Slice November 2013

A SEASON OF PLENTY LIFE IS E GOOD IN TH

405

CELEBRATING HANUKKAH THE ESSENTIALS: FAMILY, FRIENDS AND FOOTBALL

If you could have one wish,

what would it be?

Each year we strive to grant the wishes of all children with life-threatening medical conditions in Oklahoma. It all begins with one simple, yet powerful question: “If you could have one wish, what would it be?”

Each wish provides an opportunity for someone special to become a wish sponsor. Through the Adopt-A-Wish program, you have the power to grant a wish. By “adopting” a wish, you can help a child have a magical, joyful time away from treatments, hospitals, anxiety and fear that are so much a part of their lives as well as their family’s daily life.

The Adopt-A-Wish program allows you or your company, employee group, professional club or civic group the opportunity to select a child from your geographic area and choose a type of wish. Once the “adoption” is matched you will receive the child’s first name, age, medical condition, city of residence and the child’s chosen wish.

All funds raised in Oklahoma stay in our great state to grant the wishes of Oklahoma children with life-threatening medical conditions.

5201 NORTH SHARTEL AVENUE | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73118 (405) 286-4000 | OKLAHOMA.WISH.ORG SPONSORED BY FOWLER TOYOTA

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silenced at her sight and why we are drawn to her steady gaze. We believe in an America of the free. A place where all things are possible. Where dreamers become doers and tomorrow is a word of hope. Where obstacles are never roadblocks, only detours. Where possibilities in life are always as bright as her golden torch. At First Liberty Bank, we believe in hope for the future. At First Liberty Bank, we believe in you.

Life. Happiness. First Liberty.

Member FDIC

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The Collection is real gold jewelry, featuring stunning diamonds and gemstones for necklaces, rings and bracelets. As she celebrates each of life’s precious moments, and the birthdays of those she holds dear, she adds a stone, and her jewelry grows ever more dazzling.

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FEATURES

33

November 2013

Absolute Bedlam

Football is a big, big deal around here, especially if the teams competing both have “Oklahoma” in their names. As the longtime rivals move toward another marquee matchup, Slice takes a look at the history, atmosphere and myriad joys of the madness that is Bedlam.

On the cover

38

Happy in the 405

Civic development and housing demand, knockout sunsets and stellar sports franchises and a shared unquenchable spirit … there’s a lot to be grateful for about living in central Oklahoma – and we’re happy for the chance to share some of it with you.

8 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

A SEASON OF PLENTY LIFE IS GOOD IN THE

405

CELEBRATING HANUKKAH THE ESSENTIALS: FAMILY, FRIENDS AND FOOTBALL

Delectable red and golden beets form the centerpiece of a fall roasted root dish.

Recipe by Caryn Ross on page 82. Photo by Carli Wentworth

DEPARTMENTS 52

A HOME FOR ALL SEASONS

Gardening and design expert P. Allen Smith shares his wisdom on TV, but the beauty of his house and gardens at Moss Mountain Farm – and his buttermilk pecan pie – are best appreciated in person.

16 From the Editor

24 Details Holiday meals are works of careful craftsmanship; shouldn’t their presentation equal that artistry? These suggestions can help set the table in style.

66 Techno Cool A gadget enthusiast takes a quick, critical look at speakers’ ability to deliver the wow factor to the home theater experience.

26 Retrospective Remembering the way we were with a look back at Oklahoma’s nirvana for one-stop shoppers, OTASCO.

PURSUITS 67 A rundown of local events and entertainment, including a top 10 list of must-see attractions, a season of spectacle at Armstrong Auditorium and the Girlie Show’s farewell fling.

48 Celebrating the Festival of Lights When the cause is commemorating the joys of family togetherness and making memories for the future, there’s no such thing as too much – just ask Sherry Barton, who’s going all-out once again for Hanukkah.

TRAVEL 56 77 Counties In her ongoing travels through the state, author and photographer M.J. Alexander gallops into Grant County, where a stroke of good luck uncovered a century-old – and astonishingly vivid – slice of Wild West wonder.

COMMUNITY 59 A Passion for People In an excerpt from his recent book “Vibrant,” behavioral psychiatrist Dr. R.

10 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

MINGLING 62 Making an appearance on central Oklahoma’s social scene.

PRACTICAL MATTERS 64 Preemptive Strike Don’t let winter push your exercise regimen into hibernation; the easiest way to be in shape next summer is to avoid losing the benefits of physical fitness now.

SPACES 43 At Home With History Vintage character meets modern convenience in the houses on the Heritage Hills Historic Homes Tour, a beautifully inspirational exploration of the thrills of living in the past.

20

Murali Krishna remembers making the leap to a new health care environment, and ponders the importance of connection to the spirit.

UP FRONT 20 Chatter New music made by Oklahoma legends, new musical instruments made at the Skirvin, old-school family barbeque and other topics of conversation.

30 Exchange A give and take about hard work, enthusiasm and popcorn with OKC Public Schools interim superintendent Dave Lopez as he heads back to class.

67

November 2013

FARE 82 Fall Flavors This recipe for a fragrant dish of roasted vegetables showcases the season’s potential for buried treasure in the form of beets, yams and potatoes.

84 Beauty and the Bounty Steak seared tableside on a lava stone or complex combinations of the best the sea has to offer – dining at Edmond’s Café Icon is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

86 Eat & Drink Take a gastronomic tour with Slice’s citywide dining guide.

94 Last Laugh 96 Last Look

84

Don’t let the holiday feasts get the best of your teeth.

November 2013

Volume 4 Issue 11

PUBLISHER Elizabeth Meares

‘Tis the season of sugary treats.

Always brush and floss after enjoying these sweets. This will help chase bad bacteria away, and keep you smiling brightly throughout the holidays.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mia Blake EDITORIAL Features Writer John Parker

Happy Holidays!

Associate Editor Steve Gill Contributing Writers M.J. Alexander, Mark Beutler, Lauren Hammack, R. Murali Krishna, M.D., Michael Miller, Caryn Ross, Elaine Warner, Sara Gae Waters

Dr. Susan Whiteneck ~ Dr. Sara Spurlock

ART Art Director Scotty O’Daniel

Call (405) 321-6166 or visit NormanDentist.com

ALL ORANGE ALL-COLLEGE DEC. 14th Chesapeake Energy Arena WoMENS 3:30 Oklahoma St. Vs. s. Florida

for tickets call 1.800.745.3000 visit OKCAllsports.org for more information

12 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Contributing Stylist Sara Gae Waters Contributing Photographers M.J. Alexander, Justin Avera, Simon Hurst, Claude Long, Michael Miller, Elaine Warner, Carli Wentworth ADVERTISING Executive Director of Advertising Cynthia Whitaker-hill Account Executives Jamie Hamilton, Elizabeth Young Account Manager Ronnie Morey

Tickets start at $10

MENS 1:00 Oklahoma St. Vs. LA. Tech

Graphic Designer Brian O’Daniel

ADMINISTRATION Distribution Raymond Brewer

WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA sliceok.com

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November 2013

Volume 4 Issue 11

READER SERVICES Mailing Address 729 W. Sheridan, Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Phone 405.842.2266 Fax 405.604.9435 Advertising Inquiries dwalker@openskymediainc.com

A Winter’s Tour Winter House Interiors is a premier home design firm, with a deserved reputation for bringing the designs in clients’ minds to life … but its showroom is also home to an immense collection of treasures for those seeking inspiration, or the ideal components to enliven any room of the house. You’re invited to go wandering through this Winter wonderland at the …

Holiday Open House Friday, November 22 | From 6-9 p.m. where you’ll find everything from massive leather couches to magical adornments like collectible, numbered, limited-edition fairy figures from designer Mark Roberts. Help to make the season bright by visiting Winter House and seeing what delights you can find.

Job/Internship Inquiries jobs@sliceok.com Story Ideas and Letters to the Editor Your views and opinions are welcome. Letters must include your full name, address and daytime phone number. Email to editor@sliceok.com; fax to 405.604.9435; mail to the address listed above. Letters sent to Slice magazine become the magazine’s property, and it owns all rights to their use. Slice magazine reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

Back Issues To order single-copy back issues of Slice magazine, please send $9.50 (includes P&H) to the Oklahoma City address above or call 405.842.2266 to order by phone.

Bulk Orders For information on bulk orders of Slice magazine, please call 405.842.2266.

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES Slice magazine is available by subscription for $14.95 (12 issues), $24.95 (24 issues) or $34.95 (36 issues).

Questions or address change?

Visit sliceok.com/subscribe email subscriptions@sliceok.com or phone 818.286.3160 Order online at sliceok.com or send your name, mailing address, phone number and payment to: SLICE P.O. Box 16765 North Hollywood, CA 91615-6765

And don’t forget the Classen Curve holiday open house on Thursday, December 5!

WINTER HOUSE Classen Curve, 5710 N. Classen, OKC 405.607.1199

Everlasting Love

Lewis Jewelers prides itself on being “Oklahoma’s number one bridal jewelry store” with the largest single-store selection in the state.

Besides exceptional value and superior customer service, Lewis also provides the exclusive opportunity to choose from among the world’s most carefully selected diamonds: Forevermark.

Fewer than one percent of all diamonds are sufficiently beautiful and responsibly sourced to be chosen as Forevermark stones, and each one bears a tiny inscription to certify its excellence.

A Forevermark diamond, unique and radiant as its recipient, rests amid a halo of smaller pavé stones in this exquisite design, called “The Center of My Universe.” See it at Lewis Jewelers, and prepare to have your breath taken away.

LEWIS JEWELERS 2705 S. I-35, Moore | 405.703.4644

14 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

CORPORATE Chief Executive Officer & President Richard M. Franks Chief Financial Officer Todd P. Paul Chief Marketing Officer Forbes C. Durey ADVERTISING Director of Sales Darla Walker Director of National Advertising Nathen Bliss MARKETING AND EVENTS Corporate Director of Marketing & Events Cathy Hale Director of Events & Community Relations Meredith Parsons Marketing & Events Coordinator Meghan Athnos CIRCULATION Director of Audience Development Kerri Nolan ©2013 Open Sky Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of Slice magazine content, in whole or part by any means, without the express written consent of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Slice magazine is not responsible for the care of and/or return of unsolicited materials. Slice magazine 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.

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From the Editor

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THANKS A LOT S MIA BLAKE

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

16 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

how of hands: Who thinks Thanksgiving is the best holiday of the year? I do!

It has all the ingredients of a good time … first, there’s the delicious food.

Who doesn’t love traditional favorites like turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie? If you’re feeling creative, you can usually get away with trying a new recipe as long as you provide the traditional alternative. You want to experiment with mandarin oranges, green beans and fennel? Perfectly acceptable, as long as you back it up with a green bean casserole made with canned cream of mushroom soup topped with copious amounts of french-fried onions (go ahead and double the amount called for in the recipe, I won’t tell).

Worlds collide when one family’s traditions are trialed with a new audience. I will never forget one of my first Thanksgiving meals with my in-laws, back when I was too naive to know the holiday rules regarding gastronomic exploration. Eager to prove my cooking chops, I volunteered to bring the potatoes and planned on re-creating a favorite recipe my grandmother made each holiday: Potatoes Margaret. This mouthwatering casserole, made with mashed potatoes, sour cream, butter, minced onions and cream cheese, is so decadent I can only eat it twice a year, but I look forward to it the other 363 days. Now, picture us all gathered around the table, with a glorious turkey anchoring the vast array of delectable food, as I uncover the casserole dish and try to explain that this type of mashed potato doesn’t really need any gravy. I’m sure my memory has added the sound effect of crickets chirping into the silent void, but suffice it to say, I am in charge of sweet potatoes now.

Then there is the joy of social interaction without the pressure of gift-giving. I love my family, and I love my friends, but buying gifts for other people can just be hard.

The temptation to give in to quantity over quality is strong, and if you are amongst the frazzled Christmas Eve shoppers I am jostling elbows with at Penn Square Mall, you can probably look back with fondness on the fourth Thursday in November, when all you had to do was show up to eat and mingle. The lure of a lingering meal, good conversation and fellowship with no last-minute dash for scotch tape or midnight wrap-athon ranks high on my personal holiday ratings system.

Lastly, there’s nothing like the threat of an impending holiday to prompt you to get some projects done around the house. We hosted the holiday for a large contingent of blended family last year after we moved into our new house and it was a great time. The day of the event, my sainted husband missed a very important football game (so I hear) to plant some half-dead pansies (languishing on our porch since before Halloween) along the front sidewalk. Urgent? Hardly, but it was on my pre-flight checklist “Countdown to Turkey Day” and he is a good sport. (And did I mention saintly?) I learned to hem curtains the night before – OK, I mean I failed at using no-sew iron-on hem tape and so out of desperation invented my own stitching technique – but I did actually iron the cloth napkins I’d been acquiring from estate sales all year long. We promptly wrapped them around our disposable plastic flatware, but that is neither here nor there – the iron was used and it takes time to build up the housewares department to host several dozen people.

This month, we are embarking on an ambitious journey to install hardwood floors throughout the second floor of our house … and I’m thankful my sweet mother-in-law is hosting Thanksgiving this year!

DOWNTOWN in December PRESENTED BY DEVON

November 15-January 1 Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Gardens d Devon’s Saturdays with Santa d Chesapeake Snow Tubing SandRidge Tree Lighting Festival d SandRidge Santa Run d Automobile Alley’s Lights on Broadway OneMain Financial’s Bricktown Canal Lights d Deluxe Winter Market d Sonic Segway Santa Continental Resources Free Movie Mondays

For a full list of events visit www.DowntownInDecember.com or call 405-235-3500

Two things worth doing every day.

Thanks for choosing Mercy.

UP FRONT A Culinary Canvas

CARLI WENTWORTH

With holiday gatherings (and attendant meals) approaching, it’s an opportune time to present some food for thought on presenting food thoughtfully – Sara Gae Waters has some tips for setting the table in style. See page 24.

CHATTER Topics of conversation from around the metro 20

RETROSPECTIVE A quick look back at a treasured piece of local history 26

EXCHANGE OKC interim superintendent Dave Lopez discusses going back to school 30

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 19

UP FRONT | Chatter

House of Strings

A YOUNG ARTIST’S NEW ADDRESS FOR MAKING MUSIC MAKERS

Getting in Tune NEW ALBUMS FROM FAMILIAR FACES IN OKLAHOMA MUSIC

Pop quiz: What do these people – Lyle Lovett, Carly Simon, Keith Urban, David Crosby, Graham Nash, Joe Cocker, Kris Kristofferson, Art Garfunkel and the great Brian Wilson – have in common besides their gifts and passions for music? They’re friends of legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Webb, and join the Oklahoma native on his new album. “Still Within the Sound of My Voice” is the latest installment in a recording career that dates all the way back to 1966. It’s the same concept used on 2010’s “Just Across the River” – Webb revisits a dozen-plus tunes he wrote back in the day with the help of high-profile collaborators – and while “Voice” doesn’t include yet another version of “Highwayman” (which is a genuine shame), the Webb/Wilson duet on “MacArthur Park” is worth the price of the album all by itself.

You probably know Toby Keith primarily as a singer – it’s no accident that he was named Billboard’s Country Artist of the Decade – but the other side of him (track 5) is that he’s a songwriting force as well. He wrote the title track on his latest effort, “Drinks After Work” (track 2) and a whole lot more than that (track 8): Nine of the album’s 10 songs have Keith’s name in the writing credits. For those still unimpressed, who might respond, “Show me what you’re working with” (track 7), it is worth noting that the opening number is called “Shut Up and Hold On.” For fans, it’s time for another round – the album hit stores October 29.

Incidentally, the name “Drinks After Work” is also sort of thematic – insofar as there’s a deluxe version with an extra three songs, one of which is a duet with Sammy Hagar. So after the “work” of the main album, you can also hear Keith and the Red Rocker kick back and sing “Margaritaville.”

20 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Some art – say, drawing or writing – can be done virtually anywhere. But if the craft in question is the creation of musical instruments, it’s going to need a stable space; some kind of studio or workshop. Or a hotel.

The Skirvin Hilton is the new home, professionally speaking, for OKC luthier (violin maker) Arsenios Corbishley, the hotel’s new artist-in-residence. He was chosen in September by the Skirvin in conjunction with the Paseo Arts Association to be the second such resident, following Romy Owens’ successful photo booth project, and will spend the next year working in the hotel’s studio space and hosting open houses and concerts so passers-by can see and hear the fruits of his labor.

Corbishly’s lifelong love of stringed instruments has blossomed into a career restoring, repairing and making them from scratch (hey, they can’t all be 18th-century Stradivari) and led to this intriguing opportunity to share some of the mechanics and intricacies of an underrepresented branch of creativity. Paseo Executive Director Jennifer Barron believes his selection “will hopefully send a message to potential future applicants that this residency program is open to artists of all disciplines.”

LOST IN THE SHUFFLE SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR PLAYLIST THIS MONTH Beastie Boys, “Gratitude” Led Zeppelin, “Thank You” Norah Jones, “Humble Me” William DeVaughn, “Be Thankful for What You Got”

Painted Door

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NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 21

UP FRONT | Chatter

Metro residents who watched the premiere of “The Biggest Loser” back in October may have seen a familiar face: One of season 15’s contestants is Edmond resident David Brown. The project manager at a local roofing company and father of three was recently diagnosed with Type II diabetes, and embarked on a weight-loss quest to honor a promise to his late wife that he’d always be there for their daughters. Regardless of the length of his stay on the show, Brown is determined to prove he won’t be weighed down by his woes.

Calendar Watch November 3 Happy end of daylight saving time! (“Fall back” into bed for another hour) November 16 Happy 106th birthday, Oklahoma!

November 27 Happy Hanukkah!

November 28 Thanksgiving; be happy for all the good in our lives

ON THE PAGE

THE STORIES THAT MAKE THE STATE “I hope,” writes David Dary, “these stories remind readers that Oklahoma’s history is as rich and colorful as the land itself.

The stories may help them understand the state’s complex past and explain why Oklahoma is what it is today.” That’s from the introduction to his “Stories of Old-Time Oklahoma,” a book demonstrating that part of what is fun about the state today is reading about it. This is no dense, textbookish tome; it’s a collection of entertaining anecdotes about everything from river names to robberies, the impact of the Civil War on native tribes to the contents of the official state meal.

Dary shows his journalistic roots with the appendix of sources for his stories, and a handy index allows readers to turn right to the sections about Carl Albert or the Kiowa 5 – but it’s at least as entertaining to flip around at random, and using the index might mean you’d never discover the tale of the time in 1943 a U.S. B-17 accidentally bombed downtown Boise City.

It’s all part of our state’s rich tapestry.

ZAPPED!

While researching our feature story about the OU/OSU rivalry (see page 33), we found a news item to keep in our sights. Construction is underway on the future House of Bedlam in Bricktown, and its new canal-side location will contain more than apparel: Developers are planning for the building to include a restaurant, coffee shop and laser tag arena. By next fall, the Slice staff may have a new way to settle office arguments.

STAND AND DELIVER “Thank you, dear God, for this good life and forgive us if we do not love it enough.”

Garrison Keillor

22 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Van’s Pig Stand in Shawnee has seen 85 years come and go, making it the state’s oldest barbeque restaurant owned and operated by a single family – so the Vandegrifts have amply earned a chance to hog the spotlight. The Travel Channel’s sauce-y show “BBQ Crawl” swung through the Sooner state while filming its second season and made sure to stop by Van’s. The results of the show’s trip through Nashville, Kansas City and points between will begin airing this spring; expect it to look delicious.

Host Danielle Dimovski, known as “Diva Q”

PHOTOS: DAVID BROWN BY PAUL DRINKWATER/NBC, GARRISON KEILLOR BY PRAIRIE HOME PRODUCTIONS

LOOKING FOR LESS

OU Women’s Pelvic and Bladder Health designated National Center of Excellence

Lieschen H. Quiroz, MD; S. Abbas Shobeiri, MD; Dena White, MD; and Mikio A. Nihira, MD

The National Association for Continence (NAFC) has designated Women’s Pelvic and Bladder Health services at OU Medical Center and OU Physicians one of only seven groups in the U.S. to be named a Center of Excellence: Continence Care in Women (COE).

Tamara Poteat, PA-C; Evynn Boxx, APRN (in front); and Taryn Smith, PA-C

Since its inception in 2002, OU Women’s Pelvic and Bladder Health has evaluated and treated women of Oklahoma and the region with incontinence, prolapse and other pelvic floor disorders. Providers offering state-of-the-art services with a gentle touch include Doctors Lieschen H. Quiroz, S. Abbas Shobeiri, Dena White, and Mikio A. Nihira.

OU Medical Center provides inpatient care and OU Physicians provides outpatient care for women being treated surgically or non-surgically for pelvic floor disorders. The clinic utilizes advanced diagnostic equipment including 3-D imaging and seamlessly integrating medicine with physical therapy in delivering patient care.

Lavinia Creswa, PT-A; LaTonya Mister, DPT; and Emily Swafford, PT

Come see our new clinic in the OU Physicians Building, 825 NE 10th St., Suite 5300, Oklahoma City.

For more information, go to: www.urogynecologist.com For appointments with OU Physicians Women’s Pelvic and Bladder Health, call (405) 271-9493.

WOMEN’S PELVIC & BLADDER HEALTH OU Physicians is part of OU Medicine.

The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity institution. www.ou.edu/eoo (#82389, 10/13)

They care for women with these conditions: • Vaginal agenesis/MRKH • Vaginal stenosis or non-functional vagina • Mesh erosion, eroded slings, surgical complications • Incomplete bladder emptying • Urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia • Frequent urinary tract infections • Fecal incontinence • Rectal fullness or prolapse • Vaginal prolapse (Cystocele, Rectocele, Enterocele) • Developmental variations requiring corrective surgery

www.oumedicine.com NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 23

UP FRONT | Details

Clockwise from left: Herend, “Chinese Bouquet Black,” with Moser Pebbles black martini glass from On A Whim // Lenox, “June Lane,” from Dillard’s // Pickard gold monogrammed from B.C. Clark // Royal Limoges, “Terracotta,” from B.C. Clark 24 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

China Patterns to Be Thankful For

By Sara Gae Waters // Photos by Carli Wentworth

IN THE FIRST ISSUE OF SLICE, NOVEMBER 2011, I BEGAN WRITING A MONTHLY COLUMN CALLED “SETTING THE TABLE.” After two years and 24 installments, I began writing this “Details” column and “Setting the Table” moved to our bi-annual home and garden magazine, Design Oklahoma. Although I don’t write about table settings on a monthly basis anymore, I still love everything about the art of a welldesigned table.

I picture the table as a blank canvas. The place setting is usually one of the first strokes of paint. It’s from there, adding layer upon layer, that you can create a masterpiece on the table. However, I do believe that the most important thing about your table is the people around it and in turn, it’s those people who inspire you to give care and attention to what’s on top. With the holidays fast approaching, you’re sure to have an occasion here or there to gather and share a meal, so I’ve gone around town to find a few patterns that I wouldn’t mind having at my table.

While I didn’t set the entire table, I added a few adornments to each setting, just to remind you to always bring something fresh to your table. May the art of setting the table and your guests be your inspiration this season!

Clockwise from left: Herend, “Gold Fishscale,” from On A Whim // Lenox, “Autumn,” from Dillard’s // Herend, “Rothschild Bird,” from On A Whim // Wedgwood, “Renaissance Gold,” with Baccarat goblet from B.C. Clark

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 25

o r t Respective

One-Stop Shop

By Mark Beutler // Photos courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society BEFORE HOME DEPOT AND LOWE’S, THERE WAS OTASCO. Short for “Oklahoma Tire and Supply Company,” it was the quintessential store for all your home and auto needs, selling everything from tires and lawn mowers to appliances and home furnishings.

Three Jewish Lithuanian immigrant brothers – Sam, Maurice and Herman Sanditen – established the store in 1918. The McCrory Corporation (who later owned TG&Y) bought the company in 1960. At its 50th anniversary in 1968, the Oklahoma-based chain had 455 stores in 12 states. By 1984, the firm’s employees bought 100 percent of the stock, creating what was then one of the largest employee-owned companies in the United States.

But times and shoppers changed, and OTASCO filed for bankruptcy in 1988.

Today, only one OTASCO remains, located in the small Oklahoma town of Beaver.

26 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Call 843-3104 to sign up for Free Pick-Up & Delivery or stop by any of our 8 convenient locations.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 27

WE’RE THANKFUL

BY THE NUMBERS 2 4.8 121

By Steve Gill

3,000+ hours of sunshine in a year in the OKC metro

14.4

OKC’s nationwide rank for small business-friendly cities according to The Business Journal

OKC’s unemployment percentage in July 2013

7.4

4 1 6 0 1 2,000

the percentage below the nationwide average of Norman’s cost of living

3

Norman’s resulting rank on Kiplinger’s list of 10 cheapest U.S. cities to live

OKC’s rank on Newsweek’s list of most aspirational cities (combining economy, culture and quality of life)

Miss America winners from Oklahoma since the pageant began in 1921

OKC’s rank in the nationwide Tap Water Taste Test by the American Water Works Association

$3,301,457

OKC’s unemployment rank among major U.S. cities

states with more Misses America

1

OU’s rank in the greatest college football programs, according to AP poll results compiled by Scouts.com

average number of new residents moving to the metro each month, according to OKC mayor Mick Cornett

record-breaking amount raised in 2013 to support Allied Arts’ nonprofit arts organizations in central Oklahoma 28 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

U.S. unemployment percentage in July 2013

franchises in the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL ranked below the OKC Thunder in ESPN’s Ultimate Standings of overall awesomeness for 2012 (that’s all of them)

78.6

life expectancy in 2013

51.5

life expectancy in 1913

0

fatal Oklahoma shark attacks in 2012

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NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 29

UP FRONT | Exchange

BACK TO SCHOOL

By Lauren Hammack // Photo by Carli Wentworth

Conv A er with sation Da Lope ve z

AT THE TIME OF OUR INTERVIEW, business leader and former Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce Dave Lopez is just a few weeks into his role as interim superintendent for Oklahoma City Public Schools. He equates the monumental challenge of charting a new course for more than 45,000 schoolchildren with being “back in school.”

We sat down with Lopez and learned a lot about the former telecommunication executive’s unbridled enthusiasm and optimism for getting the job done, which made us wish he’d consider dropping the “Interim” half of his job title.

What is your hometown? Las Cruces, New Mexico. I’ve lived in Oklahoma for about 14 years.

What is your wife’s name? Lana.

How is the new gig going? It’s been fun, energizing and challenging. In a very real sense, I’ve gone back to school!

There’s so much to learn, not just about the structure and how things work, but also about what the community thinks about Oklahoma City Public Schools. The opportunities in this job are greater than I would have imagined.

As interim superintendent, you’ll only serve in this role a short time. What is the one thing you hope to accomplish in the limited time you have?

I hope to demonstrate to the incoming superintendent that this is a community that cares.

I’m encouraged by the many people who have come forward in support by asking, “How can we help?” Fortunately, apathy is not something we have to fight.

Did you spend any school years in the hall? Oh, yes. I can still remember calling my fourth grade teacher a “party pooper” when she wouldn’t let our class go to recess after an assembly one day.

Did you have a favorite teacher? My first grade teacher, Sister Herman Joseph.

What’s a risk worth taking?

Love.

30 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Do you have any guilty pleasure? Popcorn. It evokes so many memories of spending Friday nights around the TV with my brothers – I’m the youngest of five boys. We loved watching Friday night prize fights.

How much worthless trivia do you retain? Tons, especially about sports. In college, I was a stringer and I became interested in statistics, which was something of a currency of choice for conversations.

What kind of unsung skills do you have? I like to think I’m a good writer. The unpublished great American novel will have to wait, however.

What has been your greatest achievement? Hopefully, that is yet to come, but marrying Lana would be at the top of that list.

What do you value most in your friends? Humor.

What do you think your friends value in you? Loyalty.

What should everyone experience at least once in this lifetime? Giving to someone who can never repay you.

What’s not as important as it used to be and what’s more important than it used to be?

What’s not as important is getting it perfect. I think it was General Patton who said that a good plan executed today

is better than a perfect plan tomorrow. What’s more important is focusing on these young students and understanding the opportunities and obligations there.

What do you wish you’d never thrown out, lost or given away?

My eighth grade yearbook. That year, there was a predictions section about ‘Where will they be?’ and someone wrote that I would be head of a telephone company! How prophetic!

What were your teachers and parents wrong about? Not all mischief is bad. Said the fifth of five boys …

What do you now bring to a crowded room? A smile.

What’s the best decision you ever made? To give up the dream of being an athlete.

I played basketball and one day, the coach put some tape on the wall and said, ‘If you can walk under the tape, keep walking.’ That’s terrible! No, it turned out fine. I had a geometry teacher who pointed me in the right direction.

What’s still on your bucket list? More time for reflection

and time to treasure the relationships that matter most.

What’s your favorite hole-inthe-wall in OKC? In OKC, it’s Classen Grill. In Oklahoma, it’s Eischen’s in Okarche.

What’s the last book you read? “Boundaries for Leaders” by Dr. Henry Cloud.

What’s the best advice you ever got? It came from my dad, who was a great example of this (and in fact, my dad got much smarter as I got older): Work hard and be proud of what you do.

What other examples did your parents model? My mom was generous to a fault. There were no strangers and no one ever left our house unfed.

We were poor, but we didn’t know it.

What is the one thing you’re determined to accomplish by the end of the year? Demonstrating positive outcomes for the school district.

What is your most treasured possession? My faith. It’s hard to think of anything having meaning beyond that.

Join us Saturday, November 16th from 10am-2pm for

Coffee with the Artists

The best path is the one that leads straight to your goal

Featuring work by:

Retirement Investment Advisors is your guide on the path to retirement. We have been recognized more than 50 times by local and national publications as one of the top financial advisors in the country.

*Artist will be in the gallery during the show

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Conservative. It’s a step in the right direction on the path to retirement.

“Through the Hills” by Linda Tuma Robertson

JAMES J. BLACK* | NANCY CAWDREY | KELLI FOLSOM* JOAN M. LARUE* | KENNY MCKENNA* JERRY MCWILLIAMS | TOM PERKINSON ANDREW PETERS | LINDA TUMA ROBERTSON*

Call and talk with one of our experienced financial advisors, check us out on Facebook, or visit www.theretirementpath.com. We can help you find the path to a successful retirement.

“Lanterns and Mangoes” by Kelli Folsom

Oklahoma’s Premier Art Gallery 6432 N. Western Avenue 405.840.4437 | howellgallery.com Visit our website for additional images from the show

3001 United Founders Blvd., Suite A Oklahoma City, OK 73112 PH: 405.942.1234 TheRetirementPath.com

Recipient of the Compass Award for Reinforcing Ethical Standards and a 2013 Beacon Award for Community Service & Volunteerism.

Brenda C. Bolander, SVP; Joe Bowie, Co-President & CEO; Randy Thurman, Co-President & CFO; Chad A. Rudy, EVP; Carol Ringrose Alexander, EVP; Andrew Flinton, EVP.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 31

COMING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TO MIDTOWN

A weekly holiday shopping village featuring your favorite local shops from around the Metro:

Say “I do.”

THE Wedding Resource Guide

Planning to tie the knot? We have you covered. Connect with the metro’s finest nuptial specialists.

MORE INFORMATION AT OKCPOPUPS.COM

32 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

JANUARY 2014

ABSOLUTE

BEDLAM The annual showdown between OU and OSU often approaches Shakespearean levels of drama – to say nothing of the soliloquies found on talk radio – and while in years past it’s occasionally been a comedy of errors, you can at least be certain that this ain’t a tragic romance. The only love Sooners and Cowboys fans share (aside from tailgating) is having their chosen team thrash those brigands from across the state. With over a century of history and both squads among the nation’s top-tier competition, Bedlam has grown crazier than ever. And that’s just the way we like it.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 33

BRUCE WATERFIELD, OSU

BY STEVE GILL

Sterling Shepard

THE HEIGHT OF LUNACY

BEDLAM 2012 There have been lopsided blowouts. There have been tense nail-biters. There have been unbelievable reversals of fortune. There have even been games with more at stake: in 1984 the two teams on Owen Field were #2 and #3 in the country.

There’s never been a better game than this one – November 24, 2012.

The host Sooners were #13, with an 8-2 record and hopes of stealing the conference title from Kansas State, while #21 OSU was 7-3 and looking for a second straight Sooner thrashing. The line was OU by 6.5. They wouldn’t cover that spread.

34 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

The Cowboys stifled the crimson crowd by jumping out to a 14-point lead on two TDs from Joseph Randle. Halfway through the second quarter they seemed in control 17-3 before a flurry of scoring; OU’s oft-maligned Landry Jones shook off an early interception to throw three TD strikes to three different receivers, and tied the game 24-24 at halftime.

OSU came out of the locker room and took control back, trading two Sooner FGs for two Cowboy touchdowns, including the hard-running Randle’s fourth. With three quarters in the books, OSU was up by 8 and Orange Power seemed poised to prevail.

Then they made the mistake of punting to Jalen Saunders, who sprinted 81 yards for a

Joseph Randle

“I don’t think there’s any question there’s a lot of disappointment in the locker room.

I’m very disappointed that we weren’t able to finish. We certainly made enough plays to win the game today.”

– MIKE GUNDY

STILL CRAZY AFTER ALL THESE YEARS Mike Gundy

punt return to tie the game again. OSU doggedly drove the length of the field to retake the lead (45-38) and try to hold on.

They almost made it. Facing fourthand-1 at the OSU 4, with mere seconds left on the clock, Blake Bell crashed into the end zone to send the game to the series’ firstever overtime. In OT, OSU kicked a field goal, Brennan Clay ripped off an 18-yard touchdown and the Sooners won 51-48.

OU never led until the instant the game was over. OSU came into the home

PHOTOS: JOSEPH RANDLE AND MIKE GUNDY BY BRUCE WATERFIELD, OSU; STERLING SHEPARD, BLAKE BELL AND JALEN SAUNDERS BY TY RUSSELL

“Oklahoma State. Ten seconds left. Fourthand-1. That’s why I came here to the University of Oklahoma: To play games like this.”

– BLAKE BELL

Blake Bell

of its ancient foe, one of the nation’s hardest places to win, and built a double-digit lead, then gave it away, built another one and gave it away again. Clint Chelf threw for over 200 yards and led 7 scoring drives, and still lost. Landry Jones threw for 500 yards and three touchdowns to win his last

Since before there was a state of Oklahoma, OU and OSU football teams have struggled for superiority in the Bedlam series. Well … sorta. They didn’t call it that initially – the name was actually coined in reference to the schools’ riotous wrestling matches – and the non-Sooners were technically Oklahoma A&M until 1957. (They also weren’t yet Cowboys in the beginning; the players were Aggies and their mascot was a tiger.) And the series hasn’t been as close as drama-lovers might wish, since the Norman school holds an all-time edge of 83 wins to Stillwater’s 17, with 7 ties … but it has had plenty of milestones.

1904 - First game in the series, finishing with what is to this day the largest margin of victory: Bennie Owen leads OU to a 75-0 (!) triumph

1917 - OK A&M’s first win, 9-0 1929-1934 – OU’s longest drought so far; three ties and three losses in a six-year span. Well done, A&M coach Pappy Waldorf. (That’s a sweet name, too.)

Jalen Saunders

home game at OU, and still wasn’t the hero.

Before kickoff, some OSU fans had to be fantasizing about repeating the postgame feat of destruction they had wrought in their home the year prior by tearing down the Memorial Stadium goalposts – instead they witnessed the building of a legendary chapter in the Bedlam rivalry.

The teams’ seasons swung in separate directions afterward. Possibly a little shellshocked by the loss, OSU – which had been one tackle away from having a solid shot at a BCS bid – dropped their season finale against Baylor and dropped in the postseason positioning all the way down to the Heart of Dallas Bowl, where they pulled themselves together and walloped Purdue.

Meanwhile, OU pulled out a close one over TCU (their fourth one-score victory in a row) to snag a share of the Big 12 title … before an embarrassing loss to Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl. Brushing aside that horror, it remains undeniable that 2012’s Bedlam was one for the ages. Wait ’til this year!

1945 – There is no joy in Norman as OU is handed its worst beatdown of the series; a 47-0 annihilation. But over the next 50 years (1946-1995), OU dominated the series 45-4-1.

1946-1964 – OU’s longest winning streak so far; 19 in a row under the legendary Bud Wilkinson 1972 - first time both teams were ranked coming into Bedlam; #3 OU beat #20 OSU 38-15 1976 – Jim Stanley’s unranked squad upends #5 OU

31-24 in front of 72,000 witnesses, the series’ largest crowd to that point

2001 - OSU gives Bob Stoops his first ever home loss,

as the #4 Sooners are outmatched by an unranked team. The following year, once more unranked, they do it again in Stillwater to an OU squad ranked #3

2009 – The unranked Sooners return the favor by shutting out Mike Gundy’s #12 Cowboys 2012 – Bedlam truly lives up to its name in its firstever overtime installment; OU pulls out a come-frombehind win in one of the series’ greatest games NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 35

Fan Reactions to Bedlams Past and Present NICK HATHAWAY

OU EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Last year – that game was crazy; just an absolute shootout.

When Brennan Clay ran into the end zone and tossed the ball into the air with both hands, that was just nuts. Instant jubilation.

I think it’ll be another really close game this year; of course, I think we’ll win, but the teams look pretty evenly matched to me so far [in September].

I do think it’s going to be a barnburner [this year], and as much as I would love to see OU win, I would predict a 31-28 win for OSU.

CLAYTON TAYLOR

PRINCIPAL OF THE TAYLOR GROUP AND OSU DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS AWARD WINNER

Last year was something else, wasn’t it? But that’s the best the Cowboys have ever done; we’ve been beaten by OU for many, many years, but now the players feel like they can compete and they do compete well. They don’t always win, but they compete very well.

[She’s right: OSU’s 48 points in 2012’s losing effort were an all-time Bedlam record for the Cowboys.]

I have a lot of OSU graduates in my family, and my granddaughters all go to the games. They are big OSU fans. We love it up there, and we laugh and say, “My blood runs orange.”

I’ve been going to Bedlam games for 43 years. The atmosphere is just electric – it’s just a family feud, and it can be both very goodnatured and horribly personal for folks.

We tailgate: Everyone from elected officials, to friends to corporate heads to fraternity brothers to neighbors … and when it’s Bedlam, we make sure that we have orange cups and red cups and do the whole nine yards to make our OU friends feel welcome as well.

I think we could have an incredible Bedlam [this year]. I thought OU would probably beat us last year in Norman, and because the game’s in Stillwater this year I think OSU will probably win. The teams for the last few years have been closely matched, and so the difference-maker is the home field advantage.

Author’s note: I mentioned that all three times I’ve seen OU play in person they’ve lost, and Clayton immediately replied, “Well, we want you to come to this game! Come to Stillwater!”

MIKE POWERS

KIRK HUMPHREYS

I’ve been to lots of Bedlam games, in both places, and there’s no comparison. I mean, you could compare it with an OU-Texas game in certain years, but otherwise there’s nothing like it. Last year’s game in Norman was definitely the most intense I’ve ever seen. It was something else.

We always go to Eskimo Joe’s, for sure, and then just hop around from tailgate to tailgate. The fans are always great in Stillwater, even if I’m wearing red.

It’s a nice town; I like Stillwater. Hideaway Pizza started there.

Of course, everyone goes to Eskimo Joe’s, but Hideaway’s great. And I’ll tell you one thing that OSU fans do a great job of: Tailgating.

[Bedlam] is worse than a family feud; it may be more of a Hatfield and McCoy-type feud. We went so many years where for OSU to beat OU was really rare; then they really got parity with us. It’s a tough rivalry anymore – Stillwater is a really tough place to go play, and I’m sure they feel the same way about us.

NANCY ELLIS

FOUNDING MEMBER OF HERITAGE TRUST AND MEMBER OF OSU ALUMNI HALL OF FAME

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER OF BEN E. KEITH FOODS

36 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

CHAIRMAN OF THE HUMPHREYS COMPANY AND MEMBER OF OU BOARD OF REGENTS

CITY OF STILLWATER

FACES IN THE CROWD

FEEDING FRENZY

Boone Pickens Stadium figures to be the best kind of madhouse on December 7, and out-of-city visitors can have a great, great time just roaming among the tailgaters outside. But for those feeling a bit peckish, the city outside the stadium offers some outstanding treats in the way of eats, starting with a Stillwater icon: If you ask a local, visiting Eskimo Joe’s on game day is like driving in New York City – no one does it, because too many people do it. But it’s a city landmark for a reason; brave the crowd to get a plate of Sweet Peppered Bacon Cheese Fries, a chickenand-pineapple Fowl Thing and a beer (and possibly a T-shirt) and experience it for yourself.

Coney Island – knockout dogs, onion burgers and cheese tots in the heart of the Strip.

Café 88 – If you’re feeling like Asian, or just need a bubble tea fix, it’s quick, inexpensive and super tasty.

Brooklyn’s – An upscale dining experience inspired by the melting pot of cuisine in its namesake New York neighborhood, with menu items from Shrimp and Grits to CoffeeRubbed Ribeye.

Hideaway Pizza – Metro residents should already be intimately familiar with the purveyors of some of the state’s finest, but the pizza powerhouse began in Stillwater, and the flagship franchise is still delicious.

The Strip is also studded with places to toast victory or drown sorrows after the game; specific popular options include Stonewall Tavern, The Basement (underneath Brooklyn’s) and Willie’s Saloon.

Also, of special note for those who still miss the OKC and Norman franchises, Stillwater is home to a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Hint.

The Road to Chaos

It’s a mere 80 miles or so from Norman to Stillwater, and if pigskin pilgrims need to stop along the way they’ll probably do so in the giant metropolis in between.

But once past the Turner Turnpike, there are still a few things to see and do – if you make one detour, make it Pops in Arcadia, home to the vastly varied Soda Ranch. For OU fans, crimson quenchers include Red Rock fruit punch and the Soviet-themed beverage Leninade. (Geddit? It’s a Red soda!) Meanwhile, OSU supporters’ choices include Hank’s Gourmet Orange Cream Soda and a classic orange Faygo – the company is as old as Oklahoma. Or you could have a Blenheim Ginger Ale, because they are delicious.

Also, whichever route you take, there’s probably a Sonic somewhere along the way (for example, there’s one right off I-35 in Guthrie). America’s Drive-In is not only an Oklahoma-born and -based business, they’re currently offering the option to have your favorite team and eat it too: Order a Brisket Cheeseburger and you can specify whether yours comes topped with an edible OU or OSU logo.

The art is made from tapioca starch that’s steamed onto the bun – it doesn’t affect the flavor any more than getting a photo iced on top of a cake does. Awesome, right? Now you can scoff, “Sooners? Pfft – I eat OU for lunch! With tater tots!”

GAZING INTO THE MANIC 8-BALL

Everyone loves an underdog … but the question this time is “Which team is that?”

While the Sooners have historically had the Cowboys’ number, numbers go out the window when the teams take the field. The weight of history pales in comparison to the 300 pounds of OSU senior DT Calvin Barnett crushing an unprotected quarterback, and a past 19-game win streak is small comfort when watching Josh Stewart streak past defenders on his way to the house.

On paper, OSU looked like the superior squad to begin 2013: They were, in fact, the preseason favorite to win the Big 12, in part because they returned 15 starters, including Barnett and Stewart, both considered among the league’s best at

their positions. Through the first part of the season, J.W. Walsh played brilliantly, while OU struggled with its quarterback situation before Trevor Knight’s knee injury. Plus, the Cowboys have home field advantage. On the other hand, just before press time OU produced a win to remember against Notre Dame while OSU had a week they’d rather forget in Morgantown.

Blake Bell has proven that he can throw as well as gallop and talents like Trey Millard and Charles Tapper and Alvin Colvin are proven playmakers at their positions … and you may have heard the term “Sooner magic” before.

One thing appears certain, even this far in advance: This installment in the ongoing saga will be a doozy. Two of the conference’s top teams, each with a week off beforehand to rest and prepare, closing out their regular seasons in a century-plus rivalry game, almost certainly on national television and in front of more than 60,000 screaming fans? The only way it could be better is if they’re both highly ranked.

Saints and angels, what if they’re both in the top 10? The stakes would be immense, the energy levels through the roof – the whole experience would be … would be … … Bedlam.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 37

Happy 405! in the

Is This a Great Area Code or What?

By John Parker

WE DON’T WANT TO BRAG, BUT … LET’S ADMIT IT – LIVING IN THE HEART OF OKLAHOMA IS KIND OF A BIG DEAL. WE BOAST ONE OF THE BEST TEAMS IN THE NBA. WE WERE INVITED TO THE WORLD FRIENDLINESS CHAMPIONSHIP LAST YEAR, BUT THE CONTEST WAS WHISTLED OVER WHEN THE COMPETITION UNANIMOUSLY VOTED US THE NICEST PEOPLE EVER. A CROWD SURROUNDING THE MOST INTERESTING MAN IN THE WORLD TOSSED DOWN THEIR RED SOLO CUPS AND STRAYED OFF WHEN HE CONFESSED HE’D NEVER BEEN HERE. WE MUST BE DOING SOMETHING RIGHT.

BOOM!

First, OKC’s reveling in a boomtown renaissance. The city’s bursting with the civic-minded energy and enterprise that animated our founders a century ago – when the nation’s newest state was only 6 years old and “progress” was boundless. Entrepreneurs, the business sector and community ventures are building, literally, on their prosperous past. Rescued districts and locales – Automobile Alley, Ninth Street, Midtown, Uptown, Western Avenue – have rumbled back to life like restored Model Ts. 38 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

BELLY UP

Choices are juicier than ever for gastronomic journeys. The wafting aroma of smoked and fried honey chicken wings at one of OKC’s legendary pre-fad food trailers – Bobo’s on the northeast side – compels post-club partiers to queue up at 3 a.m. The local-food movement drives a carafe of never-before-seen restaurant concepts. And still the fryers run deep for local traditions of fried okra and chicken-fried steak.

RIDERS OF THE STORMS

As 405ers, we’re always first in line for the roller coaster thrill ride of our annual riot of spring: tornado and storm season. Thanks to our Big Sky and long, low horizons, you can marvel at an angry black wall cloud ominously descending like an ink drop in a glass of blue water. From 20 or 30 miles away, your eyes will widen taking in a towering white-jellyfish thunderhead crawling slowly across the plains like a majestic white castle borne by furious magic carpets. It’s a show so spectacular that tornado tourists pay for it; we get it for free.

“As one of the sunniest regions of the country, nothing beats the opportunity to stroll the OU campus and enjoy the amenities of Norman, which offer a small-town feel and big-city entertainment.”

– CINDY ROSENTHAL, NORMAN MAYOR

PHOTOS: BRICKTOWN COURTESY OKC CVB, WEATHER BY DAVID EWOLDT, RUSSELL WESTBROOK

BY JP WILSON, REDHAWKS COURTESY OKC REDHAWKS, KRYSTAL KEITH BY KRISTIN BARLOWE

GLORIOUS GLOAMING

And, oh, the sunsets. When one’s blazing, the only thing lighting up more in central Oklahoma is Instagram. The last stand of each of our days seems best when contrasted against a sky full of billowing altocumulus, or high, cirrus sheet-clouds spilled across the horizon. Oklahoma’s pure air amplifies the brilliance as fading light slowly sprinkles dyes of scarlet, orange, fleece blue, cotton-candy pink, yellow or silver-gray until a blood-orange sun winks “see y’all later.”

SLAM DUNKS …

Our sports are nothing short of Thunderous. Our NBA franchise has muscled its way into every post-season playoff since 2009. Diehard fans and a global audience were treated to a Cinderella tale with the team’s upstart shot at the championship in 2012. No other state has two college football teams less than 80 miles apart that regularly rank among the nation’s Top 20 in pre-season polls. (And they’re both in the 405!)

… AND HOME RUNS

Let’s not forget the other sports competing to show us a grand time. When the RedHawks are in town, bark at the kids to slip on their baseball gloves for a trip to Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Or watch the plexiglass rattle and wobble from your rink-side seat as a Barons sniper slams an opponent for your personal hockey-viewing pleasure. Smell the freshly trimmed grass when the women of OU softball, the current defending national champions, jog onto the field.

“I love the spirit of the people. They are friendly, hard-working, hard-loving people and are always willing to lend a hand. With all of the tragedy our community has faced over the years, I have seen us rise to the challenges and time and time again come out on top.

We join together and become family and do what needs to be done to make sure our family members are taken care of and get back on their feet.”

- KRYSTAL KEITH, COUNTRY SINGER-SONGWRITER AND DAUGHTER OF TOBY KEITH

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 39

AW, SHUCKS

It’s easy to smile, too, basking in the ample flattery from national media.

Like tornado sirens on Saturdays, they regularly trumpet compliments like “one of the 10 best places for good jobs,” “No. 2 for small businesses,” “among the fastest-growing cities,” etc.

CHA-CHING

Shopping choices abound. The convenience of the Outlet Shoppes on I-40 mercifully disposed of the traditional credit-card fog and slog south to Gainesville. Edmond’s Festival Market Place has turned downtown shopping into an event. The civic dream of downtown Norman as a destination spot is fully realized.

“I love living in the 405 because of the potential and opportunities to grow a business and impact your community.”

- SHARRON JACKSON-GLOVER, PRESIDENT, BLACK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

You might live in the 405, if …

… you’ve explained what lamb fries are to friends from out of town. Or you’ve been very bad by keeping your mouth shut and insisting on picking up the check at Cattlemen’s. … you know that scheduling any event, including weddings, on a football Saturday guarantees social suicide. … during the Bedlam game, someone at your home watch party somehow suffers a significant leg wound in your backyard, hobbles in, and insists, “The bleeding’s not that bad! Don’t call 911 – unless they have the game on.” … you think driving 50.7 miles from Piedmont’s Surrey Hills to the Lloyd Noble Center is a milk run. … even though you live in a metro bathed in streetlights by night, you or someone you know has a story about a harrowing possum, skunk or raccoon encounter. … someone self-righteously points out that our painted buffalo sculptures all over the metro are technically “bison.”

Then you vow to yourself that you will never call them bison. … you gesture wildly in a heartfelt conversation about why your favorite meteorologist will – seriously! – save your friend’s very life.

40 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

“My family is here, my memories are here, and I am making my life with my husband here. I can’t see myself living anywhere else. Each day there is something new to see or talk about.

From the historical buildings with beautiful architecture to the fun nightlife downtown, there is never a dull moment – not to mention the awesome sporting events going on in our city, like Thunder games!”

- JADA, THUNDER GIRL

PHOTOS: BARONS HOCKEY COURTESY OKC BARONS, EXPRESS RANCH BY SIMON HURST, THUNDER GIRL COURTESY OKC THUNDER

“Working together with friendly people who look you in the eye, work hard and treat others with respect as we go about living in the great state of Oklahoma.”

– CHARLES LAMB, EDMOND MAYOR

HAPPYFESTS

We live in a place where finding a favorite annual festival is far easier than choosing what to eat when you get there. Edmond’s LibertyFest is an American classic – a top 10 “place to be” on the Fourth of July, CNN says. Norman’s Medieval Fair lures more people to town than a football game day. OKC’s Festival of the Arts ushers in spring and Red Earth dances Oklahoma’s tribes into the hearts of thousands.

“We’ve got arts, we’ve got sports. We’ve got artists, we’ve got athletes. We have many people to support them and the city to support us.”

- MIKI KAWAMURA, PRINCIPAL DANCER, OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET “I love growing as a band in a city that is constantly growing around us as well. It’s like living in a big city with a small-town feel. Everyone is supportive of the arts and it makes it easier to pursue what we want to do.”

– CAMERON NEAL, LEAD SINGER OF HORSE THIEF

A-YIP-AYE-YO-EE-AY!

PHOTOS: ARTS FESTIVAL AND CANAL COURTESY OKC CVB, BALLET COURTESY OKC BALLET, CAMERON NEAL BY DOUG SCHWARZ

The 405 is a place where more than a few prefer “exercising” with some rounds at the indoor shooting range over bowling. Where 24,000 runners and walkers from around the nation and world step up for the Run to Remember, the OKC Memorial Marathon.

Where you can be super-conservative or defiantly liberal, but if you’re both OSU fans, you’ll swap rounds of local craft beer while setting each other straight.

THE LITTLE THINGS

In the end, though, the ultimate reason to be happy in the 405 is us and what we do. Once a year, some of us hang a stadium chair in the crook of an elbow and scan for a good seat at Edlam, the gridiron rivalry between Edmond Santa Fe and Edmond North. On a day of reverence, a home cook may cheerfully wave away children pining for a tiny taste of peach cobbler before worship is over. Our magnificent weather inspires an awe exceeded only by our admiration for the resilient survivors among us when a twisting behemoth scrapes away a neighborhood.

“The people of this city are warm, friendly, unpretentious, creative, hard-working and have good common sense. It’s no wonder this city is on the rise! I’m blessed and honored to call the 405 home.”

– SCOTIA MOORE, SHILOH CAMP, MOTHER OF NINE

FRIENDS IN ALL PLACES

Our kind ranges from cable TV stars hooking on to the nationwide fascination with redneck reality (Newalla’s Don “Katt Daddy” Brewer of “Mudcats”) to one of the 100 richest people on the planet (Harold Hamm of Continental Resources). Wherever we stand along that spectrum, any small differences we have fade away once a year with the last of the summer heat. As fall’s staging crew arrives to swap out the colors of the leaves, we all gather in spirit at the State Fair, jab a white plastic fork into an Indian taco, look around and say, “Ain’t it great to live in the 405!”

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 41

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Discerning Design | SPACES

At Home With History

By Steve Gill // Photos by Carli Wentworth

LIVING IN THE PAST CAN BE A GOOD THING. When the comfort and conveniences of modern life are successfully integrated with the lasting architectural elegance of houses whose beauty continues to amaze after nearly a century, the results are wondrous indeed. A neighborhood rich with these marvels invites you to see for yourself, by taking the 47th annual Heritage Hills Historic Homes Tour.

THE 2013 HERITAGE HILLS HISTORIC HOMES TOUR

326 N.W. 16th Street Home of William Carey

One of the most recently built homes on the tour (though still more than 80 years old) has roots in Moorish architecture – and in Oklahoma City history. Shortly after its construction it was home to a U.S. ambassador, and the chairman of the board of Oklahoma’s largest bank lived here for nearly 50 years. Before moving in, the Careys made extensive repairs and updates, but left the character of the home intact, so that it looks much as it did when originally built in 1929.

Don’t-miss details: Carey wasn’t kidding when he said this home’s architectural details reward inspection: it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the magnificence of the two-story great room with its huge ceiling beams, thick curving archways and rich tapestries – but look closer to see that those beams are handpainted, and the sconces in the spiral staircase are winged serpents. Still, Carey says his favorite spaces are the sunny backyard under twin magnolias, and his pecan-paneled library.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 43

1715 N. Hudson Avenue Home of Dr. Diana Hampton

This expansive home was built by the renowned dentist-turneddeveloper G.A. “Doc” Nichols, the most prolific builder in Heritage Hills from 1917 to 1922. With a building permit of a whopping $25,000 for this twenty-room home, it was not only the first home Nichols built in the neighborhood, but also his most expensive. Today the light-filled house still contains original architectural features reflecting Nichols’ love of Southwestern architecture, as well as the tasteful updates and renovations of subsequent homeowners, like Dr. Hampton’s immaculate and inviting kitchen.

Of special note: Observe the almost coral-colored table in the front entryway; it didn’t belong to Dr. Hampton, but the home’s previous owners left it behind because its marble matches the fireplace surround, and they felt it should stay with the house.

Chair Marsha Funk and co-chair Katy Leffel organized the scenic ramble through one of OKC’s most beautiful neighborhoods. The five occupied homes on the tour are prime examples of the diverse ways residents honor the historic character of their houses (many consider themselves stewards rather than owners) without sacrificing contemporary amenities or style, and visitors will find varied decorative schemes, information about renovations and restorations and historical tidbits along the way. Special treats this year include a Jazz Age fashion exhibit at the Overholser Mansion, vintage automobiles at the homes and an optional narrated neighborhood walking tour, plus deli items and pastries from Ingrid’s Kitchen and even a gift shop.

Wander as you will – it’s a self-guided tour whose stops can be seen in any order – on Saturday and Sunday, November 2-3, from noon to 5 p.m. To see the homes in a whole new light during the Friday night Twilight Tour and enjoy the accompanying gala at the Oklahoma Heritage Museum, call 405.620.1061.

Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Heritage Hills Associate Board of Historic Preservation Inc., dedicated to maintaining Oklahoma City’s architectural and cultural legacy. That’s the purpose of the tour as well; an entertaining and informative event that helps to ensure the protection of cultural landmarks for future generations. Isn’t that a worthy legacy in itself?

44 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Discerning Design | SPACES

322 N.W. 15th Street Home of Dr. Adam de la Garza and Corey Phillips Frank J. Wikoff (one of the founders of Stillwater) loaded this 1916 home in the young state’s capital with distinctive architectural accoutrements: stone window sills, a mock tower, walnut paneling in the dining room (supposedly cut from a single tree), copper front doors and more. Decades later, the English manor has amassed a distinguished history of hospitality and graciousness – and it still looks fantastic.

Inspired design: “I love the main floor’s great room,” says Dr. de la Garza, calling it “a concept ahead of its time.” He also speaks highly of that dining room paneling, and the enduring character of the quartersawn oak floors.

300 N.W. 15th Street Home of Kyle and Sara Sweet

This Georgian home’s exterior remains virtually unchanged from 1921, when it was built for a rich cotton buyer from Ardmore, while the interior still houses some examples of cutting-edge (for the Jazz Age) technology, like an intercom telephone system linking the upper and lower floors with the servants’ quarters behind the garage. Later residents, including the Sweets, have seamlessly introduced more current technological enhancements to meet the needs of a 21st-century family.

Homeowner’s favorite touch: When asked, Sara Sweet immediately praised the central staircase that pulls entrants’ eyes upward to a massive wooden pedestal topped by “Buffalo Trails,” a bronze by Colorado sculptor Jim Gilmore. Visitors may also notice that each of the home’s fireplaces has a different surround, all of which are original to the home.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 45

SPACES | Discerning Design

440 N.W. 16th Street Home of Michael and Katherine Nichols

Maintaining the vintage architecture of this 1937 English manor house is a point of pride for Michael and Katherine – it was Michael’s childhood home, after all – but since they have a family of their own, it required some modernization. The result is a tour de force that weds a snazzy new kitchen and redesigned upstairs with traditional comfort.

Check it out: Katherine enthuses, “The bay window seat overlooking the pool; my kitchen with its big island; the butterfly wallpaper on the ceiling [in the dining room] – I love it all!”

The wall covered in black-and-white family photos is a lovely decorative decision as well.

405 N.W. 15th Street Overholser Mansion

The grand edifice that serves as Tour Central was built pre-statehood, on a grassy hill that was at that point well removed from Oklahoma City proper. Over a century later, it still contains the original furnishings and belongings of the Overholser family – chairs, dishes, silverware, even children’s toys. It’s an unusually clear and fascinating portrait of a bygone age, in a magnificent house that looks right at home among its historic neighbors.

PRESENTING THE PAST

Admission is $15 on the days of the tour but $12 in advance; get tickets at heritagehills.org/hh or at these Oklahoma City locations: F ine Western Wear Double D Ranchwear • Tasha Polizzi Love Tokens • Ryan Michael Johnny Was • Patricia Wolf & more One North Broadway Edmond, OK 73034

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46 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

23rd Street Antique Mall – 3023 N.W. 23rd Street Country Temptations – 4801 N. MacArthur Boulevard 42nd Street Candy Company – 4200 N. Western Avenue Full Circle Bookstore – 50 Penn Place, 1900 N.W. Expressway Ingrid’s Kitchen – N.W. 36th Street & Youngs Boulevard Overholser Mansion – 405 N.W. 15th Street Prairie Thunder Baking Co. – 1114 N. Classen Drive (Plaza Court) Shady Lady Interiors – 11715 S. Western Avenue Wings of Desire – 2315 N. Hudson Avenue

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NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 47

SPACES | Discerning Design

Hanukkah coincides with Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 28) this year.

Beginning at sunset the evening before Thanksgiving (Wednesday, November 27), the Barton family will observe the annual tradition of dinner around a finely appointed table, which will include latkes (traditional potato pancakes) and other favorite dishes, followed by the lighting of the Shamash (the candle from which the others in the menorah are lighted) and the opening of a gift for each family member.

48 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Celebrating the

Festival of Lights

By Lauren Hammack // Photos by Carli Wentworth

IF THE BEAUTY OF ANY HOLIDAY COULD BE CAPTURED IN A SINGLE PLACE, THAT HOLIDAY WOULD BE HANUKKAH AND THE PLACE WOULD BE SHERRY BARTON’S OKLAHOMA CITY HOME. Barton, whose petite stature belies her larger-thanlife personality, celebrates Hanukkah in much the same way she celebrates life: Go big or go home. She readily admits that she “might go a little overboard” with her Hanukkah decorations, which include a collection of almost 50 menorahs she’s collected from all over the world throughout the past several decades.

However, the result is a stunning visual tribute to the Festival of Lights that fills her lovely home.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 49

SPACES | Discerning Design

A FEW OF BARTON’S FAVORITE MENORAHS “My father was part of that ‘Greatest Generation,’” Barton says, explaining the special significance of an American flag menorah she keeps in honor of her father, a WWII veteran who served as an artillery captain in the Pacific.

For Barton, as with many families who celebrate Hanukkah, the holiday represents the joy of family togetherness, a central theme throughout the Barton family’s Hanukkah traditions. “We make it a major holiday in our family,” Barton explains. “Hanukkah represents such a happy time for us and I love making these memories for my grandchildren.”

A favorite from Barton’s menorah collection is this depiction of famous synagogues of the Western world, which has the Gate of Jerusalem in the center.

Her fondness for shoes is represented by this “shoe menorah,” a gift from one of Barton’s observant girlfriends.

Taking the place of a traditional mantel, a unique decorative piece that Barton purchased more than 40 years ago (constructed of horseshoe nails) serves as the perfect display for the many ornaments – each one with its own story – that Barton has collected over the years.

In addition to an extensive collection of menorahs, Barton’s Hanukkah decor includes a variety of dreidels, which can be found throughout her home. Barton, who travels frequently to deliver motivational speeches, notes that she’s always “on the lookout” for Judaical mementoes during her travels.

50 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

One of Barton’s favorite destinations is New York City, represented by two menorahs – one capturing the famous city’s skyline and another depicting the Statue of Liberty and the arrival of immigrants at Ellis Island.

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TRAVEL | Getting Away

A HOME FOR ALL SEASONS HERE’S THE CLOSEST I CAN GET TO DESCRIBING P. ALLEN SMITH: HE’S MARTHA STEWART WITHOUT THE PRISON RECORD. HE COOKS, HE GARDENS, HE DECORATES, HE PAINTS AND HE RAISES HERITAGE CHICKENS. HE LOOKS LIKE THE IDEAL KID BROTHER, WITH A WINNING SMILE AND FRIENDLY DEMEANOR, AND HE MAKES EVERYTHING LOOK EASY. The TV host and expert on gardening and design lives at Moss Mountain Farm, 30 minutes northeast of Little Rock, covering 600+ acres and including a mile and a half of Arkansas River frontage. His house looks like it’s been sitting there for over a century, but it’s actually only six years old – before building, Smith made a careful study of 1830s and 1840s farm homes within a 150-mile radius, taking into account room proportions, window casings and other details. Within this historically correct framework, he incorporated a number of green features, including a radiant solar roof and soybean-based insulation, into the construction.

Both the exterior and interior ref lect the Greek Revival style. Smith collects Southern-made furniture from the early 19th century, and many of the pieces in his home ref lect that passion. The art on the walls is eclectic – some old English works, some pieces by Southern artists and a number of paintings by Smith himself. Spacious coffee tables are stacked with books ref lecting his many interests.

The gleaming kitchen is ready for serious cooking: It houses a huge Viking range with double ovens, six burners and an ample griddle. A large island and generous 52 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

By Elaine Warner

PHOTOS: P. ALLEN SMITH, BUTTERFLY, CHICKENS AND FLOWERS BY ELAINE WARNER ; ALL OTHERS COURTESY PALLENSMITH.COM

counter space allow plenty of room for preparation – it’s a perfect work area, if you can keep from looking out the large windows at the view instead of concentrating on food.

Smith graciously allows visitors to explore his whole house, to enjoy the f lower and vegetable gardens and even to have lunch along with their tour. If he’s not off filming one of his shows, he’s apt to lead the tour himself.

GO PLAY OUTSIDE

The grounds are as amazing as the house. Several huge oak trees dot the property; the largest, in front of the house, is called “Big Sister” and is estimated to be 350 years old.

In spring, the rolling landscape glows with brilliant yellow daffodils – now about 300,000 of them. Smith and his staff plant more every year. In summer, the gardens explode into a rainbow of color – purple liatris, bronze and yellow day lilies, white daisies with buttery centers – every color and

flower that will grow in Arkansas is probably right here! An acre-spanning vegetable patch and stone fruit garden supply a wide variety of vegetables, herbs and fruits used on the farm. Fall brings new hues with salvia, sage and colorful chrysanthemums, and the house takes on a holiday look. Lots of work? Yes. Does Smith do it all himself?

Of course not. But there’s not a garden task that he isn’t more than qualified to perform. He grew up on a farm, owned and operated a garden center and has amassed impeccable formal landscape training.

Though completely down-to-earth, he’s a certified fellow of Britain’s Royal Horticultural Society – veddy, veddy classy.

While a graduate student in garden design and history at the University of Manchester in England, he became acquainted with Lord and Lady Ashbrook, whose Cheshire estate has been in the family since the 1400s and includes the family seat of Arley Hall. Smith’s rose garden, a classic space with an ornate iron gate, is dedicated to Lady Elizabeth Ashbrook. In

spite of the English connection, the majority of the Moss Mountain roses are Noisettes – the first American class of roses, bred in Charleston in the early 1800s.

WHO’S A CHICKEN?

In addition to classic American plants, Smith promotes the breeding of heritage sheep and poultry. His love of chickens goes back to his childhood, as he demonstrates when regaling visitors with the story of his first bird. “I was about nine,” he says, “and I was in downtown McMinnville, Tennessee, with my mom … and there was a little chicken running loose. Some men were whittling on the sidewalk and I asked them who the chicken belonged to. They didn’t know, but said it had fallen off a truck and if I could catch it, it could be mine.

“I got a hot dog bun from a nearby fiveand-dime and laid a trail for the chicken. It was in front of the open door to a women’s store when I lunged for it. The chicken f lew into the store … and under the door of a dressing room. I dived in. All I could NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 53

see was bare ankles and the little brown hen huddled in the corner. I grabbed it – and I never looked up!”

In 2009, Smith founded the Heritage Poultry Conservancy to promote and preserve threatened strains of domestic poultry through education, good breeding practices and stewardship. He raises several breeds of heritage poultry on his farm, including Buff Orpington chickens, Sebastopol geese and black turkeys.

Y’ALL COME

Visitors can tour Moss Mountain Farm either on an Open House day or with a privately scheduled group. The tour of the farm includes the house and terraced gardens, and a wonderful lunch. If Smith himself is in attendance, there are opportunities for photos and book signings. The gift shop is a treasure and a pleasure at all times. Be aware, though, that no tours are given during the months of January, February, July and August. You’ll find everything you need to know at pallensmith.com.

Smith has also written several books and produces television series including “P. Allen Smith’s Garden to Table,” which airs on OETA. Check local listings for air times.

Whether you visit in person or by television, whatever the season, Moss Mountain Farm is a delight. And so is P. Allen Smith.

54 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

PHOTOS: BATHTUB BY ELAINE WARNER ; ALL OTHERS COURTESY PALLENSMITH.COM

TRAVEL | Getting Away

After years of doing business as both companies, Young Brothers has retired the Southwest Tile name.

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TRAVEL | Wanderlust

77 COUNTIES: GRANT COUNTY

A STORY OF SURPASSING THE POSTER SPRANG UP IN A MATTER OF HOURS, 80 FEET LONG AND 10 FEET HIGH, PLASTERED IN SECTIONS ON THE SIDE OF A BARN NEAR THE RAILROAD TRACKS IN LAMONT, NORTHERN OKLAHOMA TERRITORY. It heralded a touring show that would play in nearby Blackwell for one day only: October 27, 1900. Bold letters proclaimed “The Only Real Wild West Show in Existence: Pawnee Bill’s Historic Wild West” and vowed it would be …

“Surpassing in Truthfulness … Intensity and Instructive Features … Any Exhibition of This Century.”

Images swirled in vivid reds, bright yellows and electric blues, a garish fever dream of horse-ridin’, gun-totin’, sharp-shootin’, lasso-twirlin’, buffalo-huntin’ cowboys and vaqueros, galloping by Indians raiding a

56 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

covered wagon, and a thundering U.S. Cavalry charge, and a regiment of the renowned Imperial Cossacks – Cossacks, I say! – from Russia, where Czar Nicholas II still sat on the throne, and skilled English horsemen, subjects of the long-reigning Queen Victoria, galloping past Pueblo tribes and near a mariachi band. Anchoring the frenzy of excitement are serene portrait vignettes of the show’s Wild West royalty: the Oklahoma showman Pawnee Bill himself, with his wife, Quaker-born sharpshooter May Lillie, entertainers as colorful as the poster itself.

This marvel of a show – “with 1,000 people and horses employed” – thrived in an era when real-life legends of the Old West, from Geronimo to Annie Oakley, were featured stars. The troupes toured here and abroad, entertaining throngs before the craze for movies and modernization took hold and the shadow of World War I crept closer.

Pawnee Bill and his crew came and went from Blackwell, doing the Oct. 27 show with covered seating for 10,000 people. Life in Lamont resumed. Soon, smaller handbills advertising coming attractions dotted the giant Pawnee Bill barnside.

Months later, the barn was converted into a storefront more suited for a territory on the verge of statehood. The roof was extended and an addition built. The old wall was boarded over as the building became Lamont’s first drug store, purchased by pharmacist Andrew Trimper Beegle in 1903. By 1911, he would move to Alva to operate Beegle Brothers’ Owl Drug

TRUTHFULNESS with his brother, Bert. He sold the Lamont business to Harry Courtney, who ran it as Courtney Drug for 46 years.

The poster inside the walls was long forgotten as the place at the corner of Main and Jefferson became a favorite Lamont hangout, beloved for its owner’s gentle ways and for its soda fountain, where ice cream cones were sold for a nickel each.

Its annual quarter-page ad in the Lamont High School Red Devil Yearbook touted its slogan: “A Good Store in a Good Town.”

Tony Almond bought the business in 1957, but the place eventually closed as downtown contracted and Lamont residents drove southwest to Enid or northeast to Blackwell or Ponca City to shop.

With little use for the old building, the town decided to have its firefighters knock it down in 1982 to make way for the new firehouse. Midway through the destruction, as they peeled back an unexpected lattice and a layer of plaster, they uncovered

By M.J. Alexander

the astoundingly vivid and larger-than-life Pawnee Bill poster.

The demolition team halted its work, fascinated. Someone said an expert should be called in. Glen McIntyre, curator of the Chisholm Trail Museum in Kingfisher, was sent up to take a look.

The historical world was agog. The Smithsonian is said to have called it “the find of the century.” The state earmarked $15,000 for its careful restoration at St. Gregory’s in Shawnee.

The Lamont workers carefully dismantled the wall and numbered its 154 boards, each averaging 10 feet long. Martin Wiesendanger, former head of Tulsa’s Gilcrease Museum, headed a small crew working with hot water and sponges to remove the more recent posters that had been glued on top and to save the delicate paper artwork beneath.

He told an interviewer at the time of the poster’s unveiling: “The faces are so good,

they’re not done by any hack. I’ve never seen such life and action put into a lousy circus poster. That’s a Remington Indian or God didn’t make little green apples.”

Although 14 feet of the original was lost to rotting lumber, 66 feet of the mural was salvaged and restored. The luminescent result was displayed in the East Gallery of the Oklahoma Capitol from late 1983 until early 1984, when it was installed in a custom-made glass case in a carriage barn on the Pawnee Bill Ranch, where it remains on permanent exhibit.

Thirty years later, an appraiser from the season-opening episode of Antiques Roadshow made the trek to the Pawnee to look at the poster.

His assessment: priceless.

Editor’s Note: This is the 15th installment in a continuing series as author and photographer M.J. Alexander chronicles her travels across the state of Oklahoma.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 57

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From India to Oklahoma City | COMMUNITY

A Passion for People

Behavioral psychiatrist Dr. R. Murali Krishna is president and COO of Integris Mental Health, as well as co-founder and president of the James L. Hall Jr. Center for Mind, Body and Spirit. The following excerpt, part of an ongoing series, is from his recent book, “Vibrant: To Heal and Be Whole,” co-authored by Kelly Dyer Fry, in which Dr. Krishna recounts the difficult journey of his own life and uses those experiences to encourage readers toward choosing to become happier, more purposeful people.

A CAREER EVOLVES MORE. Murali simply wanted to do more.

His realization and acknowledgement of his mother’s impact on his life tugged at his heart and spirit.

“I was moved to honor her memory. I started sharing my story with others.” Murali did not know where his path would lead him, but he knew it could involve change.

“I wanted to create more things for Oklahomans that they didn’t have. I wanted to create something longer lasting, more permanent. I wanted to impact more lives.”

He shared these thoughts with a friend, James L. Hall, Jr., a local attorney.

Hall and Murali had discussions about stress management. Hall expressed interest for having a resource center in Oklahoma for the mind-body connection. Hall had done legal work for Baptist Medical Center. He was aware that Integris Health was being formed and knew there could be possibilities for Murali. But what? The discussions began to take shape. The seed had been planted and Murali knew change was in his future.

But change can bring pain. Saint Anthony Hospital had been his home for 17 years.

“I had never been any place that long. We had a great relationship. We had nurtured each other. It was home.”

Hall was president of a national association for health care attorneys, a graduate of Harvard. He had a national stage, and brought the Rev. Bill Carpenter, director of pastoral care at Baptist, into the conversation. At the same time, Murali was discussing the connection between mind and body with Dr. Bill Hawley, a well-known cardiac surgeon. Hawley invited Murali and Sam to his ranch for a discussion with Stanley Hupfeld, chief administrator of the now-forming Integris Health.

“He asked me to come, sit down and talk about my dreams.”

Murali didn’t know exactly what he wanted, but he knew it involved the mind, body and spirit. Hupfeld wanted him to create Integris Mental Health. Murali was up for the challenge, but there were still hurdles to jump.

Hupfeld gave Murali the opportunity to present his mental health concepts to the Integris staff. It was overwhelmingly accepted by all those in attendance. “They took a chance on me. What I was bringing was really pie in the sky.”

While it was hard for Murali to leave Saints – “especially the doctors and the sisters” – he wouldn’t even consider leaving his practice and the doctors with whom he had worked side by side.

“Surprisingly, Drs. Charlie Smith and Bob Outlaw embraced it.”

The final agreement was reached after the whole group met for what was almost a five-hour dinner. Dr. John Andrus, Dr. Twyla Smith and all the others agreed to follow Murali to Integris Mental Health.

The next step focused on the mind, body, spirit connection.

“Jim Hall and I talked and talked about the mind, body, spirit connection. He brought the people together to make it happen. When he died of cancer, I wanted to name it the James L. Hall Jr. Center for Mind, Body and Spirit. I wanted him to be remembered for his efforts.”

The website best describes its mission: “The Integris James L. Hall Jr. Center for Mind, Body and Spirit is working to create a more compassionate, open-minded and effective model of health care and health education. This model addresses not just the physical dimensions of health and illness, but the mental, emotional, social and spiritual dimensions as well. It is grounded in a conviction that all of us have a great and largely untapped capacity to understand ourselves, to improve our own health and well-being and to help one another.”

It provides services in the areas of training, education, workshops and a media center with more than 2,000 books, journals and videos available to the public. The center has hosted a plethora of speakers, including Deepak Chopra, Rob Lowe and more.

“The center strives to educate people on the powers of the mind.”

Initially there were skeptics. “Doctors would say to me, ‘Why are you getting mixed up in that Shirley MacLaine-out-on-a-limb type stuff? But once they heard me out, I could convince them.”

Murali knew the only way to convince the medical community was through science.

“I spoke at a dinner one time. When dinner ran late and the crowd started getting stressed, I pointed out to them that their chance of a heart attack just went up 230 percent. Anger increases your chances by that much. They had asked me to speak for 20 minutes, but they kept me more than an hour asking questions.

“I shared with them that I used to have panic attacks as a teen. I learned to calm myself. Through trial and error, I learned to meditate and control it. I have taught many patients the same technique. At the time, we didn’t know the brain can be changed. But it can be altered by the experiences we give it.”

Murali knows that depression and anxiety affect every part of the body.

“In science, we know the telomeres inside our chromosomes shorten and cause aging. In depression, the telomeres shorten faster. You can physically see people age with depression.”

The mind, body, spirit center was one of many developments launched by Integris Mental Health. Another program dear to Murali’s heart is Decisions, a dayhospital program. Often, patients do not need severe inpatient treatment, but they still need intensive treatment. The Decisions program brings patients together for a two- to four-week session that runs from morning until late afternoon. They spend time in both individual and group counseling. Their medication is regulated NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 59

COMMUNITY | From India to Oklahoma City

and they focus on learning skills to stabilize their life. The Decisions program treats depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and other mental health problems. It also added an adolescent program and chemical dependency to its list of offerings.

“We get people of all types. We have professionals, executives, mothers, fathers – everyone you can think of. They share a common connection and work well in a

group setting. An important aspect of this treatment is to identify the stress triggers and the dysfunctional thinking in feelings and relationships. We try to help them to learn different ways of looking at things.

They learn different reactions and different behaviors. We give them tools to quiet the mind.

“Nutrition plays a strong role too. We teach them that what they put into their bodies plays a role in their emotional health.”

The move to Integris has been fruitful for Murali. “They have given me deep roots and a connection to more people. All my roles have been to further my mission.

I didn’t need to take on all the positions of responsibility like the County Medical Board, but I saw them as a way to further my cause. Eventually people stopped seeing me as a brown man with an accent.

“They see me as a man who is passionate about mental illness and emotional wellness.”

Dr. R. Murali Krishna on

CONNECTEDNESS: GIVING MEANING TO LIFE LIFE IS LIVED TO ITS FULLEST WHEN WE CONNECT WITH ONE ANOTHER. Connectedness.

If we can strip away all the trappings of life and reach our inner spirit, we can connect with others at the same level. That is what happens in a tragedy. Everything is stripped away. We reach out to each other. We touch each other at a very deep level – a spiritual level. That’s humanity as it should be.

If we could capture the love and compassion that f lows during times of crisis and bottle it up, our world would be a better place.

When people unite around a common event – even if that event is a tragedy – they will grow. They will grow as individuals and they will grow as a community. They will heal. They will connect.

Connecting begins when we accept our mortality. When we embrace and accept that every life is finite, we start to see life through new eyes. The value of your life goes up dramatically when you acknowledge that it is fleeting.

Many people live their day-to-day lives focusing on the temporary aspects of life, taking comfort in their sensory experiences. They like their house, their car and their clothes.

But all aspects of your life are temporary.

And none of those sensory perceptions changes your spirit. You have the same spirit you were born with – the same soul. The essence of who you are has never changed. Life experiences may alter how you perceive things, but you are still you.

So as you feel, hear, smell and taste, ask yourself this: “Who is it that is experiencing this sensation? Who is the person with dreams? Feelings? Talents?

60 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

“Who is the real me?”

As scientists, we can determine all physiological functions of the body. But at some point, the scientific pathway to enlightenment stops. From a functional perspective, we know how we see, taste or feel. We know that nerves are stimulated and send signals. But all science ends there.

It doesn’t answer the fundamental question. Who is receiving the signal? Science can’t take us beyond the question we should be asking ourselves: “Who is the real me?”

And how will I connect?

Reaching out.

We can connect with our fellow man in many ways – even in the absence of trauma.

We can reach out to the sick, to those struggling or to those in mourning. The hurting are always among us.

Look for the divine in others and acknowledge the sacredness of your own purpose. Know that you can impact another human being.

You have the potential to connect.

If you can’t find the words, just sit by a friend who is in pain. Your presence is often blessing enough.

You can reach out to a community as well. It might be your church or your neighborhood. What is important is that you dedicate energy and focus to the task.

If you want to start at the most basic level, give someone a smile. Even the smallest actions can make a difference. Don’t postpone your good works. Writing a check at the end of the year might help you with your taxes, but an investment of your time throughout the year will give you better emotional return.

Be filled with wonder.

Giving to others can be fulfilling, but don’t forget to give to yourself. One of the greatest gifts you can give yourself is a sense of wonder. Be curious. Learn to ask why. If we live our lives focusing on only what we can see on the surface, we will deprive ourselves of deeper meaning.

Go ahead, dig deeper.

The brightest minds throughout history come from those who continued to ask the most basic question: “Why?” They looked for connections where they didn’t exist before. Don’t fear the unknown. Be curious. What lies beyond what we can see?

Different religions have differing viewpoints. But if we acknowledge our fellow man as a spiritual being, there would be no room for animosity – and certainly no room for fighting wars over religion.

Focusing on our spirit elevates us to a higher level. We have to be willing to leave our comfort zones and connect with our spirit and the spirit of others.

Be courageous. Reach higher. Reach for truth. Live with vibrance.

Wonder about your world and what lies beyond it.

Proceeds from “Vibrant: To Heal and Be Whole” endow the Dr. R. Murali Krishna Family Eliminate the Stigma Award. Visit sliceok.com/ vibrant to order ($24.99) and receive a complimentary copy of Dr. Krishna’s “Natural Relaxation” CD while supplies last. Find Dr. Krishna online: web: drkrishna.com // fb: rmkrishnamd // tw: @drrmkrishna

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MINGLING | On the Town

Dan Garrett, Marvin Lee

12 X 12

Photos by Claude Long A whopping 150 artists make the most of small space in the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition’s big deal of a fundraiser.

Kelsey Karper, Renee Porter, Julia Kirt

Stephen Kovash, Tony Morton, Stacey D. Miller Dr. Azhar Amil, Habitat CEO Ann Felton and Dave Goodman break ground on a Gaillardia mansion that will host a future Habitat gala.

Runners raise funds for nonprofit prosthetics providers Limbs for Life in the Blaze 5K run.

Brandon Weeden with Gavin Kuykendall at the Swing From the Heart Golf Tournament, which raised $60,000 to help correct pediatric heart defects.

PHILANTHROPY IN ACTION Children’s Hospital Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and Limbs for Life are among the metro’s organizations working to improve citizens’ lives.

Karl, Kristen and Sophia Sorocco

Chris, Mindy and Martin Crawford

Shannon Price, Addison Price Ulysses Allen, Zenobia Mayo

OKC STORYTELLING FESTIVAL Photos by Claude Long

The Arts Council of OKC sponsors three days of captivation by welcoming four phenomenal storytellers to present spoken-word wonders.

62 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

5K TO MONET Photos by Claude Long

Nearly 300 runners lace up to take a fun 5K jaunt through Edmond in the Fine Arts Institute’s open-air fundraiser – raising over $14,000 for the FAI’s endeavors.

More photos, gifts, reprints ... all at sliceok.com

Kyla Turner, Patty Anthony, LaDonna Horton

Gloria Steinem

Sharon Newald with Claudia, Isabella and Sofia SanPedro

PLANNED PARENTHOOD CHOICES Photos by Michael Miller

Activist Gloria Steinem visits OKC as keynote speaker for the annual art sale, silent auction and dinner benefiting Planned Parenthood’s educational programs.

Nick Tricinella, Kelsie Sullivan, John Heatly

REDBUD BOARD KICKOFF Board members start planning early for the 2014 Redbud Classic, set for April 5-6.

OKCMOA CEO E. Michael Whittington, Amalia Silverstein, Terri Cooper

Elby and Tina Beal, event chairs Caroline and Guy Patton

Honorary Chairs Larry & Polly Nichols

Brittany Simpson, Max Patterson

RENAISSANCE BALL Photos by Zach Nash

The OKC Museum of Art gives guests an elegant evening of “Heaven on Earth” for its 38th annual gala at the OKC Golf and Country Club.

Jeremy Burt, Brandon Burt

Rachel Calderon and Justin Young

Guy Turner, Mona and Steve Neighbors

TOUR DE PALATE Photos by Claude Long

Heavenly tastes and spectacular wines fuel a powerful fundraiser for blood cancer research – the event raised over $60,000 for the Go Mitch Go Foundation.

THAYER COGGIN ROAD SHOW Photos by Justin Avera

The furniture manufacturer marks its 60th anniversary with a touring “trunk show” of classic designs, including a stop at Suburban Contemporary Furnishings.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 63

PRACTICAL MATTERS | Feel the Burn

PREEMPTIVE STRIKE!

By Mark Beutler // Photos by Carli Wentworth

The shorts have been pushed to the back of the closet, and where the trunks landed after that final August swim is anybody’s guess. Flip flops? They’re gone until spring, along with the fading tan line.

But just when I am ready to grab that box of Cheez-Its and start a six-month binge on comfort foods, I remember how hard it was looking in the mirror last spring. “No more taking the winter off,” I promise myself.

I used to be one of those gym rats who complained about all the “New Year Resolutionists” – the ones who make that commitment to work out only after consuming a bottle of bubbly on New Year’s Eve. They swarm the gym and hog the equipment on January 2 until they get bored in February.

Last year, however, I became one of those “resolutionists.” But after seeing what six months of Cheez-Its will do to the abs, I am determined not to do it again.

Besides the appearance factor, a person who exercises regularly just feels better. Yes, here comes that “endorphin” word.

“Exercising has always been very important to me,” said Sherri McCurdy, owner of No Regrets stationery and gift store in Casady Square. “Physical fitness and nutrition are vital to good health, so I always try to exercise and eat well-balanced meals.”

McCurdy says family responsibilities and running a business sometimes make it hard to fit everything into the day, including finding time for the gym.

“On the days when I can’t make it in for a workout, I will still do some exercises on my own at home, either stretching, powerwalking or I may just pop in a fitness video,” McCurdy said.

“Pilates is my favorite activity. I do that once a week, and I also mix it up with some weight training. I try to work out at least three times a week, but sometimes that just doesn’t happen.

“I usually never take a break from working out. A friend once told me it takes months to get toned, but only two weeks to lose everything you worked for. I know it’s tempting to want to skip the gym, especially in the colder months. But even if I can make myself go for 15 minutes I always feel better,” she added.

So how can we force ourselves out of the house and into the gym on even the coldest, grayest winter days?

“We all want to look good in a bikini or swim trunks,” said Kevin McBride, owner of Four Star Fitness. “Some people have the luxury of everlasting youth and never pack on that extra weight. But for those of us who are not so lucky, we need to be working out in the wintertime because it just doesn’t happen overnight.”

64 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Exercising and fitness is all about moderation, he says, and setting realistic goals for yourself.

“Ideally we are after a healthy lifestyle to promote longevity and feeling better. It’s not just about looking good at the beach or the pool, although that is a definite bonus,” McBride said.

“We want people’s goal to be a healthier lifestyle, which is a yearround commitment. I’m also more of an advocate of a healthy balance, too. If you’re having a day that you absolutely don’t want to go to the gym, then take a day off and regroup. The gym will be there tomorrow. You just have to know that if you take that day off, then you absolutely will have to go the next day – no excuses.”

For the beginner, or even for the fellow who has taken a few months off to sit home and eat Cheez-Its, looking around at the muscled bodies can be a little intimidating.

“The muscular person you think is judging you is most likely saying to himself that it’s good to see you working on your health,” McBride said. “If it’s a good gym, then it’s full of supportive people.

Once you get past your fears and stick with it, you will see you’re just like everyone else in there; the only difference is they just started before you.”

Not so long ago, Oklahoma City made headlines for being one of the top states for people with the worst health. Obesity was a leading cause. Today, fitness centers and retail shops are helping get people off the sofa and into an exercise regimen.

“We are all about fitness,” said Jon Beck, owner with his wife Burke of Red Coyote Running and Fitness in Classen Curve. “For us it’s not just about getting shoes on people’s feet. We have a number of programs we put together for people who need an incentive to get healthy.”

Red Coyote’s “Newbie 5K” is a 10-week program that trains people for their first 5K/3.1 mile distance run. “There is a little work involved,” Beck said “but you’re absolutely at the same beginner level as everyone else.

“We have a free ‘Fun Run’ each Thursday evening, and we cap off the night off with an adult beverage or two. It’s a lot of fun, and a great way to socialize and exercise. Our main reason for opening the store, however, was to give top-notch customer service. The majority of our customers are new to fitness, and we want them to feel comfortable coming into our store and not be intimidated. Burke and I like to think we are helping Oklahoma City become a more fit community,” Beck said.

As fall kicks into high gear, running and fitness often take a backseat to those rich, tempting foods that come with the holidays.

Certified personal trainer Jeremy Minihan believes we don’t have to deprive ourselves – just use a little common sense.

“The average person will gain about five pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s,” Minihan said. “This is generally because once they begin eating these treats, they also stop their normal exercise routines. It’s important, if you don’t want to be a statistic, that you maintain your workout and healthy eating routine, and allow yourself to indulge only twice a week. You can still enjoy the holiday festivities, but do it in moderation.”

And keeping up a winter exercise regimen is crucial for a number of reasons, he says.

“Because your exercise options are now more limited to indoor activities, you must make gym time a staple in your daily agenda.

We are creatures of habit who mostly operate on ‘autopilot,’ so it is important we stay aware of the habits we are forming. If you don’t allow yourself to get out of the habit of going to the gym, your New Year’s resolution is suddenly less intimidating.”

Minihan says once you put on a fat cell, that sucker is there to stay. “Sure, you can shrink it but it never goes away entirely. That’s why it’s so easy to put weight back on once you have worked so hard to take it off.

“It may be tough getting out of the house when the weather is cold,” he says, “but one thing is for sure: You’re always glad you went and you will feel great once you’re finished. At the end of the day if your heart is in the right place and you want to make changes but don’t quite know how – simply ask for help. It’s out there waiting on you. Just keep in mind summer bodies are made in the winter.”

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 65

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O N H C E T OL CO

THE WOW FACTOR IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THEATERQUALITY SOUND AND SOUND SO REAL YOU FEEL LIKE YOU ARE ACTUALLY THERE. So let’s talk about one piece of that kind of experience: the speakers.

I recently had a chance to visit with Russell Kim, owner of Audio Dimensions, and was able to audition a couple of speaker systems with him.

The Bower & Wilkins Custom Theatre 700 Series is unbelievably transparent, producing a level of sound that makes the speakers disappear. You feel like you are listening to real life, not a home theater system. This particular system consisted of three CT7.4 LCRS front speakers, a CTSW15 subwoofer with amp and CT7.5 LCRS speakers for the surround, driven by a class A amplifier. We watched a little of “Avatar” during the “train your dragon” scene.

I could feel the air move with each beat of the dragon’s wings. This system was impressive.

If built-in speakers are not for you, Bower & Wilkins has the 600 series freestanding speaker system. Two of the floor-standing 683s, the HTM61 center channel, the 685 rear channel and two ASW 610XP subwoofers do a very fine job at a more mid-range price point.

I auditioned another system from our local Best Buy, looking at a home theater setup from Klipsch. They also have Bose and Polk Audio systems on display, but I chose the RF-62 II home theater system.

The Klipsch system has a very nice sound and works well for a more modest price. The system includes two RF-62 II floor-standing speakers, two RS-52 II surround speakers, a SW-112 subwoofer and RC-62 II center speaker.

All of these systems have a very clear un-colored sound with a near f lat frequency response. Any one of these systems would work great for your home theater or for playing music, and all have that “wow factor” when you hear them. I’ve owned the 600 series from Bower & Wilkins and the RF series from Klipsch.

Give them a listen.

I want to add a word about the Bower & Wilkins headphones. I bought a pair last month and I love them. They are the best sounding headphones I’ve ever heard. Retail price is $300 and they were worth every penny.

PURSUITS

Turn on the Dark

ADDISON DOTY

Navajo potter Christine McHorse puts a new spin on a very old tradition, and the Fred Jones Jr. Museum is shining a light on her darkly hued craft. See page 68.

TOP 10 Prime starting points for making the most of the month 68

SPOTLIGHT Armstrong’s season gets underway and The Girlie Show’s final bow 70

SEE & DO November’s music, theater, visual arts and other delights 74 NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 67

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.

LIGHT ’EM UP

Through December 20, Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center Argentinian artist Ana Maria Hernando is especially moved by the quiet, delicate sensuality of flowers and the loving care displayed by people who create for others. She points out that in the Andean tongue Quechua, the word for weaving “Night Flower II” by translates to “giving light” – so Ana Maria Hernando when her inspirations combine, the results form the uplifting exhibition “The Illuminated Garden.”

ATTRACTIVE OPPOSITES

Through January 12, Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art While the traveling exhibit “Dark Light” may sound like an oxymoron, it’s actually an apt descriptor of the glittering black finish that marks the pottery of Christine Nofchissey McHorse. The innovative Navajo potter uses mica-rich clay from New Mexico riverbeds to reinvent a centuries-old utilitarian tradition into fantastic forms of startling decorative beauty.

November 1-10, OU Weitzenhoffer Theater Spoiler alert! Not many beloved musicals include the protagonist stabbing himself to death just after intermission, but the bigger accomplishment is that it’s still uplifting. We all make mistakes, and all carry the hope of redeeming ourselves … in one plane of existence or another. The OU School of Musical Theater invites you to climb aboard “Carousel,” and assures you that you’ll never watch alone.

GOOD AS GOLD

November 8, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum The nonprofit Saint Anthony Foundation has been supporting the programs and patients of its namesake hospital for fully 50 years, so organizers won’t feel guilty about feeling gilt-y at the Golden Gala edition of its Saints Ball. Cocktails, dinner, live and silent auctions, dancing and glamour aplenty … all that glitters adds sparkle to the celebration.

68 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Music From Some Parts of Space November 1-2, OKC Civic Center The OKC Philharmonic is beginning its 2013-’14 Pops season – you think they want to do so with a performance titled “okay” or “acceptable”? Conductor Jack Everly, soprano Kristen Plumley and the masterful musicians of the city’s star orchestra look to the stars for inspiration in the Sci-Fi Spectacular, featuring classic TV and movie music … and narration from the stellarly sonorous George Takei. OH, MY!

PHOTOS: GEORGE TAKEI COURTESY OKC PHILHARMONIC, PEARL JAM BY DANNY CLINCH

HEY, BIG SPINNER

SEE SPOT? RUN!

November 9, IAO Gallery Speed, decisiveness and a discerning eye are key factors to making the most of the IAO’s annual Red Dot art auction – any of the hundreds of exquisite pieces on display are up for grabs, unless someone else has already staked a claim by tagging with the namesake sticker. Eat, drink, gaze and enjoy … and be quick.

RIPE FOR ENJOYMENT

November 14, Edmond Historical Society When an organization dedicated to commemorating the legacy of a city marks a milestone of its own, that’s cause for celebration; and the best way to celebrate is with a toast.

Or in this case, several. Enjoy 16 different vintages, tasty treats and live music as the EHS turns 30 at its annual Wine Through Time fundraiser.

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS

November 15, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum The only thing minor about the museum’s annual Small Works, Great Wonders winter art sale is the size of its stars – no bigger than 16x20. Everything else is huge: The talent of their creators (including Prix de West participants and other select artists), the scope of their content … and especially the value for patrons who take home the miniature marvels.

Joshua Tobey, “Snowshoe”

Veteran Rocker Behind the Microphone in the Big Town November 16, Chesapeake Arena Music lovers should seem to recognize his face – Eddie Vedder has been in Oklahoma City before, and he’s only the frontman for one of the most popular rock bands of the last 20 years.

Emotionally earnest artists Pearl Jam blaze into the Chesapeake on the strength of their 10th studio album, last month’s blistering “Lightning Bolt.”

Swing Shifts November 21-23, UCO Mitchell Hall Theater The Kaleidoscope Dance Company is a good name for the UCO-based troupe – given that its repertoire includes elements of jazz, ballet, tap, hip-hop and modern dance, its performances are mesmerizing displays that seem to shift genres at every fresh glance. This fall its slate includes “Decay” by Edwin Olvera, plus pieces by faculty, alumna Masayo Yamaguchi and guest artists from Montreal and Dallas.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 69

PURSUITS | Spotlight

CULTURAL COMMINGLING

By Steve Gill

IT WAS PATTERNED AFTER THE SERIES OF SPECTACULAR CONCERTS orchestrated by the Ambassador International Cultural Foundation, a string of knockouts that earned the host venue the appellation “the Carnegie Hall of the West Coast.” Its mission, which it’s been pursuing since 1998 and in a palatial facility of its own since 2010, includes “bringing monumental cultural experiences to the heartland of America.” Oh, and house manager Shane Granger believes that “this year’s lineup of performers stands to be one of [its] most impressive yet.” Moving from strength to performance strength has become a reliable joy for audiences, and a matter of course for Edmond’s Armstrong International Cultural Foundation.

The 16th season of mastery at Armstrong Auditorium got underway with an October visit from the Hungarian State Folk Ensemble, which filled the hall with the melodies and movements that have resonated through the souls of its home country for centuries. There’s plenty more to come on the performance slate …

THE 2013-2014 PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

THE CANADIAN BRASS Thursday, November 7

Five guys with matching outfits and shiny instruments do not a worldclass ensemble make … unless the players each have virtuosic skill and collectively possess a staggeringly huge repertoire spanning jazz, marches, Broadway tunes, Dixieland, classic American standards, yet more classic Baroque-era compositions and even (as if that weren’t enough) 200-plus wonders of their own creation. Oh, and they’re pretty funny, too.

70 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

MOSCOW FESTIVAL BALLET Monday, January 27 and Tuesday, January 28 This is one of life’s guarantees: A 25-year veteran of the Bolshoi Ballet knows a little something about dance. The great Sergei Radchenko founded the Moscow Festival Ballet in 1989 – who better than an internationally renowned Russian company to present Tchaikovsky’s soaring opus “Sleeping Beauty”? And since the 50-member troupe is already set to visit Edmond to start 2014, why not share another wonder choreographed by the legendary Marcus Petipa – Leon Minkus’ “Don Quixote” – the following day?

JENKINS-MALONE PIANO DUO Sunday, February 16 Among Armstrong’s many amenities, two of the foremost are the Steinway concert grands imported from Hamburg. But a piano, however magnificent, should be more than mere decoration – so Armstrong College faculty members and longtime performance partners Mark Jenkins and Ryan Malone have assembled a Liszt of classical favorites (sorry about that) for an evening of intricately entwined ivory-tickling.

HAIFA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OF ISRAEL Thursday, February 27 Founded in 1950, the HSO is billed as the most significant musical institution in the north of Israel – and speaking of significance, this is its first ever American tour.

The ensemble is working up a catalog of classical favorites as well as a viola concerto by one of its home nation’s foremost contemporary composers; a perfect showcase for star soloist Avshalom Sarid.

HANDEL’S “MESSIAH” Thursday, May 1 One of Handel’s most powerful compositions concludes the Armstrong Auditorium 2013-2014 season, as the Herbert W. Armstrong College choral union, accompanied by professional soloists and orchestra, will perform the piece in its thunderous entirety – cause enough in truth for a standing ovation.

HAIL TO THE HALL MENAHEM PRESSLER Tuesday, March 18 The German-born Israeli pianist has amassed one of the most glittering CVs in all of professional music, and at the age of 88 he’s still traveling the nation and the world to share his lifelong passion with music students and rapt audiences. His journey to Edmond is as leader of the New York Chamber Soloists Orchestra, who will perform a Mozart concerto in an evening also featuring Beethoven and Copland. Don’t miss this living treasure.

SIMPLY BROADWAY: BRIAN STOKES MITCHELL Thursday, March 27 Blockbuster ensemble performances with glittery costumes and chorus girls and confetti can be electrifying and do have their place in show biz … but sometimes it’s rewarding to give a consummate performer a microphone, a spotlight and a piano and let him be the show. Tony winner and Broadway veteran Mitchell returns to the Armstrong stage with his resonant baritone in an intimate evening of show tunes, solo-style.

AN EVENING WITH MIDORI Thursday, April 24 In 1982 an 11-year-old Japanese violinist moved to America and made her concert debut with the New York City Philharmonic – and in the three decades since she has steadily ascended in international renown. Fresh off her 30th anniversary tour, the single-named soloist can still perform bariolage with the best of them, delivering haunting beauty, blistering intensity and an evening of sublime melody for her fortunate listeners.

According to Granger, the quality of Armstrong’s performance schedule is matched only by that of the venue itself. While he might not be considered an entirely neutral observer, he does have a solid case: The 823-seat auditorium is adorned with more than a dozen chandeliers dripping with Swarovski crystals, a seven-foot Baccarat crystal candelabra commissioned by the Shah of Iran, American cherry wood veneers, Spanish marble and Persian onyx.

And perhaps most importantly, with only 75 feet separating the stage from the back wall, every seat has an uninterrupted sight line and the benefit of the facility’s perfectly engineered acoustics. To call it “palatial” might actually be an understatement.

CLAPPING ROOM ONLY Tickets for individual performances, wholeseason passes and FlexPass subscription plans for five or more shows are on sale now, and though the magnificent auditorium has a massive feel, it also has finite seating. To secure a vantage point for greatness, visit armstrongauditorium.org or call 285.1010.

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 71

PURSUITS | Spotlight

THE GOODBYE GIRLIES

By Steve Gill

FOR A SOLID DECADE IT’S BEEN THE XX FACTOR IN OKC CREATIVE EVENTS. Self-billed as “The Art Show With a Curve,” The Girlie Show has brought female artists, craftswomen and entertainers together (along with vast hordes of guests) for an estrogen-powered cavalcade of creativity and fun. And now they’re calling it quits, but before the curtain falls on a beloved metro concept, there’s still time for one final glorious, glamorous go-round November 1-2 at the OKC Farmers Public Market – mark your calendar for The Girlie Show 10: The Last Her-Rah. For those readers who came late to the party (and it is a party), co-founder Dawn Harth explains the concept: “The Girlie Show is an art show featuring all handmade, handcrafted, hand-drawn, handsculpted, hand-done creativity; it’s just that all of the creators happen to be female. Which makes for a lovely time for both the guys and girls.

We have a big, loud party with food and music on Friday night and a bit more of a laid-back, family-friendly vibe on Saturday, featuring live bands all day.”

That big, loud Friday party is adults-only, by the way, because of the sensational entertainment: In addition to spinning from DJs Kelly Trance, Kylie and Ostara, there’s a killer burlesque show featuring knockouts Ginger Valentine, Missy Lisa, Angi B. Lovely and Ilsa the Wolf. The all-ages Saturday show has what Harth calls “a lot of really talented locals in the line-up: Carter Sampson, Ali Harter, Anna Kinder ... and a girl who I think is going to be really interesting: Bat-Or Kalo.” Plus, in a new twist this last year, there’s an official afterparty at VZD’s starring the Oh Johnny! Girls.

Both days keep patrons ready to rock with plenty of deliciousness from area restaurants. Iguana Grill, Cuppies & Joe, Big Truck Tacos, Rococo, Tokyo Japanese Restaurant and The Metro are all on tap, among many others.

Most importantly, though, are the girlies themselves – organizers selected over 40 artists from nationwide submissions to fill the show with their varied wares. Right, Dawn? “Yes, everything our girlies bring is indeed for sale. And we do bring ’em in from all over; we’ve had girls from both coasts and many places in between. Our first love is always Oklahoma, of course, but we believe in bringing the love from all kinds of different cities to our hometown. We wanted to open [the art show concept] up a little and give all kinds of creativity a place to belong. Our first rule is that it is 100 percent handmade. Outside of that, we just look for unique approaches, new twists on ideas, attitude and quality workmanship.”

And now, the big question: Why call it quits after this year? Harth swings for the fences by quoting Jerry Seinfeld: “I wanted to end the show on the same kind of peak we’ve been doing it on for years. I wanted the end to be from a point of strength. I wanted the end to be graceful.”

Graceful and glamorous. And eminently girly, in the best possible way.

72 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

ON VIEW THROUGH NOVEMBER 17

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See & Do DANCE Once Upon a Dream 20 Nov 21 The dinner will be excellent, and the dancing divine OU School of Dance students provide the entertainment, with funds raised supporting the school’s scholarships and international touring programs. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 325.4051, ou.edu/ finearts/dance Kaleidoscope in Concert Nov 21-23 UCO’s award-winning touring repertory company presents a one-of-a-kind array of innovative choreography from faculty and guest artists.

UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/cfad

EVENTS Neustadt Festival Through Nov 1 Poetry, political discussions, book signings and a prestigious panel of jurors meeting to select the 2014 Neustadt International Prize for Literature mark the festival sponsored by World Literature Today, plus a keynote address from author Naomi Shihab Nye. OU Memorial Union et al., 900 Asp Ave, Norman, 325.4531, neustadtprize.org

examples of this year’s theme: “Upscale Urban Living in Historic Homes.” Overholser Mansion, 405 NW 15th St, OKC, 922.5420, heritagehills.org

of the Saints Foundation with a glitzy, glamorous Golden Gala. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 272.7070, givetosaints.com

American Indian Heritage Month Nov 2-23 Special events free with museum admission that investigate Native traditions: games including handball and Cherokee marbles Nov 2, demonstrations of dance Nov 16 and the standards for women’s clothing Nov 23.

Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 522.3602, okhistory.org

Red Dot Auction Nov 9 Great art is up for grabs in this fast-paced Individual Artists of Oklahoma event - just remember that once a piece gets dotted, it’s sold; eyes only for everyone else. IAO Gallery, 706 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 232.6060, iaogallery.org

Flaming Festival Nov 6 Kappa Alpha Theta alumnae and area merchants concentrate on impeccably designed decorative tabletop displays, while Southern Living’s Jessica Thuston provides the star power at this 57th annual luncheon. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, okctheta.com Racing at Remington Nov 6 The OKC Orchestra League invites anyone over 21 to a fun evening with delicious food, a cash bar and live throughbred racing to help fund the League’s music education programs.

Starlight Ball Nov 9 It’s a lucky number tonight: the 13th gala boasts a Monte Carlo theme and benefits the pediatric research and clinical care of the Children’s Hospital Foundation. OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 271.9008, okchf.org Second Sunday Poetry Nov 10 Want to hear great poetry, delivered with verve and wit by someone who believes the form can entertain and inspire rather than merely exist? This sounds like a job for Oklahoma poet laureate Nathan Brown. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Dr, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

GALLERIES

The Girlie Show Nov 1-2 After 10 years of celebrating the best in female-fueled art, crafts, music and fun, the show organizers are calling it quits … so don’t miss this last “her-rah.” OKC Farmers Public Market, 311 S Klein Ave, OKC, thegirlieshow.net

Toast to the Arts Nov 2 International cuisine paired with champagne and sparkling wines from around the globe prove ideal fodder for a tour through the far-flung wonders of the museum’s permanent collection in an exciting fundraiser. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.2297, ou.edu/fjjma Heritage Hills Historic Home Tour Nov 2-3 The 47th Annual Heritage Hills Historic Home Tour’s five stops in Oklahoma City’s oldest historic neighborhood are prime

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State of Creativity Forum Nov 18-19 Brad Moore, Nancy Kanter, Peter Sims and a whole host of presenters combine their mind matter to discuss moving Oklahoma forward into a brighter, more innovative future. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 232.5570, stateofcreativity.com

Downtown in December Nov 29-Dec 31 Presenting 40 days of holiday fun, spanning ice skating, snow tubing, shopping, free movies, incredible decorations and way more to see and do. It’s a month and more of must-do merriment. Downtown OKC, 301 W Reno Ave, OKC, 235.3500, downtownindecember.com

Wish Ball 2013 Nov 1 The theme for this elegant event is “the power of dreams,” but the real inspiration is the power of philanthropic caring from the generous patrons who are moved to bring joy to ill children. Skirvin Hilton, 1 Park Ave, OKC, 286.4000, oklahoma.wish.org

Oklahoma Wine Walk Nov 2 Raise a glass to toast a new tradition as Frontier Country hosts an all-day cavalcade of tasting madein-Oklahoma wines. Cheers! Brookhaven Village, 3750 W Robinson St, Norman, 232.6552, oktourism.com

Light the Future Gala Nov 16 The OKCbased Maisha International Orphanage is dedicated to bringing better lives to Kenyan widows and orphans; this gala is a chance to celebrate their triumphs and share their dreams. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 445.3440, maishainternational.org

ALN Holiday Home Tour Nov 22-23 The Assistance League of Norman would love to have you over - to these five area homes all decked out with seasonal pizzazz. It’s a great way to browse for ideas in enlivening your own abode. Throughout Norman, 321.9400, norman.assistanceleague.org

Dia de los Muertos Nov 1 Those who have passed beyond the veil are with us still in memory - coupled with the Fred’s current “Libertad de Expresion” exhibit, that’s plenty of reason to celebrate the Day of the Dead with a festive street party. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma

National Weather Festival Nov 2 Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody else celebrates it like the attendees of this informative annual bash featuring balloon launches, storm chaser demonstrations, tours and plenty of kids’ activities. National Weather Center, 120 David L. Boren Blvd, Norman, 325.1147, norman.noaa.gov

Premiere on Film Row Nov 15 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

OKC Town Hall: Dr Bob Blackburn Nov 21 The venerable lecture series continues its season of bringing a world of viewpoints to the metro as the director of the OK Historical Society discusses the story of our state’s past and future. St. Luke’s UMC, 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 826.9689, okctownhall.com

1st Friday Gallery Walk Nov 1 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

Mistletoe Market Through Nov 2 ’Tisn’t quite the season yet … but there’s no better opportunity to get a jump start on holiday shopping than at this festive collection of over 100 merchants’ gift items, clothing, gourmet foods and decorations. Fun times await! Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 843.5668, jloc.org

of years can reveal the hidden depths within … with a little expert assistance. A set of 16 wines and gourment tastings are part of the Edmond Historical Society’s sumptuous fundraising evening. Edmond Historical Society, 431 S Boulevard, Edmond, 340.0078, edmondhistory.org

Wooden Fish Through Nov 9 When you combine a Master of Fine Arts and a B.S. in zoology, you get a top-notch painter and sculptor with an abiding interest in nature and environmental issues. Norman’s Donald Longcrier works in a variety of scales (geddit?) for this exhibit, which is accompanied by work from Barbara Ryan.

MAINSITE Contemporary Art Gallery, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org

On and Off the Wall

November 1-30, In Your Eye Gallery, OKC

Remington Park, 1 Remington Pl, OKC, 721.6990, okorchestraleague.org Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Nov 7 It’s the highest honor a resident can receive from the state, and a chance to recognize and thank the hundreds of recipients since the award’s 1927 inception, as seven outstanding Oklahomans are elevated. Cox Center, 1 Myriad Gardens, OKC, 523.3203, oklahomaheritage.com 2nd Friday Circuit of Art Nov 8 A monthly communitywide celebration of creativity, focused on historic downtown Norman.

Norman Arts Council, 122 E Main St, Norman, 360.1162, normanarts.org Live on the Plaza Nov 8 Vendors, artists, residents and passerby unite for a monthly fiesta. OKC Plaza District, 1618 N Gatewood Ave, OKC, 367.9403, plazadistrict.org Saints Ball Nov 8 The St. Anthony Hospital benefit will have a certain auric aura this year, as guests celebrate the 50th anniversary

“Birds on a Wire No. 6”

by Chad Woolbright

Chili Bowl Nov 13 OU’s School of Art and Art History adds a bit of spice to fundraising at its sixth annual chili fiesta; guests who buy a handcrafted bowl can help themselves to lunch from a spate of different recipes.

OU Lightwell Gallery, 520 Parrington Oval, Norman, 325.2691, ou.edu/content/finearts Heart Rhythm Institute Luncheon Nov 13 An informative luncheon also provides a grand shopping opportunity in the 11th annual HRI showcase - a percentage of proceeds from sales of the Jill Reno Collection will benefit cardiac research.

OKC Golf & Country Club, 7000 NW Grand Blvd, OKC, 271.9696 ext. 37507 An Evening With David Jeremiah Nov 14 The titular minister leads a free session of worship, with music from former Gaither Vocal Band member Marshall Hall.

Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 877.998.0222, chesapeakearena.com Wine Through Time Nov 14 How is a city like a bunch of grapes? Sometimes the passage

Type Talks Through Nov 24 This exhibit is, if you’ll pardon the expression, a font of inspiration in the creative possibilities of the written word - or rather, typed letter, as it contains UCO students’ experiments at creating visual art via typography. UCO Donna Nigh Gallery, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.5201, uco.edu/cfad Linda Hiller Nov 1-30 Hiller isn’t just the co-owner of the Summer Wine Gallery; she’s also an accomplished artist, equally adept at sweeping landscapes and smaller-scale clayboard etchings, which are available exclusively at the gallery. Summer Wine Gallery, 2928 Paseo St, OKC, 831.3279, summerwinegallery.com Mixed Media Marvels Nov 1-30 A uniformly engrossing show of collages, drawings and hand-pulled print works by Katherine Liontas-Warren, plus predominantly wooden sculptural pieces crafted by LeRoy Schultz.

Paseo Originals Gallery, 2920 Paseo St, OKC, 604.6602, paseooriginals.com On and Off the Wall Nov 1-30 Abstract painter Chad Woolbright paints on canvas, wood, plexiglass or whatever surface best fits his current bold-hued endeavor; for this show he teams up with his friends Link Cowen and Paul Snyder, a sculptor and

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PURSUITS | See & Do

photorealistic painter, respectively. In Your Eye Gallery, 3005 Paseo St, OKC, 525.2161, inyoureyegallery.com

mica-rich ceramics by Christine Nofchissey McHorse. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma

Martini Travels Nov 7-Dec 10 Inspired by an impromptu lunch with artist Harold Stevenson, this collection is the result of years of travel and research by photographer Terry Zinn: locally concocted beverages shot against beautiful backdrops and landmarks in destinations around the world. PhotoArt Studios, 1738 NW 16th St, OKC, 557.0924, photoart.com

Untamed Through Mar 1 Wild horses couldn’t drag this exhibit away from the museum, but they do prove a powerful attractive force for viewers in a collection of mustang-themed paintings by Jennifer Cocoma Hustis.

Science Museum Oklahoma, 2100 NE 52nd St, OKC, 602.6664, sciencemuseumok.org

Small Works Show Nov 8-Dec 27 Major talent in miniscule doses marks this third annual show, featuring works from Rick Fry, Skip Hill, Bert Seabourn, Corazon Watkins and others. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Dr, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

Allan Houser and His Students Through May 11 Part of a statewide effort to honor the exceptional artist’s 100th birthday, this collection uses his works and his proteges’ to highlight Houser’s skill as a teacher.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage

and discussion about Andres Serrano.

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma

MUSIC Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Nov 1 Dorsey himself died in 1956, but the smooth, melodious legacy of the “sentimental gentleman of swing” lives on in his namesake collection of timeless talent, coming to Norman for a transcendent musical evening.

Sooner Theater, 101 E Main St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org

Meccorre Quartet Nov 3 The Polish string quartet has won numerous awards in Europe and are on their first North American tour, which includes OKC thanks to Chamber Music in Oklahoma. Christ the King Catholic Church, 8005 Dorset Dr, OKC, cmok.org

Coffee With the Artists Nov 16 Take a brunch-time breather amid breathtaking art from a collection of the gallery’s great talents, several of whom will be on hand to discuss their works. Howell Gallery, 6432 N Western Ave, OKC, 840.4437, howellgallery.com

Stephen Beus Nov 3 Pianist and Juilliard graduate Beus has barely passed his 30th birthday and continues to rise on the international stage. A reception afterward for the Ebony and Ivory Society will help raise funds for new OU Steinways. OU Catlett Music Center, 500 W Boyd St, OKC, 325.4101, ou.edu/content/finearts

MUSEUMS

Winter Wind: Audrey Auld Nov 3 The Performing Arts Studio’s Winter Wind concert series continues with a burst of energy from down under, courtesy of Tasmanian angel Auld - a poignant, wry songwriter who’s a dab hand with an acoustic guitar as well. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Dr, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org

Of Heaven and Earth Through Nov 17 Half a millenium worth of masterful, inspiring, sometimes impossibly beautiful works that are all from one country (must be something in the water) populate this dazzling exhibit of 500 years of Italian painting. OKC Museum of Art, 415 Couch Dr, OKC, 236.3100, okcmoa.com

Okkervil River Nov 4 Austin is home base for the indie rockers known for their intricate instrumentation, but with a new seventh album (The Silver Gymnasium) under their belts, they’re happy to hit the road and share. ACM @ UCO Performance Lab, 329 E Sheridan Ave, OKC, 974.4700 acm.uco.edu

The Illuminated Garden Through Dec 20 Inspired by the quiet, delicate, sensual beauty of flowers, Argentinian artist Ana Maria Hernando lights up the OK Contemporary gallery with brightly colored, intricately layered installations and paintings. Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, 3000 General Pershing Dr, OKC, 951.0000, oklahomacontemporary.org

Brightmusic: Sonata Evening Nov 4-5 A consistent form yields a world of musical beauty from Beethoven, Poulenc, SaintSaens, Schumann and Prokofiev courtesy of the outstanding OKC chamber ensemble. All Souls’ Church and St. Paul’s Cathedral, 6400 N Penn and 127 NW 7th, OKC, brightmusic.org

Reigns Supreme Through Dec 30 Extravagant in impact if not subject matter, the Oklahoma History Center’s exhibit draws on the Oklahoma Historical Society’s fashion collection to portray over 75 years of the little black dress. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 521.2491, okhistory.org

Cowboy Artists of America Through Jan 5 For 48 years now, the association of outstanding Western painters and sculptors has made an annual habit of flexing its creative talents in a show of over 100 wonders. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Libertad de Expresion Through Jan 5 A collection of Cold War-era works whose creators explored cosmopolitan modernist styles, this exhibit celebrates freedom of expression in America - Latin America, to be precise. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art,555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Traditional Cowboy Arts Association Through Jan 5 Craftsmanship is paramount in the intricate, impeccable work of these preservers of saddlemaking, silversmithing and rawhide working arts.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org Dark Light Through Jan 12 Celebrating an innovative force in contemporary Native American pottery, this exhibition collects

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Opolis Performances Nov 2-21 Metro, meet Opolis. You’ll make beautiful music together, courtesy of a vast and varied lineup of outstanding local and traveling bands - including The Wurly Birds Nov 2, Delorean Nov 4 and Joe Pug with Sera Cahoone Nov 21. Check online for the fresh scoop. The Opolis, 113 N Crawford Ave, Norman, opolis.org Diamond Ballroom Nov 2-22 Big, big sound in a bunch of styles, thanks to Clutch featuring The Sword Nov 2, August Burns Red Nov 7 and New Found Glory with Alkaline Trio Nov 22. Diamond Ballroom, 8001 S Eastern Ave, OKC, 866.977.6849, diamondballroom.net

Holiday Gift Gallery Nov 8-Dec 24 A handcarved wooden top, exquisitely crafted emerald earrings or all kinds of goodies between - the Firehouse’s exhibition space is given over to creatively wrought gifts in this annual assortment of beauty for sale.

Firehouse Art Center, 444 S Flood Ave, Norman, 329.4523, normanfirehouse.com

To Pioneer Through Jan 4 Mixed media artist Denise Duong becomes a challenger of the unknown in this collection of new works laced with bold color palettes and expanding her craft into unexplored territories. Oklahoma Heritage Museum, 1400 Classen Dr, OKC, 523.3231, oklahomaheritage.com

The Doobie Brothers Nov 2 It’s been a long time, and a long road, since the Doobies first got together in 1970, but through lineup changes, deaths and more than 40 million albums sold, they’re still more than eager to let fans listen to the music. Grand Casino, 777 Grand Casino Blvd, Shawnee, 964.7777, grandshawnee.com

Winter Wind: Red Molly

November 24, Santa Fe Depot, Norman

Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org James Sullivan Nov 8-Jan 4 SMU professor of sculpture and design Sullivan has developed a knack for spinning straw into art - his faceless and abstract human forms are nevertheless strangely evocative. [Artspace] at Untitled, 1 NE 3rd St, OKC, 815.9995, artspaceatuntitled.org Small Works, Great Wonders Nov 15 Diminutive in size but filled with immense beauty and depth of feeling, the annual sale of itty bitty paintings and sculptures is a huge deal. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St, OKC, 478.2250, nationalcowboymuseum.org On Assignment Nov 16-Mar 16 One of the great photojpurnalists of the early- and mid-20th century, Horace Bristol used his camera as a tool for social and cultural awareness, documenting the Great Depression, World War II, postwar Japan and more. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma FRED Talks: Blasphemy Nov 22 Creativity is the topic under discussion in each installment of this new program, continuing with an original Dan Schwartz composition

Sci-Fi Spectacular Nov 1-2 Excelsior! The marvellously mellifluous George Takei emcees an exceptional slate of sci-fi music from television and movies, performed by the OKC Philharmonic, conducted by Jack Everly and featuring star soprano Kristen Plumley.

OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org Blue Door Shows Nov 1-29 Self-billed as “the best listening room in Oklahoma,” it certainly has some of the best music: Patrice Pike Nov 1, MilkDrive Nov 2, Greg Trooper Nov 8, Parker Millsap Nov 9, Hankerin’ 4 Hank Nov 16, Joel Melton with Bill Lewis and Michael Fracasso Nov 29 and more - check online for updates. The Blue Door, 2805 N McKinley Ave, OKC, 524.0738, bluedoorokc.com Purple Bar Performances Nov 1-29 A cozy setting, ample menu and outstanding music from local artists. Nonna’s Purple Bar, 1 S Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410, purplebarokc.com Casey Donahew Band Nov 2 Texas-born singer Donahew, inspired by Bon Jovi, once said that he wants to play the desert and sell it out. For the moment, fans of his twangy songwriting will be glad he aimed for Riverwind instead. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com

Tuesday Noon Concerts Nov 5-19 Its incredible collection of art is free for public perusal, but the museum sweetens the deal further with complimentary lunch accompaniment: Dolores Leffingwell’s vocal students Nov 5, Jane Magrath’s piano studio Nov 12 and brass led by Brian Dobbins Nov 19.

Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, 555 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.3272, ou.edu/fjjma Sutton Series Concerts Nov 5-26 The OU School of Music welcomes listeners to a slate of musical mastery: the Percussion Orchestra Nov 5, Anthony Stoops on the double bass Nov 6, pianist Jonathan Shames Nov 9, Collegium Musicum Nov 10, violinist Gregory Lee Nov 17, OU Jazz Bands Nov 19, Wind Symphony and Concert Bands Nov 21, Jonathan Ruck and Ingrid Keller Nov 23, the OU Symphony Orchestra Nov 25 and trumpeteer Karl Sievers Nov 26. OU Catlett Music Center, 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.4101, music.ou.edu 150 Years on the Wings of Song Nov 7 This free concert-slash-lecture explores the development and resonance of gospel music over the last century and a half, with special emphasis on Oklahoma writers and musicians. Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr, OKC, 522.3602, okhistory.org Canadian Brass Nov 7 More than 100 albums in a shade over 40 years - and they’re pretty funny, too. The stirring, shining quintet flexes their repertoire in a gorgeous performance.

Armstrong Auditorium, 14400 S Bryant Ave, Edmond, 285.1010, armstrongauditorium.org Noon Tunes Nov 7 Free lunchtime serenades in the Downtown Library: Pierce Hart’s Irish

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PURSUITS | See & Do

and world music Nov 7, followed by a holiday hiatus. Downtown Library, 300 Park Ave, OKC, 231.8650, mls.lib.ok.us Son del Barrio Nov 10 Musical passion in the Latin fashion from a group that has spent nearly 12 years sharing salsa, merengue and cumbia with metro audiences. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Dr, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Thompson Square Nov 10 Oklahoma native Keifer and his wife Shawna Thompson released their second album earlier this year, and the reigning ACM Top Vocal Duo would love for you to hear some of it at Riverwind.

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

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John Mayer Nov 30 Throat surgeries that temporarily silenced him couldn’t keep him down - Mayer is back on the road sharing his voice with fans in support of his latest album, Paradise Valley. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com

SPORTS Barons Hockey Nov 1-30 OKC’s ice warriors face off against the Chicago Wolves Nov 1 and 2, San Antonio Rampage Nov 12 and 30 and Abbotsford Heat Nov 15 and 16. Cox Center, OKC, 232.4625, okcbarons.com

Harry Connick Jr. Nov 11 He’s an actor, and a singer, and a pianoman of some considerable repute … plus he’s just so deucedly charming.

Grammy- and Emmy-winning Connick is an entertainer at his core, as OKC audiences will soon have opportunity to discover. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 297.2264, okcciviccenter.com

Thunder Basketball Nov 3-29 Let’s get this season started! The Thunder take aim at another run to the Finals by hosting Phoenix Nov 3, Dallas Nov 6, Washington Nov 10, Denver Nov 18, the L.A. Clippers Nov 21, Utah Nov 24, San Antonio Nov 27 and Golden State Nov 29. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 208.4667, nba.com/thunder

Bravo Brass Quintet Nov 12 OCCC’s 2012-’13 Cultural Arts Series continues with a fivesome from just up the turnpike: The dynamic ensemble’s members are professional brass-wielders from the Tulsa Philharmonic who perform baroque, light classics, jazz and even Broadway tunes.

OCCC, 7777 S May Ave, OKC, 682.7576, occc.edu/cas

American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Nov 8-23 The steeds excel at speed and maneuverability, and the ones coming to compete in OKC are among the greatest on the planet. State Fairgrounds, 3001 General Pershing Blvd, OKC, 806.378.4742, aqha.com/worldshow

Rihanna Nov 12 With six Grammys, over 41 million albums sold and the virtual throne as top-selling digital artist of all time, she’s an R&B jewel - and she’s coming to the Chesapeake with Diamonds on her mind.

Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com Legends Nov 16 The third installment of the OKC Philharmonic’s Classics series features an exceptional guest turn from titan of the ivories Garrick Ohlsson, in an evening containing selections from Grieg, Liszt and Brahms. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org Pearl Jam Nov 16 Their first album was called “Ten,” but their 10th isn’t “First” - the land of the Thunder is about to get hit with a “Lightning Bolt” as one of the ‘90s most influential bands returns to the Chesapeake.

Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, pearljam.com John F. Kennedy Remembrance Nov 19 The Oklahoma Community Orchestra continues its season with a timely memorial to JFK, including Bernstein’s Fanfare for his inauguration, selections from Camelot and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 6. OC Hardeman Auditorium, 2501 E Memorial Rd, Edmond, 425.1990, okorchestra.org The Conservatory Nov 20 Sonic jams of all desciptions in an OKC hotspot: The advance guard is The Black Dahlia Murder with Skeletonwitch, but more will join them - adds and adjustments posted online. The Conservatory, 8911 N Western Ave, OKC, conservatoryokc.com B.B. King Nov 24 The one, the only, King of the Blues - still out there touring after all these years - returns to OKC with special guests Governor’s Blues Revue for a sweet, sweet evening. Hudson Performance Hall, 2820 N May Ave, OKC, 866.977.6849, dcfconcerts.com Winter Wind: Red Molly Nov 24 Guitar, banjo, bass, dobro and huge doses of heart-melting harmony from Molly Venter, Abbie Gardner and Laurie McAllister - a XX trio who make Americana music a beautiful thing. Santa Fe Depot, 200 S Jones Dr, Norman, 307.9320, pasnorman.org Toast to the Maestro Nov 25 The great Valery Kuleshov hosts this signature event for the All-Steinway School Initiative and scholarships for piano students. UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 359.7989, uco. edu/cfad Stoney LaRue Nov 29 Red dirt is in his blood and bones - LaRue came up through Stillwater, where he played with fellow musical ambassadors Jason Boland and Cody Canada, and continues spreading the sound. Riverwind Casino, 1544 W Hwy 9, Norman, 322.6464, riverwind.com

Cowboy Football Nov 9-23 OSU continues its pursuit of a Big 12 title with home stands against the Kansas Jayhawks Nov 9 and Baylor Bears Nov 23. Boone Pickens Stadium, 700 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, 744.5745, okstate.com Sooner Football Nov 16 Fire the RUF/ NEK cannons! OU fills Memorial Stadium for the final time this season, as the Iowa State Cyclones roar into town. Owen Field, 180 E Brooks St, Norman, 325.2424, soonersports.com St. Jude Give Thanks Walk Nov 23 Supporters in the OKC community and more than 75 cities nationwide raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and - in a single day - help St. Jude change the way the world treats childhood cancer.

Penn Square Mall, 1901 NW Expressway, OKC, 366.2503 OKC Turkey Trot Nov 28 The 5K gallop and family fun run return to Lake Hefner early Thanksgiving morning (exercise is a good way to keep warm), benefiting the community care and prevention programs of Eagle Ridge Institute. Stars & Stripes Park, 3701 S Lake Hefner Dr, OKC, 840.1359, eagleridgeinstitute.com

THEATER The Rocky Horror Show Through Nov 2 Matthew Alvin Brown directs Lyric Theatre’s annual excursion into the weird, creepy, humorous, song-filled and seriously weird (seriously) world of Dr. Furter and … friends.

Lyric’s Plaza Theater, 1725 NW 16th St, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com Uncle Vanya Through Nov 2 Happiness is hard to come by in the Russian countryside, but at least audiences can see TheatreOCU students do a bang-up job with the ennui and frustrations of Chekhov’s characters. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu.theatre Measure for Measure Through Nov 3 Laws hold us together as a society, but those setting and enforcing them must be held accountable as well - otherwise you’re left with magistrate Angelo offering to free a prisoner in exchange for sexual services from his sister as UCO’s drama students tackle Shakespeare’s exploration of power corrupting. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco. edu/cfad Lobby Hero Through Nov 9 Nothing happens in a vacuum; even a small-scale murder investigation involving only a couple of cops and security guards has room to explore family ties, class divides, racism, blossoming romance and sparkles of wit amid melancholy in a compelling tale from Kenneth Lonergan. Carpenter Square

Theater, 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com Cabaret Through Nov 16 Step lively for tickets to Reduxion’s revisiting of the classic musical; both because fancy legwork is a staple of the seedy, decadent Kit Kat Klub, and opportunities to see the show are likely to go quickly. Broadway Theater, 1613 N Broadway Ave, OKC, 651.3191, reduxiontheatre.com Carousel Nov 1-10 The OU School of Musical Theater gives the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic a whirl, essaying the story of Billy Bigelow, his tragic brush with crime and efforts to put things right from beyond this vale of tears. OU Weitzenhoffer Theater, 563 Elm Ave, Norman, 325.4101, ou.edu/finearts Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Nov 5-10 Audiences have been dreaming about it; Celebrity Attractions has been dreaming about bringing it off Broadway to theaters around the country. The great composer’s songs lace the tale of two best friends who find true romance while putting on a show.

OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 800.869.1451, celebrityattractions.com Middletown Nov 6-10 Think of it as sort of like a more voluble “Our Town,” a largely drama-free slice-of-life commentary in which everyone has pithy insights, by turns funny and quietly morbid, into the human condition. OU Lab Theatre, 640 Parrington Oval, Norman, 325.4101, ou.edu/content/ finearts The Secret Garden Nov 8-10 Orphaned at 11 and cloistered in the home of dour relatives, Mary finds solace in gardening, friends in the locals and her clandestine cousin … and music everywhere, since this is a musical version of Burnett’s novel. Rose State PAC, 6420 SE 15th St, Midwest City, 297.2264, rose. edu/rslive Nothin’ Betta Than Operetta Nov 12-14 Humor and song combine in a peppy series of comic scenes from popular operettas, courtesy UCO’s College of Fine Arts and Design. UCO Jazz Lab, 100 E 5th St, Edmond, 359.7989, uco.edu/cfad A Christmas Carol Nov 14-Dec 8 Why wait until Christmas to get in the holiday spirit? Jewel Box helps to make the season bright with an adaptation in which Dickens himself takes the stage. Jewel Box Theater, 3700 N Walker Ave, OKC, 521.1786, jewelboxtheatre.org Street Scene Nov 15-17 Composer Kurt Weill thought of this work as an “American opera,” a blend of classical opera and Broadway musical. The heat is on in NYC as two couples experience romantic highs and lows. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 208.5227, okcu.edu/music/omt.aspx Dreamgirls Nov 15-Dec 8 Music is their craft, the motive force that buoys them and the industry whose treacherous waters they must navigate as an R&B trio called The Dreams aim for the top. St. Luke’s UMC, 222 NW 15th St, OKC, 609.1023, stlukesokc.org Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells Nov 20-Dec 18 A series of kids’ books is the basis for this tale of colliding concepts and holiday cheer, presented by the kids at Oklahoma Children’s Theatre. OCU Kirkpatrick Auditorium, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave, OKC, 951.0011, oklahomachildrenstheatre.org Hansel and Gretel Nov 21-24 The Fine Arts Institute’s junior theater 2nd-7th graders tell a very old story of two kids learning a valuable lesson about suspicion and self-preservation (Dude! Gingerbread is not a standard construction material!) in a Susan Scott production. Edmond Fine Arts Institute, 27 E Edwards St, Edmond, 340.4481, edmondfinearts.com UCO Short Play Festival Nov 22-23 Quick!

Get in, get a burst of thespian creativity written and produced by UCO students, stick around for more. The event covers a variety of themes, and it’s all free. UCO Mitchell Hall Theater, 100 N University Dr, Edmond, 974.3375, uco.edu/cfad Red Nov 22-24 No, it’s not a dramatic adaptation of Bruce Willis and Helen Mirren being ex-superspies. It’s a gripping portrait of iconic American painter Mark

Rothko and his attempt to complete an important commercial commission. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 848.3761, cityrep.com Coram Boy Nov 22-Dec 7 Compassion, intrigue, music and murder await in a tale of two friends, both orphaned, trying to make their way in the hostile and closed-minded world of the industrial revolution. OU Rupel Jones Theater, 500 W Boyd St, Norman, 325.4101, ou.edu/content/finearts

AT FIFTY PENN PLACE 405.848.6166 • 1900 NW Expressway Mon-Fri 10-7 • Sat 10-6 • Closed Sun

A Wonderful Life: the Musical Nov 29-Dec 15 Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings … and a solo. Using lyrics by Sheldon Harnick and music by Joe Raposo, the Sooner brings singing to the Christmas classic. Sooner Theater, 101 E Main St, Norman, 321.9600, soonertheatre.org It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Nov 29-Dec 21 Merry Christmas, you old theater house! Go behind the scenes with the spirit of Christmas as Carpenter Square Theater tells the story of a 1940s radio cast telling the story of George Bailey’s holiday decision.

Carpenter Square Theater, 800 W Main St, OKC, 232.6500, carpentersquare.com A Territorial Christmas Carol Nov 29-Dec 22 The Pollard’s all-time bestselling show, now in its 26th year, brings the tale of a miser’s redemption from the heart of London to the vast pre-statehood Oklahoma plains.

Pollard Theater, 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, 282.2800, thepollard.org Lyric’s A Christmas Carol Nov 29-Dec 29 Devon sponsors this lavish, traditional retelling of a selfish old man, a mysterious dream (or is it?) and the universal capacity for redemption. Lyric’s Plaza Theater, 1725 NW 16th St, OKC, 524.9312, lyrictheatreokc.com

ON THE RADAR The Oklahoma Nutcracker Dec 1 The Norman Ballet Company’s holiday tradition puts a Sooner state spin on the Tchaikovsky legend.

Nancy O’Brien PAC, 1809 Stubbeman Ave, Norman, 364.1818 Donny & Marie Christmas in OKC Dec 3 What more needs to be said? The effervescent Osmonds bring a song and dance spectacular to Oklahoma City for an early dose of Christmas cheer. Chesapeake Arena, 100 W Reno Ave, OKC, 800.745.3000, chesapeakearena.com The Christmas Show Dec 5-7 A very merry revue awaits visitors to the Civic Center courtesy of the OKC Philharmonic and special guests George Dvorsky and Gwendolyn Jones. Singing, dancing, costumes and décor and immense helpings of good cheer. OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 842.5387, okcphilharmonic.org Assistance League of Norman Gala Dec 6 Warmed by the glow of another year making a difference, league members and guests enjoy the magic of a Polar Express reception, dinner and dancing. OU Memorial Union Ballroom, 900 Asp Ave, Norman, 321.9400, norman.assistanceleague.org A Canterbury Christmas Dec 8 Young members and old, special guests and even the audience unite in song in a carol-laden holiday tradition. Tidings of comfort and joy!

OKC Civic Center, 201 N Walker Ave, OKC, 232.7464, canterburyokc.com

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80 SLICE NOVEMBER 2013

FARE Pretty as a Picture

CARLI WENTWORTH

Visual flair is as much a part of the experience as flavor in Edmond’s delightful, delectable sushi-lovers’ haven Café Icon. See page 84.

FALL FLAVORS Savoring the season’s bouquet of root vegetables 82

EAT & DRINK Variety is on the menu in Slice’s citywide dining guide 86

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 81

FARE | In the Kitchen

FALL FLAVORS

By Caryn Ross Photo by Carli Wentworth

EVERY THANKSGIVING FOR THE PAST 30 YEARS I’ve been making the same thing. It’s like I have a time machine. I can still remember my 1st Gobble Boot Camp.

Grandma sat with me in the kitchen for two days, teaching me step by step how to make each of the items: turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, cranberry sauce, homemade crescent rolls and assorted pies. No deviations in all these years, just the same stuff, different year.

This year I’m going to mix it up a bit.

I’m focused on all of the delicious root vegetables available right now! I love the tiny Peruvian potatoes in their beautiful purple hues … the beets in their golden beauty … aromatic garlic with rosemary. It’s literally a fragrant bouquet gift to your kitchen when you roast these incredible veggies.

Fall Roasted Root Bouquet 2 bunches red and golden beets, peeled and cubed* 5 cloves whole garlic ½ lb fresh Brussels sprouts 1 lb fresh green beans 4 shallots, quartered 3 T olive oil 1 t sea salt ½ t fresh cracked pepper Goat cheese, garnish Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl combine the beets, garlic, Brussels sprouts, green beans and shallots. Drizzle with olive oil. Add salt and pepper. Toss together, spread on the baking sheet and place into the oven. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until beets are tender. Remove from oven and place on a platter. Dot with goat cheese and serve. *Feel free to substitute or mix any seasonal root vegetables such as Peruvian potatoes, sweet potatoes or acorn squash.

82 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

Book Your

Private Parties

at West

Call today to make your reservations.

6714 N. Western Avenue | Oklahoma City | 405.607.4072 | www.westbar.com NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 83

FARE | Matters of Taste

BEAUTY AND THE BOUNTY

By Steve Gill // Photos by Carli Wentworth

THANKSGIVING IS A TIME FOR REFLECTION AND CELEBRATION, for remembering our lives’ myriad joys of health, happiness, friends and family … and then paying tribute to them with big, bountiful meals. Neither roasted turkey nor a canshaped mass of cranberry sauce are to be found on the board of fare at Edmond’s Café Icon, but the immense menu and the chefs’ marvelous skill at combining visuals with flavor give diners plenty and more to be thankful for.

THE ROCK… If the menu has a hot item, this is it: The lava stone lineup consists of a protein of choice and the means to cook it via a volcanic stone slab heated to over 800 degrees.

Searing slices of beef, duck, lamb or salmon at the table gives diners the freshest possible dining experience and control over how thoroughly their meal is cooked, not to mention the undeniable “wow” factor.

It comes with a trio of sauces, but the meat is of such high quality you might not even use them. Throw in a baked potato or side of fried rice, and enjoy.

One thing to bear in mind, especially if you’re patronizing the wine list as well: Watch your hands and sleeves. Seared steak is exquisite; seared knuckles, not so much.

…AND THE ROLLS Sushi is the other big draw, with a huge selection that will take a bit of time to browse, much less choose from. (This is where appetizers come in handy; the crispy Crab Cigars come recommended by the restaurant, and they’re excellent.) Even the simplest creations featuring single ingredients like avocado or yellowtail are executed with care and craftsmanship, and the more complex specialty rolls are visual as well as gustatory marvels. Past a certain point, the bound menu doesn’t even list ingredients (they’re found on a separate insert), just names and 84 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

pictures and prices, as if to say “Look at that!

Isn’t that beautiful? Don’t you want to eat that, whatever’s in it?” It’s hard to go wrong, but here are a couple of recommendations: The “Big One” contains crab mixed with avocado and cream cheese, all fried for a resounding crunch and then drizzled with a zingy wallop of Icon sauce.

Rice, avocado, crab and tuna stacked vertically and rising out of clumps of colored roe form the Icon Tower, and the opportunity to undertake a delicious act of destruction.

The Train Wreck’s rolls are filled with coconut shrimp, cream cheese and avocado, with a profusion of proteins – tuna, crab, salmon and spicy tuna – spread across the top along with a dose of Icon sauce and tempura flakes.

You shouldn’t need your little mound of wasabi; this one’s got a nice lasting heat.

Icon’s sleek, luxurious décor makes lingering a pleasure, although the dessert tray could be a factor as well … a strawberrybanana crepe with two cups of coffee serves as an ideal ending to a picture-perfect evening out, at a superb locally owned gem.

CAFÉ ICON 311 S. Blackwelder Ave., Edmond 405.340.8596

Monday-Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Quick Tips The restaurant is just a trifle off the main drag: Head east on 2nd past UCO and hang a right on Blackwelder. The road heads slightly downhill, you’ll see a Target on the left and Café Icon is in the center on the right.

Oenophiles might know this already, but the steak pairs better with a Cabernet than a Malbec. And sake goes with basically everything.

Stay alert on the way to and from the restroom (hang a left at the left end of the bar) – its hallway passes the exit from the kitchen, and as the old proverb says, it’s better to be full of sushi than covered with sushi. (Come on, that should totally be a proverb.)

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 85

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 This Route 66 classic provides a blast from the past in its copious decorative memorabilia, and excellent chicken-fried steak big enough to sate the hugest appetites. 4106 NW 39th, OKC, 943.8915 $ CAFÉ 7 A fast, casual restaurant with a very cool concept: widely varied salad, sandwich, pizza and pasta options, all priced under $7 and served up in 7 minutes, 7 days a week.

14101 N May, OKC, 748.3354; 120 N Robinson, Suite W 175, OKC, 748.3354 $ CAFÉ 501 Rustic stone oven pizzas, fresh, uniquely designed salads and delicious specialty sandwiches on house-made artisan breads – add classic atmosphere and enjoy. 501 S Boulevard, Edmond, 359.1501; 5825 NW Grand, OKC, 844.1501 $$ CLASSEN GRILL Don’t be thrown by the seen-better-days exterior; the food inside is deftly done diner deliciousness, especially the breakfast options. The eggs benedict and cheese grits can make your day in advance. 5124 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 842.0428 $ DEEP FORK GRILL The dimly lit, crisply elegant atmosphere perfectly complements the contemporary menu of superb seafood (wood-grilled cedar plank salmon is the house specialty), steaks and accoutrements.

5418 N Western, OKC, 848.7678 $$ FANCY THAT No longer restricting customers to a quick lunch and bakery treats, this Main Street café’s robust expansion into evening and weekend hours is cause for celebration … over dinner. 215 E Main, Norman, 307.0541 $$ FLINT Approachably casual style in the front of the house, with impeccably serious attention to detail in the kitchen; it’s the Colcord Hotel’s winning combination for contemporary cuisine. 15 N Robinson, OKC, 601.4300 $$ INTERURBAN CLASSIC GRILL It’s a simple concept: serve good food at a reasonable

86 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

price in comfortable, casual surroundings.

Favorites like chicken-fried steak are always on the menu, but there are plenty of options for the health-conscious as well. 4 metro locations, interurban.us $$ KAISER’S AMERICAN BISTRO Founded in 1918 and serving contemporary classics like a top-notch buffalo burger, Kaiser’s boasts a great view… if you can tear your attention away from the ice cream & soda fountain.

1039 N Walker, OKC, 232.7632 $ LEGEND’S A Lindsey Street landmark for over 40 years, this casually upscale, three-diamond AAA restaurant still serves exceptional seafood, steaks and more downto-earth fare amid welcoming surroundings.

1313 W Lindsey, Norman, 329.8888 $$ MUTT’S AMAZING HOT DOGS Now this is a hot dog – Mutt’s inspired creations feature prime meats like chicken, bison and duck, topped off with tantalizing and unexpected flavor profiles. 1400 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.3647 $ NEBU You shouldn’t have any trouble finding this airy, accommodating provider of chef-prepared sandwiches, sushi, pizza and more – it’s in the garden wing of the colossal Devon tower. 280 W Sheridan, OKC $

WAFFLE CHAMPION The little food truck that could has finally expanded into a Midtown diner, bringing more joy to those addicted to its array of gourmet sweet or savory waffle options. 1212 N Walker, OKC, 525.9235 $ WHISKEY CAKE Take high-quality locally sourced ingredients, use slow cooking to do unbelievably delicious things to them and serve in a charmingly homey atmosphere; that’s a prime recipe. Enjoy – and don’t forget the namesake dessert. 1845 NW Expressway, OKC, 582.2253 $$

ASIAN 180 MERIDIAN GRILL Intended to unite east and west through blending the essence of Asian cuisine with American culture, its intriguing menu spans sirloin with teriyaki butter, hoisin barbeque duck pizza and ample sushi options. 2541 W Main, Norman, 310.6110 $$ DOT WO GARDEN With an elegantly appointed new location, Dot Wo continues its crowd-pleasing legacy of over two decades by pairing sumptuous classics of Chinese cuisine with fiery, fresh sushi. 6161 N May, OKC, 608.2388 $$

PACKARD’S NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN They’re not kidding about the “new” – the entire menu, from appetizers to complicated cocktails, is infused with thoughtful, innovative ideas and ingredient combinations for a tasty and truly unique dining experience. 201 NW 10th, Suite 100, OKC, 605.3771 $$

GRAND HOUSE A number of Chinese restaurants concentrate on their cooking to the exclusion of any other aspect of dining – Grand House is the happy exception that goes the extra mile to provide enjoyable ambiance alongside its excellent cuisine.

2701 N Classen, OKC, 524.7333 $$

PICASSO CAFÉ Its neighbors are painters, potters and sculptors, so it’s no surprise its management strives to make their cuisine a work of art. Creative arrangements of pizza, sandwiches, salads and surprises abound.

3009 Paseo, OKC, 602.2002 $

GUERNSEY PARK A hidden treasure on an Uptown back street, it’s home to tasty Asian fusion with a hint of French influence in dishes ranging from oxtail ravioli to curry salmon. 2418 N Guernsey, OKC, 605.5272 $$

POPS A little out of the way but undeniably worth going the extra mile, the Good Egg Group’s roadside café has burgers, salads, shakes and the irresistible draw of an unbelievably broad soda selection. 660 W Highway 66, Arcadia, 233.2020 $

O ASIAN FUSION Sublime quality in a wide span of culinary influences – freshly rolled sushi to fiery curry – in a cool, vibrant environment. Call ahead; it becomes a packed house in a hurry. 105 SE 12th, Norman, 701.8899 $$

REDROCK CANYON GRILL Rotisserie chicken, Southwestern enchiladas, pork chops and steak by the lake served expertly in a casual, energetic, hacienda-style atmosphere of stone walls and mahogany beams around an open kitchen. 9221 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 749.1995 $$

SAII ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI BAR With a dark, rich ambiance that elevates it over its surroundings, Saii serves expertly prepared Japanese, Thai and Chinese dishes plus an extensive and adventurous sushi menu.

6900 N May, OKC, 702.7244 $$

SATURN GRILL A star of the lunchtime stage, its surprising daily specials and inspired, tasty twists on ordinary sandwiches, salads and pizza keep it crowded on weekdays. Fortunately, the line moves quickly and calling ahead is encouraged. 4401 W Memorial, OKC 463.5594; 6432 Avondale, OKC, 843.7114; 1012 N Walker, OKC, 606.8182 $ SCRATCH Isn’t that the best place for food to come from? Entrees, sides, rotating specials and more are all carefully concocted in-house, as are the tantalizing craft cocktails. 132 W Main, Norman, 801.2900 $$ SYRUP The most important meal of the day is also the most enticing at this unique breakfast boutique serving a heaping helping of signature dishes (the crunchy French toast is something special) and Stumptown coffee. 123 E Main, Norman, 701.1143 $ VAST Keeping your attention on the steaks, seafood and other globally inspired American cuisine might be surprisingly difficult: the view is truly unparalleled in Oklahoma. 280 W Sheridan, 49th floor, OKC, 702.7262 $$

VII ASIAN BISTRO The bright, sleek interior and personable staff make a good impression, confirmed by the savory spate of Chinese and Vietnamese menu options … especially the glass noodles with shrimp and crab. 2900 N Classen, OKC, 604.2939 $

BAKERY BIG SKY BREAD COMPANY Enjoy cookies, scones, brownies or granola, but don’t fill up before the main attraction: the incredible bevy of fresh-baked bread. 6606 N Western, OKC, 879.0330 $ BROWN’S BAKERY An incredible selection of delicious traditional and specialty cakes, cookies, breads and other baked goods. 1100 N Walker, OKC, 232.0363 $ KITCHEN NO. 324 The venerable Braniff Building on the SandRidge campus downtown hosts this seasonally inspired café, coffee curator and craft bakery serving rustic American cuisine. Aroma alone summons crowds. 324 N Robinson, OKC, 763.5911 $ LA BAGUETTE BAKERY & CAFÉ A spacious, comfortable seating area combined with the

exquisite baking mastery that is the brand’s trademark makes this a tres chic, and very popular, destination for brunch and beyond.

1130 Rambling Oaks, Norman, 329.1101; 924 W Main, Norman, 329.5822 $ NONNA’S BAKERY Family recipes are the foundation of these unbelievably scrumptious treats – walk in and pick or call ahead and special order cream pies, decadent cakes and much more. 1 Mickey Mantle Dr, OKC, 235.4410 $ SARA SARA CUPCAKES Located in a charming little converted house, the ambiance and milk bar make great atmospheric additions to the varied menu of specialty cupcakes – selections range from traditional chocolate to blueberry honey and even bacon, egg and cheese. 7 NW 9th, OKC, 600.9494 $

BAR // PUB FOOD 51ST STREET SPEAKEASY A converted house with a perpetually packed porch and patio, the joint jumps with energy and the top-shelf spirits and beers flow with abandon. 1114 NW 51st, OKC, 463.0470 $ ABNER’S ALE HOUSE Beers and whiskies of the best, plus knockout renditions of accompanying dishes, with the aim of recreating the true English public house vibe.

121 E Main, Norman, 928.5801 $$ BELLE ISLE RESTAURANT & BREWERY Live music, handcrafted beers and a great burger selection fill this bustling bar in the landmark 50 Penn Place. 1900 NW Expressway, OKC, 840.1911 $ BLU FINE WINE & FOOD A popular bar option among OU students and Normanites, blu stands out due to quick, courteous service and a menu with gourmet range – try the hummus. 201 S Crawford, Norman, 360.4258 $$ CLUB ONE15 The nightclub vibe is in full effect with energetic music and three bars, though the robust menu including fajitas, pasta bowls and seafood is quite a draw of its own. 115 E Sheridan, OKC, 605.5783 $$ DEEP DEUCE GRILL The funky, comfortably run-down vibe of its namesake district lingers in this alternative to Bricktown crowds, featuring burgers, beer and a people-watching patio. 307 NE 2nd, OKC, 235.9100 $ JAMES E. MCNELLIE’S PUBLIC HOUSE Designed to bring Ireland’s pub culture to our city, this Midtown hotspot features 350 varieties of beer, including difficult-tofind options from all over the world. 1100 Classen Dr, OKC, 601.7468 $$ MONT, THE Though frequented by many purely for its primo patio and Sooner Swirls from the bar, the Norman landmark also boasts a tempting suite of pub food with a zing of Southwestern flavor. 1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, 329.3330 $ O’CONNELL’S IRISH PUB & GRILLE Beloved by students, alumni and townies alike, this OU Campus Corner landmark has been serving up burgers, beer and festive atmosphere since 1968. 769 Asp, Norman, 217.8454 $ REPUBLIC GASTROPUB Dedicated to bridging the gap between beer bar and upscale eatery, this contemporary public house in Classen Curve pairs a vast selection of quality brews with imaginative menu items designed to complement one another. 5830 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.4577 $$

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 87

FARE | Eat & Drink

Experience

Fine Dining at

SAINTS An inviting Irish bar nestled in the Plaza District, its whiskey and beer selection dovetails nicely with classic dishes like shepherd’s pie, bangers and fish and chips. 1715 NW 16th, OKC, 602.6308 $$ SEAN CUMMINGS’ IRISH RESTAURANT & PUB Classic Irish fare (lamb stew, bangers and mash, even beef or salmon boxtys) mixed with favorites and delivered with engaging and gracious service. Plus, naturally, there’s Guinness on tap. 7523 N May, OKC, 755.2622 $$ URBAN WINEWORKS If its delicious made-in-Oklahoma wine isn’t draw enough (and it should be), the haute culinary creations featuring rabbit, duck, pork belly and more should certainly entice diners to the Plaza. 1749 NW 16th, OKC, 525.9463 $$ VZD’S RESTAURANT & CLUB Live music is a staple on weekends, but the unusually broad, tasty bar menu draws a substantial lunch crowd as well. Try the turkey burger, the chili or both. 4200 N Western, OKC, 524.4203 $

Francis Tuttle School of Culinary Arts D e D i c at e D t o e x c e l l e n c e i n c u l i n a r y e D u c at i o n

Serving as a capstone experience for students, District 21 offers seasonal, modern american cuisine in a shared-plate environment.

WES WELKER’S The food shows great variety and imagination - from duck nachos to sirloin broiled in bourbon butter.

And in terms of enjoyment, the bevy of TVs and 83 available beers ain’t bad either.

3121 W Memorial, OKC, 608.2200, $$

BARBEQUE

Open Tuesday through Friday, with dinner seatings between 6 and 8:30 Call 717.7700 for reservations 12777 N. Rockwell Avenue d21dining.com

EARL’S RIB PALACE Beloved by locals in a setting far from starved for competition, the award-winning barbeque chain pounds out hit ribs, pulled pork and smoked turkey as well as a top-tier burger. 6 metro locations, earlsribpalace.com $ IRON STARR URBAN BARBEQUE Named for notorious outlaw Belle Starr, Iron Starr specializes in “a unique and tasty spin on comfort food.” The entrees are excellent, but the sides are equal players here as well. 3700 N Shartel, OKC, 524.5925 $$

fresh, healthy, tasty…

LEO’S BAR-B-Q Dense, rich flavor and tender texture through and through, delivered in genuine unpolished style for commendable value – no wonder it’s a recurring favorite among OK connoisseurs. 3631 N Kelley, OKC 424.5367 $

333 NW 5 TH STREET 405.601.1644 920 N LINCOLN BOULEVARD 405.239.2233

2 LOCATIONS: DOWNTOWN & OUHSC | CATERING & DELIVERY

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE & BAR-B-Q It’s hard to get more casual than a set of picnic benches, where food comes on cafeteria trays with plastic utensils and paper towels... but as the lines attest, the brisket and other barbeque staples speak for themselves. 3450 Chautauqua, Norman, 307.0552; 3437 W Memorial, OKC, 254.4712 $$

BURGERS // SANDWICHES BISON WITCHES BAR & DELI The monster sandwiches are loaded with standout flavors, but the best way to enjoy them is in halves, accompanied by a bread bowl of fresh hot soup and a bag of pretzels. 211 E Main, Norman, 364.7555 $ CAFÉ PLAID & BAKERY Fresh sandwiches begging to be combined with a sensational selection of salads (veggie, tuna, pasta…) make it an ideal spot for lunch when you’re near OU. 333 W Boyd, Norman, 360.2233 $ COW CALF-HAY A City Bites spinoff that easily stands on its own, the selections are ample and interesting and the delicious never-frozen patties are mmmmmassive.

3409 Wynn, Edmond, 509.2333, 212 N Harvey, OKC, 601.6180 $ FLATIRE BURGERS Beloved by (and generally crowded with) UCO students,

88 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

this bravura burger joint excels at innovative additions to the classic patty and bun, like sauerkraut, carrots, pineapple relish and habanero salsa. 100 N University Dr (at UCO), Edmond, 974.4638; 6315 NW 39th Expressway, Bethany, 603.2822 $ GARAGE BURGERS & BEER, THE It gets noisy in the low-lit sports bar atmosphere, but even if your focus isn’t on a televised game, conversation would probably revolve around the huge, juicy burgers and fries – both available in several tempting flavor possibilities – anyway. 307 E Main, Norman, 701.7035; 601 S Bryant Ave, Edmond, 341.5801, 1024 S I-240 Service Rd, OKC, 601.4198 $ IRMA’S BURGER SHACK Hand-cut fries, hand-breaded onions rings and simply great burgers. Try the No-Name Ranch burger – lean and flavorful, thanks to a unique breed of cattle raised in Wynnewood using organic techniques.

1035 NW 63rd, OKC, 840.4762; 1120 Classen Dr, OKC, 235.4762 $ JOHNNIE’S CHARCOAL BROILER Fresh-ground hamburgers cooked over real charcoal set Johnnie’s apart. Try the incredibly popular Cheese Theta or Caesar burgers, and don’t forget a side of their outstanding onion rings. 4 metro locations, johnniesok.com $ LOUIE’S GRILL & BAR Casually cool and come-as-you-are, these popular neighborhood bar-type hangouts excel at inexpensive burgers, sandwiches and pizzas. 12 metro locations, louiesgrillandbar.com $ LOUIE’S ON THE LAKE An unbeatable view of scenic Lake Hefner from the patio adds to the ambiance of this classic eatery, which features a tasty spate of entrees under $10. 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 751.2298 $ MULE, THE Solid beer and beverage selection plus a delectable array of gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and melts (ingredients range from fontina to figs) fill the menu at this relaxation destination in the Plaza District. 1630 N Blackwelder, OKC, 601.1400 $ NIC’S GRILL It’s small, it’s crowded, it’s cash-only… and it’s incredible. The colossal burgers, easily among the metro’s best, and mounds of fresh fries make this holein-the-wall diner pure paradise. 1202 N Pennsylvania, OKC, 524.0999 $ S&B’S BURGER JOINT Good news: these burgers’ exquisite flavor combinations – including such showcase ingredients as peanut butter or a coffee crust – come in slider form as well, the better to sample more selections. 20 NW 9th, OKC, 270.0516; 5929 N May, OKC, 843.8777; 7745 S Walker, OKC, 631.0983; 102 W Main, Norman, 360.5726 $ SERVICE STATION Once a filling station, the building still has vintage décor and is home to Bentleys, Packards and dipsticks, but now they’re the names of its delicious half-pound burgers and fries. 502 S Webster, Norman, 364.2136 $ SOONER DAIRY LUNCH The menu’s masthead, “Serving Norman since 1954,” should serve as a fairly strong recommendation all by itself – this modest little drive-in has been cheerfully feeding its staunch fans burgers, fries, tots and shakes for six decades and counting. 1820 W Main, Norman, 321.8526 $ TEXADELPHIA A popular spot thanks to numerous flatscreen TVs and the nearby canal. The menu draws raves for burgers and wraps, but especially the monstrous made-to-order cheesesteaks. 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 208.4000 $ TUCKER’S ONION BURGERS With one burger (and variants), one side dish (fries), one salad and beverages, the menu is easy to remember. With this level of bravura

execution, the meal is hard to forget. 324 NW 23rd, OKC, 609.2333; 5740 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 286.3331 $

COFFEEHOUSE // TEA ROOM ALL ABOUT CHA Universal standards and more adventurous concoctions (the sweet potato latte is a wonder) in a bright, bustling atmosphere that still has room for quieter lingering. 3272 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.9959 $ ARAVALLI This weekday waystation in the Devon Energy Center is a prime spot for breakfast pastries and coffee, lunch gelato and desserts and a daily rotating handful of grab-and-go entrees. 333 W Sheridan Ave, OKC, 278.7000 $ BEATNIX CAFÉ, THE While it’s certainly possible to get a sandwich, cup of hearty soup or powerhouse latte to go, doing so would mean missing out on the lovely laid-back vibe that pervades this stressless dawdling spot. 136 NW 13th, OKC, 604.0211 $

CUPPIES & JOE The name’s not really a misnomer, but if it listed all their features it’d be too long. For cupcakes and coffee and pie and live music and a cozy, trendy vibe and more, park around back and take a peek. 727 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.2122 $ ELEMENTAL COFFEE Seriously spectacular coffee roasted in-house - the passionate staffers are always eager to share knowledge about the process - augmented with locally sourced treats, including a variety of crepes on weekends. 815 N Hudson, OKC, 633.1703 $

CONTINENTAL BIN 73 WINE BAR 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 $$ BLACKBIRD A Campus Corner gastropub pairing delectably creative food – pot roast nachos! – with an expansive beer, wine and whiskey list. 575 S University, Norman, 928.5555 $$

MICHELANGELO’S COFFEE SHOP & WINE BAR Enjoy exceptional coffees, a wellstocked pastry case with chocolates and sweets, a surprisingly robust wine catalog and even breakfast and lunch selections.

207 E Main, Norman, 579.3387 $

CAFÉ NOVA Lunch, dinner and late at night, the simple but innovative fare and hopping bar in this Western Avenue spot aim to please hipsters, families and white- and blue-collar joes and josephines. 4308 N Western, OKC, 525.6682 $$

PARAMOUNT, THE A Film Row joint with a screening room attached, it serves a few options for breakfast and lunch and snacks to go with its movies, but it’s the all-day beverage menu that delivers the stuff dreams are made of. 701 W Sheridan, OKC, 517.0787 $

CHEEVER’S Dress up or down for the Southwestern-influenced recipes and love of seafood that drive the contemporary comfort food found in this converted florist’s; truly one of the city’s finest destinations for dining out. 2409 N Hudson, OKC, 525.7007 $$

CAFÉ EVOKE Outstanding coffee drinks and other beverages from one of the area’s great caterers; if patrons wish to stick around for soup, sandwiches, snacks or sweets, so much the better. 103 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.1522 $

RED CUP Comfortably ramshackle surroundings encourage curling up for conversation over spectacular PrimaCafe coffee, baked treats, vegetarian-friendly breakfast and lunch specials and live music. Highly recommended! 3122 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 525.3430 $

COFFEE SLINGERS Rocking a brisk, urban vibe thanks to its Automobile Alley location, this has become a gathering place for genuine java enthusiasts, especially during the monthly educational sampling seminars called “cuppings.” 1015 N Broadway, OKC, 606.2763 $

T, AN URBAN TEAHOUSE Proving that an establishment’s focus can be narrow and broad simultaneously, this endearing retreat doesn’t do coffee or sandwiches, but does offer over 100 varieties of tea and expert counsel to explore a world of possibilities. 7518 N May, OKC, 418.4333 $

COACH HOUSE, THE Definitively among the metro’s most refined, elegant, upscale dining experiences, the rotating menu of seasonal cuisine highlights regional specialties prepared with classical perfection by master chef Kurt Fleischfresser. 6437 Avondale, OKC, 842.1000 $$$ KYLE’S 1025 For an evening of understated sophistication, Kyle’s magnificent steaks, prime seafood, assortment of tapas or even meatloaf are a must. 1025 NW 70th, OKC, 840.0115 $$ LOTTINVILLE’S WOOD GRILLE Rotisserie chicken and wood-grilled salmon are

the featured players among a host of Southwestern-influenced entrees, salads and panini; the Sunday brunch is epic. 801 Signal Ridge, Edmond, 341.2244 $$ MANTEL WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE Marvelous steaks, seafood and other specialties (don’t miss the lobster bisque), combined with a refined, intimate atmosphere and outstanding service, make a truly memorable meal. 201 E Sheridan, OKC, 236.8040 $$$ MELTING POT, THE If the occasion is special, here’s where to make a meal into an event.

Specializing in four-course fondue dinners, this elegant restaurant rewards time investments with delectable memories. 4 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1000 $$$ METRO WINE BAR & BISTRO, THE A perennial favorite that feels comfortably upscale without exerting pressure to impress on its clientele, the far-reaching menu covers culinary high points from vichyssoise to crème brulée. 6418 N Western, OKC, 840.9463 $$ MICHAEL’S GRILL Thoroughly urbane dining in an elegant, intimate setting – the steaks, chops, seafood and pastas are excellent, and the Caesar salad prepared tableside is legendary. 2824 W Country Club, OKC, 810.9000 $$$ MUSEUM CAFÉ, THE A setting as inspiring as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art warrants something special in terms of cuisine… et puis voila. Ethereally light or delectably robust, this European-inspired menu delights for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. 415 Couch, OKC, 235.6262 $$ NONNA’S EURO-AMERICAN RISTORANTE & BAR A cozily appointed, thoroughly opulent atmosphere housing distinctive cuisine, specialty drinks and live music in The

there's no place like STELLA FOR THE

holidays

PRIVATE ROOMS AVAILABLE for up to 40 guests

RENT THE ENTIRE RESTAURANT for up to 100 guests

LUNCH DINNER COCKTAILS SUNDAY BRUNCH 1201 N. Walker

Oklahoma City 405.235.2200 www.stellaokc.com

NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 89

They are the story of Oklahoma ...

Author and photographer M.J. Alexander has become one of the great chroniclers of Oklahoma’s people, and her latest book captures the images and stories of the youngest citizens of our state.

FARE | Eat & Drink

Purple Bar and fresh-baked goodies to top off a grand evening. 1 Mickey Mantle, OKC, 235.4410 $$$ PARK AVENUE GRILL A one-of-a-kind dining experience inside the luxurious Skirvin Hilton, blending traditional steak and seafood cuisine with the high style of its original 1930s setting. 1 Park, OKC, 702.8444 $$$ PASEO GRILL Quiet and intimate inside, cheerful and comfortable out on the patio, with an award-winning menu full of distinctive flavor combinations – try the duck salad. 2909 Paseo, OKC, 601.1079 $$$ ROCOCO RESTAURANT & FINE WINE An “east coast-style” restaurant, built around a diverse menu of hand-crafted international dishes from Penne Bolognese to Petrale Sole, set off by carefully selected wine and exceptional service. 12252 N May, OKC, 212.4577; 2824 N Pennsylvania, OKC, 528.2824 $$ SEVEN47 A Campus Corner hotspot boasting sleek, swank décor, an appealingly broad menu including a tantalizing brunch and a consistently celebratory vibe make this winning combination. 747 Asp, Norman, 701.8622 $$ SIGNATURE GRILL Unassuming locale; magnificent culinary rewards. Chef Clay Falkner’s expertly considered menu mixes French and Italian techniques, presenting a wide spectrum of amazing flavors in a few select dishes. 1317 E Danforth, Edmond, 330.4548 $$$ VIN DOLCE Primarily a venue for the endless, joyous pursuit of discovering the perfect glass of wine, downtown Edmond’s hot spot also serves gourmet tapas and homemade sweets. 16 S Broadway, Edmond, 285.5333 $$ WEST The staff is speedy, the décor sleek and modern, and the entrées – like bucatini with meatballs or roasted salmon and ratatouille – are wide-ranging but elegantly simple. 6714 N Western, OKC, 607.4072 $$

FRENCH Alexander traveled over 11,000 miles, photographing 250 Oklahomans from 50 cities and towns to create PORTRAIT OF A GENERATION – an ode to the land and its people, a celebration of those destined to lead the state into its second century.

Portraitof a

Generation The Children of Oklahoma

Sons and Daughters of the Red Earth

ORDER ONLINE

at sliceok.com/portrait or call 405.842.2266 Hardcover, 288 pages, $55

M.J. ALEXANDER

90 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

For every book sold, $10 is donated to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County.

LA BAGUETTE BISTRO Brothers Alain and Michel Buthion have firm roots in the city’s culinary landscape, and La Baguette combines fine dining (linger over multiple courses whenever possible) with an exceptional bakery, deli and butcher shop on site. 7408 N May, OKC, 840.3047 $$ WHISPERING PINES B&B A secluded getaway on the south end of Norman, this inn houses a treasure of a restaurant serving sumptuous, savory Frenchinspired cuisine in quiet comfort with firstclass service. 7820 E Highway 9, Norman, 447.0202 $$$

GERMAN DAS BOOT CAMP Longtime fixture for Deutsch festivities and feasting Royal Bavaria has brewed up a second round of the same exceptional cuisine (and magnificent beer) for a faster-paced location in downtown Norman. 229 E Main, Norman, 701.3748 $ INGRID’S Authentic German fare at its best, including outstanding Oklahomamade bratwurst. Join the Saturday regulars for breakfast and try the apple French toast, and no one can resist Ingrid’s bakery counter. 3701 N Youngs, OKC, 946.8444 $$ OLD GERMANY RESTAURANT Justly renowned for its Bavarian delights – the schnitzels, soups and cevapcici sausages are spectacular. Reservations strongly recommended; it’s a small place and dinner’s already a lengthy process without

waiting in line. 15920 SE 29th, Choctaw, 390.8647 $$$ ROYAL BAVARIA Excellent renditions of traditional dishes like Wienerschnitzel, Jagerbraten and a variety of sausages, plus fantastisch house-brewed beers, make the time consumed a worthy investment. 3401 S Sooner, Moore, 799.7666 $$$

HEALTHY // ECLECTIC COOLGREENS This health-conscious establishment has a menu, but customization is encouraged; every available component in their salads, wraps and frozen yogurt is naturally delicious. 4 metro locations, coolgreens.com $$ EARTH NATURAL CAFÉ & DELI, THE Super, super fresh sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods in one of the most vegetarianand vegan-friendly menus you’ll ever see, plus organic fair-trade coffee and tea. 750 Asp, Norman, 573.5933 $ LOCAL Utilizing some of the finest, freshest regionally sourced ingredients available to fuel chef Ryan Parrott’s creative cuisine, its menu changes seasonally but its welcoming full-family atmosphere is constant. 2262 W Main, Norman, 928.5600 $$ LUDIVINE The experience is never the same on successive visits, because 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, with two dozen flavors daily handmade from scratch on location; the cioccolato scuro is unbelievably sublime. 937 SW 25th St, Suite B, Moore, 794.7266; 1318 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 329.7744 $ ORANGE LEAF FROZEN YOGURT Dozens and dozens and dozens of decadenttasting, waistline-friendly flavors, topped however you like since you’re making it yourself. Just don’t try them all at once, since it’s charged by the ounce. 9 metro locations, orangeleafyogurt.com $ PEACHWAVE YOGURT A full 50 flavors – every one low-fat or non-fat – conveyed to your taste buds via the finest, freshest ingredients in completely delicious customized combinations. 3 metro locations, peachwaveyogurt.com $

INDIAN GOPURAM – TASTE OF INDIA A fullservice Indian establishment whose richly appointed interior and attentive staff give the feel of fine dining, even during the inexpensive and plentiful lunch buffet. 4559 NW 23rd, OKC, 948.7373 $$ KHAZANA INDIAN GRILL Don’t let the thought of a buffet throw you off this place. The food is superior and very fresh; the staff is delightful. New to Indian food?

Alert a server and you will be guided through the cuisine. 4900 N May, OKC, 948.6606 $$ MISAL OF INDIA BISTRO A Norman institution for over 30 years, specializing in tandoori-cooked delicacies and boasting healthy, natural, delicious cuisine, served amid splendid ambiance. 580 Ed Noble Pkwy, Norman, 579.5600 $$ TAJ CUISINE OF INDIA A tremendous selection of Indian staples and delicacies – the menu has sections for vegetarian, tandoori, South Indian and Indo-Chinese specialties – plus full lunch and dinner buffets. 1500 NW 23rd, OKC, 601.1888 $$

ITALIAN // PIZZA BELLINI’S RISTORANTE & GRILL Tasteful in décor and Italian offerings alike, this romantic nightspot quietly, confidently exudes elegance. 6305 Waterford Blvd, OKC, 848.1065 $$ BENVENUTI’S Subtly flavored minestrone to rich, hearty ragouts, the splendid menu keeps the booths full and diners planning return trips; don’t overlook the Sunday brunch. 105 W Main, Norman, 310.5271 $$ CAFFE PRANZO The atmosphere raises first-time diners’ hopes; the execution exceeds them. Classic dishes, as well as less ubiquitous options that should be better known, are elevated to greatness.

9622 N May, OKC, 755.3577 $$ EMPIRE SLICE HOUSE Reigning over the Plaza District in New York style, it offers whole pizzas or slices along with full bar service – making it a great place to go late at night or when seeking a primo patio. 1734 NW 16th, OKC $ GABRIELLA’S ITALIAN GRILL AND PIZZERIA A fresh chapter in the Giacomo family’s delectable legacy of success in Krebs, McAlester and South Padre; one bite of the chicken piccata or homemade Italian sausage should win diners’ hearts with ease. 1226 NE 63rd, OKC, 478.4955 $$ HIDEAWAY PIZZA If you’ve been serving pizza to a devoted following for over half a century, then you must be doing something right. In this case, that something right is incredible pizza in jovial surroundings. 7 metro locations, hideawaypizza.com $$ HUMBLE PIE PIZZERIA There’s really no need to be humble about pizza made the way a true Chicago pizzeria would make it. Take your choice of toppings and relish what is quite possibly the best crust known to man. 1319 S Broadway, Edmond, 715.1818 $ JOEY’S PIZZERIA A creative pizzeria on OKC’s Film Row, Joey’s serves first-rate appetizers and salads along with its mouth-watering pies. Can’t get enough?

Have your pizza, then have another for dessert; The Surfer Dude can pinch hit as entrée or dessert. 700 W Sheridan, OKC, 525.8503 $$ OTHELLO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT Garlic bread and mussels to tiramisu and coffee – everything you’d hope for from a romantic, comfortably shabby Italian café. The adjoining bar regularly hosts live local music. 434 Buchanan, Norman, 701.4900; 1 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.9045 $$ PIZZA 23 The tempting selection of specialty pies is available for takeout, but dining in is recommended: the crisp, urban décor and good beer selection add savor to the flavor. 600-B NW 23rd St, OKC, 601.6161 $$ SOPHABELLA’S CHICAGO GRILL A quiet, classy gem offering premier tastes from Chicago and beyond – the menu includes Coquilles St. Jacques alongside pepperoni rolls – in comfort and style.

7628 N May, OKC, 879.0100 $$$ STELLA MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE A luscious spate of modern Italian cuisine for a casual lunch, romantic dinner or brunch that’s a bit of both, framed by stylish surroundings. 1201 N Walker, OKC, 235.2200 $$ UPPER CRUST WOOD FIRED PIZZA A chic, contemporary restaurant in Classen Curve, this uptown pizzeria and wine bar specializes in wood-fired, thin crust New York-style pies complemented by a full menu and wine list. 5860 N Classen Blvd,

OKC, 842.7743; 1205 NW 178th, Edmond, 285.8887 $$ VICTORIA’S PASTA SHOP A shabbycomfortable atmosphere with local art on its walls and the art of pasta on its plates – the chicken lasagna and linguine with snow crab are especially excellent. 327 White, Norman, 329.0377 $ VITO’S RISTORANTE Homestyle Italian cuisine in an intimate setting where the staff and management treat customers like guests in their home. It’s a small space, so calling ahead is recommended.

7521 N May, OKC, 848.4867 $$ WEDGE, THE Wood-fired pizzas crafted from fresh ingredients and made-fromscratch sauces; there’s a build-yourown option if the house specialties’ unconventional toppings (figs, truffle oil, walnuts) don’t appeal. 230 NE 1st, OKC, 270.0660; 4709 N Western, OKC, 602.3477 $$

JAPANESE // SUSHI CAFÉ ICON Tempting sushi and Japanese specialties — and much more — fill the menu’s pages to bursting with visually splendid and palate-pleasing treats. 311 S Blackwelder, Edmond, 340.8956 $$ GOGO SUSHI The name reflects the restaurant’s attitude toward speed and convenience, but doesn’t mention the robust menu or tantalizing specials. Go go check it out! 1611 S Service Rd, Moore, 794.3474; 432 NW 10th, OKC, 602.6333 $$ IN THE RAW DUNWELL SUSHI A chic, colorful, open-concept restaurant on the Bricktown canal offering excellent sushi, even more impressive specialty rolls and a wide assortment of sake. Try the bananas tempura for dessert. 200 S Oklahoma, OKC, 702.1325 $$ MUSASHI’S Exquisitely flavorful Japanese cuisine prepared with genuine artistry, thanks to the skilled chefs performing at tableside hibachi grills.

Nobody does the onion volcano better.

4315 N Western, OKC, 602.5623 $$ SUSHI BAR, THE Sushi staples done with élan, as well as options starring more adventurous ingredients like sweet potato and jack cheese, in a bustling, comfortable environment. 1201 NW 178th, OKC, 285.7317 $$

e food, h t r o f NOW OPEN: La Brasa Peruvian Kitchen Come the fun!

1310 NW 25th Street inside the historic Kamp’s bldg. r o f y sta 405.524.2251

Fine Dining in the Asian District

SUSHI NEKO An established OKC favorite combining style (sleek, brisk, classy) with substance (in the form of an especially wide-ranging and creative sushi menu). Flavor favors the bold! 4318 N Western, OKC, 528.8862 $$ TOKYO JAPANESE RESTAURANT It’s neither huge nor lavishly appointed, and the menu focuses more on traditional dishes than experimental flights of fancy; it is, however, palpably fresh and routinely cited as among the metro’s best. 7516 N Western, OKC, 848.6733 $$

MEDITERRANEAN AVANTI BAR & GRILL Gather around the hammered copper bar for the casual elegance of Italy and the Mediterranean with contemporary twists: crab falafel, bolognese pizza, osso bucco and more.

13509 Highland Park, OKC, 254.5200 $$ BASIL MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ Whether entrees like Chicken Bandarri, a pita stuffed with savory beef Souvlaki or a fresh bowl of tangy tabouli, flavor leaps

2900 N. Classen | 405.604.2939 NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 91

FARE | Eat & Drink

from every corner of the menu. 211 NW 23rd, OKC, 602.3030 $ HAIGET’S Vegan-friendly – as well as friendly in general – this unexpected Edmond gem rewards the adventurous with outstanding Ethiopian and Kenyan specialties. 308 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, 509.6441 $$ MEDITERRANEAN IMPORTS & DELI Selected groceries and a menu stocked with options from a simple Greek salad to eye-watering cabbage rolls; the food is authentic, quick and spectacular. 5620 N May, OKC, 810.9494 $ NUNU’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFÉ & MARKET The tangy, tantalizing, fresh and healthy flavors that characterize the cuisine of Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine and their neighbors, faithfully reproduced from generations-old recipes. 3131 W Memorial, OKC, 751.7000 $ QUEEN OF SHEBA Practically the definition of a hidden treasure, an excellently spiced, extremely vegan-friendly menu of varied Ethiopian delights awaits the adventurous.

Bring friends and be prepared to linger. 2308 N MacArthur, OKC, 606.8616 $$ ZORBA’S MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE For over 20 years, Zorba’s has satisfied appetites and pleased adventurous palates.

Serving traditional and modern dishes from recipes passed down through generations, they proudly showcase the flavors of Cyprus, Spain, Greece and Morocco. 6014 N May, OKC, 947.7788 $

MEXICAN // LATIN AMERICAN 1492 1492 offers authentic Mexican cuisine in an elegant atmosphere, a fusion decor with an open bar, possibly the best mojitos in the universe and a romantic setting. 1207 N Walker, OKC, 236.1492 $$ ABUELO’S MEXICAN FOOD EMBASSY In a word: huge. The restaurant itself, the variety, the plates, the flavors, the experience. No passport required. 17 E Sheridan, OKC, 235.1422; 3001 W Memorial, OKC, 755.2680 $$ BIG TRUCK TACOS It’s nearly always standing room only at lunch, but don’t let that stop you – shove an elbow in at the counter and enjoy fast, fresh, imaginative taco creations. 530 NW 23rd, OKC, 525.8226 $ CAFÉ DO BRASIL OKC is a long way from Rio, but the supremely savory menu in this Midtown hot spot covers the distance in a mouthful. Even brunch is a spicy, inimitable treat. 440 NW 11th, OKC, 525.9779 $$ CAFÉ KACAO A sunlit space filled with bright, vibrant flavors from the zesty traditions of Guatemalan cooking. Lunch possibilities beckon, but it’s the breakfast (and brunch) specialties that truly dazzle.

3325 N Classen, OKC, 602.2883 $ CANTINA LAREDO A sophisticated take on traditional Mexican food, specializing in fresh fish specials and certified Angus beef dishes. 1901 NW Expressway (in Penn Square Mall), OKC, 840.1051 $$ CHUY’S If you’re just feeling a trifle peckish, you might have your hands full with this one – the portions are substantial, the Hatch chile-fueled flavors are strong and the vibe is playfully enthusiastic. 760 N Interstate Dr, Norman, 360.0881 $$ FUZZY’S TACO SHOP At home in hightraffic areas because it helps create crowds, Fuzzy’s dishes up jumbo burritos and big, flavorful salads – and, with special serious emphasis, shrimp tacos – quickly and in plenitude. 752 Asp, Norman, 701.1000; 208 Johnny Bench, OKC, 602.3899 $

92 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

IGUANA MEXICAN GRILL Whether “down by the railroad tracks” or returning to its roots in Nichols Hills Plaza, Iguana offers unique Mexican flavor in a fun atmosphere at reasonable prices, including awesome deals on Iguana Tuesdays. 9 NW 9th, OKC, 606.7172; 6482 Avondale, OKC, 607.8193 $$ INCA TRAIL Maintaining a cultural culinary heritage that includes flavors from around the world results in great variety, from piquant ceviches to silky-smooth homemade flan. The Pollo a La Brasa comes highly recommended. 10948 N May, OKC, 286.0407 $$ LA LUNA MEXICAN CAFÉ Its cantina-style atmosphere is undeniably festive, and only adds to the enjoyment of classic fajitas, enchiladas and bolder dishes like the carne ranchera. 409 W Reno, OKC, 235.9596 $$ MAMA ROJA MEXICAN KITCHEN A festive atmosphere on the scenic shores of Lake Hefner sets off a menu loaded with handrolled tamales, vendor-style tacos and signature dishes. 9219 E Lake Hefner Pkwy, OKC, 302.6262 $$ MAMAVECA MEXICAN RESTAURANT A tasty take on familiar Mexican favorites plus a rare treat for culinary explorers: the diverse delights of Peruvian cuisine, which incorporates the combined flavors of four continents. 2551 W Hemphill, Norman, 573.4003 $$ PURPLE BURRO Casual and lighthearted (if you couldn’t guess from the name), it specializes in New Mexican cuisine fueled by the heat of green chiles in classics like chicken enchiladas and chile verde stew. 231 S Coltrane, Edmond, 359.8400 $$ TAMAZUL Ceviches and crudos join tacos and fajitas in this lively, upscale tour of Mexican and Oaxacan cuisine, featuring the state’s first mezcal bar. 5820 N Classen, OKC, 879.4248 $$ TARAHUMARA’S CAFÉ & CANTINA Beloved by locals (there’s usually a line but it moves quickly), this airy, unassuming ristorante serves huge, tasty portions of Tex-Mex classics plus less ubiquitous fare like carnitas de puerco and mole poblano.

702 N Porter, Norman, 360.8070 $$ TED’S CAFÉ ESCONDIDO The gold standard of OKC-area Tex-Mex: residents may prefer another eatery, but when they attempt to make converts, Ted’s is the point of comparison. Fast, fresh and amply portioned, it’s often very crowded and always supremely delicious. 4 metro locations, tedscafe.com $$ YUCATAN TACO STAND Fast, fresh and often fiery Latin fusion cuisine like paella and tamales wrapped in banana leaves alongside signature nachos and taco combinations… plus a selection of over 75 100-percent-agave tequilas. 100 E California, Suite 110, OKC, 886.0413 $ ZARATE’S LATIN MEXICAN GRILL And now for something a trifle different: In addition to the familiar joys of enchiladas and chimichangas, the chef’s Peruvian heritage shines in South American dishes featuring plantains, yuca and imported spices. 706 S Broadway, Edmond, 330.6400 $$

SEAFOOD FISH CITY GRILL Shrimp and grits, tilapia po boys, oysters on the half shell… anyone who secretly wishes Oklahoma had a coastline should feel right at home in this Spring Creek Village stopover. 1389 E 15th, Edmond, 348.2300 $$ HILLBILLIES PO-BOY Unassuming name; mighty appealing flavor in the form of fresh oysters, thoroughly tasty seafood sandwiches and the licit thrill of the fabulous moonshine bar. 1 NW 9th, OKC, 702.9805 $

JAZMO’Z BOURBON STREET CAFÉ Its upscale yet casual environment and Cajun and Creole-inspired selections provide a nice backdrop for both a night out in Bricktown and watching the big game at the bar with a bowl of gumbo. 100 E California, OKC, 232.6666 $$ PEARL’S CRABTOWN A 20,000-foot Bricktown warehouse is home to Crabtown, where the Cajun Crab Boil is a favorite and guests are encouraged to “leave the silverware at home and dig in.” 303 E Sheridan, OKC, 232.7227 $$ PEARL’S OYSTER BAR A perennial winner in “best of the metro” polls for its fresh, flavorful seafood and spicy Creole-inspired dishes: Shrimp Diablo, Tabasco Caesar salads and more. 5641 N Classen, OKC, 848.8008 $$ SHACK SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR, THE A massive selection of nicely spiced Cajun and Creole cooking, plus fried and grilled seafood, in an atmosphere that’s as casual as can be. 13801 Quail Pointe Dr, OKC, 286.5959 $$

SOUL FOOD BIGHEAD’S Fried alligator appetizers and frog leg platters, oyster po’ boys with a tangy remoulade and simmering, savory seafood gumbo – it’s a bayou treat right nearby. 617 S Broadway, Edmond, 340.1925 $$

delicious. It’s where great steak is the rule, not the exception. 3241 W Memorial, OKC, 748.5959 $$$ MICKEY MANTLE’S STEAKHOUSE Named after a legendary Oklahoman, this lushly atmospheric social spot in Bricktown serves powerhouse entrées, sides and amenities that have become the stuff of legends themselves. 7 S Mickey Mantle, OKC, 272.0777 $$$ OPUS PRIME STEAKHOUSE Aspiring to the ultimate in upscale dining via hand-cut USDA Prime Black Angus steaks, a wine selection comprising over 1,000 labels and an ambiance of intimate elegance. 800 W Memorial, OKC, 607.6787 $$$ RANCH STEAKHOUSE Driven by customaged hand-cut USDA Certified Prime tenderloins and ribeyes, the effortlessly opulent Ranch offers exceptional food, warm hospitality and unbridled Southern comfort. 3000 W Britton, OKC, 755.3501 $$$ RED PRIMESTEAK Visionary design and atmosphere house super-premium steaks that are among the state’s very finest, accompanied by vibrant, imaginative flavors and refined amenities to make world-class dining. 504 N Broadway, OKC, 232.2626 $$$

THAI

THE DRUM ROOM Crispy, juicy, savory fried chicken (among the city’s best) stars along with fried okra, waffles, other treats and a fully loaded bar. 4300 N Western, OKC, 604.0990 $$

PAD THAI Dine in comfortably or quickly carry out beautifully executed exemplars of the form: delicately flavored or searingly spiced soups, curries, fried rice and noodle dishes like its namesake. 119 W Boyd, Norman, 360.5551 $

MAMA E’S WINGS & WAFFLES Now with two locations after a star turn on The Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” this labor of love is adored by locals looking for classic Southern dishes flavored with authenticity. 3838 Springlake, OKC, 424.0800; 900 W Reno, OKC, 231.1190 $

SALA THAI Pineapple curry, basil squid, fried rice with crab, cinnamon beef with rice noodles... the variety is exceptional, and the inexpensive create-your-own lunch special makes it a popular midday option. 1614 NW 23rd, OKC, 528.8424 $

STEAKHOUSE BOULEVARD STEAKHOUSE Perfectly soigné ambiance down to the least detail and cuisine easily ranking among the metro’s elite – a sumptuous, if expensive, masterpiece. 505 S Boulevard, Edmond, 715.2333 $$$ CATTLEMEN’S STEAKHOUSE The very definition of an Oklahoma institution – it’s over 100 years old in a state that’s only 105 – its immense corn-fed steaks and irreproducible atmosphere are history served anew every day. 1309 S Agnew, OKC, 236.0416 $$ HOLLIE’S FLATIRON STEAKHOUSE This plush, cozy restaurant in front of the Warren Theatre features fresh, tasty entrees seared on a flatiron grill and a kick of Southwestern spice running through the menu. 1199 Service Rd, Moore, 799.0300 $$ JAMIL’S STEAKHOUSE Saving room for steak, lobster or prime rib is difficult when your gratis appetizers are a Lebanese bounty – Jamil’s has been feeding Oklahoma exceptionally well since 1964. 4910 N Lincoln, OKC, 525.8352 $$ JUNIOR’S Some of the biggest oil deals in boom and bust days were finalized at this landmark Oil Center building restaurant, where hand-cut Angus steaks and lobster fight for attention with knockout fried chicken. 2601 NW Expressway, OKC, 848.5597 $$$ MAHOGANY PRIME STEAKHOUSE The service is outstanding and the ambience casually welcoming, but the star is the steak: the finest hand-selected custom-aged beef, broiled to perfection and served sizzling and

SWEET BASIL THAI CUISINE The enormous aquarium adds to Sweet Basil’s cozy ambiance, which when coupled with its outstanding curries and soups recommends it as a date spot. Be aware that it is on the higher end of Norman’s price range for Thai.

211 W Main, Norman, 217.8424 $$ TANA THAI BISTRO There’s a lot to like about the food in this little spot, from the red snapper filet to the plain old (so to speak) pad thai. Pay attention to the soups, and do not play chicken with the spice level. 10700 N May, OKC, 749.5590 $$

VIETNAMESE CORIANDER CAFÉ Updating traditional Vietnamese recipes with modern sensibilities via local ingredients, this vegetarian-friendly café makes a quick, casual, comfortable dining alternative. 323 White, Norman, 801.3958 $ LIDO Spring rolls to vermicelli bowls, this venerable diner runs the gamut of Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, and even finds room for a few French specialties.

2518 N Military, OKC, 521.1902 $$ PHO CA DAO Vermicelli bowls, rice platters and even banh xeo crepes are there for investigating, but the main draw is still piping hot pho (with choice of meat) and icy cold bubble tea. 2431 N Classen Blvd, OKC, 521.8819 $ PHO BULOUS Super fresh, super fast, reasonably priced and perhaps Edmond’s finest take on the namesake soup… although some of the specialties like Honey Ginger Chicken or Wasabi Salmon also merit closer inspection. 3409 S Broadway, Edmond, 475.5599 $

MARK T. HANSTEIN, DDS

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NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 93

Last Laugh

THREE MAGIC WORDS

By Lauren Hammack

IT WAS A “SPECIAL DAY,” ACCORDING TO GIUSEPPE, the tour guide on the ferry from Sorrento to Capri. “Special” because the water was unusually choppy, despite the otherwise stunning weather during a recent visit to Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Everyone should sit at the rear of the boat, Giuseppe advised, to minimize the effects of the rough sea.

The day trip to Capri had a specific, if mildly morbid, objective: To show my husband Bob exactly where to scatter my ashes one day when I die. Five minutes into this particular ferry ride, I was convinced – and later, prayed – that this would be the day.

Palpitating and clammy right off the bat, I braced for an eventful 45-minute crossing as I mulled my motion sickness-laced history with water travel, which dated back to an unfortunate English Channel crossing on another “special day.” That was when I learned, bent over an outside railing, that rough waters, CocaCola and Toblerone don’t belong in the same sentence, much less the same stomach.

With that revelation in my wake somewhere between Dover and Calais, I might have been cured of all travel by boat if I were a fast learner. Instead, sitting cotton-mouthed on the Italian Minnow gave me the opportunity to recall many untold episodes of violent maritime high jinks that prove I’m a glutton for suffering. Along the way, I’ve developed an uncanny knack for boarding on all “special days,” which always seem to end the same way. If I’m lucky, there will be a plastic bag within reach.

It occurs to me that the most powerful utterance in any language can really be reduced to three words: “I’m gonna barf!”

No other declaration – not even shouting “Fire!” in a crowded theater – carries more urgency. Say it out loud sometime and watch any unsuspecting crowd part like the Red Sea. The mere suggestion that someone within 50 feet is going to be sick will terrify any mob into dispersing within seconds every time. As a no-nonsense breach of polite, social dialogue, those three words are a non-negotiable conversation ender. A one-way ticket to the nearest exit, no questions asked.

On a Christmas vacation to Hawaii, my sadistic husband prepaid for three family outings on and under the water. It was obvious he intended to kill me. A powerboat tour around one of the islands dragged on and on, ending with me kneeling at the throne of the porcelain god. Hours later, we boarded a dinner cruise, where my entree would consist of saltines and Dramamine, with ginger ale for dessert. While the other dinner guests did the Macarena, I couldn’t help noticing that the dance floor was rocking, churning, tossing and heaving.

The following day, I’d hardly begun mentally detailing the specifics of our impending divorce when my husband announced we were signed up for a two-hour submarine ride to watch the indigenous sea life a hundred feet below sea level.

94 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

A hundred feet below sea level ... no cool breeze for my clammy face ... tightly sealed exit hatches. One of us would not see the new year.

The touring submarine offered all the amenities one might expect to find in hell: Fogged up windows from the hot, recycled breath of an oversized and perspiring crowd, pushing against one another to get a good look at the occasional marine life that happened by. I saw none of this, of course, as my eye, when not scanning for sick bags, was trained on the hatch I would need for my hasty exit.

At precisely the same time the submarine mercifully reached the surface, my lunch had risen to dangerous levels, as well. The crew had become hostile, barking orders to the crowd about where to line up for a single-file exit. I was panic-stricken to see that only one exit hatch would be used – the one waaaaaaaaaaay up at the other end.

I’d been trembling for a half hour in an undulating hot box. I had no time for lines. “I - I - I have to go out this hatch,” I told a highranking SS officer who was posing as a crew member. “Nein!” he snapped back, blocking the exit hatch a foot away.

“I’m gonna barf!” I gurgled.

“Open zee hatch! We’ve got a barfer!” he bellowed, with no debate.

White-knuckling the chairs that surrounded me, I was convinced they’d moved Capri another 400 miles from where it used to be – the rough ride was taking an eternity. All around, the maniacal crowd cheered with each high wave like revelers on a roller coaster.

They were actually enjoying the wild ride, laughing and swaying with abandon.

That is, until someone in the crowd yelled out, “I’m gonna barf!”

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NOVEMBER 2013 // SLICE 95

Last Look

A Long Walk Photo by Kristin Botello

Children accompany their dad to his aircraft to say goodbye before his deployment. Like them, we wish him and all our nation’s soldiers a safe return, and thank our veterans for their selfless service.

To submit your photo for Last Look, visit sliceok.com/last-look

96 SLICE // NOVEMBER 2013

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