line, perhaps influenced by his architectural training. “Fashion sketches by Alexander McQueen are also really inspiring to me. At some point I hope to bring some of my designs to life in fashion.” Locally, Velazquez most admires the work of Amanda Bradway, owner of DNA Gallery in The Plaza District. “I also see her work as tribalesque.”

Currently, Velazquez is preparing for the Deluxe Winter Market 2014 (deluxeok.net), to be held on November 29 and 30 at Leadership Square in downtown Oklahoma City. “I appreciate that all the arts and crafts in this show are handmade by the artists, most of them being local. As an artist, I hope to provoke the mind and share my artwork with my community. My idea is not to create perfection, but to feel the imperfections we experience in everyday life and transform them into true beauty.”

See more at eleazart.com.

ART PHOTOS COURTESY ELEAZAR VELAZQUEZ

EXERCISING THE ARTISTIC MUSCLE

ART AS THERAPY

The catharsis of painting is the creative catalyst for Soni Parsons’ work. Emotion guides the Edmond resident’s paintbrush more than anything else. “I started painting for myself as therapy after my father died,” she says. “I was very depressed and had not painted in a long time. My doctor suggested that I start again as a way to express my emotions and get them out of my body and onto the canvas.”

Parsons began with a self-portrait – a painting that she does not exhibit, but one that she keeps as a reminder of who she was during that time in her life, and the way she felt. “When I look at one of my pieces, I know where I was physically, as well as emotionally, when I did each one. My art is filled with joy, sorrow, anger, rage and secrets. Each piece is a roadmap through the journey of my life.”

Parsons’ artistic visual memoir continued to evolve in art classes led by one of the great local artists, Bert Seabourn, which were held at City Arts Center (now Oklahoma Contemporary). Parsons noticed that when she had complex situations to resolve, her work appeared more impressionistic or abstract, reflecting her lack of clarity. When those situations were resolved then her art appeared more detailed and deliberate. “In each work of art goes a little piece of my heart and soul,” Parsons says. “It’s more than just paint and canvas; it’s filled with emotions, stress and sometimes even tears.”

Parsons enjoys working with recycled materials, particularly mannequin body parts from clothing store displays (although she prefers the torsos have no heads). Once Parsons artistically interprets the

pieces, the mannequins become sculptural works, some of which convey beauty as well as emotion. One such torso is covered in old computer parts that spell “Escape Reality.” Other torsos evoke elegance in design or simply a mood through color.

When Parsons’ three children left home after high school, she began a series of paintings called “Under the Same Moon,” which she says helped with the physical and emotional anxiety she experienced in her empty nest. “I started the moon series to take comfort in that no matter where we all are, we are all looking at the same moon.”

The therapeutic healing Parsons has experienced through art over the years led her to the University of Oklahoma where she earned her Masters in Human Relations with an emphasis on Counseling. She currently is working towards earning an LPC license, after which she will focus on more training in art therapy. “Art therapy is very different from art classes because there is much less formalization,” she says. “It is not so much about the finished product and more about the healing process that goes on in between.”

Parsons is presently creating an art space at Children’s Hospital where kids and parents can gather to alleviate some of the tension of being in the hospital by creating art. “Sometimes there’s not a voice or words to explain what someone is feeling inside,” Parsons says. “So if a person needs to purge their emotions, expressing them on a canvas or any art project may help them feel better.”

See more of Parsons’ work at soniparsons.com.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 51

Nicole Moan’s ceramic tiling takes the viewer on a sensual journey. Inside her home, the tiling transforms entire rooms into other worlds ... walking into the bathroom is like diving into the ocean. The underwater seascape swirls with glistening seashells and fish. The texturing in the water tiling is dense, like a three-dimensional Van Gogh painting magnified into a mural. “The brilliance and texture of the tile don’t just invite viewers to brush their fingers over the crevices and curves; they demand it,” Moan says.

In other parts of the room, the tiling emerges from the underwater wonderland and into a forest. Tall trees climb the walls, shimmering in ceramic glaze. The spacious living room floor is fully tiled resembling an abstract rug design. Ceramic wall hangings also feature underwater scenes as well as abstract human forms, perhaps in innate homage to her father, the painter Albert Riddle, who paints in a cubist style similar to Picasso. Most distinguishable in all of Moan’s ceramic work is a respectful reflection of nature. Moan’s mother Deborah Elders Riddle’s paintings express this same appreciation of nature, although in a more realistic style. “My parents worked large and used brilliant colors,” Moan explains. “This was a constant source of inspiration to me in my work.” Her distinctive perspective on nature, however, reveals a much more playful spirit, which she says her three young children continuously inform, inspire and invigorate.

A typical driver might never imagine that the crossing guard, wearing a neon vest and holding a “STOP” sign, may very well be at a Carnality Ball later that night wearing little more than a ceramic corset she has made from the same clay with which she tiles.

Moan’s ceramic corsets have become her most visible work, most often seen on a runway at a fashion show, at an art gallery opening or on stage as a costume in a theatre, opera or dance performance. She has transformed corsets, once symbols of male oppression to literally bind women into the desired hourglass form, and made them wearable art.

52 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

After a decade of experimentation and imagination, Moan’s corsets have become signature couture, often sexy and seductive, and instantly identifiable as her distinct “balance between the functional and the whimsical.” At first glance, the corsets may not even appear ceramic. The gleam from the glaze may be the only indication that the corset is not made from the traditional fabric, stiffened over the centuries with dry reed and “whalebone” (actually baleen from whale mouths), and later replaced by steel and plastic. A closer look reveals a vibrant “Peacock” corset may be completed with peacock feathers. Another glimpse into her friskiness is exposed in her “Calamity Jane” corset, upon which a ceramic, hand-molded pistol is mounted on each breast.

Experiencing Moan’s journeys in clay are well worth the trip. She maintains her intrinsic whimsy in her new series inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.” She says, “I don’t much care for trophy animal heads hanging on a wall, so I have created my own version of wall hangings featuring characters from the story, such as the Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter and White Rabbit.” Moan is also currently unveiling a new line of wearable ceramics devoted to mermaids. And in her tireless tiling work, she has extended the seascape inside her home to the exterior of her house. Once completed, one need not go to a fashion show, art opening or theatrical performance to enjoy Moan’s work. Anyone who happens to be passing her house will be treated to the artist’s journey under the sea.

TOP LEFT PHOTO COURTESY NICOLE MOAN

A CERAMIC JOURNEY

Which of your song(s) are most rooted in or inspired by your life in Shawnee – what themes in your songs are rooted in home for you? My earlier songs feel a little more inspired by life in Shawnee, as anything I was writing after that was written in the midst of a great deal of traveling, which really has become my life.

“Devils in Boston” from “Songs in the Night” is about the shock of going to New York City alone, after a life of fairly rural existence. “The River” from “The Confiscation” (her 2007 debut EP) is a bit of an allusion to the harmful side of religious extremism and fundamentalism – and I experienced a lot of that growing up in Shawnee. “Rising Sun,” also from “Songs in the Night,” is definitely a melancholy love song with the fields of Pottawatomie County as the setting. After a while though, traveling and my life outside Oklahoma became my muse.

SAMANTHA CRAIN PHOTO BY KEISHA REGISTER

TELLING A STORY

Samantha Crain’s third album, “Kid Face,” was released in February on Ramseur Records. Shortly afterward, it was nominated for three Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards for Best Folk Album, Best Producer for John Vanderslice and Single of the Year for “Somewhere All the Time.” Rolling Stone magazine recently named Crain as an artist to watch and anyone who has ever seen her perform would agree. The sincerity in her singing as she strums her acoustic guitar offers a hypnotic experience that flows like a river – smooth on the surface where the water runs deepest. Adding to Rolling Stone’s compliment, Crain, who is of Choctaw heritage, is also an “Artist to Hear.” Her lyrics tell compelling stories, beginning with her childhood in Shawnee when she taught herself to play guitar and wrote songs based on short stories she had written in high school.

Crain attended Oklahoma Baptist University, then at age 19, she signed up for an off-campus study program on Martha’s Vineyard. The program earned her a few college credits, but more importantly, it gave her the courage to pack up her guitar and hit the road.

Since then, Crain comes home to Oklahoma as often as she can, but most often to perform. This month alone, Crain kicks off her November tour in Atlanta and performs all the way to Portland, with stops in nearly every major city in between. She did manage to pause long enough to answer a few questions …

What themes in lyrics and musicality have emerged since you left Shawnee and started touring? At first, when I started leaving home more, loneliness and longing was a very apparent theme in my songs, but then that turned into independence and the songs started becoming a bit more strong-willed, which, in fact, is completely reliant on my growth as a woman. Musically, being outside of Shawnee, being outside my comfortable zone, challenged me to think different about chord progressions and strumming. I stepped more into a rock territory as far the actual songwriting goes, and sorta forgot all about the three-chord folk song for a while. I feel like I’ve come back around to that at times though.

Who and/or what are some of your greatest inspirations for your music? Jason Molina for his vulnerability; Neil Young, for his individuality; Woody Guthrie, for his progressiveness; Lhasa de Sela and Marc Bolan, for their voices; Elliott Smith, for his all-around genius in crafting a song; The Beatles and Wilco, for melodies; Joni Mitchell, for her inventiveness; Sam Cooke, for his soul; and Bob Dylan and Conor Oberst, for their lyrics.

What are your favorite songs to perform live and why?Right now, a new song I have called “Elk City” is my favorite to play live. It’s a quiet fingerpicked song with a long and full story, so it feels like an intimate story time when I play it and I like that about it. Over the years though, “Lions” and “Santa Fe” have been great fun because the audience seems to really like them and also because I can always take myself back to the place where I wrote those particular songs and re-experience my own life.

What is one of the most important things you have learned about yourself, others, and/or your music during your career? Bands and songwriters come and go like new days, but if you really want to stick around, just write good songs, be kind, be honest and don’t drink too much. Longevity is the only part of a music career that is actually up to you. Fame, fortune, popularity – those things are all decided by outside forces, by fate and luck. But longevity, that is something you can be sure of if you work hard and, in the words of Warren Zevon, “enjoy every sandwich.”

What are you exploring creatively at the moment? Are you working on an album or with a particular artist? What are you looking forward to sharing with us – your audience – in the near future? I’m almost done writing songs for my next album, which I’ll be recording in December. I’ll be working again with producer John Vanderslice (who did “Kid Face”), at his studio Tiny Telephone out in San Francisco. I’ll also be using the MagikMagik Orchestra to really make my vision of this next album a reality. I am really excited to hear the finished album by Small Houses. I just added background vocals to that album earlier this summer. I also added vocals to Dylan Stewart’s new album, so I’m excited for that release as well.

See tour dates and more at samanthacrain.com.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 53

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THE ART OF SANTA FE November 6-26th Artists’ Reception: Thursday, November 6th • 5-7pm Susan Stamm Evans “Threads 3” unique bronze

Tom Perkinson “Full Moon Rising” 10" x 38" watercolor mixed media Kevin Box “Raptor on Stone” bronze

Featuring: Kevin Box Dick Evans* Susan Stamm Evans* Tom Perkinson Aleta Pippin* Greg Reiche Poteet Victory* *Artist present for opening reception 56 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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Aleta Pippin “Rich and Flowing Color” 48" x 36" oil on linen

Poteet Victory “Arrangement in Grey III” 48” x 48” oil

Dick Evans “Morning Anticipation” 30" x 48" acrylic Left: Greg Reiche “Sky Hook X” sandstone, glass and steel

Oklahoma’s Premier Art Gallery 6432 N. Western Avenue | 405.840.4437 | howellgallery.com Monday-Thursday: 10am-5pm, Fri: 10am-3pm, Sat: 10am-2pm NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 57

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

UPCOMING EXHIBITS & EVENTS ARTS COUNCIL OF OKLAHOMA CITY 405.278.4848 artscouncilokc.com

Dec 31 Opening Night, Downtown Oklahoma City, 7 p.m. to midnight: Opening Night offers some of Oklahoma’s best talent, including musicians, singers, dancers, and magicians, performing on 16 stages across downtown Oklahoma City, celebrating the new year. Stake your claim at Bicentennial Park by 11:30 p.m. to enjoy the finale show and fireworks that will officially launch 2015. Tickets at artscouncilokc.com/ opening-night.

CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER

867 Cooper Memorial Dr., Sulphur, 580.622.7130, ChickasawCulturalCenter.com Now-May 6, 2015 Dugout Canoes, Paddling through the Americas: A world-class exhibit that starts with the world’s largest archaeological find – 101 ancient dugouts discovered in a dry lake bed in Florida just a decade ago.

Explore hundreds of objects that showcase canoemaking, paddles, tools, fishing equipment, model canoes and more. Fun, hands-on features invite learning. Don’t miss it!

Dec 13 Start your holiday season at the Annual Christmas Celebration.

Activities include Christmas films, pictures with Santa and Native American Christmas ornament workshops.

The Chickasaw Cultural Center will be closed Thursday, November 27, in observance of Thanksgiving and Thursday, December 25, in observance of Christmas.

THE HOWELL GALLERY

6432 N. Western Ave., OKC, 405.840.4437 howellgallery.com Nov 6-26 The Art of Santa Fe: Join The Howell Gallery as they bring a touch of Santa Fe to Oklahoma City with an exciting and eclectic show featuring new paintings and sculptures by Santa Fe artists Kevin Box, Dick Evans, Susan Stamm Evans, Tom Perkinson, Aleta Pippin, Greg Reiche and Poteet Victory.

The opening night reception will run from 5-7 p.m. Enjoy a delightful evening of art and conversation while visiting with four of the featured artists: Dick Evans, Susan Stamm Evans, Aleta Pippin and Poteet Victory.

Dec 4 An Evening of Art and Holiday Cheer: A wonderful evening in two of Oklahoma City’s premier art galleries, as The Howell Gallery partners with Acosta-Strong Fine Art for the annual Holiday Art Show and Sale. Let the sounds of carolers put you in a festive mood as you stroll between the two galleries enjoying a wide variety of paintings, sculpture and jewelry from both local and national artists.

Thanksgiving Celebration

Feb 7-14, 2015 Art For Your Sweetheart: What better way to say “I love you” than with an original piece of art and a gift certificate to The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro? With your purchase of $500 or more during the week of Feb. 7-14, receive a $100 gift certificate to The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro.

JRB ART AT THE ELMS

2810 N. Walker Ave., OKC, 405.528.6336 jrbartgallery.com Nov 7-30 Denise Duong and Timothy Chapman, paintings: Denise Duong creates lyrical mixed media paintings on canvas, and each painting tells a story. Timothy Chapman wants most to impart to the viewer a sense of wonder and strangeness that nature photography and video, in spite of the inherent capacity for precision, cannot.

Denise Duong and Timothy Chapman Opening Reception: Friday, November 7, 6-10 p.m.

Dec 5-27 Christmas at The Elms: Art on Paper, a large selection of works on paper by a select group of the gallery’s featured artists. These works, as well as other unique art items available, will offer the holiday shopper a great selection of art gifts.

Art on Paper Opening Reception: Friday, December 5, 6-10 p.m.

Jan 1-31, 2015 White II: The 12th annual New Year’s Day celebration and exhibit will continue 2014’s white theme. With White II, not only will the art explore the nuances of the color white, artists and guests are encouraged to wear white.

White II Opening Receptions: Thursday, January 1, and Friday, January 2, 2015

OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART 415 Couch Drive, OKC 405.236.3100 okcmoa.com

Founded in 1954, OKCMOA houses a permanent collection of over 3,000 works of art spanning five centuries and presents world-class exhibitions throughout the year. OKCMOA has earned national recognition for producing and presenting a broad spectrum of artistic and educational programs of excellent quality. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Museum provides comprehensive educational programs including films, lecture series, hands-on activities and study programs for all ages.

Now-Jan 18, 2015 My Generation – Young Chinese Artists: Be transported to modern China with a new generation of outspoken artists who are commanding attention on a global level.

Feb 14-May 10, 2015 Intent to Deceive – Fakes and Forgeries

CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER

November 22-23 | 867 Cooper Memorial Dr., Sulphur

Join a time of fun and family! Festivities include holiday sales, children’s Christmas workshop and the Native American miniature ornament class.

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2014 | DECEMBER 31 | 2015 5K STARTS at 4PM

RACE THROUGHOUT DOWNTOWN OKC This years Opening Night bands play while you run.

COSTUME/FESTIVE DRESS CONTEST Most festively dressed wins a prize!

REGISTER ONLINE AT EARLYSIGNUP.COM/FINALE5K

in the Art World: Real or fake?

You decide. Intent to Deceive spotlights some of the world’s most impressive forgeries and the stories behind them.

Jun 20-Sep 27, 2015 Fabergé: Jeweler to the Tsars: Visit the “House of Fabergé” and see 231 exquisite works crafted by the great Russian master, Peter Carl Fabergé.

OKCMOA is one of a few stops in North America to experience Fabergé: Jeweler to the Tsars.

All participants receive an Opening Night wristband.

ROBIN’S CORNER MUSEUM

Dale Rogers Training Center 2501 N. Utah Ave., OKC 405.790.1212 drtc.org

PRESENTED BY

ThaT is WhY We Remain faiThfUL TO OURs

Ongoing Robin Rogers, daughter of Dale and Roy Rogers, the famed western move star couple of the 1940s and ’50s, was born in 1950 with Down Syndrome. Her disability inspired her mother, Dale Rogers, to be one of the first celebrities to advocate for people with disabilities. The namesake museum is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Rare memorabilia is on display with merchandise available for purchase in the Gift Shop.

DRTC continues to provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities since 1953, including Prism Place, where you watch the entire process of making beautiful awards and trophies through a wall of glass, and Wyman Frame, where you can design shadow boxes, engraving and specialty framing with Certified Picture Framer Carla Folks.

THE SKIRVIN HILTON The firsT 200 years of Marine Corps hisTory CoMe To life in The naTional MuseuM of The Marine Corps. now

One Park Ave., OKC 405.272.3040 skirvinhilton.com

we MusT CoMpleTe This naTional TribuTe by adding The sTories of Marines froM 1975 Through Today.

To learn how you Can help CoMpleTe This Mission, Call 1-800-397-7585 or visiT MarineheriTage.org.

60 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

Ongoing Artist in Residence: For more than a century, The Skirvin Hilton has been

a landmark in Downtown Oklahoma City. Today, this historic hotel is a symbol of OKC’s recent and ongoing evolution; a true barometer for what’s fashionable and happening in the heart of our city.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the Skirvin Hilton Artist in Residence program.

The year-long Artist in Residence program encourages the public to interact with the resident artist and experience firsthand the creation and evolution of a work of art. It also gives local artists the opportunity to connect with the public and showcase their craft in a hightraffic, public venue.

In October of this year, Kerri Shadid became the Skirvin Hilton’s third Artist in Residence. Shadid is a fulltime poet and visual artist who writes spontaneous, whimsical poems for her visitors. She also practices processoriented art forms such as marbling, bookmaking and book binding.

The aesthetics of word and voice are key in Shadid’s work, using language and poetry to make our existence artistic.

Her written works contain elements of magical realism, the surreal, and wabi-sabi, a Japanese tradition celebrating the transient and flawed.

During her residency, Shadid plans to expand the complexity of her bookmaking with the visually-engaging and rarely-practiced techniques of Japanese Stab and multi-folio binding.

The Artist in Residence studio is open Monday, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.3:30 p.m.

A F R E E

N A M NOR ALK ART W

2 N D

M O N T H LY CELEBRATION

O F A R T I

A Y D I F R

N

D OW N TOW N

NORMAN

LIVE MUSIC

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PRESENTED BY

GALLERIES STUDIOS & SHOPS MORE INFORMATION AT:

2NDFRIDAYNORMAN.COM

FO O D

TRU CKS

“Magnificent”

—The Wall Street Journal

SEPT. 27 - 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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History + charm with dinner on the side.

Comfortable • Classic • Inspired

Park Avenue Grill is a classic sit-down eatery and American concept kitchen set inside the historic Skirvin Hilton Hotel. Marked by original art deco tilings and hand-carved entryways, today’s Park Avenue Grill is a gateway into the hotel’s storied past.

Inspired by this rich history, we proudly serve up a diverse menu of classic favorites and farm-to-fork cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Christopher Pope.

4 0 5 . 702 . 8 4 4 4 • o n e p a r k ave n u e

ParkAveGrill.com

JRB ART AT THE ELMS PASEO ARTS DISTRICT

2810 NORTH WALKER OKLAHOMA CITY, OK PHONE: 405.528.6336 FAX: 405.528.6337 WWW.JRBARTGALLERY.COM

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GREG GUMMERSALL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

See the world.

Visit an Oklahoma Museum.

Oklahoma offers more than 500 museums and cultural attractions across all 77 counties of our great state. A journey around the world is only a short trip to your local Oklahoma Museum.

O MA

O K L A H O M A

MUSEUMS

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Learn more today at:

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S P O NS O R E D B Y: Va l i r Heal th | The F l euri s te | KOMA | KMGL | KJKE

November 5-8 COX CONVENTION CENTER DOWNTOWN OKC Shop more than 100 select, unique merchants at this highly anticipated event, benefiting community projects of the Junior League of Oklahoma City.

To purchase tickets, visit mistletoemarket.org

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PREVIEW PARTY & PRIVATE SHOPPING Wednesday, November 5 | 6pm - 10pm Valet Parking Available GENERAL ADMISSION Adults $8 Children 3-12 & Seniors 65+ $5 Children Under 3 FREE GENERAL HOURS Thursday, November 6 | 9am - 8pm Friday, November 7 | 9am - 8pm Saturday, November 8 | 10am - 5pm

FARE AN ARRAY OF TASTES Spicy or savory or simply delicious, Chiltepes’ options give dining in the Plaza District a little extra pop. See page 74.

CARLI WENTWORTH

FAMILY TRADITIONS A pair of recipes for zippy holiday side dishes 70 EAT & DRINK Variety is on the menu in Slice’s citywide dining guide 76 NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 69

FARE | In the Kitchen

FAMILY TRADITIONS

By Caryn Ross // Photo by Carli Wentworth

AROUND THIS TIME EVERY YEAR, WE’RE INUNDATED WITH DELECTABLE SIDE DISH RECIPES FOR THE HOLIDAY TABLE. I find this to be cooking creative overload, besides which, these recipes always send me on a culinary scavenger hunt in search of an ingredient unknown to this part of the country. Well, I promise you that my holiday recipes are every bit as delicious and ingredients can be found at your local grocer. This is not the time to try out new and complicated cooking methods. Stick to what you know. It sounds simple, but use what got you there in past holidays and just make a few tweaks here and there.

My holiday table is not complete without the Walker Family Praline Sweet Potato Dream. I can remember the year my Grandma added this to our yearly Thanksgiving spread. I swore up and down that I hated sweet potatoes until she made me try a spoonful. I was a changed child from that meal forward. It probably helped that these sweet potatoes taste more like a dessert than a side dish. So, I dare you to make this and not fall in love like I did so many years ago.

I also love to serve a fresh vegetable instead of the canned variety I grew up on. One of the easiest and most flavorful fall veggies to prepare is green beans. The secret is to roast them. They only take about 20 minutes to cook, so they are quickly plated and ready for the table. My favorite part is that it looks holiday perfect with the pop of green and red!

PRALINE SWEET POTATO DREAM 5 large sweet potatoes, baked and peeled 1 stick unsalted butter, melted 3 eggs, lightly beaten 1/3 c sugar 1/3 c brown sugar 1 t cinnamon 1/2 t nutmeg 1/2 t salt 1 T vanilla extract or vanilla paste 3/4 c half and halfÂ

PRALINE TOPPING 1 c brown sugar 1/2 c all-purpose flour 70 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

SHOW THEM YOU’VE GOT

GREAT TASTE

W W W . E HS R G . CO M

Yo u w i l l r e c e i v e a $10 Bonus C ard for every $50 eGift Card you give.

www.ehsrg.com For every $50 worth of eGift Cards purchased, the purchaser receives a $10 Bonus Card. Bonus Card valid 10/16/2014 through 03/31/2015. Bonus Card may not be redeemed for alcoholic beverages. One Bonus Card per visit.

Bonus Card may not be redeemed with other offers or coupons. Hal Smith eGift Cards can be purchased in any denomination from $5-$500. eGift Card purchase total is limited to $500 per single transaction.

Offer ends January 2015. 71 NOVEMBER 2014 // 1,SLICE

FARE | In the Kitchen

‘Tis the season for giving back... ...be it a couple hours of your time, a few dollars from your pocketbook or something as simple as lending your hand to a friend or neighbor.

At Allied Arts,

we are thankful to celebrate the bountiful opportunities our local arts community provides – places for families to come together and traditions to be passed from one generation to the next.

1 stick unsalted butter, chilled and cubed 1 c pecans, chopped Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9" x 13" casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Mash the sweet potatoes in a large bowl.

Then, using an electric hand mixer, beat in the butter, eggs, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla and half and half until there are no lumps. Pour the sweet potatoes into the prepared baking dish.

To make praline topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sugar, flour and butter using a pastry blender, forks or even your clean fingers (that’s how my Grandma taught me). You know it’s ready when small peasized granules form. Stir in the pecan pieces.

Sprinkle the praline topping over the sweet potatoes and bake for 1 hour or until puffed and golden brown on top. Serve warm.

ROASTED GREEN BEANS WITH GINGER DRESSING 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 3 T dried cranberries 2 T slivered almonds Olive oil Sea salt and pepper

GINGER DRESSING This fall, join us in supporting YOUR arts community.

A little give ... is all it takes.

1007 N Broadway Ave Auto Alley/OKC 236-4600 RawhideRanchCo.com 72 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

WWW.ALLIEDARTSOKC.COM @ALLIEDARTSOKC

1 t orange zest Juice from ½ large orange 1 t finely grated fresh ginger 2 T seasoned rice vinegar 2 t honey sea salt to taste ¼ c extra virgin olive oil Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the green beans in a large bowl with the garlic, dried cranberries and slivered almonds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper, toss. Place the green beans on the baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk together the dressing ingredients in a bowl. Serve the green beans on a platter and drizzle with the dressing.

It’s All Good!

5100 N Classen Circle 405.286.1939 drunkenfry.com

4309 N Western Avenue 405.604.0990 drumroomokc.com

4709 N. Western Avenue 405.602.3477 thewedgeokc.com

5418 N Western Avenue 405.848.7678 deepforkgrill.com

4308 N Western Avenue 405.525.6682 barrelokc.com

201 E Sheridan Avenue 405.236.8040 themantelokc.com

2408 N Robinson Avenue 405.600.1166 thebluenotelounge.com

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FARE | Matters of Taste

POWER TO THE PLAZA

By Steve Gill // Photos by Carli Wentworth

IT’S A GREAT PLEASURE TO WATCH A PLACE SUCCESSFULLY REINVENT ITSELF and become, through acumen and enthusiasm, a thriving destination in its own right.

Even if you’re not from its midtown OKC area, you should be enjoying the inspirational renaissance in progress of the Plaza District. Especially since, as it continues, it results in new places like Chiltepes to taste.

It’s a Guatemalan restaurant, and if you don’t recognize the source of the name (I didn’t; it’s a kind of pepper common in that country’s cuisine), it’s immediately recognizable as a Latin place of some flavor: the décor is brightly colored, the soundtrack bounces with trumpet stings and the tastiness begins coming in waves practically from the moment you’re seated.

The starters are chips and salsa (one thin and one a little chunkier, and neither is playing around, heat-wise) and more: there’s also a nice light queso and a velvety, savory black bean puree that only grows more delicious with prolonged sampling. (Trust me on this, although watch your cuffs; it’s extremely drippy.) Oh, and a basket of thick, freshly handmade flour tortillas in case you want a different vehicle for conveying all that deliciousness to your taste buds. At lunch, I was even given a small cup of warm, fragrant chicken broth topped with cilantro, which is only going to be more tempting as the weather continues to cool. With all those options to try and try again, it’s almost (but not quite) superfluous to order the Chuchitos – a pair of small, thick tamales with a chicken filling (watch for 74 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

CHILTEPES LATIN CUISINE & BAR 1800 N.W. 16th Street, OKC 405.601.0384 chiltepesrestaurant.com

bones), adorned with a splash of tomato sauce and sprinkle of white cheese.

Among entrees, you’ll find some familiar terms – there’s a whole section of the menu devoted to Mexican dishes, and it’s not hard to find, say, Carne Asada elsewhere in the metro. The Chiltepes version is very good, with laudably thin sheets of steak that have a tiny bit of crispy char on the edges, but it’s not really adventurous; for something a little less well-known, try the Pepian de Pollo.

That’s two pieces of chicken (I had a leg and a thigh) lacquered in a thick, savory sauce that according to the menu is made of ground seeds, vegetables and spices – I’m pretty sure of tomatoes, garlic, onions and sesame seeds and would guess at coriander, but all I can say with absolute certainty is that it’s rich. It comes with a side setup of rice, black beans, a couple of avocado slices and a “Russian Salad,” which seemed to be potatoes, carrots and green beans in a mayonnaise-y dressing.

That component honestly didn’t do much for me, partially because there was more flavor

to be had in the other options to hand (including my main dish). While your mileage may vary, nothing I had was spicy enough that I felt the need for a palate neutralizer.

One more recommendation: if you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, consider the burst of color that goes by the name Enchiladas Guatemaltecas. A crisp corn tortilla serves as the foundation for a pyramid of beef or chicken, lettuce, pickled beets, avocado, onion, tomato and even a slice of hard-boiled egg on top. It’s closer in form to what I’d call a tostada, but “tastiness pile” wouldn’t be far wrong either.

New flavors are generally worth investigating for the sake of gustatory exploration alone – you never know when you’ll find a new favorite cuisine – and it certainly shouldn’t be a discouragement to know that Chiltepes is pretty easy on the pocketbook. A sense of discovery, dishes that are natural conversation topics, an eminently reasonable bill, located in a thriving area with a freshly energetic vibe … sounds like an ideal date spot. ¡Divertid!

QUICK TIPS

Mind your surroundings. Hey, it was good enough for Batman. And as undeniably endearing as the menu’s description of the fried plantain-and-sweetbean Rellenitos as “tasty little dumpling type things” is, the dessert menu isn’t all that deep. Bearing in mind that part of the appeal of the Plaza District is its walkability, unless you’re seriously jonesing for a well-blended horchata (which you might easily be), it’s hard not to recommend stepping across the street to District House for a latte and then down the block to Pie Junkie.

Circle back in spring. Even Oklahoma is unlikely to give you many opportunities to use a patio in November, but bear it in mind for the sunnier future; Chiltepes has a good one.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 75

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.

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 $

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CAFÉ 7 Fast and casual, with varied salad, sandwich, pizza and pasta options, all priced under $7. 14101 N May, OKC, 748.3354; 120 N Robinson, Suite W 175, OKC, 748.3354 $ CAFÉ 501 Pizzas, salads and specialty sandwiches on artisan breads. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$

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 $

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL Amply portioned and green chili-amplified burgers, breakfasts and more fill this inviting diner. 231 S Coltrane, Edmond, 562.4777 $ RUNNING WILD CATERING Elegance is as abundant as flavor in the spreads supplied for special occasions by this full-service caterer; home to a broad menu and impeccable execution. Appointment only.

3830 N Maney Ave, OKC, 751.0688 $$

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

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 $

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

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 $$

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 $

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 $$

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

PICASSO CAFÉ As creative as its neighbors in the Paseo Arts District; zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises abound. 3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $

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

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 $

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 $$

THE R&J LOUNGE The culinary luminaries behind Ludivine present a more relaxed, sentimental dining experience; the drinks menu is a thing of beauty. 320 NW 10th, OKC, 602.5066 $$

VICEROY GRILLE Opulent décor, comfortable environs and some outstanding cuisine make a strong recommendation for the Ambassador Hotel’s in-house restaurant; don’t overlook the brunch options. 1200 N Walker Ave, OKC, 600.6200 $$$

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

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 $$

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

1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $

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 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Entrees, sides and wondrous craft cocktails are carefully concocted inhouse. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$ 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 $ VAST Steaks, seafood and globally inspired American cuisine, with a view truly unparalleled in Oklahoma. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$

FARE | Eat & Drink

ANOTHER REASON TO FALL IN LOVE

FALL FONDUE FEATURES Celebrate the comforts of fall with our chef-inspired seasonal flavors.

Lobster Cheese Fondue $8.95 per person Fall Salad with Angry Orchard Vinaigrette $4.95 per person Pumpkin Pie White Chocolate Fondue $7.45 per person

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 $$

ASIAN 180 MERIDIAN GRILL Blending Asian cuisine with U.S. culture: sirloin with teriyaki butter, hoisin BBQ duck pizza and sushi options. 2541 W Main, Norman, 310.6110 $$ DOT WO GARDEN Dot Wo continues its legacy by pairing sumptuous classics of Chinese cuisine with fiery, fresh sushi. 6161 N May, OKC, 608.2388 $$ GRAND HOUSE A Chinese restaurant that goes the extra mile to provide enjoyable ambiance alongside its excellent cuisine.

2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$ 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 $$ SAII Rich ambiance boosts expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus stellar sushi. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$

PUMPKIN PIE WHITE CHOCOLATE FONDUE

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

OKLAHOMA CITY • (405) 235-1000 RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED MELTINGPOT.COM

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 $ CUPCAKES TO GO GO Love of travel (and a sweet tooth) inspire the myriad flavor combinations in this trove of treats – its rotating menu means every trip reveals a different taste destination. 2524 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 330.2190 $ CUPPIES & JOE The name is only part of the story: it’s cupcakes and coffee and pie and live music and a cozy, trendy vibe and more. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $ HURTS DONUT CO. Ignore your childhood hesitations: you do want a Hurts Donut.

The 24-hour Campus Corner locale pumps out nonstop sweet and savory innovations.

746 Asp Ave, Norman, 417.300.6106 $

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 $$

KITCHEN NO. 324 Seasonally inspired café, coffee curator and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $

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 $

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 $

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 $$

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 $

BARBEQUE

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 $

78 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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 $$

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

minds behind Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler.

121 NE 2nd, OKC, 208.4477 $

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 $

COFFEEHOUSE // TEA ROOM

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 $ CHARCOAL OVEN Serving premium charbroiled burgers since 1958 for the flavor of a backyard cookout via drivein. 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 $ 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 $ 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 Fresh-ground burgers cooked over real charcoal; try the Cheese Theta or Caesar varieties. 4 metro locations, johnniesok.com $

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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ 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 $ MICHELANGELO’S Enjoy exceptional coffees and wines, a well-stocked pastry case and breakfast and lunch selections. 207 E Main, Norman, 579.3387 $ PARAMOUNT, THE A Film Row joint with a screening room attached, its all-day beverage menu delivers the stuff dreams are made of. 701 W Sheridan, OKC, 517.0787 $ RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle with great coffee, vegetarian-friendly specials and live music. Highly recommended! 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $

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 $

T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE This endearing retreat offers over 100 varieties and expert counsel to explore a world of possibili-teas.

7518 N May, OKC, 418.4333 $

LOUIE’S ON THE LAKE An unbeatable view of Lake Hefner from the spacious patio adds ambiance to tasty entrees under $10. 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 751.2298 $

CONTINENTAL

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

2632 W Britton Rd, OKC, 840.9364 $

BIN 73 Diners can fill up on filet mignon or simply top the evening off with tapas while enjoying the full bar and chic ambiance. 7312 N Western, OKC, 843.0073 $$ BLACKBIRD A gastropub with succulent creativity (pot roast nachos!) and a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes and contemporary comfort food; truly one of the city’s finest restaurants.

2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$

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 $

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

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 $

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 $$

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

502 S Webster, Norman, 364.2136 $

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

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 $

MANTEL, THE Marvelous steaks and seafood (don’t miss the lobster bisque), in a refined, intimate atmosphere. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$

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

200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 208.4000 $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS A small menu whose bravura execution makes the meal hard to forget. 3 metro locations, tuckersonionburgers.com $ URBAN JOHNNIE’S Gourmet burgers and more in a sleek bar atmosphere from the

MELTING POT, THE Make a meal an event to remember with an elegant fondue feast. 4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$ METRO WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE A comfortably upscale favorite covering cuisines from vichyssoise to crème brulée.

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

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 79

FARE | Eat & Drink 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

GERMAN

ICE CREAM // YOGURT

them as classic dishes are elevated to greatness. 9622 N May, OKC, 755.3577 $$

DAS BOOT CAMP Exceptional cuisine (and magnificent beer) in a fast-paced location downtown. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $

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 $

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 $

ORANGE LEAF Dozens and dozens of tasty, waistline-friendly flavors and toppings, charged by the ounce. 9 metro locations, orangeleafyogurt.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 $$

INGRID’S Authentic German fare, including outstanding Oklahoma-made bratwurst. Don’t overlook breakfast, or the bakery counter! 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444; 6501 N May, OKC $$ OLD GERMANY Justly renowned for its Bavarian delights – the schnitzels, soups and sausages are spectacular. 15920 SE 29th, Choctaw, 390.8647 $$$

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 $

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

INDIAN

HEALTHY // ECLECTIC COOLGREENS Customization encouraged; every available component in salads, wraps and frozen yogurt is naturally delicious. 3 metro locations, coolgreens.com $$ EARTH, THE Super, super fresh sandwiches, salads and soups in one of the most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly menus you’ll ever see. 750 Asp, Norman, 573.5933 $ NANI Seating by reservation only, the constantly rotating set tasting menu blends sustainably sourced and foraged ingredients into a fusion of Japanese and Native American cuisine. Plaza District, OKC (call for address), 420.7569 $$$

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 $$

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

WHISPERING PINES B&B A secluded getaway housing sumptuous, savory cuisine in quiet comfort. 7820 E Highway 9, Norman, 447.0202 $$$

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

80 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

GOPURAM – TASTE OF INDIA A fullservice restaurant with the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentiful lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandoori-cooked delicacies in splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ A tremendous set of Indian staples and delicacies, plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$

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

HIDEAWAY PIZZA Incredible pizza in jovial surroundings; it’s amassed a devoted following for over half a century. 7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA No humility needed for this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies.

700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$ KEN’S PIZZA An old favorite returns to Edmond with its signature thin crust and spicy sauce set to win new fans. 628 W Danforth Rd, Edmond $ KNUCK’S WHEELHOUSE Homemade daily with sauces from scratch, it’s a tasty and varied stopover for Bricktown wanderers as well as a pizza-lover’s destination in its own right. 103 E California, OKC, 605.4422 $ OTHELLO’S Warm mussels to tiramisu – all you could want in a romantic Italian café.

434 Buchanan, Norman, 701.4900; 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$

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 $$

PAPA DIO’S Three generations of the Bonadio family offer an ample menu of new, classic and healthy dishes in separate dining rooms for family or casual dining. 10712 N May, OKC, 755.2255 $$

CAFFE PRANZO The atmosphere raises firsttime diners’ hopes; the execution exceeds

PIZZA 23 A tempting suite of specialty pies and good beer selection in crisp,

urban décor. 600-B NW 23rd St, OKC, 601.6161 $$ REVOLVE PIZZA A fully customizable dining experience: guests build their dream pies from the crust up and the quick-fire brick ovens do the rest. 5500 W Memorial, OKC, 792.2858 $ SOPHABELLA’S A quiet, classy gem offering premier tastes from Chicago and beyond in style. 7628 N May, OKC, 879.0100 $$$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of tastes for a casual lunch, romantic dinner or brunch, amid stylish scenery. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ TOMMY’S An old favorite returns to the metro to provide primo pasta, pizzas and plenty of ambiance. 5516 W Memorial, OKC, 470.5577 $$ UPPER CRUST This pizzeria and wine bar specializes in thin-crust, New York-style pies. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$ VICTORIA’S A shabby-comfortable atmosphere with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – try the chicken lasagna. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377 $ VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff treat customers like guests in their home. 7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ WEDGE, THE Wood-fired pies with fresh ingredients (like figs or truffle oil) and sauce from scratch. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$

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 $$

MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI Selected groceries and a menu stocked with options; the food is authentic, quick and spectacular. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $

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 $$

NUNU’S Tangy, tantalizing, fresh and healthy flavors, reproduced from generations-old recipes. 3131 W Memorial, OKC, 751.7000 $

MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry by skilled chefs at tableside hibachi grills. 4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ SUSHI BAR, THE Sushi staples done with élan, plus more adventurous options, in a bustling, comfortable environment. 1201 NW 178th, OKC, 285.7317 $$ SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in a broad and creative menu).

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

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

JAPANESE // SUSHI

COUSCOUS CAFE Traditional Moroccan tagine dishes to favorites like homemade falafel and kofta, with a bounty for vegetarians. 6165 N May, OKC, 286.1533 $

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 $$

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 $$

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 $$

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

ZORBA’S Family recipes proudly share flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $

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 $

MEXICAN // LATIN AMERICAN

IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172 $$

1492 Authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant, romantic setting with perhaps the world’s best mojitos. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$

INCA TRAIL Flavors from around the world, piquant ceviches to homemade flan. 10948 N May, OKC, 286.0407 $$

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 $$

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 $

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 $$

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 $$

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 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 $$

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 $$

MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN Handrolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and more, on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner.

9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$

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

MAMAVECA Familiar Mexican favorites plus the diverse delights of Peruvian cuisine. 2551 W Hemphill, Norman, 573.4003 $$ TARAHUMARA’S This airy ristorante serves huge, tasty Tex-Mex classics plus less

East Style EastCoast Coast Style

Fresh Seafood, Killer Pasta & So Much More.

Fresh Seafood, Killer Pasta & So Much More.

12252 N. May Avenue • Saturday Brunch 11-3 • Sunday Cruise Ship Brunch Buffet 10-3 2824 N. Penn Ave • Sunday Traditional Brunch 11-3 • Rococo-Restaurant.com NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 81

FARE | Eat & Drink ubiquitous fare like mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$

bayou treat right nearby. 617 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.1925 $$

TED’S CAFÉ ESCONDIDO Fast, fresh and amply portioned, it’s often very crowded and always supremely delicious. 4 metro locations, tedscafe.com $$

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 $$

YUCATAN TACO STAND Feisty Latin fusion cuisine plus signature nachos and combos… and over 75 tequilas. 100 E California, Suite 110, OKC, 886.0413 $

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 $$

ZARATE’S The familiar joys of enchiladas and chimichangas, plus Peruvian dishes of plantains, yuca and imported spices. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$

SEAFOOD FISH CITY GRILL Shrimp and grits, oysters on the half shell… anyone who wishes Oklahoma had a coastline should feel right at home. 1389 E 15th, Edmond, 348.2300 $$ JAZMO’Z BOURBON STREET CAFÉ An upscale yet casual environment boasting Cajun and Creole-inspired selections. 100 E California, OKC, 232.6666 $$ PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Crab Boil is a favorite and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial winner in “best of the metro” polls for fresh, flavorful seafood and spicy Creoleinspired dishes. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR, THE A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus seafood. 13801 Quail Pointe Dr, OKC, 286.5959 $$

SOUL FOOD BIGHEAD’S Fried alligator, frog legs and simmering, savory seafood gumbo – it’s a

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

Appointment only. 548.5657 $$

STEAKHOUSE

OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE Hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambience. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Effortless opulence, custom-aged hand-cut tenderloins and ribeyes and warm Southern hospitality. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$

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 $$

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

GEORGE, THE High atop Founders Tower, its spectacular view adds savor to expert chef-driven creations featuring prime beef.

5900 Mosteller Dr, OKC, 607.4360 $$$

THAI

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

4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$

HOURS: Monday to Saturday 11a to 2a & Sunday 11a to 10p Happy Hour Specials: Monday to Friday 4p-7p Half Price Drummies & Drum Sticks!

FRIED CHICKEN HOUSE

FRIED CHICKEN HOUSE FINE FOWL & FIXIN’S

82 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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 $$$

RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities.

504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$

10 712 NORT H M AY AV E N U E • OKC , OK 7312 0 4 0 5.755. 2 2 55 • OR DE R ON L I N E AT PA PA DIOSOKC .C OM

(405) 604-0990

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 $$$

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

We have been putting a little Italian in everything we make since 1979… 13 different sauces featuring our famous Trieste… Veal, Chicken, Shrimp and 5 different kinds of Lasagne! Over 175 items from all the regions in Italy… and a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence Wine List.

www.drumroomokc.com

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 $$$

4309 N WESTERN AVE OKLAHOMA CITY

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.

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PURSUITS FACING SOUTHWEST

“The Art of Santa Fe” brings a diverse group of captivating creations from the artistic capital of the Southwest to OKC’s Howell Gallery. See page 88.

TOP 10 Prime starting points for making the most of the month 84

COURTESY HOWELL GALLERY

A PASEO TRIPLE PLAY Three neighboring exhibits showcasing the district’s breadth of creativity 86 ON THE BAYOU The cuisine and scenery are both sublime down Louisiana way 90 SEE & DO November’s music, theater, visual arts and other delights 94

Susan Stamm Evans, “Large Face” NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 83

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.

VERY MERRY MERCHANDISE

November 5-8, Cox Center We haven’t reached the heart of the holiday season yet, but wouldn’t you like to enjoy it when it does arrive without being stressed about your shopping list? The Junior League of Oklahoma City is ready to give guests the gift of a holly, jolly jump-start on present purchasing thanks to the more than 100 vendors combining their specialty wares of every description to make up the 2014 Mistletoe Market.

LUMINOUS LIVES

November 13, Cox Center Membership in it is the state’s highest honor; the Oklahoma Hall of Fame’s exceptional collective will be noticeably more illustrious after this induction ceremony and banquet adds the presences of sculptor Harold Holden, musicians Wanda Jackson and Blake Shelton, politiAlfre Woodard cal servant and engineer Neal McCaleb, business leader Thomas McCasland, philanthropic medical research supporter Peggy Stephenson and actress Alfre Woodard. Congratulations to all.

GRAPE MOMENTS IN HISTORY

Mary Lynn Rajskub

Funny Business

November 6-24, Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center Laugh and the metro laughs with you; cry and you probably missed out on the amazing slate of irrepressible mirth that is this month’s OKC Comedy lineup.

Crackerjack local comedians star alongside W. Kamau Bell, former host of FX’s “Totally Biased,” the hilariously deadpan Mary Lynn Rajskub (she’s Chloe on “24” but you should remember her from “Mr. Show”), regular radio presence Tom Segura and the talented Kyle Kinane.

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November 13, Edmond Historical Society As a city grows and develops, it gradually attains a character of its own; a certain distinctive vintage, if you will. The Edmond Historical Society is devoted to chronicling and appreciating its community’s maturation, so the perfect way for it to toast another year of growth is the Wine Through Time fundraising event, whose auctions and tastings are buoyed by a well-chosen set of 16 premium wines.

VOICES UNITED

November 14, Riverwind Casino The stage is booked, the red carpet is rolled out and the spotlight is ready – it’s time once again for Celebrity Sing. The cavalcade of spectacular talent (and opportunity to snag auction treasures) helps United Way of Norman fulfill its philanthropic mission by funding dozens of programs at 27 nonprofit agencies around the city. It’s a singing, dancing, communitysupporting wonder.

HERE WE COME A-MARVELING

November 14-15, across Norman Caroling isn’t required for those taking the Assistance League of Norman’s Holiday Home Tour, though there are generally a few choruses of oohs and ahhs. Five private residences will deck their halls a trifle early for the enjoyment of those who love seasonal décor, or beautiful architecture, or helping fund the Assistance League’s philanthropic community support projects. Tidings of comfort and joy!

WATER WONDERLAND

November 28, Oklahoma River Sun is down, water’s streaming, and on top, lights are gleaming. So go with the flow to the seasonal show at the Holiday River Parade. It’s the tenth sailing of the free family event that features a skiing demonstration, beautifully decorated and lit boats, a fireworks display and to cap it off, a fly-by from Santa Claus. Yo ho ho ho!

FACING PAGE: MARY LYNN RAJSKUB PHOTO COURTESY OKC COMEDY; ALFRE WOODARD COURTESY OKLAHOMA HERITAGE MUSEUM; BRIE MY GUEST PHOTO BY 3 GIRLS PHOTOGRAPHY; THIS PAGE: HOLIDAY RIVER PARADE BY CARL SHORTT; TURKEY TROT 5K COURTESY OKC TURKEY TROT; OKC THUNDER COURTESY OKC THUNDER

WALKING UP AN APPETITE

November 27, Stars and Stripes Park While you’re counting your blessings this year, remember that the capacity to help others, to directly influence and improve the life of someone in need, is itself a tremendous gift. So before your feast, consider stretching your legs at the 15th OKC Turkey Trot 5k and 1-mile fun run; proceeds fund the family support and substance abuse programs of the Eagle Ridge Institute.

Storm Front

November 1-28, Chesapeake Arena Is this the Oklahoma City Thunder’s year? It’ll take a while to find out, but along the way we get to investigate other questions about how Adams will develop, how new pieces like Morrow and McGary will fit, whether KD has another MVP performance on tap and how much fun this season will be to watch – whether or not it ends with a ring, it starts here and now.

OFF STAGE, ON THE SPOT

November 28-December 20, Carpenter Square Theater William Gillette has made a name for himself with his convincing stage portrayal of the great detective Sherlock Holmes, but when one of his houseguests is found murdered, the actor must hope he has absorbed enough of the art of detection to unravel the mystery himself. Carpenter Square invites you to enjoy Holmes for the holidays in a humorous whodunit: “The Game’s Afoot.”

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 85

PURSUITS | Spotlight

A PASEO TRIPLE PLAY

By Steve Gill

ART IS MUCH ON OUR MINDS THIS MONTH, though even if we weren’t still in a creative appreciation headspace from working on our “Creative Catalysts” feature (see page 48), we’d be drawn to the Paseo Arts District during November – and you should be too. With nearly two-dozen galleries displaying engaging creations of every description, there’s something out there this month that will hit your senses just right. Consider the artistic variety on display in merely these three exhibits, then plan a scenic safari to see the panoply for yourself – and remember that the First Friday Gallery Walk from 6-10 p.m. November 7 is an ideal time to take it all in.

PARADE OF WONDERS

If there’s a common trait between Denise Duong and Timothy Chapman, the artists participating in November’s dual exhibit at JRB Art at the Elms (2810 N. Walker Ave., jrbartgallery.com), it’s their work’s sense of exuberant exploration. Duong even told an interviewer that her biggest fear in life is “boredom.” Channeling that joint sense of 86 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

“Cowboy in Black,” by Timothy Chapman (top), “Untitled 1” and “Untitled 2,” by Denise Duong (above)

wonder, of constant creative curiosity, onto canvas results in a bright, sometimes baffling show that’s anything but ennui-inducing.

Duong, educated in Chicago and at UCO, creates art that’s energetic, joyous and a little beguiling; each combination of paper, ink and acrylic paint feels like a glimpse at an adventure in progress, frozen in time. Chapman, meanwhile, is fascinated by the animal kingdom, but there’s a touch of unease in his awe – the alumnus of Occidental College, Arizona State and Southern Illinois has a penchant for unnatural twists on natural creatures to prompt a sense of discovery in viewers and create an effect that’s at times almost Boschian in its bizarreness.

In the case of both artists, it can be hard to look away.

THE FINISHING TOUCH

The vases, pots and other sculptures on display in the Summer Wine Gallery (2928-B Paseo St., summerwinegallery.com) this month are delicate, expertly formed examples of the demanding craft of pottery, but there’s a special ingredient that makes the clay creations of renowned sculptor White Antelope unique: after removing a new piece from the kiln, she seizes an extremely small window of opportunity to ornament her smoldering creation with horse hair. The hair fuses with the clay in an unpredictable pattern, making the finished piece a thoroughly irreproducible treasure.

Antelope’s work has been featured on CNN, in the New York Times and in New York City’s Brooklyn Museum – it’s also a neat coincidence that she’s affiliated with the Acoma Pueblo, whose name can be translated as “People of the White Rock.” The artist will make an appearance at the gallery 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, November 23 for a reception and public demonstration.

A large water vase (left) and flower vase by White Antelope

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM HIS FRIENDS

Chad Woolbright isn’t a fan of the art world’s occasional tendencies toward compulsive categorization and Byzantine, self-aggrandizingly opaque terminology – rather than claiming his work juxtaposes any dualities, he’s likely to say he tried to make it look cool – but as a longtime member of the local creative community, he’s forged a number of artistic friendships, which is why he’s bringing backup to his new show at In Your Eye Gallery (3005-A Paseo St., inyoureyegallery.com).

Dubbed “Art Connections” for the constructive passions that brought them together, the show combines pieces from five colleagues: Link Cowen is a sculptor in clay of the human face and form; Danny Deen loves exploring nature and new places almost as much as he loves using a camera to capture dramatic scenes from his travels; Dan Garrett is a sculptor in metal, welding disparate shapes into intriguing abstract designs; Suzanne Peck’s oeuvre ranges from splashy abstracts to fogenshrouded landscapes; and Woolbright himself likes to use bright acrylics in bold, occasionally strange designs.

Together, the friends have crafted a multi-course feast for the eyes.

“Escape Routes,” by Chad Woolbright

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PURSUITS | Spotlight

(left) Tom Perkinson, “Geese Flying South” (above) Susan Stamm Evans, “Threads 3”

THE DEEP SOUTH(WEST)

By Steve Gill

THE CAPITAL OF NEW MEXICO isn’t just possessed of a stark, arid, natural beauty and distinctive architectural style; it’s also a renowned center for creative splendor thanks to the many artists who gather there to live and work. This month, a portal to that splendid city is opening right here, as the Howell Gallery presents its own gathering of those artists in “The Art of Santa Fe.” Opening November 6, the exhibit gives those of us here in central Oklahoma an opportunity to immerse ourselves in the visual culture of one of the country’s foremost artistic enclaves, and at the same time showcases the depth and volume of creativity to be found on the Santa Fe scene.

That breadth of range is the result of combining works from seven artists: Dick Evans, Susan Stamm Evans, Aleta Pippin, Poteet Victory, Tom Perkinson, Kevin Box and Greg Reiche. Though they 88 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

don’t all practice the same style or even work with similar materials, their common thread is that all seven live or work in and around Santa Fe. “This will be the first time this entire group of artists has shown together,” says gallery director Laura Howell Tirrell. “They all have connections to the Howell Gallery; some of them are new acquaintances that we haven’t represented for very long, others have been with us for years, but now we’re excited to have the opportunity to put together a show like this.

“There’s something for multiple tastes, because their styles are so different. They all represent different mediums – acrylic, oil, watercolor, mixed media, bronze, stainless steel and stone – and different styles. New Mexico landscapes or contemporary abstracts, figurative sculptors, sculpture based on origami, even a work of knitting that was then cast in bronze. We usually don’t do shows with that many artists, but for this, it worked out really well to have a broader range of art.

“As you look from one piece to the next, you’re in a whole different place visually – but they all work together; there’s an awesome vibe.”

A VISUAL JOURNEY

Visitors’ first look at this look at Santa Fe art will be the exhibit’s free opening reception on November 6, from 5-7pm. Four of the show’s participants – Pippin, Victory and the Evanses – will be present alongside their work.

“The Art of Santa Fe” will remain on display through November 26 at The Howell Gallery, located at 6432 N. Western in Oklahoma City. For more information, visit howellgallery.com or call 840.4437.

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PURSUITS | Getting Away

90 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

ON THE BAYOU ACCORDING TO A CHITIMACHA LEGEND, THERE WAS ONCE A GIANT SNAKE SO LONG IT STRETCHED OUT OVER 100 MILES. The Chitimacha chief called upon all his warriors to kill the venomous reptile. They armed themselves with clubs and bows and arrows and attacked the serpent, wounding it fatally. As it writhed in agony, its body carved deep furrows into the soft ground. Water flowed in and today we know it as Bayou Teche, named for the Chitimacha word for snake. The Bayou Teche Scenic Byway meanders alongside the sinuous stream, past sugar cane fields, little towns and stately plantations. My husband Jack and I drove only a small portion of the road – but we found great history, beautiful scenery and wonderful food on our journey.

ST. MARTINVILLE

This is the heart of Cajun country. “Cajun,” a corruption of the name “Acadian,” refers to French settlers who were expelled from eastern Canada by the English in the mid-1700s. Many of them came to Louisiana, a number coming up the bayou and settling in this area.

The story was romanticized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in his poem “Evangeline.” Several stories credit actual residents as the inspiration. The famous Evangeline Oak is said to be the place where Emmeline Labiche and Louis Arceneaux, the Evangeline and Gabriel of the poem, met. You can walk around the historic downtown in a very short time. Visit the Acadian Museum for a more factual retell-

BY ELAINE WARNER

ing of the area’s history. Stop by the beautiful St. Martin de Tours Church (1836), which has a statue of Evangeline on the grounds.

For even more history, visit the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site. On the site, Maison Olivier, an 1815 Creole house, several examples of Cajun structures and a small museum highlight both cultures and how they lived. We had a great guide here and he even cut a stalk of sugar cane so we could taste the juice. Believe me; it takes a lot more processing before it’s going into my tea!

We made one more stop before leaving the area. Pine and Oak Alley required a lot of imagination – there are still enough trees to give the impression of what was once a magnificent allée. The plantation was owned by a man so fabulously wealthy that when his twin daughters were married, he brought in large spiders to spin webs over the trees, then had his servants spray them with gold and silver dust. Now, no spiders, no gold, no plantation; just an unkempt line of trees standing as testament to what once was. But the story has become local legend – and I’m glad we stopped.

NEW IBERIA

This charming old town is strung out along the bayou and offers several attractions, including a historic working rice mill and the Bayou Teche Museum. If you go to the Konriko Rice Mill, be sure to buy several boxes of their Wild Pecan Brown Rice.

The town’s star attraction is the lovely Shadows-on-the-Teche, an 1834 mansion owned by the same family for many generations before being donated to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. These walls have seen a lot of history and, with 17,000 documents saved by the family, the story is fully told.

Many people know of New Iberia through the books of James Lee Burke and his protagonist, Dave Robicheaux. It was fun picking Left to right: A major tourist attraction in St. Martinville is the Evangeline Oak. // The church parish of St. Martinville is the oldest in Louisiana, founded in 1756. This building, St. Martin de Tours church, dates back to 1836. // Completed in 1834, Shadows-onthe-Teche is a combination of Classical-Revival and LouisianaColonial elements.

NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 91

PURSUITS | Getting Away

out sites we’d read about in the books. We wanted to eat lunch at Victor’s Cafeteria by the sign in the window that reads, “Where Dave eats,” but it was closed.

Jack’s not much of a museum-goer so he sat outside while I toured the Bayou Teche Museum. A woman walked by and spoke and Jack said, “I’m waiting for Dave Robicheaux to come by.” Without missing a beat she replied, “You just missed him, he was here yesterday.”

FRANKLIN

On the back roads of the byway, we passed field after field of sugar cane that reached higher than an elephant’s eye. Much of southern Louisiana’s agriculture has been based on cane and five of the state’s 11 raw sugar mills are located along the Teche. Many of the beautiful plantations still standing were built from sugar fortunes.

This was true of the Fairfax House. With a view of Bayou Teche, it stood in the middle of a sugar cane field. Today, surrounded by live oaks, it is a lovely bed and breakfast with six beautifully decorated rooms. Its classic Greek Revival elegance and spacious grounds make it a favorite venue for weddings and the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.

The town of Franklin was founded in 1808 and boasts a number of fine old homes.

Its interesting historic district features many structures on the National Register of Historic Places.

Oaklawn Manor, built in 1837, is the real eye-popper in Franklin. Now the home of former Governor and Mrs. “Mike” Foster, it is open to the public. The furnishings are eclectic – from antique to modern – and luxurious. Aubusson tapestries and a desk from one of Napoleon Bonaparte’s palaces are right at home with Newcomb pottery and George Rodrigue’s Blue Dogs.

CAJUN CUISINE Some of the places we enjoyed on this trip included: St. John in St. Martinville – Cajun and creole dishes plus steaks. The crab cakes were the size of hamburgers and had generous chunks of crab in them.

Yellow Bowl in Jeanerette – a local favorite since 1927. The house specialties include fried crawfish tails and crab au gratin – crab, cream, cheese … just go ahead and rub it on your hips.

Atchafalaya Clubhouse Restaurant – at the golf course, Patterson. The clubhouse, built in an elevated Acadian style from beautiful cypress wood, features their signature Catfish Atchafalya – a fried or grilled filet with crawfish étouffée and rice.

For more information about the Bayou Teche Scenic Byway and this area of Louisiana, visit cajuncoast.com.

FROM BAYOU TO BIRDIE

From the byway, we followed our GPS to check out the Atchafalaya at Idlewild, a highly rated golf course. We saw a lot of scenery before we gave up and phoned for directions – not the first time on this trip!

The 18-hole Audubon course was designed with great care taken to preserve the natural landscape and wildlife by the firm that designed the Doral, LaCosta and the TPC at Woodlands. Most of the holes have water on them. The rule here is if an alligator gets your ball, you can subtract 15 strokes!

From Patterson, travelers on the Teche trail can proceed to Morgan City where the bayou ends. From there, it’s just a short jaunt to New Orleans and a whole ’nother adventure.

Left to right: To qualify as an Audubon course, Atchafalaya at Idlewild was designed to preserve natural vegetation and protect wildlife. // The movie “Evangeline,” starring Delores del Rio, was made here in the 1920s. She posed for this statue and donated it to the city.

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See & Do DANCE

706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 778.7613, infantcrisis.org

Charities of OKC. Skirvin Hilton 1 Park Ave, OKC, 424.6873, rmhcokc.org

Kaleidoscope Dancers Nov 20-22 The mesmerizing company of UCO dancers will provide audiences with even more variety than usual this fall, appearing in concert with the 5th annual Oklahoma High School Dance Festival. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater 100 N Broadway Ave, Edmond, 359.7989, uco.edu/cfad

Edmond’s Got Talent Nov 8 The sentiment is laudable, but is it true? And who has the most? Citizens of all ages flaunt their skills for audience enjoyment. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 340.4481, edmondfinearts.com

Starlight Ball Nov 15 Rex Linn is the special guest presenter at the Children’s Hospital Foundation’s 14th black-tie gala featuring games, dinner and live musical joy. OKC Golf & Country Club 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 271.2260, okchf.org

Wall of Fame Awards Nov 11 Edward Cook, David Fitzgerald and Horace Stevenson will join the rolls of OKC Public Schools’ most venerated alumni and community leaders at this laudatory dinner. Skirvin Hilton 1 Park Ave, OKC, 879.2007, okckids.com

Statehood Day Festival Nov 15 Celebrate Oklahoma’s 107th birthday with a full day of free family activities, crafts, food trucks and more. Oklahoma Heritage Museum 1400 Classen Dr, OKC, 523.3211, oklahomaheritage.com

Chili Bowl Fundraiser Nov 12 Grab a spoon - there’s plenty to sample in this fundraiser featuring chili made by faculty, staff and students and bowls created by ceramics students. OU Lightwell Gallery 520 Parrington Oval, Norman, 325.2691, ou.edu/finearts

Brian Regan Nov 16 Not much swearing; plenty of sarcasm, self-deprecation and all-around goofiness from a star among stand-up comedians. Rose State PAC 6000 Trosper Rd, Midwest City, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com

Oklahoma Nutcracker Nov 30 A Norman Ballet Company classic returns to light up the holidays with a distinctive take on the seasonal classic. Nancy O’Brian Center 1809 Stubbeman Ave, Norman, 364.1818, normanballetcompany.com

EVENTS National Weather Festival Nov 1 If your eyes are often on the skies, consider zipping down to Norman for a showcase of meteorological know-how, with kids’ activities and hands-on demonstrations.

National Weather Center 120 David L. Boren Blvd, Norman, 325.3095, nwf.nwc.ou.edu Oklahoma Wine Walk Nov 1 Sample live music, local merchandise and the finest in Oklahoma-made wines. Brookhaven Village 3700 W Robinson Ave, Norman, 232.6552, oklahomawinewalk.com Saints Ball Nov 1 The 2014 soiree to support St. Anthony Hospital’s lifesaving medical programs and patient care bears the theme of “A Royal Affair” … dress to impress. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 272.7070, givetosaints.com Flaming Festival Nov 5 Decorative inspiration (and potential deliciousness) fill the 58th annual collection of tabletop treats and an optional luncheon organized

by Kappa Alpha Theta alumnae. OKC Golf & Country Club 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, okctheta.com/events/flaming-festival Mistletoe Market Nov 5-8 A one-stop holiday shopping extravaganza thrown by the Junior League of Oklahoma City with the help of more than 100 vendors, giving guests a fully stocked pre-winter wonderland to explore. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 843.5668, jloc.org First Thursdays at the Curve Nov 6 Live music from the Sugar Free All-Stars, dinner from Whole Foods and a kids’ art project with an extra reward for the Regional Food Bank - it’s the art of giving back. Whole Foods 6001 N Western Ave, OKC, classencurve.com Good Neighbor Awards Nov 6 The Neighborhood Alliance of Central OK celebrates the individuals and groups whose caring and community spirit makes life better for those around them.

Petroleum Club 100 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 528.6322, nacok.com OKC Comedy Nov 6-24 Laugh it up with live standup entertainment from some of the comedy circuit’s big-time names: W. Kamau Bell Nov 6, Mary Lynn Rajskub Nov 16, Tom Segura Nov 17 and Kyle Kinane Nov 24. Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center 3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, 618.6944, okccomedy.com 1st Friday Gallery Walk Nov 7 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 Bingo for Babies Nov 7 Infant Crisis Services is calling your number for an evening of drinks, treats and high-reward bingo to benefit its baby aid. IAO Gallery

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Heart Rhythm Institute Luncheon Nov 12 The beauty of Armenta jewelry (courtesy of Naifeh Fine Jewelry) enhances a luncheon, shopping opportunity and inspirational presentation benefiting the life-changing work of the Heart Rhythm Institute. OKC Golf & Country Club 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 271.9696, hri.ouhsc. edu/news.asp

Visions Nov 18 The Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits’ annual award for leadership recognizes four local individuals who shepherd community improvement. OKC Golf & Country Club 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 463.6886, oklahomacenterfornonprofits.org

Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Nov 13 The state’s highest honor will be conferred on seven outstanding Sooners at this banquet. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 523.3203, oklahomaheritage.com

Environmental Excellence Celebration Nov 20 Keep Oklahoma Beautiful’s 24th annual fete recognizes and lauds the efforts of those working to preserve the state’s natural splendor. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 286.9141, keepoklahomabeautiful.com

Wine Through Time Nov 13 Toast Edmond’s history and development with some finely aged grapes at this convivial gathering for dinner and drinks. Edmond Historical Society 431 S Boulevard St, Edmond, 340.0078, www edmondhistory.org

Once Upon a Dream Nov 20 The auctionenhanced evening honoring the Borens raises funds for the OU School of Dance’s scholarships and touring programs.

OU Memorial Union 900 Asp Ave, OKC, 325.4051, ou.edu/finearts

2nd Friday Circuit of Art Nov 14 A monthly community-wide celebration of creativity, focused on historic Downtown Norman.

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

Toast to the Maestro Nov 20 That namesake personage is the globally renowned pianist Valery Kuleshov, who is often game for a performance at this annual Steinway fundraiser. UCO Jazz Lab 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 974.3768, uco. edu/cfad

Celebrity Sing Nov 14 Civic leaders take the stage in an evening of singing, dancing, dinner and a show, all benefiting the United Way of Norman. Riverwind Casino 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 329.2025, unitedwaynorman.org Live on the Plaza Nov 14 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District 1618 N Gatewood Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org ALN Holiday Home Tour Nov 14-15 Norman residents deck the halls early so the Assistance League can benefit from having visitors explore their cozy attractions. Throughout Norman Norman, 321.9400, assistanceleaguenorman.org Downtown in December Nov 14-Jan 4 A polar panoply of holiday joys, from snow tubing to skating to shopping, fills the city center with yuletide glee. Downtown OKC 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 235.3500, downtownindecember.com Mike Epps Nov 15 Actor and standup comedian Epps brings his “After Dark” tour to the metro. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 800.745.3000, coxconventioncenter.com Red Dot 2014 Nov 15 The refreshments are excellent, the atmosphere festive and the art for sale sublime in this IAO fundraiser that’s a fun chance to add to your collection. IAO Gallery 706 W Sheridan Ave, 232.6060, individualartists.org Red Shoe Gala Nov 15 Crimson footwear is the order of the evening at a cheerful gala benefiting the Ronald McDonald House

Town Hall: Stephen F. Hayes Nov 20 Political commentor Hayes presents a lecture about what to expect in the midterm elections of 2014. St. Luke’s UMC 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 826.9689, townhall. publishpath.com Bright Night: Hunger Games Nov 21 Kids on this overnight camp-in stay up late to play, learn and experiment; they can even bring snacks (it’s not the hungry games, after all). Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC, 602.3760, sciencemuseumok.org Premiere on Film Row Nov 21 Fowler Honda sponsors the downtown OKC street festival; it’s family-friendly, petwelcoming, free to wander through and filled with treats for the ears and taste buds. Film Row 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 232.6060 The Santa Market Nov 22 Admission is free to browse a tempting trove of crafts and décor, with sales benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. Edmond Community Center 28 E Main St, Edmond, 314.1033 Edmond Outdoor Ice Skating Nov 22Jan 5 The cocoa is hot and the ground is cold; rent some skates and go for a spin. Festival Market Place 30 W 1st St, Edmond, 274.1638, expressice.com Holiday River Parade Nov 28 Lighted boats illuminate the river to ring in the season with a free visual spectacle for the whole family. Boathouse District 725 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC, 231.0912, okcparade.com

Deluxe Winter Market Nov 29-30 There’s no charge to explore the hoard of treasures created by dozens of distinctive artists and crafting wizards; comfort and joy and unique goodies. Leadership Square 211 N Robinson Ave, OKC, deluxeok.net UPCOMING Holiday Happening Dec 4 A mammoth helping of shopping, stories, family activities and fun from the awardwinning museum. Sam Noble Museum 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman, 325.4712 snomnh.ou.edu Women Who Care Share Luncheon Dec 4 Businesswomen from the community help stamp out domestic violence in an inspiring fundraiser for the YWCA. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 951.3333, ywcaokc.org Assistance League Gala Dec 5 The impending holidays, the close of a great year helping the community, the promise of an even better 2015 … there’s a lot to celebrate. Embassy Suites 2501 Conference Dr, Norman, 321.9400, assistanceleaguenorman.org

FILM Classics Series Nov 4-25 Catch a masterpiece you missed the first time around or just want to re-experience on the big screen: “Parenthood” Nov 4, “Grumpy Old Men” Nov 11, “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” Nov 18 and “Love Actually” Nov 25. Harkins Theatres 150 E Reno Ave, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com

GALLERIES An Afternoon of Art Nov 1-2 A sale of varied creations from two dozen Oklahoma artists, benefiting the Mercy Stroke Treatment Program. Mercy Neuroscience Institute 4120 W Memorial Rd, OKC, 630.5126 Arni Anderson Nov 1-30 The FAI hosts a varied assortment of visual splendor from a highly decorated master of watercolors, oils and acrylics. Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards St, Edmond, 340.4481, edmondfinearts.com Horsehair Pottery Nov 1-30 OKC resident White Antelope works in polychrome clay to create graceful forms onto which she fuses horse hair for unique visual flair. Summer Wine Art Gallery 2928 Paseo St, OKC, 831.3279, summerwinegallery.com The Art of Santa Fe Nov 6-26 Eight painters share visions from the creatively inspirational gateway to southwestern art. Howell Gallery 6432 N Western Ave, OKC, 840.4437, howellgallery.com Duong & Chapman Nov 7-29 The cozy gallery in the Paseo is home to intriguing art, inside and out: this month features richly textural paintings by Denise Duong and Timothy Chapman. JRB Art at the Elms 2810 N Walker Ave, OKC, 528.6336, jrbartgallery.com With a Little Help From My Friends Nov 7-29 Resident artist Chad Woolbright shares some of his bright and occasionally cheerfully bizarre ouevre in inspirational conjunction with treasured colleagues. In Your Eye Gallery 3005 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com Betty & Rose Refour Nov 7-30 The community art space for public exploration of art welcomes a pair of sisters who paint for expression, joy and advocacy of important causes. The Project Box 3003 Paseo St, OKC, 609.3969, theprojectboxokc.com Holiday Gift Gallery Nov 7-Dec 24 There’s plenty to find for the creative aficionado in

this immense collection of handmade crafts and artwork that’s passed the muster of the Firehouse committee.

Firehouse Art Center 444 S Flood Ave, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com Neon Ouroboros Nov 15 Pop Alchemy artist Eric Heckert’s snazzy surrealism stars in an evening of drinks, tastes, DJ Jack Acid and coolness. Graphite Elements & Design 1751 NW 16th St, OKC, 919.0578, popalchemy.com Ongoing Can You Hear Me Now Through Nov 15 MAINSITE Contemporary Art Norman, 360.1162, mainsite-art.com Jim Dodson, Jr. Through Dec 14 State Capitol Governor’s Gallery OKC, 521.2931, arts.ok.gov Hub of Creativity Through Jan 4 Automobile Alley OKC, 231.8663, downtownokc.com

MUSEUMS Bill Hensley Nov 1-Feb 28 Contemporary Chickasaw artist Bill Hensley’s paintings are shaded with elements of his cultural upbringing, carrying facets of a traditional tribal identity into the modern world.

Exhibit C 1 E Sheridan Ave, OKC, 767.8900, chickasawcountry.com Small Works, Great Wonders Nov 14 The works in this winter art show and sale are of comparatively meager size, making them easier to purchase and place while conveying immense beauty.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org ONGOING Border || Land || Other Through Dec 19 Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org Connection Through Jan 3 Oklahoma Heritage Museum OKC, 523.3231, oklahomaheritage.com Cowboy Crossings Through Jan 4 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Formed in Stone: Oklahoma Fossils Through Jan 4 Sam Noble Museum Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu Macrocosm/Microcosm Through Jan 4 Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Making Change Through Jan 4 National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Rare: Portraits of Endangered Species Through Jan 4 Sam Noble Museum Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu My Generation: Young Chinese Artists Through Jan 18 OKC Museum of Art OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Frederic Remington’s American West Through Mar 31 Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Orly Genger Through Oct 2 Campbell Park OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org

this evening he’s the solo star in a pianodriven cavalcade of musical bliss. Sooner Theatre 101 E Main St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org The Conservatory Nov 1-10 Sonic jams of all descriptions in an OKC hotspot: Take It Back! Nov 1, State Champs & Handguns Nov 2, Skating Polly + Joycut Nov 3, Sick of It All Nov 5, the one and only MC Chris 11/7, Wildcat! Wildcat! Nov 10 and more adds and adjustments posted online. The Conservatory 8911 N Western Ave, OKC, conservatoryokc.com

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Purple Bar Performances Nov 1-29 A cozy setting, ample menu and outstanding music from local artists: Becannen & Vollertsen Nov 1, 14 and 28, Rick Jawnsun Nov 7 and 29, Beth & Jess Nov 8 and 22, Taylor Thompson 15 and Carlton Dorsey Nov 21.

Nonna’s Purple Bar 1 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410, purplebarokc.com Winter Wind: Griffin House Nov 2 House brings a blend of folk, rock, pop and even a bit of punk styling to his musical gumbo; The Depot is happy to share with listeners.

Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Opolis Shows Nov 3-15 Metro, meet Opolis.

You’ll make beautiful music together, courtesy of a vast and varied lineup of acts - including Pure Bathing Culture with Tele Novella Nov 3, Twin Peaks & Radkey Nov 5, Horse Feathers Nov 15 and more. Check online for the fresh scoop. The Opolis 113 N Crawford Ave, Norman, opolis.org Jazz Lab Concerts Nov 3-25 UCO students and faculty step over to the Jazz Lab for some sizzling shows: Jazz ensembles Nov 3, the Sugar Fish Reed Trio Nov 4, Emily Butterfield Nov 11, the 5th Street Jazz Collective Nov 18, Percussion Consort Nov 19 and UCO Jazz Combos Nov 24-25. UCO Jazz Lab 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 359.7989, uco.edu/cfad Tuesday Noon Concerts Nov 4-25 Add a bit of music to your lunch break with a free weekly concert courtesy of OU School of Music students and faculty. Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Farmers Market Shows Nov 5-20 The venerable building is also host to a heavy harvest of rocking shows; this month’s slate includes Big KRIT Nov 5 and The Misfits Nov 20. OKC Farmers Market 311 S Klein Ave, OKC, 232.6506, okcfarmersmarket.com

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Diamond Ballroom Shows Nov 5-21 Crank it up down by the river with a set of powerful shows: this month includes Amon Amarth Nov 5, Timeflies Nov 6, SoMo Nov 8 and Aaron Watson Nov 21. Diamond Ballroom 8001 S Eastern Ave, OKC, 866.977.6849, dcfconcerts.com Blue Door Shows Nov 5-23 Self-billed as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” it certainly has some of the best music, including Liz Longley Nov 5, Ray Wylie Hubbard Nov 6, Peter Case Nov 8, Trout Fishing In America Nov 9, Travis Linville Nov 22 and John Moreland with Kierston White Nov 23 - check online for updates. The Blue Door 2805 N McKinley Ave, OKC, 524.0738, bluedoorokc.com Dirty Loops Nov 6 The Swedish pop-jazz rockers were a band for years before releasing their first album in 2014; now the whole world can get Loopified. ACM @ UCO Performance Lab 329 E Sheridan Ave, OKC, 974.4700, acm-uco.com

MUSIC

Horseshoe Road Nov 6 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

Jim Brickman Nov 1 He works with everybody - Olivia Newton-John to Donny Osmond to Lady Antebellum - but

Peter Nero Nov 6 One of the all-time great jazz pianists takes a dash at the ivories and makes the audience thrill as Armstrong’s

Appointments available Monday thru Friday Oklahoma City: 4320 McAuley Blvd. • 405.622.5612 Crescent: 120 N. Grand • 405.969.3969 Shawnee: 20 East Dunloup • 405.275.3510 info@pinnacledentalok.com NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 95

PURSUITS | See & Do

Indulge.

season continues. Armstrong Auditorium 14400 S Bryant Rd, Edmond, 285.1010, armstrongauditorium.org Noon Tunes Nov 6-20 Free lunchtime serenades to sonically spice up your Thursday: Eclipse Nov 6, Greg Northwood Nov 13 and Camille Harp Nov 20.

Downtown Library 300 Park Ave, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us Sutton Concert Series Nov 6-24 The OU School of Music showcases its percussion orchestra and precussion ensemble Nov 6, pianist Stephen Beus Nov 9, jazz bands Nov 18, the OU Symphony Orchestra Nov 20 and a combined force of OU bands Nov 24.

OU Catlett Music Center 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.4101, ou.edu/finearts Broadway Tonight: Jimmy Webb Nov 7 A native son and titan of songwriting takes the Broadway Tonight spotlight to share his voice and piano prowess. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/cfad/broadway Olivia Newton-John Nov 8 Her sweet singing voice and effervescent presence continue to make her live performances an unquenchable delight. Grand Casino 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandresortok.com Quattro Nov 11 What’s “Popzzical”? The catchy blend of Latin Pop, jazz and classical influences performed by rising stars on the musica scene. OCCC Theater 7777 S May Ave, OKC, 682.7576, occc.edu/cas

On Pennsylvania Avenue across from Penn Square Mall 5637 N. Pennsylvania Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405.842.8400 • www.koslowsokc.com

Collective Soul Nov 21 They helped shape the course of ‘90s radio; in person their sound still shines as brightly. Riverwind Casino 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com Loretta Lynn Nov 21 Now on the shady side of 80, Lynn has seen it all and sung most of it along the way; seeing her in person is an absolute must. Grand Casino 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandresortok.com Casey Donahew Band Nov 28 Country fans are set to give thanks for a live show from energetic performer Donahew. Riverwind Casino 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com UPCOMING Justin Timberlake Dec 5 You bet he’s bringing sexy back to OKC - get a good look at the stylish singer on his 20/20 Experience world tour. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Canterbury Christmas Dec 7 The songs of the season sound impeccably perfect when belted out by the massive Canterbury Choral Society choir; you can even help during the carol sing-along. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com

The Fray Nov 13 Their first album went double platinum, so they’re doing something right; the piano-propelled group will show Riverwind audiences what they do best. Riverwind Casino 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Dec 7 Less jingle bell, more rock - the powerhouses of merry music return to the metro to share “The Christmas Attic.” Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com

Philharmonic: Progressive Wildness Nov 15 Russian violinist Philippe Quint gueststars as the OKC Philharmonic takes on Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky and Khachaturian.

OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org

SPORTS

Winter Wind: Peter Mulvey Nov 16 Mulvey is described as a relentless tourer, playing his guitar and singing warm, wry tunes of his own creation from Milwaukee to Dublin to The Depot’s cozy series. Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Slayer Nov 17 The legends descend from thrash metal Valhalla to rock Bricktown senseless. Bricktown Events Center 429 E California Ave, OKC, 866.977.6849, bricktownokc.com Brightmusic Nov 17-18 OKC’s spectacular chamber ensemble breezes through a concert called “Austrian and German Masterworks for Winds.” All Souls Church and St. Paul’s Cathedral 6400 N Penn Ave and 127 NW 7th St, OKC, brightmusic.org Adrian Belew Power Trio Nov 20 Belew is the former frontman of experimentel prog-rock powerhouse King Crimson, so his Bricktown show is likely to have a sound all its own. ACM @ UCO Performance Lab 329 E Sheridan Ave, OKC, 974.4700, acmuco.com

96 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

OCU Concerts Nov 20-24 Music in myriad forms from OCU students: the Wind Philharmonic Nov 20, OCU Orchestra Nov 22, flute choir Nov 23 and OCU Jazz Ensemble Nov 24. OCU Kirkpatrick Center 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/music

Veteran’s Day Concert Nov 11 A special performance inspired by love for country, played by the exceptional OKC Symphonic Band. OCU Kirkpatrick Center 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, okcband.org

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Nov 16 It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas as multimedia effects boost the sensory appeal of the holiday music specialists, currently celebrating their 30th season.

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

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Sergio Monteiro Nov 20 A classical pianist practically without peer, Brazilian-born Monteiro will perform Mozart, Schumann and Chopin. Armstrong Auditorium

Barons Hockey Nov 1-22 OKC’s ice warriors lace up to face off against Iowa Nov 1-2, Toronto Nov 8, San Antonio Nov 11 and Charlotte Nov 21-22. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 232.4625, okcbarons.com Thunder Basketball Nov 1-28 The 2014’15 NBA season is here; see the Thunder take on Denver Nov 1, Memphis Nov 7, Sacramento Nov 9, Detroit Nov 14, Houston Nov 16, Brooklyn Nov 21, Golden State Nov 23, Utah Nov 26 and New York Nov 28. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 208.4800, thunder.nba.com Free to Breathe 5K Nov 2 A little huffing and puffing can help fight lung cancer in this race with accompanying party.

Wheeler Park 1120 S Western Ave, OKC, freetobreathe.org OSU Women’s Basketball Nov 4-29 From preseason to the last tip before the Big 12 Tournament, OSU figures to make the home court roar: SW Oklahoma Nov 4, Arkansas-Monticello Nov 9, Loyola Marymount Nov 14, Texas Southern Nov 16, Missouri State Nov 22, Morgan State Nov 25 and Texas State Nov 29. GallagherIba Arena 1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com OU Women’s Basketball Nov 5-21 It’s a long road to the NCAA Tournament, but getting there is half the fun for fans as OU faces SE Oklahoma State Nov 5, Washington Nov 14, Lamar Nov 18 and Bradley Nov 21. Lloyd Noble Center 2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com AQHA World Championships Nov 7-22 Pole bending, barrel racing, jumping, cutting, and all around-excellence …

LASER EXPERIENCE here’s where the American Quarter Horse Association tests for the best. State Fairgrounds 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd, OKC, aqha.com/worldshow OU Men’s Basketball Nov 7-23 It’s a long road to the NCAA Tournament, but getting there is half the fun for fans as OU faces Washburn Nov 7, SE Oklahoma State Nov 11, SE Louisiana Nov 16 and Northwestern State Nov 23. Lloyd Noble Center 2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com OSU Men’s Basketball Nov 8-21 From preseason to the last tip before the Big 12 Tournament, OSU figures to make the home court roar: Missouri Western Nov 8, SE Louisiana Nov 14, Prairie View A&M Nov 16, Northwestern State Nov 18 and Milwaukee Nov 21. Gallagher-Iba Arena 1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com OU Football Nov 8-22 It’s football time in Oklahoma! The Sooners defend their home turf against Baylor Nov 8 and Kansas Nov 22. Owen Field 180 W Brooks St, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com OKC Blue Basketball Nov 14-30 The Thunder’s D-League affiliate looks to bring its A-game against Maine Nov 14, Westchester Nov 16, Los Angeles Nov 28 and Austin Nov 30. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 208.4800, nba.com/ dleague/ OSU Football Nov 15 The Cowboys line up to hold their ground against Texas in their final home game. Boone Pickens Stadium 700 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com OKC Turkey Trot Nov 27 The 15th annual 5k and family fun run is a Thanksgiving tradition; proceeds benefit Eagle Ridge Institute’s substance abuse programs. Stars & Stripes Park 3701 S Lake Hefner Dr, OKC, 840.1359, oklahomacityturkeytrot.org UPCOMING BEDLAM 2014 Dec 6 The season comes down to this: the Sooners defend their home turf against their bitter brotherly foes from Oklahoma State. Owen Field 180 W Brooks St, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com

THEATER Water by the Spoonful Nov 1-8 A Pulitzerwinning drama about the frustrations and search for meaning in modern life of a combat veteran returning home. OCU Black Box Theater 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/theatre Outlaws and Villains of Opera Nov 12-14 Sometimes it’s fun to root for the dark side, especially when its avatars are such ravishingly resonant rakehells. Bravo, badness! UCO Jazz Lab 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/cfad Opera at the Movies Nov 13-15 A pair of elite performances of two all-time great operas presented in high-definition comfort: “Il Trovatore” (featuring Placido Domingo) Nov 13 and the venerable “Cavalleria Rusticana” Nov 15. Harkins Theatres 150 E Reno Ave, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike Nov 1323 Stepsisters sharing a quiet life find chaos descending with a visit from their movie-star relative and extremely young paramour. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 848.3761, cityrep.com American Farce Nov 13-Dec 7 It’s a world premiere in which a frustrated gambler forms an unlikely bond with a 10-year-old boy, and learns a new way to value people.

Jewel Box Theater 3700 N Walker Ave, OKC, 521.1786, jewelboxtheatre.org

Sister Angelica Nov 14-16 OCU’s opera students dish out a double dose of the good stuff with this Puccini operetta and Ravel’s “The Infant and the Spells.” OCU Kirkpatrick Center 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/music Little Women Nov 14-25 OU’s drama school shepherds the four March sisters through their bucolic coming of age. OU Reynolds PAC 560 Parrington Oval, Norman, 325.4101, ou.edu/finearts

LIVE BETTER

SEE BETTER

Thoroughly Modern Millie Nov 14-Dec 7 Life is what you make it - especially for girls determined to hit the big time in 1920s New York. St. Luke’s Poteet Theater 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 609.1023, poteettheatre.com The Game’s Afoot Nov 28-Dec 20 Carpenter Square confronts an actor who plays Sherlock Holmes with an actual murder mystery he must solve in this comic holiday whodunit. Carpenter Square Theater 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com

Dr. Darrell Pickard

A Territorial Christmas Carol Nov 28-Dec 21 Dickens’ venerable tale, retold in an Oklahoma setting, has become a classic in its own right as a Guthrie icon. Pollard Theatre 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, 282.2800, thepollard.org Lyric’s A Christmas Carol Nov 28-Dec 27 Devon Energy proudly supports this annually rejuvenated holiday tradition about the power of deciding to become a better person. Lyric’s Plaza Theater 1725 NW 16th St, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com ONGOING Bat Boy: the Musical Through Nov 2 We all have trials and troubles while making our ways through life; not all of us are tabloid sensations for our freakish appearances.

OCU’s musical theater students let the lad’s befanged story soar. OCU Kirkpatrick Center OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/music

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How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Through Nov 2 That dastardly Grinch is getting a jump-start on holiday mayhem as Celebrity Attractions presents a tuneful Seussful musical adaptation. OKC Civic Center OKC, 800.869.1451, celebrityattractions.com Woyzeck Through Nov 2 Over 150 years old, this German play still resonates thanks to its themes of jealousy, faceless bureaucracy and the dehumanization of the poor. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/cfad Consider the Oyster Through Nov 8 How much of our lives are determined subconciously by our learned concepts of gender, and how is Gene going to cope with slowly and unexpectedly becoming Jeanette? Carpenter Square takes a humorous look at human nature. Carpenter Square Theater OKC, 232.6500 carpentersquare.com Sweeney Todd Through Nov 15 Reduxion’s “scandalous season” continues with the terribly tuneful grand guignol grimness of Somdheim’s musical about a barber whose shaves are sometimes altogether too close for comfort. Reduxion’s Broadway Theater OKC, 604.4730, reduxiontheatre.com

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NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 99

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100 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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The Shoppes at Northpark 12100-B N. May Ave | Oklahoma City | 405.748.5200 Monday-Friday 10-6 | Saturday 10-5 | Sunday Closed kokopelliokc.com | sooolilly.com NOVEMBER 2014 // SLICE 101

Last Laugh

A COUPLE OF WEEKENDS AGO, WITH MY TV-WATCHING FAMILY OUT OF TOWN, I WAS HOME ALONE. Not only did it signal a few days of peace and clean countertops, but also exclusive dominion over the big screen in the media room of my house. I had a rare, dream date with AMC’s “Breaking Bad” Binge – in huge, HD format with surround sound.

After an hour of trying (and failing) to turn on the high-tech system, I gave up and watched the “Breaking Bad” Binge in the kitchen, where at least I could mop the floor and watch at the same time.

I love the idea of modern conveniences and advanced technology, but most of the time, they don’t love me back.

I once successfully used GPS navigation to get out of the Galleria parking garage in Dallas. Feeling victorious, I began believing GPS would get me out of any navigational bind. Since the win in the mall garage, GPS has taken me to many interesting places ... sketch-sketch-sketchy places.

GPS navigation works like this: GPS: In one-half mile, take exit 214-B to follow LBJ Service Road.

GPS: In 500 feet, turn right and veer left in 100 feet to merge onto toll road.

Me: Wait – there are TWO turns in 500 feet.

Turn right, right here? Or up there?

GPS: Recalculating route.

What I need from GPS technology is a little more real-life precision: GPS: Hey – sorry to break in on the best part of this song, but you need to start getting over to the right lane now. You’ve got a half-mile until your exit near that Lowe’s on the right.

GPS: This part is tricky because there are two turns back-to-back. Do you see that gray Nissan SUV up there? Just follow that guy until I tell you something different. Also, I just remembered there’s a huge Nordstrom coming up, so be thinking about that.

It’s no small irony that the very technology we worship for its convenience is the same stuff we curse for its pain-in-the-assness. Instead of sitting on an airplane, mar102 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

veling that a heavily weighted machine will somehow defy gravity and transport hundreds of people through the clouds, across the heavens and safely back to earth, I’m more likely to complain to the caller on my smartphone, “No, I can’t pull it up on my screen because the Wi-Fi in this stinking plane is about as fast as dial-up, which means now I’ll have to watch the airline’s crappy sitcoms because Netflix will never stream!”

Technology’s questionable bedside manner is equally to blame. A couple of months ago, my husband Bob and I were going to an out-of-town wedding. We left the house on time, but Bob announced some lategame errands he needed to knock off his to-do list en route. Now frantically late, we were also lost, with no homing instincts between us. But that was OK, we figured, because we had Siri on the iPhone to help us navigate. Who needs a map?

Here is a transcript of the actual conversation between my husband (a mumbler of the first order) and Siri:

By Lauren Hammack

MILENKO BOKAN

TECHNICAL FOULS

Bob: Find me on the map.

Siri: I’m sorry, Robert. Would you like me to open your music?

Bob: NO! [Bob is now punching Siri out with his middle finger.]

Siri: Was that ‘no?’

Bob: Yes.

Bob: Locate me and show Harrison Road.

Siri: Got it. Opening your music now.

Siri: Here’s what I found on the Internet about Harrison Ford.

Bob: Stop.

Bob: What?

Siri: I found several things about Harrison Ford on the Web. Bob: Show Harrison Road.

Siri: I’m sorry Robert [in her best robotic voice], but I can’t find anything about a slow hare roast. Try again later.

Me: Argggghhhhhhhhhh! I hate you, Siri!

[To Bob] You’re going to have to start over.

Make your voice sound just like hers, otherwise she’ll only mock you. Tell her to “open maps.” Then tell her to “locate me.”

Bob: Start over.

Siri: Start what over?

Siri: Stop what?

Me: That snarky little tart! We’re so late and she knows it! I blame you, Siri!

Bob: Stop talking to me.

Siri: I’m sorry, Robert. You’ll have to check stocks another time.

Bob: Turn off Siri.

Siri: I hope it’s not because you have a new assistant.

Bob: Anyone but you, Siri!

Siri: Whoa, Robert. That seems uncalled for. Here’s what I found online about Harrison Ford.

Give a Piece of

Oklahoma’s Story This Holiday

A

uthor and photographer M.J. Alexander traveled more than 11,000 miles, photographing 250 Oklahomans from 50 cities and towns across the state for her latest book, Portrait of a Generation. It is an ode to the land and its people, a celebration of those destined to lead the state into its second century.

Order by December 20 for Christmas delivery online at www.sliceok.com/portrait/ or call 405.842.2266 For inquiries regarding corporate orders for holiday delivery, call 405.842.2266, email sales@sliceok.com or visit sliceok.com. $10 from every book sale is donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.

Last Look

Float On Photo by Kathryn M. Grubbs

Time may be flowing forward into a season of more muted hues, but that’s no reason to refrain from ending fall with a pop of color.

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

104 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2014

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nection is required and is not included in price. Touchscreen equipment is also required and is not included. $3.00/month rental fee applies. Touchscreen remains property of Cox and must be returned to Cox upon terminations of service to avoid additional charges. e an alarm user permit. Service provided by Cox Advanced Services Oklahoma, LLC – License No. 2002. ©2014 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Cox Home Security is available to residential customers in select Cox service areas. Service provided by Cox Advanced Services Oklahoma, LLC - License No. 2002. © 2014 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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D E S I G N

109 East Main • Norman • 405.321.1818 • MisterRobert.com