Thankful
BEAUTIFUL HOME PLANS
for
the way we live today
A large front porch welcomes you to this new home. Recently completed for our clients who favored home designs found largely in the southern states. Built by Matteson Custom Homes. This home is full of intricate details and fine craftsmanship throughout. It overlooks a beautiful lake and has a full walk out basement. We take pride in providing our client, the finest in custom home design!
For over 35 years, Brent Gibson Classic Home Design has been the premier residential custom home designer for Edmond, Oklahoma City and throughout the state, setting high standards of excellence in home design.
Being Thankful
For what are you thankful? Your and your family's health? A safe, warm and comfortable place to call home? Longtime friends who have your back? A secure job? The vibrant community in which we live and work?
Most of us could fill pages and pages of things for which we are thankful, or grateful.
In their new monthly column (which debuted last month), Mel Drake and Lestari Kusumawardani continue to explore some of the places, people and things that make Oklahoma City a rich and vibrant place to live.
Each month they include a nonprofit; this month, it's Not Your Average Joe Coffee Shop, a community of students and adults with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities joined together in the creation of exceptional coffee in an encouraging atmosphere. See page 28.
I am truly thankful for the many nonprofits in this area, each run by a dedicated cadre of hard-working folk determined to help our neighbors who are disenfranchised, homeless, with food insecurities, and/or who need assistance in the areas of employment, education, health etc. I hope you will consider supporting one of these worthy nonprofits during this month of giving and in the months to come.
Inside, you'll also read about a metro business that serves two important purposes in the metro area. It provides secure document shredding and data destruction, while creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for adults with developmental and intellectual challenges. Read more, page 24.
If showing your gratitude or thankfulness is on your list, The Jones Assembly in south OKC has your back. Treat friends and/or family to brunch or dinner, or purchase a gift card or other item from their selection of gifts. They will even prepare your Thanksgiving dinner for you. Or for a really special gift, order one of their take-away holiday dinners as a gift to show how thankful you are to someone in your life! See page 18.
In closing, publisher Jimmy Darden and I wish all our loyal readers and advertisers a bountiful Thanksgiving, filled with love and grace.
JERRI CULPEPPER, MANAGING EDITOR @CITYLIFESTYLE_OKC
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@citylifestyle.com
405.541.5650
MANAGING EDITOR
Jerri Culpepper | jerri.culpepper@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS
Tiarra “Tea” Harper
Mel Drake
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Harlea Robinson
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Murphy Barnett, Jerri Culpepper, Lindsey Davies, Mel Drake, Lestari Kusumawardani
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
city scene
1-14: The Oklahoma City Museum of Art held its 48th Renaissance Ball, presented by Bank of Oklahoma, Sept. 6 at the Oklahoma City Golf and Country Club. 1 & 3: Some guests came dressed as Hollywood costume designer Edith Head. 2: The black-tie gala’s theme reflected the museum’s summer exhibition on Ms. Head. Photography by Logan Walcher of Proxima Bear Productions
ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
Remington Park Hosts Classic Christmas
Crafted by Enchant Christmas, the creators of the renowned World's Largest Christmas Light Maze, Classic Christmas is an immersive, community-focused holiday celebration taking place at Remington Park Nov. 22-Dec. 29. Experiences include 55,000 square feet of dazzling, interactive light sculptures, a market square featuring local food and retail vendors, live entertainment, holiday-themed food and beverages, ice skating, a snow slide, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Tickets now on sale: ClassicChristmas.com.
Photography Courtesy of Enchant Christmas
Paseo Arts Association Sets Awards Dinner
The 18th Annual Paseo Arts Awards Dinner and Auction will be held on Thursday, Nov. 21, at City + State Venue & Events, 19 NE 6th Street, OKC. Award recipients are Skip Hill, Lifetime Achievement Award; Nicole Moan, Artist of the Year Award; Suzanne Thomas, Michi Susan Award, Melissa Scaramucci, Creative Placemaking Award; Lea Morgan, Volunteer Service Award; and Carlos Barboza, Emerging Artist Award. Tickets $85 (VIP, $150). FMI, call 405.525.2688 or email amanda@ thepaseo.org.
Capital Grille Opens in OKC
The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks, world-class wines and exceptional service, last month opened its first Oklahoma City restaurant. Located in OAK at 2100 NW Expressway, the Capital Grille's signature items include dry aged bone-in NY strip with shallot butter and sliced filet mignon with cipollini onions, wild mushrooms and fig essence The restaurant is helmed by managing partner Brian Schwartztrauber, who celebrates 17 years with The Capital Grille. For more information: 405.529.3164; TheCapitalGrille.com/home
Productions to Bring Magic of Theatre to Young Audiences
Season tickets are now available for purchase for the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre's 2025 "Season of Kindness."
The Ultimate Care for Your Ultimate Smile
To ensure that everyone can experience the magic of live theatre, OCT will also offer sensory-friendly performances throughout the season. The season begins in the spring with A Sick Day for Amos McGee, followed by Seussical Jr. and Disney’s The Little Mermaid . Rounding out the season are the uplifting stories of Maddie’s Fridge and Corduroy. OklahomaChildrensTheatre.org At Implant & Prosthodontic Associates, we are singularly dedicated to providing you the ultimate in personalized restorative care with the goal of achieving your ultimate smile.
Dr. Roberta Wright
Dr. Lars Bouma
Bella SPCA Sets ‘Cause for Paws' Fundraiser
Join Bella SPCA from 7-10 p.m. Dec. 6, at Castle Falls, 820 N. MacArthur Blvd., OKC, for their fourth annual “Cause for Paws” fundraiser. Guests will enjoy a fun evening celebrating this year's accomplishments and growth. Attendees will enjoy a delicious buffet-style dinner, cash bar, a live and silent auction and more. Proceeds from this event will support the Bella SPCA Veterinary Hospital. Buy tickets and learn more at tinyurl. com/CauseforPaws2024
ARTICLE BY JERRI CULPEPPER
for the Holidays Visit The Jones Assembly
Get into the holiday spirit at The Jones Assembly, a 20,000-square-foot dining and entertainment destination located on the west end of downtown OKC on historic Film Row.
FROM GREAT FOOD AND DRINK, TO ENTERTAINMENT AND SHOPPING, THEY HAVE IT ALL COVERED
Love the holidays, but don’t love all the hassle and time required on your part to make it shine? The Jones Assembly has your back!
Here are just some of the ways The Jones Assembly, conveniently located on the west end of downtown on historic Film Row, can help you pull it all together— seamlessly and elegantly.
It all starts with Thanksgiving. Ticket orders will be taken early this month for The Jones Assembly’s to-go Thanksgiving meals, which will be ready for pick-up the Wednesday before the big day. The meals include a smoked turkey, whipped potatoes, sage sourdough stuffing, cranberry sauce and dessert. If desired, appetizers (dips & spreads, deviled eggs, scratch biscuits) and wine packages can be added to your order.
While you’re out enjoying the fall weather and all the festivals and other happenings that take place in the metro this time of year, make sure to drop by The Jones Assembly for brunch or dinner and some “me” time (reservations suggested). Check out their seasonal chef-crafted food menu, which include scallops, lobster bisque, Nashville hot chicken and cacio e pepe wood-fired pizzas, and specialty cocktails, including a Moscow mule on tap, Disco Nap and Dagwell Dixie.
If you’ve never visited before, you’ll be interested to learn that this 20,000-square-foot dining and entertaining destination features two outdoor patios (downstairs patio is climate-controlled), plus a full-service bar, a coffee program and a 225-seat dining room. The year-round menu runs the gamut from scratch biscuits and wood-fired pizzas to steak frites.
Firewood and wreaths form an unusual but elegant holiday backdrop.
The Jones Assembly’s elaborate holiday decor starts just outside the front doors, providing a hint of what’s to come.
A huge Christmas trees adds warmth and cheer to one of the spaces in The Jones Assembly.
The Jones Assembly offers several holiday gift options, ranging from candles to gift cards, to help shoppers complete their holiday gift list.
A mixologist prepares a cocktail for a customer.
December is when things really get hopping at The Jones Assembly, when you’ll find incredible holiday-themed décor throughout the space. Other December happenings include:
· Jingle Bingo (date pending), a holiday spin on their summer bingo nights
· Gospel Brunch on Sunday, Dec 22. Enjoy an over-the-top festive buffet and gospel performance from the West Village Shakers and a visit from Santa.
The Jones Assembly also has you covered when it comes to Christmas shopping for family and friends. They offer a range of holiday merchandise, including 54-oz custom candles in tandem with Tallgrass Supply & Paseo Pottery, Disco Nap ornaments, coffee mugs, hats, concert tickets and, of course, gift cards.
The holiday celebrations conclude with a major New Year’s Eve party and show with My So Called Band.
“The Holidays at The Jones are truly an inspiring time,” says Graham Colton, partner. “It’s that time of year when we really amp-up our tagline, ‘Food, Spirits, and Music’ every day! We built The Jones Assembly to be a place for all to celebrate life’s special moments with friends and loved ones, and the holidays are just that! We go all-out with decorations and I hope our guests feel transported when they walk through our doors.”
JONES ASSEMBLY 901 W. Sheridan Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73106 405.212.2378 TheJonesAssembly.com
CREATING OPPORTUNITIES
Center Provides Document Shredding/Data Destruction While Creating Inclusive Work Environment for Adults with Developmental/ Intellectual Challenges
ARTICLE BY MURPHY BARNETT
For more than 40 years, The Meadows Center for Opportunity has served two important purposes in the metro area. The Edmond-based nonprofit organization provides secure document shredding and data destruction, while creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for adults with developmental and intellectual challenges.
“The reward is coming to work and watching our employees enjoy being here. It’s a family atmosphere, to be sure.”
The Meadows employs people with differing abilities to help provide quality, efficient service for their customers. Currently, they provide business services to more than 2,500 organizations and businesses across the state.
“What drives us is the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of the people we serve, through employment and vocational training. No other mission or driving force for us is greater,” explains James Hill, executive director.
“Adults with developmental and intellectual challenges have been historically shunned from working within the community,” he adds. “Employment provides a sense of purpose, fulfillment, satisfaction and a feeling of inclusion. Our uniqueness is in who we employ. Seventy percent of our workforce has a developmental challenge, and they produce high-quality results.”
The Meadows provides controlled employment and training services to individuals with developmental
disabilities and with trauma-related brain injuries. The business strives to provide every employee with specialized training and work opportunities designed to help them realize their maximum potential and productivity.
In addition to their shredding and data destruction services, The Meadows provides packaging, equipment delivery, assembling, bulk mailing preparations and more. They also recently added a mobile shredding service and can bring a mobile unit to a business or home, shredding on-site.
“Our document destruction business provides the community a means to safely shred their documents, and our businesses and residential customers can feel confident that their documents are handled in a secure and industry-professional manner,” James explains. “We readily respond to our customers’ needs relating to quality and turn-around time.”
The Meadows ensures their employees have the resources they need to enjoy a successful work day by
providing responsive training, allowing a flexible work pace and offering behavioral support and counseling.
“Our employees work at a pace they’ve set for themselves,” James says. “We provide grace to our employees. There are moments when an employee may have a bad day and we can gently and compassionately counsel with the employee, redirecting and giving them time and space to re-engage in a better way. Our staff is trained to be able to respond in a way that benefits both the employee and the business.”
The Meadows prides themselves on offering a safe work environment that supports its employees, James notes, adding that in addition to encouraging growth, education, safety and mental health, The Meadows also supports through a benefits and retirement package.
“It’s been the absolute best job I’ve ever had the pleasure to do. Being a part of The Meadows has helped me keep things in perspective, and my crew helps keep me grounded and stay focused on what really matters, which are people and relationships,” James says.
“The reward is coming to work and watching our employees enjoy being here. It’s a family atmosphere, to be sure.”
Readers interested in supporting The Meadows have several options, including hiring the company for its shredding and/or other business services. People also may sponsor or participate in the business’s annual Walk-a-Thon fundraiser or make a direct donation to support the organization.
To learn more about The Meadows and their services and mission, visit MeadowsOklahoma.com
or
OKC VIBES
MEL & LESTARI’S INSIDER SCOOP TO THE CITY!
ARTICLE BY LESTARI KUSUMAWARDANI & MEL DRAKE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEL DRAKE
Hey, fabulous OKC friends! It’s Mel and Lestari here, ready to sprinkle a little holiday magic into your November with our latest insider scoop.
This month, we’re embracing the heartwarming spirit of “Giving” to coincide with Thanksgiving. Whether you’re sharing a meal, a moment or a favorite spot, we’re here to help you celebrate in style.
Come join us at our table, as we dive into the vibrant tapestry of Oklahoma City and discover how giving back can be as delightful as it is meaningful.
WHERE TO GIVE & EAT
Coffee Shop Empowering With Heart: Not Your Average Joe Coffee Shop
Step into a place where every sip counts and every encounter is meaningful—welcome to Not Your Average Joe Coffee Shop!
Nestled in Midtown OKC, this café isn't just about great coffee—it's a mission to empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through meaningful employment.
Their cozy welcoming atmosphere mixed with a little rustic charm and modern flair is perfect for lingering conversations over expertly crafted lattes. The menu bursts with flavor and creativity, offering rich brews and delightful treats that satisfy every palate. By enjoying a cup here, you support a movement of inclusivity and community empowerment.
So grab a cup, enjoy the cozy atmosphere and let’s toast to making a difference one delicious sip at a time!
Not Your Average Joe Coffee Shop
227 N. Walker Ave., Suite 300, Oklahoma City, OK 73103 NYAJ.coffee
WHAT TO DO
Holiday Joy at Bricktown Festival
Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival
Bricktown outside of the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark Nov. 12 | downtownindecember.com/tree-lighting
WHERE TO STAY
Luxurious Urban Retreat in OKC
The National, Autograph Collection 120 N. Robinson Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Marriott.com/en-us/hotels/okcad-the-national-autographcollection/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0
WHERE TO SHOP
Betsy King Shoes
Stylish shoes, support local community 3001 Paseo, Oklahoma City, OK 73103 | BetsyKingShoes.com
UNTIL
NEXT MONTH!
So, there you have it, our top picks for November! We truly hope you find inspiration and joy in these recommendations. Remember, the true spirit of this month is found in giving, sharing and celebrating the community that makes OKC shine.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Cheers, Mel & Lestari
Lights, Trains, Etc.
Our 4 Top Picks for Family Fun This Holiday Season
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY DAVIES
Time to don your light-up jingle bell necklaces and pull on your elf slippers! We’ve selected four holiday-themed activities that are guaranteed to put smiles on the whole family’s faces. Whether you prefer the comfort and warmth of a theatre or heated car or the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered. Read on!
OKC ZOO SAFARI LIGHTS
Nov. 9-Jan. 1, 5:30-11 p.m.
OKC Zoo’s Safari Lights features a largerthan-life light display showcasing over 59 wildlife-themed light sculptures viewable on a driving tour. Feel the holiday cheer with animated light displays, festive treats, kids’ activities and weekends with Santa. Also available is a separate walking experience with interactive light exhibits, musical light performances and other winter magic.
Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden, 2000 Remington Place, OKC OKCZoo.org/our-events/event/4175883
OKC BROADWAY PRESENTS:
HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS
Nov. 6-10
Don’t miss OKC Broadway’s production of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Civic Center Music Hall. Bring the whole family to enjoy the whimsical tale of the scheming Grinch and his attempt to steal Christmas from the holiday-loving Whos of Whoville. Civic Center Music Hall, 209 N. Walker, OKC OKCCivicCenter.com
DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER
November through January
Spend your holidays experiencing fun activities as downtown Oklahoma City is turned into a winter wonderland. Check out the Saints Santa Run presented by SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital, set for Saturday, Dec. 7.
This holiday run invites all ages, and even pets, to downtown OKC for a festive 5K and costume contest. Choose between a 5K Walk/ Run, 1-Mile Fun Run and free Kids’ Dash. Downtown OKC DowntowninDecember.com
THE POLAR EXPRESS
Nov. 11-Dec. 29 (closed Christmas Day) Make holiday memories to last a lifetime. Settle into your railway seat and sip hot chocolate while listening to an exciting reading of Christmas stories. The ride also features Christmas carols, cookies, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and goodie bags for kids. Oklahoma Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand Blvd., OKC OKCThePolarExpressRide.com
Board the Polar Express at the Oklahoma Railway Museum.
The Saints Santa Run is open to all ages, and pets, too!
OKC Zoo’s Safari Lights runs Nov. 9-Jan. 1. (Photo by Lindsey Davies)
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2ND
Asian District Cultural & Culinary Tour
Oklahoma City Asian District | 10:30 AM
Embark on a unique cultural and culinary tour of Oklahoma City's Asian District, alongside the Asian District Cultural Association's President Mike Hoang and guest Michael To. From bánh mì sandwiches and pho to an assortment of Chinese dim sum, participants enjoy the district's flavorful food, friendly people and diverse history. All food on this tour is included with registration.AsianDistrictOk.com
NOVEMBER 3RD
Festival de Vida y Muerte
Scissortail Park, OKC | 12:00 PM
Take part in the traditional Hispanic celebration of life and death during Festival de Vida y Muerte – Day of the Dead. Join the community as they celebrate loved ones who have passed. Enjoy interactive activities, community ofrendas, authentic food and more. Attendees can shop in the cultural market, watch traditional dances and hear live music. ScissortailPark.org
NOVEMBER 9TH - JANUARY 1ST
OKC Zoo Safari Lights
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
OKC Zoo's Safari Lights features larger-than-life light displays showcasing over 59 wildlife-themed light sculptures viewable on a driving tour through the zoo. Feel the holiday cheer with animated light displays, festive treats, kids' activities and weekend visits with Santa. Safari Lights includes a separate walking experience with interactive light exhibits, musical light performances and lots of other winter magic. OkcZoo.org
NOVEMBER 11TH - DECEMBER 27TH
The Polar Express
Oklahoma Railway Museum, OKC
Board this Oklahoma City train to make holiday memories to last a lifetime. Settle into your railway seat and sip hot chocolate while listening to an exciting reading of Christmas stories. This holiday train ride also features Christmas carols, cookies, a visit with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, and goodie bags for kids. OklahomaRailwayMuseum.org/Polar-Express
NOVEMBER 12TH
Oklahoma City Tree Lighting Festival
Mickey Mantle Plaza Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, OKC | 5:30 PM
Gather around the Mickey Mantle Plaza at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and watch as Mayor David Holt begins this festive occasion by lighting the Christmas tree. Stick around to enjoy family-friendly activities like free photos with Santa, face painting, caricatures, a Letters to Santa station and an array of live performances. DowntownInDecember.com/Tree-Lighting
NOVEMBER 15TH - 17TH
Mistletoe Market
Oklahoma City Convention Center
This three-day sale has become a tradition for shoppers in Oklahoma and features vendors with unique gifts, including home decor, women's clothing and accessories, Christmas decor, food, jewelry, and stationery. There will also be live music and cuisine from local restaurants to satisfy your hunger while shopping. JLOC.org/Mistletoe-Market
