Issuu

N OV E M B E R 2 02 1

F O O D + B E V E R AG E LO CAL S SHARE T H EI R B ES T FA M I LY RECI PES S P O R T S + R E C R E ATI O N E ARN YO U R D IVI N G C ER T I FI CAT I O N RI G H T I N O K L AH O M A LI F E + C U LTU R E PIVO T C O N N EC T S YO U T H WI T H O KC PD

Giving Thanks!

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OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

Jimmy Darden | jimmy.darden@lifestylepubs.com 405-541-5650

Thankfulness In Every Day! WITH THANKSGIVING QUICKLY APPROACHING, WE FIND OURSELVES GIVING THANKS FOR SO MUCH IN OUR LIFE. The last year and a half was incredibly challenging, yet we still have so much to be thankful for.

MANAGING EDITOR

Heide Brandes | heide.brandes@lifestylepubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER

Shannon Hudzinski | shannon.hudzinski@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers

Despite all we have lost and the challenges we faced, we can still find it in our hearts

L AYO UT DESIGNER

to gather with the people we love and appreciate all that we have overcome.

Sara Minor

During Thanksgiving, the kitchen becomes a focal point in a home. Our cover features a warm and inviting kitchen

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Sharpe, Peter Levinson

Our gorgeous cover shot by Eric Price features a lovely redesign of a family kitchen by Urban Kitchens of Oklahoma City. You can see even more photos of this beautiful functional kitchen on Urban Kitchen's website at urbankitchensokc.com. The luscious countertops are from Countertops by Castle Rock. See all their selections at castlerockcountertops.com. In this issue, you'll find some recipes from familiar faces around town. I don't know about you, but I'm definitely trying Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell's Chicken and Dumpling Recipe! The desserts, which take up most of the story, also look tempting and irresistable. We love featuring organizations who are doing good in our community. This month, our writer Jennifer Sharpe takes a deep look at PIVOT, which connects youth in the community with the Oklahoma City Police Department.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

One local entrepreneur is taking the bite out of finding answers to your dentistry

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

questions with a new app. Easy to use and effective, the Pocket Dentist connects

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

you with experts in the field on all things teeth!

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

We also tackle a tough subject this month. Every day, people take their own lives, and

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

although its hard to talk about, one organization is facing this troubling issue head on.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Last, but not least, did you know you can earn your underwater diving certification right here in Oklahoma? Peter Levinson has all the information on Frank's Underwater Sports' diving instruction. As always, we are thankful for YOU, the reader. We are honored and humbled that you are spending time with us this month, and remember, if you have any events or

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great stories that need to be told, reach out to us today. Happy Thanksgiving! Heide Brandes, Managing Editor

ON THE COVER This gorgeous kitchen

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

was designed by Urban Kitchens with countertops by Castle Rock Countertops of Oklahoma City.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC PRICESTANDING STILL PHOTOGRAPHY 6

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

Proverbs 3:5-6 OKC Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the OKC area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in OKC Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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Jo Meacham | Owner | Designer Neila Crank-Clements | Partner

405-702-7747

4410 N Western Avenue Oklahoma City, OK 73118 See us on HOUZZ or visit urbankitchensok.com CityLifestyle.com/OKC

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2021

FEATURES 14 Favorite Recipes for Families Local Celebs, Leaders Share Their Favorite Family Recipes

20 The Big "S" Talking About A Hard Subject is Key to Prevention and Saving Lives

22 Pivot OKC and the OKCPD Partnering for the City’s Youth

14 26

26 Scuba Diving Oklahoma Learn to Dive at Frank's Underwater Sports in Edmond

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Experiences

Culinary Creations

26 Local Limelight 30 Lifestyle Calendar 32 Realty Report 34 Locally Owned

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GOOD TIMES

TAP Architecture Hosts 'A Century of Chairs' Exhibition TAP Architecture hosted a special exhibition, "A Century of Chairs" in October to celebrate an intimate collection of rare designer chairs. All ticket sales benefited the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition. The exhibition featured the largest private collection of rare designer chairs in the world, said TAP Architecture's Anthony McDermid.

John Rex Raises Funds in Rocket Fun & Color Run John Rex Charter School hosted its annual Rocket Fun Run and Color Run yesterday. The school successfully raised $35,000 to support McAlpine Center’s renovation and expanded curriculum programs related to the arts, music, fitness and world languages.

1. Show us how you soar! John Rex Charter School elementary students race to the finish line. | 2. Wearing big smiles and bright colors, John Rex students pose for a picture during the Fun Run and Color Run. | 3. John Rex Charter School kicks off the annual Color Run in downtown Oklahoma City. | 4. John Rex Charter School student takes a break from the activities to enjoy a cold treat. | 5. Eager to get started, John Rex Charter School students proudly display their team flag for the Fun Run and Color Run. | 6. Full speed ahead! John Rex students take on the course at the annual Fun Run and Color Run. 10

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

OKC Zoo Celebrates Annual ZOObrew Event Oklahoma City’s wildest party returned with ZOObrew at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Oklahoma beer lovers found themselves in hops heaven during ZOObrew's 13th flavor-packed year on Oct. 1. In conjunction with Byron’s Liquor Warehouse, highlights included unlimited samplings from more than 400 specialty beers lovingly crafted by 40-plus local, regional, and national breweries.

Cryoskin is revolutionizing the market of slimming and toning with the latest technology from Italy. Cryoskin applies sub-zero temperatures to provide non-invasive sessions for slimming, toning, facials and pain management. On average, customers lose an average of 1.85 inches over 5 sessions and many people say they lose 0.5 inch or more in the first session!

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AROUND TOWN

SILVER FLYER TOUR SERVICE MAKES SCISSORTAIL PARK ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE

OKC ZOO ANNOUNCES BIRTH OF 2ND GIRAFFE CALF The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Beginning Friday, September 17, Scissortail

is thrilled to announce another addition to its ani-

Park introduces a new service for guests called

mal family, a giraffe calf born to six-year-old, Julu.

the Silver Flyer. The 20-minute free golf cart tours

First-time mom, Julu, gave birth to a female calf

are intended for seniors and other guests who have

on Wednesday, September 15 at 8:21 a.m. at the

limited mobility and are not able to walk around the

Zoo’s giraffe habitat barn. The yet-to-be-named

36-acre downtown park.

calf is the second to be fathered by four-year-old,

“Our vision to be a place ‘for everyone’ and our

Demetri, and the second calf born at the Zoo this

new Silver Flyer tour service will help us serve

summer following the arrival of Kioni, born on June

seniors and others with mobility issues to better see

3, to mom, Ellie, 21.

and enjoy the Park,” said Maureen Heffernan, CEO

The Zoo’s newest youngster stood up in less

of Scissortail Park and Myriad Botanical Gardens.

than an hour after birth and began nursing shortly

“Our cart tour guides will drive guests around the

after. The calf weighs approximately 130 lbs. and

36-acre site to see all the beautiful gardens, trees,

stands at five-foot-seven. She will continue to

fountains, Promenade, lawns, lake, boathouse,

spend time bonding with Julu and her herd mates

and Union Station. They also will get a view of the

behind the scenes.

Park and city skyline from the SkyDance Bridge."

For more information, visit okczoo.org.

The Silver Flyer can accommodate up to four guests with 20-minute tours available during the day and evening on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. To reserve the Silver Flyer for a specific time and date, guests should visit scissortailpark.org/silverflyer or call 405-493-8301 for assistance.

NEW GUIDE BOOK CELEBRATES THE WEIRD, CRAZY HISTORY OF OKC Reedy Press is pleased to announce the release of our new guidebook, Secret Oklahoma City: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure, by Jeff Provine. This guide to the obscure helps you unlock the city and surrounding area’s most intriguing, entertaining, and arcane surprises. Oklahoma City was called “A City Born Grown” after it went from a population of a handful at Oklahoma Depot to over 10,000 on its first day.

Nathan Bollman and Tiara Levinson are the

Nobody seems to mention how the streets were

Top Producer and Lead Agents at Levinson Real

laid crooked and took 80 years to fix by tearing

Estate. This power couple's work ethic, passion,

up half of downtown and that two rival city gov-

knowledge, and technological mindsets are a

ernments aimed guns at one another until the

few characteristics that make them stand out as

Supreme Court sorted out who was in charge. And

exceptional agents. Tiara, the founder of Elwood Design & Staging,

that was only its first six months! Jeff

has a keen eye for design, and this dynamic duo

Provine has spent more than a decade learning the

also specializes in investing and flipping properties.

lesser-known tales of OKC. Come with him on a

Aside from Real Estate, Nathan & Tiara are avid

tour of the unexpected side of the city.

travelers and craft beer enthusiasts. Visit forsa-

Oklahoma

farm

kid-turned-professor

Secret Oklahoma City: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure is available wherever books are sold. 12

LOCALS NAMED TOP PRODUCER, LEAD AGENT AT LEVINSON REAL ESTATE

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

leokc.com for more information.

LOCAL EXPERIENCES

THANKFUL THIS MONTH, WE CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING, A TIME TO REMIND OURSELVES OF THE BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS WE HAVE IN OUR LIVES. November is an opportunity to spend time with the ones we love during this holiday season and give more of ourselves to those around us.

CAFÉ CRAWL + If you love expansive patios, hand-crafted mimosas and creative brunch dishes, Then Scratch Kitchen & Cocktails in the Paseo is your go-to! 605 Northwest 28th Street Oklahoma City, OK + Tucked away in the parking area of Northpark Mall, Coffee Jerks is a true neighborhood coffee shop with a convenient drive-through. 2820 Nw 122nd St Oklahoma City, OK + Elemental Coffee in Midtown is a local's favorite, not just for the coffee and cool vibe, but for vegan and non-vegan food and fare. 815 N Hudson Ave Oklahoma City, OK + Welcome to downtown Oklahoma City's little coffee shop Clarity Coffee, on Main Street. 431 West Main Street Oklahoma City, OK + Zero Tolerance Coffee coffee and cacao roaster is located in the heart

scan for more city-wide tips

of Old Briton along Route 66. It is veteran-owned and sources from local sources.

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

CULINARY CREATIONS

FAVORITE RECIPES FOR FAMILIES THE

HOLIDAYS

ARE

LOCAL CELEBS, LEADERS SHARE THEIR FAVORITE FAMILY RECIPES

QUICKLY

APPROACHING, AND TRADITIONALLY, IT IS A TIME WHEN FAMILIES COME TOGETHER TO BE GRATEFUL AND SHARE A GIANT MEAL OF FAVORITE FOODS. If you are lacking inspiration this year of what dishes to serve at your family feast, we turned to local notables and leaders for their best recipes! Enjoy!

Chicken & Dumplings

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

FAVORITE

ARTICLE HEIDE BRANDES

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

PINNELL FAMILY CHICKEN & DUMPLINGS by Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell

Cut up the hen and cover with water in a large pot. Salt

and cook slowly for about three hours, uncovered, until tender. Remove from the pot before adding dumplings. DUMPLINGS: + 4 cups of flour Shortening (size of a walnut) + 1 teaspoon 1 ¼ cups of water (to make a soft, stiff dough) Cut flour, salt, and shortening together with a blender or fork. Add water and mix with hands until stiff but soft

enough to roll out flat. Split rollings into two times. Roll out on heavily floured wax paper or pastry cloth until about ¼’’ thick. Cut into pieces and drop, a few at a time, into boiling chicken broth. Turn heat down and cook 15 minutes after all dumpOklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell and family.

lings are in broth. Do not stir the dumplings as soon as you put them in; wait until they are really hot. Stir to keep them from sticking together. Add ½ can of Milnot or Pet evaporated milk and stir well.

MOM'S OYSTER STUFFING by OKC Lifestyle Editor Heide Brandes "Oyster stuffing is my all-time favorite holiday dish. My mother made the best oyster stuffing each Thanksgiving and Christmas, and each year I try to make it in memory of my mom," said Heide. INGREDIENTS: + olive oil + 1/2 cup chopped onion + 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper + 1/2 cup chopped celery + at least 2 tablespoons of chopped garlic (I like more) + 3 cups cubed day-old bread + 2 cups oysters with their liquor + 1 cup chicken broth + 1/4 cup chopped green onions + 2 tablespoons parsley + 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning + Salt and freshly-ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 350º F and grease a medium baking dish. In a large skillet heat, sautee the onion, green pepper and celery in olive oil for about two minutes. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes longer. Lower the heat and gently stir in bread cubes, oysters and their liquor, and broth until moistened. Add green onions, parsley, Creole seasoning, and (optional) hot pepper sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Pour dressing into a baking dish, cover with foil and bake for Mom's Oyster Dressing

30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20 minutes longer, until golden brown and crispy on top.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

FAMILY CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

DESSERT - MEXICAN CHOCOLATE CAKE

by Amber Sharples, executive director of the Oklahoma Arts Council

"This is perfect with coffee and/or whipped cream. It is a unique

dessert to offer as an alternative or in combination with classics such as pumpkin pie," said Amber. CAKE:

+ 1 ½ c. flour

+ 1 c. sugar

+ ½ c. unsweetened cocoa + 2 tsp. cinnamon + 1 tsp. baking soda + ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper or chili powder + 1 c. cold water + ¼ c. canola oil + ¼ tsp. salt + 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar + 1 tsp. Mexican vanilla GLAZE:

Hardy Watkins, Nina Gay Ferguson, Kari Watkins

+ 1 c. confectioner’s sugar + ½ c. unsweetened cocoa

DESSERT - PECAN PIE

+ 6 tbs. water

by Kari Watkins, Executive Director, Oklahoma City Nation-

+ 10 small strawberries

al Memorial & Museum

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 8” pan with cooking spray.

"We love the holidays at our house, but there is never a

Combine all dry ingredients and stir to completely mix. Add all wet

holiday where my Mom didn’t come in bringing her Pecan

ingredients and stir until fully combined. Pour into pan. Bake 25-30

Pie, a gift of her southern roots," said Watkins

minutes. After 30 minutes or more when cooled off, cover cake with

Mom’s Pecan Pie

glaze, leaving some glaze to dip strawberries and place on top of the

+ 1 cup brown sugar (packed)

cake. Lightly sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder on top of cake.

+ 1/2 cup sugar + 1 T flour

Mexican chocolate cake can be a tasty alternative to pumpkin pie.

+ 2 eggs + 2 T milk + 1 t vanilla + 1/2 cup butter melted + 1 cup chopped pecans + Unbaked pie shell Mix first 3 ingredients. Beat in eggs, milk, vanilla and butter. Stir in nuts and pour into shell. Optional: Add whole pecans on top if desired. Bake in moderate oven at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. Cool and serve. Amber Sharples

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

RECIPES

DESSERT - STRAWBERRY CAKE

by Natalie Shirley, President & CEO of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

“Cooking is about bringing family and friends together

to share something special. My dear friend Susan

Wiggins shared this recipe with me, and it has become a favorite of my six children. My children, their families

and I have lunch together on Sundays. I think they love

having lunch with me; I know they love this strawberry cake," said Natalie. Strawberry Cake

+ 1 package white or strawberry cake mix + 1 package strawberry jello + 2 T flour + ½ cup water + ¾ cup Wesson oil + 4 eggs

+ ¾ cup frozen strawberries (Drain the juice off and save for icing)

Mix all ingredients (add strawberries last) Kari Watkins, executive director of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, says her mother brings a perfect pecan pie to every gathering.

Bake 20-30 minutes at 350 degrees, if not done cook 5 minutes more Strawberry Icing + ¼ cup butter + 1 package powdered sugar + Juice from strawberries + Melt butter, add sugar and juice.

Natalie Shirley

Strawberry Cake CityLifestyle.com/OKC

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The

Big “S” TALKING ABOUT A HARD SUBJECT IS KEY TO PREVENTION AND SAVING LIVES ARTICLE JESSICAROSE JOHNSON & HEIDE BRANDES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHILE FOR MOST OF US, THE HOLIDAYS ARE A JOYFUL TIME,

in crisis. If you or anyone you know needs a

FOR OTHERS IT CAN BE A PERIOD OF PAINFUL REFLECTION,

FREE firearm lock, contact JessicaRose.

SADNESS, LONELINESS, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION.

* Call the crisis line. Call and see what

And while suicide may be a scary and emotional word, the issue

the process is like. That way, you know the

needs to be openly talked about—at this and any time of the year—

process for when there is a crisis. Ask the

says JessicaRose Johnson of Rosebud Consulting LLC, who on Nov.

crisis line worker what kind of supports or

15-16, will lead a two-day workshop in suicide intervention skills at

assistance they offer those who call in crisis.

Moore Norman Technology Center’s Straughn Center.

“Everything is a little scary the first time

The Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training is hosted by the Wounded

we do it, so calling when you are in a calm

Warrior Project. Studies show that ASIST participants gain knowledge

state of mind will help you and those around

about suicide, skills to reach out and confidence to help save a life.

you if and when you need to call in the

“‘I’m not a therapist—what is it that I can do?’ I hear this a lot, and there are many things you can do to help save lives,” said JessicaRose.

future,” said JessicaRose. * Be honest with yourself. “Listening to people’s hardest day of their

HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

life is not everyone’s jam, and I get that. I

* TALK about suicide. Say out loud “Are you thinking about suicide?”

have taught many mandatory trainings in my

Embrace the awkward feeling you have and get it out of your system.

life. Do your best to connect them to some-

“Asking directly about suicide to someone who you feel may be

one who is able to listen and talk with them,”

thinking about suicide is the best thing you can do,” JessicaRose says.

JessicaRose said.

“You saying it first takes the pressure off the big scary ‘S’ word.

“Make a three-way phone call with the crisis

It lets the person know they can talk to you. If asking about suicide

line, or if in person, call the crisis line on speaker

can take some pressure of a person in crisis, I think we can all find

phone. Sometimes it’s just being the person to

it somewhere inside us to muster up the courage to say the word.”

start the conversation for the person in crisis.

* Keep things safe to keep those around you safe. Firearms are involved in almost 50% of suicides. “As a firearm owner myself, I know what it means to have something to keep you safe. Shouldn’t the item keeping us safe also be kept safe?” she said. Many studies that show up to 50% of suicides occur within less than 10 minutes of the thought. Something such as a firearm lock or a medication lockbox could be just enough to pause the thoughts of a person 20

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

Remember this is a scary time for them.” * Take a training or attend a talk. Knowledge is power and can save lives. You never know who you will be able to help one day. For more information, to sign up for JessicaRose’s newsletter, or to schedule a training or talk, please visit www.Rosebudcllc.com.

JessicaRose Johnson

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

Terrell Johnson, CIC team lead.

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

A N D

T H E

O K C P D

ORIGINALLY FOUNDED IN 1972 AS YOUTH SERVICES FOR OKLAHOMA COUNTY, THE ORGANIZATION REBRANDED AS PIVOT INC. in 2018. Serving young people under age 24, the campus has two shelters and also

The CIC was created so that once law enforcement came

provides drop-in services such as healthcare, mental health

into contact with the youth, they would bring the youth to

services, substance use treatment, education and employ-

the CIC,” and then the officer could return to serving the

ment assistance.

community. While the goal of the CIC is to return the officer

An often overlooked, yet significantly impactful way that Pivot serves the community is through their collaborations

to patrol within 15 minutes, the average turnaround is currently 8 minutes.

with the Oklahoma City Police Department (OKCPD).

At the CIC, the juvenile undergoes a universal screening

These partnerships include the Community Intervention

to connect the youth with Pivot services. Johnson said that

Center (CIC) and working with Youth Enrichment Services

the CIC is looking for the root cause of why the juvenile

(YES) officers.

committed the crime, saying, “We’re not here to judge you.

The CIC opened in 1997 and is a 24-hour secure holding center for juveniles involved in offenses with the law, mostly misdemeanors, status offenses or runaway situa-

How can we help you?” A heavy emphasis is placed on connecting the youth with services.

tions. It is a collaboration with the City of Oklahoma City,

“Every time I help intake a youth, I ask them if they have

OKCPD and Office of Juvenile Affairs. Last year, the CIC

somebody to talk to. We get quite a few youths that come

served around 1200 youth and, in more typical, non-pan-

through that have lost a loved one,” Johnson said. “Pivot is

demic years, they would serve between 1500 and 1700. A

very diverse, and we are able to reach every kid because we

juvenile’s average stay at the CIC is 12 hours but, in the

look like every kid. We can meet them on every level.”

event that a stay extends 24 hours, the youth is referred to Pivot’s other resources.

Johnson also praised the intense follow-up that his staff invests in every CIC youth. “My staff goes above and

Terrell Johnson, CIC team lead, has been with the orga-

beyond; they do 30, 60 and 90 day follow-up phone calls

nization for 21 years. Before the CIC existed, he explained,

to try and stay engaged with the youth. Every time we call

“if a parent wasn’t home, law enforcement was stuck with

these youth, we are constantly trying to connect them with

the youth, and they weren’t out protecting the community.

services,” he said. CONTINUED >

PARTNERING FOR THE CITY’S YOUTH ARTICLE JENNIFER SHARPE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

PIVOT OKC (CONTINUED)

Johnson, who also coaches middle

the “root of the issue.” She commended

school and AAU basketball, came from

their counseling staff, who work with the

a difficult childhood. “Working at Pivot,

involved youth to ask, “How is it that you

being trauma-informed, has changed my

ended up going down this road? What

whole outlook on life. I was a troubled

services can we provide to you, and/or

youth. My mom kicked me out when I was

your family, to prevent this from occur-

15,” he said, noting that “the best thing my

ring again?”

mom did was kick me out,” because he

The OKCPD and Pivot have enjoyed “a

“wasn’t an angel.” Fortunately, his talent

very positive partnership for years now,”

in sports helped him find success and

Butler said, and that Pivot’s “multitude of

support. “People saw past my behavior

services” helps not only the youth, but

and saw something in me, and that’s what

the entire family. “Being able to partner

I see here at Pivot,” he said. “We look past

with the CIC and Pivot helps get those

the behavior issues because there is a

kids back on the straight and narrow.”

reason behind everyone’s behavior.”

In addition to the CIC, Pivot works

OKCPD Deputy Chief Vashina Butler

closely with YES officers to provide for

praised the CIC’s measures to get to

the needs of youth struggling with school

Last year, the CIC served around 1200 youth and, in more typical, non-pandemic years, they would serve between 1500 and 1700.

Pivot works closely with YES officers to provide for the needs of youth struggling with school attendance.

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

attendance. Formerly considered truancy officers, YES officers are now asking, “What is the cause of these youths to be out of school? Why aren’t they going to school?’” Butler said. YES officers meet school counselors and other administrators, and then with parents so they can deal with the family as a whole unit. To help support the students and YES officers, Pivot provides a pantry, not only for food, but for clothing and other household items as well. “Pivot really enables the police dept to be able to deal with these families on a holistic basis,” said Butler. The YES officers, said Johnson, "have open access to our pantry. The officers pick up these goods and hand-deliver them.” Butler noted that, initially, families were wary about accepting help, concerned about potentially losing their children to the legal system. “You have a lot of these families who initially start out skeptical, but now they’re singing our praises; they’re singing praises for Pivot, for CIC, because they’re offering these services and all of this is free of charge. We are able to get these kids back in school, making positive impacts on their lives and the family as well.”

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CityLifestyle.com/OKC

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Scuba Diving Oklahoma LEARN TO DIVE AT FRANK'S UNDERWATER SPORTS IN EDMOND ARTICLE PETER LEVINSON, OWNER OF LEVINSON REALTY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO AN ALL-INCLUSIVE

Diving would not be in the Family Fortunes' top 100

RESORT THAT OFFERS SCUBA DIVING AS ONE OF

surveys for Oklahoma sports in the world of adventure or

THE EXCURSIONS? For one reason or another,

sports. I was surprised to find out that the third oldest Dive

Diving was always one of those activities I avoided.

Frank's Underwater Sports has been certifying divers

was not confident in learning what would keep me alive

for over 65 years. What started as a quest by Frankie

and safe forty-plus feet underwater in less than an hour.

Sr. to find a way to continue to water ski in the winter

Students learn diving at Frank's Underwater Sports.

Shop in the United States is located in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Not out of fear, but more out of what I rationalized as I

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

months with the then "invention of wet suits" by early dive pioneers such as Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the French naval officer, and Diving innovator, led the founder of Frank's Underwater Sports into the world of diving.

or SSI. Since June 1, 2010, Scuba Schools International has been one

Currently, Frank's Underwater Sports is operated by the 2nd

of the few certifications qualified for a Global ISO Certification.

Generation Frankie and his son, a third-generation Diver. One of my

For those with a busy schedule, such as myself, I was pleased to

company's core values is "We Have Fun," so when I was asked as a

find out that most of the "classroom" education is completed online

member of my to be a part of a private class taught by Frankie Jr, I

or through the SSI App (available on Android or Apple products).

could not say no.

The online material must be completed before you attend class.

The history mentioned above of the Dive Shop took me entirely by

Actual classroom time comprises of two evening classes the take

surprise. Before the course, the enthusiastic Frankie shared with me

place on a Thursday and Friday, followed by a half-day, Saturday class.

the rich history of his dive shop and the sport of Diving. His passion

Each class is split between in-class learning, and then you head over

and excitement are truly contagious.

to a fitness center to utilize their pool for practical dive training.

As a new Diver, you will be put through the Open Water

Suppose you are concerned about the "breathing underwater"

Certification through the Scuba Schools International Certification

experience. Let me tell you, don't be. Believe it or not, it is the furthest

Peter Levinson After completing a series of dives, you receive your Level 1 Dive certification

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

Yes, you can get your diving certification right here in Oklahoma.

Currently, Frank’s Underwater Sports is operated by the 2nd Generation Frankie and his son, a third-generation Diver. thing from your mind as you swim along the bottom of the pool. At

underwater memorials, sunken towns, and a few other underwater

one point, after working through a variety of dive skills,

sites to explore. After completing these dives, you receive your Level

I thought to myself, "Hey, I'm breathing underwater." I must admit,

1 Dive certification.

though, on multiple occasions, the instructor had to give me the

This year, I have two big trips planned; one to the Maldives and

hand signals to surface as I was having too much fun hanging out at

Puerto Rico. Besides the fun in the sun and relaxation, I am excited

the bottom of the pool.

to put my new Dive certification to use. If you are a traveler, let me

After the classroom, pool time, and a 50-question test, Frankie will

share my excitement with you.

schedule a two-day, five-dive session at a local lake. Local, as in one

Do not leave your trip to explore what is above sea level; reach

of Oklahoma or Arkansas lakes. Yes, it is not as grand and exciting as

out, get your dive certification, join me with many other Oklahomans

Diving in Cozumel, Mexico; however, it is part of the certification process.

with their dive certification, and explore the world below the sea on

I must add, though, I was pretty excited to hear that there are a few places to explore underwater between these two states, including 28

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

your travels abroad.

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

NOVEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

THE DINNER DETECTIVE AT THE SKIRVIN

A CHRISTMAS CAROL AT LYRIC THEATRE

OKC PHIL'S THE MUSIC OF BILLY JOEL

America's largest interactive comedy

Oklahoma City

Handpicked

murder mystery dinner theatre show

Closing the year, Oklahoma’s favorite

Broadway’s “Movin’ Out," Michael

is now playing! Solve a hilarious mys-

holiday tradition, Lyric’s A Christmas

Cavanaugh’s smooth and skillful

tery while you feast on a fantastic

Carol, returns for its 11th year November

style will inspire you. This is his

dinner during The Dinner Detective

17 to December 23. In Charles Dickens’

second time performing with the

Nov. 6 at the Skirvin Hotel in down-

timeless tale, three magical ghosts

OKCPHIL and it’s said he rivals the

town Oklahoma City.

whisk the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge

Piano Man (Billy Joel) himself with

The event comes with dinner and

away on an unforgettable adventure

tunes like Piano Man, Uptown Girl

cost is $59.95 a person. Visit thedin-

of transformation and redemption

and New York State of Mind.

nerdetective.com.

Visit okcciviccenter.com for tickets.

The Skirvin Hotel, 1 Park Ave.

Lyric Theatre, 1727 NW 16th St.,

spectacular

production.

Billy

Joel

for

Visit yrictheatreokc.com for tickets.

LOUIS C.K. LIVE

Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker

Six-time

Lyric’s

Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker

Emmy

Award

win-

ner Louis C.K. has released over

OKLAHOMA CITY TREE LIGHTING FESTIVAL

7 THE HANGOVER BRUNCH

OKC Farmers Market, 311 S. Klein Avenue

Featuring dozens of Oklahoma City

Bricktown, Oklahoma City

restaurants, the city's largest brunch

nine stand-up specials. Louis is the

The Oklahoma City Tree Lighting

event returns. The Hangover Brunch

creator, writer, director, and star

Festival will return on November

will be held Nov. 7 at the Farmers

18 at 5 pm in Bricktown.

Market

shows Louie and Horace and Pete. In

The festival, which is free and open

City. This year, a portion of proceeds

January 2015, C.K. became the first

to everyone, will feature a showcase

from every ticket sold will be donated

comedian to sell out Madison Square

of talented and diverse performances

Foundation for OKC Public Schools.

Garden three times for the same tour.

celebrating the season, free family-

For

Visit OKCciviccenter.com for tickets.

friendly activities, photos with Santa

visit hehangoverbrunchokc.com.

the

Peabody

Award-winning

downtown

information

Oklahoma

and

tickets,

Claus, and the traditional countdown

to the lighting of the Christmas tree with Mayor David Holt.

KEN JEONG LIVE

HOT WHEELS MONSTER TRUCKS LIVE

THE HIP HOP NUTCRACKER

Energy Arena, Oklahoma City

Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live is

Ken Jeong has established himself as

A holiday mash-up for the whole

back with more trucks than before!

one of today’s top comedic stars.

family, The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a

This thrilling one-of-a-kind family

Since his feature film debut playing

contemporary dance spectacle set to

entertainment experience is coming

the doctor in Knocked Up in 2007,

Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. A unique

to the Paycom Center in Oklahoma

Jeong has gone on to star in several

and joyful event, this evening-length

City, OK on November 20 & 21.

memorable movie roles such as

production is performed by a super-

The popular family entertainment tour is

the Asian-mobster Mr. Chow in the

charged cast of a dozen all-star danc-

going big in its return with the debut of

sleeper-hit comedy The Hangover.

ers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis

several new faces and three epic trucks!

Visit riverwind.com,

Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers.

Visit paycomcenter.com for tickets.

Riverwind Casino, 1544 State Highway 9, Norman

Known for his scene-stealing abilities, actor, producer, writer and comedian

Visit okcciviccenter.com for tickets. 30

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

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Nourishing Things To Do While Going Through A Divorce Going through a divorce can be a stressful experience. For many, it can feel like their life and the life of their kids are hanging in the balance. The uncertainty can cause lots of clients to feel stressed and overwhelmed. Instead of engaging in unproductive activity, it is important that individuals take positive steps to move forward. Taking positive steps can take an individual’s mind off the divorce and put them in a better place when they have to make decisions in their case. An individual going through a divorce must nourish their mind and soul. For everybody, there may be different ways to do so. However, below are some possibilities: Exercising: Physical activity can often help somebody relax and feel better. Whether jogging, biking, lifting weights, yoga, or other physical activity, getting some exercise can help raise morale and make somebody feel relaxed and energized. Spirituality: Obviously, faith and beliefs are different for everybody. But if you enjoy going to church, a synagogue, mosque or temple, it is crucial to keep that in your schedule. One going

through a divorce may often think about leaning into that more than before and engaging in social gatherings there as well. Having faith and hope in something beyond yourself can help ease your worry. In addition, being around other optimistic individuals with faith can often be helpful. For those who are not religious, it might mean time engaging in yoga, meditating or other relaxation. Friends & Family: Spending time with positive friends and family members can also help an individual get to a better place. Having a support system around in the middle of a divorce is essential. So, do not be afraid to reach out to those that care about you. Hobbies: If there are hobbies an individual enjoys that ease the mind, it can be vital to spend time doing those activities. Whether it’s getting into nature, going to movies, attending sporting events, decorating, cooking or any other hobby or recreational activity, it’s essential to get out and enjoy life. Read and Listen to Podcasts: Books and podcasts can be important for those going through a divorce. This can be particularly true if these books and podcasts are uplifting. The beauty of podcasts is that many of these can be found online for free.

Therapy: A divorce is often a traumatic experience. Those going through a divorce should think long and hard about seeing a therapist to help work through the pain and anguish of a divorce. The best therapists are excellent listeners who can also provide guidance and critical insight. While most know that divorce is conceptually hard, it’s hard to really understand it until one goes through it. For this reason, it is vital to take positive steps and engage in activity that is nourishing. The above examples are just some possibilities for those to consider who are going through a divorce. Indeed other individuals might find different ways to raise their morale during a divorce. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

To schedule a consultation:

855-805-0595

WWW.STANGELAWFIRM.COM The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Stange Law Firm, PC is respsonsible for the content. Principal place of business is 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this article are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

Oklahoma County Office 2601 NW Expressway, Suite 411 W

Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Paid Advertisement

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

REALTY REPORT

OKLAHOMA CITY

NEIGHBORHOOD

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

Golf Club Estates At Oak Tree

$1,695,000

$1,650,000

97%

116

6.3

Nichols Hills Add

$1,650,000

$1,450,000

88%

172

4.1

Gaillardia Residential Communi

$1,575,000

$1,475,000

94%

3.2

Waterstone I

$1,395,000

100%

107

3.1

Nichols Hills Wilshire

$1,385,000

$1,388,000

100%

3.1

Nichols Hills Add

$1,300,000

$1,135,000

87%

5.1

Waterstone I

$1,240,000

100%

4.1

Nichols Hills Add

$1,200,000

$1,050,000

88%

4.1

Gaillardia Residence Com Villas II

$1,195,000

$985,000

82%

155

3.2

Rose Creek Blks 20-22

$1,150,000

$1,070,000

93%

4.1

The Summit II At Oak Tree

$1,100,000

$1,085,000

99%

5.1

University Place Add

$1,000,000

$925,000

93%

2.2

Rose Creek

$965,000

$940,000

97%

4.1

Penshurst

$965,000

$940,000

97%

4.1

Iron Horse Ranch IV

$950,000

$935,000

98%

4.1

Fairview Farm Sec II

$935,000

$925,000

99%

4.1

Rose Creek Blks 20-22

$925,000

$905,000

98%

4.1

Summit II at Oak Tree

$900,000

$859,000

95%

4.1

The Falls

$895,389

$915,000

102%

3.1

Duffners Country Club Sec

$890,000

$870,000

98%

REALTY REPORT

This data is a sampling of sold properties from September 2021. Source: IRES MLS system.

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

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405.787.0111 5609 NW 4th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73127

th e de

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POCKET DENTIST CONNECTS COMMUNITY WITH EXPERTS IN THE DENTAL FIELD

b ou t

Local Dentist Makes It Easy for Patients With Questions

a ns w e r s a to get

er s

E HE IDE BR A

ICL

al l

in d

IDE

tist

T AR

P o c ke t D e n

O PH

G TO

R A P H Y P R OV

al nt

LOCALLY OWNED

POCKET DENTIST, A NEW INTERACTIVE WEBSITE, IS HELPING CONSUMERS ANSWER QUES-

1. Why Did you Create Pocket Dentist?

TIONS ABOUT THE DENTAL INDUSTRY BEFORE THEY HEAD IN FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

There is a wide variety of sites on the Internet with information about dentistry, but

From insurance questions to gum

finding the answer to a specific question can be a challenge. Additionally, any information

issues to teeth cleaning, Pocket

must be personalized and identified with the needs of the user in mind.

Dentist (pocketdentist.co) connects users to an expert in the dental

2. What Kind of Impact Does Pocket Dentist Have For Those Who Have Used It?

industry to answer their questions all free of charge to the user. The website was developed by Oklahoma-based dentist Russell Brorsen and launched in early September 2021 for Oklahoma customers. It will expand to Texas and

In one instance, a user estimates their family saved around $800 after inquiring about a procedure for new crowns that seemed unusually high, especially since they had insurance.

then nationwide. “Pocket

Dentist

decentralizes

expertise. Pocket Dentist quickly and

“I’ve never used Pocket Dentist before, but it was so helpful,” he said. “I signed up

conveniently empowers the user

for free, uploaded my document and within minutes had a breakdown of the situation

with the knowledge they need to

that helped me make a good financial and health decision for my family. The quality

confidently make better decisions,”

of advice was high.”

said Brorsen. “It almost sounds embarrassingly simple - it is simply a

3. What Problem Does This Innovation Solve?

platform that will directly connect you to an expert to answer your question.” Pocket another

Dentist

grows

development

upon

Brorsen

founded - Dental Double Check,

The problem that we’ve been trying to solve is this huge gap between what you can

another online platform that con-

find on the internet and what you get by going to a professional. People have a lot of

nects patients with dentists for

questions, and the internet does a good job of answering a question, but we find that it

second opinions through an online

does a poor job of answering their specific question, Brorsen said.

portal for residents of Oklahoma,

OKC Lifestyle | November 2021

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