GABRIELLA'S ITALIAN GRILL & PIZZERIA

Gabriella's Italian Grill & Pizzeria OVER 50 YEARS OF TRADITION

by Kari Huskey

The freshest ingredients. Wood-burning ovens. Old-world recipes. At Gabriella's, they believe in passionate cuisine, not passable cuisine.

For more than six decades, the Giacomo family has been dishing up authentic Italian fare in a warm and inviting setting. The clan hails from Castiglione, Italy but first settled in Oklahoma during the late 1800s when work prospects were plentiful in the local coal industry.

The family patriarch, Grandma Rose, lovingly made her pasta and fried chicken, as well as a "homebrew " she called "Choc" , that she sold to people who came to dine at her home during the difficult years of the Great Depression. Little did Granny know that what she did out of necessity, would one day provide the basis for a successful company that would become a family tradition.

Dominic and his sister Minnie kept the family tradition alive when they opened the Isle of Capri Italian restaurant inspired by Dom's time serving in the Navy. And then in 2003, they finally opened Gabriella’s Italian Grill and Pizzeria in South Padre Island after years of dedication and passion for perfecting their food. And as expected, their amazing dishes made them one of the goto destination restaurants in South Texas. Furthermore, Gabriella's was also the first restaurant in the Rio Grande Valley to serve wood-fired pizza—a type of pizza known to be superior because it cooks at a higher temperature than most pizzas. Consequently, Gabriella's gained a reputation as being not only one of the best restaurants south of San Antonio but also THE best place to get wood-fired pizza. The family decided it was time to move back to Oklahoma and bring their talents with them. And we are really happy that they did. When you walk into Gabriella's, you immediately feel at home in their relaxed family atmosphere. Make sure you are hungry because you will be tempted to order everything on the menu! Start your visit off with one of their signature cocktails or an on-tap craft beer and a tasty appetizer such as their Bruschetta, Toasted Ravioli, Italian Nachos, or Crab Cocktail Fingers... you simply cannot go wrong with any of these. For your main course, our favorites were the Roma Pasta made with fresh pasta and tossed with crispy parmesan chicken, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and freshly grated parmesan cheese in a sweet red pepper cream sauce and the Tuscan Pork & Beans, a hearty double bone french cut pork chop served over rich & spicy Cannellini beans. Of course, if pizza is your go-to, there are a plethora of choices and combinations to choose from.

Gabriella's is a staple in the ranks of Oklahoma City 's excellent restaurant scene. For almost 60 years, the Giacomo family has run a restaurant and delighted customers with home-cooked meals even longer. Taking great delight in their family recipes, using fresh, homemade ingredients, they make Alfredo and Marinara sauces, pizza doughs, Italian sausages, meatballs, and ravioli from scratch each morning - just like their grandparents did. From their table to yours, they hope to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience that will bring you back time and time again.

Gabriella's Italian Grill & Pizzeria is open: Tuesday- Saturday 4:00pm-10:00pm Sunday and Monday CLOSED

They located at 3601 S Broadway Suite 600, Edmond, OK

IT'S TIME TO COWBOY UP

B Y H E A T H E R R A N S O M

You can’t be from Oklahoma and not love all things country! Kyle was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in the heart of Cajun country, but moved to Oklahoma as a child and made his home in Edmond where he lives today.

Kyle grew up in central Oklahoma listening to country music along with rhythm and blues which was his early music influences. At a young age he was performing for friends and family and that naturally progressed into a singing career. Kyle found his voice while playing baseball singing for his teammates on the bus and with their encouragement along with his mother, he took his talent to various music opries in Oklahoma and Texas.

By age eighteen, he was asked to be lead vocals for the band, Hearttalk, and so began his music career. Kyle spent 10 years with Hearttalk and has shared the stage with artists: Rhett Akins, Junior Brown, Gary Stuart, Doug Supernaw, Little Texas, and various others and most recently opened up for Scotty McCreery in July.

In 2004, Kyle recorded his first album in Nashville with Harrison House Studios and began pursuing his dream in the music industry. Since Nashville, Kyle has been lead vocalist for several bands and in 2018 decided to move forward as a solo artist. In late 2019, Kyle recorded his first album as a solo artist, “You Don’t Hurt Me” , and in January 2022 released his first album, “Barstools and Neon Lights” , to the Texas radio charts where it reached the top 50 in just 8 weeks before topping out at 36.

Kyle is scheduled to release his next album,

“Cowboy Up, ” next Monday, September 19th to Texas radio and has set his sights on the top 10. He will back in the studio next month working on his next album, “Morning, ” which he co-wrote with Sherrie Austin and Will Rambeaux while in Nashville earlier this year.

You can find and download Kyle’s music on all music platforms such as Spotify and iTunes under Kyle Rainer as well as on his website www.kylerainermusic.com where you will also find his tour dates. Check out Kyle Rainer's Website at kylerainermusic.com

And make sure to follow his social for updated information about new releases and event dates!

The Craft Brewers Association of Oklahoma IT’S TIME FOR A COLD ONE

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

Who doesn’t love a cold and tasty craft beer? It is safe to say that most of us do! A good thing for us the Craft Beer Industry in Oklahoma is booming, and we have The Craft Brewers Association of Oklahoma (CBAO) help thank for that!

According to their website,

“The Craft Brewers Association of Oklahoma (CBAO) was founded as a not-for-profit organization in 2015 to strengthen and unify the Oklahoma brewing industry. CBAO is dedicated to educating and creating awareness among legislators, regulators and the general public of the issues facing the craft brewing industry in Oklahoma, and to promote a healthy economic environment that enables public choices in the marketplace by Oklahoma breweries. ” (“About - Oklahoma Craft Brewers Association”) That is a hefty mission but one that according to their Executive Director, Tabbi Burwell, they are determined to take.

The Craft Brewers Association of Oklahoma has 3 levels of membership that include:

The Brewery Membership has many benefits including representation at the State Capitol and advocacy with the

CBAO lobbyist, Marketing and Promotion through the

CBAO website and social media channels, ability to participate in any CBAO sanctioned events, and endorsed and vetted health insurance for breweries. Membership pricing depends on the individual breweries barrel production. The Allied Membership is open to industry partners who support the Oklahoma craft brewing industry by providing products or services used by craft brewers. For only $500 a year, the benefits for Allied Members include an invitation to all CBAO sanctioned events, multiple opportunities to network with CBAO members, access to the CBAO member directory, subscription to their quarterly e-newsletter, business listed with logo on the CBAO website with link to their business website, and first opportunities for sponsorships and event registration at CBAO events.

The Enthusiast Membership benefits are for the craft beer loving public and include a 5-day pre-sale window opportunity for all CBAO-led events, 20% discount on CBAO swag, Oklahoma Craft Beer Fan membership sticker, annual membership card, CBAO’s newsletter with new brewery openings, events and all things craft beer each month, and discounts at participating breweries and craft beer retailers across the state. Enthusiast members receive their choice of a Richardson's hat, a silver pint glass or a t-shirt. All of this for only $40 a year!

Tabbi has been with the CBAO since August of 2020 and has been the driving force behind the incredible growth that the organization has seen over the past 2 years. When she took the reins in 2020, the organization had 30 brewery members and as of today, they have increased that number to 67 (of which 9 are breweries in the planning phase of their business), 48 Allied Members and approximately 200 Enthusiast Members!

Tabbi agrees that the growth over the past 2 years has been phenomenal and believes it is also a testament to the laws that were passed. In November 2021, the CBAO lobbyists and the legislative committee were able to help pass a law that allowed breweries to have up to 3 locations HB 1097 known as the Multiple Location Licensure Bill. This means that breweries can have one brewing location and distribute across their other 2 locations, whereas before, they would have to purchase brewing equipment for each location. Moving forward, Tabbi thinks that there will be more taproom focused models, and this will be the next wave. Breweries will grow wider and have more than just one location.

The organization’s purpose is to Increase craft beer consumption. Luckily, Oklahoma has some of the most modern laws for craft beer as far as selling in taprooms and the availability of cold product in retail and liquor stores. Other states are not at this capacity. Tabbi goes on to say,

“Oklahoma is very much a Bud, Miller Light and Coors state that has been accustomed to the cheaper product that is more affordable. Most people, when looking at an 18 pack of Bud Light vs a six pack of craft beer, will go for the cheaper option because it is safe and what they are used to… So that has been a hurdle. ” CBAO has made great strides increasing visibility for the craft beer industry by working with the Dept of Agriculture and their help with rolling out the Craft Beer Trail has been a great first step. They fully funded the craft beer trail and over 30,000 copies of those maps went out to the 9 welcome centers across the state. The maps are also on the TravelOk website and through the Department of Tourism, you can request the map to be sent to your home if you are planning a trip to Oklahoma. This project has been a tremendous success with the first round of map distribution depleted within 9 months. It is very apparent that people are absolutely interested in craft beer!

From there, they were able to roll out can online Craft Beer Passport that allows people to check in at various brewery locations to win free gifts. This also allows sharing of data to the breweries that they have never had access to before which helps to understand their audience better.

The Craft Beer Association of Oklahoma holds several events throughout the year:

· Oklahoma Craft Beer Week in May which also coincides with American craft beer week.

· Brewers Fest at the Oklahoma City Bricktown Ballpark. This year there were over 60 Breweries in attendance as well as Allied Member booths. This event has traditionally been in June but will be held in May of 2023

· The Tulsa Tonk festival at Guthrie Greens in September is a day of live music, craft beer tasting and a family friendly area.

· The Oklahoma Craft Beer Summit in August is a chance for breweries to gather to learn and share ideas about how to move the Oklahoma industry further.

· The Beer and Birdies golf tournament is open to the public at Oaktree golf course in November. Each hole has a different brewery set up and gives every golfer the opportunity to sample beers from across the state.

· Pint days in November is intended to increase traffic to breweries during Shop Small Business Saturday the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Each brewery has a beautiful artist designs glass to sell for $10 and they keep the proceeds.

· Advent calendars and the Hoppin' Holiday Party in December. CBAO sells tickets to a special holiday party with Santa and cookies and of course craft beer! Each ticket receives a special CBAO Advent Calendar at the party. With the advent calendar sale, the 1st year they were able to fully pay for the Craft Beer Trail Passport. And the coolest part about the Advent Calendar is that they collaborate with the Dale Rogers Training Center who employs people with disabilities. They assemble the advent calendars, so it is also a way to give back to them ... it is a reciprocal relationship in the most positive way.

· In February 2023 CBAO is partnering with Oklahoma Blood Institute to hold an industry wide blood drive. This “Pint for a Pint” drive will be held from February 1st through February 15th allowing blood doors to visit the closest donor center to them to donate benefiting CBAO. Donors will receive a special drive t-shirt and a punch card that will give all donors aged 21 and up a free “pint” at participating breweries across the state starting February 16th.

This association is constantly having conversations about things that impact the brewers, whether they are already a brewery or a brewery in planning. According to Tabbi, “Having a strong board of directors and an active legislative committee and the support of the members is the key to our success. They are having conversations on how to help this industry and make it more sustainable for all involved. ”

Oklahoma is special and the breweries here have shown the rest of the country how it is supposed to be done. By and far they have shown to be the most collaborative industry we have seen up to date. They are all competitors but also have shown that in teamwork and collaboration the industry wins. It is true that high tide raises all ships, and we are happy to be on board.

You can find more information about The Craft Brewers Association of Oklahoma and their mission at craftbeerok.org.

Make sure and follow them on their social media for up to date information on membership events!

Ponca City's Rich History and Culture

Ponca City was established in 1893 near the Arkansas River and a flowing spring, which were essential to its selection. The name Ponca City originates from the Ponca Indians who populated the area in 1879 but later had to relocate south due to a lack of resources. In 1920, oil was discovered nearby, which lead to a huge influx of people and further development of the city.

This town is rich in history and chock full of activities and a makes for a fun and relaxing weekend road trip.

Lake Ponca is a fantastic destination for a fun weekend getaway. There are numerous activities available, including boating, kayak rentals, wakeboarding, tubing, fishing, a swim beach, camping, a play structure, sand volleyball courts, hiking path, shelter houses, disc golfing indoors, or simply picnicking with the family! The 18-hole Lew Wentz Golf Course by Lake Ponca is not only stunning, but it provides an activity for those who want to be active on their trip or a place to relax.

Just 8 miles East of Ponca City, Kaw Lake is a massive 17,000 acres with 168 miles of shoreline. What makes this spot, especially appealing are the recreation facilities including picnic areas, boat ramps, playgrounds, and a swimming beach. Not to mention that it's known for housing some of Oklahoma's largest catfish - perfect for fishermen! If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life but still be close enough to enjoy nearby festivals and communities, then look no further than Kaw Lake - your new favorite getaway destination.

by Kari Huskey

The Five Fingers and Eagle View trails are a series of littleknown paths located on the southeast side of Kaw Lake in Kay County, Oklahoma. The main route for the Five Fingers trail is 17 miles long and deviates from Sarge Creek to Burbank Landing, with additional loops that lead back to the original path, totaling 76 miles. The Eagle Point trail is 12 miles long and goes from Osage Cove to Burbank Landing. The horseback riding, walking, and nonmotorized vehicle trails are open! If you wish to ride a horse while on the trails, however, you must bring your own. Various sceneries await you as well as the potential to spot some wildlife! The trails are accessible yearround with the exception of hunting season.

Want to stay closer to town and still get some fresh air? No problem...Ponca City has over 20 parks and each is fascinating in its own way. Play structures, splash pads, shelter houses, restrooms, a swimming beach, sand volleyball, and skate parks are just a few of the attractions available. Walking/jogging trails, dog parks, youth fishing ponds, picnic tables with monuments, and more are also offered. The city has 7 Walking/Jogging Trails that give you a more intimate look at the local culture and beauty the locals enjoy.

Make sure and join the Fox Hunt! Ponca City has a history with foxes, and so they organized a downtown "Fox Hunt" with their partners at Ponca City Main Street. Go to downtownponcacity.com to download a map and go on your own hunt for our foxes - starting with the mural on the south side of City Central! On Saturdays from 8 am - 11 am you can casually stroll through the Pioneer Woman Museum's Farmer's Market where you will find Fruits, Vegetables, Eggs, HomeBaked Bread and Rolls, Jams and Jellies, Artisan Goats' Milk, Soaps, Lotions, Fresh Herbs, Spice Blends, Herbal Teas, Honey and So Much More!

Ponca City has a lot to offer when it comes to art and culture wrapped in historical significance.

La Cann Estate Gardens, located at 14th ST and Grand Ave is a 10-acre estate that was given to the City of Ponca City by Elsie Cann Brown, daughter of L. A. and Mary Cann in August 1975, in memory of her parents. The stipulation was that it would be maintained as a memorial garden for use of the people of Ponca City. Since 1980, this old two-story farmhouse from 1908 has been refurbished with a gorgeous, shaded patio and 2500 ft. of brick walkways. You'll find formal gardens containing hundreds of varieties of annuals and perennials in beautiful color displays.

Transport yourself back in time when you visit the Poncan Theatre at 104 E Grand Ave. You'll be able to enjoy a wide variety of live performances 365 days out of the year. Since 1927, they have been hosting entertainers and inviting guests into their theatre home. The theatre is truly the jewel of downtown Ponca City and when you step through the doors, prepare to be blasted into a world of song and dance, blackand-white movies, and an overall feeling of hope!

In 1958, the Ponca Playhouse opened its doors at 301 S 1st St to theatergoers in Ponca City. Since then, the dedicated members and volunteers of the Playhouse have Presented high-quality plays and entertainment that have garnered state and national recognition for excellence in Community Theater. The playhouse puts on five shows per season with special

theatrical events happening throughout the year.

The Standing Bear Museum and Statue is located at 601 Standing Bear Parkway where the real Standing Bear stood while anticipating his fate. He stood still for so long that the silence of death seemed to have descended on the audience, and his reaching out his right hand and standing motionless while facing both the judge and spectators was almost frightening. At last, looking up at the judge, he said, “That hand is not the color of yours, but if I prick it, the blood will flow, and I shall feel pain. The blood is of the same color as yours. God made me, and I am a man. ” Standing Bear Museum & Statue honors Ponca City 's first civil rights leader and our seven area tribes.

You can't visit Ponca City without taking the time to tour the Marland Mansion. This mansion, which was designed by E.W. Marland, a wealthy oilman and the 10th Governor of Oklahoma, was built in 1928 for 5.5 million dollars at the time. This breathtakingly beautiful "Palace on the Prairie" displays exquisite attention to detail with carved wood, molded stone, wrought iron archways, and Waterford crystal chandeliers similar to those found in the Davanzati Palace in Florence, Italy... This luxurious showplace contains 43,561 square feet spread over four floors ~ complete with a leather-lined elevator, twelve bathrooms, three kitchens, an elegant ballroom with a 24-karat gold leaf-covered ceiling worth over 1.9 million dollars, and seven fireplaces. In 1973, it was designated a National Historic Landmark and now houses a museum open to visitors. The Marland Mansion grounds are spread across 30 acres of gardens, lakes, and other buildings. You can find more information about tours and the history of The E.W. Marland Mansion at marlandmansion.com.

Vortex Alley Brewing located at 220 E Central Ave, was born from the shared passion of four friends for home brewing. Deciding that they needed to share their talents and love of craft beer with the world, they planted their roots in downtown Ponca City. Their taproom offers six different beers on rotation, so there's always something new to try. And with a variety of styles available - from stout to sour and everything in between - there's sure to be something to suit every palate. So, whether you're after a pint or two, a flight sampling, or growlers to take home, you will not be disappointed! Learn more about Vortex Alley at their website vortexalleybrewing.com and follow their social media for events and new beer releases!

Silvertop Farm & Vineyards is a 4,000-acre farm that also functions as a hospitality operation. It was founded by Joe & Ruth Steichen in 1945 and includes small grains, heritage Shropshire sheep, and Hereford cattle, hay, grapes, pecans, and vineyards on the working farm side. The hospitality operation aspect of Silvertop provides private tours, has a winery open to visitors, puts on events, and hosts weddings. You can find operating hours and more information on their Facebook page.

The Rusty Barrell Supper Club opened for business in October 1974 and could only accommodate 24 people. And something you do not see today, the patrons had to cook their own steaks! The building entrance is accessible via the alley. You'll know you're in the right place when you see orange doors; go through them and ring the bell to be let inside. This was a time before liquor by the drink was passed and so they operated as a private club. As was customary in those days, members brought and stored their liquor bottles at the bar. When a patron asked for a drink, the bartender’s poured drinks for from their own strategically numbered bottles. Just like the prohibition-era speakeasies, The door remained locked and only those who knew the proper instructions for entry were allowed in. Kay County passed liquor by the drink in 1985 but the doorbell and orange door tradition continue to this day. Since the establishment opened in 1976, people from all corners of the globe and every U.S. state have enjoyed the cuisine. They serve only the finest beef that has been aged 21 to 28 days - never frozen - and their salad bar has been voted one of the best in town! You can also find a wide variety of specialty cocktails and wine. And the best part? You don't have to bring it yourself! Ponca City is likely one of the best-kept secrets in Northern Oklahoma and is an easy 1 1/2-hour drive from Oklahoma City just straight north on I-35. With all the history, culture, and outdoor activities, it is a fantastic weekend getaway or just a day trip for the entire family!