405 Magazine December 2018

Elephants, Wildebeests & Giraffes: Experience an African safari

Spring Break Travel

guide

4 Caribbean Destinations to Explore f

Vive la France!

Taste the flavors of CafĂŠ CuvĂŠe

Health & Wellness

Get a grip on holiday stress

Seasons Greetings

To all our patients, friends and family, may you all have a wonderful holiday season and a healthy, happy and prosperous 2019!

ABBEY RONCK, PA-C

NOEL R. WILLIAMS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

AMY BROOKS, A.P.R.N., CNP

SHANNAN CARMOUCHE, PA-C

CHRISTINA TELOCCI, PA-C

TRICIA HALL, PA-C

BENJAMIN J. BARENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

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in this issue

DECEMBER 2018

Features 32

SPRING BREAK, CARIBBEAN STYLE

Baby, it’s cold outside – which makes this the perfect time to plan a balmy, beachy Caribbean getaway for spring. But where to find the right slice of paradise? Our experts have some suggestions.

40

IN WITH THE NEW

Hello, 2019! If you’re planning to be out of the 405 when the ball (or peach, or potato) drops, consider a detour to one of these hot spots for welcoming the new year.

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405 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

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in this issue

DECEMBER 2018

In the 405

19 Fashionable looks for getting away in style; Gathered’s select home merchandise; accessorize for a season of glamour; personality quirks of office reindeer; keeping ahead of holiday stress

Celebration Is Served Warm neutrals and lots of wood give the Escos’ dining room a comfortable atmosphere all year long; with a few well-applied decorative touches, it becomes the ideal scene for a Christmas feast.

Home

45 The Escos deck their halls for Christmas; a pair of locations for outstanding ornaments

Travel

54 Wildlife and wonders on a safari across the Serengeti

Dining

59 Vintage French flavors at Café Cuvée; Kari Garrett’s secret to stuffed mushrooms; Green Chile Kitchen’s savory heat; a Canadian Breakfast at The Mule

Events

69 Lindsey Stirling warms up the ’Peake; holiday happenings at Downtown in December; ring in the new year at Opening Night

In Every Issue

14 From the Publisher 16 Web Sights 64 Food and Drink 72 On Location 74 Speakerbox 76 On the Radar 80 Backstory

ON THE COVER

Paddling on pristine waters in sun-soaked Aruba. Photo courtesy Aruba Tourism

46

VOLUME 4 / NUMBER 12, 405 MAGAZINE (PERIODICALS 21350) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY, 12 TIMES A YEAR, BY 405 MAGAZINE, INC., 1613 NORTH BROADWAY AVENUE, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73103. 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.

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With kid-friendly organizers to multi-functional storage solutions, we’ll even find room for all that Santa brought. The transformation begins at The Container Store, now open in Oklahoma City.

If it once fit in a sleigh, it shall fit in your home.

Plus, find gift wrap, boxes, bows and stocking stuffers for all.

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PAT T. ROONEY, CHAIRMAN & CEO

MEL C. MARTIN, PRESIDENT

As 2018 ends, we wish each of our customers, associates and friends a healthy and prosperous new year.

We are pleased and grateful to have supported these community partners this year, and we wish them continued success.

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DECEMBER 2018

VOLUME 4 • NUMBER 12

Publisher | Editor-in-Chief Heidi Rambo Centrella heidi.centrella@405magazine.com

EDITORIAL Managing Editor Steve Gill steve.gill@405magazine.com Style Editor Sara Gae Waters saragae.waters@405magazine.com Travel Editor Matt Payne matt.payne@405magazine.com Fashion Director Jennifer Salyer jennifer.salyer@405magazine.com Contributing Writers M.J. Alexander, Mark Beutler, Jerry Church, Christine Eddington, Greg Horton, Lance McDaniel, Lauren Roth, Elaine Warner

ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel scotty.odaniel@405magazine.com Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel brian.odaniel@405magazine.com Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Shannon Cornman, Charlie Neuenschwander, Don Risi

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PHOTO BY SIMON HURST

T HE GIF T- GI V I NG SE A SON is upon us, and finding the just-right something for that special someone can add a little stress to the already hectic holidays. Fortunately, we have two pieces of good news: First, see page 28 for tips and expert advice on how to counter said stresses during this season of joy. Second, in an effort to ease the creative pressure, we’ve put together a few ideas for you.

For those who enjoy receiving tangible items – something you can put in a brightly wrapped box or cover with ribbons – look for inspiration from local retailers, including our Holiday Wishes gift guide (page 68). For those who enjoy the art of dining, the restaurant guide in our food section can give you some ideas for gift cards (super easy and always a welcome treat), starting with the fine French cuisine at the Ambassador Hotel’s new Café Cuvée (page 60). And if you really want to wow the person on the receiving end, think about giving the gift of travel. Maybe an escape to the beach, perhaps skiing the slopes – either way is a win.

Now that Old Man Winter has come to town, there’s no better time to plan for spring break (or simply springtime) travel, and enjoy a visual tour of warmer destinations while doing so.

Our team of writers took to their keyboards to share stories from the shores – more specifically, the Caribbean shores. Note: the Caribbean comprises more than 7,000 islands, covering more than a million square miles between North and South America. Whatever you’re hoping to find in terms of tropical bliss, it’s waiting somewhere in these balmy waters (page 32).

And in the event a spring break trip isn’t for you – or you need something more like now – we also have a few not-so-distant destinations you might enjoy for ringing in the New Year.

That’s right: while it might seem that summer came to an end mere days ago, 2018 is almost over, and a fresh calendar filled with possibilities is almost upon us. But first, we still have time to make a few more memories.

All of us here at 405 Magazine wish each of you a happy, safe holiday season.

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When the holidays are no longer merry

Web Sights What’s online at 405magazine.com

HOLLY HEFTON | FAMILY LAW & CIVIL LITIGATION 405.312.3366 | HOLLYHEFTON.COM PH OTO BY C H A RL IE NE U E NS C H WA ND E R

The African Dream

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Welcome to your next adventure.

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405 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

Our Gift to You In this season of giving, we’d like to remind you that we sincerely are grateful for our readers, and we’d be happy to give you another reason to celebrate the holidays with our Friday $50 giveaway. For the first three weeks in December, we’ll hold a random drawing and give one lucky reader a $50 gift card to one of our featured or favorite restaurants – and all you have to do is make sure you’re signed up for our free newsletters at 405magazine.com/newsletters/, then click the link inside to enter.

PHOTO BY MATT PAYNE

Single-family Homes & Apartments Full Life Wellness & Life Enrichment Program Scheduled Classes & Trips

What does achieving a lifelong dream look like? For Matt Payne, the answer is simple: Just turn to page 54. The travel writer and photographer just crossed an item off his bucket list with a spectacular safari through parts of Tanzania and Kenya with travel operators Abercrombie and Kent and Sanctuary Retreats, and he’s eager to share some of the wonders he witnessed with us. So much so, in fact, that the hauntingly beautiful images in this issue are only the beginning. Night skies ablaze with stars undimmed by human development, seemingly infinite savannahs whose tall grasses ceaselessly ripple and murmur like ocean waves, close encounters with wildebeests and jackals and ostriches … chart a course for the expanded version of this article at 405magazine.com/December-2018/Under-African-Skies/, and be prepared to get lost in exploration for a little while.

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J O H N N Y WA S | P E N D L E TO N | K L E E N | A L E M B I K A | C U T L O O S E | TA R A G A S PA R I A N

405 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

M E L A N I A C L A R A | J O H N N Y WA S | P E N D L E TO N | K L E E N | A L E M B I K A | C U T L O O S E | TA R A G A S PA R I A N | M E L A N I A C L A R A

M E L A N I A C L A R A | J O H N N Y WA S | P E N D L E TO N | K L E E N | A L E M B I K A | C U T L O O S E | TA R A G A S PA R I A N | M E L A N I A C L A R A

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in the The Look of Adventure

PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

Your bags are packed, your plans are set, you’re ready to head for the horizon – and if you selected your excursionary ensemble with care, you’re going to look fantastic along the way. When it’s time to get out of town, we have some style suggestions.

From TRADE Men’s Wares: 7 Diamonds G-Force long sleeve shirt, $89; 7 Diamonds Clifton sateen twill chinos in beech, $98; Iron & Resin Midway jacket, $235; TRADE Simpleton Sling belt, $75 DECEMBER 2018 405 MAGAZINE

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in the 405 FASHION

GETAWAY GLAMOUR When adventure calls, answer in style

BY JENNIFER SALYER PHOTO BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

BY CA R OR PL A N E or train or boat, whether

you’re heading to someplace specific or simply away from the 405 for a while, travel is always alluring. And with a bit of careful wardrobe selection, you can be, too – here’s to heading out of town in style.

From mode boutique: Cammie fur-sleeve sweater in cream, $66; Kesha leather-coated skinny jeans, $38; High Expectations over-the-knee boot in black, $47; Half Full earring in purple, $17; Triangle wristlet in champagne, $35 Mode, 1227 N Walker, OKC, shopmode.fashion; TRADE Men’s Wares, 1112 N Walker, OKC, trademenswares.com

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SLOW AND STEADY WINS THE RACE.

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in the 405 FAVORITE THINGS

Marble tumbler, $22 “Handmade and stylish ceramics are always a favorite.”

Tassel basket, $27.95 “Baskets are multi-functional and perfect for plants, toys, pillows, etc. – gotta have a cute one, though.”

Sabaa black and white ceramic vase, $18.95 “Because a black and white piece goes with everything.”

Felted soap, $7.95 “A handmade local favorite that exfoliates, smells amazing and doesn’t make a mess.”

Lindsey Caviness, Gena Rainey and Katelyn Swanson

Facial rounds (pack of 10), $10; mesh laundry bag, $10; makeup remover, $14; rosewater toner, $18; jade roller, $24.95 “It’s all natural, works amazingly and is reusable – for healthy skin, with no more cotton ball waste.”

Bringing It Together

Vintage Kilim pillows, $49 “Every one is handmade, unique and versatile.”

Stylish surprises in Gathered Home Shop

Moroccan vintage glasses, $69 for set of seven “These are fun, and add unique style to any bar cart or kitchen.”

Cement Santa, $14.95; wooden trees in large ($14.95) and small ($7.95); cream fluffy tree, $44.95 “Holiday decor that’s also whimsical and fun.”

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anywhere else in the metro, get going to Gathered Home Shop.

Located at 115 S Broadway in downtown Edmond, this eclectic shop with Scandinavian to Mid-century to Modern Bohemian influences is a pleasant, and satisfying, surprise. Owner Gena Rainey is no stranger to design, and her styling and decorating work led her to open a store – a place where she could not only collect items for her design jobs, but also offer the public her unique talent of finding beautiful products.

From personal care items that are thoughtfully sourced to items for the home, Gathered is the perfect name for what you will find within its four walls. The store has a beautifully curated collection of merchandise, as well as an upbeat and positive vibe throughout. Rainey says, “I chose downtown Edmond because there are some amazing things happening in the area, and I want to be a part of continuing to support the community and offering amazing products while doing something I love.” With that kind of perspective, it’s not really a surprise that Gathered is such a special place, where good things come together. - SAR A GAE WATERS

32” macrame plant hanger, $27; riveted planter, $36; 4” cactus, $12.99 “Handmade macrame adds style, and when paired with a plant, you get a natural element to the space.”

PHOTOS BY DON RISI

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in the 405 TRENDS

From Betsy King Sondra Roberts faceted jewel evening clutch, $195; Pelle Moda strappy evening sandal in rose gold, $150

From Diamonds Direct Rebeka Hakimi champagne diamond eternity band; Rebeka Hakimi 14K gold pave bangles in yellow, rose and white gold featuring black, white and champagne diamonds; Rebeka Hakimi 14K yellow gold chocolate and white diamond earrings; 14K yellow gold lariat-style necklace; Prices upon request or at diamondsdirect.com

From Black Scintilla Sage holiday dress by Mystic, $59.99; Faux fur wrap in black, $89.99

From Salt & Water Kjaer Weis (refillable) lipstick in “Adore,” $56; refill, $36

All That Glitters Adding a touch of holiday dazzle

party invitations and events to attend, there is no better time to go a little over the top and shine. And whether you need an entire outfit or an element to boost an already go-to look, all that glitters is – stylistically speaking - solid gold. - SAR A GAE WATERS

Betsy King Shoes, 3001 Paseo, OKC, betsykingshoes.com; Black Scintilla, 1112 N Walker, OKC, blackscintilla.com; Salt & Water, 629 W Sheridan, OKC, saltandwaterco.com; Diamonds Direct, 5521 N Penn, OKC, diamondsdirect.com/OKC

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405 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

PHOTOS BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

T HE HOL IDAYS A R E most definitely the time to sparkle. With

Conner & Winters, a regional law firm with offices in Dallas, Houston, Northwest Arkansas, Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Washington, D.C., is celebrating 85 years of legal excellence.

Founded in Tulsa in 1933 by Benjamin C. Conner and John M. Winters, Jr., the firm has proudly served a broad range of clients in local, state, regional, national and international arenas.

The values and culture of Conner & Winters extend from our 111 attorneys and 79 support staff members to all of the clients and communities we serve.

in the 405 LAUGH LINES

Reindeer Games Dasher, Dancer and Debbie from Accounting L IK E GE N E AU T RY ’S familiar refrain, the holiday’s most hallowed reindeer games will be in full swing in my office this month: the potluck, the ugly sweater contest, the 12 Doors of Christmas decorating contest and Dirty Santa. Of course, I’ll participate merrily … but silently, I’ll be playing my own reindeer game on the side. All year, I’ve been making a mental list and checking it twice, to match Santa’s hooved helpers with the personalities of my co-workers.

DA SHER A dyed-in-the-hide Millennial, Dasher is young and

spirited, and talks faster than the human ear can comprehend.

His façade is cool and unrushed, but you can be sure that he spent half the morning (and half his paycheck) to maintain his tousled I-woke-up-like-this hairstyle and his scuffed-on-purpose hooves.

DA NCER Possibly not a real dancer (go figure), Dancer never misses his or her cue to interrupt your concentration and lure you away from the task at hoof. Er, at hand. This person wrote the book on soft-shoe: pointless questions and meaningless banter that absolutely kill your productivity, even after Dancer has shuffled off to someone else’s office.

PR A NCER No one in the forest (or the office) can tell you what

Prancer’s job is. But what Prancer does around here is just that: prance into the office, make small talk, retreat to her office long enough to set up a hair appointment and then prance out the door for several hours of holiday shopping. Deadlines are for the other deer, dear.

V I X E N No one in the office questions what Vixen’s job is.

Everyone knows. A doe-eyed babe in the woods, no matter her age, Vixen has a clearly defined role and she’s happy to play it.

Her relationship status on Facebook is permanently set to “it’s complicated,” as several office bucks instinctively lock horns to woo her. Vixen will go far, with a professional trajectory that’s as predictable as her press-on hooves.

COM ET Comet is out to do what comets do: set the world on

fire in a blaze of glory. He’s forever polishing his antlers on the backs of the workaday deer beneath him. Comet is the first one out the door at 5 p.m. – never one to get dirt under his hooves – but when the rest of the herd accomplish the unimaginable, he’ll race to the stage to accept the accolades. Comet is also the reason rifles were invented.

CU PID Cupid shops online at work and listens to soft pop at her desk all day. She moves like a glacier. (You’re never going to get that report.) Every inch of her cubicle is covered with photos of her annoying fawns who call her 20 times a day, along with

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405 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

a convenience store teddy bear that her husband (#3) gave her 10 years ago. If you question her saccharine-drenched sincerity, she’ll say, “Well, bless your heart,” as she drives her arrow right through it.

DON N ER Defying all herd mentality, Donner is a dumbass in

an otherwise respectable, high-ranking corporate position. Most of the herd speculates that Donner has some dirt on Santa. Hell, Prancer and Vixen pass the buck less than Donner. The truth is, even Santa has the occasional weak moment, and Donner, whose entire existence is based on dumb luck (really dumb), was the only buck in the room on promotion day. A pity buck.

BL I TZ E N Loathed by the rest of the herd, Blitzen has bullied

his way through his career, in thinly veiled overcompensation for his small antlers. A scorekeeper (he knows how many times you’ve come in after 8 a.m.) and a grudge holder (how dare you trade away his Dirty Santa gift in 1993!), Blitzen runs a tight ship, but gladly bends the rules where Vixen is concerned. He promoted her, after all.

RU DOL PH Rudolph is the odds-on favorite as “most likely to get lit and dance on a rooftop” at the office holiday party (11 a.m.-1 p.m.) – which is a nasty detail to uncover about the Big Night’s designated driver. Rudolph, with his nose so bright, can’t help sticking it where it doesn’t belong. He’s an HR nightmare on four hooves. Still, does want to date him and bucks want to be him. He’s the leader of the pack. - LAUREN ROTH

DECEMBER 2018 405 MAGAZINE

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in the 405

HEALTHCARE & WELLNESS

AGR EE TO DISAGR EE

“Preparing ourselves for difficult interactions is key. Sometimes, families will have a ‘no politics’ policy and avoid it from the beginning. If this isn’t possible, acknowledging that you cannot control what others do or think is a safe bet. Redirect the conversation if it’s heading to a ‘no-go zone,’ or excuse yourself to get a refill of cider. And if it all becomes just too much, a brisk walk around the block can help you reset.”

“ Some studies have shown 25

PERCENT OF AMERICANS have

Natalie Kurkjian

A Gift of Knowledge Expert advice for dodging holiday stress

T HE F ROST Y CHIL L of a December morning often brings with it thoughts of the approaching holiday season – decorating, shopping, gift wrapping, planning parties – but as the days speed toward the big event, it’s important to take a moment and savor the magic of the holiday season. A cup of tea by the fireplace while listening to Doris Day’s classic Christmas album, an evening stroll through the neighborhood’s sparkling decorations, even a jaunt to the mall to people-watch – whatever brings you joy, that’s what you should do. And thinking ahead can help alleviate holiday stress.

“Planning ahead can be helpful,” says Natalie Kurkjian, a physician at Mercy Department of Behavioral Health. “Creating a schedule or filling in a ‘Holiday Calendar’ that sets aside days for shopping, baking, visiting family or friends, is a great start. Knowing what lies ahead can help you dodge the chaos.

“As to symptoms of excessive stress, watch for persistent sad feelings, continuous anxiety, difficulty sleeping, racing thoughts, feeling excessively irritable or hopeless – these may warrant a visit to your doctor or mental health professional,” she adds. In hopes of preventing that, though, Kurkjian offers this extra advice:

symptoms consistent with mild to MODERATE DEPRESSION after the holidays end. ” NATA L IE KU R K J I A N

M A K E A BU DGET

“Sometimes, more does not actually make it merrier. Have an idea of how much you want to spend on parties, gifts, trips – and try to stick to that number. Also, learn when to say no to extra projects or activities. Saying yes when we know we should have declined can lead to resentment and guilt, which don’t make for a very merry holiday season.”

PR EPA R E FOR A F T ERWA R D

“Some studies have shown 25 percent of Americans have symptoms consistent with mild to moderate depression after the holidays end. There are ways to prevent this holiday letdown. Take care of yourself; no doubt the holiday season has affected your health. Take up a routine of daily exercise or modify your diet. Also, come up with some activities to look forward to: attend a live performance, try out a new restaurant or catch up with friends over coffee. And why not take some time to help others?

Volunteering at a homeless shelter or reaching out to older relatives or neighbors can always help reframe your attitude, while making others feel better.”

R E M A K E M E MOR IE S

“Looking back on joyous holiday seasons from the past can bring out many emotions. Whether it is recalling those who are no longer with us, or certain traditions that have faded, it is possible to turn that lamenting into new fond memories. Rekindling old traditions and creating new ones, especially in memory of those who have passed, is a start. Making favorite recipes, watching classic Christmas movies of your childhood or decorating to your heart’s content can all help recreate the childhood holiday of your memory.”

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Focusing on creating the perfect holiday is just setting yourself up for disappointment, Kurkjian said.

Try not to focus too much on the minutiae, and if that is not possible – or it’s just too late – remember to take a deep breath and maybe even laugh.

“And if you can’t laugh at yourself, just Google ‘Christmas Fails’ and you will soon see it is not as bad as you think!” - MARK BEUTLER

Healthy patients and a healthy business.

At Commerce Bank, we have the experience to manage the unique financial challenges of the healthcare industry. From simple loan plans that help patients to optimizing your most complex payment processes, we have options that allow you to focus on providing a higher level of healthcare.

405.608.2702 commercebank.com Š 2018 Commerce Bancshares, Inc.

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CBD AND HEALTH At Optimal Health Associates, we have been utilizing Cannabidiol (CBD) tincture oil, capsules and lotion – as a primary intervention or secondary alternative for conditions including menopausal, psychiatric and neurological issues, bowel dysfunctions or rheumatologic and chronic pain difficulties.

CBD is the major non-psychoactive component of Cannabis Sativa L. (hemp). To find out more, go to: https://www.optimalhealthassociates.com/cbd-and-health/

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405.715.4496 | OptimalHealthAssociates.com NORTH OKC - 9800 Broadway Extension, Suite 200 | SOUTH OKC - 3110 S.W. 89th, Suite 104 Noel R. Williams, MD, FACOG

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Benjamin J. Barenberg, MD

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Cox Homelife CareSM is a service mark of Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. © 2018 Cox Communications, Inc. Cox Homelife Service provided by Cox Advanced Services Oklahoma, LLC–License #2002.

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Spring Break

Caribbean Style Looking forward to getting away

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J

January and February in Oklahoma are brutal. Perhaps we will be blessed this year with a delicate snow; one of those wintry fantasies that comes complete with a fireplace, fuzzy socks and hot chocolate (or wine) … perfect for a lackadaisical saunter through your Netflix queue. The reality, though, is that January and February, with their vicious wind and chastising cold, make spring break planning not just an exercise in plotting adventure (or reprieve), but a mental survival tool. On that cold January night that your forecaster of choice suggests you don your parka and head to the store to stock up on enough canned soup to survive an impending death-by-ice apocalypse, it’s nice to know that on the other side of it, there will be sugary sand, a splash of two of rum and bath-warm water as blue as a Thunder jersey. Perhaps … the Caribbean.

Think of a Caribbean vacation, and you’ll probably picture a handful of images: A palm tree hanging gently above an expanse of gleaming sand leading out to water that out-blues the cloudless sky – a vista fit for a screensaver, basically – an all-inclusive hotel or a gaudy cruise ship that goes from island to island; sunsets and seafood buffets; even swimming pigs (the Exumas!) … but to experience it, you’ve got to get there.

The Caribbean is made up of more than 7,000 islands that cover more than a million square miles between North and South America, some barely larger than sandbars and others – Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica, to name a few – their own nations. The term also applies to mainland areas including northern Colombia, Belize, the Florida Keys, Panama’s San Blas Islands and the Yucatán Peninsula, among others. Many inhabitants speak English (British or American), but you’ll also find Dutch, French, Spanish and Creole speakers, and the cultural flair varies from island to island.

Here is a rundown of some of our favorite spots in the Caribbean for you to dream about while our local meteorologists carry on about frigid impending doom.

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Aruba Aruba is whatever you want it to be: idyllic and secluded, boisterous and kid-friendly, cosmopolitan or a little of each. It’s below the hurricane zone, which is a plus, but that makes it a bit of a haul in terms of hours in the air. It’s a Dutch island, just off the coast of Venezuela, and it’s almost always sunny and windy.

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Where to stay depends on what you want to do. For us, snorkeling and peace were the goals, so the tiny boutique hotel Ocean Z, in Noord (which means north), was perfect – beautiful, sophisticated and understated. It’s also across the street from several excellent snorkeling spots, and with a mere 13 rooms, the level of service at the hotel is personal, impeccable and unobtrusive. Aruba does have its more raucous sides, namely the south and west sides of the island.

That’s where larger, family-friendly and/or younger person resorts with more nightlife are concentrated.

The goal for our trip was snorkeling, though, so the northern part of Aruba was perfect for us. Malmok Beach is across the street from Ocean Z, and is a great wade-in snorkeling spot, albeit a bit rocky going in. Designated snorkeling areas are filled with sea life, and later in the day, huge pirate ships packed with tourists, who fling themselves seaward via a rope swing attached to the boats’ masts. Snorkel in the morning to see sea life; snorkel in the afternoon less seriously.

Dining on Aruba is easy and fun, with restaurants of every description and price point. In Oranjestad, where the airport is, we were encouraged to try Yemanja Wood Grill. Our grilled cauliflower steak with chimichurri was a symphony of flavor, as was the South American delicacy called Picanha, which is

Island Goals Which Caribbean destination to choose

For the beach bum: If your ideal vacation includes ambling from your room to the beach, where you read, nap and swim all day, with snacks and drinks delivered as you wish, the Caribbean has got you covered. Try Angilla (35+ beaches, 80+ restaurants), Antigua, which is chockablock with all-inclusive resorts of every description or the Dominican Republic.

For the non-stop snorkeler: If you’d rather be in the water, mask down and snorkel up, your best bets are Andros Island in the Bahamas; The Baths or Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands; or Tobago Cays in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

For the family fan: Taking the whole crew?

Some islands are more economical than others, but still offer plenty to do. Try Barbados, Aruba, Jamaica or Turks and Caicos.

a prized cut of beef served beautifully grilled. Pro tip: Make reservations in Oranjestad based on when cruise ships are not in port. They can add thousands of people into the city at once, which makes everything more difficult.

Gianni’s, in Palm Beach, is a crowd pleaser. It’s a huge, pretty Italian place, with excellent cocktails, a good wine selection and a menu designed to work for everyone. We needed a hearty, pasta-and-wine comfort meal after days of snorkeling, and Gianni’s was perfect.

Natural wonders, cosmopolitan nightlife and casinos, beautiful beaches and near-perfect weather make Aruba an excellent Spring Break destination. - CHRISTINE EDDINGTON

For the overachiever, even on vacation: Morning hikes followed by zip lining followed by kayaking sound like heaven to you? First, Lord help you (just kidding), and second, consider Nevis, next door to St. Kitts, Puerto Rico, Granada or Dominica.

For the lover of getting away: If you love the sound of silence, and relish the idea of not seeing a single soul – or at least no one but a cocktail waiter and masseuse – try Anegada, British Virgin Islands; Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands; or Cat Island, The Bahamas.

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Barbados

Named after the wife of King David, who was said to bathe in milk to keep her skin perfect, Bathsheba Beach is a sprawling, rocky marvel of milk-white sand on Barbados’ east coast. Just offshore, you’ll find massive rock formations (which are actually ancient coral) that appear, particularly at low tide, to float just above the water. On any given day, surfers come from all over the world to take advantage of the seismic waves that roll in from the Atlantic.

The small island nation boasts 60 miles of coastline, and is 21 miles across at its widest. It is also the last island of the Caribbean before the balmy tropical waters give way to the cold Atlantic. The Hilton Barbados Resort, situated in the capital city of Bridgetown, has all the comforts of an all-inclusive stay, but is also an ideal spot to serve as a hub as you plan a week of shipwreck scuba diving or island safaris. The Fairmont Royal Pavilion is a half-hour drive from Bridgetown and at the peak of luxury: The newly renovated property, situated on the country’s east coast, offers exclusive golf courses, tennis, snorkeling, sailing and water skiing.

Terraced seating and local musicians make dining an event unto itself, and in proper British tradition (this island was originally settled by the British), afternoon tea is available.

A universal travel truth: To optimize your stay, leave the resort. Each island in the Caribbean hums with rich culture, and Barbados is no exception. The country is home to countless rum distilleries, and while the famous Mount Gay offers informative tours and top-notch tastings on its beautiful property, head out into the villages and find the local rum shops to really experience Barbados. At these one-room shops, Barbadians gather to sip rum and talk about life, and they welcome visitors curious to learn about their way of living.

In the small, agrarian Shorey Village in St. Andrew’s parish, just off the Atlantic side of the island, is Nigel Benn’s Auntie Bar. Nigel Benn is a famous British boxer and the bar, as the name suggests, is run by his aunt Lucille Hall – a ropy, sweet woman with mighty hands. She serves one brand of rum, ordered by the bottle, not the drink. There are (thankfully) three different sizes, and each bottle comes with a plastic cup, a handful

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of ice cubes and a can of cola or soda water. Here, Lucille will not only fill your drink, she’ll share with you her passion for gardening (common in these villages), her family and Barbados.

If all of the rum and Caribbean sun is too much, venture into the darkness by spelunking the tight but transcendent Harrison Cave. A combination of squeezes and squeals await as you check out the island’s treasured underground pools and towering columns. Another way to avoid the sun is by venturing out late into the night – Bridgetown’s St. Lawrence Gap is packed with pubs, restaurants and clubs.

Dining in Barbados is only difficult because there are so many options. Daphne’s, located in the Tamarind Hotel, serves beautiful seafood just steps from the shore. For a trendier dining experience, check out Cin Cin – and if eating cliffside while overlooking the magnificent Caribbean sunset sounds ideal, grab a bite at the Cliff. One of the country’s most famous restaurants, this unforgettable dining experience is built into the hillside.

If you are seeking something a little less posh and want to try a handful of Barbadian staples, macaroni pie and fried flying fish are wildly popular among locals. Cou Cou, the national dish of Barbados, is cornmeal cooked with okra and onion; best enjoyed near water with a cold Banks beer (the local lager) or a rum punch. - MATT PAYNE DECEMBER 2018 405 MAGAZINE

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IslaMujeres

Whether you travel in May or December, Isla Mujeres, or “Women Island,” never disappoints. The Mexican island is a pleasant, 8-mile ferry ride from Cancun. It’s a little more than 4 miles long and roughly half a mile wide. Unlike Cancun – and many other Mexican vacation destinations on the Caribbean Sea – Isla Mujeres is quiet and chill.

Playa Norte, or North Beach, provides plenty of options for resorts, hotels and restaurants, and is within walking distance from the ferry station and main/touring shopping district. The white sugar sand and clean beachfronts afford visitors a relaxing atmosphere, with staff ready to tend to their every need.

While there are plenty of all-inclusive options on Isla Mujeres, I recommend taking in all the island has to offer, which can be done in a couple of days. One day, really, if you get going early … but who wants to rush? Rent a golf cart – they’re everywhere, and can be rented by the hour or the day – and take a drive down to the south end of the island, where you can tour the Mayan ruins at El Meco Archaeological Site, then head over to Garrafon Natural Reef Park for zip lining and snorkeling. If you’re an animal lover, the Dolphin Discovery is not to be missed. And be sure to snorkel or scuba through the largest underwater museum in the world at Cancun Underwater Museum. It’s pretty spectacular.

Exceptional restaurants abound on Isla. Mango Café is located in the mid-island area and serves up a breakfast to be envied by all, along with lunch and refreshing micheladas – you’ll want this local favorite on your list of places to visit. North Garden, which is located steps from Playa Norte, offers health nuts numerous inexpensive vegetarian options and craft cocktails (it also has omnivore options). Seating is all outdoors, surrounded by palm trees and a very island-y vibe. The Joint Reggae Bar & Grill is also an outdoor stop offering a full menu, including vegetarian and vegan options, with a hefty bar menu. Be mindful; the drinks can sneak up on you, as they’re somewhat oversized … and there’s nothing wrong with that. The live music is, as the name suggests, reggae, and the atmosphere is thoroughly relaxed – although it can get a little loud, depending on the time of day. This is the place you’ll want to stop while driving your golf cart south near Parque Garrafon toward Punta Sur, or the southern tip of the island. And, of course, a well-known spot for people watching is Jax Bar & Grill, located on the central strip in the bustling tourist area of Playa Norte. It doesn’t exactly have its own vibe, but being on the second-floor rooftop, you can see almost everything – it’s more of an action-central lookout. Get a T-shirt!

I definitely recommend spending some solid time on the sand and in the turquoise-crystal water, where you can see for miles … when you aren’t eating and drinking your way across the lush, green terrain. - HILDA COSTELLO

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Caribbean 101 Tropical terminology Aside from being the presumed home of Billy Ocean’s personal sovereign, the Caribbean is an area encompassing the Caribbean Sea and its surrounding islands.

It’s north of South America, east of Central America and southeast of North America.

There are three primary groups totaling more than 7,000 full-sized islands, reefs, cays (low islands or reef made of rock, sand or coral) and islets (tiny islands).

But like Ocean and his queen, their hearts kind of beat as one. The Caribbean as a region is a beloved tourist destination, and its beauty is breathtaking.

The Greater Antilles: As the name implies, these are some of the largest islands in the Caribbean, such as Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (home to Haiti and the Dominican Republic) and Puerto Rico.

The Lesser Antilles: The smaller islands of the Caribbean, further divided into the Windward Islands and Leeward Islands.

The Lesser Antilles starts in the Virgin Islands and continues through the eastern Caribbean all the way down to Trinidad and Tobago. That includes (but is not limited to) Martinique, St. Lucia, Grenada, Barbados and St. Vincent and the Grenadines – all Windward islands – as well as the Virgin Islands, Dominica, Montserrat, Barbuda, St. Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla, all of which are Leeward.

The Bahamas: There are 700 islands and cays that make up the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. Of those, only about 30 are inhabited. It’s a free and sovereign country, but a member of the British Commonwealth of Nations – its monarch is Queen Elizabeth II, but it also has a prime minister and governor.

Jamaica

Montego Bay, and indeed the entire island of Jamaica, holds a spot in our collective imagination. Exotic, beachy, rum-soaked days and nights spent dancing to reggae music at some out-ofthe-way island bar. Does reality measure up to imagination? It does, but Jamaica is more complex than you may think.

Here is an insanely abridged summary of the island nation’s rich history: Christopher Columbus landed there in 1494, and found it inhabited by the Arawak people, believed to be Jamaica’s original inhabitants. Columbus claimed the island for Spain, and the Spanish soon killed the native population for their land. In 1655, England attacked Jamaica and claimed the island, freeing Spanish slaves.

Buccaneers and pirates featured heavily in Jamaica during this time, and their lore continues today – having gained political independence from England in 1962, it’s now a constitutional monarchy.

The northern side of the island is home to Montego Bay, which is where many of Jamaica’s resorts are concentrated. The Hilton Rose Hall is an all-inclusive, family-friendly compound, complete with its own mini water park. It’s a moderately priced choice, and an excellent value. An adjacent golf course and well-appointed spa and fitness center, plus nine restaurants and bars, make it easy to never leave the resort grounds and be perfectly content. Our group especially loved the breakfast bar and the actual bar.

Around Montego Bay, should you choose to leave the resort, are adventurous activities such as spelunking, rafting, catamaran day-trips and SCUBA diving

excursions. Unlike many Caribbean islands, Jamaica is mountainous – hiking trails with gorgeous views can be accessed from north or south, and atop the highest point in the Blue Mountains, a 7,400-foot elevation gain, hikers are treated to sweeping vistas all the way to the ocean.

Jamaica’s southern coast is home to Kingston, a city perhaps best known for being the home of iconic musician Bob Marley. His home there is now a museum, with its own little café and juice bar.

Tours of the home and studio can be bought separately or as a package; plan about an hour and a half for the combo, reserve your time slot in advance and bring water and sunscreen.

Jamaica has a long equestrian history, and consequently, there are lots of excellent opportunities to ride horses on the beach. For about $100 per person, you and your crew can spend an hour and a half riding on the shore and also swimming in the ocean.

Between the rafting, surfing, diving, hiking, horseback riding and cultural attractions, your time in Jamaica can be as full-throttle as you want it to be. For us, though, the true beauty of the island lies in its ability to make time slow down. More of a no-throttle approach. - CHRISTINE EDDINGTON DECEMBER 2018 405 MAGAZINE

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In With the New Welcoming 2019 in style

JUST FIVE HOURS NORTH OF OKC, you can spend your New Year’s Eve exploring Kansas City’s magically lit Country Club Plaza. Although many of the city’s famed fountains will likely be shut off due to cold weather, there is no shortage of beauty in this up-and-coming metropolis that houses the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, the Nelson-Atkins Museum and the Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art. Kansas City certainly has a Parisian feel to it, and for the best French food you could ever ask for, head to Prairie Village and dine at Café Provence.

Plus, there’s always KC barbeque at Joe’s or Arthur Bryant’s.

Stay at the sophisticated, design-forward Fontaine Hotel, located in Country Club Plaza, and get a pass to NYE Live in the Power and Light District. Tickets grant access to 12 bars and night clubs that offer everything from highfaluting champagne toasts and themed parties to wild confetti cannons.

Memphis is one of the country’s hottest destinations any time of year, with its wicked blues scene alongside its signature barbecue style – but at New Year’s, this Tennessee city takes celebration to the next level. Grab some southern food at Rizzo’s and then stop by Old Dominick’s Distillery to try some craft whiskey. Enjoy it, but pace yourself; while their craft whiskeys are hard to put down, it’s gonna be a long night. There’s no place better to ring in the New Year than at the “South’s Grand Hotel,” better known as the Peabody. This elegant hotel goes

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Throughout Oklahoma City, there is no shortage of things to do on New Year’s Eve – including bidding farewell to 2018 among thousands of friends at Opening Night (see page 78).

But if the holidays and work life have been overwhelming and you need to escape the 405 for a couple of days, here are a couple of getaways to make New Year’s Eve a memorable one.

from historic to histrionic in one of the city’s largest celebrations. This year, The Garry Goin Group and Seeing Red will get the crowd dancing, and DJ Epic will spin between sets. For those looking for something a little more laid back, The Renee Koopman Trio will be performing classics and standards in the Corner Bar. Plus, the Peabody hosts not one but two balloon drops. - MATT PAYNE

A Range of Celebrations Look out below! Things are dropping like flies, as cities across America see all sorts of things going down – or up – to herald the New Year.

Here are some of the most unusual: Las Cruces, New Mexico, home of the Chile Pepper Institute, lowers a giant chile pepper.

Atlanta, Georgia, capital of the Peach State, drops an 800-pound peach.

The Mount Olive Pickle Company in Mt. Olive, North Carolina, lowers a 3-foot glowing gherkin into a perfectly preserved redwood pickle tank at precisely 7 p.m. EST. That’s midnight Greenwich Time – as official as you can get – and everyone gets to go to bed early!

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, lowers a giant Peep (the candy made by local/ family-owned Just Born, Inc) beginning at 5:15 p.m. – as far as I know, not midnight anywhere.

Hershey, Pennsylvania, raises another home-grown item, the Hershey Kiss.

Raleigh, North Carolina, is known as the “City of Oaks,” so its NYE symbol is a 10-foot, 1,250-pound copper and steel acorn.

The glowing gherkin drop at the Mount Olive Pickle Company in Mt. Olive, North Carolina

The wench drop at Schooner Wharf in Key West, Florida

Boise, Idaho, uses a spectacular 1,000-pound spud known as the “glowtato” as its obvious choice. It rises at 6 p.m., simultaneously raising money for local charities, and looms 300 feet above the celebrants waiting for its 60-second descent at midnight.

Indianapolis, Indiana, lowers an actual race car.

In Oklahoma, Bartlesville takes advantage of the iconic Price Tower by dropping a 4-foot olive from the top into a large martini glass on one of the balconies.

Drag queen Sushi’s satin shoe drop at the Bourbon Street Pub Complex in Key West, Florida

How did this practice get started? The first official time ball was installed atop England’s Royal Observatory in Greenwich in 1833. Every day at 1 p.m., the ball would drop, allowing ship’s captains in port to set their chronometers.

As to the custom of New Year’s Eve observances, New York City was the first to use a time ball. In 1907, a 5-foot (diameter), 700-pound iron and wood ball with one hundred 25-watt light bulbs was lowered from the flagpole atop One Times Square. Although the ball has received a number of upgrades, the drop has only been canceled twice in the century-plus tradition. Today, millions of people around the world watch the glittering Waterford crystal sphere as part of their celebrations.

And many places have created their own traditions. Towns around the country drop everything from mushrooms to Moon Pies, pinecones to possums. Perhaps the winner in the celebration sweepstakes is Key West, Florida, which hosts several drops at different locations on the island: a large conch shell at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a pirate wench descending from a ship’s mast at Schooner Wharf and a giant lime wedge dropping into a margarita glass at Ocean Key House. But the crown jewel is the descent of a sofa-sized red satin shoe from the balcony of the Bourbon Street Pub Complex. After all, nothing says celebration like feather boas and red satin slippers. - ELAINE WARNER DECEMBER 2018 405 MAGAZINE

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Meet Me Women’s Contemporary Apparel & Accessories

The Perfect Place for Planners, Pens, Cards and Stationery

Nhu Avenue is a women’s contemporary apparel and accessories store that offers quality classic style at an affordable price.

We offer brands such as Blank Denim, Adelyn Rae, Spanx, Le Specs, Rayban, and Kendra Scott.

1111 N Walker Ave 405.778.8387 nhuavenue.com Nhu Avenue @nhuavenue nhuavenue

Chef Melissa, General Manager, Todd and Lori Burson, owner Tuesday-Thursday 11-10 Friday 11-11 Saturday Brunch 10:30-2:30, Dinner 5-11 Sunday Brunch 10:30-2:30 Monday Closed stellaokc.com | 405.235.2200 | 1201 N Walker Ave

Chirps & Cheers was created celebrating life’s everyday chirps & extraordinary cheers.

1112 N Walker Ave #101 | 405.509.6336 | chirpsandcheers.com

Come to Barkeep for the best in cocktail tools, ingredients and gifts. We have a full bar that allows you to #drinkandshop and we also offer private events and cocktail classes for small groups!

1121 N Walker Ave | 405.613.5672 barkeepokc.com

in Midtown Dog gone it! Christmas is almost here and we are ready to help you finish your holiday shopping. We offer affordable prices, women's clothing sizes small to 3xl, novelty gift items, complimentary alterations, and new arrivals daily. It's all about customer service and a fun environment at The Black Scintilla. So grab your fur babies and come see us!

1112 N Walker Ave #104 405. 824.7599 blackscintilla.com BlackScintilla @blackscintilla

Meet Daniel

Daniel McLoud, owner/operator of Trade Men’s Wares, is a navy veteran and was in the oil and gas industry for 10 years. Daniel has a heart for people and the community and wanted to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and inviting for everyone.

Trade recently celebrated 5 years and will continue to offer anything a man could want. From gifts to grooming and apparel to home goods, Daniel hopes to bring rugged sophistication to all men in the metro.

Trade truly has it all for all the men in your life. Personal shopping and custom gifts are always available.

Bonjour, OKC! Approachable French food has a new home in Midtown OKC. Discover Café Cuvée [koo-VAY], a fun neighborhood eatery where you’ll experience some of France’s most celebrated flavors, recipes, and spirits.

CafeCuvee.com | @CafeCuveeOKC | 1200 N Walker Ave

1112 N Walker Ave #102 | 405.595.5018 trademenswares.com

Midtown offers: 28 restaurants • 6 spots for a cup of Joe • 1 dog park • 4 streetcar stops 2 locations to grab a Spokies bike • 13 local retail shops • 2 places to lay your head

They employ nine million people.

They earn $1.6 trillion in annual revenue.

They’re growing at five times the national average.

Female-owned businesses are powerful economic drivers.

So why do they qualify for less business loans?*

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101 N Portland Ave, OKC | 405.605.1150

1st time buyers, register for $100 off coupon rooms4kids.com 44

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Artisan Tile Studio

7108 N. Western, Suite D1 • Oklahoma City • 405.242.2227 •

home

PHOTO BY DON RISI

Comfort and Joy Herald angels sing as both ornaments and embroidery, adding a joyously colorful note to the beautiful art and furnishings found year-round in the Quail Creek home of Susan and Steve Esco. Reverent with playful touches, the Escos’ holiday spirit is one of contagious enthusiasm.

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home HABITAT

The Esco home all aglow, ready for Christmas. What’s that in the trees? It’s the herd of naughty reindeer.

A VERY ESCO CHRISTMAS

’Tis the season in Quail Creek

BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON PHOTOS BY DON RISI

IF T HER E’S ON E T HI NG Susan and Steve Esco know for sure, it’s that you can never tell what a reindeer might do, especially around Christmas time. “We inherited a pair of old-fashioned light-up reindeer,” Susan Esco says, “and it’s the craziest thing – they move around! Those reindeer will not stay where we put them. They’ve ‘stolen’ our Suburban, they’ve climbed our trees and sometimes we find them up on the roof. Neighborhood kids think they’re fantastic, and even leave them little thank-you notes or gifts.” Esco’s husband Steve has long been suspected of being the culprit behind the reindeer games, but if it’s him, he’ll never confess, lest he dispel their neighborhood mystique.

Sweet shenanigans such as these set the tone for the Christmas décor, and indeed the whole season, at the Escos’ Quail Creek home. “For us, it’s very Christ-centered. We’re very joyful, with arms wide open, full of love and generosity, because He is why we celebrate,” she says. And celebrate they do.

Steve and Susan met as students at TCU. They married in 1984, and moved to Oklahoma City, where Steve’s family owned Joe Esco Tire Co. for many years. The couple and their daughter Kylie, now 29 and working in the film industry in Brooklyn, have lived in multiple Oklahoma City neighborhoods, including The Village, Belle Isle, Crown Heights and now Quail Creek.

During their Crown Heights years, Susan and her Bunko group exchanged Christmas décor gifts – which, when added

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The dining room’s warm tones (top) are perfect for holiday feasting. An Esco tradition greets visitors in the entryway (middle). Each year, Kylie’s godmother gives her a Christmas tree ornament, just as Susan does with her own godchildren. The entire collection shimmers merrily from a small, silvery tree, surrounded by tiny reindeer. Simpich carolers (below) are bundled up and silently serenading atop a Christmas-themed table top, which was a garage sale find.

Relaxation in the Esco’s wintertime wonderland.

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home HABITAT

Tucked underneath the family piano is a sweet gathering of Annalee Christmas dolls: Santa surrounded by happy children. The large Christmas tree to the left of the piano reminds Susan of a typically quirky story. “One year, our tree was too tall for the room. Steve said he’d be right back and disappeared into the garage, and came back with a chainsaw,” she says. Suffice it to say, the tree was right-sized in no time.

Santa, tuckered out from a day of ice skating, rests in a vintage martini glass in the Escos’ bar. Susan found her collection of festive glassware at an estate sale.

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to what Susan had already amassed herself, plus what she’s inherited from her beloved mother-in-law, amounted to an astounding volume of Christmas decorations. Most of her collection is vintage, and she credits her Crown Heights buddy Nancy Waller with finding much of it for her.

“I have more than 100 nativities,” she says. “And Nancy has given me such wonderful things. She really lit my fire as far as vintage Christmas. She knows how to choose the perfect items.” Susan herself is no slouch in the vintage décor department, and she also creates one-of-a-kind wreaths and trees from jewelry, which she often gifts to her friends.

Holiday traditions at the Esco home include a Christmas Eve meal featuring oyster bisque, which Steve’s family has always done, followed by the opening of one gift each. On Christmas morning, stockings are opened first, followed by a family lunch, followed by opening the rest of the gifts.

For the Esco family, the holiday season is about fun, friends, faith and family. With a few sequins sprinkled on top.

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home DÉCOR

From North Pole City: Red Santa with bag by Ino Schaller, $200; White beaded Santa with Swarovski crystals by Ino Schaller, $400; Champagne beaded Santa by Ino Schaller, $145; Ino Schaller trees: small, $30; medium, $55; large, $60

Ornamental Splendor A double dose for decking your halls rolls around, one of its best moments is pulling out all the old ornaments and decorations, including any that have been handed down. Memories flood, and we find ourselves reminiscing about family and friends and tradition. Adding to those memories is just as important, and finding the perfect item to do just that is easier than you think – distinctive Christmas décor is out there, you just need to know where to look. Two places, each unique in their own right, boast of the season in their names, but more importantly in what they deliver.

North Pole City and Christmas Expressions are dreams come true when it comes to finding special treasure to add to your Christmas collection. From ornaments that can reflect something personal about you and loved ones, to handmade collectibles that will be treasured for years to come, there’s more to delight your fancy than you can imagine. - SAR A GAE WATERS

North Pole City, 4201 S I-44 Service, OKC, northpolecity.com; Christmas Expressions, 2214 W Lindsey, Norman

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From Christmas Expressions: “Santa’s midnight ride” by Christopher Radko, $63; “Present Pile-Up” by Christopher Radko, $66; “Flying Santa” Christmas lantern, $65; Old World Christmas ornaments: Ferris wheel, $16.99; toolbox, $14.99; State of Oklahoma, $18.99; cappuccino, $13.99; yoga mat, $13.99

PHOTOS BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

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travel Starring Stripes

PHOTO BY MATT PAYNE

A giraffe here, a dik-dik there, a zebra idly wandering across the roadway … wildlife is abundant in the Serengeti region, and that’s part of why an exploratory safari with Sanctuary Retreats is so spectacularly scenic. Wayfarer Matt Payne found plenty to see, and memories that will last a lifetime.

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travel

INTERNATIONAL

UNDER AFRICAN SKIES A Sanctuary Retreats safari

BY MAT T PAYNE

“I COU L D G O HOM E H A PP Y,” said one of my travel companions, as a herd of a dozen elephants disappeared into a thicket of trees. I understood what she meant. Since our tour with travel operator Abercrombie and Kent and Sanctuary Retreats began, we’d seen three herds of elephants (one of which charged our safari truck briefly when we got too close to a calf), baboons, giant herds of zebra, giraffes, wildebeests, water buffalo, ostriches sprinting about with wild abandon and a handful of monkeys – one of which I was certain wanted to steal my camera. We’d also come across impala, the endearingly small dik-diks, jackals and some kind of mongoose. “I mean it,” my co-adventurer repeated, “I really could go home happy.”

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A male lion in Serengeti National Park; hartebeests are members of the antelope family; the national bird of Uganda, great crowned cranes are heard more often than they are seen; the Nile crocodile is the largest freshwater predator in Africa. They feed largely on fish, but can and will take down anything from a wildebeest to a baby hippo.

A few members of a herd of elephants move across Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, where they will ultimately meet with another herd before heading to the Mara River; (facing page) the sun sets behind an acacia tree; giraffes sleep in small intervals and rarely sit down.

I shared the sentiment – and what made it so impressive was that after traveling more than 8,000 miles to see these remarkable animals, we’d been in Tarangire National Park less than an hour. An African safari had been at the top of my bucket list since I was a child.

Now, suddenly, the continent’s towering acacias, thunderous beasts and vast savannah swirled all around me, far surpassing any expectation. I was grateful to be staying a week, but just half an hour amid these timeless creatures created a sense of satisfaction that would exist inside me in perpetuity. I would most definitely go home happy.

After a night at Sanctuary Retreats’ recently renovated Swala property, we headed north to the Serengeti. There we would stay at Sanctuary’s Kichakani, a DECEMBER 2018 405 MAGAZINE

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INTERNATIONAL

(clockwise from above) Believing cattle are a gift from God, the Maasai eat cheese and drink blood, but rarely use them for meat; Maasai families live in small villages made up of mud huts; Maasai women make beads for visitors; Abercrombie and Kent and Sanctuary Retreats build schools for villagers outside the Maasai Mara; Maasai marriages are arranged, and the women are often married young; epic picnicking at Camp Kichakani.

luxury canvas tent camp that moves three times over the course of the Great Wildebeest Migration. Guests sleep under vast stars, among the lions and elephants, listening to the animals of the night as they move through the camp. Last, we would cross the border into Kenya to stay at Sanctuary’s crown jewel, Sanctuary Olonana, and would wake up to hippos basking on the shore of the Mara River just outside our balcony.

We concluded our safari by immersing ourselves in the culture of the Maasai people who dwell in the hills above the famed Maasai Mara – and by viewing more wildlife. The radio crackled as we trundled down the bumpy dirt road, monkeys scampering out of our way as we pressed onward. Filbert, our guide, turned to us with a smile. “There is a leopard,” he said. “We must go fast if we want to see it and make it to camp before the sunset.” And with that, we were off, happy as could be.

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dining Roast With the Most

PHOTO BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

Difficult to pronounce (and spell) but easy to enjoy, this beef bourguignon is a tender slab of short rib braised in red wine and veal broth, served with fresh vegetables in a bed of airy whipped potatoes. Julia Child once referred to the entrée as “certainly one of the most delicious beef dishes concocted by man” – and it’s one of many sumptuous reasons to visit the Ambassador Hotel’s new French bistro Café Cuvée.

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LOCAL FLAVOR

Escargots de Bourgogne (left), Country Paté (above)

spot for lingering over a glass of Domaine Philippe Raimbault Sauvignon Blanc at the handful of tables.

You could start your meal with the rich, housemade country paté or the sweet and savory balance of the bleu cheese and apple tart and be perfectly happy with your choice. But my favorite of the hors d’oeuvres turned out to be something I’d never tried before: Escargots de Bourgogne served still sizzling. “This is as traditional as it gets,” OKC ’S A M BA S SA DOR HOT EL had a great location in the red-hot Midtown district, says Desjarlais, “parsley, butter, garlic a recent renovation to fill its beautiful 89-year-old building with cutting-edge luxury, and that’s it.” The snails themselves are even a signature gathering space in its rooftop O Bar … but it was missing a really unexpectedly tender, slightly chewy little top-tier house restaurant. Until this fall. When the Ambassador opened neighbormorsels, and dipping the accompanying hood-style French bistro Café Cuvée, the temptation must have been nearly irresistible grilled toast into the garlic butter they’re to say “Et voila.” served with makes the selection worthCuvée – a term you’ll see on wine labels to denote a special blend and to connote while all by itself. prestige and quality – partners elite OKC restaurateur Kurt Fleischfresser with distinI liked the escargots even better than guished younger chef Taylor Desjarlais, a veteran of Chae and Vast, for a take on French the moules frites (mussels and fries), cuisine that emphasizes approachability. which is saying something I love what they’ve done with the space; the black walls and gold accents considering how good the give the area a cool, intimate vibe, but it’s not small or cramped at all. I’m CAFÉ CUVÉE latter’s savory white wine not suggesting you should get up from your chair and start doing a can-can broth with just a touch of … but there are a couple of spaces where you could. And once the weather 1200 N Walker Avenue OKC 405.898.8120 paprika is. Speaking of permits again, the Ambassador’s niche courtyard is an ideal semi-secluded

APPRECIATING LES CLASSIQUES A flavorful French welcome at Café Cuvée

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Moules Frites (left), Bistro Burger (above), Grand Marnier Soufflé (below)

seafood, keep an eye out for the specials chalked on the restaurant’s pillars; that’s where you’ll occasionally find their notoriously excellent Dover sole meuniere. Land-based entrée options include a simple, satisfying roasted half chicken, the beef bourguignon (see page 59) and the wonderful house Bistro burger with Stilton cheese, roasted garlic aioli and astonishingly good lardons (crispy little bacon cubes). Nothing too fancy, everything delicious.

Dessert, on the other hand, can get a little fancy, especially if you take my advice and get the soufflé. When it gets to the table, perilously towering over the confines of its cup, the server uses

LE MOT JUSTE As an example of elevation through detail, I love the decision to equip each table with a box of flashcards for translating various words and phrases into French, complete with pronunciation guides. It’s perfect si vous avez oublié tout de la Francais que you learned in high school, plus it’s a fun conversational activity for the table, and even genuinely useful – let me especially draw your attention to the card “Qu’estce qu’il y a pour le dessert?” (“What’s for dessert?”)

two spoons to excavate a cavity in its tender top, and the resulting space is filled with raspberry jam and a dollop of Grand Marnier-infused whipped cream.

The delicate confection doesn’t last long before collapsing – as the great French poet Baudelaire said, “Each instant swallows up one crumb of the delight accorded to each man for all his mortal day” – but even as it diminishes, it remains delectable.

Café Cuvée puts more emphasis on faithful execution of French classics than on innovation – “Nothing we’re doing here is reinventing the wheel,” says Desjarlais, whose grandparents were French – but given that many Oklahomans are not regularly exposed to these flavors, it’s a thoroughly tempting avenue for exploration. Go check out les horizons nouveaux.

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CHEF’S TABLE

Passion and Pancetta Kari Garrett’s hunger for knowledge

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For Kari Garrett’s pancetta and spinach-stuffed mushrooms recipe, go to 405magazine.com/Eat-Drink

can focus on helping one of their principal passions – the Norman community dog parks.

For her recipe, Garrett chose Pancetta and SpinachStuffed Porcini Mushrooms, which is the first dish she ever cooked for her father. It comes with two caveats: First, if you can’t find pancetta, bacon will work just fine. Second, it can easily be made gluten-free by eliminating the bread crumbs. - GREG HORTON

PHOTOS BY SHANNON CORNMAN

BEFOR E SHE STA RT ED her culinary career, Kari Garrett, sous chef at Mary Eddy’s, was a microbiology student at the University of Oklahoma. The Edmond native, who grew up mostly in Alva, said she was feeling very disconnected from her program at OU, so she left and took a job at Sprouts.

“I was cutting meat and running the counter, and I was having a lot of fun cooking for my husband and our small circle of friends,” she says. “Culinary school seemed like a good fit.”

Growing up, the food from both sides of the family was what Garrett calls “meat and potatoes,” including a freezer full of fish and game at her dad’s house. The family supplemented their income with seasonal game – fishing all summer and hunting in the winter, including storing and processing venison. Garrett even got to butcher two cows while she was still in high school. Without knowing it, she was preparing for her career.

Garrett was attending culinary school and working at Ranch Steakhouse as a line cook when a classmate told her about an opening at Mary Eddy’s.

She met with Executive Chef Jason Campbell and Chef de Cuisine Jeff Patton, and got the job at 21c Museum Hotel. Like many sous chefs, Garrett has worked her way up from line cook, and Campbell talked about her as a young chef who is hardworking and eager to learn – a vital combination in a fast-paced kitchen such as Mary Eddy’s.

“I have to give credit to my chefs,” Garrett says of Campbell and Patton. “They’ve really led me in a direction that I’m pretty passionate about pursuing, and they give me every opportunity to learn new things, from charcuterie to pickles and fermenting.”

Working with Patton has brought Garrett back to microbiology, in a way, because of the focus on fermented foods. The fermenting room at Mary Eddy’s has the feel – and smells – of a college microbiology lab.

“I love learning about the fermenting process,” Garrett says, “especially the scientific processes that blend together with cooking to create some of our most nostalgic flavors.”

Garrett practices at home, too, where she and her husband are caretakers for a menagerie of pets: three English mastiffs, a cat, a snake, two turtles and a tortoise. She cooks a lot of the foods she had growing up, including stews and roasts, and she’s working with Asian components as she continues to learn. The process of becoming a chef is a time thief, so Garrett is looking forward to a point when life slows down and she and her husband

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GOOD TASTE

$ most entrees under $10 $$ most entrees $10 to $25 $$$ most entrees over $25 outdoor dining reservations accepted valet parking new or updated entry

American AURORA Its warmly comfortable atmosphere makes a perfect backdrop for a quick cup of Hoboken coffee or hearty breakfast or lunch assembled from superb ingredients – just be certain not to miss the beautiful secluded backyard area. 1704 NW 16th, OKC, 609.8854 $

Green Chile Kitchen’s flat enchiladas

A Green Chile Christmas Spicy goodness at a Yukon hotspot MY F I RST – and for many years, only – white Christmas was

about 500 miles from here, at my grandmother’s house in Artesia, New Mexico. It’s a memory that’s been on my mind recently, because the preliminary forecast for this winter indicates that we might be in for more snow than usual, and because I just went to Green Chile Kitchen, which specializes in bringing the flavors of New Mexico to 12 E Main in Yukon.

Owner Tara Peters’ café is a sister branch to the original – literally. Her brother went to college in Santa Fe, fell in love with the food there and celebrated its flavors by opening Green Chile Kitchen in San Francisco.

And those flavors are worth celebrating. Especially the flat enchiladas, which taste almost exactly Green chile apple pie like I remember my grandmother’s – a big stack of blue corn tortillas, savory chicken, sour cream and cheese and either red or green salsa, or the seasonally appropriate “Christmas” combination. You should work the red in there, though, because it’s really good, and you’ll have no problem finding green chiles elsewhere on the menu. They’re in the stew, in the fajitas, in the queso (which is frankly outstanding) … even in the dessert.

Yes, really: They have green chile apple pie – and it’s delicious, an unexpectedly sweet-and-spicy treat.

It’s cold out there, so a little heat is probably just what your palate ordered. Go get some Southwestern flavor, and may all your Christmases be delicious. - STEVE GILL

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BUTTERMILK Get a fresh, hot start to the day at the Paseo’s brick-andmortar version of a beloved OKC food truck, specializing in a wide range of deliciousness served between biscuits.

605 NW 28th, OKC, 605.6660 $ THE DRUM ROOM March your own drumsticks in for a heap of crispy, juicy fried chicken (among the city’s best) starring alongside fried okra, waffles and a fully loaded bar. 4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$ EDDIE’S BAR & GRILL This stylish spot not far from UCO is equally ideal for a casual drink, appetizers while watching the game or a dinner date. And bear in mind that the wings are outstanding. 930 E 2, Edmond, 285.7725 $$ GREY SWEATER Chef Andrew Black offers guests an imaginative culinary journey via a three-tiered tasting menu drawing on flavors from around the world – unpredictable, but always outstanding. 102 NE 4th, OKC, 455.6274 $$$ HUNNY BUNNY Bringing the allure of fresh, hot breakfast treats to Uptown 23rd, this purveyor of made-fromscratch biscuit sandwiches located in the Tower Theatre is a must for comfort food lovers. 429 NW 23rd, OKC, 605.4395 $ THE JONES ASSEMBLY It’s noteworthy as a spectacular concert venue, but don’t overlook the kitchen’s output the rest of the time. The bar (try a Frosé) and main menu (try everything) are sufficient to make memories even on non-special occasions. 901 W Sheridan, OKC, 212.2378 $$ KITCHEN NO. 324 A seasonally inspired café and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine.

Open for lunch and dinner, and a thorough treat for breakfast or brunch.

324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $ KITCHEN AT COMMONPLACE Few bookstores offer more than coffee and pastries, but then Commonplace Books isn’t exactly ordinary. This full restaurant is a small but savory treat. 1325 N Walker, OKC, 534.4540 $$

MARY EDDY’S Inside the inviting environs of Film Row anchor 21c Museum Hotel, this showplace of a restaurant turns out a seasonally driven menu of expertly tuned flavors and dishes meant to be shared. 900 W Main, OKC, 982.6900 $$ NED’S STARLITE LOUNGE A successful family catering business grew into a lavishly retro-decorated restaurant and bar dishing up delectable burgers, chicken-fried steaks and more.

7301 N May, OKC, 242.6100 $$ NEIGHBORHOOD JAM Serving tasty takes on classic American dishes and more specialized options such as pineapple bourbon pancakes, this breakfast-centric spot aims to become a community favorite through outstanding execution. 15124 Lleytons Court, Edmond, 242.4161 $ PICASSO CAFÉ Their neighbors in the Paseo are painters, potters and sculptors, so it’s apt that creativity abounds in these zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises, including plentiful selections for vegetarians.

3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $ THE PRESS Built in a former printing facility and garage, this concept from The Mule’s team adds Oklahomainspired comfort food to the Plaza District – the chicken-fried steak comes recommended. 1610 N Gatewood, OKC, 982.1010 $$ RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle surroundings encourage curling up for conversation over great coffee, baked treats, vegetarian-friendly breakfast and lunch specials, and live music. 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $ SCOTTIE’S DELI Soups, salads and especially sandwiches, all made from scratch and featuring meats that are cured, smoked and cooked in-house. Start with the pastrami and get ready to fall in love. 427 NW 23rd, OKC, 698.3696 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Top-of -the-line ingredients are combined into entrees and sides that are carefully concocted in-house, as are the bevy of wondrous craft cocktails. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900; 607 NW 28th, OKC $$ UNION WOOD FIRED GRILL Ribeyes to cedar plank sea bass to vermicelli bowls, chef Jonas Favela brings disparate influences together for a more perfect whole in this casual, but memorable, dining environment. 2920 NW 63rd, OKC, 608.8866 $$ VAST Keeping your attention on the steaks, seafood and other temptations might be difficult; the view from atop the Devon Tower is truly unparalleled in Oklahoma, making this a fantastic date spot. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$$

Asian CAFÉ ICON Tempting sushi, Japanese specialties and delicious spectacles fill the menu to bursting with visually splendid and palate-pleasing treats. 311 S Blackwelder, Edmond, 340.8956 $$

PHOTOS BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

KEY

CHIGAMA Think of it as Asianslash-Mexican; influences of both cuisines are in ready supply in this fromscratch kitchen featuring creative tacos, rice bowls and other wide-ranging treats.

3000 W Memorial, OKC, 513.5999 $ EL TORO CHINO Big, bold flavors from disparate cuisines are blended in this self-described “Latin + Asian Kitchen” - creating results that are as excitingly distinctive as they are delicious. 2801 NW 36th, Norman, 708.9472 $$ GOGI GO Fast-casual Korean barbecue comes to Midtown thanks to chef Kevin Lee’s dream of making the traditional cuisine approachable for OKC diners.

Pick your protein, grab it as it comes off the grill and get ready to come back again and again. 1325 N Walker, OKC, 778.8524 $ GORO An “izakaya” is a Japanese pub; visitors to the Plaza District will quickly come to associate the term with expertly crafted deliciousness thanks to this cheerful spot for ramen, yakitori, bar snacks and more. 1634 Blackwelder, OKC, 606.2539 $ KWAN’S KITCHEN Cantonese classics and French-Chinese cuisine in truly sumptuous surroundings? The roomy, regal Kwan’s has you covered.

And try the lunch menu’s array of $8 selections for a quick, savory bite. 3031 W Memorial, OKC, 607.8838 $$ NOODEE / OKIE POKIE Rice or salad or noodles, grilled meats or fresh seafood, topped and sauced with a rainbow of options – whatever you pick from this pair of concepts under one roof, the resulting bowl will be just what you want, and also delicious. 2411 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$ TSUBAKI SZECHUAN Bold flavors are a hallmark of Szechuan cuisine, so tell your taste buds to buckle up; spice is always present but never overpowering in this mouthwatering collection of staples and authentically executed dishes. 1117 NW 25th, OKC, 609.6606 $$

Bar & Pub Food BAR ARBOLADA OKC residents near Film Row have a neighborhood bar to call their own – but visitors from farther away also are welcome to sample the local beers, well-executed cocktails and seasonal menu of small plates. 637 W Main, OKC $$ OAK & ORE A Plaza District port of call built with repurposed rustic materials, it offers more than a handful of creative sandwiches that practically require a knife and fork, as well as a tantalizing selection of lovingly chosen craft beers.

1732 NW 16th, OKC, 606.2030 $ THE PORCH It has one of the best views in town, right next to OU on Campus Corner, making this college bar a prime place for a drink, a bite and people-watching. 311 W Boyd, Norman, 310.2257 $ SEAN CUMMINGS IRISH RESTAURANT The namesake chef brings the food, drinks, music and

atmosphere of an Emerald Isle public house back to the metro – go raise a glass.

7628 N May, OKC $$ THE UNION A good sign for the future of the South of St. Anthony mini-district, this neighborhood hangout spot has three bars and a surprisingly forward-thinking menu. 616 NW 5th, OKC, 6012857 $$ THE WINSTON A menu packed with intriguing possibilities among “elevated pub food” balances out an impressive selection of beer, wine and whiskies.

Cheers. 106 W Main, Norman, 561.7616 $$

Barbeque THE BUTCHER BBQ STAND It’s open three days a week and is a good distance from the heart of the metro – but it doesn’t matter, because this is absolutely some of the best barbeque you’ll find anywhere. Go early and prepare to be dazzled. 3402 W Hwy 66, Wellston, 240.3437 $$ DECKLE SMOKEHOUSE BBQ Offering true Texas-style pit barbeque (nothing but oak for their smoke), its brisket, ribs and house-made German sausage are set off by imaginative sides.

324 W Edmond, Edmond, 657.2992 $ LEO’S BAR-B-Q Dense, rich flavor and tender texture, delivered in genuine unpolished style for commendable value – no wonder its ribs and brisket are favorites among Oklahoma connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $ SWADLEY’S Expertly prepared meats – the sausage is especially succulent – form the backbone of this Oklahoma chain’s crowd-pleasing menu. And if there’s a special occasion approaching, they’re also award-winning caterers. 5 metro locations, swadleys.com $$

Burgers & Sandwiches THE GARAGE BURGERS & BEER It can get noisy in the sports-bar atmosphere, but even so your focus will likely be on savoring the many tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 8 metro locations, eatatthegarage.com $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded … and it’s incredible. It’s only open for lunch and the lines are often long, but the colossal burgers are easily among the metro’s best. Don’t forget some money, since it’s cash-only. 1202 N Penn, OKC, 524.0999 $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS With one burger, plus the recently added Impossible Burger (vegetarian), one side (fries) and one salad, the menu is easy to remember - and the execution makes the meal unforgettable. Add a shake and enjoy. 4 metro locations, tuckersonionburgers.com $

Continental BLACKBIRD A Campus Corner gastropub pairing succulently creative

dishes like pot roast nachos with a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. There’s little on the menu that won’t tempt palates. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes (the chicken-fried steak is a house specialty) and love of seafood drive the contemporary comfort food in one of the city’s finest dining destinations. 2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$ EN CROUTE A warmly welcoming, comfortable café in Nichols Plaza offers treats all day long, from fresh pastries to select spirits and beer, with special emphasis on artisanal cheese and charcuterie. 6460 Avondale, OKC, 607.6100 $ LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients - but every dish is the result of genuine culinary artistry.

805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$ THE MANTEL Marvelous steaks, seafood and other specialties combine with a refined atmosphere to set the stage for a truly memorable meal, especially if you have a date to impress. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$ THE METRO A perennial favorite that feels comfortably upscale without exerting pressure to impress on its clientele, the far-reaching menu covers culinary high points from vichyssoise to crème brulée.

6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ THE PRITCHARD WINE BAR Tempted by tempranillo? Musing about muscat? This Plaza District stop is amply stocked with an extensive list of exceptional wines, and sampling the varied dishes is a pleasure in itself. 1749 NW 16th, OKC, 601.4067 $ ROCOCO An “East Coast-style” restaurant with a diverse menu of international dishes, all set off by carefully selected wines to create the perfect dinner pairing. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Penn, OKC, 528.2824 $$

French CAFÉ CUVEE Located in Midtown’s magnificent Ambassador Hotel, this paean to the flavors of la belle France is the result of a collaboration between star chefs and elite ingredients. 1200 N Walker, OKC, 898.8120 $$ LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Les Freres Buthion have deep roots in the city’s culinary landscape, and this flagship combines fine dining with a great bakery, deli and butcher on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$ FAIT MAISON Foie gras to Brandy Alexander, this classical French restaurant delivers exceptional cuisine made with exacting care for exquisite, if pricy, event dining. 152 E 5th, Edmond, 509.2555 $$$

German DAS BOOT CAMP Longtime fixture for Deutsch festivities Royal Bavaria has brewed up a second round of exceptional cuisine and magnificent beer in a

less expensive, faster-paced location in downtown Norman. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $ FASSLER HALL Bringing German flavor to Midtown via house-made sausages, warm soft pretzels with cheese sauce, duck fries and a heftig beer menu, plus a weekend brunch – what’s not to love? 421 NW 10th, OKC, 609.3300 $

Indian GOPURAM - TASTE OF INDIA A full-service restaurant whose richly appointed interior and attentive staff accord patrons the feel of fine dining, even during the plentifully stocked lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandoori-cooked delicacies and boasting healthy, natural, delicious cuisine served amid splendid ambiance.

580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$

Italian & Pizza EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style (that means thin, f lexible crust with a lot of surface area to cover in cheese and tasty toppings), it offers whole pizzas or slices, a full bar and a primo patio. 1804 NW 16th, OKC $ THE HEAT There’s really no need to be humble about this true Chicagostyle pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. It’s one of our favorites; choose your toppings and think deep thoughts. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ MONI’S Handmade, New Jerseystyle brick oven pizza and authentic pasta recipes from Southern Italy in a casual, comfy ambience (ideal for dates). 17200 N May, Edmond, 285.5991 $$ PATRONO The space is small and casually intimate – reservations are a good idea – and the f lavors huge, carefully considered and thoroughly authentic. It’s Italian cuisine, elevated.

305 N Walker, OKC, 702.7660 $$ PIZZERIA GUSTO Neapolitan-style pizza (which harnesses an extremely hot fire to quickly cook superfine f lour crusts and quality ingredients) stars alongside Italy-inspired salads, pastas and appetizers. 2415 N Walker, OKC, 437.4992 $$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of legitimately Italian tastes for a casual lunch, or romantic dinner, amid stylish scenery. The weekend brunch offerings are especially superb. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ UPPER CRUST A chic, contemporary pizzeria and wine bar specializing in wood-fired, thin-crust New York-style pies complemented by a full menu and wine list. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$

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AT THE BAR

TASTE THE WORLD WITHOUT LEAVING THE 405!

Products From Over 60 Countries The Mule’s Canadian Breakfast

Canadian Inspiration

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IT ’S DI F F IC U LT TO SAY whether beloved Plaza District hangout The Mule, 1630 N Blackwelder, is more popular for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches or as a watering hole. From an Old Fashioned made with Basil Hayden’s bourbon (yessir) to the mezcal-fueled Oklanola to a range of actual mules and a pretty hefty beer selection, the menu has your boozeration needs pretty well handled. But in times such as these, when the temperature’s down and sunshine is sparse, look to the Mule’s brunch offerings, and take your inspiration from the Great White North. My advice is to order yourself a Canadian Breakfast.

As cocktails go, it’s not very complicated. In fact, there are only four ingredients: maple-flavored Knob Creek bourbon, ginger ale, orange juice and a slice of bacon for a garnish-slash-edible swizzle stick. I was a trifle worried that combination would prove more interesting than actually good, but you needn’t be – the results form a surprisingly smooth blend that’s by turns tart, sweet and even a bit savory, thanks to the bacon. (This is another in a long line of food products improved by adding bacon.)

Manager Stephanie Halley, who introduced us to the beverage, said it’s been on the menu for quite a while due to continued popularity, and that “it’s really good, especially on Sunday morning, when you might be a little [diplomatic pause] tired.”

The Canadian Breakfast is only listed on the brunch menu, but – pro tip – you can order one anytime you need to pep up your day with a glass of inspiration from our northern neighbors. - STEVE GILL

PHOTO BY SCOTTY O’DANIEL

Drink breakfast at The Mule

VICTORIA’S A comfortable atmosphere, with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – the chicken lasagna and linguine with snow crab are especially excellent. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377; 3000 SW 104th, OKC, 759.3580 $ VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff and management treat customers like guests in their home.

7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ WHEELHOUSE PIZZA A variety of daily slices and a bigger variety of 20inch pies (mmm, try the Guido’s Speedo) bring pizza lovers in from all around, and wings, salads and sandwiches should keep every diner hungry for more. 11109 N May, OKC, 286.5814 $

Mexican & Latin American BARRIOS A serious collection of Latin-flavored deliciousness, including a brunch that’s maravilloso, in a cool Midtown space with a back patio that’s pure paradise. 1000 N Hudson, OKC, 702.6922 $

brunch menu – and spice up your life.

3005 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.0911 $$ OFF THE HOOK It’s a choice destination for po’ boys, fried or grilled baskets and specialty items such as the smothered seafood fries. Go get hooked.

125 S Britton, OKC, 840.3474; 1920 S Meridian, OKC, 606.6040 $ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial OKC favorite for its flavorful seafood and spicy Creole-inspired dishes: Shrimp Diablo, Tabasco-infused Caesar salads, Andouille omelets at Sunday brunch and more. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$

Steakhouse BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance down to the last detail and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$ BROADWAY 10 Cruise into the Buick building in Automobile Alley to savor steak supremacy or seafood selections (even sushi) in a cozy enclave amid urban bustle. 1101 N Broadway, OKC, 212.3949 $$$

CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant flavors from the zesty traditions of Guatemala.

Lunch possibilities beckon, but it’s the breakfast specialties that truly dazzle.

3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $

CATTLEMEN’S Almost as old as the state itself, this Oklahoma institution’s immense corn-fed steaks and matchless atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$

CAFÉ DO BRASIL It’s a long way from OKC to Rio, but the savory menu in this Midtown hot spot covers the distance in a mouthful. Even brunch is a spicy, inimitable treat. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$

JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Saving room for your steak, lobster or prime rib is difficult when your gratis appetizers arrive in the form of a Lebanese bounty, but make the effort. Jamil’s has been feeding Oklahoma exceptionally well since 1964. 4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$$

OSO ON PASEO Make sure your appetite is loaded for bear when you visit this patio-centric spot in the Paseo Arts District – their mantra is Tacos & Cocktails, and they produce both with expertise and enthusiasm. 603 NW 28th, OKC, 309.8226 $ TARAHUMARA’S Beloved by locals (there’s usually a line but it moves quickly), this airy ristorante serves huge, tasty Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like carnitas de puerco and mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$

Seafood BRENT’S CAJUN Sit down to a massive platter of jambalaya, crawfish etoufee, Pasta Orleans or any of the other temptations on the weekend

ES 1/2 PRIC I 4-6 MON-FR

CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Cajun Crab Boil is a favorite, guests are encouraged to “leave the silverware at home and dig in” and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$

BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s nearly always standing-room-only at lunch, but don’t let that deter you; spend a few minutes in line and get an ample reward in the form of fast, fresh, imaginative taco creations. 530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $

HACIENDA TACOS Quality and variety make this restaurant in the Shoppes at Northpark a pleasure to visit, and to explore the menu again and again. 12086 N May, OKC, 254.3140 $

HAPPRY! HOU USHI

THURSDAYS 60s MUSIC 6:30-9:30 FRIDAYS LIVE JAZZ 6:30-9:30 SAT & SUN DIM SUM 9-3 2701 N CLASSEN BLVD, OKC | 405.524.7333 | GRANDHOUSEOKC.COM

MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE The ambiance and service are sublime, but fine aged steak broiled to perfection is the star. 3241 W Memorial, OKC, 748.5959; 100 W Main, OKC, 208.8800 $$$ MCCLINTOCK Where better to find a saloon than in Stockyards City? There’s plenty of room at the massive, 50-foot oak bar, and plenty of cocktails and whiskies behind it, but the main draw may be the massive, excellent steaks and chops. 2227 Exchange, OKC, 232.0151 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S This lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées and sides with a full complement of amenities destined to impress. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Customaged hand-cut USDA Certified Prime tenderloins and ribeyes, served amid warm Southern hospitality. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$

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HOLIDAY WISHES GIFT GUIDE 2018

This Merry Christmas banner, made of sustainable felt, packs a punch and can decorate a mantle or go around a Christmas tree! Rolls nicely for storage. $29.99

These delicate and nostalgic elf ornaments will remind you of your grandmother’s tree ornaments, made of sustainable felt.

Available in 3 different colors. $5.99 each

A simple and easy addition to your daily decor but with a reindeer nose! These reindeer trophy heads are made of sustainable felt. $29.99

Available in 5 sizes, the Candy Cane Crush Voluspa Candle Collection smell like holiday festivities and they burn true to scent! All Voluspa candles are made with 100% coconut wax and all designed and poured in-house in California. $16 - $224

The company behind this round Swedish yuletide platter gives a portion of all proceeds back to Education Without Borders.

The perfect size for having cookies out on the counter this holiday season. $22

PLENTY MERCANTILE

807 N Broadway Ave, OKC | 405.888.7470 1466 S Bryant Ave, Edmond | 405.888.9396 plentymercantile.com

You’ll be the favorite when you give Woops!

French Macarons! Over 20 decadent flavors to choose from and gift boxes available in sizes 3 to 36, $5.50-75.00. Yum!

WOOPS! FRENCH MACARONS

Penn Square Mall 1901 NW Expressway, OKC | 405.245.8300 pennsquaremall@bywoops.com

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Show them you have great taste! A Hal Smith Restaurants Gift Card is the perfect stocking stuffer for the season.

Learn more at

HALSMITH.COM/GIFT-CARDS

Choose Happy metal sign, $9 We have many more holiday gifts at affordable prices!

MISTLETOE MERCANTILE

2717 W Reno Ave, OKC | 405.435.0061 mistletoemercantile.com

events Welcome to Wanderland

PHOTO BY CARA ROBBINS

A gifted violinist with ample crossover appeal – you don’t often see performers top the Classical and Dance/Electronica charts simultaneously – Lindsey Stirling is ready to jingle bell rock the Chesapeake Energy Arena Dec. 1.

OKC is a stop on The Wanderland Tour, featuring holiday classics from her “Warmer in the Winter” Christmas album. See page 74.

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events PRIME PICKS

Chill: Out Dec. 2 & 9, Santa Fe Depot Warmly welcoming musical performances: in. The Norman Depot is combating the season’s chill with a double dose of its intimate Winter Wind concert series this month. Luxuriate in the breathtakingly beautiful voice of southern rock singer Rebecca Loebe Dec. 2, then come back Dec. 9 for the infectious folk strumming of longtime troubadour (and Winter Wind veteran) Johnsmith.

Off He Goes Dec. 6, Hudiburg Theatre

Getting Better Through Dec. 24, Lyric’s Plaza Theatre

The classics never go out of style – and while Lyric Theatre’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol” is filled with stunning sets, sparkling costumes and plenty of ear-pleasing musical numbers, it also preserves the quality that has helped Dickens’ tale stand the test of years: the message that we all have the capacity to become kinder, more thoughtful, better human beings, merely by wanting to. Bless us, every one.

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Dream Theatre Dec. 14-23, OKC Civic Center Once upon a time, a young girl received a wondrous toy and accompanied it on an enchanted adventure. The story isn’t really the point, though; what makes The Nutcracker truly magical is Tchaikovsky’s ethereal score (performed here by the OKC Philharmonic) and the exquisite art of dance executed by the OKC Ballet, in director Robert Mills’ signature staging of an all-time great aesthetic creation. Come make some memories.

PHOTOS: A CHRISTMAS CAROL BY K.O. RINEARSON; REBECCA LOEBE BY PERI KAY PHOTOGRAPHY; NUTCRACKER BY JANA CARSON

Bitter complaints about the government and various idiosyncracies of modern American life aren’t exactly uncommon here in 2018 … but this is hardly Lewis Black’s first rodeo. An unparalleled master of the savagely caustic escalating rant, Black’s return to Rose State means a fresh opportunity for audiences to experience the humorous catharsis of excellent points made at elevated volume.

Kate Bunce, Musica, ca. 1895–97. Oil on canvas, 40 3/16 x 30 3/16 x 1 3/4 in., Birmingham Museums Trust (1897P17). © Birmingham Museums Trust

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events ON LOCATION

with Lance McDaniel

In Pursuit of Dreams Adam Hampton plays it loud

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Adam Hampton

Hampton approaches each of these film projects like a philosopher. He proposes questions about big ideas, and then creates characters who argue, debate and fight for answers. His characters are flawed, but constantly in search of truth. It’s a major reason why his films are so successful on the film festival circuit, and also why other filmmakers line up to work with Hampton.

His most fruitful recent partnership has been with Oklahoma director Ryan Bellgardt. After connecting on the festival circuit, Hampton cast Bellgardt as a filmmaker in his “Rough Cut” series – and Bellgardt cast Hampton in monster film Gremlin, which became an international hit. Foreign distributors loved it and wanted more. So Bellgardt cast Hampton in The Jurassic Games, an action film with CGI dinosaurs that also sold well overseas.

Since, Hampton has been cast in six films, and the offers are not slowing down. But striking the right balance is always a challenge.

“Last week, I wrapped a movie called 90 Feet From Home,” Hampton says. “I was in Texas for nine weeks, drove all night on Sunday to get home and went to my day job at eight o’clock Monday morning. It’s hard on my amazing wife Angelina and our two kids, but she and I agree that we want to raise our kids knowing how important it is to work hard, believe in yourself and follow your dreams as far as they take you. You can tell your kids lots of things, but when you actually live it, it connects.”

ILLUSTRATION BY BRIAN O’DANIEL; PHOTO BY HILLARY UNDERWOOD

“W E’R E L OOK I NG for some kind of connection, you and me. Something that ties us to what we love, or want, or need. A connection with another person, with a moment, with an idea, with a belief that we can lean on. Through this connection, we can find ourselves.”

The quote above is from the opening of “Play It Loud,” a new internet-based series about Oklahoma musicians written, directed and hosted by Adam Hampton. He meets with great musicians to listen to their songs, explore the different ways music connects us and discuss the struggles and joys that come from pursuing your dreams.

Hampton is a bit of an expert on following your passion: He’s been writing stories since he was a child in Dale.

“In seventh grade, I won a writing contest that included a free trip to Japan. It was the first time I thought of myself as a writer,” Hampton says. “Then in eighth grade, my parents got divorced. It turned my world upside-down. That’s when I realized I could use writing for a cathartic purpose, to exercise and exorcise my demons.”

Hampton continued writing, earning a full ride to East Central University, where he signed up for a Mass Communication class and wrote his first script for a commercial. It was a basic assignment, but it changed his life.

“Writing that simple script and hearing it read aloud for the first time turned my black and white world to color,” Hampton says. “Writing is a lonely process, but writing scripts that could be read and performed was like having someone dance to your music. The collaboration felt like freedom. It’s a connection that I still pursue every time I work on a project.”

Since their first film, Looking for Hope, Hampton and his Outsiders Productions team of longtime friends Jason Alexander, Kenny Pitts and Chad Matthews have created several successful short projects, including four-part TV series “Rough Cut”; superhero film The Unusual Calling of Charlie Christmas; and “Play It Loud,” which is sponsored and produced by Grand Casino Hotel and Resort in Shawnee.

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events SPEAKERBOX

A Merry Month of Music December brings Santa’s grab bag of shows and spectacles

STE VE E AR LE December 19 Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd

is truly becoming a great destination for shows by diverse, contemporary musical acts. This month really showcases the gift of experiencing live music: Here are four quick takes on special shows that you can slip in between office parties and visiting Grandma. Merry Christmas and happy holidays, 405 readers!

LI N DS E Y STI R LI NG December 1 Chesapeake Energy Arena, 100 W Reno To call this young artist a “violin player” would be like calling Lady Gaga a “club singer.” Lindsey Stirling is indescribably talented: violinist, dancer, composer, performance artist, missionary, philanthropist and visionary. Musically, she’s been able to combine the classic sound of a violin with electronic, hip-hop and dub-step beats.

Stirling made it to the final four on “America’s Got Talent” in 2010, and her lavish YouTube videos have generated millions of views.

Her 2014 LP, “Shatter Me,” topped both Dance/Electronica and Classical charts.

Her OKC show focuses on her best-selling holiday album of traditional Christmas classics “Warmer in the Winter.” Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.

ROB E RT C R AY December 9 Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd Having established the signature sound emanating from his Fender Stratocaster, Robert Cray has taken the blues from a traditional trio to urban blues, to rock and soul, to jump blues with the Memphis Horns. It’s like Bubba Blue describing all the ways to make shrimp. And, of course, he has played with past greats and contemporaries such as Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker and Eric Clapton. He should be considered a legend.

At 65 years old, the five-time Grammy winner has no stop in his game. He has released 23 studio albums and tours relentlessly – tickets for his OKC show can be purchased at ticketfly.com.

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Maybe, perhaps, possibly an inspiration for Bradley Cooper’s Jackson Maine in A Star is Born, the truly original Steve Earle burst into the mainstream in 1986 as the new Nashville Bruce Springsteen with his MCA debut record “Guitar Town.” His songs were of small-town losers and full of romance, pain and sorrow. After the weird-but-heartfelt outlaw country hit “Copperhead Road” in 1989, Earle’s reputation was cast, and while his career has ebbed and flowed, he has always been a troubadour.

Mere months after his son, Justin Townes Earle, played the Tower, Steve Earle and the Dukes are set to appear with special guests The Mastersons. Again, tickets will go fast at ticketfly.com.

RO B E RT E AR L K E E N December 18 Jones Assembly, 901 W Sheridan Much like Matthew McConaughey, alt-country singer Robert Earl Keen is a true Texas legend. His “Cosmic Cowboy Christmas Tour” combines music and comedy in a “Hee Haw” variety show format – and as the evening goes on, and the band starts drinking, well, high jinks are promised. Expect surprise covers and fan favorites including Keen’s classic “Merry Christmas from the Family.”

This fun show is likely to sell out, so call who you know at the Jones.

You can try ticketfly.com for general admission. - JERRY CHURCH

PHOTOS: STEVE EARLE BY TED BARRON; LINDSEY STIRLING BY CARA ROBBINS; ROBERT CRAY BY JAMES L BASS; ROBERT EARL KEEN BY NICK DOLL

A S I W ROT E in our August issue, OKC

•

C H R I S T M A S

• SUNDAY, DEC

23

A T

C A N D L E L I G H T OKC CAMPUS SANCTUARY // 5PM VENUE // 6PM CHAPEL // 7PM

C R O S S I N G S

S E R V I C E S

MONDAY, DEC

24

•

•

OKC CAMPUS CHAPEL // 12 & 7PM

SANCTUARY // 1:30, 3:30 & 5:30PM VENUE // 3:30 & 5:30PM

EDMOND CAMPUS 1, 3 & 5PM

Nursery care (newborn-3) available for all services except 7pm Chapel on December 24.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 6PM // OKC CAMPUS Enjoy an evening celebrating the Christmas season with Sandi Patty and her family, as well as the Crossings Choir and Orchestra.

No charge but must have a ticket: available at crossings.church/Christmas-concert.

EDMOND CAMPUS: 1500 W COVELL RD, EDMOND, OK 73003 // 405.242.5460 OKC CAMPUS: 14600 N PORTLAND AVE, OKC, OK 73134 // 405.755.2227 CROSSINGS.CHURCH/CHRISTMAS

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events SPOTLIGHT

Chill Zone Downtown in December’s winter blast TA K I NG T I M E TO CEL EBR AT E special occasions as a community is great, but you know what’s better than a holiday? A holimonth. That’s what’s in store for Oklahoma City thanks to the annual icy excitement that is Downtown in December – in fact, by the time you read this, the fun will have already begun.

With a range that should appeal to just about anybody of any age and preferred entertainment, the 17th annual Downtown in December is more fun than will fit in this space … but here are a few of the things you can do: Strap on a pair of skates and take a spin (or an axel) around the Devon Ice Rink at the Myriad Gardens; check in with the big guy at Devon’s Saturdays With Santa; catch the OKC Philharmonic’s Christmas Show and A Canterbury Christmas; drift along the Bricktown Canal on a free Holiday Water Taxi ride; browse Pambe Ghana’s Global Market, the Holly Jolly Shops at the Brick and the rotating wares of the Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown; enjoy lights in Film Row and Automobile Alley and treats in the Skirvin, the Sheraton and the OKC

ON THE RADAR DEC 1 Cowboy Christmas Parade Get the holiday season moving at a Stockyards classic, as a herd of longhorn cattle tromp through the streets to kick off a day of food trucks, shopping and celebration. Stockyards City, 1305 S Agnew, OKC, 235.7267, stockyardscity.org DEC 7-8 ALN Holiday Home Tour Six Norman residences have decked their halls in sumptuous style for this tour; viewing their beautiful décor aids the Assistance League of Norman’s Operation School Bell.

Throughout Norman, 321.9400, assistanceleague.org/norman DEC 8-22 Christmas Train All aboard for a seasonal treat!

Sing Christmas carols, sip hot chocolate and take a train ride

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Mayor David Holt. “Notably, starting in mid-December, citizens will have the opportunity to visit locations throughout downtown on the streetcar.”

For a full slate of info and details, check out downtownindecember.com, and have a happy holimonth. - STEVE GILL

WANT TO SEE MORE? VISIT OUR ONLINE CALENDAR AT 405MAGAZINE.COM with Santa on these Saturday excursions. OK Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand, OKC, 424.8222, oklahomarailwaymuseum.org DEC 14 Cowboy Christmas Ball Troubadour Michael Martin Murphey returns to OKC for another installment of his traditional, family-friendly frontier-era hoedown and buffet. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org

MUSIC DEC 2 Canterbury Christmas Hark as Canterbury Voices sing - with an ample dose of audience assistance.

Special guests and classic standards fill this vocal concert with the sounds of joy. OKC Civic Center,

201 N Walker, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com DEC 4 Bach Collegium Japan An internationally touring ensemble led by renowned conductor Masaaki Suzuki presents an evening of Vivaldi, Handel, Bach and more. Armstrong Auditorium, 14400 S Bryant, Edmond, 285.1010, armstrongauditorium.org

THEATER DEC 3 A Charlie Brown Christmas A beloved Christmas story takes the stage in this adaptation featuring wonderful music, a droopy tree and true holiday spirit. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker, OKC, 594.8300, okcciviccenter.com

DEC 11 Jim Brickman Have yourself “A Joyful Christmas” with the dynamic performance of best-selling piano star Brickman. OCCC, 7777 S May, OKC, 682.7579, tickets.occc.edu

DEC 6-9 Home for the Holidays If a big, splashy Broadway-style spectacle sounds like the right way to mark the season, OCU’s American Spirit dancers have a showstopper for you! OCU Kirkpatrick Center, 2501 N Blackwelder, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/dance

DEC 14 J.D. McPherson Broken Arrow retro-rocker McPherson has a new holiday album out, and he’s hitting OKC to share the gift of “Socks.” Trust us, you’ll love it.

Tower Theatre, 425 NW 23rd, OKC, 708.6937, towertheatreokc.com

DEC 7-16 A Christmas Story Missing the Sooner Theatre’s fondly exasperated reminiscences of an American childhood would be tragic - you might even get a C+. Sooner Theatre, 101 E Main, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org

PHOTO COURTESY DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER

EVENTS

Museum of Art … and don’t forget the new transportation for enjoying it all: the OKC Streetcar debuts Dec. 14.

“Downtown in December has grown into a major local tradition, and this year promises some brand-new additions as well as longtime favorites,” says

Monty Little Misanthropy 01 (detail), 2018

EXHIBITION 11/16-01/18 EVENT 01/18 ArtNow’s party with a purpose sold out the past three years!

Don’t wait: Buy your tickets today at okcontemp.org.

Proceeds help keep Oklahoma Contemporary exhibitions free of charge, year-round.

2018City 405| MAGAZINE 77 oklahomacontemporary.org | @okcontemporary | 3000 General Pershing Blvd.DECEMBER | Oklahoma 405 951 0000

A STRONG BODY IS NOT MADE IN COMFORT MIDTOWN

SPOTLIGHT

NORMAN

1501 N. BROADWAY AVE 405.458.0405

3501 WELLSITE DR. STE #125 405.777.3202

PHOTO BY ORE ADESINA PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

A SHORT DRIVE WELL WORTH YOUR TIME

N O R M A L - N AT U R A L G A S O N LY

www.swansonsfireplaceandpatio.com

405 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

Hey, ’19 Opening Night rocks New Year’s Eve T ICK … T ICK … T ICK … that’s the sound of time running out on 2018, and OKC is getting ready to kick off the new year with a boom. Music, magic, live entertainment, fancy beverages for adults and a truly colossal fireworks display are waiting in the wings as we approach Opening Night.

Think of it as a casual get-together in which tens of thousands of people fill Bicentennial Park and the surrounding streets to laugh, listen and be merry from 7 p.m. until midnight. The Finale 5k is open to runners of all skill levels, followed by performances on nine stages from The Allie Lauren Project, Edgar Cruz, Orquesta D’Calle and more. Children’s area? You bet. Photo booth? Yes, indeed. A magic show by Joe Coover, off-the-cuff comedy from OKC Improv and a Broadway revue from Lyric Theatre are in the cards, as well – and starting at 9 p.m., headliners Take Cover will begin rocking out to some retro tunes in a crowd-moving countdown to the magic moment.

By the way, this year’s festivities will for the first time include the New Year’s Cheers beverage area, serving up wine, beer and champagne in a heated tent so guests of a sufficient age can pop in for a quick one while traveling between event venues. Slainte!

As the final seconds of 2018 slip away, all eyes will turn to the Opening Night ball, all set to rise to the sky and trigger one of the state’s largest fireworks shows to celebrate a fresh calendar.

A wristband gets you access to the whole shebang (the 5k and adult libations are extra, of course) – for locations, pricing and more information, visit artscouncilokc.com, and get ready to greet the future. - STEVE GILL

PHOTO COURTESY ARTS COUNCIL OKC

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events

Art for the Holidays

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 5-7PM

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backstory

Silver Bells, Golden Memories Downtown’s Christmas presence from decades past

BY MARK BEUTLER

CHR IST M A SE S PA ST are fun to remember, and so are the decorations, music and memories of the times in which we lived. One of Oklahoma’s favorite sons is civic leader Lee Allan Smith, known to many as “Mr. Oklahoma City.” He recalls the particular joys of the season from a generation or two ago. It was a time before massive malls and ordering Christmas gifts online; a time of silver bells and carolers and shoppers rushing home with their treasures.

“When I was a little boy at Christmas, my mother would take me downtown to John A. Brown’s,” Smith says. “That was the only place you could see Santa Claus – and Brown’s was great.

Their toy section was on the same floor as Santa. My favorite gift he ever gave me was a toy train; I kept that in my mind forever.”

Stores such as John A. Brown are a distant memory now, he said. In fact, downtown in those days was quite different.

“I remember Halliburton’s Department Store,” Smith says.

“There was Park’s Clothiers, the old Katz Drug Store, the

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Criterion Theater. My mother took me to Rothschild’s B & M – it was the precursor to Rothschild’s, and the ‘B & M’ meant ‘Boys and Men.’ All the storefronts were decorated for Christmas. It wasn’t exactly like the storefronts you might see in New York City, but we would always go downtown to look at all the sights and hear the sounds of the season.”

The OKC Police Department was on horseback then, he said, which allowed them to move through traffic more easily. They were very well-respected, and at Christmas, their barbershop quartet would often perform.

“It was called ‘The Flat-Foot Four,’” Smith says with a laugh.

“They would perform Christmas carols, and downtown shoppers always enjoyed that. It was bustling down there all the time.”

Decorations were much simpler, too. Greenery was draped across city streets, with sparkly dangling silver bells, and there were plenty of tinsel-covered Christmas trees. Strings of street lights, even stop lights, blinked a bright red and green … you could practically hear Bing Crosby crooning.

Eventually, however, shopping centers such as Penn Square and Shepherd Mall came along, and many of the favorite old downtown stores closed. By the 1970s and ’80s, downtown OKC had mostly become a mercantile ghost town. A resurgence began in the ’90s, and today, the downtown area is once again a hub of Christmas activity.

“I thought we had a great, fun, friendly city back then,” Smith says. “And we have a great city now. Times and people change, Oklahoma City has changed. But the magic of Christmas is timeless.”

PHOTO COURTESY OKLAHOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Main Street, OKC, circa 1961

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