W H E N C L O S I N G I S N ' T A N O P T I O N W A T E R ' S E D G E W I N E R Y by Kari Huskey

Water's Edge Winery WHEN CLOSING ISN'T AN OPTION

B Y K A R I H U S K E Y

Just 6 years ago, Mara English and her husband Mike went out for her birthday and found themselves walking in automobile alley. Coming across Waters Edge Winery they decided to pop in and immediately fell in love. That night they were introduced to Connor, the current owner and they just fell in love. Before they knew it they were spending their Sundays there hanging out and doing a little work for the next week. Conner would talk and she would do her work as they all hung out and drank wine.

On April 1st of last year, Mara received an email that said that her beloved winery was closing. It took some arm twisting but Mara was able to convince her husband and Connor to move Waters Edge Winery to Moore. As soon as she had them both on board she went to work getting city permits and in a matter of a few months, they were up and running by December 8th at their Moore location.

Walking into Waters Edge Winery 's new location, you feel a welcoming vibe and hospitality like none other. Mara wants everyone to feel comfortable and relaxed. She explains, “ If you go into a situation and you’re upset and cranky you are going to have a cranky time” ... well no chance of that here. Not only will you find amazing wine at Waters Edge, but they also have incredible food that is made in-house. You definitely need to check out their new street tacos and flatbread pizzas!

For all of you wine connoisseurs out there, make sure and look into their wine memberships. There are 4 levels to choose from each giving you exclusive winery and bistro discounts and invitations to special events.

Make sure and sign up for their email newsletter and follow their social media for updates on upcoming events.

To learn more, check out www.wewmooreok.com 2001 S. Broadway Ave., Suite C Moore, OK 73160 405-232-9463

Hank 's Hangout BY HEIDE BRANDES

THE PUMP

Not only are we dog lovers, but our patio has been home to many cats, rabbits, monkeys, a couple of kangaroos, and even a pony.

Ask anyone in the urban core of Oklahoma City where the friendliest dog-centric patio is, and likely you’ll hear The Pump come up over and over. With its expansive outdoor patio and funky, locals-only vibe, seeing a pup or two (or five or six) is not uncommon, and there’s a reason why The Pump is one of Oklahoma City ’s favorite dog-friendly places.

Even as you enter the patio, the doorman who checks IDs has a jar of doggie treats on hand to welcome furry patrons, but the extensive selection of craft beer and cocktails certainly keeps the human patrons happy and returning to soak up the Oklahoma sunshine and socialize.

The Pump Bar, which opened in 2014, is built in one of OKC’s historic old, abandoned buildings, making it the ultimate renovation project. Originally built in 1929 as a gas station nicknamed "Elmer's Texaco, " it was a thriving business for years until it closed in 1978. Ian and Hailey McDermid were both veterans of the Oklahoma City bar and restaurant scene, and in 2012, they left their jobs to set out and create their own hangout. “The Pump opened December 16, 2014, by Hailey and Ian McDermid, who are dog lovers and owners of Chewy and Fizz, their Shih Tzu dogs, ” said Karah Good, bartender and general manager. “Not only are we dog lovers, but our patio has been home to many cats, rabbits, monkeys, a couple of kangaroos, and even a pony. ”

The Pump Bar’s sign, created to mirror the building’s original banjo-style sign. Is one of the most recognizable aspects of the bar, The sign was discovered by McDermid, who bought the memorabilia from a collector. After having the neon sign designed for The Pump, the McDermid's added outdoor and indoor seating to the massive patio, which allows for some stellar peoplewatching and dog-friendly fun. “We usually carry dog treats at the front gates, or you can special order a beef patty for $3 or an order of tater tots to share for $6, ” said Good. “We offer dog bowls at our three water stations, not only for pups but their owners too. ”

In addition to the patio space, The Pump also has a 1,250square-foot back building with bathrooms and an area on the north side that has outdoor games like bean bag toss. The south side has a quieter spot for those guests who want to chat or have a quieter conversation. “The Pump is a melting pot meant for anyone and everyone over the age of 21, ” Good said. “Oklahoma has some of the best weather to come sit on our patio like it’s your own. Prop your feet up, meet a new friend, have an

ice-cold beverage, and relax. ” If you’re taking your furry friend out for a drink and some patio time, try The Pump’s Black Betty, a gin-based drink with a blend of lemon, min, and blackberry topped with grapefruit soda.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, ask for the Dirty Harry, a new drink made daily by any staff member, which allows The Pump’s bartenders to create a different cocktail in addition to the regular everyday menu. “We just ask people to be responsible and respectful, not only for themselves and their animals, but everyone around them as well, ” Good said.

For more information on The Pump, visit www.pumpbar.net

2425 N Walker Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73103

by Kari Huskey and James Frazier

This road trip is a little different, in essence, it’s a road trip inside a road trip, because why not. We started off in a little Airbnb overlooking Arbuckle lake. We checked out a few things that the Davis and Sulphur area had to offer. We then decided to swing down through Tishomingo, a surprisingly well-stocked town. Then since we were there, we thought, why not hit a brewery in Durant. The drive was majestic and we would gladly hit this road trip again.

Arbuckle Mountains

If you're looking for a great weekend getaway spot in Oklahoma, look no further than the Arbuckle Mountain area! This hidden gem is home to some of the best scenery and attractions that the state has to offer. Whether you're interested in hiking, fishing, or just taking in the natural beauty of the area, Arbuckle Mountain is sure to please. Let's take a closer look at some of the best things to see and do in this wonderful part of Oklahoma!

Should you choose to stay in the area, you can find a lot of great little hidden gems. Including the cabins available through Arbuckle Outfitters from Oklahoma City native and Pizza aficionado Sheli Reynolds Stenseth, one of the famed Stone Sisters. The views and relaxing atmosphere make this the perfect weekend escape. Get away to the woods, light up the grill, or hit the lake, it’s all relaxing to another level. While you are there, hit a few spots in town that have some awesome small-town charm and delicious flavors.

Smokin’ Joe’s Rib Ranch is just on the outskirts of Davis and is home to some of the best BBQ in Oklahoma. Smokin’ Joe’s started out as a hobby and then word got out. Eight years ago, they decided it was time to expand. The new location is something to see, Trailer park, lot’s of wide open space, and plenty of seating, not to mention the landing strip out back. If you come on a weekend, you should definitely get the worldfamous smoked Ribeyes. Yes, just as good as it sounds. If you don’t make it on a weekend, don’t worry, the ribs and brisket are amongst the best in Oklahoma.

Rusty Nails Winery

The year is 2010 and the little town of Sulpher was missing something. Debbie Alexander knew what it was, the town needed a winery and she decided to answer the call. Stepping into Rusty Nails Winery is a treat.

Not only is the wine delicious, you can spend hours just shopping through all the products throughout the store. From cute and clever signs for your walls to tasty and snarky teas, and everything in between. If you show up on a

Wednesday night, you can experience Wine Wednesdays where they give everyone their choice of a wine tasting or a free glass of wine. The music flows on Fridays with live music every Friday night. You can also take advantage of their painting classes monthly or even for a special event. To say that this place was a great addition to the Downtown Sulphur area is an understatement.

The wine is fantastic, with all the varietals that you would expect with some great local flair mixed in. If you are not big on wine, but got dragged in by your wife/husband/friend, they have drinks for you too. You can get a glass of beer, or a Wine-a-rita. They also have some delicious foods including a fantastic Charcuterie plate, or some other small plate items that are sure to please. The Rusty Nail Winery is an experience in itself and we highly recommend it.

Tishomingo Oklahoma

Tishomingo is an oasis to every traveler. At the crossroads of Highways, 377 and 78 Tishomingo offers a plethora of options for visitors to enjoy a hot summer's day. From the beaten path, and swimming holes to live music you simply cannot go wrong making a stop in this town.

Among the sites, you will find the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge which was established in 1946 that contains hiking trails, hunting, and fishing opportunities all day long. It is open only during daylight hours except for night fishing as well as campsites.

Johnston County War Memorial is an honored series of granite markers that honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedom. There is a restored Blue Angel flight demonstration jet onsite that was flown by Navy Lt. Commander Clarence O. ” Smokey ” Tolbert, listed MIA in Vietnam in 1972. This Memorial is amazing and is breathtaking day or night.

In the mood for some vino? Make sure and check out The Old Silo Winery which is just a hop and skip from the scenic Blue River and the Tishomingo Wildlife Refuge. This Amish-crafted micro winery offers an enjoyable wine tasting experience in a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere.

Creek Park is no exception to the rule. With 15 spectacular acres next to the soft rolling waters of Pennington Creek, RV hookups, tent camping sites, and a clear water swimming hole you will be in camping heaven.

Ole Red located in downtown Tishomingo offers the ultimate in musical talent 7 days a week. Opened by Country Music Superstar, Blake Shelton, in 2017, Ole Red not only has amazing food and an electric atmosphere it also has a Nashville feel that will make you think you are transported to Tennessee. If you are lucky, you may accidentally run into a famous musician or two.

Durant

Since you are in this part of the state, you might as well drop down to Lost Street Brewing Company in Durant. This place is the model of what a brewery and taproom should be. It’s beautiful with wide open spaces, with the brewery section open for everyone to see. The Dewald family runs this energetic space and when you spend a few minutes there, you feel like you have been adopted. I guess that’s what happens when you start your journey with a family Christmas present of a DIY home craft beer kit. Be sure to say hello to the family dogs that are always up for a picture. The beer is just as great as the family. It’s crisp and clean and comes in a variety of styles.

Let’s talk about some of the beers. Lost Street focuses on making smooth drinkable beers. The IPAs are more focused on hop and flavor profiles over bitterness. This makes for a great drinking experience. I personally love the Stoneykirk which is a Scottish ale that is a malt forward beer with a caramel backbone. The family history dates back to Stoneykirk, Scotland Around the year 1211. This is their way to pay tribute to their ancestors with this classic style scottish ale. Slàinte Mhath! Cheers! Reading through their menu is like sitting down with grandpa for storytime. Such as the Instigator, their classic pilsner lager which is perfect for the summer heat, it is clean and refreshing with a malty flavor. "Gator" ” the call sign of a local hero and family member, Brady Rudolf. When you drink this remember the crew of Red River 44 and as always - remember freedom is not free!”

When you come in, spend some time, check out the awesome products, the beer, the craft soda coolers and ask some questions. The Dewald’s love to tell their story. Bring your kids and dogs, this place is friendly in every way possible.

Well kids that’s it. It may be a few miles of road, but the experience is magical. This part of the state is not only beautiful, but the people all along the way were amazing. Let us know what you think of this road trip and especially if you decide to take a little drive.

Equity Brewing

What if beer is more than just beer?

by Laconia Butler

What if beer is more than just beer? What if it means community, diversity, activism, and support? More than just something that you drink but something that brings people together for the greater good. That’s where Equity Brewing comes in.

Suzette, a professor of political science, has traveled all over the world. Interacting with different cultures, trying new beers, and seeing how the two-affect community. Her love of beer started at a young age with her German Grandfather teaching her all about traditions and German beers. She learned fast and early how beer can bring people together. After years of loving beer and teaching, she knew she wanted to do more, to start a change in the beer industry. After being an avid beer drinker and sometimes homebrewer, she made the leap of faith in 2019 to start Equity Brewing. She noticed that there was a lack of women in the craft brew industry, especially in an all-women-run brewery. The mission has always been the same: to create an equitable space supporting diversity, and inclusion, promote a welcoming, supportive and safe place, and be a platform for social justice and positive change. Big boots for anyone to fill, however, Suzette isn’t just anyone and she isn’t the only one. She has fostered a place for women entrepreneurs to establish themselves and thrive. Her go-to partner and leading woman is her daughter, Hannah. Like her mother, Hannah has a spirit and passion to help others and foster a collaborative community. Together they run the Equity taproom, brew the beers, run all social media and maintain the bookshop.

As soon as you enter the small taproom you enter a space full of not just light but brightness. White walls with a blast of calming yet bright colors and artwork adore the walls. In the center of the room is where the magic happens, the bar. They have 23 taps with every beer style you can imagine and some you had no idea you would love. Equity knew that they always wanted to have a variety of beer options with a wide range to allow people to try and learn new beer styles. Their approach is more about drinkability with most beers coming between 4-6.5 ABV to allow patrons to drink and appreciate more. Nothing over complicated, more approachable. The first beer Equity brewed was their Solidary Saison. A farmhouse-style beer that is typically brewed seasonally in France. Saisons background belongs to the workers of the world and Equity brewed it with pro-labor in mind. To bring attention to the people who work hard to grow the products that produce the beer they brew and we all drink. This is the general theme with Equity beers. The second beer they brewed was a Collective Action Kolsch as a nod to her German Grandfather who helped inspire her to brew in the first place. Since opening Equity has partnered with various nonprofits to raise funds and awareness for local issues with their Taps for Humanity. In the words of Equity ’s brewers, “Equity Brewing Company was established with the passion to not only create and share a beer that tastes great, but that promotes positive social change. We want to welcome everyone to the craft beer table and inspire a more diverse community of beer lovers. We also want to highlight and amplify important social issues in our society and contribute to a more equitable world. ” Equity knew that they didn’t want to stop at just beer. They wanted to establish a place for other community members to succeed too and create a more sustainable future. So, they created Equity Union. Not only is it a mother and daughter run

business, they wanted to feature other women-run businesses. Inside the brewery, they welcomed Legally Brewed in 2021. Legally, just like Equity, share a common mission, equity, and social justice for all and happen to make amazing beers as well. They currently have 7 taps and share and brew in the same space as Equity. Equity Unions also hosts chef Barbie Robertson who uses Equity beer in all her recipes. Brooke Roude of Forge and Gather provides charcuterie for the taproom guests. Next door to the brewery Bright Vibe Coffee will open up with a full bakery and coffee menu. Along with all the food and drinks you could want, Equity Brewing's owner, Hannah, has also curated a small but mighty bookstore, Juste Books located in their attached taproom space. Its main features are from local, women, international, LQBTQ+ , cultural, and social justice books. Covering both fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children's novels. All are meant to inspire and uplift the readers. Juste Books also created a Book and Brew book club featuring books from the bookstore and beers brewed to match. In all, Equity Union will be able to host 7-8 different women-focused businesses. All working together to inspire and lift each other up to succeed. Equity Union also understood that they alone can’t represent and speak for everyone. They created Equity Trust which includes 17 community collaborators with various backgrounds to help guide the space. They are there to help facilitate cohesive self-awareness and representation and set an example for others to lead with better and more equitable business practices.

Equity Brewing, Union, and Trust have a bright future ahead. With the expansion, they are also celebrating their one-year anniversary on July 2nd with a big party! They will celebrate the grand opening of The Equity Union during the anniversary party! That weekend - July 1 & 2 - will also feature our collaboration with Sunny Dayz Mural Fest and the re-release of the very popular Sunny Dayz IPA. Along with the unveiling of new murals that will be painted in The Equity Union space. So, what happens when beer is more than just beer? Amazing things, that’s what. A brewery that focuses on great beers but also on brewing change. Creating a place to be a social impact company that is community-focused. With the hope that guests can enjoy Equity products and the Equity space while also feeling good about contributing to positive change in the community. Cause nothing is better than a beer that can lift you up!

Equity Brewing Company 109 E Tonhawa St Suite 120 Norman, OK 73069