Cleveland County March 2016 by City Lifestyle

Cleveland County MARCH 2016

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

™

"The Prism"

Illuminates the Arts

DOWNTOWN DOES THE ART WALK LEGEND'S: FRESHNESS LIVES HERE THE ARC SETS SAIL

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Lifestyle Letter

The Arts and This Unique County O

MARCH 2016 publisher

Jimmy Darden | Jimmy.Darden@LifestylePubs.com

ur theme for this issue of Cleveland County Lifestyle is “The Arts.” There are so many arts-related activities occurring year-round in this county, the problem wasn’t finding story ideas, but rather which to feature! That’s a nice dilemma to face. Norman’s Medieval Fair, now in its 40th year, has become the state’s largest weekend event and the third-largest event in the state. Due to its immense popularity, the fair, set for April 1-3 this year, was selected by Events Media Network as one of the top 100 events in the nation. You’ll also read about the 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk, launched in 2008, which has become a major attraction, drawing visitors from surrounding counties as well as locally. Also in this issue, we explore a pilot arts program sponsored by the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs to engage Norman Veterans Center's residents in a positive, therapeutic activity. Launched Dec. 1 as part of the OAC’s new Oklahoma Arts and the Military Initiative, more than 300 residents have the opportunity to participate in photography, visual arts and creative writing classes, all taught by other veterans. In each issue, we review a restaurant, selecting from the many fine dining establishments that can be found from Moore to Norman, Noble to Purcell, and all points in-between. This month, we highlight Legend’s, known for its hint of “classical and international fusion” and cuisine that ranges from Chicken Crepes to Oklahoma Catfish. As a nearly lifelong resident of Norman, I know what a unique place this is. It is a place with a fascinating history, whose residents are among this nation’s most generous and caring citizens. Tornadoes, earthquakes, droughts and floods, ice storms and swift-moving fires … we’ve experienced it all, but didn’t let it defeat us. We mourned together for the lives and property lost, then worked alongside our friends and neighbors to rebuild and move forward. I am looking forward to sharing stories about this remarkable place and its equally remarkable residents. Cleveland County, founded in 1890, comprises 558 square miles of land (and water) and has a population of approximately 270,000. Cleveland County includes all or a portion of the communities of Norman (the county seat), Moore, Etowah, Hall Park, Lexington, Little Axe, Purcell, Slaughterville, and Oklahoma City.

(405) 541-5650 editor

Jerri Culpepper | Jerri.Culpepper@LifestylePubs.com sales

Jimmy Darden, Jimmy.Darden@LifestylePubs.com, (405) 541-5650 Shawn Irie, Shawn.Irie@LifestylePubs.com, (405) 204-2247 contributing writers

Theresa Bragg, Jerri Culpepper, Charles Foster, Staci Elder Hensley, SC Ritsch contributing photographers

Theresa Bragg, Crimsy Photography by Linda Irie and Shanee` Newville, Lindsey Davies

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

| Brad Broockerd

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ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore

| Nicole Sylvester

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Here’s to a long, fruitful and beautiful relationship!

Jerri Culpepper , Editor ON THE COVER Visitors to Frontier State Bank in Oklahoma City may, at least for a few minutes, forget

by Community ™

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

Proverbs 3:5-6

the main reason they came to the bank. The reason? A stunning, rainbow-hued, 30-foot-tall, 15-feet-wide prismatic chandelier. The Prism Chandelier is composed of approximately 6,100 individual, hand-blown glass pieces and weighs in at about 7 metric tons. 4

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214

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Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Cleveland County’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Cleveland County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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March 2016

Departments

11 Mortgage Tips

How to pay your home off faster

18 Hear Ye, Hear Ye

Good Times

Around Town

Financial Buzz

Giving Back

Hometown Heroes

Sold Properties

Hot Spot

Driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notebook

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

Medieval Fair celebrates 40th anniversary

20 Troubled Waters

Help for women with dual diagnoses

22 Art Lives Here

Norman's Art Walk called 'win-win'

   



&Žƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐŽŶƚĂĐƚ ŵǇ ĂƐĞŚĂƌƚ Ăƚ ĂďĂƐĞŚĂƌƚΛĨƌŽŶƟĞƌͲŽŬ͘ĐŽŵ Žƌ ĐĂůů Ăƚ ϰϬϱͲϲϳϮͲϳϴϯϭ  ĂƉƉůǇ͘ WƌŽŵŽƟŽŶĂů ĚĞƉŽƐŝƚ ƌĂƚĞƐ ŽŶůǇ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ ƚŽ ŝŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůƐ͕ ďƵƐŝŶĞƐƐĞƐ͕ ĂŶĚ ŽƌŐĂŶŝǌĂƟŽŶƐ ǁŝƚŚ Ă ǀĂůŝĚ ĂĚĚƌĞƐƐ ǁŝƚŚŝŶ ƚŚĞ KŬůĂŚŽŵĂ ŝƚǇ DĞƚƌŽƉŽůŝƚĂŶ ^ƚĂƟƐƟĐĂů ƌĞĂ ;KŬůĂŚŽŵĂ͕ ůĞǀĞůĂŶĚ͕ ĂŶĂĚŝĂŶ͕ 'ƌĂĚǇ͕ >ŝŶĐŽůŶ͕ >ŽŐĂŶ͕ ĂŶĚ DĐ ůĂŝŶ ĐŽƵŶƟĞƐͿ͘ ZĂƚĞƐ ĞīĞĐƟǀĞ ĂƐ ŽĨ ϭͬϮϵͬϮϬϭϲ͘ ZĂƚĞƐ ƐƵďũĞĐƚ ƚŽ ĐŚĂŶŐĞ͘ ĂƌůǇ ǁŝƚŚĚƌĂǁĂů ƉĞŶĂůƟĞƐ ŵĂǇ ĂƉƉůǇ͘

ǁǁǁ͘ĨƌŽŶƟĞƌͲŽŬ͘ĐŽŵ

Good Times

Firehouse Art Center Chocolate Festival

Approximately 2,500 people attended this year's Chocolate Festival at the Marriott Conference Center & Hotel in Norman. During the festival, the art center's only annual fundraiser and membership drive, vendors offer thousands of samples of delectable chocolate-inspired delights. Proceeds support Firehouse Art Center art education programs.

The ARC's Opening Reception and Ribbon-cutting Members of the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, health care personnel and members of the public attended a ribbon-cutting and open house for The ARC, a new alcohol and substance addiction and recovery center that opened in February on the third floor of Valir Rehabilitation Hospital in Oklahoma City.

Members of the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce join The ARC staff at the facility's ribbon-cutting. 8

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

Health care professionals and members of the public visit during The ARC’s open house and reception.

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2/4/2016 9:36:38 AM

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

and 36th Avenue Northwest, about a mile north from its previous location in Brookhaven Village. Co-owner

Jerry

and

Teddie

Crewson and Jerry’s brother Phil want their loyal customers to know that the new site offers even greater floor space in which to show off their extensive selection of quality furniture, including those by

EXHIBIT ALLOWS PLAYER TO ‘BE THE DINOSAUR’ Thanks to innovative video

Stickley, as well as gifts and home accessories. Theo’s is the only authorized Stickley dealer in Oklahoma. Theo’s Marketplace, 3500 Bart Conner Drive, retains its regular hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 405.364.0728.

game technology, visitors soon will be able to quite literally be a dinosaur during the upcoming “Be the Dinosaur” exhibit, A child enjoys playing the new "Be a Dinosaur" video game at the Sam Noble Museum.

BANK’S PRISM CHANDELIER DRAWS ADMIRERS

opening on Saturday, March 5.

Visitors to Frontier State Bank

“Be the Dinosaur” features

in Oklahoma City may, at least

that

for a few minutes, forget the main

require each player to decide:

reason they came. The reason? A

do they want to be an herbivore or a carnivore? The decision leads

stunning, rainbow-hued, 30-foot-

them on a virtual adventure for survival—deciding to eat the wrong

tall, 15-feet-wide prismatic chan-

plant or turning the wrong corner could spell the end of the game,

delier (see cover photo).

video

game

stations

which is set in an immersive recreation of the Cretaceous period, which took place over 65 million years ago.

The

rainbow-hued

Chandelier

Prism

composed

The world of “Be the Dinosaur” is one of the world’s most extensive

approximately 6,100 individual,

restorations of an extinct ecosystem ever created. In addition to the

hand-blown glass pieces and

game stations, the exhibit also features a paleontology field station.

weighs in at about 7 metric

NORMAN FARM MARKET REOPENS APRIL 2 Time to do your happy dance! The Norman Farm Market–with its booths of seasonal, fresh and locally grown produce–reopens April 2 at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds, 615 E. Robinson. The market, which runs from the first Saturday of April through the

tons, easily making it the focal point. It took approximately six months to construct.

Frontier State Bank Executive Vice President Jerry Monroe

Dr. Joseph D. KcKean Jr., owner of Frontier State Bank

and

Designers

last Tuesday and Saturday of October, is a much-anticipated event

Market (Oklahoma’s larg-

for those who appreciate the better taste and texture of fresh, locally

est, multi-vendor show-

produced fruits and vegetables.

room, also in Oklahoma

Market hours are 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays and 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays,

City),

designed

and

though experienced shoppers know the key is to arrive early so as to

facilitated creation of the

get the best selection.

exquisite work of art.

The Norman Farm Market, was established in 1980 to provide

Word

has

spread

growers an outlet for their agricultural products and consumers a

about the chandelier’s

place to find homegrown, local items. The market has continued to

installation, drawing a

grow in popularity and was voted in the top-20 medium-level farmers’

number of visitors to the

markets in the nation in 2012.

bank, said Frontier State

THEO’S MARKETPLACE MOVES, BUT NOT FAR

Bank

Executive

Vice

President Jerry Monroe.

There is now even more to love at Theo’s Marketplace. The shop, which for 40 years has been offering fine home furnishings, gifts and accessories to residents of Norman and the surrounding area, recently moved to the corner of Bart Conner Drive 10

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

The Prism Chandelier

Financial Buzz

How to Accelerate the Process of Paying Your Home Off ... WITHOUT INDUCING A NOTICEABLE STRAIN ON YOUR BUDGET

COLUMN | CHARLES FOSTER

or most Americans, their mortgage loan is their largest debt. Think

because the interest is compounded on the current balance, which is

about your own mortgage for just a minute … how many years do

getting chipped away twice a month instead of once a month.

you have left before it is paid off and you own your home free and clear? If you are like me, the possibility of owning your home with no

• The next option is bi-weekly payments. This payment plan is kind of

mortgage payment is an exciting thought. However, a lot of home-

like bi-monthly payments on steroids. This plan can be very effective

owners do not have a sizable amount of extra money in their monthly

if you receive your paycheck every two weeks. Once again, you can

spending that could be re-allocated to paying down the mortgage

coordinate the bi-weekly draft dates to coincide with your payments

principal. Did you know there are several ways to accelerate the pro-

and, voila, the magic happens. With bi-weekly payments, you can

cess of paying your home off (even without inducing a noticeable

also add in extra payments to the principal … but the beauty of this

strain to your monthly budget)? Let’s look at a few of the options:

payment plan is that even if you do not add extra to the principal, you

• The first option (and the easiest) is to pay extra on your normal

payments equals 13 normal monthly mortgage payments! See what

monthly payment. Always remember to mark “principal” when pay-

we did there? This trick alone, if applied when you first get a 30-year

ing online or write “apply payment to principal” if paying by check (believe it or not, there are still some check-writers out there who mail their payments in every month!). • The second option is to set up bi-monthly payments. These are typically an automatic draft that drafts half your mortgage payment on

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ing companies can set up accelerated payment WE ARE SKILLED IN programs in-house and some require outside companies to facilitate. If you receive outALL LOAN PROGRAMS: side solicitations, call you mortgage servicer first and ask them if they

the first of the month and the other half on the 15th of the month. This

can setConventional it up for little or no cost instead of -paying a third party to - Jumbo FHA

is very useful if you are paid twice a month, because you can coordi-

facilitate. do have to- pay a third party to facilitate a bi-weekly VAIf you - USDA 184 - and others

nate the payment draft dates and your pay dates. Paying bi-monthly is kind of a built-in budgeting tool. Bi-monthly payments also help ease the sting of applying extra payments to your principal balance. For example, if you are paying $200/month extra toward principal every month, with a bi-monthly payment that equates to only $100 extra every 15 days. Also, if you have a conventional loan, this plan will help

or bi-monthly program, you usually recoup the setup fees in the first

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March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

Giving Back

Meet Cathy Billings: Community Mental Health Center’s New Director DON’T SUFFER ALONE: HELP AVAILABLE FOR THOSE WITH MENTAL ILLNESSES ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSEY DAVIES WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THIS POSITION WITH COCMHC?

I was living and working in northern Virginia when the executive director opportunity at the Central Oklahoma Community Mental Health Center became available. I had been looking to move back to my home state and continue working in community mental health, so this was a perfect fit for me. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FOCUS SINCE JOINING THE FACILITY ON JUNE 1, 2015?

I have had two main goals since I arrived. The first was for me to get to know the staff and to hear their successes, challenges and their vision for strengthening and improving the services we provide. This information has been very valuable to me as a new director.

A consumer once said to me, “If your tooth hurts, you go to the dentist. If you have diabetes, you can manage it with medication and your doctor’s advice. If you are not feeling mentally well, go seek help, don’t delay. Help is help—there’s no difference.” We know that early treatment can produce better results. Seeking appropriate help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Our staff mem-

My other goal was to formulate a comprehensive assessment of the

bers are skilled, caring professionals who are ready to assist people

organization. COCMHC, like other community mental health centers

who come through our doors. We want those in need to seek out our

across the state and country, faces challenges in providing timely ser-

services and make us their provider of choice.

vices to those in need, improving accessibility, maintaining best practice services, and doing all this with limited and shrinking resources. We are

WHAT STIGMAS WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADDRESS ABOUT

moving forward with new initiatives and changing some of our business

MENTAL ILLNESS?

practices to meet the overwhelming needs we see in our community.

One in four people are affected by behavioral health issues on any given day. It could be me, my family members, friends or co-workers.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT MENTAL

There is no shame in seeking behavioral health care. People are not

ILLNESS AND ITS TREATMENTS?

their illness; they are living with that illness, seeking treatment and

I’d like for people to know this about mental illness and substance

building a road to recovery.

use in our state: WHAT ARE YOUR SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM GOALS?

• Approximately 600,000 Oklahomans report having a mental illness

Short term, my goal is to provide support for the good work

• 326,000 Oklahomans ages 12+ are dependent/abuse alcohol or illicit drugs

happening here at COCMHC through sound leadership and being

• The percentage of Oklahoma children experiencing a major depres-

a good steward of public funds. My long-term goals are to improve

sive episode has risen steadily over the past five years, from 7.9 per-

access to our services and strengthen our financial processes, which

cent to 9.2 percent.

will enable us to continue and expand our services.

• Oklahomans ages 12-20 report binge drinking in the past month. • Oklahoma ranks in the bottom 10 states for access to mental health care.

Another long-term goal for me is for our facility to build a truly integrated service system across all our programs, including our primary care clinic. The important link between behavioral health care

Folks should know that treatment is effective, people recover and behavioral health care is essential to good health. 12

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

and primary health care is clear in the research and the phenomenal outcomes we see here on our campus.

Left: Cathy Billings, executive director of the Central Oklahoma Community Mental Health Center, believes seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Below: Billings visits with receptionist Muwaffaka Siyoophy.

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Hometown Heroes

SPONSORED BY OZ SAFEROOMS < RUSSELL JETER, AN AIR

VETS HELPING VETS

FORCE

Oklahoma's Veterans Share the Healing Power of Art

ABLE TO USE BOTH HANDS.

ARTICLE STACI ELDER HENSLEY PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE

s soldiers, sailors and pilots, Oklahoma’s veterans were often forced to destroy. Now they’re being offered a unique opportunity to create–and to heal themselves in the process. The healing is beginning at the Norman Veterans Center, where residents are taking part in a pilot program sponsored by the Oklahoma Arts Council and the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs. Launched on Dec. 1 as part of the OAC’s new Oklahoma Arts and the Military Initiative, more than 300 residents have the opportunity to participate in photography, visual arts and creative writing classes, all taught by other veterans. First up on the schedule are weekly photography classes. “We used to do art classes, but we didn’t have that much teaching talent on our staff,” said Jeannene Wade, activities administrator for the Norman VA. “We tried so hard to do these things with our limited skills, and then (OAC) came in, and they’re changing lives. This is just the photography session so far, and it has been so therapeutic.” The Norman VA purchased four cameras for the initiative, while some vets have purchased their own as well, she added. Russell Jeter, an Air Force veteran who served in the Vietnam War, has been taking photos ever since his days in the service and even took photography classes in junior college. A recent stroke, however, left him unable to use both hands. That hasn’t stopped him, though–he’s a regular at the classes and has learned to operate his camera with only one hand. CONTINUED > 14

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

VETERAN

WHO

SERVED IN THE VIETNAM WAR, HAS BEEN TAKING PHOTOS EVER SINCE HIS DAYS IN THE SERVICE AND EVEN TOOK PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES IN JUNIOR COLLEGE. A RECENT STROKE, HOWEVER, LEFT HIM UNTHAT

HASN’T

STOPPED

HIM, THOUGH–HE’S A REGULAR AT THE CLASSES AND HAS LEARNED TO OPERATE HIS CAMERA WITH ONLY ONE HAND.

< Chuck Davis

< Michael Varnell and Donald Tippy

< Michael Simmons

$500 Discount to any Veteran and active duty Military people

VETS HELPING VETS

(CON TI N U ED)

Brothers Rick and Mike Varnell, both Vietnam veterans, also are enjoying the chance to expand their creative side. The two are champion ice carvers and award-winning chefs–skills they don’t get the chance to use at present. “We were asked if we wanted to take part, and we said ‘Let’s try it out,’” Mike Varnell said. “We are always up for something new.” A core group of about 10 veterans are actively participating in the photography class, while a number of other residents come by to watch and socialize. They’ve received college-level instruction on everything from lighting to props to choosing subject matter, provided by Sarah Engel-Barnett, who teaches photography at Rose State College and at Norman’s Firehouse Art Center. She was asked to teach the class by the center’s executive director, Douglas Shaw Elder, an Army veteran. “I love it,” she said. “Douglas asked me, and it seemed like a really interesting project. It’s been really fun, and they’re legitimately interested. What I’m teaching is the equivalent to what they would receive in a beginner class at Rose State.” “SO MANY OF THESE VETS WERE In addition to lectures, the class reviews each other’s work and AMAZING WAR HEROES WITH AMAZING looks at professional examples on different themes. Their choice of STORIES, AND THEY’VE KEPT THEM subject matter is up to them, and to date the vets have done every- LOCKED INSIDE,” SHE SAID. “WE WANT thing from flowers to self-portraits to random objects. For vets like THEM TO TELL THESE STORIES. THEY SO Homer Rowell, it’s provided an opportunity to share his earlier work OFTEN HAVE WHAT WE CALL ‘MORAL and to ease the pain after the recent loss of his wife. WOUNDS,’ FROM EXPERIENCES THEY Like Rowell, Wade said that the classes have lifted the spirits of HAD IN COMBAT, WHICH IS WHY YOU SEE many of the residents, and sparked an interest in some who were SO MANY VETERAN SUICIDES. WE HOPE otherwise not very interactive. Chandra Boyd, OAC’s arts learning TO HELP THEM HEAL THESE WOUNDS.” and community director, says she has seen the same thing. “After the (center’s) Christmas party, one of the things that really stood out to me was that a resident came up and said ‘I want you to know these classes have given me a sense of purpose,’” she said. “That is really special.” “Veterans comprise almost 10 percent of Next up on the schedule are creative writing classes, to be fol- our state’s population,” said OAC’s Executive lowed by visual arts, and Wade said she is eager to see the results. Director Amber Sharples. “Our pilot pro“So many of these vets were amazing war heroes with amazing gram will make these benefits more widely stories, and they’ve kept them locked inside,” she said. “We want available to those who have courageously them to tell these stories. They so often have what we call ‘moral served us. Veterans, active duty servicemen, wounds,’ from experiences they had in combat, which is why you see and women and military family members so many veteran suicides. We hope to help them heal these wounds.” deserve to experience the benefits of the arts.” The writing class will be taught by Jason Poudrier, a published Maj. Gen. Miles Deering, who serves as poet and a decorated veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, who has executive director for the Oklahoma VA led poetry workshops around the world. Once the creative writing Department, agrees. “I’m excited about class is complete, Elder will lead a team of artists to provide visual the opportunities it will bring,” he said. arts instruction. Plans are for a showing of the veterans’ works to be “Providing meaningful, quality activities for held at the Firehouse sometime in August. our veterans, while providing tremendous Meanwhile, residents at the Lawton Veterans Center also are therapy and skill development, facilitates participating in the OAC pilot program, and the experiences of connections to the past, present and future both Norman and Lawton veterans will be used as a model for the for our heroes. I know that this will enhance Oklahoma Arts Council to expand the program statewide, Boyd their quality of life and bring tremendous said. The goal is to work with local community organizations like diversity to their daily activities.” the Firehouse to expand creative outlets and help veterans improve More information about the program is their mental health in the process. available by calling Boyd at 405.521.2023. 16

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Cleveland County Properties Neighborhood

Sales Price

Beds

F/H Baths

Garage

Year Built

Sq. Ft

Lot Sq. Ft

Brookhaven

$975,000

4/1

1995

5,995

31,799

Turtle Creek

$685,000

4/2

1994

6,548

220,719

Las Colinas

$540,000

4/0

2015

3,320

11,256

Trophy Club

$532,500

3/1

1993

3,656

12,880

Arbor Lake

$502,700

4/0

2003

3,725

11,120

Rio De Bella

$475,000

4/1

2006

3,834

35,284

Rio De Bella

$438,590

3/1

2015

3,589

35,719

Rio De Bella

$404,966

3/1

2015

3,688

34,848

Rio De Bella

$395,000

3/1

2007

3,261

35,719

Rivendell

$385,000

3/1

1996

4,151

13,504

Talavera

$380,000

3/0

2015

3,100

15,004

Foxmor Estates

$379,900

3/1

2010

3,194

52,198

Burlwood

$372,000

3/2

1998

2,921

218,671

Rivendell

$370,000

3/1

1989

3,799

12,836

Unplatted

$362,500

4/0

2006

3,101

Twin Creek Estate

$355,000

3/1

2006

3,291

40,075

Vintage Farms

$350,000

3/1

2009

2,824

16,553

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Jerica Pound: 405.317.7858 jericapound@kw.com March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

40TH ANNUAL MEDIEVAL FAIR OFFERS ART, MERRIMENT AND MORE Middle Ages Come Alive During Norman’s Popular Living History Fair The jousting tournaments are among the most popular attractions at the Medieval Fair.

A top fair attraction are the chess board sword fights.

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE QUESTION: When can a knight in full armor or a brightly hued court

Dancing, theater and reenactments, jugglers, knights jousting on horse-

jester walk down Norman’s city streets without raising a single eyebrow?

back and human chess games are just a few of the activities that await

ANSWER: During Norman’s annual Medieval Fair, this year sched-

fair-goers, who are encouraged to attire themselves in medieval garb.

uled for April 1-3.

Also as in years past, a “medieval village” of more than 200 art and craft booths offering unique and handcrafted wares will spring up virtually

Each spring since 1977, knights and jesters, along with a colorful assortment of minstrels, jugglers–even a curvaceous mermaid and a

overnight to tempt visitors with pottery, wood crafts, stained glass, armor, costumes, fairy wings, jewelry, leather crafts, and more.

curmudgeonly beggar–have converged in Norman, joining with their

Eckart points out that this three-day event–made possible, in part, by the

21st-century kin to celebrate the arts and all things medieval during

Norman Arts Council Hotel Tax Grant Program and the City of Norman–

Norman’s living history fair.

has become the state’s largest weekend event and the third-largest event

This year the Medieval Fair celebrates its 40th anniversary, so the 2016 fair shirts (available for $15) are red to celebrate its “ruby” anniversary. Also to celebrate, a T-shirt quilt made of many of the shirts created for previous fairs will be raffled off, said Ann Marie Eckart, who coordinates the Medieval Fair as one of her responsibilities at the University of Oklahoma College of Continuing Education. Additionally, 40th-anniversary brass medallions made by fair artist Lisa

in the state. Due to its immense popularity, it was selected by Events Media Network as one of the top 100 events in the nation. So, what is it about this event that attracts people in such numbers (an estimated 385,000 in 2015)? Some come to view and purchase fine art, crafts, jewelry, clothing and other items, many with a medieval theme. Others are drawn to the diverse entertainment offered.

Klein of IvyMoon Designs and a book depicting past fair posters as well

Yet others enjoy learning more about this colorful era. True to its origins,

as a coloring book version will be sold. Look for them at the “castle” booth

the fair maintains a strong educational component. Many artisans offer

located near the center of the fair.

medieval craft-making demonstrations, while several organizations put in

The fair will again feature more than 200 artisan booths, 40 food vendors, games, demonstrations and ongoing entertainment on seven stages and elsewhere. “Feast and Drynk” offerings will range from the ubiquitous Indian tacos and funnel cakes to haggis-and-mash. 18

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

many hours of labor throughout the year, preparing to educate fair-goers about medieval life. They include: • The Arthurian Order of Avalon, a nonprofit organization dedicated to medieval life and history for the purpose of entertainment

and education. Each year, they plan an interactive display with

Of course, an event of such epic proportions does not simply spring

games and pastimes of the Middle Ages. Students can also

up overnight.

learn about the elements of heraldry and see the research projects of AOA's members on display at their Education Tent.

OU’s first Medieval Fair was held in 1977 on OU’s south oval, with modest attendance.

• The Saltfork Craftsmen Artist-Blacksmith Association, a non-

According to a fair history written by longtime Medieval Fair coordinator

profit organization of amateur and professional artists and crafts-

Linda Linn, the event was the brainchild of two Chaucerian scholars: Me-

men formed to share knowledge, to educate and to promote a more

dieval English Professor Sally Mussetter, who had returned, inspired, from

general appreciation of fine craftsmanship everywhere.

a commercial Renaissance Fair in Houston, and her recruit, Susan Cald-

• The Society for Creative Anachronism, a worldwide nonprofit

well, a medievalist and professor of art history. The two enlisted the aid

organization whose mission is to recreate life in the Middle Ages

of English graduate student Don Rose to help create a medieval version

for the enlightenment and education of others. Its members offer

here. Seed money was contributed by the then dean of the College of Arts

Medieval- and Renaissance-style combat, dancing, and art and

and Sciences, Paige Mulhollan, and “enthusiasm and good advice” were

science demonstrations.

offered by English Professor Paul Ruggiers.

• St. Gregory's University, which will sponsor an educational

Linn notes that the goal of the OU fair, originally called the “Medfair,”

area with educational exhibits on the Middle Ages, labyrinths,

was to “provide students with a venue where they could demonstrate their

Benedictine monasteries, brass rubbings and medieval-styled

‘medieval’ skills. Drama student performed on pageant wagons, and two

woodblock prints.

chess masters vied against each other with human chess pieces.”

But according to Eckart, for most people it’s the totality of the fair experience that keeps them coming. “The fair has something for everyone, whether they love shopping the arts and crafts, watching the performers, playing the

She also notes that food booths originally were limited to fare available in the Middle Ages, which meant no potatoes; however, they had to make a concession to serving soft drinks. The initial, one-day event–planned for April 23, 1977, to coincide with the

games, or indulging in the food,” she says.

anniversary of Shakespeare’s birthday–was deemed such a success that

For more information, visit www.medievalfair.org.

the decision was made to make the fair an annual event.

Medieval Theme Times Two

Pond in 1981 to accommodate its growing number of vendors and fair-go-

Three years ago, OU Outreach decided to launch another Medieval and Renaissance

day in 1993, in part to allow schools to bus in students on Friday to enjoy

event to complement the immensely popular Medieval Fair. The Medieval Winter Ball,

the living history fair. The same year, oversight of the fair moved from the

held in January, was such a hit, they decided to make it an annual event. This year’s ball was held at the Sam Noble Museum to celebrate the university-wide exhibit “First Folio! The Book That Gave Us Shakespeare.” Ball attendees enjoyed music by the Unpronounceable Irish Band led by Bruce Cannon, some dance moves from Jeremy Caviness and his Elite Feet Dancers ad a feast fit for royalty.

The fair was moved from the south oval to OU Brandt Park and Duck ers. By its seventh year, it was expanded to two days. It gained yet another

College of Arts and Sciences to the College of Continuing Education. In 2003, the fair was moved to its current venue at Reaves Park, and in 2005, fair attendance was estimated at a whopping 325,000. Happily, the fair’s huge success translates into positive economic outcomes locally, as well. According to data from 2001 in a study commissioned by the Norman Arts Council on the economic impact of the arts on the community conducted by David Penn with the OU Center for Economic and Management Research, total annual spending generated by the Medieval Fair was estimated at almost $5.6 million, and that was back when attendance was estimated at under 200,000! Eckart says that direct total sales tax revenue averages close to $30,000,

During the Medieval Winter Ball, David Thompson kneels to propose marriage to Auburn Brown. She accepts; date as yet not set.

Members of the dance troupe, Elite Feet Dancers, show other Medieval Winter Ball participants how it's done.

a figure that does not include the increased revenues for local restaurants and stores generated by participants and visitors. To cite just one example: “The 7-11 store at the corner of Imhoff and Chautauqua was so busy during a recent fair, they had to get an extra fuel truck delivered that weekend to keep from running out of gas,” Eckart said, also noting that "vendor and performer participants alone accounted for more than 400 hotel stay nights in Norman during the fair, and most of these dined out every night as well!” Not too shabby for an event created by by two professors and a grad student!

Medieval Winter Ball dancers enjoy a feast fit for a king.

The Unpronounceable Irish Band led by Bruce Cannon performs. March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

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f you or someone you know suffers from an addiction and mental health concerns–called dual diagnoses–you know how difficult it is to find appropriate, effective treatment locally. A new alcohol and substance abuse treatment and recovery center, housed on the third floor of Valir Rehabilitation Hospital in Oklahoma City, is providing a trusted option for women ready to take the first step in their journey toward recovery. The ARC (Addiction Recovery Center) is the brainchild of board of directors Jon Jiles, Kitt Wakeley, Dirk O’Hara, Oh Bunnag and CEO Tom Tucker. “These men, filled with entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to set an example for the community, had–like so many–been touched by the specter of substance abuse, and they wanted to establish a place where superior care would be delivered to those in need of treatment,” said The ARC’s Vice President Amy Woolery. In researching the issue, the men uncovered a need in this region for a facility dedicated to helping women with substance abuse problems and co-occurring mental health concerns. “They set out on this adventure to find a space in which to establish an addiction recovery center. It is an adventure that is still evolving as they strive to build upon the continuum of care,” Woolery said. “This is what sets us apart; our board and CEO are extremely active in The ARC. They are a part of day-to-day decision-making, they are on-site frequently, and they know all of the care team and administrators on a first-name basis.” Plans are ongoing to expand The ARC’s facilities, along with Valir’s other medical services. Groundbreaking has already begun for construction on the north and south sides of the current building.

Dr . Je

ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE

The ARC's tastefully appointed family room serves as a place to eat together and socialize.

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The ARC Takes Multifaceted, Holistic Approach to Recovery

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New Addiction and Recovery Center Offers Hope to Women With Dual Diagnoses

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“We hope to further expand our women’s program, and eventually broaden our scope to offer the same services to men,” Woolery said. The ARC’s overarching theme is nautical. “We view The ARC as the vessel that will take our patients across troubled waters to a new, happier life,” noted Kimberly Farris, clinical director. THE FACILITIES

Currently, The ARC can accept up to nine “guests”; each guest enjoys a private bedroom with bed, leather recliner and table for two, and an en suite bathroom. Each tastefully decorated bedroom features images of landscapes and wall art sporting inspirational quotes, which guests may switch out. In the family room–the sign reads “Sisters in Recovery–guests are encouraged to gather for mealtimes and socialize, a critical component to recovery. A classroom is used for, among other things, 12-step addiction support group meetings. COURSE OF TREATMENT

Dr. Jeff Seaman, The ARC’s medical director and a psychiatrist, calls the “density” of their daily programming schedule “unique in our area, and perhaps unrivaled.” “The guests at The ARC will be fully engaged in working their sobriety throughout the day and into the evening, leaving little idle time,” he said. “The inpatient unit will also accept guests 24/7/365 if we have a bed available, which is vital for those suffering with substance dependence. “Once a guest decides on seeking help, any barriers to access for inpatient withdrawal management at that moment will impede their chance for treatment engagement, and they are more likely to remain trapped by their addiction. We will thus accept any hour, any day admissions because that is what it takes to serve this population.” After the comprehensive assessment, treatment immediately follows. “Evidence-based detoxification regimens utilizing objective rating scales will be used as well. These regimens have been repeatedly shown to shorten the length of time necessary to complete detoxification as well as avoid over- or under-dosing guests with the medications we use to manage their withdrawal symptoms,” he explained.

“A key component that drives our clinical philosophy is that addiction commonly co-occurs alongside other conditions/disorders,” added Julio Rojas, Ph.D., The ARC’s consultant and a psychologist. “This is particularly true for women. Therefore, it is critical to help our clients (and their family members/support system) understand how those comorbid conditions comingle and encourage them to address these conditions simultaneously while involved in treatment.”

The ARC along with sister company VizOwn are exclusively licensed to use the holistic Venn diagram framework, which Rojas developed and researched. “The Venn diagram framework provides a visual image of how addiction, psychiatric illness and trauma interact to create suffering, but more importantly, it helps us to work with clients (and family) to create a road map for healing that is truly integrated,” he said, adding that understanding that these conditions commonly co-occur is only one part of the issue. “The other [part],” he says, “is measuring the severity and relationship between these disorders within each client” through psychological testing. Psychological testing helps clients better understand that their motivation to get sober must be accompanied by an understanding of the comorbid disorders in addition to a well-informed treatment plan. “No two clients will have the same issues, and personalized care is necessary and possible. While psychological testing can be invaluable for improving diagnostic accuracy, it is not a standard practice in the addictions field.” The next step is to connect the guest with a patient-centered multidisciplinary team. “Our programs are intentionally designed to have these key personnel in the same room at the same time partnering with our clients and family members. For many programs assembling a highly specialized and client-centered multidisciplinary team representing medicine, psychiatry, psychology and other key disciplines would be cost-prohibitive,” he noted. The ARC’s multidisciplinary team also includes a dietitian and acupuncturist. ADMITTANCE AND FOLLOW-UP

Admittance is handled via referrals from emergency rooms, physicians, psychiatrists and licensed behavioral professionals. Upon admittance, each guest receives a biopsychosocial and comprehensive physician and nursing assessment. Recognizing that addiction is a complex condition–even more so with a co-occurring mental illness–The ARC offers what Farris refers to as “a continuum of care” that generally starts with a tailored withdrawal management program, described above. Upon its successful completion, or “once the anchor starts to lift” to carry the aquatic theme further, guests are encouraged to continue their recovery at a residential or outpatient program. One such option is VizOwn, an advanced women’s residential treatment and recovery center located in Pink, Oklahoma. VizOwn, The ARC’s sister company, offers a treatment program that incorporates equine-assisted therapy, a ropes course and programs on the 12 steps of recovery on 135 acres of scenic rolling hills. Finally, Farris said, guests return to The ARC for further treatment and group education in an intensive outpatient setting. ••• In addition to the staff and physicians cited in this story, The ARC leadership team includes Susan Huffstutler, R.N., M.S.N., M.S., nursing supervisor. For more information about the ARC, call 405.553.1ARC (1272). The ARC is located at 700 N.W. 7th St., Ste. 321. March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

2nd Friday Art Walk Draws Artists, Crowds

Event a Win-win for Businesses, Artists and Art Aficionados

ARTICLE THERESA BRAGG PHOTOGRAPHY THERESA BRAGG

Downtown Norman takes on a red cast during a recent rainy 2nd Friday Art Walk.

“When you step onto Main Street during the Art Walk, you literally hear music in the air!” Gavaghan said. “There are independent artists and retailers on the sidewalks. Second Friday is free and open to the public. Most participating businesses offer refreshments and snacks throughout the evening, and the restaurants are all very lively. If you haven’t been, you are missing out on one of the true gems of the Norman arts community.”

owntown Norman isn’t typically a destination on a Friday night, especially when that night is dark, cold and rainy. The second Friday of each month is an exception. What started as a Winter and a Spring Art Walk has turned into a highly successful monthly arts and cultural event that draws large crowds and offers local artists and musicians a venue to display their talents. “The past seven years have seen a huge growth in the Downtown Arts District, which is now officially a Cultural District recognized by the State of Oklahoma,” observed Erinn Gavaghan of the Norman Arts Council. Since its start in 2008, the Art Walk has seen a growth of six to seven participating business locations to approximately 30 each month, and from a few hundred visitors to a couple thousand. Peggy Doviak, with D.M. Wealth Management and a business participant since early 2013, says that more than 500 people walk through their offices each month to view the featured artist,

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

and they are thrilled to have the opportunity to give artists and musicians a chance to showcase their work. The Art Walk continues to expand up and down Main Street, as well as further afield. Participants now include the Firehouse Art Center on Flood Avenue, and the Jacobson House and Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art on the University of Oklahoma Norman campus. At the January Art Walk, the students of The Healing Studio of the Firehouse Art Center held their annual exhibition. The Healing Studio is a program for older adults and adults with learning differences. “We always work to ensure every student has a piece in the exhibition, and several of our students have multiple pieces on show,” said Jane Lawson, artist and studio instructor. “It is an important experience for our students to have the chance to showcase their work in a professional gallery. Several of our students have sold pieces over the years, and that gives them such a confidence boost.” Artist Rebecca Wilson exhibited her work at the January Art Walk for the first time since the walk was only a twicea-year event.

“Everywhere you go, there is something different to see and hear, and to be inspired by,” Wilson said. “It is also a great time to see and visit with people that you might not run into that often.” Wilson also noted that she was surprised to see the big turnout for the walk, given the inclement weather. For the past two and a half years, musician Frank Lawrence has been a fixture on the corner of Main and Peters. Each month, he selects a different musician to join him. Local up-and-coming entertainers Annie Oakley have been known to appear alongside Lawrence. “Some of the artists I have known for years; others, this was the first time I have sat down with them. … It keeps things real fresh and it keeps me on my toes,” Lawrence said. “When you step onto Main Street during the Art Walk, you literally hear music in the air!” Gavaghan said. “There are independent artists and retailers on the sidewalks. Second Friday is free and open to the public. Most participating businesses offer refreshments and snacks throughout the evening, and the restaurants are all very lively. If you haven’t been, you are missing out on one of the true gems of the Norman arts community.” During the warmer months of the year food trucks arrive to offer additional food choices. Doviak said that as a business owner, the benefits from Second Friday happen on many levels. “It allows me to fulfill my vision for the role I wanted my business to have in the community. I love the atmosphere … it has become an evening that more people are adding to their calendar each month. I like that people come into our offices because they enjoy it, and it cements us into the community.” When asked if there are any big changes in store for 2016, Gavaghan said that the Norman Arts Council has long wanted to expand the Art Walk further along Main Street. “BOLD-Multimedia (a marketing consultant group located in downtown Norman) will host live music, artists and food trucks on some months, and we have high hopes there will soon be activity in the old lumber yard that will pull people to the businesses and shops at that end of Main Street,” she said.

March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

Hot Spot

Legend's Cuisine Relies on Its Dedication to Freshness PATRONS ENJOY HOMELIKE COMFORT, CLASSY DECOR AND EXCELLENT SERVICE ARTICLE RC RITSCH | PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE

lthough Legend’s originated with 13 partners in 1967, only Rebecca Sparks and her husband, Joe, remain as the two official owners. Joe invested in the restaurant in 1968. Inadvertently supporting their idea of small business, Sparks began her career at Legends as a server in 1979. She eventually taught herself to work in every aspect of the restaurant. As acting co-owner since their marriage in 1995, she now manages the kitchen, bakes half of the desserts, and arranges the atmosphere all the way down to the floral centerpieces. According to Sparks, the concept of the Legend’s cuisine relies on its dedication to freshness. They use farmer’s market produce (until recently, all tomatoes were provided by a local farmer whose farm ran out of business when he passed away), cut their own meat and cure their own pancetta and bacon. Chef Ben Spears furthered the concept by explaining its hint of “classical and international fusion,” with their cuisine ranging from Chicken Crepes to Oklahoma Catfish. Beyond their kitchen, Spears explained that Legend’s also infuses its own liquor. New additions to their craft cocktail concoctions are housemade cucumber vodka, chili vodka, ginger rum and their own sangria. Beyond their idea of the restaurant, my initial response to the ambience was that of familial ties and tradition. The walls 24

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

are lined with acrylic paintings created by Sparks’ mother. Artisanal bowls and stained glass window designs are displayed, all of which have been crafted by local artists throughout the years. They are in complete support of the local community. A striking and lovable feature of this small business, located at 1313 W. Lindsey St., is that they employ the daughters and sons of past employees, making legacies of them all. They further their own vision of tradition even in their most internal business matters. Their ties to the community have not only inspired regulars to stick around for decades, but to be so faithful that they return time after time. Every Friday and Saturday night (and don’t forget Sunday brunch until 3:30 p.m.), you can enjoy home-like comfort, classy décor and excellent service to the tune of jazz and classical piano played by Karen Khoury— an aspect that ties well with the chandeliered ceiling and glimmer of hanging wine glasses just waiting to grace your meal.

Grilled Salmon with Grapefruit Piccata Sauce

LEGEND’S HOURS:

10 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday Brunch until 3:30 p.m. MONDAY–THURSDAY: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. FRIDAY AND SATURDAY: 11 a.m. –11 p.m. SUNDAY:

• 7oz Salmon Filet Lightly Brushed with Olive Oil and Grilled • 1 tsp Diced Shallots • 1 tsp Capers • 1.5 Oz Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice • 2 Large Grapefruit Wedges • .5 Oz Unsalted Butter Saute shallots and capers until simmer. Deglaze pan with grapefruit juice and reduce by half. When reduced, slowly whisk in butter until emulsified. Served with a cilantro quinoa salad.

When asked what pairs well on their menus, I was recommended the Grapefruit Picatta, a sauce atop their Grilled Fresh Salmon Filet, as it goes well with both beer and wine. The Belgian import beer Tripel Karmelier matches its citrus taste, whereas the Kung Fu Girl Riesling contrasts it with its dry, sweet undertone. One look at the menu, however, and the pairs that stood out to me were classic for my taste. Their lunch menu sandwich BBLTA (basil pesto, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and avocado on toasted Panini bread) and the Italian Vegetable Soup-of-the-Day paired with an unoaked Chardonnay added a boost to the basil pesto. The soup caught my interest as my server listed the specials, but I did not expect it to

be as flavorful as it was. Complementary fresh baked bread began my meal, but the soup gave it a kick-start. To end my luncheon, the server informed me of the dessert options—a sin to miss. I paired the Lemon Cream Cake with Beringer White Zinfandel. The wine’s floral, peach and honey flavors made for a sticky sweet delight, and I have never been one to eat sugary meals. It is here that Sparks’ talent really come into perspective—sometimes one gets so lost in the atmosphere that the craftsmanship seems to naturally coalesce, but with food like this, tribute is simply unavoidable. My compliments to the chefs!

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Other exterior features include Rainsense automatic windshield wipers, standard on the Luxury, Performance and Premium collections, and chrome roof rails, standard on Luxury, Performance and Premium collections. Ten exterior colors are offered: Cocoa Bronze Metallic, Radiant Silver Metallic, Black Raven, Crystal Red Tintcoat and Platinum Ice Tricoat, Graphic Metallic, Silver Coast Metallic, Terra Mocha Metallic and Sapphire Blue Metallic.

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

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Lifestyle Calendar

March

MARCH

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM MARCH EVENTS ALL PLS BRANCHES

MARCH 10 GALILEO’S WORLD LECTURE AND SKY WATCH SAM NOBLE MUSEUM “Celestial Spheres and Torrid Zones: Medieval and Renaissance Views of the Cosmos” by Kathleen Crowther and Peter Barker, history of science instructors teaching Presidential Dream Courses on Galileo’s World, followed by a sky watch hosted by the OU Observatory on the museum lawn. Complimentary admission.

Various activities for all ages are planned, including a Dr. Seuss

MARCH 11

Birthday Party, Spring Break camps for children and teens featur-

2ND FRIDAY NORMAN ART WALK

ing robotics, online Minecraft, gardening for youngsters, a six-week

DOWNTOWN NORMAN

children's film class, community book discussion, informational tax

This monthly, citywide celebration of art is a collaboration between

workshop, Pi Day, DZ Comics and Gaming Preview Party, quilt show,

artists, art organizations and businesses brought to you by the Nor-

and writers' groups for teens and adults. For more information, visit

man Arts Council. Visit 2ndFridayNorman.com for details.

PLSOK.evanced.info/signup/EventCalendar.aspx

MARCH 4-6, MULTIPLE TIMES

MARCH 12 CLEVELAND COUNTY CRAFT SHOW

GREASE

CLEVELAND COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

SOONER THEATRE

This long-running event features home decorating, handmade, sea-

Featuring a cast of eighth- through 12-grade students from the Senior

sonal and specialty items presented by more than 90 crafters. Park-

Production class at The Studio of the Sooner Theatre, this take on

ing and admission are free.

the popular musical follows Rydell High’s senior class of 1959. Call 321.9600 or visit SoonerTheatre.org/index.php for more informa-

MARCH 17 - 19

tion, including times and tickets.

NORMAN ALL TRANSPORTATION SWAP MEET

MARCH 5

CLEVELAND COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS Sell your old race car parts or that unfinished scooter project. Buy and sell rat

UNDERGROUND MONSTER CARNIVAL 5

rods, street rods, cars, trucks and parts, memorabilia, imports, kit cars, sports/

OKC STATE FAIRGROUNDS (HOBBY, ARTS AND CRAFTS

race cars, boats, bikes, scooters, Model A's, aircraft, hang gliders, hovercraft, kit

BUILDING)

cars, etc.Visit NormanSwapMeet.com or call 651.7927.

This is an old school carnival-themed convention with prizes, a costume contest, special exhibits, vendors, fun workshops, music and more. For

MARCH 17

the collector in everyone, the show features vendors selling sci-fi, fanta-

O'CONNELL'S ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARTY

sy, horror, steampunk, and low-brow arts and crafts, as well as comics,

O'CONNELL'S RESTAURANT IN NORMAN

books, movies, toys and apparel. $11 adults/11+ , $7 ages 10 and younger.

The annual St. Patrick's Day Party on Campus Corner in Norman has be-

For information, visit UndergroundMonsterCarnival.com

come one of the city's biggest all-day celebrations. Enjoy live music, ka-

FIRST TWO SUNDAYS IN MARCH EAGLE WATCH LAKE THUNDERBIRD NATURE CENTER

raoke and green beer. Arrive early for the state's biggest "Green Eggs & Ham" breakfast and see the first walk-through of the Oklahoma Bagpipers. When afternoon arrives, karaoke begins and the outside venues fill up.

After a short informational presentation, participants will drive to des-

5:30 AND 7:30 P.M.

ignated spots around the lake to look for eagles. Reservations are

CIRCUS

required. Contact Ernie Martin at 321.4633.

NOBLE

MARCH 10-13 47TH ANNUAL RV SUPER SHOW STATE FAIR PARK, CENTENNIAL, COX PAVILION AND

Culpepper and Merriweather Circus (of Hugo, Oklahoma) will offer two performances. Fun for the entire family. Call 580.326.8833 for more information.

OKLAHOMA EXPO BUILDINGS

MARCH 23

Hundreds of RVs, motorized and towable, will be displayed by Okla-

EGGSTRAVAGANZA

homa City’s top RV dealers. Featuring daily entertainment by Boots-

SAM NOBLE MUSEUM

n-Britches, along with kids' rides and activities. Also featuring lifestyle

Complimentary museum admission, games, crafts, photos with the

vendors. Admission $9 adults, free for children 12 and under. Visit

bunny, and, of course, an egg hunt of Jurassic proportions are among

okcrvshows.com/ or call 505.761.3150. 30

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

activities scheduled during the Sam Noble Museum’s annual spring celebration. Indoor activities will include face painting, games, crafts and “Discovery Tables” to explore museum specimens. Sponsored by 2 Green Chicks. For information, visit SamNobleMuseum.ou.edu/calendar/eggstravaganza-2

MARCH 24 GALILEO LIVE! FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART Presented by the Crouse Quartet and exhibition curator Francesca Giani. Delve deeper into selected works from OU’s “Galileo’s World” exhibition through this curatorial presentation accompanied by string quartet music inspired by the stars. Songs will include a range of classical and rock standards. For information, visit ou.edu/fjjma/

MARCH 25 NORMAN’S “BEST” EASTER EGG HUNT ANDREWS PARK, NORMAN Officially called Norman's Best Easter Egg Hunt at Night, the City of Norman Parks and Recreation puts on this yearly event for children 8 and under. Children are divided into age groups. Activities beforehand include a moon bounce and photos with the Easter Bunny (bring your own camera). For more information, call 366.5472.

MARCH 25 NORMAN PHILHARMONIC MCFARLIN MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH St. John Passion, Good Friday Service. General admission tickets $10 each, and may be purchased at the box office one hour prior to concert start time.

MARCH 26 CAFFEINE CRAWL OKC VARIOUS DESTINATIONS Meet new people, try delicious coffee drinks and head to some terrific coffee shops in Oklahoma City, Edmond and Norman that you may not even know exist. This is a ticketed event, and pre-registration is required. There are several routes covering coffee and tea shops across the metro. Limited enrollment.

Participants provide

own transportation. For information, visit CaffeineCrawl.com/Oklahoma-City March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

business directory AD AGENCY

BOLD Multimedia (405) 701-8103 bold-multimedia.com McMahon Marketing (405) 928-3395 mcmkt.com

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Crimsy Photography by Linda & Shanee (405) 514-5140 crimsyphotography.com

EDUCATION

Community Christian School (405) 329-2500 communitychristianschool.com Pioneer Library System (405) 801-4556 justsoyouknow.us

Frontier State Bank (405) 672-7831 frontier-ok.com

HOME SERVICES Oz Saferooms (405) 672-8400 ozsaferooms.com

Supreme Lending - Foster Team (405) 696-0072 LUXURY AUTOMOTIVE charlesfoster.supremelending.com Bob Moore Cadillac of Norman (405) 329-2222 bobmoorecadillacnorman.com HOME BUILDERS &

REMODELERS

Rivers’ Edge Countertops Inc. (405) 387-2930 riversedgecountertops.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES Eye Care Oklahoma (405) 799-7510 eyecareok.com

Brand Name Mattress Gallery (405) 799-3700 brandnamemattressgallery.com

Valir Health (405) 609-3600 valir.com

Huntington Fine Jewelers (405) 692-4300 huntingtonfinejewelers.com

Decorating Den Interiors (405) 308-2611 decdens.com/denise

OTHER

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING

Designer’s Market (405) 749-0070 designersmarket.biz

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

F&F Accounting and Tax Solutions, PLLC (405) 384-3177 atsofok.com

Metro Flooring & Design (405) 703-4085 metroflooring.net

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

John M Ireland Funeral Home (405) 799-1200 johnirelandfuneralhome.com

REAL ESTATE

Bare Property Management (405) 366-7360 bpmok.com

Jerica Pound Realty Group, KW (405) 317-4556 jasonandjerica.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Oliveto Italian Bistro (405) 735-5553 olivetobistro.com

SALONS & SPAS Nurture Day Spa (405) 928-4434 nurturedayspaok.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Legend Senior Living (405) 691-2300 legendseniorliving.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS Backwoods (405) 573-5199 backwoods.com

MEET. EAT. UNWIND. Here, neighborhood dining meets Italian bistro. Tuscany meets hometown. And friends meet friends for artisan-inspired cuisine.

Happy Hour 4 to 6 M-F Half price apps and pizzas after 8 PM everyday

1301 S I-35 Service Rd Moore, Oklahoma 73160 | 405.735.5553 | oivetobistro.com

March 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

All Art Tells a Story WRITTEN, VISUAL, PERFORMING OR OTHER ART NOURISHES THE SOUL ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE NEWVILLE

e are truly blessed to live in a place where the arts–written, visual, performing and other–thrive. Whether your tastes run more toward the traditional or avant-garde, there’s always something just down Interstate 35 or street, if not your very own neighborhood, to please the eye and ear, to nourish your soul. Sooner Theatre in Norman offers young and older residents alike the opportunity to fulfill their thespian dreams on the stage or, if they prefer, work behind-the-scenes in roles ranging from director to set designer. The Depot offers concerts, poetry readings, art workshops and more year-long. Poetry readings also are a common offering at several Norman downtown coffee shops. In Norman, art even lives on the walls of downtown buildings, in the form of fanciful bike racks, and modern and traditional sculpture. Many area businesses support the arts, and often exhibit them as well. 34

Cleveland County Lifestyle | March 2016

One notable example is Frontier State Bank in Oklahoma City, which recently installed a stunning prismatic chandelier that is drawing admirers. For those desiring instruction in drawing, painting or sculpture, or how to take better digital photos, as well as a host of other artistic pursuits, the Firehouse Art Center offers low-cost classes for all ages. Of course, the University of Oklahoma greatly enhances this area’s arts offerings. Visitors to the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art–to which admission is always complimentary, by the way–can view an impressive collection of French Impressionism as well as Native American art and art of the Southwest and many other important collections and rotating exhibitions. And of course, OU offers a kaleidoscope of art shows; orchestral, band, jazz and other concerts; and musical and dramatic productions year-round. Arts festivals–of which there are many–provide free or low-cost entertainment, attracting people from across Cleveland County as well as other parts of the state and beyond. These include the Medieval Fair, Firehouse Art Center’s Midsummer Night’s Fair and Assistance League of Norman’s May Fair, and in Noble, the Rose Rock Festival. And don’t forget Norman’s 2nd Friday Art Walk (see story, this issue). A little further up I-35, arts festivals abound, including the Festival of the Arts and Paseo Arts Festival. Treats for the ear abound as well. Examples include the Summer Breeze Concert Series, Norman Music Festival and Jazz in June. Storytelling–another ancient art form–also is found here. Children form the captive audience at storytelling sessions offered through the Pioneer Library System, serving residents of Cleveland and well as McClain and Pottawatomie counties. The benefits of living in an area in which the arts play such a central role go beyond its entertainment value. We benefit by having as our neighbors these “creatives”–people who see and sense the world in a way that is fundamentally different. They help us see our community, our world, through a different lens. All art tells a story. The story may take the form of words in a poem, novel or song–or a photograph, painting, guitar riff or dance movement. When we open our hearts and minds, the arts can lift us up, help us make sense of our world, and broaden our experience and understanding. A graceful ballet dancer’s leap, a melancholy melody, a photograph of a child blowing a dandelion–each medium and each example of art, in its own way, dares us to imagine the unimaginable and to connect us to the past, the present and the future. Whether you earn a living as a businessman or construction foreman, coach or teacher, doctor or lawyer, minister or Realtor–or work without a regular paycheck as a student or stay-at-home mom or dad–and no matter your race, religion, income or background, the arts remind us that the world in which we live is more than the sum of our parts, and that we are all part of a shared community. Get out and experience all this unique place in which we live has to offer. Check out a local art gallery. Attend a community or university theater production or concert. Make plans to attend one or more of the spring and summer art fairs, an art gallery, a concert, or community or university theatrical production with your family or friends. And ask your neighbor who paints or teaches piano over for tea. Who knows? It may be the start of a beautiful friendship.

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