P. 4 Kevin Stitt’s term ends in just two years, and he has spent most of his time as Oklahoma’s governor focusing on making Oklahoma a top 10 state. But very little has actually been accomplished to pull the state out of its often low rankings, and Stitt is running out of time.
By Gazette staff
by Kimberly Walker
By Gazette staff
Part slogan, part campaign promise and part road map for his work as governor, the promise to push Oklahoma into the upper rankings of health care, education, economic growth and nearly every other metric was made by Kevin Stitt when he was elected in 2018.
“It’s time for Oklahoma to take its rightful place as a top 10 state,” Stitt said at his election night party six years ago. “Oklahoma’s turnaround starts right here, right now.”
The “top 10” catchphrase was partly a response to decades of headlines and studies that showed Oklahoma at the bottom. “Thank God for Mississippi” became a popular adage to point out that at least one other state often ranked lower.
But with Stitt entering the final quarter of his administration, Oklahoma often appears just as “bottom of the barrel” as it did nearly six years ago.
The governor’s office was so committed to the “top 10” goal that it created
an online dashboard to track the state’s rankings. Some of the measures include oil and gas production, an industry in which the state ranked in the top 10 well before Stitt’s arrival.
Others, like educational attainment, access to health care and even high-speed internet service are on the dashboard where the state still has low rankings.
Other metrics Oklahoma is ranked in the bottom 10 for include teen pregnancy (ranked fifth highest), infant mortality (10th), suicide rate (ninth) and rural hospital closings (ninth).
Stitt might not be directly to blame for every low metric, but moving up the ranking board was the foundation of his campaign for governor.
Even today, he continues to use the slogan — “So get out and do your civic duty, and let’s continue to make Oklahoma top 10!” he posted online during last November’s election.
Stitt’s concerns
Stitt’s office lists the state’s suicide rate, of which Oklahoma has the eighth highest rate, on its metrics dashboard.
Stitt’s office has promoted improve-
ment in mental health care, but one of the major factors in the state’s high suicide rate is access to firearms. When Stitt entered office in 2017, Oklahoma had the fifth-highest rate of gun deaths at 19.6 per 100,000, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. In 2022, the state’s gun death rate had ticked slightly higher to 19.8. During his second month in office, Stitt signed a bill approving “permitless carry,” which allowed all Oklahomans over the age of 21 to carry a gun without a permit or training. The average number of gun deaths increased by nearly 20 percent in the years following the law’s passage. Oklahoma’s high prison rate was one area of focus for Stitt, including in his first year when he issued 774 commutations. When Stitt came into office, Oklahoma’s prison rate of 1,079 per 100,000 residents was the highest in the nation, according to Prison Policy Initiative. In 2024, the rate was 905 and the state ranked fourth.
Oklahoma’s prison population was on the decline before Stitt took office, and in 2016, voters approved a series of reclassifications that reduced penalties for some simple drug and property offenses. But criminal justice reform advocates say more substantial policy changes are needed, especially as incarceration rates have slightly increased in recent years.
“The trend back to higher incarceration rates was predictable due to lack of substantial criminal legal reform in the state despite tremendous efforts by reform advocates,” wrote Steve Lewis for Oklahoma Policy Institute.
A former businessman, Stitt has also targeted the state’s economy as one of his top priorities. His online dashboard of metrics highlights the unemployment rate, per capita
and gross domestic product growth.
When Stitt took office, Oklahoma’s unemployment rate was 3.2 percent, the 15th lowest in the nation. Today, it’s 3.3 percent, which ranks 16th.
Stitt’s online dashboard shows per capita personal income in the state at $62,860, which ranks 41st.
Beyond rankings, Stitt has also pushed for signature economic development projects, including courting companies like Panasonic and Tesla without success.
Some see the shortcomings in attracting large manufacturing companies as a product of the culture war politics the state has made its focus in recent years.
When Panasonic chose Kansas over Oklahoma for its new electric car battery factory, some Democrats believed Oklahoma’s anti-LGBTQ and anti-abortion rights laws were partly to blame.
When Volkswagen chose Canada over Oklahoma for a new factory, officials with the car company cited Canada’s support of environmental, social and governance (ESG) investments, which Stitt had called “woke ideology.”
For some, the economic gains of Oklahoma over the last several years are
largely due to Oklahoma City and Tulsa, the state’s two largest urban centers.
Many of the state’s largest challenges are heightened in rural counties. The unemployment rate is higher in rural Oklahoma than in urban counties, and at least 25 rural hospitals are at immediate risk of closing, the fourth highest number in the nation, according to the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform.
While Oklahoma regularly ends up on “bottom 10” lists, Oklahoma City has been listed on several economic lists rating top cities for job growth, home buying and income level. U.S. News and World Report recently ranked OKC as the 16th best place to live based on a variety of factors. The same publication ranked Oklahoma No. 43 in its state rankings.
In 2022, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt acknowledged his city sometimes has to contend with the reputation of the state.
“There is a huge difference between Oklahoma City and Oklahoma,” Holt said. “We are a place that officially celebrates Pride and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we welcome immigrants, and recently created a human rights commission. We are extremely inclusive, and I think it would be very unfortunate for people to make decisions about Oklahoma City based on their opinion
of Oklahoma.”
Some have blamed the struggles of rural Oklahoma on Stitt’s hostile posture toward many of the state’s tribal governments.
Last year, former State Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat, an Oklahoma City Republican, called Stitt’s aggression towards tribal communities “nonsensical.”
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has also blamed Stitt for destroying the state’s relationship with the tribes, many of which manage large swaths of rural Oklahoma.
“Oklahoma’s relationship with our tribal nations has suffered greatly as a result of the governor’s divisive rhetoric and ceaseless legal attacks,” Drummond said.
Educational rankings
The state rankings that often receive the most attention are in education, where Oklahoma has consistently received low marks for academic achievement, graduation rates and school funding.
Stitt came into office without appointing a new education secretary. Instead, he tapped State Superintendent Joy Hofmeister, a sign of his trust in the state’s Department of Education.
When schools closed during the pan-
demic because they didn’t have enough healthy teachers, Stitt grew frustrated and his relationship with Hofmeister appeared to decline. A few years later, she challenged him in his reelection campaign, which he soundly won.
Stitt’s most significant contribution to the state’s education system might be his appointment of Ryan Walters as his education secretary, which helped springboard him to being elected state superintendent in 2022.
Since then, the state’s education ratings have continued to flounder, including last year when a WalletHub study ranked Oklahoma with the second-worst education system.
“We can’t be a top 10 state without a top 10 education system,” Stitt said last year.
By Ben Felder CITY
An Oklahoma City police officer leaned against his car, watching as a two-man crew tossed a shopping cart, empty suitcase and other items into the back of a trailer. A homeless encampment in a north Oklahoma City park was being dismantled on a windy fall afternoon, a visible show of the city’s effort to decrease its homeless population.
But this cleanup job was just the last step in a new program designed to transition people experiencing homelessness into housing.
Launched last year, the city’s Key to Home program is a more than $12 million effort to reverse the recent trend of increased homelessness. Part of the goal is to reduce the visibility of homeless encampments with a supportive yet firm approach: Social services and housing are the first steps, followed by a citation and, if necessary, forcible removal.
According to the city, 21 encampments have been closed and more than 330 individuals have been moved into stable housing. Around 91 percent of those who are engaged by Key to Home case workers accept support, which the city says dispels the notion that many experiencing homelessness don’t want help. City officials said none of the contacts have ended with a citation or arrest.
“We are thrilled at the progress we’ve made so far,” said Jamie Caves, the partnership strategy implementation manager for the Key to Home program.
The new program has its challenges. The region’s network of homeless organizations has had to alter its work, and some closed encampments have spurred perceptions of a focus on areas with big economic development programs — “Not true,” said Erika Warren, a Key to Home spokesperson.
Key to Home also comes at a time
when local governments have been given permission to be more aggressive in responding to homelessness. Some cities across the country and in Oklahoma have used aggressive laws and citations to forcibly clear the streets of homeless individuals.
However, Key to Home supporters said it’s not only a more humane way to respond to homelessness but also leads to long-term success.
“They are our neighbors, but they have some enormous challenges we can hardly imagine, and programs like Key to Home meet the need,” Mayor David Holt said.
Under Key to Home, the city has been divided into zones that are assigned to different social agencies. An outreach team makes initial contact with an encampment to determine what needs exist and how many people need help.
Once a camp is identified for closure, case managers start to visit more frequently and organize housing units along with the support services needed. The goal is to have everyone in the encampment housed within four to six weeks, with support services remaining for up to a year.
“Before Key to Home, the coordination (among various agencies) wasn’t as sophisticated as it could be,” Warren said.
Meghan Mueller, CEO of Homeless Alliance, a partner in Key to Home, said the case managers are critical in ensuring newly housed individuals don’t end up back on the streets.
“The case managers are really walking alongside folks because it can be a pretty jarring transition,” Mueller said. “Going from an encampment to moving (to an apartment) in a couple of weeks is such a rapid process, so it’s really important for a case manager to help people stabilize and develop the skills that they need to live in an apart-
ment. When it’s that abrupt, it can be overwhelming.”
While Homeless Alliance has been working in the homeless community for many years, Mueller said the Key to Home program brings a paradigm shift.
“Before (Key to Home), people were self-selecting into the support system, the client was taking the first step to engage us ... either by calling a provider or showing up for day shelter services or overnight services,” Mueller said. “But we are now engaging with people who have not engaged with that process themselves.”
When an encampment is identified, a date is set for closure.
“We work with the police department’s Homeless Outreach Team, and they will tell people, ‘This site is closing, and if you are here after this date, you are subject to trespassing and possible arrest,’” Warren said. “That’s a last resort and not something that I think has ever happened since the program started.”
The police department’s Homeless Outreach Team also coordinates with area police precincts to make sure other officers know an encampment is being addressed.
“They might let the local precinct know that an encampment in their jurisdiction has been identified and doesn’t need police intervention at this time,” Warren said. “We don’t want any misunderstanding. After closure, we can say, ‘This site is closed, so let us know if you still see people.’”
Cathy, who has been homeless for at least three years, said she has had contact with workers from the Key to Home program but hasn’t accepted housing. Police and city workers have cleared her encampments at least twice, but she has always moved to a different neighborhood.
“I just haven’t been able to stick with it when it comes to getting help; I’ve had
some ... issues with abuse in the past,” said Cathy, whose last name is being withheld to protect her identity.
Warren said victims of domestic abuse can be the most challenging to help, which is why she believes the holistic approach of Key to Homes can be so impactful. Oklahoma has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the country.
Key to Home partners acknowledge that a person might not be placed in a home on the first attempt, but the hope is that continuing to build trust will eventually be successful.
“The trust-building becomes so important,” Mueller said. “It’s hard to quickly build the rapport that’s necessary.”
Last year, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that cities can ban people from camping in public places. Across the country, some cities responded with new laws.
Before the ruling, Shawnee city leaders passed an ordinance prohibiting sitting or lying down on sidewalks, an effort to move homeless individuals from the city’s downtown.
“It is a very difficult balancing act, balancing those competing needs between unhoused and housed neighbors,” said Andrea WeckmuellerBehringer, Shawnee’s city manager. Warren, with Key to Home, hopes the city’s new program shows a helping hand is more effective than a ticket.
“We want to address this problem because we don’t want people living on the street,” Warren said. “People deserve housing, and they deserve dignity.”
By Gazette contributor
Heading toward the 2025 Oklahoma legislative session, lawmakers can reflect on last year’s session, “The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.” After seeing over 3,000 potential bills filed for consideration, the session boiled down to a handful of meaningful issues and scored few real points for Oklahoma.
The good: progress on grocery taxes for seniors
This was a significant win for Oklahoma’s elderly population, most living on fixed incomes and feeling the bite of inflation. As the state continues to grapple with the rising cost of living, lawmakers must remember this is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to improving the lives of some of Oklahoma’s most vulnerable citizens.
The bad: harmful immigration legislation
The passing of a law to fine and incarcerate undocumented immigrants represented a divisive and quite harmful attempt to addressing illegal immigration. This policy will only deepen divisions within communities and can harm local economies, especially in industries such as agriculture that rely heavily on immigrant labor. The law was not only punitive but also symbolized lawmakers’ attempts to be politically expedient, grab headlines and ignore real issues that benefit Oklahomans.
The ugly: a public, childish dispute between the governor and the Oklahoma State Senate
The budget approval process was significantly delayed and hindered by the conflicting views of Governor Stitt, who is seemingly hell-bent on reducing or eliminating state income taxes, and the Senate’s view that tax cuts should be measured and responsible. Everyone would like to pay less in taxes, but we also want to live in a state with good schools, infrastructure and social systems to help the less fortunate. We also need to be mindful that Oklahoma has a boom/bust economy, due to being heavily reliant on oil and gas. Joe Biden was our economy’s best friend, by limiting domestic drilling and keeping oil prices high. Donald Trump wants lower energy prices, which would also hurt our revenues from this sector, so any discussion of tax cuts should be mindful of history and what happens here in a downturn. Regardless, the process was very public and embarrassing. Possibly the low light was the picture of 8-10 white males sitting around a table, trying to hash out an agreement with two of Oklahoma’s most high-profile female legislators relegated to the cheap seats. The process undoubtedly im-
paired Oklahoma in multiple ways, as it likely involved much give and take that would have been better served in funding areas of need and cutting wasteful initiatives.
Perhaps the most high-profile outcome of last year’s session, a tax credit around “School Choice,” would best be described as The Undecided, as only time will tell if this benefited anyone other than the mostly wealthy Oklahomans who took advantage of it. The other clear winner was our state’s private schools, which used the laws of supply and demand to immediately raise their tuition rates to take advantage of parents’ newfound ability to pay. The battle cry of school choice seems to smack of a total lack of regard for our 49th-ranked public schools and ignore the long-term impact on our economy and state. For the seemingly very few parents who can now afford private school or home schooling for their kids, congratulations are in order. Time will tell, but the centerpiece of last year’s legislative effort seems to be a nonevent for anyone but wealthier Oklahomans with kids attending Heritage Hall or Cassidy and grandstanding politicians.
Resolutions for 2025
1. Focus on issues that matter: Stop the obsession with ideological battles, such as Dusty Deevers filing 9 bills for last session ranging from criminalizing abortion to making no-fault divorce illegal in Oklahoma. Oklahoma needs to focus on our schools, health care and strengthening our economy.
2. Try to help all Oklahomans, not just your base: Please consider the needs of the entire state. This means taking a more inclusive approach to policymaking, prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities, rural residents, seniors end even those who don’t always agree with you politically.
3. Start doing your job instead of just trying to keep your job: There’s a pervasive sense in Oklahoma politics that lawmakers spend more time worrying about reelection than actually governing. Fear of political repercussions often leads to compromise on important issues and focusing on short-term gains vs longterm solutions.
4. Make agency heads accountable: We have seen the recent
resignation of an agency head related to mismanagement of resources and a multi-million-dollar contract directed to her spouse’s employer. Another highranking agency official also resigned a few months later over very similar circumstances. The Oklahoma State Department of Education is a complete disaster and has all but given the middle finger to lawmakers’ efforts to demand accountability. This is dangerous and has to stop immediately.
5. Be bipartisan, stop the sideshows and don’t embarrass Oklahoma: For a group of elected officials, is it too much to ask to just act like statesmen?
More specifically
1. Make Oklahoma a better place for women: Our state was ranked dead last for women in 2023. This is due to lack of access to health care, incarceration rates, teenage pregnancy rates, job opportunities and compensation disparities.
2. Help rural Oklahoma: Rural Oklahomans need better jobs, better schools and better access to health care. Rural Oklahoma elected many of our lawmakers and is widely responsible for Kevin Stitt being our governor. It seems they are getting short-changed in return and deserve much better outcomes.
3. Work together with tribal partners: Oklahoma is home to 39 Native American tribes, each with a rich cultural heritage and a crucial role in the state’s economy. If lawmakers would better cooperate and collaborate with our tribal leadership, it would benefit the tribal nations and our state as a whole.
4. Fund and fix our public schools: We are almost worst in show. There are no excuses here.
5. Leadership starts with a vision: Governor Stitt needs to look toward his last two years to leave Oklahoma in a better place, not just with more money in the bank. Top 10 status is not realistic with just two years to go. Focus on the basics and moving the ball down the field. Progress is critical and requires an action plan and leadership from the top. Health care, education, prisons, rural communities and our state’s reputation have much room for improvement in a time when we have a very strong economy and no excuses for many if not most of our shortcomings. The GOP has been in total control of our state for over a dozen years, so it starts with a look in the mirror.
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The Oklahoma House has created a new website where residents are asked to submit complaints about government waste. House Speaker Kyle Hilbert said the website is modeled after efforts by President Donald Trump to create a more efficient government. That makes sense because the president’s first term was simply a model of efficiency and competence.
You have to imagine State Superintendent Ryan Walters’ name will be prevalent on this new website. From costly out-of-state consultants to a push for Trump Bibles in the classroom, Walters has spent the last few years teaching a master class in government waste.
There are also the millions the state is spending to put wealthy children in private schools. What about Gov. Kevin Stitt’s annual push to give away millions to shaky eclectic car companies and rural theme parks?
There’s plenty of government waste to be found, and it probably didn’t require a website to find it. But here’s wishing lawmak ers the best on their wasteful spending crusade ... and the pan dering this will afford them next election season.
In 2023, an Oklahoma board approved the nation’s first religious charter school, St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School. As a charter school, St. Isidore would have been entitled to public funding, but the state Supreme Court later called it un constitutional. You know, the whole separation of church and state thing.
Now, this church/ school is hoping to bring its case before the U.S. Supreme Court, where justices have been more friendly toward Christian causes, especially if there’s a free vacation involved.
However, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond is asking the U.S. Supreme Court not to take up the case, arguing it should be considered a state matter. Opponents also fear that if the U.S. Supreme Court were to give the Catholic school approval, it would set a nationwide precedent for churches to start schools that receive public funds.
Given the fact that Oklahoma isn’t really a leader in education (or health care, or mental health, or public safety or anything else), the Supreme Court would be wise not to let the Sooner State set any kind of educational precedent for others to follow.
Sweeping down the plains along the Turner Turnpike (and other toll roads across the state) just got more expensive as Oklahoma Turnpike Authority recently imposed a rate increase. The trip from OKC to Tulsa was raised by 90 cents starting Jan. 1.
State officials quickly pointed out that Oklahoma’s toll rates are lower than most other states. You’re getting screwed less, Oklahoma! Be grateful!
Given that many in the state Legislature take the tolls to get to the Capitol and an increase cuts into their travel reimbursement, it’s no surprise some lawmakers are looking to pass a new law limiting future hikes. State Rep. Annie Menz, a Norman Democrat, said she will push for a law requiring legislative approval for all future toll increases. “The [OTA operates] largely with a constituency of one, which is the governor,” Menz said.
No word yet on whether
Gov. Kevin Stitt sup ports more over sight of the Turnpike Au thority, but efficient roads should be considered critical to the gover nor’s plan to push immi grants, pregnant women, LGBTQ youth and college graduates out of the state.
Last month, NBA ex ecutives named the Thunder as the team with the league’s best front office, according to an annual survey from The Athletic.
OKC’s basket ball squad appears destined for playoff run, and Thunder general manager Sam Presti is getting lots of praise for constructing a young and talented team, along with a stash of draft picks for the future.
Presti’s basketball genius should be appreciated, especially in a one-pro team town. In the 16 seasons the Thunder has been in OKC, all but three have been winning seasons. In fact, the Thunder have the seventh highest winning percentage in the NBA over the last decade, giving Oklahoma at least one good top 10 designation.
With OU football being humbled by the SEC and OSU deciding to stick with mediocrity in head coach Mike Gundy, Oklahoma might be transitioning into a basketball state.
Is
The Pump Bar closed for good, or will there be one more round?
By Julie Porter Scott
Hailey McDermid is widely known as the heart and soul of Uptown’s The Pump Bar, but she sees it quite differently. As we sat in the darkened pub on a dreary afternoon at the very end of the year, she explained the small bar is her heart and soul.
“It’s more than a bar, more than a small business, more than a job and an income,” McDermid said. “It’s deeply personal, a treasure trove of memories, the one constant as life changed.”
It was her dream, and sadly, it may be a dream that has come to an end.
On Dec. 21, McDermid hit publish on a Facebook post that laid bare the sad truth: The beloved bar at NW 24th Street and Walker Avenue would likely not make it to 2025. To some, it might have appeared to be a knee-jerk move, a snap decision after a particularly tough week; it was anything but. She prepared the post and sent it to The Pump Bar’s general manager, Ijada Travis, to get her approval. She then sent it to every member of her staff.
“I wanted to give them time to absorb the news they had known was probably coming,” McDermid said. “I also knew they needed a moment to prepare themselves for both an influx of concerned patrons as well as the outpouring of love and disbelief on social media.”
Seven hours later, each member of the tight-knit team had given their blessing and the post went live.
“I have tried to be really transparent with our staff throughout this difficult time,” McDermid said, “and I’ve encouraged them to seek other opportunities in case we did have to close.”
Hailey and her husband Ian McDermid opened the bar 10 years ago, and it was immediately one of the busiest bars in the metro. The large patio became a popular spot for the colorful neighborhood and the surrounding community; it was often packed from happy hour to late night. The bar quickly made a name for itself as an alternative to some of the more upscale ones cropping up around the metro. There was intentionality in its bar program.
“We worked hard to deliver craft cocktails without the elitism that was common in that scene at the time and tried to make them accessible and affordable,” McDermid said.
There was method in the madness, as the pair had high hopes of attracting a diverse crowd and establishing the bar as a place for everyone.
“We love that here, burlesque dancers rub shoulders with insurance executives,
nonbinary OCU students mingle with local artists, writers and other creatives,” McDermid said, “the old hippies and corporate yuppies chit chat over a Moscow mule and a boat of tater tots.”
As the bar grew in popularity, Hailey’s staff also became more confi dent. With her guidance, and by working closely with her distributors to provide education and training, the small crew learned more about the spirits they were slinging and became true professionals. She put her top talent center stage at events and cocktail competitions, and the team thrived. Meghanne Hensley and Rainier Crespo frequently repre sented the team at competitions. The team won Allied Arts’ ARTini twice, and Hensley won Best Bartender in Oklahoma Gazette ’s Best of OKC in 2017; they were no strangers to success at Oklahoma Restaurant Association’s Cocktail Shakedown as well as other industry events.
The cocktail competitions proved what a growing chorus of regulars already knew: These were some of the best mixologists in town. The little watering-hole-that-could hit its stride in the summer of 2019, as the patio bustled with business from open to close.
Alex Larrea, general manager of the trifecta that is Tower Theatre, Ponyboy and Beer City Music Hall, sums up the sentiment heard from everyone Oklahoma Gazette spoke to for this article: “The Pump has been really important to me, from the beginning of my time here in OKC. It opened while I was working my first bar job in the city, and of all the amazing locally owned businesses, Hailey and her crew always stood out to me. I’m so fortunate to currently work with several humans I wouldn’t have met if it weren’t for The Pump being The Pump. That bar has been a pillar for many communities, but I can really speak to what it’s meant to bar people like me. They were always willing to host nonprofits, industry events and support anything progressive without batting an eye. If I ever asked Hailey for an inch, she’d give back a mile and then some.”
As we’re all aware, even some of the most successful businesses circa 2019 didn’t make it past the devastation 2020 brought. The pandemic disproportionately affected bars, as the entire concept is predicated on people hanging out, elbow to elbow, deciding to stay for one more. While many local restaurants were
it hard to leave her at night,” she said. Skipping dinner and bedtime routines for a night out with friends is rare, so I can absolutely identify with them.”
The no-child policy is made further complicated by the fact there are countless local breweries and restaurants where kids can tag along while parents enjoy an adult beverage.
able to quickly put together successful curbside pickup programs or dedicate more resources to delivery platforms, bars just couldn’t replicate that.
To her credit, Hailey McDermid doesn’t point to the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown as the undoing of her bar. She’s careful to note where cultural shifts and her own blindspots have impacted the business. She also knows exactly what she would do differently if given the chance. She pointed to a sea change when it comes to going out.
“Maybe it stems from how much time we all spent at home during the pandemic, or maybe inflation has budgets already stretched to their limits,” she said, “but whatever the cause, people have just become accustomed to fewer trips to the local bar.”
As people age out of the period in their lives where going out with friends occupies much of their free time, they’re not necessarily being replaced by the next generation. Studies show Gen Z is drinking less: a Jan. 1, 2025, article in TIME noted that while overall alcohol consumption has risen, Gen Z drinks less than generations before. Gen Z is composed of people born between 1997 and 2012, and the trend toward this age group drinking less is evident, if not well understood.
Another shift that impacts The Pump: Parents of this era would rather bring their children along with them when they go out, rather than book a sitter and miss time with them. At The Pump, children are not allowed inside the bar or on the patio. It’s not a business decision; it’s the law. As per state statute, The Pump is a Type I bar, as the percentage of food sales is under 35% of the total gross sales per month.
With a kitchen no bigger than a standard parking space, selling enough food to pass the 35% threshold has been next to impossible. The same lack of capital that has been nipping at the bar’s heels for months rules out any current plans to carve out a larger kitchen. In spite of what it means for her business, McDermid totally gets it.
“I’m a mom to a 3-year-old, and I find
Finally, McDermid and Travis both acknowledge the level of service and hospitality at The Pump degraded over time. Many of the longtime bar staff members left during COVID to pursue other careers or further their education.
Hailey and Ian took time away from the bar to start their family. Ian also took himself out of day-to-day operations to pursue higher education. As the duo spent less time at the bar, the hyperfocus on hospitality wasn’t there.
Given all these hurdles, what hope can there be for The Pump?
McDermid and Travis have a plan.
“We are so fortunate to have an absolutely wonderful landlord willing to work with us and a plan for how to make The Pump better than ever,” McDermid said. “Now we just need investors.”
The plan begins with a renovation. There is room to add on to the building by adding a new seating area to the south of the current building, between the bar and neighboring Pizzeria Gusto. With investment in hand, they also have detailed plans to relocate the walk-in, which would effectively triple the size of the kitchen. With a new kitchen and a lot more indoor seating, The Pump Bar could expand its menu and increase food sales to be reclassified as a Type II establishment, which would solve the under-21 issue.
Additionally, famed local chef Kathryn Mathis of neighboring Pizzeria Gusto has offered to consult on the menu and best practices if McDermid is able to move forward with her plan. A new menu with more variety would attract some of the Gen Z patrons the bar is currently missing, and adding a more robust zero-proof menu would also help draw in a wider group of patrons and friends. Adding a pick-up window open for latenight bites and breakfast fare has been discussed. We can all agree there is a serious lack of grab-and-go breakfast burritos in a city this size, not to mention how well those would pair beloved Pump tots. McDermid and Travis have workshopped a dozen ways to increase income opportunities with a new kitchen.
“Hailey and I are looking forward to restoring the level of service and hospitality to its former glory through further education and training with staff,” Travis told me just after the calendar flipped to 2025. “The plans for remodel and relaunch will undoubtedly boost staff morale greatly.”
There is still a great deal of love for
the little bar on Walker, as evidenced by a quick look at the aforementioned Facebook post or the user-generated Reddit post. People reminisced about perching on the patio with friends, sangria in hand, solving the world’s problems. And they did more than wax poetic about days gone by. Many felt compelled to show their support in person, coming out in droves after the post was made public.
As Larrea put it, “The McDermids are still the example I use to describe ‘owners that care’ when discussing what it takes to bring a space to life, especially post-COVID19 quarantine. They have truly created an incredibly fun and safe space to anchor our beloved Uptown District.”
“The business owners in the Uptown district are super close,” said Kristy Jennings, owner of nearby Urban Teahouse. “It’s gut-wrenching to think of not having The Pump as part of that mix. Hailey, Ijada and staff have become such an important part of our little community. I also have a lot of deeply personal experience with how hard it is to do this calculus. Our businesses are so much a part of who we are; it’s hard to separate the two.”
It’s hard not to look at McDermid as a modern-day, rock-and-roll George Bailey. As the temperatures plummet and “Auld Lang Syne” is still stuck in our
heads, the outpouring of love and support from a steady stream of customers past and present evokes the final scenes of It’s a Wonderful Life. George Bailey stood up for the little guy and fought for what was right, even as his own life took one detour after another. In Hailey’s version, our protagonist makes a spot at the table for the misfits and the otherwise over-
looked. She creates jobs, makes managers out of busboys and keeps fighting even when — especially when — the chips are down.
“It’s not who you are on your best day that really matters,” McDermid said tearfully. “It’s who you are on your worst.”
After the crazy night brought on by her post, McDermid checked on staff
who had worked the rush. One staffer summed up the night, and maybe also life in general:
“It was hell. We ran out of limes. It was also really beautiful.”
Edmond resident Dawn R. endured the painful effects of Peripheral Neuropathy for years. “My feet and legs had extreme pain, and my doctor told me there was nothing they could do. He said I would have to take gabapentin for the rest of my life.”
Peripheral Neuropathy causes pain, discomfort, and numbness from nerve damage within the nervous system. Daily tasks like opening doors or using the restroom became very painful for Dawn. “How can you face the next 30 years when you don’t even want to get out of bed to do simple things?” she questioned.
Dawn experienced burning, numbness, tingling, and sharp pains commonly associated with neuropathy. “It felt like walking on glass,” she said. For five years, she hadn’t worn socks and resorted to wearing shoes two sizes too big to minimize contact with her sensitive feet.
Dawn’s story is familiar to over 3 million Americans dealing with Peripheral Neuropathy. Our patients arrive at the clinic with similar challenges: sleepless nights due to burning foot pain, difficulty walking, shopping, or enjoying activities for longer than 30 minutes, and struggles with balance that lead to a fear of falling. Many are told by their doctors to “just live with the pain” and are prescribed medications that either don’t work or come with unpleasant side effects.
Thankfully, four months ago, Dawn discovered our clinic, Be Well Acupuncture, where licensed acupuncturist Toni Twitty offers treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy without invasive procedures or medications. Toni and her team use the science of acupuncture and NASA-developed technology to enhance blood flow and accelerate healing, offering a breakthrough treatment for this challenging condition.
“Now when I go to bed at night, I don’t have shooting pains, burning, or the feeling of pain crawling up my legs,” Dawn said. After a series of treatments, she was delighted to wear socks and shoes again. Dawn and her sister now enjoy walking up to five miles a day while playing golf. “It’s life-changing. As far as I’m concerned, she saved my life.”
For over a decade, Toni and her team have helped the senior community with innovative integrative medicine, specializing in chronic pain cases deemed “hopeless” or “untreatable.” What was once missing in senior healthcare is now available to Edmond and OKC residents.
If you’re missing out on life due to pain or fear of falling, it’s time to call Be Well Acupuncture. Don’t let pain hold you back from the adventures and activities you love.
Mention
While
Raven has a few things to work on, its homestyle favorites and desserts are to die for.
By Sarah Neese
WHAT WORKS: Dessert was much more than an afterthought and undoubtedly worth the wait.
WHAT NEEDS WORK: The salt content across dishes was noticeable, and not in the way you’re hoping.
TIP: Try entering the restaurant through the south doors to help ensure you’re seen and seated quickly.
Occupying the former home of VZD’s, Raven seemingly has some big shoes to fill. As a different concept entirely, it’s no surprise that the vibes inside are in stark contrast to its predecessor, but admittedly, it still caught me off guard the moment I walked inside.
I’d heard whisperings of people here or there who had already tried Raven and was eager to get my own taste. And while I waited for a table, I took in the changes to the space. In direct contrast to my previous visits to VZD’s, Raven offers a cozy, warm atmosphere with the makings of somewhere you’d be
on a wintery evening.
As warm and inviting as the interior is designed to make you feel, standing and waiting for staff to acknowledge your presence, especially when you have a reservation, has the opposite effect.
I’d like to clearly state that none of the servers or bar staff were inherently rude, and as someone who previously worked in food service, I have the utmost respect for those in the restaurant industry — so much so that I’d rather needlessly overtip than ever leave a server feeling like I was anything less than a polite customer. However, I felt my social anxiety skyrocket with each minute I stood at the restaurant’s entrance, likely looking akin to Vincent Vega awkwardly loitering in Mia Wallace’s foyer in that one scene from Pulp Fiction
Once seated, I was eager to get the culinary show on the road and see what flavors Raven was capable of. With a claim to fame of local produce and a chef with a farm-to-table background, Raven’s menu changes frequently.
I started with something simple: hot olives and grilled bread. Admittedly, I wasn’t sure whether “hot” referred to “spicy” or “warm,” and while I couldn’t say I was thrilled at the thought of a plate of warm olives, I thought I’d give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised when the dish arrived. Thinly sliced and grilled bread was accompanied with olives that turned out to be very warm, but not spicy. While extremely simple, what struck me about the dish was actually the olive oil, which was drizzled across the bread slices and served as a foun-
dation for the olives themselves.
Olive oil is one of those ingredients that you almost don’t even notice, but it’s immediately clear when you’ve had good, quality olive oil — enough to make a difference when you inevitably have to go back to your usual grocery store brand. I can assure you, my friends, this was quality olive oil.
Next to arrive to the table was an order of two lamb chops, or Castillos as the menu calls them. Truthfully, the two chops were not created equal and were both quite small. However, the one chop cooked closer to perfection than the other was a delight to eat. (Let’s not talk about the sad chop.) It was topped on this day with cranberry compote and mint, and my knife sliced through its tender meat with ease. I found the cranberry to be a nice complement to the subtle succulence of the lamb. While I don’t typically reach for an entrée-like meat as a middle course, I can see its appeal to stave off lingering hunger until any mains arrive.
The oxtail mac n’ cheese followed, accompanied by an order of Pommes Anna, or for those of you unfamiliar with the classic French dish, thinly sliced potatoes cooked in butter. As a quick disclaimer, I’ve got quite the love affair with both macaroni and cheese (done right) and potatoes, so the chances these two dishes would crash and burn for me were low.
The first bite into the potatoes was a satisfying tango between textures: Buttery soft potatoes from the middle of the dish paired perfectly with the surface’s crunchier slices. While not a complex dish or particularly exciting, it had me coming back for forkful after forkful, almost as if it had my mind in a trance. That’s the true power of butter.
But my favorite savory dish of the night was the oxtail mac n’ cheese. I’ll state right now that it was entirely too salty, a fact that disappointed me greatly. However, even with a heavy-
handed Salt Bae impression, I couldn’t help but eat every last bite.
A testament to how creamy a macaroni and cheese dish should be, the cheese sauce wrapped around each al dente piece of pasta like they were made for each other. The oxtail on its own was tender and bursting with flavor, but nestled into a saucy bite of pasta, it doubled down on the warmth of this elevated comfort meal.
If you were to tell me that the only way I could enjoy this dish again was if it was just as salty as it’d been on that night, I’d still happily accept.
I know I’m meant to think of dessert as a sort of afterthought in these types of establishments, especially with several protein options on the menu starting at $40 and climbing. But the bread pudding was by far my favorite part of dinner. Sourdough bread pieces steeped in maple bacon butter and topped with Chantilly cream, every bite was like experiencing the peak of breakfast bliss. Breakfast for dessert might not be for everyone, but I’ll just take all the portions meant for the naysayers. I know it seems like an exaggeration, but it was one of my favorite desserts I’ve ever eaten.
It’s hard to encapsulate one dinner with a singular opinion after such a contradictory experience. While thinking back on the social atmosphere gives me pause to return, the thought of the cheesy sauce and decadent dessert has me considering another visit. All in all, I think Raven is worth a try, albeit one where you’re not in a hurry. Maybe I’m too quick to be won over by a good carbohydrate, but there’s just something about Raven that makes me want to root for its success.
Resolution or no, the new year naturally brings a desire to eat a bit lighter after the bacchanal that is the period of time from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. There’s something here for everyone, and we’re happy to report that you need not sacrifice a single morsel of flavor in the name of eating better.
By Julie Porter Scott with provided photos
The Red Cup
3122 N. Classen Blvd. theredcup.com 405-525-3430
If your holiday hangover has you craving caffeine as well as healthier fare, look no further than The Red Cup, which set up shop at NW 31st Street and Classen Boulevard in 1995. A piping-hot cup of local LEAP Roasters free trade organic coffee will get you going while you (briefly) wait for your handmade vegetarian meal. We suggest the loaded toast, hummus wrap or red beans and rice. Come for the food, stay to eavesdrop on some of the city’s most colorful characters.
1600 E. Danforth Road, Edmond thelookoutedmond.com 405-216-7424
Kickingbird Golf Course is home to one of the metro’s newest, most accessible restaurants. The menu is full of quality renditions of American classics with plenty of opportunities to keep it light. Try the blackened salmon, beet salad or tomato basil soup. The sleek restaurant is open daily from breakfast to dinner, not to mention an excellent happy hour 3-6 p.m. Monday-Friday. The municipal course is also open for economical tee times and pickleball courts.
Volcano Sushi Bar & Hibachi multiple locations volcanook.com 405-608-0030
Just because it’s sushi doesn’t mean it’s good for you, what with all the cream cheese and tempura-fried everything and that Kewpie mayo (which is, after all, still mayonnaise). Fortunately for all of us, there’s a healthy way to sushi. Opt for the miso soup, a salad and almost any sashimi or nigiri, and you’re suddenly back in your cardiologist’s good graces. This little outfit has grown, so you’re sure to find a beautiful bento in your corner of the city.
Dedicated to exploring the metro’s restaurant scene and what’s cookin’.
PUBLISHES FEBRUARY 12 DEADLINE TO BOOK FEBRUARY 5
in the issue that readers will keep all year as reference when going out or ordering in.
900 W. Main St. poolbarokc.com 405-982-6900
Located inside the Fordson Hotel (née 21C), Pool Bar and the adjacent Bodega offer a delicious, wide-ranging menu in a chic space. Try the spinach mixed green salad, which is packed with blueberries, celery, candied pecans and goat cheese and topped with a balsamic vinaigrette. Other fresh options include ceviche, the PB chop salad and the vegan pesto pasta. You’ll feel like you’re on vacation, minus all the travel drama.
136 E. Fifth St., Edmond bondibowls.com 405-982-8606
Named for the famed Australian beach, these antioxidant-rich bowls are as delicious as they are aesthetically pleasing. Surf on over and start by choosing a base of perfectly blended fruits, such as vanilla chia pudding or açaí. Next, choose your toppings like the Malibu (strawberry, banana, blueberry) or the Newport (granola, banana and Nutella). The endless combinations manage to make superfoods super fun.
301 NW 13th St., Suite 100 theharveybakery.com 405-898-8811
It’s hard to think about eating healthy while a case full of flaky croissants beckons, but we believe in you. The beloved local bakery is more than buttery goodness, as evidenced by the roasted winter salad, a veritable produce section in a salad. It also makes one of metro’s best Cobb salads and a spicy kale salad that really zings. At $12, Harvey’s youpick-two deal is a friend to waistline and pocketbook alike.
Shawarma & Co.
14600 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Suite A shawarmaandcompany.com 405-286-1646
Walking in, you might be tricked into thinking this is a chain, thanks to the spotless space and spot-on branding. The fresh, flavorful Mediterranean fare is, in fact, brought to you by a close-knit local family. While we celebrate the entire menu, standouts include beef gyro wrap supreme and the Lebanese chicken shawarma. But then there’s also the falafel wrap, the fattoush salad, the spicy hummus — you’ll just have to check it out and pick your own favorites.
Turn up the heat this winter by playing Book Bingo! Read five books to win an exclusive mug and a chance to win a prize pack with Apple AirPods, library swag and a YMCA pass. Read 25 books to enter the grand prize drawing for an iPad, VIP tickets for Literary Voices with author Jodi Picoult, and a YMCA membership. Prizes for adults only and while supplies last. Drawing winners must have a valid adult Metropolitan Library card in good standing on file in Beanstack.
FIRST
Applications for the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute are open until Feb. 17.
By Daniel Bokemper
The state’s most illustrious arts program is nestled in the Wichita Mountains. For almost 50 years, the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute (OSAI) has offered a sanctuary for high school students to refine their respective art forms, freely explore their craft and experience an unforgettable educational opportunity.
From now until Feb. 17, OSAI is accepting online applications from high school students age 15-19. Those accepted will receive a full scholarship for the program, which runs June 14-29.
And since OSAI changes its faculty each year, no program is ever identical, even for students who have been accepted multiple times.
“Let’s say a student comes for acting all four years,” said Wren Pfahl, the PR and outreach coordinator for the art institute. “Every single year, they’re going to learn something different, whether that’s Shakespeare, musical theater, or modern and contemporary plays. We mix it up so everyone learns something different that they wouldn’t learn normally at school.”
Full-spectrum learning OSAI operates on one key principle:
more inspiring for making art than that.”
Beyond its setting, OSAI also removes the financial barriers from this type of program, given every accepted student also earns a full scholarship. In other words, no matter what background a student comes from, they have equal access to the best instruction and materials available in the state.
At the same time, this can seem a little daunting. But while OSAI is competitive to get into, the goal of attending the program isn’t to make students the perfect artists. Rather, it’s to inspire them to their full potential and illuminate what they’re truly capable of.
“When we survey our students each summer, we ask them if the art form they’re studying is available at their normal school,” Pfahl said. “A sizable percentage of students don’t have it available. Here, they’re getting the instruction most schools don’t have. We’re thrilled to provide that and be a stepping stone into other art forms.”
variety. By adopting a multi-disciplinary approach, students break out of their comfort zones and delve deep into different art forms.
While students still have a laser focus on their specific art, OSAI gives them a chance to experiment, collaborate and broaden their artistic outlook. For example, OSAI requires students to participate in “community lab,” or a class that isn’t tied to a specific major’s curriculum. (Last year, students participated in West African drumming and dancing.)
“It lets students study something new and slightly out of their discipline,” said Pfahl. “They also regularly interact and room with students outside of their focus. And every evening of the first week, each faculty member gives a different presentation, sort of like a TED Talk.”
Working with other students is foundational to OSAI’s fabric. Given ideas rarely encapsulate just one medium, OSAI fosters a mindful and collaborative environment that brings students together.
“Recently, our photography and creative writing students collaborated,” Pfahl said. “The writers would write a poem and the photographers would take photo that captures it. Or the photographers would take a photo and our poets would write to that. They’re learning in a way they’ve never learned before and possibly in a way they’ll never experience again.”
As Oklahoma’s public education system continues to minimize — if not outright eliminate — artistic programs, OSAI continues to amplify them. Part of this can be attributed to the institute’s breathtaking location.
“Quartz Mountain itself is a very unique location,” Pfahl said. “It’s got one road in and one road out. Just being there, you’re completely removed from highways, and since its cell reception is limited, people aren’t always glued to their phones. You’re immersed in nature, and there’s nothing
The instructors include artists who lead their craft, such as Kalena Bovell, OSAI’s orchestra conductor. The first Black woman to conduct an opera in Canada, Bovell has conducted for the Minnesota Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony and many others. The faculty also includes Fernando Carrillo, a dance instructor who performed in the early Broadway runs of the most successful musical of all time, The Lion King.
Ben Long, OSAI’s digital technician and program alum, also brings years of editing and photography experience working with Apple, National Geographic and other major visual brands.
While OSAI hasn’t changed significantly from an operational standpoint, it continues to evolve with new generations of students and teachers. However, dedication and openness continue to be the defining characteristic of all who attend.
“We’re looking for people who want to get better and explore,” said Pfahl. “We provide a space where they can do that freely and without judgement. That can be difficult in Oklahoma for one reason or another. Basically, if you love art, you belong here.”
Vulnerability is fundamental to meaningful art. Every year, OSAI maintains a space where that vulnerability isn’t scrutinized, but celebrated. In doing so, it empowers students to dive deeper into their craft and their identity.
Walking into a situation where you know everyone is exceptional at what they do can be daunting. But OSAI actively seeks to turn that intimidation into determination through community.
“People sometimes come to us as shy, artsy weirdos from their small town,” Pfahl said. “And they’re understandably terrified. But by the second day, they come out of their shell and make friends and experience freedom in ways they never experienced before. Freedom to learn. Freedom to perform. Freedom to discover themselves.”
To Pfahl, this liberating environment doesn’t just create better artists, but better people, too.
“You just evolve every summer you attend,” Pfahl said. “You become more creative, empathetic and open-minded from the people you meet and the things you experience. You evolve from within.”
For more information about OSAI’s application process and eligibility requirements, visit oaiquartz.org.
Carpenter Square Theatre revives British playwright Lucy Kirkwood’s thought-provoking play The Children.
By Jo Light
Imagine you’re a retired nuclear scientist living with your partner in a remote seaside cottage. There’s a post-apocalyptic sense of foreboding in the air, although you’re happy to live out the rest of your days right there — until an old friend and fellow scientist comes for an unexpected visit, carrying a dangerous proposition.
This happens to be the premise of a play called The Children, which is set for an upcoming revival from Carpenter Square Theatre. Writer Lucy Kirkwood was reportedly inspired by the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011 to create the darkly comedic tale. The production was first staged in London in 2016 and later on Broadway in 2017. It went on to receive two Tony Award nominations in 2018.
In the story, the married nuclear physicists are Hazel and Robin, visited by former colleague Rose. Director C.W. Bardsher says the thematic foundations of the play are incredibly timely.
“As it goes along, we realize that the themes of the play are … an older generation cleaning up the mess we’ve left behind,” he said, speaking to Oklahoma Gazette via phone. “This play takes place [amid] and is mentioning themes of nuclear fallout, but the themes can certainly reach further into climate change or any other thing that we feel like older generations have left as a problem for the younger generation.”
The play, running at just under two hours, is taut a three-hander, meaning
these three main characters are the only ones driving the action between them. It’s an opportunity for grounded drama and a chance for performers to shine. Bardsher enjoys the challenge of a limited cast.
“You really get a chance in the rehearsal process to nail down these characters and find the complexities and the contradictions within them,” Bardsher said. “So we’ve been having a really fun time exploring these characters with the major themes.”
Bardsher credited his actors — Laurie Blankenship, Barry Thurman and Shelly Harmon — with carrying the emotionally complicated story and the fraught dynamics between the three longtime colleagues.
In the play, audience members will likely get an idea early on that the new arrival, more freewheeling Rose, is a bit too comfortable in the cottage, leading Hazel to have her suspicions about Rose’s true relationship with Robin.
One particular directing challenge, Bardsher said, was in blocking and keeping the movement and staging authentic while also “making sure that the things that they are doing and the pictures that they are making on stage are as interesting and compelling as the script [they’re] working from.”
When asked about a favorite moment
from the production, he pointed to the ending — although, for obvious reasons, he couldn’t discuss it in too much detail.
“I believe that the ending is satisfying, but it doesn’t leave you with all the answers,” he said. “It’s. It gives you enough answers to be satisfied, but it leaves you enough wiggle room that you will want to be thinking about it throughout the next years or throughout the next few days. What does that mean? What was her choice here?”
Bardsher has been a director with Carpenter Square Theatre since around 2011. After a four-year trek to Chicago, he returned to work in Oklahoma City in 2018, making for a current total of
roughly seven years with Carpenter Square. He appreciates that the theater occupies a specific place in OKC’s arts world.
“I do love particularly Carpenter Square Theatre’s mission statement in the pantheon of Oklahoma City community theaters, which is to be doing modern work, to be doing new plays and the cutting-edge things,” he said. “I appreciate that Carpenter Square … holds that place in the community of allowing new and upcoming plays, and for the community to find a new favorite playwright. Somebody may have never heard of Lucy Kirkwood before. They
come see The Children, and they’re like, ‘Well, I really like her now.’”
Our conversation turned broadly to live theater as an art form, the importance of which can’t be overstated. Colloquially, any theater fan could tell you how life-changing sitting in an audience can be. But there have been actual studies done by real scientists that have found that watching live theater can increase empathy, encourage socio-political thinking and even drive people to charitable giving.
“Oh, boy,” Bardsher said in agreement. “Live theater is just — I mean, there’s nothing like it around. I know that that’s such an obvious answer, but it’s transformative type of thing.”
Many people’s first introduction to theater comes in high school drama class, Bardsher said, which isn’t always the best representation.
“So many times, a lot of them are great scripts, but they have been sanitized to be appropriate or they’re not dealing with things that are quite up to date or modern for us,” he said.
Stories are powerful no matter the media, but there’s something special about live performances.
“I found that people are usually surprised if they don’t have a lot of experience with theater,” he said, “of the difference in the way that the messages and the themes and the jokes and the tears hit different when you have the
people in a with you per forming it, as opposed to having that block of a screen, a televi sion or a movie screen.”
He paraphrased a senti ment that’s been shared many different ways: the idea that history provides a factual frame work for the past, while art reveals its emotional truths.
“Even as we find ourselves today in a very split and divisive time, I think as we create art, it is important for us to create it,” he said. “So we are leaving a record behind of, yes, we know what happened during this time, but how did we feel as a society or as a group or as a community about what happened at this time?”
The play is scheduled to run Jan. 12 to Feb. 2. Visit carpentersquare.com.
Premiere Join Norman Arts for the premiere of Continuum, a documentary short on architect and artist Herb Greene. Filmed during Greene’s return to Oklahoma, where his work as an artist and architect began to take off, the documentary brings Greene back to some his most iconic structures in Oklahoma, exploring Greene’s work, ongoing legacy of creativity and impact on the state and beyond. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the documentary beginning at 7 p.m. with a reception to follow. The premiere is free and open to all to attend. MAINSITE Contemporary Art, 122 E. Main St., 405-3601162, normanarts.org. THU, MAY 19
Calderón Dance Festival A festival celebrating the life of Shannon Calderón and her vision for building a community with inclusive, diverse and equitable opportunities in dance. Dance classes, performances, artist panels and more!, Sat., May 21. Plaza District, 1618 N. Gatewood Ave., 405-426-7812, plazadistrict.org/calderon. SAT, MAY 21
Marking Tree Design 5 Year Anniversary Open House This month’s Third Saturdays in WesTen includes the 5 year anniversary open house of Marking Tree Design at 1633 N. Portland on Saturday, May 21, 12Noon-4:00PM. There will be snacks, drinks, raffle
is a local art studio that works with fused glass and mixed media to create unusual wearable art!
Farmers Market at Scissortail Park Park guests will be able to choose from close to 60 market members each Saturday from 9am to 1pm from April through October. Customers can expect to see options for local, pasture-raised meats, fresh produce and cultivated mushrooms, plants, eggs, raw honey, breads and baked goods, assortments of specialty prepared food and beverage producers, as well as high-quality artisans. Make this market part of your weekly routine to procure your locally-sourced grocery items., Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. through Oct. 29. Scissortail Park, 300 SW Seventh St., 405-445-7080, scissortailpark. org. SATURDAYS
Make Ready Market The Make Ready Market is an all-makers market held every 4th Saturday of the month in Midtown OKC.
Theater. This work is a collaboration with artists from Ireland, New Orleans, New York, and Oklahoma City., Thursdays-Sundays. through May 29. Downtown OKC, 211 N. Robinson Ave., 405-235-3500, okcrep.org/of-a-mind-oklahoma-
Last year’s movie offerings included so many innovative stories that it was impossible to choose just 10.
By Phil Bacharach
In the wake of a pandemic, an uncertain future for multiplexes, and strikes in 2023 by the Writers Guild of America and Screen Actors Guild, Hollywood prognosticators and self-appointed observers presumed 2024 would be dismal for film.
Thankfully, such pronouncements proved unfounded.
While box office receipts saw a slight dip from the previous year, there were still plenty of blockbusters, albeit of the IP variety. Surveying 2024’s highest-grossing pictures, all but one was a sequel or a reboot, and that outlier, Wicked, was the adaptation of a 21-year-old hit Broadway show based on a book. More promisingly, the recently concluded year witnessed a variety of movies offering innovative stories and new approaches to storytelling. International cinema had a particularly remarkable crop of exceptional works. Such versatility is reflected in how difficult it was for me to limit my favorites to 10, which is why I’ve got to offer my 11-20 without comment. So here goes…
20. His Three Daughters ( Streaming on Netflix)
19. Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person ( Streaming on Mubi ) 18. Juror #2 ( Streaming on Max)
Conclave
Strange Darling
Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World ( Streaming on Mubi )
The Seed of the Sacred Fig
A Real Pain 12. Dune: Part 2
Streaming on Max)
Nickel Boys
10. Anora
Mikey Madison gives a star-making performance as the title character in writer-director Sean Baker’s kinetic, exhilarating tale of a Brooklyn sex worker’s whirlwind romance with the ne’er-dowell son (Mark Eydelshteyn) of a Russian oligarch. Equal parts sex romp, screwball comedy and tragedy-tinged drama, Anora again demonstrates why Baker is one of the most interesting filmmakers working today.
9. The Substance As feminist horror-satire, The Substance comes at you with the subtlety of a Looney Tunes-sized mallet, and we are the better for it. French writer-director Coralie Fargeat imagines a radical underground drug that allows a past-her-prime movie starlet (a very game Demi Moore) to transform every other week into a younger, ostensibly better version of herself (Margaret Qualley). But wouldn’t you know it, things don’t go according to plan. The picture thoroughly skewers ageism and sexism, all right, but body horror aficionados will appreciate the escalating grotesqueries, not the least of which is Dennis Quaid shoveling crawfish in his piehole. ( Streaming on Mubi )
8. Red Rooms
If there is a Canadian counterpart to David Fincher, my money is on writerdirector Pascal Plante. His Red Rooms is a cold, menacing psychological thriller exploring the darkest recesses of voyeurism and true-crime obsessives. The story concerns a Montreal man on trial for the torture and murder of two teenaged girls, a horrific crime he allegedly videotaped and uploaded to the so-called “dark web.” The high-profile trial attracts
some bizarre groupies of the defendant, particularly Juliette Gariépy as a fashion model who harbors her own disturbing proclivities.
Green Border is a hard watch, but a necessary one. Chronicling a family of Syrian refugees trying to find passage through Poland into Sweden, this Polish docudrama is a ferocious indictment of how Belarus and the European Union use migrants as geopolitical pawns in a power struggle. It is something of a miracle that veteran director Agnieszka Holland can capture such stark inhumanity while giving fair due to a spectrum of viewpoints. The ensemble cast is uniformly fantastic. Amid the brutality, Green Border manages to inspire and offer genuine hope.
The tennis-centric love triangle in director Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers is deliriously entertaining. As the tennis maven pursued by two friends-turnedrivals, Zendaya is the narrative catalyst here, but the even meatier roles go to Mike Faist and (especially) Josh O’Connor as her suitors. The result is sly, sexy and propelled in no small measure by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’ propulsive music score. Guadagnino and screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes have definite alchemy; their adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ Queer, released last month, is a hallucinatory excursion about unrequited longing. ( Streaming on Amazon Prime)
The Brutalist is that rare masterwork in which a filmmaker’s soaring ambition is matched by their gifts. Actor-turneddirector Brady Corbet fashions a bona fide epic, from its weighty thematic con-
cerns to a hefty 3.5-hour running time complete with overture and intermission. Adrien Brody is phenomenal as László Tóth, a Jewish-Hungarian architect who escapes the Holocaust and arrives in the U.S. after World War II. His fate becomes entwined with Guy Pearce’s arrogant industrialist. On a budget of less than $10 million, Corbet’s stunning production is elevated by Lol Crawley’s lush cinematography (in 70mm VistaVision, no less!) and Daniel Blumberg’s innovative music score. The Brutalist has a lot on its mind — the immigrant experience, capitalism, artistic vision vs. compromise, you name it — but never loses sight of the intimate saga at its soul.
4. Love Lies Bleeding
Echoing the lurid literary worlds of James M. Cain and Elmore Leonard, Love Lies Bleeding is pure pulp for now people. The violence is gnarly, the sex is steamy and the atmospherics are irresistibly sleazy. Writer-director Rose Glass and co-writer Weronika Tofilska create a crackling neo-noir (with a dash of magical realism) set in motion by its characters’ dubious decision-making. Kristen Stewart gives a nuanced, intelligent performance, but the biggest surprise is Katy O’Brian, who nearly steals the picture as a steroid-addled bodybuilder from Oklahoma whose arrival in a New Mexico border town ignites bloodshed. (Streaming on Max)
Contemplative and ambiguous are not great selling points for moviegoers with limited attention spans. In the hands of Japanese writer-director Ryûsuke Hamaguchi, however, these are the raw materials for a film of quiet profundity that continues to haunt me. Curiously, Hamaguchi’s inspiration was spurred by a gorgeous music score first provided by his regular collaborator, Eiko Ishibashi. Evil Does Not Exist details how rural vil-
lagers respond when a Tokyo glamping company announces plans to turn their scenic home into a tourist destination. What slowly emerges is mysterious, mesmerizing and wholly unpredictable. ( Streaming on Criterion Channel )
tissues. ( Streaming on Amazon Prime)
1. Sing Sing
Director Greg Kwedar’s docudrama about a real-life theater arts workshop for prison inmates could have gone wrong in so
2. My Old Ass
“If I knew then what I know now, I’d have been better off.” That is the supposition behind My Old Ass, which, despite an arguably unfortunate title, is a dramedy of surprising depth and humanity. Maisy Stella is terrific as Elliott, an 18-year-old in her last summer before college. Elliott is tripping on shrooms with friends when she is visited by her future 39-year-old self (Aubrey Plaza). Writer-director Megan Park takes a gamble on the high-wire concept, forgoing any weird contortions of logic in pursuit of greater emotional honesty. There are laughs to be had, but this is one comedy where it pays to bring
many ways. Populated mostly by nonprofessional actors who have participated in Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) in upstate New York’s Sing Sing Correctional Facility, the film might sound at first blush like cinematic medicine that is supposed to be good for you. Think again. Sing Sing is a deeply moving and powerful account of prisoners desperate to preserve their humanity amid a dehumanizing institution. Colman Domingo is superb as RTA’s biggest champion, but he is matched acting-wise by Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin, a former inmate who essentially plays a fictionalized version of himself.
Vincent Orza’s new novel, Brothers, is a heartpounding political thriller that hits close to home.
By Daniel Bokemper
As a newly elected president prepares to deliver his inaugural speech, he doesn’t manage to utter a single word. Instead, his closest Secret Service agent fires two shots into his head. As the nation spirals from the shock and cascades into chaos, the fallout lands at the feet of Gianni Simonelli, a second-generation Italian American and Speaker of the House.
This is Vincent Orza’s Brothers, a fictional story based on a very real fear that has only escalated over the last four years. Orza himself is no stranger to politics, winning the 1990 Oklahoma gubernatorial Republican primary and falling just behind Governor Brad Henry in the Democratic primary in 2002.
Brothers is also fueled by Orza’s career in journalism, which saw him as an anchor at KOCO-TV and the president and CEO of KSBI Television in 2010. His concise, biting prose refined by his legacy in news keeps Brothers fastpaced and compelling.
“From working at Channel 5 and my
op-eds for the Oklahoma Gazette, my writing style is more brief and to the point,” Orza said. “I lean toward James Patterson-style chapters that feel like television. The book borders on a screenplay.”
But Brothers isn’t just about a single reverberating event. Ultimately, the novel is deeply intimate, focusing on the federal government’s realistic response and the emotional turmoil of those we’re closest to: our family.
Orza wrote the initial draft of Brothers over four years ago in just a few short weeks. In 1999, he published his first book, When I Want Your Opinion I’ll Tell It to You. The slice-of-life memoir dives deep into Orza’s upbringing, capturing the connection to his family that made him a prolific public speaker.
But nearly 20 years removed, Brothers offers a completely different experience.
“My wife has been diagnosed with cancer,” Orza said. “After she came home
every day from chemotherapy, I’d write while she was sleeping. I’d even get up at 2 in the morning and write for hours because an idea suddenly came to me.”
Orza’s first swing at Brothers formed the heart of the novel, but he spent the following years polishing his work and improving upon its realism. From at least one prominent angle, however, Orza’s writing took a prophetic turn.
“I wrote all of this before Jan. 6, 2021,” Orza said. “My book turned out to be reality in a lot of ways. Did you ever think you’d see a bunch of kids marching in the U.S. screaming, ‘The Jews will not replace us’?”
Like Brothers’ protagonist, Gianni, Orza is also a second-generation Italian American. Throughout his life, his heritage led many to believe he was — even if just tangentially — connected to the mafia. (Orza admits the giant black Cadillac he once drove didn’t exactly deter this misconception.)
“I’d hear stories, and there were people who make accusations that, ‘You must have some connection to the mafia based on your background,’” Orza said. “But if they think you’re involved with it, they’ll never accept your ‘No.’ Plus, I look like the epitome of a mob guy to a lot of people.”
Though Orza has no ties to the mob, he used his knowledge of organized crime and his appreciation for family to give Brothers grounding and weight.
In the novel, after a domestic terrorist organization named VIPER claims responsibility for the president’s assassination, Gianni turns to his estranged, mafia-affiliated brother, Mario. In reality, the state and federal governments have had long-standing ties to crime families.
“When the U.S. government wanted to overthrow Castro, they went through the mafia because they had a vested in-
terest,” Orza said. “There’s an awful lot of problems where the government used the mafia to accomplish what the government couldn’t do legitimately.”
While the mafia and its history with the country covers a significant influence of Brothers, the novel’s namesake speaks to its deepest roots.
Behind the fictional president’s killing is his brother, a bitter, Proud Boys-inspired governor of Florida. This ideological and deeply personal hatred tears apart their relationship, which Orza describes as a hyperbolized version of George and Jeb Bush.
On the other hand, Gianni has to revive a relationship with a brother he previously wrote off, forcing them to rekindle a strained bond. In Orza’s eyes, it’s all spurred by one crucial factor.
“It all boils down to family,” Orza said. “Sitting around the table and laughing and telling stories. Or funerals and remembering why we cared about someone so. All of that is a part of my life. And my life is family.”
In Brothers, the president’s assassination sparks the story, but the fallout and Gianni’s ability to handle it is what animates it. In Orza’s own words, “life goes on,” and what matters is how we navigate it.
“I grew up growing to funerals, and I remember my grandpa’s vividly,” Orza said. “I remember wanting to reach out and touch his hand. I wanted to know what it was like to be dead. But after the funeral, I’d go to an Italian house and you wouldn’t know anyone died. They were all laughing. It made life acceptable. You remember the good times, of course, but you ultimately turn the page.”
Vincent Orza’s Brothers is available now through Barnes & Noble. The paperback edition is $17.99, and the hardcover is $26.99. Visit barnesandnoble.com.
These are events recommended by Oklahoma Gazette editorial staff members. For full calendar listings, go to okgazette.com.
Let’s Talk About It: The Worst Hard Time Revisited The Metropolitan Library System, in partnership with OK Humanities, is hosting The Worst Hard Time Revisited: Forgotten Voices of the Dust Bowl, a special book club series under the Let’s Talk About It program. Featuring discussions led by female scholars, the series explores the Oklahoma Dust Bowl of the 1930s through five books, shedding light on the extraordinary resilience of ordinary people. Emphasizing overlooked perspectives, including those of people of color and various professions in Oklahoma City, the program reexamines historical narratives and their relevance to future climate crises. FREE, Tue., Feb. 11, 6-7 p.m. Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave., (405) 231-8650, metrolibrary.org/event/lets-talk-about-it-worst-hardtime-revisited-449374. TUE-THU
Coffee and Cars OKC The largest monthly gathering of car enthusiasts across the state, featuring automotives of all types spanning from classics to hotrods, exotics to luxuries, sports to supers. There is something for every car lover. First Saturday of every month, 8 p.m. Chisholm Creek, 13230 Pawnee Drive, 405-728-2780, coffeeandcars.com/. SAT
West Village Fourth Friday an evening of live music, food, games, and local vendors to shop from 405-235-3500, 6-8 p.m., fourth Friday. West Village District, 898 W. Sheridan Ave., 405-235-3500, westvillageokc.com. JAN 24
Guided Garden Tour free tour of the gardens lead by the horticulture team, focusing on flowering perennials, shrubs and trees, 1 p.m. every second Friday and 10 a.m. every last Saturday of the month. Myriad Botanical Gardens, 301 W. Reno Ave., 405-445-7080, myriadgardens.com. JAN 10, 25
Martin Luther King Parade join the OKC MLK Alliance at NW 5th and Walker for the the third-largest Martin Luther King Jr. Parade in the United States, a vibrant and diverse celebration organized by the OKC MLK Alliance for over 40 years. Known not only for its size but also for its inclusivity, this event brings the community together to honor Dr. King’s legacy. Join to celebrate and continue Dr. King’s dream in Oklahoma. FREE, Downtown Oklahoma City, NW 5th and Walker, 405-956-2080, https://okcmlkalliance. org. JAN 20
G & S Gun Show Higher quality show where you will find a large selection of new and used rifles, shotguns, handguns, knives, ammo and accessories all in one location. We have the greatest vendors with exceptional merchandise. The shows provide a
relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. $10, Sat., Feb. 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun., Feb. 2, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Heart of OK Expo Center, 1700 W Independence St,, 405275-9780, events.visitshawnee.com/event/g_s_gun_ show. FEB 1-2
Knit Night an evening of fellow knitters working on their projects while enjoying the store’s atmosphere, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Full Circle Bookstore, 1900 Northwest Expressway, 405-842-2900, fullcirclebooks.com. TUE
Live & Loud $5 cover. Alcohol-free venue. All ages event! Songwriters, musicians RSVP. Are you an aspiring songwriter, composer, lyricist, musician or band? This is an opportunity to network and exchange ideas with industry professionals who are willing to share their knowledge. $5.00, Thursdays, 7-10 p.m. Joe & Charlies’ Sober Nightclub, 1146 N. Macarthur Blvd, 405-999-0450. THU
MLK PROGRAM: MANIFESTING THE DREAM; FREEDOME JUSTICE AND DEMOCRACY
WITH NONVIOLENCE join the Okahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church for a community-wide MLK worship celebration. FREE, Mon., Jan. 20, 4-6 p.m. QUAYLE CHURCH, 5001 N. Everest, 405830-8889, QUAYLECHURCH.ORG. JAN 20
Music of the Knights: Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John, & Sir Paul McCartney
Step into the legendary realms of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, where knighthood meets musical mastery. Incredible Broadway vocalists will lead a journey through the greatest hits of three iconic songwriters whose legacies resonate across generations. Tickets start at $24, Fri., Jan. 24, 8 p.m. and Sat., Jan. 25, 8 p.m. Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker Ave., 405-842-5387, okcphil.org/concerts/music-of-the-knights JAN 24-25
Oklahoma City Home + Garden Show offer guests a myriad of ideas on everything for the home and garden spaces land features guest speaker Craig Conover from Bravo’s hit reality series Southern Charm. presented by Communication Federal Credit Union. Fri., Jan. 17-8 p.m., Sat., Jan. 18, 10 a.m.-noon and Sun., Jan. 19, noon. Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, 3220 Great Plains Walk, 888-248-9751, oklahomacityhomeshow.com/. JAN 17-18
Oklahoma Poetry House join every first Sunday of the month to immerse yourself with spoken word, connect with fellow poetry lovers and celebrate the art of literary expression. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a curious listener, Oklahoma Poetry House invites you to discover the beauty of words. To guarantee a seat, please email us at gallery@1515lg. com or call us at 405-593-1063. Free, first Sunday of every month, 2-3:30 p.m. 1515 Lincoln Gallery, 1515 N. Lincoln Blvd., (405) 593-1063, 1515lg.com. SUN Red Dirt Writes for those that want to grow their writing and hang out with other cool local writers. Durell Carter, Red Dirt Poetry’s Director of Education, leads a monthly writers’ workshop to develop local talent. Second Thursday of every month, 7-8:30 p.m. Literati Press Comics & Novels, 3010 Paseo St., 405882-7032, literatipressok.com. THU
Devon Ice Rink The festive season isn’t over yet! You can pretend the holidays aren’t already a distant memory and skate to year heart’s content at Devon Ice Rink through Feb. 2. All ages and skill levels are welcome, and skates are available to rent. The outdoor rink is located at Myriad Botanical Gardens, 100 N. Robinson Ave. Admission is $9-$14. Call 405708-6499 or visit myriadgardens.org. THROUGH FEBRUARY 2 Photo provided
Dichter Plays Grieg January’s OKC Phil performance features three pieces chosen by guest conductor Gerard Schwarz: “Langsamer Satz” by Anton Webern, “Symphony No. 7 in D Minor, op. 70” by Antonín Dvořák and “Concerto for Piano in A Minor, op 16” by Edvard Grieg. The Grieg selection will be played by guest pianist Misha Dichter. The performance starts 8 p.m. Jan. 11 at Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker Ave. Tickets are $24-$109. Call 405-594-8300 or visit okcphil.org.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 Photo provided
Round Barn Rendezvous a free live concert featuring an open jam session filled with country, bluegrass, folk and Americana music where onlookers watch the show from the hayloft on the second floor, noon-5 p.m., second Sunday of every month. Arcadia Round Barn, 107 OK-66, 405-396-0824, arcadiaroundbarn.com. JAN 12
Shawnee Horse Sale find your next horse at the renowned Shawnee Horse Sale! All auction information is available online at shawneehorsesales.net Free, Sat., Jan. 18, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Heart of OK Expo Center, 1700 W Independence St,, 4052759780, events.visitshawnee.com/event/shawnee_horse_sale. JAN 18
The Urban Poets are you an amateur, a seasoned poet, or somewhere in between and looking for someplace to express your talent? Local poets have an opportunity to read their own work or just sit and listen to the work of other budding poets. This is a recurring event and takes place on the last Monday of each month. FREE, Mon., Jan. 27, 6-7:30 p.m. Ralph Ellison Library, 2000 NE 23rd St., (405) 4241437, metrolibrary.org. JAN 27
Voices and Votes: Democracy in America
Smithsonian Exhibit The exhibition examines the nearly 250-year-old American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people,” and how each generation since continues to question how to form “a more perfect union.” From the revolution and suffrage, to civil rights and casting ballots, everyone in every community is part of this everevolving story-- the story of democracy in America. Runs from Dec. 11 to Jan. 25., For more information on this exhibit, visit metrolibrary.org/voicesandvotes, Mondays-Thursdays, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Fridays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, 1-6 p.m. through Jan. 19. Bethany Library, 6700 NW 35th Street, 405-789-8363, metrolibrary.org/voicesandvotes. UNTIL JAN 25
YWCA OKC’s Galentine’s Day Brunch raise awareness of YWCA’s mission while giving women the opportunity to socialize in a fun and welcoming environment. Breakfast will be served, mimosas poured and a photo booth will be on hand to capture the fun. Several girlfriend-focused items will be on raffle and leave with a swag bag for each Galentine to take!, Tickets to this event are non-refundable. $45, Sat., Feb. 8, 10 a.m.-noon. Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center, 741 N. Phillips Ave., 405-948-1770, ywcaokc.org/events/ galentines-day/. FEB 8
Veggie Dinner at Picasso Cafe join Picass on Cafe on the third Tuesday of each month for a fourcourse menu; featuring a fresh and creative take on vegetarian-inspired fare with the option to have a wine pairing, reservations required, 6:30 p.m., Third Tuesday. Picasso Cafe, 3009 Paseo St., 405-6052002, picassosonpaseo.com. JAN 21
Making you Happy for Happy Hour log off
work to enjoy these awesome specials to unwind, relax and HAPPY! varies, Thursdays-Sundays, 4-6 p.m. Twenty6 Lounge, 9622 N. May Ave., 405-687-8739, twenty6lounge.net. THU-SUN
Sunday Jazz Brunch join every Sunday for a lavish Brunch at Tellers featuring brunch classics like Eggs Benedict, Lemon Buttermilk Pancakes and Italian favorites from our wood-fired grill. Enjoy live jazz music in the Great Hall while sipping on a curated menu of sparkling and signature brunch cocktails., Sundays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tellers, 120 N. Robinson Ave, 4059006789, tellersokc.com/event/jazz-brunch/. SUN
Taco Tuesday’s at El Coyote join on the most festive day of the week - Taco Tuesday! Enjoy $2 off our delicious tacos and $5 margaritas, cervezas and sangrias, Tuesdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. El Coyote Bar & Cantina, 925 W. Britton Road, 405-849-5218, elcoyoteokc.com. TUE
Wine Wednesdays! Half-Priced Pizza and Wine at Osteria indulge in the perfect midweek treat at Osteria with our Wine Wednesdays. Savor the harmony of flavors as we offer half-priced pizza and select wines throughout the day. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a pizza lover, this is your chance to unwind and relish the finest of both worlds., Wednesdays. Osteria, 6430 Avondale Drive, 405254-5058, osteriaokc.com. WED
Crafts and Tales a story followed by an activity ranging from learning about a real specimen from the collections to crafting a thematic piece of artwork, 11 a.m.-noon, Wednesdays. Sam Noble Museum, 2401 Chautauqua Ave., 405-325-4712, samnoblemuseum.ou.edu. WED
Dolly Parton and Edgar Allan Poe Dance Party and Birthday Bash did you know that Dolly Parton and Edgar Allan Poe share a birthday? Join the celebration of their birthday a few days early with a party that will be great for the whole family. Enjoy an Imagination Library dramatic play station, dress-up stations, crafts, glow-in-the-dark activities, and most importantly dancing! Whether you spend the whole time dancing to a variety of familyfriendly music or circling your way through all the stations, we hope to see you there! FREE, Sat., Jan. 18, 10-11 a.m. Northwest Library, 5600 NW 122nd St., 405-606-3580, metrolibrary.org/event/dolly-partonand-edgar-allan-poe-dance-party-and-birthdaybash-431182. JAN 18
Sparkle Like Dolly Party! celebrate the iconic legend Dolly Parton’s Birthday. Sign the birthday card for Dolly, play games, take lots of pictures and have some cake! And don’t forget the glittery crafts! Story time at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. at the Children’s Area along with Dog and Cat toy making that will be donated to a local animal shelter. Registration is available but not required. All ages welcome. FREE, Sun., Jan. 19, 2-4 p.m. Southern Oaks Library, 6900 S. Walker Ave., 405-631-4468, metrolibrary.org/event/
sparkle-dolly-party-449457. JAN 19
Storytime with Miss Julie enjoy snacks, crafts and story time, 10:15-11:30 a.m., Saturdays, ongoing. Full Circle Bookstore, 1900 Northwest Expressway, 405-842-2900, fullcirclebooks.com. SAT
Weekday Story & Craft Time for Littles listen to a story or two followed by a hands-on arts and crafts activity, 10 a.m., every 2nd and 4th Thursday. Full Circle Bookstore, 1900 Northwest Expressway, 405-842-2900, fullcirclebooks.com. THU
Art Moves a free arts event that features a wide range of artistic mediums from live art demonstrations to musical and theatre performances to short films and more, weekdays in various downtown OKC locations, noon-1p.m., Weekdays. Downtown OKC, 211 N. Robinson Ave., 405-235-3500, artscouncilokc.com/ art-moves. TUE-FRI
The Barker A cabaret Welcome to The Barker, an unapologetic cabaret of self-expression. Join us as we toast the misfits, outcasts and originals who dare to be different. 25.00, third Friday of every month, 7:30-9:30 p.m. through April 18. Sailor and The Dock, 617 W. Sheridan Ave., 405-816-4250, springproductions.net/. JAN 17
Boston Brass and Imani Winds Boston Brass and the 2024 GRAMMY-winning Imani Winds are excited to announce the creation of a new consortium! Their Armstrong debut will feature music of the iconic, multi-GRAMMY award-winning musician and composer Arturo Sandoval, Aram Khachaturian’s well-known favorite, Sabre Dance (from his ballet Gayane), music of Paquito D’Rivera and Manuel De Falla, Billy May’s “Flight of the Green Hornet” and more! From $40, Tue., Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. Armstrong Auditorium, 14400 S. Bryant Ave., Edmond, 405-2851010, armstrongauditorium.org/performance/bostonbrass-and-imani-winds. JAN 28
Celtic Throne II this spectacular new Irish dance production — with all-new music from Golden Globe-nominated composer Brian Byrne — presents an epic story from the mysterious annals of Ireland: The incredible history of Ollav Fola, an ancient sage and legislator who brought the legacy of King David from Jerusalem to the Emerald Isle., Celtic Throne II — Psalter of Ireland is a family-friendly and suitable for ages 6 and up! $35-80, Sun., Jan. 12, 2-4:15 p.m. and Sun., Jan. 19, 2-4:15 p.m. Armstrong Auditorium, 14400 S. Bryant Ave., Edmond, 405-285-1010, armstrongauditorium.org/performance/celtic-throne-ii. JAN 12, JAN 19
Cowboy Bebop LIVE w/ Bebop Bounty Big Band this 14-piece jazz ensemble features worldclass musicians with members from the Jazz Orchestra at Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando Jazz Orchestra and Disney’s Main Street Philharmonic. Travel the solar system with anime’s most iconic soundtrack, Wed., Jan. 29, 7 p.m. Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd St., 405708-6937, towertheatreokc.com. jan 29
It’s Poppin’ With Paprika Cherry Don’t miss the sizzling sensation of It’s Poppin’ with Paprika Cherry every 4th Saturday at Frankie’s OKC! As one of America’s few remaining lesbian-owned bars, Frankie’s holds a special place in Oklahoma’s nightlife. Join us for a night of sweet and spicy fun, featuring drag shows, drinks, and laughter. Whether you’re a newcomer to Oklahoma City or a seasoned local, Frankie’s welcomes everyone to experience this hidden gem where if you don’t have a home - you do at Frankie’s. Never a cover! Just be sure to tip the bar staff and performers! fourth Saturday of every month, 10 p.m.-midnight. Frankie’s, 2807 NW 36th St., 405602-2030, instagram.com/qweenpaprika/. JAN 25
Last Sunday Poetry enjoy live reading from local Oklahoma poets followed by an open-mic session, 2-4 p.m., last Sunday of every month. Full Circle Bookstore, 1900 Northwest Expressway, 405-8422900, fullcirclebooks.com. JAN 26
Open Mic Night enjoy an evening of music, stories, poetry and comedy performances, Thursdays. Core4 Brewing, 7 N. Lee Ave, 4056204513. THU Red Dirt BIPOC Group Red Dirt Poetry’s own Alannah Benae, Director of Outreach, has created The BIPOC Group to fill a need they saw in the OKC writing community. The BIPOC Group is a writer’s group by and for Black people, Indigenous people and other people of color. To put it simply, if you don’t know the struggle of being non-white in a society where white is assumed to be the default, this isn’t the group for you, but Red Dirt has many other groups you are welcome to join. The BIPOC Group meets every third Saturday 1-3 p.m. at Spiked. A Coffee Concept, 1732 NE 23rd St, Suite A, 405-724-9773, facebook.com/ RedDirtPoetry/. JAN 18
Roughtail Comedy Night We are bringing you a great home-grown comedy show alongside some great homegrown brews!! Please come join us for a laugh and a drink! third Saturday of every month, 8-10 p.m. Roughtail Brewing Company, 320 W. Memorial Road, 914-432-2662, linktree.com/1andrewrose. JAN 18
Don Oliver Fitness offers Rock Steady Boxing to Parkinson’s Patients a Path to Improved Quality of Life Fighting Back Against Parkinsons $99, Tuesdays, Thursdays. Don Oliver, 5118 N. Shartel Ave., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma., 405-848-5551, donsdofitness.com. TUE, THU
HIIT Class A complimentary interval training workout centered on high-intensity intervals, consists of multiple rounds alternating between several minutes of vigorous movements to notably elevate heart rate, followed by brief intervals of lower-intensity exercises., Wednesdays, 6-7 p.m. Scissortail Park, 300 SW Seventh St., 405-445-7080, scissortailpark.org. WED Zen Qigong designed as “Working In” style exercise class that helps to bring balance to the nervous system and calms the mind. Improves circulation and increases vital life force energy that includes stretching, Qigong, breath work and strength training. These gentle movements improve digestion, strengthen blood flow, and enhance detoxification while creating clarity of mind. $15, Sundays, 9-10 a.m.
Chocolate Decadence The 27th annual Chocolate Decadence fundraiser for Lights On Broadway features
Zen, 1745 NW 16th St, 405-535-2505, facebook.com/ events/205032628229977. SUN
Full Moon Sound Bath join MARKANNA Wellness for a relaxing sound bath and meditation to celebrate the January Full Moon. Please bring a blanket, pillow, yoga mat for optimal comfort and wear comfortable clothing. Please arrive no later than 6 p.m. so we can provide a distraction-free environment for participants! Free, Sun., Jan. 13, 6-7 p.m. Myriad Botanical Gardens, Water Plaza Room, 301 W. Reno Ave., 405473-9618, myriadgardens.org/events/sound-bath-fullmoon. JAN 13
Internal Kung Fu (Tai Chi, Xing Yi, Ba Gua) Class learn taiijiquan (tai chi), xingyiquan and baguazhang in an inclusive, judgment-free environment! Improve your balance and coordination, develop strength and flexibility, and de-stress with mindful movement. $15, Sundays-noon. Dolese Disc Golf Course, 5105 NW 50th St., 347-735-0083, meetup. com/oklahoma-city-internal-kung-fu-group/events/ bdwpctyfcfbjc/. SUN
Myriad Yoga bring your mat and water for an all-levels yoga class with instructors from YMCA, 6 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m. Saturdays. Myriad Botanical Gardens, 301 W. Reno Ave., 405-445-7080, myriadgardens.com. TUE
OKC Touch Rugby Practice an evening of playing touch rugby for beginning to advance players on the Love’s Travel Stops Great Lawn, Tuesdays, Wednesdays. Scissortail Park, 300 SW Seventh St., 405-445-7080, scissortailpark.org. WED
Sound Bath Meditation join MARKANNA Wellness at Ralph Ellison Library for a relaxing sound bath meditation. A sound bath is a deeply immersive, full-body listening experience that intentionally uses sound with crystal bowls, chimes and other instruments to invite gentle yet powerful therapeutic and restorative processes to nurture your mind and body. The library has some yoga mats, but feel free to bring your own. We also recommend bringing a pillow and blanket as well as comfortable clothing. Free, Tue., Jan. 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ralph Ellison Library, 2000 NE 23rd St., 4054739618, metrolibrary.org/event/soundbath-446663. JAN 21
Sound Bath Meditation join MARKANNA Wellness at Southwest OKC Library to take time to take care of yourself. In this program we will explore strategies to connect with your inner-self and support your mind and body through sound bath meditation. Designed for adults. Please bring any materials to help support your experience and comfort [ex: a blanket, yoga mat and pillow]. Registration preferred. Free, Wed., Jan. 22, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Southwest OKC LibraryPioneer, 2201 SW 134th St., pioneer.libnet.info/ event/12429873. JAN 22
Sound Bath Meditation Class join MARKANNA Wellness at Francis Tuttle Rockwell for a presentation about the science of sound baths and experience one as well. You will learn how the vibrations of sound affect our brainwaves, allowing us the space to slow down and go within. A sound bath is a deeply immersive, full-body listening experience that can help manage anxiety, stress, depression and more. We recommend bringing a pillow, blanket and yoga mat for comfort along with comfortable clothing. $39, Tue., Feb. 4, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Francis Tuttle, 12777 N. Rockwell Ave., 405-473-9618. FEB 4
Yoga at the Wheel a class for all levels led by This Land Yoga, all that is required is a mat, third Sunday of every month, 10-11 a.m. Wheeler Ferris Wheel, 1701 S. Western Ave., 405-655-8455, wheelerdistrict.com/ ferris-wheel. JAN 19
Yoga in the Park bring a yoga mat and water bottle for an hour of spirit, mind and body alignment, 6-7 p.m., Fridays. Andrews Park, 201 W. Daws St., 405-366-5472. FRI
“From the Vault: The 80th Anniversary Exhibition” Organized in honor of OKCMOA’s 80th anniversary in 2025, “From the Vault: The 80th Anniversary Exhibition” presents over 150 paintings, prints, photographs, drawings and sculptures from the museum’s permanent collection. The works in the exhibition have not been exhibited previously or on display in the last five years, allowing OKCMOA to share more of its collection with the community. All of the works are organized by the decade in which they were formally acquired (or accessioned) and grouped thematically to help tell the story of the museum’s permanent collection., Feb. 8-April 27. Oklahoma City Museum of Art, 415 Couch Drive, 405-236-3100, okcmoa.com/visit/events/from-thevault-the-80th-anniversary-exhibition/. SAT 21st Century Mound Builders explore and learn about the Mound Builder cultures along the walking path to the top of the FAM Mound which is 90 feet in height and serves as a cosmological clock, ongoing. First Americans Museum, 659 First Americans Blvd., 405-594-2100. WED
Artist in Residence Studio Tour Discover where the creativity flows during an exclusive tour of our current Artist-In-Residence Nathan Lee. This is a great opportunity to observe Nathan in action and to see how his creative space encourages his artistic direction and style. Make sure to reserve a spot by calling 405-593-1063 or email us at gallery@1515lg.
com. Free, first Saturday of every month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 1515 Lincoln Gallery, 1515 N. Lincoln Blvd., 1515lg. com. SAT
Craft Fest 2025 learn about different hobbies from local arts and crafting guilds! There will be demonstrations of various crafts, like felting, wood working and painting, as well as representatives from local clubs who can give you information on their art forms! Craft fest is open to anyone looking for a new hobby or who wants to learn more about their art form. The event is open to all ages, with emphasis on teen and adult hobbies. FREE, Sat., Jan. 25, 12-4 p.m. Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave., 405-231-8650, metrolibrary.org/event/craftfest-2025-440166. JAN 25
Launch to Landing: Oklahomans and Space this showcase highlights the contributions of Oklahomans to the U.S. air and space program, as well as the state’s early aviation trailblazers. The exhibit features artifacts closely linked to Oklahoma aviators and the U.S. air and space program, including Oklahoma flags that have been flown in space, a NASA Mission Control console, space shuttle heat shield tiles and lunar samples, commonly referred to as “moon rocks.”, ongoing. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, 405-521-2491, okhistory.org.
MON-SAT
OKLA HOMMA the signature exhibition of the museum, features works of art, interactive media and film from all 39 tribes in Oklahoma as of today depicting stories with ancestral origins, collective histories, sports and more, ongoing. First Americans Museum, 659 First Americans Blvd., 405-594-2100.
MON-WED
One Place, Many Nations: Acknowledging the 39 an immersive experience, offering a profound exploration of the distinctive histories, cultures, contributions and resilience of Oklahoma’s 39 tribes. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities, interactive experiences, and educational opportunities while rotating objects showcasing diverse cultural experiences. Will be on display for two years.,Through May 27. First Americans Museum, 659 First Americans Blvd., 405-594-2100. FRI-WED
Paseo Arts District’s First Friday Gallery Walk peruse art from over 80 artists with 25 participating businesses for a night of special themed exhibits, refreshments and a variety of entertainment opportunities, 6-9 p.m. first Friday of every month. Paseo Arts District, 3024 Paseo St., 405-525-2688, thepaseo.org. FRI
Second Friday Art Walk a free celebration of arts and creativity held monthly in the Walker Arts District of Downtown Norman, second Friday of every month, 6 p.m. Downtown Norman, 122 E. Main St., 405-637-6225, downtownnorman.com. FRI
Taking Flight: Oklahomans Explore the Skies an exhibit featuring the first steps toward air travel for both military and commercial flights and ways that Oklahomans such as Wiley Post contributed to aviation, ongoing. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, 405-521-2491, okhistory.org. WED
Watch Out for Flying Chairs: Professional Wrestling in Oklahoma Through this photo exhibit, the evolution of professional wrestling in Oklahoma is explored, tracing its origins from traveling carnivals to its present-day form., ongoing. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, 405-521-2491, okhistory.org. TUE-WED
WINIKO: Life of an Object, Selections from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian reflecting on the Native belief that their cultural materials hold the spirt of their makers and those who wore or used them this exhibit features of over 100 items that have been returned to the 39 tribes of Oklahoma after being taken from them in the early 1900s, ongoing. First Americans Museum, 659 First Americans Blvd., 405-594-2100. MON-WED
Submissions must be received by Oklahoma Gazette no later than noon the first Wednesday of the month. Late submissions will not be included in the listings. Submissions run as space allows, although we strive to make the listings as inclusive as possible. Fax your listings to 528-4600 or e-mail them to listings@okgazette.com. Sorry, but phone submissions cannot be accepted.
page 28
Submissions must be received by Oklahoma Gazette no later than the first Wednesday of the month. Late submissions will not be included in the listings. Submissions run as space allows, although we strive to make the listings as inclusive as possible
By Jeremy Martin REVIEW
Oklahoma emo band Ben Quad’s newest EP hits a bit harder and trains its eyes on the mess of society around us.
There’s a brief scene in Alfonso Cuarón’s still-terrifying dystopian masterpiece Children of Men where Jasper (Michael Caine) and Theo (Clive Owen) take advantage of a small break in the onslaught of horrors to smoke pot and hang out. Jasper suggests “a little zen music” before pressing play on a track created specifically for this scene: an aggressively off-kilter Aphex Twin beat remixed with the anguished screams of a man being tortured.
What does an almost throwaway bit of world-building from a 2006 sci-fi film have to do with Ben Quad’s latest EP, Ephemera, which doesn’t even really sound like this “zen music”? Cuarón’s unfortunately prescient film (set in 2027, btw) introduces a world where optimism is dead, human life is stripped of whatever meaning it once seemed to have, and the music people make to cope has grown increasingly violent and angry in response.
Half as long as Ben Quad’s stellar 2022 debut I’m Scared That’s All There Is but hitting at least twice as hard, 11minute Ephemera, released in October, most obviously finds the Oklahoma City four-piece going from emo to screamo, but below the surface, there seems to be something deeper and darker happening beyond one of the state’s best rock bands moving into an adjacent subgenre.
The first few seconds of opener “I Did
Not Create the Rules,” head-fake toward a more drastic change still, with glossy synths and drum machines that would sound at home on an Emeralds album, but a distorted guitar riff immediately erases any idea that Ben Quad has gone techno. This wrong-foot rug-pull is worth noting, however, because it’s probably the closest thing to a joke on an album by a band that filled its debut with references to cartoons and sitcoms.
“It’ll be like this forever / Always lost, confused,” the song begins with a scream that instantly reminds listeners that “emo” is short for “emotional” and unbridled rage is most definitely an emotion. Fans of lead singer and rhythm guitarist Sam Wegrzynski’s clean vocals shouldn’t worry — they’re not completely absent from the album — but they might fear for the health of his vocal chords as he and bassist Henry Shields exchange throat-shredding screams at least as often as they harmonize. “We’re living anxiously, so why don’t we just burn this?” the song asks. “We’re living anxiously, so how did we deserve this?” In an interview with Brooklyn Vegan in October, the band said “I Did Not Create the Rules” is a response to being “forced to survive in the constant hell cycle that is late-stage capitalism,” and the pointed anger is audible and cathartic.
“You’ll Get Nothing and Like It” continues the theme, concluding “Everything I need from you is everything you take from me / Every single little thing will add up ’til it dies with
me.” Where I’m Scared That’s All There Is might have had a sample from Always Sunny in Philadelphia, this song simply features a voice speaking the line, “You were made to throw away,” introducing the idea that will become the refrain of Ephemera ’s concluding title track.
“Lyrically, this EP has a lot to do with the current political climate,” lead guitarist Edgar Viveros said in the press release accompanying the album. “How am I supposed to survive in this world that doesn’t care for me?” Viveros’ immaculately played mathy noodling and tapping, which formerly stood out as the knotty spine in Ben Quad songs, is also an essential element of Ephemera, as evident on the single “Your Face as an Effigy,” but drummer Isaac Young’s hard-hitting blast beats are at least as much of a driving force.
Outline in Color guitarist CJ Cochran, who produced I’m Scared That’s All There Is, returns behind the boards, and Ephemera, Ben Quad’s first release for the Pure Noise label (Drug Church, Knocked Loose) really represents a logical if aggressive evolution of the band’s sound and approach rather than an outright reinvention. Between its Simpsons’ referencing title and King of the Hill sample, for example, I’m Scared ’s “You Gotta Learn to Listen Lou,” analyzes a dying relationship with excoriating introspection where lesser emos would whine and fingerpoint, and album closer “Joan of Hill” foreshadows Ephemera by decrying misery-inflicting landlords before stating “Throw me away / It was always my fate.”
Ephemera ’s title track, meanwhile, makes the political personal, declaring “I watched you ruin everything … stuck inside the mess you made / Spill me open and see my future / Leave me here to clean my sutures.” The despair of the discarded becomes rage, and Ben Quad, who once made soundtracks for latenight longing, is now making music for watching the world burn.
These local artists are are gearing up for a promising 2025.
By Chris Krummrich
Lots of people used their time at home during the pandemic to pick up new hobbies. After Abby Navarro used her first and last name to create “Aeyvo,” she found new passion in DJing and has quickly made big noises in the local house and electronic dance music scene.
In a few short years, Aeyvo has quickly become surrounded by a community of fellow DJs and fans, sharing stages with large touring artists including Marauda, Westend and, most recently, The Floozies at Tower Theatre.
You’ll find Navarro hosting a weekly EDM show called Electric Pony at Ponyboy. It consistently draws an impressive turnout despite the event being held on Wednesday nights.
Navarro recalls Ponyboy being one of the few venues that played house music in Oklahoma City during a time when she was still using fake IDs to get into places. Coincidentally, Ponyboy ended up playing a big role in her road to artistry.
In 2025, Aeyvo wants to create and release music of her own by learning how to use music production software.
“Once I’m able to do that, I’m gonna have that next level of personality of who Aeyvo is,” she said.
Despite not having dropped music of her own yet, Navarro has laid the groundwork for exciting future releases. She has a growing community of passionate house heads and an impressive track record of performances, so be sure to keep an eye on Aeyvo this year.
Josh Masterson, or Jmasty, is a singersongwriter and co-owner of Starving Artist Co., a company that collaborates with local businesses and artists through creative media.
Although Jmasty is a performing artist with released music, he has long been active in Oklahoma City’s music scene, organizing unique live music experiences like the Plaza District’s summer concert series; Purgatory, a Halloween-themed interpretive dance party at Resonant Head; and, most recently, a new video series whose first release is called “A Tiny Bar Christmas Special” recorded at Good For a Few that features local musicians.
Masterson reignited a music career shortly after the pandemic with the release of his single “How We Met (Sycamore Tree),” an indie-pop tune about his wife, the creative director and other owner of Starving Artist.
In 2025, Jmasty is releasing an EP in collaboration with local psyche rockers World Peace Death Ray and another body of work that will be composed of new tunes and polished, rerecorded songs.
Both Jmasty and Starving Artist Co. have a disposition for exciting unpredictability when it comes to creating live music experiences in Oklahoma City. Be sure to follow them on socials so you don’t miss the next experience.
Very few local music artists have had a metamorphosis quite like emotional rap artist and Normanite Shawn, or S. Reidy.
Inspired by the usage of words and approach to hip-hop by artists like Open Mike Eagle and Aesop Rocky, Reidy moved from an acoustic guitar-based indie-folk style of music to a poetic rap approach after deciding he “was done writing songs about girls and being sad.”
Last September saw the release of his latest self-produced EP, I Think I Feel Different, a tracklist sprinkled with
melodic, confessional, evocative phraseology and acoustic guitar.
In 2025, S. Reidy has a tour planned for March and is also going to “put out a different kind of release that [he hasn’t] done before.”
Reidy’s tour will conclude at home in Norman — literally at home in his garage, where he hosts his series of house shows featuring local artists called Mt. Reidy.
“[It] feels like a party, but the emphasis is on the music,” he said. “It’s just a different energy the way it’s a house show.”
This year can expect a continuation of Reidy’s consistency with yearly releases, a tour and more shows at Norman’s infamous Mt. Reidy.
Beau Jennings is a mainstay in the Oklahoma music scene and has a music career spanning just over 20 years that includes 10 albums under both his name and his band, Beau Jennings & The Tigers.
Jennings hails from Broken Arrow, and Oklahoma frequently makes its way into his melodic storytelling. His recently released album with The Tigers, American Stories Major Chords, includes “Oklahoma Heat,” an acoustic guitar and piano-oriented piece that is honest, personal and illustrative of everyday life in the Sooner State.
When asked about the grander message behind his art, Jennings said, “You want to connect,” a sentiment he expressed is what draws him to the music he resonates with.
“You want people to listen, and hopefully they can find something they can identify with,” he said.
The band is always in “production mode,” despite every band member
having other careers and bands and one member living in Atlanta, Georgia. He says it’s kind of a minor miracle that they’re able to continue to release music and play shows so gracefully.
Jennings is eager to continue to release new music himself or with The Tigers in 2025. You can catch an especially unique conversation that features Jennings breaking down his latest album and Jabee’s equally as expressive “The Spirit is Willing, But The Flesh is Weak” on Jan. 16 at The SoundBar in Automobile Alley.
The music of LatinX and Indie-pop artist Lincka is highly textured sonically and lyrically. With a focus on bilingual lyricism, Lincka explores topics ranging from human connection to rights with a high attention to detail in
the music, message and presentation. Lincka’s stage presence draws on inspiration from Latin music icons like Juan Gabriel and Celia Cruz and shows in her carefully curated outfits, performances and videos.
Though heavily inspired visually by Gabriel and Cruz, Lincka’s music is much different and is inspired by artists like The Marias, The Strokes and beabadoobee.
“There’s something about indie shit that I just love,” she said. “I just feel so at home with it.”
Lincka plans to explore more synthdriven songs with retro rhythms and drumming and coin the term “Chicano Futurism” in her songs planned for 2025.
Though always looking to the future, Lincka feels strong empowerment and responsibility, particularly on stage, to honoring her Mexican heritage and ancestors.
Keep up with her for new music, and watch out for show announcements to catch a special audiovisual experience.
These are events recommended by Oklahoma Gazette editorial staff members. For full calendar listings, go to okgazette.com.
WEDNESDAYS
Amarillo Junction, JJ’s Alley Bricktown Pub. ROCK
Jazz Jam, 51st Street Speakeasy. JAZZ
Jazz Night, Bradford House. JAZZ
Trett Charles, River Spirit Casino Resort. COUNTRY
Vintage Vinyl Wednesdays, El Coyote Bar & Cantina. DJ
The Wednesday Band, The Deli. COUNTRY
THURSDAYS
Country Music Group Therapy/Biscuits & Groovy, The Deli. COUNTRY
Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge Karaoke Night, Dust Bowl. KARAKOE
Joel Forlenza, Othello’s Italian Restaurant. INSTURMENTALISTS
Music Over Midtown, O Bar. VARIOUS
Shelly Phelps and The Storm, Bourbon Street Bar. BLUES
FRIDAYS
Joel Forlenza, Othello’s Italian Restaurant. INSTURMENTALISTS
Live Jazz!, Hefner Grill. JAZZ
McKee Brother Jazz Band, Bourbon Street Bar. JAZZ
Mojo’s Blues Revue, Mojo’s Blues Club. BLUES
SATURDAYS
Bedlam Live Local Bands, Bedlam Bar-B-Q.
VARIOUS
Joel Forlenza, Othello’s Italian Restaurant. INSTURMENTALISTS
Live Jazz!, Hefner Grill. JAZZ
McKee Brother Jazz Band, Bourbon Street Bar. JAZZ
Mojo’s Blues Revue, Mojo’s Blues Club. BLUES
SUNDAYS
Jazz Night!, Blue Note. JAZZ
Live Jazz!, Hefner Grill. JAZZ
No Whiners Aloud, Mojo’s Blues Club. ROCK
Tin Can Gramophone/Hosty, The Deli. FOLK
MONDAYS
The Aints/Bailey Gilbert & Friends, The Deli. AMERICANA
Blue’s Night Jam Session, Othello’s. BLUES
TUESDAYS
Bruce Benson & Studio B, 51st Street Speakeasy. BLUES
Caleb McGee, The Deli. BLUES
SATURDAY, JAN. 11
Locust Grove w/ The Treatment & Neanderthal Jones, Beer City Music Hall. ROCK
MONDAY, JAN. 13
The Aints/Bailey Gilbert & Friends, The Deli. AMERICANA
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 15
Edgar Cruz and Friends, Broke Brewing Company. ACOUSTIC
THURSDAY, JAN. 16
Country Music Group Therapy/Biscuits & Groovy, The Deli. COUNTRY
FRIDAY, JAN. 17
Jessica Tate, The Deli. INSTRUMENTAL
Sam Riggs w/ Dax Perrier, Beer City Music Hall. COUNTRY
Vinyl & Sip OKC metro musicians Jabee and Beau Jennings come together to discuss their albums The Spirit Is Willing but the Flesh Is Weak and American Stories Major Chords at The SoundBar. Listen to their newest albums and the stories behind them while you enjoy your favorite cocktails. The vinyl starts spinning 6 p.m. Jan. 16 at The SoundBar, 712B N. Broadway Ave. This event is free. Call 405-404-9832 or visit thesoundbarokc.com.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 Photo Maria Nairn
SATURDAY, JAN. 18
Emo Night Brooklyn, Beer City Music Hall. PUNK
FRIDAY, JAN. 24
Tyler Halverson, Beer City Music Hall. WESTERN
SATURDAY, JAN. 25
Bricks In The Wall - The Sight & Sound of Pink Floyd, Tower Theatre. COVER United We Dance - The Ultimate Rave Experience, Beer City Music Hall. ELECTRONIC
TUESDAY, JAN. 28
Bayker Blankenship, Beer City Music Hall. COUNTRY
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29
Edgar Cruz and Friends, Broke Brewing Company. ACOUSTIC
THURSDAY, JAN. 30
Keller Williams, Tower Theatre. FOLK
FRIDAY, JAN. 31
Lotus, Beer City Music Hall. ELECTRONIC
SATURDAY, FEB. 1
Journey of a Lifetime - The Music of Journey w/ Frank Reno’s 1 Man Loverboy Tribute, Tower Theatre. COVER Too Many Zooz x Moon Hooch w/ Honeycomb, Beer City Music Hall. POP
SUNDAY, FEB. 2
The Man In Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash, Tower Theatre. COVER
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 5
Badfish - A Tribute to Sublime w/ Kash’d Out and The Quasi Kings, Tower Theatre. COVER
THURSDAY, FEB. 6
Ashley Cooke w/ Greylan James, Beer City Music Hall. COUNTRY
FRIDAY, FEB. 7
Natalie Jane w/ Chandler Leighton, Beer City Music Hall. POP
GOOD KID, M.A.A.D PARTY (Kendrick Lamar Night), Tower Theatre. DANCE
SATURDAY, FEB. 8
MJ Lenderman & The Wind w/ Wild Pink, Tower Theatre. INDIE
Ty Myers: The Select Tour, The Criterion. COUNTRY
MONDAY, FEB. 10
Bad Suns, Beer City Music Hall. ROCK
TUESDAY, FEB. 11
The Main Squeeze, Beer City Music Hall. FUNK
Live music submissions must be received by Oklahoma Gazette no later than noon the first Wednesday of the month. Late submissions will not be included in the listings. Submissions run as space allows, although we strive to make the listings as inclusive as possible. Fax your listings to 528-4600 or e-mail to listings@okgazette.com. Sorry, but phone submissions cannot be accepted.
Bus Route: 009, 038, 008, 007, 010
Bus Route: 007
Bus Route: 008
800 W. California Ave. cityrescue.org 405-232-2709
City Care Night Shelter 532 N Villa Ave. citycareokc.org 405-652-1112
Community Health Services communityhealthok.org 405-769-3301
Homeless Alliance 1724 NW 4th St. 405-415-8410
NAMI Oklahoma
namioklahoma.org/resources/oklahomaresources
Oklahoma City Animal Shelter 2811 SE 29th St. okc.gov/departments/animal-welfare 405-297-3100
SISU Youth Services 2129 NW 30th St (405) 459-7478 sisuyouth.org
Bus Route: 009, 008, MOE
Bus Route: 009, 012, 016, MOE
To Write Love On Her Arms (TWLOHA) twloha.com pleasestayalive.com
Trans Lifeline 877-565-8860
Veterans Crisis Line 800-273-8255
PFLAG pflag.org/find-resources
The Trevor Project thetrevorproject.org/resources
Text START to 678-678
Human Rights Campaign hrc.org
Anti-Violence Project avp.org 212-714-1141
American Civil Liberties Union aclu.org
By Adrian Johnson Puzzles edited by Joel Fagliano
ACROSS
1 Reality show about the perils of crabbing in the Bering Sea
15 Apple cores, for short?
19 Fast lane
21 ‘‘____ No Sunshine’’ (1971 Bill Withers hit)
22 ‘‘God forbid!’’
24 ‘‘O Rei do Futebol,’’ to Brazilians
25 Sporty car roof options
26 Subsequently occur
27 Bioré product
29 Sitters on the farm
30 Sheets of floating ice
31 Shanghai or Shenzhen
32 Grp. that’s a year above 41-Across 33 Vaquero’s ties
34 1/48 of a cup: Abbr.
37 Wipe out at one’s desk, say
38 Cut down 39 Rentals at a bowling alley
41 Grp. that’s a year below 32-Across
42 Solidify,
61 Many a Christmas tree
75
that covers ambulance services
77 Windows might be found on these
Object of knightly quests
Eight, in Italian
Only African nation where Spanish is an official language 94 Author Silverstein 95 Second-place finish?
96 One of four for F.D.R. 97 They’re usually written in December DOWN
1 Shipwreck’s resting place, with ‘‘the’’
2 English city in the county of Devon
3 Garments with strings 4 Makes like a melting icicle 5 You shouldn’t settle for it 6 ‘‘Well, kinda’’
7 One-named singer of 2008’s ‘‘American Boy’’ 8 Hybrid dog breed with curly hair 9 Master’s musts 10 Whale constellation
Feel sore
It’s a bout done! 13 Despot’s undoing 14 Annual science fiction awards 15 Tradition at the end of a graduation ceremony 16 Second-smallest U.S. state capital by population, after Montpelier 17 Like new matches
18 Out of ____
20 What a waltzer counts to
23 Emotion picture?
28 Trades jabs
30 Any of the meats in a turducken, e.g.
33 Cocktail made from peach nectar and Prosecco
34 Letter before iota
35 Drink brand with lizards in its logo
36 Sweats
38 Members of a publishing dynasty
39 ‘‘60 Minutes’’ journalist Lesley
40 Protest that goes nowhere?
42 Relaxed gait
44 ‘‘We’re being framed!’’
45 Sport with a chair umpire
46 Briefly
47 Textile with roots in the Scottish Highlands
48 More sardonic
49 Ski lodge beverages
50 Most populous city in the European Union
51 Prominent feature of Rudolph
52 Drink made with steamed milk
53 Chain store that sells many of its items for $1.25, curiously
56 Dudes abide by it
58 Party game in which participants try to identify a secret assassin
59 Demanding sorts
61 Bits of trivia
Stumped? Call 1-900-285-5656 to get the answers to any three clues by phone ($1.20 a minute).
65 Align, as audio to video
66 Foldable parts of some cars
69 Widely shared, say
70 Hula swayers
71 ____ X
74 Small plant germ
75 Alloy containing tin
76 Head-to-toe Islamic garment
78 Expensive appetizer
79 Jazz standard with the lyric ‘‘I’m so tired of paying my dues’’
80 Get acclimated
81 Spanish city where Picasso was born
82 Cats do it with their tongues
83 Día de los Muertos prop
84 Transported, as by water
85 Surrealist Kahlo
86 Without a clue
87 Fully fill
88 French for ‘‘death’’
89 Revs, as an engine
92 Holiday in which bánh chung cakes are eaten
93 Prefix with -graphic
PUBLISHER
Kimberly Walker kwalker@okgazette.com
EDITOR
Brittany Pickering bpickering@okgazette.com
MARKETING MANAGER
Leslie A. Spears lspears@okgazette.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Patrick Hanscom phanscom@okgazette.com
ADVERTISING
advertising@okgazette.com 405-528-6000
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Leslie A. Spears lspears@okgazette.com
Beau Stephenson bstephenson@okgazette.com
Gina Nichols gnichols@okgazette.com
Robert Medley rmedley@okgazette.com
CONTRIBUTORS
EDITORIAL
REPORTERS
Phil Bacharach
Daniel Bokemper
Ben Felder
Chris Krummrich
Jo Light
Jeremy Martin
Sarah Neese
Julie Porter Scott
CREATIVE
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Tim Buchanan
ILLUSTRATORS
Steve Hill
Nick Hermes
Oklahoma Gazette is proud to partner with Oklahoma Comic Arts Foundation to support local artists. For more information or to apply for the directory, visit www.okcomicarts.org.
Homework: Whether or not you believe in reincarnation, imagine that you lived another life. Where was it? Who were you? Newsletter.FreeWillAstrology.com
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
Aries poet Charles Baudelaire said that if you want to fully activate your personal genius, you will reclaim and restore the intelligence you had as a child. You will empower it anew with all the capacities you have developed as an adult. I believe this is sensational advice for you in 2025. In my understanding of the astrological omens, you will have an extraordinary potential to use your mature faculties to beautifully express the wise innocence and lucid perceptions you were blessed with when you were young.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20)
In many Asian myths, birds and snakes are depicted as adversaries. Their conflict symbolizes humanity’s problems in coordinating the concerns of earth and heaven. Desire may be at odds with morality. Unconscious motivations can be opposed to good intentions. Pride, self-interest, and ambition might seem incompatible with spiritual aspirations, highminded ideals, and the quest to transcend suffering. But here’s the good news for you, Taurus: In 2025, I suspect that birds and snakes will cooperate rather harmoniously. You and they will have stirring, provocative adventures together.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20)
Using a fork to eat food was slow to gain acceptance in the Western world. Upper-class Europeans began to make it a habit in the 11th century, but most common folk regarded it as a pretentious irrelevancy for hundreds of years. Grabbing grub with the fingers was perfectly acceptable. I suspect this scenario might serve as an apt metaphor for you in 2025. You are primed to be an early adapter who launches trends. You will be the first to try novel approaches and experiment with variations in how things have always been done. Enjoy your special capacity, Gemini. Be bold in generating innovations.
CANCER (June 21-July 22)
Psychologist Abraham Maslow defined “peak experiences” as “rare, exciting, oceanic, deeply moving, exhilarating, elevating experiences that generate an advanced form of perceiving reality, and are even mystic and magical in their effect upon the experimenter.” The moment of falling in love is one example. Another may happen when a creative artist makes an inspiring breakthrough in their work. These transcendent interludes may also come from dreamwork, exciting teachings, walks in nature, and responsible drug use. (Read more here: tinyurl.com/PeakInterludes) I bring these ideas to your attention, Cancerian, because I believe the months ahead will be prime time for you to cultivate and attract peak experiences.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)
According to my analysis of the astrological omens, your life in 2025 will be pretty free of grueling karmic necessity. You will be granted exemptions from cosmic compulsion. You won’t be stymied by the oppressive inertia of the past. To state this happy turn of events more positively, you will have clearance to move and groove with daring expansiveness. Obligations and duties won’t disappear, but they’re more likely to be interesting than boring and arduous. Special dispensations and kind favors will flow more abundantly than they have in a long time.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
One of my most enjoyable goals in life has been to expunge my “isms.” I’m pleased that I have made dramatic progress in liquidating much of the perverse cultural conditioning that imprinted me as I was growing up. I’ve largely liberated myself from racism, sexism, classism, ableism, heteronormativity, looksism, and even egotism. How are you doing with that stuff, Virgo? The coming months will be a favorable time to work on this honorable task. What habits of mind and feeling have you absorbed from the world that are not in sync with your highest ideals?
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Here’s one of my predictions for you in 2025, Libra:
You will reach the outer limits of your domain and then push on to explore beyond those limits. Here’s another prediction: You will realize with a pleasant shock that some old expectations about your destiny are too small, and soon you will be expanding those expectations. Can you handle one further mindopening, soul-stretching prophecy? You will demolish at least one mental block, break at least one taboo, and dismantle an old wall that has interfered with your ability to give and receive love.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
If you’re not married and would like to be, 2025 might be your best chance in years to find wedded bliss. If an existing intimate bond is less than optimal, the coming months will bring inspiration and breakthroughs to improve it. Let’s think even bigger and stronger, Scorpio, and speculate that you could be on the verge of all kinds of enhanced synergetic connections. I bet business and artistic partnerships will thrive if you decide you want them to. Links to valuable resources will be extra available if you work to refine your skills at collaboration and togetherness.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
I wonder how you will feel about the fact that I’m declaring 2025 to be the Year of the Muses for you Sagittarians. Will you be happy that I expect you to be flooded with provocative clues from inspiring influences? Or will you regard the influx of teachings and revelations as chaotic, confusing or inconvenient? In the hope you adopt my view, I urge you to expand your understanding of the nature of muses. They may be intriguing people, and might also take the form of voices in your head, ancestral mentors, beloved animals, famous creators, or spirit guides.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Astrologers in ancient China had the appalling view that over two-thirds of all omens are negative, threatening, or scary. I haven’t seen formal research into the biases of modern Western stargazers, but my anecdotal evidence suggests they tend to be equally pessimistic. I regard this as an unjustified travesty. My studies have shown that there is no such thing as
an inherently ominous astrological configuration. All portents are revelations about how to successfully wrangle with our problems, perpetrate liberation, ameliorate suffering, find redemption, and perform ingenious tweaks that liberate us from our mindforged manacles. They always have the potential to help us discover the deeper meanings beneath our experiences. Everything I just said is essential for you to keep in mind during 2025.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Over the years, a few people who don’t know me well have accused me of “thinking too much” or “overthinking.” They are wrong. While I aspire to always be open to constructive criticism, I am sure that I don’t think too much. Not all my thoughts are magnificent, original, and high-quality, of course; some are generated by fear and habit. However, I meticulously monitor the flow of all my thoughts and am skilled at knowing which ones I should question or not take seriously. The popular adage, “Don’t believe everything you think” is one of my axioms. In 2025, I invite you Aquarians to adopt my approach. Go right ahead and think as much as you want, even as you heighten your awareness of which of your thoughts are excellent and which are not.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)
I’m pleased, bordering on gleeful, that your homecoming is well underway. All the signs suggest that as 2025 unfolds, you will ripen the processes of deepening your roots and building a stronger foundation. As a result, I expect and predict that your levels of domestic bliss will reach unprecedented heights. You may even create a deeply fulfilled sense of loving yourself exactly as you are and feeling like you truly belong to the world you are surrounded by. Dear Pisces, I dare you to cultivate more peace of mind than you have ever managed to arouse. I double-dare you to update traditions whose emotional potency has waned. Go to RealAstrology.com to check out Rob Brezsny’s expanded weekly audio horoscopes /daily text message horoscopes.
