February 2013

SLICE THE MAGA ZINE OF CENTR AL OKL AHOMA

Sweet {simple} Soufflé Social Media Singles Guide

Fearless Approach to Colorful Collaboration

A Resource for “I Do”

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FEATURES

32

February 2013

Social Media Singles

Sometimes the perfect profile match is way too good to be true; sometimes the stars – er, Skypes – really do align. As dating increasingly becomes part of the digital realm, Slice delves into the do’s, don’ts and do-overs of modern romance.

On the cover

40

SLICE THE MAGA ZINE OF CENTR AL OKL AHOMA

Strength in Numbers

Lead by example, champion a cause, make the city a more excellent place to work and live … that’s too much for any one person, but the Alliance of Emerging Professionals welcomes passionate young OKC residents, and gives them a support system nearly 400 strong.

4 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Sweet {simple} Soufflé Social Media Singles Guide

Fearless Approach to Colorful Collaboration

A Resource for “I Do”

Don’t fear the soufflé!

Caryn Ross takes us through the surprisingly simple steps to make a beautiful – and apparently irresistible – dessert that is the perfect finish to your red-hot Valentine’s Day. Photo

by Carli Wentworth

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DEPARTMENTS 100

FRESH FIND

Bright, bustling and bursting with tempting breakfast and lunch treats, Kitchen No. 324 makes navigating construction a must.

12 From the Publisher 14 Perspectives UP FRONT 17 Chatter Submissions for deadCENTER, Rilla Askew’s latest literary examination of the Oklahoma psyche, Mick Cornett’s national recognition and other topics of conversation.

24 Retrospective Remembering the way we were with a look back at the open-air freedom of Penn Square.

26 Details In multiple shades, in myriad contexts, pink is a top choice for making interior décor pop.

28 Exchange A give and take with Central OK Humane Society Director Christy Counts about waterskiing, the value of obsession and finding a furry Valentine.

SPACES 46 The Color of Love Consistently repurposing materials and channeling their artistry toward new improvements, Gale and Charlie Johnson continue to recreate their Santa Fe-styled home as a visual triumph.

59

Wedding Resource Guide

6 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

46

February 2013 COMMUNITY 80 Peaceful Journey It’s been a long road from India to OKC. Behavioral specialist Dr. R. Murali Krishna recalls what’s led him to help others live more vibrant lives.

MINGLING 82 Making an appearance on central Oklahoma’s social scene.

PRACTICAL MATTERS 84 A lifesaving implant to rejuvenate failing hearts available at Integris; plus primo treats to get the most out of the iPhone.

PURSUITS 87 A rundown of local events and entertainment options, including a top 10 list of must-see attractions and a closer look at a downtown art center.

FARE 97 In the Kitchen Knockout chocolate soufflés – especially with this no-fail recipe – are surprisingly, and deliciously, easy to make.

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

110 Last Laugh 112 Last Look

TRAVEL 52 Ah, Italia!

Centuries of urban creativity surrounded by breathtakingly splendid rural serenity – rewards are everywhere for those exploring the paradise that is Tuscany.

56 77 Counties Amid her ongoing travels through Oklahoma, author and photographer M.J. Alexander pauses to reflect on the strength and patience of our oldest resident.

87

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Welcome to

West

February 2013

Volume 4 Issue 2

PUBLISHER | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elizabeth Meares Creative Director Mia Blake EDITORIAL Features Writer John Parker Associate Editor Steve Gill

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February 2013

BELLA VICI | A POWERFULLY CREATIVE DESIGN FIRM

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READER SERVICES Mailing Address 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Phone 405.842.2266 Fax 405. 604.9435 Subscription Inquiries info@sliceok.com Advertising Inquiries dwalker@openskymediainc.com Job Inquiries jobs@sliceok.com Internship Inquiries jobs@sliceok.com Story Ideas editor@sliceok.com Letters to the Editor Your views and opinions are welcome. Letters must include your full name, address and daytime phone number. Email to letters@ sliceok.com; fax to 405.604.9435; mail to the address listed above. Letters sent to Slice magazine become the magazine’s property, and it owns all rights to their use. Slice magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

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MARKETING AND EVENTS Corporate Director of Marketing & Events Cathy Hale Marketing & Events Coordinator Meghan Athnos ©2013 Open Sky Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of Slice magazine content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Slice magazine is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. Slice magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed detrimental to the community’s best interest or in questionable taste. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ownership or management.

DICK EVANS and SUSAN STAMM EVANS February 7- 28

ARTISTS’ RECEPTION - Thursday, February 7, 5-7pm

“Poplar’s Dream” by Dick Evans

OKLAHOMA’S PREMIER ART GALLERY 6432 N. Western Avenue | 405.840.4437 | www.howellgallery.com Visit our website for additional images from this show.

“Quietude Series: Sitting, Knee Up” by Susan Stamm Evans

They are the story of Oklahoma ...

They are the

Sons and Daughters of the

Red Earth

A Gold Medal Winner Mid-West – Best Regional, Non-Fiction Independent Publisher Book Awards

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.

Gold Medal Winner Young Adult Book Award, Oklahoma Center for the Book

Order online at sliceok.com/portrait or call 405.842.2266 $10 from every book sale is donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.

Dedicated to the One I #Love

M

ARRIAGE IS A WONDERFUL THING – knowing that the person you rely on most is there at the end of every day. A consistent presence in a rapidly changing world. A familiar soul who accepts the good and the not-so-good about you. Someone to tell you how handsome/ beautiful you are even when you’re not (and in those instances, it’s fine to lie). A trusted confidant. A partner in crime. A best friend.

And the person who saved you from having to date anymore.

Sound cynical? Perhaps. It’s not that I have nightmares about past dates, but more that I’m simply over that part of my life. I don’t think I could summon the energy, much less the desire, to brave the world of dating again.

I’m quite content to exist in the universe where I’m unashamed to order what I really want to eat when out to dinner, to openly doze off during a horror movie rather than pretending to be enraptured by the rich characterization and to freely admit that, if I should somehow manage to pull myself together and look presentable, it took me a good while to accomplish it.

It may also have something to do with being head-over-heels for my spouse. (He’s dreamy.)

My mother had some hard-and-fast dating rules when I was growing up. I was never, ever, to call a boy on the phone. He could dial our number to talk to me, but I was forbidden from initiating the call. I could not, under any circumstances, agree to “meet up” with a boy somewhere. He came to the house to pick me

12 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

M.J. ALEXANDER

From the Publisher

up or no deal. And my grandmother once sent my date on his less-than-merry way because he neglected to stand when she entered the room. I won’t even venture into the hickey debacle of 1979.

In the intervening years, dating has gone digital. From social media to dating sites, people are meeting one another and developing relationships in a whole new way, and it’s not limited to any particular age group. But it’s a dangerous and sometimes scuzzy world out there, as features writer John Parker explains while exploring the good, the bad and the ugly of the singles scene today.

Writer Russ Tall Chief does some meeting-up of his own in this issue, visiting with a group of young professionals who find strength in numbers, while photojournalist M.J. Alexander travels to Tulsa County to catch up with Oklahoma’s oldest citizen.

And for this calories-be-damned occasion, foodie Caryn Ross whips up a decadent chocolate soufflé.

Love is in the air. Enjoy the romance (and chocolate) of the season.

Elizabeth Meares Publisher | Editor-in-Chief elizabeth.meares@sliceok.com

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Perspectives SLICE THE MAGA ZINE OF CENTR AL OKL AHOMA

OKLAHOMA’S NEW FRONTIERS LOCAL RESEARCH. GLOBAL IMPACT. Unbreakable Codes // Crime Scene Investigation Avian Aerial Defense // Cracking the Universe

Savory Soup and Biscuits

Midcentury Mod Renovation

Top Dentists in the 405

Where readers do the writing.

Shared Humiliation

Readers chime in on Lauren Hammack’s tale (“Bicentennial Boy,” December) of curious fashion sense.

Fearless. Funny. Nice job.

Somewhere there is a picture of me in a powder blue denim suit (worse, my mom MADE it), a bright rocket’s-red-glare red shirt and a wide white tie. I think we had the same haircut.

Steve Hill, Chief of Staff to the Mayor

My grandmother was a Bicentennial freak. Anytime we stayed with her, she made my brother and me tie red, white and blue kerchiefs around our necks and paraded us around her little hometown – just what every 13-year-old boy wants. Thank God I lived in a different town! At least I had good hair, but my poor little brother – too young to even think of taking a stand – was a hapless victim of the bowl cut. Thanks for the laugh!

Brian James, Norman

Flying High I’VE BEEN A HUGE FAN of Slice since its very first issue. In fact, I wrote to tell you that about of the a year ago and you were kind enough to publish my comments then. I hope you will again.

My business takes me all over the country. I’m on the road (or in the air) more often than not, and I love reading … specifically, magazines. The beauty of traveling is getting to know the culture of the cities and states I frequent, and Oklahoma rates at the top of my list. Great state, great people. Your magazine captures the essence of that in every issue.

The new look is fantastic, too.

I found myself in the skies over the Pacific, totally engrossed in your story on cutting-edge research. Smart subject matter with equally smart writing and more proof of how much Oklahoma has to offer the rest of the world.

Oh, and I told my wife I want a civilian UAV for Christmas in 2015. That’s so, so cool!

Pick Letters

Bobby J. Johnson, Phoenix, AZ

Embracing the New Love the changes to the publication … you guys are great!

Rick Pritchett via email

I love the new design and layout … it looks really fabulous.

Celena McCord via email 14 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

WAXING NOSTALGIC Thanks so much for the little article and reminder of TG&Y (“Variety in Store,” January). My dad was treasurer/vicepresident of TG&Y from 1965 until his retirement in 1984. We found various memorabilia from the company when we cleared the house after his and my mom’s deaths. It was a fantastic place to shop and also my first employment – at the May and Hefner store. Thanks for the story.

SUSY COX WILSON VIA EMAIL

Cyber Speak “Three words: Red. Velvet. Waffles.”

@MommyQ via Twitter on “A Twist on Tradition” in the December issue

“Yum, I love the new layout! Just when I thought you couldn’t get any better …”

Lesa Crowe via Facebook on Slice’s new look

“Just saw this awesome quote by @neiltyson in the latest issue of @sliceok. This is why he rules. #endoftheworld @gentrymckeown via Twitter on Neil deGrasse Tyson’s quote on the (didn’t happen) end of the world in December

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UP FRONT

Walking With the Animals Christy Counts, seen here with her beloved Chili, turned a lifelong passion for animals into an incredibly rewarding career. Her conversation with us covers luck, honesty, the joy of slowing down and more. See page 28.

CHATTER Topics of discussion from around the metro 18

RETROSPECTIVE A quick look back at a treasured piece of local history 24

DETAILS Things we love, from elegant accessories to cozy decorative touches 26

EXCHANGE Sitting down with the Central OK Humane Society’s Christy Counts 28 FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 17

UP FRONT | Chatter

Hitting the Spotlight

GETTING IN TUNE SHAWNEE NATIVE SAMANTHA CRAIN isn’t shy about

acknowledging her musical influences – she told an interviewer from Indian Country Today Media Network that she has always felt Neil Young is her spirit animal – but the 26-year-old folk singer, who’s gained increasing renown on the strength of her songcraft and surprising power of her voice, considers a firm sense of identity to be one of the most important keys to success in the music business. “People want someone who is unashamed and unabashedly him- or herself and are comfortable with that,” she explains. “You have to not be afraid to create what is you.”

It’s no surprise, therefore, that Crain’s newest album “Kid Face” is her most intimate yet. Of its 11 tunefully bittersweet tracks, she says, “all of these songs are completely things that have happened to me or my own thoughts in a specific situation.” The fascinatingly introspective musical self-portrait hits stores February 19, but fans can get an audio taste in advance when Crain visits The Blue Door in OKC with special guest Parker Millsap on February 16.

18 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Lang, Ford, Wilder, Scorsese, Spielberg … you? The deadCENTER Film Festival is a June production, but directors and creators who want to see their work therein have February 25 circled on their calendars – that’s the deadline for submissions to this year’s independent film extravaganza. The narrative features, documentaries, student films, shorts and made-inOklahoma productions selected will be on tap June 5-9 in the 13th annual celebration of cinema Xavier Neira helmed by Executive Director Lance McDaniel and 2013’s Board Chair Xavier Neira.

“Xavier is an exceptional community leader in business, education, arts and tourism,” McDaniel enthused. “We expect an even larger and more successful film festival this summer under his leadership.”

For more info about possibly joining its lineup, visit deadcenterfilm.org.

RIDE ON What do you get when you

put over 20,000 people in a couple of square miles? A need to share space. OU student organization Share the Oval is trying to make campus transit less hazardous for cyclists and pedestrians alike – see sharetheoval2012.weebly.com.

Twisting funnels. Sideways rain. Carpets of hail. Dazzling ice and snow.

We want to see your most exciting photos of Oklahoma’s turbulent atmospherics.

The best shots will be included in our April 2013 issue, where we’ll delve into the intriguing side of life in the “Don’t like the weather? Wait five minutes” state.

UP FRONT | Chatter

Calendar Watch Feb 2 Groundhog Day Feb 2 Groundhog Day Feb 2 Groundhog Day Feb 2 Groundhog Day Feb 12 Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler!

Feb 14 Valentine’s Day Feb 18 Presidents’ Day (even Millard Fillmore)

SILVER SPRING

Individuals generally celebrate 25th anniversaries with gifts; organizations with parties. The Myriad Botanical Gardens is doing both: the gala dinner celebrating its first quarter-century is slated for June, but in the meantime it will give Oklahomans the gift of additional splendor in the form of new daffodils, crocuses, tulips and more on its grounds.

Twenty-five thousand of them.

Many happy returns.

20 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

ON THE PAGE

WHEN THE FAMILY BUSINESS is “world-class master thieves,” suspicion and caution are ways of life from the cradle onward. That makes it especially hard for light-fingered young skullduggeress Kat Bishop to believe that her wealthy boyfriend Hale has suddenly inherited control of a billion-dollar corporation – so while he leaves the looting life behind for an express elevator to the CEO’s office, she and her crew try to uncover the con that left Hale the beneficiary of his grandmother’s will and get him back on the wrong side of the law. Presenting “Perfect Scoundrels,” the third installment of Kat’s adventures penned by New York Times bestselling author, OSU grad and current Oklahoma resident Ally Carter; in stores nationwide February 5.

One of Oklahoma’s foremost authorial voices, Rilla Askew instills each of her award-winning novels with a sense of place that is often admiringly called Faulknerian, and excels in using a lens of fiction to focus on the very real social conflicts among whites, blacks and Native Americans that have shaped our state’s history. Her latest opus, the January release “Kind of Kin,” rockets forward into the present day and adds a fourth race to the uneasy mixture: a small town becomes a hotbed of resentment, political posturing and whiteknuckled desperation when a minister follows the mandates of his personal and professional moral code by providing shelter for people in need … and is arrested for violating rigid new laws against harboring undocumented immigrants.

“I don’t let awards identify me. I don’t do it. I go out and define myself by what I do on the field. Whether I win it or not – and I’m not saying I don’t want to, just like I wanted to break the record – either way, in my heart I’m the MVP. That’s all that matters.”

- Former OU and current Minnesota Vikings star RB Adrian Peterson, who came within nine yards of breaking the all-time NFL single-season rushing record mere months after tearing both ligaments in his knee.

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UP FRONT | Chatter

KICKSTART MY ART

2012’s winning designs

Art funding can be sparse, but Vans Shoes is happy to foot the bill for one high school’s program, to the tune of $50,000. All it takes is outstanding style. Until the February 13 deadline, the first 1,500 U.S. high schools to enter online will receive four pairs of shoes to customize in thematic categories; the best of the best walk away with the prize. Visit vans.com/customculture for rules and details, and step on it.

SPACE CASE IN WHAT IT HOPES is both a killer app and an appetite killer, Hong Kong tech company HapiLabs has developed a computerized fork designed to prevent users from overeating by keeping them from eating too fast. Lingering over meals helps give the stomach time to send the brain a feeling of satiety, so this utensil contains a motion sensor; when the user surpasses a set number of “reps” in a certain timeframe, the smartfork vibrates (slightly) to signal the need to slow down and savor. After the meal, it syncs with a smartphone or computer to track eating patterns, ideally helping users acquire healthier habits.

Oklahoma, whose 31.1 percent adult obesity rate puts it at No. 6 nationwide in the CDC’s 2012 list, could perhaps use the help. Check it out at hapilabs.com – just be prepared to explain why you brought your own cutlery to dinner.

22 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

MOVING FORWARD

Citing downtown’s transformation, the Thunder’s arrival and his weight-loss encouragement efforts, Newsweek recently honored Mick Cornett for helping his city’s quality of life in an article recognizing the five most innovative mayors in the U.S. Mayor Mick Cornett

MICK CORNETT PHOTO COURTESY OKC.GOV

Of Time and Tines

LOOK! UP IN THE SKY! It’s a rock the size of a city block, and it’s coming this way! On February 15, an asteroid named 2012 DA14 (catchy, huh?) that’s about 150 feet in diameter and weighs around 140,000 tons will come nearer to our heads than any other comparable space rock in observed history. Fortunately, there’s no need for the President to call Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck; while the asteroid will come incredibly close in cosmic terms and will be visible through a decent telescope, it will still be over 20,000 miles away from Earth and will not – will not­ – consign us all to a fiery cataclysmic doom.

Have a nice day!

Valentines’ Day

BY THE NUMBERS

$14,000,000,000

estimated amount spent on Valentine’s Day worldwide

$126

amount spent by average U.S. consumer on gifts, meals and entertainment February 14, 2012

8 billion

189,000,000

Sweetheart candies (see page 110) made annually

by New England Confectionary Company

total roses sold in the U.S. on V-Day in 2012

27

112

percent of poll respondents who bought flowers or plants for Valentine’s

years they’ve been manufacturing candy conversation hearts

64/36

male/female percentage breakdown of those respondents

190,000,000

Valentine-themed greeting cards exchanged yearly in the U.S. – making it the second-highest volume holiday after Christmas

35,000,000

weight in carats of the world’s largest cut diamond, the Golden Jubilee – currently part of Thailand’s crown jewels

$4-12 million estimated value of the stone

percent of female respondents who bought flowers for themselves

0

percent of male respondents who bought flowers for themselves

$1,000,000,000

boxes of Valentine chocolates sold annually in the U.S.

545.67

18

amount spent on Valentine chocolates in the U.S. (not all on the day itself)

3,106.75

weight in carats of the largest diamond in recorded history, the Cullinan – it was cut into over 100 smaller stones, currently part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom

$400 million estimated value of the collected stones

45.23

weight in carats of the Hope Diamond – currently in the Smithsonian Natural History Museum

$200 million

estimated value (perfection has its price)

$52.4 million

opening weekend box office gross for 2010 romantic comedy “Valentine’s Day”

18

aggregate score (out of 100) of critic reviews on film website rottentomatoes.com FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 23

o r Resptective

By Mark Beutler // Photos courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society ON THE CORNER of Pennsylvania and Northwest Expressway sits a mall. Not just any mall, mind you, and one that nearly became extinct.

Built as an open-air shopping center in 1960, Penn Square was the place to be and be seen throughout the ’60s and ’70s. But as times changed, so did shoppers. They welcomed the heated and air-conditioned 24 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

comfort of an enclosed shopping mall, and said goodbye to the open-air concept – and to Penn Square.

By the early ’80s, Penn Square Mall was desolate. Its owners installed a cover, and later in the decade, further remodeled and expanded with a second level and several new anchor stores. Today, it’s a bustling place … try finding a parking spot during the holidays.

don’t be late for this very important date

heart wonders of the heart ball 2013

Saturday, February 23, 2013 NatioNal Cowboy & westerN Heritage MuseuM PreseNted by

iNtegris Heart HosPital | 7-eleveN

devoN eNergy | dolese | fliNtCo | gardNer taNeNbauM ariNC | baNk of oklaHoMa | boeiNg | dallas MetroPolitaN Mortgage MatHerly MeCHaNiCal CoNtraCtors | ou MediCiNe | uNited MeCHaNiCal

www.heart.org/okcheartball 405.948.2135

The exhibition is produced by International Arts.®

ON VIEW THROUGH APRIL 21, 2013

415 COUCH DRIVE | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (405) 236-3100 | www.okcmoa.com Image: Hubert DeLartigue (French, b.1963). OMG!, 2009. Acrylic on canvas, 38 in. diameter (96.5 cm). Courtesy of Bernarducci.Meisel.

Gallery © Courtesy International Arts®

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 25

UP FRONT | Details

Clockwise from top left: Dash and Albert rug from KS Design in Oklahoma City | LT pillow by Square Feathers and Links pink and white pillow from KS Design | Pink Bird by Square Feathers from KS Design | Isis tabletop from Bebe’s in Nichols Hills | “Card for all Occasions” box by Sugar Paper from Bebe’s 26 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

A Love Affair With Pink

By Sara Gae Waters Photos by Carli Wentworth

I

will date myself a bit when I mention the origin of my love affair with pink. No doubt, my parents clothed me in pink when they brought me home on Christmas Day all those years ago (how many I won’t say). From there on it was all about the fashion. There were the days of pink and green argyle and those of loving those “Pink Ladies” jackets on “Happy Days” (there’s a hint).

Basically, I’ve always been a fan of the color. The use of pink in interiors was introduced to me at a very young age when my sweet mom painted the walls of my room with the beautiful hue ... alternating with purple. While purple has come back as one of my favorite colors recently, it will have a hard time replacing pink. Whether it’s on a cupcake or the napkin upon which it sits, I love it.

This February, in an homage to the lovely color pink, I’ve found several shades in all different forms. From pillows for resting your head to an ottoman for putting up your feet … from head to toe, it’s all about pink.

Clockwise from top left: Coral sculpture from Luxe Objects in Nichols Hills | Napkin by Lili Alessandra from Luxe Objects | Pink Peony candle by Aquiesse from Urbane Home & Lifestyle in Oklahoma City | Pink ottoman from The Wood Garden in Oklahoma City

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 27

UP FRONT | Exchange

MATCHMAKER, MATCHMAKER ...

A Conver satio With n Christy Counts

By Lauren Hammack Photo by Carli Wentworth IT’S FITTING THAT, IN THIS MONTH OF LOVE, we would have a conversation with the inspiring president and executive director for the Central Oklahoma Humane Society.

Christy Counts has spent much of her professional life pursuing her passion – rescuing animals and ushering them into new, nurturing lives.

Few of us can say with as much conviction as Counts that we know what we’ve been put on earth to do. Actually, not many of us can even say what we’ll be doing for Valentine’s Day, but for those of you who need a suggestion, Counts can make one or two furry ones to guarantee a perfect match.

And unlike the ill-fated Valentines of your past, these have had all their shots.

Are you a native Oklahoman?

Yes. I’m from Oklahoma City.

I lived in L.A., Dallas and New York over a period of 10 years, but Oklahoma City is home.

What’s your current obsession? I went to Houston a couple of years ago and fell in love with an unbroken horse named Chili. There were other horses at this place, but this particular horse followed me all around and kept touching his nose to my shoulder. After I left, I couldn’t get him out of my mind, so I brought him up here and I’ve just been in love with him!

I assume he’s been broken by now. Yes, and I now have three horses. One of my goals for

28 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Honesty is a big thing to me. I’d even say I’m brutally honest, which sometimes makes it harsh to be my friend!

the year is to start an Equine Initiative. I’d like to see a statewide coalition to improve the overall conditions for horses. Eventually, maybe that would include a horse rescue.

Did you always think you’d have a career in this kind of work? I did, but people kept telling me that an obsession for animals should be a hobby and not a career. So I pursued other things, very successfully, but I knew they weren’t what I was put on this earth to do.

How do you not own 38 dogs and 24 cats? I really have to have thick skin not to!

Have you made any resolutions this year? Yes. I was in a room full of people and we

took turns sharing our resolutions. Mine was to slow down.

When I announced it, everyone started clapping! I’m trying to balance my life, my kids and my passions. Luckily, my passions are tied to my work.

Are you always so lucky? In general, yes, but when I need a little extra, I put on a Roman coin necklace I’ve had for years.

What do you do for fun, now that you’re … how old? 37. I’ve revised my definition of “fun” since my 20s! Now, a good time for me is being home with my kids.

What are the best lessons your parents taught you?

Always do the right thing.

Be honest. Honesty is a big thing to me. I’d even say I’m brutally honest, which sometimes makes it harsh to be my friend!

What do you wish you’d started doing long before you did? OK, I’m starting to sound like “that horse woman,” because I can’t stop talking about my horses, but I wish I’d started horseback riding when I was a kid.

When do you turn 38? July 23.

What (besides horseback riding) should people learn to do? Water ski.

Are you a typical Leo? Through and through, without a doubt.

Seriously? Yes! Specifically, slalom. It’s a dying sport and that’s really a shame

Central Oklahoma Humane Society’s My Furry Valentine event will take place Saturday, February 9, from 11am until 7pm. All pet adoptions will be made at no charge. (Counts says, “We will probably adopt out more than 150 animals that day, so there’s no excuse for anyone not to have a Valentine this year.”)

All adoptable pets are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and de-wormed.

because Oklahoma has such gorgeous lakes.

Where should I eat this weekend? Stella. (Stella Modern Italian Cuisine, 1201 N Walker, Oklahoma City)

STELLAOKC.COM

What is a risk worth taking?

Anything that involves following your passion. Otherwise, what’s the point?

What’s the best decision you’ve ever made? Moving back to Oklahoma City to be close to my family. I also feel that we’ve made a great impact here for the welfare of animals in this state, and that’s very rewarding.

If you’re not ready to take the leap to adopt, consider becoming a foster human for a pet. Learn more about fostering and the My Furry Valentine event at okhumane.org.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 29

PROMOTION

THE

Buzz

EVENTS // PRODUCTS // EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Mitchell’s on the Move

Farewell and adieu to you, downtown Norman – Mitchell’s Jewelry is now a west side wonder. The doors to their fabulous new space at 2201 W. Main open February 1, and even though the Grand Opening celebration is in the works for late March, the cavalcade of special sparkle starts February 12 with a trunk show of the eye-popping Vahan collection.

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And don’t miss out when the new space hosts an old favorite: the Antwerp Diamond event, with a handselected set of stones and a free diamond for one customer, is February 12-14. mitchells-jewelry.com // 405.360.2515

Santa Fe Sizzle

The Howell Gallery is hosting a double act with a single name: Dick Evans paints colorfully abstract exploraTogether Series II by tions loosely based Susan Stamm Evans on landscapes, while Susan Stamm Evans sculpts painstakingly crafted and introspective figures. The Santa Fe couple’s stopover is brief, so stop by, and buy, February 7-28. howellgallery.com // 405.840.4437

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Gemstones – and especially pearls – chosen to complement and flatter women’s eye, skin and hair color make the craft of Houston designers TiaMia magnets for shoppers … so get to Ruth Meyers quickly February 21-22 before the trunk show is emptied.

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FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 31

l a i c So

s e l g n i S a i d e M

By John Parker 32 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Making Things Click

I

n her travels for a global Fortune 100 company, “Kimberly” has swayed on camelback traversing the sand dunes of the United Arab Emirates.

She’s marveled at the Christmas-on-steroids city lights of Shanghai. She’s sparred against European suppliers over the price of steel.

But away from her professional life, six months ago she navigated into the altogether foreign world of a social media single.

Definition: anyone dating in the 21st century.

She learned fast: It’s a jungle out there.

Slim and attractive, with chestnut locks, the 48-year-old Normanite is a naturalborn giver. She’s generous in charity, and in handing out the benefit of the doubt about people’s better natures. That’s how she got in trouble with her first forays into online dating after her divorce.

Whether it’s Match.com or Farmersonly. com, relationship seekers are always asked why they’re there. To find friends? Casual dates? Marriage? Just a good time? Kimberly wasn’t committed to any category, but who doesn’t enjoy a good time? She tapped as much into her profile and got a response: “So, you just want to have some fun?”

“Finally,” she thought, “someone who gets it!”

One of the first rules of social media dating is “learn the lingo.” It works like the adjectives in real estate ads. In online dating, anyone who says he’s “cuddly” is chunky. Looking for a good time or “just some fun” is code for a hot night. It didn’t take long for Kimberly to learn. Her would-be kindred spirit described how he’d been relegated to a sexless marriage for 15 years and, for unstated personal reasons, couldn’t divorce.

That may or may not have been true, but his photo was honest. In the social media world, homeliness is never suspect.

In the last five years, social media/ networking has wired itself deeper into the lives of every age group. Nearly 90 percent of 18- to 29-year-old Internet users tap into social media, according to the Search Engine Journal. In Kimberly’s childhood, young girls played Mystery Date for imaginary hunks; today, nearly 50 percent of her (almost) generation – 50- to 64-year-olds – are in social networks.

Evolved from mass-media outlets like AOL in the late 1990s, the social media sin-

gles scene is a blur of networks, dating sites and smartphone apps ranging from genius to creepy.

Social media expert Taylor Wade, managing partner of Ambiance Matchmaking in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, says social media’s attraction is partly based on letting singles highlight their best attributes and taking advantage of a fraction of more time to perfect witty retorts.

As a 27-year-old, Wade’s generation is far more comfortable with an open-book life.

Her first boyfriend asked her out on their first date via instant message. She was in the seventh grade.

“The likelihood of asking someone out on a date face-to-face or even just a phone call is becoming more and more uncommon,” the Oral Roberts University graduate said. “This is how social media is impacting the singles scene and how it’s causing our culture and people skills to change and evolve.”

As a professional in the personal introduction business, Wade refers to social media tools as “unmoderated matchmaking.” A few flaws are built in, she says.

Because ritual social preening among singles thrives on smartphones as reliably as it does in flashy nightclubs, self-composed personal profiles are notorious for shedding dozens of pounds and dropping years off photos.

“This is one issue with using online dating platforms – everyone puts forward a more likable, attractive version of themselves and there’s no mediator out there with a BS detector,” Wade said.

“On the other hand, with the popularity of these online dating sites with millions of singles today, it’s a great platform to meet and mingle,” she said. “If you’re willing to plow through hundreds of profiles to find one with a slight possibility of connecting in real life, then you may be in luck. Just be yourself and trust your gut feelings.”

Kimberly eventually picked several online prospects. She’s still seeing one as a friend, but chemistry hasn’t mixed with anyone yet.

She’s ferreted out all-too-perfect imposters (tip: Google phrases from their profiles) and endured dating disasters. One guy dozed off during an action/adventure movie, then overindulged at a restaurant to the point of conspicuous misery.

But the likelihood of true romance blossoming from social media is no longer a rar-

ity. Online dating is a $1.9 billion business.

Match.com says one in five married couples met through dating sites. It’s just one avenue for Kimberly – and not one she’s turning away from yet.

“All in all, it’s a great way to meet people, and I’ve heard a lot of success stories,” she said. “You just have to be cautious.”

Taylor Wade

Digital Do’s and Don’ts From Taylor Wade

DO

• Use an up-to-date photo • Pay attention to gut feelings (if something doesn’t feel right, it’s usually not) • Keep the conversation light and fun when exchanging emails initially • Move the conversation from email to phone – listening to immediate answers helps you decipher weirdos from keepers • Take things slowly and agree to meet in a public place

DON’T

• Fudge on vital statistics • Fabricate about who you wish you were • Give into corny lines, such as “I’m your knight in shining armor.” If he’s trying this hard (or is this sappy in real life), you might develop a gag reflex on your first date • Assume that’s a real photo, height, weight or anything for that matter • Give out personal information/bank account information (scammers) • Discuss money, religion, politics or exes in the initial exchanges • Drink and message. You’ll regret it in the morning.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 33

: n o i t c e n n o C ’ ’ t n a t s n I ‘ t ‘ t a M d n a l e h c Ra Social media as Cupid’s wings

S SIMON HURST

aturday night, December 4, 2004, was a good night to be an OU student. All of Norman was celebrating the 42-3 rout of Colorado in the Big 12 football championship.

Among them was 18-yearold freshman Rachel Leonard.

On short notice, she and her friends were invited to an informal house party. Rachel didn’t know most of the people there, but she and her friends enjoyed the vibe, forming a circle in the garage to talk.

Matt Hinderman, meanwhile, was in his element. He was a confident junior, hanging with friends at the party where a former roommate lived. At a certain point, Matt noticed Rachel; his interest piqued.

He strolled up to the circle and joined the conversation.

Rachel looked across at Matt – tall, fit, athletic. Definitely cute. Matt fixated on her smile and her laugh; he wanted to say or do anything to draw out both.

Rachel, a brown-eyed, attractive brunette, was no first-year wallf lower. Matt had already noticed she emanated a kind of life-of-the-party spirit. She was the first to ask his name. She got an unexpected answer.

34 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

“What’s the point?” he told her. “You won’t remember it anyway.”

It didn’t come off as bad-boy rude to Rachel. He’s probably right, she thought, so maybe it’s fair to skip the usual rules.

As the party wore on, they talked off and on through the night, teasing every now and then about the no-names game.

Flirty exchanges grew into mutual attraction.

Matt hadn’t planned the mysteryman gambit about his name. But he had a hunch she’d remember him for it after it was done. The plan was working great – until the end of the party.

As her friends dragged her to a car, Matt pursued, hitting her up for her phone number. She teased him one last time: Why should she blurt out her phone number when she didn’t even know his name?

They parted knowing each other, just not who they were.

The year 2004 was a brave new world in the college social scene. A f ledgling website – thefacebook.com – was spreading faster than outrage over Janet Jackson’s wardrobe malfunction. It let you look up classmates by photos and profiles. Matt was already on it. Rachel wasn’t.

Rachel’s roommate had been bugging her for weeks to sign up – she wanted a bigger “friends” list. The day after the house party, Rachel gave in. She posted her photo, hobbies, likes, etc. She wasn’t necessarily thinking about that nameless boy finding her – at least not consciously.

“The Facebook,” though, couldn’t compete with America Online’s instant messenger, the premier grapevine for young people zipping messages across campus or the country. Reaching Rachel definitely included instant messaging, so she made sure to post it on The Facebook.

She was in her Adams tower dorm room when a chime let her know there was a new message. She grabbed her laptop.

The screen asked if she would take a message from someone she didn’t know.

Rachel’s the kind of girl who, if she misses a call, she’ll call the person back, even if it was a wrong number. She quickly clicked through.

The message was short.

“My name is Matt.”

A Social Media Path to True love Hi.

Hi.

Matt and Rachel attend OU. She’s a freshman. He’s a junior.

HOUSE PARTY! What’s your name?

What’s the point?

They part – too late for names.

Rachel signs up for “The Facebook.”

I found her!

Matt tracks her down.

Sends one message:

My name is Matt.

Married happily forever after.

June 25, 2011

Matt and Rachel Hinderman married on June 25, 2011, in Broken Arrow. Matt, 28, is broadcast production manager for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Rachel, 26, is a senior account executive at Saxum.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 35

BRANDON SNIDER

s ’ r e k a m h c t a M e h T n o i t c u d e S Leslie Wardman

36 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Just leave it to me.

L

eslie Wardman doesn’t see social media’s spidery entanglement in the dating world as competition to her matchmaking business. One, it’s just part of single life today. Two, it’s good for business.

“A lot of my clients come from the online world, and they’re just, “OK, look, I’ve had

it,” she said.

Wardman, CEO of Ambiance Matchmaking in OKC and Tulsa, recalled one male client, “Joe,” who had struck up a rapport with a cute girl he met online. She was a picture, literally, of someone living a fit, healthy lifestyle – much like himself.

His normal routine was to meet dates at Stillwater’s Eskimo Joe’s. She insisted on him picking her up at her house. At the door, the trim girl in the photo had gained dozens of pounds.

for an international matchmaking agency.

Most of her clients come from word of mouth. They range in age from their early 20s to one “Norman Rockwell-type” in his 90s. Nearly all are busy professionals with little time to devote to dating. Ninety percent have college degrees.

Ambiance clients are interviewed for about an hour on topics from hobbies to whether they cotton to wine tastings. Wardman and staff then cull likely matches and arrange lunch or drinks after work, which often leads to dinner.

She introduces clients to compatible dates once to twice a month. If the couple hit if off, the clients can go “on hold” to pursue the relationship. If a date or series of dates doesn’t work out, they’re back on the active list.

Shared interests, lifestyles and values top the list for a good match, Wardman said.

How people were raised is deeply rooted.

“Online dating is passe:’ It’s like taking a walk in east L.A. after dark.”

was matched with. He liked her, but she talked about herself the entire time.

“Normally, we don’t really share feedback unless we think it will benefit the client,” Wardman said. “But this case was Mars and Venus all the way. Here’s the funny thing: She really liked him. She was just eager to impress him to keep him interested. We got his thought process tweaked and he saw her in a whole other light. He was so excited to be able to hang up and call her.”

Love at first site Niche Dating for Every Persuasion Sugardaddie.com Where The Classy, Attractive And Affluent Meet.

Inmate.com Rejected By Society. Ready For Your Love. (OK we made that up, but the site’s real.)

Leslie Wardman, matchmaker

A “super-nice guy,” as Leslie describes him, Joe remained composed and they went out to eat. She devoured dinner while apologizing profusely about the misleading photo. After her divorce, she explained, anxiety drove her to nosh a lot.

On the way home, she confessed that she was probably too heavy for him. But she hit on a solution: If he gained weight, they’d be a great match.

For Wardman, that was a thank-yousocial-media moment.

“Online dating is passé: It’s like taking a walk in east L.A. after dark,” she said. “Having a matchmaker is a luxury.

At the same time, there’s still no guarantee – except that you’ll meet somebody like-minded, which really helps. Basically, it ups your chances. I highly recommend outsourcing to a professional.”

A former television producer, Wardman has run Ambiance Matchmaking for seven years. Three years prior to that, she worked

Energy level and where they are in life’s journey – not dating at all, just been dumped, kids, etc. – all make for more likely magic.

“You’ve got to have some solid ground of commonalities, and then after all is said and done, it’s pretty much your spirits that unite you,” she said.

Wardman is no Patti Stanger – the brash star of Bravo’s “Millionaire Matchmaker.”

Wardman is charming where Stanger is loud and dogmatic. (One of Stanger’s maxims: Millionaires don’t marry redheads.)

Wardman said a matchmaker affords another benefit over searching on social media – a professional, impartial ear to listen to frustrations and dole out advice.

Ambiance routinely calls both clients after a date to see how it went. What did they like about the other person? Anything to focus on in the next date if it didn’t work out?

In one of those follow-up calls, a male client lamented to Wardman about the highly accomplished, high-profile 33-year-old he

Bikerkiss.com Two Wheels, Two Hearts, One Road.

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Millionairematch.com For Successful Singles And Admirers.

Dating.aarp.org 50+

Farmersonly.com City Folks Just Don’t Get It! FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 37

l a i c o S i t n A THe ork Digital w t Ne disaster and how to avoid it

BRANDON SNIDER

I

Steve Kerr

38 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

t’s rare, but it’s one of the oddest social media phenomena attorney Steve Kerr has experienced in 18 years of practicing family law.

A woman, married or otherwise, in a long relationship, indulges in an online affair with another man. It may have started with rekindling an old flame on Classmates.com. Perhaps an online casual friendship escalated over months into a virtual romance in full passionate flower.

Then even without the pair necessarily ever having met in person, she cleaves away years of committed social and family ties.

“I’ve had more than two or three cases where the woman just up and leaves her family,” Kerr said. “I mean her kids, her spouse, everything, for someone she met online. That I simply do not understand.

I can’t imagine going to another city or another place to meet someone I don’t know.”

Kerr is fortunate in love. He’s been married for 28 years. From his northwest Oklahoma City office adorned with American Indian art, he specializes in family law – divorce, non-marital breakups involving children and property, custody, paternity …

The life-wrecking aspects of social media worm into relationships in as many ways as there are smartphone apps. Cheating spouses troll singles sites (if not outright adultery sites) looking for hook-ups.

Facebook friendships morph into private-

“Unless there’s a problem in the relationship already, you’re not really looking and affairs tend not to happen.”

Steve Kerr, family law attorney message sex fantasies, clandestinely played out later in hotel rooms.

In Kerr’s experience, the ease of reaching out to others on Facebook, Twitter and other tools doesn’t cause breakups, even if they facilitate cheating.

“Much like back when people would meet in other places – bars, airports, airplanes, whatever – unless there’s a problem in the relationship already, you’re not really looking and affairs tend not to happen,” he said.

The most typical spark is an old flame flaring up online, he said. The rules of courtship apply: The dalliance often begins casually, graduates to sharing everyday stories, then to revealing personal details. Before long, two people are snared in emotional unfaithfulness or a physical affair.

“What’s interesting about it is there is very often no face-to-face contact until people have said things online that you would never reveal to someone, usually not even a really close friend,” Kerr said.

Those intimate details in texting, emails, chats and Tweets are subject to subpoenas in

a civil lawsuit. Since they’re on the Internet, the sender instantly loses sole control of their contents. Smartphones add complexity to an already dangerous game of juggling a dual life with affairs.

Kerr believes most digital cheaters get caught, so the best course of action is to avoid stepping out. Kerr and his wife live in an open digital marriage: No secret passwords. No closed doors.

If you’re in a relationship and find yourself erasing certain messages, or tempted by the ease and ubiquity of romantic or sexual opportunities on social media, Kerr advises taking stock of yourself.

“It’s the same thing, I believe, as problems before the digital age,” he said. “It’s all about communication – communication with your spouse, or significant other – because that’s how you fix problems.

“The irony is how many different ways there are to communicate with media now.

Those things are wonderful for casual conversations. They’re not good for serious conversations.”

THE RELATIONSHIP STATUS UPDATE What is the most important trait your significant other should possess?

Physically attractive

11%

Emotionally attentive 12% Similar humor

13%

Strong family values

20%

Same personality

21%

Other 23% political views, religion, career oriented, financially stable, taste in music

Have you ever broken up via text message, email or Facebook?

NO 67%

YES 33%

Would you ever break up via text message, email or Facebook?

NO

60%

YES 40%

SURVEY COURTESY LAB42.COM, PHONE IMAGE COURTESY MEETME

Cupid’s arrows or seriously creepy?

Technology entrepreneurs routinely launch new social media apps featuring capabilities snapped up by millions of users. The app makers take advantage of personal, but public, data offered freely (if they’re aware of it) by social media users themselves. Checked your security settings lately?

Social media apps for singles make it easier to connect, but some have come under fire as “stalker apps” for mixing GPS locations with people’s photos and profiles from one or more other sites. It’s possible, for example, to use the apps to generate a real-time photo map of men and women in Bricktown on any given night. You may find yourself with a handheld menu/radar to find out, let’s say, that “Jessica” looks hot, loves cats and is partying right now at The Bad Idea Lounge. Social media expert Taylor Wade is not a fan.

“I would be apprehensive – as a female especially – to post exactly where I am, especially if it’s at night, and you’re drinking at a bar,” she said.

Girls Around Me Dubbed the world’s creepiest app.

Tapped into Foursquare, a popular app that lets you voluntarily tell the world where you are. If not prevented by privacy settings, Girls Around Me grabbed your location and combined it with your public Facebook profile, including photos.

The Russian developers promoted it with the slogan, “In the mood for love?

Or just after a one-night stand? Girls Around Me puts you in control.” Apple’s App Store no longer carries it.

MeetMe, Badoo, Singles Around Me, Zoosk, etc.

Singles and “social discovery” apps. Most sweep up public geo-location data, combine it with photos, profiles and messages from social media and deliver either a map or photo mosaic of socials around you.

Do you believe there is ONE true soulmate for every person?

YES 75% NO-12% IDK-13%

RESPONDENTS NOT IN A RELATIONSHIP

If you wanted to ask someone on a first date, how would you MOST LIKELY contact them?

IN PERSON

42%

24% - Facebook 16% - Phone 11% - Text Message 5% - Email 2% - Other

Have you ever signed up for an online dating site?

23%

YES

NO

77% FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 39

SIMON HURST

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

By Russ Tall Chief

40 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Moving.com recently identified Oklahoma City as No. 6 on their list of top metro areas in the nation for young professionals, 18 to 29 years old, based on affordable housing, rental costs, low unemployment, education and entertainment opportunities. Oklahoma City’s Alliance of Emerging Professionals (AEP), however, views the city and central Oklahoma as No. 1 in the nation, and their organization as the “best forum for young professionals to meet each other, experience the city, learn what’s going on and make a difference for tomorrow.”

A

group of five young professionals in their mid-20s founded AEP eight years ago. Since then, the organization has grown to include approximately 400 members ranging in age from 18 to 39, driven to “lead by example, champion a cause and cultivate a passion.” AEP’s civic and professional events held throughout the year at diverse venues offer social and networking opportunities for members while providing insight into the city’s business and political leadership. The organization also hosts volunteer and social events, all of which are great places to meet new people.

Darian James, AEP’s current chairperson, has been involved in the organization since its infancy. James was working for the Sheraton Hotel in Tulsa, but was recruited to take a job at the chain’s Oklahoma City hotel in 2005. He made the move, but he didn’t know anyone in his new city. Once he heard about AEP, he quickly became a member.

“I wanted to be more involved in the community and meet likeminded people my age,” James says. “With such a diverse group of people I could relate to in ways of social activities, things I am passionate about, cultural experiences and just wanting to explore more of Oklahoma City, I quickly grew a vast amount of friends in a short amount of time. I can honestly say that in the past seven years in the organization I have met most of my closest friends today in that group.”

James went on to become the catering sales manager for Williams and Associates, overseeing events for the Colcord Hotel and the illustrious 50th floor of the Devon Tower. Through his work, he came to know and love Oklahoma City. As a result, and with the assistance of AEP’s board of directors, James plans an event each month throughout the year at a different location around the city to support local businesses and introduce new places to young professionals. In 2012, Mayor Mick Cornett addressed AEP about the future of Oklahoma City at the Marriott Hotel on Northwest Expressway. At another event at B.C. Clark Jewelers, the Clark family shared insights into their long history as one of Oklahoma’s premier jewelry businesses.

Oklahoma City Ballet hosted the organization in the studio, where the dancers gave a sneak preview of the upcoming season. The Colcord staff shared the history of Oklahoma City’s first skyscraper during a special event at the historic landmark hotel.

While AEP members benefit from social and business networking events, they also benefit by giving back to the community through monthly volunteer events in association with nonprofits and service organizations around the city. Last year, AEP members cleaned, organized and painted the Oklahoma City Animal Shelter. Members also volunteered at the Boys and Girls Club, at Epworth Villa retirement center, during the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon and at the Oklahoma City Zoo, where members of the group dressed in costume and gave out candy to kids.

Micah Alcorn, part of AEP’s leadership team, has been involved since the organization’s inception, when he was the youngest member, not yet old enough to drink. He soon became a commercial real estate adviser, representing investors, developers and occupants of all forms of commercial real estate. Alcorn is a lifelong resident of central Oklahoma, and in 2006, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Oklahoma with double majors in entrepreneurship/venture management and economics. Throughout his involvement with AEP, Alcorn has developed professional con-

Darian James

Young professionals can be influential leaders and make a positive impact on the future of our city through community outreach and networking. We are the voice of the next generation of leaders.

- Darian James

tacts and made lasting friendships that have shaped his 20s. “I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be where I am today professionally if it weren’t for the relationships that I built in AEP,” Alcorn says. “Whatever it is that you care about, AEP is the place to share your message and get others excited and passionate about your cause.”

Chris Melick earned his Master of Science degree from Purdue and holds a doctorate in atmospheric science from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and is currently employed as a research meteorologist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center in Norman. He joined the AEP in the summer of 2010 in order to meet new people and gain a better understanding of what the metro area had to offer. “I have enjoyed the close-knit nature of the volunteer-driven organization and decided to get more involved.” Melick became a board member last year.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 41

42 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

PHOTOS THIS PAGE: ADRIAN SANTOS/ADHD PHOTOGRAPHY

All work and no play … members of AEP celebrate together with a terrific view of the city they love from Devon’s 50th floor.

MOST EXCELLENT

In December of last year, AEP presented Darian James with the O.A. Mitscher Award for Excellence, named after the businessman who served as the youngest mayor of Oklahoma City from 1892-1894.

Micah Alcorn, part of AEP’s Leadership Team, says that this is the first presentation of the award, which the group plans to present annually to a young professional in recognition for outstanding contributions to the lives of central Oklahomans.

PHOTO: LINH SASSER AND HAYET SERRADJI BY BRANDON SNIDER

Linh Sasser and Hayet Serradji

Linh Sasser, who works in sales and graphics for Pilot Logistics Services (formerly Maxum Petroleum and Simons Petroleum), and Hayet Serradji, a geologist with Chesapeake Energy, both feel there is much to be gained, both personally and professionally, from being part of the AEP. “I have made connections that have aided me in my position and boosted my career to a new level,” says Sasser. “The professional contacts I have made have not only assisted me, but the company I work for as well.”

Serradji’s story mirrors that of Darian James. She didn’t know anyone when she moved to Oklahoma City and found that her office hours made it difficult to meet new people and network. “AEP allows me to do that now,” she says. “I know a lot of people in different fields, and I’ve met people who have become very important in my life, including my best friend. When I think about it, about 60 percent of my friends are from AEP.” James recently moved to New York City to be closer to his ailing grandfather and accepted a position as the sales and catering manager for the Eventi hotel there, but he returns to Oklahoma City at least once a month and vows to maintain his ties to AEP. “I believe in OKC and the direction it is going and all that it has to offer young people,” he says.

“Our sole focus and driving passion of AEP is to impact change in Oklahoma City’s cultural and professional landscapes,” James says. “Our goal is to make sure everyone benefits from the organization. Everyone joins the group for different reasons, but we believe young professionals can be influential leaders and make a positive impact on the future of our city through community outreach and networking. We are the voice of the next generation of leaders. We bring together newcomers and locals, traditionalists and trendsetters, entrepreneurs and corporate – the best and brightest of Oklahoma City.”

Oscar A. Mitscher came to Oklahoma in 1889 and was a senior partner in the Mitscher Bros. mercantile business. He was elected mayor of Oklahoma City on the Republican ticket at the age of 31, at a time when the city’s primary source of revenue was the $250 license fee collected from liquor dealers. During his tenure, sanitary sewers were constructed, power plants were built and city streets were improved. He was appointed as Osage Indian agent at Pawhuska by President William McKinley in 1900. Mitscher died in 1926 in Oklahoma City.

Join AEP for its next social event on Thursday, February 21, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Michael Murphy’s in Bricktown. Current members and those interested in joining will receive a special presentation on the history of Michael Murphy’s while enjoying drink specials and the restaurant’s rocking dueling pianos.

MAKING CONTACT

Alliance of Emerging Professionals 405.585.6652, info@aepokc.com

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 43

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SPACES | Discerning Design

THE COLOR OF

LOVE

By Lauren Hammack Photos by David Cobb

Life outdoors remains an important aspect of the Johnson home.

Extending almost the length of the entire house, a brightly furnished backyard deck is bathed in sunlight during the winter months, before becoming ensconced in the greenery of the surrounding trees during the spring and summer. If Mexican pottery filled with cactus plants don’t do it, the piùon wood burning in the chimineas around the deck is certain to add one more sensory reminder of Santa Fe. 46 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

W

By Lauren Hammack Photos by David Cobb

henever artists come together, the predictable result might be colorful, but when artists as superbly gifted as Gale and Charlie Johnson unite, brace for a kinetic journey across the color spectrum. For almost 15 years, their intensely colorful, Santa Fe-styled home has been the Johnsons’ collective palette, the inspired result of the couple’s artistry in every possible medium.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 47

SPACES | Discerning Design

Clockwise from top left: Multi-cultural references reflect Gale’s affinity for plurality of faiths. “I have all kinds of religious relics,” she says. “Christian, Buddhist, all kinds, because I like the teachings from many faiths.”

Complementing the serenity of an aqua backdrop, bright red cabinets in the kitchen convey an element of fire, while the uniquely positioned oven and cooktop – set at an angle at the end of a bank of cabinets and dark granite countertops – allows freedom of movement in this busy area of the home.

Doors along the wall of the master bedroom date to the early 1900s and originated in the first Catholic church in Noble, Oklahoma. Richly hued paintings with Native American themes, as well as Christian and Eastern religious significance, round out the remarkable scope of Charlie’s mastery on canvas.

B

uilt entirely around a set of windows that Gale had rescued from a stockpile, the home is a reflection of the Johnsons’ shared commitment to repurpose resources, rather than buying new. From inception to completion, the Johnsons’ hands have touched every inch of the house that began from those windows and materialized from a floor plan sketched out by Gale. That hands-on approach extends right down to the wiring. “The only thing we don’t do is plumbing,” Charlie confesses.

Upon entering the Johnson home, guests feel transported – specifically, transported to Santa Fe, a home away from home for Gale and 48 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

This wood carving of an angel was created by Charlie and watches over guests at one of the main entrance points to the house.

Charlie. “We feel drawn to Santa Fe,” Gale says. “And when we can’t be there, we want to bring Santa Fe home.” A palette of terra cotta and pale aqua blue walls, combined with an infusion of carved woods and earth elements throughout the home, makes a convincing argument that the Johnsons have succeeded.

Both Gale and Charlie worked for more than 30 years as technicians for Southwestern Bell, so it’s possible that the Johnson home, a study in expressionism, represents a creative outlet for the couple. Reclaimed doors and handhewn furniture blend effortlessly with precious family heirlooms that represent a still-palpable connection between Gale and her Puerto Rican ancestry.

Each room is energized by color, Gale’s weapon of choice for breathing new life into every memento she discovers, revives and welcomes into her home. Much of the appeal of the home comes from the creative inspiration it imparts to its visitors. Many of the furnishings have either been created by Charlie or had previous lives. In fact, as Gale points out, almost nothing is the home was purchased brand new. “I often say that, even if I had a lot of money and I could buy all new things, I wouldn’t do it,” she admits. “I find joy in taking something old, repainting or refurbishing it and giving it a new purpose,” she says, as we pause to admire a console from the 1960s or ’70s that Gale bought on craigslist before repainting it and adding new hardware to create a cheery buffet piece.

Charlie’s paintings are vibrant and often emotionally stirring. In the home’s foyer, an oversized painting depicting Gale and the couple’s infant daughter is beautifully displayed above a handcarved table that Charlie designed and built.

This special coffee table in the living room was made from a tree trunk – Charlie created veins out of copper and plugged in turquoise and other gemstones to create a unique and functional work of art.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 49

SPACES | Discerning Design

“Something about me is drawn to the concept of always reinventing and reinterpreting,” Gale observes. The concept is one she has applied to herself, as well. After her Southwestern Bell career, Gale went back to school to study nutrition. At age 57, she received her doctorate and now combines her education in nutrition with the art of movement as a Pilates instructor in her own studio, adjacent to her home on the couple’s in-town acreage.

Above the garage, Charlie keeps an art studio and workshop where he has created many of the home’s unique details. A number of the home’s doors were custom made by Charlie, whose 50 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

expertise lies in respecting the authenticity of the design. His combined skill and attention to detail make it difficult to determine which of the doors were repurposed as antiques and which were hand-crafted on-site in the past decade.

By any estimate, the Johnson home marks a visual triumph over a world adrift in a sea of beige, artfully defying the conventional aesthetic. “This home is my palette,” observes Gale, who is as warm, fearless and colorful as her approach to design. “I think a home should be a ref lection of the person or people who live there.”

Above: Elements in the living room reveal more about the kindred link between Gale and her family’s historical lineage.

A portrait of her great-grandfather (renowned Puerto Rican composer and musician Juan Morel Campos) is prominently placed near one of his handwritten musical compositions. Campos is widely hailed as the most important figure in 19th century Puerto Rican music, a virtuoso whose prolific compositions popularized the musical genre of La Danza.

Clockwise from top left: An old-fashioned screen door separates the kitchen from a four-season room that beckons guests to unwind with a book or stretch out for an afternoon nap. The room is separated from a well-appointed backyard deck by massive, antique doors that once belonged to a mission in Mexico.

It is apparent that the treasures placed throughout the Johnson house are not arbitrary in the least – be it a tool chest of Gale’s grandfather (pictured), a crystal bowl her parents purchased shortly after they wed or the rocking horse that faithfully withstood years of spirited rocking from both Gale and, years later, her son – each keepsake reveals a little more about the Johnson family, intrinsically connected to their shared history in meaningful and poignant ways.

The open floor plan of the home’s downstairs allows sunlight to stream from end to end, creating a gallery effect in the illumination of every room. Hardwood flooring throughout the downstairs area adds to the abundance of the wood features and furnishings that give the home its comfortable warmth. Additionally, many of the home’s doorways have been framed in cedar timbers that Charlie painstakingly shaved down to size.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 51

TRAVEL | Getting Away

Ah,

52 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Italia!

By Elaine Warner

I’m sure I must be part Italian – though my English and Irish ancestors would deny it. So many things about Italy touch my heart.

The history, the art, the music, the language – and the food! Who wouldn’t like to claim a bit of this glorious heritage?

Clockwise from top left: Country scene in the Chianti area south of Florence // Clock tower, Montepulciano // Town Hall, Montepulciano // Traveling the back roads of Tuscany – vineyards, olive trees and walled hilltop towns // The medieval town of San Gimignano was on the main pilgrim route from northern Europe to Rome // View of the Chianti area from the city walls of Monteriggioni.

PHOTOS THIS SPREAD: ELAINE WARNER

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 53

TRAVEL | Getting Away

HILLTOP HOPPING

Throughout Tuscany, hills are topped with fairytale villages. Like Grimm’s, there is a dark side. These villages were built high for defense and many still have their medieval walls intact. Monteriggioni was built as an outpost by the Sienese as part of their protection from the Florentines.

Dating back to 1203, this tiny town may boast the best preserved city walls in the

country. Be sure to climb to the top of the walls. Below, the Chianti landscape rolls like a green ocean of vineyards and graygreen olive trees are punctuated with cottages of wheat-colored stone topped with russet-colored tile roofs.

Montepulciano, noted for its wine, was another hilltop town embroiled in the conflict between the city-states of Florence and Siena. Its loyalties ultimately lay with Florence and the town has a decidedly Florentine flavor. Its town hall bears more than a slight resemblance to the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall in Florence. The town square recently made an appearance in the movie “Twilight Saga: New Moon.”

Volterra’s history has deep Etruscan roots and the city has one of the best collections of Etruscan artifacts in the country.

But it wasn’t the history that fascinated us about the town – it was that we found a bit of home there. In part of a building 54 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

that dated back to the 3rd century, we saw an exhibition, “American Organic Architecture,” which featured the movement championed by Frank Lloyd Wright. One of the architects showcased was Gary P. McCowan. Photos of his work included the Swanson house in Edmond and the Acker home in Oklahoma City.

No small town is more representative of the late-medieval political pissing contest than San Gimignano. Rich residents tried to outdo one another by building taller and taller towers. In 1200 there were 72 towers – at one time the city was called “the city of a hundred towers.” I don’t know if that was accurate or advertising hype! Today over

ing. Before the race, the horses are taken to the churches in their contrade and blessed.

(If they leave a contribution, it’s considered good luck.) The jockeys ride bareback and sometimes fall off – that’s OK, it’s the horse that finishes first that counts.

The crown jewel of the city is its stunning Duomo, built between 1136 and 1382.

The huge cathedral, noted for its black and white marble, would have been even larger if the city had not been victim to the Black Plague which swept the country in 1348. In addition to the marble walls and pillars, the floor, inlaid with local marble, features 56 scenes designed by 40 master painters.

Most of the year the floor is covered for

a dozen remain standing. Now popularly known as “Medieval Manhattan,” the city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990. Be warned, this is a very popular tourist destination. You’ll encounter long lines at the local gelaterias – and worse, at the one public bathroom. Your best bet: have lunch at a local restaurant and use their facilities. The operative phrase is “have lunch” – otherwise, you’re out of luck!

QUEEN OF THE CAMPO

Siena, capital of the Tuscan province of Siena, encircles a unique, shell-shaped main plaza where 11 streets converge. This is the site of the famous, twice-a-year palio – a wild horse race for bragging rights and a banner.

The city is divided into 17 districts (contrade) with each district sponsoring a horse. Only 10 horses, chosen by lot, compete. Competing horses are kept in secret stables in the heart of each contrada to prevent tamper-

Clockwise from top left: Towers in San Gimignano // The Duomo towers over the historical heart of Siena // The inlaid marble floor of the Duomo of Siena is only completely uncovered during the month of September.

PHOTOS THIS PAGE: ELAINE WARNER

I

taly is a contrast in sensory overload … the excitement and abundance of centuries of creativity in its cities vies with the rural beauty and serenity of the countryside.

preservation – only in September can it be seen by visitors. Michelangelo, Donatello and Nicola and Giovanni Pisano all created works for the church.

Siena is definitely worth a several day stay. There are many treasures tucked in the narrow streets and alleyways, from local arts and crafts to artisan cheeses to a look at the world’s oldest continuously operating bank, the Monte Dei Paschi di Siena (founded in 1472).

For a treasure of a stay, travel a few miles west of Siena to the historic Borgo Pretale. This tiny village, which dates back to the 12th century, has been preserved and converted into an elegant country inn with a fine restaurant. It features the amenities of a resort, including a large swimming pool and tennis courts, and the ambiance of a country estate. Borgo Pretale makes a fantastic home base for exploring both Siena and the many little towns to be found on the back roads of the region.

PHOTOS THIS PAGE: GIAMPAULO ABBRO AND JOE MILLER BY ELAINE WARNER; ALL OTHERS PROVIDED BY BORGO PRETALE

MANGIA BENE

It’s easy to eat well in Italy – and some of the best meals are in the most surprising places. The further you get from the main square of a town or major tourist attraction, the more apt you are to have an authentic Italian experience.

In Tuscany, there is, as far as I’m concerned, one must-have meal, and that is bistecca alla fiorentina – Florentine Steak.

After a day exploring the countryside, and with no specific plans for dinner, our guide/driver Giampaulo suggested we stop in Tavarnuzze outside of Florence at the inn where he was staying. The family-owned Locanda degli Scopeti is a local favorite for good reason. Specializing in regional cuisine and local wines, the owners are particularly proud of their steaks from local, grass-fed Chianina cattle.

Owner Leonardo Grifoni brought out a massive platter loaded with thick, raw steaks for our inspection. At our nodded approval, the steaks disappeared, reappearing a short time later grilled and ready to eat. There was nothing magic to the recipe – it’s all about the beef, which, with no chemical encouragement, was the most tender, juicy, best steak I’ve ever eaten. Jack and I shared a steak the size of a roast and almost wept when we could neither finish it nor take a doggy-bag back to the hotel.

The other must-have item in Italy is gelato – cousin to ice cream. There are differences in ingredients that, no matter

Clockwise from top: Outdoor dining, Borgo Pretale // Bedroom, Borgo Pretale // Our driver/guide Giampaulo Abbro and Joe Miller, Piedmont, hoist a hefty platter of steaks at the Locanda degli Scopeti

what anyone says, can’t be duplicated here.

It could be the milk equivalent of wine terroir; or maybe just being in Italy makes things taste better.

It’s obvious. I love Italy. I love the scenery, the people, the food and the language.

Don’t worry if you don’t speak Italian. Just a few phrases will do you – “Thank you,” “Where’s the bathroom?” and “I’d like a small cone with two scoops, chocolate and wild cherry, please.”

GOOD TO KNOW Travel arrangements: Victor Neal, Prime Time Travel, Edmond www.primetimetrvl.com

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 55

TRAVEL | Wanderlust

77 Counties Tulsa County: The Oldest Living Oklahoman Turns 112

T

he remarkably long journey of the oldest living Oklahoman began in Rosebud, Missouri, on Christmas Eve 1900. The population of the United States had just surpassed 75 million, under a 45-star flag. Queen Victoria ruled the British Empire. American women were 20 years away from winning the vote. World War I was not yet even a rumble.

Ora was the third of 12 children of Nathan and Stella Reed, who inscribed her birthdate in the family Bible: December 24, 1900. As the family grew, the Reeds moved from the Missouri Ozarks to the Arkansas Ozarks and then to Oklahoma in 1918, settling west of Tulsa in Sand Springs. Ora Reed married Thomas Holland of Broken Arrow five years later and spent the next 94 years in the cities of Texas and Oklahoma.

“I always worked hard,” Ora Reed Holland said on Christmas Eve 2012, celebrating her 112th birthday at the home of her grandson. “You can tell by looking at me I worked hard ... I had to work to live.”

And she did. She worked the counter at Kress department store in Tulsa. In Dallas, she founded one of the first professional baby-sitting services. During World War II, she worked in the office at a Texas shipyard. Afterward, she owned and operated a hair salon.

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.

She returned to Tulsa in 1987, to be near her grandchildren while they attended Oral Roberts University. She took a boarder into her two-bedroom house. Cooked and did her own laundry. Cut the lawn with a push mower until she was 109. Lived independently until last year, when her grandson convinced her to move into assisted living.

At 112, her sense of humor is intact but memories are fading, along with her hearing and sight. Her mind still hankers for a game of bridge, but her eyes have a hard time differentiating the cards. A few months ago, she could reel off a precise recitation of the birth order of her 12 brothers and sisters. The list now trails away after sibling number six: Edna.

Ora Reed Holland offers no secrets. No advice to others. No magic formulas. She follows no special diet (“I eat whatever’s before me, if I’m hungry.”). She has a sweet tooth. Has never smoked or drank.

The only medication she takes is a once-a-day Tylenol.

She doesn’t think the answer to her longevity is genetic, as no one in her family came close to hitting 100.

“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.”

She is at once amazed and nonchalant about her age. At one point, she leaned over and confides: “I’m supposed to be 112, but I don’t think I am.”

How old do you feel?

She paused and smiled. “Ten!” It is Christmas Eve, and church services await. It is time to go, so she stands steadily on her own, offers a smile and a long, strong embrace.

She shared her philosophy when turning 109: “I believe the Lord has a time for all of us. I believe He has a time for me, and when the time comes, He’ll take me. And I’ll be ready.”

By M.J. Alexander

56 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Ora Reed Holland defies expectations on her 112th birthday. At 105, she said: “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.”

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 57

TRAVEL | Wanderlust

“I always worked hard. You can tell by looking at me I worked hard ... I had to work to live.”

- Ora Reed Holland

THE OLDEST OKLAHOMANS

O Ora Reed Holland became the most senior of Oklahoma’s citizens upon the death at 110 of Martha Berryhill, who lived in Okmulgee her entire life: July 12, 1900, to December 18, 2010. Ms. Berryhill, the last original grantee from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation 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.

O The oldest Oklahoma man on record 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.

The Rev. Otis Granville Clark

O The oldest-ever Oklahoman on record is Margaret Russell, born in Guthrie on Halloween of 1892.

She died in California on May 29, 2005, at the age of 112 years, 210 days. Mrs. Holland would surpass that milestone on July 23, 2013.

58 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

“I Do.” THE WEDDING GUIDE

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 59

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60 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

The Wedding Guide

Dramatic Effect On the long list of wedding to do’s, one particular item (aside from your chosen mate) rates No. 1 on the list for many: the dress. In these pages we offer some enchanting gowns – from whimsical to sophisticated to decidedly romantic – destined to make you say, “I do.”

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The Wedding Guide

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The Wedding Guide

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The Wedding Guide

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The Wedding Guide

Francesca Pitera for Jim Hjelm

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The Wedding Guide

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Francesca Pitera for Jim Hjelm

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ick, Tock T

A planning checklist for your wedding

Wondering where to begin preparing for THE BIG DAY? There are a great many details involved in planning a wedding, and it’s those very details that are often the source of stress and anxiety. Allow yourself ample time to think over the specifics that will make up your celebration, and flexibility to alter your choices and budget while your ideas evolve.

Here are some tips to keep you and your wedding on track … and on budget:

expenses they may incur and any possible travel arrangements.

◻Finalize your wedding date. If you are choosing

a major holiday or heavy travel weekend, be sure to send out Save the Date cards. And don’t forget to check the OU and OSU football schedules. This is Oklahoma, and these things matter.

◻Reserve your date and venues. Deposits may be

due at the time of reservation. Make certain to factor in the correct amount of travel time if you plan to have separate wedding and reception locations.

18 to 9 Months Prior

◻Research florists, photographers, videogra-

◻Schedule an engagement photo session.

◻Book your officiant. ◻Begin planning your vows if you intend to write

Announce your exciting news to friends, family, co-workers and the local media with your new photographs.

◻Organize a wedding binder or scrapbook. Look through magazines – bridal, design, food, fashion, lifestyle, city – for things that inspire you.

◻Set the tone. Now is a good time to determine

what kind of wedding you and your fiancée want, whether formal or informal, indoors or out, destination or local, and even what season and time of day you both prefer.

◻Create a budget. Sit down with your fiancée and other financially involved family members to iron out a budget. Determine how much you can spend and what each person’s contributions will be.

◻Hire a wedding coordinator. If you prefer to have a professional wedding planner ease your burden, make certain to factor the cost into your budget based on the level of service you desire.

◻Start the guest list. Start compiling a list of

addresses for invitations. A spreadsheet will help you keep track of responses, gifts and other pertinent information throughout the planning.

◻Choose your wedding party. Give these indi-

viduals ample time to prepare financially for any

phers, bands, caterers and bakers.

your own.

◻Throw an engagement party!

8 to 7 Months Prior ◻Get the dress. Choose your gown and acces-

sories, as well as your bridesmaids’ dresses. You’ll typically need two or three fittings for your dress.

◻Book a caterer. If your reception venue doesn’t provide food services, book a caterer after you have reviewed their offerings and narrowed down your desired menu.

◻Order the cake. Make certain to sample cakes

and other desserts from bakers before making your decision.

◻Book a photographer and videographer. Discuss the shots and angles you may want, and listen to their suggestions.

◻Book a florist. Your florist will want to know your color palette, though final decisions can be delayed for a few months.

◻Book the entertainment. Choose the orchestra, band, DJ or other musical group, but make certain to attend a few performances before making a decision.

◻Reserve hotel rooms. Choose a hotel (or two)

close to the reception venue for your out-of-town guests.

◻Plan your honeymoon. Begin the process of

acquiring a passport or updating an existing one if necessary for your travel plans. Also make sure you make appointments for any vaccinations you may need prior to travel.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 73

The Wedding Guide

6 Months Prior ◻Register for wedding gifts. Choose a minimum of two retailers to give guests options.

◻Create a wedding website. There are

many free and easy-to-use services available on the Internet if you’re not website savvy. If you have an attendant who is, consider tasking that person with this item.

◻Order invitations. While ordering your

wedding invitations, select stationery for menus, programs and thank-you notes. The stationery store can likely recommend a calligrapher if you want to use one. If you plan to send save-the-date cards, this is the time to order those as well. Invitations should be mailed eight weeks in advance, with the RSVP cutoff set at three weeks after the mail date.

◻Reserve transportation. Options for

transporting you and your wedding party are plentiful: limousines, town cars, minibuses, trolley cars, even horse-drawn carriages. The method should fit the type of wedding you’re planning and should be feasible for distance and time.

◻Reserve rental equipment. If your

caterer or venue isn’t providing tables, chairs, linens and dinnerware, reserve these now.

◻Dress the men. Purchase or reserve the groom’s attire, as well as the attire for his attendants.

◻Meet with the officiant. Discuss the

details of the ceremony and ensure that you have all the documents required by the state. Choose your desired readings for the ceremony and run your finalized vows past your officiant if you choose to write your own.

5 to 4 Months Prior ◻Choose gifts. Purchase any gifts you

wish to give your attendants. Arrange for welcome baskets for out-of-town guests, and if desired, select favors for guests to take away from the reception.

◻Book the rehearsal and rehearsal-

dinner venues. Schedule a rehearsal venue, time and menu for all involved in the ceremony. Consider inviting all out-of-town guests as your budget allows. If you plan to host a next-day brunch for your guests, book that venue now, too.

◻Start your dress fittings. Take the

undergarments and shoes you plan to wear with your dress to every fitting. If you didn’t choose your veil/headpiece when you purchased your gown, do so now.

◻Book hair and makeup artists. If you

don’t already have a favorite stylist, visit a

74 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

few before making a decision. It’s helpful to offer photos of the wedding party attire.

◻Finalize your music selections. If you’re

uncomfortable on the dance floor, consider signing up for some dance lessons now.

3 Months Prior ◻Create a schedule for your wedding

and reception. Compile a “day-of” schedule of events for all participants to follow for your wedding day, including times and locations for photographs, hair and makeup, any last-minute rehearsals, readings, etc. Consider tasking this item to a trusted relative or friend if you’re not using a wedding coordinator. Make sure to give copies to all vendors involved, as well.

◻Confirm any hair and makeup appointment times. If you want to get a cut and color before the wedding, this is the time to do so.

◻Enter RSVPs into your guest list database.

◻Mail the rehearsal dinner invitations. ◻Schedule your final dress fitting.

Week of the Wedding ◻Print place cards and seating charts, if desired.

◻Finalize your flower choices and cater-

◻Reconfirm arrival times with all ven-

◻Book a room for your wedding night. ◻Purchase your wedding rings.

◻Send a final timeline to your wedding

ing menu.

2 Months Prior ◻Touch base with all your vendors. Make

certain that everyone is in agreement on all the final details.

◻Submit a newspaper wedding announcement. Check the newspaper’s website for any rules about what and how to submit.

dors.

party.

◻Notify your caterer of your final guest count.

◻Assemble welcome baskets. ◻Pack for the honeymoon. ◻Take care of as many final payments as you can.

◻Mail the wedding invitations.

◻Prepare tip envelopes.

1 Month Prior

◻Get a manicure and pedicure, or treat

◻Print any programs and menus you

◻Supply any drivers (including hired

require. You should have all the information you need after confirming the schedule with your officiant and finalizing the menu with your caterer.

◻Get your marriage license. Make

appointments for marriage licenses and any bloodwork your state may require.

Request certified copies of any documentation necessary. Also, complete any paperwork required to change your name, if you choose to do so.

◻Update your address with the post

office. Complete a change-of-address form through your local post office if your living arrangements will be changing.

yourself and your attendants to a spa day.

transportation and out-of-town guests) with point-to-point directions.

◻Pick up your dress or arrange to have it delivered.

◻Pick up your wedding rings. ◻Break in your wedding shoes! ◻Delegate the details. If not using a coordinator, assign tasks: delivering welcome baskets, carrying vendor tips, transferring bouquets to tables, bustling your dress, being in charge of gifts.

◻Buy a guestbook. If you prefer some-

thing less traditional, consider a platter or jar with little notecards for guests to jot down a message.

◻Purchase attendants’ gifts. The

rehearsal dinner is the time to present these.

◻Assign seating. If you’re having a seated dinner, plan where everyone will sit.

If you write thankyou notes as gifts arrive, you won’t feel overwhelmed after the wedding.

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FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 75

The Wedding Guide

Inspired Ideas for a D.IY . . Garden Wedding If your dream wedding is a small, casual affair, consider your own backyard for your big day. Free yourself from expensive wedding accoutrements and make it a marriage of creative minds with a few special touches that put a spin on tradition.

Handmade Chinese Lanterns

Be Your Own Baker

Find a few strings of round-bulb or Christmas lights and tie paper mache lanterns to some or all of the bulbs. Dip white or colored tissue paper in wallpaper paste and wrap several layers over a four- to 10-inch round balloon, stopping about an inch from the top. Allow the paper to dry completely, then pop the balloon and discard it. Spray the lantern with acrylic clear coat, then punch two holes across from each other at the top of each lantern. String wire through the holes and tie to the strand of lights.

Order a plain-frosted, tiered cake from your local grocery store bakery and decorate it yourself. Premade gum paste and royal icing flowers are available online in bulk; intersperse them with edible flowers.

Cupcakes are another simple and delicious option. If you’re not adept at decorating, purchase candy flowers for topping.

Keep the Décor Simple Easy Style

Ask the men to wear light-colored suits.

The women can choose similar dress styles in differing pastel colors, or go with an allwhite theme and add colorful wraps for the women and coordinating ties for the men.

76 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Rent chairs and tables for the ceremony and reception. Long tables are ideal for serving the hors d’oeuvres and drinks.

Smaller round tables can accommodate up to six guests per table; cover them with white tablecloths and sprinkle them with flower petals. If your yard is too small for the number of tables you would need, simply place chairs all around for seating, and rent the smallest cocktail tables available for guests to set drinks on.

Make Your Own Bouquets

Plant flowers in your yard that will become the bouquets and centerpieces. A romantic bouquet can be cut from a sea of wildflowers, planted from a seed mix. For a stark, monochromatic effect, plant calla lilies. Try cosmos or zinnias for a splash of color. Start your seeds indoors about six weeks before planting time and plant them in your garden after the danger of frost has passed. By mid-summer, you’ll have all the flowers you need.

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FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 77

The Wedding Guide

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No matter how formal the wedding, a relaxed and cheerful rehearsal dinner is a terrific complement to a nuptial weekend. Many couples opt for simpler celebrations, and the more casual the venue, the better.

Bowled Over

A little friendly competition is good medicine for wedding jitters, and burgers, beer and bowling make for a low-stress good time. Take this opportunity to give your guests a little wedding remembrance (and bowling necessity): socks.

Sooner Bowling in Norman and RedPin in Bricktown are great venue options.

If you want to up the ante, consider hosting your rehearsal dinner at one of the local casinos, or reserve a suite at Remington Park and watch the horses run.

Backyard Barbeque

Gather your soon-to-be blended families together for a backyard bash. An event this friendly and open makes it virtually impossible not to get caught up in the conviviality.

Decorate picnic tables with checkered tablecloths and small vases of flowers. For dessert, serve individual ice cream cups. It’s simple and fun and bound to be a hit.

Ride ’Em, Cowboy

If you don’t mind a little travel time, plan your rehearsal for early in the day, then take your guests to a ranch and soak up some Western heritage. Start the camaraderie on the drive by transporting your group via chartered bus, then take advantage of the great outdoors – fishing, horseback riding, whatever suits you. Tatanka Ranch in Stroud is just a little more than an hour’s drive from downtown Oklahoma City, and Meadow Lake Ranch in Sand Springs is about 15 minutes west of Tulsa.

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COMMUNITY | Making a Difference

Peaceful Journey DR. R. MURALI KRISHNA RECALLS HIS LIFE’S ROAD TO HELP OTHERS LIVE MORE VIBRANTLY By Mark Beutler

Dr. R. Murali Krishna

Around the age of nine, young Murali’s therapy and medications she lived a peaceTHE SIXTH-FLOOR CORNER OFFICE has life changed dramatically when his mother ful life into her 60s, he says. a perfect view of Oklahoma City. In the distwice attempted suicide. Both times he was Throughout his career he has achieved tance, the skyline rises above the bare trees there to save her. many milestones. He is co-founder and and the bustling traffic below. It’s a cold, “Actually, she saved me,” he recalls. “I president of the James L. Hall Jr. Center for gray January day, just after the first of the remember her walking out into the water Mind, Body and Spirit. It is an educational year. Stepping into the well-appointed office to be swept away and I followed. Knowing organization that helps improve health by is a man with a twinkle in his eyes and a I could not swim, her maternal instincts raising awareness of the healing power of smile that spreads across his face. were to protect me, because she knew I the connection between mind, body and A firm handshake is followed by a would die first.” spirit. He is also the founding president/ friendly hug.

Krishna says his mother was in her early president emeritus of the Health Alliance “Welcome, it is so good to see you!” says 30s when her mental illness became apparfor the Uninsured, a partnership to improve Dr. R. Murali Krishna, president and chief ent. At a young age his love of mathematics the health care of the uninsured and underoperating officer of Integris Mental Health. had prompted him to think insured in Oklahoma County.

Neatly dressed in about a career as an engi He has received countless awards and a navy suit and red tie, neer. But his mother’s illrecognitions, but his greatest achievement, Krishna is anxious to ness caused him to change he says, has been helping others. talk about his newly pubcourse, and he decided to “Writing this book is my way to help othlished book. “Vibrant: practice medicine. ers live a vibrant life,” Krishna says. “Parts of To Heal and Be Whole, “I was 15 and a half it were fun to recall, parts of it were painful.

From India to Oklahoma when I entered medical It has not been an easy process, but one that City” follows Krishna school,” he says. “My grandhas been very therapeutic.” from his childhood days father had spent much of Easily readable in a couple of hours, in a rural village in India, his life helping heal others, “Vibrant” has a profound message to help to becoming one of the and that’s what I knew I each reader. The real secret to happiness is most respected psychiawanted to do. connecting with others, Krishna says, contrists in Oklahoma City “Eventually I practiced necting with yourself and your Creator and and the nation. internal medicine, and making the most of your journey.

Co-authored by Kelly Dr. Krishna’s mother, R. Ranga Rajya Lakshmi then decided to enter the “We all must discover the true nature of Dyer Fry, “Vibrant” is field of behavioral health. ourselves – not the clothes we wear or the car not a typical autobiogI left India and moved to England, and we drive, but the dreams within. So trust in raphy filled with anecdotes or scientific finally to Oklahoma.”

God; be grateful and give freely, and dream jargon. What lies on the pages is a heartfelt His work led him to find ways to help his big. If you put your mind to it and work hard, and sometimes bittersweet look at how his mother, and with the right combination of anything is possible.” mother’s mental illness influenced not only his career path, but his lifelong desire to help others.

“My childhood was one of joy and togetherness, playing and learning,” Krishna says.

“Our home was a neighborhood happy home “Vibrant: To Heal and Be Whole” is available at Full Circle for me and many of my friends. My mother Bookstore, Barnes & Noble and other book sellers. Prowelcomed us home every day after school ceeds from the book endow the Dr. R. Murali Krishna with homemade snacks and sweetened Family Eliminate the Stigma Award. Look for excerpts lemon water. from the book to appear in Slice in the coming months.

“She only had a fifth-grade education, but she was very strict about us doing our homework right after school, before we went outside to play.”

80 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

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MINGLING | On the Town

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PRACTICAL MATTERS | Health and Happiness

WE DESCRIBE IT AS RACING when we’re excited, skipping when we’re startled, swelling when we’re proud – it gets name-checked a great deal in this season of romance. The heart is associated with a wide range of emotions, but its function is to move blood through the body, and when it fails to do that the emotions involved are predominantly desperation and sorrow. But now, thanks to the availability of the HeartMate II from Thoratec, a little more hope.

When the cardiac muscle weakens to the point that it can’t move enough blood through the circulatory system, surgeons can implant this device that connects to the left ventricle and the aorta, essentially boosting the heart’s pumping capacity via an external battery pack worn by the user.

It doesn’t replace the heart; it strengthens it, supporting patients while they await transplants or permanently augmenting their cardiac system.

It’s not a new idea – Thoratec introduced a precursor left ventricular assist device in 1994 – but a refined one: the HeartMate II is about 3 inches long, mak84 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

By Steve Gill

ing it the smallest such FDA-approved device, weighs a mere 10 ounces and has a simplified design with one moving part, making it more reliable as well as longer lasting and quieter.

It’s also effective: Restoring an optimal level of blood f low throughout the body often improves organ function and enables patients to breathe more easily, giving them back more energy and allowing them to resume daily activities (except swimming, due to the device’s external batteries) rather than being confined to a bed or chair.

Over 10,000 people have received a HeartMate II worldwide, and for those whose physicians recommend it, obtaining the implant is possible at 300 medical centers around the globe. So far, only one facility in the state utilizes this technology, but it’s right here in Oklahoma City: Integris Advanced Cardiac Care. More information is available at integrisok.com/vad. For many of us, it will never be necessary. But for those whose hearts are failing, it could be a way to feel better about the future.

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O N H C E T OL CO

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My recent goody box of phone accessories testing has turned up some winners. Last month, I offered my picks for the Samsung Galaxy, and this month, as promised, I’m offering my recommendations for iPhone fans. Here are my top four gadgets to enhance your enjoyment of your Apple device.

PLEASANT AWAKENING

The iD37 docking system from ihomeaudio. com is a dual alarm clock radio. Sleep or wake (two alarms may be set for different times on different days) to your favorite FM station or your own playlist while your phone device charges. The sound from the built-in stereo speakers is clear and accurate. Connect another device for charging via USB port. The system works with iPad, iPhone and iPod models with the large connector and the iPhone 5 with an adapter. $99.99

POWER BOOST

We all have those days that are talk and data extravaganzas.

The lightweight and compact Mophie Juice Pack Reserve is an excellent option when you don’t have the opportunity to hook up to your regular phone charger. Integrated charging cables give you an additional 700mAh of battery power, and the built-in key ring makes it easy to keep handy. It works with your iPod, too. $34.95

ON THE MOVE

IN ONE EAR…

Plantronics Voyager Legend is a great option for handsfree communication. This over-the-ear headset combines triple mics that cancel out noise and wind with voice command and Smart Sensor technology. Calls are announced, and you can choose to accept the call or send it to voice mail. I’ve owned several Plantronics headsets; the voice and sound reproduction is great and the Bluetooth works very well with the iPhone. $99.99

86 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

The Bike Dock by iBolt.co attaches any smart phone to the handlebar of basically anything – bike, motorcycle, ATV. It fastens securely and the weatherproof zippered compartment protects devices from the elements. A great way to keep your phone safe and accessible on the go. $25

PURSUITS The Can Can-Do Spirit

COURTESY OKC BALLET

The cheeky, charming romantic comedy “Paris Rouge” makes an ideal pre-Valentine’s date alongside two other dazzling dances, all presented by the OKC Ballet February 9-10. See page 89.

TOP TEN Prime starting points for making the most of the month 88

SPOTLIGHT [Artspace] at Untitled focuses on a legacy of the lens 90

SEE & DO The music, theater, visual arts and other delights on February’s calendar 91 FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 87

PURSUITS | High Points

The Top

By Steve Gill

OKC PHILHARMONIC

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

STUDIES IN SCARLET

Gayle Curry, “The Wrath”

February 1-24, In Your Eye Gallery The expression normally connotes fury, but in this case “Seeing Red” should prompt a whole range of emotions. The Paseo gallery draws on the combined talents of a dozen of its pre-eminent stars – Carl Shortt, Natalie Friedman, Sue Hale, Gayle Curry and more – to provide a spectrum of creative excellence sparked by the use of a single shade.

SWEET MEMORIES

February 2, National Center for Employee Development For over 30 years, Norman’s Chocolate Festival has been circled on the calendar by art lovers and the sweet-toothed alike. Choose as many vendors as there are blank boxes on your ticket and watch them fill your take-home box with amazingly tempting chocolate treats, while free art activities provide extra interest and a reminder that the whole shebang benefits the Firehouse Art Center.

THEY!

February 2-May 12, Sam Noble Museum Insects take the Sam Noble spotlight this month, and there’s no need for a magnifying glass; the subjects are already enlarged in “Bugs Outside the Box,” featuring largescale sculptures with educational material to accompany its fourfoot-long beetles, and Thomas Shahan, “Phidippus putnami” “Beautiful Beasts,” a collection of Thomas Shahan’s extreme close-ups of Oklahoma arthropods.

Even entomophobes may find themselves fascinated by the level of detail.

SPECIAL, DARK

February 7, Hudson-Essex Lofts Sweet? Certainly. But this over-21-only soiree on Automobile Alley isn’t all sunshine and sugar; there’s a tantalizing extra flavor of adventure and luxury amid the live music, daring auction and wine, champagne and gourmet coffees that fuel Chocolate Decadence. Bring a date – or prowl for one there – and enjoy the perennially sold-out show.

88 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Colin Currie

POWER PLAY

February 2, OKC Civic Center When Copland’s viscerally rousing “Fanfare for the Common Man” is the first piece in a concert rather than the grand finale, it’s a sign of great things to come. The OKC Philharmonic unleashes the dynamo of force named Colin Currie for a positively frenetic performance of Higdon’s Percussion Concerto in the next installment of its Classics series, entitled “Motion and Emotion.”

February 9-10, OKC Civic Center Love makes the dancers go ’round in the OKC Ballet’s flashy restaging of “Paris Rouge,” a colorful, romantic comedy of Parisian errors that anchors a triple bill alongside the state premiere of Bournonville’s “Napoli Divertissements” and the cheerful “Pushing Pennies” by OKC Ballet artistic director Robert Mills.

Two nights only – experience la vie en rouge.

COURTESY OKC BALLET

L’AMOUR TOUJOURS

THE ROYAL TREATMENT

February 8-March 2, Broadway Theatre Reduxion Theatre Company excels in restaging the classics, especially Shakespeare, in new settings that augment and explore thematic resonance. For a Valentine treat they’re moving the stubbornness, sudden ardor and silliness of “Love’s Labour’s Lost” to 1953 Spain, when the trendy foibles of debonair royals were the stuff of international news and envious fantasy.

THE BEAT MOVEMENT

February 23, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum A little exercise is good for the cardiac system, which should encourage you to get out on the dance floor at the OKC Heart Ball; although just by being there you’re helping to improve the health of the community, since the upbeat black-tie gala – themed Wonders of the Heart – raises money for heart and stroke research in Oklahoma.

GET BACK

February 16, OU Catlett Music Center It’s been far longer than 20 years since the day Sgt. Pepper taught the Beatles to play – but in the hands of this fabulous four, 1967 seems like only yesterday. Outstandingly accurate in look, sound and feel, tribute band The Return is coming to Norman to celebrate the 45th anniversary of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” in exciting, even Beatlemanic, style.

The Return

Full Disclosure

February 26-May 13, City Arts Center If you only know Bryan Adams as the musician behind “Summer of ’69,” he has something to show you. The traveling exhibition “Exposed” overflows with intimate portraits of international stars and celebrities, from Lana Del Rey to Queen Elizabeth II – the cream of the collection Adams has photographed over the last dozen years.

Mick Jagger

Lindsay Lohan

Victoria Beckham

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PURSUITS | Spotlight

A sampling of photos by Stanley Marcus and Allison Smith from [ArtSpace] at Untitled’s current exhibit “Reflections”

The Name[less] Game [ARTSPACE] AT UNTITLED at 1 NE Third St. in OKC is a nonprofit contemporary arts center housed in one of its neighborhood’s most venerable surviving buildings, a 1925-vintage warehouse that sat vacant for 30 years before being given its current purpose. The building is old; the art and ideas within are getting newer all the time.

“Bring the World to Oklahoma” – that’s the slogan, mindset and mission for the immediate future, according to Executive Director Jon Burris. “Over the next three years, Untitled will … develop programming that is forward-thinking and brings an awareness of the global arts to our local community.” Buoyed by the strong response to its 2010 World Creativity Biennale and recent multinational photography exhibit E.CO, Untitled is embarking on a series of exhibitions on international contemporary art, many of which will address sociopolitical issue-based subjects echoing global concerns. Those shows will be accompanied by lectures, seminars, workshops and other 90 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

outreach efforts, and are slated to include “New Art From the Middle East” this October, “New Media Art From Belgium” in 2014 and “China Connect” in 2015.

Interposed with that worldwide outlook, other exhibits will feature current U.S. artists working in varied themes and media – especially photography and printmaking, as the facility is home to projects dubbed the [Photographic Resource Center] at Untitled and [Press] at Untitled. Plans are even in the works for a [New Media Laboratory] at Untitled that local artists can use to experiment with new technologies for making art while discussing and showing their work via online sessions.

The future looks busy, and to Burris’ eyes, filled with distinctive promise. “We believe Untitled is unique within the community; we fill a niche for the exhibition of national and international contemporary art, and we strive to remain visionary.”

With an identity and mission like that, what’s in a name?

By Steve Gill

Time’s Mirror

Untitled’s current exhibit, called “Reflections” and on display through March 30, had its genesis back in the 1950s, when Neiman Marcus President and CEO Stanley Marcus developed a habit of taking a camera along on his travels with international jetsetters. In succeeding years he began sharing his passion for photography, and eventually thousands of his slides, with his granddaughter Allison Smith – herself a skilled artist with the lens. While both have achieved some measure of renown, this is the first joint exhibition of their photography, illustrating the talent that runs in the family and their individual approaches to a common love.

See & Do DANCE Paris Rouge Feb 9-10 Magnificent costumes and staging can’t steal attention from the romance of the story and the grace of the performance in the OKC Ballet’s captivating Valentine’s comedy, accompanied by “Napoli Divertissements” and Robert Mills’ “Pushing Pennies.” Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 843.9898, okcballet.com OKC Ballet Special Feb 14 The dance company has a performance slate of its own, but its members made time to schedule this special suite of new chamber dance works - ask about the ticket package that includes a romantic Valentine’s dinner. OCCC Bruce Owen Theatre, 7777 S May Ave, OKC, 682.7576, occc.edu/cas

EVENTS Show House Preview Party Feb 1 Get a firsthand look at the trio of upscale homes that will together form the OKC Orchestra League’s soon-to-be splendid Symphony Show House - undecorated as yet, but filled for one night with music, tasty treats and fun. Fairview Farms, NW 150th St & Western Ave, OKC, 842.6787, symphonyshowhouse.com Chocolate Festival Feb 2 Area eateries stock the Firehouse Art Center’s annual fundraising paean to the joys of sweet, creative scrumptiousness. National Center for Employee Development, 2801 E State Hwy 9, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com Chocolate Decadence Feb 7 Savor the splendor of a signature metro event, boasting champagne, jazz, sweet treats and much more. Hudson-Essex Lofts, 825 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 973.4746, downtownokc.com Stories of Hope Feb 7 Hearts for Hearing’s first fundraising luncheon inspires with success stories of its efforts to help children with hearing loss, and enables more of those triumphs to come. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 548.4300, heartsforhearing.org 2nd Friday Circuit of Art Feb 8 A monthly community-wide celebration of creativity, focused on historic Downtown Norman.

Norman Arts Council, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org Live on the Plaza Feb 8 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District, 1618 N Gatewood Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org Norman Mardi Gras Parade Feb 9 The good times keep on rolling as the annual tradition takes a couple of victorious laps through downtown Norman. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, normanmardigrasparade.com Roundup Shindig Feb 9 Guests are invited to find their inner cowboys, head ‘em up and move ‘em out to Riverwind for a rip-roaring Westernthemed fundraiser benefiting the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Highway 9, Norman, 271.2550, okchf.org

Taste of Oklahoma City Feb 9 Spoiler alert: it’s delicious. A grand array of gourmet goodness, plus auctions, a wine pull and dancing enliven this joyous event. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 943.8075, tasteokc.com Victorian Tea Feb 9 The young ladies (second grade through age 12) who accept the Edmond Historical Society’s gracious invitation should know that this is no ordinary tea party: inspired by Victorian fashion, the event is supremely fancy (perhaps even schmancy) and indubitably fun. Edmond Historical Society Museum, 431 S Boulevard St, Edmond, 340.0078, edmondhistory.org Art From the Heart Feb 14 Celebrate love of creativity with homemade soup, grilled cheese sandwiches and handmade art in a fundraiser for OU’s School of Art and Art History. OU Lightwell Gallery, 520 Parrington Oval, Norman, 325.2691, art.ou.edu Valentine’s Dinner and Dance Feb 14 See the museum, sup on a lavish buffet dinner and work some of it off on the dance floor in a special holiday event.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Monster Jam Feb 16-17 Three shows in two days of fender-bashing, car-smashing, truck-racing action, action, action! Tickets to the monster truck showdown are in short supply; better burn rubber to get them. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, monsterjam.com Science Lounge: Science of Star Wars Feb 21 Science is for adults only in a special themed evening with live music, appetizers, a cash bar and hands-on experimentation.

Science Museum Oklahoma, 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC, 602.6664, sciencemuseumok.org Town Hall Lecture Series: Roland Mesnier Feb 21 From a small French village to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Mesnier rose to delectable prominence as executive pastry chef at the White House, and is happy to provide audiences a personal look behind the scenes at a position he held for 25 years through 5 administrations. St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 826.9689, okctownhall.com Art With a Heart Feb 23 Children’s cancer research will be the focus of funds raised, but young patients at the Jimmy Everest Center are more than the cause; they’re the creators of the artwork that fills the silent auction and centers of attention at its fete. Children’s Hospital, 1200 Children’s Ave, OKC, artwithaheartokc.com Heart Ball Feb 23 Dinner and dancing amid black-tie elegance and a collective passion for building healthier lives - the American Heart Association invites OKC to help ignite a spark that inspires lifesaving efforts. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 942.2444, heart.org/oklahomacity City Arts Lecture Series Feb 27 Presentations by a pair of guests: Anna Somers Cocks, chief executive of The Art Newspaper and longtime chair of the Venice in Peril Fund, and Surveyor of the Queen’s Pictures Desmond Shawe-Taylor, who holds responsibility for the care and maintenance of the U.K.’s royal collection.

City Arts Center, 3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, 951.0000, cityartscenter.org

Gathering of Angels Feb 27 Dual guest speakers - Carrie Keating Leonard and her mom Cathy Keating, former first lady of Oklahoma - share experience and warmth in Pi Beta Phi’s fundraiser that benefits national literacy programs, as well as Payne Education Center, Boys & Girls Clubs and Celebrations Preschool. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 285.1385, pibetaphi.org

FILM Oscar Tune-Up Feb 1-23 Hollywood’s highest honors will be handed out Feb 24; the Museum spends the weeks leading up to the ceremony helping cinephiles get better acquainted with the contenders.

OKC Museum of Art, 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Treeless Mountain Feb 10 So Yong Kim’s sweetly poignant exploration of childhood optimism and determination comes to the OCU Film Institute’s series.

Meinders School of Business, NW 27th St & McKinley Ave, OKC, 208.5472, okcu.edu STATIC Film Screening Feb 14 A free monthly showcase of local filmmakers’ craft in dramas, animated shorts and other genres. IAO Gallery, 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 232.6060, iaogallery.org The Kid With the Bike Feb 24 The OCU Film Institute Series rolls onward with a French fable of a young boy missing his bike and his father, and the female stranger who may help him find his way.

Meinders School of Business, NW 27th St & McKinley Ave, OKC, 208.5472, okcu.edu

GALLERIES John Kennington Through Feb 5 A veteran landscape and travel photographer, Kennington’s photos are often printed on canvas and gallery wrapped, displaying them as the works of art they are. Visions in the Paseo, 2924 Paseo St, OKC, 557.1229, visionsokc.com Art Now Through Feb 8 OSU’s Louise Siddons curates this annual compendium of the very freshest pieces by dozens of the state’s finest artists. City Arts Center, 3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, 951.0000, cityartscenter.org Color the Way Through Feb 17 Encaustic paintings by Gayle Curry attempting to capture the heart and essence of the Tao Te Ching. Governor’s Gallery, State Capitol, 2300 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC, 521.2931, arts.ok.gov Growing Things Through Feb 28 Norman Public Schools students combine works with local artists to transform the Firehouse gallery into a forest-themed installation - one that continues to expand with additional added works in February. Firehouse Art Center, 444 S Flood Ave, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com Burke & Gummersall Feb 1-24 Longtime fashion illustrator Rosemary Burke’s vividly lifelike drawings and energetically enigmatic graffiti-like paintings by Greg Gummersall. JRB Art at the Elms, 2810 N Walker Ave, OKC, 528.6336, jrbartgallery.com

Seeing Red Feb 1-24 It’s the color of passion, an ideal hue for February and the starring shade in a massive group show by a dozen Paseo talents. In Your Eye Gallery, 3005 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com Stars of Yesterday Feb 1-28 Bob Kenworthy makes a mockery (deliberately) of his craft, turning his skills as a figure painter and portraitist to creating exceptionally executed caricatures of movie stars and famous faces. Summer Wine Art Gallery, 2928 Paseo St, OKC, 831.3279, summerwinegallery.com Exposed Feb 26-May 17 Bryan Adams yes, that Bryan Adams, Canadian rock star - shares more than a decade of high notes from his side gig as a photographer in this touring exhibit. City Arts Center, 3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, 951.0000, cityartscenter.org George Williams Through Feb 28 Photography is Williams’ business as well as his passion - his show for the Performing Arts Center will focus on birds, butterflies and other beauties of nature. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

MUSEUMS Echoes and Rituals Through Feb 9 A joint exhibit by Native American artists Robert Taylor and Harvey Pratt includes evocative symbolism, eloquent surrealism … and Bigfoot. Science Museum Oklahoma, 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC, 602.6664, sciencemuseumok.org 99th Annual Student Exhibition Through Feb 10 Students from the School of Art and Art History show their work, so to speak, in this venerable tradition. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.2691, art.ou.edu A.R.T. Show Through Feb 15 Reused, repurposed and made aesthetically appealing - OKC Beautiful cosponsors this exhibit of art made from recycled materials. Science Museum Oklahoma, 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC, 602.6664, sciencemuseumok.org Generations Through Mar 29 Familial legacies among familiar names fill this exhibit, featuring works from some of Oklahoma’s most highly regarded native artists alongside creations of their children. Red Earth Museum, 6 Santa Fe Plaza, OKC, 427.5228, redearth.org Reflections Through Mar 30 The elegant solitude of photographer Allison Smith’s portraits, and the family ties between her imagery and that of her grandfather: Nieman Marcus President Stanley Marcus (see page xx).

[Artspace] at Untitled, 1 NE 3rd St, OKC, 815.9995, artspaceatuntitled.org Photorealism Revisited Through Apr 21 These pictures are worth tens of thousands of words - and a closer second look. Featuring nearly 60 works

by Flack, Estes, Parrish and more, this exhibition examines the movement’s recognition and impact on the art world.

OKC Museum of Art, 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Crumbo Spirit Talk Through May 29 Six decades of the great painter’s personal

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PURSUITS | See & Do

career, plus examples of Woody’s legacy in the artwork of his children. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 521.2491, okhistory.org

Alexander Schimpf Feb 4 A rising star on the international stage, the oftlauded pianist is prepared to occupy Armstrong’s for an evening of Mozart and Debussy. Armstrong Auditorium, 14400-B S Bryant Ave, Edmond, 285.1010, armstrongauditorium.org

Oklahoma @ the Movies Through Aug 10 Help commemorate the beautiful friendship between the Sooner State and the silver screen. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 521.2491, okhistory.org

Trio Riccio Feb 5 Kate Pritchett, Jake Johnson and special guest Katrin Stamatis put their heads together for the latest installment of the Distinguished Faculty Artist Series.

OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu. edu/music

Reigns Supreme Through Dec 30 Extravagant in impact if not subject matter, the Oklahoma History Center’s exhibit draws on the Oklahoma Historical Society’s fashion collection to portray over 75 years of the little black dress.

Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 521.2491, okhistory.org

Tuesday Noon Concerts Feb 5-26 Its incredible collection of art is now free for public perusal, but the Museum sweetens the deal further with complimentary lunchtime accompaniment: Hal Grossman Feb 5, the Boomer Bass Studio Feb 12, Kostas Karathanasis’ computer music Feb

Bugs: Outside the Box Feb 2-May 12 The Sam Noble Museum shrinks visitors so they can shake pincers with the kingdom of the spiders, ants, beetles and butterflies in this traveling exhibit of vastly enlarged, intricately detailed insect sculptures with educational commentary. Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chatauqua Ave, Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu

ELECTRICSIX.COM

Enriched: Animal Art Through Jun 1 Living in the zoo can get a bit boring, so some of the OKC Zoo’s resident artists explore their muses, with curiously aesthetic results. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 521.2491, okhistory.org

26. OU Catlett Music Center, 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.4101, music.ou.edu

needed for a new century of composition in creating these groundbreaking performances. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/music The Return: a Beatles Tribute Feb 16 It’s been 45 years since “Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” was released, but in these lads’ hands it feels like yesterday - come together for a carefully staged, staggeringly accurate, Beatlemanic treat. OU Catlett Music Center, 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.4101, thereturnonline.com Tom Wopat in Concert Feb 16 Hazzard County is long behind him; now Wopat makes his home on Broadway. The Tony-nominated actor and singer brings a sweet suite of jazz standards to Edmond in the next installment of UCO’s Broadway Tonight series. UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/ cfad/broadway Band of the Scots Guards & Black Watch Feb 17 Marches, anthems, pipes

MUSIC Purple Bar Performances Feb 1-23 A cozy setting, ample menu and outstanding music from local artists.

Nonna’s Purple Bar, 1 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410, purplebarokc.com David Cassidy with Peter Noone Feb 2 Sometimes the name says it all. The singer and star of “The Partridge Family” teaming up with the lead crooner of Herman’s Hermits makes for a blissful night of nostalgia. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Highway 9, Norman, 322.6000, riverwind.com Motion and Emotion Feb 2 Percussion phenomenon Colin Currie stars in an evening of Copland, Higdon and Tchaikovsky. Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org Sutton Concert Series Feb 2-26 The OU School of Music presents a full arrangement of musical excellence: pianist Stephanie Leon Shames Feb 2, the OU Symphony Orchestra Feb 11, the combined force of Accademia Filarmonica and OU Chorale Feb 17, hornist Eldon Matlick Feb 18 and the Wind Symphony’s “Prism” concert Feb

92 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Born to This Land Feb 22 Images of the West captured by Bob Moorhouse and David Stoecklein set the stage for a combined concert by Western stars Red Steagall, Don Edwards, Jean Prescott and Dan Roberts. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Ronnie Dunn Feb 22 With Kix Brooks, he was one of the greatest duos in music history… but Dunn started his career solo, and remains a bestselling star and potent performer all by himself. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Highway 9, Norman, 322.6000, riverwind.com Cole Porter Songbook Feb 22-23 A list of his personally penned hits would fill a page by itself; Joel Levine and the OKC Philharmonic have brushed up on an evening’s worth of selected favorites showcasing Porter’s wit and magic.

Anything goes! Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org China National Symphony Orchestra Feb 28 Conductor En Shao leads the mighty collection of traveling talent in renditions of works by Sibelius, Rachmaninoff and Xia Guan. Armstrong Auditorium, 14400-B S Bryant Ave, Edmond, 285.1010, armstrongauditorium.org OCU Wind Philharmonic Feb 28 Under the baton of Dr. Matthew Mailman, the student ensemble delivers an oustanding concert performance… free. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/music

Beautiful Beasts Feb 2-Sep 16 Macrophotographer Thomas Shahan takes a closer look - closer than that … no, way closer - at the forms and faces of our tiny neighbors in an exhibit subtitled “The Unseen Life of Oklahoma Spiders and Insects.” Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chatauqua Ave, Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu Into the Void Feb 9-Jul 28 A studentcurated printmaking exhibition of visual spectacle paying homage to the founders of the Optical Art movement - it’s pretty much a must-see. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.2691, ou.edu/fjjma

Detroit powerhouse rockers. The Opolis, 113 N Crawford Ave, Norman, opolis.org

SPORTS Barons Hockey Feb 1-26 OKC’s ice warriors face off against Charlotte Feb 1, Grand Rapids Feb 8 and 9, Houston Feb 22 and Texas Feb 26. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 232.4625, okcbarons.com

Electric Six

Feb 21, The Opolis, Norman 19 and an opera preview Feb 26. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Miro String Quartet Feb 6 The Austinbased but globally traveled foursome drop by campus to knock out three of Beethoven’s finest as part of the Presidential Dream Course. OU Catlett Music Center, 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.2081, music.ou.edu Noon Tunes Feb 7-28 Free lunchtime serenades in the Downtown Library: folk duo Lisa and Laura Feb 7, the Brahms Clarinet Trio Feb 14, Sugarfoot Feb 21 and the Cleveland Elementary Choir Feb 28.

Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us Maurice Johnson Quartet Feb 10 The former leader of OKC ensemble par excellence After Five, jazz composer Johnson’s musical strengths remain gloriously undimmed. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org UCO Student Jazz Ensembles Feb 11 In the mood for some out-of-sight jazz?

The kids are better than all right; they’re remarkably skilled at laying down serious sound. UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 359.7989, ucojazzlab.com Project 21 Concert Feb 15 School of Music students exemplify the versatility

and drums in a performance fit for a queen - specifically, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Armstrong Auditorium, 14400-B S Bryant Ave, Edmond, 285.1010, armstrongauditorium.org Kelly Holst Feb 17 Tone and power and speed combine in Holst’s poised, fluid pipes - the coloratura soprano steps from her classroom to the stage in OCU’s Distinguished Faculty Artist series.

OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu. edu/music Pine and Hagle Feb 17 Outstanding pianist Matthew Hagle and flat-out incredible violinist Rachel Barton Pine have spent years making beautiful music together soon to include Beethoven, Strauss and more in Chamber Music of Oklahoma’s latest concert. Christ the King Catholic Church, 8005 Dorset Dr, OKC, cmok.org Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines Feb 17 The performing duo’s road-tested mix of Americana includes folk, pop, country, jazz and blues in a cheerful, tuneful amalgam that one might call breezy, especially since it’s the next installment of the Winter Wind concert series.

Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Electric Six Feb 21 A genre-blurring blast of high-volume, high-energy, dancecommanding wallops of sound from the

BALTO 5k Run Feb 2 Edmond North’s event name has a neat thematic confluence: the acronym for the school’s community service goal and the name of a heroic husky - North’s mascot, and what chilly runners will try to emulate.

Mitch Park, 1501 E Covell Rd, Edmond, 919.8009, baltoweek.org Cowgirl Basketball Feb 2-23 The OSU women defend their home court against Baylor Feb 2, TCU Feb 5, Kansas State Feb 16 and Oklahoma Feb 23. GallagherIba Arena, 1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com Sooner Basketball Feb 2-23 The OU men tip off against Kansas State Feb 2, Kansas Feb 9, TCU Feb 11 and Baylor Feb 23.

Lloyd Noble Center, 2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com Thunder Basketball Feb 4-27 The defending Western Conference Champions host Dallas Feb 4, Golden State Feb 6, Phoenix Feb 8, the heartbreakers of Miami Feb 14, Minnesota Feb 22, Chicago Feb 24 and New Orleans Feb 27. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 208.4667, nba.com/thunder Frigid Five Feb 9 Walking is allowed, but running is better at keeping the blood moving for the hardy participants in the Edmond Running Club’s 18th annual fivemile jaunt; proceeds support Allied Arts

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PURSUITS | See & Do

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The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui Feb 8-17 A mobster becomes a kingpin and power destroys in Bertolt Brecht’s scathing allegory. (Psst! Nazis are bad!)

OU Weitzenhoffer Theatre, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.4101, theatre.ou.edu Love’s Labours Lost Feb 8-Mar 2 One of Shakespeare’s brightest and liveliest comedies relocates to 1950s Spain in Reduxion Theatre’s take on young royals’ romance - ask about the couples package and opening night gala. Broadway Theater, 1613 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 651.3191, reduxiontheatre.com 100 Years of Broadway Feb 12-17 A century of story and song compressed into one evening of wall-to-wall highlights, selected by and with commentary from auteur Neil Berg. Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 800.869.1451, celebrityattractions.com

Harlem Globetrotters

Feb 9, Chesapeake Arena, OKC and high school cross-country teams.

Edmond MAC, 2733 Marilyn Williams Dr, Edmond, edmondrunningclub.com

of parenthood. Carpenter Square Theater, 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com

Harlem Globetrotters Feb 9 The masters of their basketball craft are seeking a new challenge: following fans’ fiats in their revolutionary “You Write the Rules” World Tour. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, harlemglobetrotters.com

Treasure Island Through Feb 3 Oklahoma Children’s Theatre and TheatreOCU team up to tell the salty tale of a young lad thrust into swashbuckling adventure.

OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 951.0011, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

Roller Derby Feb 9 Part graceful race, part all-out brawl and all action, the month’s slate of spectacle includes the Tornado Alley Rollergirls lacing up to head into action as the Valkyrie Vixens face off against Cell Block 9. OKC Farmers Public Market, 311 S Klein Ave, OKC, 496.1348, okcrd.com

The 39 Steps Through Feb 10 Thrust into international intrigue, an ordinary citizen must uncover the meaning of a mysterious phrase… if he can stay alive that long.

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

Lady Sooner Basketball Feb 10-25 The OU women tip off against Oklahoma State Feb 10, Iowa State Feb 14, Kansas State Feb 20 and Baylor Feb 25. Lloyd Noble Center, 2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com

Some Enchanted Evening Through Feb 16 The Plaza is alive with the sound of music from one of the all-time great songwriting duos in this Rodgers and Hammerstein hit parade. Lyric’s Plaza Theater, 1725 NW 16th St, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com

Cowboy Basketball Feb 6-20 The OSU men defend their home court against Baylor Feb 6, Oklahoma Feb 16 and Kansas Feb 20.

Gallagher-Iba Arena, 1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com

The Little Mermaid Jr. Feb 1-3 Enchantment under the sea overtakes the Sooner Theatre’s Studio Series in an adaptation of the Disney musical for younger performers ready for the spotlight. Sooner Theatre, 101 E Main St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.com

Fight for Air Climb Feb 23 It’s the same principle as a fundraising 5k … only vertical. Participants start at the ground floor, and all they have to do to celebrate victory is climb the 34 flights of stairs between them and the party hosted by the American Lung Association. Cotter Ranch Tower, 100 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 748.4674, lung.org

Anton in Show Business Feb 7-10 A scathingly affectionate love letter to the American theatre system that follows three actresses whose dream of performing Chekhov keeps hitting potholes of attempted improvements to the story. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco. edu/cfad

WWE Presents Smackdown Feb 26 How do you ensure a big show? Invite Big Show - plus Kane, Sheamus, Alberto del Rio ... over 40 pro wrestling stars in all gather to mark Smackdown’s return to OKC. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, wwe.com

Crimes of the Heart Feb 7-17 Blood proves thicker than aggravation and stress in this sentimental Pulitzer-winning story of sisters re-forging a familial bond, told by the OKC Theatre Company. Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 297.2264, okctheatrecompany.org

THEATER The Good Counselor Through Feb 2 A scarred young attorney’s efforts to value truth over emotion in the face of what seem to be heinous wrongs propel this drama about the responsibilities

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Defending the Caveman Feb 8-17 Thousands of years of gender differences provide a lot of ground to cover, but Rob Becker’s humorous one-man play about making peace in the battle of the sexes has become an international smash. Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 848.3761, cityrep.com

A Killer Reunion Feb 14-16 Old friends and forgotten acquaintances get back together… briefly, because someone is a secret enemy in this murderous, mischievous dinner and musical mystery benefiting the Sooner Theatre. Old Town Plaza, 102 W Eufaula St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.com The Barber of Seville Feb 22-24 Clandestine romance, plenty of disguises, comic buffoonery and some of the operatic stage’s best-known music Rossini’s masterpiece remains an all-time delight. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu. edu/music/omt.aspx Jack and the Beanstalk Feb 22-Mar 8 A mishap-plagued play within a play means the junior thespians of Oklahoma Children’s Theatre should have no trouble garnering laughs, though they may need some acting assistance from the audience. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 951.0011, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Mrs. Mannerly Feb 22-Mar 16 Discovering his demanding teacher’s secret past may be the key to success for an overachieving student in this lighthearted comedy of etiquette. Carpenter Square Theater, 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com Gray’s Anatomy Feb 28-Mar 2 TheatreOCU takes Spalding Gray’s one-man show about attempts to cure a mysterious visual malady and widens the focus into a group performance.

OCU Kramer School of Nursing, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5121, okcu. edu/theatre The Grass Harp Feb 28-Mar 3 Songs of innocence and of experience fill this affectionately off-kilter Truman Capotepenned musical in which much of the cast lives in a tree. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/cfad Dilemmas With Dinner Feb 28-Mar 24 A promotion might be up for grabs, so Brooke decides to impress her boss with an elegant dinner party. What could possibly go wrong? (Pro tip: everything) Jewel Box Theatre, 3700 N Walker Ave, OKC, 521.1786, jewelboxtheatre.org

ON THE RADAR Jamey Johnson Mar 1 The Grammynominated Johnson is a prolific songwriter as well as no mean performer - recording “Highwayman” with Willie Nelson, Kris

Kristofferson and Shooter Jennings is a tribute to Johnson as well as Johnny Cash. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Highway 9, Norman, 322.6000, riverwind.com Momentum: Art Doesn’t Stand Still Mar 1-2 Oklahoma artists under 30 unleash their creativity in all kinds of media in this vibrant art party with an emphasis on motion and change. OKC Farmers Public Market, 311 S Klein Ave, OKC, 879.2400, ovac-ok.org Force of Destiny Mar 2 The overture to the namesake Verdi opera, plus a Haydn concerto and Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, highlighted by the rich, smooth sound of guest cellist Zuill Bailey, mark the OKC Philharmonic’s upcoming Classics installment. Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387 okcphilharmonic.org In Bloom Gala Mar 2 Three decades of enhancing the community - celebrate with the Edmond Women’s Club at its 30th anniversary bash, featuring dinner, dancing, auctions and a scotch tasting.

Oak Tree Country Club, 700 Country Club Dr, Edmond, ewc.org JLN Charity Ball Mar 2 Aid the Junior League of Norman’s communityenhancing projects in style at its elegant annual soiree. Embassy Suites Norman, 2501 Conference Dr, Norman, 329.9617 juniorleagueofnorman.org Red Tie Night Mar 2 Consider 21 a winning number - that’s the anniversary about to be marked by the state’s largest single-evening fundraiser; providing unparalleled glamour and vital resources for the Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 348.6600, okaidscarefund.com Tish Hinojosa Mar 3 Texan-born Hinojosa is fluent in folk, country, pop and latino styles, unifying them all with warmth, soul and grace. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Wish Luncheon Mar 5 Beautiful purses up for purchase form the centerpiece of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma’s annual fundraising luncheon. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 286.4000, www.oklahoma.wish.org OKCMOA Omelette Party Mar 9 Dancing, cocktails, a raffle of dozens of local artists’ works and irreproducible works of culinary artistry in omelette form. Bricktown Events Center, 425 E California Ave, OKC, 236.3100, www.okcmoa.com Red Earth Run Mar 9 A chilly morning calls for a brisk jog as nearly 500 runners line up for a 1-mile fun run, 10k and the Corporate Challenge. Regatta Park, 725 S Lincoln Blvd, OKC, 427.5228, www.redearth.org

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ŠPDGGGGG

FARE Feel the Love

CARLI WENTWORTH

Want to impress your sweetheart on the 14th of February (or any other day of the year)? Break out this easy-to-make soufflé recipe and wait for the compliments to roll in. See page 98.

MATTERS OF TASTE Spacious, sleek and sumptuous, Kitchen No. 324 gives brunch a new address 100

EAT & DRINK Variety is on the menu in Slice’s citywide dining guide 102 FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 97

FARE | In the Kitchen

CHOCOLATE

BLISS

By Caryn Ross // Photos by Carli Wentworth

NOTHING SAYS “I LOVE YOU” MORE than sharing a delicious meal for two followed by a warm, decadent chocolate souff lé for dessert. However, the word “souff lé” strikes fear in the heart of many home cooks. In fact, it took me many years to get up the nerve to give this a try. But after some delicious disasters I’ve finally mastered this dish. Now it’s time to get your sexy back one ramekin at a time. I promise this recipe truly has “no fail” written all over it. Simple, easy and indulgent!

Sweet Lover Chocolate Soufflé 1 T unsalted butter ½ c + 1 T sugar 6 eggs, room temperature 8 oz light cream cheese spread, room temperature 1 T Kahlúa liqueur 3 oz good-quality bittersweet chocolate, melted 1 t vanilla paste Raspberry Sauce 2 c seedless raspberry jam ¼ c raspberry liqueur Preheat oven to 350°. Completely grease the inside of individual ramekins with 1 T butter. Take 1 T of sugar and sprinkle inside. Tilt cups around to allow sugar to coat the butter. Think of this as a “sugar force field” that allows your soufflé to rise easily.

Using a hand mixer (or even a blender), combine eggs, cream cheese spread, Kahlúa, melted chocolate and vanilla paste. Mix until well combined and cream cheese is fully incorporated into the batter – no white lumps!

Pour soufflé batter into individual cups (about ⅔ full). Place into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until puffy.

While soufflés are baking, make the raspberry sauce. In a small saucepan, warm seedless jam until liquefied. Add in liqueur, and allow to cook on low heat until it reduces slightly. Remove sauce from stovetop and allow to cool.

Remove soufflés from oven and serve immediately. Top with raspberry sauce, fresh whipped cream, fresh berries and chocolate shavings.

98 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Expert tips for cooking a delicious dessert soufflé: Rub the inside of the ramekins with chilled butter.

Place 1 teaspoon of sugar in each ramekin and tilt to coat the interior.

Make sure to use room-temperature eggs.

Beat your ingredients well!

Once the soufflés are cooked ... be ready to eat.

You have mere minutes before the “wow” factor has fallen!

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 99

FARE | Matters of Taste

Downtown’s Fresh Find

By Steve Gill // Photos by Carli Wentworth

THE NEWEST VENTURE of star restaurateurs The Good Egg Dining Group, Kitchen No. 324 seizes the momentum and opportunity provided by downtown’s ongoing development for a cool concept restaurant offering diners sophisticated, tempting breakfast and lunch cuisine, plus tasty pastries and seriously excellent coffee … … once they find the place.

One of the restaurant’s biggest drawbacks in its early days is that the ongoing development that’s bringing more people to downtown and making ventures like this one possible is still going on, and street construction – especially on its namesake Robinson Avenue – makes Kitchen No. 324 harder to locate and get to than it should be.

But once inside, it’s beautiful: airy, with loads of natural light and a high ceiling that keeps it feeling spacious even when every seat is filled. The décor of creamy gray tile, plush green banquettes and unadorned tableware strikes a clean balance with the Braniff Building’s vibe: The space feels solid and comfortable simultaneously, and equally welcoming

100 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

to a group of suits having a breakfast meeting or a lone customer in sweats reading while sipping a glass of freshly pressed pineapplegreen-apple-lemon-mint juice. (Yes, that’s a thing – the tartness of the apple and lemon counteracts the pineapple’s sweetness, and the hint of mint adds a surprisingly refreshing aroma and aftertaste.)

The Pastrami & Eggs makes a deliciously savory breakfast, albeit one that has the potential to be a bit messy since the titular ingredients are much easier to cut than the dense, chewy bread that serves as its foundation. Diners hoping to impress their companions and avoid smears of poached egg yolk might be better served by the Smoked Salmon, whose tender namesake is piled on a baked bagel slathered in cream cheese and topped with f lavorful piquancy from capers, red onion and salmon roe.

Despite its central location, good food and great atmosphere, the real feather in Kitchen No. 324’s toque is its service – seemingly the entire staff is cheery, helpful without being intrusive and prone to nice-

ties like offering coffee drinkers a fresh cup to go, and greeting patrons placing their order during rushes with a sincere “You’re awesome for waiting.”

It would be a pleasure to try a restaurant concept like this purely based on what it says about the city’s state of development and future trajectory. It’s doubly satisfying to experience the execution and be confident in strongly recommending this new place; it’s great. Totally worth circling the block a few times.

Kitchen No. 324 324 N. Robinson, OKC 763.5911 Kitchen324.com 6:30am-3:30pm Monday-Friday 7am-2pm Saturday-Sunday

Quick tips It’s on the southeast corner of Robinson and Dean A. McGee, with its entrance actually on the latter.

Meals are ordered at the main counter, but there’s a separate register (with a shorter line) for beverage and pastry orders; perfect for to-go treats.

The carrot cake donuts and chocolate croissants are very good; the lattes, made with MadCap Coffee out of Michigan, are phenomenal.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 101

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 This Route 66 classic provides a blast from the past in its copious decorative memorabilia, and excellent chicken fried steak big enough to sate the hugest appetites. 4106 NW 39th, OKC, 943.8915 $ AROUND THE CORNER RESTAURANT A no-frills, old-school diner that’s a favorite spot for Edmondites to linger over omelettes, pork chops or pancakes and coffee. 11 S Broadway, Edmond, 341.5414 $ BOULEVARD CAFETERIA Roast beef, chicken and dumplings, even 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 $ CAFÉ 7 A fast, casual restaurant with a very cool concept: widely varied salad, sandwich, pizza and pasta options, all priced under $7 and served up in 7 minutes, 7 days a week. 14101 N May, OKC, 748.3354; 120 N Robinson, Suite W 175, OKC, 748.3354 $ CAFÉ 501 Rustic stone oven pizzas, fresh, uniquely designed salads and delicious specialty sandwiches on house-made artisan breads – add classic atmosphere and enjoy. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ CLASSEN GRILL Don’t be thrown by the seen-better-days exterior; the food inside is deftly done diner deliciousness, especially the breakfast options. The eggs benedict and cheese grits can make your day in advance. 5124 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.0428 $ COACH’S RESTAURANT Overlooking the diamond at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark or within earshot of Owen Field, Coach’s locations serve fans during games and fans of its pizza, barbecue, burgers and beer anytime. 102 W Main, Norman, 360.5726; 20 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 232.6224 $$

102 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

DEEP FORK GRILL The dimly lit, crisply elegant atmosphere perfectly complements the contemporary menu of superb seafood, (wood-grilled cedar plank salmon is the house specialty), steaks and accoutrements. 5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$ DIAMOND DAWGS A love of baseball informs this Campus Corner spot from the grounder up; its huge all-beef franks and specialty options will inform and reinspire visitors’ love of hot dogs. 753 Asp, Norman, 364.3294 $ DINER, THE The classics never go out of style, and when locals refer to this institution as a greasy spoon, it’s a term of endearment if not veneration.

Masterful preparation of ordinary breakfast and lunch fare – expect lengthy lines. 213 E Main, Norman, 329.6642 $ EISCHEN’S Two things to bear in mind: 1. It’s in Okarche, about 45 minutes from OKC proper. 2. It’s universally agreed to be well worth the trip. Legendary fried chicken and okra in a gloriously noisy packed house; cash only. 108 S 2nd, Okarche, 263.9939 $ FANCY THAT No longer restricting customers to a quick lunch and bakery treats, this Main Street café’s robust expansion into evening and weekend hours is cause for celebration… over dinner. 215 E Main, Norman, 307.0541 $$ FLINT Approachably casual style in the front of the house, with impeccably serious attention to detail in the kitchen; it’s the Colcord Hotel’s winning combination for contemporary cuisine. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$ GOOD GRAVY DINER Hefty, heavenly portions of roast beef or chicken fried steak, tasty sandwiches and burgers, a constellation of breakfast options… and a whole slew of specialty gravies to top them off. 8014 N Western, OKC, 842.6200 $ INTERURBAN CLASSIC GRILL It’s a simple concept: serve good food at a reasonable price in comfortable, casual surroundings. Favorites like chicken-fried steak are always on the menu, but there are plenty of options for the healthconscious as well. 4 metro locations, interurban.us $$

feature prime meats like chicken, bison and duck, topped off with tantalizing and unexpected flavor profiles. 1400 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.3647 $

lunch and dinner menu: baked manchego, lobster sliders and many more. 4322 N Western, OKC, 604.4650 $

NEBU You shouldn’t have any trouble finding this airy, accommodating provider of chef-prepared sandwiches, sushi, pizza and more – it’s in the garden wing of the colossal Devon tower. 280 W Sheridan, OKC $

ASIAN

PICASSO CAFÉ Its neighbors are painters, potters and sculptors, so it’s no surprise its management strives to make their cuisine a work of art. Creative arrangements of pizza, sandwiches, salads and surprises abound. 3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $ POPS A little out of the way but undeniably worth going the extra mile, the Good Egg Group’s roadside café has burgers, salads, shakes and the irresistible draw of an unbelievably broad soda selection. 660 W Highway 66, Arcadia, 233.2020 $ BASEMENT, THE Local ingredients in signature made-from-scratch dishes, including Whoopie Pies – plus the entertainment of RedPin Bowling Lounge under the very same roof. 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 602.0111 $ REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, Southwestern enchiladas, pork chops and steak by the lake served expertly in a casual, energetic, hacienda-style atmosphere of stone walls and mahogany beams around an open kitchen. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995 $$ SATURN GRILL A star of the lunchtime stage, its surprising daily specials and inspired, tasty twists on ordinary sandwiches, salads and pizza keep it crowded on weekdays. Fortunately, the line moves quickly and calling ahead is encouraged. 4401 W Memorial, OKC 463.5594; 6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114; 1012 N Walker, OKC, 606.8182 $ SHARTEL CAFÉ Diverse diner-style classics – bacon cheeseburgers, pancakes, reubens, bakery goodies, etc. – done with panache and further improved by airy, comfortable surroundings and friendly service. 5116 N Shartel, OKC, 843.0900; 201 Robert S. Kerr, LL 140, OKC, 601.8024 $

JIMMY’S EGG Although it’s open for lunch as well, Jimmy’s Egg is a breakfast favorite with endless omelette possibilities, friendly service and freshbaked breads and biscuits. 11 metro locations, jimmysegg.com $

SYRUP The most important meal of the day is also the most enticing at this unique breakfast boutique serving a heaping helping of signature dishes (the crunchy French toast is something special) and Stumptown coffee. 123 E Main, Norman, 701.1143 $

KAISER’S AMERICAN BISTRO Founded in 1918 and serving contemporary classics like a top-notch buffalo burger, Kaiser’s boasts a great view… if you can tear your attention away from the ice cream & soda fountain. 1039 N Walker, OKC, 232.7632 $

TOBY KEITH’S I LOVE THIS BAR & GRILL He does, you know. Deep in the heart of Bricktown, this venue hosts frequent live music performances and features a homestyle menu, memorabilia and drinks served in Mason jars. 310 Johnny Bench, OKC, 231.0254 $$

LEGEND’S A Lindsey Street landmark for over 40 years, this casually upscale, three-diamond AAA restaurant still serves exceptional seafood, steaks and more down-to-earth fare amid welcoming surroundings. 1313 W Lindsey, Norman, 329.8888 $$

VAST Keeping your attention on the steaks, seafood and other globally inspired American cuisine might be surprisingly difficult: the view is truly unparalleled in Oklahoma. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$

MUTT’S AMAZING HOT DOGS Now this is a hot dog – Mutt’s inspired creations

WILL’S/THE LOBBY BAR Coffee vendor by day, bar by night, it features an unexpected and wonderfully inviting

180 MERIDIAN GRILL Intended to unite east and west through blending the essence of Asian cuisine with culture, its intriguing menu spans sirloin with teriyaki butter, hoisin barbecue duck pizza and ample sushi options. 2541 W Main, Norman, 310.6110 $$ BLUE MOON CHINESE RESTAURANT Chinese cravings may come much more often after experiencing the spectacular amount of sweet, sour and savory tastes from this student-friendly eatery. 1320 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.3871 $ FOODIES There are other, more decoratively soigné places to meet for atmosphere; for Asian fusion in big servings with tremendous flavor, drive by this friendly little diner. 1220 N Hudson, OKC, 235.1111 $ GRAND HOUSE A number of Chinese restaurants concentrate on their cooking to the exclusion of any other aspect of dining – Grand House is the happy exception that goes the extra mile to provide enjoyable ambiance alongside its excellent cuisine. 2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$ O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in a cool, vibrant environment. Call ahead; it becomes a packed house in a hurry. 105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$ SAII ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR With a dark, rich ambiance that elevates it over its surroundings, Saii serves expertly prepared Japanese, Thai and Chinese dishes plus an extensive and adventurous sushi menu. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$

BAKERY AMY CAKES Imaginative cakes and cupcakes to make any special occasion a bit more memorable – and it’s a onewoman show. By appointment only. 113 Hal Muldrow, Norman, 360.1131 $ BROWN’S BAKERY An incredible selection of delicious traditional and specialty cakes, cookies, breads and other baked goods. 1100 N Walker, OKC, 232.0363 $ CRIMSON AND WHIPPED CREAM With a cheery Campus Corner vibe and the operators’ celebratory approach to food and life, it’s a terribly tempting spot for cookies, cupcakes, tea and dynamite coffee. 331 White, Norman, 307.8990 $ GIGI’S CUPCAKES Brace yourself – each Gigi’s location is home to a dozen different cupcake temptations in inspired flavors that rotate daily, and it’s surprisingly difficult to choose merely one. 1636 24th Ave NW, Norman, 801.2525; 14101 N May, OKC, 286.6200 $ GREEN GOODIES BY TIFFANY Specialty organic cupcakes for all – even those

adhering to vegetarian and vegan diets or coping with food allergies or other dietary concerns can enjoy these high quality, flavorful treats. 5840 N Classen Blvd, Suite 5, OKC, 842.2288 $ KITCHEN NO. 324 The venerable Braniff Building on the SandRidge campus downtown hosts this seasonally inspired café, coffee curator and craft bakery serving rustic American cuisine.

Aroma alone summons crowds. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $ LA BAGUETTE BAKERY & CAFÉ A spacious, comfortable seating area combined with the exquisite baking mastery that is the brand’s trademark makes this a tres chic, and very popular, destination for brunch and beyond. 1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 924 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $ MCLAREN’S PANTRY For over 25 years, this independent bakery with a tempting sandwich selection has been a welcoming environment to enjoy a bite and connect with friends. 3414 S Boulevard, Edmond, 348.2336 $ NONNA’S BAKERY Family recipes are the foundation of these unbelievably scrumptious treats – walk in and pick or call ahead and special order cream pies, decadent cakes and much more. 1 Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410 $ NOTHING BUNDT CAKES Luscious flavors of rich, moist cake and frosting, available in bite-sized bundtinis packaged by the dozen; single-serving bundlets; or multi-tiered marvels that sate over two dozen dessert connoisseurs. 2520 W Memorial, Suite B, OKC, 751.8066 $ PANERA BREAD The breads are fresh, the sandwich and salad options ample

and the atmosphere welcoming, thanks in part to the tasty baked goods and free wi-fi access. 9 metro locations, panerabread.com $ PINKITZEL CUPCAKES & CANDY Sweetness reigns supreme in this local confectionary creation – gourmet cupcakes that are baked fresh daily, a substantial candy boutique and gift shop and cafe seating to enjoy it all with coffee, tea, hot chocolate and more. 1389 E 15th , Edmond, 330.4500; 150 E.K. Gaylord, OKC, 235.7465 $ PRAIRIE THUNDER BAKING CO. In this house of carbs, the bread baked on-site is the star of the show: on its own to take home, repurposed into breakfast pastries and desserts or accompanying the deli sandwiches and soups in the cafe. 1114 N Classen Dr, OKC, 602.2922 $ SARA SARA CUPCAKES Located in a charming little converted house, the ambiance and milk bar make great atmospheric additions to the varied menu of specialty cupcakes – selections range from traditional chocolate to blueberry honey and even bacon, egg and cheese. 7 NW 9 th , OKC, 600.9494 $ SUGAR Got a special event on the radar? Customized cakes and cupcakes with incredible artistry and imagination as a key ingredient are Sugar’s specialties – call for a consultation. 6900 N Western, OKC, 286.0058 $$$ SWEETS & SPURS Specializing in gourmet cupcakes, mini-pies, handdipped chocolates and cowboy boots… not pastries; actual footwear. Yee-ha!

215 34th Ave SW, Norman, 801.2555 $

BAR // PUB FOOD 51ST STREET SPEAKEASY A converted house with a perpetually packed porch and patio, the joint jumps with energy and the top-shelf spirits and beers flow with abandon. 1114 NW 51st, OKC, 463.0470 $ ABNER’S ALE HOUSE Beers and whiskies of the best, plus knockout renditions of accompanying dishes, with the aim of re-creating the true English public house vibe. 121 E Main, Norman, 928.5801 $$ BELLE ISLE RESTAURANT & BREWERY Live music, handcrafted beers and a great burger selection fill this bustling bar in the landmark 50 Penn Place. 1900 NW Expressway, OKC, 840.1911 $ BLU FINE WINE & FOOD A popular bar option among OU students and Normanites, blu stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range – try the hummus. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$ BRICKTOWN BREWERY Only here for the beer? Not so fast – an amped-up menu of temptations demands a sampling at lunch or dinner… or both. 1 N Oklahoma, OKC, 232.2739 $$ BRIX RESTAURANT & SPORTS LOUNGE More than 30 flatscreens fill the enormous, plush lounge, restaurant and bar area, and the amenities include the Sunday NFL Ticket and NBA League Pass. If the game’s on, it’s on at BRiX. 27 E Sheridan, OKC, 702.7226 $$ CLUB ONE15 The nightclub vibe is in full effect with energetic music and three bars, though the robust menu including fajitas, pasta bowls and seafood is quite

a draw of its own. 115 E Sheridan, OKC, 605.5783 $$ DAN O’BRIEN’S PUBLIC HOUSE With a party atmosphere and rocking live shows, it’s more a group bar than a casual restaurant; though the full menu and mighty burgers should universally satisfy.

2747 W Memorial, OKC, 752.4486 $ DEEP DEUCE GRILL The funky, comfortably run-down vibe of its namesake district lingers in this alternative to Bricktown crowds featuring burgers, beer and a people-watching patio. 307 NE 2nd, OKC, 235.9100 $ FOX & HOUND PUB & GRILLE Considering the pool, darts, frequent live music and perpetual celebratory vibe, it might be hard to concentrate on the varied menu… but at least try the fresh-baked pretzels.

3031 W Memorial, OKC, 751.7243 $ JAMES E. MCNELLIE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Designed to bring Ireland’s pub culture to our city, this Midtown hotspot features 350 varieties of beer, including difficultto-find options from all over the world.

1100 Classen Dr, OKC, 601.7468 $$ LIBRARY BAR & GRILL, THE Despite the name and its location directly adjacent to the OU campus, this low-light hangout spot won’t help you study… unless you’re doing independent research on local beers and excellent pizza. 607 W Boyd, Norman, 366.7465 $ LIBRARY OF FOOD & SPIRITS, THE A cozy, welcoming place to receive a friendly greeting and curl up with a good book-themed entrée, fresh salad and soup, monstrous burger or vegetarian fare – plus a commodious collocation of beverages. 119 N Robinson, LL, OKC, 235.8880 $

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 103

FARE | Eat & Drink

MONT, THE Though frequented by many purely for its primo patio and Sooner Swirls from the bar, the Norman landmark also boasts a tempting suite of pub food with a zing of Southwestern flavor. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $ O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies alike, this OU Campus Corner landmark has been serving up burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $ PURPLE BAR, THE Inviting and intimate; an ideal place for celebratory martinis to close out the workweek or a quiet nightcap with dessert from Nonna’s bakery. 1 Mickey Mantle (in Nonna’s), OKC, 235.4410 $ REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Dedicated to bridging the gap between beer bar and upscale eatery, this contemporary public house in Classen Curve pairs a vast selection of quality brews with imaginative menu items designed to complement one another. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577 $$ SAINTS An inviting Irish bar nestled in the Plaza District, its whiskey and beer selection dovetails nicely with classic dishes like shepherd’s pie, bangers and fish and chips. 1715 NW 16th, OKC, 602.6308 $$ SEAN CUMMINGS’ IRISH RESTAURANT & PUB Classic Irish fare (lamb stew, bangers and mash, even beef or salmon boxtys) mixed with favorites and delivered with engaging and gracious service. Plus, naturally, there’s Guinness on tap. 7523 N May, OKC, 755.2622 $$ SOONER LEGENDS Sandwiches and salads, outstanding barbecue, steaks, even Mexican and Italian specialties made to order in a loudly, proudly crimson and cream atmosphere. Great hangout for OU fans. 1200 24th Ave SW, Norman, 701.8100 $ TAPWERKS ALE HOUSE & CAFÉ The staff will gladly serve burgers, wraps, pizzas and other entrees, but most of the crowd – and it gets crowded – is here to sample from the 212 (yes, really) beers on tap. 121 E Sheridan, OKC, 310.9599 $$ VZD’S RESTAURANT & CLUB Live music is a staple on weekends, but the unusually broad, tasty bar menu draws a substantial lunch crowd as well. Try the turkey burger, the chili or both. 4200 N Western, OKC, 524.4203 $

BARBECUE BILLY SIMS BBQ Even Cowboy or Longhorn fans will find serious taste to enjoy, but the memorabilia isn’t exactly in short supply in these tailgate-style chowhouses owned by the namesake Sooner star. 4 metro locations, billysimsbbq.com $ EARL’S RIB PALACE Beloved by locals in a setting far from starved for competition, the award-winning barbecue chain pounds out hit ribs, pulled pork and smoked turkey as well as a top-tier burger. 6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STARR URBAN BARBEQUE Named for notorious outlaw Belle Starr, Iron Starr specializes in “a unique and tasty spin on comfort food.” The entrees are excellent, but the sides are equal players here as well.

3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$

104 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

LEO’S BAR-B-Q Dense, rich flavor and tender texture through and through, delivered in genuine unpolished style for commendable value – no wonder it’s a recurring favorite among OK connoisseurs.

3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367; 7 Harrison, OKC 236.5367 $

FIRST EDITION, THE A café inside the Downtown Library would be worth it merely for the convenience, so it’s a welcome bonus that the sandwiches, pizza and panini practically warrant a trip all on their own. 300 Park, OKC, 605.8347 $

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE & BAR-B-Q It’s hard to get more casual than a set of picnic benches inside a gas station, where food comes on cafeteria trays with plastic utensils and paper towels... but as the lines attest, the brisket and other barbecue staples speak for themselves. 3450 Chautauqua, Norman, 307.0552 $$

FLATIRE BURGERS Beloved by (and generally crowded with) UCO students, this bravura burger joint excels at innovative additions to the classic patty and bun, like sauerkraut, carrots, pineapple relish and habanero salsa.

100 N University Dr (at UCO), Edmond, 974.4638; 6315 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany, 603.2822 $

STEVE’S RIB A longtime Edmond favorite, its flavorful brisket, fried okra and more are the same but diners can choose their milieu: a seated restaurant in Edmond or a stand-up counter in NW OKC. 1801 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 340.7427; 7202 W Hefner, OKC, 728.9555 $ VAN’S PIG STAND A scion of Oklahoma’s oldest family-owned and -operated barbecue restaurant (open since 1935 in Shawnee), it does well with the basics and really rocks at ribs. 320 N Porter, Norman, 364.0600 $

BURGERS // SANDWICHES ABRAHAM’S WESTERN CAFÉ Follow your nose – the onion burgers coming off Abraham’s grill draw lunch crowds with effortless ease. 4716 N Western, OKC, 528.5152 $ BISON WITCHES BAR & DELI The monster sandwiches are loaded with standout flavors, but the best way to enjoy them is in halves, accompanied by a bread bowl of fresh hot soup and a bag of pretzels. 211 E Main, Norman, 364.7555 $ BROWN BAG DELI Quick-as-a-wink sandwiches, desserts and killer chili.

Limited seating; takeout recommended.

7600 N Western, OKC, 842.1444 $ BUNNY’S OLD FASHIONED ONION BURGERS Small space; big taste. The namesake creations are fresh, lean beef grilled to perfection and served in “big” and “bigger” versions. 5020 N Meridian, OKC, 949.2889; 1023 S Meridian, OKC, 949.2949 $ CAFÉ PLAID & BAKERY Fresh sandwiches begging to be combined with a sensational selection of salads (veggie, tuna, pasta…) make it an ideal spot for lunch when you’re near OU. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 360.2233 $ CHARCOAL OVEN The smoke-filled flavor of a backyard cookout without having to fire up your own grill – get ’em while they’re hot! 2701 NW Expressway, OKC, 842.8911 $ CITY BITES Get in, get a full-flavored hot or cold sub on your choice of fresh bread, or soup and a baked potato, get some cookies for the road, get on with your day.

The plethora of metro locations means you’re never far from a tastier day. 18 metro locations, citybites.com $ CLASSIC ’50S DRIVE-IN A locally owned drive-in that just gets the concept right.

Burgers and shakes, fried pickles and slushes, breakfast items… the waves of students during peak hours are proof that familiarity breeds devotion. 1521 W Lindsey, Norman, 321.2271 $

GARAGE BURGERS & BEER, THE It gets noisy in the low-lit sports bar atmosphere, but even if your focus isn’t on a televised game, conversation would probably revolve around the huge, juicy burgers and fries – both available in several tempting flavor possibilities – anyway. 307 E Main, Norman, 701.7035; 601 S Bryant Ave, Edmond, 341.5801 $ HOME RUN SLIDERS A tasty array of sliders, from your basic “Rookie” to prime rib, is served in an atmosphere that pays tribute to the national pastime. And don’t miss the ode to the condiment: Oklahoma’s largest ketchup bar. 128 E 5th, Edmond, 513.5410 $

metro’s best, and mounds of fresh fries make this hole-in-the-wall diner pure paradise. 1202 N Pennsylvania, OKC, 524.0999 $ PATTY WAGON Building these burger behemoths involves ingredients like fresh, toasted buns and add-ons like thick, crisp fries, but it all comes back to a foundation of outstanding local farm-raised beef.

3600 N May, OKC, 917.1711 $ RED HORSE GRILL A prime lunch spot thanks to its speedy but cooked-to-order menu, the onion burgers, shakes, malts and frozen custard have devoted local followings, as does the Friday Fish Fry special. 2205 W Main, Norman, 360.3287 $ S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these burgers’ exquisite flavor combinations – including such showcase ingredients as peanut butter or a coffee crust – come in slider form as well, the better to sample more selections. 20 NW 9 th, OKC, 270.0516; 5929 N May, OKC, 843.8777; 7745 S Walker, OKC, 631.0983 $ SERVICE STATION Once a filling station, the building still has vintage décor and is home to Bentleys, Packards and dipsticks, but now they’re the names of its delicious half-pound burgers and fries. 502 S Webster, Norman, 364.2136 $

IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Hand-cut fries, hand-breaded onions rings and simply great burgers. Try the No-Name Ranch burger – lean and flavorful, thanks to a unique breed of cattle raised in Wynnewood using organic techniques.

1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Dr, OKC, 235.4762 $

SMASHBURGER Billing itself as a place with a burger soul, this savory hot spot provides 100 percent Angus beef in three sizes amid a panoply of tasty toppings and sides, plus similarly varied chicken sandwiches and salads. 2127 W Memorial, OKC, 418.8416; 7642 W Reno, OKC, 787.5700 $

JOHNNIE’S CHARCOAL BROILER Fresh-ground hamburgers cooked over real charcoal set Johnnie’s apart. Try the incredibly popular Cheese Theta or Caesar burgers, and don’t forget a side of their outstanding onion rings. 4 metro locations, johnniesok.com $

SOMEPLACE ELSE DELI Simple, straightforward hot and cold sandwiches made especially superb by virtue of fresh breads, speedy service, low price tags and the option of adding on an array of exceptional baked goods. 2310 N Western, OKC, 524.0887 $

KAMP’S 1910 CAFÉ The Kamp family is well-known in the Oklahoma food scene, and their 1910 Café builds on that history with first-rate breakfast and lunch, bakery items and full coffee shop on site.

10 NE 10th, OKC, 230.1910 $

SOONER DAIRY LUNCH The menu’s masthead, “Serving Norman since 1954,” should serve as a fairly strong recommendation all by itself – this modest little drive-in has been cheerfully feeding its staunch fans burgers, fries, tots and shakes for six decades and counting. 1820 W Main, Norman, 321.8526 $

LOUIE’S GRILL & BAR Casually cool and come-as-you-are, these popular neighborhood bar-type hangouts excel at inexpensive burgers, sandwiches and pizzas. 12 metro locations, louiesgrillandbar.com $ LOUIE’S ON THE LAKE An unbeatable view of scenic Lake Hefner from the patio adds to the ambiance of this classic eatery, which features a tasty spate of entrees under $10. 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 751.2298 $ MULE, THE Solid beer and beverage selection plus a delectable array of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and melts (ingredients range from fontina to figs) fill the menu at this relaxation destination in the Plaza District. 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $ ND FOODS Gigantic deli sandwiches featuring Boar’s Head meats, homemade soups in a variety of intriguing flavors and a selection of freshly baked cookies, pies and other desserts. Step right up! 2632 W Britton, OKC, 840.9364 $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded, it’s cash-only… and it’s incredible. The colossal burgers, easily among the

TEXADELPHIA Popular hang-out spots inside and out due to the numerous flatscreen TVs and patio seating. The menu draws raves for burgers and wraps, but especially the monstrous made-toorder cheesesteaks. 1150 W Lindsey, Norman, 701.5635; 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 208.4000 $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS With one burger (and variants), one side dish (fries), one salad and beverages, the menu is easy to remember. With this level of bravura execution, the meal is hard to forget. 324 NW 23rd, OKC, 609.2333; 5740 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.3331 $

COFFEEHOUSE // TEA ROOM ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and more adventurous concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in a bright, bustling atmosphere that still has room for quieter lingering. 3272 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.9959 $

BOOK YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY RESERVATIONS NOW!

BEANS & LEAVES Comfy and welcoming like a coffeehouse should be, the large menu of brewed temptations simply rocks.

4015 N Pennsylvania, OKC, 604.4700 $ BEATNIX CAFÉ, THE While it’s certainly possible to get a sandwich, cup of hearty soup or powerhouse latte to go, doing so would mean missing out on the lovely laid-back vibe that pervades this stressless dawdling spot. 136 NW 13th, OKC, 604.0211 $ BLUE BEAN COFFEE CO. Excellent coffee, even better service and a particular knack for formulating a perfect balance within creatively flavored specials. 13316 S Western, OKC, 735.5115 $ CAFÉ EVOKE Outstanding coffee drinks and other beverages from one of the area’s great caterers; if patrons wish to stick around for soup, sandwiches, snacks or sweets, so much the better. 103 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.1522 $

espresso-powered smoothie). 1101 NW 49th, OKC, 752.0038 $

CONTINENTAL BLACKBIRD A Campus Corner gastropub pairing delectably creative food – pot roast nachos! – with an expansive beer, wine and whiskey list. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$

CAFÉ NOVA Lunch, dinner and late at night, the simple but innovative fare and hopping bar in this Western Avenue spot aim to please hipsters, families and white- and blue-collar joes and josephines. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $$

COWGIRL COFFEE Patrons can’t linger and loiter and soak up the atmosphere – because there isn’t any; it’s a tiny to-go shack in a parking lot – but that’s about the only downside to this sweet spot for baked goods and specialty beverages. 121 E Waterloo, Edmond, 341.5060 $

CHEEVER’S Dress up or down for the Southwestern-influenced recipes and love of seafood that drive the contemporary comfort food found in this converted florist’s; truly one of the city’s finest destinations for dining out. 2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$

CUPPIES & JOE The name’s not really a misnomer, but if it listed all their features it’d be too long. For cupcakes and coffee and pie and live music and a cozy, trendy vibe and more, park around back and take a peek. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $

CHEFS DI DOMANI A proving ground of sorts for the chefs-in-training at Platt College’s culinary institute, this restaurant offers the opportunity to watch the students in action and enjoy their internationally influenced work.

2727 W Memorial, OKC, 749.2423 $$

MICHELANGELO’S COFFEE SHOP & WINE BAR Enjoy exceptional coffees, a wellstocked pastry case with chocolates and sweets, a surprisingly robust wine catalog and even breakfast and lunch selections.

207 E Main, Norman, 579.3387 $ PARAMOUNT, THE A Film Row joint with a screening room attached, it serves a few options for breakfast and lunch and snacks to go with its movies, but it’s the all-day beverage menu that delivers the stuff dreams are made of. 701 W Sheridan, OKC, 517.0787 $ RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle surroundings encourage curling up for conversation over spectacular PrimaCafe coffee, baked treats, vegetarian-friendly breakfast and lunch specials and live music. Highly recommended! 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $ T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE Proving that an establishment’s focus can be narrow and broad simultaneously, this endearing retreat doesn’t do coffee or sandwiches, but does offer over 100 varieties of tea and expert counsel to explore a world of possibilities. 7518 N May, OKC, 418.4333 $ VINTAGE TIMELESS COFFEE A locally owned and lauded beverage bistro with plenty of sweet flavor combinations, treats from Brown’s Bakery and innovations like the smooffee (an

AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES/RECEPTIONS

BOLERO A unique experience provided by coupling delicious tapas with the perfect Spanish wine from a signature selection, in an elegant, open-air atmosphere. 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 602.0652 $$

COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe thanks to its Automobile Alley location, this has become a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts, especially during the monthly educational sampling seminars called “cuppings.” 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $

ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - the passionate staffers are always eager to share knowledge about the process augmented with locally sourced treats, including a variety of crepes on weekends.

815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $

16 S. Broadway Downtown Edmond 405.285.5333 vindolcewinebar.com

BIN 73 WINE BAR Diners can fill up on filet mignon or simply top the evening off with tapas while enjoying the full bar and chic ambience. 7312 N Western, OKC, 843.0073 $$

The Sooner Theatre Presents Murder Mystery 2013

A

Killer ler Reunion KilFebruary 14, 15 & 16 At Old Town Plaza

A musical, murderously funny fundraising dinner and show benefiting the programs and productions of The Sooner Theatre of Norman, Inc. Tickets: $75 per person Tables of eight: $600 Dinner Generously Provided by:

All proceeds benefit The Sooner Theatre of Norman, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit institution providing cultural, entertainment and educational opportunities for the communities while preserving the theatre’s historic integrity and character.

101 E. Main St. • Downtown Norman • (405) 321-9600 • www.soonertheatre.com

COACH HOUSE, THE Definitively among the metro’s most refined, elegant, upscale dining experiences, the rotating menu of seasonal cuisine highlights regional specialties prepared with classical perfection by master chef Kurt Fleischfresser. 6437 Avondale, OKC, 842.1000 $$$ HEFNER GRILL Hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood are served by courteous staff in conjunction with one of the best views in the city. 9201 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 748.6113 $$ LOTTINVILLE’S WOOD GRILLE Rotisserie chicken and wood-grilled salmon are the featured players among a host of Southwestern-influenced entrees, salads and panini; the Sunday brunch is epic. 801 Signal Ridge, Edmond, 341.2244 $$ MANTEL WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE Marvelous steaks, seafood and other specialties (don’t miss the lobster bisque), combined with a refined, intimate atmosphere and outstanding service, make a truly memorable meal. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$

Call for Free Estimates!

HERITAGE since 1985 RENOVATIONS

MELTING POT, THE If the occasion is special, here’s where to make a meal into an event. Specializing in four-course fondue dinners, this elegant restaurant rewards time investments with delectable memories. 4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$

Kitchen Remodels • Bathroom Remodels Custom Cabinets • Theater Rooms • Outdoor Kitchens Complimentary Design Service • Room Additions

METRO WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE A perennial favorite that feels comfortably upscale without exerting pressure to impress on its clientele, the far-reaching

www.heritagerenovations.net

887.4121 or 974.1174

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 105

FARE | Eat & Drink

menu covers culinary high points from vichyssoise to crème brulée. 6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$

FRENCH

MICHAEL’S GRILL Thoroughly urbane dining in an elegant, intimate setting – the steaks, chops, seafood and pastas are excellent, and the Caesar salad prepared tableside is legendary. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$

LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Brothers Alain and Michel Buthion have firm roots in the city’s culinary landscape, and La Baguette combines fine dining (linger over multiple courses whenever possible) with an exceptional bakery, deli and butcher shop on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$

MUSEUM CAFÉ, THE A setting as inspiring as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art warrants something special in terms of cuisine… et puis voila. Ethereally light or delectably robust, this European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$ NIKKELLETTE’S CAFÉ A selection of fresh salads and tasty sandwiches on homemade bread, served in a distinctive atmosphere: how many other cafes have tableside chandeliers? 2925 Lakeside Cir, OKC, 755.3560 $ NONNA’S EURO-AMERICAN RISTORANTE & BAR A cozily appointed, thoroughly opulent atmosphere housing distinctive cuisine, specialty drinks and live music in The Purple Bar and fresh-baked goodies to top off a grand evening. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $$$ PARK AVENUE GRILL A one-of-a-kind dining experience inside the luxurious Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak and seafood cuisine with the high style of its original 1930s setting. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$ PASEO GRILL Quiet and intimate inside, cheerful and comfortable out on the patio, with an award-winning menu full of distinctive flavor combinations – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ ROCOCO RESTAURANT & FINE WINE An “east coast-style” restaurant, built around a diverse menu of hand-crafted international dishes from Penne Bolognese to Petrale Sole, set off by carefully selected wine and exceptional service.

12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Pennsylvania, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 A Campus Corner hotspot boasting sleek, swank décor, an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch and a consistently celebratory vibe make this winning combination. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$

WHISPERING PINES B&B A secluded getaway on the south end of Norman, this inn houses a treasure of a restaurant serving sumptuous, savory Frenchinspired cuisine in quiet comfort with firstclass service. 7820 E Highway 9, Norman, 447.0202 $$$

GERMAN INGRID’S Authentic German fare at its best, including outstanding Oklahomamade bratwurst. Join the Saturday regulars for breakfast and try the apple French toast, and no one can resist Ingrid’s bakery counter. 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444 $$ OLD GERMANY RESTAURANT Justly renowned for its Bavarian delights – the schnitzels, soups and cevapcici sausages are spectacular. Reservations strongly recommended; it’s a small place and dinner’s already a lengthy process without waiting in line. 15920 SE 29th, Choctaw, 390.8647 $$$ ROYAL BAVARIA Excellent renditions of traditional dishes like Wienerschnitzel, Jagerbraten and a variety of sausages, plus fantastisch house-brewed beers, make the time consumed a worthy investment. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$

HEALTHY // ECLECTIC COOLGREENS This health-conscious establishment has a menu, but customization is encouraged; every available component in their salads, wraps and frozen yogurt is naturally delicious. 4 metro locations, coolgreens.com $$ EARTH NATURAL CAFÉ & DELI, THE Super, super fresh sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods in one of the most vegetarianand vegan-friendly menus you’ll ever see, plus organic fair-trade coffee and tea. 750 Asp, Norman, 573.5933 $

SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; magnificent culinary rewards. Chef Clay Falkner’s expertly considered menu mixes French and Italian techniques, presenting a wide spectrum of amazing flavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$

GREEN & GRILLED Steak, chicken, pork, veal or tofu grilled to order and served with fresh salads and sides, resulting in a balanced, filling, extremely tasty green meal for only a little green. 8547 N Rockwell, OKC, 563.2605 $

TASTING ROOM, THE Located in Will Rogers Theatre, this intimate space is a culinary stage for expert chefs to dazzle small groups. 4322 N Western, OKC, 604.3015 $$$

HEALTH NUT CAFÉ Fast food that’s also fresh and nutritious in the form of salads, wraps, melts, smoothies and more. Eat healthy, live happy! 333 NW 5th, Suite 104, OKC, 601.1444; 920 N Lincoln, OKC, 239.2233 $

VIN DOLCE Primarily a venue for the endless, joyous pursuit of discovering the perfect glass of wine, downtown Edmond’s hot spot also serves gourmet tapas and homemade sweets. 16 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.5333 $$ WEST The staff is speedy, the décor sleek and modern, and the entrées – like bucatini with meatballs or roasted salmon and ratatouille – are wide-ranging but elegantly simple. 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072 $$

106 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

LOCAL Utilizing some of the finest, freshest regionally sourced ingredients available to fuel chef Ryan Parrott’s creative cuisine, its menu changes seasonally but its welcoming full-family atmosphere is constant. 2262 W Main, Norman, 928.5600 $$ LUDIVINE The experience is never the same on successive visits, because the menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally

sourced ingredients. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$ MATTHEW KENNEY OKC Built with sustainability and raw cuisine preparation in mind, it’s a warm, modern setting in which to savor the unique and innovative menu crafted by the renowned raw food chef and author. 5820 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.1050 $$ PINK ELEPHANT CAFÉ On Main Street but off the beaten track, the green, health-conscious labor of local love has a small menu and constantly rotating daily specials to complement its earth-friendly vibe. 301 E Main, Norman, 307.8449 $

ICE CREAM // YOGURT

ITALIAN // PIZZA BELLINI’S RISTORANTE & GRILL Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. 6305 Waterford Blvd, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the splendid menu keeps the booths full and diners planning return trips; don’t overlook the Sunday brunch. 105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ CAFFE PRANZO The atmosphere raises first-time diners’ hopes; the execution exceeds them. Classic dishes, as well as less ubiquitous options that should be better known, are elevated to greatness.

9622 N May, OKC, 755.3577 $$

IL DOLCE GELATO Rich, creamy and decadently delicious, with two dozen flavors daily handmade from scratch on location; the cioccolato scuro is unbelievably sublime. 937 SW 25th St, Suite B, Moore, 794.7266; 1318 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 329.7744 $

FALCONE’S More than a pizza place, although the “by the slice” is terrific, it encourages experimentation via a deli counter of imported Italian meats, cheeses and delicacies. 6705 N May, OKC, 242.2222 $

ORANGE LEAF FROZEN YOGURT Dozens and dozens and dozens of decadenttasting, waistline-friendly flavors, topped however you like since you’re making it yourself. Just don’t try them all at once, since it’s charged by the ounce. 9 metro locations, orangeleafyogurt.com $

FLIP’S WINE BAR & TRATTORIA Managing to feel rustic despite its location in a busy corridor of OKC, this cozy Italian joint keeps extended hours, and tends to get busier and louder as the hour gets later. 5801 N Western, OKC, 843.1527 $$

PASSIONBERRI An oasis for the dessert lover whose sweet tooth is tempered by a healthy mindset, the menu includes self-serve frozen yogurt and toppings, tea and new passion sweet crepes. 1204 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 701.8898; 1236 E Alameda, Norman, 801.2233 $

GABERINO’S HOMESTYLE ITALIAN Finding a seat can be tricky - the handful of tables generally stay filled, possibly due to the powerful aromas, tender pasta and savory sauces that make up the family recipes the owners are happy to share. 283 34th Ave SW, Norman, 310.2229 $

PEACHWAVE YOGURT A full 50 flavors – every one low-fat or non-fat – conveyed to your taste buds via the finest, freshest ingredients in completely delicious customized combinations. 3 metro locations, peachwaveyogurt.com $

INDIAN AJANTA CUISINE OF INDIA Find appealing possibilities at the busy lunch buffet or delve into the menu’s tandoori treasures – the hardest part is choosing.

12215 N Pennsylvania, OKC, 752.5283 $$ GOPURAM – TASTE OF INDIA A fullservice Indian establishment whose richly appointed interior and attentive staff give the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentiful lunch buffet.

4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ KHAZANA INDIAN GRILL Don’t let the thought of a buffet throw you off this place. The food is superior and very fresh; the staff is delightful. New to Indian food?

Alert a server and you will be guided through the cuisine. 4900 N May, OKC, 948.6606 $$ MISAL OF INDIA BISTRO A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandoori-cooked delicacies and boasting healthy, natural, delicious cuisine, served amid splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ CUISINE OF INDIA A tremendous selection of Indian staples and delicacies – the menu has sections for vegetarian, tandoori, South Indian and Indo-Chinese specialties – plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$

GABRIELLA’S ITALIAN GRILL AND PIZZERIA A fresh chapter in the Giacomo family’s delectable legacy of success in Krebs, McAlester and South Padre; one bite of the chicken piccata or homemade Italian sausage should win diners’ hearts with ease. 1226 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.4955 $$ HIDEAWAY PIZZA If you’ve been serving pizza to a devoted following for over half a century, then you must be doing something right. In this case, that something right is incredible pizza in jovial surroundings. 7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA There’s really no need to be humble about pizza made the way a true Chicago pizzeria would make it. Take your choice of toppings and relish what is quite possibly the best crust known to man. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S PIZZERIA A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies. Can’t get enough?

Have your pizza, then have another for dessert; The Surfer Dude can pinch hit as entrée or dessert. 700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$ NOMAD II A classic old-school Italian restaurant (the pizza is especially popular) that also serves excellent steaks and fried chicken, and offers a slice of OKC history through its décor. 7301 N May, OKC, 843.4557 $$ OTHELLO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Garlic bread and mussels to tiramisu and coffee – everything you’d hope for from a romantic, comfortably shabby Italian

café. The adjoining bar regularly hosts live local music. 434 Buchanan, Norman, 701.4900 $$ OTHELLO’S OF EDMOND A sister restaurant to the original Othello’s in Norman, it offers a similarly welcoming atmosphere and menu, with its own spin courtesy of a historic location and customers’ culinary contributions. 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$ PAPA DIO’S Three generations of the Bonadio family offer an ample menu of new and classic dishes – Tuscan fusion, anyone? – in separate dining rooms for casual or more refined dining. 10712 N May, OKC, 755.2255 $$ SOPHABELLA’S CHICAGO GRILL A quiet, classy gem offering premier tastes from Chicago and beyond – the menu includes Coquilles St. Jacques alongside pepperoni rolls – in comfort and style. 7628 N May, OKC, 879.0100 $$$ SPAGHETTI WAREHOUSE, THE A family destination since 1989 and one of the initial harbingers of the Bricktown renaissance, it delivers immense servings of piping hot pasta and 15-layer lasagna with cheerful enthusiasm. 101 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.0402 $$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of modern Italian cuisine for a casual lunch, romantic dinner or brunch that’s a bit of both, framed by stylish surroundings. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ UPPER CRUST WOOD FIRED PIZZA A chic, contemporary restaurant in Classen Curve, this uptown pizzeria and wine bar specializes in woodfired, thin crust New York-style pies complemented by a full menu and wine list. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$

robust menu or tantalizing specials.

Go go check it out! 1611 S Service Rd, Moore, 794.3474; 432 NW 10th, OKC, 602.6333 $$ IN THE RAW DUNWELL SUSHI A chic, colorful, open-concept restaurant on the Bricktown canal offering excellent sushi, even more impressive specialty rolls and a wide assortment of sake. Try the bananas tempura for dessert. 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 702.1325 $$ MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry, thanks to the skilled chefs performing at tableside hibachi grills.

Nobody does the onion volcano better.

4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ PACHINKO PARLOR A uniquely Oklahoman spin on Eastern cuisine, featuring sushi rolls made with ingredients like fried chicken or chorizo sausage alongside more classic preparations of noodle and rice dishes. 1 NW 9 th, OKC, 601.8900 $$

SUSHI BAR, THE Sushi staples done with élan, as well as options starring more adventurous ingredients like sweet potato and jack cheese, in a bustling, comfortable environment. 1201 NW 178th, OKC, 285.7317 $$

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SUSHI HAYASHI Lovers of fresh, flavorful and sometimes fiery sushi, take your chopsticks to this southside scion of a California success story to experience their love of quality food and warm atmosphere. 10600 S Penn, OKC, 759.7788 $$ SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in the form of an especially wide-ranging and creative sushi menu). Flavor favors the bold! 4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$

VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff and management treat customers like guests in their home.

It’s a small space, so calling ahead is recommended. 7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$

TOKYO JAPANESE RESTAURANT It’s neither huge nor lavishly appointed, and the menu focuses more on traditional dishes than experimental flights of fancy; it is, however, palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$

JAPANESE // SUSHI

Betty Studier, R.N.

SHIKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT A boisterous, high-energy meal off the hibachi menu, or a quieter repast of reliably fresh, high-quality sushi – either way, diners win. 14041 N May, OKC, 751.8989; 4406 W Reno, OKC, 947.0400 $$

VICTORIA’S PASTA SHOP A shabbycomfortable atmosphere with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – the chicken lasagna and linguine with snow crab are especially excellent. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377 $

WEDGE, THE Wood-fired pizzas crafted from fresh ingredients and made-fromscratch sauces; there’s a build-yourown option if the house specialties’ unconventional toppings (figs, truffle oil, walnuts) don’t appeal. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$

Kent H. Webb, M.D., F.A.C.S.

MEDITERRANEAN AVANTI BAR & GRILL Gather around the hammered copper bar for the casual elegance of Italy and the Mediterranean with contemporary twists: crab falafel, bolognese pizza, osso bucco and more. 13509 Highland Park, OKC, 254.5200 $$

FULL MOON SUSHI Mango salsa, chive oil, crème fraiche, “cherry death sauce”… you won’t find fresh, marvelously creative combinations like these elsewhere. Expect to spend some time poring over the extensive menu, and definitely try the Devil’s Advocate.

326 E Main, Norman, 535.6548 $$

CAPERS There’s no menu per se; it’s more a case of deciding what delicacy you’re in the mood for – gyros, shawarma, fresh tabouleh, falafel, homemade Mediterranean-style pizzas, baklava – and then retrieving it from the massive buffet. 6317 N Meridian, OKC, 720.2600 $$

GOGO SUSHI The name reflects the restaurant’s attitude toward speed and convenience, but doesn’t mention the

COUS COUS CAFÉ Massive flavor comes packed into this small space; an impressive balancing act among the

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FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 107

FARE | Eat & Drink

payload of spices elevates the kabobs, shawarmas, tagines and other Moroccan hits. 6165 N May, OKC, 286.1533 $ LET’S DO GREEK A versatile menu of Mediterranean standards, with many flavors available in salads, pitas or arepas, distinguishes this family endeavor – and the curry chicken stew is exceptional. 180 W 15th, Edmond, 285.8898 $ MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI Selected groceries and a menu stocked with options from a simple Greek salad to eye-watering cabbage rolls; the food is authentic, quick and spectacular.

5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ NUNU’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ & MARKET The tangy, tantalizing, fresh and healthy flavors that characterize the cuisine of Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine and their neighbors, faithfully reproduced from generations-old recipes. 3131 W Memorial, OKC, 751.7000 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA Practically the definition of a hidden treasure, an excellently spiced, extremely veganfriendly menu of varied Ethiopian delights awaits the adventurous. Bring friends and be prepared to linger. 2308 N MacArthur, OKC, 606.8616 $$ ZORBA’S MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE For over 20 years, Zorba’s has satisfied appetites and pleased adventurous palates. Serving traditional and modern dishes from recipes passed down through generations, they proudly showcase the flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $

MEXICAN // LATIN AMERICAN

taco creations. 530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $ CAFÉ ANTIGUA Breakfast and lunch are both served until close, making it twice as hard for the midday diner to choose from the double lineup of intriguing Guatemalan specialties. 1903 N Classen, OKC, 602.8984 $ CAFÉ DO BRASIL OKC is a long way from Rio, but the supremely savory menu in this Midtown hot spot covers the distance in a mouthful. Even brunch is a spicy, inimitable treat. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$ CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant flavors from the zesty traditions of Guatemalan cooking. Lunch possibilities beckon, but it’s the breakfast (and brunch) specialties that truly dazzle.

3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $ CANTINA LAREDO A sophisticated take on traditional Mexican food, specializing in fresh fish specials and certified Angus beef dishes. 1901 NW Expressway (in Penn Square Mall), OKC, 840.1051 $$ CARNITAS MICHOACAN On beyond Tex-Mex! This walk-up taqueria-style destination serves specialties from its namesake southern Mexican state, including asada, pollo, cabeza and even lengua dishes. 306 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 341.0356 $ CHELINO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT How do you find some of the metro’s fastest, most frequented Tex-Mex? Look around – there’s probably a Chelino’s nearby. An Oklahoma flavor empire spanning from Norman to Edmond, its substantial menu includes a bevy of lunch specials. 11 metro locations, chelinosmexicanrestaurant.com $$

smooth homemade flan. The Pollo a La Brasa comes highly recommended.

10948 N May, OKC, 286.0407 $$

(Venezuelan tamales), finished with exquisite tres leches cake. 305 E Main, Norman, 701.8282 $$

JUAN DEL FUEGO Blueberry pancakes to beef quesadillas, this “Mexi Diner” in Redbud Plaza dishes up breakfast and lunch standards from both sides of the border for a devoted, and expanding, clientele. 223 34th Ave SW, Norman, 310.2030 $

YUCATAN TACO STAND Fast, fresh and often fiery Latin fusion cuisine like paella and tamales wrapped in banana leaves alongside signature nachos and taco combinations… plus a selection of over 75 100-percent-agave tequilas. 100 E California, Suite 110, OKC, 886.0413 $

LA CUEVA GRILL Homestyle Mexican just north of downtown OKC, the menu is an appealing mix of old and new dishes, and the breakfast burrito with egg and chorizo is not to be missed. 409 N Walker, OKC, 604.0523 $

ZARATE’S LATIN MEXICAN GRILL And now for something a trifle different: In addition to the familiar joys of enchiladas and chimichangas, the chef’s Peruvian heritage shines in South American dishes featuring plantains, yuca and imported spices. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$

LA LUNA MEXICAN CAFÉ Its cantinastyle atmosphere is undeniably festive, and only adds to the enjoyment of classic fajitas, enchiladas and bolder dishes like the carne ranchera. 409 W Reno, OKC, 235.9596 $$ MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN A festive atmosphere on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner sets off a menu loaded with hand-rolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and signature dishes. 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ MAMASITA’S A popular watering hole due to its spacious patio and prime location on the south side of Nichols Hills Plaza, it also offers a full menu – try the tortilla soup! 1121 NW 63rd, OKC, 848.0541 $ MAMAVECA MEXICAN RESTAURANT A tasty take on familiar Mexican favorites plus a rare treat for culinary explorers: the diverse delights of Peruvian cuisine, which incorporates the combined flavors of four continents. 2551 W Hemphill, Norman, 573.4003 $$

SEAFOOD BIG TUNA FISH JOINT, THE Large, fast and fresh, with a casual vibe, counter service and a menu filled with handbattered seafood flown in daily and a varied drink selection – a prime port of call in Brookhaven Village. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 928.5250 $$ FISH CITY GRILL Shrimp and grits, tilapia po boys, oysters on the half shell… anyone who secretly wishes Oklahoma had a coastline should feel right at home in this Spring Creek Village stopover. 1389 E 15th, Edmond, 348.2300 $$ JAZMO’Z BOURBON STREET CAFÉ Its upscale yet casual environment and Cajun and Creole-inspired selections provide a nice backdrop for both a night out in Bricktown and watching the big game at the bar with a bowl of gumbo. 100 E California, OKC, 232.6666 $$

CHUY’S If you’re just feeling a trifle peckish, you might have your hands full with this one – the portions are substantial, the Hatch chile-fueled flavors are strong and the vibe is playfully enthusiastic. 760 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 360.0881 $$

MARGARITA’S RESTAURANTE MEXICANO The menu offers comfortably familiar favorites, and the real draw is the exceptional execution: always fresh, never greasy, reliably delicious. 7800 N May, OKC, 848.8394 $$

DIEGO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT The proprietors’ personal investment (there’s a family tree on the menu) and pride in their Central Mexican culinary heritage fuel the marinades and specialty dishes in this charming little café. 1501 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.1700 $$

PEPE DELGADO’S Fast service, consistent quality and proximity to campus make Pepe’s a packed house during the lunch rush, as students and faculty keep coming back for more Mexican classics. 752 Asp, Norman, 321.6232 $

EL POLLO CHULO Chicken, steak and seafood options marinated in limes Spanish-style and grilled for healthy flavor make for a lean, inexpensive, savory meal. 5805 NW 50th, OKC, 792.2300 $

PURPLE BURRO Casual and lighthearted (if you couldn’t guess from the name), it specializes in New Mexican cuisine fueled by the heat of green chiles in classics like chicken enchiladas and chile verde stew.

231 S Coltrane, Edmond, 359.8400 $$

FUZZY’S TACO SHOP At home in high-traffic areas because it helps create crowds, Fuzzy’s dishes up jumbo burritos and big, flavorful salads – and, with special serious emphasis, shrimp tacos – quickly and in plenitude. 752 Asp, Norman, 701.1000; 208 Johnny Bench, OKC, 602.3899 $

TARAHUMARA’S CAFÉ & CANTINA Beloved by locals (there’s usually a line but it moves quickly), this airy, unassuming ristorante serves huge, tasty portions of Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like carnitas de puerco and mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$

ALVARADO’S MEXICAN Options abound – from creamy, dreamy chicken tortilla soup to sopapillas with brandy butter sauce made to order – for a Mexican feast leaving customers full and fully satisfied. 1000 E 2nd, Edmond, 359.8860 $$

IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Whether “down by the railroad tracks” or returning to its roots in Nichols Hills Plaza, Iguana offers unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices, including awesome deals on Iguana Tuesdays. 9 NW 9 th, OKC, 606.7172; 6482 Avondale, OKC, 607.8193 $$

TED’S CAFÉ ESCONDIDO The gold standard of OKC-area Tex-Mex: residents may prefer another eatery, but when they attempt to make converts, Ted’s is the point of comparison. Fast, fresh and amply portioned, it’s often very crowded and always supremely delicious. 4 metro locations, tedscafe.com $$

CAJUN KING The buffet filled with étoufée, jambalaya, collard greens, candied yams and red beans and rice could satisfy even the most rapacious palates, and the fresh fried catfish and beignets are purely regal. 5816 NW 63rd, OKC, 603.3714; 700 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 928.5050 $$

BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s nearly always standing room only at lunch, but don’t let that stop you – shove an elbow in at the counter and enjoy fast, fresh, imaginative

INCA TRAIL Maintaining a cultural culinary heritage that includes flavors from around the world results in great variety, from piquant ceviches to silky-

TRE’S TAQUERIA Y CANTINA A trio of cuisines – Spanish, New Mexican and South American – provide distinctive flavors for diners in selections ranging from daily tapas specials to hallacas

MAMA E’S WINGS & WAFFLES Now with two locations after a star turn on The Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” this labor of love is adored by locals looking for classic Southern dishes flavored

1492 1492 offers authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, a fusion decor with an open bar, possibly the best mojitos in the universe and a romantic setting. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$ ABEL’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT Tex-Mex necessities like enchiladas and tacos are plentiful, while authentic flavor really shines in steak and pork specialties. Bonus points for the Huevos Chorizo. 5822 NW 50th, OKC, 491.0911; 6901 S May, OKC, 686.7160 $ ABUELO’S MEXICAN FOOD EMBASSY In a word: huge. The restaurant itself, the variety, the plates, the flavors, the experience. No passport required. 17 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1422; 3001 W Memorial, OKC, 755.2680 $$ ALFREDO’S MEXICAN CAFÉ Kick back with an agave limeade and take your time perusing the menu. From avocado enchiladas to fried tacos, the choices – and portions – are more than ample. 3 metro locations, alfredosok.com $$

108 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

PEARL’S CRABTOWN A 20,000-foot Bricktown warehouse is home to Crabtown, where the Cajun Crab Boil is a favorite and guests are encouraged to “leave the silverware at home and dig in.”

303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial winner in “best of the metro” polls for its fresh, flavorful seafood and spicy Creoleinspired dishes: Shrimp Diablo, Tabasco Caesar salads and more. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR, THE A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus fried and grilled seafood, in an atmosphere that’s as casual as can be. 303 NW 62nd, OKC, 608.4333 $$ TRAPPER’S FISHCAMP & GRILL Zesty, delectable flavor from the Pearl’s family of restaurants finds a comfortable home in a backwoods fishing lodge atmosphere.

4300 W Reno, OKC, 943.9111 $$

SOUL FOOD

with authenticity. 3838 Springlake, OKC, 424.0800; 900 W Reno, OKC, 231.1190 $

to make world-class dining. 504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$

STEAKHOUSE

THAI

BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance down to the least detail and cuisine easily ranking among the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if expensive, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$

PAD THAI Dine in comfortably or quickly carry out beautifully executed exemplars of the form: delicately flavored or searingly spiced soups, curries, fried rice and noodle dishes like its namesake. 119 W Boyd, Norman, 360.5551 $

CATTLEMEN’S STEAKHOUSE The very definition of an Oklahoma institution – it’s over 100 years old in a state that’s only 104 – its immense corn-fed steaks and irreproducible atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$

SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, fried rice with crab, cinnamon beef with rice noodles... the variety is exceptional, and the inexpensive create-your-own lunch special makes it a popular midday option. 1614 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.8424 $

HAUNTED HOUSE, THE A quaint estate renowned for its spooky past (its name is no accident, folks) and being a tad difficult for newcomers to find, The Haunted House is legendary for its steak, lobster and quirky charm. 7101 Miramar, OKC, 478.1417 $$$

SWEET BASIL THAI CUISINE The enormous aquarium adds to Sweet Basil’s cozy ambiance, which when coupled with its outstanding curries and soups recommends it as a date spot. Be aware that it is on the higher end of Norman’s price range for Thai. 211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$

HOLLIE’S FLATIRON STEAKHOUSE This plush, cozy restaurant in front of the Warren Theatre features fresh, tasty entrees seared on a flatiron grill and a kick of Southwestern spice running through the menu. 1199 Service Rd, Moore, 799.0300 $$

TANA THAI BISTRO There’s a lot to like about the food in this little spot, from the red snapper filet to the plain old (so to speak) pad thai. Pay special attention to the soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$

JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Saving room for your steak, lobster or prime rib is difficult when your gratis appetizers arrive in the form of a Lebanese bounty, but make the effort. Jamil’s has been feeding Oklahoma exceptionally well since 1964.

4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$

VIETNAMESE

JUNIOR’S Some of the biggest oil deals in boom and bust days were finalized at this landmark Oil Center building restaurant, where hand-cut Angus steaks and lobster fight for attention with knockout fried chicken. 2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$ MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE The service is outstanding and the ambience casually welcoming, but the star is the steak: the finest hand-selected customaged beef, broiled to perfection and served sizzling and delicious. It’s where great steak is the rule, not the exception.

3241 W Memorial, OKC, 748.5959 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S STEAKHOUSE Named after a legendary Oklahoman, this lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées, sides and amenities that have become the stuff of legends themselves. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE Aspiring to the ultimate in upscale dining via hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a wine selection comprising over 1,000 labels and an ambiance of intimate elegance. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Driven by custom-aged hand-cut USDA Certified Prime tenderloins and ribeyes, the effortlessly opulent Ranch offers exceptional food, warm hospitality and unbridled Southern comfort. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$ RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks that are among the state’s very finest, accompanied by vibrant, imaginative flavors and refined amenities

CORIANDER CAFÉ Updating traditional Vietnamese recipes with modern sensibilities via local ingredients, this vegetarian-friendly café makes a quick, casual, comfortable dining alternative. 323 White, Norman, 801.3958 $

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Counseling Services • Early Childhood Services Foster Care Services • Senior Services If you would like to find out more about Sunbeam, or if you would like to make a contribution, please visit www.sunbeamfamilyservices.org or call 405.528.7724, ext.103.

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LIDO Spring rolls to vermicelli bowls, this venerable diner runs the gamut of Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, and even finds room for a few French specialties.

2518 N Military, OKC, 521.1902 $$ MR. PHO It abuts the riotous variety of Super Cao Nguyen market, so it’s not surprising that Mr. Pho is exceptionally fresh and its menu is far-reaching: from pork vermicelli to whole Cornish hens. 1133 NW 25th, OKC, 525.7692 $ PHO BULOUS Super fresh, super fast, reasonably priced and perhaps Edmond’s finest take on the namesake soup… although some of the specialties like Honey Ginger Chicken or Wasabi Salmon also merit closer inspection. 3409 S Broadway, Edmond, 475.5599 $ PHO CA DAO Vermicelli bowls, rice platters and even banh xeo crepes are there for investigating, but the main draw is still piping hot pho (with choice of meat) and icy cold bubble tea. 2431 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 521.8819 $

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PHO SAIGON Can’t decide between Vietnamese and Thai? The spicy noodle broth in this casual restaurant’s name is a standout, but the proprietors have happily added some of their native Thai cuisine to the menu as well. 2800 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.1110 $ SAIGON BAGUETTE Fast and flavorful – and unbelievably cheap – this cash-only counter in the Milk Bottle Building just north of Western packs a distinctive Vietnamese punch into fresh sandwiches and knockout egg rolls. 2426 N Classen, OKC, 524.2660 $

Donations may be mailed to

Call 843.4222 or 843.3038

ARF c/o Public Works 1009 NW 75th Nichols Hills, OK 73116

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 109

Last Laugh

Read ’Em and Weep EVERYONE KNOWS NECCO – the Massachusetts-based New England Confectionery Company – by its famous Valentine candy, Sweethearts. The iconic-but-chalky heart-shaped candies are the original confections of affection, each stamped with sugary sentiments of love.

Are these sentiments exactly what you might have said if you’d only troubled yourself to think up your own expression of love for someone special? If you’re not much of a talker anyway, then yes. If your proclamations involve more than two words, however, candy conversation

This could mean…

The giver has surrendered all rational thought because of the unbridled love s/he feels for you.

Aww! It could also mean…

The giver has surrendered all rational thought and behavior and has recently tattooed your name (with a rose) on his/her shoulder blade and decaled your name (with a rose) on the passenger’s side of his/her lake patrol truck. The giver spent all morning moving into your house (surprise!) and canceled your cable subscription so you two could cuddle more.

Oh, and your Facebook account is being hacked right this minute.

This could mean…

The giver is inviting you to join him or her in your first kiss, or possibly, the giver is fondly recalling the first kiss the two of you shared. Aww! This could also mean…

The giver is the 40-year-old virgin and this Valentine’s Day the stars have aligned in such a way that you are his or her first kiss. Ponder the irony, hang onto your tonsils and get him home to Mom before nine.

This could mean…

The giver sees this as a sweet term of endearment for you and s/he wants to cradle you lovingly in his/ her arms. Aww! This could also mean…

The giver hasn’t had a human date in years. Your hair plugs still haven’t taken off. One of you suffers from incontinence.

This could mean…

The giver believes that you hold the highest ranking in his or her book. Aww! This could also mean…

The giver believes you have a lot of room for improvement, since the scale was out of 100.

By Lauren Hammack

hearts leave considerable room for interpretation. “What’s the underlying message?” your desired one wonders.

As a token of my undying love for you, dear reader, I’ve set about taking a closer look at the “unwritten” messages of these Tums-esque hearts. You can thank me with chocolates for keeping Cupid’s arrow from taking a wrong turn in your general direction this Valentine’s Day. Here are the actual messages in the box of hearts I’m crushing with my pointy, crowned molars as I write this.

This could mean…

The giver sees you as his girlfriend. Aww! This could also mean…

The giver has confused you for chattel. The giver is a former member of the Temptations and might know Rick James.

This could mean…

Both you and the giver are probably still too young to appreciate mature love.

This could also mean…

The giver has come dangerously close to calling you a dog. One of you has puppy breath and the other one likes it. The giver is Donny Osmond.

Jackpot!

This could mean…

The giver wants to be reminded of you throughout the day and s/he has an unlimited texting and data plan.

This could also mean…

The giver couldn’t find a candy heart big enough to say: We need to talk … I think we could both use a little time apart. It’s not you – it’s me. Well, actually, it IS you. I still love me. If you love someone, set them free. Be free. The less in-person contact, the better. I haven’t had a human date in years, but you already ate the Baby Doll heart.

This could mean…

The giver is in love with another female and a couple of sadists around the Necco writers’ table have brainstormed the perfect artificially colored and flavored opportunity to break the news to you. The giver will now see himself to the door, late as he is for another date. You are at risk of loathing this totally manufactured holiday until the end of time. You will, however, polish off the rest of that box of Sweethearts.

This could also mean…

Nothing else.

Want to comment on Lauren’s tales or share some of your own? Write to her at lauren.hammack@sliceok.com.

110 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

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For the amateur stargazer, as a gift for your kids or grandkids, for birdwatchers, for the game or your lake house – at astronomics we have the telescopes, binoculars, and microscopes that let you see further, see bigger, and see better, all at prices you’ll like. Visit our new 4000 sq. ft. showroom (largest in the U.S.), and see for yourself.

110 East Main, Norman 364-0858

CATHERINE W. GARDNER

Now Accepting New Patients for Bio-identical Hormone Therapy, Women’s Health Exams

512 S.W. 3rd, OKC Call for Showroom Appointment | 228.4900 View our online gallery | www.monticellocabinets.com

1101 N. Bryant Avenue, Edmond (405) 341-4643 | www.regalcareok.com SAME DAY APPT | SAT & EVENING AVAILABLE

N OW BO O K F O R IN G S PR IN G

FULL-SERVICE LANDSCAPE DESIGN & INSTALLATION

812-3139

Ellen Wyatt

FlowerGirlLandscapes.com

CLASSIC HOME

IMPORTS URBAN

INDUSTRIAL

ASIAN

CONTACT US FOR AN APPOINTMENT 405.748.7200 CLASSICHOMEIMPORTS.COM

Make Valentine’s Day Complete.

ROBIN D. HENDERSON, DMD, MS Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology

CHRIS POORE, DDS, MS Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

MARY HAMBURG, DDS, MS Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

9112 N. May, OKC • 947.0486 www.okperioimplant.com

FREE BUNDTLET (405) 751-8066

2520 W. Memorial Rd. Ste. B • Oklahoma City Expires March 30, 2013. Limit one coupon per customer.

Cannot be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the bakery listed. Must be claimed in-store during normal business hours. No cash value.

FEBRUARY 2013 // SLICE 111

Last Look

From Nature With Love Photo by Leigh Howell Love

Amid holiday hustle and bustle, Leigh took a break to snap some shots in her sister’s backyard and literally stumbled upon this heart-shaped redbud leaf – a little reward for making time to notice the beauty of nature.

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

112 SLICE // FEBRUARY 2013

Watch all your favorite recorded shows in any room, with Cox Whole Home DVR.

Revolutionize the way you watch TV with Cox Whole Home DVR. Get 6x the storage space, more DVR recording options and a guide that recommends shows for you. Cox Whole Home DVR will forever change the way you watch TV.

Call

600-0109

CliCk

cox.com/DVR

ViSiT

Cox Solutions Store®

*Whole Home DVR requires Cox Advanced TV with Plus Package, at least 1 host Whole Home DVR receiver, and DVR service fee per host DVR receiver. Receivers to view programming in additional rooms are extra. Each host DVR receiver can record 2 shows at once. Up to 8 network host receivers and non-host receivers allowed. Other conditions may apply. Each additional networked WHDVR service fee is $4.99/mo. for the first 12 months.

6x storage is compared to DVR receiver storage with 160GB hard drives. Prices exclude installation/activation fees, equipment charges, inside wiring fees, additional outlets, taxes, surcharges and other fees. A credit check and/ or deposit may be required. Other restrictions may apply. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME and related marks are trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS Company. ©2013 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Mister Robert

F I N E

F U R N I T U R E

&

DE SIG N

109 East Main • Norman • 405.321.1818