Oklahoma Magazine May 2019 by Oklahoma Magazine

MAY 2019

& Women and Power Dynamic female leaders paving Oklahomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future

Mesquite vs. hickory, unusual food over the coals and the secret to perfect sauce

Get Outside A guide to outdoor entertainment

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS IN MENTAL HEALTH. Just as no one decides to have a physical ailment, no one chooses to have a mental illness. Behavioral health issues are conditions that can be treated and often cured. Founded in 1989 as a part of Saint Francis Health System, Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hospital has been a local and national leader in mental health treatment, advocacy and research. Our full continuum of services includes inpatient and outpatient care, senior behavioral health, intensive outpatient programs for chemical dependency and mental health, and a nationally recognized eating disorders treatment program. And our goal, as with any illness, is to help patients recover and reach their full potential. To learn more about Laureate’s services, please call 918-481-4000 or visit laureate.com.

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Features MAY

2019 Oklahoma Magazine Vol. XXIII, No. 5

56 Get Outside

Before the sweltering Oklahoma heat takes over, enjoy outdoor activities around the state, from river cruises and hiking to zip lining and garden tours.

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

Women and Power

Women are shaping Oklahoma’s future. Highlighted are just a handful of the countless female leaders vying for change and ﬁghting tooth and nail to make the state – and the world – a better place to live and work. From philanthropic doctors and nationally recognized bankers to tribal chiefs and civil-rights lawyers, these women are the state’s brave pioneers.

WANT SOME MORE? MAY 2019

MAY 2019

60 Firing Your Way to Grilling Greatness

Patience, acquired knowledge and willingness to try something new let you satisfy your hungry guests with food from the charcoaler or smoker. We explore how to grill unusual food over the coals, grilling gadgets and the secret to perfect sauce.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

Visit us online. MORE ARTICLES

Read expanded articles and stories that don’t appear in the print edition. ON THE COVER:

& Women and Power Dynamic female leaders paving Oklahoma’s future

Mesquite vs. hickory, unusual food over the coals and the secret to perfect sauce

Get Outside A guide to outdoor entertainment

IN OUR BARBECUE AND GRILLING FEATURE, WE DISCUSS THE RECIPE FOR THE PERFECT SAUCE, UNUSUAL FOODS OVER THE COALS AND NEW GRILLING GAGDETS. RIBS COURTESY RIB CRIB BLUE DOME. PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

MORE PHOTOS

View expanded Scene, Style, Taste and Entertainment galleries.

MORE EVENTS

The online calendar includes more Oklahoma events.

Now you can schedule care on the go. Schedule online with care teams at Ascension St. John

Departments

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

11 State 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 22 23 24

Growers stretch the farmers market model with weekly, at-home subscription deliveries.

Business I Business II Makers Sports I Sports II People Education Clubs Nature Insider

27 Life and Style 28 32 34 35 36 37 38 40 42

Interiors A Tulsa ad agency has its traditional ofﬁce space transformed into progressive, versatile, multipurpose work zones. Destinations Health Developments Outside the Metro Happenings FYI Style Dots, spots and ﬂorals

return to your summer wardrobe.

Scene

11 40

28 73

67 Taste 68 70 71

The Black Walnut has unusual food categories while making its mark in a revitalized district in downtown OKC.

Local Flavor Chef Chat Tasty Tidbits

73 Where and When 74 78

Tulsa Ballet concludes its season with a three-piece showcase.

In Tulsa/In OKC Film and Cinema

80 Closing Thoughts

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

Tree House at Garvan Woodland Gardens, Hot Springs

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OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA™ PRESIDENT AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

OKLAHOMA

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GRAPHICS MANAGER MARK ALLEN

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

NATALIE GREEN, BRENT FUCHS, NATHAN HARMON, JOSH NEW, SCOTT MILLER, DAN MORGAN, DAVID COBB, SCOTT JOHNSON

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Vincent van Gogh (Dutch, 1853–1890). Daisies, Arles, (detail), 1888. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon. Photo: Travis Fullerton. © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

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LET TER FROM THE EDITOR Women are shaping Oklahoma’s future. In our Women and Power feature, we highlight a few of the countless female leaders around the state who are vying for change and fighting to make Oklahoma a better place to live and work (page 44). From philanthropic doctors and nationally recognized bankers to tribal chiefs and civil-rights lawyers, these women are brave pioneers in the face of a changing world. It’s time to dust off your grill and get cookin’. May means barbecue, and this year we’re highlighting some of the foods you wouldn’t think belong over the coals – including pizza, chicken, duck and even fudge. Get the skinny on the art of the perfect homemade barbecue sauce, read points and counterpoints on the age-old debate of mesquite vs. hickory smoking, and preview some nifty barbecuing gadgets to kick-start your summer at the grill (page 60). Before the Oklahoma heat becomes too oppressive, explore outdoor opportunities with our Get Outside feature on page 56. Activities range from wild (zip lining and whitewater rafting) to mild (shopping and garden tours). Looking to support local farmers and get fresh produce out of the deal? See our profile on some of Oklahoma’s small farms and their grocery delivery services on page 11. Want some stress relief? Why not throw an axe at a target? Yes, that’s something you can do, and yes, we tell you about it on page 16. Searching for inspiration? Our profile on Allan Trimble, former Jenks football coach turned philanthropist diagnosed with ALS, should do the trick (page 18). There’s plenty more where that came from – keep reading for tasty tidbits from Oklahoma’s hottest new restaurants, plus an advertising firm’s major renovation and a comprehensive calendar to keep you out and about all month long. Feel free to contact me at editor@okmag.com. Mary Willa Allen Managing Editor

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OKMAG.COM In conjunction with our Get Outside feature, enjoy a compilation of exciting, aﬀordable and entertaining outdoor activities, ranging from kayaking and hiking to concerts and cruises.

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State

ALL THINGS OKLAHOMA

Fresh Produce on Your Doorstep

Growers stretch the farmers market model with weekly, at-home subscription deliveries.

LOCAL FARM OK OFFERS A BEVY OF DIFFERENT VEGETABLES IN ITS DELIVERIES, INCLUDING PURPLE CARROTS. PHOTO COURTESY LOCAL FARM OK

t’s no small task to provide weekly produce deliveries to 1,200 lovers of farm-fresh food, but Local Farm OK makes it happen, and coowner Ashley Neal is giddy about her part in the enterprise. “I couldn’t grow anything if my life depended on it … but I cook,” says Neal, who emails a new weekly recipe to those ordering Local Farm OK’s fruits, vegetables, eggs, meat and dairy products. “I love to be in the kitchen and share my secrets with people,” she says. “I’m a huge advocate of health. They

call me the salad queen.” Neal and her husband, Ben, operate a 10-acre farm near Glenpool with six greenhouses; they grow 10 varieties of lettuce, along with herbs and tomatoes. People not sold on the idea of a greenhouse haven’t eaten their leafy offerings, Neal says. “Our lettuce is 1,000 percent better than anything you could grow outside,” she says. “It is grown in air with water continually on its roots. We ruin people for any other lettuce when they have our greens.” People who like their food not far removed from the soil have options

like farmers markets and pick-yourown farms. Customers are also placing coolers on their porches to receive inseason Oklahoma produce each week. Farm-to-home providers have often made career changes to get closer to nature. The Neals, who deliver across metropolitan Tulsa, turned a gardening hobby into a business about ﬁve years ago after selling their manufacturing company. Kamala Gamble of Oklahoma City left banking to train as a chef. She operates Kam’s Kookery (a catering company) and Guilford Gardens, which has about 120 customers signed MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Life & Style

up for home or workplace produce delivery. She tends a 2-acre vegetable garden described as community-supported agriculture, whose customers “buy in” quarterly. The cost averages $23 a week for home delivery or $20 if customers go to a designated drop-off point, says Gamble, adding that she also has greenhouses and hoop houses, so members get a basket every week, except during the holiday season. “I am very glad I started doing this,” says Gamble, who, like the Neals, has two young children. “I’m much happier cooking and growing. I like the relationships that it builds with people. I am completely dedicated to growing veggies and to having kids eat them.” Jose Quiroz, owner of Twelve 20 Saltcreek Farms near Minco, touts all his produce, especially his new, 1-acre blueberry patch. People clamor for the fruit, which isn’t easy to grow in Oklahoma. Quiroz says he relies on research and expertise handed down from his family. Since 2014, he’s studied farming techniques on the side while running other businesses, primarily in construction. Twelve 20 starts home delivery this month. For those who’d rather pick their own produce, the farm is southwest of town. Quiroz expects the blueberries to ripen by June 30. Local Farm OK offers a six-item farm bag of local produce and an eight-item variety bag with two additions that may come from farther away, such as citrus fruit from Texas. All customers get the same items every week based on what’s in season. The bags are ﬁlled every Monday with delivery from Tuesday through Thursday. Customers pay online; if they’re out of town, they can cancel for that week. Local Farm OK isn’t community-supported agriculture, but customers pay a $10 membership fee every growing season. Local Farm OK has partnerships with more than a dozen farmers who provide the eggs, chicken, pork and beef going in the bags. The meat comes frozen because of health department standards. Gamble says her customers all get the same baskets, and delivery is usually each Tuesday. “You get what’s in the garden,” she says. In early March, for example, baskets LEFT TOP TO BOTTOM: “OUR LETTUCE IS 1,000 PERCENT BETTER THAN ANYTHING YOU COULD GROW OUTSIDE,” SAYS ASHLEY NEAL OF LOCAL FARM OK. “IT IS GROWN IN AIR WITH WATER CONTINUALLY ON ITS ROOTS. WE RUIN PEOPLE FOR ANY OTHER LETTUCE WHEN THEY HAVE OUR GREENS.” ASHLEY NEAL POSTS RECIPES ON THE COMPANY’S SOCIAL MEDIA SITES TO HELP CUSTOMERS MAKE THE BEST USE OF THE PRODUCE. RIGHT: THE NEAL FAMILY – ASHLEY, HER HUSBAND, BEN, AND THEIR CHILDREN, TAYLOR AND MAX – OPERATES A 10-ACRE FARM NEAR GLENPOOL WITH SIX GREENHOUSES. PHOTOS COURTESY LOCAL FARM OK

GUILFORD GARDENS IN OKLAHOMA CITY HAS ABOUT 120 CUSTOMERS SIGNED UP FOR HOME OR WORKPLACE PRODUCE DELIVERY. PHOTO COURTESY GUILFORD GARDENS

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

included Swiss chard, lettuce, kale, eggs and sweet potatoes. Every basket contains at least seven items. Gamble has been in the business for 16 years. She says one of her customers, who has a daughter in middle school, has bought vegetables from Gamble since her child was in diapers. Gamble and Ashley Neal post recipes on their social media sites to help customers make the best use of their produce. Among Neal’s creations are garlic herb hasselback sweet potatoes, spaghetti squash pad thai and Indianspiced roasted vegetables. “It makes me so happy when people use my recipes,” Neal says. “It makes it worthwhile when I get emails from people saying thank you for helping me change my life and eat healthier.” For information on how to order from Gamble, the Neals or Quiroz, go to kamskookery. com, localfarmok.com or twelve20farmstore. com, respectively. KIMBERLY BURK

BUSINESS I

Eating Out Keeps Dough in State The food-service industry accounts for $7.6 billion sales and, in turn, provides training, programs and scholarships.

CHEF DANH DO OF GOGI GO PARTICIPATES IN THE 2018 OKLAHOMA RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION’S CULINARY COOK-OFF. PHOTO COURTESY OKLAHOMA RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION

hen you’re away from home, the need for a meal is often inevitable, so you find yourself sitting down at a popular joint or picking up a sandwich at some place quick. Dropping those dining dollars adds up to big business in Oklahoma. The food-service industry provides the second-highest number of private-sector jobs in the state – more than 185,000 people, or 11 percent of the total job base, according to the National Restaurant Association. Oklahoma’s 7,000-plus restaurants generate more than $7.6 billion in annual sales. Those figures, added with hospitality-related sectors (including educational programs and hotels), make the question “Where should we eat?” fiscally important for the state. The Oklahoma Restaurant Association, with more than 4,000 members, provides training for new restaurants, a foundation to benefit tourism and scholarship

opportunities; hosts culinary events; and lobbies on food-service issues at the state and federal levels. Patti Colley, chief strategy officer for the group, says it “is recognized as one of the largest and most effective organizations in Oklahoma … and constantly monitors regulatory and legislative issues.” She says the association’s services include food-safety and alcoholserver training, a legal resource center, group insurance programs, educational programming, professional certifications and the state’s largest food-service trade show. Established in 1933, the restaurant association has increased its scope and influence because tourism has increased over the decades to become the third-largest industry in the state, with about 21 million travelers visiting Oklahoma each year. The Oklahoma Hospitality Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the association, promotes career opportunities with scholarships for students pursuing degrees in hotel management, food service or the

hospitality industry. The foundation also has work-based mentoring programs to obtain certiﬁcations and accreditations, Colley says. She mentions that the foundation has awarded more than $600,000 in scholarships and hosts annual culinary and management competitions for students in more than 30 schools and technology centers across Oklahoma. Its soonto-be-launched program called HospitAbilites provides skillsbased assessments and certiﬁcation opportunities for students. The restaurant association, the foundation and other organizations collaborate throughout the year to put on various events, such as Thirst for a Cause, an annual winetasting fundraiser featuring about 30 wineries. Proceeds help with urgent medical expenses of hospitality workers. “Through our vision, we lead Oklahoma’s food-service and hospitality industry by elevating its prosperity, prominence and participation, enhancing the quality of life for all we serve,” Colley says. TRACY LEGRAND

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

The State

A Dairy I Day Diary

BUSINESS II

f you ever wondered how Braum’s makes all those delicious goodies stocked in its stores, you can ﬁnd out ﬁrsthand. Braum’s Farms With free tours of its Tuttle production facility, in Tuttle offers Braum’s shows how its deliciousness is made. tours that are sure to tickle your fancy as well as your taste buds. Visitors can experience how the operation works, the company’s public relations director, Amanda Beuchaw, says. After viewing an introductory video, guests are taken on the “cow bus” to the bakery, where they’re greeted with the fresh smell of breads, cookies and cones. “Once they are inside, they have to climb stairs to get to the bakery viewing area,” Beuchaw says. “There, they can see the entire bakery from above. They learn about BRAUM’S EMPLOYS MORE THAN 11,000 PEOPLE IN OKLAall the goods that we bake fresh daily and send to the HOMA AND BEYOND. stores. We even make our own cones and roast our own PHOTOS COURTESY BRAUM’S

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

nuts for the ice cream inclusions.” After the bakery, visitors go to the plant, where they’re shown how Braum’s makes ice cream and cottage cheese, and how milk is processed. “We also make our own milk jugs, which is quite the sight to see,” Beuchaw says. After the tour, visitors get a sweet treat for the road. The free tours run weekdays with start times at 9 and 10 a.m. The limit is 30 people per tour, so reservations are required. Bill and Mary Braum opened their ﬁrst store in 1968 in Oklahoma City. The company is still family owned and operated, with more than 280 shops throughout Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Missouri and Arkansas. All stores are located within a 300-mile radius of the company’s plant in Tuttle, and trucks are on the road daily to deliver fresh products every other day to each location. Braum’s also contributes to the economies of Oklahoma and surrounding states by employing 11,279 people total, with 5,810 employees in Oklahoma alone, Beuchaw says. “We are vertically integrated,” she continues. “We do almost everything ourselves, from the ground up. This translates into more jobs, and in turn, has a positive impact on the state’s economy. “We employ thousands of people between the workers at the farm, plant and bakery in Tuttle, and the workers at the stores. We partner with Oklahoma companies to sell their products in our Fresh Market, like Schwab’s. And when we need to supplement our feed supply for the cows, we turn to other farmers in the state to buy grains, which generates revenue for them.” In addition, Braum’s works with cities throughout the state to help develop areas where the chain has, or plans to develop, stores. “We are members of the chambers [of commerce] in most of the cities and towns where we have stores,” Beuchaw says. SHARON MCBRIDE

MAKERS

The Next Steep Up in Bathing Channing Winblad’s tea soaks and soaps provide chemical-free alternatives for those who want to relax in the tub.

loating and steeping luxuriously like a tea bag in a mug of hot water isn’t exactly what mercantiler Channing Winblad had in mind when she developed her tea soaks, but the image provides a general idea of how they work. Tea soaks are refillable sachets “Even if you have of various herbal sensitive skin, aller- blends that can gies or limitations, be tossed into the tub to enjoy you should still be time. able to pamper your- at bath Winblad self and get some wanted to provide her relief at the same family a natural, time.” cost-effective alternative to the popular, expensive bath bombs full of artificial colors and chemicals that leave stains. “We got started from a desire to RUSTIC 1773 MERCANTILE CREfind something better,” she says. ATES NATURAL ALTERNATIVES She studied the health benefits of TO POPULAR BATH BOMBS. tea and found what she was looking PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

for to fill her tub and wash her family. “It became apparent through ancient Chinese history that bathing in the tea would be an even more beneficial way to access the health benefits,” Winblad says. The Moore native shares her creations with customers through Rustic 1773 Mercantile, her online store selling tea soaks and artisan soaps. The pride of owning her own business expands tenfold due to her products’ various health-enhancing features and positive impact. “Our customers suffer from fibromyalgia, arthritis, eczema, migraines, headaches, nerve damage, anxiety, depression [and] insomnia,” Winblad says. “We provide natural products that help to ease some of the symptoms involved with these ailments.” She describes how some cancer patients use the tea soaks to endure uncomfortable side effects of chemotherapy. Other customers are new mothers who use them for bathing with their babies – relaxing bonding times that can induce sleep in

newborns. Because Winblad’s soaps and soaks are made from all-natural ingredients, they are safe for sensitive skin. “Rustic 1773 Mercantile believes that even if you have sensitive skin, allergies or limitations, you should still be able to pamper yourself and get some relief at the same time,” she says. “Our tea is hand-selected based on the health benefits that will be supplied to our customers.” The products also don’t stain the tub or clog the drain. A sachet is filled with a herbal blend and floats in the bath or is hung in the shower. Afterward, one empties the sachet’s contents into the trash. Rustic 1773 Mercantile also sells its wares through Nosh Restaurant in Moore because it’s important to Winblad to support other local businesses. Either way of purchase means relaxing in a tea soak or getting clean with an all-natural soap. Visit rusticteaokc.com to see all of Winblad’s products. BONNIE RUCKER

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

The State

SPORTS I

Be a Bad Axe

Hurling these ancient weapons at targets provides a therapeutic rush and creates bonds between participants.

t some point, you’ve probably thrown a bowling ball down a lane, but an axe … not

GOT WOOD AXE THROWING IN JENKS HAS A FESTIVE ENVIRONMENT AND TRAINERS TO GUIDE YOU IN HURLING AXES AND HATCHETS, WITH SAFETY AS A PRIORITY. PHOTOS BY JOSH NEW

so much. That has changed in Oklahoma. Often called an extreme alternative to darts or bowling, urban axe throwing, which began in Canada, has gained momentum as venues pop up across the nation. Mario Zelaya, owner of Bad Axe Throwing in Oklahoma City, says if you want a unique, entertaining, new activity, throwing axes and hatchets at targets might do it for you. “There aren’t very many new concepts around,” he says. “Bowling has been around for decades, we all know what it is, and we all know what it’s like. Axe throwing is similar to bowling … except with a fun factor dialed up by a thousand.” Along with the growing number of axe throwing clubs, the number of members joining leagues continues to increase. One of the largest is the World Axe Throwing League. “People travel across North America to compete, drink beer [or] wine, hang out and have a great time,” Zelaya says. “It’s a very inclusive community – no one cares about your age, gender, race, political views, career – everyone is there just to throw axes and have fun. That’s what makes this sport so great and unique.” You might be reluctant to try the sport, maybe because you don’t ﬁt a certain proﬁle or don’t have much strength. However, Jason Kearney, co-owner of Got Wood Axe Throwing in Jenks, says fun can be

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

had by all adults. “There’s not one set demographic,” he says. “It’s perfect for a date night, family gatherings, parties, or corporate events such as team building and client entertainment.” Safety is always a priority. Kearney advises visitors to dress comfortably and wear closed-toe shoes. Experts are on hand to provide safety training before anyone starts throwing. While many just want the experience of throwing an axe or hatchet, others are driven by competition, which can be fostered by joining a league. “Once you stick the axe [and] get a bull’s-eye, there’s a rush combined with a sense of accomplishment, where you want to do more and be better,” Zelaya says. “It’s fun – people love doing it recreationally

and competitively. No experience is required [to join] leagues. We train people, we encourage them to come in and practice, [and] it’s included with their league registration.” Axe throwing hasn’t made it to the Olympics, but that doesn’t mean it falls short on the number of events. Some include the World Axe Throwing League Arnold Open (March in Dublin, Ohio) and the National Axe Throwing Championship (JanuaryFebruary in Toronto). “If you’re remotely curious, go try it,” Kearney says. “It’s safer than you think, and it’s really satisfying. It’s also a great way to unwind and blow off the steam of a hectic day.” So, grab a few friends, book a lane and head to your local axe throwing club … lumberjack get-up not required. ALAINA STEVENS

SPORTS II

A Slow Recovery Andrew Heaney, the pride of Putnam City High School, wants to keep improving after major elbow surgery three years ago.

he 2018 baseball season was a milestone for Oklahoma City native Andrew Heaney. Heaney, 27, made 30 starts for the Los Angeles Angels and went 9-10 over 180 innings. After having Tommy John surgery (replacing a torn ligament with a healthy tendon) on his left elbow in July 2016, the Putnam City High product pitched seven games in 2017 but made it through a full season last year. “Taxing is a good word,” Heaney says of his long recovery. “There were difﬁcult times. It’s such a slow process and you don’t really see your progression. “On a day-today basis, you just don’t feel like you’re ever really getting better. It’s something that was difﬁcult, whether that’s physical or mental; that’s a hard thing to wrap your head around.” Before his injury, Heaney says he was a stop-and-smell-the-roses sort of guy, always grateful for the opportunity to play baseball and make a nice living ANDREW HEANEY, AN doing so. OKLAHOMA CITY NATIVE, However, since his PLAYS FOR THE LOS ANGELES ANGELS. surgery and subsequent PHOTO COURTESY ANGELS BASEBALL LP

recovery, he’s mindful about all of life’s blessings, on and off the field. “You just don’t take anything for granted,” he says. “Pre-injury, I don’t think I took anything for granted, but it’s even more so now – just the little things to keep yourself healthy and keep yourself going.” He’s never taken for granted his pride in Oklahoma, where he and his wife live in the offseason. And once the season concludes, his first stop upon returning to OKC is Ted’s Cafe Escondido for some Mexican food. Oklahoma “is a place that I grew up loving, that’s treated me well. Just love that area,” he says. Between 2015 and 2018, Garrett Richards, who grew up in Edmond and pitched at the University of Oklahoma, was Heaney’s teammate on the Angels. Heaney, who played collegiately for Oklahoma State, and Richards, now with the San Diego Padres, frequently discussed their roots. “We’d talk about it all the time,” he says. “When I’d go home and get Ted’s, I’d always send him a picture [or] if I’d go to Taco Bueno [or] Sonic,” Heaney says. “I was always texting him food and stuff. It’s just something we joked about.” Growing up, Heaney often went to games at Globe Life Park, home of the Texas Rangers in Arlington. He’s always happy to see friends and family make the three-hour drive from OKC when the Angels visit the Rangers but admits the shine has come off that experience since hitting the big leagues in 2014. “This sounds terrible, [but] I’m almost happier when people don’t come,” he says. “I think it’s kind of worn out a little bit. The first time I played [in Arlington], it was like eight or 10 people [who came] and I didn’t even pitch that series. And then the next time that I actually pitched, it was like 10 or 12 people. I think it’s just sort of the novelty’s worn off for people. “It’s got to be a good situation. Yeah, it’s always cool [for them to come]. This is where I grew up watching games.” STEPHEN HUNT

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

The State PEOPLE

Unimpeded by Boundaries Despite the physical devastation of ALS, Jenks legend Allan Trimble continues coaching in his own way through his foundation.

ALLAN TRIMBLE WORKED AS JENK HIGH SCHOOL’S HEAD COACH FOR 22 YEARS AND NABBED 13 STATE TITLES IN THE PROCESS.

PHOTOS COURTESY THE TRIMBLE FAMILY

etired Jenks High School football coach Allan Trimble is not from this world, according to his friend Troy Taber. “He knows where he is from and where he is going,” Taber says. “‘Spectacular servant of the Lord.’ Those are the four words I would use.” Trimble, 55, was diagnosed in June 2016 with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. Two years later, physical limitations forced him to stop coaching, but he was far from ready to stop working. The Trimble Strong Foundation began in February 2018. “So many people who get diagnosed with ALS want to create awareness for the disease and raise money for treatment,” Trimble says. “My goal and my life’s work have always been to try to coach and encourage people to live life to the fullest, even when life is hard. So my

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

wife and I decided not to change that. The foundation just kind of carries on what I’ve done my whole life as a coach.” Among its services, the foundation supports a school in Honduras; provides local scholarships for “kids with great character,” Trimble says; assists foster families; and helps with child adoption expenses. Courtney Trimble says her husband “probably has done a lot better than I would ever have done” since being diagnosed with a disease that will shorten his life. She has taken a leave of absence from her job to care for him. “He’s staying busy, focusing on the things that are important, still teaching at church when he can,” she says. “He e-mails and encourages people. That kind of lets him forget about the physical things that might not be going as well.” Trimble adds: “My disease has progressed to where

I have to have people helping me most of the time now. It slowly takes away all of your physical abilities. As the provider and protector of your family, that is very frustrating. Sometimes it can kind of wear you down.” He says his faith “is the only thing that has carried me through. In a strange but very real way, my journey with ALS has really blessed me with spiritual growth.” Trimble graduated from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, where he played football, and landed his ﬁrst teaching job in Owasso. He was hired by Jenks High in 1990 and, by 1996, was head coach, a job he held for 22 seasons. In that role, he and his teams captured a record 13 state titles, with notable winning streaks from 1996 to

2001 and from 2013 to 2015. Keith Riggs, who succeeded Trimble as head coach, was his assistant for 15 years. “Through all his success, Allan is one of the most humble people I’ve ever been around,” Riggs says. “Throughout his life, he has always searched for ways to serve others: his players, his coaches, fellow teachers, the community, and now with his foundation.” Brent Sharp, a builder who lives in Jenks, played for Trimble from 1998 to 2000. “We won the state championship all three years that I played varsity,” Sharp says. “You didn’t realize what you were doing; you just went out and won. But now that I’m mature and think with a full brain, I know that it was because at the top of his list of teachings was that perfect practice leads to perfection.” When he learned of Trimble’s diagnosis, Sharp says “a little part of me died a little bit. Someone who has done so much and affected so many people, you ﬁnd yourself asking, ‘Why him?’” But Trimble, Sharp says, “wants to use this to affect as many people as he can while he’s here. That shows you his depth of character. He cares very little about his own legacy.” Taber, who serves on the foundation’s board, says he and Trimble grew close while working on outreach projects for Park Church of Christ in Tulsa. Trimble says

that while he’s the CEO of the foundation, Taber is “the face of the place. He does the fundraising, public awareness and education.” In starting Trimble Strong, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Famer says: “I had no idea what the foundation was going to do. We just wanted to serve people. But the biggest gift has been how it has brought so many people together.” One project includes a June trip to the Honduran school. “They will do professional development with the faculty, a soccer camp and repair work on the buildings,” Trimble says. “They will do a vacation Bible school. It will be people from all walks of life – men and women and two high school kids.” The Trimbles have two daughters. Tylar, an educator, takes care of the foundation’s website, and Tori is a junior at Oklahoma State University. Taber says Park Church has a tradition of surrounding the homes of its members in need to pray and sing. After Trimble was diagnosed, many suspected his neighborhood would not support such a rowdy gathering … so they moved it to the school gym. “Three thousand ﬁve hundred people showed up for that prayer vigil,” Taber says. KIMBERLY BURK

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

The State

E D U C AT I O N

Yin and Yang of Instruction

Broken Arrow’s Donna Gradel, nationally acclaimed for student success, describes the delicate balance involved in teaching.

DONNA GRADEL OF BROKEN ARROW HIGH SCHOOL HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR BOTH STATE AND NATIONWIDE AWARDS IN EDUCATION. PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

ccording to Donna Gradel, teaching is a science and an art. “It’s the artist who inspires and creates an atmosphere of innovation for their students,” the science teacher says. “I believe the standardization and programmed approach we see in education today has squeezed the artistry out of the classroom.” Gradel has spent the past 30 years in the classroom – more than 20 of them at Broken Arrow High School, where she teaches innovative research and Advanced Placement Environmental Science and chairs the science department. For her educational endeavors and ability to inspire students, this 2019 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year was a candidate for the 2019 National Teacher of the Year Award, a designation given to only four educators nationwide. Gradel has collaborated with students on life-changing scientiﬁc accomplishments, including projects that have taken them to Kenya to provide sustainable food and clean-water technologies. In 2014, her students became the ﬁrst in Oklahoma to earn a $10,000 LemelsonMassachusetts Institute of Technology Inventeam grant for their efforts. “My deepest passion lies in empowering my high school students to be positive-change agents by providing them opportunities to solve relevant real-world problems,” she says. Above all, she says, teaching is about connecting with students. “They must know their teacher genuinely cares for them as an individual and wants to see them succeed in their educational journey, as well as in life,” Gradel says. “This requires time inside and outside the classroom. I try to support my students by attending their extracurricular activities and creating opportunities for them to be involved in academic projects.” However, she adds, “Teachers are asked to do an astronomical number of tasks that steal from connecting with students.”

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

With her state and national honors, Gradel has taken her message to a wide audience of teachers, students and organizations across the country. A national market would be happy to have her anywhere, but Gradel says she remains dedicated to Oklahoma students. “The young people of Oklahoma are amazing,” she says. “Whenever I tell teachers from other states the wonderful things my students have done to positively impact the world, they can’t believe it. Our young people have a strong desire to make a difference and help those less fortunate. They are my motivating force.” She also acknowledges that Oklahoma teachers face extreme challenges. “In Oklahoma, we need to be intentional about ﬁnding a sustainable source of revenue to fund public education,” Gradel says. “It’s created a crisis in which Oklahoma cannot retain and recruit effective teachers into our classrooms for every student in our state. We need to be careful, because they are our future hope.” TARA MALONE

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The State

CLUBS

‘The Tree Speaks to You’ The art and science of bonsai can bring spiritual and emotional satisfaction.

or many, falling in love with bonsai plants happened during childhood while watching Daniel of The Karate Kid discover the ancient art of mindfully cultivating trees kept in bowls and planters. For others, a bonsai may have been a gift or a random

BONSAI CAN BE FOUND IN NATURE, AT EXPOS OR ON THE INTERNET. PHOTO COURTESY CENTRAL OKLAHOMA BONSAI SOCIETY

purchase. However one comes to bonsai – Japanese for tree in a pot – enthusiasts say the roots sink deep and don’t let go of you. For Tulsan Pat Coen, the love for bonsai started when he learned that Japan donated 50 bonsai trees in honor of the U.S. bicentennial in 1976. His interest led him to an exhibit of these plants in Washington. After frequent visits, he developed friendships with Yuji Yoshimura and John Naka, two of the country’s foremost bonsai experts and curators of the exhibition. Coen later took a community college course on bonsai and, along with some of his classmates, formed the Tulsa Bonsai Society in 1984. “Today, the club is known as Green Country Bonsai Society,” Coen says. “We bring nationally known guest artists for workshops, shows and sales every spring, usually on Mother’s Day, and a fall show normally in October.” The club meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month at the Tulsa Garden Center. Coen says guests are welcome. Experts suggest purchasing the plants on eBay or from occasional bonsai shows because many nursery plants marketed as bonsai “just aren’t as good,” says Trent Strum, former president of the Oklahoma City Central Oklahoma Bonsai Society. But the truly avid bonsai lover, with a gleam in the eye, tells you of bonsai finds in nature. Oklahoma has an abundance of trees to collect for bonsai, Coen says. Ideal species include hackberry, elm, juniper, maple and azaleas. Collectors seek permission from land owners before harvesting, and Coen says the best places to search are fence rows where cows eat the foliage and keep the trees dwarfed. “You can find a wild, 25-year-old specimen,” he says. “We’ve found actual fields where cows chewed down hundreds.” Strum says the Oklahoma City group meets at 7 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month (other than December) at the Will Rogers Garden Center and is open to visitors. For many, there is a spiritual element to bonsai pursuits; for Strum, it’s about the juxtaposition of art and science. “I’m an analyst, so I’m extremely scientific in my approach and

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

it’s a way to express artistically what I can do with my mind with analysis and data,” he says. “I have no artistic skills. But because of the horticultural science of bonsai care, if you apply the right techniques, you can favorably impact your bonsai. “There is also a bond with the tree that transcends science because it is a living thing, always growing and changing. There is a saying in [the] bonsai [community], ‘The tree speaks to you.’ I’ve found it to be true.” TRACY LEGRAND

N AT U R E

An Unusual Ambassador

A farm outside Bixby is a haven for butterflies and engages tribal citizens to help with sales and ecological awareness.

THE MISSION OF THE EUCHEE BUTTERFLY FARM, APART FROM CARING FOR BUTTERFLIES, INCLUDES EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH, HABITAT RESTORATION AND JOB CREATION.

PHOTO COURTESY EUCHEE BUTTERFLY FARM

estled in northeastern Oklahoma, an unforgettable, almost magical farm cultivates and cares for some of nature’s most beautiful creatures – butterflies. The Euchee Butterfly Farm just outside Bixby does more than care for these captivating insects; it makes an ecological and economic impact on the state. “As a butterfly farm, our main goal is to raise healthy, disease-free butterflies that can go to exhibits all over the country to inspire people about the need to protect habitats for butterflies and other threatened pollinators,” says Jane Breckinridge, owner and director of the farm. “That’s just the tip of the iceberg for us. The farm is about harnessing the power of butterflies to change people’s lives and make the world a better place for all of us to live in, including our four-legged, sixlegged and eight-legged friends in the animal kingdom.” The farm’s mission takes many forms: educational outreach to children, youth and adults; growing the wildflowers and milkweed needed for habitat restoration; and providing eco-

friendly employment. Breckinridge and her husband, David Bohlken, operate the farm on 160 acres deeded in 1899 to Neosho Brown Maxey, a Euchee woman and Breckinridge’s great-grandmother. The allotment was part of compensation given to Muscogee (Creek) Nation citizens after their lands were forcibly taken away during the dissolution of Indian Territory to make Oklahoma a state. Maxey’s father, S.W. Brown, was chief of the Euchee tribe, and her mother was Creek. Breckinridge sees butterﬂies as ambassadors for Indian Country. The Tribal Environmental Action for Monarchs – a partnership of the Muscogee (Creek), Chickasaw, Seminole, Osage, Citizen Potawatomi, Eastern Shawnee and Miami tribes – restores monarch habitats on tribal lands around the state. “The butterﬂies are a beautiful symbol and reminder of our historic cultural connection to the land, and the many ways that we are working to preserve it,” she says. In 2013, the farm launched the Natives Raising Natives Project, which trains citizens of the Muscogee

(Creek) Nation to become butterfly farmers. The program provides the start-up materials and ongoing technical support to raise and sell butterflies. This unique kind of farming accounts for more than $70 million in sales annually in the United States and creates economic self-sufficiency for tribal members, Breckinridge says. The project is also a hands-on educational tool for engaging Native American youth. Native people are under-represented at the university level and in science, technology, engineering and math; the project appeals to young learners through familycentric butterfly farming. It’s also meant to increase appreciation for Oklahoma’s native butterflies and to build awareness about protecting threatened species and the fragile ecosystems supporting them. The farm harbors monarchs, painted ladies, buckeyes, red spotted purples, goatweed leafwings and pipevine swallowtails, among others. To learn more about the farm or support conservation and educational efforts, visit nativebutterflies.org or butterflylearningcenter.org. ALAINA STEVENS

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

The State INSIDER

A Musical Testament to Steinbeck The Grapes of Wrath Project by composer-drummer-teacher Jared Johnson channels the masterwork’s spirit.

INSPIRED BY ONE OF JOHN STEINBECK’S BOOKS, MUSICIAN JARED JORDAN CREATED THE GRAPES OF WRATH PROJECT WITH LOCAL MUSICIANS. PHOTOS COURTESY JARED JORDAN

nlike a lot of his fellow Oklahomans, drummer, composer and music teacher Jared Johnson didn’t encounter John Steinbeck’s masterwork, The Grapes of Wrath, during his high school or college years because he wasn’t assigned to read it. He discovered it all on his own. Maybe that’s part of why it had such an effect on him. “I was probably in my 20s when I ﬁrst read it,” Johnson says. “I’d been doing a little bit of genealogy, trying

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

to ﬁnd out more about my roots. My people are all from Oklahoma and Arkansas, and my grandparents and greatgrandparents were farmers and sharecroppers. I knew a little bit about the [novel’s] story. I knew it was an Oklahoma story. That’s what drew me to it.” He chuckles. “I had no idea what I was getting into,” the Muskogee resident says. “It ended up meaning so much to me on an emotional and spiritual level. There was something in that story, about the collective soul of man, that caused a spiritual epiphany in me, that really resonated with me. I was sort of navigating my way through spiritual things in my own life, and what Steinbeck was saying to me was profound. It was almost like, on that journey, I was building an altar [to Steinbeck’s words].” Like Johnson, I ﬁrst came to Steinbeck in my 20s after returning from

overseas duty and enrolling, thanks to the G.I. Bill, in graduate school at what was then Central State University. Determined to make a living as a writer, I’d checked out the state’s colleges and found out that the Edmond school’s creative-writing program had a talented commercial author named Marilyn Harris offering classes. That sounded like what I needed. I also realized I needed to get more familiar with some of the great American writers, which is why I bought a dog-eared copy of Steinbeck’s Cannery Row for a dime at a used bookstore in Edmond, along with similar volumes by F. Scott Fitzgerald and William Faulkner. It wasn’t long before Steinbeck had emerged as my hands-down favorite writer and I was busy reading any of his other books I could get my hands on, including The Grapes of Wrath. I’m not sure how Johnson and I found out we shared a love of the same author, but I know our first conversation about Steinbeck happened in the early part of this decade, backstage (at the Cain’s Ballroom, I believe) before a show by the Tulsa Playboys. I was doing the announcing that night, he was drumming with the band, and we somehow learned that we both were crazy about Steinbeck’s novels. What followed was an animated fanboy chat that continued even as the band took the stage. It would be the first of several for us. I know that Steinbeck has had a major influence on my own writing, and that I’m hardly alone in that

regard. But his impact on the arts goes from the book became the titles to my songs. I don’t know that I’m doing well beyond authors and books – and the book justice in any way, but this is even movies, including the classic my take on it, through music, and I’m version of Grapes by director John pretty happy with it.” Ford. Woody Guthrie, for instance, He’s also likes that top area musiwas heavily influenced by The Grapes cians came aboard to help him get his of Wrath, as is Bruce Springsteen. vision across. They include trombonAnd, with his concert piece called The Grapes of Wrath Project, Johnson ist Steve Ham, saxophonist Mike Cameron, pianist Scott McQuade and joined their ranks by creating his own bassist Jim Loftin, along with mandomusical testimonial to the enduring linist Isaac Eicher, who recently left spirit of Steinbeck. Oklahoma for Nashville. Recruited for Although The Grapes of Wrath Project was first performed a few years the The Grapes of Wrath band, dubbed ago, its seeds go back to Johnson’s col- Next of Kin, they’ve all worked with lege days at Northeastern State Univer- Johnson in various aggregations, jazz and otherwise, over the years. sity, where he studied with renowned “I play with Mike pretty regularly, jazz instructor Joe Davis. “Ed Thigpen, the great jazz drummer and usually when I do Scott’s in on it, too,” he says. “I want to say that who played with Oscar Peterson, came Mike and Scott and I have been playand did a concert at NSU, and I was ing together for maybe 10 years. And charged with giving him a ride to the airport,” Johnson says. “On the way up, then I play with Ham and Isaac, when he’s available, in the Tulsa Playboys, we talked a lot about composition. He which is a steady working group. Jim was a composer, and he was really encouraging me – ‘Man, you gotta write!’ Loftin and I have played on and off together for over 20 years. He’s a dear – and that lit a fire under me. friend, and we’ve worked together in “So, since college, I’ve always every conceivable situation – rhythm practiced composition and sketched and blues bands, church bands, and out ideas. But I never felt that I wrote everything in a completed thought between. He was – just ideas. So I had the natural go-to a few things in the “The book is for this just because drawer. Then, one so politically we have so much night when I was history together and getting ready to go present, even I really like the way to bed, I was thinktoday. And in he plays. ing about Steinbeck, a lot of ways, “It’s an all-star and it just kind of even though it’s group, and I’m very hit me like a flash: humbled that everyWhat if I wrote a wordless, this one is so invested in piece based on one music is protest the project.” of the characters music.” I have to add here from The Grapes of that I’m also humWrath? bled to have been “From there, included in live it became this presentations of this project by setting sequence of things that all had a coheup the songs with snippets of narration sion. Once I had the idea, I was able from the book. Those were chosen by to write with a purpose and have all Johnson, and he knew what he was these character references, if you will, doing: When I first rehearsed my part, as I was coming up with melodies and it took me three or four times to get moods in the songs. The music had an through the words without choking ambition; all I’d needed was a muse.” up. As he has done with his composiThe result is what he terms “a suite tions, Johnson has distilled the feeling of songs” – jazz instrumentals deeply and themes of this timeless, powerinfluenced by the novel and featuring ful novel in the Steinbeck lines he’s titles like “Land Turtle,” “All Men Got chosen to introduce his songs. One Big Soul” and “Her Lips Came Taken together, the words and Together and Smiled Mysteriously.” music reflect the blinding light The “It’s not a complete narrative,” Grapes of Wrath has shed on social Johnson says, “but it’s glimpses into injustice. It’s a light that still shines in the story. Thematic things from the current times – and needs to. general chapters, characters or quotes

“The book is so politically present, even today,” Johnson says. “And in a lot of ways, even though it’s wordless, this music is protest music.” (The group recorded a CD of The Grapes of Wrath Project, minus the narration, in 2017. Johnson calls it an “abbreviated version, compressed for a recorded package.” It’s available from CD Baby, amazon.com, and other online outlets.) JOHN WOOLEY

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

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Life & Style

Love in Bloom

RANUNCULUS

GERBERA DAISY

LONG STEM ROSE GERBERA DAISY

HYDRANGEA TULIP

LONG STEM ROSE

DELPHINIUM

RANUNCULUS

GERBERA DAISY

A M A P TO L I V I N G W E L L

For your Mother’s Day bouquet, be intentional with your flower picks.

PHOTOS BY JOSH NEW FLOWERS COURTESY TONI’S FLOWERS AND GIFTS

ost moms would likely say you can’t go wrong with a beautiful bouquet for a simple yet considerate Mother’s Day gift. Maybe you’re used to swinging by the ﬂorist or grocer for a dozen red roses the day of, but the sky’s

the limit in terms of the blooms you can choose to put a smile on your mother’s face. Try adding variety to your bouquet this year with hydrangeas, tulips, daisies, delphinium or ranunculus. These funky ﬂowers run the gambit of colors and shapes, making a visually pleasing sprig your mother will

remember. Add more intention by looking up the “meanings” of these blossoms and their colors – some symbolize pure love; others heartfelt emotion, cheerfulness or joy. Whatever blooms you choose, your mother will be happy you took the time to create something special – guaranteed. MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Life & Style INTERIORS

Cultivating Creative Collaboration A Tulsa ad agency has its traditional office space transformed into progressive, versatile, multipurpose work zones. By M.J. Van Deventer

D “WE HAVE 36 DIFFERENT WORK STATIONS AND MORE THAN 20 DIFFERENT LOCATIONS TO HOLD A PRIVATE CONVERSATION OR TEAM MEETING,” SAYS DAVID LITTLEFIELD, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AT LITTLEFIELD AGENCY. PHOTOS BY JON B. PETERSEN PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

avid Littlefield, chief operating officer at Littlefield Agency, wanted to create a fresh, upscale image at the Tulsa advertising firm’s headquarters that would inspire his staff and diverse roster of clients. What he envisioned was a long way from the company’s original, traditional office layout. The change has been a paradigm shift. “The results have been exciting and, frankly, made our agency a better place to work,” Littlefield says. “Our staff was initially leery of giving up their former offices, but, in the spirit

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

of willingness to participate in a more creative, collaborative environment, they were all in on this progressive move.” Littleﬁeld asked MATRIX Architects Engineers Planners, Inc., including Julie Lackey and Shannon Mitchener, to create this inviting work environment. The kitchen, with upscale amenities, is designed to be a multipurpose gathering space. A wall-size chalk board is a creative message center for the staff. There are pingpong and pool tables – perfect ways to release energy if employees need a break or to mull over a client’s project.

Visitors see no traditional receptionist area in this ultra-contemporary office. Instead, a digital sign-in screen and a floor-to-ceiling message board welcome guests. “It’s a favorite place for clients to take selfies,” Lackey says. Clients, whom Littlefield used to visit at their own offices, sit in several living room-style settings, with sofas and chairs arranged to invite conversation. In lieu of closed doors or cubicles, open spaces invite clients and employees to utilize informal conference areas. Some staff work areas resemble private dining booths. Lackey notes that the design and

TOP TO BOTTOM: ONE IMPORTANT ZONE IN THE OFFICE IS A ‘DO NOT DISTURB’ ROOM, A QUIET SETTING PERFECT FOR CONCENTRATION. THE CREATIVE CONFERENCE ROOMS FOSTER COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION BETWEEN CLIENTS AND EMPLOYEES. THE FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS IN THIS FIFTH-FLOOR OFFICE BRING IN NATURAL LIGHT AND OVERLOOK DOWTOWN.

LEFT: LITTLEFIELD EMPLOYEES ENJOY A BITE TO EAT IN THIS WELLAPPOINTED KITCHEN/CAFE, WITH DINING SPACES AND A PLACE TO RELAX WITH A GAME OF PINGPONG OR POOL. MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Life & Style

EMPLOYEES LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION CAN COME TO THIS WALL IN THE AGENCY FOR IMAGES OF LEADERS AND ACTIVISTS, INCLUDING ABRAHAM LINCOLN, MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. AND MOTHER TERESA.

COLORFUL SLIDING DOORS WELCOME EMPLOYEES INTO THE BREAK ROOM.

RECLAIMED RESIN-COATED WOOD COVERS THE COUNTERS IN THE GUEST BATHROOM, REPLETE WITH LED LIGHTING.

ABOVE: WHITEBOARDS IN LITTLEFIELD’S CONFERENCE ROOMS ENCOURAGE IDEA SHARING. RIGHT: A WIDE OPEN CORRIDOR LEADS TO THE COMPANY’S PRESENTATION ROOM. GUESTS PASS BY THE OPEN BOOTHS, WHERE STAFF CAN WORK PRIVATELY OR WITH CLIENTS. THE WALL MESSAGE REFLECTS THE COMPANY’S PHILOSOPHY: “EACH DAY IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF YOURSELF.”

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES CAN BE FOUND THROUGHOUT THE OFFICE.

architectural style has enhanced the staff’s creation of compelling, engaging branding projects, the hallmark of this agency. Littlefield also knows that not everybody learns and works the same way. “Providing a variety of work areas was crucial in the new design plan,” Lackey says. “Mr. Littlefield wanted a surprise every time you turn a corner. Now, each space has its own personality, but all the spaces flow together as a cohesive design. That’s a big change from the typical office environment.” An important zone is the Do Not Disturb room – quiet and perfect for concentration – branded with a large “Shhhhhhh” in front. “The surfaces in that room are soft, as is the color palette. There are no conversations here,” Lackey says. “But there are a variety of settings to better serve how employees work, including a cozy bench and stand-up work surfaces. “The total work environment is now the perfect setting for serious contemplation on clients’ projects.” The office’s color palette is thoughtful. Soft grays and muted lighting have occasional pops of turquoise and red-orange, adding just the right touch of brightness. The floor-to-ceiling windows in this fifthfloor office bring in natural light and overlook downtown. “We have 36 different work stations and more than 20 different locations to hold a private conversation or team meeting,” Littlefield says. “I’ve got to tell you, MATRIX knocked it out of the park for us. The space flows well, is very creative and exudes an energy that was previously blocked from flowing by all the hard walls of the offices and conference rooms.”

We want to realize YOUR VISION!

Littlefield Agency Tulsa, OK

C O N TA C T

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9 1 8 . 5 8 7 . 4 74 7

3549 South Harvard, Tulsa 918-742-9027

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Walter & associates realtors 1319 East 35th Street,Tulsa, OK 74105 918.743.2001 | walterandassociates.com

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Life & Style D E S T I N AT I O N S

Ge ing Away from the Beach

Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic has exotic tours inland in addition to the Caribbean’s requisite sun and surf.

P ABOVE: ZIPLINING IS A POPULAR OUTDOOR ACTIVITY IN PUNTA CANA. PHOTO COURTESY THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC MINISTRY OF TOURISM

DIRECTLY ABOVE: EXOTIC BIRDS ABOUND IN PUNTA CANA. PHOTO BY GINA MICHALOPULOS KINGSLEY

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

unta Cana, on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, has become a fast favorite for vacationers young and old. While mostly known for luxurious resorts on pristine beaches, Punta Cana has more than meets the eye. Idyllic, sandy coastlines and palm tree breezes are the main reasons that tourists go to the Caribbean … but you can push yourself to experience even more. For instance, go outside the gates. Contrary to the popular American belief, you can safely explore outside the walls of your hotel in this Caribbean town by booking a tour through a reputable website or the concierge. The Dominican Experience is exotic and agricultural. You travel in an eco-safari tram. In this open-air vehicle, you careen down highways into colorful towns, with a backdrop of Caribbean architecture, farms, butcher shops, banana trees and rice

plantations. Hidden in the hills are villages revealing authentic native life. The first stop of the excursion is a oneroom schoolhouse filled with studious children. The next stop is a coffee farm, with its wafting, smoky scent of beans roasting in large kettles. Villagers, roosters, hens and dogs linger under fruit and coffee bean trees as men on horses trot by while transporting bananas. A Dominican woman serves a platter of papaya, guava and mango straight from her cottage kitchen. Delicate linens drying on a clothesline and a dog napping underneath it reflect the area’s simplicity and tranquility. The tour group has a communal moment of sampling bulbs of cocoa cream straight out of the fruit. Later, a cigar-rolling demonstration illustrates a revered craft. The art of tobacco leaves being pressed, filled, rolled and formed is showcased in one room before

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: RESORTS ARE PLENTIFUL IN PUNTA CANA, BUT MANY ADVENTURES LIE OUTSIDE THE GATES. PUNTA CANA OFFERS IDYLLIC VISTAS, PRISTINE BEACHES AND CRYSTAL-CLEAR WATER. VISIT THE ARCHITECTURALLY STUNNING LA ALTAGRACIA CATHOLIC CHURCH. PHOTOS COURTESY THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC MINISTRY OF TOURISM

INLAND TOURS OF PUNTA CANA OFFER A GLIMPSE INTO NATIVE’S EVERYDAY LIVES. PHOTO BY GINA MICHALOPULOS KINGSLEY

you enter the humidor of impressive cigar brands for sale. A stroll through an artist’s gallery and a traditional lunch of barbecued chicken conclude the day’s activities, except for the return ride to the resort. The bouncy, exhilarating trip matches the buoyancy of Caribbean spirit and energy. If you have the time and money, take a Caribbean cruise. You ride a bus about 30 minutes away before boarding a doubledeck boat for snorkeling … and dancing. Albatrosses soar above as a fleet of boats decorates the ocean. While snorkeling, you can see sand dollars (also known as sea biscuits) and shallow ocean floors. Later, you can drink Mama Juanas, the local cocktail, and mingle while instructors lead the group with dance steps. The Dominican flag flaps in the tropical wind as you cruise through aquamarine waters and disembark into a sunset, suffused in swaths of pink.

While some resorts are suited to large, youthful groups, many are perfect for a relaxing ambiance and close proximity to the main lobby. While the largest resorts may offer more features, keep in mind that usually entails lots of walking and long lines. Regardless, all of them offer that enviable

Dominican climate and beauty. GINA MICHALOPULOS KINGSLEY

RECOMMENDED ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS:

• • •

Royalton Punta Cana Royalton Bavaro Resort and Spa Majestic Mirage MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Life & Style

H E A LT H

Side Effects

Following dosages, reading instructions and talking with your doctor may reduce problems accompanying a new medicine.

ny prescription drug commercial reminds you that medications can have side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Before starting a new medicine, beware of its effects and work closely with your physician to manage potential problems. “When prescribing medications, providers have to consider numerous factors, such as sex, age, weight, pre-existing conditions, race, family history, other medications, over-thecounter medications and supplements, allergies, geography, cost and patient compliance,” says Hieu Nguyen, a family medicine physician with INTEGRIS in Oklahoma City. “All of these factors can inﬂuence the risk of adverse effects for the individual.” He says it’s not possible to completely avoid side effects, but the best way to reduce the risk is to follow the dosage and instructions. “Each medication comes with a list of possible side effects and the frequency at which they occur … in clinical trials,”

Nguyen says. “Unfortunately, these lists tend to be very long and, due to liability purposes, often include anything that is reported by the subjects during the studies. It is important to ask your provider and/or pharmacist about common side effects and possible interactions with other medications. It is also important to notify your provider about any over-the-counter supplements as many of them can affect the metabolism of prescribed medications.” He adds that if you change the way you take your medicine, you should quickly notify your doctor. Jeremy Ransdell, a family medicine physician with St. John Clinic in Jenks and Bixby, says side effects sometimes only appear with certain dosages and may be avoided by adjusting the level. “In other cases, the side effects may outweigh the benefit of the medicine and could directly affect the decision to take the medicine in general,” he says. “Also, some side effects will dissipate over time, making the tracking and discussion of these symptoms at follow-up clinic visits all the more important.” Ransdell says another strategy for avoiding side effects is to drink plenty of water. “Water is what our bodies use to help filter medicines via the liver and kidneys,” he says. “Staying well hydrated is crucial for avoiding medication buildup in our body.” Ransdell adds that limiting toxins and processed food in our diets helps to prevent inflammation in our bodies and, in theory, reduce the chances of side effects. When considering whether a medication is worth its risks, Ransdell says most discussions revolve around its potential to prolong life or how long its side effects may last. For instance, medicines that lower the chances of stroke and cardiovascular and kidney diseases may be worth their challenging side effects. Nguyen says doctors have different thresholds for risk and benefit, which can lead to varying treatments among physicians. Patients can also glean information about medicines’ side effects from the internet, but they must be discerning when online. “The job of the provider is to assist the patient in interpreting the information and present a tailored plan of care so that the patient can make an informed decision,” Nguyen says. REBECCA FAST

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

D E V E LO P M E N T S

Moving an Institution

Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels uproots its longtime Utica Square store for a bigger space on Tulsa’s Cherry Street.

BRUCE G. WEBER PRECIOUS JEWELS OPENS MAY 1 AT ITS NEW LOCATION ON TULSA’S CHERRY STREET.

RENDERING COURTESY DIAMOND CELLAR HOLDINGS

ruce G. Weber Precious Jewels is a name The store epitomizes jewelry shopping at its most with which many native Tulsans and newluxurious. While Utica Square was the perfect launching comers alike have become familiar. point for the store, continued growth means making a big Customers have patronized its Utica change by moving to Cherry Street. Square location for decades as they’ve “The decision to move an institution like Bruce G. celebrated life’s simple or grand milestones. Weber was not an easy one, but we knew that Generations of jewelry purchases have if we wanted to continue to grow with the “We could crossed the counter from friendly salesperburgeoning Tulsa community, we would need not be more a larger and more vibrant space,” says Alex son to excited buyer. The jewelry store is expanding in size and Johnson, partner and executive vice president excited merchandise, and with this growth comes a of Diamond Cellar Holdings, parent company for the move to a new space on Cherry Street. to Bruce G. Weber. “We could not be more opportunity excited for the opportunity to serve the Tulsa Store director Michelle Holdgrafer, to serve a graduate gemologist, says leadership community in a bigger and more meaningdecided to move because the company had ful way than we ever have been able to do so the Tulsa outgrown its current space. community.” before.” “We saw the opportunity to be involved An institution is an apt description of the in the revitalization of the downtown/Cherry jewelry store. Bruce G. Weber opened its Street area, so we decided to make the move and continue Utica Square store in 2001 after spending decades as the to grow with Tulsa,” she says. precious jewels salon inside Miss Jackson’s. All told, the store has been in Tulsa for more than 65 years and it is Holdgrafer says the new store will not fail to impress ready for its next chapter. According to Holdgrafer, the with reserved parking for customers, ample seating and new location opens May 1 with a grand opening event refreshment options, state-of-the-art televisions and other May 10-11. luxury amenities for valued customers. Employees are “We are excited to have a fresh, new store that will excited about “a large Rolex boutique as well as a new, expanded [David] Yurman shopping experience,” she says. provide a larger, modern and more ﬂexible space for our customers,” Holdgrafer says. The store also plans to offer additional brands of merBONNIE RUCKER chandise in a second phase of development this year. MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Life & Style

FUN FACTS POPULATION 2,888 OLDEST NEWSPAPER The weekly Indian Journal, begun in 1876 in what was Indian Territory, is Oklahoma’s oldest continuously operating newspaper. It began in Muskogee before moving permanently to Eufaula in 1887.

OUTSIDE THE METRO

Legacy of an Outlaw

The legendary Belle Starr has a far-reaching presence in the area around Eufaula and its namesake lake.

TOURISM IS A TOP INDUSTRY IN EUFAULA BECAUSE OF THE LAKE, IMPOUNDED IN 1964.

PHOTO COURTESY LAKE EUFAULA ASSOCIATION

ONLINE EXTRA FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT EUFAULA, GO TO

OKMAG.COM/EUFAULA

eople can see lots of Starrs in and around Eufaula and its namesake lake. Belle Starr Grill. Belle Starr Hideaway Inn. Belle Starr Campground. Belle Starr Creek. Belle Starr Marina. Belle Starr’s gravesite. The famous outlaw’s name populates what was fertile farmland until 1964, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Canadian River to make one of the world’s largest human-made lakes. Covering 102,500 acres and the largest reservoir within Oklahoma, Lake Eufaula has turned the area into a tourism powerhouse, and proprietors quickly latched onto the legacy of an independent woman buried just above the dam about 15 miles due east of Eufaula. “Belle Starr was connected to the Jameses and the Youngers – outlaw heroes to poor, rural people,” says Connie Morris, executive director of the Lake Eufaula Association. “Plus, being a criminal wasn’t something a woman would do back then. There are not many women outlaws that people remember. She was a liberated woman before her time.” Morris adds that the mystery of Starr’s death in 1889 – she was shot in the back while riding from Eufaula to her homestead – “is appealing – you know the draw of the outlaw and people thinking, ‘Oh, you poor soul.’” Ron Hood, an orthopedic surgeon in Muskogee, was looking for a lakefront investment in 2010 when he discovered the property holding Starr’s grave and headstone. A self-described Oklahoma history fanatic, Hood quickly bought it. “My family has been here for ﬁve generations and been intertwined with the state’s history,” says Hood, whose grandmother was born in the cabin once owned by Cherokee

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

statesman Sequoyah. “The property was in great disrepair and I thought that was a shame.” Hood bought an 1850s cabin in California, Missouri (near Columbia), and moved it near the gravesite. Hood says the original owner of that relatively spacious cabin may have encountered the Shirleys, Starr’s parents in Carthage, because the few wealthy people in central and western Missouri of that era tended to know each other. A descendant of Starr, architect Gene Starr, helped Hood redesign the cabin to resemble the one seen in old photographs with Belle Starr out front. Hood cut a new path to the tomb and cleared the area of brush. Unlike previous owners of the property – one thought there was gold hidden there; another charged admission – Hood doesn’t proﬁt from the gravesite. “What’s the value of history if no one can see it? History doesn’t come alive unless you can touch it,” he says. “We’ve never had any vandalism. People take pride in it.” Starr’s grave sits on Younger’s Bend, just east of the Lake Eufaula dam, which transformed nearly everything around it. “Prior to the lake, Eufaula was a farm town … and it might have gone the way of all these abandoned little towns,” Morris says. “Now it’s a tourist town. But it took a good 25 years for Eufaula to embrace the lake because people were mad; they didn’t want to give up their land. “Now the lake is the biggest source of income because of tourism.” BRIAN WILSON

FUS FIXICO The eighth annual Heritage Days Festival, May 25, is in Posey Park, named for poet and satirist Alexander Posey. Arguably the Muscogee (Creek) tribe’s greatest writer, he was born near Eufaula in 1873. The town of Posey, 60 miles north and which eventually became Bixby, was also named for him. As an editor at the Indian Journal, Posey created Fus Fixico (Muscogee for heartless bird), a persona commenting on tribal politics, traditional folklore and the dubious breakup of land titles under the notorious Dawes Commission. Posey was 34 when he died while trying to cross the flooded North Canadian River with a friend.

HAPPENINGS

Faudree’s Legacy Lives

sa in Spain. While his career was prolific, his friends say that his philanthropic passion was a driving force in his life, exemplified by his in co-founding Tulsa Friends of interior designer Charles Faudree ensure he’s role CARES – a nonprofit dediremembered with a pavilion in Tulsa’s Woodward Park. cated to delivering social services to those affected by HIV/AIDS. He was involved with nterior designer, renowned other community-improvement and expert in traditional French service projects, including the restocountry decor, author and ration of the Dennis R. Neill Equality philanthropist Charles FauCenter downtown. dree left an enduring legacy Realtor Peter Walter wanted to for the city of Tulsa after his death recognize his friend’s enduring in 2013. achievements and brought the idea of Friends of the late designer emulate his love and appreciation for a pavilion in memory of Faudree to the Tulsa Garden Center. the Tulsa community by dedicating “Myself and several other friends a new pavilion to him in Woodward raised the money with the Parks Park. Department and Tulsa Garden Center With a longtime shop on Cherry Street and a hand in numerous public as major donors,” Walter says. “The vision is of a shady spot at the east projects in Oklahoma and beyond, end of the rose garden for weddings Faudree and his impact spread far and photos.” beyond his birthplace of Muskogee. The structure echoes the materiThroughout his life, Faudree authored five books and was featured in als, period and traditional design of the nearby Tulsa Garden Center major design publications, including THE PAVILION DEDICATED Southern Living and House Beautiful. mansion. The pavilion features three TO CHARLES FAUDREE He was named Traditional Home’s arches using the same buffed colored BROKE GROUND IN DECEMbrick and Indiana limestone utilized Designer of the Year in 1995 and BER AND IS TENTATIVELY SET TO OPEN IN LATE MAY. in the mansion. The design has Ludohelped to restore major global projRENDERING COURTESY JAMES ects, including La Finca la Capricho- wici terracotta tile and mirrors the BOSWELL ARCHITECT

structure of the pavilion on the south side of Philbrook Museum. “James Boswell designed the pavilion, which was inspired by the designs of English architect Sir Edwin Lutyens,” Walter says. “Lutyens designed many memorials, country houses and public buildings in England, France and India.” Boswell himself adds: “Faudree was a notable designer, not just in Tulsa but nationally. It was an honor to be asked to be a part of the inspiration and to help the Memorial Pavilion become a reality.” The terrace where the pavilion sits was updated in a preceding and separate project that included rebricking, replanting and replacing lights. Joe Howell, president and partner at Howell and Vancuren Landscape Architects, also worked on several redesign phases of the upper terraces of Woodward Park’s rose garden and helped to select the location for the Faudree pavilion, ensuring the space was sufﬁcient for the vision. “The pavilion will provide an anchor and a great classical architecture focal point for that end of the rose garden,” Howell says. The project broke ground in December and is tentatively set to open in late May. SUSANNA MAXWELL

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Life & Style F YI

What’s in a Name?

Oklahoma boasts some funky monikers for cities, towns and unincorporated communities.

THE TOWN OF SLAUGHTERVILLE, PICTURED HERE IN THE 1950S, BOASTS ABOUT 4,000 PEOPLE. PHOTO COURTESY THE CITY OF SLAUGHTERVILLE

laughterville was not the most elegant name for a town, local residents had to admit. Some even toyed with the idea of changing it … but that was before People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals offered an alternative. In exchange for changing the name of the Cleveland County town to the more animal-friendly Veggieville, as the group proposed in 2004, Slaughterville would receive $20,000 worth of veggie burgers, says Marsha Blair, the town administrator. In a packed meeting room, town trustees gave thumbs down to the offer. Among the opponents were two children and other descendents of James T. Slaughter. A bend in the road near his dry goods store had long been dubbed Slaughter’s Corner, so the place-name was modiﬁed when three communities united to form the town in 1970 to ward off annexation by nearby cities. The descendents “said they were

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

offended at the thought of being forced to change the name because they were proud of their name,” Blair says. “They said their father and grandfather lived a good life.” Oklahoma has its share of unique names – Slapout, Slick, Cookietown and Frogville. Slapout, in the Panhandle, was likely named by highway workers who joked about the single convenience store being “slap out” of merchandise, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Frogville, near the Red River in Choctaw County, was named for the area’s abundance of those amphibians, which were “said to be so large they ate young ducks,” according to Oklahoma Place-Names by George H. Shirk. The name of Cookietown in Cotton County, according to Shirk, was inspired by mercantilist Marvin Cornelius, known for giving cookies to children who visited. These days, many of the towns have tiny populations because of

the oil industry’s boom and bust years. Slick was founded in 1920 and named for oil tycoon Thomas B. Slick, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society. A railroad line was built to the town in eastern Creek County, and for a while it was an oil distribution and shipping point. The population, once estimated at 5,000, had dwindled to 400 by 1930. It now is home to about 150. Blair likes Slaughterville’s population of just over 4,000. “We really don’t want to get big,” she says. “Our goal is to stay rural.” Residents mostly live on acreages and have wells and septic tanks. The town has two Dollar General stores, along with a couple of convenience stores, a tire shop, an equipment rental business, four churches and the Canadian River Winery. “We recently got a grant for a parks and rec trail,” Blair says. “Our people volunteer and are willing to put their hearts into the town.” KIMBERLY BURK

VERSACE

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Life & Style

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OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

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Life & Style

SCENE

Adam Nemec, Mousumi Som, Jeremy & Melanie Fullingim; Winterset, Osteopathic Founders Foundation, Tulsa Allie Denton, Jill & Bob Thomas, Olivia Jordan, William Thomas; Memory Gala, Alzheimer’s Association, Tulsa

Bill Major, Robert Babcock, Caron & Shawn Lawhorn; Carnivale, Mental Health Association of Oklahoma, Tulsa

Dave Davis, Judy Claudette Williams, LeAnne Taylor; Women of Inspiration Event, Susan G. Komen, Tulsa

Brett & Stevie Myers, Madison & Garrett Graves; Brainiac Ball, Family and Children’s Services, Tulsa

Stephanie & Garrett Robberson; Omelette Party, OKCMOA

Carol Wallace, Kathy Murphy, Dede Soule, Kristie Gavlik; Different Strokes – Arti Gras, Town and Country School, Tulsa

Howard & Billie Barnett, Jackie Kouri, Gary Paxton; Memory Gala, Alzheimer’s Association, Tulsa Erin Engelke, Shelly Giese, Michael Bradley; Charlotte Lankard Giving Society Inaugural Luncheon, Calm Waters, OKC

Hunt & Beth Hawkins, Jenn & Vic Regalado; CASA Casino, Tulsa CASA

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

Linda Broach, Carol Spears, Rochelle Dowdell, Elaine Dodson; Board event, Tulsa Town Hall

John Higginbotham, Tricia Everest, Doug Stussi; Honorary Chair Event, Allied Arts, OKC

Rob Martinovich, Clifton Gray, Bob Trzcinski; Tulsa Area United Way Awards and Luncheon, Tulsa Area United Way

WOMEN AND POWER

Women are shaping Oklahoma’s future. We highlight a handful of the thousands of female leaders vying for change and fighting to make the state – and the world – a better place to live and work. From a philanthropic doctor and a nationally recognized banker to a tribal chief and a civil-rights lawyer, these women are the state’s brave pioneers. By Tara Malone and Tracy LeGrand

Keeping Libraries Relevant

Kimberly Johnson

As leader of one of the United States’ best programs in the field, Kim Johnson intends to keep the Tulsa City-County Library stellar, relevant and rocking that “cool factor.” Johnson has had a great start since beginning her tenure in 2017 by opening the nation’s only public library Starbucks coffee shop in downtown’s renovated, $55 million Central Library. After nearly 21 years working for the library system, most notably as its first coordinator of the African-American Resource Center, Johnson is the first African-American to hold the top job. Since arriving in Tulsa from Bronx, New York, Johnson started the library’s annual public tour of Oklahoma’s historic all-black towns and the first countywide reading initiative, Tulsa Metro Reads, nationally televised on C-SPAN/Book TV. “We’re considered one of the best library systems in the country because of continuing hard work,” Johnson says. “It’s a very intentional vision to be a 21st-century library by removing barriers to service and providing convenience. Libraries around the country are working to remain relevant, which we do by listening and being nimble in our responses. “In this day and age, if you don’t innovate and remain relevant, people go elsewhere. So … we’ll be looking at all of our locations, reviewing services and expanding where it makes sense, like with a children’s satellite library to debut soon at the Gathering Place. We’ve also started curbside delivery of materials at some locations … and that shows you how we’ll keep showing up in places you don’t expect us to be.” – TL

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

CEO, Tulsa City-County Library

Bring the Thunder

Christine Berney

As a public and community relations professional, Christine Berney spent years with the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and Sonic Corp. before joining the Thunder during its move from Seattle in 2008. “If you had told me 11 years ago that I’d be working for an NBA team today, I would have said you were crazy,” Berney says. “I had zero background in sports. What I discovered is that this job isn’t about three-point shots or pick-and-rolls; the Thunder organization is committed to being a meaningful part of the community, and I’m grateful to be part of that.” Berney spearheads and manages ongoing and annual programs. This includes the Thunder Reading challenge, which invites thousands of Oklahoma students each year to develop good reading habits; the Black Heritage Creative Contest, which asks children from kindergarten through 12th grade to use creative outlets to honor outstanding individuals in black history or African-Americans who have influenced their own lives; and the Thunder StatLab, which oﬀers middle schoolers the chance to act as a “junior GM” of the Thunder by learning the critical role of statistics in sports. Berney is also the executive director of the Thunder Cares Foundation, which, among other projects, rebuilds and refurbishes basketball courts across the state. Berney says this position is definitely the most challenging she’s had during her career but also the most rewarding. “I’ve experienced nothing but enthusiastic support from my colleagues and the leadership at both the Thunder and the NBA,” she says. You can often find Berney on the court during home games making presentations with Rumble the Bison, who, she says, continually finds ways to embarrass her. – TM

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

Vice president of community relations, Oklahoma City Thunder; executive director, Thunder Cares Foundation

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Opening Pathways to Success

Leigh Goodson

PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

President/CEO, Tulsa Community College

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

Everything – from career and family to one’s network of friends – can positively impact others. This is the ideal that Leigh Goodson embodies in her passion to open pathways to success at TCC. Under Goodson’s leadership since 2014, TCC has increased graduation and university transfer rates. This evolution is fueled in part by the school’s designation as one of 30 community colleges involved in a national initiative, the Pathways Project. This program aims to optimize enrollment and advising services; increase retention rates overall and specifically for minority, under-represented and full-time students; and speed up the process of developmental education students getting into college-level classes. “We are creating clearer paths for students to get through college successfully and enter the workforce and earn a family sustaining wage,” Goodson says. “What a person creates as an individual is also accomplished collectively through relationships in our networks, and these relationships can help with the greater good.” Goodson constantly looks to improve the lives of TCC students. Early in her tenure, she wondered what could be done to increase the number of students successfully transferring to four-year schools since those students, on average, lose 13 credit hours in the transition, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Goodson brought this concern to Michael DuPont, program officer for the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation. By October 2018, the foundation began sponsoring the Tulsa Transfer Program, a firstof-its-kind collaborative effort with the John N. Gardner Institute for Excellence in Undergraduate Education, to help students retain credits and transfer into bachelor’s degree programs at fouryear colleges. Goodson’s other accomplishments include multiple projects in support of students in science, technology, engineering and math to “make sure we have a diverse workforce and are training people from all parts of the community,” she says. – TL

A Mother’s Legacy

Tina Peña

PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

Associate professor, Tulsa Community College; host, Temas en Tulsa; president, Mita’s Foundation Tina Peña, an associate professor of Spanish at TCC and coordinator of its Spanishinterpreting skills program, hosts a local current-events TV program, broadcast in Spanish, called Temas en Tulsa. Awards and appointments abound for this passionate educator and philanthropist, including a designation to the Governor’s Task Force for the Advancement of Hispanic Students and the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters, a cause close to her heart. “Twenty years ago, I was helping my father navigate medical issues due to language barriers, and I realized the importance of such a service to the community,” Peña says. “Medical interpreters save lives by helping to accurately convey critical medical information to patients who speak languages other than English, reducing the risk of fatal errors in health-care settings and ensuring

clear communications between providers and patients in what can become life-and-death situations.” Peña also helms the ship at Mita’s Foundation, a nonprofit inspired by her mother’s philanthropic work decades ago. (Mita is short for mamita, or little mom, Peña explains.) Peña, who moved from Peru to the United States in 1980, grew up participating in her mother’s charity missions, which included frequent trips to their home country to distribute donations collected in Tulsa. Over the years, this mission evolved into Mita’s Foundation, which helps more than 400 underserved children in Puerto Cancas with basic needs, especially backpacks stuﬀed with school supplies. The isolated Peruvian community also benefits from a school, clinic and soup kitchen begun by the foundation. – TL

Take it to the Bank

Jill Castilla

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

President/CEO, Citizens Bank of Edmond; chair, Citizens Bancshares As a veteran of the U.S. Army and Oklahoma National Guard who, over the years, has held multiple positions in finance, Jill Castilla knows firsthand about the challenges of being a woman in male-dominated fields. “Less than 2 percent of the C-Suite in banking is comprised of women and, until the last few years, I was viewed as a novelty and often underestimated,” she says. “The occasional snide comments or condescending tone only fueled my hard work and study. Looking back, my professional journey would not have been nearly as enriching nor as successful without the obstacles of the past. I strongly believe that the valleys in your life are where you are equipped with the character and empathy to be able to handle the peaks with integrity and authenticity.” As president and CEO of the bank,

Castilla finds ways to empower female colleagues and small businesses throughout the state. She recently filed a patent for a new banking technology that was custom designed by her female management team. She also helped spearhead Vault 405, a small-business incubator that hosts workshops on lending, new business banking and social media marketing. “By engaging with the startup community and viewing ourselves as a 118-year-old startup, I’m focused on fostering that same entrepreneurial spirit throughout Oklahoma,” Castilla says. Castilla has been nationally recognized for her financial expertise, gaining spots on American Banker’s Most Powerful Women in Banking/ Women to Watch list and being named the publication’s Community Banker of the Year in 2015. – TM MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

A Leader for the People

Kay Rhoads

Kay Rhoads has a laser focus on the 3,000-member tribe’s business assets in casinos and smoke shops, its access to health care and education. She builds upon the tribe’s strengths, emphasizes job creation and continues diversification of the tribe’s economic base. Past victories for Rhoads include a U.S. Supreme Court case making the tribe the first in the country to tax its members for automobile tags. Current advocacy includes co-chairing a committee with the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish an oﬀice of tribal self-governance. She was recently inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Next year, Rhodes will renegotiate casino and smoke shop compacts with the state of Oklahoma. Rhoads says she wants “our younger people to see a woman lead in various areas … to make real changes in government structure. We as a people can educate on the contributions … of our tribe and of all the tribes in the U.S. “The Sac and Fox Nation leads and impacts central Oklahoma. Serving the Nation extends to all of Lincoln County and surrounding counties, and we’re looking to expand health-care services, including a new clinic that will be open to everyone. Right now, there is only one clinic in our region and it’s open only to natives.” Positive changes in the tribe eventually eroded early cultural bias against female leadership, Rhodes says. Running for a third term, she is among a rising number of female chiefs, with peers in Oklahoma, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Montana. – TL

PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

Principal chief, Sac and Fox Nation

Advocating for Marginalized People

Veronica Laizure

Veronica Laizure says she’s been inspired throughout her life by educators who fostered curiosity and empathy. In law school, she focused on curriculum that enhanced her understanding of entrenched powers and how those structures help or hinder human rights. Her initial position as a staff attorney at the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Oklahoma Chapter (known as CAIR-OK) was a dream come true. “I was so excited to have a chance to do this work here in my home state,” Laizure says, “educating people about a religious minority, empowering folks to protect their own civil rights, and fighting discrimination and bigotry where it occurs.” One of her first initiatives at the council was organizing a full civil-rights department that addressed religious discrimination and harassment of Oklahoma Muslims and provided outreach, education and resources for the Muslim community. Her department releases an annual civil-rights report outlining what her office has done and focuses on improving relations between the Muslim community and the government through initiatives like Muslim Day at the Capitol. “I love that my position has allowed me to show that women as leaders can be effective, confident and strong in tackling our communities’ big issues, and that we also need compassion and kindness to build our community up,” Laizure says. She says many women, particularly those of color in male-dominated fields, may face what is called impostor syndrome. One potential solution is support. “It’s incredibly important for women lawyers, particularly women of color and those who experience intersectional forms of marginalization, to build strong networks in their profession and focus on our own physical and emotional growth as we work,” Laizure says. “It strengthens the practice of law as a whole when all of us are fully empowered to make strong contributions to our evolving legal practices.” – TM

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

Civil-rights director, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Oklahoma Chapter

A Champion for Women’s Health

Susan Chambers

Co-founder, Lakeside Women’s Hospital

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

When Susan Chambers graduated with her pre-med degree from Southern Methodist University in 1978, she was one of only two women in the program. Less than 10 years later, she and two other female OB-GYNs (out of only five in Oklahoma City) opened OKC Gynecology and Obstetrics. She remembers men’s curiosity about the endeavor. “I distinctly remember male physicians telling me an oﬀice full of women would never work,” she says. Yet, in 1997, Chambers and her partners opened Lakeside Women’s Hospital in Oklahoma City; 32 years after their initial venture, they continue to have one of the most successful practices in metropolitan OKC.

“I think the way we have developed our oﬀice and hospital is a positive impact on the health of women in OKC, but there are still many more things to do and we constantly strive to create new programs,” Chambers says. Her volunteer eﬀorts are not limited to Oklahoma. For years, she has traveled with the World Neighbors program. In addition, she has served as a host and worked with Afghan and Rwandan women through Peace Through Business, and has been involved with the March of Dimes, Red Cross, local arts organizations, the OKC National Memorial board and other philanthropies. In 2018, she was inducted into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame. – TM

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MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Mariner Wealth Advisors Jana Shoulders Wealth Advisor

Nationally ranked. Locally based. Jana Shoulders is a nationally ranked wealth advisor, located right here in Oklahoma. She and her team serve as advocates for clients by helping them arrive at their personal financial destination. Because putting clients first isn’t just Mariner Wealth Advisors’ motto – it’s a mission. Jana Shoulders: • •

Barron’s 2019 Top Financial Advisors in Oklahoma Barron’s 2018 Top Women Advisors

Jana and the rest of your Oklahoma-based team are here to help you achieve your personal financial goals. Call Jana and her team today and she can help you navigate your financial future. 4200 E. Skelly Drive, Suite 950, Tulsa • 1601 NW Expressway, Suite 1850, Oklahoma City 918.991.6910 • www.marinerwealthadvisors.com Barron’s Top Financial Advisors rankings data is provided by over 4,000 individual advisors and their firms. Factors included in these rankings: assets under management, revenue produced for the firm, regulatory record, quality of practice and philanthropic work.* Barron’s Top 100 Women Financial Advisors rankings are based upon data provided by advisors and their firms. Factors included in these rankings: assets managed, revenue produced and quality of practice. The scoring system assigns a top score of 100 and rates the rest by comparing them with the winner.* *Advisor data is confirmed via regulatory databases, cross-checks with securities firms and conversations with individual advisors. The quality-of-practice component includes an evaluation of each advisor’s regulatory record. Investment returns are not a component of the rankings because an advisor’s returns are dictated largely by the risk tolerance of clients. For additional information visit www. barrons.com. Mariner, LLC d/b/a Mariner Wealth Advisors (“MWA”) is an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in Kansas. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. For additional information about MWA, including fees and services, please contact MWA or refer to the Investment Adviser Public Disclosure website (www.adviserinfo.sec.gov).

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

leaders all over the world improve their skills, their communication and their understanding of how people and organizations succeed. Her services include speaking engagements, with in-person and virtual options available; team building exercises within the workplace, including retreats; executive, oneon-one coaching; strategic planning to optimize workplace culture; and halfand full-day workshops covering topics like unconscious bias, connecting with different personalities, temperament fluency, diversity and inclusion, the five conversations leaders must get right, and developing your personal brand.

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Tracy Spears is the founder of the Exceptional Leaders Lab, a company that strives to deliver innovative, highimpact training and coaching to progressive leaders around the world. Spears specializes in developing innovators, inspiring teamwork and enhancing inter-office communications. The original,

fresh and dynamic content in her electric keynote speeches and workshops is taken directly from her best-selling books, What Exceptional Leaders Know and The Exceptional Leaders Playbook.

Her energetic, humorous and interactive approach has helped leaders and aspiring

Tracy is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in communications. She is also an accomplished athlete who was a member of the U.S. National Softball Team. Tracy is one of the highest rated leadership, diversity and inclusion and team development coaches in America, and a member of the National Speakers Association, the largest and oldest international association within the Global Speakers Federation.

As a thought leader for over 25 years, Spears has helped numerous organizations, communities and executive teams achieve extraordinary growth with successful strategies that build exceptional leaders.

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MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Keller Williams Realty Heidi McMurray-Bents Realtor

Heidi McMurray-Bents has the expertise and realty experience to earn the confidence of her valued clients, sellers and buyers alike. Heidi’s ability to negotiate sided with concierge service is what sets her apart. Her goal is a successful sale process that ends with a fivestar day at the closing table. A professional Realtor since 1991 and Broker Associate with Keller Williams Preferred since 2003, McMurray-Bents consistently achieves Top Agent in production volume for properties sold – often outproducing entire realty teams. A leader in sales across the metro market places her in the top ten local Realtors. Heidi serves numerous upscale builders in the design and marketing of new construction. Her attention to detail in staging and interior design brings a competitive edge for her sellers to get their properties sold. With a bachelor’s degree in business from ORU and a past executive position owning an advertising franchise, Heidi knows what it takes to negotiate successfully and provide innovative strategies to procure buyers. “We’ll begin as partners in real estate. My goal is to end as friends.” 4745 E. 91st St., Suite 100, Tulsa 918.313.1786 www.heidibents.yourkwagent.com

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Allegiance Title & Escrow

Lindsay Hendrix, Esq. Co-owner

Lindsay D. Hendrix, Esq. is the co-owner of Allegiance Title & Escrow. With a law degree and accounting degree, she has been a powerhouse of

knowledge in the title and escrow industry since 2006. She and her closing team have brought countless closings to the table with exceptional results.

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Circle Red of

Tulsa Go Red for W

Kandi Almendares

Lynn Flinn

Carolyn Back

Tiffany Freeman

Vicky Benedict

Stephanie Fullerton

Susan Buck

Penny Cheffey

Caron Davis

May 10, 2019 | H Rocky Goins

Susan Gross

Nancy Haase

GO RED FOR WOMENÂ® IS NATIONALLY SPONSORED BY

Dana Haynie

Dee Hays

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Pamela Deatherage

Donna Kennedy

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Cara Hair

PRESENTIN

Barbara Knowlton

Not pictured: Byron Bighorse, Jennifer Bighorse, Melissa Bogle, Stephanie Price Brown, Dr. Emily Carter, Mike Case, John Clawson, Amanda Clinton, Dr. Sharolyn Cook, Sabrina Davidson, Jay Foley, Spring R. Gray, Heidi Hays, Dr. Sherri Hays, Mary Ann Hille, Anita Holloway, Kasey St. John, Jen Kerckhoff, Kristin Long, Angel Luby, Pamela Lyon, Marcia MacLeod, Paula Marshall, Donna McDannold, Sandra Moore, Dr. Mrudula Munagala, Darren Mundell, Tara Mundell, Dr. Saran Oliver, Dr. Ryan Parker, Holly Perry, Nikki Price, Jackie Price, Cassie Reese-Tipton, Melissa Roberts, Hannah Robson, Susan Rogers, Joni Rogers-Kante, Iris Sandler, Greg Smith, Melinda Stinnett, Jeremy Stout, Lynn Sund, Dr. Susan Trocciola, Melanie Warren, Dr. E. Carey Waters, Dr. Gisele Wilke MEDIA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

PRESENTING SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSORS

SIGNATURE SPONSOR

TM Go Red trademark of the AHA, Red Dress trademark of the DHHS.

SPON

The Circle of Red is an elite group of professionals with a passion to fight heart disease and stroke in women. Members are committed to significantly improve the health and well-being of the Tulsa community.

Women Luncheon Lisa Korner

John Meinders

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Melissa Mirsaeidi

Tamara Noel

Sangita Patel Chatterjee

Dr. Eleanor Payne

Dr. David Sandler

Stacey Schmidt

Vida Schuman

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DeeAnn Wicks

Dr. Temitayo Oyekan

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Eric Polak

NG SPONSOR NG SPONSOR Kala Sharp

Patricia Renton

Dawn Richardson

SIGNATURE SPONSOR SIGNATURE SPONSOR Dan Simoni

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NSORS NSORS Sherri Wise

Join us for the Go Red For Women Luncheon on May 10, 2019 at Hyatt Regency Tulsa. For tickets visit, tulsagored.heart.org. 918.877.8361

#TulsaGoRed

Get Outside

GUTHRIE GREEN PHOTO BY SHANE BROWN

The merry month of May, the English poet Thomas Dekker wrote, is ‘so green, so green, so green!’ The American musical composer Stephen Foster proclaimed, ‘The skies were bright, our hearts were light, in the merry, merry month of May.’

GILCREASE MUSEUM OF ART

It’s the time of year for shaking off cabin fever, and outdoor venues across the state stand by with adventures ranging from the wild (zip lining) to the mild (shopping).

PHOTO COURTESY GILCREASE MUSEUM OF ART

Tulsa Excursions

By Kimberly Burk

OKC ZOO

PHOTO COURTESY ZOOFRIENDS

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

Gathering Place: Launched in September on the east bank of the Arkansas River, this is the park other cities only wish they had. Enjoy the five-acre Chapman Adventure Playground with a padded area for toddlers, plus 120 feet of suspension bridges, skate parks and walking/running/biking paths. gatheringplace.org Guthrie Green: Carnivals, festivals, live music, green markets, food trucks, fitness classes – all can be found in the onesquare-block park in the Tulsa Arts District. guthriegreen.com Tulsa Botanic Garden: Floral terraces complete with a cascading water feature, a children’s discovery garden and the 110-acre persimmon grove with native flora and fauna beckon anyone to this urban oasis. tulsabotanic.org Utica Square: The Summer’s Fifth Night concert series runs each Thursday from May 30 to Aug. 29. Also, enjoy numerous patio-laden restaurants, upscale shopping and beautiful landscaping. uticasquare.com Tulsa Zoo: See some of Asia’s rarest species in the Lost Kingdom, including

PHILBROOK MUSEUM OF ART PHOTO COURTESY PHILBROOK

TULSA ZOO

PHOTO COURTESY TULSA ZOO

GATHERING PLACE

PHOTO BY SHANE BEVEL/SHANE BEVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

TURKEY MOUNTAIN

PHOTO COURTESY RIVER PARK AUTHORIES

LIME SCOOTERS PHOTO COURTESY LIME

TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN PHOTO COURTESY TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN

Malayan tigers, snow leopards, Chinese alligators, binturongs and Komodo dragons. tulsazoo.org Hiking: The River Parks trails are mostly flat, hard surfaced and suitable for most fitness levels. The exception is the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, where trails are intentionally left in a primitive state for hikers and mountain bikers who like their terrain rough and rocky. Foliage adds ample shade for those worried about overheating. riverparks.org Bikes/scooters: Check out the Lime and Bird rental scooters (via their mobile apps) and the city’s own This Machine bicycle rental. li.me; bird.co; thismachine. bcycle.com Museum gardens: The 25-acre Philbrook Gardens is billed as “a little piece of Tuscany in Tulsa” and oﬀers pathways and bridges, a sculpture walk and a meandering creek. Twenty-three acres of themed gardens at the Gilcrease Museum reflect gardening styles and techniques from the American West. philbrook.org; gilcrease.org

ONEOK Field: Take yourself out to a Tulsa Drillers ballgame. Home games this month run May 1-7, 16-19 and 23-26. milb.com/ tulsa Riverwalk Crossing: Jenks has its own Arkansas River development, with shops, restaurants, lodging and Flying Tee golf. riverwalktulsa.com Admiral Twin Drive-in: Don’t even think about putting that boom box out at your next garage sale. You need it for the audio this summer at the two-screen Admiral theater. admiraltwindrivein.com More city parks: You might as well look at something beautiful while you stretch your legs, and Woodward Park’s eye candy includes rock gardens, a rose garden, lily pools and a grotto. If you seek a garden party feel for a special event, try Central Center in Centennial Park. Memorials to the sacrifice of Tulsa County residents are found in Veterans Park. River West Festival Park is home to some of the city’s most popular events and has a great view of the downtown skyline. cityoftulsa.org

UTICA SQUARE

PHOTO COURTESY UTICA SQUARE

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

OKC Jaunts

Myriad Botanical Gardens: Go for a self-guided nature walk in the 15acre gardens, where plants and flowers are labeled and water features abound. Sign up for nature-themed classes and attend movie nights and holiday-themed celebrations. myriadgardens.org Riversport Adventure Parks: Why, yes, you can go whitewater rafting in the heart of Oklahoma City. With locations in the Boathouse District, Lake Overholser and Lake Hefner, Riversport also entices visitors with a sky trail, a zipline, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, tubing, surfing, a climbing wall, an extreme swing and sailing lessons. riversportokc.org Oklahoma City Zoo: Next to the Elephant Pavilion, the ZooZeum is the only one of its kind in the nation and gives the history of iconic animals, such as Carmichael the Polar Bear and Judy the Elephant. okczoo.org Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark: The Oklahoma City Dodgers play more than 50 home games between May and September. This month’s games run May 1-2, 7-10 and 16-20. milb.com/oklahoma-city Bricktown Bike Bar and water taxis: If you want to drink booze and burn calories simultaneously, then stock the cooler, round up 16 of your closest friends and begin an instant party that’s “the perfect combo of beer and bicycles,” according to the Bricktown Bike Bar website. For less cardio, the narrated water taxi ride along the Bricktown canal takes about 40 minutes; a taxi leaves about every 15 minutes during the summer. bricktownbikebar.com; bricktownwatertaxi.com

Oklahoma River Cruises: Choose from four boarding locations. Departure times vary throughout the summer, and themed cruises include a Mother’s Day excursion May 12. okrivercruises.com Zoo Amphitheatre: Another great summer season is in store at this concert venue, which, for more than 75 years, has drawn music lovers to its hillside arena carved from ancient red sandstone. The season kicks oﬀ May 7 with the Killers. thezooamphitheatre.com Frontier City: Just the names of some rides at this longtime amusement park pique one’s interest: the Brain Drain, the Diamondback, the Silver Bullet and the Winged Warrior. Outdoor concerts also begin May 18 with Skillet. frontiercity.com Wheeler District: The Wheeler Ferris Wheel, purchased on eBay from the Santa Monica Pier in California, is the centerpiece of this riverside urban neighborhood, which features shops, workspaces and a new elementary school. wheelerdistrict.com

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

PHOTO COURTESY OKLAHOMA RIVER CRUISES

PHOTO COURTESY THE ROUND BARN

PHOTO COURTESY WHEELER DISTRICT

OKLAHOMA RIVER CRUISES

THE ROUND BARN WHEELER DISTRICT

Arcadia: Pops 66 Soda Ranch and the Arcadia Round Barn are must-sees for both Route 66 travelers and local day-trippers. The giant soda bottle in front of Pops lights up at night for ample Instagram-able content. pops66.com, arcadiaroundbarn.com More city parks: Migrating monarch butterflies love to stop at Will Rogers Gardens, home of the Charles E. Sparks Color Garden. Serenity is the star attraction at Martin Park Nature Center, which oﬀers guided hikes and a visitor center with a nature learning library. Dolese Youth Park has a fishing pond for kids, a playground, a baseball field and an 18-hole disc golf course. okc.gov

RIVERSPORT ADVENTURES PHOTO BY GEORGIA READ

THE BLUE WHALE OF CATOOSA PHOTO COURTESY THE BLUE WHALE OF CATOOSA

MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS PHOTO COURTESY MYRIAD BOTANICAL GARDENS

Statewide Expeditions:

Fort Sill: The military, social and cultural history of Fort Sill and nearby Native tribes, from 1834 through 1920, is chronicled at the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum. sill-www.army.mil Zip lining: Air Donkey Zipline in Davis oﬀers a two-hour canopy ride through the Arbuckle Mountains. Also near Davis and oﬀering a view of Turner Falls is the 777 Zipline. In far southeastern Oklahoma, Rugaru Adventures’s zip line ends with an amazing view of Broken Bow Lake. oklahomazipline. com; 777-zip-line.business.site; rugaruadventures.com Blue Whale of Catoosa: That wooden whale is just darned cute, and shady spots with picnic tables encourage lingering.

This should be a must-see on any journey down Route 66. travelok.com Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge: Dig for crystals (for free), shoot photos of migratory birds and walk the nature trails at the largest saline flat in the central lowlands of North America. fws. gov/refuge/salt_plains Little Sahara State Park: Driving dune buggies and ATVs is the main draw to the 1,600 acres of sand dunes in the northwest Oklahoma town of Waynoka. Rentals are available. travelok.com Hogan’s Off-Road Park: Stay where you play at one of Hogan’s recreational vehicle sites or primitive tent camping spots in Disney, with five miles of terrain to explore on foot on on your ATV. Perk alert: The restrooms have hot showers. facebook.com/ hogansoffroadpark

CHICKASAW BRICKTOWN BALLPARK PHOTO COURTESY OKC DODGERS

ZOO AMPHITHEATRE PHOTO COURTESY ZOO AMPHITHEATRE

LITTLE SAHARA STATE PARK

PHOTO COURTESY OKLAHOMA TOURISM AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

g n i Fir ur Yo

o t y a W

g n i l l i r G ess n t a e r G By Brian Wilson

Patience, acquired knowledge and a willingness to try something new let you satisfy your hungry guests with food from the charcoaler or smoker.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

SAMPLER WITH RIBS, HOT LINKS, CHICKEN WINGS AND BOLOGNA COURTESY ALBERT G’S BAR-B-Q PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

It’s

taken awhile for Oklahoma to warm up this year. Temperatures in the low 30s lingered into April. Despite the late spring, we’re back on target this month and the high heat is coming as summer awaits and people uncover and dust off their grills and smokers. In our annual section on outdoor cooking, we get away from the norm of hamburgers and hot dogs and explore weird foods, like fudge, that you can grill over the coals. Tasty sausages, in their raw state, can pose challenges on the grill. We show you how to be the best with brats. We also examine the advantages of the main types of charcoal grills. Also included are short takes on grilling with skewers and a debate over hickory and mesquite as woods that add flavor to your food as you cook it. We have a quick rundown of some new barbecue equipment on the market. Experts weigh in on what makes a good homemade barbecue sauce. There’s even a glossary of sauces by region of the country and the world. Opinions vary, but those differences make for robust discussion about a favorite Oklahoma pastime – outdoor cooking. MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

WHAT

It’s a non-debate debate – or a debate non-debate: distinct and resonate vs. sweet and subtle … mesquite vs. hickory. Regardless of an outright victor, those who grill and smoke love to flavor meat by burning wood. The battle between hickory and mesquite, like most disputes in the outdoor cooking world, is good-natured. The rarest of species is someone who likes barbecue but refuses to eat because food has been grilled or smoked with chunks from a certain tree. Jose Todd, assistant manager at Howler’s Famous Barbecue in Pawnee, favors mesquite because “it is a stronger, bolder taste than hickory. Wood-wise, it burns slower. You get a smokier taste.” He adds – while chewing on a piece of brisket to examine the flavors – mesquite “is not sweet, so you can actually taste the meat; it doesn’t overwhelm the meat.” In another corner is Andrew Timmons, exec-

WOOD

YOU PREFER

utive chef in charge of research and development at Tulsa-based Rib Crib. “I always use green hickory,” he says. “It’s not harsh or bitter and it’s readily available. It provides a good color and smoke ring. “It provides better heat, too; it will burn the longest because it’s the hardest of the hard woods.” The great news is that the home grill master doesn’t have to pledge allegiance to the tree. It’s OK to switch back and forth. The Barbecue Po-Po won’t come after you.

THE ‘OKLAHOMA SAMPLER’ WITH BRISKET, SAUSAGE, CHICKEN, HAM, RIB, OKRA AND GREEN BEANS, COURTESY SWADLEY’S BAR-B-Q

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

CHARCOAL GRILL TYPES

Traditionalists in the outdoor cooking world eschew electricity (pellet cookers) and propane (gas grills). They go for charcoal and wood and fire. The equipment they use, however, may vary. Dillon Stockard at Everything Barbecue in Oklahoma City runs down the advantages of various types of charcoal grills.

• Barrel – “The cooking surface is large. It’s a vertical style and you have several tiers, so you can get a lot of food on there,” Stockard says.

• Brazier and kettle – Each of these basic grills

GO FOR THE

Hamburgers, hot dogs and some vegetables comprise a typical backyard barbecue. However, if you see your grill as just a cooking surface with wood and charcoal as the heat source, your options become limitless. Bananas, lettuce, eggplant, tofu, watermelon, pineapple, peaches, tomatoes, pizza, quesadillas, edamame, nuts, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, artichokes, bacon, polenta, lobster, avocados and chard are among scores of items you can plop on the grates. Nick Corcoran, pit master at Tulsa-based Burn Co. Barbeque for seven years, could perform standup comedy with the shenanigans in

WEIRD

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

his lair and some of the foods he’s grilled. “What we do for a living is absolutely ridiculous because I have access to the best meats and food that you can get,” he says. “We have fun and play around with anything.” Corcoran has grilled schnitzel, elk sausage, squirrel, lamb and alligator. “Probably the most unusual thing I’ve done on the grill is fudge – salt-candy-bacon fudge,” he says. “It didn’t go over too well, but I liked it and ate most of it myself.” OKC’s Scotty Irani, of the In the Kitchen With Scotty, recalls foods at beach parties while he was in culinary school in Rhode Island. “Grilled oysters and clams are phenomenal,” he says. “The trick is to find those big, gnarly, thick mollusks, then toss them on the grill until they open. Knock out some garlicherb butter, shuck the clams and oysters, spoon in the butter and place them back in the shells on the grill to cook. “Can you taste it? I know you can.”

is essentially the same (charcoal pan, grill and lid). The former is rectangular; the latter is (surprise) shaped like a kettle. “People love the nostalgia of either. It’s the grill that people saw their grandpa or father using.”

• Crank-style – Hasty-Bake of Tulsa

patented this type. “You have the versatility to easily move the charcoal around,” Stockard says.

• Kamado or egg – The names are

interchangeable, with Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe well-known for this style. “It’s a complete, three-in-one cooker – grill, bake and smoke. Most also have a lifetime warranty.” In addition, Stockard says the materials of the cookers make a diﬀerence. “The advantage of metal comes in smoking meat,” he says. “Metal provides a drier cooking environment, so you get a more pronounced smoke ring and bark.” Ceramic cookers “are fantastic if you want to grill basic burgers, steaks, chicken or sausages because of the moisture, flavor and heat retention,” he says.

FOWL

WEATHER

AHEAD

What makes chicken and other winged meats popular today – the relatively low fat content – is also what makes grilling them a fair or fowl proposition. Beef and pork have enough fat to make hamburgers and bratwurst juicy. However, poultry and flying game can dry out quickly on the grill because there’s nothing in them to keep the meat moist. The key is getting the moisture in ahead of time with brines and marinades. For instance, brining chicken or turkey breasts for 1½-2 hours renders plump, tender, juicy meat hot oﬀ the grill. Chef Scotty Irani, who runs his In The Kitchen With Scotty line of products out of Oklahoma City, says prepping fowl for the charcoaler is vital. “When grilling game fowl, keep in mind that these birds – duck, pheasant, quail, dove, grouse – are going to be ‘dry,’ plus you’re using a ‘dry’ way of cooking them,” he says. “To counter-balance that, marinating or brining is always a good idea. Wrapping in bacon or classic ‘larding’ makes a tasty bird bite, too. “Always make sure you’re grilling these guys to proper internal temperature – 165-170 degrees – especially if they truly are wild game fowl.”

THE ‘BBQ PLATTER’ WITH BABY BACK RIBS, CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS, A JALEPENO CHEDDAR ‘FATTY’ AND A BRISKET SANDWICH COURTESY BURN CO. BARBEQUE PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

SIEGI’S SAUSAGE FACTORY

PHOTO COURTESY SIEGI’S SAUSAGE FACTORY

SAUSAGE SUCCESS

Charred on the outside. Uncooked meat on the inside. This dreadful state of affairs is why many people shun grilling raw bratwurst and sausages. However, a little patience, a lot of experience and strategic charcoal placement produce casing after casing of ground, flavorful goodness. “The key is heat control,” says Jeffrey Yates, deli manager for 10 years at Siegi’s Sausage Factory in south Tulsa. “Let them slowly warm up for even browning.” Nick Corcoran, pit master at Tulsa-based Burn Co. Barbeque, makes sure he has direct and indirect sources of heat. He warms up and browns the brats away from the coals before finishing them over the fire. “The casing will firm up and the sausage will firm up,” he says. “I know this sounds kind of funny, but as they become plump, they become bouncy as well. I’ve dropped one of the ground and it bounced up.” Yates uses a feel test before pulling the sausages off the grill. “When they’re nice and firm and tight, you know it’s done,” he says. “If tiny holes in the casing split open and clear juices come out, then they’re done.” Puncturing the casing is a no-no because it keeps the meat moist and zesty, so a thermometer is out of the question. However, Corcoran suggests making one of the brats “a sacrificial lamb and cut into it. The others are going to be like it, so you’ll know if they are ready or need more time.” Yates, whose favorites are ones with any type of cheese in them, says “sausages sometimes get a negative connotation because people think they’re just fancy hot dogs. They’re not. There are a lot of excellent, gourmet sausages out there.”

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

THE

ART

Alabama White – As the

exception to the rule, this state’s white barbecue sauce has mayonnaise as its base, mixed with lemon juice, salt, black pepper, white vinegar and sugar.

OF THE SAUCE

Just like foodie disputes over the best way to prepare fried chicken or which type of gravy is best, the art of making barbecue sauce is highly subjective. With every grilling or smoking expert comes a diﬀerent opinion on what is needed in a good sauce. Oklahoma Magazine talked with barbecue masters in Tulsa and Oklahoma City and got their preferences.

NICK CORCORAN,

pit master, Burn Co. Barbeque, metropolitan Tulsa “Around here, we like sauce that’s thick, ketchup-based and sticky – something that you can put on a bun and not have it run oﬀ. I always use high-quality ingredients, like blackstrap molasses as a great addition to the ketchup base. Technically speaking, good barbecue shouldn’t need sauce, but, if you do use it, it should be used during the cooking process.”

Australian –

SAUCE GLOSS

Some states and regions in America, along with other countries, claim to produce the best barbecue sauces, which have tomatoes, vinegar or mustard as their bases. Here’s a look at various types.

Down Under, the sauce is served as a condiment, not as something swabbed on meat during cooking. Generally, it’s ketchup or tomato paste diluted with Worcestershire sauce and mixed with paprika and that most Aussie of all staples, Vegemite.

Chimichurri – Common to

Argentina and Uruguay (and in some parts of Brazil), this uncooked sauce is red or green, depending upon the use of tomatoes. It blends parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano, vinegar and red pepper.

Chinese –

Tomato puree is mixed with ginger powder, sherry, soy and hoisin sauces, five-spice powder (cinnamon, cloves, fennel, star anise and peppercorns), pineapple juice and garlic for a distinct taste.

East Carolina – Thicker than its West Carolina

CHUCK GAWEY,

owner, Albert G’s Bar-B-Q, Tulsa “We put a lot of TLC in our sauce. You don’t want anything too, too sweet or too, too tangy or too, too hot. You want something versatile. I had a guy tell me that he puts our sauce on everything, including eggs. That’s what we want.”

TOMAS LOPEZ, chef,

Iron Star Urban Barbecue, OKC

“It’s the sweetness, tanginess and spices altogether. It’s also important to have smokiness and something sweet, like molasses or brown sugar. Onion powder is a good addition, and I like some hot spice for a little kick.”

BRENT SWADLEY,

third-generation owner, Swadley’s Bar-B-Q, metropolitan OKC

“No. 1 is starting with the best ingredients. We only use Heinz ketchup as the base. We make our sauce fresh. Oklahomans generally like a sweet sauce, but some like it tangy, too, so that’s why we have four sauces. You want the sauce to complete your barbecue. It shouldn’t overwhelm the food. It should cling to the meat, not thickly cover it. It should drape the meat like being on the back of a spoon.”

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

SKEWERING A COMPLETE MEAL Often overlooked by backyard chefs is the humble skewer, which can bring a complete meal – meat, vegetable, fungi, starch and fruit – straight from the grill to each person. The prep time is about the same. If they arrive early enough, you can let guests choose what they want on each skewer – such as two cubes of chicken, two potato wedges, three chunks of bell pepper, two mushrooms and a slice of pineapple. “It’s a diﬀerent way to eat than what people are used to doing with the grill,” says Dillon Stockard of Everything Barbecue in Oklahoma City. “It’s something nice to try. It’s easy, too – bite-sized food and you don’t have as much cleanup.” Bamboo skewers are good

because of their biodegradability and quickness to cool, so you can remove the hot food without burning your fingers. However, they don’t do well with high heat and can easily break or splinter. Metal skewers stay hot and you can’t hold them with your bare fingers, but they last a long time, provide superior heat in the middle of a chunk of meat and should be washed after each use.

sibling (see below), this sauce still relies on vinegar and is mixed with crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper (among other spices).

Florida – Since

this state is home to many citrus fruits, it’s no surprise that grapefruit juice is a primary ingredient – mixed with brown sugar, red onion, garlic, tomato paste, dry mustard and Worcestershire sauce.

Kansas City – Makers of this

sauce like to double down on its key ingredients:

tomato sauce and ketchup, blended with brown sugar and molasses.

Korean – Onion, Asian pear and kiwi fruit provide the sweet and loads of garlic provide the sour. Soy sauce, ginger and sesame oil are other key elements.

Lexington/ Piedmont/ West Carolina –

Known by all three names, this sauce uses ketchup, is thin and has lots of vinegar.

Memphis – This

sauce is heavy on the tomato base and zesty spices, which

makes it thick, sticky and tangy.

Oklahoma –

Minced onion and garlic, crushed celery seed, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves, paprika and either melted butter or olive oil give the Sooner State’s sauce a unique flavor.

Pacific Northwest – Pick your favorite fruit jam, jelly or marmalade from Oregon or Washington, then mix it with your favorite style of barbecue sauce.

South Carolina –

The classic mustard-based sauce has lots of the prepared yellow condiment for even the smallest of batches. Honey and brown sugar provide some balance, but the tang goes up again with apple cider vinegar, chipotle pepper and Worcestershire sauce.

Texas Mop –

Ketchup or tomato sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard and chili powder are among the flavors in the Lone Star State type.

St. Louis – This blend of styles (tomato, mustard and vinegar) has some sweet (brown sugar) and heat (cayenne pepper).

THREE RACKS OF RIBS COURTESY RIB CRIB BLUE DOME PHOTO BY JOSH NEW

RECENT TECHNOLOGY

Grilling food over coals is as old as Homo erectus, so just about everything needed for barbecuing has been invented in the past 1.8 million years. However, some recently released products might grab people’s attention. Dillon Stockard with Everything Barbecue in Oklahoma City touts some items that have made their way to the back porch. • Kamado Joe has added features to its ceramic cookers, namely an air hinge, which uses a compressed spring to make easy lifting of the 125-pound lid, and a long-lasting gasket (seal) made out of ceramic and woven mesh with a life span of 10-plus years. Conventional felt, nomex gaskets last about five years. • Several companies, responding to publicized instances of wires breaking oﬀ grill brushes and getting into food, have produced scrapers made out of bamboo or another hardwood. “You use it when the grill is hot; the tapered front conforms to the grates,” Stockard says. • Smokin’ Brothers and BBQ Hack – makers of pellet grills and accessories, respectively – have a griddle that reaches 400 degrees with the hood down and 350 degrees with it open. It quickly substitutes for the grates and indirect heating surface and fits over the center-mounted fire box.

KAMADO JOE GRILL

PHOTO COURTESY KAMADO JOE

SMOKIN’ BROTHERS

PHOTO COURTESY SMOKIN BROTHERS

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Taste

F O O D, D R I N K A N D O T H E R P L E A S U R E S

What the (Deep) Deuce? The Black Walnut has unusual food categories while making its mark in a revitalized district in downtown OKC.

THE BRANZINO AT BLACK WALNUT COMES WITH SAFFRON RAISIN COUSCOUS AND LOBSTER BROTH. PHOTOS BY BRENT FUCHS

he Deep Deuce district, once the heart of Oklahoma City’s African-American community in early 20th century, has been brought back to life. Gone are the days when Northeast Second Street was ﬁlled with the syncopated rhythms of jazz pianos and saxophones. Today’s Deep Deuce has urban dwellers, businesses

and chill-chic cafes. Along Walnut Street, nestled between two other of his tasty creations, chef Andrew Black presents … the Black Walnut. The catalyst of Black Walnut began when Oklahoma City’s historic Skirvin Hotel re-opened and Black was brought in to man the kitchens. “When I came to Oklahoma City and opened the Skirvin, I met Rudy [Khouri] the ﬁfth day in town and we

just clicked right away,” Black says of his Black Walnut co-collaborator. “We are like family now. At the Skirvin, I started a chef’s table on a plywood tabletop, and it got so popular I never looked back. All my customers said that I had to do this on a larger scale. It just took Rudy and I longer to get to this point.” Black Walnut is one of three restaurant concepts under one roof. On either side is La Baguette Deep

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Taste

BLACK WALNUT’S ROASTED BEETS COME WITH A ROOT VEGETABLE CARPACCIO.

Deuce, a European-style cafe, and the Grey Sweater, a 52-seat, multi-course tasting menu space. “To balance three restaurants under one roof,” Black says, “the concepts, ﬂavors and ingredients have to be totally different. Black Walnut is food that people can associate with but at a different level … with a twist.” This new restaurant has a modern vibe, well lit with a stylish décor. Everything – the interior, the exterior, the structure itself – was built from the ground up or created especially for the restaurant. Black says he and his team laid out the choices on the menu by focusing on ﬂavor

profiles. Even the choosiest of diners can find something they like. “Black Walnut is the place where you get thoughtful food … thoughtful in the sense that everything on the plate is meant to be there – our interpretation,” he says. “It tells you on our menu that the only rules that apply here are the flavors. We don’t separate the menu into appetizers and entrees; it’s separated into flavor profiles.” For example, the sweet-and-savory category has offerings like charred rosemary bread and candied bacon, and lamb ribs with chimichurri and brown sugar glaze. The fresh-and-light portions include fried green tomatoes with burrata and avocado, and

falafel cakes with celery root apple slaw. For stick-to-your-ribs tasters, well … there are ribs, such as the English short ribs with hush puppies. There’s also the T-rexsized tomahawk steak with macaroni and cheese off the casual-and-comforting list. Fresh branzino with saffron-raisin-lobster broth couscous and a cast iron strip with Peruvian potatoes are a couple of choices off the smoky-and-satisfying section. The cocktail program at Black Walnut also takes you around the world … via the street. “We wanted to create street cocktails from around the world,” Black says. “We picked a few countries [and] researched the country’s ingredients and what they were drinking on the street.” Libations include baijiu (Chinese grain alcohol), oolong tea and Chinese ﬁve spice, or macadamia nut-infused whiskey and tobacco bitters for a spirited cocktail hour. If you want a care-free drink, there is one with rum, the liqueur Mandarine Napoleon and papaya or another devoted to beets. Check out Black Walnut when you visit Deep Deuce, then make reservations for the Grey Sweater, and stop in at La Baguette for a sweet ride home. SCOTTY IRANI

L O C A L F L AV O R

A PANOPLY OF SPICES

Growing up in Java, Indonesia, Indri Bahar did not learn her family’s traditional recipes at her mother’s knee ... she was too busy getting her university degree in chemistry. But after she married her childhood sweetheart, a petroleum engineer from another Indonesian island, Sumatra, they found themselves in jungles far from decent food. So, she tried cooking and discovered a talent she never knew she had. From her mother-in-law, Bahar learned to cook the staples of Padang (in West Sumatra province) and mastered the cuisine, which many consider Indonesia’s ﬁnest, so well that people who ate her food thought she was Sumatran. She loved the misperception and happily volunteered to cook elaborate meals

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

PHOTO COURTESY REDANG AND CO.

Indri Bahar of Rendang and Co., relatively late to the world of cooking, embraces the Indonesian dishes of West Sumatra.

for 200 guests. These authentic dishes can be found at Rendang and Co., across the street from Tulsa’s LaFortune Park. “She has a magic hand,” says her proud husband, Asnul, who eventually got his doctorate at the University of Tulsa and now jets around the world to hold training seminars

for engineers in places like Australia and Kazakhstan. Rendang is the couple’s first restaurant and, if you want to try the rich, exotic, multi-ethnic panoply of flavors and spicing that is Indonesian cuisine, you can find no finer guide. BRIAN SCHWARTZ

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Taste C H E F C H AT

Teacher and Student

Kevin Snell passes along lessons to his kids and the staff at Amelia’s via hands-on experiences in and out of the kitchen.

ABOVE: CHEF KEVIN SNELL IS PASSIONATE ABOUT USING LOCAL FARMS FOR AMELIA’S INGREDIENTS. RIGHT: AMELIA’S RESCALDO VEGGIES ARE A CROWD PLEASER. PHOTOS BY JOSH NEW

FOR KEVIN SNELL’S RECIPE FOR RESCALDO VEGGIES, PLUS A WEB-EXCLUSIVE VIDEO, VISIT OKMAG.COM/ KEVINSNELL.

few months ago, in the dead of winter, executive chef Kevin Snell took some of the staff of Amelia’s restaurant to Joe’s Farm in Bixby, where they spent the day digging through frozen sod and planting onions. “I wanted them to see the hard work that goes into farming,” Snell says. “When they’re cutting these onions to serve at Amelia’s, they will appreciate all the labor that went into them. And besides, I wanted to help Joe. There are so many farmers I want to help, but it’s hard on the back – I was sore for four days.” Snell’s desire to educate doesn’t stop after work. He and his wife, Linda, also involve their two young children in cooking – most recently teaching them how to wrap pork for storage. “Kevin taught them how,” says Linda, who met her husband in cooking

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

school. “He’s very patient with the kids. He’s a good teacher.” He’s always learning too, she says. One year, he taught himself welding, built a 6-foot steel tower for grilling meat and set it up outside the BOK Center for a charity event. Kevin Snell grew up in a little Arkansas town right by the White River. By age 4, says his mother Darby Barksdale, “I noticed each evening when I prepared our meal he’d push a small stool up to the counter and, using a butter knife, start chopping carrots.” Ten years

later, his best friend got a job at a TexMex restaurant and Snell joined him. “I thought I’d make some money and eat a lot of free food,” Snell says. “But my friend was a really hard worker and he inspired a work ethic in me. Oh, I wish he were still alive. I’d love to have him working beside me.” Snell says he taught himself knife skills (“I cut so many vegetables I got huge blisters”), butchering (“I can cut up a chicken in 55 seconds”) and dishwashing (“I put a lot of thought into how to be the fastest person in the dish room”).When he turned 18, he says his grandfather asked him what he was going to do with his life. “Well, cooking doesn’t aggravate me” was his response, so his grandfather helped him go to cooking school, where he was taught by Philippe Garmy. Years later, Snell met Tim Inman, chef/owner of Stonehorse in Tulsa, where he worked for ﬁve years. It’s there he met Amelia Eesley (owner and namesake of Amelia’s), and the rest is history. Now, Snell tries his best to pass on this love and technique to his own workers. Several times a year, he has a tasting day, where members of the staff develop a unique dish and cook it for Snell. He then offers constructive criticism. But right now, Snell has news he’s bursting to tell. “We just bought Sette, the restaurant next door,” he says. “I have such great plans. We’re going to turn half into a retail market and the rest will be a classic brasserie. And of course we’ll keep Sette’s chef, Holly Biersack. She’ll join our team. I’d never let a good person like that lose her job.” BRIAN SCHWARTZ

TA S T Y T I D B I T S

Generations of Tulsans choose the old-world charm of Ti Amo Ristorante Italiano with traditional dishes at its South Tulsa and downtown locations. Favorites include bruschetta, antipasto, variations of fettucine and linguine, baked pastas, steak, seafood and chicken classics like chicken Parmesan. Leave room for the tiramisu. 219 S. Cheyenne Ave., Tulsa, 918-592-5151; 6024 S. Sheridan Road, Tulsa, 918-499-1919; tiamotulsa.com.

PHOTO COURTESY TI AMO RISTORANTE ITALIANO

TI AMO RISTORANTE ITALIANO

PHOTO COURTESY TORCHY’S TACOS

TORCHY’S TACOS

From an Austin, Texas, food truck to more than 60 locations in four states, Torchy’s treats Tulsans and OKC diners to what founder Mike Rypka calls “Damn Good” tacos. Each location has a slightly different look and aura, but every Torchy’s shop has partnerships with ingredient providers from around the world. The company also uses renewable napkins, cutlery and cups. Choose from a menu brimming with taco variations, queso, margarita ﬂavors and, as always, a Taco of the Month. 3330 S. Peoria Ave., Tulsa, 918-495-4073; 13002 N. Pennsylvania Ave., OKC, 405-936-4264; torchystacos.com.

PANANG THAI

This eatery, family-owned since 2007 with four locations in metropolitan OKC, has reﬁned Thai cuisine, such as the red curry for which it’s named – a spicy, tangy, crunchy, sweet signature entree rich with peas, fresh basil, coconut milk and bell peppers. Dishes can be made from mild to extremely hot. 9022 S. Pennsylvania Ave., OKC, 405-6919989; 14101 N. May Ave., Suite #109, OKC, 405-752-8400; 3325 S. Boulevard St., Suite 149, Edmond, 405-285-5188; 1615 S. I-35 Service Road, Moore, 405759-7676; panangthaifood.com.

Spouses Matt Ruggi and Laura Szyld decided the state needed a one-ofa-kind patisserie. Ganache Patisserie came about after the couple met and fell in love in Argentina, then cooked their way around Europe while studying cuisine, especially baking. For their return to the United States, they chose OKC to share their dream. Stating that food cooked with love is their mission, the bistro creators make frequent menu additions and are known for traditional Argentinian desserts, ornate cakes and tarts, macarons in 14 flavors, breads and a full coﬀee bar. 13230 Pawnee Drive, Suite 114, OKC, 405-286-4068; ganacheokc.com.

PHOTO COURTESY PANANG 7 THAI RESTAURANT

PHOTO COURTESY GANACHE PATISSERIE

GANACHE PATISSERIE

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Finding the Rhythm

Tulsa Ballet concludes its season with a three-piece showcase.

ay brings worldclass ballet to northeastern Oklahoma as Tulsa Ballet’s Signature Series: From Ballet to Broadway promises a spectacular ﬁnale to its season, which saw some of the highest ticket sales in the company’s 62-year history. Signature Series features contemporary works by the world’s top ballet and Broadway choreographers, “including three-time Tony Award-winning choreographer of Hamilton, Andy Blanken-

buehler,” says Scott Black, managing director at Tulsa Ballet. “He is creating his very first dance work for a ballet company. He created this new piece, titled Remember Our Song, while also choreographing the upcoming film version of the musical Cats … being shot in London.” The program includes two other pieces, including Fancy Free, choreographed by Jerome Robbins of West Side Story, Gypsy and The King and I fame. Fancy Free was later extended to become a full musical, On the Town, best known for the film starring Frank

Sinatra and Gene Kelly about three sailors with 24 hours of shore leave in New York City. The third piece, Who Cares, was created by choreographer George Balanchine and features the music of George and Ira Gershwin, composers of some of Broadway’s most popular standards, including “I Got Rhythm,” “Rhapsody in Blue” and “An American In Paris.” Signature Series runs May 9-12 at the University of Tulsa’s Lorton Performance Center. Visit tulsaballet.org for tickets and more information. MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

LOCAL CREATORS THRIVE

Since its April 5 debut at ahha Tulsa, the installation Mitochroma has dazzled visitors with electric murals and sculpture curated by local artists Krista Jo Mustain and Sarah Sullivan. The exhibition runs through May 26. Visit ahhatulsa.org for details. DNA Galleries, an artist-made store and contemporary gallery in Oklahoma City, has its new exhibition, the Support Local Art Show, running May 9-June 9. Visit dnagalleries.com for a lineup of participants.

PERFORMANCE

CATS, GODS AND CASTING SPELLS

Tulsa Opera presents its ﬁnal show of the season, Don Giovanni, composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and sung in Italian with English supertitles. Performances run May 3 and 5 at the Tulsa PAC. Visit tulsaopera.com for tickets. A wicked witch and her gang of monkeys are on the loose during Theatre Tulsa Academy’s The Wizard of Oz in the John H. Williams Theater of the Tulsa PAC on May 3-5. See young members of the academy as they learn the ins-and-outs of stage performance. Visit theatretulsa.org for information. Celebrity Attractions has a new production, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, running May 31-June 1 at the Tulsa PAC. Watch this Greek mythologyladen story as it unfolds; Percy, a son of Poseidon, searches for Zeus’ lightning bolt to prevent a war between the gods. For tickets, visit celebrityattractions.com. Rediscover Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Cats in Oklahoma City on May 21-26. OKC Broadway presents this quirky story of a clowder of felines dubbed the Jellicles at the Civic Center Music Hall. Visit okcciviccenter.com for tickets.

IN TULSA

PERFORMANCES WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?

May 3 Brady Theater Whose Live Anyway? is 90 minutes of hilarious, improvised comedy based on audience suggestions. bradytheater.com

GREG GUTFELD May 4 Cox Business Center Join Greg

Gutfeld for an unforgettable evening of hilarious, insightful and engaging conversation.

bokcenter.com

JIM BREUER May 4 Brady Theater Enjoy

stand-up comedian Jim Breuer. bradytheater.com

THEATRE NORTH PRESENTS: SASSY MAMAS Through May 5 Tulsa PAC

Sassy Mamas by Celeste Bedford Walker takes a look at “cougars” from a black woman’s perspective. tulsapac.com

TULSA BALLET PRESENTS: TBCDE END OF YEAR PERFORMANCE May 13-14

Tulsa PAC This event

showcases students from both the Broken Arrow and Brookside campuses.

tulsaballet.org

THEATRE TULSA PRESENTS: THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME May 17-26 Tulsa PAC After a neighbor’s

dog is found dead, an autistic teenager seeks to investigate … but discovers more than he could have imagined.

theatretulsa.org

CONCERTS STEVE EARLE AND THE DUKES May 2 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Catoosa Enjoy this rock/

country/folk band on tour.

hardrockcasinotulsa.com ROBERT CRAY May 3 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino,

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

PHOTO COURTESY AHHA TULSA

READY FOR AN EXCITING MAY? READ ON FOR OUR TOP CHOICES THIS MONTH.

PHOTO COURTESY OKC BROADWAY

Where & When

ART

Catoosa Blues guitarist and

the Avett Brothers return to town. bokcenter.com

singer Robert Cray performs.

hardrockcasinotulsa.com BOB SEGER May 4 BOK Center Bob Seger and the

VIOLENT FEMMES May

14 Cain's Ballroom Violent Femmes formed in 1981 as an acoustic punk band playing on the streets of Milwaukee.

Silver Bullet Band are on their Roll Me Away Tour. bokcenter.

com

ELLA MAI May 4 Cain's

cainsballroom.com

on her The Debut Tour.

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Catoosa See punk band

Ballroom See the artist

GOOD CHARLOTTE May 18

cainsballroom.com SOMO May 7 Cain's Ballroom Joseph Anthony

Good Charlotte perform.

hardrockcasinotulsa.com PENTATONIX May 21 BOK Center Hear the three-time

Somers-Morales, known as SoMo, performs. cainsballroom.com

Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling group Pentatonix harmonize. bokcenter.com

CASII STEPHAN May

8 Tulsa PAC The Brown

Bag It Series is a free concert series each month. tulsapac.com

ALANIS MORISSETTE May

8 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Catoosa

See popular vocalist and musician Alanis Morissette. hardrockcasinotulsa.com

LUKE COMBS May

JOHN HIATT May 31

Brady Theater Enjoy

May 3 Arts District

This year-round, monthly event features works from galleries, artists, studios and museums.

thetulsaartsdistrict. org

10 BOK Center Country artist Luke Combs is on his first headline arena tour, Beer Never Broke My Heart. bokcenter.com

the unique vocal and musical stylings of John Hiatt. bradytheater.com

RICHARD BARLOW Through

ART

14 BOK Center Folk rock band

FIRST FRIDAY ART CRAWL

Richard Barlow creates monumental, temporary and site-specific drawings of the

THE AVETT BROTHERS May

May 19 Philbrook Downtown Acclaimed artist

with novices and experts.

neoklascca.org

OFF-TRACK BETTING EVENTS Through May 18

COMMUNIT Y

FESTIVAL SEASON

Germanfest, hosted by the GermanAmerican Society of Tulsa (gastulsa.org), runs May 3-5 at the GAST House. Offerings include authentic performances and music, plus food, drink and kids’ activities. Tulsa International Mayfest (tulsamayfest.org) is back May 17-20, this time in the Arts District. This annual tradition features local and national bands, food vendors and plenty of art for sale. Stick around downtown Tulsa for the Hop Jam Beer and Musical Festival (thehopjam. com) May 19. Enjoy plenty of local and national brews, plus music from Hanson, Phantom Planet and other touring acts. Oklahoma’s longest running LGBTQ event, the Tulsa Pride Festival, begins May 31 with a block party and parade (okeq.org/ tulsa-pride). Festivities run through June 2. The Downtown Edmond Arts Festival (downtownedmond.ok.com) transforms the area into an outdoor gallery May 3-5. May 18 marks the Oklahoma Craft Beer Festival (oklahomacraftbeerfestival.com) at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City. Chat with brewers and get your fair share of samples along the way. The 42nd Annual Paseo Arts Festival (thepaseo.org ) continues Memorial Day weekend, May 26-28, in Oklahoma City. Experience local art and music, plus food trucks. Durant hosts its 23rd annual Magnolia Festival (magnoliafestival.com) May 30-June 1 with arts, food, music and the Choctaw Nation Princess Pageant. Don’t miss Red Dirt music’s biggest names as they perform in Stillwater at the Tumbleweed Calf Fry (calffry.com) May 2-4. The Rocklahoma music festival (rocklahoma.com) in Pryor draws some of the biggest names in hard rock May 24-26.

COMMUNITY DRINK AND DRAW May 2, 9,

16, 23, 30 Tulsa Botanic Garden

Join Tulsa Botanic Garden for a series of Thursday evenings focusing on the growing habits of a particular plant while you enjoy a cocktail.

PHOTO COURTESY MAGNOLIA FESTIVAL

exposquare.com

tulsabotanic.org

PROJECT CUFFWAY May 3 Cox Business Center Project

Cuff way is a one-of-a-kind fashion show benefiting the National Pancreas Foundation.

coxcentertulsa.com

TULSA FLEA MARKET May 4, 11, 18, 25 Expo Square Find

hidden gems from all around the city. exposquare.com

DOG DAY May 5 Tulsa Botanic Garden Dogs are invited to join

their owners for a walk in the garden. tulsabotanic.org

SECOND SATURDAY ARCHITECTURE TOURS May 11 Tulsa Foundation for

Architecture Each month, the Tulsa Foundation for Architecture offers popular walking tours highlighting some of downtown’s architectural treasures.

DIG DAY IN THE GARDEN

May 18 Tulsa Botanic Garden

Activities include face painting, games, train rides, garden crafts and live music.

tulsabotanic.org

HABIT MURAL FESTIVAL

philbrook.org

JOEL DANIEL PHILLIPS

Through May 19 Philbrook Downtown Joel Daniel Phillips

chooses images charged with history. The physical and emotional labor needed to create his graphite drawings is part of what pulls the viewer into the work. philbrook.org

PEGGY WEIL: 88 CORES

Through May 19 Philbrook Museum In Peggy Weil’s

video 88 Cores (From -1 Meter to -3051 Meters), the viewer experiences a descent into the Arctic ice sheet and back through time. philbrook.org

Nov. 3 Philbrook Museum

Multimedia artist Sharon Louden creates site-specific installations fostering interaction between the art, the space and the viewer.

philbrook.org

AMERICANS ALL! Ongoing

Gilcrease Museum This

exhibit, drawn from Gilcrease's permanent collection, showcases the many positive contributions immigrants have made, and continue to make, to American life and culture.

gilcrease.org

THE EXPERIENCE Ongoing

Through May 26 Philbrook Museum This exhibition offers

Ahha Tulsa The Experience is an artist-driven, large-scale, fully immersive installation that invites participants to explore a fantastical multimedia environment. ahhatulsa.org

BETH LIPMAN: ACCIDENTAL VESTIGES Through May 26

The season continues with games against Midland, Corpus Christi, Arkansas and Northwest Arkansas. milb.com

MAKING MODERN AMERICA audiences a fresh perspective on Tulsa’s founding while sparking conversations about energy, the environment and humans' irreversible impact upon it. philbrook.org

108 Contemporary Excess and

history come together in Beth Lipman’s astonishing glass work. 108contemporary.org

PULITZER PRIZE

PHOTOGRAPHS Through July 14 Gilcrease Museum Pulitzer

Prize Photographs, from the Newseum in Washington, brings history to life with the most comprehensive collection of Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs ever assembled. gilcrease.org

SHARON LOUDEN Through

SPORTS DRILLERS BASEBALL May 1-7, 16-19, 23-26 ONEOK Field

ORU BASEBALL May 3-5, 14 J.L. Johnson Stadium See

Oral Roberts University play Western Illinois and Wichita State to round out the regular season. oruathletics.com

TULSA ATHLETIC SOCCER

habitfestival.com

THE WHITE PARTY NO. 12

May 10 The Vault Sponsors

and guests don all-white attire to dine and dance the night away in the Art Deco District while sampling craft cocktails, all to benefit Family and Children's Services. whitepartyok.com

TULSA GO RED FOR WOMEN

LUNCHEON May 10 Hyatt Regency Tulsa The American

Heart Association's Go Red For Women raises awareness about heart disease, the No. 1 killer of women.

tulsagored.heart.org

A STATELY AFFAIR May 16 Cox Business Center This

biennial black-tie event raises money for Oklahoma State University-Tulsa and the OSU Center for Health Sciences and recognizes those who have made significant contributions to the community and state.

Cedar Ridge Country Club, Broken Arrow Money raised

at this event helps to provide a home away from home for families whose children are in Tulsa hospitals for serious illnesses or injuries.

rmhctulsa.org

PERFORMANCES

JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN NATIONAL SYMPOSIUM

May 29-31 John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation This

annual symposium embraces new knowledge in areas of reconciliation to advance equality, racial justice and social harmony. jhfcenter.org/

national-symposium

CHALK IT UP ART FESTIVAL May 31-June 1 Rose District, Broken Arrow Enjoy chalk

competitions and showcases from local artists.

baarts.org/events

BROKEN ARROW ROSE FESTIVAL May 31-June 2

Rose District Farmers Market

The Rose District is filled with chalk artists, artisan booths, musicians, kids activities and garden groups at this annual festival. keepbabeautiful.org

CHARITABLE EVENTS

DARCI LYNNE AND FRIENDS – FRESH OUT OF THE BOX TOUR May 12 Civic

Center Music Hall Darci Lynne

Farmer charms audiences across the country with her sweet disposition and talent. okcciviccenter.com

KRISTIN CHENOWETH IN CONCERT: MY LOVE LETTER TO OKLAHOMA May 14 Civic

Center Music Hall Kristin

Chenoweth presents this concert to support Allied Arts and the Kristin Chenoweth Arts and Education Fund.

okcciviccenter.com

PAINTED SKY OPERA PRESENTS: LA TRAGEDIE DE CARMEN May 17, 19 Civic

Center Music Hall One of opera’s most enthralling characters comes to life in this intense 90-minute interpretation. okcciviccenter.com

RHINESTONE COWBOY May

CONCERTS

scootin’ entertainment supports Oklahoma’s most vulnerable residents and Volunteers of America Oklahoma.

THE BEACH BOYS May 4 Civic Center Music Hall The

TULSA BOYS’ HOME RUN FOR THE ROSES May 4 Expo

okcciviccenter.com

3 Cain's Ballroom Boot-

voaok.org/rhinestonecowboy

Square Enjoy an afternoon

tulsaathletic.com

tulsaboyshome.org

Expo Square Enjoy some entertaining autocross

BY BRICK May 5 Southern Hills Country Club This

NEOKLA AUTOCROSS May 5

projecthopeworldwide.org

IN OKC

effort organized by artists.

May 5, 11, 18 Veterans Park See

Tulsa Athletic take on Little Rock, Wichita and Ozark.

Join the fun as Project Hope Worldwide celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a Top Chef Invitational, auctions, raffles and dancing.

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE PRO-AM May 20

May 18-19 Downtown Tulsa Habit is a grassroots

natural world with chalk on blackboard paint.

montecassino.org RIPPLE May 10 Expo Square

tulsa.okstate.edu

tulsaarchitecture.org

PHOTO COURTESY HOPJAM

PHOTO COURTESY MAYFEST

PHOTO COURTESY ROCKLAHOMA

PHOTO COURTESY GERMANFEST

Expo Square Bet on horse racing events at the Fair Meadows simulcast building.

fun-filled evening celebrates the school’s history while looking toward its future. It features dinner, entertainment, music and an auction.

at this signature Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser.

MONTE CASSINO’S BRICK

Beach Boys have performed with the same bold imagination and style that marked their debut nearly 60 years ago.

OKLAHOMA YOUTH ORCHESTRAS PRESENTS: SEASON FINALE CONCERTS May 5 OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center Theater

Oklahoma Youth Orchestras provides a challenging, exciting ensemble experience

MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OKC PHIL

Where & When

IN CONCERT

POP, STRINGS AND AN OKLAHOMA SWEETHEART

PHOTO BY LIZ PARKE CO

URTESY

BIG 12 C ONFER EN

Tulsa’s own international pop sensation Hanson teams with Tulsa Symphony to present Hanson String Theory, showcasing the music of brothers Isaac, Taylor and Zac with the orchestra. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. May 17. Visit tulsasymphony.org for more information. Jean-Yves Thibaudet plays Franz Liszt’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in A-major in the OKC Philharmonic production Classics 7 – Deep Romanticism. Enjoy the show at 8 p.m. May 11 at the Civic Center Music Hall. Visit okcphil.org for tickets. Kristin Chenoweth returns to her home state during Kristin Chenoweth: My Love Letter to Oklahoma at the Civic Center Music Hall. The show, presented by Arts OK, begins at 7:30 p.m. May 14. Visit okciviccenter.com for tickets.

PHOTO COURTESY CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA

JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET

oyomusic.org

ST. PAUL AND THE BROKEN BONES May 7

The Jones Assembly See this brass band with Los Coast. thejonesassembly.com

THE KILLERS May 7 OKC Zoo Amphitheatre See the popular

rock band The Killers perform. thezooamphitheatre.com

KEVIN FOWLER May 11

Riverwind Casino, Norman

Country singer Kevin Fowler performs. riverwind.com

AMERICA May 17 Riverwind Casino, Norman The iconic classic-rock favorite America has amassed six certified gold and/or platinum albums.

riverwind.com

GARY ALLEN May 24

Riverwind Casino, Norman

With the allure of a modern outlaw, Gary Allan has won over fans, peers and critics with his blend of smoldering vocals, lyrics and live performances. riverwind.com

MARC BROUSSARD May 24

Tower Theatre Enjoy a

COUNTRY, R&B AND POP

Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City sizzles this month. Country musician Kenny Chesney peforms May 4, followed by 1990s boyband sensation New Kids on the Block on May 18. Pop icon Ariana Grande rounds out the month May 23. Visit chesapeakearena. com for tickets.

ARIANA GRANDE to students from central and western Oklahoma.

AT T H E P E A K E

mix of funk, blues, R&B, rock and pop, matched with distinct Southern roots. towertheatreokc.com

ART FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK May 3 Paseo Arts

District More than 80 artists

and more than 25 businesses, all within walking distance, stay open late the first Friday of every month. thepaseo.org

ABBEY STIGLETS, NATALIE MILLER AND TRISHA THOMPSON ADAMS SHOW Through May 5

DNA Galleries See these three

OKC artists at this exhibit.

dnagalleries.com

ANCIENT. MASSIVE. WILD. THE BISON EXHIBIT.

Through May 12 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Whether painted

on a teepee or an artist’s canvas, minted on a nickel or seen grazing in Yellowstone National Park, images of the bison conjure deep loyalties to the North American landscape.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

nationalcowboymuseum.org

COWBOYS IN KHAKI

Through May 12 National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum Men and women

from across the American West played critical roles — both “Over There” and on the homefront — in helping the Allies win World War I.

nationalcowboymuseum.org

OFF THE WALL: 100 YEARS OF SCULPTURE Through

May 12 OKCMOA This exhibit features more than 30 sculptures from the museum’s permanent collection.

okcmoa.com

ANSEL ADAMS AND THE PHOTOGRAPHERS OF THE WEST Through May 26

museum’s Dickinson Research Center is home to more than 700,000 photographs, 44,000 books and (perhaps unexpectedly) at least 1,000 horses.

May 3-5, 11-12 L. Dale

riversportokc.org

Ongoing OKCMOA The OKC

Mitchell Park, Norman Enjoy OU games as the Big 12 Conference regular season concludes. soonersports.com

Museum of Art re-opens its second-floor galleries with a new presentation of its permanent collection. Headlining this reinstallation is the museum’s latest acquisition, Kehinde Wiley’s monumental new portrait Jacob de Graeff. okcmoa.com

statefairparkokc.com

SPORTS

soonersports.com

OKC Dodgers take on Round Rock, Nashville and Omaha.

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum The

U.S. ROWING CENTRAL YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIPS

OKC DODGERS BASEBALL

May 1-2, 7-10, 16-20 Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark See the

milb.com

YOUTH LEAGUE ROWING

May 11 Riversport Adventures OKC Athletes around the state

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA BASEBALL

FROM THE GOLDEN AGE TO THE MOVING IMAGE: THE CHANGING FACE OF THE PERMANENT COLLECTION

wheelerdistrict.com

competition brings together top junior crews from around the Midwest. riversportokc.org

nationalcowboymuseum.org

OKCMOA In 1916, 14-year-old Ansel Adams began to capture the beauty of the American West. His subsequent body of work – 40,000-plus photographs – influenced the practice of countless photographers. okcmoa.com

HORSEPLAY Through July 14

May 3-5 Riversport Adventures OKC Each year this

20TH ANNUAL COWBOYS OF COLOR RODEO May 4 State Fair Park

Enjoy this exciting rodeo.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SOFTBALL May 4 OU Softball Complex, Norman

See the Sooners host Oklahoma State.

ENERGY FC SOCCER May 4, 18, 25 Taft Stadium The

Energy take on other teams in the United Soccer League.

put school pride on the line as they race in 500-meter sprints on the Oklahoma River.

FULL MOON BIKE RIDE AND RUN May 17 Myriad

Botanical Gardens Bring your bike or your running shoes and meet up at the Band Shell stage on the Devon Lawn. myriadgardens.org

OKC WHITEWATER FESTIVAL May 18 Riversport

Adventures OKC Enjoy kayak races, 5K runs, water slides, rafting races and dog adoptions during this day of fun. riversportokc.org

OQHA REDBUD SPECTACULAR May 30-June 9 State Fair Park Enjoy the Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association's spring event.

energyfc.com

okqha.org

6, 13, 20, 27 Wheeler District

COMMUNITY

WHEELER CRITIERIUM May This is the city’s premier cycling festival.

MY FAVORITE MURDER

SPORTS

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL ELITES It’s a big month on diamonds in

PHOTO COURTESY HARD ROCK HOTEL AND CASINO TULSA

stridebankcenter.com

COLLECTIVE SOUL May 10 Grand Casino Hotel and Resort, Shawnee See the popular rock band perform.

grandresortok.com PATTI LABELLE May 10 WinStar World Casino and Resort, Thackerville Icon,

transforms the galleries and grounds of Crystal Bridges, Nature’s Nation illuminates the connection between art and nature. crystalbridges.org

TEMPERA Ongoing Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Ark. Tempera

ALANIS MORISSETTE

painting (also known as egg tempera) has a rich history as a medium of choice for artists from ancient times to today, and is an older form of painting than oil. crystalbridges.org

SPORTS

THE WEST WING WATCH PARTY May 15 Tower

to plant dazzling displays of bulbs for spring flowers.

Wing and enjoy a fully stocked bar, fresh popcorn and your favorite theater box candies. towertheatreokc.com

BROADWAY AND BREW May

okcciviccenter.com

is the hit true-crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark.

DANCING IN THE GARDENS – THE SALSA May 3 Myriad Botanical Gardens This

beloved springtime event returns with a new dance lesson. myriadgardens.org

ONA COIN AND CURRENCY SHOW May 3-5 State Fair Park Enjoy unique

collectors' items at this annual show.

statefairparkokc.com

BOTANICAL BALANCE FREE YOGA May 4, 7,

11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28 Myriad Botanical Gardens Visit every

Tuesday evening and Saturday morning for yoga in nature.

oklahomacitybotanicalgardens. com

BUDWEISER'S CUSTOM CAR SUPERSHOW TOUR May 5

State Fair Park Vehicles of all makes and models are present at this expo. statefairparkokc.com

Theatre Watch The West

GARDEN FESTIVAL IN THE PARK May 18 Will Rogers

Gardens Go on garden

tours, plot your garden and speak with vendors at this spring show. okc.gov/

departments/parks-recreation/ will-rogers-gardens

GARDENS MONTHLY WALKING TOUR May 25 Myriad Botanical Gardens

Expand your knowledge of Oklahoma plants and find inspiration for your own garden with this free, educational event. myriadgardens.org

CHARITABLE EVENTS ART OF FLOWERS May 2

Myriad Botanical Gardens This biennial, one-of-a-kind benefit luncheon helps to raise $50,000 to create an endowment used

myriadgardens.org

3 McClendon Whitewater Center A fun night in the

city features live music while patrons sample beers from from local breweries along with tasty treats from local eateries. lyrictheatreokc.com

HORSES, HATS AND HOPE

May 4 The Red Barn on Waldo's Pond This Kentucky Derby

PRCA RODEO Through

party benefits the Alzheimer’s Association by funding programs and support services across Oklahoma, along with international research. h3okc.org

OKLAHOMA CITY GO RED FOR WOMEN LUNCHEON May 10 Oklahoma City Golf

and Country Club Go Red For Women began 15 years ago as a campaign to raise awareness among women about their greatest health threat: heart disease. okcgored.heart.org

OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCEMENT

BEEHIVE Through May

4 Pollard Theatre, Guthrie

Beehive is the ultimate celebration of 1960s female empowerment. thepollard.org

ASIAN NIGHT: MOTHER DO YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU?

the Rose Rock Music Festival for a fun-filled weekend featuring plenty of family activities. travelok.com

ARTS FOR ALL FESTIVAL May 10-12 Shepler Park, Lawton Arts for All is an

alliance of groups that was formed to foster and raise funds to keep the arts alive in the community.

lawtonartsforall.org

STILWELL STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL May 11 Downtown

Stilwell Thousands of visitors take part in the many festivities that make the Stilwell Strawberry Festival a success. strawberrycapital.com

MAY DAZE FESTIVAL May

okstate.com

the Flying Aces indoor football team take on the Omaha Beef. cnbcenter.com

PERFORMANCES

FESTIVAL May 3-5 Downtown Noble Come to

RIDE May 18 Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve, Bartlesville Woolaroc is hidden

National Bank Center, Enid See

AROUND THE STATE

Steam Engine Park, Pawnee

Step back in time at this annual event. oklahomathreshers.org

blanchardchamber.com

OKLAHOMA FLYING ACES FOOTBALL May 4 Central

invitation-only event announces the incoming class of Oklahoma Hall of Fame members. oklahomahof.com

OKLAHOMA STEAM THRESHING AND GAS ENGINE SHOW May 3-5

May 3, 5 Cowgirl Stadium, Stillwater Enjoy the spring

weather by watching the Cowgirls round out the Big 12 Conference season.

LUNCHEON May 16 Gaylord-Pickens Museum This

Alley International is a unique film festival run by filmmakers for filmmakers.

17-18 Main Street, Blanchard

May 5 Henry C. Hitch Pioneer Arena, Guymon The Guymon

Pioneer Days Rodeo draws thousands of visitors each year. guymonokchamber.com

LIVE May 2 Civic Center Music Hall My Favorite Murder

Woodward Arts Theatre Twister

Celebrate the warm weather with carnival rides, face painting, live music and delicious bites.

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY SOFTBALL

JASON ALDEAN

TWISTER ALLEY FILM FESTIVAL May 2-4

ROSE ROCK MUSICAL

9 Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Ark. As the summer season

ROBERT CRAY

TUMBLEWEED CALF FRY

twisteralleyfilmfestival.com

NATURE’S NATION: AMERICAN ART AND ENVIRONMENT May 25-Sept.

PHOTO COURTESY WINSTAR WORLD CASINO AND RESORT

May 2-4 Tumbleweed Dancehall and Concert Venue, Stillwater Enjoy a weekend of country music. calffry.com

ART

CASINO

Casinos around the state bring excellent acts to the stage. Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa (hardrockcasinotulsa.com) features Steve Earle and The Dukes on May 2; Robert Cray on May 3; Alanis Morissette on May 8; Jonny Lang on May 9; Chicks With Hits on May 11; Good Charlotte on May 18; and the Nitro Comedy Tour on May 25. The 7 Clans Casino (sevenclans.com) in Newkirk welcomes REO Speedwagon on May 3. Country sensation Jason Aldean performs May 25 at Choctaw Casino (choctawcasinos.com) in Durant.

the eternally popular band the Beach Boys.

winstarworldcasino.com

CHICKS WITH HITS

MAY MEANS MUSIC

COMMUNITY

winstarworldcasino.com THE BEACH BOYS May 5 Stride Bank Center, Enid Enjoy

legend and superstar Patti LaBelle displays her incredible vocal talent.

PHOTO COURTESY HARD ROCK HOTEL AND CASINO TULSA

May 10-11 features the softball finals at the USA Softball Hall of Fame

PHOTO COURTESY HARD ROCK HOTEL AND CASINO TULSA

Oklahoma City as the Big 12 Conference’s softball and baseball championships unfold.

Complex. The baseball championships run May 22-26 at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. For a full schedule for both, visit big12sports.com. The fun continues with the NCAA Women’s College World Series from May 30 to June 5, also at the Hall of Fame Complex. Visit teamusa.org/USASoftball for tickets.

Thackerville See the rock quartet perform.

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY BASEBALL

May 16-18 Allie P. Reynolds Stadium, Stillwater See the

Cowboys take on Baylor in a three-game series to end its Big 12 Conference home season. okstate.com

WOOLAROC SPRING TRAIL

away in the beauty of the rolling Osage Hills. Enjoy a ride through nature. woolaroc.org

ROCKLAHOMA May 24-26

Rocklahoma Campgrounds, Pryor Visit this annual rowdy

weekend of rock music. rocklahoma.com

MAGNOLIA FESTIVAL OF OKLAHOMA May 30-June 1

Choctaw Event Center, Durant

Held annually since 1997 in the City of Magnolias, this festival promises plenty of family-fun activities and events. magnoliafestival.com

ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL May

31-June 1 Retail District, Elk City

HEARTLAND NATIONALS SAND DRAG RACE May 24-26

The Route 66 Festival features fun and excitement for the whole family. elkcitychamber.com

Atoka Motorsports Park Enjoy this weekend of sand drag racing. atokasanddrags.com

FESTIVAL Through June 2 The Castle of Muskogee Step

PRCA RODEO May 24-26 Will Rogers Stampede Arena, Claremore Bull riding, barrel

okcastle.com

WILL ROGERS STAMPEDE

racing, rodeo clowns and other events highlight this rodeo.

OKLAHOMA RENAISSANCE back in time and enjoy Renaissance England … right here in Oklahoma.

rodeoticket.com

May 12 WinStar World Casino

and Resort, Thackerville Enjoy this multicultural performance on the Global Event Center Stage. winstarworldcasino.com

CONCERTS SAMMY HAGAR AND THE

CIRCLE May 3 WinStar World Casino and Resort,

FOR MORE EVENTS IN

TULSA, OKC AND AROUND THE STATE, HEAD TO OKMAG.COM. MAY 2019 | WWW.OKMAG.COM

Where & When

MARKETPLACE

FILM AND CINEMA

1902 E. 71st St., Tulsa www.spasouthernhills.net 918.493.2646 23689 Spa Southern Hills.indd 1

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Funneling theWeird

Woodward’s Twister Alley festival spins humorous, offbeat categories for its annual rotation of shorts way out west.

Around Town

My credo now approves of any film festival with the category “The Strange Batch” to cover what it describes as “wonderfully weird shorts.” This decision came after looking at the lineup of the Twister Alley Film Festival, happening May 2-4 at the Woodward Arts Theater. That listing is just one indication of the festival’s offbeat sensibilities. With other categories including “WTF!!! Shorts” (horror), foreign shorts and shorts for kids – plus a slew of feature-length films – there’s bound to be something for every taste at Twister Alley. Catching short films at festivals is rewarding because they hardly play elsewhere and are a great way to catch directors making independent films in which ideas far outstrip budgets. Twister Alley is on the small side for a festival, so each film or group of short films only plays once. Check the schedule at twisteralleyfilmfestival.com.

At Home

Binge-watching a beloved sitcom is a favorite pastime for many, and some of the best marathon fodder of the last decade has come courtesy of Amy Poehler (Parks & Recreation) and Tina Fey (30 Rock). The longtime friends have had a spottier track record making ﬁlms, but their last team-up, Sisters, is quite good. Poehler takes the director’s chair for their new ﬁlm, Wine Country, debuting on

Netflix this month. The film appears to cross the hang-out vibe of Sisters with the wine snobbery of Sideways and sports a more-than-promising cast. Joining Poehler and Fey are old Saturday Night Live hands Rachel Dratch, Ana Gasteyer, the perpetually underrated Paula Pell and Maya Rudolph – the latter two tending to steal any scene they’re in. It remains to be seen if Poehler will prove as adept behind the camera as in front. Regardless the film’s style, it should provide an evening of laughs from the comfort of your couch.

In Theaters

The bizarre-looking Pokémon Detective Pikachu looks intriguing, but, with apologies to that oddity, the May ﬁlm scene belongs to one man: John Wick. The grim, bone-crunching assassin – the role of a lifetime for Keanu Reeves – was last seen being hunted by every other hit man in New York. In John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, Wick looks to escape them all, despite having burned his bridges by violating the arcane rules of the assassin’s world. The appeal of these movies is twofold: Wick performs some of the most balletic, awesome stunts imaginable and the trilogy has built a ridiculous mythology around itself – a world it spins with tongue ﬁrmly in cheek. Part 3 should prove another satisfying entry in the best action franchise around. ASHER GELZER-GOVATOS

JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 3 – PARABELLUM. PHOTO BY NIKO TAVERNISE

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

Katie Fitzgerald

… what inspires her.

My early experiences showed me how short and unfair life can be for far too many people, and often, for reasons beyond their control. I have also learned that there is a lot we can do to help one another. I am simply trying to do my part, and I’ve found the nonproﬁt sector to be a valuable vehicle for bringing focus, ﬂexibility and creativity to the problems we face.

… the food bank’s clientele.

The people served … are as diverse as we are as Oklahomans. We serve chronically hungry children living in poverty, seniors living on ﬁxed incomes and hardworking families struggling to make ends meet. I recently met a college student needing food assistance so he could pay his tuition. I witnessed a retired couple visit a pantry for the ﬁrst time because of a new medication their insurance wouldn’t cover. Every day, we meet parents whose wages are too low to buy groceries at the end of the month. Many of us are one disaster or disruption away from needing food assistance. A sudden job loss, illness or car repair is the difference between those of us who can purchase food and those of us who have to cut food out of the budget just to keep the lights on and the rent paid. The [recent] government shutdown was a painful reminder of this reality – a reality in which most Americans live paycheck to paycheck. The painful truth is that this is not just about bad budgeting on the part of people in need. Stagnant wages, coupled with the increased costs of education and health care, have contributed to a high level of economic insecurity for many Oklahomans.

OKLAHOMA MAGAZINE | MAY 2019

… how to help.

We have incredibly generous donors who provide over 70 percent of our annual budget. Donations have, however, remained relatively flat over the past five years, and our problem is that the cost of procuring and distributing food continues to out-pace donations, and we are not yet effectively meeting all the food insecurity needs throughout the 53 counties we serve. We are working hard to solve this problem by optimizing our efficiency and creatively containing costs, but we are always looking for new donors who want to join the fight against hunger. Another great way to help is to volunteer. One-fifth of all the food we distribute must be sorted and packed by volunteers. In 2018, we saved over $3.4 million because of our 42,000 volunteers. Sign up for a volunteer shift at rfbo.org.

… poverty in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma remains one of the poorest and hungriest states in the nation. Poverty is complex and multi-faceted and so are the solutions – too complex to itemize here. I will, however, offer this: Often in our debates about the “best” solutions to poverty, we lose sight of the most important prerequisite

for any solution to poverty, which is love and compassion for those we seek to help. We need to remind ourselves, daily, that a different set of circumstances could have just as easily put us in the position of needing help.

PHOTO BY BRENT FUCHS

atie Fitzgerald has dedicated her life to helping the most vulnerable people in society. Her resume includes stints at Make-a-Wish Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, the Center for Children and Families in Norman and the United Way of Greater Battle Creek, Michigan. We caught up with Fitzgerald, CEO of the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma since 2016, and got her thoughts on …

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