The Brew Magazine November 2022

by Janiyah Mosley

by Robyn Lott

by Steven Finkelstein

Janiyah Mosley

by Steven Finkelstein

Farfalla Wines

OKLAHOMA WINE WITH CALIFORNIA ROOTS

BY DERICK JENSEN, OKLAHOMA WINE CULTURE

This is one of the most unique wineries in Oklahoma simply by taking the trip to get there. When you exit off of Garth Brooks Boulevard in Yukon, Oklahoma you drive all the way until you see the grain elevator which is iconic You take a left through the quaint downtown until you hit Poplar Avenue Then you take another left and you drive a couple blocks until you see the gate this is the beginning of an amazing journey into Farfalla Wines The way you’ll know you have arrived is the butterfly on the gate which opens into the backyard! “Farfalla” means butterfly in Italian You continue to walk onto a little oasis in the middle of the city

You see the pool calling your name on a hot day and notice a pool house with sound of laughter and clinking. That’s when you realize the tasting room is in the back of their house and you really become like family.

The people who work at Farfalla Wines are incredibly knowledgeable as take you on a tasting journey into the vision of owners, Cathy and Ray Wright They started Farfalla by finding the best grapes they could in their travels This led to a relationship within a family owned vineyard in Lodi, California They have been making wine for the last 12 years and will celebrate on October 15, 2022

Their selection of wines is this diverse is the people who come to visit them. They have a dry red Cabernet Sauvignon, a dry white Chardonnay and then some of the most beloved wines such as: Strawberry Riesling and Scarlet cranberry perfect for any Holiday table

There is a seating area by the pool where you can visit under a fan while watching a game on the television or just enjoy the conversation The grounds are available for reading a great book or having lunch brought in They welcome you to bring a picnic basket or to pick up some jellies, spice blends, and dip mixes They also carry several wine a Rita mixes and mulling spices for the fall Crackerology Appetizer Kits are now available at Farfalla Wines! Everything is included in each kit to easily create beautiful appetizers in minutes Perfect for snacking or spending time at the winery or to grab and go which pairs well with a bottle of Farfalla wine.

Currently the tasting room hours are open around two weekends per month The hours: Saturday 12 to 5pm and Sunday 1 to 5pm. Please check the calendar located under “the winery” tab for a current list of open dates Reservations are not required during scheduled open weekends

Derick

AND

Hank's Hangout

BY JANIYAH MOSLEY

You want local, fun, great drinks and food, and a friendly environment that you can bring your dog to? That means you want The Patriarch Craft Beer House and Lawn located in Edmond, Oklahoma that has been open for over five years and has won the heart of everyone in town.

The outdoor setting paired with the music gives off the perfect easy going vibes The place is known to a few regulars that have found their beer to be the absolute best (they have 48 taps of American craft beer and over two dozen in bottles, so I am sure you will find one of them to be good) and their staff to be the friendliest people

They have an outdoor setting, but there is more to it than that There are also yard games that you can impress your date and friends, or destroy them in It is completely up to you and how you would like to spend your time at such a neat spot.

Nothing is better than enjoying time with friends on a nice night with a live band playing in front of you, and that is something The Patriarch clearly agrees with since they offer live music and a nice friendly setting You can check out their Facebook page or the wall inside of the bar, to see who will be playing. Some days are Irish music days, while others are more Bluegrass days or local musicians. So, do not be worried about not liking the music selection as they choose great music to play. Just let yourself sit back, relax, and listen to the tunes.

“You can get a nice cold beer, wine, a cider, or a cocktail to go along with your craft style bar food Like I said, you can bring your pup too to enjoy the great music and space on the patio

Since they care a lot about connecting with the community, they will be having a “Community Through Beer Fest,” on November 6th They are offering a chance to win two VIP tickets, but anyone who gets to go will surely have a good time being a part of the fun with the community. This is not the first or last event The Patriarch has held, but it sounds like the one you absolutely need to attend. The place to be is The Patriarch and I haven’t even told you about the study yet It is full of plants and artwork that gives an extra layer of a “home” feeling.

It is a community based place that knows how to give the community what they want; that would be chill music, drinks that feel good to drink on a warm night, and the ability to bring a man’s best friend because dogs deserve to get out the house and have fun too. You get all of this for an affordable price, and a sweet memory.

Put the Fork Down

FASSLER HALL SHOULDN'T EVEN OFFER SILVERWARE...

by Robyn Lott

To Children, the end of October signifies the coming of Halloween; however, for all those who enjoy a good brewski, it’s the month of Oktoberfest Traditionally held in Munich, Germany from the end of September into early October, this two week binge of a festival has a place for everyone Due to its popularity in Germany, many nations and cities around the world have joined in on the celebration There are many places in OKC to join in on the festivities including Fassler Hall This midtown eatery is perfect for all those looking for authentic German street food and a cold draft beer to wash it down And we aren't leaving our good neighbors to the east out...Tulsa has a Fassler Hall too!

SQ788 TAX STATE&LOCAL SALES TAX

First and foremost, the food is unbelievably delicious. All the meats are local from Prairie Creek Farms Park located in Kellyville, Ok. Meaning the meats are not shipped in from out of state. How many eateries can testify to that? If you’re into traditional German finger foods, they got you covered. They offer over 10 different types of sausages to tantalize your taste buds Some local favorites include the traditional bratwurst, the sausage sampler, and the Hunter which is a sausage made from venison, bison, and pork Oh, and for those who are vegan, they have a Beyond sausage option which comes with sauerkraut and Dijon mustard

While their sausages are outstanding, the regulars rave about the duck fat fries. Yes, you read that right: Duck Fat Fries. Traditional potato fries but cooked in clean crisp duck fat This savory difference is enough to keep OKC locals coming back for more Another great traditional piece of German cuisine offered at Fassler Hall is the Brezel or as we like to call them in Oklahoma the pretzel Offered with or without salt, the pretzels have the right amount of crunch on the outside followed by a warm fluffy center Steaming hot and made perfect for both new and avid beer connoisseurs.

If you’re not in the mood for a brat, there are multiple schnitzels to curb your appetite. These traditional sandwiches feature a meat of choice flattened and breaded to perfection There are different types of schnitzels to pick from including pork and chicken Still not sure what you want to eat? Don’t worry they also have a few cheeseburgers to choose from including a single, double, and triple meat option. If you’re coming in earlier in the day, you can enjoy a host of options for brunch that include traditional German meals, breakfast tacos, waffles, biscuits, and breakfast burritos.

Fassler Hall offers 10 German/ Euro beers on draft, a host of American draft favorites, over 10 German bottled beers, and a slew of American bottled beers There is no shortage of beer flowing within the walls of Fassler Hall. If you’re looking to try multiple beers, you can always come in on a Monday when the hall hosts a sausage party from 11 am to midnight. During the sausage party, all sausages are half off

The hall is open daily starting at 11:00 a m and stays open Sunday through Thursday until 11 p.m. and Friday through Saturday closing at 2 a m If you have a friend or family member that loves a great sausage, the hall offers a sausage of the month option Depending on the time the eatery becomes available only to guests 21 and over. Turning from a restaurant to a pub scene After you and your crew have filled up on drinks and amazing food, you can head downstairs to Dust Bowl Lanes and lounge for more fun and entertainment The 70s and 80s inspired bowling alley is a local favorite and has a full menu that includes the infamous Duck Fat Fries and a host of beers. The popular bowling spot has many options for parties and reservations So next time you find yourself in midtown, get your napkin ready and dive into some great German food no fork required.

SQ788 TAX STATE&LOCAL SALES TAX

Mallory Eagle

Oklahoma's Next Rising Star

by Steven Finkelstein

Mallory Eagle’s Career is Taking Flight

Oklahoma has a long and well documented connection to the country music tradition Recent artists like Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, and Toby Keith got their start by playing venues in the Sooner State Older, more venerable stars, such as Roy Clark and Vince Gill, also spent time there in the early stages of their careers.

Now, you can add the songstress Mallory Eagle to that list. Mallory has music available on Spotify, and you can also catch her crisscrossing the state in support of her album Red Dirt Home. This country crooner is originally from Oklahoma City but now spends much of her downtime in Nashville, cooking up collaborations with other artists whom she admires and who share her artistic vision.

Red Dirt Home came out in February of 2018. Since then, Mallory opened for and collaborated with a who’s who of the Nashville music scene, including Kenny Vaughn and Exile, Wade Hayes, Chris Scruggs, Jason Boland, Kate and Forrest O’Connor, and Jaime Wyatt

Recently, she got together for a rendition of the gospel classic “Down in the River to Pray” with Brenna MacMillan and the mega talented YouTube sensation Hillary Klug Their version of this beloved song garnered an astonishing 1 million views on Facebook in a single week.

Mallory is just as adept with a guitar in hand as she is belting out one of her original songs Her love of music and fixation on creating it began at a very young age.

Mallory’s Musical Growth

Mallory Eagle’s career began with her involvement in church and school choirs. Her father was a music lover as well. Though he never played professionally, Mallory credits him as an early source of inspiration.

While the young Mallory had an ear for country tunes, she has always been attracted to bluegrass She attended her first bluegrass festivals while still in a stroller, and now she often headlines those very festivals, a surreal experience, to say the least

Mallory recalls her house being filled with music as she was growing up. It captivated and fed her blossoming creative spirit. Classic country, western swing, jazz, and the bluegrass community in and around Oklahoma City all informed and shaped the current version of Mallory Eagles that her fans have come to know and love.

Both her parents were artists, so her desire to pursue creative endeavors was always encouraged She has spoken about that very frankly in interviews. “It was always just encouraged to kind of have a creative path,” Mallory says “Which, I realize now, in my career, that not so many people have that same encouragement and support.” When you listen to Mallory’s music, it is easy to detect the special connection and enduring love that she still has for her family.

Mastering the Craft

Though Mallory loves recording music for her fans to discover, she also particularly enjoys the live experience because of the spontaneity and chance for collaboration and improvisation that it affords her While she joined her first band at seventeen, her raw talent didn’t truly begin to manifest itself until she decided she wanted to go in a more contemporary direction and break out on her own.

She attended The Academy of Contemporary Music at The University of Central Oklahoma, and that is where a clearer picture of who and what she wanted to be as an artist began to manifest itself. She walked away with an Associate’s Degree in Performance. It was the start of a wild ride that has only sped up in the intervening years, during which she has spent time on the road and in the studio.

Mallory credits learning how to perform live due to her time spent with the Oklahoma Opry. There, she not only wrote and recorded the songs that would come to be Red Dirt Home, but she also began to master the give and take that allows musicians to be onstage storytellers rather than simple performers

What’s Coming Next for this Emerging Star?

Mallory knows that her fans have been waiting patiently for her next album, and she’s confident that it’s on its way. For now, she continues to tinker with her sound and improve with every live performance.

Her soulful renditions of tunes belonging to the bluegrass and country traditions have earned her a place in the pantheon of rising stars from Oklahoma. Whether you catch her at one of the venues there or in her adopted town of Nashville, you’re surely in for a whiskey swigging, boot stomping good time.

To learn more about Mallory Eagles and her slate of upcoming shows, please check out her Facebook page at @malloryeaglemusic. You can also book Mallory via her website at www.malloryeagle.com if you have a suitable venue and need some live musical talent.

Neighborhood Provisions

A NEIGHBORHOOD FEEL WITH A VIEW

by Janiyah Mosley

This local restaurant popped up recently and has not disappointed me, or dare I say anyone else. Located in Edmond, Neighborhood Provisions (side note: that is such a cool name) has such a superb menu with interesting takes on classics. One example would be the Prosciutto Stinger pizza with prosciutto, Humboldt fog, ricotta, fig jam, hot honey, balsamic, and arugula. I absolutely love cheese, and I love it when a restaurant is not afraid to add kinds of cheese to their menu, let alone on one pizza They also have classic staples like fish and chips, salmon, and romaine heart (salad) just to name a few.

This classy, yet warm establishment offers a rustic farm feel, where the food is farm to table to mouth to satisfied belly The celebrated Chef Jim Camp really made a beautiful restaurant that focuses on incredible food and amazing service The food is not only farm to table, but seasonal and local, which shows they care about the community and bringing the best of the best to your table.

But their food and service are not the only good things about this place They also have a wine and cocktail list that has taken a lot of effort to create and perfect. They offer incredible wines and cocktails without the high prices people would think they would have. There are mimosas and beer too. Their wine ranges from 8 (25 for the bottle) to 150 for the bottle, and there are so many kinds (different pinot noirs, merlot, bubbles etc.) from different places shown on the menu (California, South Africa, and New Zealand to name a few). The attention to detail on everything from the food to the drinks, to the layout of the restaurant is beyond amazing.

You can enjoy lunch, dinner, and social hour there, but soon that will not be all They started offering brunch October 16th, and you can try their wood fired breakfast pizza or go with a different option like the English Breakfast Another perfect time to dine in would be from 7 10 pm on Fridays when they have their “Sunset Tunes” time. That means a sunset accompanied by tunes on the patio. You could and should make a reservation. You can dine in the regular seating areas or decide to book their Private Dining Room which accommodates 8 20 guests. If you want to take the food and go, takeout is available too. There is also a nice option to become a member and receive 30% off of food, and you can enjoy money off of drinks during the social hour They kindly added that they care about your safety and will call a ride for you at the bottom of the menu, and I found that to be another sign that they truly care about the people in the neighborhood

Speaking of, remember when I gushed about how their name sounds like a place one would feel at home in and just rolls off the tongue? Well, Neighborhood Provisions is aptly named as it does offer not only a neighborhood feel, but the ability to look out and see the nice neighborhood too and is all about supplying the neighborhood with a great experience

Make sure and check out this amazing new restaurant at www.provisionsokc.com and follow them on social media for updates, events, and specials!

17031 North May Avenue, Edmond,

Lively Beerworks

LOVE OF BEER AND A LOVE FOR COMMUNITY

BY STEVEN FINKELSTEIN

There is no denying that Oklahoma City has become a hotbed of craft brewing in recent years Several local breweries are currently competing for the title of OKC’s Craft Brewing Kingpin While there are several top contenders, many locals and visitors consider Lively Beerworks to be one of the best beermakers around

Located at 815 SW 2nd Street, Lively is the brainchild of some mega talented brewers who allowed their hobby to become an obsession So much the better for the residents of OKC, who get to benefit from heady brews like the Grapefruit IPA, Amber Lager, classic IPA, Passion Fruit Tart, and Milk Stout.

The India Pale Ale packs a wallop with an alcohol by volume content of 6.5%. There is an understated fruitiness balanced by the perfect amount of bitterness. The Passion Fruit Tart is also winning over a lot of fans, with sea salt and passion fruit poised to dance on your tongue with every sip.

What Else Should I Know About this Oklahoma City Staple?

Lively Beerworks owes its name to Patrick Lively, the founder and principal brewmaster. He was born and raised in the OKC area and has a background in both teaching and politics He also worked in the beer industry for close to a decade, and during that time, he developed a powerful motivation to start his own brewery so he could monetize his hobby and bring his craft vision to all his friends and family members

Patrick and some of his friends decided they wanted to craft simple yet robust beers that owed their taste to the freshest of ingredients. Their stated goal is to make drinkable beer that you will love served in a friendly, welcoming space that feels like home. What could be better than that?

What About Seasonal Offerings?

Those who like trying seasonal offerings at OKC breweries have a lot to be thankful for this fall season. If you visit Lively this month, you can check out some of their limited time brews, such as the Brine Bozworth, a kettled sour with just the right amount of pickle juice The Rainbow Sprinkles Ale, redolent of vanilla crème, is a fine choice. You can also sample the Funnel Cake Ale, a cream ale that is the perfect accompaniment to a freshly fried funnel cake.

What’s This I Hear About a Mug Club?

Those individuals who frequent breweries often probably already know about the Mug Club concept, and Lively has one of the best around. If you join, you’ll get a personalized 24 ounce mug that the Lively staff will keep ready for you at all times for one full year. During those twelve months, you can get a 24 ounce pour for the price of 16 ounces. It’s hard to argue with that, but there’s more.

Club members can also enjoy exclusive early releases of new beers as they are created by Lively’s expert brewmasters

You will get a tee shirt to let you proclaim your love of Lively’s, and you’ll also receive an invite to a members only end of the year gala. You can rub elbows with the glitterati of OKC and discuss the merits of each of the brewery’s offerings with other craft beer fanatics.

Lively Beerworks is Partnering with a Worthy Cause for a Special Event

On November 12th of this year, if you can make it to Lively’s, you’re in for a special treat The brewery is partnering with Warriors for Freedom, a nonprofit entity created with the goal of preventing veterans from dying by suicide

Suicide is a serious problem among veterans. In fact, 22 vets end their own life every day in this country. That is hard to fathom, but when you consider the mental and psychological strain that active duty often instills in those who served, it becomes easier to understand. Some vets deal with serious physical injuries, while others return from combat physically unchanged but mentally and emotionally scarred.

Warriors for Freedom is the entity that tries to create avenues through which their volunteers engage with servicemembers who might be at risk. Seventy seven cents out of every dollar this nonprofit receives goes directly toward the events and programs backed by the group.

If you go to their website, you can fill out a form that indicates whether you would like to contribute or volunteer. At that point, you can access a comprehensive list of activities that allow you to do your part in preventing veteran suicides.

The Warrior Group is one of their initiatives. It is a series of meetings where veterans can get together and talk about the issues that are most pressing or troubling to them. There are no civilians present, which gives vets a much better chance to open up about their everyday struggles. They’re surrounded by others with a similar background who understand how difficult it is to reenter civilian life after serving.

The group does more than just talk, though. They also organize and take part in camping trips, sports watching parties, dinners, lunches, fishing tournaments, etc. That way, vets can feel active and useful as they make friends who have been through many of the same experiences that they’ve had.

How Do Warriors for Freedom and Lively Beerworks Intersect?

Lively Beerworks, much like Warriors for Freedom, is passionate about helping veterans and preventing them from feeling alone or abandoned The two have decided to collaborate for a one night only event on Saturday, November 12th of this year

The event will occur at the Lively Beerworks brewery in OKC, and it will be from 2 6 in the afternoon into the early evening. A special beer brewed just for that day will be on tap, and there will also be an unveiling of a unique can design that honors veterans

You can get in for just $25, and that money will go toward Warriors for Freedom. There will be live music and great food in addition to the exclusive beer and all the additional beers for which Lively is known.

Also, you can walk away with a Lively tote bag that comes loaded with a six pack, a koozie for your favorite beverage, and other swag to be revealed on that day.

Show Your Support for Veterans by Attending this One-DayOnly Bash

It is one thing to say you support the troops, but it’s another to put your money where your mouth is. If you live in the Oklahoma City area or you’re going to be passing through on that day, you definitely won’t want to miss this amazing collaboration

Veterans do so much for this country, and far too often, they can feel abandoned or bereft of hope when they come back and try to reenter civilian life Nonprofit organizations like Warriors for Freedom try to make them feel well adjusted and seen, and there is nothing more important than that

Attending this event and helping entities like Warriors keep running is a civic duty that makes it easy to feel good about yourself You can enjoy some great food, sample a few of the beers that make Lively Beerworks such an OKC mainstay, and you can also bob your head while listening to some live tunes from local artists.

To learn more about this amazing brewery check out their website www.livelybeerworks.com and keep up to date on Lively Beerworks events and beer releases by following them on social media @livelybeerworks!

Enid Presents Many Fun Opportunities for Travelers and Locals

by Steven Finkelstein

Oklahoma. It’s the state’s ninth largest city and is Garfield County’s seat. The population at the last census was a little under 50,000.

This town is mainly known as the home of both the Johnston and Farmland Grain companies and has the world’s third largest grain storage capacity. The land in Garfield County is remarkably fertile, and the grain produced there helps fuel the cattle industry.

While Enid certainly doesn’t have the notoriety and big name recognition of vacation spots like New York or Los Angeles, that doesn’t mean you can’t find plenty to do there. There are many great restaurants, bars, a thriving art, and music scene, and more.

Whether you’re an Enid local or stopping in the city for a couple of days, you’ll want to know where you can have some fun or soak up the local culture. Let’s talk about what this town has to offer right now

Breweries

America has seen an explosion in craft brewing over the past couple of decades, and Enid is no exception to this renaissance. One of the most prominent entities producing craft beers in the Enid area is the Enid Brewing Company & Eatery. It’s located at 126 S. Independence Avenue, and it’s open from Tuesday through Sunday

The locals swear by some of the appetizers, particularly the loaded nachos you can get with either pork or chicken. The real food stars are the burgers, though They’re made with grain fed local beef, and who doesn’t like farm to table?

Carnivores can chow down on a queso patty burger, a bacon jam burger, or even a mac and cheeseburger. Food this good is worth breaking your diet

If you’re there more for the suds than the eats, you should be excited about the rotating craft beer menu. The Buffalo Brown Ale is widely considered to be this brewery’s best offering, though the Salt Plains Lime Crusher has a devoted following as well. There’s the Cowboy Blonde if you want something a little lighter.

Settlers Brewing Company is another option. Find it at 202 E. Randolph Avenue. They use traditional grains for their beers, and they often partner with local food trucks to give their customers plenty of fresh options. They have an outdoor section that’s the perfect place to spend a summer night chatting with friends or coworkers.

The F Street Stout is a strong option at Settlers, checking in at 6 7% alcohol by volume Alfred’s Amber Ale and the Wagon Wheel Wheat are also solid picks. Wagon Wheel is reminiscent of Blue Moon but with a somewhat more complex flavor

The Enid location of the Bricktown Brewery also gets an honorable mention. Located at 3616 W. Owen K Garriott Road, it has a more extensive menu than you’ll find at many breweries. The Boom Boom Shrimp with fries should satisfy the seafood lover in your party, while the Big Mike’s Meatloaf made with ground pork and fresh Angus beef is more than enough reason to lure you there during lunchtime

The good news with the Bricktown Brewery is that you can use Postmates or DoorDash to grab some grub to go if you’re so inclined You should also know that Bricktown has multiple locations in several states, including Missouri, Kansas, and Texas. If you enjoy the time that you spend there, you might seek out one of their other locations if you ever get the chance.

Restaurants

Maybe you’re more about restaurants and less about Enid’s alcohol scene. You can find plenty of worthy candidates scattered around town Callahan’s Pub & Grille might be the way to go if you want something casual. It’s located at 220 N. Independence Street in the Triangle Business district

It is an Irish pub known as much for the lively atmosphere and colorful locals as it is for the food. You can get a perfectly respectable New York strip or a ribeye there, but you might look for some of the Asian influenced menu options instead. The potstickers are a can’t miss go to, or you might feel more in the mood for a Saipan sampler.

On the Sidewalk Bar and Grill might be more your flavor. It’s at 114 W Randolph Avenue, and you can do either dine in or curbside pickup. Their fare is mostly Mediterranean or Italian inspired The bar area has dark woods and a cozy feeling that’s perfect for date nights. If you just met someone online or you’re trying to rekindle the spark with your significant other, consider this popular neighborhood hangout

Try the bruschetta as an appetizer, then go for either the tortellini Mazzini or the penne puttanesca. The latter comes with grilled chicken, jalapenos, black olives, and bell peppers The servings are more than ample, so you should have plenty of leftovers

Costello’s Continental Cuisine, located at 610 S Cleveland Street, Suite 222, is another prime choice. The crispy chef’s crab cakes are a fine starter, and the pastas are definitely worth a try. The cheese stuffed tri corner tortellini is to die for, though you can’t go wrong with the creamy fettuccine Alfredo.

Wineries

There’s only one real choice if wineries are more up your alley. About thirty minutes outside of Enid, you will find the Indian Creek Village Winery You can enjoy a picturesque drive through lush countryside before arriving in Ridgewood, surrounded by old growth oak forest This is the spot if you choose the Enid area to get married, renew your vows, or to have a big family reunion

The wines are certainly worth a taste, with the cabernet sauvignon probably emerging as the top pick. It’s robust and emits a strong berry aroma, but you don’t get the chemical aftertaste that some complain of with cabernets.

The cowboy blush is a lighter palate cleanser that you might serve with fish and salad. The mistletoe is probably the most unusual wine on offer. It’s fragrant and somewhat sweet but also a bit acidic. It’s best served cold.

There to Do in Enid?

, beer, and food, you’ll often find events id at the Stride Bank Center It’s a nue that seats about 2,500 guests. It’s a live music, and also lectures and art expos s have craft shows and seasonal events that o wear a costume The Costumes and held at the venue around Halloween is always

ail Expo Center is another option. It’s a ena that seats about 8,000. It was built in most commonly for basketball, though you mes attend amateur wrestling events there. The same complex that holds the arena also features vestock buildings used for cattle auctions.

f you’re an individual who appreciates the arts and theater, our best bet is probably the Gaslight Theater. It’s a nonprofit acility that shows various live theater productions You can nd performances as varied as Macbeth and the Seussified Christmas Carol

here’s also the Enid Symphony Center. It’s the place to go or full orchestral performances. You can check out the website to see what’s playing while you’re in town

What About Families with Kids?

ny families with kids who are visiting or who live in Enid will want to check out Leonardo’s Children’s Museum and Adventure Quest. Located at 200 E. Maple Avenue, it’s an interactive museum that emphasizes hands on, open ended exploration of all the exhibits They often have seasonal events like Motor Mania, which showcases vehicles that typically fascinate children, such as ambulances, firetrucks, and police cars.

The David Allen Memorial Ballpark and Meadowlake Park are also excellent choices The Ballpark often features amateur softball tournaments, and Meadowlake Park has walking and biking trails, as well as miniature gold and paddleboat rides It is particularly breathtaking in the autumn when the leaves change colors

The NOC Observatory & Mackie Planetarium might fascinate any kids in your family who like watching the stars. It’s one of Oklahoma’s largest and most prestigious planetariums

Ready for Your Enid Visit?

If you’re ready to explore Enid, you might want to do so during the First Friday season. Every year, from April through October, on the first Friday of the month, the downtown area has many restaurants, bars, and other venues that participate in a celebration showcasing all th charming city has to offer. You can typically find live music, food trucks, vendors, and more

You should also be aware of the Enid downtown area First time city visitors will find several of the venues we mentioned in this article there, all within a few blocks of each other. Downtown is where you’ll find multiple breweries, the Gaslight Theater, Callahan’s, The Sidewal Bar and Grill, and others.

Most individuals and families who live in Enid or visit there find plenty to do. There’s a vibrant nightlife, and you’ll definitely find the people friendly and accommodating.

For more information about Enid and visiting there check out these great sites: www.enid.org www mainstreetenid org www.visitenid.org

Bar

Cocktails with an Urban Twist

BY JANIYAH MOSLEY

Are you interested in nice, laid back, modern bars with great cocktails? If yes, I can guarantee Sidecar Barley and Wine bar found in a few areas: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and in Jenks Oklahoma.

Let me set the scene for a night out in an upscale bar in Oklahoma City:

You are hanging out with your friends in a place with great natural lighting, and on a more open spaced patio You are sitting at one of the wooden tables in the spacious area listening to live music But, most importantly, you are enjoying the best craft cocktail you have ever had.

That is the vibe Sidecar gives. Just a chill and nice relaxing outdoor spot to enjoy a drink and small bites like fries, paninis, root beer floats if you want to take a trip on the wild side, and cheesecake for dessert As for the drinks, there is a pretty nice list to choose from. You could try their scotch, their tequila, cork and cap wine, or go for their cocktails because that alongside their wine is a people pleaser I totally recommend the “Sidecar,” which is a classic cognac bauchant with fresh lime juice and sweet and sour, and the “Georgia Blondie” which is three olives, peach vodka, peach schnapps, Cointreau, fresh lemon and lime juice with cucumber bitters. I got the “Sidecar” when I did not know what else to get, and I have a thing for getting the food or drink item that is named after the place. It was a great surprise as it was both strong, and sweet. I have always been more on the fruity and sweet side, so I tried the “Georgia Blondie” next. It tastes sweet and sour, but not to the point where it is too much. There is always a nice balance between the ingredients and juices used to make the perfect drink.

P.s They also have their “Toasted Marshmallow” drink which sounds perfect for this time of the year

They described their place as an urban barley and wine bar with draft wine and crafty craft cocktails (alright, I added the “crafty” part, but it is true).

The price range is two dollar signs according to their Facebook, menu prices, and Google But they are well worth the money for a great time and even better well made drinks

The music is live and there are different bands and singers that come out to play for the audience of Sidecar. There is an upscale nightlife feel to the place and is located in a pretty popular area. The staff is friendly and help with the unique atmosphere You can choose to sit at the bar or on the floor at one of the tables. Either way, you will like just being in such an interesting place

You can easily spend over an hour here just soaking in the great vibes of the night (or day, if that is when you prefer to get to know Sidecar). Since there is so much room, it is never too crowded, and you always manage to get great service no matter how many other people are there.

ALL GRAIN BREWING VS EXTRACT BREWING

by Steve Privott Learn to Brew Edmond, OK

When I started homebrewing I started with extract brewing. It’s a way to try it out without spending a lot of money on equipment. Extract brewing is simpler to understand and perfect for beginners. The average person would have a very difficult time discerning between an extract or all grain brew

All Grain Vs Extract: Difference

All beer is made with water, grains, hops, and yeast Simply put, the main difference between extract and all grain is how the fermentable sugars are acquired in the brewing process

In all grain brewing, the brewer uses crushed malted grains and mashes with very hot water to convert starches into fermentable sugars In extract brewing, this process has already been done for the brewer and is added in syrup or powdered form, called malt extract Suppliers produce extracts so homebrewers can choose to skip the conversion process for simplicity’s sake.

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All grain brewing offers more control to the brewer and comes with both advantages and disadvantages Your brew day will be longer, and you’ll likely need some additional equipment to account for the extra steps

Extract Brew Process

All-Grain Brew Process

1

specialty grains in bag at 160°F for 20 minutes in the brew kettle

extract

minute boil

wort, pitch yeast,

brew day

additions

1 Mash grains in strike water for 1 hour at 145 158°F water in mash tun

Sparge/rinse grains with 168°F water (this step

system dependent)

all fermentable wort to boil kettle

minute boil with hop additions

pitch yeast, and ferment

hour brew day

Pros and Cons of Extract vs All Grain

Pros:

Easy to do and perfect for beginners

Minimal cost and equipment to get started

Less time consuming

Less control of recipe/ingredients

LME/DME is more expensive than grains

Cons: Pros and Cons of All Grain vs Extract

Pros:

Less expensive ingredients

Greater control over the entire brew process

Greater brewing options and recipes

Brewing like the pros do

Cons:

More time consuming

More complex and greater margin for error

Start up costs are usually higher depending on what you do

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My advice would be to start with extract to get a foundational understanding of the brewing process before taking the leap to all grain

If you plan your equipment properly it won’t end up costing you any more in the long run. My biggest piece of advice would be to purchase a large enough brew kettle to brew both extract and all grain recipes. Look for 10 gallons at a minimum. It may be on the larger side for extract batches, but it will be the perfect size for all grain should you decide to make the switch. Our staff at Learn to Brew are always here to help you with your brewing, whether you are a beginner or experienced.

Warriors For Freedom

HELPING PREVENT VETERAN SUICIDE

by Steven Finkelstein

Being a soldier is never an easy job. Whether you sign up for a single tour of duty or you make the military your career, you are putting your life on the line if you’re deployed and see combat. Even those who don’t see action are subject to pressures and stresses that many civilians simply can’t understand.

Licensing Report

When you think about that, it is easy to see why suicide is such a problem among veterans Many of those who serve have a tough time readjusting to civilian life. Some vets come back and have jobs or entire careers mapped out for them, but many others get out of the service and feel hopeless, useless, or lost.

Some of them have physical wounds that haunt them every day for the rest of their lives, while others return physically unharmed, but they have mental and psychological trauma that lasts for years. They often don’t have the support network in place that they need, and they feel like suicide is the only way out.

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Warriors for Freedom Prevents Veterans from Feeling Alone

Warriors for Freedom is a nonprofit that wants to stop veterans from feeling like they have no escape from their pain except for suicide It is a sad but true statistic that in this country, approximately 22 veterans die by suicide every day.

The number of former soldiers who take their own lives is so much higher than instances of suicide in the civilian population. Many of the vets who go down this path feel like there is no one there to listen to them or understand them.

Warriors for Freedom is available for you to join either as a veteran or a civilian volunteer. The money that this entity collects goes to things like golf outings and camping trips. The group also arranges fishing excursions and scuba diving events Many of the veteran’s report that the scuba diving trips in particular are an excellent method for promoting healing Seeing the aquatic wonders lurking in the depths helps to instill a sense of calm and tranquility after the chaos they’ve seen on the battlefield

Other events geared toward helping veterans take place at restaurants or bars. Many times, local businesses partner with Warriors and open up their venues as meeting places for members who want to get together and share some laughs and a general sense of camaraderie

What Else Does Warriors for Freedom Offer?

The Warriors for Freedom program also presents veterans with an opportunity to meet in open forums where they can discuss anything that is troubling them Many times, vets feel that they can’t fully open up to their family members or friends who didn’t serve. These individuals might listen to the veterans, but they can’t truly understand what they are going through because they don’t have that same background

The Warriors for Freedom program tries to take away the stigma of asking for help. Often, veterans are taught and conditioned not to complain about anything since that is regarded as a sign of weakness This unfeeling, unflinching attitude can help them get through combat situations, but it’s the worst possible thing when they return to civilian life.

The Warriors program allows these troubled individuals to drop the façade of stoicism so they can reveal the parts of themselves that hurt so much. If any veterans want to join Warriors, but they don’t want to talk about their inner pain, that is fine too. They can simply take part in a few of the get togethers and other events and perhaps make some new friends that will add color and texture to their lives.

Should You Contribute to Warriors for Freedom?

Since Warriors for Freedom is a nonprofit, you can give a donation to help keep it running, and any money you give is a tax write off. If you want to support America’s troops, but you’re unsure of the best method of doing that, this is an admirable way to express your patriotism You can donate to their site with a credit card, or they also accept PayPal contributions.

If you don’t feel like you have any money to give right now, you can also donate your time The Warriors program is always looking for volunteers who can help them set up their events. The administrators will likely have some ideas as to how you can help them accomplish their mission.

Whether you donate your money or time, if you know you’re potentially preventing a suicidal veteran from taking their own life, you’ll know you’re doing something that couldn’t be any more crucial. Sometimes, all a veteran needs to hear is that someone is cognizant of their pain and recognizes their struggle. They want to hear that they’re not forgotten, and their sacrifices have not been in vain Warriors for Freedom tries to provide that in a very real and meaningful way. Every veteran they reach justifies their existence, and it’s not hyperbole to say that they’re saving lives every day.

What’s There to Do at Campus Corner at Oklahoma University?

BY STEVEN FINKELSTEIN

The University of Oklahoma is regarded as one of the state's better institutions of higher learning It was founded in 1890 and has almost 30,000 students enrolled for the 2022 fall season. It’s a traditional four year college, and the main campus is in Norman

The students there study hard, but they play hard as well If you’re attending the university this year, or if you’re visiting and want to figure out something to do to pass the time, you’ll probably want to check out Campus Corner. It’s located just across from the university, and it’s a small, student centric shopping and entertainment district It’s a place to grab some souvenirs, enjoy a beer while watching football, or to shoot some games of pool or play darts while hanging out with your buddies.

Let’s talk about some of the better known venues there that should be on your list to visit.

Bars

There are more than a few bars and restaurants that have achieved little less than legendary status at Campus Corner Some of them have the tradition of being gameday hangout spots for multiple decades. The first one we have to mention is The Bird’s Nest It’s located at 575 S. University Blvd.

They have bike parking there as well as car parking, which is convenient for any cyclists who want to stop by There are typically multiple TVs showing University of Oklahoma football games whenever the team is playing, and there’s also food available for both takeaway and eat in dining.

The locals say it’s one of the better spots around campus because they don’t blast the music so loud you can’t hear your neighbors. The best nights to visit are undeniably Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, when there’s a rowdy college crowd looking to blow off some steam. Note that smoking is still allowed in there, though, so this might be an option to avoid for anyone with asthma or individuals who find secondhand smoke offensive

Louis Bar and Grill is another winner Find it at 301 W Boyd St They have a lunch and dinner menu that includes several tempting entrees, such as the chicken quesadilla supreme and the Joker burger with spicy mac and cheese, cheddar jack, and bacon. You can try one of these gut busters along with one of their signature cocktails Some of the best ones include the Ocean Breeze with Stoli Blueberi and blue curacao and the Rock and Roll Paloma with platinum tequila and grapefruit.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention O’Connell’s Irish Pub, located at 769 Asp Ave Many students who attend the university and visitors who spend a little time at Campus Corner consider this to be the quintessential University of Oklahoma bar

O’Connell’s is arguably everything you could want from an Irish pub, transported from Dublin, and set down fully intact in the great state of Oklahoma. It has friendly bartenders, plentiful drink specials, and theme nights like trivia and karaoke. They never fail to show all the big games on TV, including not just college ball but the NFL as well. Their burgers are enormous, but you might also opt for some more traditional Irish grub like the fish and chips, made with fresh beer batter dipped Atlantic cod

While the bars at Campus Corner have a multitude of tantalizing alcoholic beverages, make sure to enjoy them in moderation and to always designate a driver if your party took a vehicle there

Restaurants

If you’d prefer to have a meal at Campus Corner without dealing with a bunch of rowdy college kids, you might check out Othello’s. While students do come in there, it’s more of a traditional restaurant atmosphere and less of a bar.

Othello’s has a location in Edmond as well as one in Norman. It’s Italian fare with an emphasis on traditional dishes like fried ravioli, manicotti, and tortellini. The hearty portions are easily enough to satisfy the hungriest campus visitors. This spot has been family owned since 1997.

Volare Pizza and Hideaway Pizza are competing pizza joints you can also find at Campus Corner The former is located at 315 White St , while you can find the latter at 577 Buchanan Ave.

Opinions vary as to which of these two has the best pies in Norman. Some like Volare Pizza’s slightly thicker crust and robust toppings, as well as their full range of creative appetizer variations. Hideaway’s pizza has a more expansive kid’s menu, which makes it a favorite of family members who have stopped by the campus to visit the undergrads The original Hideaway’s was actually located in Stillwater at OSU, but that doesn’t stop the locals from claiming it as one of their favorites

Cross Village

Cross Village is quite close to what is considered to be Campus Corner proper. It’s off campus housing where many students spend multiple years as they’re working away on their undergraduate degrees. Some consider Cross Village a part of Campus Corner, while others disagree Either way, there are certainly some establishments there that are worth investigating if you want the full University of Oklahoma experience.

Cross Canyons Brewery and Skinny Slims are a couple of top contenders if you’re looking for a place to spend an evening The Brewery is located at 333 W. Boyd Street, while you can find Slims at 201 E Main St Cross Canyons is probably best known for its iconic crossed cannons logo and robust beer selection. They make several seasonal, handcrafted brews, and they also have some pretty serious appetizers to enjoy along with them, like the spicy bacon candy chicken bites

Skinny Slims is more of a British inspired pub that caters to an American crowd. It’s the spot you want to go to if you’re more of a fan of the English version of “football” than the American one They have an epic beer selection and a patio area that always gets super rowdy during World Cup games

Fuzzy’s Taco and The Library Bar and Grill are worth a look as well. Fuzzy’s, located at 752 Asp Avenue, has beer, enormous margaritas, and Baja style Mexican grub. Their tacos and burritos are excellent stomach filling options if you’re nursing a hangover.

The Library Bar and Grill, found at 607 W. Boyd St., is one of the oldest and most venerable campus bars It never has fewer than 32 beers on tap, but you’ll probably want to head there more for the whiskey selection If you prefer a finely aged single malt to celebrate acing your midterm, this is the spot for you.

What About Some Honorable Mentions?

It’s hard to include every great venue in the Campus Corner area in a single article, but we couldn’t forgive ourselves if we left these last few off the list. The Blackbird Gastropub, at 575 S. University Blvd., has some truly legendary pot roast nachos, and their whiskey selection almost rivals what you can find at The Library. There’s also The Greek House at 768 S. Jenkins Ave. It has an old school diner vibe and many classic Greek dishes. Try the falafel, gyros, and more.

The Porch Brew Hub, at 311 W Boyd St , also has its fans It has an outdoor area that usually fills up quickly on game days. The second floor has some pleasant views of the surrounding streets and buildings While the burgers and other bar food seldom fail to disappoint, some patrons complain about inattentive service

The Deli is another can’t miss attraction if you’re exploring all that Campus Corner has to offer. You can find it at 309 White St., but you will probably hear the live music blasting from inside from several blocks away. The Deli holds the distinction of being the oldest live music venue in and around Campus Corner

It has live music nearly every night, though you can usually find the bigger showcase acts there playing their hits during the coveted Friday and Saturday nighttime slots Part of what’s nice about The Deli is that it features many different musical genres. You’re just as likely to get country and western as you are rap or classic rock If you’re an aspiring or established musician and you want to get booked there, you can contact ownership via their Facebook page

Ready to Check Out Campus Corner?

Whether you are looking for shopping, a hearty lunch, a stiff drink, or some lively conversation, you can find all of that at Campus Corner Bar hopping on the weekends is one of the best ways to get an impression of what it’s like to be an undergrad if you're considering attending. If you’re new to the area, check out a more detailed description at campuscorner com You can also see what Trip Advisor has to say about it.

With over 75 bars, restaurants, and other attractions making Campus Corner so special, you probably can’t see everything on just one trip You might just have to come back several times to enjoy the full experience

For more information and up to date happenings, head over to www.oucampuscorner.com and follow @OUCampusCorner on Facebook and Instagram.