ionok.com AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
Onward and Upward Aubrey McClendon Tribute
The Jones Assembly OKC
State Fair of Oklahoma
21c Museum Hotel OKC
Sooner Theatre Oklahoma! Musical
Li festyle … Culture … Entertainment
publisher : Don Swift assistant : Joni Yeager editor : Tim Farley editiorial assistant : Darian Woolbright videographer : Jeremy Gossett director of photography : Michael Downes web site developer : Patrick Moore with Set Sail Media web site developer : Nina Jones, Data Design Inc. illustration : Rosemary Burke graphic design : Wendy Mills
Advertising Sales Tina Layman
Photographers Jeremy Gossett Hugh Scott, Jr. Tracy Reece Jerry Hymer
Advertising Consultants Peter Preksto
Contributors fashion : Linda Miller art : Joy Reed Belt people : Peggy Gandy entertainment : Heide Brandes social issues : Robbie Robertson community : Lauren Wright contributing writer : Greg Horton contributing writer : M.A. Smith contributing writer : Mindy Wood contributing writer : Julie York
12 Contents COVER STORY 12 It all started with a paddle… “Onward and Upward” by Don Swift
MOVIE REVIEW 22 Montford T. Johnson and the Power of Persuasion Integrity, Vision, and Management Skills by James A. Lely
SPORTS 26 University Football Schedules 56 OKC Energy 2017 Fall Schedule 58 OKC Thunder 2017-2018 Basketball Schedule
MUSIC 32 The Wise Guys: A Long and Winding Road by Jeb Reid
22
BUSINESS 36 The Jones Assembly: Food, Spirits, Music American Restaurant and Concert Venue 46 21c Museum Hotel OKC
8 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 EVENTS 26 42 What’s New At The Oklahoma State Fair by Tim Farley
ART 68 Nan Quick Sheets: One of Oklahoma’s Best Known Artists by Ryan Williams
COMMUNITY 76 First Liberty Bank celebrates Third Annual Liberty Bash
PEOPLE 48 52 How Our Kids Taught Me How to Teach by John Thompson
62 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Names 2017 Honorees 78 Leadership Oklahoma announces 31st Annual Class 82 Garland McWatters champions Millennials in book series by Garland McWatters
88 Bruce Davis: Local Hero Plays Prominent Role as ‘Officer Reeves’ in “All Eyez on Me” by Stephanie D. Moore ENTERTAINMENT 48 Oklahoma City Community College Performing Arts Series and Add-On Performances 52 2017-2018 Season
THEATRE 56 OKC Broadway 68 The Sooner Theatre Presents the musical Oklahoma! Summer Studio Series 2017
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 9 Publisher’s Note
Welcome to ion Oklahoma Magazine. We are all about Oklahoma’s quality lifestyle, culture, events and people. Are you one of those people who get much of their daily news and information over the internet? Have you identified many of your favorite websites, sources you enjoy as a loyal follower, and visit on a regular basis? Ion Oklahoma Online www.ionok.com can become one of those favorite websites for you too along with over our 39,977 opt in email subscribers primarily located in 4 counties and 79 different zip codes in central Oklahoma . If you enjoy reading many wonderful success stories, all involving the progress the State of Oklahoma and it’s people are making, you will enjoy ion Oklahoma Online. At ion Oklahoma we publish six printed editions annually and make them available for our subscribers to download each printed edition at no charge or purchase a printed paper copy on demand from our publishers hosting website www.magcloud.com . “Like” us on facebook ion subscribers receive our weekly “Eye on the Weekend” special edition with 15 or so facebook.com/pages/ events scheduled on the weekend they can enjoy and many of these events we designate IonOklahoma-Online as family friendly. Ion Oklahoma is totally integrated into the world of social media (facebook, twitter, Instagram) which means all our subscribers can easily share all our editorial content with their facebook and twitter friends. We are very user friendly and want to hear from you. We are always to publishing your follow us on twitter wonderful Oklahoma stories, so please let us know by emailing [email protected]. @IonOklahoma Sincerely, Don Swift Publisher, ion Oklahoma Magazine
10 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 CCulturalCuultural ProgramsProgrrogrramams Óä£ÇqÓä£nÓä£ÇqÓä£n
Annie Moses Band-American Rhapsody Tuesday, September 12, 2017 • 7:30 PM
Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone Thursday, October 5, 2017 • 7:30 PM
The Hot Club of San Francisco-Cinema Vivant Thursday, November 16, 2017 • 7:30 PM
Do You Speak Djembé? Thursday, February 1, 2018 • 7:30 PM
Cirque Éloize Saloon Thursday, February 22, 2018 • 7:30 PM Lonesome Traveler: The Concert (with Special Guest Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul & Mary) Thursday, March 29, 2018 • 7:30 PM
RIOULT Dance NY Thursday, April 19, 2018 • 7:30 PM ABBAMANIA Tuesday, May 1, 2018 • 7:30 PM
ÀÀivÀ>Ì]V>Ì iLÝvwVi>Ì{äx®ÈnÓÇxÇÀÛÃÌVVV°i`ÕÉ«>ðÀÀi vvÀ>Ì] V> Ì i LÝ vvwwVi >Ì {äx® ÈnÓÇxÇ À ÛÃÌ VVV°i`ÕÉ«>ð *ÕÀV >ÃiÌViÌÃ>ÌÌViÌðVVV°i`Õ*ÕÀV >ÃiÌViÌà >Ì ÌViÌðVVV°i`Õ
wwww.kgou.orgww.kgou.org COVER
IT ALL STARTED WITH A PADDLE… “Onward and Upward”
BY DON SWIFT
he Boathouse District located on the Oklahoma River in downtown OKC was T first established in 2006 with the opening of the Chesapeake Boathouse. It has since grown to include a row of iconic boathouses along the river: the world-class Devon Boathouse, Chesapeake Finish Line Tower, UCO Boathouse, Sandridge Youth Pavilion, McClendon Whitewater Center, Riversport Rapids, and Riversport Adventure Park. This row of boathouses is the destination for athletes, metro area families and visitors from across the state, nation, and around the world. Riversport Adventure Park offers a huge variety of outdoor and water activities for all ages.
When I think of notable Oklahomans, I think of Will Rogers, Wiley Post, Bud Wilkinson, Robert S Kerr, Dean McGee, Frank Phillips, Fred Jones, and E.W. Marland, all who made significant contributions during their lifetimes, and their legacies live on forever in Oklahoma history. These Oklahomans have impacted the State of Oklahoma over the years, but few have accomplished so much during their lifetime as Aubrey McClendon. One day history will record Aubrey McClendon as one of those notable Oklahomans who made many significant contributions to Oklahoma and Oklahoma City during his lifetime and impacted peoples’ lives far more than they realize. One of Aubrey McClendon’s most notable and visible Chesapeake Boathouse contributions to Oklahoma City among the many was the vision he, Mike Knopp, and Ray Ackerman shared about a possible Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River.
12 ionOklahoma DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 McClendon Whitewater Center
Mike Turpen and Judy Love
Pat Downes, Boathouse Foundation Board member recalls “What has evolved over a period of years far exceeds any expectations that any of us could have had in those early days.” Three Oklahomans and successful business leaders, among many who really knew Aubrey, understood how important the Boathouse District was to him and Oklahoma City. For this reason Judy Love, Mike Turpen, and Bob Ross gladly volunteered to chair the “Onward and Upward” fundraising campaign that began in March 2017 and will end in October 2017. The Aubrey McClendon Memorial Tribute goal is $6,000,000. The funds raised thus far have been $4.7 million. These funds will go toward providing the Boathouse It was at a time when the riverbed was only a dirty, Foundation with the long term financial stability of muddy place without water and a “place to mow.” annual operations and growth over the years, along with Today as we all know, it has been transformed into an the dedication of the McClendon Whitewater Center outstanding Riversport Adventure Park and “river to and special interactive display of Aubrey McClendon’s row” as Mike Turpen would say, “thanks to Aubrey vision and history of the Boathouse District located McClendon, Mike Knopp and Ray Ackerman.” inside the Whitewater Center.
DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 ionOklahoma 13 Sarah Katie practice on the river
Bob Ross mentioned that all persons making a main interest and desire would be to honor Aubrey donation will have their name printed on the Aubrey McClendon for his vision, his contributions, his love for McClendon Memorial donor wall. Bob also shared that the river at the Boathouse District and his delight at the everyone in his family has made donations, and he huge benefit for Oklahoma City. By honoring Aubrey, it likes the idea their names will be printed on the donor would be both comforting to his family now and wall together. Donations can be easily made by going to rewarding to his family in the future. www.riversportokc.org/tribute . Bob wanted to encourage Mike Turpen shared that Aubrey was a pioneer and all Oklahomans to make a donation, and said it did not inspiration to others in our community. Aubrey raised matter how large or small. Everyone’s donation will the bar and expectations for others to give back to our matter and make a difference. Anyone can contribute. community as he had. We can learn a lot about a person As we all know the Oklahoma River Boathouse when we hear those life lessons and special sayings we District is enjoyed by thousands of Oklahomans and all share with our friends, business associates, and people who visit every year. It has really turned into a family members. Mike said Aubrey would often share unique Riversport Adventure Park and Boathouse “new ideas create new realities” and “if you ain’t givin, District located at the crossroads of America. Visitors you ain’t livin.” Well, that sounds like the “golden rule” like and appreciate the unique, iconic architecture to me. along the river, designed by Rand Elliott & Associates. Additionally, Teresa Rose Crook remembered Aubrey would often say “success is in the details” and “thick any Oklahomans have mentioned their passion to skin, short memory.” His visionary partner, Mike Mcontinue what was started through their Knopp shared that Aubrey would often say “Onward remembrance of Aubrey. Judy Love mentioned her and Upward.” And James Pickel remembered that trait
14 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Views of the Boathouse District seen from the Oklahoma River.
do not have to see consistently and yet that ‘same old bond’ is still there when you do. A pal is on your cell list but rarely a number you feel like you have to call. A pal is easy and casual and non invasive. Unlike a true friend, a pal is more of that someone you say ‘what is going on of Aubrey’s of getting things done That’s what he did. Aubrey was with you’ and then you move on. A would always say “hurry up.” always approachable. He could talk friend is deeper and more constant Others have those famous sayings in with and indeed enjoyed and more relevant and more their memory such as Rand Elliott’s communicating with all kinds of meaningful. I was simply Aub’s pal. two favorite quotes “Think faster. people. He was amazing. Watching In college, I was a lifeguard at We have lots to do!” and “Don’t look him work the room was like OKCCC and met Aubrey there on back!” Rand states genuinely, “I watching a maestro lead an the makeshift grass volley ball court think about him every day. The orchestra. He’d say “if you’ll listen we created beside the pool. Nothing entire city benefited from his everyone has something interesting spectacular happened on those generosity.” John Bullard, a close to say.” ‘hotter than hades’ summer days family friend, shared that Aubrey where games were never planned— would often say, “Just being good is here are several words that they simply sprung up. Aub was not enough.” Finally, the lesson all Tmean the same as pal: chum, highly competitive but not to the young people should have instilled comrade, acquaintance, crony and point of being ‘that guy’ you wanted in them comes from the memories of friend. But Randall Colton defines to avoid. However, it was pretty Tom Price. Aubrey would say all pal explicably in the following: apparent that competitions to win kinds of things like “never be afraid A pal is someone you give a hug points, games and matches was a bit to be a leader” and “don’t wait until to at your favorite watering hole or of a priority. It was all fun but you’re old to begin giving back.” restaurant. A pal is that person you winning made it more appealing.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 15 Above: the Harvard Rowing Team practices on these clouds will lift. Basically, it meets Wall Street’. As Aubrey was the Oklahoma River. said hang in there pal. My cell rings traveling extensively, I knew my Inset center: Sunset on the Oklahoma River — about 4 days later from a number I chances were slim but maybe my the only rowing course in the world to have did not recognize. Normally, I let pal would throw me a bone. Not lighting, thanks to OG&E. these calls go straight to voice mail only did Aub agree to the meeting, I lost touch with ‘The Duke Devil’ but oddly, I chose to pick this one we had lunch in a private dining until about 10 years later. I was in up. On the other end was my volley area at Chesapeake. And although the financial business and ball buddy telling me that he had the lunch was to be Dr. Bob Chesapeake had gone public. Up, placed my letter under his desk acquainting himself with my buddy down and sideways in his early glass and read it a lot. Then he the billionaire, it turned into market pricing tenure, Aub was thanked me. The guy who single something completely different and being Aub. Making the deals that handedly changed the landscape of truly fascinating to witness. After only a guy like him could make and this city, donated his money to build we shook hands to leave and I had taking the chances that only a churches and schools, employed gotten my typical Aub hug, Dr. Bob bonafide oilman can stomach. I thousands of people——he calls and I were in my car heading to yet watched CHK get smacked around and thanks me. Wow, now there’s another appointment. Before we left initially. Then, I saw a nice recovery, the ultimate irony. But, after all, the parking lot, Bob said “never has a meteoric rise, an oil market crash, Aub was being my old pal. a CEO asked me the type of another huge upside move, another questions Aubrey asked nor oil market blood letting and, well, here came a time when my bothered to know my personal life I’m guessing you know the rest. My Tinvestment career crossed paths facts and ask about them—never! pal was just being Aub. with one of the nicest and most well Needless to say, I am both It was at one particular low point known financial personalities in the impressed and a huge fan.” But, no for the stock and the ensuing world, Dr. Bob Froehlich. I had the surprise to me, that was my pal. naysayers and condemners and bad opportunity to bring him to OKC so press that I wrote Aubrey a letter. It I decided to attempt a face to face have no right to author this about was short and to the point. I simply with these two giants in their I Aubrey. Again, I was just a pal. told him that I was a fan and that respective fields—’Wildcatter His real friends like Rob Braver,
16 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Tom Blanton and Charlie Givens have those deep memories and life events that are infinitely larger and of greater meaning, value and interest than those penned above. But maybe a pal can offer a unique prospective from the cheap seats and provide those of you who did not know him, a glimpse of who Aubrey was and why his memory will remain. You see, most of us will not enjoy the word ‘legacy’ attached to our names after these earthly days are gone. However, my pal, who bled ‘Duke Blue’, has his secured in Oklahoma history. If you were either uninformed or ignorant enough to have formulated any type of negative feelings via the less than kind press in his final days, you simply did not know Aubrey. And if you did not know him, you missed out on one of the best cats whoever prowled these streets. Bob Ross In the mid eighties, Aubrey bought my home on Larchmont Lane in Nichols Hills. After the close, he brilliant mind and would attract very talented people invited us to The Waterford for brunch. It was one of around him in whatever endeavor he would pursue. only two times that I broke bread with my buddy and I Yet it was Aubrey’s capacity to work and focus when wish there had been many more. However, as we all it was required that separated him from virtually know, life tends to get in the way and time slips by for everyone else. In fact, especially early on when his everyone. success and the success of Chesapeake was unsure, it In closing, I do not consider myself much when it is was Aubrey who would work tirelessly to enhance the all said and done. I have had my share of wins and likelihood of success of every project he worked on. losses with good life moves and poor ones. But I was Aub’s pal and he was mine. To coin an old horseshoe artha Burger shared that she had the pleasure of phrase ‘that’s close enough to count’. Mworking side-by-side with Aubrey McClendon for almost twenty years. I was fortunate to see first-hand ubrey McClendon was not only a visionary, but a how one of the most significant contributors to the oil Agreat leader with a rarely found combination of and gas industry made things happen. One of the both a “keen mind” and “generous heart” said Mike things that was so special about Aubrey, is that he also Turpen. He would lead by example. Aubrey had a cared so much about the community he chose to live in.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 17 Adventure Park on the Oklahoma River to do so this summer. I know you too will be impressed as I have been with all the growth during the past eleven years. For example, the Riversport Rapids are new and offer White- water Rafting, Kayaking, Tubing, and Surf Zone water activities for those people looking for a fun new experience. These activities are for all ages and group sizes to enjoy. Dragon Boating is the worlds’ fastest growing water sport and now groups of all ages can try it out in the Boathouse District. Participants will meet the Dragon Boat steerer at Aubrey didn’t just talk about Roy Williams shared the quality the boat docks where they will put improving our community; he of life we have come to enjoy in on a PFD and learn the basic worked hard and invested to make it Oklahoma City is due in no small paddle stroke. Paddlers sit in pairs happen. Through his commitment, part to Aubrey McClendon’s vision on wooden seats, and a drummer he inspired so many others, and generosity. Very few have the keeps time as they paddle on the including me, to do the same. ability or the drive to change a water. A minimum of ten partici- There is rarely a day that goes by community or state, much less the pants is required. when I’m not reminded of Aubrey or entire world as Aubrey did. His People who come to the something he said. His is often that legacy of leadership lives on in the Riversport Adventure Park should voice in my head urging me to try projects he touched and the people plan that most water activities will something new, take a risk, make a he mentored. require 1-2 hours for the best difference. One of my favorite possible experience. Guest passes things that Aubrey often said, “We would encourage all those begin at only $25.00 per person. may not be the smartest guys in the I Oklahomans who have not Adventurers pay one price and play room, but no one can outwork us!” recently toured the Riversport all day.
18 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Judy Love, Mike Turpen, and Bob Ross should be commended for their time and efforts in leading the fundraising campaign for this very worthwhile cause of not only honoring Aubrey McClendon, but providing the ongoing funding for this Riversport Adventure Park in downtown OKC to grow and expand its economic impact on Oklahoma Tourism. It is something all Oklahomans should be proud of. The donors listing as of early August 2017 include the following Oklahomans:
Abbott, Jim Burke, Kingsley Eisbrenner, Kathleen Albert, Phil Busby, Sundee Ellison, Susan Alcantar-Lopez, Leo Campbell, Cody Evans, Serena Allert, Justin & Jenae Chambers, Elliot Fisher, Jeff American Fidelity Foundation Choctaw Nation Fixley, Lindsey Anderson, Joan Chris Carter, John-Mark Beaver & Foerster, Steve Anderson, Mo David Hayes Fred Jones Foundation Anonymous Christie, Kimberly French Family Foundation Arnall, Sue Ann Clements Foods Fudge, Chip Arvest Bank Cobbs, Chris Funk Sr., Bob Ascent Resources Cook, Traci Gamble, Gerald / Jane Jayroe BancFirst Crane, Edwin Gardner, Linda Bank of Oklahoma Crook, Teresa Rose Garwood, Dan Barry, Redmond Curtis, Cathy Gaylord Foundation Beasley, William Denny, Tim Gilmore Caffery, Mary A. Bert, Dave Ditto, Nancy Goldsworthy, Tom Blanton, Tom Dixon, Linda Goode, Patricia Blumenthal, Jeff Dixon, Steve Gourley, Vicki Boren, Dan Dobson, Everett Griffin, David Boren, David Douglas, Donald Brent Griffith Family/On- Cue Bowen, Charles & Cassie Douglass White, Millar & Betsy Grigsby, Jennifer Burger, Martha Edwards, Carl Hahn Cook, Edward
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 19 Hargis, Burns Keeling, John & Wanda McClendon, Joe C. Hogan, Dan Kennedy, John McDaniel, Tom & Brenda Holland, Charles Kilpatrick, Tammie McLaughlin, Dave Holmboe, Joanie Kirkpatrick Family Fund Meinders, Herman Hooper, Rhonda Knopp, Mike & Tempe Merrick, Frank Howard, Bob Kobs, Keri Mid First Bank Hudiburg, David Lawson, Chris Miller, Steve Inasmuch Foundation Leichter, Kurt Ming, Mike Irani, Ronnie Lester, Mark Muller, David Jacobs, Lorrie Lightsey, Brent Newviile, Tim Johnson, Glen D. Tom and Judy Love Family Nickel, Diane & Stan Johnson, Jim Lovero, Michael Nickles, Don Johnson, Mike MacEntire, Taylor Norick, Ron Johnson, Mike & Carol Marcum, Alan Oklahoma Medical Research Kapchinske, John Maxwell, Leslie & Scott Foundation Keating, Frank Mayes, Jenna Parry Family Charitale Fund Patemostro, Lauren & Gino PKG Consulting
20 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Pointer, Mary Slater, Robert I would encourage all families to Presbyterian Health Foundation Smith and Pickel make a donation before the end of Price, Ford Smith, Lee Alan September2017 in the names of Price, Tom & Lisa Stacy, Blake every family member— as I plan to Prichard, Ann Stone, Renzi do and request the names are Rainbolt, David / Gene Switzer, Barry printed together on the Aubrey Records, George & Jeff Tall Oaks Midstream Partners McClendon Memorial Honor Wall. Ross, Bob Tatro, Brian Albert Einstein once said, Rowe, Walter The Oklahoman “Only a life lived for others is Salyer, Meg Tompkins, Cathy worth living”. Oklahoman’s Schinn, Tony & Kelly Total Environment have lived up to this quote as Self, Tiffany Trauschke, R. Sean far back as the early statehood Sellers, John Turpen, Mike day to the creation of the Shapiro, Craig USRowing Oklahoma Standard after the Shdeed, William F. Valentine, Thad 1995 OKC Alfred P Murrah Shinn, Taylor & Katie Vanderhider, Hallie Federal building bombing. Short, Rachel Ward, Trent Aubrey McClendon deserves to Sias, Dick Williams, Roy H. be recognized as someone who Simons, Roger Winchester, Jerry lived for others. Let us take this Zitkus, Lester challenge to live by giving. n
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 21 MOVIE REVIEW
Montford T. Johnson and the Power of Persuasion Integrity, Vision, and Management Skills
BY JAMES A. LELY
n 2015, C. Neil Kingsley republished a memoir written by his grandfather, I Neil R. Johnson, who was the oldest son of Montford T. Johnson’s oldest son. The memoir documented Montford T. Johnson’s amazing life, abandoned at 18 to become a builder of a great Oklahoma cattle empire over the next 35 years. Driving down Highway 81 from El Reno to Minco, the land to your left after Union City, now Braum’s farm land, was the western extent of a great ranch that ran across Tuttle to Newcastle. Much of today’s Oklahoma City was part of that ranch, an achievement that owed much to Johnson’s character and integrity—and a policy of hiring Native Americans exclu- sively to drive his cattle and run his ranch.
Playing the lead role of Montford T. Johnson, Martin Sensmeier is a member of the Tingit and Koyukon/Athabaskan tribe of Alaska.
22 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Above, production shot on the set of Johnson’s prairie home Right, production shot taken during filming in Okahoma.
Half Chickasaw himself from his mother, Rebekah Courtney, Johnson became a close friend of Cherokee fur trader and trail builder Jesse Chisholm, who admired Johnson’s straight treatment of the Chickasaw Nation and encouraged him to build ranches along the western edge of Chickasaw territory. Johnson made and kept peace with the neighboring Kiowas and Comanches, who often attacked other ranchers. Denzel Washington in The Mulroney, who starred in the movie The memoir, The Chickasaw Magnificent Seven , plays the lead My Best Friend’s Wedding , in a Rancher , has been made into a role of Montford Johnson. The film diverse ensemble cast. Principal motion picture by Chickasaw Nation also features Tommy Flanagan of photography in Oklahoma wrapped Productions. Martin Sensmeier, who the acclaimed television series June 22nd, while two additional landed a starring role alongside “Sons of Anarchy” and Dermot days of photography took place in
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 23 The Chickasaw Rancher, filmed in Oklahoma, reveals the story of Johnson's family and friends over thirty-plus years. The hardships, gun fights, cattle rustling, tornadoes, the Land Run of 1889, and the rise, fall, and revival of the Chickasaw Nation.
Florida. Filming in Oklahoma took place on the Chickasaw Ranch, near Davis, Oklahoma, and other locations across the Chickasaw Nation. Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby said film production is part of the Chickasaw Nation’s effort to tell the story of the Chickasaw people. “We became involved in making movies because film is a great way to tell our own stories and illustrate the important role Chickasaw people have played in American history. We are pleased we have such a diverse group of actors involved in telling the story of Montford Johnson’s remarkable legacy of entrepreneurialism, altruism and diplomacy,” said Gov. Anoatubby. “Montford Johnson’s story is also the story of the Chickasaw Nation. He went through tough times. He was able to stand up against adversities. He became a success in spite of difficult times. This is a perfect story to tell about the Chickasaw Nation.” The Chickasaw Rancher has twelve Native American tribes represented in speaking roles. Chickasaw citizens and Cheyenne and Arapaho citizens, among others, will appear in pivotal roles. More than 175 Chickasaw citizens appear as extras in the film. Governor Anoatubby said film production was part of the Chickasaw Nation’s effort to tell the true story of Native Americans such as Montford Johnson. More information on the book and film can be found at chickasawrancher.com. n
24 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 OKLAHOMA BORN & BREWED
JOIN US FOR A UNIQUE TASTING EXPERIENCE THAT IS COMPLETELY BORN AND BREWED RIGHT HERE IN OKLAHOMA! FRIDAY, AUGUST 18, 7-10 P.M. TICKETS $65 | AVAILABLE AT OKLAHOMAHOF.COM GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM | 1400 CLASSEN DRIVE | OKC Hosted by the Oklahoma Hall of Fame’s Second Century Board FEATURED BREWERIES
COOP ALE WORKS | PRAIRIE ARTISAN ALES | MARSHALL BREWING COMPANY ANTHEM BREWING CO. | (405) BREWING CO. | TWISTED SPIKE BREWING CO. IRON MONK BREWING COMPANY | VANESSA HOUSE BEER CO. | BRICKTOWN BREWERY ROUGHTAIL BREWING COMPANY | STONECLOUD BREWING | RENAISSANCE BREWING BENEFITING
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Honorable Vicki Ned’s Catering Miles-LaGrange
Bryan Garrett PLLC, Injury Attorney SPORTS
2017 SOONERS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
2017 OKLAHOMA SOONERS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME (CST) Sat., Sep. 2 UTEP Miners Norman, OK 2:30pm Sat., Sep. 9 Buckeyes Columbus, OH 6:30pm Sat., Sep. 16 Tulane Green Wave Norman, OK 5:00pm Sat., Sep. 23 Bears Waco, TX Time TBA Sat., Oct. 7 Iowa State Cyclones Norman, OK Time TBA Sat., Oct. 14 Longhorns Dallas, TX Time TBA Sat., Oct. 21 Wildcats Manhattan, KS Time TBA Sat., Oct. 28 Texas Tech Red Raiders Norman, OK Time TBA Sat., Nov. 4 OSU Cowboys Stillwater, OK Time TBA Sat., Nov. 11 TCU Horned Frogs Norman, OK Time TBA Sat., Nov. 18 Kansas Jayhawks Lawrence, KS Time TBA Sat., Nov. 25 West Va Mountaineers Norman, OK Time TBA Fri. Dec 1 or Sat. 12/2 Big 12 Championship Arlington, TX Time TBA
26 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 2017 COWBOYS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
V2017 OKLAHOMA STATE COWBOYS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME (CST) Thurs., Aug. 31 Tulsa Golden Hurricane Stillwater, OK 6:30pm Fri., Sep. 8 Jaguars Mobile, AL 7:00pm Sat., Sep. 16 Panthers Pittsburgh, PA 11:00am Sat., Sep. 23 TCU Horned Frogs Stillwater, OK Time TBA Sat., Sep. 30 Red Raiders Lubbock, TX Time TBA Sat., Oct. 14 Baylor Bears Stillwater, OK Time TBA Sat., Oct. 21 Longhorns Austin, TX Time TBA West Virginia Sat., Oct. 28 Morgantown, WV Time TBA Mountaineers Sat., Nov. 4 Oklahoma Sooners Stillwater, OK Time TBA Sat., Nov. 11 Cyclones Ames, IA Time TBA Sat. Nov. 18 Kansas State Wildcats Stillwater, OK Time TBA , Sat. Nov. 25 Kansas Jayhawks Stillwater, OK Time TBA , Fri. 12/1 or Sat. 12/2 Big 12 Championship Arlington, TX Time TBA 2017 BRONCHOS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
2017 UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA BRONCHOS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT LOCATION TIME Thurs., Aug 31 Lindenwood EDMOND 7 pm Sat., Sept 9 Pittsburg State Pittsburg, KS. 7 pm Sat., Sept 16 Fort Hays State EDMOND 7 pm Sat., Sept 23 Missouri Western St. Joseph, MO. 6 pm Sat., Sept 30 Emporia State EDMOND 2 pm Sat., Oct 7 Northwest Missouri Maryville, MO. 1:30 pm Sat., Oct 14 Nebraska-Kearney EDMOND 2 pm Sat., Oct 21 Missouri Southern Joplin, MO. 3 pm Sat., Oct 28 Central Missouri EDMOND 2 pm Sat., Nov 4 Washburn Topeka, KS. 1 pm Sat., Nov 11 Northeastern State Tahlequah, OK. 3 pm
28 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 MUSIC
The Wise Guys: A Long and Winding Road
BY JEB REID
m proud to be a founding member and Original Wise Guys Jeb Reid, left, and Randy Colton, featured singer of The Wise Guys , one of the leading the singing at a private party in 2004. I’ city’s most popular cover bands and one of its longest-tenured entertainers. While most bands are lucky to stay together a few years, The Wise Guys have been around since 1986 playing the so-called ‘Vintage Rock’ that we’ve loved since our youth: The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen and the countless other rockers who are featured in a typical Wise Guys performance today. Playing music that ranges from the 1950’s all the way up into the 2000’s is, to say the least, a huge test for us each time we perform. This music truly transcends any specific era, because despite its age, great music is always great music. Our challenge is always to play those songs well, authentically, and with the respect they deserve. So…how does a band stay together for more than three decades? Well, it isn’t easy. But nothing worth doing right seldom is. It starts with the individuals who make up the group. And I’ve had the good fortune to share a stage with some of the finest musicians – and greatest friends – I will ever know.
It all started in college… I dabbled in singing as a youth, but began in earnest with my ‘brother from another mother’ Randy Colton at our OSU fraternity house in the late 1970’s. We’ve been singing and performing together ever since. From taking center stage for our fraternity’s participation in campus-wide musical revues and singing competitions…to the
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ion Oklahoma 29 formation of The Grease Spots , a wildly popular vocal group singing 1950’s ‘do wop’ music…to performing as the opening act for legendary entertainer Bob Hope at a sold-out benefit concert in Stillwater a few weeks prior to our graduation…singing was an intoxicating drug to my senses, and I was hooked! After graduation, Randy and I had made plans to expand our act to
CLockwise from left: Original Wise Guy Mike Harris, who plays keyboards, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, mandolin, banjo and harmonica! Drummer/percussionist Jeff Hanes is a long-time musician and the newest member of The Wise Guys. Singer/guitarist Jeff Curran, a well-known local musician and attorney, joined the band in 2011, replacing original Wise Guy, Pat Castleberry. Bassist Chris Greenley is a two-time Wise Guy, playing with the band from 2010- 2013, then returning to us again last year. Lead guitarist extraordinaire Brad McPherson, a Wise Guy since 2003, is shown picking and grinning with Jeff Curran at a recent performance. The Wise Guys performing in front of a full house at KOMA’s ‘Fan Jam’ celebration in 2015.
include Mike Harris and Pat Castleberry, two great friends and fraternity members who we’d sung with during college. We would put together a four- voice singing group, with Randy and Mike on acoustic guitars. We’d perform the music we’d grown up with during the Sixties and Seventies that we all knew and loved. It was going to be fun!
Fast-forward eight years But things change in the ‘real’ world. Pat set out for law school, then grad ourselves? That was easy. Because of our meager compensation. school. Mike was already married and collective penchant for smart aleck Playing there a handful of times over expecting his first child. Randy and I humor, dripping with sarcasm, only one the next year for our friends in our own were beginning our vocational careers name would suffice: The Wise Guys. little ‘public’ living room on Western was and would soon be married as well. Our very first ‘gig’ occurred that fall in plenty for us. But one intriguing phone Precious time and memorable music a restaurant on Western Avenue called call changed that. was slowly slipping from our grasp. Dominoes (now Flip’s Wine Bar). Though Vince Orza, the one-time TV news Finally…in the spring of 1986, a fully- we were paid nothing for our efforts, the anchor-turned-restauranteur called, educated Pat moved back to Oklahoma beers were cold and free. Better yet, our wondering if we would consider City, we began to practice and worked friends managed to stuff $40 or $50 performing at his new Garfield’s hard to get our proverbial vocal act into our Tip Jar that night. We got to see Restaurant. Enticing us with the princely together. But what would we call all our pals, so we were happy with the sum of $200 per performance, we realized that maybe there might be a larger audience for our shenanigans. Our foursome quickly purchased a real-life PA system on credit from Larsen Music. Our salesman, Darrel Tackett, showed us how to operate our new toy, and was even willing to come to Garfield’s and operate it for us. Little did we know that Darrel was also a fine saxophonist and an aspiring drummer, and we immediately invited him to sit-in!
An original Wise Guy, the author has been performing with the band and its predecessor, The Grease Spots, since the Truman Administration (well maybe not THAT long…)
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 31 An expectant crowd at last year’s KOMA ‘Fan Jam’ event is chanting Principal guitarists Randy Colton, Brad McPherson and Jeff Curran (l to r) and ready for The Wise Guys performance to begin! performing at a show in 2012.
It dawned on us that the only things keeping our four-man Wise Guys for an extended period of time. No one was happy singing group from becoming a full-fledged band was the about this decision except my family, but it was the right need for a drummer and a bass player. So, Darrel set up his thing to do. drum kit, phoned his bass-playing buddy Randy Riebe, and The two band members who had recently divorced were before you could say ‘rock and roll band,’ The Wise Guys happy to focus their attentions on the band and the group became one! forged ahead. What ensued was a run of an additional three By 1990 we were filling Garfield’s with young, professional- years with a revolving door of other singers, guitarists and types who enjoyed our particular brand of raucous music, contributors while I was away. Some very talented spontaneous humor and general may-hem. And being paid the localmusicians including Bruce Eagle, David Bryant, Steve princely sum of $200 – no wait, now it was $300 – each time Merritt and Stan Stack were among those who, for a while at we performed. least, became official Wise Guys. Thanks to our success at Garfield’s, others began to hire us By the end of 1998, The Wise Guys were winding down, and soon we were playing virtually every weekend at wedding feeling the effects of the lack of continuity in band personnel receptions, country club gigs, class reunions and private as well as a growing sense of responsibility to maintain their parties all over Oklahoma City. own family unity. Bassist Randy Riebe, had already departed for a new job in Dallas, and drummer Darrel Tackett had Trouble in paradise accepted a demanding position with a major oil company. By now, all of us had wives, children, mortgages and real Neither would return. day jobs. But the weekends were almost always devoted to During my break from the band, I stayed in regular contact playing music. This time away from home was placing extra with my original Wise Guys cohorts, Randy, Mike and Pat. strain on our wives, who were often stuck with the kids and Because of our lengthy personal history, we always had a other responsibilities in our absence. Something had to give. great time together socially. And as our children were now of And unfortunately, something did. middle and high school age, the itch to play together again Even though our popularity was soaring, two of our band was regularly creeping into our conversations. members divorced during this time, and by 1995, it was apparent to me that with two small children of my own at The Phoenix rises… home, I needed to devote my time and attentions to my family. During my Wise Guys hiatus, I’d been playing keyboards and I informed the guys that I would be stepping away from The singing with a group of talented musicians at my church. They
32 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 were mostly experienced rockers like me Vrooman could be an ideal fit. The only couple hundred fans at a local hotel, who, for whatever reason, found question was would either of them be Fan Jam has grown into a big-time event themselves at our large suburban interested in joining a band like The that today takes place at Riverwind church, willing to contribute their God- Wise Guys? Casino’s magnificent Showplace Theatre given musical talents to praise the Lord To our amazement, both loved the idea attended by thousands of ticketed fans. and help lead worship. and after a couple of practices, it was The Wise Guys take great pride in Early in 2002 I suggested to Randy clear that with the addition of Brad, being KOMA’s choice to entertain their that we get Pat and Mike together for a Doug and Jeff, The Wise Guys were ready loyal and knowledgeable listeners eight jam session. I also proposed that I bring to rock and roll once again – bigger and out of the past nine years – including my buddy Brad McPherson – a terrific better than ever! this year’s Fan Jam event scheduled for lead guitarist in my church band — to They’re back… Saturday, August 19 at Riverwind. Our see what he had to offer musically. Brad In the spring of 2003, the NEW Wise affiliation through the years with the was about our age and had many of the Guys were now totally polished, practiced top-rated radio station in the market at same musical influences we all had. We and poised to re-take the local music their signature event is a tremendous set a Thursday night session to get us scene. source of pride for our guys. all together and see if we might be After a series of successful appear- musically compatible. Brad was an ances at the old Varsity Sports Grill, the Playing to a different beat instant and complete sensation with us! band started to recapture our original The Wise Guys have endured many The ‘Guys’ immediately recognized mojo and was soon playing throughout professional peaks and valleys over the Brad to be a marvelous player and a Oklahoma City at a wide variety of years but managed to stay true to our great person who could become a events and venues. music. cornerstone for our dreams of a Wise Within a few years, The Wise Guys One original Wise Guy, Pat Castleberry, Guys reunion. But where would we find were approached by KOMA Radio about stepped away from the band six years an equally-skilled bass player and performing at the popular station’s first- ago to devote the time to lead his drummer for such a reformation? ever ‘Fan Jam’ event – an appreciation technology company to tremendous Brad and I both realized that our party hosted by the station to honor their success. He was replaced by current church band rhythm section of drummer loyal listeners. Wise Guy (and fellow attorney) Jeff Jeff ‘Ringo’ Wilder and bass player Doug From its humble beginnings with a Curran, a talented singer and guitarist. Today, the Wise Guys rhythm section consists of Chris Greenley on bass and Jeff Hanes, our newest member, on drums. Both are among the finest musicians with whom any of us have ever been associated. Throughout the long history of the band, Wise Guys fans are the first to tell us that we are unlike any other band in Oklahoma.
An expectant downtown crowd estimated at 40,000 gathers in the evening chill for the finale concert of ‘Opening Night’, the OKC Arts Council’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration which The Wise Guys headlined in 2005 and again in 2007.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 33 Witty and totally entertaining, front man Randy Colton sings, plays rhythm guitar, and serves as the focal point for every Wise Guys show.
Every Wise Guys performance is unique. We never play the was that you were a comedy act. But when you began to play same set list twice. Each show consists of songs hand-picked your songs, we realized that your music was even better than from our repertoire specifically for the audience we will your comedy!” entertain. As a result, every show is different than the previous show, or our next. Still making music…and magic Every Wise Guys show is engaging. We’ll never be a The Wise Guys continue to ‘push the envelope’, constantly ‘background’ band playing quietly during an event. Ask working to expand our repertoire and create new levels of anyone who has attended one of our performances and they entertainment. To enhance our appeal to younger audiences, will tell you we interact with our crowd, engage our audiences, we consistently add newer music to our shows. and encourage attendees to enjoy the event to the fullest, And now, our next major project is a special ‘Time Travel’ drink up, dance, have fun, and sing along. A Wise Guys show show where we perform – in chronological order – some of the will never be routine or boring! greatest songs from four of the most musically prolific Every Wise Guys show is entertaining. That’s why we work decades of all-time: the 1950’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. We will our tails off to never disappoint you. From colorful, on-stage debut the ‘pilot’ show on Friday, August 25 at Edmond’s UCO humor delivered by front man Randy Colton and the rest of us, Jazz Lab. to rock solid musical performances enhanced by lush vocal After more than 30 years of making music, we’ve already harmonies and impressive solo renditions, The Wise Guys are traveled a long and winding road to get to this point. But the a top-flight, highly entertaining band. good news is that this same road stretches out in front of us Let me paraphrase a typical comment we hear regularly: now, imploring us to continue our journey and keep playing the “We’d never heard you guys play before and our first thought music that we and countless others genuinely love. n
34 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 & $"%'&%&$ % ' '%& $"'&%$ &%"'& ' $"%' &$%&' $ "
#! '%' ! ! #'#''! ' ' # ##
4410 North Western Oklahoma City, OK 73118 BUSINESS THE JONES ASSEMBLY Food, Spirits, Music American Restaurant and Concert Venue
ake that Tulsa! T-Town has held its live music pedigree over T Oklahoma City for almost a hundred years – Cain’s and The Brady, Leon Russell, David Gates and J.J. Cale. Casinos, clubs, restaurants and dives. Western swing to punk. But times change. In the past couple of years, Oklahoma City, it seems, got its communal act together. The Criterion. The Tower. And now – The Jones Assembly, located at 901 W. Sheridan, directly behind the 21C hotel. Oh but wait. Unlike many facilities living in 4/4 time, The Jones Assembly brings much more to the table. Specifically, the dining table. Goodness, here you’ll some 20,000 square feet with picnic tables in an open-air patio and a portable dining room of banquettes and booths on the floor, easily removed to make room for about 1,600 concert goers. And the menu fits the people of Oklahoma like an oven mitt – from comfort food like biscuits, okra and deviled eggs to tuna tartare and octopus. Entrees include wood burning fire pizza, fried chicken confit, burgers and seasonal seafood. At cocktail hour, which lasts from opening to closing, The Jones Assembly boasts two bars: one large wood- and-iron number on the ground floor and a more intimate listening lounge on the mezzanine. The
36 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Above, Indoor waiting area and bar. Right, a wall of boxes creates a mosaic leading visitors to the bar area. cocktails served thereon are both potent and potable. Beginning at 4:00 p.m. each night, the second floor of The Jones Assembly becomes “The T Room,” providing patrons with an elevated and personalized bar. “The T Room” is available for private use and ideal for intimate cocktail parties, happy hours, or group hangouts. Oh, right. The music. The beat of the drum, the riff of the guitar. While many local eateries offer live tunes, the performances thereof are relegated to a far corner and are, sadly ignored by dining patrons. Not here. After a brilliant pre opening party for the Dead Center film festival, featuring Oklahoma film icon and cultural troublemaker Gary Busey, The Jones Assembly
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 37 went right to the big time, opening their live music activities with The Wallflowers, Jakob Dylan’s big time band. As if to solidify the point that the joint was for real, it also booked Lake Street Dive, one of America’s most popular new bands. Upcoming at the Jones Assembly will be JJ Grey & Mofro w/ The Main Squeeze, southern rock from northern Florida on September 29; Cut Copy, an Australian electric music band on October 5; St. Paul & The Broken Bones, a six piece soul group, w/ Los Coast on October 13; Third Eye Blind on October 31 and, get this, on November 11, The Jones Assembly will host American treasure Willie Nelson, no explanation necessary. The Jones Assembly posts hours from 11:00 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with a 10 a.m. brunch on Sunday. A limited menu will be served during performances. Tulsa who? n
Left, the upstairs bar has open views to the outside. Below, the second level provides a view of the main floor. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 39 The Bestselling Book by Kent Frates Oklahoma’s Most Notorious Cases Six cases that remain the talk of the courtroom
Oklahoma has had more than its share of sensational legal battles with national ramifications, but for the first time in one volume, attorney/historian Kent Frates reveals the facts behind six cases that helped shape the history of the state—and the nation.
From bloody murders, to political scandal, to the horrific act of domestic terrorism known as the Oklahoma City Bombing, OKLAHOMA’S MOST NOTORIOUS CASES captures the stories, the times, and the import of these landmark trials. Only $24 Read the book that inspired the serial Includes 16 page s podcast We Will Always Remember of historic photos! available at (RealMysteries.us | weekly Feb. 12 to April 23) Full Circle Bookstore, OKC Best of Books, Edmond Order now by visiting The Bookseller, Ardmore The Book Place, Broken Arrow www. OkMostNotoriousCases .com or calling toll free 877.536.7634 and Barnes & Noble Gre tGreGrre e t t cketed c ckckeketetetededd Eve ts!Eveve e t tstss!
PRCA XTREME BULLS TOUR & CONCERTS
September 14-19 GARYGAARRRYY TICKET PRICES $ AALALLANLLLANLAN STTARART ATAT 15 Friday, Thursday,Thursday, Sept. 14 ...... 7:30. 7:30 p.m. Septemberember 22 Friday,Friday, Sept. 15 ...... 7:30 p.m. 7:3030 p.m. Saturday,Saturday, Sept. 16.16 . .1 11:301:30 a.m., 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. Sunday,Sunday, Sept. 17.17 ...... 1:30 & 5:30 p.m. Monday,Monday, Sept. 18 ...... 10:30 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. Tuesday,Tuesday, Sept. 19 ...... 7:30 p.m. JOSHJJOOOSHSH CARNIVALCARNIVCARNARNIVVALAL RIDRIDE TURNERTTUURRNERNER AAr Arr b ds! b b b d dsds!s! SaturdaySaturday, when you purchase an Unlimited September 23 SSAVEAVE Carnival Ride Armband at the 7:30 p.m. -LP1RULFN $UHQD %R[ 2I¿FH RU $ through our other ticket buying 10 options. WAYSWAAAYYYSS TOTO BBUYUY TICKETS! ((OutsideOutside Gate Admission NOT INCLUDED) JJIMIM NORICK ARENA BOX OFFICE, HURRYY,, OFFEROFFE ENDS SEPTEMBER 13! 3 ookstakstatefairr.com.com OR 405405.948.6800 e ENTERTAINMENTEENTERNTERTTAINMENTAAINMENTINMENT STSSTAGETTAAGGEE e September 18 September 21 t HHAWKAWKWK NELSON & ZACHZACH WILLIAMS CHASE BRYANTBRRYYYANTANT Co cer 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. (with Outsideside GateGat Admission)) September 19 September 22 September 14 September 16 GARYGARRYY PUCKETTPUC TONY!TONY! TONI!TOONI!NI! TTONE!ONE! WILLIAMWILLIAM MICHAEL MORGANMORGAN BEABEATLEMANIAATLEMANIATLEMANIA LIVE! and the UNION GAP 7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 8 p.m. 7:30 p.m. September 23 September 15 September 17 September 20 DENNISDENNIS DeYOUNG:DeYOUNG: TTHEHE OOAKAK RIDGE BOBOYSOYYS LA MAFIA ELVISELLVISVIS EXTRAVAGANZAEXTRAAVVVAAGANZA TheThehe Music of STYX 7:30 p.m. 3 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 8 p.m.
September 24 SUGAR FREEEE ALLSTARSALLSTTARSARS 7KH2I¿FLDO 6RIW 'ULQN 3 p.m.p m okstatefairatefair.com. of State Fair Park EVENTS
Photo: Holly Cowden
42 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 WHAT’S NEW AT THE OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR
BY TIM FARLEY
New shows, demonstrations and competitions, bigger rides and a breathtaking exhibit of a former U.S. president await fans at the Oklahoma State Fair next month. An exhibit centered on the life of President John F. Kennedy will allow fairgoers to take a step back in time and look at the life of the president who was assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963 in Dallas, Texas. The exhibit, the largest traveling JFK exhibit in the country, will be located in The Pavilion. The exhibit will display hundreds of authentic items from JFK’s life and presidency, including one of his presidential limousines and the last White House event invitations and programs dated Nov. 20, 1963. Tickets to the exhibit are $5 for adults (ages 12 and older) This year’s State Fair also will allow fairgoers to reach new heights thanks to the Sky Eye Wheel, the largest portable ferris wheel in North America. The ride stands at a towering 155-feet tall. In addition, Sky Eye Park will include a seating area, food trucks and more – all based in the Entertainment Plaza so visitors can enjoy every corner of the Fair.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 43 cooking and the chance to take a deep breath of nostalgia. Animals will continue to play a big role in the State Fair demonstrations. A service dog demonstration will educate Fair fans about the importance and purpose of service dogs. Fairgoers will see service dogs in action as the canines exhibit various activities service dogs perform on a daily basis. The show also will educate audiences on proper ways to approach a service dog. Since square dancing is Oklahoma’s official folk dance, it only makes sense that square dancing demonstrations Photo: Hugh Scott would be part of the State Fair. During these demonstrations, dancers will New shows and demonstrations are As part of the show and demonstration, perform a variety of moves. In fact, packed into the 11-day run of the Fair the duo will present the public with fairgoers might even get a chance to than ever before. All shows and amazing animal accomplishments far participate and learn some square demonstrations are free with outside beyond the traditional animal tricks. dance moves. gate admission. If that’s not enough, the Glamping If fairgoers want more action, Jaye Some of the demonstrations will Cooking Show presented by Dianne Anders-Kukowski and her Cowgirl include animals, including a live shark Linderman will highlight a bit of Mounted Shooting demonstration might encounter that displays the awe and Americana history with its museum- fill the bill. Anders-Mukowski, a stunt fascination of these magnificent quality, interactive 1950s vintage rider and mounted shooting expert, will creatures. Fair guests will learn how exhibit. Surrounding a restored vintage demonstrate her horsemanship and these sharks maneuver under the sea on 1959, 20-foot Airstream trailer are accurate marksmanship using two .45- the Bandshell Lawn. vintage chairs, tables and bikes that caliber, single-action revolvers while In addition, Panfilov’s Performing Pets would have been part of a typical running a fast-paced and timed pattern. will be on the Plaza Stage as Andriy campsite, but this time it’s in the There’s also Rider Kiesner, the world’s Bilobrov and Mayya Panfilova train five Creative Arts Building. Fairgoers are fastest rope and gun spinner, and Jack Russell terriers and several cats. sure to enjoy Linderman’s incredible Madison McDonald Thomas who is billed
La Mafia
Gary Puckett & the Union Gap
44 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Hawk Nelson Oak Ridge Boys as one of the world’s champion trick riders. She will showcase her equestrian magic in motion. All competitions, including the new ones, require pre- registration. One competition will focus on Quilts of Valor. The quilts from this competition will be donated to veterans who have been involved in military actions overseas. Special event announcements and general news for the 2017 Oklahoma State Fair will be released as information becomes available. Fairgoers are encouraged to share their Fair experiences, memories and stories by using #okstatefair and #BiggerBetterBestOK . Fair visitors can also use hashtag The JFK Exhibition – Fairgoers will be able to take a step #MyAdventureRoad on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to back in time at The JFK Exhibition – the largest traveling JFK share experiences while at the State Fair. Exhibition in the country – in The Pavilion. It displays hundreds The State Fair begins Sept. 14 and continues through Sept. of – more – authentic items from his life and presidency, 24. Tickets are available at the State Fair Park box office, including one of his presidential limousines, and last White online, or by calling 405-948-6800. For more information, visit House event invitations and programs dated November 20, www.okstatefair.com . 1963. Tickets are $5 for adults (ages 12 & older).
Eli Young Photo: Hugh Scott Beatle Mania Photo: Hugh Scott
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 45 BUSINESS 21c MUSEUM HOTEL OKC Unique Boutique Hotel and Contemporary Art Museum
n 2006, preservationists and contemporary art collectors, Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown opened their first I hotel in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It was a time, when Louisville was going through a revitalization of the downtown area and they wanted to take an active role in the preservation of their hometown. “We believe in the power of contemporary art” said the founders. Their innovative idea for a hotel was so different it developed very quickly into a center for the community with a genuine hospitality, top-chef restaurants and museum quality contemporary art exhibits. The 21c Museum Hotel was so popular and different it attracted people from around the country. In 2017 there are now seven 21c Museum Hotels. Matt Cowden, the 21c Museum Hotel GM in OKC said, “Art is the Heart of the Experience” in all our hotels along with being anchored in the local Matt Cowden, GM
46 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 community. The founders rotate their personal museum contemporary art collection from hotel to hotel and the galleries are available 24/7 for all our guests to enjoy. We are much more than a hotel. The 21c Museum Hotel is located in the historic downtown Fred Jones Ford automobile manufacturing plant that was built in 1916. Albert Conn was Henry Ford’s architect who designed large modular manufacturing bays throughout the building located at 900 West Main Street in Oklahoma City. Another reason our hotels have become so popular are the chef driven restaurants and special touches they prepare for the original dishes on our menus. Art can energize a community, be a sign of positive change and enrich the travel experience. Art can also coexist harmoniously with commerce as many Oklahomans understand who have developed the wonderful Myriad Gardens in the downtown area of OKC. While it was never the intent of the Founders to open more than one 21c Museum Hotel, the couple’s vision and success has inspired others to consider bringing this blending of art and hospitality to their communities. Today, the 21c Hotels are pushing the boundaries of both the museum and hospitality worlds, with over 1,000 employees to operate 7 hotels, 8 food & beverage outlets, and have plans to develop more hotels in the future. Growing organically is the plan. Matt Cowden shared nearby their hotel location on Main Street, is a lot of new business development, restoration of older buildings and the plan will be to brand the area as the “West Village District” in downtown Oklahoma City. n
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 47 ENTERTAINMENT
OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE PERFORMING ARTS SERIES and ADD-ON PERFORMANCES 2017-2018 Season
Oklahoma City Community College kicks off its Performing Arts Series with a high-octane performance by the Annie Moses Band , an American Rhapsody. The band will perform at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 12. All performance times for the series are 7:30 p.m. OCCC's exciting 2017-2018 Performing Arts Series and Add-On Touring Attractions features world-class productions you won't want to miss! Tickets are offered as a Subscription to the Series that supplies one ticket to each production (at a savings of over 20%), a Pick 5, or a Pick 3 Package. Individual tickets for the Performing Arts Series events went on sale August 1st. To purchase individual tickets to a show in the series, go to tickets.occc.edu .
PERFORMING ARTS SERIES EVENTS
Annie Moses Band – American Rhapsody, Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 7:30 PM With their distinctive style of music, the Annie Moses Band combines the best of beloved genres in a style that unifies audiences of all ages, classical and folk enthusiasts, jazz aficionados and bluegrass buffs.
Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, Thursday, October 5, 2017, 7:30 PM Peter Noone and the legendary British pop band are back playing favorites such as “I’m Into Something Good” Annie Moses Band and “Mrs. Brown You Have a Lovely Daughter.”
The Hot Club of San Francisco - Cinema Vivant , Thursday, November 16, 2017, 7:30 PM The Hot Club of San Francisco presents Cinema Vivant , an evening of vintage silent films accompanied by live Gypsy swing, often called Gypsy jazz. To hear this ensemble is to be carried back to the 1930s and the small jazz clubs of Paris. Herman’s Hermits The Hot Club of San Francisco
48 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Do You Speak Djembé?, Thursday, February 1, 2018, 7:30 PM
As you enter the theater your djembé drum awaits you on your seat. T he entire audience participates in the show and plays with an amazing line-up of world-class Western and African musicians where the audience becomes the largest djembé band in America. Do You Speak Djembé?
Cirque Éloize Saloon, February 22, 2018, 7:30 PM Since 1993, this amazing group has been combining music, theater and acrobatics to create moving performances filled with magic and emotion. Based on the multidisciplinary talents of its artists, the Wild Wild West comes alive as Cirque Éloize expresses its innovative nature through theatricality and humanity, and combines performance arts with music, dance and theatre in a path-breaking and original manner.
Lonesome Traveler: The Concert (with Special Guest Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary), March 29, 2018, 7:30 PM With their show entitled “Roots of American Folk Music,” Lonesome Traveler celebrates the likes of Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Peter, Paul and Mary, Bob Dylan, The Byrds, James Taylor and others, depicting the story of folk music from the 1920s to the ‘60s and beyond within the context of an ever-changing America.
RIOULT Dance NY, April 19, 2018, 7:30 PM Founded in 1994, RIOULT Dance NY fast became an established name in modern dance with a reputation for presenting the sensual, articulate, and exquisitely musical works of Pascal Rioult.
ABBAMANIA, May 1, 2018, 7:30 PM Dance in your seats to the Swedish phenomenon ABBAMANIA, the tribute band, which takes you back in time by recreating one of the world’s finest pop groups in a live stage performance. Fantastic costumes, exciting choreography and lots of glitter make performances of “ S.O.S .,” “ Super Trooper ” and “ Dancing Queen ” as thrilling and fresh as they day they debuted!
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 49 ADD-ON PERFORMANCES
U.S. Navy Band Cruisers, August 14, 2017 As the U.S. Navy’s premier contemporary entertainment ensemble, the Cruisers play genres of music ranging from jazz & standards, rhythm & blues, classic rock, adult contemporary and pop as well as original material. This elite group has engaged and excited audiences of all ages throughout the U.S. and abroad with world-class musicianship and high energy, fun-filled performances.
The Capitol Steps, August 19, 2017 The Capitol Steps return to OCCC with their unique blend of musical and political comedy and satire, guaranteed to leave both sides of the political spectrum laughing. There’s never a shortage of good material in politics!
Adam Trent, March 15, 2018 Adam Trent has been described as “Justin Timberlake meets David Copperfield.” He takes the magic world by storm, blending dancing and singing to his own original pop music with innovative stage illusions, charming wit, and emotion to create an experience that is part magic show, part concert, and part stand-up comedy.
Riders in the Sky present Christmas The Cowboy Way, December 12, 2017 For more than thirty years, Riders In The Sky have been keepers of the flame passed on by the Sons of the Pioneers, Gene Autry and Roy Rogers, while remaining true to the integrity of Western music. They have become modern-day icons by branding the genre with their own legendary wacky humor and way-out Western wit, and all along encouraging buckaroos and buckarettes to live life “The Cowboy Way!”
50 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Arrive in style!
(405) 600-9111 PEOPLE How Our Kids Taught Me How to Teach
BY JOHN THOMPSON
uring a two-week summer camp for at-risk children in the Arbuckle Mountains, we had D plenty of physical altercations. “Richard” (as I will call him) was always quick to pick up a rock or a piece of steel in a fight, and he was involved in the majority of the conflicts. Sparked by the killing of a turtle, a riot almost erupted. It was not Richard’s turtle, so I wondered why the other kids knew with certainty that he could be set off by such a provocation. The wiry and high-strung 8th grader wanted to talk about it. Richard began with a calm account of the death of his grandmother along with six others in a boiler explosion at a school in Spencer.
A successful hike and environmental education lesson
52 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Summing up the lessons he learned through mourning, he spoke in a low voice, “I think about things – deep things,” while his eyes darted back and forth, frantically on high alert for danger. Gosh, how did we get here?
was an academic before crack and gangs Iclobbered my neighborhood. My life was transformed by the relationships that inner city kids and I formed. Soon, I found myself as an environmental educator working with kids like
emphasis, Richard repeated, “I think of things – deep things.” Once again, everything changed for Richard when his uncle was busted on drug charges and all was lost. He claimed to not be upset by all of that. It brought him closer to real suffering and prompted new ideas for helping the poor. By this point in our conversation, he exhibited the explosive force of a television evangelist, proclaiming, “I think of things - deep things!” Back home, his once-powerful uncle still had enemies, and Richard was now more vulnerable and afraid. But that just made him identify more with people who never had power and made him wish he could do good - not just for
Richard. They provided an invaluable introduction into what I would need to understand when teaching at John Marshall and Centennial high schools. Richard further explained his time in California living with a rich uncle, an “O.G.” (old-time gangsta.) He would plan ways to invest the family’s wealth to help the underprivileged. Pumping his fists and striking out for
Top: My cabin mates and first co-teachers
Middle: My assertive discipline plan
Right: The kids rest on the side of the rocks while on the hike.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 53 humans, but for all of the earth. Again mandates to overcome the stress of the subdued, Richard wrapped up his traumas our kids often endured. It sermon, “I think of things - deep increased segregation in a campaign to things.” undo the legacy of segregation. The campers confirmed that Rather than appeal to children’s Richard’s uncle had had money, power, moral and emotional strengths, and reputation, and that I would reformers narrowed the curriculum, understand when we returned home. starving artistic and musical The camp had become a safe zone, but expression and creativity, as they he grew more and more agitated when imposed teach-to-the-test remediation. returning to Oklahoma City. He was But, Richard and others taught me practically glued to me for the bus ride. lessons that should be the basis of a Richard’s peers would come over and new era of school improvement. Listen provide emotional support. Even the to the kids and they will teach us how kids who were the most “down” with to teach them. the “Crips”—the gang in opposition to Rather than focus obsessively on his uncle’s “Bloods”—started to treat remediating weaknesses through basic him with kindness. skills instruction, we must provide the
Richard was picked up by his uncle, Above: Hiking the Grand Canyon with a John same holistic, meaningful instruction who had once displayed power and Marshall student, Brandy Clark, who is now an that we want for affluent kids. Show inspired fear but who was now a broken inner city teacher poor children of color this respect, and man and clearly an alcoholic. Richard they will rise to the challenge. But, in Below: Community gardening with my made a point of introducing me as his neighbors. our schools where so many children friend, and the uncle earnestly voiced have suffered multiple traumas, we appreciation. Though we had just met, must first build a system of socio- the former gang leader grasped my emotional supports. hand and forearm and made it clear We need full-service community that he needed to communicate his deep schools that bring health, mental appreciation for helping his nephew. health, early education, and post- Like many others, the O.G. grieved for secondary education providers into our the pain he had inflicted upon his poorest schools. We must bring back family. field trips and introduce our children to This and countless other poignant the full diversity of our community. We conversations illustrate the challenges must make schooling a team effort, faced by urban schools. Despite such driven, competition-driven reform did building partnerships from an array of stress and tragedy, Richard, his friends, incredible damage to our poorest nonprofits and recruiting mentors from and even his uncle, managed to hold children. Since the No Child Left Behind all types of backgrounds. Few things onto their moral core. This could be the Act of 2001, schools have been forced to could be more joyous than signing up for rock upon which school reform in the focus on academic instruction to meet this loving adventure. Everything we inner city is founded. measurable “objectives.” Data-driven teach and share with children like My book, A Teacher’s Tale: Learning, school reform used the stress of high Richard will yield amazing rewards for Loving and Listening to Our Kids , stakes testing in order to overcome the all of us. n focuses on teaching in an age of school stress of generational poverty. Reforms “reform.” It argues that accountability- used the stress of output-driven
54 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
2017 FALL SCHEDULE
GAME DATE START TIME GAME
August 2 7:30 PM Reno 1868 FC @ Energy FC
August 5 7:30 PM Real Monarchs @ Energy FC
August 12 7:30 PM Energy FC @ Tulsa Roughnecks FC
August 19 7:30 PM San Antonio FC @ Energy FC
August 25 9:30 PM Energy FC @ Orange County SC
September 2 7:30 PM Energy FC @ Swope Park Rangers
September 10 5:00 PM Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 @ Energy FC
September 17 5:00 PM Tulsa Roughnecks FC @ Energy FC
September 20 9:00 PM Energy FC @ Reno 1868 FC
September 23 9:30 PM Energy FC @ Sacramento Republic FC
October 1 5:00 PM LA Galaxy II @ Energy FC
October 8 5:00 PM Swope Park Rangers @ Energy FC
October 15 5:00 PM Seattle Sounders FC 2 @ Energy FC LOCATION
Taft Stadium
Taft Stadium
OneOK Field
Taft Stadium
Orange County Great Park
Swope Soccer Village
Taft Stadium
Taft Stadium
Greater Nevada Field
Bonney Field
Taft Stadium
Taft Stadium
Taft Stadium Home Games in boldface 2017-2018 OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER BASKETBALL SEASON Thu Oct 19th 7:00pm New York Knicks Oklahoma City Watch the game on TNT. Sat Oct 21 8:00pm Utah Jazz Salt Lake City Sun Oct 22 6:00pm Minnesota Timberwolves Oklahoma City Wed Oct 25 7:00pm Indiana Pacers Oklahoma City Fri Oct 27 7:00pm Minnesota Timberwolves Minneapolis Watch the game on NBATV Sat Oct 28 7:00pm Chicago Bulls Chicago Tue Oct 31 7:00pm Milwaukee Bucks Milwaukee Watch the game on NBATV Fri Nov 3 8:30pm Boston Celtics Oklahoma City Watch the game on ESPN. Sun Nov 5 8:00pm Portland Trail Blazers Portland Tue Nov 7 9:00pm Sacramento Kings Sacramento Watch the game on NBATV Thu Nov 9 9:30pm Denver Nuggets Denver Watch the game on TNT Fri Nov 10 8:00pm LA Clippers Oklahoma City Sun Nov 12 6:00pm Dallas Mavericks Oklahoma City Wed Nov 15 7:00pm Chicago Bulls Oklahoma City Fri Nov 17 7:00pm San Antonio Spurs San Antonio Watch the game on ESPN Mon Nov 20 7:00pm New Orleans Pelicans New Orleans Wed Nov 22 7:00pm Golden State Warriors Oklahoma City Watch the game on ESPN Fri Nov 24 7:00pm Detroit Pistons Oklahoma City Sat Nov 25 7:30pm Dallas Mavericks Dallas Wed Nov 29 6:00pm Orlando Magic Orlando Fri Dec 1 7:00pm Minnesota Timberwolves Oklahoma City Watch the game on NBATV Sun Dec 3 6:00pm San Antonio Spurs Oklahoma City Watch the game on NBATV Tue Dec 5 7:00pm Utah Jazz Oklahoma City Thu Dec 7 9:00pm Brooklyn Nets Mexico City Sat Dec 9 8:00pm Memphis Grizzlies Memphis Mon Dec 11 7:00pm Charlotte Hornets Oklahoma City Wed Dec 13 6:00pm Indiana Pacers Indianapolis Watch the game on ESPN Fri Dec 15 6:00pm Philadelphia 76ers Philadelphia Watch the game on ESPN Sat Dec 16 6:30pm New York Knicks New York City Mon Dec 18 7:00pm Denver Nuggets Oklahoma City Watch the game on NBATV Wed Dec 20 7:00pm Utah Jazz Oklahoma City Fri Dec 22 7:00pm Atlanta Hawks Oklahoma City Sat Dec 23 7:00pm Utah Jazz Salt Lake City Mon Dec 25 7:00pm Houston Rocket Oklahoma City Watch the game on ABC Wed Dec 27 7:00pm Toronto Raptors Oklahoma City Watch the game on NBATV Fri Dec 29 7:00pm Milwaukee Bucks Oklahoma City Sun Dec 31 6:00pm Dallas Mavericks Oklahoma City 2018 Wed Jan 3 9:30pm Los Angeles Lakers Los Angeles Watch the game on ESPN Thu Jan 4 9:30pm LA Clippers Los Angeles Watch the game on TNT Sun Jan 7 7:00pm Phoenix Suns Phoenix Tue Jan 9 7:00pm Portland Trail Blazers Oklahoma City Watch the game on NBATV Wed Jan 10 7:00pm Minnesota Timberwolves Minneapolis Watch the game on ESPN Sat Jan 13 4:00pm Charlotte Hornets Charlotte Mon Jan 15 2:00pm Sacramento Kings Oklahoma City Wed Jan 17 7:00pm Los Angeles Lakers Oklahoma City Watch the game on ESPN Sat Jan 20 2:30pm Cleveland Cavaliers Cleveland Watch the game on ABC Tue Jan 23 7:00pm Brooklyn Nets Oklahoma City Thu Jan 25 7:00pm Washington Wizards Oklahoma City Watch the game on TNT Sat Jan 27 6:00pm Detroit Pistons Detroit Sun Jan 28 5:00pm Philadelphia 76ers Oklahoma City Watch the game on ESPN Tue Jan 30 6:00pm Washington Wizards Washington DC Thu Feb 1 9:30pm Denver Nuggets Denver Watch the game on TNT Fri Feb 2 8:00pm New Orleans Pelicans Oklahoma City Sun Feb 4 1:00pm Los Angeles Lakers Oklahoma City Watch the game on ABC Tue Feb 6 9:30pm Golden State Warriors Oakland Watch the game on TNT Thu Feb 8 9:30pm Los Angeles Lakers Los Angeles Watch the game on TNT Sun Feb 11 6:00pm Memphis Grizzlies Oklahoma City Tue Feb 13 7:00pm Cleveland Cavaliers Oklahoma City Watch the game on TNT Wed Feb 14 7:00pm Memphis Grizzlies Memphis Thu Feb 22 9:00pm Sacramento Kings Sacramento Sat Feb 24 7:30pm Golden State Warriors Oakland Watch the game on ABC Mon Feb 26 7:00pm Orlando Magic Oklahoma City Wed Feb 28 7:30pm Dallas Mavericks Dallas, TX Fri March 2 8:00pm Phoenix Suns Phoenix Sat March 3 9:00pm Portland Trail Blazers Portland Tue March 6 7:00pm Houston Rockets Oklahoma City Watch the game on TNT Thu March 8 7:00pm Phoenix Suns Oklahoma City Sat March 10 7:30pm San Antonio Spurs Oklahoma City Watch the game on ABC Mon March 12 7:00pm Sacramento Kings Oklahoma City Tue March 13 6:30pm Atlanta Hawks Atlanta Fri March 16 7:00pm LA Clippers Oklahoma City Watch the game on NBATV Sun March 18 12:00pm Toronto Raptors Toronto Tue March 20 7:00pm Boston Celtics Boston Watch the game on TNT Fri March 23 7:00pm Miami Heat Oklahoma City Sun March 25 6:00pm Portland Trail Blazers Oklahoma City Thu March 29 7:00pm San Antonio Spurs San Antonio Watch the game on TNT Fri March 30 7:00pm Denver Nugget Oklahoma City Sun April 1 5:00pm New Orleans Pelicans New Orleans Tue April 3 7:00pm Golden State Warriors Oklahoma City Watch the game on TNT Sat April 7 7:30pm Houston Rockets Houston Watch the game on ABC Mon April 9 6:30pm Miami Heat Miami Wed April 11 7:00pm Memphis Grizzlies Oklahoma City THEATRE
OKC BROADWAY
KC Broadway begins its 2017- remodeled and renamed the Civic Center Music Hall. 2018 season Sept. 5 with the Ten years later in 1976, KISS performed at the Civic O under-the-sea spectacular “The Center, making it one of the biggest concerts to ever Little Mermaid” as the Civic play the venue during the band’s “Alive!” tour. Center celebrates its 80th anniversary. Interestingly, the band’s opening act did not make it to the building, forcing the management to find a new “The Little Mermaid” show runs through Sept. 10. opening act on the day of the show. The band that was Later in the month, “Beautiful – The Carol King called to fill in was referred by then-assistant technical Musical” comes to town with shows Sept. 26-Oct. 1. director Richard Charnay, who would spend 40-plus “The Purple Color” (Jan. 2-7), “School of Rock” (Feb. years at the Civic Center. 6-11), “Finding Neverland” (March 13-18) and “An The fill-in band was called Mountain Smoke, which American in Paris” (June 5-10) are the remaining plays featured an unknown artist by the name of Vince Gill. in the schedule. Season specials are “Rent” (Nov. 7-12) In September 2001, the Civic Center Music Hall and “The Book of Mormon” (April 24-29). reopened after a three-year renovation. A complete These iconic Broadway plays will help Oklahoma City interior renovation of the historic Civic Center Music celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Civic Center, Hall included accommodations for major theatrical, which was built as part of a Public Works dance and musical groups; a multi-story atrium; Administration project in April 1937. The first balconies, box seats and suites; excellent acoustics and performance at the then-Municipal Auditorium, a hydraulic orchestra pit. “Rhapsodic Rhythms” took place on Oct. 4, 1937. That same year, the Civic Center Foundation was Almost 30 years later, Municipal Auditorium was established. The private, nonprofit organization
60 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 1939-42 Orchestra supports the Civic Center Music Hall financially to help bring performing arts to Oklahoma City. The foundation has helped make capital improvements including the Civic Center Music Hall’s message center James M. Nederlander and improvements to the Freede Little Theatre. James L. Nederlander The foundation’s goal is to develop resources that 1922-2016 foster advocacy for the Civic Center Music Hall and to New York City and purchased the Palace Theatre on provide for the improvement, maintenance and support Broadway. His work, pioneering spirit and vision of the Civic Center. enabled him to build one of the largest privately-held OKC Broadway is a partnership between the Civic live entertainment companies in the world today. Center Foundation and The Nederlander Organization. Notable Nederlander productions include the musical The foundation and The Nederlander Organization biography about Gloria and Emilio Estefan. In addition, formed the partnership prior to the 2016-2017 theatre productions in Nederlander Broadway theaters include season. “Hamilton,” “Wicked,” “The Lion King,”, “Finding The name Nederlander has been synonymous with Neverland” and “An American in Paris.” great entertainment since 1912 when David T. The Nederlanders are also co-founders of The Nederlander purchased a 99-year lease on the Detroit National High School Musical Theatre Award, named Opera House. “The Jimmy Award,” a national program that celebrates During the next five decades, Nederlander and his outstanding student performances in high school sons built or managed theatres, produced doznes of live musical productions across the United States. shows and presented hundreds of the top headliners of For more information about shows and tickets, visit the day. In 1964, son James M. Nederlander moved to www.okcbroadway.com/tickets . n
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 61 PEOPLE
Oklahoma Hall of Fame Names 2017 Honorees
he 90th class of outstanding lifetime with the state’s highest honor and educating Oklahomans have been selected Oklahoma’s youth on our rich history. The Gaylord- T for induction into the Oklahoma Pickens Museum, home of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Hall of Fame. These accomplished was opened in 2007 with the intent of giving the public Oklahomans will join the 683 individuals access to the stories of these and other notable Oklahomans. who have been inducted into the Oklahoma “Being inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is Hall of Fame since 1928. The Honorees the single-highest honor an individual can receive from were officially announced at a luncheon on our state,” Rich said. “The recognition of our state’s May 18, hosted by the Oklahoma Hall of greatest asset – our people – is the foundation upon Fame at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum. which our organization was created.” New inductees were presented to a roomful Along with being honored at the formal induction of past Oklahoma Hall of Fame Honorees. ceremony, the 2017 Honorees will be recognized in November with the unveiling of their portraits at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, home of the Oklahoma Hall “It’s incredibly inspirational to be surrounded by of Fame. In addition, their biographies, photos and fun such an accomplished group of people who have facts will be accessible through interactive exhibits. literally created our history,” said Shannon L. Rich, The 90th Oklahoma Hall of Fame Banquet & president and CEO of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Induction Ceremony will be held on Thursday, Gaylord-Pickens Museum. “The Oklahoma Hall of November 16, at the Cox Convention Center in Fame announcement luncheon gives past inductees the Oklahoma City. In celebration of the Oklahoma Hall of first opportunity to congratulate the new class.” Fame’s 90th induction ceremony, past inductees Vince The 2017 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Honorees are: Gill and Kristin Chenoweth will return home to serve as Justice Tom Colbert , Sapulpa; Congressman Tom emcees. Cole , Moore; Bob Funk , Piedmont; Shannon Miller , For more information about the Oklahoma Hall of Edmond; Phil Parduhn, Edmond; Hal Smith , Ardmore; Fame Banquet & Induction Ceremony or making a and Carrie Underwood , Checotah. Those individuals nomination to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, contact who will be honored posthumously are Ada Lois Madison Nash, director of Honoree Relations, at Sipuel Fisher , Chickasha; and Sequoyah , the 405.523.3203 or [email protected]. Tickets and Cherokee Nation I.T. The 2017 Class will be formally table sponsorships for the event will go on sale August inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame on Thursday, 25. For more information about the Oklahoma Hall of November 16, in Oklahoma City. Fame or Gaylord-Pickens Museum, call 405.235.4458 The Oklahoma Hall of Fame was founded in 1927 or visit OklahomaHoF.com. with the purpose of honoring Oklahomans in their
62 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 In 2000, Colbert was appointed to Oklahoma. Before Congress, he the Oklahoma Court of Civil served as State Chairman of the Appeals, serving as Chief Judge in Oklahoma Republican Party, 2004 and followed by an District Director to former appointment to the Oklahoma Congressman Mickey Edwards, and Supreme Court. Justice Colbert a member of the Oklahoma State made history as the first African- Senate. He also served as American on both the Oklahoma Oklahoma’s Secretary of State under Court of Civil Appeals and the governor Frank Keating. Supreme Court. He made history Cole is widely regarded as one of again, in 2013, when he became the the GOP’s top political strategists. first African-American to serve as He served as executive director of Chief Justice of the Oklahoma the National Republican Supreme Court. Congressional Committee in the JUSTICE TOM COLBERT | 1992 cycle. He also served as chief Sapulpa of staff of the Republican National Committee. In the 2008 cycle, Cole After graduating from Sapulpa served as chairman of the National High School, Colbert went on to Republican Congressional earn degrees from Eastern Committee. Oklahoma State College and Tom Cole is a fifth-generation Kentucky State University before Oklahoman and an enrolled serving in the United States Army member of The Chickasaw Nation. and its Criminal Investigation He and his wife, Ellen, have one Division. While at KSU, Colbert son, Mason, and reside in Moore. was named All-Conference in track and field for the long jump and triple jump and All-American in track and field for the long jump. Following an honorable discharge, he resumed his formal education CONGRESSMAN TOM COLE | and earned a masters of education Moore degree at Eastern Kentucky Tom Cole was elected to Congress University. He taught middle school in 2002 and is currently serving in students in inner-city Chicago and his eighth term in the U.S. House of served as a recreation specialist for Representatives. Identified by a local boys’ club. TIME Magazine as “one of the Returning home to Oklahoma, he sharpest minds in the House,” he is earned his juris doctorate from the an advocate for a strong national University of Oklahoma before defense, a strong proponent for accepting the position of Assistant biomedical research, an advocate Dean at Marquette University Law for taxpayers and small businesses, BOB FUNK | Piedmont School. He served as an Assistant and a leader on issues dealing with In 1983, Bob Funk founded District Attorney for Oklahoma Native Americans and tribal Express Employment Professionals, County before entering private governments. establishing the company’s practice. During this time he also Cole has a significant background international headquarters in served as an attorney for the of service to his home state of Oklahoma City. As CEO and Department of Human Services.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 63 chairman of the board, Funk leads women make their health a priority. the company with more than $3 In 2011, she was diagnosed with a billion in sales, 770 franchises, and rare form of ovarian cancer. After employs more than 510,000 people having the tumor successfully annually in the United States, removed and an aggressive Canada, and South Africa. chemotherapy regimen, today she Born in Duvall, Washington, Funk remains cancer free. graduated from Seattle Pacific Miller currently resides in Florida University with a BA and MA and with her husband, John Falconetti, completed his graduate studies in and her two amazing children, theology at the University of Rocco and Sterling. Edinburgh, Scotland. He holds honorary doctorate degrees from Seattle Pacific University, Oklahoma Baptist University, and Southern Nazarene University. SHANNON MILLER | Edmond Inducted into the International Franchise Association Hall of From Edmond, Shannon Miller is Fame, Funk was named Most a gymnastics icon with seven Admired CEO by The Journal Olympic medals! And, she is the Record and Man of the Year by only female athlete to be inducted Impact OKC Magazine. Funk into the US Olympic Hall of Fame . served as chairman of the Chairmen . . twice. Once as an individual and of The Federal Reserve and once as part of a team. chairman of the Kansas City She has won an astounding 59 Federal Reserve Bank, serving the International and 49 National Tenth District, in 2006 and 2007. competition medals, more than half PHIL PARDUHN | Edmond The success of the staffing being Gold. She is the first U.S. Chairman of Pelco Products, Inc. business has afforded Funk the gymnast to win two World All- in Edmond and Pelco Structural, opportunity to enjoy his hobbies: Around titles. Her tally of five LLC in Claremore, Parduhn holds Express Ranches and world medals—two Silver and three degrees from both Oklahoma State champion Express Clydesdales. Bronze—at the 1992 Olympics was University and the University of Funk has lived in Oklahoma for the most medals won by a U.S. Oklahoma. An industrial engineer more than 50 years and is athlete in any sport. by trade, his career started in passionate about giving back to the At the ’96 Olympic Games, she innovation as co-founder of VePed business, agricultural, and non- led the “Magnificent Seven” to the Traffic Controls and Trafco profit communities, not only U.S. Women’s first ever Team Gold, Constructors with his brother-in-law financially, but through service on a and for the first time for any in 1961. There Parduhn focused his number of boards, including serving American gymnast, she captured attention on the manufacturing and as chairman of the OKC Chamber of Gold on the balance beam. distribution of traffic-related Commerce, as well as the Oklahoma After retiring from Olympic products. VePed led to the Youth Expo and the National competition and receiving successful launch of Pelco Cowboy and Western Heritage undergraduate degrees from the Products, Inc. in 1985, also a Museum. He currently sits on the University of Houston and a law manufacturer of traffic-related boards of the American Staffing degree from Boston College, Miller products. In 2005, Parduhn Association, the FFA, and several launched her company Shannon launched Pelco Structural, LLC, banks. Miller Lifestyle, devoted to helping which focuses on steel
64 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 infrastructure for the utility, traffic, Restaurant. As a working partner in lighting, distribution, and Crosstimbers Restaurants, he communication industries. opened and managed units in Parduhn holds numerous patents Norman, Oklahoma, and Amarillo, and has been awarded the Texas in the late 1960s and early Governor’s Contribution to the 1970s. State’s Excellence Award, Innovator In 1973, he joined Steak & Ale of the Year by The Journal Record, Restaurant Corporation, a wholly- Leadership in Public Service Award owned subsidiary of Pillsbury, as a by the Oklahoma Employment manager trainee before being Securities Commission, Sam Walton named president and COO and Business Leader Award, Sustaining ultimately chairman and CEO and Member of the Year by the vice president of Pillsbury. His next International Municipal Signal ventures included executive CARRIE UNDERWOOD | Association, Good Neighbor of the leadership roles for Chili’s, Chi Checotah Year Award by the Neighborhood Chi’s Mexican Restaurants, and Carrie Underwood emerged from Alliance of Central Oklahoma, and Haagen Daz, among others. the promise of her 2005 American the John Pinkley Lifetime Industry In 1992, he ventured out on his Idol win to become a true multi- Member Award by Missouri Valley own and founded Hal Smith format, multi-media superstar, Institute of Transportation Restaurants, a restaurant spanning achievements in music, Engineers. Parduhn has been management company television, and film. A seven-time recognized as Edmond’s Citizen of headquartered in Norman. Since GRAMMY Award winner, she has the Year and inducted into the that time the company has amassed more than 100 major Edmond Hall of Fame for his developed both multi-unit and honors, sold 64-million records commitment to community and single-unit concepts, including worldwide, and recorded 25 #1 entrepreneurial spirit. Charleston’s Restaurant, Red Rock singles, 13 of which she co-wrote, Canyon Grill, Mahogany Prime with a catalogue that has been Steakhouse, Krispy Kreme, Ted’s streamed over 2.6 billion times. Café Escondido, Louie’s Bar & The first female to be twice named Grill, Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar the Academy of Country Music’s & Grill, The Garage, Upper Crust, Entertainer of the Year, Underwood Pub W, and The Legacy Grill. Today was recognized by Pollstar as the Hal Smith Restaurants operates top female country touring artist for more than 60 restaurants in seven each of her headlining tours in states and employs more than 6,000 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2016. All employees. five studio albums— Some Hearts, With his wife Sandy, Smith found- Carnival Ride, Play On, Blown ed the Norman Youth Foundation to Away, and Storyteller —are certified support youth-oriented charities in Platinum or multi-Platinum, and Oklahoma. Those benefiting include each an American Music Awards Center for Children and Families, winner as Favorite Country Album HAL SMITH | Ardmore Ally’s House, Coaches for Cancer, and tallied an incredible 40 weeks An Ardmore native, Hal Smith WIN Foundation, JD McCarty at #1 on Billboard’s Top Country began his career in the restaurant Center, Thunderbird Clubhouse, Albums chart. industry while attending the and the Bootstrap Program, among The voice of primetime televis- University of Oklahoma and countless others. ion’s #1 program, Sunday Night working at the Across the Street Football , Underwood is also a
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 65 longtime co-host of the CMA Awards. The Grand Ole president of academic affairs. In 1991, the University of Opry member demonstrated her creative diversity in Oklahoma awarded Fisher an honorary doctorate of 2013, starring as Maria von Trapp in NBC’s holiday humane letters. blockbuster, the Emmy-winning The Sound of Music Live! , whose airings attracted 44 million viewers. SEQUOYAH | The Cherokee Nation I. T. Sequoyah was born circa 1776 at the village of POSTHUMOUS: Tuskeegee, Tennessee. His father was Nathaniel Gist, a ADA LOIS SIPUEL FISHER | Chickasha Virginia fur trader. His mother was Wut-teh, daughter of A graduate of Langston University, she dreamed of a Cherokee Chief. Although Sequoyah was exposed to being a lawyer. However, Langston did not have a law the concept of writing early in his school and at that time state statutes prohibited blacks life, he never learned the English from attending white state universities. At the urging of alphabet. He began to toy with the the NAACP, idea of literacy, “talking leaves”, twenty-one-year- for the Cherokee people. Unlike old Fisher agreed the white soldiers, he and the other to seek admission Cherokees were not able to write to the University of letters home, read military orders, Oklahoma’s law or record events as they occurred. school and After the war, he began in earnest challenge to create a writing system for his Oklahoma’s fellow Cherokees. segregation laws. He began by making symbols that could make words. Her application was denied. Not because of her He reduced the thousands of Cherokee thoughts to 85 academic credentials, but because of her race. Fisher symbols that represented sounds. He made a game of filed a lawsuit, represented by a young Thurgood this new writing system and his daughter was the first Marshall and later U.S. Supreme Court Justice. After that he taught how to make the symbols. losing at the county and state levels, she appealed to the In 1821, after 12 years of working on the new U. S. Supreme Court. The nation’s highest tribunal ruled language, he and his daughter introduced his syllabary to that Oklahoma must provide Fisher with the same the Cherokee people. It was approved by the Tribal opportunities for securing a legal education as it Council and within months, thousands of Cherokees provided to other citizens. became literate. In 1822 Sequoyah visited Cherokees in Rather than admitting Fisher to OU, the Oklahoma Arkansas, and in 1828 he moved with them to Legislature created a Langston University School of Law Oklahoma. He was active in the political life of the tribe, in the Senate rooms of the Oklahoma State Capitol. serving as envoy to Washington in 1828 and helping Fisher filed a motion contending that the Langston law Cherokees displaced from eastern lands. school did not afford the equal legal education as that of By 1825 much of the Bible and numerous hymns had OU. Although the county and state courts upheld that the been translated into Cherokee. By 1828 they were two were “equal,” after learning of Fisher’s intent to publishing the Cherokee Phoenix, the first national bi- again appeal to the U. S. Supreme Court the Oklahoma lingual newspaper, along with religious pamphlets, Attorney General conceded and Fisher was admitted to educational materials, and legal documents. In the University of Oklahoma, more than three years after recognition of his contributions, The National Cherokee her initial application. Langston’s law school closed 12 Council awarded Sequoyah a Silver Medal, which he days later. wore the rest of his life, and later an annuity of $300. His Fisher graduated from the OU College of Law and statue is one of only two Oklahomans on display in the earned a master’s degree in history. After practicing law National Statuary Hall Collection in Washington, D.C. in Chickasha, she joined the faculty at Langston He continued to serve Cherokee people as a statesman University. She retired 30 years later as assistant vice and diplomat until his death. n
66 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
ART
One of Oklahoma’s Best Known Artists Nan Quick Sheets: A Legacy Remembered
BY RYAN WILLIAMS
an Quick Sheets was born December 9, 189 9, N in Albany, Illinois. Nan was the youngest of five children, and at an early age in her youth acquired a real love of painting. At the age of only 17, she earned a college degree in pharmacy from Valparaiso, University in 1905. Shortly after graduation, Nan moved to Salt Lake City, Utah and took a job in a local pharmacy. While in college, Nan had met Dr. Fred Sheets. During the summer of 1918, Nan and Fred were married and moved to Oklahoma City in 1914 where she found a growing city with a fledgling cultural scene, but no art museum or gallery.
Between 1918 and 1923 Nan had the opportunity to study painting under many notable painters specializing in landscape painting at the Broadmoor Academy of Fine Arts during the summers. While in Colorado at the Academy, her husband was building a surprise artist studio and gallery for her at their home in Oklahoma City located at 2810 North Walker.
68 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 The Elms exterior – in the 40s (above) and in 2010 (right).
The Elms, as it was called, because of the giant elm trees in the front yard, scheduled many art shows and local artist exhibits each year. During the fall, Nan Sheets National Exhibition of Women Painters in New York would exhibit her own art, and introduce a set of new City. By 1930 Nan Sheets was best known as one of paintings at an annual event that gained a real Oklahoma’s most outstanding artists and had gained following of art lovers in Oklahoma City. national recognition for her achievements. In 1923, Nan Sheets became the first Oklahoma artist After 1927 Nan would travel in search of landscape to become listed in the national directory of “Who’s subjects to paint, and her excursions took her to New Who in Art”. England, New Mexico, Nova Scotia, the Canadian Rockies, and throughout Europe. She took her students BY 1927, MANY OF NAN SHEETS paintings hung in to Europe, and they painted landscapes from Italy, juried exhibitions throughout the country in cities such France, Switzerland, Germany and Holland. Her as Kansas City, New Orleans, and New York City. Also capacity to produce large amounts of artwork was in 1927 Nan lectured and would give tours at the astounding. She would return home with 40 to 50
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 69 The Elms interior, circa 1940s, and a younger and older Nan Sheets.
Oklahoman from 1934-1962. In 1957, a $250,000 donation from John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick made it possible to build a new building for the art center at the fairgrounds in Oklahoma City. The circular building, completed in 1958, housed nearly 23,000 square feet of exhibition space and an outside courtyard for sculpture. Nan Sheets served as director of the Oklahoma Art Center until 1965 when she retired at the age of 79. In 1945, Sheets and Eleanor Kirkpatrick planned the first Beaux Arts Ball to raise funds for the Art paintings of landscapes from her Center, and the Beaux Arts Society trips. continues to support even today after all these years through annual BETWEEN 1932 AND 1936 NAN donations of funds to an art Sheets took part in art activities acquisition trust. both locally and nationally through Nan was inducted into the her lectures, workshops, and Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1953. broadcasting. She also served as a Today Nan Sheets paintings are art columnist for The Daily hanging in permanent collections
70 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Joy Reed Belt throughout the country such as the Kansas City Art Institute, the Dallas Museum of Art, the University of Oklahoma, the Philbrook Art Center, and the State Art Collection of Oklahoma. The painting in the Oklahoma State Art Collection by Nan Sheets is entitled “Taos Pueblo” and is done in oil. It is thought to have been created in the 1930’s. Nan spent most of her time in New Mexico after retiring, and died in 1976 after a long illness at the age of 90.
HISTORICALLY, NAN SHEETS will be remembered as a “person who understood the importance of art to the quality of life in the city, and through the hippies, and through both the good times she wanted to make art a part of people’s daily lives,” and touch times alike. It was only a few years that the said Bob Blackburn, Executive Director of the Elms was not a gallery,” Belt said. “There’s a wonderful Oklahoma Historical Society. legacy to all that.”After creating more than 100 exhibitions in the past decade, Joy Reed Belt, now has THIS STORY DOES NOT END here as you might many wonderful memories from showcasing expect. The Nan Sheets legacy lives on thanks to the internationally renowned painters and photographers to very talented Joy Reed Belt and her love and championing emerging artists. dedication to making art a part of people’s daily lives in Occasionally, there are people who come in the Oklahoma City and the State of Oklahoma. gallery to share their mother or grandmother took Joy Reed Belt is celebrating the 14th anniversary of lessons here,” Belt said, flipping through newspaper JRB Art at the Elms, the gallery she opened in the one- clippings, magazine photos and exhibit brochures in time home of Oklahoma art pioneer Nan Sheets.“I think Sheets’ personal scrapbook, which a friend bought her it’s important to offer all Oklahomans a world-class art at an estate sale a few years ago.“I feel I am continuing gallery of historical significance. Because we can say on with the tradition Nan Sheets started over a century there’s been an art gallery, the Elms for (almost) 100 ago at JRB Art at the Elms, and love the art world as years, through thick and thin, through the recession, she did during her lifetime”. n
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 71 THEATRE
The Sooner Theatre presents the musical OKLAHOMA! SUMMER STUDIO SERIES 2017
I want to thank both the Production Team and Staff at The Sooner Theatre in Norman, Oklahoma for presenting their world-class production of Oklahoma! and scheduling six sold out performances between August 3 – 6, 2017. Over 3,000 Oklahomans enjoyed the musical. Brandon Adams, Jennifer Baker, Mandi Jiran, Stephanie Govich, and MacKay Whalen are really to be commended for their long hours & many days of cast member rehearsals that were required to take on a project like this musical and make it a huge success. There were over 44 young performers who auditioned for the cast of characters that included the actors, dream dancers, ensemble members and stage crew. This musical production was very special to several people. Brandon Adams and Jennifer Baker performed leading roles in the musical Oklahoma! for over a decade at the Discoveryland Theatre in he best way to start any day is to Tulsa, Oklahoma. remember one of the more memorable T songs from the musical Oklahoma! “Oh What A Beautiful Morning.” The musical Oklahoma! opened in New York City on Broadway, March 31, 1943. Rogers & Hammerstein took an original play written by Lynn Riggs from Claremore, Oklahoma called “Green Grow the Lilacs ”and added music, lyrics, original dances, and much more to create what later became known as the musical Oklahoma! This musical was so successful that it ran for an unprecedented 2,212 performances at the Saint James Theatre, 44th & Broadway NYC, NY. In 2018, the musical Oklahoma! will celebrate its 75th Anniversary.
72 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Actually the outdoor theatre, Discoveryland was located in a nearby suburb, Sand Springs, Oklahoma and became known as the National Home of Rogers & Hammerstein’s musical Oklahoma! “The setting, the people, the beautiful music, and this wonderful story that we shared with audiences as the evening sun would set was really indescribable,” said Jennifer Baker, who played the role of Laurey in the musical for over 10 years. After a long run on Broadway Rogers & Hammerstein decided
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 73 to film the musical as a movie in 1955. Shirley Jones and Gordon McRae were hired for the leading roles in the movie which meant the musical Oklahoma! could then be enjoyed in theaters by millions of people worldwide. Congratulations to everyone at The Sooner Theatre in Norman, Oklahoma for bringing this wonderful musical production back to Oklahoma in 2017. n
74 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 75 COMMUNITY
UAL LIBER THIRD ANN TY BASH
Liberty Bash 2017
was a huge success. Approximately 400 First Liberty Bank employees, customers and friends from the neighborhood attended the 3rd annual event on Friday June 9th, 2017 in the First Liberty Bank parking lot. The event was held to thank the community for its support and celebrate the bank’s 11th successful year. Guests were treated to food, face painting and fun. Coach Barry Switzer was on hand to sign autographs. The Village firefighters and police also attended to help show the kids a good time. n
Grayson Carnes
First Liberty Bash 2017 President & CEO Joey Root, Exec Vice President Tammie Garrison, Coach Barry Switzer and Guest Bill Pelley.
76 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Big thumbs up from Jack Grooms.
FLB employee Cathy Westmoreland and FLB Board Member William Toellner
Sonja Wahle. All the way from Hennel, Germany to enjoy Liberty Bash 2017! PEOPLE
Leadership Oklahoma
Thirty-First Annual Class
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla., July 1, 2017—Leadership Oklahoma is honored to announce the members of its thirty-first class that were carefully selected from applicants throughout the state. “Leadership Oklahoma is very proud of the 51-people chosen for this year’s program,” Brent Kisling, Executive Director, Enid Regional Development Alliance and Chair of the Leadership Oklahoma Board of Directors. “Class 31 is a diverse group of outstanding leaders with a broad range of experience and interests who will enhance the knowledge and understanding of the critical issues impacting the State. Leadership Oklahoma is dedicated to recruiting, educating and connecting caring and committed Oklahomans and providing them with the information and network to help shape Oklahoma’s future.” Over the next ten months, Class 31 members will meet monthly to visit nine communities; Seminole, Lawton/Fort Sill, Norman, Enid, McAlester, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Durant and Guymon, to discuss the many social, environmental and economic complexities of our state to stimulate inquiry, Claudia Griffith, Cyndi Munson, Kent Carter. analysis and solutions for the public good. Members of Class 31, the cities in which they live and where they work are: regions they represent are:
Cinthya Allen , Norman, AT&T; Michael Dooley , Lawton, Department of the Army/Fires Center Christopher Azbell , Okmulgee, Muscogee (Creek) Nation; of Excellence and Fort Sill; Melissa Baldwin , Bixby, Mental Health Association Oklahoma; Dena Drabek , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Watch; Bradley Boles , Marlow, Wilco Machine & Fab, Inc., William “Rusty” Edmiston , Collinsville, The Ross Group; Lori Boyd , Yukon, The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Lauren Ellis , Duncan, United Way of Southwest Oklahoma; Hospital; James Finch , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Gas and Electric; Tiffani Bruton , Tulsa, Cox Communications; Leigh Gaddis , Ada, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife David Burgy , Tulsa, Oklahoma Air National Guard; Conservation; Susan Damron , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Bar Association; Rick Grundman , Tulsa, ONE Gas; Samantha Davidson , Oklahoma City, GlobalHealth; Victor Guarry , Edmond, Bank of Oklahoma;
78 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 Class XXVI – Mike Carrier, Kathy Williams, Jesse Boudiette, John Killam, Robyn Sunday-Allen, Jodi Cline.
Teena Gunter , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Department of Hazel Lonewolf , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City Indian Clinic; Agriculture, Food and Forestry; Brian Lott , McAlester, McAlester Army Ammunition Plant; Melonie Hau , Duncan, Duncan Public Schools; Dwayne Martin , Altus, City of Altus; Jason Hawkins , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City Energy Joshua McClintock , Edmond, RedAnt, LLC; FC/Prodigal LLC; Victor McCullough , Edmond, Quayle United Methodist Church Sally Hawkins , Guymon, Bank of the Panhandle; of OKC; Marcus High , Ardmore, Mercy Hospital; Cyndi Munson , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma House of Carmela Hill , Tulsa, Williams; Representatives; Kyle Hubbard , Bartlesville, Arvest Bank; John Osborne , Edmond, Frankfurt Short Bruza (FSB) Larry Killebrew , Beggs, Green County Technology Center; Architects & Engineers; Thomas Lewis , Lawton, Congressman Tom Cole; Judy Parker , Ada, Chickasaw Nation; Terron Liles , Ponca City, The Bag Lady Boutique and Terron Caryl Parsons , Woodward Boomtown Hospitality, Inc. Liles Weddings; (Big Dan’s);
Roger Gaddis, Jodi Lewis, Brent Kisling, Cody Holcomb. Carmela Hill, Ben Kimbro, Rose Washington.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 79 Richard Cudjo, Martha Burger, Lindy Ritz, Paula Root. Scott Stidham, Brian Byrnes, Jim Finch.
Janet Peery , Oklahoma City, YWCA of Oklahoma City; Scott Stone , Edmond, Spartan Resources, LLC; John Richardson , Norman, Bold Multimedia; Scott Thompson , Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Department of Pamela Richardson , Tulsa, Volunteers of America Environmental Quality; Oklahoma, Inc.; Brooke Townsend , Edmond, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Paula Root , Oklahoma City, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma; Oklahoma; Victoria Tracey , Oklahoma City, Accenture; Nathan Shirley , Oklahoma City, Cemplex Group; Monica Treviño , Chickasha, University of Science & Arts Brady Sidwell , Goltry, Enterprise Grain/Sidwell Oklahoma; Strategies/Sidwell Seed/Arbitrage Alpha/Sidwell Cornell Wesley , Oklahoma City, US Department of Commerce- Transport/Sidwell Farms; Economic Development Administration; and, Amy Siegfried , Tulsa, Last Night’s Game; Ainslie Stanford , Christine Woodworth , Edmond, SONIC, America’s Drive-In. Edmond, Crooks Stanford & Shoop PLLC - Law Firm;
Leadership Oklahoma is a statewide organization founded in 1986 to create a network of leaders whose increased awareness and commitment to service will energize Oklahomans to shape the state’s future. Approximately 1,530 members from 170 Oklahoma communities have completed the leadership program. n
80 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 We fight 1 in 4 ho for those w Oklahoma children voice. lives in need a POVERTY.
most critical ound our community’s We surr m. we can to address the , and find every dollar problems ral win this fight for Cent Help Central Oklahoma at Oklahoma. Give today om StandUnitedOKC.c PEOPLE
Garland McWatters champions Millennials in book series Partners with NextGen Oklahoma Leaders to promote leadership
[Note from the publisher. Garland usually features someone who is demonstrating the Spirit of Leading in Oklahoma. For this edition, I asked Garland to write about his own experiences that brought him to become an integral part of the NextGen Oklahoma Leaders team. – Don Swift, publisher]
he Millennial generation energizes me. Like every generation before them, they take some knocks T from their elders. Every generation has its ne’er-do-wells. And every generation produces some amazing young people ready to set the world on fire with their ideas and enthusiasm. I’ve met some amazing, talented and accomplished Millennials during my association with the NextGen Under 30 and the NextGen Oklahoma Leaders movement. Perhaps, the reason I relate to them is I remember how life-changing my twenties and early thirties were for me. I enjoyed a variety of professional opportunities during those years. At first glance they might seem disconnected; however, upon reflecting, I believe in each experience, I was part of building something. I found meaning and impact doing work that increased my competence and confidence and that let me have some say about what I did and how I did it. I refer you to a more complete narrative on my website at http://garlandmcwatters.com/home/about. I’ve never minded aging. Aging is inevitable. However, I’m terrified of becoming irrelevant. I think my experience as a leadership trainer has converted into wisdom. kept me in touch with the hopes and challenges of today’s workplace. I think my best hope of remaining relevant is to Honestly, they are not much different in kind than those I experienced as a be available as a guide to those young people who young man, eager to find my place in the work world. are learning their way one experience at a time. I’ll I’ve learned that no matter how much I’ve learned, every generation has be there to offer information that can help them to learn its own lessons in its own way. Experience handed down is transform their experiences into knowledge and information. Experiences learned in the first-person are more likely to be wisdom.
82 ion Oklahoma DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 Left: Garland and Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb talk with participant Madison Nash and another participant at Edmond NextGen Oklahoma Leaders workshop.
Below: Garland visits with OSU staff at book signing and author book talk.
Men of a certain age begin thinking about legacies. They want to be remembers for their accomplishments. I hope to be remembered for the sense of possibility and feeling of optimism I helped to create for generations to come. Rather than monuments, I’ve chosen to leave stories. I still present leadership training and develop training materials, as I have since 1994. Looking forward, I am writing a personal-development series that tells the story of a young leader as he learns to lead and become a mentor to others along the way. The series is entitled A Workplace Story of an INPowering Life. I have no idea how many episodes it will take to a recently promoted project leader who Marcus’s daily life. The story contends tell this story. There are three currently must come to terms with all that he has that personal and professional lives are published, and a fourth will be available yet to learn about becoming an effective not separate experiences, but one soon. supervisor. integrated experience. The protagonist, as the series begins, As we follow Marcus in his leadership Marcus, and those populate his world, is a twenty-seven year old civil engineer development journey, we meet his deal with the complexities and named Marcus Winn. He works for family, work associates, team members, subtleties of change, which is often Millennium Energy, a renewable energy friends, and love interests who comprise disruptive and unwelcome. His world is company that is owned by a major his world. Each episode focuses on a like our own lives in which we must independent oil and gas enterprise, personal and professional development forge new relationships, learn how to Johnstone Energy Enterprises. Marcus is topic expressed in the context of handle and cope with difficulties and
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 83 Judging the 2017 collegiate ethics bowl. disappointment, and find purpose in sometimes mundane imagination, the resources, and the numbers to do it. I, and routine. Get a closer look at the first three episodes at others like me are here to help you get engaged. Do you have http://garlandmcwatters.com/books/inpowering-life-series/ the will to take it on?” I introduce the concept of INPowerment, as opposed to If I can INCourage the spirit, if I can INLiven the heart, if I empowerment. INPowerment is the reservoir of personal can INLighten the mind, if I can INLarge the expectations of creative energy we possess to shape our world through our living for those I meet, I will have lived well. n challenges and choices. Empowerment, in my lexicon, is permission granted by outside authorities to act. Without Garland McWatters tells stories of the workplace in his writing INPowerment, one will not take advantage of the enabling and training. He lives in Tulsa, OK with his wife, Lynda. provided by others. Many of those responsible for Marcus’s development and success are women. I’ll forego any spoilers about the storyline, but suffice it to say that most of the women in Marcus’s life are strong, positive role models for women in today’s workplace. There always will be disconnects as one generation gives way to the succeeding generation in the workplace. We’ve just learned to approach life with different ideas about how things are supposed to be. But we seem to figure it out when we engage to solve problems and create value in our culture. I am optimistic and excited about the kind of world Millennials can build. “Power to you,” I say. “Show us what you can do.” Whenever I get the chance to speak to Millennials, especially here in Oklahoma, I tell them, “Don’t wait to inherit a world. Create the world you want to live in. You have the
Garland has a full calendar of writing, blogging, and podcasting.
84 ionOklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
WhoWWhho AArere NNextGenextGen Oklahomans?
IIndividualsndividuals ImpactingImmmppacting thethe NextNNeext GenerationGeneration CulCultivatingttiivattiing CChangehange LLeadingeadingng Oklahoma’sOklahoma’’ss FutureFFuuttuure
OOurur MissionMission andand PhilosophyPhilosophy
CECA: ConnectConnect | EducateEducate | CCoordinateoorrddinate | ActAct
Connect:Connect: CreateCreate a nnetworketwork ooff nnextext ggenerationeneration OOklahomansklahomans llocatedocated iinn rruralural aandnd uurbanrrbban OklahomaOklahoma ccommunities.ommunities.
Educate:Educate: ProvideProvide youngyoung MMillennialsillennials wwithith hhelpfulelpffuul kknowledgenowwlledge aandnd ttoolsools ttoo bbecomeecome ffufutureuture lleaderseaders ooff OOklahoma.klahoma.
CCoordinate:oordinate: PPlanlan lleadershipeadership wworkshops,orkshops, rretreats,etreats, aandnd AAwAwardward RRecognitionecognition CCeremonieseremonieies ttoo mmakeake OOklahomakkllahoma ccommunitiesommunities sstrongertronger aandnned rretainetain yyoungoung ppeopleeopl ttoo lliveive aandnd wworkork iinn OOklahoma.klahoma.
Act:Act: OOrganizerganize andand rrecruitecruit pparticipationarticipation iinn NNextGenextGen OOklahomaklahoma pprogramrogram eevents.vents.
PPreparedrepared bby:y: OKnStyleOKnStyle PPublishing,ublishing, LLLCLC 220220 WestWest WWilshireilshire BlvdBlvd SteSte FF22 OklahomaOkkllahoma City,City, OOklahomaklahoma 7731163116 www.ionok.comwww.ionok.com 4405.607.093005.607.0930 RECOGNITION = RETENTION
uundernder
ooklahomakllaahoma
Nominate a young professional yyouou know that is deserving recognition. Just go to nextgenunder30.com DOO YOUU A state-wide event, with talented, high-achieving Millennials nominated in 15 categoriesories as Oklahoma’’ss KNOW bbestest and brightest hope for the future OVER-ACHIEVERS/UNDER 30 TheseThese high achievers are nominated by members of doingdoing amazing things in Oklahoma. their communities. The next generation of leaders in Oklahoma Distinguished judges select 15 winners in each will be recognized at the Sixth Annual NextGen categoryoryy,, one Gold Award, one Silververr,, and 13 Bronze UUndernder 30 Oklahoma awards. Nominate winners innovative, creative-thinking and inspiringng young individuals who push the boundariesar beyond their years.ars. TToo nominate a candidate,candid go to nextgenunder30.com onOKO magazinei SEEKING OKLAHOMA’S PROMINENT FUTURE LEADERS SEND US YOUR NOMINATIONS
ion Oklahoma Online aims at finding the next generation of leaders in the state of Oklahoma with the Seventh Annual “Next Gen” awards gala.
Next Gen Under 30 will recognize innovative, creative-thinking and inspiring young individuals who push the boundaries beyond their years in 15 different career categories – arts, entertainment, business, media, sports, technology and more. To nominate a candidate, go to ion Oklahoma Online’s website: www.ionok.com/nextgenunder30 or visit www.nextgenunder30.com
Any nominee 30 years old or younger in 2017 qualifies. Nomination deadline is Friday, August 25, 2017. Winners will be announced September 8th on nextgen www.nextgenunder30.com AWARDS DINNER Monday, Oct 2 10:30-12 will be the Day at the Friday, October 20, 2017 Capitol with Lt Governor Todd Lamb. Cocktails 6-7pm • Awards Ceremony 7-9pm Embassy Suites Hotel • Norman, OK
ion Oklahoma Online | 220 West Wilshire Blvd, #F2 | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73116 | 405.607.0930 PEOPLE
Local Hero Plays Prominent Role as ‘Officer Reeves’ in “ALL EYEZ ON ME ” A Tribute to the Life of National Musician, Tupac Shakur
BY STEPHANIE D. MOORE
s the opening scene Lt. Bruce Davis, served the begins to play, the Springlake Division of the A audience is immersed Oklahoma City Police Department into the life and times of for more than 26 years. He has a controversial musician placed in policed all walks of life from giving prison. From riding a prison bus tickets to speeders in his with other inmates, to being neighborhood, to serving those chaperoned by prison guards, the after storms, to locking up drug scene quickly cuts to Hill Harper, dealers, to protecting the who plays the role of a reporter disadvantaged… he has seen and interviewing Tupac. Within heard it all. On April 19, 1995, Lt. seconds, a smile comes across Davis found himself amid the your face as you see a person you rubble of the Alfred P. Murrah not only recognize but greatly respect, local hero and retired building when a second bomb was Oklahoma City Police Lieutenant, reported. He is a local hero that Bruce Davis. Davis’ character has served Oklahoma City with shoves Tupac into the interview humility, strength and grace. room with a snarl on his face that After he retired, Bruce decided it even scares you. That’s often was time to chase his lifelong noted as a first responder to the dream. Loving the stage from a Oklahoma City Bombing, this very young age, Davis began his retired local police officer has acting career performing in been answering casting calls and national stage plays. Today, Davis serving as a supporting actor to has been featured in the “Fly Your some of Hollywood’s most Own Way’ national Foot Locker notables and it is nothing short of commercial that also starred amazing. Russell Westbrook, “The Painted
88 ion Oklahoma AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 s Bruce Davis A scene from “All Eyez On Me.”
Women”, a film that has just received an offer from a major individual (a stark difference from the character he plays in distributor, and “Let Me Make You a Martyr” a movie that the movie) states, “If you watch the movie, I should be a played in select theatres and is now available on DVD and villain. My character has little respect for Tupac. People often Amazon iTunes. You can also catch Davis in several other tell me how bad I was to Tupac, which makes me laugh. It areas including a Rib Crib commercial, a “Fields & Future” means I delivered what the director wanted. The starring cast music video, “Kings of Leon – Beautiful War” music video and was amazing and I am so grateful to everyone that helped me much more. to grow as an actor. I have been acting now for a while now, Even with that glowing resume, no one would have guessed but to land this role without moving to Los Angeles is no small that Mr. Davis would have landed an amazing principal role feat. The acting industry is demanding and requires a specific as ‘Officer Reeves’ in the movie “All Eyez on Me,” a tribute to discipline. I am just thankful,” says Lt. Bruce Davis. the life of national musician, Tupac Shakur that was released They say that ‘All of the world is a stage’ and this is in theatres across the nation. certainly the case for Lt. Bruce Davis, our local hero who has Steve Martin once said, “Be so good, they can’t ignore you.” made Oklahoma proud. I can only imagine as another great Lt. Bruce Davis, who has a scene within the first two minutes milestone was marked complete it felt as if he was stepping of the movie and again later as the movie reflects on Tupac’s into a fairy tale under a curtain of stars. Well, this is certainly time in prison, was surprised to see his character utilized so one fairy tale I hope continues to the happiest of endings! n much. Davis, who in real life is a soft-spoken and certain
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 ionOklahoma 89
Ê"> >Ê >}>âiÊNÊÓÓäÊ7iÃÌÊ7à ÀiÊ-ÌiÊÓÊNÊÊ"> >Ê ÌÞ]Ê" ÊÇΣ£ÈÊÊNÊ{äx°ÈäÇ°äÎäÊ n o i t a i c o s s A
c i s u M
l l o R
n
k c o R
a w o I
The 2014 NextGen 30 Under 30 honorees.