Slice December 2014

Stained Glass Windows of Oklahoma

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FEATURES

48

December 2014

The Sound of Music in the Metro While sleigh bells and carolers help to make the season bright, central Oklahoma is home to a spectacular sonic smorgasbord all year long. These hangouts are only a handful of prime possibilities for discovering some noteworthy sounds.

32

Reflections on Oklahoma’s Stained Glass Windows

Some are centuries old, others less than a decade, and their subjects range from veneration of saints to celebration of history to commemoration of terrible loss. In all their forms, these spiritual works of art are creations of scintillating beauty.

44

Lifting Up a Child’s Voice

In a perfect world, their help wouldn’t be needed at all – but when children are placed into the foster care system, the efforts of those who volunteer for the Oklahoma County Court Appointed Special Advocates can make all the difference.

4 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

On the cover

Stained Glass Windows of Oklahoma

WHERE LIVE MUSIC LIVES

SPEAKING FOR CHILDREN

FRESH FROM THE SEA (REALLY!)

History, spirituality and beauty meet in OBU’s Oklahoma History Window.

Photo by M.J. Alexander

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86

SNAPSHOT OF A CITY CENTER

Creative perspectives from a vast array of artists form an engaging picture of the urban core in new photography exhibit OKC 125.

12 From the Editor

UP FRONT 16 Chatter Rapid riverside development, a visit from Rick Bayless, a fresh Beatles tribute and other topics of conversation.

20 Details In this season of giving, try these recommendations for gifts that are small in size but have great presence.

20

22 Retro-Spective Remembering the way we were with a look back at the glittering Christmas displays of Oklahoma City’s past.

24 By the Numbers Fast facts and statistics on the Yuletide spirit in central Oklahoma.

26 Exchange A conversational give and take about fashion, family inf luence and the importance of the personal touch with handmade tie entrepreneur Taylor Hanna.

28 Mingling Making an appearance on central Oklahoma’s social scene.

ions l Sect Specia

SHOP {OK} RAL CENT & G GIVIN E GUID

66

FARE 66 Cookie Bonanza!

Bake a fresh batch of joyous memories with Caryn Ross’ treasured recipe for the perfect holiday cookie.

68 Catch of the Day No coastline? No problem. With planning, organization and the expert touch, fresh seafood is very much on the menu in OKC. 70 Eat & Drink Take a gastronomic tour with Slice’s citywide dining guide.

6 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

December 2014

PURSUITS 84 Top Ten Prime picks for a variety of December entertainment.

88 Home for the Holidays Now this is a winter wonderland – a dazzling collection of decorations, coldweather treats, events and fun forms the delightful Downtown in December.

91 Sing a Song of Sunshine The amenities are plentiful, the food is exotic and delicious and the scenery is beyond gorgeous; Mexico’s Riviera Maya makes for a marvelous getaway.

96 See & Do The sights, sounds and various happenings that are enlivening the metro this month.

102 Last Laugh 104 Last Look

26

Our blessings multiply‌

when we share them with others.

Please join us in counting our blessings at OurBlessingsCount.com.

Merry Christmas.

Your lif

December 2014

Volume 5 Issue 12

PUBLISHER Elizabeth Meares elizabeth.meares@sliceok.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mia Blake mia.blake@sliceok.com EDITORIAL Associate Editor Steve Gill steve.gill@sliceok.com Contributing Stylists Timothy Fields, Fashion timothy.fields@sliceok.com Sara Gae Waters, Home saragae.waters@sliceok.com Contributing Writers M.J. Alexander, Sean Becker, Mark Beutler, Lauren Hammack, Jill Hardy, Greg Horton, Caryn Ross, Rhonda Shephard, Elaine Warner ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel scotty.odaniel@sliceok.com Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel brian.odaniel@sliceok.com Production Assistant Tiffany McKnight tiffany.mcknight@sliceok.com Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Justin Avera, David Cobb, Terrell Fry, Simon Hurst, J. Christopher Little, Claude Long, Michael Miller, Quit Nguyen, Elaine Warner, Carli Wentworth ADVERTISING Executive Director of Advertising Cynthia Whitaker-hill cynthia.whitakerhill@sliceok.com Account Executives Jamie Hamilton jamie.hamilton@sliceok.com

Join us for a special trunk show

Coleen VanSchoyck coleen.vanschoyck@sliceok.com

Saturday, december 20 | 10am to 6pm

Account Manager Ronnie Morey ronnie.morey@sliceok.com ADMINISTRATION Distribution Raymond Brewer WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA sliceok.com

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If you still have funds left in your Flexible Spending Account or medical savings account that are earmarked for 2014, don’t let the clock run out on your ability to make use of them. Oklahoma City Vision Source is happy to help new and returning customers with eye exams, new glasses and contact lenses, even a full line of sunglasses – the clinic is an ideal source for improving your sight while making the most of the resources you’ve earned.

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Volume 5 Issue 12

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Reproduction of Slice content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Slice is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. Slice reserves the right to refuse advertising deemed detrimental to the community’s best interest or in questionable taste. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of ownership or management. Basic annual subscription rate is $14.95. U.S. single-copy price is $4.95. Back issues are $9.50 each

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430 W. Wilshire Blvd. | Oklahoma City | 405.840.4231 | dhbyfaye.com

10 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 11

From the Editor

CELEBRATING THE CHANGE OF SEASONS SIMON HURST

O MIA BLAKE

Editor-in-Chief mia.blake@sliceok.com

12 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

utside, the wind is howling and the leaves are flying off the trees in a colorful blizzard. The first true cold snap of the season is on the way (and two hours overdue according to the forecasts, but I’ll cut the meteorologists some slack – can’t win ’em all). It was 80 degrees today, and I’ve got my flip-flops lined up next to my fleece slippers in preparation for the 60-degree temperature drop we’re expecting tonight. Ahhh, Oklahoma. You are so weird and wonderful.

By the time you read this in print, we’ll probably be finishing up turkey leftovers, anticipating Christmas and maybe even bracing for some snow – fingers crossed! After an extended mild fall, it looks like winter is really on the way.

Cold temperatures are not a reason to dampen enthusiasm for the arts, though. Writer Sean Becker explores the local music scene in his feature article “The Sound of Music in the Metro.” Perfect for relaxing and just hanging out on a chilly night, local music venues are filled with talent to spare just about every weekend.

Also in this issue, we meet some amazing volunteers who have dedicated themselves to advocating for children during the most difficult times. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) partner with children wending their way through the court system in an effort to supplement the state’s resources, with the ultimate goal of championing each child’s best interests. Celebrating 25 years of advocacy, Oklahoma County CASA is an organization that takes child welfare seriously. Learn about the process and consider volunteering yourself – it could make all the difference in a child’s life, not to mention your own.

Award-winning author and photographer M.J. Alexander has taken to the road again, and this time has focused on the incredibly intricate stained glass windows gracing houses of worship throughout our state. Home to such varied themes and subjects as history, prominent state figures, hymns, biblical stories and Native Americans, the breadth of diversity in our state is reflected in these works of art. It’s an impressively broad field of creative endeavor.

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all!

5 8 0 1 Nor t hwes t Grand Boulevar d • w w w.ballie t s.com • 4 0 5.8 4 8 .7 811 • Monday t o S at ur day 10A M t o 6 PM

14 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

UP FRONT

TAKING A BOW Bow tie baron Taylor Hanna sits down to chat about finding a creative outlet and the decision to stay small-scale. See page 26.

CHATTER Topics of conversation from around the metro 16 DETAILS Great suggestions for small-but-special gifts 20 RETRO-SPECTIVE A quick look back at a piece of local history 22

QUIT NGUYEN

BY THE NUMBERS Checking our figures on Christmas in Oklahoma 24 MINGLING Glimpses of Central Oklahoma’s social scene 28

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 15

UP FRONT | Chatter

Getting in Tune ON THE PAGE A LEGENDARY LOCAL GUITARIST EARNS THE NAME “THE FAB ONE”

It begins with a quick count of “one, two, three, four!” … and those are the only words to be found on the album. Nevertheless, it’s hard not to hear echoes of the voices of Lennon, McCartney and Harrison on Edgar Cruz’s latest album, because the OKC master performer has put tremendous effort into personally arranging some of the greatest pop songs of all time for his solo Latin guitar. “Cruzin the Beatles” is a spin through 16 tracks from “I Saw Her Standing There” to “Can’t Buy Me Love,” faithfully remembering the melodies, harmonies, vocals and nuances of the Beatles’ delivery and reproducing them on one single instrument. It’s a remarkable production; the initial reaction of, “Hey, I recognize that!” fades quickly, to be replaced by a more contemplative, “This is pretty impressive,” with occasional flickers of, “Wait, how did he do that?” (Cruz’s liner notes include a few casual comments about transposition and performing process that only make the album seem like more of an achievement.) Whether you enjoy it for the complexity of the performance or the fidelity of the familiar songs, it’s over far too quickly. >> Speaking of local music, there’s no better showcase for an area band than the massive three-day Norman Music Festival in April, and its open call for participants is online through December 28.

It’s even free to apply – and the chance to play at an event that draws 30,000 people would be a pretty great Christmas present.

Hit facebook.com/NormanMusicFestival for details.

STATE CRIMINAL STORIES THAT LIVE IN INFAMY

“Each of the six cases in this book helped shape the history of Oklahoma. Each in its own way tells us not just the story of a crime, but something more about Oklahoma and Oklahomans.” So says Kent Frates in the introduction to his latest work, “Oklahoma’s Most Notorious Cases,” before recounting the tales of some of the state’s legendary dark moments: William Urschel’s kidnapping by Machine Gun Kelly, Governor David Hall’s bribery trial, the Girl Scout Murders, Karen Silkwood’s battle with Kerr-McGee, the Sirloin Stockade murders and finally the OKC bombing.

Even if you skipped the author’s bio, it’s pretty easy to guess Frates has a legal background (he’s been practicing law for 50 years); the stories as presented are filled with proper names, specific dates and verifiable details. Sentences tend to be short declarations of fact or supportable conclusions, not convoluted swirls of adjectives and subjunctive clauses. That narrative approach gives the proceedings a clarity and propulsive momentum, moving events along while still weaving them into a story rather than a dry recitation of court records.

Fundamentally, the primary element of the title “Oklahoma’s Most Notorious Cases” is not the third word, but the fourth: Frates is less interested in piling on lurid details than in recounting how the justice system responded to tests of landmark importance. The result is an occasionally grim but thoroughly gripping read.

SIMON HURST

RAPID IMPROVEMENTS

16 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

While it’s considered traditional for visions of sugarplums to dance in people’s heads this time of year, we’re among the OKC citizens whose hopeful dreams are of the glittering facilities envisioned for the future Oklahoma River. As chronicled in Slice’s August issue, the river is already nearly unrecognizable now compared to its former shaggy state: fully stocked boathouses, athletes training in rowing and kayaking, even thrill-seekers riding ziplines high above the sparkling water. But that’s only the beginning.

In October, the city broke ground on Riversport Rapids, an 11-acre whitewater rapids facility underway as a MAPS 3 project that is expected (fingers crossed) to be ready in late 2015, in time for it to bid as a host site for the 2016 U.S. Olympic canoe and kayak trials. Athletes at the highest levels of international competition will train on it, but it’s also for everyday recreational rowers, and even spectators who never attempt a stroke – mayor Mick Cornett said it isn’t simply a question of an economic attraction, but also “the idea of just improving the quality of life in Oklahoma City.” Sounds like a dream that’s about to very quickly come true.

Thursday, December 4 First Thursdays Holiday Kick-Off Party In the grassy area north of Whole Foods, 5-8pm • Join local Marines, OKC Fire & Police Departments to collect NEW toy donations for Toys 4 Tots

• LIVE Holiday Music with the Wade Tower Band • Food Trucks & Café 501 Holiday Cocktails • Kids activities include holiday cookie decorating & letters to Santa!

• Santa & Mrs. Claus appearance

Nichols Hills Plaza Holiday Open House At CK & Co, Luxe, Lush Blow Dry Bar & Gretta Sloane

Saturday, December 6

December Calendar of Events Saturday, December 13 Carriage Rides with Mrs. Claus & Roving Carolers At Nichols Hills Plaza,11am–1pm

Breakfast with Santa At Whole Foods Café, 9–11am • FREE pancakes for the kids!

Thursday, December 18 Shopping Night Out

Carriage Rides with Santa & Roving Carolers At Nichols Hills Plaza,11am–1pm

Thursday, December 11 Holiday Shopping Night Out At Classen Curve, 5–8pm • Santa will be available for photos from 5-6:30pm in the breezeway in between Café 501 and Balliets… and then join Santa for dinner & desserts at Café 501!

Enjoy FREE kids’ dinners with purchase of adult entrée • Enjoy festive holiday happenings in-store • Roving carolers

5825 Northwest Grand Boulevard Oklahoma City, OK 73118 classencurve.com |

At Classen Curve, 5-8pm • Enjoy festive holiday happenings in-store • Roving carolers • Parents…Bring the Kids to Uptown Candy, 5–7pm • Santa will be available for photos from 5–7pm • Mrs. Claus will read to the kids at 6pm • Stop in and make “reindeer food”…an exclusive from Uptown Candy! Mix popcorn with your favorite candy • Food trucks on site

Saturday, December 20 Carriage Rides with Santa & Roving Carolers At Nichols Hills Plaza,11am–1pm

Avondale Drive Nichols Hills, OK 73116 nicholshillsplaza.com |

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Starting December 1, prizes will be given away daily with a grand prize including ALL 12 Days prizes. Check us outDECEMBER on social media!

2014 // SLICE 17

UP FRONT | Chatter

December 10 Human Rights Day December 16 Hanukkah begins December 21 Winter is come.

December 25 Merry Christmas to all!

PETE SOUZA

January 1 Like Ebenezer Scrooge, we all have an opportunity to begin again afresh.

“The spirit of giving … connects all of us during the holidays.

So many people all across the country are helping out at soup kitchens, buying gifts for children in need or organizing food or clothing drives for their neighbors. And for all of us as Americans, regardless of our faith, those are values that can drive us to be better parents and friends, better neighbors and better citizens.”

-President Barack Obama

More than 675,000 Oklahomans are at risk of going hungry every day; in this season of giving we urge you to consider donating a little money or time to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma (regionalfoodbank.org) or a community pantry near you.

18 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

He’s a James Beard Award-winner and member of the Culinary Hall of Fame, and possibly the best-known proponent of Mexican cuisine … and though his famed eateries are in Chicago, Rick Bayless also happens to be from OKC. He recently made a quick trip back to town to host a demonstration and dinner benefiting, and presented by, the lavish School of Culinary Arts at Francis Tuttle.

We stole a moment with the chef during the first of several seatings in the school’s attached restaurant District 21, and Bayless was full of praise for both elements, calling the School of Culinary Arts itself “an incredibly remarkable facility – everything you could want. It’s really, really, really nice.” He added, “Usually, the restaurants that go with these schools are pretty dreary places, [but] this is the nicest culinary school restaurant I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been in a lot of them. Actually, this is probably the best-equipped kitchen I’ve ever seen.” That’s probably not a knock on other restaurants as much as praise for all the amenities found in Francis Tuttle – from a chocolate laboratory to its nine separate teaching kitchens, its 30,000plus square feet of gleaming space are filled with top-of-the-line industrial gadgets. And as Bayless pointed out, “It is a huge thing for the city. Because when you have students that come out of programs like this, they’ll raise the bar for all local restaurants.”

After assuring us that those of us who live in the metro aren’t the only ones who have noticed the growth and development of the local culinary scene – “How can you not? It is really remarkable, [and] there are people who talk about restaurants in Oklahoma City far and wide, so it’s not just Oklahoma City that sees this progress” – the chef elaborated a bit on why he chose Mexican food as the genre that would shape his career.

“I lived in Mexico for years and years, I went there when I was 14 and I just never wanted to come home. I loved being there, I wanted Mexico to be part of my life, so this is the way I incorporated that. It’s versatile in the sense that in summer you want it, in winter you want it; the cuisine can be super high-end, or it can just be simple, ‘We’re having a party, let’s put food out.’”

The cuisine is clearly working for him – after his OKC appearance, he was heading to a 25th anniversary celebration for his Chicago restaurant Topolobampo – and success hasn’t spoiled his sense of humor: on being congratulated for the milestone, he immediately and with the barest hint of a grin replied, “Yes, I started it when I was 12.”

THE VOICE OF EXPERIENCE

A few tips Chef Bayless shared while whipping up a piquant pomegranate-studded guacamole during his cooking demonstration: • White and yellow onions are not the same thing and aren’t interchangeable without altering the taste of a recipe.

• Crushing an herb in a mortar gives at least double the flavor of chopping it.

• His favorite kinds of oil to cook with are either a good extra virgin olive oil or a safflower oil with a label approving it for high heat.

• If Mexican food gives you an upset stomach, it’s likely because the onions weren’t washed after cutting; rinsing them with water or lime juice “deflames” them by removing sulfurous compounds.

• Don’t wear white when working with pomegranates. Seeding them underwater is a good safety precaution but it’s still not worth the risk.

RICK BAYLESS PHOTO BY RACHEL BRYAN | FRANCIS TUTTLE

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UP FRONT | Details

GREAT THINGS SMALL PACKAGES

By Sara Gae Waters // Photos by Carli Wentworth

IT SEEMS LIKE DURING THE GIFT-GIVING TIME OF YEAR, BIG PRESENTS MAKE THE BIGGEST SPLASH. Everyone loves a big box under the tree ... or delivered to your door.

However, every girl knows the best gifts are slightly smaller in stature. And truly, what guy doesn’t know this, too?

A small gift usually means something special ... and thoughtful. It’s easy to pick out a flat screen (or are they curved now?) but something small, now that’s a bit of a challenge. I found so many small gifts for both stockings and gifting that I had to shorten my list. Now I’ve done that and checked it twice – great things really do come in small packages!

Clockwise from top left: Bar Company soap and Caldrea hand lotion from Occasions in Norman // Angel stocking from Christmas Expressions in Norman | Kate Spade pencils, journal, notebook and mini journal from Occasions // Toy-themed stocking from Christmas Expressions | Southern Tide belt, Peter Millar socks and Jack Black all over wash from Cayman’s in Norman // Rag and Bone scarf from Cayman’s // Astley Clarke bracelets from B.C. Clark Jewelers in OKC // Candy from the Candy Basket in Norman | Shinola watch and Leather Care balm from B.C. Clark Jewelers // Nutcracker pillow from Christmas Expressions | Jon Hart monogrammed glasses case, makeup bag and ID wallet from Christmas Expressions 20 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

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o r t Respective

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

By Mark Beutler Photos courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society

THE HOLIDAYS HAVE A WAY OF BRINGING OUT THE KID IN US ALL, but nothing quite compares to the glorious Christmases of our youth.

What a feeling of excitement, being bundled up in the backseat of the family Delta 88, winding our way through the colorful lawn displays of 1960s-era Lakehurst, or seeing the glistening lights reflected on the water in Ski Island.

No trip was complete without a visit to downtown Oklahoma City; it sported some of the most festive and gaily decorated scenes around.

From the tree in the First National Bank lobby to the elegant displays in our favorite stores, those decorations glowed with a warmth and intensity we will remember during every Christmas to come.

22 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

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DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 23

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

BY THE NUMBERS

By Steve Gill

3,774

miles from the North Pole to OKC

947,000,000

approximate number of girls and boys (under 18) in Oklahoma

???

number of “nice” girls and boys (only Santa knows for sure)

year Bishop Nicholas of Myra died (he was never officially canonized)

Clauses listed as OKC metro residents on whitepages.com

metro Kringles listed on whitepages.com

3

Top 10 Christmas songs recorded in four years

by Oklahoma star Gene Autry: “Here Comes Santa Claus” (1947), “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1949), “Frosty the Snowman” (1950)

years since grown adults shoved, brawled, trampled and paid hundreds of dollars to get a Tickle Me Elmo

1823

year Clement Clarke Moore published “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” popularizing aspects like the reindeerhauled sleigh, a sack of toys and the jolly old elf’s general appearance and demeanor

24 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

33,000,000 16 1981

real Christmas trees sold in the U.S. each year

farms selling Christmas trees in Oklahoma in 2013, according to okchristmastrees.com

7

years an average Christmas tree grows before being harvested

year the nonprofit Christmas Connection was founded to give needy families free gifts and clothing

67

years the Red Andrews Christmas Dinner has provided a hot holiday meal and gifts to hungry Oklahomans

5,500

diners who shared in the generosity in 2013

$1.7 BILLION $57.4 BILLION

less spent on Black Friday in 2013 than in 2012

still spent on Black Friday in 2013

Happy Holidays!

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UP FRONT | Exchange

TIE ONE ON Conv A

By Lauren Hammack // Photo by Quit Nguyen

e with rsation Tayl Han or na

MEN, TAKE NOTE: WOMEN LOVE BOW TIES. Even more, we love men who have the moxie to wear bow ties. And if there’s one time that lends itself to bow ties, it’s the holiday season – although this jolly splash of men’s finery deserves a year-round celebration at the top of every “rousing first impressions” list.

Taylor Hanna, owner of The Clad Stache in Oklahoma City, became so enamored with the accessory that he quit his day job to devote an entire career to making custom bow ties, and their immediate popularity has made him a very busy man. We convinced Hanna to loosen his tie this month, long enough to tell us how a guy who once turned his nose up at bow ties became the guy whose name is quickly becoming synonymous with them.

Are you a native Oklahoman? Yes. OKC is my hometown.

I’m always fascinated to hear how people find their way into their jobs. How does one wake up one day and say, “The day job was fine, but think I’ll make bow ties instead”? Well, it actually began when my wife, Jennifer, and I were going to a formal wedding and I realized I’d left my tie behind. We stopped at my parents’ house and my dad offered to loan me one of his bow ties. He’d worn them a lot before he retired and I’d always kind of scoffed at them, but I needed a tie.

Desperate times, desperate measures. I put on one of his bow ties and checked the mirror and thought, ‘That’s not bad!’ From that moment on, I was sold. I started buying my own bow ties here and there, but I just couldn’t find exactly what I wanted, so I decided to make my own.

Because you had a few extra bolts of fabric lying around? I would go to thrift shops and find pieces that had great fabric that I couldn’t find anywhere else. Also, 26 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

my dad gave me a jacket from one of his suits and I have a tie made of that material.

Nothing says “custom” like that!

How did you make the leap to a full-time tie gig? My business took off really fast. I was wearing my own designs at work and when I’d go out. People kept asking me where I got my tie. When I told them I’d made it, everyone would say, ‘You should sell those!’

I’m guessing that the bow tie’s popularity waxes and wanes like any other fashion accessory. Of course, although there are a lot of men who wear them daily.

Last year, Slice sat down with Judge Jerome Holmes (10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals).

He confessed to owning about 60 bow ties. You guys need to know each other. I’d love to meet him.

Are all of your ties handmade?

Yes. And right now, that means handmade by me.

How long does it take to make one tie? A bow tie takes one hour, 15 minutes. A necktie takes about one-and-a-half hours.

Have you ever seen someone wearing one of your ties? Yes – the first time that happened was about seven months ago and it was surreal. I’ve since become the ‘official bow tie maker’ for the Sugar Free Allstars, a Grammyaward winning, arena rock duo, and my ties have made a debut on the MTV red carpet.

What’s the best part about this job? Being around creative and like-minded people. It’s a great creative outlet.

Would you say that quitting your day job to make bow ties is the best decision you’ve made? No – I’d say that marrying my wife was the best decision, and then the bow ties!

How do you see your business growing in the coming year? I’ll be launching a kids’ line of bow

ties, neckties, suspenders and scarves in spring of 2015 called Truman by The Clad Stache. I also make my own recipe of beard oil and cologne that I’ll be introducing in the spring.

What motto has guided your business? We’re small. We’re handmade and that’s how we intend to keep it. We don’t make the norm. We design the unique.

No fear of mass production with The Clad Stache. No! In fact, I will never make more than 50 of any one pattern. I want to create legacy items that stand the test of time and can be handed down.

Editor’s note: The Clad Stache is located inside The Shop on 8th at 3 NE 8th Street, just off Broadway in downtown OKC.

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Oklahoma City Museum of Art patrons are alight with joy and pride at supporting the excellence of an elite cultural institution through this black-tie fete, “A Luminous Evening.”

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Guests groove to the twang of Lower 40, take a taste of the metro through restaurant samples and have a rip-snortin’ good time at the American Cancer Society’s bolo-tie bash.

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DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 29

UP FRONT | Mingling

MUSTACHE BASH Photos by Claude Long

No facial hair is required at Shop Good’s philanthropic block party, just willingness to dine, hear local music and help benefit social program ReMerge.

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32 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

REFLECTIONS ON OKLAHOMA’S STAINED GLASS WINDOWS

By M.J. Alexander

Blue are the chieftains’ robes surrounding the missionary priest, Bible in his left hand, crucifix extended heavenward in his right, in Pawhuska.

Red is the Confederate flag, frozen crossed against the 35-star spangled banner flag, memorialized below renditions of the Ten Commandments and the Bill of Rights and nestled above the scales of justice, in Shawnee.

Gold are the prairie schooner’s wheels, pulled by a pair of spirited horses heading westward to the purple sea, frozen in time in Norman.

Among the acres of stained-glass church windows across Oklahoma, some commemorate the state’s unique history: nomadic tribes and the Trail of Tears, the Land Run and oil strikes, Indian Territory outposts that created American-born saints and traveling preachers determined to save American-born sinners.

They convey a feeling of the opening of the Oklahoma and Indian Territories as a modern-day promised land, portraying the exodus as epic and inevitable. In discussing the Oklahoma history window in the Raley Chapel at Oklahoma Baptist University in his hometown of Shawnee, then-Gov. Brad Henry noted the force of destiny in “the sweeping upward motion, which weaves itself through the entire window, just like the Oklahoma wind, sweeping down the plains. It can be a very powerful, literal wind, as we all know. But it has figurative significance as well. We are on the cusp of greatness. A new dawning in Oklahoma.”

That spirit of optimism glows in the windows from dawn to dusk, changing mood and color with the shifting clouds of the Oklahoma sky. They were created not to offer a view to the outside world but to filter light through a kaleidoscope of history, harnessing the sun to backlight portraits and panoramas to the faithful within.

Twelve unique installations from around the state – from a 500-year-old Renaissance masterpiece in Nowata to a window that responds to an act of violence with the determination to rebuild – offer an overview of a century of evolving styles and vantage points as Oklahomans view their stories through great panes of the Great Plains.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 33

Shawnee: Oklahoma Baptist University

The Oklahoma History Window ON THE EVE OF OKLAHOMA’S 99TH ANNIVERSARY OF STATEHOOD, GOV. BRAD HENRY SPOKE TO AN ASSEMBLY IN RALEY CHAPEL AT OKLAHOMA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY, IN HIS HOMETOWN OF SHAWNEE. The topic for his Nov. 15, 2006 address: the symbolism embedded in the “truly marvelous and vibrant panorama” of OBU’s Oklahoma History pane, largest of the chapel’s set of 12 custom stained-glass windows designed to reflect facets of education, science, business, religion, history and the arts. “... It’s impossible really to talk about Oklahoma and its history without also discussing faith, as we Oklahomans are deeply rooted in faith. We are a deeply devout people.

“The Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, which is one year older than Oklahoma itself, just last night celebrated and commemorated the 100th anniversary of its brilliant beginnings. It was Nov. 9, 1906, when the Baptist General Convention of Indian Territory and the Oklahoma Baptist State Convention merged to form the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma. The two conventions assembled right here in Shawnee and marched together to the Shawnee Opera House, where they formed the new convention.

Today, the convention has nearly 1,700 churches and 750,000 members statewide.

“But Baptists were thriving long before today’s General Convention was formed. You might notice in the window behind me the scene depicting the organization of the first Baptist church in Oklahoma. It’s in the center of the window, between the images of Will Rogers above and Sequoyah below. Located near Fort Gibson, the church was formed in 1832 by a Native American man, three black slaves and a white missionary couple. The diversity of its founders is emblematic of Oklahoma. Our state is and always has been the place where roads converge, both literally and figuratively: race, religion, income level, even political affiliation. What separates us pales in comparison to the goals and the dreams we share ...

“It’s exciting to be standing on the precipice of history in our state. This is a fitting time to reflect on what it means to be an Oklahoman. It’s about a spirit and determination that has long distinguished our state’s culture. I’d like to quote an excerpt from a poem by a friend of mine, an Oklahoma-born Kiowa Indian and a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer, N. Scott Momaday: ... The pilgrimage came to this The sun dancing came to this The destiny of the people came to this Oklahoma Oklahoma is the name of the sun’s house Oklahoma is the name of an ancient quest Oklahoma is the name of a great destiny Others came Others came upon the rolling plains They bore books and learning They bore the Word of God They bore the machinery of nationhood 34 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Now we come in our turn Now we come to a new destiny Now we come to a new consecration of this holy place Now we come in our turn To stand on this ground between our forebears and our children To build understanding on what has been To build greatness on what will be.

“The excerpt comes from a poem titled ‘Oklahoma 2003,’ which Scott Momaday was gracious enough to write for my inauguration as governor in 2003. Momaday’s poem refers to the celebrated Oklahoma spirit. He describes a long history, even longer than is depicted in the window behind me.

“He boasts of a convergence of peoples, of the glory of things past and the glory of things to come. Momaday’s poem reminds us that our history did not begin where the window begins, with the entrance of the white man. When explorers like Coronado, shown in the lower left corner of the window, and LaSalle, in the lower right, arrived in this area, they found evidence of thriving civilizations of ages past as seen, for example, in the mounds of eastern Oklahoma.

They also found an existing culture of native people, including the Plains Apaches, the Wichitas and the Caddos. Oklahoma’s favorite son, who as I mentioned earlier is pictured in the center of the window, once said, ‘My ancestors didn’t come over on the Mayflower, but they met the boat.’ Rogers was many things: a cowboy and comedian, an actor and syndicated columnist. But he was, above all else, a proud Cherokee.

“Oklahoma takes its name from the Choctaw term meaning red people. Our state is home to 39 American Indian tribes, more than any other state in the nation. In fact – get this – more languages are spoken within our borders than in all of Europe, a testament to the size and the influence of the American Indian tribes represented in our state.

“Momaday’s poem tells us that others came to this place called Oklahoma. In the window between the two European explorers, there’s a map of Oklahoma as Indian Territory and a depiction of the Treaty of Doak’s Stand in 1820. What began as a cunning negotiation for the exchange of the Indians’ land in the south eventually spiraled into the tragedy that came to be known as the Trail of Tears. Notice the artist’s depiction of the sly posture of the white men against the stoic resoluteness of the chief.

“Oklahoma historian Angie Debow wrote genuine accounts of these events in her book ‘And Still the Waters Run.’ It’s a great read, and I would recommend it. The title refers to the white man’s vow that his promises to the Native Americans would last as long as the waters run, as long as the grass grows, as long as the sun rises.

“From there, the window takes us upward through scenes of French and Indian trading and an image of Sequoyah, the architect of the Cherokee alphabet. This catalogue of symbols allowed his people to read and write in their native tongue for the first time. Sequoyah was moved to Oklahoma and eventually settled outside of present-day Sallisaw. About that same

time, the first Indian newspaper was published, using his alphabet. That paper, the Cherokee Phoenix, is still in print today.

“On each side of these central figures are images of covered wagons, prairie schooners, horses, land boomers and, of course, sooners.

“The window shows them being swept up by a wind of momentum that eventually leads to symbols of our modern development. Bursting forth from all of this at the top of the window is the Oklahoma City skyline, resting firmly on this foundational timeline of Oklahoma’s great history.

“One of the most striking aspects of this entire panorama is the artist’s portrayal of the sweeping upward motion which weaves itself through the entire window, just like the Oklahoma wind, sweeping down the plains. It can be a very powerful, literal wind, as we all know. But it has figurative significance as well.

“We are on the cusp of greatness. A new dawning in Oklahoma. A bold, proud, prosperous Oklahoma. Where the potential of every child can be realized.

“Our great state and the successes we have created will indeed lead to many future triumphs. Momaday’s poem exclaims that now it is our turn. It is our turn for greatness. We have been given a strong legacy on which to build.

“With our ancestors behind us, and our children and grandchildren ahead of us, we stand on this holy ground called Oklahoma and we pray that God will bless our next 100 years so that we can continue to bring glory to his name ...”

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 35

Pawhuska, Immaculate Conception Church

The Osage Window THE IDEA WAS CONCEIVED IN PAWHUSKA AND BROUGHT TO LIFE IN MUNICH. BUT IT TOOK A RULING BY THE HOLY SEE IN ROME TO MAKE THE OSAGE WINDOW A REALITY. Towering at 36 feet, the window in Immaculate Conception Church memorializes the Jesuit priest John Schoenmakers. He lived and worked at the Osage Mission in Kansas for 36 years, from his arrival in 1847 until his death, bringing Catholicism, enthusiasm and supplies. Unlike previous missionaries, he encouraged the tribal members to adopt a blend of Christianity and traditional Osage culture. They coined the term “shouminka,” an affectionate version of his name, as the new Osage word for priest.

Under President Grant’s Peace Policy of 1869, the federal government began selecting Quakers as missionaries to Indian Territory, citing their “opposition to all strife, violence and war.” With the new policy, Rev. Schoenmakers was prohibited from accompanying the tribe into Indian Territory. The new agent appointed to the Osage, Isaac Gibson, was described as “bitterly anti-Catholic in feeling, practices and expression” in a published account by Rev. Urbande Hasque, who noted “the next 17 years are a record of constant intercession on the part of the Osage for Catholic missionaries and a constant suppression of the practice of their professed religion by government agents.”

Following years of petitions and protests by the tribe, the shouminka and the Catholic school were re-established in the Osage Nation in 1887. As fate would have it, the deal negotiated by Chief James Bigheart – a Union Army veteran educated at Schoenmakers’ school in Kansas – for the tribe’s new land in Indian Territory guaranteed that all mineral rights remained with the Osage. When oil was discovered and oil royalties started flowing, the newly affluent tribe helped build an opulent church with marble and statues imported from Europe and 22 custom-made stained glass windows.

The church became known as the Cathedral of the Osage.

For the landmark window, photographs of current tribal members in traditional Osage dress were mailed to Germany, where artists of the Bavarian Art Glass Company rendered their likenesses in vibrant glass fused with manganese, copper and gold. The glass alone cost $5,000 in 1919, not including the expense of the German craftsmen traveling to Oklahoma to assemble the work. Installed in the north transept, the Osage Window honors Schoenmakers with a perpetually attentive audience modeled after prominent tribal members of the time, including Chief Baconrind, Chief Saucy Calf and Arthur and Angie Bonnecastle.

To guard against the wealthy immortalizing themselves by sponsoring their own portrait in church, a long-standing Roman Catholic policy prohibited the likeness of any living person in church windows and statuary. After being petitioned, however, Pope Benedict XV made an exception to honor not an individual, but an entire Osage community that had welcomed the church and its shouminka to the American frontier.

36 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Oklahoma City, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral

The Warrior Saint of Oklahoma SUSPENDED LIKE A HARVEST MOON IN THE WESTERN ALCOVE OF ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL, A STAINED GLASS WINDOW GLOWS IN TRIBUTE TO OKLAHOMA’S FIRST SAINT: DAVID PENDLETON OAKERHATER OF THE SOUTHERN CHEYENNE. He was born as Noksowist, or “Bear Going Straight,” in Indian Territory around 1847, and raised in the traditional way. As a warrior, he took the name Oak-uh-hat-uh, in honor of the symbols of the dream shield created for him to carry into battle.

He came of age in a changing world, and watched as the Treaty of Medicine Lodge was ignored by horse thieves and buffalo poachers who ventured brazenly onto tribal land. In June 1874, frustrated by the lack of response from the federal government, hundreds of Kiowas, Comanche and Cheyennes – including Oak-uh-hat-uh – rode with Quanah Parker and Isa-tai to attack buffalo hunters in the Texas Panhandle outpost of Adobe Walls.

The incident was the beginning of the end for the free-ranging tribes, a catalyst for the government to bring its full military force to subdue the last warriors of the Southern Plains. Within a year, the Red River War was over and the bedraggled fighters, including Oakuh-hat-uh, had surrendered at Fort Sill. The military translated and recorded his name as “Making Medicine” and chained him to 73 other prisoners of war to be shipped to Florida. Soon after his arrival, he was registered as 33 years old, 6 feet 1/4 inch tall and 145 pounds.

During three years of captivity at Fort Marion, the POWs were under the supervision of Capt. Richard Henry Pratt, later famous for his “kill the Indian and save the man” philosophy of assimilating Indians into society. He appointed Making Medicine the prisoners’ leader and arranged for the men to be treated humanely. Vacationing teachers offered lessons in English, carpentry and art. The Indians taught archery and crafts to townspeople and tourists, sold their artwork and were allowed into town to attend Sunday church services of their choice.

Among the visitors who admired the ledger art marked by the glyph of Making Medicine was Jeanie Pendleton, granddaughter of Francis Scott Key and daughter of U.S. Sen. “Gentleman George” Pendleton. She and her family befriended Making Medicine and, when he opted to study for the ministry after his release, paid for his education.

Making Medicine was freed from Fort Marion in 1878 and baptized at Grace Church in Syracuse, N.Y., where he chose the Christian name David Pendleton Oakerhater. On June 7, 1881, he was ordained a deacon of the Episcopal Church. Within hours, he began his journey back to Indian Territory and the Cheyenne-Arapaho reservation.

His biographer recounts Oakerhater’s first message to his tribe, delivered in his native Cheyenne: “Men, you all know me. You remember me when I led you out to war. I went first and what I told you was true. Now I have been away to the East and I have learned about another captain, the Lord Jesus Christ, and He is my leader. He goes first, and all He tells me is true. I come back to my people to tell you to go with me now in this new road ... ”

He toiled as an Episcopal deacon for 50 years, credited by the church for being “at times the single ordained presence in all Indian Territory.” An article in the Cheyenne Transporter claimed: “Being himself an Indian his work is more effective than that of any white man could be. He spends much of his time in camp caring for the sick and doing what he can for their comfort. This is practical Christianity, which will result in credit to the church that sent him, and lasting benefit to the Indians.”

David Pendleton Oakerhater died Aug. 31, 1931, in Watonga, having outlived four wives and seven children who died in infancy. In his casket, placed over his heart, was his Bible, engraved in gold letters with his name from the POW camp: Making Medicine.

Fifty-four years after his death, the Episcopal General Convention voted to add David Pendleton Oakerhater to its calendar of saints.

The first Oakerhater Feast Day was celebrated Sept. 1, 1986, at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. In Oklahoma City, in a section of the sanctuary that had been damaged in the Murrah Building bombing, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral dedicated the Oakerhater Chapel on Jan. 17, 2004.

The chapel’s centerpiece is the orange-red stained glass window with the glyph of the man who was Noksowist/Oak-uh-hat-uh/Making Medicine/Oakerhater, representing the saint dancing in the lodge of the sun.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 37

Edmond, University of Central Oklahoma

Chapel of Song TUCKED BESIDE THE MUSIC SCHOOL ON THE CAMPUS OF UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA, THE Y-CHAPEL OF SONG WAS DESIGNED AND BUILT BY THE STUDENTS, FACULTY AND STAFF OF WHAT WAS THEN CENTRAL STATE COLLEGE. Conceived in 1941 and interrupted by World War II, the project was supported by the YWCA, a Works Projects Administration grant and private donations. Dedicated in 1949, the theme of each of the 14 stained glass windows was linked to a popular hymn of the era.

Benjamin Beames, a Choctaw athlete who played football for Central in 1942, was the model for the eight-foottall Indian Window inspired by John Oxenham’s song “In Christ There Is No East or West.” The work includes images representing the Latino, Native American, Asian and Eskimo cultures. Ray Gilliland, of Delaware Indian descent, created and executed the design.

The “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” window was inspired by the gospel spiritual and dedicated on Lincoln’s birthday 1946 in honor of Prof. Virginia Howard, who retired that year after 30 years on the faculty. The model commemorated Howard’s nanny, a woman recorded only as “Katie.”

A DISSENTING VOICE

Richard Harding Davis The sense that the 46th state was the new promised land was not shared by all. Among the dissenters was Richard Harding Davis of Harper’s magazine, who noted after the April 22, 1889 Land Run: “These modern pilgrims stand in rows 20 deep, separated from the promised land not by an ocean, but by a line scratched in the earth with the point of a soldier’s bayonet. The long row toeing this line are bending forward, panting with excitement and looking with greedy eyes toward the new Canaan.” He contrasted the frontier pioneers’ quest for land with the passengers of the Mayflower, noting the modern pilgrims do not drop on their knees to pray, but only “to hammer stakes into the ground and pull them up again, and drive them down somewhere else, at a place which they hope will eventually become a corner lot facing the post-office, and drag up the next man’s stake and threaten him with a Winchester because he is on their land, which they have owned for the last three minutes.”

38 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Oklahoma City, First Church

The Miracle Window THE ALFRED P. MURRAH FEDERAL BUILDING SAT AMIDST A ROW OF STATELY BRICK CHURCHES THAT MARCHED DOWNTOWN THROUGH OKLAHOMA CITY ON ROBINSON AVENUE. Dating back to the years just before and after statehood, they were home to mainline denominations that had established a presence in the new state, filling a need for social services, stability and community-building. Among them: First Lutheran Church, First Baptist Church, First Christian Church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral and the Roman Catholic St. Joseph’s Old Cathedral.

Oldest of them all was First United Methodist Church. The congregation embraced its claim as the first to hold services in Oklahoma City on April 21, 1889, the first Sunday after the Land Run. Calling themselves simply “First Church,” the Methodists soon constructed a wooden outpost for services. In 1904, they completed a grand Romanesque building on the same site.

Almost exactly 106 years later, it was that location on N.W. 4th and Robinson that thrust First Church onto the world stage.

The April 19, 1995 blast that destroyed the Murrah Building also killed 168 people, injured 680 others and damaged 324 buildings within a 16-block radius. It rocked First Church, located just across the street, to its foundation.

The church, which had reverberated with life during Easter Sunday celebrations three days earlier, became an FBI command

post and morgue as rescue teams brought bodies to the lobby and investigators worked amid debris. In the sanctuary, the grand chandelier had plummeted into the pews. Stained glass shards littered the floor. Though there were eight people inside the building at the time of the blast, only one was injured, and only slightly. The church complex sustained $3 million in damage.

At his sermon the Sunday after the bombing, in a service held at Oklahoma City University, Pastor Nick Harris led the congregation and its supporters in songs and prayers. “Our building was weakened to a point of near-collapse. But that is a building. It is not the church.”

When the dust settled, the faithful set about picking up the remnants of their stained glass windows, piece by piece. Amid the jagged layers lay one remarkable piece: the center of the old Good Shepherd window. It had survived intact, without a chip or scratch.

The section, more than one-foot square, was the face of Jesus, eyes lowered as he watched the sheep that had surrounded him in the west wall window facing the blast.

The fragment was preserved with additional shards of blues and pinks and purple, and fused into a round window at the center of a new First Church chapel, nestled between the sanctuary and the fellowship hall. Arching above the salvaged glass is the church’s new motto in the wake of that day: The Lord takes broken pieces and by his love makes us whole.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 39

Tulsa, Boston Avenue Methodist Church

The Oklahoma Flower Windows THE STAINED GLASS WINDOWS AT TULSA’S BOSTON AVENUE METHODIST CHURCH ARE ESSENTIAL TO THE DESIGN OF WHAT HAS BECOME AN ART DECO LANDMARK, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a National Historic Landmark. The thousands who tour the building each year receive a brochure that explains that Quaker artist and teacher Adah Robinson favored an abstract, stylized approach over literal narrative, and conceived of the windows’ downward-flowing lines to symbolize “the outpouring of God’s love.” Stylized versions of two native Oklahoma flowers – the petaled coreopsis and the tritoma, a spikelike lily also known as the red-hot poker, flame plant or torch lily – also are incorporated into the windows “to signify vital, growing Christianity. The coreopsis, which grows in the driest soil, symbolizes the hardiness and joy of the Christian faith. The tritoma, with its unusual downward blossoms, represents the generosity of the faith.

Its strong stem system symbolizes the strength of the church.”

Ponca City, Grace Episcopal Church

Kay County History Window MARCIA DAVIS, HISTORIAN AT PONCA CITY’S GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH, OFFERS INSIGHT INTO ITS OKLAHOMA-THEMED WINDOW: “There is a depiction of a Blackfoot teepee, which many associate with the original shelter for people who lived in Oklahoma, although such teepees were not used by many Oklahoma Indian tribes or by the state’s ‘white’ settlers. Research indicates that before the Cherokee removal to Indian Territory from eastern states, a tribal village of Caddo Indians, who lived in thatched huts, occupied the land where Grace Church now stands. In the background, an Indian from one of the Plains tribes, which roamed the Southwest, can be seen. In the lower right, the flag shield of the State of Oklahoma, designed by a former Ponca City resident [Louise Funk Fluke], can be seen. Mistletoe, the state plant, is draped over the arch of the window. The seated man is the Right Reverend Francis Key Brooke, the Episcopal Missionary District of Oklahoma’s first resident bishop. He is a descendant of Francis Scott Key, composer of The Star-Spangled Banner. At the bottom panel, the first Episcopal Church in Ponca City is shown.”

40 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Nowata, First Presbyterian Church

The Oldest Window THE STORM CLOUDS ROILING ABOVE THE CRUCIFIXION SCENE MIGHT HAVE DESCENDED FROM THE OKLAHOMA SKY THAT LOOMS ON THE OUTER SIDE OF THE WINDOW IN THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF NOWATA. But the luminous stained glass was forged in the fires of the European Renaissance during the 1500s, by an artist who had never seen the Great Plains.

The window traveled an unlikely path to the New World. It was installed in the chapel of the Dukes of Choiseul, whose line included César, minister of state for King Louis XIV; Étienne-François, chief minister of King Louis XV; and Claude Antoine Gabriel, a Dragoons colonel arrested as he f led Paris with King Louis XVI during the Revolution.

The window, entitled “The Crucified Christ,” was taken from the family chapel during or after the Revolution, and eventually made its way to the collection of the American publisher William Randolph Hearst.

On the eve of World War II, Hearst was in need of cash, and agreed to sell much of his massive art collection through Armand Hammer’s Manhattan-based gallery. And so it happened that in 1941, the entire fifth-floor of Gimbels department store in Herald Square held hundreds of Hearst’s ancient works of art. The 19-page catalog of stained glass panels and windows lists The Crucified Christ as Item 1425-1, a 16th century work measuring 6 feet 4 1/2 inches by 2 feet 8 1/2 inches.

While visiting New York, Mrs. Eva Payne Glass of Nowata saw the window as an ideal centerpiece for a chapel in her church back home. After the death of her husband, oilman and lawyer J. Wood Glass, the chapel was dedicated to his memory. Mrs. Glass died in January 15, 1983, five days shy of her 101st birthday, leaving behind one son and the oldest church window in Oklahoma.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 41

Norman, First Presbyterian Church

WESTWARD!

THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF NORMAN EVOLVED OUT OF EARLY MISSIONARY ACTIVITIES THAT MERGED WITH THE CHICKASAW PRESBYTERIAN IN 1891. The congregation moved into its current building at University and Park near the University of Oklahoma campus in 1951, and replaced the original amber glass with a custom set of stained glass windows in 1973. This panel, near the front of the sanctuary, depicts establishing the Church in the West.

Tulsa, Church of Christ the King

American Saints

THE MARY QUEEN OF PEACE CHAPEL, DEDICATED IN OKLAHOMA’S CENTENNIAL YEAR AT TULSA’S CHRIST THE KING, CELEBRATES WOMEN OF THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH. Memorialized in the chapel’s windows are two of the first American women to be canonized: St. Katharine Drexel – a Philadelphia heiress-turned-nun who dedicated her life and fortune to the welfare of Native Americans and African-Americans, founding the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament and underwriting schools and missions in Indian Territory – and Kateri Tekakwitha, daughter of an Algonquin mother and Mohawk father who, in 2012, became the first American Indian to be elevated to sainthood in the Roman Catholic Church.

Oklahoma City, First Presbyterian

Evangelists Of The Midwest DR. HENRY LEE WILLET, PRESIDENT OF THE PHILADELPHIA-BASED STUDIO THAT CREATED THE RENOWNED WINDOWS AT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, CALLED THE STAINED GLASS INSTALLATION THE “JEWELS OF THE SOUTHWEST.” Lesser known than the monumental Biblical scenes displayed in the large windows, two panes are tucked away in the tower room in the church’s west transept, accessible through a hidden panel door on the south side, which leads to a spiral staircase. The works commemorate two American evangelists who held several multi-week revivals in Oklahoma: professional athlete-turned-preacher Billy Sunday (18621935), celebrated in one of the few church windows in the world to feature a baseball bat and glove, and the Rev. Billy Graham. Celebrating his 96th birthday on Nov. 7, Graham has been listed on Gallup’s poll of most-admired people a record 57 times since 1955.

42 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Shawnee, St. Gregory’s Abbey

Arrows and Devils and Serpents in Glass THE INTERIOR OF THE CHURCH AT ST. GREGORY’S ABBEY, SUCCESSOR TO THE SACRED HEART MISSION TO THE POTAWATOMIE AND ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBES, features medieval iconography of the saints, created using traditional techniques by the Milwaukee-based T.C. Esser Company.

The Rt. Rev. Lawrence Stasyszen, abbot of St. Gregory’s, tells of the meaning behind the imagery: a red devil chained by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, symbolizing triumph over temptation; a raven and a snake by chalices indicating St. Benedict, founder of the order of monks in residence, thwarting detractors’ attempts to poison him.

Above the door, two arrows with an apparent tribal flair pierce the flaming heart that symbolizes St. Augustine and the power of the Gospel.

Stasyszen notes that the monks once sought a bid from Lloyd’s of London for insurance on the abbey windows. The firm declined, declaring the windows “irreplaceable and priceless.”

A Broader View The deeply spiritual, historically fascinating and exquisitely beautiful creations in this article are only the beginning; to take an even more in-depth tour of these and other luminous state landmarks, visit our online gallery at sliceok.com/reflections/ DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 43

OKLAHOMA COUNTY CASA

Lifting Up a Child’s Voice

By Rhonda Shephard // Photos by Carli Wentworth

I WATCHED THE NEW FAMILY BEFORE THE ADOPTION JUDGE. AS A COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATE (CASA), I FOLLOWED THESE CHILDREN THROUGH THE VAGARIES OF THE SOCIAL WELFARE SYSTEM. As a CASA, I

spoke for the children’s interests, and I feel pride to this day for what I contributed. They were leaving the past behind and moving toward the future. Alongside feelings of joy, I felt regret for the children’s trauma, for their memories of parents unwilling, for various reasons, to protect them. The judge asked if I, as CASA, approved of this adoption. “Yes, without a doubt.”

I have served as a Second District CASA for more than seven years.

CASA is an unbiased, unpaid, statewide volunteer organization that provides a voice for abused and neglected children. The concept started in Seattle in 1977 as an experiment in getting the community involved in speaking for children. The organization became the eyes and ears of the court. Oklahoma County CASA is celebrating 25 years of serving children in Department of Human Services (DHS) custody, with 200 volunteers serving 700 children in 300 cases. Unfortunately, CASA only serves 24 percent of children in custody. CASAs do not replace caseworkers, but the number of caseworkers is in decline while the number of children in custody climbs, and the system cannot provide for all their needs. A CASA concentrates on one child or sibling group. Volunteers explore community resources and make recommendations to the judge. CASA’s story is best told through the words of those who work to save one child at a time.

CAROLYN VANBEBBER, a six-year volunteer veteran of CASA, previously worked to promote the arts in private and parochial schools. She acted in the capacity of executive director of PPARTS (Private and Parochial Arts for Students) and as a director of special projects in private schools.

Now a grandmother of six grandchildren, including two from the foster care system, she sees both sides of the equation.

She explained that she holds no degree in social work, but received an appointment from a judge to provide a clearer picture of a child in custody. “Each volunteer brings something unique to the table. All come with a desire to make a difference. We research records, talk to the parties involved, field the child’s wishes and bring that innate gut feeling … I guess I’ll call it life experiences … to offer recommendations to the presiding judge.”

44 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

“I am there for my children when nobody else is present.” CAROLYN VANBEBBER When asked what drew her to CASA, she said quietly, “I spent my adult life involved in my children’s activities. When they left home I found myself a traditional empty nester. One day at church I looked at the children I taught and thought, ‘Not one of them needs me personally.’ I had a spiritual crisis and felt my activities didn’t fulfill that need. I felt God leading me someplace else. I joined Calm Waters, a counseling group for children suffering from grief and divorce. Eventually I came to CASA and found what I was looking for.”

Carolyn related her training for CASA. “Before our swearing in we receive 40 hours of in-service training. We fill out applications, receive background checks and produce references; we learn what to look for. My training covered domestic violence, recognizing abuse, laws, report writing and much more. There’s so much conflicting information involved. I’ve had judges tell me they read my reports first to get a true picture. I ask lots of questions. If you’re not a gifted writer, you can present a good report. Our advocate supervisors help in that respect.

“I am there for my children when nobody else is present.

Generally I serve on a case longer than anybody. The literature asks for a year, but I stay until my child reunites with family, is adopted or ages out. One of my children went out of state.

I’m still his CASA, and in contact, even if the other state’s not excited.” She laughed. “Not everybody understands or appreciates what I do. Somebody accused me of being a bored Junior Leaguer with unrealistic expectations about a case.

I’ve been trained to look beyond a messy house and poverty to what’s best for these children. Parents deserve a second chance to make things right. Eventually I may make a decision that’s unpopular, but I’m advocating for what’s best for these kids, what they want.”

Asked why she continues the work, she thought briefly and said, “My compulsion. A 13-year-old CASA child confined to a juvenile psychiatric center had nobody come to see him.

He’s allowed visitors once a week. I come, bring cookies, and I’m the only one that comes. There’s sometimes an emotional price to pay, but that’s why I continue.”

LOREN JAMES, a six-year volunteer, acknowledged the fact that counseling for abused and neglected children is sadly lacking, and being in CASA encouraged him to return to school to complete his master’s degree in counseling. Besides his job as a medical equipment rep, his two children, his church activities and his classwork at the University of Central Oklahoma, he still finds time for CASA. When asked how he found his way into the CASA program, he smiled. “It was a natural progression. I worked for the Areawide Agency on Aging, Eldercare, and [as] a city planner and grant writer. I moved to Big Brothers and [Big] Sisters as a volunteer and fundraiser. It was incompatible with a family of small children. I found a brochure at church, called, trained and received my first case. I discovered a group of people speaking directly to the children.

In many cases, nobody spoke for their needs or wishes.”

Although CASAs need no specialized degrees and training is provided when starting the program, Loren is working toward a master’s degree. “My education follows my bach-

“I hope people will take the risk of the sadness, because it’s outweighed by the rewards returned.” LOREN JAMES elor’s in social work, and now I can I mix my two passions, but still make a living. The volunteers bring a wide range of experience. Compassion, desire and a level of common sense are what a CASA needs most.”

“The community is ill-equipped to deal with the epidemic of deprived and neglected children. Some parents have lost passion or never developed the skills to be good parents. They lack the abilities to make a living, care for their children or themselves. Many turn to domestic violence, addiction and neglect. When it involves removal, children blame themselves.

Many times these children internalize the responsibility for the family separation. What a hard thing for a child to take on.”

Loren explained how CASA helps with broken families. “This is a great opportunity to provide information and resources somebody might never receive. I’m a great cheerleader for parents and children getting the help they need. My first hope is for reunification, but my ultimate goal is what’s in the best interest of the child, and the rest of their life.”

When asked about his most important role as a CASA, he responded that he never makes promises to any child that he won’t be moved. “I promise I’ll follow him to the next place and always be there. He’s not alone.” He told the story of a DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 45

child brought before the judge each month for review. “Someone different picked him up each time from school. One day he told me he felt guilty because he always went to court. I picked him up and went to court. We then stopped by the park or got ice cream. I explained to him the judge wanted to see how well he’s doing. He now views the judge as one more person on his side.”

Loren expressed his frustrations in dealing with a large system. “DHS is overburdened, and we conflict at times. I will fight to not have my CASA kids labeled and fit into categories.

You can’t do that with children.

“There was a time in my life when I could have benefited by a CASA intervention, having anybody speak for me. I found the smallest kindnesses went a long way, inspiring me for years afterward. I hope people will take the risk of the sadness, because it’s outweighed by the rewards returned.”

With only two years of experience in CASA, LAURA PFEIFFER has already proven herself. This mother of two teen children won the 2013 Buddy Faye Foster Award for advocacy and leadership in the courtroom. Her advocate supervisor, Cheryl Thornton, says, “She’s an amazing person and even more amazing CASA. Her case involved a troubled youngster DHS wanted to drop. Laura fought for that child and convinced the judge, DA and DHS to keep her because it was in the best interest of the child.”

When asked about the talents she brings to the CASA table, Laura laughed. “I’m a VP for internal controls in a large bank. I investigate problems and dig until I find answers. CASA and I equal a good match in that respect.”

The banker holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in accounting. When asked why she chose to volunteer for CASA with such a busy life, she grinned. “I heard it on ‘Dr. Phil.’ Our children came later in our marriage. We started classes for foster care when I discovered I was pregnant and we decided to revisit the idea later. We watched ‘Dr. Phil’ one day, and he talked about the CASA program. We thought that would fill the bill.” Both spouses became CASA volunteers.

“CASA fulfilled my expectations. It’s a tough way to volunteer, sometimes stressful and time-consuming. What I do with CASA always remains challenging. I find myself being creative, figuring ways to accomplish goals for my CASA children. People care, and the basics are provided, but if I have the opportunity to help them learn more – manners, social skills or moral values – I try to instill those things. I know the value of ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ looking somebody in the eye when speaking, the right silverware to use and holding the door open for others. I believe knowing and doing these things build their self-esteem. I hoped to spread some of the blessings my family had been given. I didn’t realize that I received more than I gave.”

46 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

“I didn’t realize that I received more than I gave.” LAURA PFEIFFER

THE OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES is an agency in transition. The Pinnacle program is in process, and more children are coming into state custody now than five years ago. Sheree Powell, state director of communications, summed up DHS’ relationship with CASA. “CASA is a valuable asset and presents a child’s perspective. CASA volunteers can spend more time on the child’s point of view, where the caseworker must consider siblings, parents and regulations while serving the child’s needs. We know in this capacity there is not always agreement on a case, but this is a healthy interchange.

We all agree the child’s interest is our focus. DHS depends on the volunteer’s experience with the child, which is often longer in tenure than the caseworker. The CASA volunteer helps to ensure their child receives the full range of services, as determined by DHS and CASA. They bring the child’s interest to a case. That helps a caseworker in the long term. If there were more CASA volunteers, the children we serve would be much better off.”

“CASA is a valuable asset and presents a child’s perspective.”

SHEREE POWELL, DHS State Director of Communications

“As a group of highly committed volunteers, they shore up a system with inherent problems.”

JUDGE ROGER STUART

LOLA HALL GADD

From Weathergirl to CASA Advocate Supervisor DO YOU REMEMBER CHANNEL 9’S WEATHERGIRL, LOLA HALL? This Oklahoma broadcasting pioneer became the first woman to appear on TV news in the Southwest. An Oklahoma City icon, she worked for Channel 4 (then WKY), KOMA and KOTK radio, and later became a member of the Oklahoma Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Lola Hall Gadd has now clocked 16 years as a CASA advocate supervisor.

“I worked for Mercy Hospital when Fran Morris recommended I go to work for CASA.” Fran, another TV pioneer, hosted “Miss Fran from Storyland.” Lola now supervises 30 CASA volunteers and acts as the liaison between volunteers, DHS and district attorneys. Her enthusiasm for the program is palpable. “The only consistency in a case, many times, is CASA. Besides, they are the only one in the room not paid to be there.”

During this interview, she told of her respect for people volunteering for the organization. “There is no tougher volunteer program, considering the time and work needed.”

When asked what epitomizes a good CASA, she replied, “My volunteers are remarkable with a single-minded focus. Volunteers take their case apart, look for answers and present an informed opinion to the judge. The recommendations presented are based on research and investigation. I have doctors, lawyers, retired clerks, housewives, even college students. The common theme running through all this is they all believe they can make a difference in one child’s life.”

Perhaps the most reliable reflection of the Court Appointed Special Advocate program comes from the judges relying on Oklahoma County juvenile court.

Before Governor Mary Fallin appointed Judge Roger Stuart as a special judge in district court he sat on the juvenile docket.

Judge Stuart says, “When I sat on the juvenile docket I relied heavily on CASA. As a group of highly committed volunteers, they shore up a system with inherent problems. I believe judges rely heavily on the individualized information the CASA volunteer brings. A judge tries to make the best decision for the child, and CASA provides specific knowledge. It’s profound common sense, when somebody knows the child on an individual basis: this is what we on the bench need. The child welfare system is not designed for individual needs, but on grouping children’s needs. CASA provides consistency as a rule that DHS or counselors cannot. They are the last person standing, and historian for those coming later.

I was strongly impressed with CASA two months after coming to the juvenile docket.

The court system is isolated, and CASA brings a sense of community to the court.

The more the community knows what happens in court is better for the child’s future potential. Children come into the system feeling unwanted and at fault. Surrounding them with caring people improves their intrinsic value. Mother Teresa said, ‘Poverty in America is feeling unwanted.’ I think she hit the nail on the head in this situation.”

Join In

CASA is a volunteer organization, and it is dependent on people dedicated enough to give their time and energy. They speak for the children in Oklahoma County, lifting up a child’s voice, a child’s life. CASA fights for a child’s rights. If you feel the need to help Oklahoma County’s children, call 405.713.6456 or fill out an application online at okcountycasa.org/volunteer. In Cleveland County, call 405.360.5295 or visit clevelandcountycasa.org/volunteer.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 47

Soundof

The

Music in the

Metro

BY SEAN BECKER // PHOTOS BY QUIT NGUYEN

48 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

The procession of holidays and holy days marches through our lives every year as fall turns to winter. The annual parade of pomp and excess starts with Halloween, plumps itself up like the game bird of choice at Thanksgiving and builds to a crescendo of consumerism culminating with Christmas. It’s a time of joy, reunion, laughter and memory making. Or perhaps that’s angst, sorrow, remorse and heavy drinking (or heavy drinking and then the remorse).

Whatever your leaning, love ’em or hate ’em, the holidays are here. If you are looking to escape the madness or take your family house party out on the town, there is music in the merry air. We cornered a cadre of local music aficionados at the Academy of Contemporary Music at the University of Central Oklahoma (ACM@UCO) in their Bricktown offices during our quest to define local music and identify the best places to find it.

While Oklahoma’s second-largest city has its signature “Tulsa Sound,” the state capital’s role in the music world is less clearly defined. This is a function of geography as much as anything, according to Scott Booker, executive director and CEO of ACM@UCO. “Oklahoma City is a crossroads,” he says. “Place matters. If you’re a hub and a place that’s easy to stop, things are going to happen.”

Mitch Bell, ACM@UCO’s program director, music performance, expands on Booker’s thought. “It’s a melting pot of all kinds of sounds,” he says when asked to pinpoint an Oklahoma City music style. “There’s not one style or sound, really.” Not that there’s anything wrong with that. It’s just the result of being a conveniently located oasis.

Regardless of the reason, the metro’s musical past and present has plenty to offer. If you need to wriggle free before that boorish uncle fouls the air with more braggadocio or if you just want a change of scenery for a while, there is a style of music to accommodate your reason for personal escape this holiday season.

enjoy live music every friday and saturday at Urban Roots in deep deuce DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 49

Jazz Things

Up

adam & kizzie at urban roots

Check out your local jazz hands at these locations

URBAN ROOTS

322 NE 2nd St. Suite A, OKC urbanrootsokc.com Get some good down-home grub while you get your groove on at this Deep Deuce locale. Live music is featured every Friday and Saturday, and there is a First Sunday Jazz Brunch each month.

Locally born, raised and trained, nationally acclaimed act Adam & Kizzie stop by on occasion to share their blend of R&B, hip hop, neo-soul and jazzy bluesy goodness. The Oklahoma City kids recently signed a deal with Ropea-Dope records. Crooner Cooki Turner belts out acoustic soul and R&B material here on a more regular basis. Check the website for the most current entertainment schedule.

UCO JAZZ LAB 100 E. 5th St., Edmond ucojazzlab.com

F

or musicians traveling the south-north route from Texas to Chicago or the east-west route from Atlanta to Los Angeles, Oklahoma City represents a logical stopping point on the map. The minstrel influence had a significant impact on jazz music, says Chris Hicks, program director of production at ACM@UCO. “Early modern jazz is tied to Deep Deuce,” he explains. “Early jazz players from Kansas City came here to play.”

Those musicians invariably crossed paths with New Orleans-based Dixieland jazz artists, and two distinct musical styles merged somewhere near the current crossroads of I-40 and I-35. The traveling troubadours took their shows back on the road out of town, but the metro marked the spot where jazz music from two regions met for a one-night stand. You can still enjoy the happy results of that fateful union in the Deep Deuce neighborhood and elsewhere.

50 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

You can hear your choice of jazz along with a variety of other acoustic and plugged-in players, sometimes free of charge. Ticket prices for higher profile acts are extremely reasonable, and the Jazz Lab offers live performances several nights a week. Two shows featuring Oklahoma City acts are scheduled to appear over the yuletide fortnight. Miss Brown to You offers up a little bit of everything on Friday, December 19, and if you can still find some pep in your step on January 2, party down with the solid R&B, soul and funk flavor of Shortt Dogg on the first Saturday of 2015.

david bruster at vzd’s

Strings and

Six

Songs

A

Sing

to

rmed only with a guitar, minimal acoustic accompaniment and tales to spin, singer-songwriters adroitly blend the arts of strumming and storytelling. Sharing experiences and observations ranging from the intimately personal to the acutely political, these entertainers bring audience members along on their journeys through life.

Although the folk and protest music heyday arguably passed by the early 1970s, the singersongwriter style has enjoyed a long-running renaissance since the indie movement took hold in the late 1990s. As the home of Woody Guthrie, one of the country’s most revered folk songsters, the continuing popularity of the singer-songwriter segment across Oklahoma is no surprise.

The fare offered by singer-songwriters sometimes gets lumped carelessly into the category of “easy listening.” While the atmosphere of their performances is more laid-back than an amped up rock ‘n’ roll set, the tunes and tales they bring to the table challenge the audience to think. Often with a lone instrument to support them, the lyrics have to be strong enough to stand on their own. How many people, as adults, still think of Guthrie’s anthem “This Land Is Your Land” as a children’s song?

AARON PIERCE AT BLUE NOTE

Central Oklahoma provides ample opportunity to sit back and enjoy your choice of talented singer-songwriters.

Sink into your thoughts – and theirs – at a lounge

BLUE NOTE

2408 N. Robinson Ave., OKC thebluenotelounge.com The Blue Note has been in the live music business since 1951, and the beat goes on. Specializing in blues and jazz, the singer-songwriter sect has a home here as well. Live acts are usually booked from Thursday through Saturday. Aspiring vocalists can rehearse their favorites during Wednesday’s karaoke dustup. Cheap drinks and an eclectic crowd make it an inviting destination. If it’s not your scene, at least it won’t cost you much to find out. December’s live music lineup was not available at press time, so check the website for upcoming events.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 51

Grab a beer and a shot and get some red dirt in your ears at these local venues

THE BLUE DOOR

2805 N. McKinley Ave., OKC bluedoorokc.com

I

the

Gap

f you had to peg one definitive, guitar-driven sound that emerged from the central Oklahoma crossroads, you would likely settle on “red dirt” music. Although Texas has laid its own dubious claim to red dirt, the genre’s unofficial birthplace is right up the road in Stillwater. OSU Cowboy country isn’t home to every red dirt rocker out there, but enough of them emerged from Payne County to legitimize its claim of ownership. So keep your paws off, Austin.

Red dirt defies the straight country sound of the Grand Ole Opry set, too, so Nashville has no dog in this fight, either. Perhaps in a nod to the crossroads culture that continues to influence the local sound, red dirt is sometimes hailed as Americana, a label that comes off as a tad too quaint and not a little dismissive. If Seattle can claim grunge, why can’t Stillwater claim red dirt?

At the risk of plagiarizing Donny and Marie Osmond, red dirt music can best be described as a little bit country, a little bit rock ‘n’ roll. Some acts might skew more toward the country end of the spectrum, some more toward rock and others somewhere in between. Red dirt is definitely not bluegrass or rockabilly, but you might catch a glimpse of them here and there.

Think John Mellencamp meets Ryan Adams, with a splash of Wilco. Throw in Stevie Nicks as the prototype female backing vocalist and you get a feel for the sound. But that’s about as close as you can get to pigeonholing it.

Local red dirt icon Cody Canada, quoted on the website of his current band, The Departed, says, “The two things that drive me are love and hate.” Consumed without the benefit of context, the Yukon native’s quote can sound bleak and a little extreme. Taking his musical talents and roots into consideration, Canada’s words fall into place. Red dirt music spans the divide between country and rock ‘n’ roll, blues and bluegrass. The lyrical subject matter runs the gamut from storybook romance to soul-wrenching heartache. Put it all together and you have a sound that unites the musical cousins of rock and country and verbalizes the feud between competing emotions. Red dirt music is more concept – or context – than cliché. You feel it more than you hear it.

52 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

WORMY DOG SALOON 311 E. Sheridan Ave., OKC wormydog.com

Despite the disgusting moniker, the Wormy Dog Saloon welcomes quality acts like, well, like a wormy dog hosts parasites.

Local and regional talent takes the stage here two or three nights a week. Ticket prices are modest, as is the décor. Fortunately you’re here for the audio and not the ambience. If you’re in the mood for some rocking red dirt, be on the lookout for authentic Stillwater red-dirters Chad Sullins and the Last Call Coalition on their next pass through town. In the meantime, take in some Red Eye Gravy on December 19. The Tahlequah troupe technically touts itself as “cowpunk” while others put it in the alt-country or Americana category. Either way, if you’re ready for some locally inspired rock, you won’t be disappointed.

BLUE DOOR PHOTO BY VICKI FARMER

Bridging

20th annual woody guthrie tribute night at the blue door

Billing itself as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” this venue has been attracting top local, regional and national acts for over 20 years. If there’s a sound of choice here, it’s anything resembling Oklahoma music. Blues, bluegrass, folk, country and rock are typically on the menu here, but alcohol is not. The Blue Door is a BYOB establishment (wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks only). On Thursday, December 4, Mama Sweet celebrates a CD release party here. The Norman-based group gives listeners a taste of red dirt, country and rock. The product satisfies the appetite for good tunes.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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and it’s on sale for $3,500 at…

HOWELL GALLERY & ACOSTA STRONG FINE ART DEC 4 An Evening of Art and Holiday Cheer: Join two of Oklahoma City’s premier art galleries for a festive evening. Stroll between the galleries while enjoying carolers and a wide variety of paintings, sculpture and jewelry from both local and national artists. 5-8pm 840-4437 howellgallery.com HUNTINGTON FINE JEWELERS DEC 11 Hearts on Fire Dream Night: Experience the world’s most perfectly cut diamonds at this one-night event.

Shop over $1,000,000 of diamond jewelry. 5:30-8:30pm 692-4300 huntingtonfinejewelers.com NAIFEH FINE JEWELRY DEC 2 Ladies Night featuring Jude Frances and Tirisi Moda. 5-8pm DEC 3 Jude Frances trunk show.

10am-5:30pm DEC 10 The Henderson Collection trunk show. 10am-5:30pm DEC 16 John Rippel U.S.A. trunk show featuring handmade belt buckles - the first-ever OKC appearance by John Rippel of Santa Fe. 11am-5pm DEC 16 Men’s Night featuring John Rippel U.S.A. 5-8pm DEC 20 Temple St. Clair and Memoire trunk shows. 10am-6pm 607-4323 naifehfinejewelry.com THE OUTLET SHOPPES AT OKC DEC 6, 13 Jammin’ with Santa: peanut butter and jam sandwiches, wear your jammies and jam with Santa in the food court from 1-4pm.

DEC 19-24 Santa Visits: Bring your camera and visit Santa in the food court. Dec 19-23 from 11am-6pm; Dec 24 11am-5pm 787-3700 theoutletshoppesatoklahomacity.com

ON PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE ACROSS FROM PENN SQUARE MALL 5637 N. Pennsylvania Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405.842.8400 www.koslowsokc.com

56 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

PAINTED DOOR NOV 29 Caron Miller scarves and wraps trunk show. 11am-4pm NOV 29 Food tastings with Junior League of Enid’s Stir Ups Cookbook.

11am-4pm DEC 4 Old World ornament personalizing Susan Bennett, plus a gift basket drawing. 5-8pm DEC 4 Wine and snacks from an assortment of cookbooks. 5-8pm DEC 6 Junior League of OKC’s Goodnight OKC children’s book event.

11am-4pm DEC 6 Gleeful Peacock trunk show.

11am-4pm DEC 13 Tickled Pink jewelry trunk show. 11am-4pm DEC 20 Shanna Banana handmade scarves trunk show. 11am-4pm 235-4410 painteddoor.com QUAIL SPRINGS MALL THRU DEC 11 Salvation Army Angel Tree – Von Maur wing: Choose a tag from the tree and play Santa for a special child.

THRU DEC 25 Holiday Light Show: Every hour on the hour beginning at 3pm.

DEC 1-12 Holiday choir performances in the food court.

DEC 1, 8, 15 St. Nick’s Pet Pics – Macy’s Court: Holiday photos with your family dog/cat. 6-8pm DEC 6 Breakfast and a Movie with Santa – AMC Theatre: Tickets are $10 and proceeds benefit the Oklahoma Food Bank. Doors open at 8:30am. 755-6530 quailspringsmall.com R MEYERS DEC 1-2 Linda Richards furs and accessories trunk show. 10am5:30pm DEC 4-6 Blue Duck shearling trunk show. 10am-5:30pm DEC 4-6 Andrea Barnett jewelry showing, with a personal appearance by the designer. 10am-5:30pm DEC 9-10 Kelli Kouri fur outerwear and scarves trunk show, with a personal appearance by the designer.

10am-5:30pm DEC 11 Holiday Fashion Show 6:30pm 842-1478 rmeyersokc.com THEO’S MARKETPLACE DEC 5-6 Holiday Open House: 10% off all holiday décor. 10am-6pm 364-0728 theosmarketplace.com

Winter Shoppes

November 28 - December 23 Downtown OKC Myriad Botanical Gardens

Boutique-style shops, scenic views of downtown Oklahoma City and a carousel highlight the Winter Shoppes at Myriad Gardens – see the website for a complete schedule. 218-9300 wintershopsokc.com

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 57

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TRENDS

BLUE CHRISTMAS Red and green might be the marquee colors of the season, but visions of a more cerulean shade are dancing in our heads – and beautiful blue-tinted products like these are the tantalizing reasons why.

1. Show your style with this scalloped-edge and stud detail Mira tote featuring a lined and zippered removable bag nestled inside. Anabelle’s Galleria 2. Form and function: top off a fashionable cool-weather ensemble with a luxurious fox scarf in Thunder blue. $995, R Meyers

1

2

3. Celebrate Christmas in style with this statement piece from Tacori. Clusters of Sky Blue Topaz, London Blue Topaz and Clear Quartz layered over Neolite Turquoise stones are encased within .925 silver. Huntington Fine Jewelers 4. The Blue Garden Classic Candle ($34) by Nest Fragrances is a delight for the senses, and a portion of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to Autism Speaks. Theo’s Marketplace 5. Retro Collection Decanter - as these decanters are hand-blown from molten glass, tiny bubbles are captured to create a beautiful shimmering effect.

The dusty blue color exudes style and sophistication in any setting. $54.95 each, OKCMOA Museum Store 6. This amazing Killer Blue area rug is hand dyed, hand spun and hand knotted with a pattern by designer Kevin Walz. 3’x 5’ $1,800, exclusively at Designer Rugs 7. The FenderFlair bag is the ultimate way to fashionably show your team pride. Full-size OKC Thunder license plates form the sides of this attentiongrabber - velvet-lined with a pocket for cell phone or makeup and handembellished with Swarovski Crystals. Sale price $250, Painted Door

3

8. Columbia Sportswear Women’s Nordic Point Interchange Jacket three jackets in one! A warm, water-repellent zip-in liner combined with a waterproof-breathable shell equals bonus warmth for you. Stay dry and comfortable and enjoy the outdoors longer. $169.90, The Outlet Shoppes at Oklahoma City 8. Personalize a Tirisi Moda of Europe blue leather wrap bracelet with removable pendant-charms of your choice, available in 18kt white, yellow or rose gold. Exclusively at Naifeh Fine Jewelry 10. Inspired by 18th century Chinese artistry, this blue and white painted ceramic vase with a flared neck features a traditional chrysanthemum motif.

Mister Robert Fine Furniture & Design 11. “Perpetuity,” an original 45” x 40” acrylic on canvas by acclaimed Oklahoma artist Dennis Johnson, is one that will be enjoyed for years to come. $4,800, Howell Gallery

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TRENDSETTER

STATEMENT JEWELRY What’s your statement?

"My heart beats for you" Rhythm of Love

“I am timeless” Michael Kors

“I am forever yours”

“My favorite chocolates are diamonds” Le Vian

Hearts on Fire

“I am sealing a promise” Tacori

Make your statement this Christmas at

10633 S. Western Ave, Oklahoma City 405.692.4300 | HuntingtonFineJewelers.com 60 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

10633 South Western Avenue

(405) 692-4300

HuntingtonFineJewelers.com

11444 HuntingtonAds.indd 2

10/27/14 4:41 PM

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TRENDSETTER

TIBETAN TIGER RUG An ideal accent for the wild at heart

An exotic, color rich traditional Tibetan tiger motif. Artisan handcrafted of 100% fine Tibetan wool. Exclusively at Designer Rugs.

It’s like walking on art

TM

7118 N. Western | Oklahoma City | 405.842.9000

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Whale bells ring, are you listening?

IN OUR STORE, DEALS ARE GLISTENING Visit Willow & Whale for the best curated finds this holiday season.

Jingle all the Whale!

5211 N. Western, OKC

(405)608-5300

WillowAndWhale.com Follow us on

.

1201 N.W. 178th Street | Edmond | 405.359.1189 7302 N. Western Avenue | OKC | 405.242.3255

HOME FURNISHINGS • ANTIQUES • ACCESSORIES • GIFTS WHERE HIGH PERFORMANCE MEETS HIGH STYLE™

7222 N. Western • Oklahoma City • 405.418.4884 • REGISTRY AVAILABLE

64 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

MAIN STORE: 3720 W. ROBINSON • NORMAN WWW.THEOSMARKETPLACE.COM • 405.364.0728 •

FARE PURE HOLIDAY PERFECTION

Supremely versatile, easy to make and a foundation for lifelong memories – these are the ultimate in Christmas cookies. See page 66.

CARLI WENTWORTH

CATCH OF THE DAY How fresh seafood makes its way onto OKC menus 68 EAT & DRINK Variety is on the menu in Slice’s citywide dining guide 70 DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 65

FARE | In the Kitchen

ULTIMATE SUGAR COOKIE DOUGH 1 c unsalted butter, room temperature 2 c sugar 4 eggs 1 t vanilla paste 1 t lemon extract 1 t salt 2 T baking powder 5 c all purpose flour

In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar with an electric mixer for two minutes or until fluffy. Add in the eggs, vanilla paste and lemon extract, mixing well. In a mediumsized bowl, combine the salt, baking powder and flour. Turn the mixer on low and slowly add the flour mix to the wet ingredients, cup by cup, until well combined. Divide the dough into thirds and flatten into disks. Wrap each dough disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours before baking.

COOKIE BONANZA!

By Caryn Ross // Photos by Carli Wentworth

IN ALL OF MY YEARS OF HOLIDAY BAKING, I HAVE PREPARED LITERALLY HUNDREDS OF COOKIES. I buy all of the cookie magazines that boast, “The best holiday cookie you will ever make!” But I always come back to the original cookie … the one I learned to make in my mother’s kitchen as a small child. It’s still the best tasting, perfect for cutting into shapes and the most versatile. This cookie can be slathered with jam, made into a sandwich cookie or frosted. Quite simply, it’s the perfect holiday cookie.

Wishing everyone a blessed and happy holiday season … make a memory and go bake some cookies!

Here are a few tricks to ensure optimum success when working with this dough.

Once the cookie dough is prepared, divide it into thirds and flatten into a disk. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least two hours before using.

This dough freezes beautifully! Just wrap in plastic wrap and place the disks in a Ziploc bag and freeze. Remove from the freezer and allow to thaw then prepare as normal.

When working with the dough, always remember to return the unused portion back to the fridge or freezer to chill until you are ready to roll out again. This keeps the cookie shapes from spreading when baking.

Only use unsalted butter. Not margarine.

Not salted butter. Do not skimp!

66 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Store baked cookies in an airtight container.

TO PREPARE:

Traditional Cut Out Cookies: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or Silpat liner. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it is 1/4 inch thick. Cut out cookies and bake for 8-9 minutes or until slightly browned. Important: return unused dough to the freezer between batches! Remove from the oven and cool all cookies on a parchment lined counter. Frost with your favorite royal or buttercream frosting. Decorate with candies, sprinkles or whatever you fancy!

Linzer Cookies: Cut out cookies using a Linzer cookie cutter. Bake for 7-8 minutes and cool as above. Spread the non-cut out cookie with the jam of your choice (I love apricot and strawberry.) Top with cut cookie and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Fudgy Sandwich Cookies: Cut out cookies using whatever shape you desire. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Allow cookies to cool and then frost with your favorite fudge frosting. (During the holidays I usually save time and buy double fudge frosting, but homemade is always best!)

SHOW THEM YOU’VE GOT

GREAT TASTE

W W W . E HS R G . CO M

Yo u w i l l r e c e i v e a $10 Bonus C ard for every $50 eGift Card you give.

Give More. Get More.

w w w . e h s r g . c o m For every $50 worth of eGift Cards purchased, the purchaser receives a $10 Bonus Card. Bonus Card valid 01/01/2015 through 03/31/2015. Bonus Card may not be redeemed for alcoholic beverages. One Bonus Card per visit.

Bonus Card may not be redeemed with other offers or coupons. Hal Smith eGift Cards can be purchased in any denomination from $5-$500. eGift Card purchase total is limited to $500 per single transaction.

Offer ends January 2015. 67 DECEMBER 2014 // 1, SLICE

FARE | Matters of Taste

68 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

CATCH OF THE DAY

By Greg Horton // Photos by J. Christopher Little

“DON’T EAT SEAFOOD IN A LANDLOCKED restaurants the place, time, boat and captain’s name STATE,” THE CONVENTIONAL WISDOM GOES, in reference to any fish. It is a remarkable system at least for people from the coasts. This would be that prevents unscrupulous farmers or companies sage advice were it not for the reality that modern from delivering less than ideal product. transportation and refrigeration make it possible Randy Meyer of The Mantel, which he co-owns for any city, including Las Vegas, surrounded as with Lorin Doan, uses Frugé for the restaurant’s it is by desert, to receive fresh seafood. No one is fresh seafood. Garrett Myers, the executive chef, quibbling about the quality of the seafood in Vegas, offers two or three fresh seafood specials per nor should they about the quality in Oklahoma. week, and fresh salmon is always on the menu.

DeLancey Miller has been bringing fresh fish Meyer said he started adding fresh seafood to his and shellfish into Oklahoma for many years, and menu about seven years ago when it became feaeven now, as the regional sales manager for Frugé sible to do so. Four years ago, he switched to all DeLancey Miller with Seafood Company in Grand Prairie, Texas, he prefresh seafood.

Chef Garrett Myers fers the title “fishmonger.” Miller said that Frugé “The demand has grown over the years,” Meyer alone sells 3,500 to 4,500 pounds of fresh fish a week in Oklahoma City. said. “I don’t know the exact numbers, but seafood is about one third “We meet the airplanes at DFW or Love Field,” Miller said, “and of our sales now.” then we take fresh fish to our facility in Grand Prairie. Four thousand The Mantel also gets seafood shipped direct from Hawaii, and square feet of the place is just a big cooler where the fish are processed.” the process is remarkably tailored. “It’s not unusual to get a call Miller and his partner Mike Frugé work with companies along from the fishing boat about fish not on our order,” Meyer said. “The the Gulf Coast, as well as farmers and fishing companies in the boat captain will call and tell me they caught a few fish not on our Pacific Northwest, Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Chile and Scotorder, and if I want it, I can just have him add it to the shipping land. The fish from domestic companies lands on your plate as packs.” That allows Meyer to offer unusual and seasonal fish as feaquickly as 24-36 hours after being caught, and it is never frozen. ture items, expanding the menu and his customers’ palates.

Frugé works with farmers and companies that practice sustain The Mantel is one of many local restaurants offering fresh seafood. able aquaculture, too, meaning that rather than deplete the ocean’s Miller started to make a list of places, but there are so many, it was resources, they are actively working to meet the planet’s seafood impossible for him to catalog them all off the top of his head. Essendemands in ways that guarantee we will have fresh seafood 50 years tially, it’s a who’s who of local restaurants: Boulevard Steakhouse, Hal from now.

Smith Restaurant Group, The Metro, Nonna’s, Paseo Grill, Signature “There is simply no way to meet the demand if it’s left up to catchGrill and The George, and that is only a small sample. Oklahoma City ing wild fish,” Miller said. “We cultivate relationships so that we can has amazing access to a wide variety of fresh seafood every day. meet demand, but we will only meet the demand sustainably.”

Miller said the seafood arrives three times a week, on Monday, To further both their global responsibility and their food quality, Wednesday and Friday. The trucks leave Grand Prairie at 2 a.m. on those Frugé is entering into a relationship with the Gulf Trace Register, an days, and companies can order up until 4 p.m. the prior day, meaning organization that tracks the provenance of fresh seafood and can tell fresh seafood is on the lunch menu in land-locked Oklahoma City.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 69

Eat & Drink $ $$ $$$

KEY

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

Have an addition that you’d like us to consider?

Send establishment name, address, phone number and a brief description (40 words or less) to dining@ sliceok.com. Submissions must be received two months prior to publication.

AMERICAN ANN’S CHICKEN FRY HOUSE A Route 66 classic with copious decorative memorabilia, and huge portions of excellent chicken-fried steak. 4106 NW 39th, OKC, 943.8915 $ BOULEVARD CAFETERIA Chicken and dumplings, liver and onions - one of the last of the area’s independent cafeterias is still pounding out the hits. 525 NW 11th, OKC, 239.6861 $

CAFÉ 7 Fast and casual, with varied salad, sandwich, pizza and pasta options, all priced under $7. 14101 N May, OKC, 748.3354; 120 N Robinson, Suite W 175, OKC, 748.3354 $ CAFÉ 501 Pizzas, salads and specialty sandwiches on artisan breads. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ CLASSEN GRILL Deftly done diner deliciousness, especially breakfast. 5124 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.0428 $ DEEP FORK GRILL Crisply elegant atmosphere complements superb seafood (cedar plank salmon is a specialty) and steaks. 5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$ DINER, THE The classics never go out of style – just ask the locals who flock here for masterful preparation of ordinary breakfast and lunch fare. 213 E Main, Norman, 329.6642 $ DISTRICT 21 This sleek, inexpensive bastion of creativity is run by Francis Tuttle’s culinary school. 12777 N Rockwell, OKC, 717.7700 $ FLINT Casual style plus outstanding contemporary cuisine makes a winning combination in the Colcord Hotel. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$

LEGEND’S A casually upscale landmark for over 40 years, it still serves exceptional seafood, steaks and more. 1313 W Lindsey, Norman, 329.8888 $$

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL Amply portioned and green chili-amplified burgers, breakfasts and more fill this inviting diner.

231 S Coltrane, Edmond, 562.4777 $

MUTT’S AMAZING HOT DOGS Inspired creations featuring varied prime meats and unexpected and tasty flavor profiles. 1400 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.3647 $

RUNNING WILD CATERING Elegance is as abundant as flavor in the spreads supplied for special occasions by this full-service caterer; home to a broad menu and impeccable execution. Appointment only.

3830 N Maney Ave, OKC, 751.0688 $$

NEBU This airy provider of chef-prepared sandwiches, sushi, pizza and more is in the garden wing of the Devon tower. 280 W Sheridan, OKC $ PACKARD’S NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN They’re not kidding about the “new” – the menu is filled with innovative ideas. 201 NW 10th, Suite 100, OKC, 605.3771 $$ PARK HOUSE The staunch wine list and great view of the Myriad Gardens add to a menu filled with contemporary American tastes. 125 Ron Norick Blvd, OKC, 445.7080 $$

SATURN GRILL A lunch star: inspired pizza, sandwiches and salads. 6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Entrees, sides and wondrous craft cocktails are carefully concocted inhouse. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$ SYRUP The most enticing meal of the day is at this unique breakfast boutique (the crunchy French toast is something special).

123 E Main, Norman, 701.1143 $

PICASSO CAFÉ As creative as its neighbors in the Paseo Arts District; zippy sandwiches, salads, pizza and surprises abound. 3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $

VAST Steaks, seafood and globally inspired American cuisine, with a view truly unparalleled in Oklahoma. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$

POPS A bit out of the way but worth the drive, this café has burgers, salads, shakes and an unbelievably broad soda selection.

660 W Highway 66, Arcadia, 233.2020 $

VICEROY GRILLE Opulent décor, comfortable environs and some outstanding cuisine make a strong recommendation for the Ambassador Hotel’s in-house restaurant; don’t overlook the brunch options. 1200 N Walker Ave, OKC, 600.6200 $$$

HEFNER GRILL Upscale fare and a tempting brunch to boot, with the enhancements of a live piano and a spectacular lake view. 9201 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 748.6113 $$

THE R&J LOUNGE The culinary luminaries behind Ludivine present a more relaxed, sentimental dining experience; the drinks menu is a thing of beauty. 320 NW 10th, OKC, 602.5066 $$

INTERURBAN Great food (and prices) in casual comfort – try the chicken-fried steak and anything with honey-pepper bacon. 4 metro locations, interurban.us $$

REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, enchiladas and steak in a casual hacienda-style atmosphere by the lake. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995 $$

WAFFLE CHAMPION A Midtown diner bringing joy to those addicted to its gourmet sweet or savory waffle options. 1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $ WHISKEY CAKE High-quality locally sourced food served in a homey

East Style EastCoast Coast Style

Fresh Seafood, Killer Pasta & So Much More.

Fresh Seafood, Killer Pasta & So Much More.

Roasted Rack of Colorado Lamb

2824 N. Penn Ave • 12252 N. May Avenue • Rococo-Restaurant.com

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FARE | Eat & Drink atmosphere. Enjoy – and don’t forget the namesake dessert. 1845 NW Expressway, OKC, 582.2253 $$

ASIAN 180 MERIDIAN GRILL Blending Asian cuisine with U.S. culture: sirloin with teriyaki butter, hoisin BBQ duck pizza and sushi options. 2541 W Main, Norman, 310.6110 $$ DOT WO GARDEN Dot Wo continues its legacy by pairing sumptuous classics of Chinese cuisine with fiery, fresh sushi. 6161 N May, OKC, 608.2388 $$ GRAND HOUSE A Chinese restaurant that goes the extra mile to provide enjoyable ambiance alongside its excellent cuisine.

2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$ GUERNSEY PARK A hidden treasure on an Uptown back street, it’s home to tasty Asian fusion with a hint of French influence. 2418 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$ O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in cool, vibrant digs.

105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$ SAII Rich ambiance boosts expertly done Japanese, Thai and Chinese fare plus stellar sushi. 6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$ VII ASIAN BISTRO A bright, sleek interior and savory spate of Chinese and Vietnamese options. 2900 N Classen, OKC, 604.2939 $

BAKERY BIG SKY BREAD Enjoy cookies, scones, brownies or granola, plus an incredible bevy of fresh-baked bread. 6606 N Western, OKC, 879.0330 $ BROWN’S BAKERY An incredible selection of delicious traditional and specialty cakes,

72 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

cookies, breads and other baked goods.

1100 N Walker, OKC, 232.0363 $

with joyous abandon. 1114 NW 51st, OKC, 463.0470 $

CUPCAKES TO GO GO Love of travel (and a sweet tooth) inspire the myriad flavor combinations in this trove of treats – its rotating menu means every trip reveals a different taste destination. 2524 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 330.2190 $

ABNER’S ALE HOUSE Beers and whiskies of the best, plus knockout dishes aimed at recreating the true English public house vibe.

121 E Main, Norman, 928.5801 $$

CUPPIES & JOE The name is only part of the story: it’s cupcakes and coffee and pie and live music and a cozy, trendy vibe and more.

727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $ HURTS DONUT CO. Ignore your childhood hesitations: you do want a Hurts Donut. The 24-hour Campus Corner locale pumps out nonstop sweet and savory innovations. 746 Asp Ave, Norman, 417.300.6106 $ KITCHEN NO. 324 Seasonally inspired café, coffee curator and craft bakery serving spectacular rustic American cuisine. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $ LA BAGUETTE Comfort and exquisite baking make a tres chic destination for brunch and beyond. 1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 2100 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $ NONNA’S BAKERY Scrumptious cream pies, cakes and much more founded on family recipes – walk in and pick or call ahead to order. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $ PIE JUNKIE Call ahead to order a whole pie or quiche or walk in and choose from what’s on hand; either way the flavors are incredible. 1711 NW 16th, OKC, 605.8767 $ SARA SARA CUPCAKES The ambiance and milk bar make great additions to the variety of specialty cupcakes in this charming little converted house. 7 NW 9th, OKC, 600.9494 $

BAR // PUB FOOD 51ST STREET SPEAKEASY The joint’s porch and patio are perpetually packed, and the top-shelf spirits and beers flow

THE BARREL Drink deep of top-shelf wines, beers and whiskies, braced by thoroughly appetizing pub fusion cuisine. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $ BELLE ISLE BREWERY Live music, handcrafted beers and a great burger selection in 50 Penn Place. 1900 NW Expressway, OKC, 840.1911 $ BLU FINE WINE & FOOD A sleek bar that stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$ CLUB ONE15 A nightclub vibe with energetic music and three bars, plus a robust menu including fajitas, pasta bowls and seafood.

115 E Sheridan, OKC, 605.5783 $$ DEEP DEUCE GRILL A funky, comfortable alternative to Bricktown crowds, featuring burgers, beer and a people-watching patio.

307 NE 2nd, OKC, 235.9100 $ JAMES E. MCNELLIE’S Designed to bring Ireland’s pub culture to OKC, this Midtown hotspot features 350 varieties of beer. 1100 Classen Dr, OKC, 601.7468 $$ MONT, THE Tempting pub food with Southwestern zing at a Norman landmark with a primo patio. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $ OAK & ORE A neighborhood hangout of vintage rustic materials, offering more than a handful of creative knife-and-fork sandwiches and lovingly chosen craft beers.

1732 NW 16th, OKC $ O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies, it’s served killer burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $

PELOTON Brake for a handful of apps, sandwiches and salads plus a great wine and beer selection. 900 N Broadway Ave, OKC 605.0513 $ PUB W Multiple atmospheres for whatever vibe you like, and a menu of choice beer and “new classic” fare from barbeque wings to thick pork chops. 3720 W Robinson, Norman, 701.5844 $$ REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Part beer bar and part upscale eatery, pairing a vast selection of quality brews with imaginative menu items. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577 $$ SAINTS An inviting Irish bar where whiskey and beer offerings pair nicely with classics like shepherd’s pie, bangers and fish and chips. 1715 NW 16th, OKC, 602.6308 $$ URBAN WINEWORKS Made-in-Oklahoma wine paired with haute culinary creations featuring rabbit, duck, pork belly and more.

1749 NW 16th, OKC, 525.9463 $$ WES WELKER’S The food shows great variety and imagination, like duck nachos, and the bevy of TVs and 83 available beers ain’t bad either. 3121 W Memorial, OKC, 608.2200 $$

BARBEQUE EARL’S RIB PALACE Beloved by locals in a competitive genre, the chain pounds out hit ribs and turkey as well as a top-tier burger. 6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STAR URBAN BARBEQUE Named for notorious outlaw Belle Starr, its entrees are excellent, but the sides are equal players as well. 3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$ LEO’S BAR-B-Q Rich flavor and tender texture for commendable value – no wonder it’s a periennial favorite among Oklahoma connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $ RUDY’S Totally casual – plastic trays and utensils – with serious barbeque chops.

Come and Experience the Sensuality of Brasilian Cuisine

Café do Brasil The Bossa Nova Sugar Loaf Catering MIDTOWN • 440 NW 11TH ST. • OKC 525.9779 • CAFEDOBRAZILOKC.COM FUN • CASUAL • MEMORABLE • UNIQUE DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 73

FARE | Eat & Drink 3450 Chautauqua, Norman, 307.0552; 3437 W Memorial, OKC, 254.4712 $$

BURGERS // SANDWICHES BISON WITCHES Monster sandwiches with standout flavors, best enjoyed with a bread bowl of fresh hot soup and a bag of pretzels. 211 E Main, Norman, 364.7555 $ CAFÉ PLAID Fresh sandwiches begging to be combined with sensational salads (veggie, tuna, pasta…) – an ideal lunch spot near OU. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 360.2233 $ CHARCOAL OVEN Serving premium charbroiled burgers since 1958 for the flavor of a backyard cookout via drive-in.

2701 NW Expressway, OKC $ COW CALF-HAY The selections are ample and the delicious never-frozen patties are mmmmmassive. 3409 Wynn, Edmond, 509.2333, 212 N Harvey, OKC, 601.6180 $ FLATIRE BURGERS Boasting innovations like sauerkraut, pineapple relish and habanero salsa.100 N University, Edmond, 974.4638; 6315 NW 39th Expwy, Bethany, 603.2822 $ GARAGE BURGERS & BEER, THE The focus is on the many tempting flavor possibilities of huge, juicy burgers and fries. 5 metro locations, eatatthegarage. com $

LOUIE’S GRILL & BAR Casually cool and come-as-you-are bar-type hangouts excelling at burgers, sandwiches and pizzas. 12 metro locations, louiesgrillandbar.com $ LOUIE’S ON THE LAKE An unbeatable view of Lake Hefner from the spacious patio adds ambiance to tasty entrees under $10. 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 751.2298 $ MULE, THE Solid beer and beverage selection plus delectable gourmet grilled cheeses and melts (ingredients range from fontina to figs). 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $ ND FOODS Gigantic Boar’s Head deli sandwiches, homemade soups and freshly baked cookies, pies and other desserts.

2632 W Britton Rd, OKC, 840.9364 $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded … and it’s incredible. Mounds of fresh fries and colossal burgers, easily among the metro’s best. 1202 N Penn, OKC, 524.0999 $ S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these super-tasty burgers come as sliders too, the better to sample more selections. 5 metro locations, sandbburgers.com $ SERVICE STATION A former filling station with vintage décor, now serving up delicious half-pound burgers and fries. 502 S Webster, Norman, 364.2136 $

HILLBILLY PO BOYS Unassuming name; mighty appealing flavor in tasty seafood sandwiches and the licit thrill of moonshine cocktails. 1 NW 9th, OKC, 702.9805 $

SOONER DAIRY LUNCH This modest little drive-in has been feeding its staunch fans delicious burgers, tots and shakes for over six decades. 1820 W Main, Norman, 321.8526 $

IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Simply great fries, rings and burgers; try the No Name Ranch beef. 1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Dr, OKC, 235.4762 $

TEXADELPHIA The menu draws raves for burgers and wraps, but especially the monstrous made-to-order cheesesteaks.

200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 208.4000 $

JOHNNIE’S CHARCOAL BROILER Freshground burgers cooked over real charcoal; try the Cheese Theta or Caesar varieties. 4 metro locations, johnniesok.com $

TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS A small menu whose bravura execution makes the meal hard to forget. 3 metro locations, tuckersonionburgers.com $

URBAN JOHNNIE’S Gourmet burgers and more in a sleek bar atmosphere from the minds behind Johnnie’s Charcoal Broiler.

121 NE 2nd, OKC, 208.4477 $

COFFEEHOUSE // TEA ROOM ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and unusual concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in bright, bustling atmosphere.

3272 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.9959; 7300 N Western, OKC, 840.7725 $ BEATNIX CAFÉ, THE Get a sandwich, cup of hearty soup or powerhouse latte in the lovely laid-back vibe that pervades this dawdling spot. 136 NW 13th, OKC, 604.0211 $ THE BLUE BEAN Smoothies, pastries and sweet treats, plus excellent small-batch roasted coffee – try the specialty flavor combos. 13316 S Western, OKC, 735.5115 $ CAFÉ EVOKE Outstanding coffee and other beverages from one of the area’s great caterers; plus soup, sandwiches, snacks or sweets. 103 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.1522 $ COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe on Automobile Alley, it’s a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts. 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $ DISTRICT HOUSE Pop into the Plaza District for beans from Tulsa’s Topeca Coffee, deli sandwiches and the occasional live music event. 1755 NW 16th, OKC $ ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - passionate staff is always eager to share knowledge about the process. 815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $ MICHELANGELO’S Enjoy exceptional coffees and wines, a well-stocked pastry case and breakfast and lunch selections.

207 E Main, Norman, 579.3387 $ PARAMOUNT, THE A Film Row joint with a screening room attached, its all-day

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA & MRS. CLAUS DECEMBER 6, 13, & 20 Skirvin Event Space Santa’s Breakfast » 9:30–11:30a* $24.95 adults $15.95 children Santa and Mrs. Claus will be present for pictures.

HOLIDAY HIGH TEA DECEMBER 6, 13, & 20 Park Avenue Grill High Tea » 2:30–4:30p* $22.95 adults $18.95 children

CHRISTMAS EVE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24

74 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle with great coffee, vegetarian-friendly specials and live music. Highly recommended! 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $ T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE This endearing retreat offers over 100 varieties and expert counsel to explore a world of possibili-teas.

7518 N May, OKC, 418.4333 $

CONTINENTAL BIN 73 Diners can fill up on filet mignon or simply top the evening off with tapas while enjoying the full bar and chic ambiance. 7312 N Western, OKC, 843.0073 $$ BLACKBIRD A gastropub with succulent creativity (pot roast nachos!) and a broad beer, wine and whiskey list. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$ CHEEVER’S Southwestern-influenced recipes and contemporary comfort food; truly one of the city’s finest restaurants.

2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$ COACH HOUSE, THE Definitely among the metro’s most elegant dining: specialties prepared with classical perfection. 6437 Avondale, OKC, 842.1000 $$$ KYLE’S 1025 For an evening of understated sophistication, Kyle’s magnificent steaks, prime seafood, tapas or even meatloaf are a must. 1025 NW 70th, OKC, 840.0115 $$ LOTTINVILLES Rotisserie chicken, woodgrilled salmon and a host of entrees, salads and panini; the Sunday brunch is epic. 801 Signal Ridge, Edmond, 341.2244 $$ MANTEL, THE Marvelous steaks and seafood (don’t miss the lobster bisque), in a refined, intimate atmosphere. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$

CHRISTMAS DAY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25 Park Avenue Grill Signature Breakfast Buffet » 6:30–10:30a Specially Created 3-Course Menu » 11a–2p* $39.95/person Live Entertainment Specially Created 3-Course Menu » 5p–9p* $39.95/person

The Red Piano Bar will be open serving full menu

Park Avenue Grill Specially Created 3-Course Menu » 5–9p* $39.95/person

The Red Piano Bar will be open serving full menu

*Reservations Required

s kir vin h il to n .co m

beverage menu delivers the stuff dreams are made of. 701 W Sheridan, OKC, 517.0787 $

Skirvin Grand Ballroom Skirvin Christmas Day Buffet » 10a–2p* $49.95 adults $19.95 children ages 3-10 yrs Live Entertainment

• one park avenue •

405.272.3040

MELTING POT, THE Make a meal an event to remember with an elegant fondue feast. 4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$ METRO WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE A comfortably upscale favorite covering cuisines from vichyssoise to crème brulée.

6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ MICHAEL’S GRILL Urbane, intimate dining: steaks, chops, seafood and pastas, and Caesar salad prepared tableside. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$ MUSEUM CAFÉ, THE Inside the OKC Museum of Art, its European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$ NONNA’S EURO-AMERICAN RISTORANTE A cozily appointed, opulent atmosphere housing distinctive cuisine and drinks. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $$$ PARK AVENUE GRILL A soigne dining experience in the Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak and seafood with 1930s high style. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$ PASEO GRILL Intimate inside and cheerful on the patio, with an award-winning menu of distinctive flavors – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ ROCOCO RESTAURANT & FINE WINE A diverse international menu set off by select wines. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Penn, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 Enjoy sleek, swank décor and an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$ SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; huge culinary rewards of French and Italian flavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$ WEST The staff is speedy, the décor sleek and modern, and the entrées wide-ranging but elegantly simple. 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072 $$

FRENCH LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Fine dining (linger over multiple courses often) with an exceptional bakery, deli and butcher shop on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$ WHISPERING PINES B&B A secluded getaway housing sumptuous, savory cuisine in quiet comfort. 7820 E Highway 9, Norman, 447.0202 $$$

GERMAN DAS BOOT CAMP Exceptional cuisine (and magnificent beer) in a fast-paced location downtown. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $ INGRID’S Authentic German fare, including outstanding Oklahoma-made bratwurst. Don’t overlook breakfast, or the bakery counter! 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444; 6501 N May, OKC $$ OLD GERMANY Justly renowned for its Bavarian delights – the schnitzels, soups and sausages are spectacular. 15920 SE 29th, Choctaw, 390.8647 $$$ ROYAL BAVARIA Excellent renditions of traditional dishes, plus fantastisch house-brewed beers. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$

HEALTHY // ECLECTIC COOLGREENS Customization encouraged; every available component in salads, wraps and frozen yogurt is naturally delicious. 3 metro locations, coolgreens. com $$ EARTH, THE Super, super fresh sandwiches, salads and soups in one of the most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly menus you’ll ever see. 750 Asp, Norman, 573.5933 $

NANI Seating by reservation only, the constantly rotating set tasting menu blends sustainably sourced and foraged ingredients into a fusion of Japanese and Native American cuisine. Plaza District, OKC (call for address), 420.7569 $$$ LOCAL Using fine, fresh regionally sourced ingredients, its menu changes seasonally but its warm atmosphere is constant. 2262 W Main, Norman, 928.5600 $$ LUDIVINE The menu adjusts constantly to reflect availability of elite-quality, locally sourced ingredients. 805 N Hudson, OKC, 778.6800 $$$

ICE CREAM // YOGURT IL DOLCE GELATO Rich, creamy and decadently delicious, handmade daily from scratch. 937 SW 25th St, Moore, 794.7266; 1318 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 329.7744 $ ORANGE LEAF Dozens and dozens of tasty, waistline-friendly flavors and toppings, charged by the ounce. 9 metro locations, orangeleafyogurt.com $ PEACHWAVE A full 50 flavors – every one low-fat or non-fat – of the finest, freshest ingredients in customized combinations. 3 metro locations, peachwaveyogurt.com $

INDIAN GOPURAM – TASTE OF INDIA A fullservice restaurant with the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentiful lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$

ITALIAN // PIZZA BELLINI’S Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. 6305 Waterford Blvd, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the fare keeps the booths full; don’t overlook Sunday brunch.

105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ CAFFE PRANZO The atmosphere raises first-time diners’ hopes; the execution exceeds them as classic dishes are elevated to greatness. 9622 N May, OKC, 755.3577 $$ EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style, it offers whole pizzas or slices, a full bar and a primo patio. 1734 NW 16th, OKC $ GABRIELLA’S A fresh chapter in the family’s delectable legacy; one bite of the homemade Italian sausage should win diners’ hearts with ease. 1226 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.4955 $$ HIDEAWAY PIZZA Incredible pizza in jovial surroundings; it’s amassed a devoted following for over half a century. 7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA No humility needed for this true Chicago-style pizza, boasting perhaps the best crust known to man. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies.

700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$

MISAL OF INDIA A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandooricooked delicacies in splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$

KEN’S PIZZA An old favorite returns to Edmond with its signature thin crust and spicy sauce set to win new fans. 628 W Danforth Rd, Edmond $

TAJ A tremendous set of Indian staples and delicacies, plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$

KNUCK’S WHEELHOUSE Homemade daily with sauces from scratch, it’s a tasty and varied stopover for Bricktown wanderers as

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 75

FARE | Eat & Drink well as a pizza-lover’s destination in its own right. 103 E California, OKC, 605.4422 $ MONI’S Handmade, New Jersey-style brick oven pizza and authentic pasta recipes from Southern Italy in a casual, comfy ambience (ideal for dates). 17200 N May, Edmond, 285.5991 $$ OTHELLO’S Warm mussels to tiramisu – all you could want in a romantic Italian café.

434 Buchanan, Norman, 701.4900; 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$ PAPA DIO’S Three generations of the Bonadio family offer an ample menu of new, classic and healthy dishes in separate dining rooms for family or casual dining. 10712 N May, OKC, 755.2255 $$ PIZZA 23 A tempting suite of specialty pies and good beer selection in crisp, urban décor. 600-B NW 23rd St, OKC, 601.6161 $$ REVOLVE PIZZA A fully customizable dining experience: guests build their dream pies from the crust up and the quick-fire brick ovens do the rest. 5500 W Memorial, OKC, 792.2858 $ SOPHABELLA’S A quiet, classy gem offering premier tastes from Chicago and beyond in style. 7628 N May, OKC, 879.0100 $$$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of tastes for a casual lunch, romantic dinner or brunch, amid stylish scenery. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ TOMMY’S An old favorite returns to the metro to provide primo pasta, pizzas and plenty of ambiance. 5516 W Memorial, OKC, 470.5577 $$ UPPER CRUST This pizzeria and wine bar specializes in thin-crust, New York-style pies. 5860 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$

Join us for

BRUNCH Saturdays and Sundays 10a

Join us for

PUB HOUR 3p to 6p Monday to Friday

76 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI Selected groceries and a menu stocked with options; the food is authentic, quick and spectacular. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ NUNU’S Tangy, tantalizing, fresh and healthy flavors, reproduced from generations-old recipes. 3131 W Memorial, OKC, 751.7000 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA A spicy, vegan-friendly menu of Ethiopian delights awaits the bold.

Bring friends and be prepared to linger.

2308 N MacArthur, OKC, 606.8616 $$ ZORBA’S Family recipes proudly share flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $

MEXICAN // LATIN AMERICAN 1492 Authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant, romantic setting with perhaps the world’s best mojitos. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$ ABUELO’S The variety, plates, flavors and experience are all huge. No passport required. 17 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1422; 3001 W Memorial, OKC, 755.2680 $$

VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff treat customers like guests in their home.

7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$

BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s often standingroom-only at lunch, but don’t let that deter you from fresh, imaginative taco creations.

530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $

WEDGE, THE Wood-fired pies with fresh ingredients (like figs or truffle oil) and sauce from scratch. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$

CAFÉ DO BRASIL It’s a long way to Rio, but the spicy, savory menu covers the distance in a mouthful. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$

JAPANESE // SUSHI

CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant Guatemalan flavors. The breakfast specialties truly dazzle. 3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $

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

CANTINA LAREDO A sophisticated take on Mexican fare, specializing in fresh fish and Angus beef. 1901 NW Expressway (in Penn Square Mall), OKC, 840.1051 $$

GOGO SUSHI Prime for lovers of speed and convenience – go go check it out! 1611 S Service Rd, Moore, 794.3474; 432 NW 10th, OKC, 602.6333 $$

CHILTEPES Chuchitos to atol de elote, this Plaza District restaurant serves as a guided tour to the wondrous flavors of Guatemala.

1800 NW 16th, OKC, 601.0384 $$

IN THE RAW DUNWELL SUSHI A chic space on the Bricktown Canal offering excellent sushi, specialty rolls and sake.

200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 702.1325 $$

CHUY’S The portions are substantial, the Hatch chile-fueled flavors are strong and the vibe is playfully enthusiastic. 760 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 360.0881 $$

MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry by skilled chefs at tableside hibachi grills.

4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$

FUZZY’S TACO SHOP Jumbo burritos, big salads and especially shrimp tacos – quickly and in plenitude. 752 Asp, Norman, 701.1000; 208 Johnny Bench, OKC, 602.3899 $

TOKYO JAPANESE RESTAURANT It’s small with a traditional menu; but it’s palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$

(405) 525-6682

HAIGET’S Vegan-friendly – and friendly in general – this gem rewards the adventurous with Ethiopian and Kenyan specialties. 308 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 509.6441 $$

ALFREDO’S Kick back with an agave limeade and peruse the ample menu’s avocado enchiladas, fried tacos and more.

4 metro locations, alfredosok.com $$

SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in a broad and creative menu).

4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$

4308 N Western Ave

COUSCOUS CAFE Traditional Moroccan tagine dishes to favorites like homemade falafel and kofta, with a bounty for vegetarians. 6165 N May, OKC, 286.1533 $

VICTORIA’S A shabby-comfortable atmosphere with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – try the chicken lasagna. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377 $

SUSHI BAR, THE Sushi staples done with élan, plus more adventurous options, in a bustling, comfortable environment. 1201 NW 178th, OKC, 285.7317 $$

www.barrelokc.com

BASIL MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ Chicken Bandarri, Beef Souvlaki or a fresh bowl of tangy tabouli; flavor leaps from every corner of the menu. 211 NW 23rd, OKC, 602.3030 $

IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172 $$ INCA TRAIL Flavors from around the world, piquant ceviches to homemade flan.

10948 N May, OKC, 286.0407 $$ JUAN DEL FUEGO This self-styled MexiDiner dishes up breakfast and lunch from both sides of the border. 223 34th Ave SW, Norman, 310.20302 $

MEDITERRANEAN

LA BRASA Flavors of Peru make for a powerfully delicious dining experience in ceviches, sandwiches, fried rice and other entrees. 1310 NW 25th, OKC, 524.2251 $$

AVANTI BAR & GRILL Casual elegance with contemporary Italian menu twists: crab falafel, bolognese pizza and more. 13509 Highland Park, OKC, 254.5200 $$

LA LUNA Its festive cantina-style atmosphere only adds to the enjoyment of classic fajitas, enchiladas and the bold carne ranchera. 409 W Reno, OKC, 235.9596 $$

MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN Handrolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and more, on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner.

9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ MAMAVECA Familiar Mexican favorites plus the diverse delights of Peruvian cuisine.

2551 W Hemphill, Norman, 573.4003 $$ TARAHUMARA’S This airy ristorante serves huge, tasty Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like mole poblano. 702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$ TED’S CAFÉ ESCONDIDO Fast, fresh and amply portioned, it’s often very crowded and always supremely delicious. 4 metro locations, tedscafe.com $$ YUCATAN TACO STAND Feisty Latin fusion cuisine plus signature nachos and combos… and over 75 tequilas. 100 E California, Suite 110, OKC, 886.0413 $ ZARATE’S The familiar joys of enchiladas and chimichangas, plus Peruvian dishes of plantains, yuca and imported spices. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$

SEAFOOD FISH CITY GRILL Shrimp and grits, oysters on the half shell… anyone who wishes Oklahoma had a coastline should feel right at home. 1389 E 15th, Edmond, 348.2300 $$ JAZMO’Z BOURBON STREET CAFÉ An upscale yet casual environment boasting Cajun and Creole-inspired selections. 100 E California, OKC, 232.6666 $$ PEARL’S CRABTOWN A huge Bricktown warehouse where the Crab Boil is a favorite and taste is king. 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial winner in “best of the metro” polls for fresh, flavorful seafood and spicy Creoleinspired dishes. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR, THE A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus seafood. 13801 Quail Pointe Dr, OKC, 286.5959 $$

SOUL FOOD BIGHEAD’S Fried alligator, frog legs and simmering, savory seafood gumbo – it’s a bayou treat right nearby. 617 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.1925 $$ THE DRUM ROOM Crispy, juicy fried chicken (among the city’s best) stars with fried okra, waffles and a fully loaded bar.

4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$ JAX SOUL KITCHEN The team behind Blackbird and blu dishes up big ol’ helpings of jambalaya, pork ribs, fried catfish and many more deep South classics. 575 S University, Norman, 801.2828 $ KD’S Pork chops, stuffed catfish, shrimp and grits and more of Kevin Durant’s favorite foods, presented with skill and vim – and a dose of star power. 224 Johnny Bench Dr, OKC, 701.3535 $$ MAMA E’S WINGS & WAFFLES A labor of love adored by locals seeking authentic Southern classics. 3838 Springlake, OKC, 424.0800; 900 W Reno, OKC, 231.1190 $ MJ’S Super-tasty individual box meals (hint: Jambalaya Sammich) or enormous feasts for parties, give this caterer some prep time and they’ll rock your taste buds.

Appointment only. 548.5657 $$

STEAKHOUSE BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance and cuisine easily in the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if pricy, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$ CATTLEMEN’S This Oklahoma institution’s huge corn-fed steaks and matchless atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$ GEORGE, THE High atop Founders Tower, its spectacular view adds savor to expert

chef-driven creations featuring prime beef.

5900 Mosteller Dr, OKC, 607.4360 $$$ HOLLIE’S FLATIRON STEAKHOUSE Plush and cozy, with entrees seared on a flatiron grill and a kick of Southwestern spice in the menu. 1199 Service Rd, Moore, 799.0300 $$ JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Steak, lobster or prime rib with Lebanese appetizers gratis – Jamil’s has fed Oklahoma well since 1964.

4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$ JUNIOR’S A landmark restaurant where hand-cut Angus steaks and lobster fight for attention with knockout fried chicken.

2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$

LASER EXPERIENCE LIVE BETTER

SEE BETTER

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 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S This lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées and sides and with full amenities. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE Hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a vast wine selection and intimate ambience. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$

Dr. Darrell Pickard

RANCH STEAKHOUSE Effortless opulence, custom-aged hand-cut tenderloins and ribeyes and warm Southern hospitality.

3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$

OK C’s

RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks, vibrant, imaginative flavors and amenities.

504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$ TWELVE OAKS Lobster, seafood and divine steak, enhanced even more by the ambiance of a hilltop Victorian home. 6100 N Midwest, Edmond, 340.1002 $$$

THAI PAD THAI Dine in or carry out beautifully executed exemplars of soups, curries and noodles. 119 W Boyd, Norman, 360.5551 $

CALL DR. PICKARD

733.4545

L CATASER SURARAC GEO T N

SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, cinnamon beef... the variety is exceptional, making this a popular midday option. 1614 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.8424 $ SWEET BASIL The enormous aquarium adds to the cozy ambiance; with its outstanding curries and soups, it makes a great dinner date. 211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$ TANA THAI There’s a lot to like here, from red snapper filet to pad thai. Pay attention to the soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$

VIETNAMESE CORIANDER CAFÉ Updating traditional Vietnamese recipes, this vegetarian-friendly café makes a quick, casual dining alternative.

323 White, Norman, 801.3958 $ LIDO Spring rolls to vermicelli bowls, this venerable diner runs the gamut of Vietnamese,Chinese and even French cuisine. 2518 N Military, OKC, 521.1902 $$ PHO CA DAO Vermicelli bowls, rice platters, piping hot pho, icy cold bubble tea and more.

2431 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 521.8819 $ PHO BULOUS Super fresh and super fast, specialties like Honey Ginger Chicken or Wasabi Salmon merit closer inspection.

3409 S Broadway, Edmond, 475.5599 $

Check o our exp ut restaur anded ant and mor listings inspirat e edible ion o anytime nline sliceok.c at om

Wood Garden

The

CUSTOM & DESIGN ST U DIO FURNITURE • DRAPERIES • BEDDING • UNIQUE ACCESSORIES WWW.WOODGARDENONLINE.COM 848.9663 • 7650 N. Western, OKC

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 77

GIVING GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF OKLAHOMA COUNTY The SPRINGBOARD for OKC’s future

spring·board [spríng bàwrd] an event, activity, or plan that supplies the impetus or conditions for a beginning, change, or progress; a point of departure. Synonyms: catalyst, spur, trigger, launch pad, foundation

I

n 1995, a team of visionaries established a Boys & Girls Club in a small cinderblock building located in the center of Memorial Park at NW 36th and Western. Their dream was to establish a safe environment where the underserved youth in our community could come after school, and where the doors of opportunity would open for them. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County offers a safe, positive place for youth ages 6-18 to spend their out-of-school time, with programs focused on Education and Career Development; Character and Leadership Development; Health and Life Skills; the Arts; and Sports, Fitness and Recreation.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County now operates three Clubs: the Memorial Park location and two schoolbased clubs located at Cesar Chavez Elementary and Santa Fe South Elementary. The three clubs impact more than 600 youths a day, and are changing the lives of thousands in our community.

78 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

A report conducted by the Oklahoma City Police Department indicates crime has dropped a significant amount within a three-mile radius of the Memorial Park Club since the first Boys & Girls Club opened in 1995. Larceny has dropped 49%, vandalism dropped 41%, sex offenses dropped 77% and runaway reports dropped 69%. These statistics represent valid assurance that the programs and staff of the Boys & Girls Clubs not only have an impact on the youth we serve but also the community as a whole.

Every child in need in Oklahoma County can benefit through the proven programs offered by Boys & Girls Clubs.

Unfortunately, there is not a Boys & Girls Club in every neighborhood – and thousands of youth in need of a positive environment go without. SpringBoard OKC, the campaign to invest in the success of the youth of Oklahoma County, will begin the process of establishing a Boys & Girls Club in the neighborhoods where our youth and their families are in need. It took the vision of few to establish the Clubs we have today … imagine what the investment of thousands could do for tomorrow.

For more information about and to invest in the success of SpringBoard OKC. please visit springboardokc.com.

3535 N Western Avenue, OKC | 405.602.5712 | bgcokc.org

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

very year, the Arts Council enriches the lives of one million Oklahomans through arts education programs, therapeutic art programs and renowned events like Festival of the Arts, Opening Night and the Oklahoma City Storytelling Festival, plus Art Moves, which features a free art event every weekday.

Exposure to the arts is definitively linked to social, emotional and cognitive development, and the Arts Council continues to weave the arts into the lives of all citizens in our community. With vacillating, unpredictable public funding for the arts and many Oklahoma schools unable to provide an arts program, the Arts Council’s Community Arts programs ensure people with cognitive or physical disabilities as well as children experience the transformative power of the arts in 12 schools, 18 libraries, 7 community agencies, 7 parks and 5 therapeutic settings throughout Oklahoma City.

While the vast benefits of these programs can be difficult to measure, a 2013 study by Americans for the Arts found that children who are involved in the arts are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement. Art therapy offers mental and physical benefits like creative expression, self-confidence and enhanced motor skills and coordination.

The Arts Council of Oklahoma City bolsters Oklahoma City as a cultural destination through its celebrated events and festivals. For Festival of the Arts, approximately 750,000 people gather in Oklahoma City to peruse art by 144 artists, enjoy international cuisine and take in entertainment across three different stages. And at the end of the year, the Arts Council hosts Oklahoma City’s biggest New Year’s Eve party, Opening Night, in downtown Oklahoma City. There will be fireworks, concerts, a 5K run and much more.

GIVING GUIDE

ARTS COUNCIL OF OKC Bringing the arts and community together E

Without these programs and events, thousands of children and adults in our city would have little to no access to the arts. Your support is welcome in many ways; the Arts Council is always looking for volunteers of all ages to assist with events, including a special young professionals volunteer group, the Artisans. Or, if you would prefer, donate at artscouncilokc.com/donate – as a registered 501(c)3 not-forprofit organization, all contributions are tax-deductible.

Please consider supporting the Arts Council of Oklahoma City to ensure everyone has an opportunity to enjoy and benefit from the arts.

405.270.4848 | artscouncilokc.com

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 79

GIVING GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ALLIED ARTS Working Together to Create a Better Community

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magine a world where the life-long benefits of quality music instruction could be had for only 50 cents a lesson. Thanks to the Opry Heritage Foundation’s Granville School of Music, that opportunity does exist for local underserved schoolchildren. Because of this program, a student found his musical talent, which in turn enhanced his academic success. This led to multiple musical and academic university scholarships with the student accepting a scholarship from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

This example is just one of many that showcases the impact of the arts. The arts matter to everyone – our children, our economy, our quality of life. Allied Arts understands this fact and strives to advance the arts in central Oklahoma. With community support of Allied Arts, local arts organizations can be strengthened and in turn drive economic growth, arts education can be expanded and access to the arts can be made available to more people in the community.

Since its founding in 1971, Allied Arts has infused over $54 million into the community and helped fund 63 different arts organizations. Annually, the arts agencies that receive funding from Allied Arts touch the lives of more than one million people, including more than 547,000 schoolchildren.

80 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Allied Arts supports the arts and invests in our community in a number of ways: providing unrestricted dollars to its 26 member agencies; expanding youth educational programming through educational outreach grants; strengthening the cultural community through capacity-building grants and emergency assistance; and offering a crowdfunding platform to raise project-specific donations through power2give.org.

But Allied Arts does more than just raise money – it also provides promotional, technical and organizational management support to cultural organizations; raises awareness of the impact of the arts in our schools, communities and state; and helps convene arts agencies to work together.

The arts change lives, enhance communities and boost the economy. A big impact can be made when the entire community comes together; Allied Arts provides an easy way for everyone to get involved and invest in the arts in central Oklahoma.

405.278.8944 | @AlliedArtsOKC | alliedartsokc.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A Gift of Inspiration

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rt engages the soul. It moves us, inspires us and unites us. So … what is Norman Arts?

It is thousands of families, friends and art lovers visiting Downtown Norman’s galleries, shops, restaurants, venues and other unique locations every month during the 2nd Friday Art Walk.

It is gallery exhibits, artist talks, workshops and performances that bring local, regional, national and international visual artists, curators, performers, musicians, poets, filmmakers, thinkers and doers to Norman.

It is school children being given the opportunity to try their hands at painting, dance, music and sculpting for the very first time.

It is integral to Norman’s role as the City of Festivals, helping draw visitors from across the state, region and country to events like Jazz In June and Norman Music Festival and to our world-class museums like the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History.

Since 1976, the Norman Arts Council has supported Norman’s rich history of public art, events and arts education. Our exhibits, art walks, arts education experiences and festivals draw more than 532,000 visitors each year to a community that supports the arts and understands that arts are what make Norman beautiful.

Inspire someone today. Give a gift to the Norman Arts Council this holiday season.

GIVING GUIDE

NORMAN ARTS COUNCIL

FLEX Your Eyes to Better Vision

Use your medical savings account or flex spending on your eye exam, glasses, contact lenses… even sunglasses!

Call our office today to set up an appointment.

SCOTT FORESTER, OD • TRENT PITT, OD • JOSEPH PHILLIPS, OD, FAAO 3011 NW 63RD ST, OKC 73116 • 405.840.2800 • OKCVISIONSOURCE.COM

Experience the best of the best!

122 E. Main Street, Norman 73069 405.360.1162 | www.normanarts.org

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DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 81

82 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

PURSUITS CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST

ELAINE WARNER

Jack Frost is nowhere to be found on the magnificent Riviera Maya – explore the wonders awaiting along the Mexican coast. See page 91.

TOP 10 Prime starting points for making the most of the month 84

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Delightful times in downtown OKC’s own winter wonderland 88

SNAPSHOT OF A CITY CENTER A new exhibit focuses talent to chronicle the heart of OKC 86

SEE & DO December’s music, theater, visual arts and other delights 96 DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 83

PURSUITS | High Points

The Top

By Steve Gill

IT’S A BIG, BUSY METRO OUT THERE – IF YOU CAN’T MAKE IT TO EVERYTHING, HERE’S WHERE TO START.

THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

December 6, Downtown Edmond When Christmas comes to Edmond, it begins with a burst of brilliance in a pair of luminous events: celebrants are invited to gather in Shannon Miller Park for the Mayor’s Tree Lighting at 6pm (including the presentation for the essay contest winner), followed by the joyously bedecked entries that make up the Edmond Electric Parade of Lights cruising from UCO through downtown. Light up your life!

FULLY DECKED OUT

December 6-7, Mesta Park The beautiful Mesta Park neighborhood was founded in 1902, and for nearly 40 years its residents have been sharing its special appeal with visitors on its Holiday Home Tour. On a quiet Sunday afternoon or in the warm illumination of the Saturday night Candlelight Tour, these lovingly decorated abodes provide tremendous visual richness to explore.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

The Gift of Spectacle December 11-14, OCU Kirkpatrick Center Whoever you are, the American Spirit Dance Company at OCU has a present for you: its Home for the Holidays revue combines elements of tap, ballet, ballroom dancing and more physical artistry into a fast-paced yuletidal wave of glee that encompasses both a reverent nativity scene and an immense Rockettes-style kickline of Santa’s helpers. Step lively for tickets; it’s a gift that keeps on giving thrills and enjoyment.

84 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

December 13, Downtown Norman Organizers probably wouldn’t mind if it snowed on their parade; it would only add to the spirit of the season that moves the marching bands, floats and equestrian groups in the Norman Main Street Christmas Holiday Parade.

Themed “Frozen Christmas” and led by marshals David and Molly Boren, the festivities are free to enjoy, and you can definitely expect an appearance from Santa Claus – with this much revelry, how could the big guy stay away?

THE MIDNIGHT SPECIAL

December 31, Downtown OKC Hours of music from more than a dozen stages and venues, all kinds of kids’ activities, an optional 5k race sponsored by Integris and a massive countdown to midnight, when the giant illuminated ball will rise, the skies will erupt with fireworks and Oklahoma City will joyously welcome a new year. It’s the Arts Council of OKC’s Opening Night - 2015, here we come!

Nick Bayer, “Eye on the Prize”

REBORN TO BEAUTY

December 5-31, 2610 Paseo St. The components had been thrown away, but the creators refused to accept them as refuse.

OKC Beautiful organizes the Art in Recycled Trash show so schoolchildren and adult artists can turn material that would be destined for a landfill into works of art that carry messages about the value of conservation and the potential for beauty hidden in everyday life.

Justin Timberlake

Sharp-Dressed Man

Beth Leavel

BETH LEAVEL COURTESY OKC PHILHARMONIC; JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE BY TOM MUNRO / RCA RECORDS; “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” BY K.O. RINEARSON

THE MORE AND THE MERRIER

December 4-6, OKC Civic Center Extra holly? Check. Tons of jolly? Check. The OKC Philharmonic’s production of The Christmas Show is an annual tradition, and every year it seems to strain the Civic Center a bit further by cramming in yet more singing, dancing, comedy routines, carefully crafted costumes and sets, cheerful carols and all kinds of holiday mirth. Special guests include John Sawyer, Vince Leseney and Tony winner Beth Leavel.

HARK! THE HERALD PERSONS SING

December 7, OKC Civic Center Some have orchestral accompaniment, some are a cappella with merely the power of the human voice – but since these voices belong to the mighty Canterbury Choral Society, every song is a thing of power and beauty. The robust Canterbury Christmas is more than a concert, offering the chance to help the Regional Food Bank and Christmas Connection, as well as prizes, snacks and treats. Gloria!

December 5, Chesapeake Arena See if you can guess who this describes: nine Grammys, four Emmys, actor in films like “In Time” and “The Social Network,” paramour of Britney Spears, Cameron Diaz and Jessica Biel, star member of NSYNC, extremely stylish lyric tenor. If the answer is still hazy, seeing Justin Timberlake on his 20/20 Experience World Tour should give you a clearer view of his star power.

REDEMPTION SONG

Through December 27, Lyric’s Plaza Theater The presentation is impeccable, including lavish period costumes, airborne spirits and snow falling onstage … and even beyond the trappings and effects, Lyric’s “A Christmas Carol” remains a holiday classic for audiences and actors alike due to the power of its message – that self-improvement is attainable, and we can all decide to make ourselves be kinder, better people.

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 85

PURSUITS | Spotlight

M.J. Alexander

SNAPSHOT OF A CITY CENTER

By Steve Gill

IT’S AN ENORMOUS GROUP UNDERTAKING THAT’S ALSO A PERSONAL PROJECT; it’s an event centered around a venerable anniversary that depends on immediacy.

There’s quite a lot to consider about (and in) the OKC 125 exhibit coming to The Underground beneath Leadership Square December 5-February 27. To get a better conceptual handle on it, I sat down with the organizer, Oklahoma City artist Romy Owens.

What is OKC 125 about? It’s a photography exhibition created by 125 artists using nothing but a disposable camera. The only instructions they had were that it had to be within the 125 minutes, and they needed to stay within the boundaries of downtown as 86 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

designated by Downtown OKC. They come, they pick up their camera, they go shoot for 125 minutes or less and everybody brought it back.

You didn’t have anybody go over and have to be disqualified? I had one person go over that I had to text. For the first group, the deadline did coincide with the tornado siren, and one person did come running up one minute beforehand saying, “I knew I had to beat the siren.”

Where does the concept come from? Why this many in particular? Well, it’s the 125th anniversary of Oklahoma City. Five years ago I did a similar project with 60 artists,

and it was so well-received, and a couple of people had said, “Oh, you should do that again.” When I learned that [2014] was this anniversary, it seemed so obvious.

Did you pick the 125 artists? I did. It was not an open call, it was never made public; I did it privately. My first call went to the 60 who were in the first show – I gave them the option to come back. Then I just started going through people whose art I like. And not all of the people are professional artists at all; there’s a wide range of people.

You didn’t have to stretch to fill up the numbers? I could have picked 250. There are so many people – there are so many artists – it was hard. There were some tough choices.

I had one no-show … and one person who didn’t bring a camera back at all. Fortunately, I had alternates.

And the show itself is going to be on display in the Underground; was that a deliberate choice? You know, I could have found many

Marvin Lee

Ginnie Baer

Linda Tuma Robertson

An Evening of Art & Steffanie Halley

Leigh Martin

Holiday Cheer

Join us for an evening full of holiday cheer in two of Oklahoma City’s premier art galleries, The Howell Gallery and Acosta Strong Fine Art. Let the sounds of carolers put you in a festive mood Rick Sinnett

Stephanie Ruggles Winter

as you stroll between the two galleries enjoying a wide variety of paintings, sculpture and jewelry from both local and national artists.

Brett Deering

Chad Mount

The Metro Center December 4th 5-8pm 6432 N. Western Ave Oklahoma City, Ok 73116

www.howellgallery.com Michelle Metcalfe

other venue options but Downtown OKC is working really hard toward making more artful experiences happen downtown, and I feel like the Underground was perfect for that. I like the idea that there are these corridors that people walk through all the time, that are sometimes overlooked, and here is a change or something for people to engage with in the heart of Oklahoma City. Like the pictures in the show.

So it’s a portrait of the city center. It is, it’s like a day in the life of the nucleus, the city center. But past that, the show runs the gamut. I gave everyone some tips; I did some research on what you can do with a dispos-

Vinton J. Bayne

able camera and shared that with everybody, but that’s it – everyone had the freedom to do whatever kind of photography, to use the camera however they wanted to. And every kind of photography you could think of, it’s represented in some way, some abstracts or some portraiture or some double-exposures. I went through and chose all of the final ones that will be in the exhibition, and they’re great photographs; it exceeds my expectations. It’s beautiful.

Do you feel like it worked as an art project beyond the novelty of the idea? I think so, absolutely. I’m thinking about a book – how cool would that be?

A C O S TA S T R O N G FINE ART

www.acostastrong.com

Martha Pettigrew

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 87

PURSUITS | Spotlight

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

By Mark Beutler // Photo by Quit Nguyen

EACH YEAR AT CHRISTMAS, SOME THINGS ARE STEADFAST TRADITIONS, like hearing the B.C. Clark jingle or singing along to Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” In fact, Christmas is all about tradition, family and enjoying the happiest season of all.

“Downtown in December” is all about putting on a show, dressing up downtown Oklahoma City for the holidays and inviting the young and the young at heart out to enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas.

“We truly have something for everybody,” said Jill Brown DeLozier, Director of Marketing and Community Relations for Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc. “There are destination options for anything, whether it’s a first date at the Devon Ice Rink, corporate team-building at the Snow Tubing presented by Chesapeake or taking the grandchildren to Devon’s ‘Saturdays with Santa.’”

It was 2002 when Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc., came up with the idea for marketing Downtown in December activities. Since then, more and more events and exhibits have come to life, making 88 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

the festival one of the most-anticipated holiday spectaculars.

“One of our most popular events is the SandRidge Tree Lighting Festival,” DeLozier said. “It’s being held Friday, November 28, with special appearances from Mayor Mick Cornett and Santa Claus, along with snacks and live music.

There’s also a free, family-friendly holiday party that is open to the public at Dunlap Codding [on Sheridan Avenue in Film Row] on December 17.

“The SandRidge Santa Run 5k and one-mile fun run takes place December 13 this year, and we are expecting more than 500 costumed participants,” DeLozier added. “Other Downtown in December activities include Lights on Broadway in Automobile Alley; One Main Financial’s Bricktown Canal Lights; surprise run-ins with Sonic’s Segway Santa; free Bricktown Water Taxi rides on the canal; Little Willie’s Triple Dog Dare and Santa’s Adventures on the Oklahoma River.”

Other annual events like the Oklahoma City Ballet’s “Nutcracker” and Lyric Theater’s “A Christmas Carol” are always a big draw. And for shopping, the stores downtown offer gifts with enough variety to please everyone.

“Downtown Oklahoma City is home to great retailers and shopping events,” DeLozier said. “The Deluxe Winter Market at Leadership Square, Winter Shoppes at Myriad Gardens and the holiday pop-up shops in Midtown. There are literally too many events to name them all. For a full list I suggest Slice readers visit our website at downtownindecember.com.”

Working on Downtown in December requires a staff of 10, and planning starts early in the year. By spring, DeLozier says they begin organizing the events, and by late summer the fundraising and event logistics are in place. By the time October rolls around, most of the details have been finalized and the lights are being installed.

According to DeLozier, “Downtown Oklahoma City is full of light throughout the year with its LED light displays, electronic boards and street lighting. But at the holiday season it’s even more beautiful with the added decorations. And when we have snow and ice, the reflections make the city feel absolutely magical.

“Our partners, property and business owners throughout the downtown area work with us to contribute to the festive atmosphere around the holiday,” she added. “There are several major light displays, including those in the Myriad Gardens, the light curtains on Broadway Avenue in Automobile Alley and on the trees along the Bricktown Canal. Visitors will also see many decorations and holiday lights at major downtown employers’ headquarters like Devon Energy Center and Continental Energy. And then it is always great to see the small galleries, shops and restaurants decorate for this festive time of year.”

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1801 North Broadway Ave. Oklahoma City 405.528.1936 90 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

PURSUITS | Getting Away

Sing a Song of Sunshine

BY ELAINE WARNER

“Oh, the weather outside is frightful …” in Oklahoma – a cold December wind and probably a threat of snow. But on the Riviera Maya, an 86-mile stretch of coastline south of Cancun – well, delightful hardly begins to describe it.

“WHO COULD ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE?”

From top: Among the amenities in the honeymoon suite are pillow and aromatherapy menus and a 500 square-foot balcony // Margaritas at The Palm at Playa, a boutique hotel in Playa del Carmen MARGARITAS COURTESY AZUL SENSATORI; COUPLES MASSAGE BY ELAINE WARNER

It was like walking out of a black-and-white movie into Technicolor – a brilliant blue sky, dazzling white buildings, lush greenery and an array of flowers in rainbow colors. Our host hotel was the Azul Sensatori Mexico, an all-inclusive resort for all generations.

Options for little ones are excellent – lots of supervised activities from beach games to movies and crafts; making Mexican fruit jam or doing an eco-activity; and supervised evening sections so parents can enjoy some of the great adult-only choices for entertainment.

Partnering with Fisher-Price and My Gym, Azulito’s Club is a kid’s dream come true.

Teens aren’t forgotten; they have their own club, the Extreme Breeze Club for ages 13 through 17. With a billiard table, air hockey, a climbing wall, TV with movies, arcade games, PlayStations, Wiis and computers, they’re bound to find something entertaining.

Family rooms are clustered close to kids’ activity areas – a water spray park, family pool and Azulito’s Club. Some of the rooms are designated Fisher Price rooms with toys selected especially for the ages of the guests and Little People figures prominently displayed outside the door.

No kids with us – so it was all about relaxing and enjoying the excellent cuisine. The resort has three huge pools, lots of lounge chairs and several swim-up bars. And they have a premier spa – Vassa. The spa wasn’t part of the all-inclusive package but the prices were comparable to other resort facilities and having a massage ocean-side, with a sweet, salt breeze playing on our skins was a treat not to be missed.

“CHEESEBURGER IN PARADISE”

Our room décor was decidedly Caribbean but the restaurants took us around the world.

Spoon and Tapaz feature dishes from many countries. Tuscan specialties are stars at Siena while Zocalo is the place to go for Mexican dishes (and pizzas from the wood-burning horno). And yes, you can find a cheeseburger at Spoon.

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PURSUITS | Getting Away

Le Chique is the property’s premier restaurant and an adults-only venue. Winner of many awards under the leadership of Michelin-trained Executive Chef Jonathan Gomez Luna, dining here isn’t a meal, it’s an experience. Guests are taken through a multi-course, orchestrated menu.

All the stops were pulled out for our press group.

I lost count after a dozen courses, each consisting of one or two bites – or sips. Every dish was a Picasso of presentation. The sparkling cucumber martini that launched our alimentary adventure was probably the most mundane dish we sampled.

I tried tastes I would have sworn would never pass my lips and enjoyed combinations that boggled my mind: black bean soup with shrimp, sea urchin, barnacle, spring onion and pea sprouts; tuna sashimi with coconut, avocado/habanera crème, salicornia and coriander flower; frozen margarita wrapped in cotton candy; foie gras coated with chocolate and painted to parade as pecans, and even something dusted with dried crickets. This is cutting-edge cuisine. There is a small charge at Le Chique unless you’re in a premium building, but it’s a pittance for the pleasure of breaking new gustatory ground.

“IT’S A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD”

With all the amenities available at the resort, it might be tempting to never venture outside. But you’d miss the feel of actually being in another country. Jaunts to Cancun, Playa del Carmen and other nearby destinations can be arranged at the concierge desk. Adventure parks offer everything from ziplining and dolphin swims to snuba and scuba around the world’s second largest reef and in cenotes – sinkholes and caves in the limestone underpinning of the Yucatan Peninsula.

We opted for a half-day trip to Tulum, the remains of an important Mayan city perched cliffside on the edge of the Caribbean. Flourishing between 1200 and 1521 A.D., it remained hidden by the jungle for several hundred years.

Arriving at Tulum, we found a jungle of tourist-y attractions, vendors hawking souvenirs and costumed entrepreneurs offering to pose for photos. Inside the wall of the archeological site, it was another world.

A huge grassy area is dotted with stone structures.

Several large buildings have survived – or been carefully restored – many more are simply rock foundations or remnants of walls. Climbing on or entering the ruins is not allowed, but the views from the paths are impressive. Climbing the hill to the Castillo, the most imposing building, we watched large iguanas Clockwise from top: Le Chique has been named one of the best restaurants in Mexico. // Costumed characters will pose for photographs – for a price. // Shopping opportunities along Fifth Avenue range from souvenir stands to high fashion boutiques.

FIFTH AVENUE AND COSTUME BY ELAINE WARNER; LE CHIQUE RESTAURANT COURTESY AZUL SENSATORI

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FYI:

rivieramaya.com karismahotels.com/hotelsresorts/foreveryone/ azulsensatorimexico

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 93

watching us. A path runs behind the Castillo along the cliff’s edge and a stairway leads down to a strip of beach.

Back in the 21st century outside the wall, we saw a demonstration of the ancient ritual of the “voladores,” or flying men. Our show was a for-the-tourists version of the ritual, designated an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. From atop a tall pole, one man played bird-like tunes on a flute while four others, attached to a spinning ring, jumped off, circling the pole like a swing ride at the fair – without the swings.

Lunch was at Unico, not far from the archaeological area. The décor is spare – terra cotta tile floor, pure white walls with great, open arched windows, blue and white chairs – and the food is excellent. Chef Brian Sernatinger, formerly of New York’s Gramercy Tavern, uses the freshest, local ingredients – that day’s special was snapper caught that morning.

“WHITE CHRISTMAS”

It was hard to believe it was almost Christmas – bougainvillea and hibiscus dominate the floral landscape and palm trees outnumber conifers. Still, the lobby of the Azul Sensatori had been transformed into a faux-snow scene and a majestic Christmas tree graced the gardens. Biting reality hit at the Cancun airport. Our flight was cancelled – Dallas was iced in! We took the long way home – through Detroit. Snow covered the ground in Oklahoma.

Our trip was a much-appreciated respite from December’s chillier thrills last year. This year I guess I’ll just have to settle for singing Jimmy Buffett’s “Christmas in the Caribbean.”

Clockwise from top: The Mayan city of Tulum sits atop 39-foot cliffs on the Caribbean coast and is surrounded on three sides by an eight-foot thick wall. // Christmas tree stands out among the palms. // The only snow you’ll find is in the Christmas display in the lobby.

CHRISTMAS TREE AND CHRISTMAS DISPLAY BY ELAINE WARNER

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This exhibition has been organized by the Tampa Museum of Art and the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg and curated by Barbara Pollack.

Birdhead (Chinese, founded 2004). The Light of Eternity No. 3 (detail), 2012.

Black and white inkjet print. Š Birdhead, courtesy of the artists and ShanghART Gallery Shanghai

DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 95

See & Do DANCE Home for the Holidays Dec 11-14 The American Spirit Dance Company at OCU reprises its holiday spectacular, gaily costumed and with marvelous energy and skill. OCU Kirkpatrick Center 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu. edu/dance The Nutcracker Dec 13-22 The OKC Ballet’s Christmas present to the community is this lavish traditional production with new innovations; bring the kids and enjoy.

OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 848.8637, okcballet.com

EVENTS Hippo Sing-Along Dec 1 Doesn’t everyone want a hippopotamus for Christmas?

Oklahoma’s own Gayla Peevey leads a group rendition of her holiday hit - the namesake animals may or may not join in.

OKC Zoo 2101 NE 50th St, OKC, 424.3344, okczoo.com Jingle Mingle Dec 3 The Myriad Gardens’ yuletide party is a primo place to pick up festive décor at auction, shop for artisanal goods and just enjoy the music, food and good cheer. Myriad Gardens 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 445.7080, oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com First Thursdays at the Curve Dec 4 Classen Curve and Nichols Hills Plaza merchants share family fun with food trucks, kid’s activities and music from the Wade Tower Band … and a visit from Santa.

Whole Foods 6001 N Western Ave, OKC, classencurve.com Holiday Happening Dec 4 A mammoth helping of shopping, stories, family activities and fun from the award-winning museum. Sam Noble Museum 2401 Chautauqua Ave, Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu Territorial Christmas Dec 4 Deck the halls pre-statehood style with the periodcostumed denizens of the Harn Homestead.

Harn Homestead 1721 N Lincoln Blvd, OKC, 235.4058, harnhomestead.com Women Who Care Share Luncheon Dec 4 Businesswomen from the community help stamp out domestic violence in an inspiring fundraiser for the YWCA. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 951.3333, ywcaokc.org 1st Friday Gallery Walk Dec 5 The historic arts district’s name means “stroll,” which happens to be the preferred form of locomotion while taking in its wonders during a monthly display of arts and culture.

Paseo Arts District 3022 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2688, thepaseo.com Assistance League Gala Dec 5 The impending holidays, the close of a great year helping the community, the promise of an even better 2015 … there’s a lot to celebrate. OU Memorial Union 900 Asp Ave, Norman, 321.9400, assistanceleaguenorman.org UCO Winterglow Dec 5 Edmond’s university dresses for the season in this wintry party that’s prelude to the holiday season; snacks, crafts, karaoke and more. UCO Campus 100 N University Dr, Edmond, uco.edu/ winterglow Boys Ranch Town Christmas Pageant Dec 5-7 Residents and volunteers from the juvenile residential facility present a

96 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

reverent living nativity for visitors to drive through. Boys Ranch Town 5100 SE 33rd St, Edmond, 341.3606, obhc.org Christmas Comes to Edmond Dec 6 Come for Brunch With Santa and the Electric Parade of Lights; stay for the Mayor’s Tree Lighting complete with carols - the spirit of the season starts here. Downtown Edmond 10 S Boulevard St, Edmond, 359.4630, edmondok.com Deck the Halls Dec 6 There’s Santa - no, there he is - wait, he’s all over the place: various Clauses from different time periods converge on the History Center for a free family-friendly event. Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 522.3602, okhistory.org Mesta Park Holiday Homes Tour Dec 6-7 The halls in this charming OKC neighborhood are already decked; all you have to do now is take the tour and enjoy the decorative splendor. Mesta Park OKC, mestapark.org The 12 Days of Cowboy Christmas Dec 8-19 A dozen days of Christmas bliss and special treats provided by the premier facility for preserving the Western way.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org United Way Victory Celebration Dec 10 The United Way of Norman’s yearly accomplishments in helping the community make ample grounds for a joyous party. OU Memorial Union 900 Asp Ave, OKC, 329.2025, unitedwaynorman.org OKC Comedy Dec 11-17 Laugh it up with live standup entertainment from some of the comedy circuit’s big-time names: Graham Elwood and Comedy Film Nerds Dec 11 and Jake Johannsen Dec 17. Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center 3000 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, 618.6944, okccomedy.com 2nd Friday Circuit of Art Dec 12 A monthly community-wide celebration of creativity, focused on historic Downtown Norman.

Norman Arts Council 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org Live on the Plaza Dec 12 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District 1618 N Gatewood Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org Gingerbread House Contest Dec 13 It’s the sweetest kind of architecture as mulitple age brackets try to construct the most visually appetizing gingerbread homes possible. Edmond Historical Society 431 S Boulevard, Edmond, 340.0078, edmondhistory.com Norman Main Street Christmas Holiday Parade Dec 13 The name is a mouthful; the skinny is that everything you could want in a Christmas parade is about to cruise down Main Street - including Mr. Claus. Downtown Norman 911 W Main St, Norman, 366.8095, visitnorman.com Second Sunday Poetry: Terry Britton Dec 14 Drop by the Depot for a reading by the former president of Rose State College, now returned to his roots in literature.

Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Cowboy Christmas Ball Dec 19 Country troubadour Michael Martin Murphey returns to the Cowboy Hall to lead an old-fashioned yuletide dance and gettogether. National Cowboy & Western

Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Premiere on Film Row Dec 19 Fowler Honda sponsors the downtown OKC street festival; it’s family-friendly, pet-welcoming, free to wander through and filled with treats for the ears and taste buds. Film Row 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 232.6060

Celebrations Dec 5-27 The year’s end is a prime time to relish accentuating the positive elements of life - witness the work of Dana Powell, Sue Hale, Nicki Albright and Mary Howard. In Your Eye Gallery 3005 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com

Groovy New Year’s Eve Dec 31 Boogie in 2015 with food, plenty of drinks, funky tunes from Superfreak, go-go dancers and a midnight champagne toast and balloon drop. Grand Casino 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandresortok.com

Spiritual Hunger Dec 5-27 The community art space for public exploration of art welcomes Laura Reese for an exhibition combining visual and culinary creativity (via paintings and a community garden) to reflect on feeding the soul together. The Project Box 3003 Paseo St, OKC, 609.3969, theprojectboxokc.com

Opening Night Dec 31 Out with the old year, in with a party prior to the new - join thousands celebrating 2015 at the Arts Council of OKC’s annual bash. Downtown OKC 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 270.4848, artscouncilokc.com

Christmas at the Elms Dec 5-28 The cozy gallery in the Paseo is home to intriguing art, inside and out: this month features a holiday celebration in multiple media. JRB Art at the Elms 2810 N Walker Ave, OKC, 528.6336, jrbartgallery.com

ONGOING Winter Shoppes at the Myriad Gardens Through Dec 23 Making holiday purchases is a particular pleasure as the seasonal shops return to cast the warm glow of prime merchandise over the downtown destination. Myriad Gardens 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 445.7080, oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com

Art in Recycled Trash Dec 5-31 Once it was refuse, now it’s concretized creativity you should refuse to miss. OKC Beautiful presents a collection of locally made works from reclaimed and upcycled trash. OK Shakespeare in the Park 2610 Paseo St, OKC, 525.8822, okcbeautiful.com

Chickasha Festival of Light Through Dec 31 A tremendous outpouring of community spirit, the massive (more than 3.5 million lights) celebration is a wonder for all ages. Shannon Springs Park 2400 S 9th St, Chickasha, 224.9627, chickashafestivaloflight.com Downtown in December Through Jan 4 A polar panoply of holiday joys, from snow tubing to skating to shopping, fills the city center with yuletide glee. Downtown OKC 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 235.3500, downtownindecember.com Edmond Outdoor Ice Skating Through Jan 5 The cocoa is hot and the ground is cold; rent some skates and go for a spin.

Festival Market Place 30 W 1st St, Edmond, 274.1638, expressice.com

FILM Classics Series Dec 2-30 Catch a masterpiece you missed the first time around or just want to re-experience on the big screen: “Elf” Dec 2, “A Christmas Story” Dec 9, “Christmas Vacation” Dec 16 and “Die Hard” Dec 30. Harkins Theatres 150 E Reno Ave, OKC, 321.4747, harkinstheatres.com

Journey of a Self-Taught Artist Dec 5-31 A professional background in geology shades the oeuvre of experimental artist Joeallen Gibson, who draws inspiration from the beauty of the natural world. Paseo Art Space 3022 Paseo St, OKC, 918.448.9272, geoism-art.com Watch Out for the Under Toad Dec 5-Jan 10 A series of acrylic mounted photographs creatd by local artist Romy Owens, and displaying her characteristic skill and humor. aka Gallery 3001 Paseo St, OKC, 606.2522, aka-gallery.com OKC125 Dec 5-Feb 27 A snapshot of Oklahoma City life and looks, created by 125 artists who were given a disposable camera and 125 minutes to use it. The Underground under Robert S. Kerr & Robinson Ave, OKC, 990.2448, romyowens.com/#okc125 ONGOING Winter Portfolio Exhibition Through Dec 12, OCCC Inasmuch Gallery OKC, 682.7579, occc.edu/cp Jim Dodson, Jr. Through Dec 14, State Capitol Governor’s Gallery OKC, 521.2931, arts.ok.gov Holiday Art Extravaganza Through Dec 15, Kasum Contemporary Fine Art OKC, 604.6602, kasumcontemporary.com

Circle Theater Shows Dec 4-21 The OKC Museum of Art screens overlooked treasures and unsung independent films for cineastes who want to step outside the multiplex. OKC Museum of Art 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com

The Art of Toys Through Dec 21, Istvan Gallery OKC 831.2874, istvangallery.com

GALLERIES

Holiday Showcase of Art Through Dec 28, Contemporary Art Gallery OKC, 601.7474, contemporaryartgalleryokc.com

The Animal Kingdom Dec 1-30 Birds, beasts and beyond - prizewinning artist Linda Hiller provides a one-woman artistic safari in this collection of vibrantly detailed clayboard etchings. Summer Wine Art Gallery 2928 Paseo St, OKC, 831.3279, summerwinegallery.com FAI Faculty Exhibition Dec 4-26 The instructors of the Fine Arts Institute take the opportunity to share some shining examples of their own works of creativity.

Fine Arts Institute of Edmond 27 E Edwards St, Edmond, 340.4481, edmondfinearts.com

Holiday Gift Gallery Through Dec 24, Firehouse Art Center Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com

Small Works IV Through Dec 28, Santa Fe Depot Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Hub of Creativity Through Jan 4, Automobile Alley OKC, 231.8663, downtownokc.com

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DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 97

PURSUITS | See & Do

New Hekman Executive Collections

Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org

Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org

As Yet Untamed Through Jan 3, [Artspace] at Untitled OKC, 815.9995, artspaceatuntitled.org

OU Concert Series Dec 4-12 The OU School of Music presents a percussion holiday concert Dec 4, Christmas at OU Dec 7, a set from the New Horizons Band Dec 11 and a blast of Holiday Pipes Dec 12. OU Catlett Music Center 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.4101, ou.edu/finearts

Connection Through Jan 3, Oklahoma Heritage Museum OKC, 523.3231 oklahomaheritage.com Cowboy Crossings Through Jan 4, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC, 478.2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org Formed in Stone: Oklahoma Fossils Through Jan 4 Sam Noble Museum Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu Macrocosm/Microcosm Through Jan 4, Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Making Change Through Jan 4, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org

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Rare: Portraits of Endangered Species Through Jan 4, Sam Noble Museum Norman, 325.4712, snomnh.ou.edu My Generation: Young Chinese Artists Through Jan 18, OKC Museum of Art OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com Bill Hensley Through Feb 28, Exhibit C OKC, 767.8900, chickasawcountry.com Frederic Remington’s American West Through Mar 31, Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Orly Genger Through Oct 2, Campbell Park OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org

MUSIC The Gift that keeps Giving!

Come shop our shaving kits and travel bags for the holiday season.

Gift Certificates available in store.

The Conservatory Dec 1-14 Sonic jams of all descriptions in an OKC hotspot: Mr. Gnome + Young Tongue Dec 1, Pallbearer Dec 2, EOTO Dec 11, From Indian Lakes Dec 14 and more - adds and adjustments posted online. The Conservatory 8911 N Western Ave, OKC, conservatoryokc.com Jazz Lab Concerts Dec 1-27 UCO students and faculty step over to the Jazz Lab for some sizzling shows: Jazz Ensembles Dec 1, Swingin’ With Santa Dec 4-13, Edgar Cruz Dec 15, Horseshoe Road’s Jingle Bell Jam Dec 18, Miss Brown to You Dec 19, Old Bulldog Band Dec 20, Souled Out Dec 26 and Big G Dec 27. UCO Jazz Lab 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 359.7989, uco.edu/cfad Diamond Ballroom Shows Dec 2-19 Crank it up down by the river with a set of powerful shows: this month includes Issues Dec 2, the KATT’s Wreck the Halls bash Dec 7, Tech N9ne Dec 11, the Josh Abbott Band Dec 13 and Down Dec 19.

Diamond Ballroom 8001 S Eastern Ave, OKC, 866.977.6849, dcfconcerts.com Blue Door Shows Dec 3-21 Self-billed as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” it certainly has some of the best music, including John Fullbright Dec 3, Mama Sweet Dec 4, The Greencards Dec 8, Kevin and Dustin Welch Dec 11, Brian Pounds Dec 12, a Tribute to Woody Guthrie Dec 14, December Songs Dec 17, Jon Dee Graham Dec 19, the Tequila Songbirds Dec 20 and Ian Moore Dec 21 - check online for updates. The Blue Door 2805 N McKinley Ave, OKC, 524.0738, bluedoorokc.com

Classen Curve | 5710 N Classen Blvd | 607-1197 Mon-Sat: 10am - 7pm Sun:11am - 4pm | carwinsshaveshop.com

Kathy Mattea Dec 4 Enjoy “Songs and the Season,” a collection of Christmas favorites delightfully delivered by country-pop chanteuse Mattea. OCCC Theater 7777 S May Ave, OKC, 682.7576, occc.edu/cas Philharmonic: The Christmas Show Dec 4-6 Share the joy of the season with the OKC Philharmonic and special guest Beth Leavel in this variety show. OKC Civic

98 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

Noon Tunes Dec 4-18 Free lunchtime serenades to sonically spice up your Thursdays: Easy Street Dec 4, the Cleveland Elementary Choir Dec 11 and pH Balance Dec 18. Downtown Library 300 Park Ave, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us Justin Timberlake Dec 5 You bet he’s bringing sexy back to OKC - get a good look at the stylish singer on his 20/20 Experience world tour. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Project 21 Concert Dec 5 Music for the young century, composed and performed by forward-thinking OCU students and faculty. OCU Kirkpatrick Center 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu. edu/music Purple Bar Performances Dec 5-31 A cozy setting, ample menu and outstanding music from local artists: Carlton Dorsey Dec 5, Beth & Jess Dec 6 and 20, Becannen & Vollertsen Dec 12, Rick Jawnsun Dec 13 and 19 and BAT Dec 26, 27, 30 and 31. Nonna’s Purple Bar 1 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410, purplebarokc.com Canterbury Christmas Dec 7 The songs of the season sound impeccably perfect when belted out by the massive Canterbury Choral Society choir; you can even help during the carol sing-along. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com Trans-Siberian Orchestra Dec 7 Less jingle bell, more rock - the powerhouses of merry music return to the metro to share “The Christmas Attic.” Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Under the Streetlamp Dec 7 A little Motown, a little doo-wop, a ton of talent from the tuneful quartet comprised of members of the Tony-winning “Jersey Boys.” Grand Casino 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandresortok.com Winter Wind: Don Conoscenti Dec 7 Guitar, piano, banjo, drums - Conoscenti is an instrumentalist extraordinaire, while singing thoughtfully self-crafted songs. Prepare to get deep. Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Christmas Vespers Dec 12-13 OCU’s 36th annual concert features the univerity’s symphony orchestra alogside four vocal ensembles: University Singers, Ad Astra Women’s Chorus, University Men’s Chorus and the Chamber Choir. OCU Chapel 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu. edu/ticketoffice Sisters of Swing Dec 14 Ancient and beautiful, modern and fun and everywhere in between - Christmas music in all its forms is spun into a sweet-sounding audio confection by a set of seven skilled female singers. Santa Fe Depot 200 S Jones Ave, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Christmas Eve With the Ambassadors Dec 24 OKC’s Ambassadors Concert Choir sings tidings of comfort and joy alongside its children’s choir, Friends of the Ambassadors Orchestra and the Christmas Choruses from Too Hot to Handel. St. John Missionary Baptist Church 5700 N Kelley Ave, OKC, 602.3866, ambassadorschoir.com Stoney LaRue Dec 27 Red Dirt rambler LaRue rolls back into Norman for a farewell to 2014 and a contemplative look at the

road ahead. Riverwind Casino 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com

2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 951.0011, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org

Rodney Carrington Dec 27-28 Happy holidays, Shawnee! The multi-talented Carrington brings his cheerful singing voice and goofy sense of humor back to the Grand for another pair of crowd-pleasers. Grand Casino 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandresortok.com

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Dec 4-14 Bedford Falls exists only in audiences’ minds as TheatreOCU presents a stage version of a radio performance of the Capra classic. OCU Kirkpatrick Center 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/ ticketoffice

SPORTS

Meet Me in St. Louis Dec 5-14 A trip to the World’s Fair is the grounds for a memorably sweet story, thanks to the Sooner Theatre’s actors. Sooner Theatre 101 E Main St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org

OKC Blue Basketball Dec 1-26 The Thunder’s D-League affiliate looks to bring its A-game against Bakersfield Dec 1, Rio Grande Valley Dec 10, Texas Dec 11 and Los Angeles Dec 26. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 208.4800, nba.com/dleague/ WWE Smackdown Dec 2 Did somebody wish for a big bunch of angry, muscular men to brawl in the Chesapeake Arena?

Because Christmas is coming early for fans of Kane, Dean Ambrose, Bray Wyatt and the Wyatt Family and more. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com OSU Women’s Basketball Dec 2-29 From preseason to the last tip before the Big 12 Tournament, OSU figures to make the home court roar: they host Arkansas Pine Bluff Dec 2, New Orleans Dec 15 and Northwestern State Dec 29. Gallagher-Iba Arena 1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com Barons Hockey Dec 2-31 OKC’s ice warriors get set to face off against a gamut of AHL foes: Utica Dec 2, Grand Rapids Dec 12-13, Rockford Dec 20-21 and Charlotte Dec 28 and 31. Cox Center 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 232.4625, okcbarons.com OSU Men’s Basketball Dec 3-21 From preseason to the last tip before the Big 12 Tournament, OSU figures to make the home court roar: they host North Texas Dec 3, Middle Tennessee State Dec 16 and Maryland Dec 21. Gallagher-Iba Arena 1046 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 877.255.4678, okstate.com OU Men’s Basketball Dec 5-31 It’s a long road to the NCAA Tournament, but getting there is half the fun for fans as the Sooners face Missouri Dec 5, Oral Roberts Dec 16, Weber State Dec 22 and George Mason Dec 31. Lloyd Noble Center 2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com BEDLAM 2014 Dec 6 The season comes down to this: the Sooners defend their home turf against their bitter brotherly foes from Oklahoma State. Owen Field 180 W Brooks St, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com Thunder Basketball Dec 9-31 OKC brings the noise against a slate of NBA opponents: Milwaukee Dec 9, Cleveland Dec 11, Phoenix Dec 14, New Orleans Dec 21, Portland Dec 23, Charlotte Dec 26 and Phoenix again Dec 31. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 208.4800, thunder.nba.com NCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship Dec 18-20 The sport’s best collegiate competitors are coming from around the country to OKC for the first time to battle it out for all the glory. Chesapeake Arena 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com OU Women’s Basketball Dec 30 It’s a long road to the NCAA Tournament, but getting there is half the fun for fans; the Sooners’ lone home game this month is against Yale Dec 30. Lloyd Noble Center 2900 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com

THEATER Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells Dec 1-17 Christmas is coming, and Junie Jones must - somehow - behave in this seasonal encore from Oklahoma Children’s Theater. Children’s Center for the Arts

Opera at the Movies Dec 6 An elite performance of the great Rossini’s spin on the classic Cinderella fairytale, presented in high-definition comfort: “La Cenerentola.”

Harkins Theatres 150 E Reno Ave, OKC, 321.4747 harkinstheatres.com Miracle on 34th Street Dec 11-14 This random old man working as a department store Santa couldn’t actually be THE Kris Kringle … could he? Get to Yukon and find out during a theatrical holiday treat. Stage Door Theatre 601 Oak St, Yukon, 642.7932, stagedooryukon.com Jane Austen’s Christmas Cracker Dec 12-20 Reduxion’s Erin Woods penned this short play in which Austen’s most popular characters share an evening at an elegant ball. Reduxion’s Broadway Theater 914 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 604.4730, reduxiontheatre.com The Book of Mormon Dec 30-Jan 4 The minds behind South Park penned this hit musical satire about the importance of religion and the misadventures of people trying to spread it. OKC Civic Center 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com ONGOING American Farce Through Dec 7 It’s a world premiere in which a frustrated gambler forms an unlikely bond with a 10-year-old boy, and learns a new way to value people.

Jewel Box Theater 3700 N Walker Ave, OKC, 521.1786, jewelboxtheatre.org

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Thoroughly Modern Millie Through Dec 7 Life is what you make it - especially for girls determined to hit the big time in 1920s New York. St. Luke’s Poteet Theater 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 609.1023, poteettheatre.com The Game’s Afoot Through Dec 20 Carpenter Square confronts an actor who plays Sherlock Holmes with an actual murder mystery he must solve in this comic holiday whodunit. Carpenter Square Theater 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com A Territorial Christmas Carol Through Dec 21 Dickens’ venerable tale, retold in an Oklahoma setting, has become a classic in its own right as a Guthrie icon. Pollard Theatre 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, 282.2800, thepollard.org Lyric’s A Christmas Carol Through Dec 27 Devon Energy proudly supports this annually rejuvenated holiday tradition about the power of deciding to become a better person. Lyric’s Plaza Theater 1725 NW 16th St, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com

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DECEMBER 2014 // SLICE 101

Last Laugh

(Black and) Blue Christmas

By Lauren Hammack

GATHER ’ROUND, BOYS AND GIRLS! Here’s a true story about Christmases when I was a little girl. Back then, Santa brought toys without warning labels and the phrase “Buyer Beware” meant someone would get hurt before sundown on Christmas Day, and that someone was probably you.

In those days, no one had a right to a non-hostile work environment – not even Santa, who employed some angry elves.

These elves quickly formed a union, spent the GNP on lead paint and created toys that fit into a handful of what your generation would now call “class-actionable” categories of product liability: Violent Toys, Sharp and/or Stabbing Toys, Fun with Molten Heat Toys, Toxic Substance Toys and the biggest fun of all … Games that Maim.

Toys that allowed children to act out violence and mayhem were must-haves for many a Christmas list, probably the natural result of the pressure that comes with having to be good the rest of the year. The Bozo Punching Doll and Rock ’Em, Sock ’Em Robots were fine stand-ins for the school bully. If seeing the movie “Jaws” didn’t scare you into avoiding open water forever, maybe reenacting the horror could inch you closer with your “Jaws” replica shark game, complete with plastic guns and skulls.

Many toys, if they didn’t impale you within the first 15 minutes of play, could be quickly altered into shank-like objects you could use to settle scores with your menacing siblings. Pick-up Sticks were nothing more than sharpened skewers that allowed you to shish kabob anyone within striking distance – all in a rainbow of colors! While sharp-tipped, metal Lawn Darts were a legitimate threat to the concept of “fun and games,” they were even more legitimate as an example of natural selection at work.

The point (no pun intended) of toys back then was to allevi102 SLICE // DECEMBER 2014

ate parental involvement, not to invoke it.

Long before “Breaking Bad,” Christmas Day meant we would soon be mixing toxic chemicals with abandon and cooking things that produced fumes which, today, are illegal to inhale in 41 states. By combining electricity, heat and metal, the Easy-Bake Oven gave us miniature brownies, plus brand new fingerprints after we burned off our original set.

Sadly, some toys didn’t live up to the frenzied advertising hype that drove us to add them to our Christmas wish lists. From the Toxic Substance category, Wham-O’s SuperElasticBubblePlastic poison from a tube was one such toy. Promoted to create huge, psychedelic balloons that would float through space and back down again and again, the SuperElasticBubblePlastic did little more than emit noxious fumes from a metal tube filled with sticky goo. If only the balloons could get as high as the eight year olds who tried to make them, just before collapsing to the ground to study the billowing motion of the clouds in the sky.

There may have been fuel shortages back then, but there was no shortage of Games that Maim. Santa’s elves worked double-time to ensure that every child had ample opportunity to maim him- or herself and everyone else within a square city mile. A game called Swack was configured as a giant, spring-loaded mousetrap and worked on the premise that, as you took away cheeseshaped game pieces, the mousetrap’s metal bar would SNAP! and teach an important (if painful) lesson to children about stealing cheese. (Fascinating side note: today on eBay, most Swack game sets are still in likenew condition.)

The iconic pogo stick and the Hippity Hop bouncing toy were two fun-tastic, athome teeth-removal toys that created a surge in pediatric dental implants, while the Wrist Rocket Slingshot targeted new customers in all other reconstructive surgery categories.

But no toy screams “Games that Maim” more shrilly than Klackers, the eye-gouging (but glittered!) nunchuck-y orbs of death that, within seconds, guaranteed injury to both the user and any hapless spectators who were slow to escape. Whether you were an expert or a novice at flailing these

weapons of mass destruction, you could bet your Christmas dinner you’d have golf ballsized knots on the once bony tops of your hands and at least one person in your holiday entourage would lose an eye.

That was many years ago, boys and girls. A lot has changed since then. Santa’s elves are much mellower now. They do Pilates at lunch, mentor younger elves and submit all creative briefs to the North Pole’s on-staff legal counsel before they let the Fat Man (whom they now call The Fuller-Figured-Man-But-That’s-OK) deliver the presents under your tree, provided you’ve been good all year and have signed the current year’s hold harmless agreement at least 90 days prior to delivery of said toys.

MARK T. HANSTEIN, DDS

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Last Look

Season of Tranquility Photo by Kimberli Robberson

Nature doesn’t decorate with tinsel and ornaments, but its Christmas trees are beautiful nonetheless.

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