[dropcap]There’s[/dropcap] no greater time to be an American than on the Fourth of July – the weather’s hot, the drinks are cold, and the fireworks are spectacular. But if you’re more inclined to sit back and watch the dramatic displays than light them up yourself, there are several shows around the state that will make your holiday as patriotic as possible.
LibertyFest in Edmond – June 25 through July 4 For a weeklong celebration of our nation, LibertyFest in Edmond is the perfect place to go. Their patriotic party offers more than just a fireworks display, offering a wide range of events and fun activities for the whole family. Throughout the week and all across town, there will be a kite fest, rodeo, car show, parade, concert and more. For a full schedule of events, visit libertyfest.org.
Boom in the Valley Fireworks Spectacular at Choctaw Nation Health Care Center in Talihina – July 1 Talihina is the home of the Boom in the Valley Fireworks Spectacular, where you’ll enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities and a 5K run. Make sure to try the delicious hamburgers, Indian tacos, snow cones, cotton candy and other treats. Sit back at dusk to enjoy the fireworks. For more information, visit travelok.com.
Grand Lake Fireworks at Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees – July 2 There’s nothing like watching a Fourth of July fireworks show from a boat on Grand Lake. Spend the day on the water, and at sunset head to the Cherokee Area at Grand Lake State Park to enjoy the fireworks display. The show will be located between the two spillways on the Grand River Dam. For more information, visit grandlakefireworks.com.
Red, White & Boom at State Fair Park in Oklahoma City – July 3 Celebrate Independence Day at Red, White & Boom in Oklahoma City. You can grab some lawn chairs and bring the family to the State Fair Park, where there will be a free concert presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. On-site concessions and a dazzling fireworks display are other exciting additions to the night. For more information, visit okcphil.org.
FreedomFest at Tulsa River Parks in Tulsa – July 4 For patriotic fun in Tulsa, Freedomfest has been a city staple since 1976. There will be three different locations along the banks of the Arkansas River and at Tulsa’s River Parks to set up camp for the show, where fireworks will display over the 21st Street Bridge. Arrive early for inflatables, face painting and food/drink vendors. For more information, visit riverparks.org.
Courtesy River Boomfest.
Sooner Boomfest at the RiverWalk Crossing in Jenks – July 4 Get ready for an all-day music and fireworks extravaganza at the RiverWalk Crossing in Jenks. Spend the day outside listening to live music, and stick around for Boomfest’s fireworks at dusk. The Oklahoma Aquarium will also be offering a unique vantage point to watch the show at their Fish & Fireworks celebration, and their food and beverages will be available at Coral Reef Café. For more information, visit either jenkschamber.com or okaquarium.org.
Bricktown 4th Fest in Oklahoma City – July 4 For more Independence Day fun in Oklahoma City, head down to the Bricktown 4th Fest. Their fabulous fireworks show will be located at the Centennial Fountain near Harkins Theater, and DJ Roy “Musicman” Henderson will be playing family-friendly Top 40 and country tunes. The entire entertainment district of Bricktown will be a prime viewing spot for the show. For more information, visit bricktown4thfest.com.
[dropcap]Judging[/dropcap] from his staid, sober photographs, Daniel Goh is not the sort of man who is easily impressed, but an email he received after closing his bar on a sultry Singapore night had him gushing. Was it true, the email asked, he had installed a keg of Prairie Bomb ale? Goh replied he had, and the keg had sold out in a few hours despite the $13 price. He also asked that his name be mentioned to Chase Healey, the brewmaster.
More than 9,500 miles to the east, in Tulsa, it was 3 p.m. and the partners’ meeting was in full swing in the newly opened Prairie Brewpub. “Partners’ meeting” means that a bunch of guys in jeans who have known each other since college, or even childhood, sit around a big oak table and chat about the hundreds of issues that come up each day. They were amused by the email from Singapore. They still hadn’t quite come to terms with Prairie Brewpub’s fast and meteoric rise to worldwide fame. Chase Healey, the ordinary guy whom they all knew for his wild dreams and nonstop ideas for beers (beers made with brettanomyces, usually viewed as a contaminant; beers made with yeast captured from Tulsa air) had suddenly achieved movie star status. And to think, says Josh Royal, “Chase is the most laid back man you’ll ever meet.”
“Yes,” adds Pauly Sorrentino, “but laid back like a genius, you know, all those genius ideas buzzing in his head nonstop.”
Royal and Sorrentino are pretty laid back individuals themselves. They are partners at the sleek, fashionable Brookside watering hole R Bar. One day Healey phoned them and asked if they wanted to start a brewpub in a 100-year-old former Ford showroom in the Brady District. The idea came from the Kaiser Family Foundation, which had renovated the classic building. In the end, Royal, Sorrentino and former insurance maven Bill Grant, all from R Bar, as well as Ryan Stack, a tattooed bartender from MixCo, joined Chase and his brother Colin in the venture.
“Look over there,” Royal says, gesturing toward a long array of gleaming metal vessels all linked together like a Rube Goldberg special. “Chase will be brewing full strength beer there, and we’re building a whole other room of equipment. We’ve bought a lot of oak barrels so we can have barrel-aged brews too. And all Chase’s wild wonderful beer experiments? You’ll be able to taste a new one each day!”
Josh Royal and Ryan Stack of Prairie Brewpub Photo by Chris Humphrey Photographer.
All the decor was done in house, and a repurposed foeder – a large wooden barrel used to age wine or beer – houses the taps. And indeed there are all the Prairie favorites; the sour saisons fresh as can be; the world-famous Prairie Bomb, a knockout-strength 13 percent Imperial Stout with notes of espresso beans, chocolate, vanilla and chili peppers and the first Prairie beer to get a perfect rating by various beer sites; and others with evocative names like Cry Baby Pils and Ape Snake. Bartenders are gathering around the taps.
By now the line cooks are busy at work in the small kitchen. “Food is important to us,” Royal says. “We want people to come for the beer and stay for the food.” Chef Craig Norred is young and a bit shy, but he gains confidence when he talks about his menu. After all, he trained with the best. He worked with Jakub Hartlieb at River Spirit and with Grant Vespasian at Oaks Country Club. He’s excited about the rotisserie chicken, which is slow-cooked for 90 minutes at 275 degrees to keep it rich and juicy. The pork chop, with its tangy marinade, is excellent too. He takes extra care with the sides, made fresh and from scratch. Prices are reasonable. The most expensive entree is the $16 half chicken. Desserts are made by Matthew Wallace, formerly from Bodean.
It’s now 4 p.m., and the most important people stream in: the customers. Sometimes a line forms before the restaurant opens. There are drinkers crowding the bar, and there are families coming for dinner seated around the big round tables. Yes, surprisingly, Prairie is kid-friendly. “We’re definitely a family business,” says Ryan Stack, gesturing to the family of partners around the bar.
“We’ve been open only a few weeks, and already we have regulars,” Royal says. “People who live nearby come in all the time. We are well on our way to becoming a neighborhood bar, a family bar, a bar where you know everyone in the place. And that’s how we want it to be.”
Prairie Brewpub is located at 223 North Main Street in Tulsa.
[dropcap]Is[/dropcap] there anything we love to hate, or hate to love, more than cable television?
It wasn’t always this way. Cable started out as an affordable service we were happy to have with a manageable range of options. When did it all go so wrong? When did cable companies pull a Walter White, transforming from a reliable, slightly bumbling but benign service to a behemoth of pure evil we can’t seem to do without? (See? Without cable, we couldn’t have had that analogy at all.)
In the ’90s and early 2000s, cable had us all in its tentacle grasp. Where else was there to turn for quality television and films? It didn’t take long for cable companies to clue in, and take viewers for all they were worth. Would you like, for example, the National Geographic channel for its documentaries? Are you addicted to the real-life treehouse of horror that is TLC? Sure, you can have them. But only if you pay an extra $10-$15 per month for the “Adventure-Time Package,” which also might include about 20 channels of Spanish QVC. By the time viewers build a package of channels they might actually, you know, watch, the costs can reach breathtaking heights, especially when promotional offers expire and customers find themselves trapped under cancellation contracts and fees. To get the 30 channels people want (and the 230 they don’t), equipment rental also figures into the total cost of skyrocketing cable bills. Is it any wonder that in the span of a couple of decades, cable companies have become the most hated arch-villains in the nation? THEY ARE THE ONES WHO KNOCK … but maybe not for long.
Toward the end of the last decade, online streaming as we know it today made its popular debut. Beginning most famously with Netflix streaming, customers could access an impressive catalog of shows and movies through their wireless internet connection. Around the same time, more companies and channels began offering online streaming of their content as well, leaving many customers to wonder if they really did need to buy five versions of the Baboons Eating Fruit channel to get their documentary fix.
In the past few years, streaming entertainment has officially arrived. The variety of online television and movie choices paired with a deluge of streaming devices means more people have the choice to not answer when cable knocks. And while the exact number of customers who are choosing to “cut the cord” is under debate, the increasing array of options is indisputable. Here is a Who’s Who lineup of the devices and services that can help you kiss the cable Cthulu goodbye.
Devices
Apple TV ($149-$199)
While Apple TV has been praised for its ease of use and its easy integration with other Apple services and devices, it offers a smaller selection of stand-alone channels/streaming apps than its competitors. This alone wouldn’t be a detraction if Amazon, Google Play and Vudu weren’t missing from the lineup; iTunes is the only recourse for purchasing new releases. Regardless, Apple TV still has a lot to recommend it, including a sleek interface design, an excellent remote and everyone’s favorite digital sass-mouth, Siri. And with the release of thousands of Apple TV apps recently, the device has the potential to be much more than simply a streaming receiver, and definitely will find favor with other heavy Apple users.
Roku ($49-$129)
Wee but powerful, the Roku was the first player on the streaming scene and continues to be a heavy hitter. Initially the brain child of Netflix, the Roku player hit the shelves in 2008 and has undergone several iterations since, each one better than the last. The device offers access to the big names in streaming services we’ve all come to be familiar with (including Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Now and more) and continues to be the most popular streaming box in the United States. Roku also offers the most comprehensive lineup of channels and is a great bet for viewers who want to use a variety of different streaming options without being shoehorned into one particular service or platform.
Fire TV ($99)
Amazon’s Fire TV comes with lots of perks, like a broad search interface and easy access to Amazon content, like Prime movies and television (Prime members only). However, the Amazon-heavy focus is a drawback for some as well. While services such as Netflix and Hulu are available on Fire TV, Amazon’s agenda is definitely to promote its own content. This being said, those other services are still available on the device, and for heavy users of Amazon Prime (including Prime music libraries), the Fire TV is an especially good bet. Amazon also offers a Fire TV stick ($39) that performs many of the same functions as the full set at a fraction of the price. Both come with access to Amazon’s competent Siri clone, Alexa.
Google Chromecast ($35)
Google’s Chromecast is small, cheap and versatile. In addition to streaming traditional apps like Netflix, Chromecast also lets users screencast from their tablet, smartphone or PC, which can be especially useful for heavy online content users. Caveats to keep in mind include limited availability to stream Amazon offerings. While watching from the browser cast is possible, the dedicated Amazon Instant Video application is not available on Chromecast, making the Amazon viewing or listening experience subpar compared to a native app. Some users will also be saddened by the lack of remote control; Chromecast requires a mobile device or PC to be controlled. As far as bargain goes, however, Chromecast is leader of the pack.
Services
Netflix
($7.99-11.99/month)
Netflix is the O.G. when it comes to streaming, and continues to dominate other services with selection and popularity. Originally starting as a rent-by-mail service for DVDs (which it still offers), the service was the first to launch whole-heartedly into streaming services, which eventually outpaced DVD rentals. Content-wise, Netflix continues to have a solid selection of newer movies, classics and favorite TV shows, like Breaking Bad or It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. They definitely lead the pack in award-winning original programming as well, including House of Cards (we love to hate you, Frank!) and Orange is the New Black. And with the recent deal to be the exclusive carrier for all Disney movies made this year and beyond, as well as tons of other kiddo-friendly content, Netflix may be the best choice for family-friendly streaming.
Amazon Prime ($99/year, $10/month streaming only)
Not only do Prime members have access to an increasingly robust selection of free programming — including a healthy library of HBO shows, minus the current seasons — members also are able to take advantage of the numerous premium add-ons now available. These include major networks like Starz, Showtime and HBO, as well as more specialized content like Curiosity Stream (a documentary channel), Acorn TV (for lovers of British television and mysteries) or History Vault (shows from when the History Channel was actually about, well, history). Season passes for many current shows, while potentially costly, allow the option to keep abreast of most series you might not be able to find elsewhere outside a cable subscription. In addition, as many users already know, Prime benefits go well beyond streaming video to free two-day shipping, music streaming, file storage, eBook borrowing and more.
Sling TV
($20/month, base)
All hail Sling TV as the first true internet-only alternative to cable. This is not to say that you can get everything on Sling you could get with a traditional cable subscription, but the choices are still impressive. Sling keeps adding to its lineup of live TV offerings, including CNN, HGTV, AMC, History, FX and more. Sling may be the only option to get your sports fix as well – it’s currently the only service offering access to ESPN and ESPN2. For multi-room viewers, there is a multi-stream option now, although be aware: network beefs between ABC and Fox mean you can have ABC channels (like ESPN or the Disney Channel) or Fox Channels (like Fox Sports or National Geographic), but not both. Most channels, however, are conflict-free and available under either plan. Add-ons like HBO or more Spanish-language channels are available. The best part compared to cable? Zero contract or termination fees.
HBO Now
($15/month)
Some readers may wonder why anyone might need HBO Now when Amazon Prime offers such a long list of HBO’s heavies (Omar comin’!). The first of the big cable premiums to go a la carte, HBO’s standalone streaming app allows users up-to-date access to (pretty much) its entire catalog, including latest episodes of current series; the Amazon Prime access only offers certain shows, albeit a good selection, and never current seasons. At $15/month, it’s one of the most expensive streaming options out there, but let’s face it: it’s hard to be a fan of good television and not return time and again to HBO. They give us hope for the future of television, and HBO Now is totally worth it. Our only complaint: Where is Tales From the Crypt already?
Hulu Plus
($8/month)
If you need the latest network sitcom episode, Hulu may be your go-to. Although some networks delay releases of recent episodes in a half-hearted effort to keep viewers tuned in live, Hulu still has one of the best selections of network favorites, past and present. Like Netflix, the service is also branching out into its own original content (a recent adaptation of Stephen King’s 11/22/63, for example). Unlike Netflix, its catalog of movies is unimpressive, with the exception of access to some 900 films from the Criterion Collection — definitely a decent consolation prize for classic film buffs.
When to Keep the Cable Romance Alive
“Cutting the cord,” as it’s called, isn’t for everyone. While almost all services and devices are extremely easy to set up, those with little or no technology experience may prefer the worry-free cable experience. The same goes for sports fans: without cable, most will be out of luck. While Sling offers ESPN and ESPN 2 (if you don’t want Fox channels), you’re still going to miss out on a lot of local games. Turning to league-specific streaming won’t help, since many local games are blacked out. News junkies can get CNN through Sling, but that’s about it; if you need all the news channels during election year, streaming might not be for you. And finally, if you’re just a fan of good old-fashioned channel surfing, adjusting to the streaming interface will be difficult indeed.
The outdoor seating areas complement the Porch overlooking the pool, which has electric screens that roll down when not hidden in the beams.
The home provides a mix of contemporary and traditional without being overly modern.
[dropcap]Carolyn[/dropcap] Fielder Nierenberg’s clients for a special interior design project have had the luxury of traveling to fabulous resorts around the world. So it was no surprise when they asked her to design a family home that has all the amenities of resort-style living. The project beckoned Nierenberg to her design studio at Campbell Design Associates for two years and for another year of construction.
Furnishings and accessories were chosen to avoid disrupting a visitor’s view.
Nierenberg collaborated with architect Mark Gawey, whom the owners had asked to condense their ideas into a remarkable plan, and Scott Pohlenz, President of Pohlenz Cucine Moderne, for an incredible kitchen and bar. The result is a magnificent U-shaped contemporary home with features so glamorous this family may never visit a resort again.
This mid-town home is a place the family can enjoy for the rest of their lives. “Their taste is clean, tailored, eclectic – a nice mix of contemporary and traditional, but not overly modern,” Nierenberg says.
The front of the home – a visitor’s first impression – is a teaser for what guests will find inside. A gate house invites visitors into a walled outdoor front courtyard featuring a fireplace and a comfortable seating area. Scored concrete pads with sofas and chairs enhance the resort theme of the entry.
What gives the neutral palette of the home a grand personality is the surprising pops of color in the contemporary art placed to entice the eye of a visitor. The design afforded Nierenberg the opportunity to use her talents to complement the home’s open floor plan. There is a continuity in the color palette in the public areas, providing flexibility for entertaining family or friends.
Rooms flow into each other logically with ease and charm, always providing an outdoor vista. Nierenberg notes there was collaboration with Clare Ashby, landscape architect, regarding the color of the scored concrete outside to achieve compatibility between indoor and outdoor flooring materials.
The house features rustic ceiling beams that are enhanced with iron straps to conceal wood seams.
The outdoor seating areas complement the Porch overlooking the pool, which has electric screens that roll down when not hidden in the beams.
The rooms of the house flow logically into each other and always provide a view of the outdoors.
In the entry hall, guests see the creativity Nierenberg achieved to include the outdoors in every interior setting. Light stone travertine floors, light walls and 10-foot windows give an expansive view of the home’s gardens, poolside and well-appointed screened-in porch.
Noteworthy in the entry, dining room and great room are the rustic ceiling beams, enhanced with iron straps to conceal wood seams. In the great room, small aperture windows, located near the ceiling, are accented with uplighting, providing dramatic, surprising shards of light. “At night, the up-lights provide a beautiful glow on the ceiling,” Nierenberg says.
Off the breakfast area and master bedroom is a screened porch overlooking the pool. Electric screens roll down when not hidden in the beams. Three outdoor seating areas complement this setting.
Nierenberg collaborated with architect Mark Gawey, whom the owners had asked to condense their ideas into a remarkable plan, and Scott Pohlenz, President of Pohlenz Cucine Moderne, for an incredible kitchen and bar, To create a home with all the amenities of a luxury resort.
Nierenberg collaborated with architect Mark Gawey, whom the owners had asked to condense their ideas into a remarkable plan, and Scott Pohlenz, President of Pohlenz Cucine Moderne, for an incredible kitchen and bar, To create a home with all the amenities of a luxury resort.
Nierenberg collaborated with architect Mark Gawey, whom the owners had asked to condense their ideas into a remarkable plan, and Scott Pohlenz, President of Pohlenz Cucine Moderne, for an incredible kitchen and bar, To create a home with all the amenities of a luxury resort.
The formal dining room overlooks a private garden. Furnishings and art offer splashes of paprika, green, orange and yellow. Twelve large window panes complement the furnishings, including a live-edge walnut table. Columns on either side of the windows, and the travertine floor, match the stone fireplace.
Noteworthy is Nierenberg’s use of furnishings and accessories that do not disrupt a visitor’s view as they enjoy her designs. Custom wool rugs in the great room and dining area are a shade darker than the floors. “I didn’t want it to interrupt your eye,” she says, showing a thoughtful nod to pleasing design.
“The homeowners wanted a home they could enjoy for the rest of their lives,” Nierenberg says. “One of the most enjoyable things for me from this project is this family is now friends for life with me.”
There is a continuity in the color palette in the home’s public areas.
The home’s outdoor fireplace allows for outdoor entertaining when temperatures drop.
Photo by Chris Humphrey Photographer.
Carolyn Fielder Nierenberg
As an inspiring artist at Edison High School, Carolyn Fielder Nierenberg credits her art teacher, the late Sue Johnson, with telling her about “the hard and often impoverished life of a struggling artist.”
“She suggested I might consider graphic or interior design,” Nierenberg remembers. “I chose interior design, and I’ve loved every moment of it.” She graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in housing and interior design. Since then, technology has greatly changed the design industry, she says.
The home she was involved with, featured in this issue, was definitely a favorite project for her, but she says, “My all-time favorite is usually the one I just finished because I’ve used new ideas and fresh concepts I haven’t used before.”
Nierenberg, ASID, was the first legislative chairman for the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. From 1984 to 1988, and another decade after that, she worked to establish registration for interior designers. The Interior Design Registration Act finally passed in 2006, which was a true milestone in Nierenberg’s design career.
The couple were attracted to the simplicity of the home’s design, which reminded them of Frank Lloyd Wright’s distinctive architecture.
The couple were attracted to the simplicity of the home’s design, which reminded them of Frank Lloyd Wright’s distinctive architecture.
[dropcap]It[/dropcap] was love at first sight when Kelly and Kathy Caviness of Caviness Landscape Design discovered a spectacular lodge-style home nestled in a secluded, wooded area in Arcadia, east of Edmond.
“We feel like we are on vacation every day in our home,” Kathy says.
What also appealed to them was the home’s strong resemblance to Frank Lloyd Wright’s distinctive architecture.
“My father is an architect and Wright was a favorite of his, which made this home even more special to us,” Kathy says. “We like the simplicity of the design.”
Dramatic lighting illuminates the rear setting of this luxurious home. A natural waterfall cascades over rocks, rushing toward a pool. Flagstone steps lead to the rear patio.
The couple purchased the home a year ago, although it was built in 2008. Bockus-Payne Associates provided the architectural design; the late Mark Dale was the builder.
“The star of the home is really a 200-year-old post oak tree, surrounded by other mature trees, numerous hillside grade changes and a waterfall that cascades over rocks into a pool at the rear of the home. The sound of water is an important feature in all our designs,” Kathy says. Floor to ceiling windows in the home’s 15 rooms and natural lighting complement nature’s beauty.
The exterior of cedar and native stacked stone is accented with a metal roof, a large porch, a dramatic flagstone walkway, a dry creek bed and the historic tree. Two large fire bowls mark the entrance.
A gridlock pattern is featured in the entry door and the flooring. Sunlight filters through to the adjacent dining room. A dramatic water wall provides a peaceful, soothing sound and is a buffer between the entrance and dining room, and a shaved elk horn chandelier illuminates the room. An arched doorway with an antique prison door from La Puerta, Mexico, leads to the wine cellar.
With the open floor plan, the formal living room faces the dining room. A dramatic fireplace with a concrete base anchors this area. Floor to ceiling windows open to the patio and stream bed.
The kitchen and adjacent bar area are designed for entertaining large groups. Granite countertops and Gaggenau appliances enhance this area. A hand-hewn stone wall in the bar is an impressive feature.
While the kitchen, dining and main living areas serve as public spaces for entertaining, the master suite is a peaceful haven for the couple. The bedroom fireplace is identical to the one in the living room. The sheer bamboo shades double as blackout shades, and an expansive window faces east.
“It’s wonderful to watch the sunrise from this room,” Kathy says.
The formal entry’s teardrop crystal chandelier lights the way to the exquisite dining room. A custom rug under the dining table is accented at the four corners with these Asian symbols woven into the fabric: Courage, Harmony, Love and Forgiveness.
Unusual features in the kitchen include a cork floor, a Gaggenau induction stove, convection and steam oven and a backsplash including fossil imprints of fish, birds, shells and leaves.
: Near the master suite is a cozy study. The stone slab desk with embedded fossils houses hidden storage space.
The master bath affords another view of the surrounding landscape. Among the amenities are seven shower heads, a coffee bar and under-counter refrigerator. Teak surrounds the master bath. Fish-patterned drawer pulls from Designer Hardware by Faye are a unique accent. “Even though there’s plenty of light, it is a very private space leading to the spa area,” Kathy notes.
Near the master suite is a cozy study where the couple does landscape design projects. The stone slab desk with embedded fossils houses hidden storage space. Photographs of International Awards of Excellence from industry peers for past projects hang on the walls, and the custom-made door was inspired by an Oriental screen.
Off the study and master bath is Kathy’s favorite room – a screened-in porch set high above the landscape. “The whole wing feels like being in a tree house because we look out to the canopy of dense trees on our lot,” she says.
With each room providing a unique view of this beautiful setting, the couple can enjoy nature’s ever-changing theater. This luxurious home, with so many outstanding amenities, provides a grand setting for entertaining as well as a haven for casual times to enjoy the scenes nature provides each day.
Among the special bedroom furnishings are a bed from the Williams-Sonoma Collection, night stands and bedding from Restoration Hardware, a contemporary painting and a teak chest.
Kelly Caviness
Kelly Caviness was attending Oklahoma State University on a full jazz scholarship when he got sidetracked by a horticulture class. “I discovered a great love for landscape design,” he recalls. Today, Kelly and Kathy Caviness are the owners of Caviness Landscape Design in Edmond. Kelly designs, and Kathy is the bookkeeper/marketing specialist. Theme pools and outdoor living spaces are their signature.
“In 1984, my brother-in-law asked me to design and landscape his huge corner lot in Quail Creek,” Kelly says. “In 1994, I designed my first pool with a natural boulder for steps, a stream bed and a tunnel people could swim through.”
Photo by Brent Fuchs.
His designs are featured on HGTV and the Discovery Network. An Oklahoma City pirate theme pool will be shown on DIY Network’s new Pool Kings series. Among his favorites: swim-through grottoes cascading into a lake, waterfalls, a scuba pool and an underground slide exiting into a miners’ theme pool.
Kelly enjoys all the “bells and whistles technology now provides” and notes that “Kathy and I appreciate all areas of architectural, interior and landscape designs and style.” He encourages future landscape designers to “keep learning. Be passionate about what you do.”
The living room is a seamless blend of traditional antiques and contemporary furnishings.
The living room is a seamless blend of traditional antiques and contemporary furnishings.
[dropcap]Can[/dropcap] a celebrated Oklahoma artist and a world-renowned interior designer find comfort in a Tulsa home after spending more than four decades in New York City?
Jimmy Steinmeyer, a native Tulsan noted for his highly detailed architectural renderings, and architect/designer David Easton, of Kentucky heritage, answer with a resounding ‘Yes!’
“For us, Tulsa is a stripping away from the world we lived in,” says Easton, known historically for merging traditional design with a contemporary, cutting edge flair.
The house’s design blends the couple’s love for antiquities with contemporary sensibilities.
Steinmeyer and Easton have been partners for 43 years, living in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. Architectural Digest called their recent move to Tulsa “impulsive.” In reality, their decision to call Tulsa home had its genesis in an Easter weekend in Tulsa several years ago. Steinmeyer bought a midtown Tulsa house in 2010, anticipating a future move there.
“Change is the most important thing we do in life,” Easton said during an interview at their new Easton-Steinmeyer Brookside studio. “It’s a leap forward into the rest of the world.”
The home Steinmeyer and Easton share is an exquisite two-story building constructed 30 years ago as an example of downsizing possibilities. Its central core resembles a silo tower. Inside, a design treasure blends their love for antiquities with contemporary sensibilities. Easton believes that “architecture should give rhythm to a home. It should be a symphony of design.”
Steinmeyer points to the doorways, their tops accented with antique mirrors or architectural fragments. Marble flooring and the absence of traditional draperies are other style examples distinguishing their home.
The long entry hall gives a garden vista graced with boxwood and ivy. The living room is a seamless blend of traditional antiques and contemporary furnishings, especially chairs. The dining room is a welcoming half-moon shape Steinmeyer finds perfect for entertaining guests. And the kitchen? A streamlined beauty of ashwood cabinetry.
The kitchen features ashwood cabinetry along with modern appliances.
The couple brought their collection of china, silver, linens and books to Tulsa as well as their collection of stone statuary.
Throughout their home, accessories resembling globes and astrological instruments are consistent themes. For years, they have collected stone statuary and polished antiques. They also brought to Tulsa their collection of china, silver, linens and treasured books.
The most notable change they made was covering the brick walls of the two-story library and staircase with pale gray Venetian plaster. This library is the heart of their home and office. Both contain treasured books, especially Timeless Elegance: The Houses of David Easton.
For Steinmeyer and Easton, their Tulsa pied-á-terre is a perfect setting that encompasses their love for exceptional design and gracious entertaining. Most importantly, it reflects their global perspective as world travelers who now love coming home from those travels to Tulsa.
Jimmy Steinmeyer
For Jimmy Steinmeyer, moving back to Tulsa is like coming full circle. A native Tulsan, he graduated from Edison High School and then Drury College. He might have stayed in Tulsa had he not been encouraged by Betty Conheim to move to New York, attend Pratt School of Design and pursue his art career.
Photo by Nathan Harmon.
At the same time, Conheim, owner of the Carlin Shop, arranged for Steinmeyer to work with Karl Springer, a furniture designer in New York. In 1975, while still working for Springer, he met legendary architect and designer David Easton, and these amiable partners have been together ever since.
You might say the rest is history.
After Steinmeyer left Springer, he worked with designer Kevin McNamara. “He saw that I had the ability to draw and do architectural renderings,” Steinmeyer notes. “From then on, I concentrated on renderings for designers.” His work has been featured in London, Paris, Sydney, Australia galleries and the National Academy in New York.
Devotees of the late Charles Faudree will remember the beautiful renderings featured in Faudree’s first book on French Country design. Steinmeyer and Faudree were lifelong friends and he has remained close with Faudree’s sister, Francie, and her husband Dale Gillman.
Steinmeyer has used Gillman’s talent to design several custom tables for the new Easton-Steinmeyer Studio at 1311 E. 35th St. Steinmeyer’s talents as an artist and interior designer are evident in the recently refurbished dining room at Southern Hills Country Club, the first phase of the club house renovation by Steinmeyer.
“I never thought I would move back home,” Steinmeyer says. “But Tulsa is a beautiful place to live.”
The move required some paring down, he admitted. “We knew we wanted a studio/showroom in Tulsa and we asked Peter Walter to find us a place,” Steinmeyer notes. Now they are Brookside neighbors.
“Coming home to Tulsa really is full circle,” Steinmeyer says. The strategic move was New York City’s loss and Tulsa’s immense gain.
Over the past few months, we asked our readers to help us figure out which companies in the state are the best at what they do, and after thousands of votes, we’ve figured it out. On the following pages, you’ll find a comprehensive list of everything our readers love and took the time to vote for – whether it’s an aesthetician, artist, salon or surgeon. You’ll see where our readers go to relax, eat, get fit, invest and everything in between. There are many excellent people and companies in Oklahoma, but only a select few have been deemed The Best of the Best by our readers.
Artist
Looking at an artist’s work allows us to see into their brilliant minds, and many Oklahomans experiment with art, creating impressive results. New American realism painter P.S. Gordon is Claremore born, and his stunning watercolor art has been sold in exhibits in New York City and across the United States. For vibrant hyperrealism, Otto Duecker is the artist to watch, and Cynthia Brown is an abstract painter who is always experimenting with the media on her canvas.
Greg Burns in Oklahoma City redefines artistry by holding his paintbrush in his mouth due a joint condition – and the results are striking prints made with dedication. DesmondMason retired from the NBA in 2010, but he has wasted no time jumping into the art scene with his original paintings. And for a taste of the modern West in a figurative style, make sure to check out RyanCunningham.
Oklahomans have big hearts, so coming together to help those in need is a no-brainer. In Tulsa, Carnivale benefits the Mental Health Association of Oklahoma, and the evening includes entertainment, drinks and dining, all to support a wonderful cause. For a live to tirection, bands, and a night of delight, make sure to attend the PaintedPonyBall, which benefits the Children’s Hospital Foundation at Saint Francis. The RedRibbonGala supports Tulsa CARES, and the entire night is spent raising money for less fortunate families.
Plenty of charity events can be found in Oklahoma City, like the RenaissanceBall, which benefits the Oklahoma City Museum of Art – the evening includes cocktails, dinner and dancing. The BootsandBallgownsGala has a Western flair and a lively raffle, and the proceeds go to Infant Crisis Services, Inc. And don’t miss the anticipated Red Tie Night that supports the Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund and includes live and silent auctions.
James Shrader of Palace Café, Best Chef (Tulsa).
Chef
The chef at any restaurant is the cornerstone and heart of the eatery. JamesShrader of Palace Café is the mastermind behind their delectable Creole-inspired seafood. You have JustinThompson to thank for Juniper’s American fare, along with other restaurants in Tulsa like Prhyme and 624 Kitchen & Catering. For delicious French cuisine, TimInman of Stonehorse Café is the chef to beat, and TuckCurren of Biga knows hearty Italian better than anyone.
KurtFleischfresser is the heart and soul of Vast in Oklahoma City. RobertBlack leads A Good Egg Dining Group as culinary director and oversees such restaurants as The Drake, Cheever’s Café and Red Primesteak. And BruceRinehart of Rococo knows seafood and East Coast dining like no one else.
CEO
Leading a business as a CEO means hiring brilliant people, leading well and inspiring confidence. Jake Henry Jr. has directed the Saint Francis Health System since 2002 and continues to make Saint Francis a reliable and outstanding place to go for medical care. For structurally sound assembly in the traffic control, utility, lighting and communication industries, PhilAlbert of Pelco Structural LLC is as dependable as they come. And Steve Bradshaw has been with Bank of Oklahoma since 1991 and CEO since 2014, so no one knows the company better than he does.
In Oklahoma City, DavidGreen of Hobby Lobby oversees 600 locations, all while ensuring a quality experience for each customer. ChuckSpicer has led one of Oklahoma’s largest healthcare systems, OU Medical Center, since 2013 and has continually improved an already excellent system. Phase 2 is a software development company spearheaded by Mark Towler, who believes open communication and honesty are keys to running a successful business.
Company to Work For
A great company is staffed with happy employees excited about coming in to work every day. In Tulsa, Cherokee Nation Businesses support their own by creating lasting jobs and investing in local citizens. ONEOK may be one of the biggest companies in its field, but every voice counts. Dating back to 1896, Manhattan Construction focuses on hard work done right, and the Saint Francis Health System staffs its halls with the highest-qualified doctors, nurses and technicians.
In Oklahoma City, the OU Medical Center makes sure their staff members are cheerful and well-equipped so they can better serve their patients. The Chickasaw Nation believes in the strength and reliability of their citizens, and from that trust springs abundance. You won’t find an unhappy employee at Cox Communications, and American Fidelity Assurance Co. started from humble roots but now employs over 1,600 content people.
Local Icon/Landmark
Every city has a distinctive culture, and along with that culture comes iconic landmarks that residents need to see. The Golden Driller is the fourth-tallest statue in the United States, and you can find it right in the heart of Tulsa. The perfect spot for a concert is the BOKCenter, which seats more than 19,000 people and never fails to impress. And ONEOK Field is home to plenty of baseball games with the best fireworks shows in town.
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum honors those who lost their lives in the 1995 tragedy. The Devon Energy Center is 50 stories of beautiful, modern architecture, and the Chesapeake Energy Arena hosts highly anticipated Thunder games and plenty of other exciting events.
Local Radio Personality
It’s easy to get attached to the voices we hear every day on the radio, and these local personalities are a cut above the rest. In Tulsa, listeners tune in to 1430 KTBZ to hear ChrisPlank keep it real with sports and more. Mike&Heather from 94.9 WOLX wake Tulsans up with fun games like the Brain Strain to get the morning going. And there’s always great conversation and chemistry between Bud & Broadway on 106.1 KTGX.
For excellent radio entertainment in Oklahoma City, tune in to 96.9 KQOB to hear Jack & Ron, who have been in the business for over 20 years. Another favorite duo in Oklahoma City is Joey & Heather, who you can hear on 98.9 KYIS. And Ronnie Kaye from 92.5 KOMA has been entertaining for years and knows exactly how to impress on the radio.
Local TV Personality
A friendly face to deliver your TV news every morning is a must-have. For the best in Tulsa, people tune in to see award-winning Karen Larsen on KJRH, Channel 2. The “Oklahoma Traveler” is Scott Thompson, who has been with KOTV, Channel 6 for over 25 years. Also on KOTV, Channel 6 is LeAnne Taylor, who wakes up Tulsans every weekday morning.
LindaCavanaugh for KFOR, Channel 4 in Oklahoma City gets to the heart of stories with her tough investigation and passion. For breaking news and evening newscasts, Oklahoma City residents look to Paul Folger on KOCO, Channel 5. And for dependable forecasts, tune in to KFOR, Channel 4 to watch chief meteorologist MikeMorgan.
Meteorologist
The only consistent thing about Oklahoma weather is that it’s ever changing, and meteorologists around the state have the tough job of reporting that to their residents. Tulsans trust TravisMeyer from KOTV, Channel 6, who has over 30 years of experience. BrettAnthony from KJRH, Channel 2 is an Emmy-winning weathercaster who has been chasing storms for 20 years. And MikeCollier from KTUL, Channel 8 is a Tulsa native, so he understands how fickle Oklahoma weather can be.
DamonLane from the Oklahoma City station KOCO, Channel 5 holds the highest-level certification from the nation’s top association for broadcast meteorologists, so he’s a man you can trust. DavidPayne of KWTV, Channel 9 has been giving Oklahoma City residents their weekday morning and noon updates on the weather for over a decade, and MikeMorgan has been with KFOR, Channel 4 since 1993 and has fostered a passion for meteorology his entire life.
Tulsa Ballet, Best Performing Arts Organization (Tulsa) –Photo courtesy Tulsa Ballet.
Performing Arts Organization
Tulsa’s premiere ballet company is TulsaBallet, and their performances range from classics like The Nutcracker to contemporary pieces choreographed by main company dancers. The TulsaPerformingArtsCenter hosts a slew of Broadway shows, local productions and more in their four main theaters. Celebrity Attractions in Tulsa has been bringing national tours to Oklahoma since 1983, presenting a wide variety of entertaining shows for all ages. And be sure to go to TulsaOpera for shows that will make your heart sing.
The Oklahoma City Ballet impresses with its visually stunning pieces like A Midsummer Night’s Dream. For a place with a more relaxed atmosphere, go to SoonerTheatre in Norman to see local and touring shows or even take a class if you’re inclined. And LyricTheatre in Oklahoma City has a wide selection of shows to watch, from The Wizard of Oz to Dreamgirls.
Small Town
Oklahoma may have excellent metropolitan areas, but it’s nice to get lost in some of the state’s smaller and more rustic cities. In the Tulsa metro, Jenks is a popular destination with the Riverwalk, Oklahoma Aquarium and shopping stops. Bixby is an ever-growing city and the host of the BBQ’n Blues Festival, and Owasso has a historical museum, excellent food and entertaining block parties.
Stillwater is the home of the OSU Cowboys, so make sure to stop in on game day if you’re a fan. The picturesque town of Duncan is just 60 miles east of the Wichita Mountains National Wild Life Refuge, and Guthrie has interesting architecture from the 19th and 20th centuries.
Lake Hefner, Best place to view an oklahoma Sunset (OKC).
View an Oklahoma Sunset
Ask anyone and they’ll agree: Oklahoma has the loveliest sunsets, and some locations around the state have the optimum view. The SummitClub in Tulsa is located on the top floors of the Bank of America Center, offering stunning views of the city. The RiverParks provide plenty of trails to exercise while watching the sun go down, and of course, sitting in a boat on GrandLake as dusk falls isn’t too shabby, either.
For Oklahoma City residents, LakeHefner is the ideal spot to sit and enjoy the end of the day. In Grady County you’ll find a gorgeous summit called RedHill that will take your breath away, or you can relax and observe at DevonEnergyCenter.
[dropcap]Summertime[/dropcap] has arrived and brings with it all the wonderful things we enjoy: splashing in the pool, vacations, slower schedules and warm weather. Staying hydrated may not rank very high on your list of things to do this summer, but as the temperature marches up the thermometer, keeping a glass of water close may not be a bad idea.
Our bodies need water. According to Amy Ray, a nurse practitioner from St. John Clinic Family Medical Care, we need proper hydration to do everything from maintain our body temperature and lubricate our joints to keep other important organs such as heart, lungs, brain and kidneys working properly.
“Water gives us energy, helps maintain healthy skin and keeps our minds sharp,” she says.
While staying hydrated is important year round and for everyone – we are all approximately 60 percent water, after all – the summer sweats out a few additional reasons to watch the water intake.
[pullquote]Eating more fruits and vegetables can supplement your fluid intake while providing you with needed nutrients”[/pullquote]“More heat equals more sweat,” Ray says. As we sweat under the summer sun, we are losing vital moisture which needs replacement. And for those of you going on vacations, high mountain regions and dry climates increase the need for water, according to Ray.
We’ve probably all heard the importance of drinking eight glasses of water every day. Ray agrees with this advice.
“On average, individuals should drink 48 to 64 ounces of water daily,” she says. That’s about six to eight glasses. However, she cautions that it is important to know your health status and to work with your doctor, as there are conditions that require individuals to restrict fluids.
But more important than counting glasses of water is watching for the symptoms of proper hydration. “When we are properly hydrated, we feel good,” says Ray. She mentions that with proper hydration your mouth, eyes and nasal passages will be moist, you will have a need to urinate regularly and urine will be clear or pale yellow. You will also have more energy.
“Healthy skin and an effective immune system are signs of a properly hydrated body,” Ray says. “Other signs can include a reduction in headaches, increased energy and even weight loss.”
Signs of dehydration need to be addressed immediately and, if ignored, can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke in the hot Oklahoma sun.
“Thirst is usually one of the first signs of dehydration,” Ray says. And while nothing truly replaces water in ensuring proper hydration, adding lemon, lime or orange slices to your water can add some flavor without any added sugar or sodium.
“Eating more fruits and vegetables can supplement your fluid intake while providing you with needed nutrients,” Ray says. She also mentions things like chicken and beef broth, applesauce, popsicles and yogurt as ways to improve hydration, but she cautions that they also have a lot of salt and sugar.
So don’t let a lack of water take the fun out of the season for you. Keep hydration on your to-do list this summer and fill up your water bottle before heading out for lots of hot weather fun.
[dropcap]Santa[/dropcap] Fe, New Mexico is a destination to consider if you want to retreat to one of America’s treasures of natural landscape. Some tourists are particularly drawn to the quietness of Santa Fe, because even the stroll through the main plaza is relaxing. The restaurants, cafes and boutiques are charming. Local artisans display their handicrafts and jewelry. A personal recommendation is to spend time on a sun-soaked restaurant balcony with a view below of the people sauntering through the plaza. When you’re not at the art galleries or beautiful chapels of the plaza, you can enjoy the restful “retreat” at a home in the hills or at a hotel and spa, depending on your preference and accommodations.
Fresh chili peppers are a staple of new mexico cuisine and available in many dishes served by santa fe restaurants.The miraculous spiral staircase at loretto chapel . Photo courtesy of William Cushman / Shutterstock.com
Restaurants and Cafes
Eat lunch at The Shed (sfshed.com) or Cafe Pasqual’s (pasquals.com), both famous for their ambiance and Mexican food. Cafe Pasqual’s is especially known for its organic and fresh cuisine.
For an authentic Santa Fe experience, have dinner at Sena Plaza at the restaurant La Casa Sena (lacasasena.com). The outside patio is illuminated and sets the tone for a divine meal under the stars.
The best surprise of all is discovering Canyon Road. Don’t miss this picturesque half-mile street full of art galleries and cafes. There are approximately 250 galleries in just a two-square-mile area and nearly 100 are located right on Canyon Road.
Santa Fe’s oldest restaurant, El Farol (elfarolsf.com), is also located on Canyon Road. People salsa dance in the bar, but for even more excitement, go to the flamenco show in the back courtyard. The mural on the wall inside is gorgeous, which makes for a truly colorful and sensational ambiance. The menu is also impressive and delectable. Dining at El Faro is a perfect way to spend the evening on Canyon Road.
Activities and Attractions
Daily walks are refreshing in the moderate Santa Fe climate. The sagebrush everywhere is fragrant and energizing.
Santa Fe is not just for art lovers, foodies and fashionistas. If you are adventurous or athletic, the area offers opportunities for rafting, paddle boarding, windsurfing, sailing, waterskiing and powerboating.
The Loretto Chapel houses the famous “miraculous” spiral staircase which is an architectural mystery. Another beautiful house of worship is the St. Francis Cathedral, built in the 1800s, which combines French-Romanesque, adobe and modern architectural styles. The exhibits found in the New Mexico History Museum and Palace of the Governors span from prehistoric to modern artifacts. A unique feature is the presence of Native American artisans in front of the museum selling their handmade jewelry.
Lodging
There are many beautiful hotels and villas in Sante Fe, but if you want to be right in the center of it all, La Fonda on the Plaza (lafondasantafe.com) is the perfect place to stay.
The Inn and Spa at Loretto, luxuriously designed in the Pueblo Indian architecture style, is located next door to the historic Loretto Chapel. It’s well-known for using indigenous herbs and minerals for its spa treatments. The Canyon Road arts district and historic plaza are just an easy stroll away.
Pueblo-revival style architecture is common in santa fe and makes for a popular tourist attraction.
The Lodge at Santa Fe is a moderately priced hotel and also offers stunning views.
Lastly, Santa Fe is a city of trivia and factoids. Did you know Santa Fe is the oldest capital city in North America and also has the highest elevation? There are also 40 festivals each year ranging from wine and food to jazz and art. There are 14 major museums. And here’s an enticing fact: there are 300 plus days of sunshine per year!
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol Marine Enforcement Division helps enforce boating safety laws.
Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
[dropcap]With[/dropcap] over 200 lakes and more than one million surface acres of water, it is no surprise that boating is a popular pastime for Oklahomans. Whether you are relaxing on the sparkling waters of Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees or boating on Lake Eufaula, our state’s largest lake, there are a few important things to know so your summer excursions don’t take a tragic turn.
Lieutenant Mark Brown, the Oklahoma Boating Law administrator and supervisor of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Marine Enforcement Section’s Boating Education Program, shares four simple rules all Oklahomans should follow during their aquatic adventures.
Wear it!
And by it, Lieutenant Brown means a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
“The majority of people who die in boat crashes drown, and most people who drown never intend to be in the water,” Brown shares. “Drowning is one of the most preventable forms of accidental death.
“Saving lives on the water can be as simple as putting on a life jacket. But a life jacket won’t work if you don’t wear it.”
Know before you go.
Just like we do before we get behind the wheel of a car, boating safety must begin prior to hitting the water. In times of crisis, we all fare better if we know what to do and when to do it.
“Statistics show that an educated boater is much safer,” Brown says. “During the past 10 years, over 90 percent of the boat operators in Oklahoma involved in a boating crash have had no boating safety education.”
Just like our roads and highways, our waters have regulations and navigational rules of the road that are meant to help us all be safer. For example, did you know that Oklahoma state law requires all persons between the ages of 12 and 16 years old to complete an approved boating safety course before operating a boat powered by a motor in excess of 10 horsepower, any personal watercraft, or a sailboat 16 feet in length or greater?
The OHP Marine Enforcement Section offers these boating safety classes for free. While the classes are required for young boaters, Brown explains the material is designed with all boaters in mind and takes less than eight hours to complete. In addition to the valuable and potentially life-saving skills taught in the class, boaters also can enjoy a financial perk.
“Many insurance companies offer discounts on boat insurance premiums for families that have completed a boating safety class,” Brown shares.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol Marine Enforcement Division helps enforce boating safety laws. Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
Keep a proper lookout for other boaters and the weather.
Attentive and defensive driving is as important on the water as it is on the road.
“Most boating accidents in Oklahoma are a result of a collision between two vessels,” advises Brown. “Never assume the other boats you encounter know the proper navigation rules.”
While operating a boat has many similarities to driving a land vehicle, boating does present some important differences. Not often do drivers unexpectedly encounter people playing in the road. However, on the water, boat operators need to keep a close eye out for swimmers, skiers and others in the water.
“Boat operators should focus on safely operating their boat and avoid distractions such as texting and driving,” Brown says.
As any Oklahoman is well aware, our weather can be volatile and can change quickly. So it is extremely important to be weather aware, especially when on the water.
“Check weather forecasts throughout the day when you are at the lake and allow plenty of time to get off the lake if bad weather is predicted,” advises Brown.
Water and alcohol don’t mix.
This advice really doesn’t need much explanation to understand the importance. However, on a hot, sunny Oklahoma summer day, a cold drink can be really enticing. But it is just as important to refrain.
“Alcohol and water are a deadly combination,” Brown says. “Alcohol is a depressant, and when combined with the heat and the glare of the sun plus other marine environment stressors such as boat noise and water motion, the effects of alcohol can be intensified.”
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[dropcap]With[/dropcap] over 200 lakes and more than one million surface acres of water, it is no surprise that boating is a popular pastime for Oklahomans. Whether you are relaxing on the sparkling waters of Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees or boating on Lake Eufaula, our state’s largest lake, there are a few important things to know so your summer excursions don’t take a tragic turn.