ionOK.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Restaurant Chickasaw Nation opens testing centers Industry OCCC Virtual Concerts Recovery All Dreams Matter by Pat Carr

Jim Hopper, President & CEO Girl Scouts open Camp Trivera Oklahoma Restaurant Assoc. 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

Don Swift

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 social issues : Robbie Robertson community : Lauren Wright contributing writer : Sandi Davis contributing writer : Greg Horton contributing writer : M.A. Smith contributing writer : M. J. Van Deventer contributing writer : Julie York contributing writer : Dorian Quillen contributing writer : Kristen Marckmann WE HATED ALGEBRA TOO. OKAY, SO MAYBE WE LIKED IT A LITTLE. BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN WE ARE ONLY ABOUT THE NUMBERS. WHEN YOU WORK WITH EVOLVE YOU ARE GETTING A PARTNER DEVOTED TO SNIFFING OUT ANSWERS TO REAL QUESTIONS NOT JUST STATISTICS ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS.

WWW.EVOLVE-RESEARCH.COM 12 Contents

COVER STORY 12 Oklahoma Restaurant Association by Tim Farley

Pictured on the cover (L-R): The Collective, Flower Child, Stella Modern Italian, Charleston’s and Sidecar Chisolm Creek .

ART 20 OVAC Hosts 12x12 Virtual Fundraiser: Oklahoma Art Strives Despite Pandemic

HEALTH 24 24 Chickasaw Nation opens COVID-19 testing centers

HISTORY 70 SPRAWL:Oklahoma City is big. Real big.… by George Lang

COMMUNITY 26 Renovation, expansion work begins on Belle Isle Library 28 Inasmuch Foundation commits $2.5 million to Crystal Bridge Conservatory 78 Girl Scouts open new Camp Trivera

78 PEOPLE 38 Abby Broyles Q&A by Linda Miller

48 All Dreams Matter by Pat Carr

66 Next GenLearns Virtual Conference 84 Girls create fancy mask lanyards 86 Next Gen under30 2020 Winners announced

8 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 30

ENTERTAINMENT 62 OCCC Visual & Performing Arts Center announces Virtual Concert Series

BUSINESS 44 Kitt Lecher by Garland McWatters

30 FLIX Brewhouse 62 First Liberty to Host Community Shred Events October 16th 58 FASHION 40 Taking a peek at fall fashion by Linda Miller

DESIGN 58 Kitchen Context by Jo Meacham

SPORTS 52 University 2020 Football Schedules

84 IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Publisher’s Note

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 9 PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Dear Subscribers,

Welcome to ion Oklahoma Magazine. 2020 is the beginning of our 10th year anniversary in the publishing business of an online digital lifestyle magazine and news-entertainment website www.ionok.com . ion Oklahoma Magazine has grown to over more than 46,400 subscribers located primarily in four counties and 79 zip codes of central Oklahoma. Our six printed editions published annually can be downloaded FREE from our website or printed copies can be ordered on demand and mailed to your home or office. It is and has been our mission as storytellers to share the stories about people and the tremendous progress Oklahoma is making as a state. Today the State of Oklahoma has been experiencing a certain noticeable growth among young people in the 20 – 30 age range. The cost of living is one of the most affordable states in the nation. The unemployment rate in Oklahoma is one of the lowest in the nation. The job opportunities for young tech entrepreneurs are plentiful. In 2020, the NextGen Under 30 Award Recognition Program celebrated its ninth year and a record response of 384 honorees from 241 different Oklahoma companies and organizations. The inaugural NextGen Learns Virtual Live one day Leadership Conference event was created in 2020 and scheduled on August 7, 2020 at the Oklahoma History Center Chesapeake Energy media center and was attended by over 481 people online. The one day Leadership conference included the State Chamber of Commerce and people from their 151 member affiliate chambers statewide, Leadership Oklahoma Leadership Oklahoma City, and Leadership Tulsa. The Leadership Conference theme was “Our time is Now to be: Leaders, Ethical, Accountable, oklahoma and Daring .“ Guest speakers included Mick Cornett, Bob Blackburn, Krtisten Chenoweth, Kitt Letcher, Brigadier General Brent W. Wright, Francie Ekwerekwu, Mike knop, Jill Castilla, and Elizabeth Frame Ellison. Please visit www.nextgenlearns.com and click on View Videos to watch the highlight video from the conference. At ion Oklahoma Magazine we plan to publish many of the quality lifestyle stories from Oklahomans who are best representing the “Oklahoma Spirit.” We want to hear from you, our readers, and your stories, so please email your ideas, thoughts and success stories. Sincerely, “Like” us on facebook facebook.com/pages/IonOklahoma-Online Donald B. Swift, Publisher, www.ionok.com Follow us on twitter @IonOklahoma

10 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

COVER STORY

BY TIM FARLEY

klahoma eateries have suffered developed a campaign known as “Eat Drink LOKal” to huge losses since the COVID-19 encourage the general public to use local eateries. pandemic hit six months ago, but Stitt encourages the public to dine inside, outside, or enjoy O carry-out to support restaurants during this time. The the leader of the statewide restaurant association is encouraging hospitality landscape has changed dramatically, and residents to support these businesses and restaurants continue to operate safely by providing their promotions. distanced dining and COVID-19-approved sanitation Jim Hopper, president of the Oklahoma Restaurant practices. Association (ORA), is hoping people will continue to eat at “In partnership with the Oklahoma State Department of their favorite restaurants, whether it’s dine-in, carryout or Health and local Health Departments, restaurants will delivery. In addition, Gov. Kevin Stitt has declared Oct. 1-3 continue to utilize proper enhanced sanitation and training as official “Oklahoma Restaurant Days” to support and of their staff, as they have for many years,” said Hopper. celebrate statewide restaurants. Also, the ORA has But Hooper knows the struggle to regain revenue for

12 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Mama Rojas

“Ask people where they went and you might hear they went to church, the store, picked up their child from daycare and then went to a restaurant,” he said. “It’s a false narrative for someone to say ‘I caught COVID at the restaurant. The employees are not allowed to work in the restaurants when they’re sick.” But if people remain hesitant to dine-in, most restaurants are working to promote their delivery and carry-out options. restaurants will be an uphill battle. “In two short words, it’s tough,” he said. “The restaurant industry in Oklahoma, from mid-March through end of April, lost $500 million. About 65,000 workers were laid off or furloughed. When people are afraid to go out and eat, workers get laid off. People believe restaurants are a dangerous place to go eat, but that’s not accurate.” Restaurants, Hopper said, are some of the cleanest establishments due to health department requirements and the owners who demand extra cleaning precautions because of the virus. Restaurant owners also adhere to the recommendations from the Center for Disease Control which focuses on hand washing, masks and social distancing.

Bellini’s

“It’s a bigger part of their restaurant sales,” Hopper said. “I anticipate some of that change (from dine-in to carryout) might be permanent. It’s a fundamental change for some restaurants.” Hopper said restaurant owners have been forced to adapt their menu to accommodate carry-out and delivery services. “They’ve had to ask themselves, ‘what parts of my menu

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 13 travel well and would be appropriate for these customers?’ Deep Deuce Some of them (restaurant owners) have done well with this. Others are still trying to figure it out. These operators who have dug in and said ‘I want to survive’ have pivoted and done well.” In some instances, owners are developing or expanding outdoor eating spaces as a way to attract former and new customers.

1492

other side of this (virus). It’s having a ripple effect on everyone. I’ve never seen anything like this, not to this magnitude,” Hopper said. For now, the figures are staggering. According to the National Restaurant Association and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dining at restaurants is well below the national levels because sales have dropped 34% since Long-term plans August. Since March, restaurants nationwide have lost $165 Hopper and the ORA lobbyists are pushing federal billion in revenue are on track to lose $249 billion this year. government officials for another round of stimulus money In Oklahoma, 40 percent of the restaurant operators that would aid the restaurant industry. contend business conditions have become worse since July, “Six months into the pandemic and we got eight weeks of help,” he said. “There needs to be more.” Hideaway Pizza However, Hopper understands a lot of money and political clout is tied to the presidential election. “We realize what’s going on in Washington and around the rest of the country, but we need help now.” As restaurants go, so do the communities that rely on sales tax revenue from restaurants and other retail outlets. According to the Brookings Institute, sales taxes will likely decline $49 million nationwide this year, $45 billion in 2021 and $46 billion in 2022, due to lower price levels and changes in demand. “We won’t know the full effect of this until we get on the

14 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 while 30 percent of state restaurant owners say it is unlikely their restaurant will be in business six months from now with the present state of the economy. “We need to secure bipartisan support to get additional

Louie’s Lake Hefner

relief over the line,” Hopper wrote to ORA members. “Pushing to get another round of PPP is where a majority of our efforts should be spent. We have already seen, four times, bipartisan support for another round of PPP. We know Flip’s the political divisions in Congress now makes this a difficult effort.” One of the bills being followed by the ORA is the HEROES measure introduced by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The bill has a $2.2 trillion cost and creates a second round of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Restaurants must

demonstrate 25% gross receipts loss in the first, second or third quarter of 2020 year-on-year. In addition, a separate measure known as the Blumenauer RESTAURANTS Act would create a new $120 billion Treasury Department grant program and would aid restaurants with lost revenue between 2019 and 2020. Any restaurant operating at more than 20 locations would be ineligible. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 15 Oklahoma City Metro Area Restaurants with patio dining

Classen Curve / Western / Nichols Hills District Republic The Hutch En Croute Chae Flips Will Rogers Lobby Bar Sushi Neko Musashi’s Upper Crust Republic Gastropub Café 501 Hideaway Pizza

Waffle Champion

Tucker’s

Torchy’s RedRock

16 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 The Pump En Croute

Uptown 23rd St / Asian District Clark Crew BBQ Cheevers’s Café The Pump Tucker’s Big Truck Tacos La Brasa Pizzeria Gusto Picasso Grill Frida Southwest Scratch Red Rooster Á

The Hutch Sushi Neko

Flip’s

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 17 O Bar Hefner Grill

FRIDA Southwest The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen

Bedlam BBQ Ranch Steakhouse

18 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Pearl’s The Jones Assembly

Chisholm Creek Ludivine Sidecar McNellie’s Waffle Champion Hatch Packards Kong’s Cantina Chalk O Bar The Collective Food Hall Fuzzy’s Café Cuvee Hacienda Tacos Chicken Foot The Garage Stella Modern Italian Cuisine Paseo District Midtown Barrios Fine Mexican Dishes Sauced on Paseo Fassler Hall Café Do Brazil Paseo Grill n Louie’s 1492

Social Capital Picasso Café OSO Paseo

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 19 ART OVAC Hosts 12x12 Virtual Fundraiser Oklahoma Art Strives Despite Pandemic

ach year, the Oklahoma Visual Arts says OVAC’s Executive Director, Krystle Brewer. “The funds go Coalition (OVAC) hosts the 12x12 to support our critical grants and awards for artists as well Virtual Fundraiser, which features as support our other statewide programs. Our Grants for E Artists program is essential for Oklahoma artists to elevate diverse art by 175 Oklahoma artists across the state. Participating their practice, receive new educational opportunities, and artists create a unique piece that is take that next step forward in their careers.” twelve-by-twelve inches, and the artwork Art enthusiasts should be ready to browse, bid, and buy will be auctioned Friday, September 25th, artwork through the online auction that will connect art 6pm-10pm . supporters throughout the entire state. This year a third of This year, the auction is going virtual and the statewide the participating artists are from outside of metro areas; pool of artists is more comprehensive than ever. showing the outstanding variety and breadth of work “Our new digital platform will actually help us put more created by the artists across Oklahoma. focus on the most important part of the event—the artists,” In addition to the artwork, a livestream video in Á

Michelle Himes-McCrory (Stillwater), Home is Where the Art Is, Desmond Mason (Oklahoma City), Connect the Dots, mixed media watercolor, ink, and acrylic. on wood panel.

20 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Romy Owens (Enid), Griffin, thread on photograph.

Ginna Dowling (Norman), Daydreamer, digital altered photo Jason Wilson (McAlester), Close-Up collage.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 21 partnership with The House Helps will bring plenty of virtual surprises. There is no fee to watch the livestream, but OVAC is accepting donations to offset the loss of revenue from ticket sales. Visit www.12x12okc.org to give online and register to bid. This year, visual artist and former Oklahoma City Thunder basketball player, Desmond Mason, and his wife Rebecca Mason will be serving as Honorary Co-chairs for the 12x12 Virtual Fundraiser . “We love being a part of 12x12 especially the exhibition. It allows us to experience the creative talent that our great state has to offer the world of art.” Desmond Mason said. This event is sponsored in part by Allied Arts, the Oklahoma Arts Council, Kirkpatrick Family Foundation, George Kaiser Family Foundation, and Above, Chase Kahwinhut Earles (Ada), Keewat Bit: Caddo Home II, clay. Below, Irmgard Geul (Pauls Valley), Only If You Wonder About Tomorrow, the Andy Warhol Foundation for Visual Arts. If you embroidery painting. require special accommodations to participate in Below right, Trent Lawson (Oklahoma City), The New Norm, acrylic on the 12x12 Virtual Fundraiser , call Audrey brown velvet. Kominski at (405) 879-2400, ex 2. The Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition grows and develops Oklahoma’s visual arts community through education, promotion, connection, and funding. n

22 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

HEALTH

Chickasaw Nation opens COVID-19 testing centers

FROM THE CHICKASAW NATION MEDIA RELATIONS OFFICE

he Chickasaw Nation Department of Health has established COVID- T 19 temporary testing centers in the parking lots of the Chickasaw Nation Health Clinics in Ardmore, Tishomingo and Purcell, and the Chickasaw Nation Medical Center on the Ada South Campus. To make the testing process more efficient and quicker for all, preregistration is recommended. By using a smartphone Testing centers are stocked with necessary medical or computer, preregistration can be completed online prior to equipment to assess patients for potential infection of the visit. Preregistration information is located at COVID-19, without the need for them to exit their vehicles. CovidTesting.Chickasaw.net . Once completed, patients will “We are here to not only serve the Chickasaw people, but receive registration confirmation through email or text the public at large as needed,” said Chickasaw Nation Chief message. Medical Officer Dr. John Krueger. “We want to keep our

24 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 community healthy and do our part to fight this pandemic with a warrior mentality.” If someone feels they are having signs and symptoms of the virus, the Chickasaw Nation has established a COVID-19 Call Center to help assess patients over the phone. The COVID-19 Call Center can be reached by calling (580) 272- Criteria for COVID-19 testing: 1315. • Must be at least 18 years old or accompanied by an It may take up to 12 days for patients to receive the adult COVID-19 test results. Results are made available to • Must have valid photo ID patients through a confidential, online portal. If the COVID- • Must be able to drive safely through the test site 19 test is positive, a medical provider will contact the • No walk-ups or bicycles patient directly to discuss the result and answer questions. • No pets in vehicle For more information regarding test results, contact the • Exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close Chickasaw Nation Department of Health COVID Test Result contact with a positive COVID-19 case Center Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at • If applicable, provide health insurance card and/or CDIB (580) 272-1319. or tribal affiliation verification Drive-through test centers are open Monday through • Provider orders or referral strongly preferred but not Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. required n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 25 COMMUNITY

Renovation, expansion work begins on Belle Isle Library

ork is beginning on the renova- “I’m excited about this renovation and expansion,” tion and expansion of the said Metropolitan Library System Executive Director Julie Belle Isle Library in northwest Ballou. “The Belle Isle Library is one of our busiest libraries, W and a remodel has been needed for years. Adding a much Oklahoma City, the first major remodeling for the distinctive mid-century larger meeting room, children and teen spaces will be modern building since it opened in 1963. especially popular with the community.” The library, 5501 N Villa Ave., will be about 10,000 square The library will operate from a temporary facility at 3621 feet bigger when the renovation and expansion is finished. It Northwest Expressway from mid-August until the project’s will have more modern amenities while retaining the original scheduled completion in early 2022. Visit metrolibary.org elements of its unique design. for hours and other details, including the latest coronavirus- related service updates.

26 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 ADG architectural renderings of the Belle Isle Library project

About the renovation The expansion and renovation will launch the 1960s style library into the future. A modern structure will wrap around the original mid-century modern exterior, preserving the iconic look. Wynn Construction, the same contractor that originally built the library nearly 60 years ago, earned the contract for the renovation and expansion. Belle Isle Library history “Wynn Construction is honored to be continuing the legacy Nicknamed by some the “Millennium Falcon” or “Starship of Belle Isle Library,” said company President Rick Thompson. Enterprise” for its resemblance to famous spaceships from “We love working with the City and being a part of our science fiction, work started on the Belle Isle Library in thriving community growth. We hope the community will December 1962. It opened in September 1963 as Oklahoma enjoy this library for the next 57 years as much as they have City rapidly expanded around it. the past 57 years.” It shares its name with the former dairy farm and An additional 10,000 square feet of space in the expanded amusement park developed by Anton Classen once located library will make room for a much larger meeting area, study nearby. There were four other libraries in the system at the rooms, children’s programming space, a dedicated area for time. Voters approved the funds for its construction in 1961. teenagers and a studio “makerspace.” Architect Jack Mills faced challenges designing it to work The new library will also have new furniture, new with a steep slope and deep ravine on the irregular 2.5-acre computers and more parking. site. The circular form reduced the amount of necessary Bright colors, floor-to-ceiling windows in some spaces and earthwork and made it possible to build a small park nearby. modern materials will make use of natural light freshen the The rounded exterior, pleated roof and thick ceilings of the library’s look and feel. original design help deflect noise from the Northwest The $5.5 million project is funded by the bond Expressway. n package included in the Better Streets, Safer City program.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 27 COMMUNITY

Inasmuch Foundation commits $2.5 million to Crystal Bridge Conservatory

nasmuch Foundation has committed and completed in 2018, made possible by a major gift from $2.5 million to the second phase of a Devon Energy. Phase one also included renovation of lower- capital campaign to renovate the level classroom space for use by John Rex Middle School and I a new horticulture classroom, funded by Inasmuch Crystal Bridge Conservatory at Myriad Botanical Gardens. Foundation. This phase features a complete renovation of the interior Since its opening in 1988, the Crystal Bridge Conservatory conservatory spaces to enhance visitor engagement with a has remained largely unchanged. As the centerpiece of the more diverse plant collection, interactive educational Gardens, it is home to thousands of tropical and desert exhibits, improved ADA accessibility, and a museum-quality plants within 13,000 square feet, divided into two distinct gift shop. climates: wet and dry. To see the history timeline visit here. The Visitor Center lobby of the Crystal Bridge was The forthcoming renovation will update aging infra- renovated as part of the first phase of the capital campaign structure, allow for a more diverse plant collection with both

28 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 permanent and rotating exhibits, as well as new and The Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory C enhanced water elements, circulation paths and opened to the public in 1988. R sitting areas. A terrace feature will overlook the Dimensions Y conservatory and add much-needed educational • 13,000 square feet S

programming and venue space. Improved accessibility, • 224 feet long T including an elevator, will enable people of all ages • 70 feet wide A and physical abilities to fully enjoy the space. • 3,028 double layer translucent panels L “The Crystal Bridge at Myriad Botanical Gardens is Two Climate Zones B such a recognizable structure in downtown Oklahoma

• Tropical Wet Zone R City,” said Bob Ross, chairman and CEO of Inasmuch

• Tropical Dry Zone I

Foundation. “Staff at the Gardens continually strive to D Total Number of Plants create wonderful spaces and learning opportunities for • More than 1,000 G Oklahoma City. When I learned of plans for

Number of Plant Varieties E reimagining the tropical plant conservatory to create a

• 650

superb visitor experience, I knew Inasmuch Foundation F Annual Number of Visitors would want to support this initiative. The second A • 70,000 to 90,000 phase of the Crystal Bridge renovation capitalizes on C Funders to Date the momentum of current downtown development.” • Inasmuch Foundation T

Maureen Heffernan, CEO of Myriad Gardens • *City of Oklahoma City S Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation, said she • Gaylord Foundation appreciates the visionary leadership demonstrated by • Kirkpatrick Family Fund the Inasmuch Foundation and its major giving • The Meinders Foundation support. “This gift enables Myriad Botanical Gardens to *Myriad Gardens Foundation is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that manages all operations of the Gardens. The significantly improve our Conservatory experience so it Foundation also raises funds for operational and capital project is as transformational as the outdoor renovation was support for Myriad Botanical Gardens under a private/public that was completed in 2011. An updated and more partnership with the City of Oklahoma City. engaging Conservatory will help attract visitors from Design Team all of the major downtown development near the • Murase and Associates – Landscape Architects Gardens including Scissortail Park and the Convention • ADG – Architects Center and Omni Hotel. This investment will further • Charles Sparks + Company – Retail Designer and Planner strengthen the Gardens’ standing as one of the • Gecko Group – Education, Exhibit and Interpretative premier cultural attractions in Oklahoma City.” Consultants Adds Jim Tolbert, Chair Emeritus of Myriad Gardens • Lingo Construction – Construction Manager Foundation, “The interior of the Crystal Bridge has not Timeline been renewed since its opening. This visionary gift • The Crystal Bridge Conservatory will close for renovation in from Inasmuch Foundation will allow a vast spring 2021 enhancement of both its educational and visitor • A grand re-opening will take place in spring/summer 2022 experience.” n BUSINESS

Innovative FLIX Brewhouse opens in Oklahoma City

lix Brewhouse (Flix), the world’s only first-run movie theater, eatery and F microbrewery, opened its first location in Oklahoma City earlier this month. Flix premiered Christopher Nolan’s newest blockbuster, “Tenet,” while offering several promotions to guests throughout the month of September, including $1 popcorn, $1 sodas and $3 Flix beers. “After postponing our opening date due to the COVID-19 outbreak, our excitement has only continued to build,” Flix General Manager Nick Toros said. “We look forward to opening our doors and bringing a new experience to the Oklahoma City metro. Flix auditoriums feature state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, comfortable stadium seating, parabolic screens, server call systems that allow guests to order silently and reserved seating to limit lines. The food menu is complete with big flavors such as hand-tossed pizzas, tasty burgers and irresistible wings in addition to other tempting and made-fresh fare — baked, grilled and crafted in- house. The in-theater table service seating will hold approximately 950 guests, and the lobby/bar includes additional seating for 75 to 100 guests, although capacity will be restricted to enforce appropriate social distancing. “We’re changing the game for movie theaters and moviegoers across the country,” Toros continued. “No longer are guests coming to just sit down and watch a movie — they’re coming to encounter an

30 ion Oklahoma MARCH/APRIL 2020 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 31 Above, the FLIX Brewhouse lobby. Below, the brewing tanks.

32 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 elevated experience that will keep them returning for more.” This enhanced theater is not only serving biggest blockbuster movies and delicious food but also its own Flix craft beers and more than 11 taps of the best regional and local craft beer favorites including Angry Scotsman, Anthem, Coop Ale Works, Elk Valley, Iron Monk, Lively, Prairie Artisan, Roughtail, Skydance, Stonecloud and Vanessa House. “We are eager to offer various beer-forward events including beer dinners and specialty pairing events in addition to our monthly FanFest celebrations,” Toros said. The original Flix Brewhouse location was launched in July 2011 in Round Rock, Texas, a suburb city of Austin. The concept was designed from the inside out to deliver on consumer demand for experiential entertainment, redefining moviegoing by pairing a premium viewing and dining experience with one-of-a-kind brewed-on-premises craft beer offerings. Since then, Flix has quickly become known as America’s Cinema Brewery, opening nine additional locations with Oklahoma being the tenth. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, Flix has also invested in an indoor air quality system to improve staff and guests’ experience. Specifically, this system is built with Plasma Air bipolar ionization technology, which proactively treats the air in an occupied space. Upon entry, masks will be required by guests Á

Right, there are a lot of choices on the menu, including Loaded Fries, a Bacon Bleu Burger, fried pickles and pizza; not to mention the craft beer. Below, the brewer hydrometer

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 33 Above, patrons can enjoy a Dine-In-Lobby Below, a view of the theater seating

34 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 but can be taken off while seated if eating or inside the theater or at a table in the Pub. Guests that are not consuming food or drinks should wear their masks when in their auditoriums. “We want to ensure we’re creating a safe environment for our guests and our soon-to-be staff,” Toros continued. “We look forward to opening our doors and welcoming the Oklahoma City community to its new favorite movie theater.” Flix is currently accepting job applications for several positions, including, but not limited to, servers, brewers, cooks, box office attendees and managerial positions. Interested applicants are welcome to apply online at https://www.flixbrewhouse.com/employment or walk into Flix Brewhouse located at 8590 Broadway Extension, Clockwise from the top: A burger meal in the theater; making selections at the kiosks; an Oklahoma City, OK 73114 and interview on the spot. n order pad available in theater.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 35 Views of the theaters at FLIX Brewhouse

36 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

PEOPLE Meet Abby Broyles … she’s in the race

BY LINDA MILLER

bby Broyles has never lacked A determination. She graduated from Bethany High School, earned a college degree in 2 ½ years and then jumpstarted her career as a journalist at age 20. As an award-winning investigative journalist spending most of her career at KFOR in Oklahoma City, she exposed political corruption and a sexual harassment scandal at the State Capitol. Abby Broyles Her voice became a voice for Oklahomans. Always wanting to do more and work harder for those in the state, she put journalist and more recently a lawyer that herself through law school while working as a journalist. influenced your decision to run for the United Now she’s the Democratic challenger against incumbent States Senate? U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe. I DECIDED TO RUN for the U.S. Senate the day I reported on Sen. Inhofe’s visit to Tinker Air Force Base. He visited What first triggered your interest in politics? after receiving calls for months from families whose AS A KID , I spent a lot of my time in two places: Sunday homes were filled with mold and asbestos. I watched as school and my family home watching the news with my he told them if military housing had been that nice when family. In Sunday school, we were taught that being a he was there, he might have stayed longer. That’s when I good Christian means loving your asked myself, “How much longer can we put up with neighbors. Every night after dinner, our family would this?” and got off the sidelines into the race. gather around the TV and watch the evening news. When Growing up, my mom taught journalism at Southern my family talked about what was going on in politics, we Nazarene University, and she taught me that a journalist’s didn’t talk about Democrats or Republicans. We talked job was to provide the public with unbiased information. about service: what our leaders were doing to help Each of us makes tough decisions at the ballot box. To Oklahomans and, as citizens, what we could do to serve make informed decisions, we needed folks dedicated to our neighbors. reporting the truth. I went to law school while working full time as a reporter because I wanted to be a stronger voice Was there anything about your experience as a for Oklahoma in both the courtroom and newsroom.

38 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 If elected, how do you think those careers will Have other politicians shared with you what to benefit you? expect in Washington? I’VE SPENT MY CAREER reporting the truth and studying SEN. ELIZABETH WARREN CALLED ME the day after the the law — not answering to any political party. This has primary, and she’s very supportive. I’ve been influenced by prepared me to be an independent voice for all her work ethic and her ability to relate to anyone. I plan to Oklahomans in the Senate. Earlier this summer, Sen. take my Oklahoma values to Washington like she did. Inhofe was asked if he was open to working across the aisle on the next stimulus package — and he refused. Have this year’s recent events – protests, Earlier this week, he said that Democrats want COVID-19 demands to defund police departments, surge to get worse. I’ve been listening to Oklahomans my entire in gun violence, COVID-19 – made you career — and I’ve not met a single one – Democrat or reexamine your decision to enter politics? Republican – who is cheering on this pandemic. While NO, NOT AT ALL . All of these confirm what I thought the he’s wasting time playing the blame game, Oklahomans day I decided to run: we need new leadership who and their loved ones are dying. understands the issues we are facing today and will make Never having held political office, what do you hope to decisions for this generation and generations to come. offer that’s different from the status quo? If the last few months have taught us anything, it’s that If you do go to Washington, what will you miss we can’t afford to have leaders who aren’t up for the job. most in Oklahoma? Sen. Inhofe has been in politics for over half a century, WELL, I PLAN TO BE BACK IN OKLAHOMA regularly and his decades in D.C. have left him out-of-touch with listening to what’s going on here at home because the Oklahoma values. I’ve not spent my career trying to climb last thing we need is another D.C. politician. I will miss up the political ladder. I’ve spent it listening to folks and being able to join my mom and dad for last-minute giving them a voice. dinners and the friendly people in Oklahoma who always make me feel at home. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 39 FASHION Taking a peek at fall fashion

BY LINDA MILLER

Rose through one-on-one appointments and trunk shows. LBleintk’ sa nldo oit’kll abeh teimade tto ore afcahll fofar lsohngion. She also coaches stylists and is part of the product develop- sleeve dresses, leather skirts and autumnal ment group. colors and prints. Who better to give us a sneak peek at fall fashion and Lela Cindi Shelby, a fashion icon in Oklahoma City, now Rose? represents and sells the Lela Rose Collection and Pearl Lela “With our current situation, fashion is offering a myriad of

Two floral dresses from Lela Rose.

40 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Some of the fall fashion offerings from Lela Rose, available from Cindi Shelby, [email protected]

stunning colors to brighten our days,” Shelby said. “Some prominent colors are riffs on Pantone’s 2020 color of the year, Classic Blue, with shades from sky blue to cerulean. Also, jewel tones emerald and deep ruby are making a statement.” No worries, though, if you’re more into the neutral tones and mixing all shades of camel, sand and buff for a monochromatic look that’s forever sophisticated and always chic, she said. Expect to see a nod to 1970s with maxi dresses and coats, bell bottoms, ponchos and slouchy boots. Dark florals look fresh again, she said, along with anything embroidered from sweatshirts Emerald green dress from Lela Rose. to coats.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 41 Brocade metallic gown from Lela Rose.

“Also, there’s a revisit to full-on equestrian looks and anything leather, real or faux,” Shelby said. Designers are offering gorgeous fabrics that feel incredible to the skin such as sumptuous silk brocades, luxe leathers and softest cashmeres, too. Cozy separates make perfect sense for at home, small gatherings or Zoom meetings. And remember, she said, “Fashion is not cancelled.” n

42 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

BUSINESS

Better ethics, better business Kitt Letcher, presiden t/ CEO Better Business Bureau of Central Oklahoma

BY GARLAND C MCWATTERS

itt Letcher, president and chief executive officer of the Better K Business Bureau of Central, says her purpose is to bring her truest self to work every day in hopes she will model the value of transparency, which is one of the eight standards of trust upon which the BBB operates. A cornerstone of her beliefs is that better business ethics create a better business and more loyal customers. Kitt explains the BBB works with businesses to help them Kitt Letcher improve their overall business practices. They make sure their member businesses have the proper business licenses, Giving important feedback structure and insurance to operate effectively and Letcher says one way they help local business owners is to appropriately according to a set of standards. make them aware when their staff might not be operating Kitt laughingly says that it’s not their job to beat up on according to the practices the owner expects. The reason is businesses or threaten them. Instead, they focus on helping the owner might be several levels away from the front line business become better by elevating their practices and operations. helping them find the resources they need to improve their “When complaints come in, it can really be eye-opening service and business methods. for them that this is happening.” The BBB staff approach Operating ethically is an underlying value. owners or senior managers about a pattern they see and try “Doing the right thing versus doing the legal thing can be to be a problem solving resource for the owner. two very different perspectives. We really try to model the Kitt emphasized how important it is to have clear right way,” Letcher said. principles for the way staff conduct themselves internally, the BBB included.

44 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Kitt Letcher with the Oklahoman in studio.

One everyday function of the BBB is listening to customers help a business become better. Instead of removing the and helping them resolve any issues they have with a local complaint, the BBB’s policy is to explain how those business. But they also help businesses take those issues complaints were resolved. and learn how they can improve their service and products. “(Customers) get to see how you deal with complaints,” We buy solutions to Kitt says. problems and good feelings The BBB opens up lines of communication so customers Customers return to those businesses that make them feel and businesses can get to a resolution. The process like they’re going above and beyond. happens behind the scenes with professional dispute “They make your experience one where you feel validated resolution staff and doesn’t play out on the internet or social and that you are appreciated and trusted, and that you are a media. customer, or a business, or vendor, they want to work with. The BBB does not take down complaints, even after they They value you as much as you value them,” she said. are resolved. Letcher explains that even complaints can A deep sense of ethics and trust make a difference. Even

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 45 Kitt holding three B balloons Kitt Letcher speaking at OVF

if a business is following all the laws, a customer still might was. I’ve been very fortunate in finding my passion, and for not feel like it’s someone they want to do business with. It me that’s being able to make my community a better place.” can be something as simple as the way they talk to people on the phone or having a clear return policy. BBB of Central Oklahoma: 8 Standards of Trust If a business is to make exceptional responsiveness 1. Build trust possible, employees must know they are empowered to make 2. Advertise honestly decisions on their own that help solve the customer’s 3. Tell the truth at all times problems. 4. Be transparent “If you have created a workplace where people are so 5. Honor your promises micromanaged and can’t do that level of decision making on 6. Be responsive their own, you’ve always got a problem,” Kitt warned. 7. Safeguard privacy Letcher has been with the BBB of Central Oklahoma since 8. Embody integrity 2013. During that time the staff has grown from three to 21. You can hear the complete interview with Garland She also answers to a local board of directors who help set McWatters on the Spirit of Leading podcast at the direction for the services and practices of the bureau. https://www.inpoweredtolead.com/073-better-ethics- Kitt says that as she grew up she never had a plan of better-business-kitt-letcher-better-business-bureau-of- what she wanted to be. central-oklaoma/ n “I just knew that I wanted to make a difference wherever I

46 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

PEOPLE ALL DREAMS MATTER

BY PAT CARR

e rise by lifting others, so let us celebrate and W cherish everyday life and those around us. Either everyone is important or no one is. Your life and your dreams matter, in fact, ALL DREAMS MATTER.

TODAY I HONOR retired General Rita Aragon – a woman with an absolute sense of mission. Thank you for the many years of service to our country.

TODAY I HONOR world changer Dr. Terry Neese , an example of integrity and leadership. She received the highest honor Northwood University Board of Trustees vests to individuals, an Honorary Doctorate Degree for her years of successful business ownership & her empowerment program for individuals through education & mentoring. BRAVO Dr. Neese!

TODAY I HONOR Saundra Naifeh . If Einstein looked for an equation of explosive human energy, he would find it in her DNA! and, she is highly entertaining, successful and fun. Woohoo! It’s fun to be you.

TODAY I HONOR a man of distinction, George Tomek Sr. , father of legendary news anchor George Tomek Jr. Did he know he was grooming a son who would become an award winning news anchor, Navy veteran and rub shoulders with the likes of Charlton Heston? I bet he did. I bet he passed on his best parental guidance, which molded a child into an uncommon man. I salute you both and thank you for your many contributions to our country.

48 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 TODAY I HONOR Marla Hil l, a woman I admire and respect who came out of pain and darkness and into the light. she spreads that light with passion and fierce love because “she remembered who she was and the game changed.”

Today I honor a woman that amazes me, Mary Blankenship Pointer . “We live in a universe that responds to what we believe.” She believed she could and so she did.” Mary is a magnet for miracles. Thank you for your tireless leadership at home and around the world!

Today I honor Brian Maughan , Oklahoma County Commissioner and consummate public servant. “He understands great things never come from comfort zones and doesn’t adapt to the energy around him. He changes the energy of a room with his integrity, warmth and influence.”

TODAY I HONOR Mo Anderson , self-made by grit and grace. an american icon and example of integrity. “because she always knew who she was, she changed the game for others.” bravo mo!

TODAY I HONOR Chad Brodrick , Ministries Director for Oklahoma District Council of the Assemblies of God churches. A man who knows what he brings to the table and is not afraid to eat alone. why? He knows not all storms come to disrupt your life, some come to clear your path.

TODAY I HONOR Patricia Wilson , my first teem mentee, and a light unto the world. All the forces of darkness could not dim her spirit. She emerged with fierce determination to change her life and the world around her. “She remembered who she was, and the game changed.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 49 TODAY , on his birthday, I celebrate the honorable Judge Stephen Haynes , a servant leader of integrity for over 40 years. “His parents worked too hard for him not to be great, and when he remembered who he was, the game changed.”

TODAY I HONOR Pastor Jim Mcnabb . Jim is a master of strategy in fulfilling his mandate to “take the gospel into all the earth” as well as meeting the needs of our community. He preached his first sermon at the age of ten! The bridge ag church in mustang is growing under his leadership and people’s lives are changed. I attend the third service at 10:45 and will save a seat for you! West of Czech Hall Rd on Hwy 152.

Today I honor Rebekah Williams , Supervisor/Advocate for long- term care residents and mighty prayer warrior. “She remembered who she was and the game changed.”

Salute! Today I honor Janet Elaine Smith , City manager of Blackwell, OK. a woman who is utterly fearless and focused on doing what is right regardless of personal peril! Woohoo! “She remembered who she was and the game changed.”

TODAY I HONOR Cathy Costello , a woman changing the world by her example of courage and perseverance in the face of heartbreaking tragedies. “She remembered who she was and the game changed.”

TODAY I HONOR Barbara Nelson , a wife, mother, grandmother and friend. An amazing lady of faith, prayer, determination and grace. “She remembered who she was and the game changed.”

50 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 TODAY I HONOR Sam Anderson , a woman of many skills to include graphic design, cartographer, author, and more. Sam is active in Toastmasters and supports numerous community projects. Sam is warm, personable and a role model for success. Bravo, Sam!

I AM PROUD to honor Reah Holland , a woman who never stopped being a good person because of bad people. she visualized her higher self and started showing up as her. she’s gonna forever say “I got this even with tears in her eyes.” I love you, Reah.

TODAY I HONOR Joyce Clark , CEO of “Achievis Senior Living”. A self- made success story, changing the world by her example of leadership, compassion, integrity and success!

TODAY I HONOR Garvin Isaacs , fellow student from Apache, OK. voted “most likely to...” (you name it, he did it...) artist, photographer, author, attorney, and more! Plus, he is still full force making a positive difference in our world. I salute you, Gybo!

TODAY I HONOR my friend Linda Haneborg , a successful dynamo who knows how to turn pain into power. She knows if plan “a” doesn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters. I salute you, Linda, you are an example of strength, integrity and leadership to many.

TODAY I HONOR Pastor Ken Isom , a remarkable man of faith leading mens’ prison ministry at the Bridge AG Church in Mustang for over quarter century. Thank you for your dedicated and compassionate service. We salute you!

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 51 2020 SOONERS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

DATE OPPONENT LOCATION

Oct 10, 2020 Texas Cotton Bowl

Oct 24, 2020 @ TCU Amon G. Carter Stadium

Oct 31, 2020 @ Texas Tech Jones AT&T Stadium

Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Nov 7, 2020 Kansas Memorial Stadium Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Nov 21, 2020 Oklahoma State Memorial Stadium Mountaineer Field at Nov 28, 2020 @ West Virginia Milan Puskar Stadium Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Dec 5, 2020 Baylor Memorial Stadium 2020 COWBOYS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

DATE OPPONENT LOCATION

Sat, Oct 3 Big 12 at Kansas Lawrence, KS

Sat, Oct 17 Big 12 at Baylor Waco, TX

Sat, Oct 24 Big 12 Iowa State Stillwater, OK Boone Pickens Stadium

Sat, Oct 31 Big 12 Texas Stillwater, OK Boone Pickens Stadium

Sat, Nov 7 Big 12 at Kansas State Manhattan, KS

Sat, Nov 21 Big 12 at Oklahoma Norman, OK

TSat, Nov 28 Big 12 Texas Tech Stillwater, OK Boone Pickens Stadium

Sat, Dec 5 Big 12 at TCU Fort Worth, TX

Sat, Dec 12 Big 12 Championship Game Arlington, TX TULSA GOLDEN HURRICANE 2020 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT LOCATION Boone Pickens Stadium, Sat, Sep. 19 Oklahoma State Cowboys Stillwater, OK Centennial Bank Stadium, Sat, Sep. 26 Postponed Arkansas State Jonesboro, AR Bounce House, Sat Oct. 3 at UCF Knights Orlando, FL H.A. Chapman Stadium, Sat, Oct. 17 Cincinnati Bearcats (HC) Tulsa, OK Raymond James Stadium, Friday, Oct. 23 at USF Bulls Tampa, FL H.A. Chapman Stadium, Friday, Oct. 30 East Carolina Pirates Tulsa, OK Navy-Marine Corps Mem. Sat, Nov. 7 at Navy Midshipmen Stadium, Annapolis, MD H.A. Chapman Stadium, Sat, Nov. 14 SMU Mustangs Tulsa, OK H.A. Chapman Stadium, Sat, Nov. 21 Tulane Green Wave Tulsa, OK TDECU Stadium, Sat, Nov. 28 at Houston Cougars Houston, TX

Sat, Dec. 5 American Championship Site and City TBD UCO BRONCHOS 2020 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE TIME OPPONENT LOCATION EDMOND Sept 12, 2020 (Sat) 7 p.m. Central Missouri Wantland Stadium

Sept 19, 2020 (Sat) 6 p.m. Missouri Western St. Joseph, Mo.

Sept 26, 2020 (Sat) 2 p.m. Missouri Southern Joplin, Mo.

EDMOND Oct 3, 2020 (Sat) 2 p.m. Emporia State EDWantland Stadium Oct 10, 2020 (Sat) 2 p.m. PLincoEln ND Jefferson City, Mo. SUS JAN. 1, 2021 ION THROUGH TS COMPETIT EDMOND Oct 17, 2020 (Sat) E2D p .FmA. L L SPNOorRthwest Missouri ING SEASON. IAA SUSPEND LIMITEWDa SntPlaRnd Stadium *THE M SSIBILITY OF A ORING THE PO Oct 24,A 2N02D0 I(Sa Et) XPL 2 p.m. Nebraska-Kearney Kearney, Neb.

EDMOND Oct 31, 2020 (Sat) 2 p.m. Fort Hays State Wantland Stadium

Nov 7, 2020 (Sat) 1 p.m. Washburn Topeka, Kan.

EDMOND Nov 14, 2020 (Sat) 2 p.m. Northeastern State Wantland Stadium DESIGN

KITCHEN CONTEXT

“Our kitchens are thoughtfully designed to embrace your home’s unique architecture, express your personality and enhance your lifestyle. ” — Jo Meacham

56 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Rebuilds should include homeowner’s personality, tastes

BY JO MEACHAM

ontext is the beginning of all design. Each Most homeowners want to know if the new house, neighborhood and city is unique with design can be relevant now and remain so distinctive architecture and culture. A kitchen until the house sells. Using context as a C beginning for the design is the only way the becomes a part of this uniqueness. While great ideas may come from collected photos from the internet, new kitchen or bath will stand the test of context starts as you drive down the street toward your home. The style of time. Homeowners and designer should be the architecture, the details and the materials, and the scale of the homes detectives and search for architectural are layers of context that surround your kitchen. The context of your project details, materials and colors that are in should be the driving force behind the design. If the kitchen “fits” like it was place. Using these clues, a great design built as part of the original home, your design is a success can reach the perfect conclusion. While the bones of the design should be true to the home, the homeowner should always use new projects to express “Always design a thing by themselves. Personality can be expressed in the colors considering it in its next selected, the furniture and materials included, and the items displayed. Magazine kitchens may look perfect, but larger context – a chair in a remember it is only a photo shoot! room, a room in a house, a Family photos, cherished bowls, and children’s drawings can all find a place in the kitchen. Artwork can offer a house in an environment, an punch of color that you could never select for cabinet colors environment in a city or countertops. Since the American family spends so much time in the kitchen, it should definitely include favorite plan. ” items. — Eliel Saarinen Function is always a priority with kitchen designers. Has your family increased in size or are your empty nesters? Do designed just for your family? These and many other you need bar stools for your kids or your grandchildren? Do questions should be answered when you are beginning your you like to cook, or just love to drink your coffee in a space design.

58 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Great design can often be the result of limitations. The challenge of a great kitchen or bath design is to begin “Be faithful to your own with context, allow for expression and ensure that the new taste, because nothing you kitchen functions perfectly. Jo Meacham recently celebrated 20 years as the owner of really like is ever out of Urban Kitchens, a design/build company specializing in style. ” kitchens and baths. n — Billy Baldwin

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 59 BUSINESS First Liberty Bank to Host Community Shred Events October 16th

First Liberty Bank will be hosting a sensitive but out of date documents like old tax returns, Community Shred Event on Friday, bank and credit card statements, medical records, and other October 16th at 9601 N. May Avenue in documents with personal information is one way to help Oklahoma City. The free event will take protect your identity. place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in Our staff will be wearing masks and practicing social the bank’s parking lot. Absolute Data distancing, but you don’t even need to get out of your car! Shredding will be providing mobile Just pull up and pop your trunk – we’ll take care of the rest. shredding units to destroy all personal Please tell your friends - all are welcome! There is a limit and confidential documents. of 10 boxes per visit. Questions? Call us at 405-608-4500. Shredding your personal documents is one way to help Two locations are participating: protect yourself from identity theft, which is one of the 9601 N. May Avenue in Oklahoma City (405.608.4500) and fastest-growing forms of consumer fraud. Properly disposing 3500 24th Avenue NW in Norman (405.561.0300). n

60 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

MUSIC

OCCC VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER ANNOUNCES VIRTUAL CONCERT SERIES Intimate season to be streamed online and performed live in front of limited audience

September 29, October 13, October 27, November 10, November 24 and December 8

62 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 September 29, October 13, October 27, November 10, November 24 and December 8

OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE persons. To be a part of this VIP group, kicked off its Virtual Concert Series Sept. visit tickets.occc.edu. VIP tickets go on sale October 6, at 8 29 with renowned fiddler and Oklahoma a.m. (first-come, first-served). City University graduate Kyle Dillingham. To create an intimate concert environment for those who The series will have five more are comfortable, OCCC will sell hour-long intimate performances in-person tickets for up to 20 with a limited number of in- purchasers for each concert, person patrons. In addition, allowing patrons to safely people can purchase tickets to distance and have a unique stream the events live from their experience. There will be no limit homes. to streaming ticket sales, and a “COVID-19 has forced all raffle will offer streaming concert venues to search for new patrons a chance to win in- ways to engage with our person tickets. Specially- patrons,” said Lemuel designed posters and prints, as Bardeguez, Director of Cultural well as unique behind-the- Program for OCCC. “OKC has scenes and digital-only content built a reputation for exceptional visual and performing arts, will be available for patrons, too. and this new Virtual Concert Series helps OCCC and our “In a year of lost seasons, we have found ours,” said community stay connected with the arts, even while we have Bardeguez. “Let’s make it special.” to be apart.” Other shows will take place on October 27, November 10, The second Virtual Concert Series performer will be guitar November 24 and December 8. The performances are held at virtuoso Edgar Cruz, who graduated from Northwest Classen OCCC’s Visual and Performing Arts Center, a performance High School in Oklahoma City. Cruz has headlined at the hall that ordinarily houses more than 1,000 patrons for world- prestigious Chet Atkins Guitar Festival for more than 25 class concerts, plays, musicals and touring experiences. years, and has toured North America, Europe, and South Those attending in-person will be allowed to participate in America for more than 40 years. With an incredibly versatile a discussion and question/answer period with the artists. repertoire that spans classic, rock, pop and Latin hits, Cruz puts on a mesmerizing show that will bring the audience to New normal laughter, tears and dancing. Because of the COVID-19 virus, virtual concerts are This concert will be performed in front of a socially- becoming the new normal for much of the entertainment distanced, “live studio audience.” Seating is limited to 20 industry. Plus, it couldn’t come at a better time since

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 63 millions of people in this business have lost jobs, according supported across the board. It should be led locally by to a study conducted this year by the Brookings Institute. public-private partnerships of municipal governments, arts Based on Brookings’ analysis of creative occupations, and cultural organizations, economic development and researchers estimate losses of more than 2.3 million jobs community groups, philanthropy, and the private sector, with and $74 billion in average monthly earnings for the creative support from government and philanthropy at the state and occupations. These losses represent 30% of all creative federal levels as well as large corporations, they concluded. occupations and 15% of total average monthly wages. The report states federal recovery measures should Again, creative occupations in the fine and performing include more substantial support for arts, cultural, and arts—which include the visual arts, music, theater, and creative organizations, as they do for other impacted dance—will be disproportionally affected, representing industries. While larger organizations such as the Kennedy roughly a third of wage employment losses. Center, the Metropolitan Opera, Lincoln Center, and the The creative economy is one of the sectors most at risk Cleveland Orchestra have significant financial support, most from the COVID-19 crisis. Arts, culture, and creativity are of the creative economy is made up of much smaller one of three key sectors (along with science and technology nonprofits and business enterprises that have virtually no as well as business and management) that drive regional cushion at all. economies. Any lasting damage to the creative sector will Greater support for creative workers, many of whom are drastically undercut our culture, well-being, and quality of self-employed or freelancers, is also required. The initial life, the Brookings researchers found. round of federal COVID-19 relief funding did include money The study estimated Oklahoma lost more than 19,500 jobs for artists and creatives who are paid wages, but not for in the creative arts industry and sustained more than $600 those who earn income through royalties. It is time to million in losses because of COVID-19. The time period for consider direct stipends for artists, something that the the study was April-July of this year. Specifically, Oklahoma National Endowment for the Arts is not permitted to do. Any City lost an estimated 8,889 creative industry jobs with additional infrastructure funding should also include artists financial losses of $281 million. and creatives in ways similar to the New Deal-era Federal For the creative economy to survive, this nation, its states, Art Project of the 1930s and 1940s, the researchers wrote in and its cities need a large-scale recovery strategy, the their conclusion. n researchers wrote. This strategy must be bottom-up, but

64 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

PEOPLE

NEXT GEN LEARNS CONFERENCE

ore than 280 people attended During the NextGen Learns virtual conference, influence a one-day virtual leadership leaders shared their valuable expertise. Attendees made conference Aug. 7 that was connections with guest speakers and coaches to gain a M higher vision and insight into themselves. Participants also sponsored by NextGen Learns.com, and the Oklahoma State benefitted from their interaction opportunities with like- Chamber of Commerce. minded people in a variety of breakout sessions. The mission of NextGen Learns is to offer personal and The influence leaders and speakers discussed the career development program that enhance the quality of life importance of creativity and innovation in today’s market. In and contribute to the advancement of skills, talents and addition, critical thinking skills can allow people to potential for the ambitious next generation of young people objectively evaluation information from a variety of sources and future leaders. and determine its credibility and value. Speakers also Leadership skills will be in demand as encouraging touched on emotional intelligence, which is another skill collaboration and bringing out the best in people and teams that can be used in uncertain and challenging times. becomes critical for success. Event Information Our Time is Now, to be ... Leaders, Ethical, Accountable, Daring

Your benefits for attending this virtual live event • Get practical pointers you can use immediately. • Learn three leadership qualities that will set you apart. • Assess your own ethical awareness. • Use both your will and your will not powers to hold yourself accountable. • Find your “Dare zone.” • Connect with other success minded people in virtual breakout sessions • Engage in Q&A sessions with expert presenters

66 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Conference Co-hosts Welcome: Listen, Learn, Lead Robin Roberson, President and co-founder, Brigadier General Brent W. Wright, Assistant Goose and Gander Adjutant General, Oklahoma Air National Guard Robin’s single mission through her Brigadier General Brent Wright is the boutique consultancy is to enable principle advisor to The Adjutant the rapid growth and adoption of General for Oklahoma for all emerging technologies. She speaks Oklahoma Air National Guard from experience. In 2009 Robin matters. Brigadier General Wright founded WeGoLook.com to bolster additionally is responsible for the online consumers’ confidence in their combat readiness and operational purchasing decisions. She build a effectiveness for all Oklahoma Air global community of more than 45,000 independent National Guard units. contractors across the US, Canada, Australia and UK. Prior to his current assignment, General Wright was the Vice Robin’s e-commerce gives her a unique voice in tech Commander of the 138th Fighter Wing, Tulsa Air National and the gig economy. Roberson is a member of The Women Guard Base, Oklahoma. As the vice commander, he assisted President’s Organization and serves as a board member for the wing commander in the organization, training and a number of organizations. She served as the executive deployment of the second largest combat coded Air National director of the Oklahoma Employment Securities Commission Guard fighter wing, consisting of nearly 1200 Airmen. in Governor Stitt’s administration. He has deployed in support of numerous operations including Northern Watch, Joint Forge, Iraqi Freedom, and Garland McWatters, founder INPowered2 Enduring Freedom. LEAD, co founder NextGen Oklahoma Leaders Garland thinks of his life as a quiet Our Time is Now, to be LEADERS ruckus. His storytelling, writing, and Mick Cornett, former mayor of Oklahoma City teaching showcase his passion to He is still known in Oklahoma City as look deeper and to go beyond the “Mayor Mick.” Mick Cornett was the obvious and superficial to deal with first mayor of Oklahoma City to serve the underlying forces and dynamics 4 consecutive terms (2004-2018). of events and topics, while pushing Fortune Magazine named him as one the boundaries of the comfort zone. of the 50 greatest leaders in the Garland offers his work under his INPowered2 LEAD brand. world in 2018. Among other acco- He presents two regular podcasts: The Spirit of Leading, and lades, his list of awards includes INPowering Thoughts. nods for urban design, health, sports and the arts. Professionally, he has been a preacher, a politician, a PR Newsweek called him one of the five most innovative mayors specialist, a professor, a broadcaster, a corporate trainer, in the country (2012). London-based World Mayors listed and a writer/podcaster. him as the No. 2 mayor in the world (2014), and Governing Clients say he presents his INPowered Living themes with the magazine named him the Public Official of the Year. passion of an evangelist, the insight of a philosopher, and the He wrote a book based on his experience as a leader among practicality of a paramedic.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 67 Our Time is Now to be ACCOUNTABLE Francie Ekwerekwu, J.D., Pretrial Supervisor and attorney, The Employment and Education Minsitry (TEEM) Francie preaches accountability day in and day out. She has to in order to help her clients navigate through the criminal justice system and find any hope of redirecting their lives. She wears three very important hats in the quest for equal justice under the nation’s mayors called The Next American City. And he the law. She is the program director also was a central player in attracting the NBA Thunder to for the Oklahoma County Pretrial Jail Oklahoma City. release Initiative for TEEM, the Oklahoma County Now, Mick is in the private sector as executive counsel at Community Sentencing attorney for TEEM, and she is an Jones PR in Oklahoma City. assistant public defender for Oklahoma County. She also lives a life of advocacy for equal justice under Our time is Now to be ETHICAL the law and racial equality. She says she has learned from Kitt Letcher, Pres/Ceo Better Business Bureau of experience that nothing worth advocating for comes easy. Central Oklahoma Kitt is the president and CEO of Our Time is Now to be DARING Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Elizabeth Frame Ellison, Pres/CEO LobeckTaylor Central Oklahoma, which BBB is a Family Foundation source of unbiased information for Elizabeth has dedicated her profes- both businesses and consumers. The sional career to ensuring Tulsa has organization helps people find and an innovative, diverse landscape recommend businesses, brands and that encourages small business. charities they can trust. She is well known as one of the Kitt believes stressing solid, ethical business practices is at driving forces of Tulsa’s entrepre- the heart of helping businesses build a base of loyal neurial scene through her work at customers. Over the course of the last six years, BBB of the Lobeck Taylor Family Foundaton. Central Oklahoma has grown from 1800 to 3300 accredited Her personal passion for this area led to LTFF’s cornerstone businesses. support of the innovative efforts of 36°North, The Mine, Prior to her role at BBB, she served in a variety of different Tulsa Startup Series Powered by LTFF, Startup Weekend and roles for the United Way of Central Oklahoma. Additionally, more. Elizabeth also established Cultivate918, a group that she has served on several volunteer boards which, currently, creates a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for Tulsans, as include Oklahoma Venture Forum (OVF), Focus on Home and well as Kitchen 66, Tulsa’s first-ever kick-start kitchen for the 507th Air Refueling Wing Key Spouse. food entrepreneurs. Under her leadership, LTFF has committed over 11 million dollars to back critical issues ranging from entrepreneurship, to education, to health. In

68 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 2013, Ellison, along with Kathy Taylor, Amy Santee, Mimi Blackburn published several articles and his first book while Taransch and Janet Levit, founded the Lobeck Taylor Family still in graduate school and has since written or co-authored Advocacy clinic within the University of Tulsa College of Law more than 20 books and numerous articles, journal entries, to assist women seeking legal help with civil issues. Ellison and screen plays. He is a steady source of historical and Taylor also founded Women Count OK, a bi-partisan, information to the media and has appeared numerous times statewide program designed to inform women about on The History Channel. important issues, and encourage financial support and voter He was instrumental in planning and building the Oklahoma turnout among and between women. History Center, a 215,000-square-foot museum and research center. Blackburn has served on numerous national and Persevering through tough times regional boards and committees, including the (special presentation) Western History Association, the Oklahoma Dr. Bob Blackburn, Executive Association of Professional Historians, the AIA, and Director, Oklahoma Historical Society Leadership Oklahoma City. Dr. Blackburn has been called, “the face of Oklahoma history,” because of his devotion to telling the Oklahoma story in all its candor and wonder.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 69 HISTORY SPRAWL Oklahoma City is big. Real big. But it’s rarely for the best. Let’s dig into how OKC got this way, our unique challenges and what’s to be done with all that sprawl.

BY GEORGE LANG ILLUSTRATIONS BY CHRIS CROCKETT

henever he tries to explain the problems associated with W governing a 621 square-mile city and the people spread throughout it, Oklahoma City mayor David Holt goes for shock value. “In my two years as mayor, I have made a small hobby out of introducing people to some of these realities, thinking that the first thing is just confronting it,” Holt said. “In both of my State of the City addresses, I have listed six American cities that you could simultaneously fit inside of Oklahoma City.” Yes, it would be theoretically possible to squeeze the major American cities of Chicago, Miami, Boston, Washington, D.C., the Manhattan borough of New York City and Philadel- city operates, it is clear that this is not 10-gallon hat bragging phia into the city limits of Oklahoma City. about size. It is a problem, and like many mayors before All at once. him, Holt deals with the effects of Oklahoma City’s mid-20th “I’ve said that in a hundred speeches and the crowd century land grabs every day. always does the same thing. They gasp — I mean, audibly The most obvious visible problem associated with sprawl gasp,” he said. “No one’s ever told them that. That’s how comes from long traffic commutes, which will become longer ignorant we are about our own sprawl; we don’t know it is as development continues inside and outside the city’s that unique. We kind of knew we were big, but … we are an periphery. Holt, who commutes from a neighborhood in extreme outlier in sprawl.” northwest Oklahoma City to downtown on most days, said Holt likes to bring the shock with those statistics, and that such times are still manageable, but that is not likely when he talks to groups about the effect of sprawl on how a to last. Á

70 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Avenue, east to Lincoln Park, “I can’t tell you how many south to Commerce Street times I’ve heard this story and north to Classen Circle, from residents,” Holt said. “ where the Belle Isle Power ‘Well, I bought a house at Plant was built to keep the 150th and May, and then I network of streetcars drove to work for the first running. It also ran its time and realized how bad Interurban line that served the streets were, how long as far west as El Reno and a the commute was.’ north-south axis from Sometimes, people should Guthrie to Norman. probably do more research Oklahoma City was into what they’re getting seemingly in a constant themselves into, but the tone state of annexation, as were is set by the developers. many cities around the Developers gravitate to country. According to the U.S. where there are city services, Census Bureau, 51.2 percent and there are city services of Americans lived in cities anywhere we exist, and in 1920, the first time the because we chose back in the urban population exceeded 1950s to exist across 620 the rural population in the square miles, there’s a lot of country, and there were many territory for you to choose from.” reasons for the shift. The nation’s movement toward an industrial work force over an agrarian one was a major Give me land, lots of land factor, with large numbers of people moving to cities to work When Oklahoma City first incorporated 130 years ago, it in factories instead of farms. The rise of the automobile consisted of a two square mile grid, and the first impetus for industry accounted for much of it, as a diaspora of rural the city to start annexing came when developers began workers from the South moved to industrial Midwest buying the land around it. An immediate fiscal concern took metropolises like Detroit. hold in Oklahoma City’s civic offices and the Oklahoma City A few years later, demographers first saw evidence of what Chamber of Commerce: what happens if Oklahoma City is became known as “urban sprawl.” Radburn, New Jersey, a the place for people to do business but not the place they community 10 miles from New York City designed by its city call home? planners as a “town for the motor age,” was one of the first Anton Classen was one of the first major developers to areas to use cul-de-sacs in America. Until that point, most acquire farmland outside the city limit that could be built cities were laid out on a “gridiron” pattern that maximized into housing. He and fellow developer John Shartel built a the use of land in a compact area, but building streetcar system called the Oklahoma Railway Company to neighborhoods using cul-de-sacs meant stretching out. take people into the more far-flung neighborhoods, According to Robert Bruegmann’s “Sprawl: A Compact extending as far west as NW 23rd Street and Portland History,” sprawl is “most often described as unplanned,

72 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 scattered, low-density, automobile-dependent development changed in 1947. That spring, the city elected a funeral at the urban periphery.” In Oklahoma City’s case, it was director named Allen Street as mayor. Street was a member scattered development that rattled the chamber of of the chamber of commerce, and that body became commerce and their allies in civic government. Oddly responsible for much of the city’s development trajectory. enough, they chose to conquer that problem by sprawling Street lived up to his name: according to Richard Bernard over those scattered developments, taking over their tax and Bradley Rice’s “Sunbelt Cities: Politics and Growth bases. Since World War II,” the city commissioned the St. Louis, In Oklahoma City during the 1920s, central neighborhoods Missouri firm Harland Bartholomew and Associates to create like Heritage Hills and Mesta Park were the suburbs, and the a street plan that would coordinate with the highway Edgemere Park neighborhood was just being surveyed for system. The same month Street took office, the Classen building. Oklahoma City was still a young town, and streetcars ceased operation. according to Geoffrey Butler, Oklahoma City’s current “Because our city was so new, we didn’t really have a planning director, the city accelerated into sprawl mode ‘non-auto’ history,” Butler said. “What we did have was very fairly quickly. brief, so there wasn’t a strong sense of urbanism or Almost everything about Oklahoma City’s potential future traditional development pattern already established. You know, we did have a traditional block pattern early in the city’s history and it’s obvious when you drive around the urban core. “But as we all know, the automobile came onto the scene pretty quickly, so we started developing in that mode.” “Walkable” is one of those odd terms that probably would be rarely used if not for urban sprawl. For people living in Oklahoma City (or any other American city) before 1947, almost everything was walkable — any person with average health could get almost anything they needed by walking, and if not, buses and streetcars were relatively close. Cities were designed so that most goods and services could be reached by foot from anyone’s home or business, and cities worked that way for literally thousands of years. When the Classen streetcars and Interurban ceased operation in 1947,

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion when they did, they often moved from the urban core into planned communities or suburbs on the edges of town. President Dwight Eisenhower’s creation of the Interstate Highway System in 1956 also established a kind of crossroads at the center of Oklahoma City where Interstate 35 and Interstate 40 connected, which improved commerce and also provided a kind of skeleton of infrastructure on which to hang future land development. Because cars became so essential to getting around a massive city, the accelerated housing development in Oklahoma City’s suburban areas in the 1960s and ’70s often did not include sidewalks as part of the plans. And that happened all over the country, but because of Oklahoma City’s extreme degree of sprawl, driving became the only perceivable option to get to any destination. Cars had the upper hand. Through the Better Streets, Safer City sales tax initiative passed in 2017, Oklahoma City is now retroactively installing sidewalks in districts and neighborhoods where pedestrian transportation was seen as a thing of the past. The differences can be stark: in Warwick Estates, a neighborhood northwest of Lake Hefner that was built automobile-based city planning, coupled with Oklahoma starting in the mid-1970s, there are no sidewalks. Across City Chamber of Commerce’s stated desire to raise the city’s MacArthur Boulevard in the Greenbriar neighborhood, which population to 600,000 resulted in a series of land grabs. is still under construction, sidewalks are pervasive. These annexations raised the city’s tax base considerably, “We have maps where we’ve mapped out the sidewalk providing more operating capital for city services. In 1950, network, and it looks like a doughnut,” Butler said. “You can Oklahoma City annexed the town of Britton, and four years see where the sidewalks were built in the old days, when later extended its reach along Northwest Expressway to the they were doing a more traditional grid-style development, edge of Warr Acres. Cities like The Village, Warr Acres and and then for many decades, we built no sidewalks.” Nichols Hills had to fight annexation efforts by the city, which was keen to absorb tax bases and limit land Living in the sprawl development around Lake Hefner. The final major For something like urban sprawl to take place over the annexations took place in the early 1960s, with Oklahoma course of several decades, more people need to buy into the City reaching its 621 square mile status by 1962. idea than just the chamber of commerce and a few land Sweeping changes took place after World War II that developers, and they do. Compared to urban centers, life in affected how people lived and, just as importantly, where suburbia is quiet and comfortable, and true to the idea of they lived. Returning servicemen were offered inexpensive sprawl itself, there is plenty of room to stretch out. But loans from the Veterans Administration to buy homes, and sprawl in Oklahoma City and migration to the suburbs was

74 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 not driven by a wholly innocent desire for space and Penn Square Mall, Shepherd Mall and then to newer centers tranquility. In 1963, just after Oklahoma City completed its to the north and south like Quail Springs Mall and string of annexations, U.S. District Judge Luther Bohanon Crossroads Mall. Many of the non-retail businesses pulled ruled that Oklahoma City Public Schools were segregated by up stakes as well to move into new suburban office parks. race. It took nearly a decade, but in 1972 and under court All of this culminated in the “Pei Plan” for urban renewal. oversight, the school system began busing students miles Created by architect I.M. Pei as a master redevelopment from their neighborhoods in an effort to integrate and end concept for downtown Oklahoma City, the plan involved that segregation. demolition of older buildings like the Biltmore Hotel and the The result was the phenomenon of “white flight,” the construction of newer ones like the Century Center hotel and racism-driven trend of white homeowners selling their mall complex, which was built in hopes of drawing shoppers homes in the center of the city and decamping to periphery back to downtown with a familiar-looking retail facility. “bedroom communities” like Edmond, Norman, Yukon and Mustang — places with near-homogeneous white populations at the time. This was the promise of the Levittowns, the planned suburbs created in New York and Pennsylvania by land developer William Levitt in the 1950s. Back then, the post-World War II suburbs were touted as retreats from the “chaos” of the city, and the whispered subtext for those claims was race-based demographic shift, or “white flight.” Advertisements for the Levittown communities that ran in East Coast newspapers usually came with artist renderings of model homes, white families and the engine that got them out of the city, Unfortunately, the Pei Plan’s execution dovetailed with the the family car. oil industry recession and the failure of Penn Square Bank, Levittowns were systematically kept white by the sales resulting in an effectively abandoned downtown. It has and banking apparatus surrounding Levitt’s operation. taken nearly three decades of public-private partnership While it has been documented many times, the story of under the Metropolitan Area Projects Plan (MAPS) to fill in downtown Oklahoma City’s demise in the 1960s and ’70s is the doughnut hole, restore downtown and then start to knit a key chapter of the sprawl saga. As more people moved out bike lanes and sidewalks into the places where Butler’s of the urban core and settled in the new suburban predecessors from generations ago decided they were not developments being built on the edges of town and in metro needed. communities like Edmond, Moore and Norman, businesses Holt grew up in Oklahoma City and experienced it during a began their own diaspora. Department stores decamped to time of limited prosperity and maximized sprawl, but he said

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 75 he never really thought about how far it took to get just soon enough to serve the new population. The results can be about anywhere, and how little was between those points. It seen when traffic bottlenecks above NW 178th Street and was just the way things were for years, and Holt only fully commuters creep toward the Kilpatrick Turnpike to their appreciated the severity of the sprawl later, when he was an south every morning. adult and working his way through the levels of government. While the central part of the city continues to attract new “As a policy maker now, as an adult, I see that there are residents and development, Holt points out that there are some obvious costs to that,” he said. still houses going up at the northernmost point of the city. It might have evened out, but sprawl has not ended in Street life Oklahoma City. Imagine taking a medium-sized cable-knit sweater and giving it to a medium-sized person to wear. Now take that same sweater and try to stretch it over a car. The sweater still has the same number of holes, but now you can see through all of them. This is the continuing problem facing Oklahoma City when it comes to serving its residents. It is now called home by more than 600,000 people, thereby achieving the dreams of those chamber of commerce members from 60 years ago, but it must serve an area that could comfortably house about 15 million people. “Let’s just look at it from the most practical standpoint possible,” Holt said. “If a bus has to drive a mile farther, that’s more gasoline, and if you build a road a mile farther, that’s more road. If only 50 people live alongside a road, they are essentially dividing the cost of that road and its maintenance by 50 people instead of a million people in a place like New York City. Find myself a city to live in “We each bear more of the cost of infrastructure than if Prior to the first MAPS plan’s ratification in 1993, it was we lived in a more dense community, and it’s all on our hard to give away property in the city’s core. The destruction shoulders, because there is not — to any great extent — in the wake of the Pei Plan and devaluation of property in any state or federal funding to subsidize our lifestyle. We central districts like the Paseo Arts District, Plaza District choose to live this way, and we bear the cost.” and Midtown, not to mention the cratered oil industry, Many people from multiple generations chose to “live this resulted in empty storefronts in the 1980s. The way,” beginning in 1947 and stretching to the present day, neighborhoods surrounding those districts lost property when neighborhoods are still being built along the edges of value, hit from both sides by white flight and the retreat of Oklahoma City. When someone buys such a property, she or essential retail like grocery stores. But as new development he is tacitly agreeing to long commutes, lack of walkability began in Oklahoma City’s core in the 1990s, housing prices to essential services and, more frequently than not, started to recover and developers began to “infill” in empty infrastructural updates like widened roads that do not come lots or in spaces where homes were too dilapidated to

76 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 rehabilitate. City — every other voter-approved initiative has had Neighborhoods like Mesta Park initiated events like Mesta sidewalks in it.” Festa to bankroll new streetlights as new families began to By Holt’s measure, there is not the political will among revive the neighborhood, eager to walk to restaurants, bars residents to do all that is needed to fix Oklahoma City’s and entertainment in the revitalized Uptown 23 district. urban sprawl. While MAPS 3 provided for new public Property values in some sections of central Oklahoma City transportation initiatives like the Oklahoma City Streetcar, have doubled or even tripled in some sectors. For example, a the city will eventually need to lighten the load of its car- 100-year-old home in the Gatewood District, located just based infrastructure by instituting further changes. This south of Oklahoma City University, recently was listed for could take the form of a light-rail system similar to what is $525,000, or $207 per square foot. Six years ago, that same now found in the north Dallas bedroom communities, property was more than $200,000 cheaper than it is now. funneling residents of Lewisville and Plano into downtown This is in sharp contrast to a 15-year-old similarly sized Dallas. home west of Lake Hefner that goes for exactly $100 per Holt said it would take billions of dollars and come at the square foot less than the Gatewood home. expense of “just about everything else, and the political will This signals a change in values, and not just home sales. to make needed changes is only likely to summon itself As younger homebuyers seek out the central neighborhoods, when residents’ commutes become unbearable.” Until that gentrification runs rampant, pushing residents out of time comes, and it will, Holt said the most responsible thing formerly working-class neighborhoods like the Plaza District for him to do is keep pushing. so that expensive renovations or new builds can command “All of those efforts are so time-intensive and labor- astronomic prices. As a result, people will be displaced, intensive that they can take decades,” he said. much like they were in places like New York City, when Holt envisions a kind of nightmare scenario for people formerly low-priced properties on Manhattan’s depressed living on the edge of the sprawl. Eventually, they face the Lower East Side were bought by developers, renovated and kind of traffic experienced in places like Austin, Texas, where then rented for five times their previous rate in the 1990s infrastructure was unable to keep up with massive and 2000s. Residents were forced to leave, relocating to population growth. Commute times soar, and finally they less-expensive neighborhoods across the river in New Jersey. pull out of their autocentric mindsets and call for light-rail “Some decisions were made 50 to 100 years ago in this transit. Unfortunately, those kinds of massive infrastructural community that are nearly impossible to undo without changes take time and money. significant financial investment,” Holt said. “If you did nothing on regional transit and finally woke up The city cannot de-annex many of the areas it pulled into one day and everyone had 45-minute commutes and they its orbit in the mid-20th century without leaving residents were sick of it, you’d be 25 years away from riding on a bereft of essential services. It is a city with big bones, and train,” Holt said. “So, we keep working on this so we’re that will not change. For Holt and the mayors who preceded ready.” n him since MAPS began in the early 1990s, the key challenge has been to work with what they have to improve how the Editor’s note: This story was originally published in city moves. Oklahoma City’s street paper, Curbside Chronicle. The “I believe strongly in continuing to work on it,” he said. monthly publication is created for and sold by “For example, every time the voters have approved any individuals experiencing homelessness in OKC. The initiative starting in 2007 — with one exception, Big League street paper is a program of the Homeless Alliance.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 77 COMMUNITY

78 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Girl Scouts Open Camp Trivera

BY TIM FARLEY

turnpike construction project proved to be a blessing in A disguise for Oklahoma Girl Scouts. That’s because the former Camp Cookieland in Newalla was sold to the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and the new Camp Trivera was built in northeast Oklahoma City on zoo property. Construction lasted 13 months with the camp opening last month. Camp Cookieland was purchased by the Girl Scouts in 1948 using cookie money and personal funds. Melissa Pepper, chief development officer for Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, said the new camp is a one- of-a-kind, $12.7 million facility that focuses on highly- driven activities for the Girl Scouts.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 79 Camp Trivera’s main building is 35,000 square feet.

Situated on 17 acres of a 40-acre parcel between the The camp also has an indoor rock climbing wall, an Oklahoma City Zoo Lake and Lincoln Park Golf Course, the outdoor zip line that spans 800 feet across the zoo lake, camp’s main building is 35,000 square feet, which enables hiking trails, tree houses that accommodate 10 Scouts, two the Girl Scouts to participate in a variety of STEM (Science, permanent camp sites, a 60-bed bunk room and an outdoor Technology, Engineering and Math), leadership, outdoor and swimming pool. entrepreneurship activities. Camp Trivera is open for rental to Girl Scout troops,

Below, the bunk space, and (opposite page) pool area, climbing wall and reading space.

80 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 81 Meeting space and science lab.

overnight and after-school activities and weeklong camps. The building also can be rented to outside groups. Money for the $12 million facility was raised from the sale of Camp Cookieland, grants and individual and corporate donations. Seventy Girl Scout troops contributed to the construction cost, Pepper said. Leading the fundraising effort was Linda Whittington and Myrla Pierson. “These two go-getters have been instrumental in building community interest and support, as well as ensuring Camp Trivera will build a legacy for Girl Scouts now and in the future,” according to the Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma web site. Whether girls are experiencing their very first overnight away from home, interacting with animals and conservation experts to help preserve endangered species, or working as a team to create a robot that functions under water in a pool, Camp Trivera will give girls unmatched opportunities, the web site states.

82 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 the ampitheater and basketball court, below.

“This is the first of its kind in Girl Scouts,” Pepper said. The center also encompasses a Wall of Women “We are proud of what it offers girls and what they can touchscreen that allows the Girl Scouts to see the women achieve here.” who have excelled in STEM fields. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 83 PEOPLE Local children create fancy mask lanyards to sell at Vintage Market Days

PHOTOS PROVIDED

earing masks has become normal for everyone, including children. For Emily W Hayes, getting her daughters, four- year-old Colette and six-year-old Darcie, to wear masks and keep track of them hasn’t always been easy. But, with their new family business, called Fancy Face Lanyards, which will be participating in Vintage Market Days wearing masks has become fun for the girls, and now for others. Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage-inspired market taking place September 25-27 on the lawn of The Pointe at Chisholm Creek in Oklahoma City. Hayes said, “Back in June we were having a really hard time keeping our daughters motivated to wear masks. We knew we needed practice, but every time we would go out of the house to practice wearing the masks we noticed they would fall on the floor, or they’d end up on dirty surfaces like a table, or even worse, the masks were lost all together, making us more vulnerable to COVID-19. That’s when my oldest daughter, Darcie, had the idea of tying her mask straps to her costume jewelry.” Hayes explained that with her daughter’s idea as a starting point, she then came up with a pattern to make something more versatile that allowed them to move the lanyard from one clean mask to another. “When it came to design, Colette and Darcie took the lead and created personalized, fun, and fabulous looks. We began making them for ourselves and friends. It was fun to share our idea with others, and after posting about them on Facebook, Fancy Face Lanyards was born!” Six-year-old Darcie said, “We have our mom and dad put an anchor on a string, then we add fun, sparkly, exciting beads. We bag it up and it’s delivered to you. Voilà, you’re fancy!” Colette and Darcie Hayes

84 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Four-year-old Colette added, “We buy opportunity. We owe it to them to help beads you will love and put them on a them make a living during this time. I’m fancy face.” thankful to have this event for them, not The girls are excited about selling even for me.” their lanyards at Vintage Market Days. Vintage Market Days is donating a Darcie said, “We love Vintage Market percentage of the proceeds to The Reckless Days and have been going since we’ve been Saints of Nowhere. The organiza-tion will be babies. We are excited to now share our fancy shop and be on-site helping with loading. like grown-up sellers.” Parker explained, “The sole mission at Reckless is to With “Hello Darling” as its 2020 theme, Vintage Market ensure that no addict who wants help for their addiction is Days provides a charming family atmosphere for shoppers to ever turned away merely because they can’t pay for find unique items. Featured items include original art, treatment.” antiques, clothing, jewelry, architectural items and more. Vintage Market Days has an adapted layout to encourage More than 100 booths featuring high-quality vendors will be social distancing. Since the event is outdoors, masks are not on-site, along with live music and more. required, but they are encouraged. Erica Parker, Vintage Market Days Owner and Event Tickets for Vintage Market Days on September 25-26 are Coordinator, said, “As small businesses, most of our vendors $11, and on September 27 tickets are $6. Children 12 and use events as their main platform to sell their product, and under are always free. Hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Friday since the pandemic has caused the cancelation of the and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are majority of events for the year, they’ve not had that available online and at the door. n

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 85 PEOPLE

ANNOUNCES 2020 NEXTGEN UNDER30 WINNERS

ADULT & HIGHER EDUCATION Nikki Schuth Sheep Happens Club Lambs Bridgitte Castorino The University of Oklahoma Rodrigo Blankenship II Greater Wynnewood Exotic Chris Bingham Oklahoma State University Animal Park Elizabeth Szkirpan University of Tulsa THE ARTS Jade Elizabeth Hansen Northeastern State University Alexa Goetzinger Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Jenna Woodward University of Oklahoma Audrey Gleason Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Jerisha Ogletree University of Central Oklahoma Brooke Leatherwood DreamCatcher’s Dance Company Jess Mudhar University of Oklahoma Carlos Barboza Barboza Mural LLC Jessie Daws Parker Metro Technology Centers Catie Hamilton Chickasaw Nation Lariann Livingston Eastern Oklahoma State College Hayley Olson Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Marissa Henderson University of Oklahoma Viridiana Azmequita Black and White Photography of Melyssa Lynch Kiamichi Technology Centers OKC Natasha Eidson Oklahoma Panhandle State Jordan Brower Jordan Mobley Photography University Lauren Fourcade Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition Nicholas Gordon Okahoma State University Matt Cowell Matt Cowell Music Reymundo Marrufo Oklahoma State University Paige Powell The Paseo Arts Association Sara Watkins University of Central Oklahoma Rachel Morrow Oklahoma State Regents for Tristen Black University of Oklahoma Higher Education Zonly Looman Studio Z ANIMAL CARE Dr. Molly Duffy Banfield Pet Hospital AVIATION Elizabeth Stoverink Oklahoma Humane Society at Adam Fox El Reno Regional Airport Palomar Family Justice Center Cade Collins SkyWest Airlines Jessica Webster National Livestock Commission Association Jeffrey Walter Lippert Greystone Environmental Services inc Mallorie Zweifel Bella SPCA Raul Gomez Legacy Aviation Services Mckenzie Squires Zoetis Sergey Kirilin Meta Special Aerospace Morgan Pfeiffer American Meat Science Association

86 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 EDUCATION K-12 Sydney Dilbeck CVR Energy Chip Collins Westville Public Schools Tawnni McCarthy-Klaus Sustaining Oklahoma’s Energy David Duplissis KIPP OKC College Preparatory Resources School Tommy Renouard Gulfport Energy Emily Burris Operation Engagement Inc. & Trent Bone El Toro Resources Yukon Public Schools Tyler Pleus Magellan Midstream Partners Gabriella Mendez Health Corp Zac Nakvinda Continental Resources Garron Park Oklahoma City Public Schools Jessica Brower Yukon Public Schools FINANCE Kathryn Resendez Tulsa Legacy Charter School Ashley Jones Chickasaw Nation Katrina Coulson Choctaw High School Beth Nondorf American Fidelity Lacy Huffman Edmond Public Schools Bradley Jayroe First Fidelity Bank Laura Joullian Cesar Chavez Elementary School Brooks Kollmann BOK Financial Lauren Merrill Edison Preparatory School - Tulsa Cameron Buckner Allegiance Credit Union Public Schools Cayla Broughton Williams Macy Worley Jenks Public School Dakota Carrington Paycom Payroll LLC Robby Branscum Stillwater Public Schools Ethan Thomas HoganTaylor LLP Rowdy Washburn North Rock Creek Public Schools Grace Ann Elizabeth Farnan First United Bank Sandy Escalera Putnam City Schools Hunter Marcum Ernst & Young LLP Skye Spears Norman Public Schools Jacob Dumas Grant Thornton LLP Sunny Day Bridgestone Intermediate, Jacob Gwinn Heartland Payment Systems Western Heights Public Schools Jacob McFerran Heartland Payment Systems Trevor Lucas Oklahoma Department of Career Joshua Haven Security State Bank and Technology Education Julissa M Camacho Love’s Financial / Love’s Corporate Tyler McIntosh Mid-Del Schools Kelsey Rucker Cherokee Nation Businesses Kim Renfrow Love’s Travel Stops & Country ENERGY & TRANSPORTATION Stores Aba Hammond ONE Gas Inc. Larry W. McCorkell Stride Bank Wealth Management Allison Dumas RKI Energy Resources, LLC Lauren Wallin The First State Bank Britton Andrew Kollmann MHC Kenworth Matthew Hechtner Williams, Self & Associates Courtney Lang LS Power Private Equity Matthew Maguir e (Matt) Bank of Oklahoma David Krisa Continental Resources Meaghan Hoose Johnson Ernst & Young LLP Dean Spaay Continental Resources Robert Evans Merrill Lynch Dru Bullard Walters Power International Sean Gentry The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Jessica Steffan Nalco Water - An Ecolab Company Thomas J Ashley Frontier State Bank John Whitlock Continental Resources Kendall Sizemore Continental Resources Matthew Burba Pitman Oil and Gas

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 87 HEALTH CARE Mariam Gates-Robin Robin Counseling Services, LLC Alex Wade Oklahomans for Equality Marissa Yvonne Flores Oklahoma City County Health Dept Annalisa Wilder Saint Anthony Hospital Megan Jayroe Integris Health Arielle Barnett Cherokee Nation Health Services Melissa Lemaster Dewberry Bridget Roush Revsuppliance Michelle Brugenhemke Physical Therapy Central Chelsea Meltzer, MD OU Medicine Dermatology Natorrie McGill McCurtain Memorial Urgent Care Dr. Jack Test OU-Tulsa Physicians Rebekah Walker Cherokee Nation Dr. Jennifer Shields University of Oklahoma Health Rifda Shahab Oklahoma Heart Hospital Sciences Center Ryan Yarnall OU-Tulsa Physicians Dr. Kory Drake OU-Tulsa Physicians Sarah Lowell-Oshman Elizabeth Tran OU-Tulsa Physicians Stellajean Wilson OU Medicine - The Children's Emma Niblett The Children’s Hospital at OU Hospital Medicine Summer Lepley OU-Tulsa Physicians Erin Tsambikos Scholze OU Medical Center Taylor Compton Veterans Affairs Medical Center Erin Ungerecht Family First Urgent Care Tristan Smith OU-Tulsa Physicians Ethan James Finessa Parks Cherokee Nation HOSPITALITY Garrett McCurrach Martin Bionics Clinical Care, LLC Adrienne Smith SONIC Drive-In/Inspire Brands Ingrid Deleon Integris Southwest Medical Center Ali McCurdy Oklahoma City Thunder Jake Blasdel St. John’s Hospital (Tulsa, OK) Andrew Hall SONIC Drive-In Jana Ray Classen Family medicine Anthony Dobey Broadway 10 Bar and Chophouse Jennifer Dillard Choctaw Nation Cat Tien “Kathy ” Gia Bui Topgolf Jennifer Shields University of Oklahoma Health Elizabeth Sanchez Oklahoma Restaurant Association Sciences Center Jordan Brower Rise Coworking Jesse Becerra The Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Justin Demuth Cherokee Nation Entertainment Jordan Park Calm Waters Center for Children Kelci Barnett Chick-fil-A Moore and Chick-fil-A and Families Norman Karoline Dorr Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Nicholas Gunter Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Kate Glasgow Entrust Home Health Raven Campos Cherokee Nation Entertainment Kellen Hardy Croasdale Integris Health Kelsey Schoonmaker The Children’s Hospital at OU THE LAW Medicine Alex Sokolosky Crowe & Dunlevy Kevin McGinn OU-Tulsa Physicians Andrew Garrett Terry J. Garrett and Associates - Kyle Womack MUV OKC Performance Physio Chantelle Hickman-Ladd Alleman Law Firm, PLLC Madeline Bentley Integris Health Edmond Hospital Daniel Bokemper Arnold & Smith Law, PLLC

88 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Emily Grossnicklaus Oklahoma County Public Media, Public Relations, Marketing, Defender's Office and Advertising Jennifay Richardson Holden Litigation Aimee Hock KFOR-TV Katie Wagner Hall Estill Hardwick Gable Golden & Alex Rodriguez Spark Creative Nelson Andrew Aston Jones PR Kendra Norman Phillips Murrah Ashton Owens Studio Flight Kevin Easley Jr. Higgins Easley Attorneys at Law Brit Hensel Cherokee Nation Businesses Meghan Hilborn State of Oklahoma, Tulsa County Britain Drennan Tulsa Regional Chamber District Attorney's Office Caleb Croy Spark Creative Mike Fleshe r District Attorneys office Chris Young Gartner Mitch Holliman Elias, Books, Brown & Nelson, P.C. Christian Cox The House & The House Helps Natalie Gilbert Evans & Davis Colton Basks Jones PR Preston Sullivan Chansolme Harroz Hays, PLLC Courtney Brady Spark Creative Rilee Harrison Lawter & Associates Deleanie Moriello VI Marketing and Branding Robert Chad Nelson Foliart Huff Ottaway & Bottom Delmi Menendez The Boldt Company Russell B. Taylor Blaney, Tweedy, Tipton & Demery Pennington Gooden Group Hiersche, PLLC Derrick James McAlester News-Capital Taylor Stovall Oath Law Emily Tackett Oklahoma City Community College Taylor Weder Fellers Snider Hannah Landry Krush Digital Jake Searock Back40 Design Manufacturing, Industry, The Trades, and Agriculture Jennay Wangen Back40 Design Austin Hayes Hayes Commercial Holdings, LLC Joe Biby Boiling Point Media Braden Henricks Henricks Cattle Company Kali Dearing Collision Works Cody Curry McAlister Construction Katie Hackett Koch Communications Dustin Reid Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Kayla Stump Life.Church Judith Ruiz- Marin 360 Renovations Kendall Morgan Tyler Media Jadie Evans Nayr Holdings, LLC KenLea Henson Cherokee Nation Jaret Fipps Corteva Agriscience Kiley Josey sociallutions llc Kate Sprague Grace Fencing and Construction Kristin Morgan Sagac Public Affairs Co. LLC Lauren Merrill Merrill Media Group LLC Leon Wunsch 5 Leaf Lab Lexi Hoebing Sagac Public Affairs Mason Haley OkieClean LLC Lindsay Henricks Oklahoma Pork Council Michael Chas e Carr R.L. Hudson and Company Loren Waters Cherokee Nation Businesses Shashank Ramarao Cemplex Group Madison Lippert Insight Creative Group Trevor Bryant Colburn Electric Mindy Wright Heartland Payment Systems Tyler Lee Ram Products Peri Decoteau MacArthur Associated Consultants Randie Durant BOK Financial

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 89 Rebecca Sheppard Spark Creative Jazlin Asencio Meals on Wheels of Metro Tulsa Ryan Plunkett High Five Media Jordan Smicklas Children's Hospital Foundation Samantha Robinson Cherokee Nation Jordan Ward Oklahoma City National Memorial Shelby Jackson The Outlet Resource Group (TORG) & Museum Tanner Mark Yeomans Impressions Printing Lindsey Martin Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma Templin Hammock Hummingbird Aerials and Motion Melissa J. Baez Dress for Success Oklahoma City Tori Jones Hughes Warren, Inc. Michelle Ondak Broken Arrow Chamber & Economic Development Trevor Killblane Station8 Natasha Hamilton Circle of Care Tyler Maness Hyped Visuals Preston Shatwell Amplify NON PROFIT ORGINIZATIONS Rayna Cumbie Transition House Inc. Allyson Meye r Cleats for Kids Sabrina Heise Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden Amanda Reed Mutt Misfits Animal Rescue Society Skyler Factor Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Austin Klososky Communities Foundation of T Shannon Mckenrick National Cowboy and Western Oklahoma Heritage Museum Britain Drennan Tulsa Regional Chamber Tabatha Thurman Midland Group Cecely Jones Oklahoma City Society for Human Talia Mendoza Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Resources Tasha Atcity Oklahoma United Methodist Chelsea Mohan Pathways Adult Learning Center Circle of Care, Inc. Christine Hamby Circle of Care Timothy Corbly KISS Institute for Practical Robotics Cindy Nguyen YWCA Oklahoma City Clayton Ramick The Moore Public School POLICY and PUBLIC SERVICE Foundation Allison Ikley-Freeman Oklahoma State Senate Colton Kersey Oklahoma Youth Expo Alyssa Fisher Sally’s List Dakota Leftwich Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits Amanda Paige Bradbury Oklahoma City Police Dept Destinee Martinez Keep Growing Oklahoma Ashley Billups Crall Oklahoma Senate Destiny Gaither Keep Growing Oklahoma Brandon Worley City of Tulsa Dillon Byrd Frontline Church Brittany Hayes Healthy Minds Policy Initiative Elizabeth Angeles Oklahoma City Indian Clinic Colton Thomas Snead OU Southwest Prevention Center Emilie Hechtner Boy Scouts of America, Last Frontier Council Gali Martinez Skyfire Media and Oklahoma Senate Democratic Caucus Emily Faith Granville Community Music School Hayden Harrison Association of Central Oklahoma Erin Engelke Calm Waters Center for ChIldren Governments (ACOG) and Families Ioannis Wallingford United States Army Gabriella Mendez Health Corp

90 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Jennifer Daer Shields University of Oklahoma Health Chandler Walker Manhattan Construction Company Sciences Center Christopher Nation DellEMC John Michael Montgomery Oklahoma State Senate Clifford Synar Innovative IT Solutions Logan Lewis Cherokee Nation Businesses Cookie Brown LN Malik Rochdi Canadian County Government Erin Cunningham Paycom Rachel Leonard Down Sydrome Association of Hayley Hunter Paycom Central Oklahoma Jake Harbaugh MacArthur Associated Rachel Ware City of Oklahoma City Parks and Consultants Recreation Dept Jessica Button ONEOK, Inc. Seth Rott McSpadden Milner Robinson Lexi Freeman Citizen Potawatomi Nation Government Relations Liza Van Der Laan Oklahoma State University Tara Steffens Paycom Lyndsey Parsons Devon Energy Tori Burba Sulphur Chamber of Commerce Matt Varughese Websterpeace Tosin Akande Oklahoma State Dept of Matt Woods Tailwind Education Michael Linscott Bridge Crane Specialists Ltd Zachariah Swift Oklahoma House of Representatives Milecia McGregor Flipped Coding Shayla Dawn Wright WrycanC, LLC RETAIL and E-COMMERCE Peri Decoteau MacArthur Associated Andrew Davis Heartland Payments Systems Consultants Aslan Maleki Volvo Cars Oklahoma City Rabecca Wiseman Oklahoma State University Barrett Ramsey Aldi Samuel Macklin MacArthur Associated Consultants Carlos Ballard Artisan Botanical Sarah Ciccaglione University of Oklahoma Catie Armstrong Hobby Lobby Ecommerce Shawna Roggow Dewald Greystone Environmental Chase Romine Artisan Botanicals Services Inc Danielle Throckmorton Throckmorton Events & Reach Shayoni Banerjee University of Oklahoma Retreat Sheerine Baucum Paycom Jamie Hull Artisan Botanicals LLC Shelby Hanchera MacArthur Associated K. Kearby Lamson Bob Moore Auto Group Consultants Nicola Yu Plate-X Skylar Calhoun Wallace Engineering Rachel Warren Floured Roses Bakery Spencer Sunstrum MacArthur Associated Ryan Woerz The Chickasaw Nation Consultants Tim Beedle Mathis Brothers Wilson Rodwell Greystone Environmental services inc Science, Technology, and Engineering Ziggie Oleru LexisNexis Risk Solutions Alexis Hood Heartland Payment Systems Anita Ly Oklahoma Catalyst Programs Brooke Wincapaw RKBlack

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ion Oklahoma 91 SPORTS and OUTDOORS Mackenzie Edgeman Hello Love Salon and Boutique Chelsea Cooke Chelsea Cooke Wellness LLC Megan Sittig Mike Thompson State Farm Chris Hagner Oklahoma City Thunder Raymond Wolber Addison Group Morris Turner Coffeyville Community College Sadie Kilby Tinker Air Force Base Keeton Peery Oklahoma Christian University Shawn Abedi Misfire Motorsports Mireya Padilla Zumba con Mireya Ta'Chelle Jones WeGoLook Shelby Stephens Arbonne Tanner Cunningham Grant Thornton Tehryn Jones Young Survival Coalition TOURISM Tyler Espinosa Tyler Espinosa Allstate Zach Thomas Jenks Chamber of Commerce Valerie Koonrahht Lobdock Impairment Detection

OTHER STAFFING Alex Tritten In The Green Accounting Ashley Geary Express Services Inc. Solutions Ashley Newey INCEED Allyson Davis Main Event Entertainment Blair Tillman FSB Amber LaValley Vision Martial Arts Academy Brielle Geiger Sheraton Oklahoma City Brandie Holloway Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Downtown Hotel Bret Horn Hunting Country & Real Estate Brooke Gudgel Inceed Chelsea Lynch The weighted fork Cecely Jones Hartwig Staffing Cierra White Masko of Oklahoma Gabe Stark Paycom Dustin Reid Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Jonny Kaleka TEKSystems Emily Gise Oklahoma Dept of Human Julia Federline OakTree Staffing Services Robin Berkstresser Rogue Recruitment Holly Bergman Dewberry Architects Sarah Espinosa Hartwig Staffing Jeff Houston Keller Williams Green Meadow Sydney Kippenberger INCEED Jessi Stringer Eight Point Creative Tim Tofpi Aerotek Jestene Coats Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Tyler Block INCEED John Engelbrecht T. McDonald Construction, Inc. Kimberly Elmendorf UCO Peer Health Leaders

92 ion Oklahoma SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020