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Volume 10 / Number 9, 405 Magazine (periodicals 21350) is published monthly, 12 times a year, by Hilltop Media Group, 1216 N Blackwelder Ave., Ste. 13, Oklahoma City, OK 73106. Periodicals postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 405 Magazine, P.O. Box 16765, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765.
Photo: Collection of Motion Picture Costume Design: Larry McQueen
Autumn Anticipation
Refuge. Sanctuary. Comfort. Peace. I associate the season of fall with the same feelings as I do my home. After a long day, walking through the door to the greetings of children’s hugs and wagging tails, swapping out my shoes for slippers and sinking into the couch is good for the spirit and the soul.
Those same emotions accompany that first crisp, cool autumn breeze that cuts through the Oklahoma heat and humidity. When the leaves start to turn golden and gently sway to the ground, I know that it’s almost here—my favorite time of year. The holidays bring with them gifts, treats and time spent with family and friends. Our house is full of relatives and I always look forward to getting it ready for hosting. The annual purchasing of mums and pumpkins is like a groundbreaking for the joy.
A beautiful home looks and feels different for everyone, but having a space that inspires you creatively and works for your family can improve every area of your health and happiness. For our September cover feature, we have our extended Home seasonal design section focusing on fall trends. Home section editor Evie Klopp Holzer worked with area designers and stylists to cover updating historic houses, creating a masterpiece tablescape for Thanksgiving, gaining insight into how trends have changed over the years and more (pg. 27).
Also in this issue we are delighted to introduce you to a woman changing the lives of incarcerated individuals by giving them a pathway to beauty careers (pg. 22), and a couple bringing contemporary western art to the Paseo District (pg. 58).
You will be inspired to book reservations with the lowdown on some of the metro’s most enticing new dining options that have everyone’s mouths watering (pg. 45) and get dolled up for two exciting fashion-related arts exhibitions currently open (pg. 56).
We are excited to welcome our new Art Director, Karson Brooks, to the 405 Magazine team! Karson has a background in visual art and graphic design that is already evident as she laid out this, her first, issue.
Julie Partin EDITOR IN CHIEF
BEHIND THE SCENES
As we move into this joyous and festive season, I hope your schedules are full of gatherings, bellies full of quality cuisine and homes full of bliss!
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The Time for Timelessness
Style for the season in between
BY BENNETT HILL
SEPTEMBER IS A GAME OF LIMBO, when the weather teeters on fall but still grasps at the heat of summer. Brights slowly disappear into our closets while neutrals reach the forefront, covering our once-polychromatic wardrobe with a subtler wall of beige, cream, tan and khaki (there is a difference). Though appearing limited, all that is needed is a new perspective. Use this time as a palette cleanser and find comfort in the nuanced neutrals that provide a fresh canvas. Be it a classic cardigan made lively with bold buttons, a pleated skirt with mixed materials or a timeless ballet slipper, a return to the staples can be done with flair and finesse.
1.
Tela, Olivia Skirt: Gretta Sloane 2. Rag & Bone, Jax Sleeveless Cardigan: Edit & Co. 3. Intentionally Blank, Valley Flat: Betsy King Shoes 4. Longines, La Grande Classique: BC Clark 5. Marc Jacobs, Siren shoulder Bag: Cayman’s 6. Krewe, STL II: Black Optical
Downtown OKC's Starlight
PHOTOS BY LOGAN WALCHER
Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership’s fundraiser, Starlight, was held at Fred Jones Avenue in the West Village District this year and featured live music by Ckai Dawson and The Experience, an open bar, hors d’oeuvres from Kam’s Kookery and a signature cocktail from The Jones Assembly. Other vendors and partners included Lively Beerworks, Fordson Hotel, Big Biang Theory and more.
Attendees enjoyed a fashionable night wearing starlight blue, which was the event’s signature color for 2024. Event proceeds will support the organization’s mission
Masha Andrianova Largent
Danielle Dodson, Phi Nguyen, Ashley Weems & Sarah Anderson
Andrew Dixon, Jennings Hammack, Rachel Smith-Strek, Jakey Dobbs, Wes Haddox, Tanner Muse & Brian Bogert
Spencer & Claudia Browne
Aubrey & Anthony McDermid
Olivia Branscum & James Milkeraitis
SIP / SAVOR / SPA / STAY LONGER
A Night with Nexus
PHOTOS BY AMANDA WATSON
Nexus Animals hosted its inaugural large fundraising event, “A Night with Nexus,” at Aspen Ranch in Edmond. This black-tie affair was a tremendous success, bringing together supporters from across the community to help at-risk animals. The evening was filled with a variety of exciting activities, including a silent auction, runway show, casino games, dinner, drinks, dessert and live music. Emmy-winning TV personality Carson Kressley kept the night lively and engaging, while pet expert Travis Brorsen spoke on behalf of the animals in need, especially those facing euthanasia in Oklahoma’s municipal shelters due to severe overcrowding.
The funds raised will directly support Nexus Animals’ vital programs, including life-saving rescue and adoption for dogs, cats and horses, community outreach and support programs, veterinary care and training to help animals overcome trauma and neglect, spay and neuter services to reduce pet overpopulation and the Animal Transport Program, which helps pets find loving homes.
→ Save the date for A Night With Nexus 2025 on Saturday, April 12!
Aspen Ranch owner, Tiffany Smith with Nexus Animals CEO & Founder, Rita Hoch, alongside Karlee Boots and Bailey Kubichek with Aspen Ranch
Emcee Travis Brorsen
Guest Speaker Carson Kressley
Scott and Sandy Pevey, Richard and Cindy Van Dyke, Carson Kressley, Whitney Zeka-McFadden (founding board member), Greg McFadden, Lisa and Jeff
A Helping Hand Through Hair
Assisting incarcerated women with learning cosmetology
BY KRISTEN GRACE
PHOTOS BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
CHRISTIE LUTHER WAS INSPIRED TO START a program assisting incarcerated Oklahoma women in attaining their cosmetology licenses. It started with her own life experience.
“I met God over the shampoo bowl,” said Luther. “I was incarcerated myself. In prison I worked in both the beauty shop and the law library. Women would come into the shop, and most of them could only do terrible haircuts because their training and education had been interrupted. Their greatest wish was to complete their training.”
The idea for Luther's mission was born. Upon her release in 2012, she began collaborating with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology and Barbering Boards. On March 27, 2017, space was opened for her program at Mabel Bassett Correctional Center.
It took years of hard and planning to bring her dream to life. Luther laughed, “This wasn’t well received in the beginning. Bringing tools and razors and scissors into a medium security unit? It took us a little while to prove ourselves.” She had her students first practice on mannequins, and after enough time and practice, they began doing the hair of officers and staff members. Eventually, when a woman was being released from prison, they would do a whole make-over for her.
Today, Luther is a master cosmetology instructor and an instructor at Oklahoma’s first beauty college in a women’s prison. She also serves as a celebrate
recovery leader and as a board member of the Oklahoma Board of Cosmetology.
In explaining the importance of her program, Luther said, “Many studies show that Oklahoma incarcerates more women per capita than any other state. When incarcerated women are released, many have very little to return to. They lack job skills, education, homes, support and transportation—this can contribute to re-offenses and a return to prison. We are willing to bridge the gap and teach them skills so that they can return to society as successful re-emergent taxpaying citizens.
“We want to redeem what was broken. We want to help prepare people so that they will have jobs as soon as they leave prison. I have letters from several salons that say, ‘I will hire every one of your people.’”
Luther added, “We also assist with job placement, housing, clothing, life skills, mentoring and recovery support, in order to bridge the gap from the prison gate back into the community. The effort is to reduce recidivism rates and to change women’s lives after prison.”
Maria, a graduate from the R.I.S.E. (Re-entry, Investment, Student, Education) program, testified to what Luther’s program has meant to her: “This program changed my life. I lost a daughter and then I completely lost myself to drugs and ended up in prison. Today I’m an assistant manager. This program saved my life, and I want to help other people in the same way.”
Jessica, incarcerated from 2014 to 2020, said, “Participating in R.I.S.E. allowed me to step right into a career as soon as I was released from prison, which is a major obstacle for most people. I now manage my own salon and employ six others, most of which are felons. Christie has been a godsend to me. She has been a friend and walked with me through many of life’s obstacles. And I have gone back into the prison to help teach because I want to give hope to others. It helps me ground my feet. I want to let them know that if I can do it, they can do it.”
Over the past seven years, the R.I.S.E Program has assisted many women in attaining a free education and finding jobs after being released from prison. Luther and her team have helped women find homes, re-establish relationships with family and children and learn life skills that have helped them become successful members of society. Christie Luther is changing the narrative in Oklahoma through redemptive entrepreneurship.
→ Learn more about the program and how to donate at riseprograminc.com.
Aurora Pediatric Dentistry is the warm,
home for pediatric patients and patients with special health care needs in Oklahoma City. Lana & Adam Richardson are excited to create
Artificial Intelligence in Nursing Documentation
The time-saving tech of Apricot Technologies
BY LAVINIA CRESWA
NURSING IS ABOUT PROVIDING CARE for the sick—or should be. However, The United States Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Thriving Health Workforce estimated that nurses spend an average of 40% of their time on documentation. It’s crucial in providing adequate multi-disciplinary care, as it serves as the main communication between providers and logs information that may be important in prescribing medications, setting treatment protocols and even predicting future complications. While thorough documentation is important, it’s also easy to argue that a nurse’s time would be better spent providing face-to-face care for patients rather than just writing about it.
In addition to taking away from the time available for patient care, the burden of documentation can lead to nurses being less satisfied in their jobs, which eventually leads to burnout.
Kimberly Kalnitzky, an LPN with over 20 years of nursing experience, agreed, saying: “Documentation is and will always be the more difficult part of nursing. Everything you do and all interventions performed must be documented precisely.” Kalnitzky has been working in home health for the last 10 years, and noted, “When the entirety of your work day was taken up by the physical interventions of nursing, it means waiting to document, usually well past the end of your shift.”
So, what is a solution to this hurdle in healthcare? Artificial Intelligence might have the answer.
Many Oklahomans know Trent Smith from his lengthy football career as a tight end both at OU and in the NFL, playing for both the Ravens and 49ers. Smith has since moved into the healthcare arena, and is currently working as the founder
and CEO of Accentra Home Health and Hospice. After receiving feedback from his nurses, Smith recognized that the amount of time it took to complete documentation was a major issue. “During COVID, the world was shutting down, and here were my nurses walking straight into the fire to help people,” Smith said. “The best we could do as an industry was to call them healthcare heroes or essential workers and put some thank-you signs in their yards. It all seemed really inadequate for the job that they were doing.”
Smith was already familiar with generative AI such as Chat GPT and set off to build software that would assist nurses working at his agency. “I thought I could build a product using this technology and actually treat our nurses like the heroes they are. It decreases their workload dramatically and eliminates the worst part of
And so, Apricot Technologies was born. This Oklahoma City-based tech company has created a generative AI application to reduce the burden of healthcare documentation. Designed for nurses, Apricot’s website claims “Home Health Care documentation done in 15 minutes, flat.” Apricot, named after the color of nursing graduation regalia, is an app that allows nurses to quickly and accurately chart after each home health visit. Smith described Apricot as a “wildly educated, experienced clinician” that is essentially an AI scribe. He said that the first nurse in his company who used Apricot found it to be an emotional experience, saying it was
“In home healthcare specifically, nurse turnover exceeds 30% a year,” Smith said. “Since we have implemented Apricot in our agency, our turnover rate is non-existent. This was never meant to be a business, it was just something I made for my nursing staff. It’s incredibly humbling and rewarding to have done something that actually
Apricot Technologies Founder and CEO, Trent Smith
Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough!
What do all of these people have in common? They suffer from peripheral neuropathy. It’s estimated that more than 20 million people in the United States have peripheral neuropathy. Unfortunately this figure may be signficantly higher as the disease is often misdiagnosed because of its wide array of symptoms.
Toni Twitty of Be Well Acupuncture in Edmond, OK shares this belief. “I’ve been treating neuropathy, in all its various forms, for over a decade and so often my patients come to me because of the symptoms not because of a diagnosis. They saw one of my television specials, or read a testimonial of another patient and say to themselves, ‘Hey, I feel the same thing’.”
Betty M. of Oklahoma City testified to this, “I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood. I was so envious- I kept thinking, ‘I would give anything just to walk again.’. My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription. I was so depressed.”
Fortunately, Betty would eventually see a review of Toni Twitty talking about similar symptoms and how she offers a real solution at Be Well Acupuncture. “I just knew I had to see her. She was my last hope.”
“Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Betty’s. They’ve been everywhere else. They’ve been told there is no hope. They’ve been told, ‘It’s just part of getting older,’” shares Brooke, a Patient Care Technician at Be Well Acupuncture. “It just breaks my heart but I know that we can help people like Betty so I’m always
so happy when they walk through our door.”
Those diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy often face a grim reality; Western Medicine declares there is no solution while costly alternative therapies carry huge price tags and offer little to no resolve. Which is why Toni Twitty and the staff at Be Well pride themselves on being, “the last resort with the best results.”
Peripheral neuropathy is a result of damage to the nerves. This damage is commonly caused by low blood flow in the hands and feet. Low blood flow results in lack of nutrients; the nerves then begin to degenerate and die which causes pain ranging from discomfort to debilitating. Because neuropathy is a degenerative condition, once those nerves begin to deteriorate they will continue to do so until they completely expire, leaving those suffering with crippling balance issues. “In this case the absence of pain is not a good thing.” shares Dr. Toni. “This usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread.”
So how exactly is Dr. Toni able to reverse the effects of this degenerative disease? “Acupuncture has been used to increase blood flow for thousands of years. It helps get the nutrients to the nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance BioTherapy™. This is tech that was orginally developed by NASA to expedite recovering and healing.”
“I just can’t say enough about Be Well,” Betty shared joyfully. “My husband and I moved here 3 years ago to be near our grandchildren. I always stayed home because of the pain and discomfort. I couldn’t keep up. Yesterday I walked
around the park with him! Next week we’re taking the grandkids with us! I am truly living life these days.”
According to Betty’s test results, she has seen a 74% improvement in pain and functionality, which is on par with a majority of our patients,” shares Paige. “But more important than those test results is the joy she’s expressed being here and hearing about all the amazing things she’s able to do because she feels great!”
By seamlessly blending the ancient science of acupuncture with modern medical solutions, Be Well Acupuncture has achieved a 90% success rate in reversing the effects of neuropathy. She starts each patient with an initial consultation during which a sensory exam is performed. “This not only aids in making a proper diagnosis but it helps to define just how much nerve damage has occurred,” tells the doctor. “This is important because if a patient has suffered more than 95% damage, there is little that I can do to help them. I’m familiar with the medical miracle but I know my limits as a practitioner and the limits of my medicine.”
When it somes to treating peripheral neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of full recovery.
If you or someone you love are suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling, or “pins and needles” or you’ve recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it’s important to know that there are options. There is hope. Call 405-697-5121 to schedule an initial consultation or visit bewellokc.com to read more incredible success stories.
“MY FEET FEEL LIKE THEY’RE ON FIRE.”
“EACH STEP FEELS LIKE I’M WALKING THROUGH WET PAINT.”
“I LIVE IN CONSTANT FEAR THAT I’LL FALL.”
A SEASON OF HARVEST
CONTEMPORARY AUTUMN DESIGN HOME TRENDS FOR THE CHIC AND FESTIVE
HOME ON Lahoma
The Carter family infuses new life into a 1924 home
BY EMILY PAYNE | PHOTOS BY SARA STEWART
The main living spaces all have what Sage Hill designers refer to as a “fresh, traditional feel,” which was the client’s goal. In the dining room, the original mixes seamlessly with the new. An antique crystal chandelier hangs regally above the table, looking perfectly at home alongside the original (refurbished) breakfront cabinet, and new Morris & Co. mural wallpaper.
Safavieh dining chairs with custom upholstered backs, and an oval table from Highland House sit atop a geometric Stark rug in this traditional dining room.
The kitchen features a curved Taj Mahal quartzite backsplash layered with gleaming subway tile. Pendants from Visual Comfort hang aside the vent hood, adding dimension and interest. Traditional wood paneling carefully conceals a 72” Thermador fridge/freezer. In the
open kitchen and living room, charming café curtains in a Thibault block print and woven Roman shades layered with classic white drapes create a visual feast of texture. A custom upholstered corner banquette serves as a casual gathering place. Framed portraits of the family’s ancestors are lovingly hung in a thoughtful collage;
Neutral tones, brass hardware and original hardwood floors make this kitchen timeless.
Treasured family photos hang above a banquette upholstered in a subtle stripe from Perennials.
their presence seems especially fitting in this historic home. Tucked away behind this sitting area lies a gorgeous jewel box of a room, complete with green Artemis marble countertops and wood paneling drenched in glossy green paint. An antique mirror, glass shelves and brass accents provide light and shine. An ideal entertaining spot, this speakeasy style bar playfully pays homage to the house’s 1920s roots.
Shelving displays glasses and bottles at the ready, and a Gentleman’s Bar Faucet by Kohler adds a traditional touch.
Hanging plates, framed artwork, and fresh flowers add pops of personality to this gorgeous white kitchen.
The “Home on Lahoma” project was a smashing success, as Helen notes: “Sage Hill did an outstanding job of making the house formal and traditional, but also kid and life friendly.” And really, who could ask for anything more?
Brass fixtures contrast well with the stained maple cabinets and Saratoga quartzite countertop.
A Made Goods Rikke chair offers a perch next to the generously sized soaking tub, while Carrara marble floors add texture and pattern.
In this charming kid’s room, antique accents pair perfectly with a Crate and Barrel dresser and a denim colored rug from Stanton.
Layered window treatments and a leather upholstered bed create a handsome room that can grow with the child.
Gathered TOGETHER
Katelynn Henry invites local female creatives to her Thanksgiving scene
BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER
PHOTOS BY SARA STEWART
THIS DINING ROOM IS BOTH grand and intimate, balancing a dramatic crystal chandelier with a thoughtfully styled table. Much like the fall season, the room prompts abundant feelings of gratitude, ready for friends and family to gather for a Thanksgiving meal. As various personalities find places around this table, we give thanks for how each uniquely contributes to the celebration.
Designed by Katelynn Henry, owner of Henry Home Interiors, the dining room and table setting are made complete by several women and their local companies. All are also mothers, no doubt adept at organizing beautiful family gatherings. Artist Sara Kay provided the stunning backdrop that’s a departure from her usual abstract works: a commissioned painting of Telluride, Colorado. (The homeowner said Kay has perfectly captured a destination the family holds dear.) Tulips Home and Gift generously sourced all of the ceramic dinnerware and hammered glassware for this table—all Juliska lines. The centerpiece is a handmade faux floral by Orchid and Olive. Adding richness to the dining room, custom velvet drapes with luscious green tones were fashioned by Grace Allen Designs.
In addition to a well set table, the dining room boasts a three-tiered crystal chandelier, lush drapes by Grace Allen Designs and a nature-inspired Sara Kay painting.
On the table, the gold napkin rings (available in any initial) and playfully patterned napkins in a Schumacher fabric were sourced from Henry Home Interiors, as were the vases, flatware, lighting, table and chairs. This wood dining table is a dry-brush finish, playing on the family’s appreciation of nature, while surrounding chairs incorporate a touch of gold. With such balanced designs, Henry has created an elegant yet welcoming scene, setting a fall table with plenty of room for individuals to find a seat and appreciate each other’s talents.
Orchid and Olive arranged the floral centerpiece, which pairs beautifully with unique vases from Henry Home Interiors.
Juliska plates, bowls and glassware were sourced from Tulips Home and Gift. Orchid and Olive arranged the floral centerpiece, which pairs beautifully with unique vases from Henry Home Interiors.
Repeat PERFORMANCE
What a stunning redesign at the Symphony Show House can tell us about decor trends through the decades
BY JULIE PARTIN AND EMILY MCCASLIN
THE BEAUTIFUL CENTERPIECE, the brilliant mirrored ceiling and the dazzling chandelier that is sure to be a conversation piece—these are just some of the small details that went into creating this room for the 1997 OKC Symphony Show House (the year when the event had its highest attendance). Who would’ve known that 27 years later, this dining room would be the blueprint for another remarkable project? With the showcase being recreated in 2024, award-winning Keven Calonkey Carl of Mister Robert Furniture decided to take on this masterpiece of a room once again and put a modern spin on it.
The room redesign of 2024—“Fine Hollywood Dining Room”— was awarded “Best Overall Design.” The new dining room keeps the traditional element of the home, while letting it find its way into a new era. It is no surprise that this room caught a lot of
Since 1973, the Symphony Show House has showcased the best in local design while supporting the Oklahoma City Philharmonic
We sat down with Carl to get her take on the remarkable feat and
Did you jump at the chance to design this room again? Absolutely! We were ecstatic to possibly get this opportunity 27
How did it feel finding out you would get to?
It was so exciting to learn that Mister Robert Fine Furniture would once again be designing the Dolese/ChambersToal Mansion. It was going to be a perfect opportunity to show how classic design can be elevated to a modern era with the use of timeless furniture and intriguing art
What ways have design trends changed in the last 27 years?
Deep, rich jewel tones were so popular in 1997 when Mister Robert last did the dining room in the mansion. Styles were traditional, elegantly carved, with bullion trim and brushed fringe. Things have “lightened up.”. We chose to remove the heavy drapes of the ’90s and not replace them—it was more visually interesting to see the beautiful windows and let in as much natural light as possible.
Jewel tones are making a comeback; however, they are more muted now. Classic, well-appointed pieces never got out of style. Show-
Photo Michelle Wurth
stopping chandeliers were popular 27 years ago, and their popularity keeps growing. This dining room chandelier is every bit as magnificent 27 years later.
Are there any trends you miss from the ’90s?
There are several trends from the ’90s which I have missed, but they are actually making a comeback now. These are velvet and crushed velvet fabrics, and fringe, rope cording and bullion trim. Traditional styling in furniture, fabrics, rugs and wallpaper are more of these re-emerging trends from the ’90s.
What are upcoming trends you think we will be seeing in the next few years?
We will continue to see warm shades of tans and browns replace the cold grays and whites. Color will continue to get bolder and brighter—reds, blues and greens will grow in popularity, along with patterned rugs. Traditional and American-made furniture will continue to be highly sought after by consumers who desire classic styles made to quality standards. However, the trend I think we will see expand the most will be the realization by consumers that they should not ignore their personal tastes in selecting products for their homes. They should make their home reflect their own story.
Photo by Charlie Neuenschwander (2024)
COZY DOWN
Fall
BY LAUREN SLATTEN WITH KREM INTERIORS
SOMETHING MAGICAL HAPPENS AS fall approaches. We gladly accept the chill, the land begins to rest and all things cozy make their appearance. The warm, rich colors begin to prepare us for the much-anticipated holidays. Deep hues, earthy scents, worn antiques are making their way into our spaces, adding a sense of calm and sparking reflection. May this palette inspire you to embrace the cooler days and add some snug touches to your home.
1. Baku Vintage Adjustable Brass Wall Light in Antique Brass: Mullan Lighting mullanlighting.com 2. Cathalina Swivel Chair: Heritage House Heritage-House.com 3. Vintage Turkish Terracotta Storage Vessel: Rejuvenation rejuvenation.com 4. Nomad Throw in blue: Urbane Home & Lifestyle urbaneokc.com 5. Palo Santo, 3 sticks of 4" Ecuadorian palosanto and 1 of Moroccan selenite: Stash stashok.com 6. Bowl
“Element” large, in sprig: Plenty Mercantile: plentymercantile.com 7. Anika
Glam touches make this nature-inspired layout shine
BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER | PHOTO BY SARA STEWART
KATELYNN HENRY WITH HENRY HOME INTERIORS DESIGNED this seasonal Mood Board, drawing substantial inspiration from a client’s appreciation of the mountains and nature—with hints of glitz. The greens, golds and luxe neutral tones usher in fall vibes. Art Deco wallpaper, a smooth marble tray, golden tiles and a soft taupe leather fringe are complemented by emerald green fabrics and trim. Magnolia branches and Protea stems add natural textures, as do the shimmering agate crystals. Home decor items—such as the Thucassi Torsten natural horn candle, miniature painting (one of a series) and smooth stone dish—all come from Henry Home Interiors. Napkins, coasters and a “baked apple” cocktail recipe remind us that fall is near. Time to think about your own Thanksgiving table, perhaps? For decorating ideas, view Henry’s well-set Gatherings table on page 34. The table setting was photographed in the aforementioned client’s dining room, bringing this nature-meets-glam Mood Board full circle.
Culinary Legends
Chef Andrew Black returns to the Skirvin for the opening of his newest concept. p. 47
A Warm Welcome to Perle Mesta
legendary Skirvin Hotel. Seventeen years later, after earning acclaim with local fixtures like Black Walnut and Grey Sweater, a new kind of legend is born at the same downtown address, as Black—the first Oklahoma chef to take home a coveted James Beard Award—christened his latest restaurant, Perle Mesta, in the very building that first brought him to town.
Named for Perle Skirvin Mesta, the Oklahoma socialite and heiress who grew up in the hotel with her father, William Skirvin, Black’s contemporary creation resides in the exact ground-floor space where he previously presided over Park Avenue Grill. The address may be the same, but every other facet of the restaurant—a marble-clad dining room, shimmering with chandeliers and sconces designed to resemble Parisian streetlights— is wholly original, from the elegant design by local Robinson Park Studio and the original murals by local artist Julie Gudgel to the endless variations of what Black described as “possibility cuisine.”
“Possibility cuisine involves chefs pushing the boundaries of traditional
involves a sense of creativity, innovation and openness to exploring new culinary horizons.”
One example from his eclectic menu that sums up Black’s “possibility” approach is the parmesan and truffle fried okra with lamb, which he explains as an outside-the-box homage to fish and chips. “I’m not a big okra fan, and I’m not a big fish and chips fan, but I know people love those things, so I wanted to create my version,” he said, swapping in crispy okra— brined, dried, seasoned and battered with a rice flour—in place of chips, and candied lamb belly in lieu of fish, made by marinating, brining and cooking sous vide overnight. “That’s the perfect possibility right there.”
Elsewhere on the menus, which span breakfast, Sunday brunch, lunch, dinner and forthcoming high tea, dishes include fennel-dusted scallops with parsnip cream and butternut squash vinaigrette, butter beans and tomatoes with grilled Caribbean-Indian roti, spiced plantain chips with ranch-garlic aïoli and lavender duck with black trumpet mushroom. And
Burrata with peach and pecan romesco, tomatoes, sourdough chips
this being Oklahoma, there’s a requisite steak, but here it’s brick oven-roasted and served with annatto-coconut-peppercorn sauce, charred carrots and duck fat frites. Meanwhile, along with a selection of wines and non-alcoholic beverages, the bar program nods to Prohibition days with vintage libations like the Black Russian, a vodka and coffee elixir beloved by Perle Mesta herself.
After finding success with his other restaurants (Gilded Acorn, Black Walnut and Grey Sweater), Black describes Perle Mesta as deeply personal, and deeply original. “Back in the days, that kitchen was where I did my first chef’s table, in 2009,” he noted, detailing how the whole space— aside from the original tile—was gutted. “Our goal wasn’t to kill the history, it was to enhance the history.”
Sorghum-glazed sea bass with crispy pearl black rice and citrus beurre blanc
Brick fire-roasted baby scallops
•
•
•
• DECKS
Sonic Refreshment
The sound of music, mixology and mocktails
BY MATT KIROUAC
PHOTO BY RACHEL MAUCIERI
FIRST EMERGING IN JAPAN IN THE 1950S, “listening bars” subvert the standards of bar culture by prioritizing sound first, drinks second. Otherwise known as vinyl bars, Hi-Fi bars or “kiss aten,” there are hundreds of them throughout Japan, and they’ve prolifer ated across the globe as well, with listening lounges popping up in cities like Miami, New York and Mexico City. With The SoundBar, Oklahoma City joins those ranks, providing a sonic sense of community.
Located above Saj Lebanese Cuisine and Ash Cigar Lounge in Automobile Alley, The SoundBar is a multi-sensory space created and curated by Jay Shanker, an Oklahoma native who returned home after practicing entertainment law in Los Angeles. Describing some listening bars as relaxed lounges, others as lively nightclubs and some as serving food and selling records, Shanker highlighted the wide variety within the unique bar genre. Others, meanwhile, are small spaces serving coffee, whiskey and sake in quiet rooms that were more akin to libraries. “You were there to listen,” he said. “How Japanese is that?”
Opened about 18 months ago, The SoundBar is larger than many likeminded bars in other cities, especially the pint-sized parlors popularized in Japan. Decked out to feel more like a lofty living room than a typical watering hole, with couches and lounge chairs flanked by rows of vinyl records, lava lamps and dangling parasols, it’s a space that feels naturally conducive to leisurely conversation over an ever-changing playlist and a drink list of coffee, wine, beer, cocktails and an impressive array of non-alcoholic options.
This is likely the only bar in OKC where drinks are more like the opening act than the headliner, but the ever-changing lineup is as well-curated as the vinyl collection and themed music nights. The bar serves original creations aptly inspired by songs, like Sweetness and Light, so named for the Lush song of the same name, made with rum, lime juice and Demerara syrup. And the Kaiyote Kind of Mood, inspired by the Mood Variant album by Hiatus Kaiyote, featuring Kaiyo 7 Year Japanese whiskey, Creme de Peach, dry vermouth, lemon and grenadine. Mocktails get equal diligence, like Camellia’s Kiss—a nod to “Camellia” by Maria Isabel Ferrer—with grenadine, orange juice, cranberry juice and peach bitters. There are also non-alcoholic wines and beers.
Similar to the vast music collection, the goal for the bar is to highlight potables that are lesser known, providing a taste of discovery. “Much like the record and music discovery aspect, our goal at the bar is to feature spirits that are just arriving on the scene, but may not be the brands that people default to with cocktails,” Shanker said, citing gins from India as an esoteric option.
House cocktails and mocktails
That something-for-everyone approach is even more evident in the song selection. In addition to more than 10,000 records and CDs for customers to peruse, play or purchase, the bar curates weekly themed playlists, like “Red, White and Blue,” with music from the likes of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Red House Painters, Blue Nile, Moody Blues and The White Stripes. Or “French Kiss: A Tribute to Bastille Day,” featuring French artists and Francophiles like Josephine Baker, Francoise Hardy and Daft Punk. Jazz nights are also a fixture, along with classic rock and even comedy recordings.
At The SoundBar, where the sensory experiences extend beyond the bounds of glassware, Shanker hopes to use music as a means of hospitality, and a form of community. “It’s a living room in that everybody comes through, whatever the age, and people don’t come here primarily to drink,” Shanker explained. “In this period of political tension, everybody has got a story about a concert they attended or where they were when they first heard something, and music is such a great place to start a conversation.”
→ The SoundBar OKC 712B N. Broadway Ave., OKC thesoundbarokc.com
A New Dimension in Pho
America’s first 2-D noodle bar comes to OKC
BY MATT KIROUAC
PHOTOS BY RACHEL MAUCIERI
IN A CITY THAT'S RENOWNED FOR ITS Vietnamese cuisine, with an Asian District practically wafting with pho spices, it takes a special noodle to stand out from the fray. In Chisholm Creek, the rapidly developing northside OKC area that has recently seen the arrival of Gordon Ramsay’s first Oklahoma restaurant and a new location of burger-slinging Spark, “stand out” is an understatement at Twenty Pho Hour, an Orlando-bred brand that holds the distinction of being America’s first 2-D noodle bar.
It feels almost a misnomer to label Twenty Pho Hour a mere restaurant, considering the sheer artistry, immersiveness and originality of the concept. After the original location opened in Orlando right before the pandemic, owner and native Oklahoman Khoa Nguyen brought the striking eatery home, with the goal not only to serve exceptional pho (and other Asian dishes) and be part of an evolving foodie community, but whisk guests into a world of whimsy and imagination.
“We want to have customers feel like they’re walking into a comic book,” explained Nguyen. “That’s why we have all the windows wrapped, so we can exclude it from the outside world.” Once inside the discreet door, customers are met with a dining room unlike anything else in town—one that’s entirely black and white, right down to the monochrome soda machine and trash can, the walls brimming with illustrations and characters woven together via stories and settings.
“Black and white is very simple, but we try to paint a story,” added Nguyen, highlighting pho and boba “characters” throughout the enchanting room—all hand-drawn by the same artist who illustrated the Orlando original. “It’s not just a drawing, it tells a whole story about how we make pho and boba.” The story is depicted through whimsical characters and placemaking icons, including imagery from Paris, Oklahoma City and Vietnam. “They (pho and boba) go around the world, gathering ingredients, and then come back home to make the perfect pho.”
Pho, dumplings, noodles and cream puffs
“We want to have customers feel like they’re walking into a comic book,” explained Nguyen.
And perfecting pho is precisely what they’ve done. In addition to other pan-Asian dishes, like stir-fries, pad Thai, and dumplings, the menu is anchored by inventive pho bowls, like the T-Rex Pho with eye round steak, short rib and brisket, and the Pho-Let Mignon, with brisket and four ounces of sliced filet—each option slow-simmered for 24 hours (hence the name), with broth poured tableside through teapots, and enriched with onions, cilantro, scallions, bean sprouts, basil, jalapeño, lime and redolent spices. “Most of the Vietnamese restaurants are very traditional,” Nguyen said. “We want to modernize that.”
Operating almost like a gallery-restaurant hybrid, the 2-D component is designed to invite curiosity, and the fast-casual format was intentional to encourage guests to explore the space and take pictures after placing their orders. While there’s certainly no shortage of high-quality pho in OKC, there’s nothing like Twenty Pho Hour. Said Nguyen, “We don’t just sell food, we sell an experience.”
→ Twenty Pho Hour OKC 1332 W. Memorial Road, OKC twenty-pho-hour.com/okc
- JOHN CARL, Mister Robert, Inc. Vice President
CULTURE
Advocates for Art
Denice and Greg Erway's eclectic Paseo Gallery
OKCMOA's Edith Head Exhibit: Costume worn by Betty Hutton as Polly Jackson in the film Star Spangled Rhythm, Costume worn by Marilyn Maxwell as Connie Curtis in the film Off Limits, Costume worn by Ginger Rogers as Liza Elliott in the film Lady in the Dark.
Costume worn by Olivia de Havilland as Catherine Sloper in the film The Heiress. On display in OKCMOA's Edith Head Exhibit.
Pink chiffon gown worn by Ann Smith Bartlett, white gown worn by Molly Shi Boren, blue gown worn by Jessica Grimm Turner. Photo by Lavinia Creswa.
Catching Fire
BY JAKE DURHAM
NESTLED IN THE VIBRANT PASEO ARTS DISTRICT of Oklahoma City, Wildfire Gallery at 3005 Paseo is a haven for art enthusiasts seeking a diverse range of creative expressions. Founded by Denice and Greg Erway, passionate advocates for the arts, the gallery showcases an eclectic mix of contemporary Western art created by Oklahoma artists. The Erways have cultivated a welcoming space that fosters creativity and community engagement, and their dedication to promoting local talent and keen appreciation for unique artistic perspectives make Wildfire Gallery a standout in the Paseo’s thriving art scene.
“I don’t really sell art,” said Denice. “I connect people’s stories with people who come in.”
Oklahoma boasts a thriving arts community as diverse and dynamic as the state itself. From the vibrant murals adorning the streets of Oklahoma City
to the eclectic galleries in Tulsa, the state’s art scene is rich in cultural heritage and creativity.
“I started the gallery that [Greg] was in,” Denice said. ‘The owner called me during COVID and said she was going to have to close. Something inside me said, ‘What is going to happen to that space?’ Greg thought the same thing, and we decided that we would open a gallery. So, in June of 2021, we opened Wildfire Gallery.”
As a top five finalist in our Best of the 405 contest the last two years, Wildfire curates Oklahoma artists and offers prospective clients a wide range of media, including paintings, sculptures, handmade jewelry and fine art photography. However, Denice and Greg took surprising paths to becoming gallerists.
A thriving creative depot in the Paseo
PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
“So, our background is in performing arts,” Denice said. “Greg built sets and would paint and do things for me for the productions. When he turned 50, he said he wanted to start painting, never knowing it was going to turn into a career.”
Stories, characters, wildlife and vast landscapes serve as wellsprings of creativity for Greg’s artwork. Through his adept use of color and varied techniques, his subjects come alive with a distinctive vitality, weaving together narratives steeped in rich history and folklore. His achievements notably include a commission for the recent restoration of the Oklahoma Governor’s mansion, and his work is prominently displayed in galleries across Taos, Santa Fe, Eureka Springs and the entire state of Oklahoma—including, of course, Wildfire Gallery.
“I get a lot of inspiration from nature,” Greg said. “[Sometimes], I will change medium. Normally I paint, but I also draw with charcoal. For the last couple of days, I have had a painting I am working on that is giving me problems. I need something else to do to not think about that and not be entirely consumed with those problems. So, I will work on a charcoal portrait or another medium to get my mind focused on something else. Sometimes, when clearing your studio or your space, you’ll come across things you’ve done in the past that you’ve set aside that might inspire you or give you another idea. I also get a lot of inspiration from other artists and their work.”
Oklahoma’s art scene is vibrant, growing and largely welcoming,
but many artists struggle with the prospect of outreach and meeting those who share similar passions. Greg noted that he also struggles with that reality.
“A lot of artists are introverts, and they don’t really like to be around people,” Greg said. “But I have a couple of artist groups that I’m in. One meets every day at The Red Cup on Classen. I know I can go there any day, grab a cup of coffee, sit down with those guys and have a conversation about art. There are also organizations like the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, Allied Arts and the Paseo Arts District.”
The immersive experience Denice and Greg create for their customers distinguishes Wildfire from other galleries. “I want to help educate and curate the next generation of art buyers,” Denice said. “I have essential oils diffusing, so [the gallery] smells good. I want it to look good. I have the right kind of playlist on. So, in a way, I’m creating a performance. Being that friendly neighborhood art gallery is our goal. It’s all about the people.”
→ To learn more about Wildfire Gallery and Greg Erway’s work, visit instagram.com/ wildfiregallerypaseo/ and gregerwayart.com/
“I don’t really sell art,” said Denice. “I connect people’s stories with people who come in.”
"NATIVE GAZE" OIL PAINTING ON CANVAS BY GREG ERWAY.
One of a Kind
The pioneering service of Oklahoma’s Elizabeth Fulton Hester
BY LINDA MILLER PHOTO COURTESY OF OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME ARCHIVES
ELIZABETH FULTON HESTER WAS THE first woman inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1928, which also was the first class. But it wasn’t her first time to be honored or celebrated.
Hester was a pioneer, missionary, nurse and teacher. She also supported the women’s suffrage movement and taught at both Choctaw and Chickasaw schools. Five of the young men she taught, according to Hester, went on to become governors or chiefs of their tribes. She, too, was a leader, active and vocal.
Even as a teen, she was determined and knew what she wanted. At 18 and already a graduate and faculty member of Southern Masonic Female Seminary in Georgia, she left home and headed west with her uncle’s family. Their destination was Indian Territory.
She arrived in Tishomingo in the late 1850s to teach at a mission school, and in that town became reacquainted with a friend she had met years earlier in Georgia. Two years later she and George Hester, a merchandiser who had come to town to sell goods, were married and moved to Boggy Depot.
The town became a center for Confederate activity during the American Civil War. George’s mercantile was transformed into a hospital and Elizabeth assumed nursing duties. Since George was a captain in the Confederate Army, the Hesters welcomed many top officers at their dining table.
She had served as its president for 15 years and the conference treasurer for 18 years, and was a member of the Woman’s Missionary Council. She was also chaplain of the United Daughters of the Confederacy of Oklahoma.
They returned to Tishomingo in 1878 and she formed the area’s first unit of the new Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society, which focused on women’s missionary services. Tireless and committed, she then helped form other auxiliaries throughout the territory and was honored in 1928 during the Jubilee Celebration of the Society’s East Oklahoma Conference.
Hester’s husband died in 1897 and a few years later she moved to Muskogee to be near her married daughter Daisy. She stayed active and involved and continued to support women’s suffrage. She taught Sunday School and started visiting jails to share her message. She founded a baby clinic for unwed mothers, which evolved into a childcare center. Her daughter and son-inlaw, Robert Owen, moved to Washington, D.C.,
in 1907 after his appointment as Oklahoma’s first U.S. Senator.
Hester became one of the best-known Oklahoma women during her life of service and selflessness. On her 90th birthday in January 1929, she was honored for being Muskogee’s “first citizen of benevolence.” She died in August later that year, more than a decade after she spoke about women’s issues at the new Oklahoma State Capitol in February 1917. She was the initial woman to speak there. Another first.
Elizabeth Fulton Hester, an early suffragette, teacher and church and civic leader
Reaching for the Stars
Science Museum Oklahoma unveils Love’s Planetarium
BY JAKE DURHAM
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA
SCIENCE MUSEUM OKLAHOMA IS GEARING UP to reveal a groundbreaking addition: the Love’s Planetarium. This cuttingedge facility is set to revolutionize how we explore the cosmos, boasting a unique hybrid system that merges optical and digital projectors, high-intensity LEDs and fiberoptic technology. As the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, the planetarium promises an unparalleled, immersive journey through the universe.
“The upgrades are really centered on the quality of the experience,” said SMO President and CEO Sherry Marshall. “We have increased the size of the dome screen from 40 feet to 50 feet, which creates a deeply immersive environment. Guests can also expect to see increased accessibility, better seating, expanded educational offerings and some of the best quality of technology and optics available.”
That new, innovative technology will allow visitors to experience stunning, high-resolution images of the Milky Way, including eight million detailed stars and 88 constellations, as well as the sun, moon and planets. The planetarium will also offer a range of live and virtual shows, educational programs and special events.
“The price tag of the project has exceeded $8 million, which is an investment in astronomy education for guests at Science Museum Oklahoma,” Marshall said. “We are so grateful for the gift of $3.5 million from Love’s Travel
Stops, [which is] getting the project well underway.”
Science Museum Oklahoma is dedicated to sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning through its interactive exhibits and discovery-based activities. With over 390,000 square feet, the museum lets visitors explore the wonders of science and its relevance to everyday life. From astronomy shows to Science Live demonstrations and educational outreach, the museum is pivotal in promoting science literacy and encouraging families to build a strong foundation in the sciences.
“The inspiration for Love’s to contribute to the planetarium renovation was a combined respect for what the Science Museum does—their commitment to supporting youth education—and my family’s fondness of visiting the museum over the years,” said Love’s Executive Vice President and Chief Culture Officer, Jenny Love Meyer. “Supporting programs focused on educating future generations is a focus of Love’s giving initiatives, so this project seemed like a no-brainer.”
Founded by Tom Love in 1964, Love’s has grown to include over 600 locations across the United States and has operations in Canada and Europe. As the company celebrates its 60th anniversary, it continues
to give back to the communities it serves. Under the leadership of Love Meyer, Love’s maintains a strong company culture that has earned it top rankings on Indeed’s Better Work Awards. The new planetarium is a symbol of the company’s commitment to education and community enrichment.
“Supporting programs focused on youth and education are one of Love’s main giving initiatives,” Love Meyer said. “We know that children are the future and believe it’s our responsibility to give to organizations that support them. In honor of our 60th anniversary, we donated $60,000 to DonorsChoose, a crowdfunding platform for teachers to fund classroom projects. This gift helped fund 188 projects at 93 schools in the Oklahoma City metro. Providing educational opportunities and basic needs to our youth is just the right thing to do. By doing this, we not only secure a brighter future for these kids but also strengthen our Oklahoma community and society as a whole.”
She also emphasized the company’s dedication to community, family values and Oklahoma: “One of our customer commitments is to be ‘great people who care,’ and that’s not only for customers in our stores nationwide, but we hope we represent the state and city that way as well. As an Oklahomabased, family-owned and operated company for the last 60 years, our family roots run deep in Oklahoma, and we are proud of that fact. We will continue to try and make a lifelong impact on our community by investing in and supporting future generations. Supporting the communities where we live and work was a standard my dad started from the beginning, and it’s a legacy we plan to uphold.”
→ The new Love’s Planetarium is scheduled to open Sept. 20. For more information on Love's Planetarium and Science Museum Oklahoma, visit
OVERHEARD
Loved TWISTERS (2024). Emotionally engaging story, fun performances, exciting set pieces. Saw it in an L.A. IMAX theater packed w/ people in OU shirts and OSU hats. Recognized a ton of Oklahoma film friends in the credits. What a thrill to see my home state on the big screen!!!
@STERLINGGATES
Thanks to a generous donation from @LovesTravelStop, Oklahoma children have more opportunities to find free meals and snacks near them!
@RFBO (REGIONAL FOOD BANK OF OKLAHOMA
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Enjoyed the heck out of working with @OklahomaCityFC this season and very honored to get to call the @WPSL Championships for the 2nd straight year. It's great to see the work that is put in by so many to further women's soccer in this country.
@TODDONSPORTS
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