Cleveland County April 2016

Cleveland County APRIL 2016

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

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Gardeners Revisiting

"Grandma's Plants" NORMAN TAKES H20 SERIOUSLY FARM MARKETS EXPAND OFFERINGS BUSINESS CREATES OUTDOOR OASES

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Lifestyle Letter

Good Stewards of the Earth W

APRIL 2016 publisher

Jimmy Darden | Jimmy.Darden@LifestylePubs.com

elcome to our “Green” issue, devoted to both definitions of “green”: the symbolic color of environmentalism and sustainability, and the color most commonly associated with nature and growth. The theme is a timely one, as April 22 is celebrated nationwide as Earth Day. In this issue, you will find stories on how to be a good citizen of Earth–one being to frequent your local farm market, where you can find better-tasting and fresher veggies and fruit that weren’t transported long-distance. Another story explores measures being taken by the City of Norman to ensure a safe and plentiful water supply for residents and business today and generations to come.

Also in this issue, you will learn how to select grasses, shrubs, trees and other ornamentals when landscaping your yard or planting a garden that require minimal watering and fertilizing, saving you dollars as well as our precious H20. Choosing native plants whenever possible is one of the top recommendations offered by area greenhouses and landscapers.

We hope you are enjoying our series of reviews of popular dining establishments in Cleveland County. This month, we feature Royal Bavaria, a German getaway in Moore that is becoming a cherished feature of central Oklahoma. All of the beer served here is brewed in-house, and each style honors the 500-year-old Reinheitsgebot Purity Law from Ingolstadt, Bavaria, which decries that only water, barley, hops and yeast may be used in the brewing process.

Also in this issue, we feature Outdoor Escapes, a business in Moore that specializes in open-air living spaces, including patios, cabanas, outdoor fireplaces and kitchens; landscaping; and swimming pools.

It seems everyone is chomping at the bit for spring to arrive. After months of eagerly perusing seed catalogs with their tempting selection of flowers, vegetables, trees and other plants, area gardeners are eager to get their hands into the warm soil. Children are anticipating warmer temperatures and the opportunity to shed their shoes, green lawns upon which they can perform cartwheels, and longer days for fun and games. About the only “bumps” in all this anticipation are: the certainty of severe weather, which has become a seasonal certainty in central Oklahoma, and Tax Day. Whether you think “environment” or “lawn” when you hear the term “green,” April is the month to reflect on Nature’s bounty and how we, as the caretakers of this planet, can ensure that we, our children, and our children’s children will be able to enjoy those things we too often take for granted, including clean air and water and a diverse and thriving ecosystem.

(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

Brooke Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies, Staci Elder Hensley, SC Ritsch contributing photographers

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

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER DESIGN SPECIALIST

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Happy Earth Day.

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Jerri Culpepper , Editor ON THE COVER A common sight across Oklahoma, the pink to purple buds of the redbud are one of the first signals that spring has arrived.

Photo taken at K&K Nursery and Landscaping.

4

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

ClevelandCountyLifestyle.com

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6

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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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April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

5

April 2016

Departments

18

12 Marriage Built on Military Service

Norman couple credit Air Force for family, much more

16 No Need to Travel to Germany

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Hometown Heroes

14

Artist’s Palette

16

Hot Spot

23

Sold Properties

26

Locally Owned

28

Financial Buzz

30

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

Royal Bavaria Restaurant/Beergarten just up the road

18 Everything Old Is New Again

Adaptable native plants staging a comeback

20 Farm Markets Open for Business

Venues offer more than just fresh fruit, veggies

12

16

20

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Good Times

Norman's Daddy Daughter Dance

Fathers and daughters forged new memories at the Norman Parks and Recreation's annual Daddy Daughter Dance in February. The popular event was launched in 2000 at the 12th Avenue Recreation Center with about 250 attendees; today it attracts about 1,000 and is held at the Embassy Suites Conference Center.

Back row, from left: Troy Davis, Marc Etters, Roy Standridge and Jeff Salmond. Front row, from left: Fenli Davis, Langli Davis, Lily Etters, Holly Standridge, Harper Standridge, Taylor Salmond

Jeff and Taylor Salmond

Jim and Camdyn McMahan

Jason and Murphy Barnett, and John and Joy Riester

Celebrating Black History Month

Turnout was robust for the Pioneer Library System’s African-American Read-In, held Feb. 14 at Norman Public Library West, and 12th annual Crowns Tea, held Feb. 28 at Norman Public Library Central. The latter is based on the photo essay “Crowns: Portraits of Black Women in Church Hats.” PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM

Charlotte Gordon helps guests look through hats Guests enjoy the Crowns Tea. to wear during the Crowns Tea. Claudia Chappell loans the hats out to local women for the event from her vast collection each year.

The Rev. Erica C. Thomas performs during the Crowns Tea.

Kizzie Ledbetter sings during the annual African-American Norman Police Chief Keith Humphrey was one Read-In. She and husband Adam have performed at the of the featured readers at the annual African- event the previous two years, and also will be part of a Former University of Oklahoma football great Joe American Read.

Washington reads at the African-American Read-In. tour of the Pioneer Library System this summer.

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

Toast to the Arts

Arts patrons who attended the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art’s annual spring fundraiser, Toast to the Arts, Feb. 26 had the opportunity to explore the museum’s permanent collection and enjoy cuisine and drinks unique to the artists’ nationalities.

Event proceeds go toward the museum’s 2016 art acquisition budget.

Jay Exon hams it up.

Patricia Peart and David Kolb

Morgan Day and Rick Miyajima

Stephanie Logan and Rob Johnson

Josh Maxey and Lisa Maxey

Brian Stephens and Nathan Gunter

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9

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

WE’RE HOLDING A PARTY AND YOU’RE INVITED, BUT ONLY IF YOU ACT QUICKLY! Since its successful launch in February, Cleveland County Lifestyle magazine has received much praise on its content and beautiful photos

women who could then serve as role models for the student-athletes.

Members attend exclusive events throughout the year, enjoy a myriad of networking opportunities and provide programming support for the student-athletes and other Sooner Stilettos.

“While the benefits are plenty, the impact on the lives of student-athletes goes on forever,” said Mary Pointer, Sooner Stilettos president.

To join, visit SoonerStilettos.com or call the OU Women’s Basketball Office at 325.8322. The April party will be held at the home of Justice Yvonne Kauger.

HAMMOCK CAMPING EVENT SET AT BACKWOODS Sandra Wells, a local outdoors

and layout from readers and advertisers alike.

expert, will present a clinic on ham-

To show our thanks for welcoming us into

mock camping Thursday, April 14, at

your homes, we are issuing an invitation to

Backwoods Norman, 1268 N. Interstate Drive. This is a form of camp-

the first 30 readers who RSVP for the event

ing in which a camper sleeps in a suspended hammock rather than a

to attend the magazine’s first networking cel-

conventional tent on the ground. Since they require no poles and less

ebration, scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday,

material, they tend to be a significantly lighter option.

May 3, at Oliveto Italian Bistro, 1301 S. I-35 Service Road in Moore.

“This come-and-go event serves a dual purpose. First, we wanted to celebrate the launch of our magazine, and second, to host a fun and relaxing networking opportunity,” said Cleveland County Lifestyle Publisher Jimmy Darden. “Guests will enjoy appetizers and pizza, along with an assortment of wine and beer. For a chance to receive an invitation, plus one, email me at Jimmy.Darden@Lifestylepubs.com. Remember, we will be able to issue invitations to only the first 30 readers to respond, so don’t wait.”

LEXINGTON, NORMAN SET 89ER DAY PARADES

The clinic, which is free and open to the public, serves as the launch of Common Cargo hammocks at Backwoods. The clinic is set from 6 to 7 p.m. For more information, call 573.5199.

OEC ENERGY CAMP FOR EIGHTH-GRADERS SET A four-day action-packed adventure for eighth-graders sponsored

by Oklahoma Electric Cooperative will be offered May 31 through June 3 at Canyon Camp, near Hinton.

Energy Camp helps develop leadership skills and promotes teamwork while teaching about cooperative enterprises, the rural electri-

Ready. Set. Go!

fication program and electrical safety. Each year, OEC sponsors two

Two 89er Day celebrations are planned locally in April. The day

students to the camp.

commemorates the Oklahoma Run of 1889, when Oklahoma was opened for settlement.

While Energy Camp offers many traditional summer camp activities like swimming, hiking, basketball and a ropes course, teens also have the

On April 16, downtown Lexington will be the site of a full day of

unique opportunity to climb a utility pole, ride in the basket of a bucket

activities, including a carnival, rides, a car show, live music, arts and

truck, tour one of the largest electricity generating facilities in the state and

crafts booths, and of course, food. A highlight of the event, set from 9

watch a co-op crew at work. They’ll take home a new-found confidence

a.m. to 5 p.m., is a parade at 2 p.m.

and a host of new friends—like-minded peers from all over Oklahoma.

This year’s Norman parade, set for April 30, will celebrate, decade

Students currently enrolled in the eighth grade within OEC's service

by decade, the history of this vital community from 1889 to the present.

territory are eligible to compete for a spot at Energy Camp. To learn

SOONER STILETTOS PLAN CELEBRATION Women (men, too) interested in growing their networks with other

more, visit www.okcoop.org/energycamp or email tory@okcoop.org.

HUNTINGTON FINE JEWELERS SETS PANDORA EVENT

community

Huntington Fine Jewelers is

leaders, while also supporting and

holding a PANDORA Bracelet

mentoring University of Oklahoma student-athletes, are invited to a

Event, and they hope you’ll attend.

businesswomen

and

celebration planned for April 27 by Sooner Stilettos.

Whether you’re looking for a

OU women’s basketball head coach Sherri Coale created Sooner

perfect gift or wanting to start a

Stilettos in November 2003 to involve female community and

new bracelet for yourself, this will

business leaders with the team. Her idea was to recruit successful

be a great opportunity for you to March 31st- April 3rd (Closed Sunday)

10

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

check out their selection. Through April 2, customers will receive a free PANDORA Bracelet with any PANDORA purchase of $100 or more.

Huntington Fine Jewelers is located off 104th and S. Western Ave. in Oklahoma City. For more information, call 692.4300.

MOORE ANNOUNCES CITYWIDE GARAGE SALES Got lots of unwanted “stuff”? Ready for a big spring cleaning?

Instead of tossing your unwanted items into the garbage, thus adding unnecessary waste to the landfill, why not consider having a garage sale, where you can make a little money while finding a good home for your old pots and pans, clothes that no longer fit you or suit your needs, or unused bikes or sporting goods that are taking up valuable garage space?

If you live in Moore, plan your garage sale for April 28-30 and May 1, and you can have that sale without even purchasing a permit. Just register by calling 793.5000 or visiting cityofmoore.com.

Or, just enjoy the fruits of others’ labors, and map out your own treasure hunt.

LOTS ON TAP AT PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM Fans of Ray Bradbury, book lovers and wannabe gardeners are just some of the folk who will want to bookmark events planned through April throughout the Pioneer Library System.

Among the events on tap this month: • Learn to Crochet, 2 p.m. Sunday, April 3, Norman Public Library West.

For teens 12 and up and adults. All materials provided; registration required.

• PLS’ Big Read Presentation by Sam Weller, official biographer of Ray Bradbury, 6 p.m. Friday, April 8, Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, OU Norman campus.

• Green Thumb: Container Gardening and Plant Exchange, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 16, Moore Public Library. Includes a lesson from representative from the Cleveland County Master Gardeners on container gardening and a chance to share ideas and extra plants, cuttings, seedlings and seeds with other gardeners.

• Novels at Night Book Club, a new book discussion group for those 18 and older, launches at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, Noble Public Library. The first book is Dog Stars by Peter Heller; copies available at the Information Desk.

• A dramatic presentation of Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, 7 p.m. Saturday, April 23, Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College Auditorium, Moore. A community cast will perform the play version of the novel, directed by Paul Austin and produced by Namron Players Theatre, as part of the PLS Big Read.

• Friends of the Norman Library Better Book Sale, April 29-May 1. Proceeds benefit programs and activities at Norman’s libraries throughout the year.

• Do It Yourself Beekeeping in the City, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, Southwest OKC Public Library. Doug Schwarz of 40 Pure Honeybee Services will discuss the ins and outs of beekeeping during the program, which is for ages 18 and up.

April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

11

Hometown Heroes

A New Kind of

HOME FRONT HOW THE AIR FORCE SHAPED THE ABLES FAMILY OF NORMAN ARTICLE BROOKE BARNETT

The couple share their military medals and commendations with their children.

CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE

B

rian and Laura Ables credit the U.S. Air Force with not only showing them the world, but helping to bring their family together. Laura, a Norman native, spent four years as a staff sergeant working as an intelligence analyst. Brian, a native of Springfield, Missouri, was a staff sergeant who worked in transportation as a protocol driver for nine years. The couple, who recently celebrated their sixth wedding anniversary, met at Fort George G. Meade in Maryland during their time of service.

They now call Norman home, where they are raising three children, Dallas, 11; Peyton, 8; and Grace, 3.

"I loved living in different places," Laura recollects. "I lived in California, Texas and Maryland. Each place was unique and beautiful. I met new and amazing people in each place. In my final duty station, I met my husband, which is probably the very best thing that happened to me during my service."

Meeting in the military helped the couple lay the foundation for a successful marriage.

"Serving with each other had its ups and downs," Brian explains. "Being married to someone in the service made it easier for each of us to understand what the other one was going through. It also brought challenges to our family life. It was sometimes difficult to juggle our children's lives while both of us had to report to duty. But through it all, those challenges only made our family stronger."

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

Laura and Brian Ables

While Laura served state-side, Brian served one tour to Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. He credits his eight months abroad with teaching him the importance of overseas military operations and the significance of these operations in preserving our freedom.

"I really enjoyed the chance to travel and see the world," Brian says. "I was able to meet many different people from many different cultures.

Although I loved the travel, it was always very difficult to leave my family at home and miss out on parts of my children’s lives."

Laura left the military in 2011 and worked in a government contractor position before pursuing nursing school. She currently works as an RN at St. Anthony's ER in downtown Oklahoma City. Brian served until 2012, when he transitioned to the Air Force's civilian workforce. He is currently employed as an Air Force security specialist.

The couple says their time in the military helped to shape the life they lead today.

"The best lesson that I learned through my service is that, no matter how big the challenge or obstacle, I can get through anything with enough hard work and will," Brian states.

Laura says her time in the military helped her to be f lexible and taught her to adapt.

"No matter what life throws at you, you can learn from every situation and make the best out of it," she says. "It was difficult for me to have to learn to leave people behind when I was serving.

You form very close bonds to the people you work with due to the high intensity demands that you endure together, so it was always very hard to move away and start over. But the beauty of the military is that each new place provides an opportunity to make new friendships and now we have friends that we love in many places."

Looking back, Brian and Laura say they wouldn't be the family that they are today without their military experience.

"I think joining the military is the best decision any person can make," Laura concludes. "You will have great times and hard times, but every time will help mold you into a better person."

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Artist’s Palette The OAI itself has been a mentor of sorts, helping me to continue my training as both an artist and an educator.

DO YOU HAVE A "PHILOSOPHY" OF ART?

Meet

: l l e w d l a C h Sara al v This Year ’s Medieer Fair Poster Winn

ART ‘NOT AN EXCLUSIVE CLUB JUST MEANT FOR A SELECT FEW,’ SAYS NORMAN ARTIST ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE

O

ur featured artist this month is Norman resident Sarah Caldwell, whose artwork was selected for the 2016 Medieval Fair poster, and who will also have a booth at the fair, which is set for April 1-3 at Norman’s Reaves Park.

IN WHAT MEDIA DO YOU WORK?

For drawing, I enjoy colored pencils and chalk pastels. For painting–if and when there is time–I prefer acrylic or watercolor. Most of what I’ll be displaying and selling at the fair, however, will be prints of one kind or another.

Never assume that “art” is something you can’t participate in. It’s not an exclusive club just meant for a select few. There are so many ways to express yourself artistically, I encourage everyone to take a chance and find theirs.

CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT THE DIRECTION YOU ARE HEADING IN YOUR ART CAREER?

I worked for a commercial printing company throughout college, but did no printmaking as an art student. Since then, I’ve taken a few workshops for different printing techniques and I really enjoy them.

I decided I was overdue for some serious artistic growth and signed up for a class at OU. I’ll be doing a variety of printing over the course of the semester, and I hope this experience opens new doors for me.

I’ve spent so much of the last seven years focusing on my career as a teacher, I feel it’s time to focus on being an artist as well.

I UNDERSTAND YOU TEACH HIGH SCHOOL ART: WHERE, WHAT GRADE(S), AND HOW LONG? WHAT ART THE REWARDS?

I teach ninth through 12th grade at Del City High School. I am currently in my seventh year of teaching, and as any teacher will tell you, rewards are hard-won. The biggest reward–and it really is something simple–is knowing that I’ve made a student’s life a little more colorful and interesting.

When they’re proud of something they have created, it’s a victory for me.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR INVOLVEMENT WITH THE ARTHURIAN ORDER OF AVALON.

I joined the AOA when I was 15 and have been with them off and on ever since. I’ve performed in numerous “human chess matches,” musical shows, and I’ve even jousted on horseback. I’ve been recognized multiple times within the organization for my achievements in disciplines such as stage combat, sewing and horsemanship.

AMONG YOUR OTHER SKILLS, YOU ARE A SEAMSTRESS, AND HAVE MADE COSTUMES FOR THE ARTHURIAN ORDER

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR SPECIALTY?

OF AVALON. DO YOU STRIVE FOR HISTORICAL ACCURACY?

“Jack of all trades, master of none” is probably the best answer to this question. It’s a byproduct of being an art teacher. And while versatility is beneficial to my students, it means I’m always shifting.

My mother first taught me to sew when I was in elementary school, but my involvement with the AOA and the Medieval Fair really gave me an opportunity to develop the skill. I consider it as much an art as painting or drawing. I’ve made costumes for numerous characters from all walks of life–queens, kings, villains, peasants…you name it–and depending on the costume, it can take me hours or weeks. On top of that, a lot of research does go into my costumes. I try to stick to history as closely as possible, though sometimes adjustments must be made for practicality or the availability of materials.

WHERE DID YOU RECEIVE YOUR ART TRAINING? ANY MENTORS YOU WISH TO MENTION?

My early training came courtesy of Norman Public Schools and the Firehouse Art Center, where I took many classes as a child. I received my B.A. from the University of Central Oklahoma and I am currently attending OU. I’d also like to mention the Oklahoma Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain. I did not attend as a high school student, but I participate in their fall program for teachers every year.

14

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

DO YOU WANT TO MENTION ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?

I would like to thank my husband, John Seaton, for supporting me and my artistic endeavors.

Save the date!

Tuesday, May 3 OliveTO iTalian BisTrO

6-8 p.m.

1301 s. i-35 service rOad, MOOre

IN FO P VI R AT LIF LEA TAT A C JI ES SE ION H A M TY E M L M FO NC Y. E DA P AIL R T E T U RD B C W O R EN LIS LEV O T EC @ HE EL O T EI LI R A H VE FE J ND IS A ST IM E N YL MY CO VE EP D UN NT UB AR TY , S. DE CO N M .

To celebrate the successful launch of Cleveland County Lifestyle magazine, we are planning a celebration of epic proportions!

The firsT 30 readers TO rsvP will receive an invitation for two to this fun come-and-go event, featuring a pizza and appetizers, along with a selection of beer and wine. This is a great opportunity to meet and network with the magazine’s valued advertisers.

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April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

15

Hot Spot

Royal Bavaria Offers a Touch of Germany

REGULARS MAKE RESTAURANT/BEERGARTEN THEIR ‘GETAWAY’ SPOT ARTICLE SC RITSCH PHOTOGRAPHY CRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY ROYAL BAVARIA HOURS:

BY LINDA IRIE AND

Monday­­–Saturday 5­–9:30 p.m.

SHANEE` NEWVILLE

C

Sunday 5-8:30 p.m.

ancel your flight. Germany is only one stretch of road away.

Royal Bavaria was established in 1994 by

Jörg Kühne, a German from Munich who

barley, hops and yeast may be used in the

smooth, leaving room for a big meal—and

brewing process.

Bavarians do love big meals! I was referred

married an Oklahoman. As the story goes,

Customers have the option of ordering

the Rinderroulade mit Kartoffelbrei und

the remote location was chosen from a

their beer by half-liter, liter in a stein or a boot

Blaukraut (sound it out, we dare you),

bird’s-eye view. Kühne flew a small plane

up to three liters full. You can also buy kegs of

which is a perfect spread for the chilly

over the countryside and pointed at the spot,

Royal Bavaria brewed beer.

coming

months.

Angus

beef,

bacon,

Unlike with wine, there is no pairing rule

onions, mashed potatoes—a hardy meal,

When asked if there are any identifiable

when it comes to German beer and cui-

some hearty laughter, and a soothing beer

locations near the restaurant, current

sine, though there are favorites. Gmeiner’s

makes for a warm winter’s night.

owner Andy Gmeiner said, “We are actu-

lager of choice is the Munich Dunkel,

ally a landmark.”

which

seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

is

full-bodied

yet

surprisingly

Royal Bavaria also prides itself on the fresh quality of their food. All beer aside, every-

Gmeiner has honored Kühne’s original

thing is made in-house. They cut their own

idea since he took over in 2008. His concept

meat and produce their own gravy, pasta,

of a German getaway has stuck, becoming

and specialty sausages.

a cherished feature of central Oklahoma.

Considering the décor of Royal Bavaria,

All of the beer served is brewed in-house

there is a very real feeling of traversing con-

and each style honors the 500-year-old

tinents. The wait staff dons traditional attire

Reinheitsgebot Purity Law from Ingolstadt,

and the building itself is styled with German

Bavaria, which decries that only water,

farmhouse architecture. Steins and Bavarian treasures mount the walls, each carrying its own secret history. Customers have gifted

Two of Royal Bavaria’s most interesting regulars are Toby Keith, who is a local, and a 105-year-old woman who has been coming every year on her birthday for 15 years— and she lives in Kansas.

16

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

this restaurant with many items that add to the ambience, and most of the decorative features have been brought back from Germany since the restaurant’s genesis in 1994.

I asked Gmeiner how long a certain fedora hat had been hanging on the antler of a mounted deer head.

“Oh, like 20 years,” Gmeiner said. He then motioned to our waiter. “And he used to be so little he would sit in my lap.”

RINDER ROULADEN/BEEF ROULADEN 1-1.5 lb Flank Steak German Stone Ground Mustard 1.5 lb Thick Sliced Bacon 2 Large Onions, Sliced 1 (16 oz) Jar Dill Pickle Slices 2 Tbsp Butter 2.5 Cups Water 1 Cube Beef Bouillon Cut the flank steak into thin fillets, about ¼-inch thick and 3 inches wide. Generously spread one side of each filet with mustard to taste. Place bacon, onions and pickle slices on each filet and form into a roll. Use toothpicks or string to hold together. Heat skillet over medium heat and melt butter.

Place the rolls in the butter and sauté until browned. Pour in 2.5 cups of water and add the bouillon cube, stirring to dissolve.

Simmer the rolls for about an hour.

Serve

with

mashed

potatoes

or

Spaetzle and red cabbage.

A walk outside to the Beergarten made it very clear why Royal Bavaria has a good reputation for large events. The patio seats about 170 guests and is covered with evening lights on the ground and in the trees surrounding gazebo, where I picture many couples saying their vows and live bands entertaining many crowds.

And indeed there are live bands, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in the Beergarten, playing a plethora of genres.

Royal Bavaria is your destination. It is where you go to sit for hours and laugh more wholly than you do at your dinner table. It is your vacation spot, just around the bend.

Cheers, or as they say in Bavaria, prosit!

Royal Bavaria is located in Moore at 3401 S. Sooner Road. From Norman, it is located one mile north of Indian Hills Road. From Oklahoma City, it is located 6.5 miles south of I-240.

ROYAL BAVARIA HOURS:

Monday­­–Saturday 5­–9:30 p.m.

Sunday 5-8:30 p.m.

April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

17

New Improved

“E

verything old is new again” isn’t just a cliché; it’s a living, breathing statement when it comes to landscaping in Oklahoma.

An increased customer focus on water conservation and the environment has led to resurgence in popularity for many of Oklahoma’s native grasses, flowers and other plants that were popular decades ago, say experts with a variety of nurseries around Cleveland County.

These native plants–ranging from grasses and shrubs to Indian blankets, coneflowOklahoma's Native Plants ers and cardinal flowers–are adapted to Staging a Comeback the state’s drought patterns and thus are much tougher, require less water and are ARTICLE STACI ELDER HENSLEY lower maintenance, said Chris Ward, eduCRIMSY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA IRIE AND SHANEE` NEWVILLE cation director for the Cleveland County Conservation District.

Another factor boosting the appeal is that the time-honored plants have been refined over the years to be even more heat tolerant, and they’re now available in a wider variety of colors. “Native flowers, in my opinion, are just as beautiful as traditional flowers,” Ward said. “Many are perennials as well, which require much less water than annuals.”

Oklahoma’s blistering summer heat is too much for the majority of popular flowers and shrubs. “Even if something is labeled as ‘full sun,’ the Oklahoma summer is still too harsh for many of them, especially if they Marcum's offers a wide face the south and west,” said Meg Crossley selection of plants and items to add interest to your of The Greenhouse. “Part of the problem is garden. Their staff can help that in Oklahoma, it does not cool down you select plants that thrive at night, like you would see in the desert. in central Oklahoma.

It’s harder on plants here. If it got cooler at night, that would be a whole different ball game. That’s why we’re seeing a big trend of people going back to ‘grandma plants,’ meaning plants they remember seeing in their grandmother’s garden, because they can take the heat.”

The list of trees and shrubs that do well in Oklahoma is quite lengthy, and includes varieties most of us are familiar with, such as redbud, magnolias and crabapples, junipers, forsythia, rose of Sharon (althea) Mexican Feather Grass is sometimes used for erosion control. Photo taken at Prairie Wind.

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

Heat-tolerant begonias and succulents are a good choice for the Oklahoma garden (or pond, as shown in this demo pond at The Greenhouse), as they are heat-tolerant and require less water than many plants.

and flowering quince.

“Junipers, in particular, are available in a wide variety of colors and textures, and they are an old-fashioned plant that has really made a comeback,” Crossley said.

“It is so much a personal taste,” added Susan Staggs, manager with K&K Nursery & Landscaping. “Boxwoods are more formal, and junipers and cypress are good. As far as drought toughness, Arizona cypress and blue atlas cedars are great once they get established.” Among the classic plants that work well in central Oklahoma, she said, are redbuds, althea (also known as the Rose of Sharon), crepe myrtles and magnolia trees, plus yuccas and other succulents.

“I’m a fan of planting smaller trees and having the joy of watching them grow,” Staggs said, adding that people often plant young trees too deeply and water them too much. “The best thing to do is follow the planting instructions of the reputable nursery where you bought them.”

Most people want to stick with Bermuda grass, traditional shrubs like boxwood and brightly colored flowers. More and more, however, are taking advantage of Oklahoma’s native plants.

“A mix of buffalo grass, curly mesquite and blue grama requires a lot less water and a lot less maintenance,” said Bill Farris, owner of Prairie Wind Nursery. “These grasses were growing here a long time before we started building homes here, and they’re tough. People are getting more interested in that kind of thing, and that started a couple of years ago during the drought.”

Another new trend is to group together plants of different textures, in lieu of flowers alone. “People say ‘I want flowers for color,’ but we tell people that if you go for textures with your plants, you will get your colors that way, and the plants are tougher,” Crossley said. “Plants with smooth, shiny leaves (i.e., begonias), combined with plants with small furry leaves (such as scented oregano) will provide color, plus will be more heat tolerant and will look good all summer. There are a lot of options out there.”

Perhaps the most common mistake people make, even in times of drought, is to overwater their plants and lawn, Ward said. For example, Bermuda grass–by far the toughest and most popular grass in Oklahoma–requires only an inch of water a week to thrive and will go dormant if the weather is too arid.

It’s also important to pay attention to the type of watering system you’re using. With oscillating sprinklers, for example, 10-30 percent of the water never reaches the ground, due to evaporation and wind. Sprinklers should be as low to the ground as possible, and ideally residents should invest in an irrigation system. People who have a sprinkler system installed should pay attention to how often it’s used and where it’s placed.

“The time of day you water is also very important,” Ward said. “It needs to be very early in the day, or after sunset. Watering in the heat of the day is harmful to plants.”

If someone wants to learn more, there are many sources of help. For starters, the Cleveland County Conservation District has a website, clevelandcountyconservationdistrict.com , a Facebook page (CleveCCD), and Sweet Pink Bush Cherry can tolerate a Pinterest page with a “Lawn Oklahoma's sun, & Order” section containing though it requires climate-friendly landscapregular watering. This beautiful specimen ing photos and advice. The was found at Oklahoma Cooperative Marcum's.

Extension Service, operated by Oklahoma State University, also is a tremendous source of information, and there are literally dozens of local classes and specialized groups who can help as well.

“There’s a ton of Prairie Wind recommends awesome informaBlack Foot Daisy for your tion out there for low-maintenance garden.

The Oklahoma native is pretty, people who are interyet drought-tolerant. ested in this type of thing,” Ward said. “They just need to Google!”

Another recent landscaping development is to include plants that can help out birds, bees and other insects by providing nectar, pollen and seeds. Monarch butterflies, for instance, are endangered because

their sole food supply, the milkweed grass, is fast disappearing. Adding just a few milkweeds to your gardening can make a difference, Farris said, adding, “We want to plant plants for what they do, not just how they look.”

April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

19

Offer Fresh Produce, Green Alternative Big or Small, Each Venue Has Its Own Distinct Personality ARTICLE LINDSEY DAVIES | PHOTOGRAPHS PROVIDED

WHERE TO GO NOBLE FARMERS' MARKET

I

t’s that time of year again, when the seemingly dead trees start to put off little buds, the grass (and weeds) begin to need to be mowed, and a drive through the country shows the hard work farmers are putting into their fields as they ready for growing season.

A growing number of Oklahomans are realizing this is the perfect time to spend a leisurely Saturday morning (or another day) at their local farmers’ market, opposed to stopping by the closest grocery store and picking up the same-ole-same-ole TV dinners, weeks-old veggies and “mystery” fish.

Farmers’ markets have been around for many years, but as we become more aware that what we eat impacts our bodies and the ecosystem at large, some of us are starting to make both big and small changes to our diets. Here in central Oklahoma, we are blessed with an abundance of locally grown produce, and chances are there’s a local farmers’ market near you.

In this story, we explore four area farmers’ markets: their specialties, their dates and hours, and much more. Each market is unique, but each can help us go green and enjoy our food more–and by visiting them, we can show our support for local farmers.

Holly Rains, an administrative assistant at the Norman Farm Market, said fair organizers and vendors are in high gear, readying for the season opening on April 2. Their season runs through the end of October, and is open two days a week, Thursdays evenings and Saturday mornings.

Rains said their focus continues to be “on always having fresh food and educating people on eating healthy, while helping the local farming community.”

The Norman Farm Market is constantly expanding, Rains said, noting they hope soon to place more focus on dairy, eggs, and even poultry and meat. While new vendors are always welcome, several are longtime participants, including Terry’s Farm, which has been a vendor since the market’s opening in 1980.

The Noble Farmers’ Market was launched in 1999; in 2008, they started selling only Oklahoma-grown products. Because of this and the vagaries of Oklahoma weather, the number of vendors can vary drastically from year to year, said Robin Stead, a local CONTINUED >

304 S. Main Hwy. 77 Noble OK 73068 Open May through October, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday okgrown.com/markets/ noble-farmers-market-inc

Facebook at: Noble Farmers' Market Norman Farm Market Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson St., Norman, OK 73071 360.4721 Open April through October 4-7 p.m. Tuesday and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday clevelandcountyfair.org/35/ Farm-Market facebook.com/ NormanFarmMarketVendors

Moore Farmers Market 700 S. Broadway, Moore, OK 73160 793.5090 Open April through October 4-7:30 p.m. Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday okgrown.com/markets/ city-moore-farmers-market Oklahoma City Farmers Market 311 S. Klein Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73108 232.6506 Open year-round 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday (closed Monday) okcfarmersmarket.com

20

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

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21

FARM MARKETS (CON TI N U ED)

attorney who serves as Noble’s market manager. Over the past few years, she noted, the area has faced severe drought, plus some hard freezes and severe storms that brought hail, and worse. So, she said, “educating the consumers about how weather affects our local crops is one of the things we focus on.”

The Noble market is known for its down-home personality. Stead relates going there to “going to Grandma's house and sitting around the kitchen table. We serve coffee and doughnuts and soda and water. People just come by to say ‘hello.’”

Ken and Lola Howard, longtime vendors, supply the free snacks, week after week. They also offer recipes and ideas on how to use the produce they purchase. Rose and Philip Starr also have been with the market for years. Rose, from the Philippines, grows greens and other produce used to cook traditional Philippine cuisine.

Visitors to the market this season will find even more to enjoy.

Plans are in the works to add a monthly event with music, food vendors and other activities.

The Historic Oklahoma City Farmers Public Market, located southwest of downtown Oklahoma City, opened in 1928 as the central food hub for the area, featuring produce stalls, daily farmers’ markets, meat markets, and food distributor warehouses. It was active until the mid 1970s, when distributers began relocating to more modern facilities; it then transitioned into a grocery store. In 2014 the current owners re-established the weekly farmers’ market on the first floor of the market building.

As they grow, neighboring properties are becoming a part of the OKC Farmers Market District. This is fueling an increase in both customer and vendor participation. Over 15,000 square feet of space is available in the main market for vendors, with plenty of room for growth. Hopes are to expand the market outdoors during warm months, and eventually throughout the five-acre property.

The market offers unique local artisanal cheeses, fresh-cut flowers, hand-crafted pottery, wood, arts, and the only Bloody Mary bar at a farmers’ market in Oklahoma.

Robert "Bud" Scott, an attorney and project developer for the Oklahoma City Farmers’ Public Market, says their goal is “to once again serve as a modern food hub, offering all components of the food system, including food production, processing, wholesale distribution, retail sales, and direct-to-consumer sales.

“Our area is located in a low-income, low-food-access census tract, so it is important that we provide an outlet for those folks who may not have access to healthy, locally produced foods!” Scott said.

When the City of Moore conducted a park survey, they discovered the No. 1 thing its residents wanted was a farmers’ market. They made this happen in 2007, and after a few venue changes, they relocated to The Station at Central Park.

Whitney Wathen, City of Moore Parks and Community Center coordinator, hopes having a brand-new area for vendors to sell, new items to offer the citizens and food trucks at the market will make going to the market “an experience” that will have citizens coming back often.

“What better way to promote garden-related products so citizens have a choice when it comes to buying food?” he asks.

Among their longtime vendors is Dale Roath, a local farmer who has been selling at the market from the very beginning. “His produce is always fresh and his prices are low,” Wathen remarked.

It is this commitment to quality, taste and health that keeps people coming from all around the community to enjoy food and fellowship week after week.

If you haven’t yet checked out the farm markets in Cleveland County, or it has been a long time since you have, mark your calendar to visit one or more of them in the near future. You’ll be surprised at the wide selection of foods, plants and other goods. As a bonus, many markets now feature various forms of entertainment.

Perhaps most importantly, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint by dealing with local farmers who had only a short distance to travel to market their wares.

22

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

Sold Properties

April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

23

A recent winner in the Water’s Worth It landscaping contest was Steve Hill, 525 S. Flood. Hill’s lawn-less yard features a lush assortment of plants, many types requiring minimal watering.

City of Norman Takes Leadership Role in Water Conservation Efforts The Spirit Shop was selected for the Water's Worth It landscaping award for creating a series of small cactus gardens in the middle of a parking lot.

Participation of Norman Residents Required to Achieve Goals ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER

Lake Thunderbird supplies the majority of Norman's water, as well as being a popular fishing, swimming and boating venue.

A

few years ago, the state and many other parts of the nation experienced a drought so severe, it recalled to many the frightening stories of the state’s Dust Bowl of the 1930s.

In 2012, the Oklahoma Climatological Survey declared that an “exceptional” (the most severe category) drought extended from Cleveland and McClain counties in central Oklahoma to the northwest.

Lake Thunderbird–which supplies water to Norman, Midwest City and Del City–dipped down below 75 percent of capacity, and 9,000 thousand acres burned, resulting in one fatality east of Norman.

If one positive note can be extrapolated from this experience, it’s that the prolonged drought raised general awareness of the critical importance and role of water in our lives and communities.

While the City of Norman already had a Water Conservation Plan in place, the severity of the drought caused city officials to take additional actions, drawing up plans and policies that addressed both the at-hand crisis as well as the long term. Some of these actions took the form of immediate, mandatory ordinances, such as odd-even water rationing (which was made permanent); other times, the city’s leaders requested the help of citizens to conserve water on a voluntary basis.

24

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

Not surprisingly, one of the areas of city government to take a leadership role, as well as a hands-on one, on the water conservation issue was the Utilities Department. Ken Komiske, Utilities director, helped spearhead Norman’s current water conservation plan (available for reading at bit.ly/1PVQg3x).

Komiske has helped formulate and drive a number of other water conservation initiatives as well. For example, unlike many cities, Norman has a strong water-meter monitoring system, and even monitors its own meters at city pools, fire stations, recreation centers, parks and median irrigation. A complete metering program allows the city to more accurately track its water production and helps show water losses, which might indicate a leak, for instance.

Other courses of action the city has initiated to ensure water resources are being used wisely include: • The City teamed up with the University of Oklahoma to allow the use of treated wastewater (effluent) for irrigating portions of the Jimmie Austin Golf Course, which means a smaller draw on the city’s clean water supply, especially during the summer when outdoor water use is highest. Working with the state of Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, consideration is being given to expanding ways water can be reused.

• The City initiated inverted water rates on businesses and residential users, which increases water costs in increments above a certain threshold, thereby encouraging conservation.

• An irrigation ordinance was adopted in 2005 that requires automatic switch-off features on new water irrigation systems installed by commercial entities and residences when it’s raining or the weather drops below freezing. The

Lake Thunderbird at sunset.

City carefully monitors its own water usage in public landscaping areas.

Noting that a top-10 water user in most cities is its wastewater treatment plant, Komiske said they recently launched a program there in which treated effluent is used for all maintenance activities, such as washing down clarifier weirs, foam suppression, pump seals, etc.–resulting in a savings of some 10 to 13 million gallons a month.

Another frequently visited public space that has undergone changes to make it more water-friendly is the Griffin park complex, where the utilities, parks and recreation departments and Cleveland County teamed up to repurpose a water well whose water was not suitable for drinking purposes and build an irrigation pond that is now used to supply most of the water for irrigation as well as adding a popular amenity to the park.

Komiske also is proud of the fact that “Norman is the first municipality in the state to have a gray water ordinance.” This means that Norman residents may use water from the shower, tub, bathroom sink or clothes washer for gardening or watering their lawn without applying for a permit.

Komiske gives much of the credit to customers. “They have embraced conservation, reduced our peak water usage and been very supportive of our positive changes regarding water and wastewater use and reuse.”

Another key player in the city’s water conservation efforts is Amanda Nairn, who serves as chair of the City’s Environmental Control

(Bottom left - Top) Meredith Clason, a student at Jefferson Elementary, was the winner of the 2015 “Water’s Worth It” poster contest.

(Bottom left - Bottom) Tiffany Mwihaki, a student at Jefferson Elementary, was the winner of the 2014 “Water’s Worth It” poster contest.

Advisory Board, an all-volunteer board appointed by the mayor and City Council, and as a member of the Central Oklahoma Master Conservancy District, which oversees Lake Thunderbird. In both capacities, she offers recommendations to the mayor and council.

Under her leadership, ECAB has launched a number of significant water conservation campaigns and programs, among them the Water’s Worth It™ program. Launched in 2012 by mayoral proclamation, this program includes several educational and outreach components, including a poster contest for children in kindergarten through fifth grade and a monthly landscaping contest. The latter, for both residences and businesses, offers recognition for planting yards and gardens that, while attractive, require minimal watering. For more information and to download a nomination form, visit greennorman.org.

ECAB earlier was involved in a study on fertilizer use, which was used to help establish a fertilizer ordinance for the city and related outreach efforts, and for several years has been involved in a popular rain barrel giveaway program. With the help of such entities as the Oklahoma Conservation Commission and Cleveland County Conservation District, Nairn has helped lead complimentary workshops to teach people how to build their own rain barrels and how to use them effectively.

She also has led workshops to educate the public on storm water, landscaping responsibly during a drought and other related topics.

ECAB also has partnered with OU’s largest volunteer effort, The Big Event, to distribute water conservation-related and fertilizer use information, and its members can be seen at many local festivals distributing information.

Look for them at the Earth Day Festival April 24 at Reaves Park.

“Time and again, our citizens have demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. Our city staff set a great example of using water wisely in municipal operations,” said Norman Mayor Cindy Simon Rosenthal. “It is most gratifying to see the level of enthusiasm by our citizen volunteers on ECAB and throughout the city to making water conservation a priority.”

Komiske and Nairn know that, like other cities and communities across the state, nation and world, establishing sound water conservation strategies is essential to maintaining a robust community. But the city and a handful of environmental organizations cannot accomplish this feat alone; it requires the commitment of every single Norman resident, young and old.

So, wash your car with a bucket of water and a sponge. Switch out your sprinkler for a soaker hose. Fix that pesky faucet leak.

Remember, every drop counts.

For tips on reducing your water use, a listing of area-specific drought-tolerant plants, instructions on constructing a rain barrel and other water conservation tips, visit normanok.gov/utilities/water-conservation-information.

April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

25

Locally Owned

Outdoor kitchens allow family and friend to eat and entertain outdoors virtually year-round.

What oases would be complete without a waterfall and pond?

Fire pits make outdoor living at night enjoyable.

Outdoor Oases

FROM POOLS TO CABANAS, OUTDOOR ESCAPES DOES IT ALL ARTICLE JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHS BY LASKE IMAGES

I

f you’re a fan of HGTV and the host of other television home and home/yard improvement shows that have sprung up like kudzu in recent years, you know that extending a house’s living quarters outdoors is a huge trend nationwide.

This movement hasn’t missed Oklahoma, and Brian Scroggins is taking full advantage of that.

In 2004, as the trend was really starting to take off in this region, Scroggins launched his Moore-based business, Outdoor Escapes LLC, where he has been able to put his degrees in horticulture and landscape contracting and plant and soil sciences from Oklahoma State University to good use.

He chose Moore because, he says, it is “home to my family. My wife works as a veterinarian here, so Moore has always been her hometown, and after college we both moved back here to start our businesses.”

The business specializes in open-air living spaces, such as patios, cabanas, outdoor fireplaces and kitchens; landscaping; and swimming pools. Services offered also include building retaining walls, drainage and grading work, and irrigation installation.

So, what sets Outdoor Escapes apart from its competitors?

“We are a lot like a general contractor or home builder, where we can provide a one-stop service to our customers by taking care of all aspects of their outdoor construction project,” Scroggins said, adding, “We like to refer to ourselves as an outdoor contractor. Pretty much anything outdoors we handle. If we don’t build it in-house, we have a great team of subcontractors we can use to get most any job done for

26

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

our customers. Most customers like the fact they only have to deal with us on the whole project.”

LANDSCAPING

Landscaping, Scroggins said, involves much more than just plants.

“Although plants are an important part of the landscape,” he said, “patio layout and placement, along with features like arbors or solid roof cabanas and the placement of a fire feature or outdoor kitchen, all become part of the outdoor landscape these days. It’s what we like to refer to as outdoor living space. So the ultimate landscaped backyard usually has most or all of the previous items to make it a true outdoor living room for our clients.”

HARDSCAPING

Hardscaping has become a big part of Outdoor Escapes’ offerings.

Noting that they are a Belgard-certified paver installer, Scroggins points out that pavers are a great option for patios “because if they are installed right, they will be the last patio you have to lay. They do not crack like concrete patios will and can. Pavers are what we like to call a flexible system. Paver patios allow for ground movement and still keep their placement in the patio system.”

Retaining walls also play a big role in their business. “Retaining walls can be segmented block walls that have a color and decorative face, wood timber walls, walls made of masonry blocks and veneered with stone or brick, or simply using large mossy boulders to create a retaining wall,” he observed.

POOLS

Scroggins said Outdoor Escapes added pool construction to their repertoire about 10 years ago, after years of being called upon to replace improperly installed pool decks.

“We got to where we were installing paver patios for a lot of different pool companies, and thought how nice would it be if we just did the whole backyard project and not just the patios for these customers,” he said.

“With my background in landscape construction and design, I decided to start taking on the complete backyard by installing the pool, patio and landscape. … We can come in and build the customer’s dream pool, provide the proper patio system that works for them and solve any drainage issues they might have in their backyard (existing or newly created from the pool project), and then we can build that outdoor living space they always wanted.”

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Scroggins believes they offer something few competitors do: a landscaping/ hardscaping package tailor-designed for each customer.

“Most people want that outdoor living space, the patio, the fire feature, the outdoor kitchen and the landscape plants, to soften the hardscape features to make it their backyard oasis,” he said.

Outdoor Escapes can tackle projects costing from $2,500 to over $250,000, from ones taking days to six months.

“Our passion is outdoor living projects,” Scroggins said. “We love to start with nothing and end with a complete backyard that our customers and their families can enjoy for many years to come.”

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Ha r

hn

Jo

Market Timing Is a Losing Game

ri s

Financial Buzz

TRYING TO TIME MARKET ENTRIES, EXITS RARELY PAYS OFF ARTICLE WEALTH MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS INC.

M

arket timing seems so easy, in theory. Buy when prices are low and sell when they are at a high. Anyone who diligently follows the market and stays abreast of economic news can anticipate, and capitalize of these movements, right?

Wrong, at least not over the long term. As history has shown repeatedly, market timing is a losing game. Volumes of research critical of the practice have been written, and some of the greatest investment minds–William Sharpe, a Nobel laureate, Benjamin Graham, considered the father of value investing and John Bogle, founder of The Vanguard Group–have all counseled against it.

EXPERTS ARE RIGHT A FRACTION OF THE TIME

Even so-called market timing experts can’t consistently predict when to move in and out of the market. A study by CXO Advisory Group tracked more than 4,500 forecasts by 28 self-described market timers, between 2000 and 2012. Only 10 were able to accurately forecast equity returns (as measured by the S&P 500®) over 50% of the time, and none were able to predict accurately enough to outperform the market.1 Certainly, some investors have made accurate market calls, and others have predicted a market bottom or top. But over the long run, the law of averages usually wins out, effectively rendering a market timing strategy a game of chance.

As difficult as market timing is for professional investors, they are typically guided by a buy and sell discipline. Nonprofessional, individual investors tend to sell in a panic at or near a bottom, and buy in a flush of confidence at or close to a market top. Behaviors such as loss aversion, overconfidence, anchoring and avoidance often overtake rational decision making, resulting in losses.

FOOTNOTES/DISCLAIMERS Index Fund Advisors, Inc. (IFA.com), 2014. Based on a study by CXO Advisory, copyright: CXO

1

Advisory Group LLC. http://www.ifa.com/12steps/step4.

Source: Wealth Management Systems Inc. For the period from October 1, 1984, through

2

September 30, 2014. Based on the total returns of the S&P 500® index. Copyright © 2015, Wealth Management Systems Inc. All rights reserved. Not responsible for any errors or omissions.

The S&P 500® is a market-value-weighted index of 500 large capitalization stocks traded on the NYSE, AMEX and NASDAQ. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. For illustrative purposes only and does not reflect any specific product. Index returns assume reinvestment of dividends and do not reflect any fees or expenses. Indexes are unmanaged and it is not possible to invest directly in an index.

If you’d like to learn more, please contact John E Harris.

Article by Wealth Management Systems Inc. and provided courtesy of Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor.

The author(s) are not employees of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC ("Morgan Stanley").

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Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

MARKET TIMING YOUR WAY OUT OF MONEY

Perhaps the most significant deterrent to market timing is the cost of being out of the market. For example, the chart that follows shows the effect of missing the 12 top-performing months for stocks (as measured by the S&P 500®) during the 10-, 20-, and 30-year periods ended September 30, 2014. Investors who remained invested for the entire period would have achieved higher returns for each holding period than those who tried to time the market and missed. 2 THE EFFECT OF MISSING TOP PERFORMANCE PERIODS FOR STOCKS, PAST 30 YEARS

So if you are considering a market timing strategy, think again.

There are other choices, such as tactical asset allocation, that may allow you to take advantage of market opportunities, yet remain fully, or substantially invested. Let me work with you to pursue a strategy that suits your unique needs and long-term goals.

The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and data in the article or publication has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley.

Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation by Morgan Stanley with respect to the purchase or sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may be mentioned.

Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor(s) engaged Cleveland County Lifestyle to feature this article.

John Harris may only transact business in states where he is registered or excluded or exempted from registration www.morganstanleyfa.com/john.harris Transacting business, follow-up and individualized responses involving either effecting or attempting to effect transactions in securities, or the rendering of personalized investment advice for compensation, will not be made to persons in states where John Harris is not registered or excluded or exempt from registration. © 2015 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 1186975 [05/15]

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1263 S.Eastern, Suite B Moore, Oklahoma 73160 (405) 990-8944 | outdoorescapesllc.com April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

29

Lifestyle Calendar

April

pop to classic folk rock. The festival is free and open to the public and will take place on the 100, 200 and 300 blocks of historic Downtown East Main Street. Visit NormanMusicFestival.com.

APRIL 1-3 FROM 10 A.M. TO 7P.M.

EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY THROUGH MAY 21

MEDIEVAL FAIR OF NORMAN

THE YELLOW ROSE DINNER THEATER

REAVES PARK, NORMAN

MOORE

Step back in time for a day of revels at the Medieval Fair. Enjoy mirth

Oklahoma's only full-time year-round dinner theater. Shows are every Fri-

and merriment with kings, queens, knights and fools as the kingdom

day and Saturday night, with dinner starting at 6:30 p.m. Call 405.793.7779

comes alive. Visit MedievalFair.org.

for reservations. The featured production is "The Arizona Kid," a western

APRIL 16

with comedy, action and romance! Visit www.YellowRoseTheater.org.

NORMAN QUEST ADVENTURE RACE

APRIL 23

ANDREWS PARK, NORMAN

ANNUAL BUD BREAK FESTIVAL

The Norman Quest Adventure Race is designed to bring more aware-

SLAUGHTERVILLE

ness to Norman and its landmarks. This fun, challenging and educa-

A wine/beer festival organized by Canadian River Vineyards and

tional event is for people of all ages who reside in Norman and sur-

Winery. Featuring fine arts and crafts, a flea market, commercial/re-

rounding communities. The race begins and ends at Andrews Park.

tail, homegrown products, antique/collectibles exhibitors, local food

Check-in begins at 9 a.m. Visit NormanFun.com.

booths and local music talent. A highlight will be the blessing of the

APRIL 16 - 23

vine at 1 p.m. Visit CanadianRiverWinery.net/.

89ER DAY FESTIVAL AND PARADE

APRIL 24

DOWNTOWN LEXINGTON

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL

At 89er Days in Lexington, a variety of festivities to celebrate the Land

REAVES PARK, NORMAN

Run of 1889 will take place. Bring the whole family out to enjoy car-

Fun family activities focusing on the importance of protecting our Earth's

nival rides, live music, a car show, food vendors as well as arts and

air, water, forest, wildlife and all natural resources. Features hands-on art

crafts vendors. The parade begins at 2 p.m.

projects, musical entertainment, lovable mascots, pet adoptions and more.

APRIL 19

APRIL 28-MAY 1; 7 A.M.-5 P.M. DAILY

OKLAHOMA CITY NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

MOORE CITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE

OKLAHOMA CITY NATIONAL MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM

MOORE

State and local dignitaries, family members, survivors and rescue

The City of Moore is holding the annual city-wide garage sale. The

workers will gather for the Day of Remembrance at the Oklahoma

three-day event will be held at houses throughout the city that wish

City National Memorial & Museum. Music, 168 seconds of silence

to participate.

and a reading of the 168 names are a part of the ceremony. Visit www.OklahomaCityNationalMemorial.org.

APRIL 21

APRIL 30 89ER DAY PARADE NORMAN

COME BLOW YOUR HORN

Carrying the theme, Norman: History in the Making, this year's pa-

SOONER THEATRE, NORMAN

rade celebrates each decade of Norman's history, and will be both

An evening of music, entertainment, food and an auction. All proceeds

educational and entertaining. The parade will proceed from Pickard

benefit Bethesda, the only facility in Oklahoma devoted solely to help-

to Crawford avenues along Main Street. Visit Norman89er.com.

ing children and families heal from the trauma of childhood sexual abuse. Tickets are $50 at BethesdaOK.org. People are encouraged to

APRIL 30-MAY 1

wear blue. Visit VisitNorman.com/events/come-blow-horn.

MAY FAIR ARTS FESTIVAL

APRIL 21-23

ANDREWS PARK, NORMAN The Assistance League of Norman's annual May Fair Arts Festival

NORMAN MUSIC FESTIVAL

is an outdoor art show featuring 60+ artists and craftsmen. This

DOWNTOWN NORMAN

year's event includes stage entertainment, a 5k run, artist demonstra-

The annual Norman Music Festival features over 100 bands on multi-

tions, children's activities, a student art show, great food and special

ple stages. This music festival features everything from euphoric indie

events. 9 a.m.-6 p.m April 30 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 1.

30

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

DiD you know?

Your favorite

Lifestyle Publication is on facebook!

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April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

31

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

FASHION & ACCESSORIES Ritzy Gypsy (405) 673-7353 theritzygypsy.com

Frontier State Bank (405) 672-7831 frontier-ok.com Morgan Stanley/John Harris (405) 360-9166 Supreme Lending - Foster Team (405) 696-0072 charlesfoster.supremelending.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Brand Name Mattress Gallery (405) 799-3700 brandnamemattressgallery.com Decorating Den Interiors (405) 308-2611 decdens.com/denise Designer’s Market (405) 749-0070 designersmarket.biz

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

JEWELRY

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

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Oliveto Italian Bistro (405) 735-5553 olivetobistro.com

SALONS & SPAS Novella Salon & Spa (405) 703-0600 novellasalon.com

Eye Care Oklahoma (405) 799-7510 eyecareok.com

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

Valir Health (405) 609-3600 valir.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

OTHER

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

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

REAL ESTATE

Outdoor Escapes (405) 990-8944 outdoorescapesllc.com

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

FINANCIAL SERVICES HOME SERVICES & PLANNING

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Quality Buildings Inc. (877) 595-1875 qbijsa.com

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

Carpet | Tile & Stone | Hardwood | Laminate | Reliant | shawfloors.com

Legend Senior Living (405) 691-2300 legendseniorliving.com

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

HARDWOOD

For your next floor - the floor you’ve always dreamed of. Shaw hardwood...the essence of elegance.

The essence of elegance 32

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

2719 SOUTH SERVICE ROAD MOORE, OK 73160 405.703.4085 METROFLOORING.NET

Mother, daughter, wife, sister … friend.

As a woman, you play many roles for the people who are most important to you and, by choice or circumstance, wealth manager may be in your repertoire. In fact, in one out of four U.S. households with a net worth of $1 million or more, a woman is calling the shots when it comes to investing and spending money.1 Since your wealth touches many lives in many ways, it’s vital to get advice from a reliable source. At Morgan Stanley, you can expect to work with a Financial Advisor who invests time in understanding your specific situation and has the experience and resources needed to help you JOHN E HARRIS

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Phoenix High Net Worth Market Insights, August 2010 © 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

1

GP11-01086P-N07/11 7177437 SEG002 10/12

April 2016 | Cleveland County Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

Respect the Planet — It’s the Only One We Have OPTING FOR LOUIS ARMSTRONG'S WORLD VIEW

WORDS JERRI CULPEPPER | PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSEY DAVIES

L

awns are transitioning from brown to green. The redbuds, forsythia, flowering quince and a multitude of other trees, bushes and flowers are bursting forth in a riot of color. Tiny green, fragile shoots are boldly breaking through the earth in backyard gardens everywhere.

Spring has sprung, and who isn’t happy about that, unless it’s those of us with seasonal allergies?

While each of the four seasons holds its own unique allure, spring is the time most associated with renewal. After her long winter slumber, Mother Nature reawakens with a bang. With a bright flash of lightning and crack of thunder, the skies let loose a deluge of life-affirming rain, washing the air clean and leaving behind the fresh scent of ozone. My father used to talk about storms as living entities, with a life force and energy unlike any other force of nature–a concept I continue to find oddly compelling.

Surrounded by the sights, smells, textures and sounds of the season, the thoughts of many turn to walks along a lake or winding forest trail and other outside pursuits.

But already in many cities, and in many parts of the world, the air, water and earth itself have been so badly polluted by human industry that plants are stunted–where they grow at all–breathing the air has become hazardous, especially for those with asthma and other breathing problems, and many species of flora and fauna have become extinct.

Even more alarming, most scientists now agree that human activity has led to global climate change, with dire consequences, including life- and property-endangering extremes in weather (e.g., record heat, drought and fires). Even if you doubt the validity of global change theories, everyone should care about how pollution

34

Cleveland County Lifestyle | April 2016

is affecting our health and the food chain upon which all our lives depend. Mother Nature deserves our respect.

Fortunately, more and more people seem to be joining the “Earth camp”–foresighted people from all backgrounds and walks of life, blue collar and white collar, young and old, self-educated and college educated—who realize that immediate action on both the local and global scale is necessary to ensure a positive future for all living beings on this planet.

There are many ways to take action. Join an organization whose focus is the environment, such as the Earth Day Network (earthday.org/about/) or the Sierra Club (http://sierraclub.org/).

There's power in numbers. Keep up with legislation that has the potential to impact the environment in your community or state, and let your legislator or congressman know your views on the matter.

As an individual or family, you can initiate simple, environmentally friendly changes. Reduce your carbon footprint by buying local produce at your farm market. Create a garden compost and turn food waste into rich garden soil. Separate your recyclables from the rest of your trash and place them in the appropriate receptacles. Stop using disposable plastic and Styrofoam. Opt out of receiving junk mail.

Recycle your e-waste (an Internet search will yield a list of places that will accept this material). Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs throughout the house with compact fluorescent or LED bulbs.

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.

One of my favorite songs of all time is “What a Wonderful World,” sung by the indomitable Louis Armstrong, in which he speaks of “trees of green, red roses too,” “skies of blue and clouds of white” and “the colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky.” That’s the world I want to live in; how about you?

A VA I L A B L E A T