Issuu

D E C E M B E R 2 02 1

The Holiday Season!

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OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER

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

The Holidays Are Upon Us! MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM OUR FAMILY HERE AT OKC LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE TO YOURS! This time of year is among our favorite, and we have a lot to be thankful for this

MANAGING EDITOR

Heide Brandes | heide.brandes@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kirstan Lanier

year. We are thankful for YOU - our readers - our advertisers, our supporters and

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

our community.

Jennifer Sharpe, Tracy Ann Miller

In this special holiday issue, you'll find a lot of information that helps your holiday season be even merrier. We've compiled a local's only gift guide that features many of OKC's small businesses. Not only will you have gift ideas that are unique and thoughtful, you'll be supporting your neighbors and friends in their small businesses. If you are like us, we adore all the holiday shows, We have a round up of holiday performances you can't miss - from the OKC Ballet's The Nutcracker and Lyric Theatre's A Christmas Carol to Handel's Messiah and even the rocking TransSiberian Orchestra's annual Christmas Show. Go out and enjoy these amazing performances with your family. We are all familiar with The Salvation Army's Red Kettle each Christmas season, but this organization does so much more than ring the bells. Read all about The Angel Tree program, which ensures that all children and seniors have a Merry Christmas too. A new experience is coming to RIVERSPORT this year. Winter Glow is a new winter fun experience that includes skiing and snowboarding, indoor climbing, s'mores and

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

hot chocolate and SANTA! The annual Holiday River Parade also returns to the

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Oklahoma River, and I don't know about you, but I'm excited to be a RIVERSPORT

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

season pass holder!

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

Lastly, end-of-year means getting your finances in order. Top financial advisor Tracy

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Ann Miller has a round up of all the financial organization you should consider as

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

2021 comes to an end. From all of us here at OKC Lifestyle to you - MERRY CHRISTMAS and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR! 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Heide Brandes, Managing Editor

ON THE COVER The OKC Ballet

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

dancers featured are DaYoung Jung, principal, and Alejandro González, soloist, performing “The Nutcracker.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHEVAUN WILLIAMS 8

OKC Lifestyle | December 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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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2021 FEATURES 18 Start your YearEnd Financial Goal Planning Now Tracy Ann Miller of Miller Private Wealth Shares End-of-Year Financial Planning Tips

21 Holiday Shows in Oklahoma City Get Into the Spirit of the Holidays With These Festive Productions

26 Making Holiday Dreams Come True The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Program Ensures All Children Have Happy Holidays

21 26

28 OKC’s Local Gift Guide Find the perfect gift from these neighborhood shops!

18 DEPARTMENTS

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Experience

Inspired By

Financial Buzz

Local Limelight

24 Our Town 26 Giving Back 28 Local’s Choice 30 Trend Setter 32 Realty Report 34 Lifestyle Calendar

Casady School’s Portrait of a Graduate is more than just a portrait. It’s a journey - a road map around and through the experience of every graduate.

I THRIVE. I live a life of balance, purpose, and joy. I HONOR. I LEARN. I ENGAGE. I INNOVATE. I SERVE.

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GOOD TIMES 1.

OKCMOA Celebrates Annual ARTonTAP Fundraiser The Oklahoma City Museum of Art held its annual ARTonTAP event on Oct. 23, celebrating its 17th year of the event. Attendees were able to sample more than 80 varieties of beer, enjoy local food trucks, and hear live music by The Broadcasters, presented by Linda and Steve Slawson. A chalk art demonstration by Elisha Gallegos was included.

1. The Broadcasters perform at ARTonTAP. | 2. Chalk artist Elisha Gallegos creates a design. | 3. ARTonTAP attendees sample beer and bites. | 4. More than 80 beers were showcased at the event. | 5. ARTonTAP is an annual fundraiser for OKCMOA. | 6. The ARTonTAP event was held Oct. 23.

My vision is to be able to bring out the beauty of all that surrounds us from the big to the small. I believe it is all valuable and serves a purpose. I am an avid nature lover as I feel we can recalibrate our souls away from the stressors of life away in the woods. I travel across our beautiful state to try and capture all the beauty it provides. The images I capture can only be deciphered by the viewer and that is what I love about what I am able to do. I can be contacted through email, phone, or Facebook messenger about any prints you need or anything you would want me to capture specially for you! I will travel as well.

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OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

AROUND TOWN

ARCHWELL HEALTH TO OPEN 3 OKC CENTERS FOR SENIORS Senior adults in Oklahoma City will soon have access to three innovative primary care health centers focused on meeting the needs of the medically underserved. ArchWell Health is a new healthcare company providing an advanced model of holistic primary healthcare services to Medicare-eligible seniors with the Oklahoma City-area locations among the first in a planned national rollout. The initial Oklahoma City area center to open is located at 4629 NW 23rd (Windsor) in Oklahoma City and at the ArchWell Health center located at

LEVINSON REAL ESTATE TEAM MEMBERS USE SUCCESS TO TRAVEL Rhonda and Shaun Ford are top real estate professionals on Levinson Real Estate Team. Real estate has enriched their lives from crushing personal goals to traveling worldwide to toprated bucket list destinations. The Ford's just returned from The Maldives, where people go to experience the island life at

7313 S. Western Ave. in Oklahoma City. The third center was scheduled to open at 6951 Southeast 15th Street in Midwest City in November. The Oklahoma City area centers are among the first in the United States to be opened by ArchWell Health. The company will be opening centers in several states this fall.

METRO LIBRARY OFFERS EXPERIENCE PASSES

its most relaxed with astonishing views. They are

Did you know that you can use your

passionate about helping clients navigate the mar-

Metropolitan Library System card to check out a

ket while providing the best client experience, even

pass to visit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art,

when they are on the other side of the world.

the Oklahoma History Center and it’s affiliates or

OKC ADDS 100K MORE RESIDENTS, ACCORDING TO U.S. CENSUS

even Skeletons: The Museum of Osteology? Experience Passes can be checked out from any of the Metropolitan libraries and includes a

The United States Census Bureau released data

voucher for free admission for up to five people

from the 2020 U.S. Census revealing that the city of

for the OKCMOA and the Oklahoma History

Oklahoma City was one of just 14 cities nationwide

Center. Skeletons: The Museum of Osteology

to add more than 100,000 people from 2010 to 2020.

Experience Pass includes a voucher for free

Oklahoma City saw a 17.4% increase in its popu-

admission for two adults and two children. Each

lation from 579,999 residents to 681,054 residents

pass can be checked out for 7 days.

over that time period, placing it as the 22nd largest

Availability can be checked by calling the

city in the U.S. Five of the 14 cities that gained more

library at 405-231-8650. If a pass is available, it

than 100,000 residents were from Texas: Austin,

must be picked up within 2 hours.

Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. The others were spread out across the country, including Charlotte, N.C.; Columbus, Ohio; Denver; Jacksonville, Fla; Los Angeles; New York City; Phoenix; and Seattle. The 2020 Census also showed that the U.S. had the slowest 10-year population growth rate since the Great Depression at 7.4%; however, Oklahoma

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would

is part of the fastest-growing region in the country

love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.

– the South – which experienced a 10.2% change in

com/OKC using the Get In Touch link and let us

population from 2010 to 2020.

know what you think. CityLifestyle.com/OKC

LOCAL EXPERIENCE

WINTER AND REVEL WINTER IS A TIME TO ENJOY FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHILE USHERING IN THE SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON. Whether you are enjoying one of the many festive activities our city has to offer or spending time with loved ones, the memories made will be cherished.

THINGS TO DO IN WINTER + Automobile Alley: The holiday lights of OKC are free so don't miss the vibrant light displays along Automobile Alley starting November 21 with Lights on Broadway. 211 N Robinson Ave Ste N225 Oklahoma City, Ok + Myriad Botanical Gardens: Skate in downtown OKC! The Devon Ice Rink at Myriad Botanical Gardens will be open to the public for outdoor ice skating. 301 W Reno Ave Oklahoma City, Ok + Midtown Mutts Dog Park: The Midtown Holiday Pop-Up Shops, a can't-miss holiday shopping experience, returns to Midtown with rotating shops through Dec. 20. 407 West Park Place Oklahoma City, OK + Bass Pro: Visit the free Santa Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops for a Wonderland experience with free family holiday activities including crafts kits. 200 Bass Pro Dr Oklahoma City, OK + Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark: Opening Night Celebration at the Bricktown Ballpark has fun for the whole family and ends at the midnight fireworks extravaganza located at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. 2 South Mickey Mantle Drive Oklahoma City, OK 14

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

scan for more city-wide tips

Inheritance and the Perils of Commingling Inheritance is an event that eventually happens in the life of many. When a family member becomes deceased, or even a close friend, an individual may inherit a piece of their deceased family member’s or friend’s estate. The inheritance can be through the probate process in probate court where a Last Will and Testament existed. In other instances, there might be a non-probate transfer of inheritance. This can come by way of life insurance or other assets, like bank accounts, that have payable on death or transfer on death designations. With real estate, there might even be a beneficiary deed. When that is the case, the transfer of real estate can happen outside of the probate court. No matter the circumstances, inheritance is almost always treated as separate property in a divorce. Thus, if one spouse received the inheritance alone, in the case of divorce, they would ordinarily get this inheritance free from any claims of their spouse. There is a common scenario, however, that can blur these lines. The

common scenario involves the commingling of the separate inheritance with marital property. Take an instance where a party inherits liquid funds — either through a probate or non-probate transfer. Instead of putting this inheritance in a bank account in their name alone, what some parties do is place the inheritance in a marital bank account that also has their spouse’s name on it along with marital money. When this is the case, commingling has occurred. By commingling, it means that the separate inheritance has been mixed with marital money. When that takes place, many family courts will treat all the money in the marital bank account, including the separate inheritance, as marital property. Further, when the bank account has both spouse’s names on it, many family courts will also consider this marital property under the doctrine of transmutation. Transmutation is where separate property is treated as a donated gift to the marital estate because it was placed in a jointly titled account or, in the case of real estate, the inherited property is placed in the name of both spouses by a subsequent deed.

For parties who are receiving the inheritance, and they wish to keep that inheritance their separate property in the case of a divorce, it is vital to speak with an attorney before receiving these funds or property. Not commingling and/or transmuting the assets in the first place can be critical. In cases where commingling has occurred, it might be possible to hire a forensic accountant in some cases to trace the separate property from the marital property, although in many cases, the damage might already have been done. 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.

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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.

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INSPIRED BY ARTICLE BY PETER LEVINSON, LEVINSON REALTY PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED

presence over presents

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PRESENTS DON’T COME WRAPPED UNDER A TREE

IT WAS THE CHRISTMAS SEASON OF

As we sat in our living discussing what

2006. My wife, Tara, and I worked our way

to buy our loved ones, we came up empty.

through local malls and other holiday shop-

Everything we thought of just seemed point-

ping destinations. Amazon Shopping wasn’t

less and a “no need” for the person in question.

an easy thing yet, and one had to embrace

As I mentioned, we do not like to buy useless

the crowds, long lines, and awful parking to

gifts for people.

go shopping. At the day’s end, our hunt to find

I asked my wife, “On average, how much do

gifts had bared no fruit, and we returned home

we spend on our kids every year.? She gave

with no presents.

me a number. “And how much do we spend

Before venturing out, we asked our two girls,

on gifts, in general, each year?” She gave me

who were 13 and 11 at the time, to make us a list

another number. I was more curious about how

of what they wanted for Christmas. Surprisingly

much we spent each year doing something we

we received no list that year, and they both felt

both do not enjoy doing, shopping.

like they had everything they needed, which left us at a loss.

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

Tara thought, “What if we went somewhere for Christmas?” We started looking

My wife and I prefer not to buy gifts for people

up last-minute destinations for Christmas. In

if they do not need them. I once received two

2006, it was only about $650 a person to travel

George Foreman Grills as Christmas gifts, and

to an all-inclusive resort in Cozumel, Mexico.

they stayed in the boxes until we remodeled

Hurricane Wilma hit Cozumel in October of

our kitchen years later. One day, we discovered

that year, and only a handful of resorts were

them pushed to the back of a pantry shelf.

back open.

We told our loved ones that we were traveling for Christmas that year, gave them the details of where we were going and how much it was, and invited them to join us. That year, no one joined us, and our kids complained, and some thought we had lost the Christmas Spirit. We told our kids it wasn’t about the gifts they received. Christmas is a season of great joy, and it is a time to celebrate God’s ultimate gift: the birth of Jesus. And that does not come in a box wrapped under a tree. After the trip, our kids said it was the best Christmas ever. We snorkeled, saw sharks, ate delicious food, and danced the night away as other guests sang terrible karaoke. Our family and friends wished they had joined us after seeing our photos and hearing adventures. We travel every year for Christmas. Some will join us every year, and others alternate between staying home to visit family. Tara finds a fantastic house somewhere and lets everyone know the cost per room. We have traveled to top-rated bucket list destinations like the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. We saw monkeys in our Christmas tree in Costa Rica and Christmas in Paris. We’ve experienced cruises, skied the Rockies, watched dolphins in Key West, drank mojitos at the Havana Club in Cuba, and so many more. Here is my advice to you. Give the gift of presence over presents. You will find there is no better gift than the gift of being together and living life with those you love. Love. Work. Travel. Repeat.

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FINANCIAL BUZZ

WHEN YOU WORK WITH TRACY ANN MILLER,

transfer in the advanced products division of Aegon

YOU’RE NOT TREATED LIKE A CLIENT, YOU

Insurance Group and serving as vice president of

ARE TREATED LIKE FAMILY. “My clients know I’m

Charles Schwab’s Private Client group.

dependable and that I’ll be there for them,” says the

Tracy

Ann

co-founded

Portfolio

Wealth

financial planner. “I want them to be able to sleep

Advisors and founded her own firm Miller Private

well at night and know they are securing a better

Wealth because she wanted to work more closely

future for themselves.”

with her clients.

Tracy Ann is CEO and founder of Miller Private

“I wanted to work directly with families and

Wealth in Oklahoma City and serves the Mid-West

individuals to help solve their financial planning

United States as a Fiduciary Advisor.

problems,” she says. “Being an independent advisor

Tracy Ann’s history in financial management

allows me to work for my clients, not for a company.

includes serving as vice president of a major New

I’m able to build better relationships with clients and

York bank, managing estate planning and wealth

meet more of their needs, as a result.”

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

TRACY ANN MILLER OF MILLER PRIVATE WEALTH SHARES END-OF-YEAR FINANCIAL PLANNING TIPS

START YOUR YE AR- E ND FINANCIAL GOAL PL ANNING NOW ARTICLE BY TRACY ANN MILLER, CEO OF MILLER PRIVATE WEALTH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED

WHAT SEEMED LIKE A TIME WARP WITH THE PANDEMIC HAS NOW TURNED INTO

RETHINK PRIORITIES Like pretty much everyone else I know, the pandemic

THE END OF TWO YEARS LATER! December

has changed my view on what’s important in life going

already! Perhaps this past two years had you

forward. For example, if you do need to consider home-

thinking about your priorities and how they may

buying perhaps redirecting the 401(k) contributions being

have changed. Now is a good time to plan around

made above the employer match into a brokerage account

old and new goals to ensure that 12 months from

will help have funds you can access for a down payment.

now we are further ahead.

Evaluate your asset flexibility and liquidity.

Evaluating financial habits now will make it easier to build new and effective outcomes in 2022. Here are some thoughts to get you started.

SAVE MORE If you were fortunate enough to remain employed through the past two years, you may not have had to think about your savings. One thing is certain, however. People with savings have more options. The thought that you don’t have even one dollar at month

Tracy Ann Miller

end to save is not true. One action item for year-end is to take your credit card and bank statements and go through them and meticulously rank every expenditure as either essential or discretionary. Add them up and go through them again to see just where you could reallocate some discretionary spending to an investment account. Label the account “investing now for a better financial future.” 03

ASSESS ROTH CONVERSION Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA is popular this year if you expect higher taxes in the future and/or want to accelerate income in a year with lower tax rates. You may want to consider a partial conversion, because under current legislation, income tax brackets revert to higher tax brackets in 2026. Other reasons for a Roth conversion are: you have a long investment time frame for the tax-free earnings to grow, or the ability to pay the tax cost of the conversion with non-retirement funds; you want to mitigate effects of the Secure Act, which requires any non-spouse beneficiary to deplete an inherited account in 10 years. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

FINANCIAL BUZZ (CONTINUED)

CONSIDER GIVING MORE OR DIFFERENTLY. As a result of the Cares Act of 2020 and a legislative

REVIEW MILESTONE RETIREMENT AGES The Secure Act, enacted in December of 2019, changed

extension for 2021, you can make a cash charitable deduc-

retirement rules to strengthen your retirement security.

tion of up to 100% (previously 60%) of your adjusted gross

Among the key changes is required minimum distributions

income and claim it as a charitable deduction if you item-

begin at age 72 versus 70 1/2. Note: The House Ways and

ize your taxes. For taxpayers who contribute more than

Means Committee introduced a Secure Act 2.0 in October

their annual limit, the excess is not lost but can be carried

and among the possible changes to the law is increas-

forward up to five years.

ing the RMD beginning at age 75 and allowing a higher

Engage your next generation. Philanthropy can be a

catch-up contribution limit starting at age 60.

powerful way for families to pass on their shared beliefs and values. Giving together can be a bonding experience for family members of all generations.

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OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

holiday shows in oklahoma city

A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS

A Magical Cirque Christmas comes to Oklahoma City on Wednesday, Dec. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall. Show host Lucy Darling guides guests through an evening of variety with amazing circus acts and spectacular performances, featuring the America’s Got Talent duo Transcend. Dazzling effects and beautiful costumes showcase the talent, along with live holiday

GET INTO THE SPIRIT OF THE HOLIDAYS WITH THESE FESTIVE PRODUCTIONS ARTICLE BY JENNIFER SHARPE PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED

music performed during the show.

Canterbury Voices joins with the OKC Philharmonic to present Handel’s Messiah, a Baroque-period oratorio. The show will be held on Dec. 5 at 7:00 p.m. at the Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre at the Civic Center Music Hall.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED) OKC PHILHARMONIC: THE CHRISTMAS SHOW

LYRIC THEATER’S “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”

The Harn Homestead will again host Lyric’s A Christmas Carol from Nov. 17 to Dec. 23. This is the 11th year of Lyric’s

At 8 p.m. Dec. 3 and at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Dec. 4, this popular

retelling of the timeless Charles Dickens’ tale, which is

holiday event returns after taking last year off. The Broadway-

being offered for the second year as an immersive produc-

style production features singers, dancers, beautiful costumes,

tion at the historic Harn Homestead. All performances will

Broadway Star Rachel York plus a special visit from Santa.

be held outdoors, with no seating, and requires patrons to

With music from the OKC Philharmonic and the OK Pops

walk from scene to scene during the 75-minute production.

Chorale, the production was created by Music Director Emeritus

There is a limit of 200 patrons per performance.

Joel Levine with Lyn Cramer as director and choreographer.

Credit: Whitney Cross Moore, Director of Development & Communications

Recommended for ages 5 and up, this creative interpretation features the creatures that inhabit Ebenezer Scrooge’s office in their own tale of Christmas eve redemption. An overworked worker ant, fluttering moth, overacting spider, singing squirrel and seafaring mouse all join together to teach Mr. Scrooge the true meaning of friendship and family. Shows will be at noon on Dec. 5, Dec. 18 and Dec. 19.

OKLAHOMA CHILDREN’S THEATER: BAH, HUMBUG

OKC BALLET “THE NUTCRACKER” Celebrating 50 years as a company, OKC Ballet will again offer The Nutcracker, presented by Devon Energy. The show, which is also now in its 50th year, features the OKC Philharmonic and a special collaboration with Canterbury Voices. There will be family activities in the lobby prior to each performance, including the Nutcracker Boutique and commemorative photo booth. The Nutcracker Tea event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 18, where guests can meet their favorite characters from the show. The show will run December 11-19 for a total of eight performances. 22

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY: CHRISTMAS VESPERS

TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns on Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Paycom Center, celebrating 25 years with their 2021 show: Christmas Eve and Other Stories.

More than 250 choral singers and orchestral musicians

TSO, with more than 10 million albums sold, has inspired gen-

will join forces for Oklahoma City University’s 39th Annual

erations of fans to embrace their multi-dimensional art form of

Christmas Vespers concert at Oklahoma City First Presbyterian

the rock opera. Billboard magazine named TSO as one of the

Church, 1001 NW 25th Street on Friday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. and

top touring artists of the past decade -- a $20 million-plus pro-

Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m. General seating tickets are $15.

duction that has performed for more than 100 million people in

A musical prelude begins 30 minutes prior to each performance, which encompasses scripture, poetry and congregational singing of favorite carols.

80+ cities, selling more than $280 million worth of tickets and presenting $11 million to charity. Concerts feature giant video screens, a pyrotechnics display and lasers. Composed of four original members, the group’s touring lineup consists of entire string sections, dozens of extra

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

musicians and choirs as they combine classic rock with elements of classical music, heavy metal and just about anything else.

More than 120 students from Oklahoma City University’s Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment will take the stage at the Kirkpatrick Auditorium for Home for the Holidays from Dec. 5 through Dec. 8. Showtimes are 8:00 p.m. on Dec. 5, 6 and 7. A 2:00 p.m. matinee will be available on Dec. 7 and Dec. 8. All seats are $29. The annual Broadway-style extravaganza captures the spirit of the season with high-energy numbers, colorful costumes and a Nativity of Christ’s birth.

Whether you want to see results in your fitness journey quicker, finally see a change in that stubborn area, improve your skins appearance or find medication free pain relief; CryoSkin at Live Well 360 is here for you.

Don’t wait for the New Year to start your transformation. Get started now with an additional 10% Off any Package. Includes CryoFacials, CryoSlimming, CryoToning and Localized CryoTherapy Exp 1/6/2022

To book an appointment today, call us at 405-245-3422 | LiveWell360.us CityLifestyle.com/OKC

ARTICLE BY KATY CHAMNESS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED

NEW WINTER EXPERIENCE COMES TO RIVERSPORT OKC

OUR TOWN

Winter Glow Winter Glow features four climbing experiences.

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

Skiing and snowboarding are part of RIVERSPORT's Winter Glow.

WINTER GLOW RUNS THROUGH SUNDAY, JANUARY 9 WINTER GLOW IS COMING TO RIVERSPORT FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

Winter Glow is included in RIVERSPORT season member-

This new winter experience includes ice skating, curling, climbing, ski-

ships and day passes are available: $19.99 for adults, $9.99 for

ing and snowboarding, plus hot chocolate, s’mores, firepits, holiday

ages 12 and younger, and $4.99 for spectators. The Winter Glow

lights and Santa on Saturdays.

pass includes skiing, ice skating, curling and climbing. All gear

RIVERSPORT’s new synthetic ice rink and curling courts offer a total

is provided with the pass.

ice experience without ice. Winter Glow will also feature four indoor

On Saturday, Dec. 4, the Holiday River Parade returns to the

climbing experiences – a cavern wall, leap of faith, adventure climb, speed

Oklahoma River. The annual community event wasn’t held in 2020,

wall – and a simulated ice climbing, all decorated in a holiday theme.

but this year will see the return of skiing elves, decorated boats spar-

Winter Glow runs through Sunday, January 9.

kling on the Oklahoma River and more!

The Holiday River Parade is held Dec. 4.

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

GIVING BACK

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER SHARPE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PROVIDED

D O I N G TH E 26

mak ing holiday dreams come true

The Salvation Army Bellringers are a common sight around the holidays.

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

SINCE 1979, THE ANGEL TREE PROGRAM HAS BEEN A PROMINENT PART OF THE SALVATION ARMY’S CHRISTMAS SUPPORT EFFORTS. Angel Tree was started in Lynchburg, Virginia, by Majors Charles and Shirley White, who continued the program there for three years until they moved to Nashville, Tennessee. In 1982, they launched an Angel Tree in Nashville, which attracted significant local and national publicity, prompting nationwide growth. Today, the Angel Tree program can be found in cities throughout the country. The Angel Tree program is just one facet of The Salvation Army’s Christmas generosity, which also

business, small groups, churches and civic organiza-

includes the famous Red Kettles.

tions with children from families in need or seniors

“The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program of

who have been especially hard hit by rising inflation.”

Central Oklahoma is a wonderful opportunity for The

Sponsors are provided with a needs/wish list for

Salvation Army to partner with community donors

each person, and the sponsors then purchase appro-

to enable families in our community to have a spe-

priate gifts for the child or senior angel. In 2020, more

cial Christmas despite their current circumstances,”

than 3000 individuals received gifts as a result of the

said Major Paula Powell, Central Oklahoma Area

generosity of those who adopted Angels. A total of

Commander and Angel Tree Coordinator for The

5382 gifts were distributed.

Salvation Army. “The annual program matches local

“There are so many individuals who have their own Angel Tree memory, either as a recipient during a difficult time or as a donor who may have been

Volunteers bring bags of Angel Tree gifts out to families.

far from family, an empty nester or perhaps honoring the memory of a loved one during the holiday season,” said Major Powell. “It is always so inspiring to listen to their stories as to how the Angel Tree blesses and changes lives.” “In 2021, we believe that the need is going to be significant,” said Major Powell. “This has been a year of financial uncertainty for so many. Due to the COVID19 pandemic, Oklahomans have faced loss of income, financial insecurity, and social and economic burdens. These same families, who are struggling to meet the day-to-day finances, question how they will provide gifts for their children at Christmas." Many seniors are also struggling to meet basic needs that are outpacing their fixed incomes, he added. For more information, visit salvationarmyokcac.org.

MOST GOOD

THE SALVATION ARMY’S ANGEL TREE PROGRAM ENSURES ALL HAVE HAPPY HOLIDAYS

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

LOCAL’S CHOICE

OKC’S OKC’S LOCAL LOCAL FIND THE PERFECT GIFT FROM THESE NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPS!

SKYDANCE BREWING COMPANY For the beer lover in the family, pick up a six-pack from Skydance Brewing Company, OKC’s first Native American owned craft brewery. Visit skydancebrewing.com.

TIN LIZZIE’S Toddlers and school kids will love the hip fashion from Tin Lizzie’s in Automobile Alley. Tin Lizzie’s has tons of unique gifts for kids, but also for the adults in your family. Visit tinlizziesokc.com. TI N LIZZI ESOKC .COM

SK YDANCEB RE WI NG .COM

APMEX

GIFT GIFT

FRANK’S UNDERWATER SPORTS

APMEX is a leader in the precious metals industry, and the company’s holiday gift guide offers a variety of collectible coins in gold and silver, as well as bars and rounds of various sizes and values, like this 2021 1 oz. Gold Eagle. Visit apmex. com/the-holiday-shop. APM E X .COM / TH E - HOLI DAY- SHOP

GUIDE GUIDE

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

For the adventurer in your life, underwater scuba diving lessons are a surprise gift that will thrill the thrill seeker. Frank’s Underwater Sports offers diving classes and certifications right here in the metro. Visit franksunderwatersports.com. FR AN KSUN DERWATERSP ORTS .COM

ARTICLE BY HEIDE BRANDES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

OKLAHOMA CONTEMPORARY’S STUDIO SCHOOL For the artist, the gift of classes at Oklahoma Contemporary’s Studio School is sure to be a hit. Studio School offers courses a variety of media to meet all interests and schedule. Visit oklahomacontemporary.org for upcoming classes and workshops. OKL AHOMACONTEM P OR ARY.ORG

You can never go wrong with a gift of high-quality olive oil. The Oil Tree in OKC offers up Ultra-Premium, Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Beautifully Aged Balsamic Vinegars & Gourmet Groceries. Visit theoiltree.com.

Give the chef of the house a big gift this year with new kitchen makeover from Urban Kitchens OKC. The experts provide full-service remodeling to make kitchens look their best. Visit urbankitchensokc.com.

URBAN KITCHENS OKC

THE OIL TREE

TH EOI LTREE.COM URBAN KITCH ENSOKC .COM

B.C. CLARK You can never go wrong with classic jewelry as a gift, like these pearl drop earrings from B.C. Clark. Visit BCClark.com for these and other quality jewelry gifts for men and women. BCCL ARK .COM

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

TREND SETTER

Gratefully

ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

GIVING AWAY AFTER A SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN LAST YEAR, LIFESTYLE PUBLICATIONS IS GIVING $300,000 TO RECIPIENTS IN NEED THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON AND BEYOND... AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!

ABOUT SIX YEARS AGO ANNA SAROL, THE DAUGHTER OF A SINGLE MOTHER, WAS PARALYZED IN A GYMNASTICS ACCIDENT WHEN SHE WAS A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, BUT UNTIL LAST YEAR SHE DID NOT HAVE A STAIRLIFT IN HER HOME. The stairlift was made possible when Lifestyle Publications gave her family $10,000. “I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my

“I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my family and I are.” —Anna Sarol

family and I are,” Anna says. The money for Anna’s stairlift was part of a giveaway campaign from the company during the 2020 Christmas season that benefited more than 80 recipients across the country with a final distribution of $250,000 throughout the year. When the company opened nominations, they were flooded with submissions. Community leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you nominated people that were in need of assistance. As the eyes and ears of the community, these readers were able to help identify people who might have

Anna Sarol

otherwise gone unnoticed or unrecognized. One such nominee was Kathy*, an aunt who is raising her three young relatives. The children came from an abusive situation, and Kathy, a single guardian, works tirelessly to provide for them. Nevertheless, the family was already living in poverty despite her working seven days a week when Kathy lost her job during the pandemic. She resorted to selling tamales to help pay the rent. When a case manager with a Big Brothers Big Sisters foster youth mentoring program heard about Lifestyle’s campaign and call for nominations, she quickly thought of Kathy. “When I shared the news that Kathy was selected and would be receiving $3,000, she cried, screamed, and was in disbelief,” the case manager said. “She immediately wanted to give back to me and the donor by providing endless tamales. This funding allowed the children to have a small Christmas tree for the first time ever. Kathy was able to pay her rent and utilities for three months, and the children were able to experience a holiday season in peace without financial stressors.” In yet another case, Emily* who worked as a janitor at a school, was a recipient and was struggling to afford simply buying groceries for her children. Before the ongoing difficulties of the pandemic even started, a tornado destroyed the school she worked at just a couple weeks before the initial shutdown in March 2020 which resulted in a loss of income for her. Emily was incredibly surprised and grateful to receive assistance from the giveaway. *Names changed for privacy

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GIVE AWAY $3OO,OOO This year the company will have nominations for the giveaway open from December 1-15, 2021. To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. The leaders of Lifestyle Publications believe God has blessed them with their company’s continued success, so they in turn wish to be a blessing and encouragement to others as they increase the amount of this year’s giveaway to those in need to $300,000 for the year.

Nominate HERE! Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram

CityLifestyle.com/OKC

REALTY REPORT

OKLAHOMA CITY

NEIGHBORHOOD

REALTY REPORT

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

Unplatted Private Estate

$2,200,000.00

100%

5.3

Deer Creek Township

$2,450,000.00

$2,200,000.00

90%

7.2

Gaillardia Residence Community Sec V

$2,400,000.00

$2,199,375.00

92%

234

6.1

Rose Creek

$2,100,000.00

$2,040,000.00

97%

132

6.3

Quo Vadis

$1,990,000.00

$2,000,000.00

101%

4.3

Nichols Hills Add

$1,850,000.00

$1,750,000.00

95%

4.1

unplatted

$1,739,000.00

$1,700,000.00

98%

5.1

Nichols Hills Addition

$1,725,000.00

$1,700,000.00

99%

3.1

Danforth Hills #4

$1,625,000.00

100%

5.2

Oakdale Farm II

$1,700,000.00

$1,575,000.00

93%

4.2

Unpltd Pt Sec 02 12n 3w

$1,595,000.00

$1,545,000.00

97%

118

4.1

Nichols Hills Wilshire

$1,295,000.00

$1,250,000.00

97%

4.1

Villagio At Deer Creek I Repla

$1,400,000.00

$1,198,000.00

86%

Mulholland II

$1,275,000.00

$1,175,000.00

92%

4.2

Winans Highland Terrace

$1,150,000.00

$1,130,000.00

98%

124

3.2

Villagio At Deer Creek I Repla

$1,200,000.00

$1,115,000.00

93%

133

5.1

Rose Creek Blks 26-29 Tall Gra

$1,250,000.00

$1,100,000.00

88%

5.1

Penshurst

$1,295,000.00

$1,100,000.00

85%

3.3

Hidden Lake

$1,100,000.00

$1,075,000.00

98%

3.1

Pravada

$1,025,000.00

$1,055,000.00

103%

3.1

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

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

(405) 514-4780

www.renaissancecaststone.com

We are experienced cast stone manufacturers and installers with many beautifully completed projects. We create timeless beauty indoors and outdoors. We can make any custom cast stone feature: ▪ Fireplace mantels ▪ Fountains ▪ Patios ▪ Balustrades ▪ Outdoor kitchens ▪ Kitchen hoods ▪ Planters ▪ Pavers ▪ Custom Feature Walls ▪ Arches ▪ Entries and window sills ▪ Ceilings ▪ Interior and exterior stairs ▪ Burnished Block ▪ Columns ▪ Mailboxes ▪ Signs ▪ Decorative features

2135 SW 19th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73108 office@renaissancecaststone.com www.renaissancecaststone.com

(405) 514-4780

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

(TSO) is celebrating 25 years of

follow Charles Dickens’ timeless tale

Christmas Eve and Other Stories.

of transformation and redemption as

OKC PHIL'S A CLASSIC CHRISTMAS SHOW

Their 2021 Winter Tour returns with a

they are guided from scene to scene.

stop in Oklahoma City on Wednesday,

Visit lyrictheatreokc.com.

December 8 at 7:30 pm.

Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker

OKC Philharmonic

Visit paycomcenter.com.

A Classics

Christmas show will be held Dec. 3 and 4 at Civic Center Music Hall. Featuring Christmas and holiday clas-

OPENING NIGHT FINALE 5K Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark,

HOLIDAY POP UP SHOPS IN MIDTOWN

2 Mickey Mantle Drive

Midtown, 10th and Hudson

runners of all ages can join in a Finale

Holiday Pop-Up Shops in Midtown

5K. Registrants receive a limited edition

at 10th & Hudson Ave., features local

Finale 5K Shirt and a finisher’s medal.

rotating shops and an urban tree

The event starts at the Chickasaw

FREE OKC PARKS FISHING DERBY

lot benefiting Bishop John Carroll

Bricktown Ballpark, 2 Mickey Mantle Dr,.

School. The shops are free to attend

For more information, visit artscouncil

Route 66 Park Ampitheater

and are open on Saturday and Sunday

okc.com/opening-night/opening-

9901 NW 23rd St, Yukon, OK

through Dec. 19.

night-finale-5k

OKC BALLET'S "THE NUTCRACKER"

OPENING NIGHT CELEBRATION

All will be merry and bright as Oklahoma

2 Mickey Mantle Drive

City’s favorite holiday production, The

Ring in the New Year at OKC’s largest

Nutcracker, fills the Civic Center in a

family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebra-

warm glow this December. Tchaikovsky’s

tion, Opening Night 2022 presented by

HANDEL'S MESSIAH

familiar score and Artistic Director

Midfirst Bank, Inasmuch Foundation,

sics, the show features OKC PHIL and Rachel York performing. For information or tickets, visit okcphil.org.

Before Opening Night festivities begin,

Children and families are invited to explore fishing with the free OKC Parks Fishing Derby. Guests will be allowed to fish and visit the booths at their own discretion. While the event is being held, guests will not need a state fishing license or city fishing permit.

Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker

Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark,

Robert Mills’ delightful staging come

and Gardner Tanenbaum. Wristbands

Civic Center Music Hall, 201 N. Walker

together as Clara and the Nutcracker

cost just $8 and grant access to live

A musical rite of the holiday season,

Prince journey to adventurous places

entertainment throughout the evening.

Canterbury Voices presents Handel’s

beyond anyone’s wildest dreams.

This includes music, mural competition,

Baroque-period oratorio Messiah. One

For

of the most beloved holiday traditions,

OKCballet.org.

information

and

tickets,

visit

it begins with the phrase “Comfort ye my people. In a year when people need comfort more than ever, Canterbury Voices joins with the OKC Philharmonic, bringing to life this beloved masterpiece. Visit https://canterburyokc.com.

and a children’s area with the themed hands-on art projects. Visit artscouncilokc.com/opening-

night/opening-night-finale-5k

LYRIC THEATRE'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Harn Homstead, 1721 N Lincoln Blvd,

Lyric Theatre's "A Christmas Carol"

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

running through Dec. 23, at the Harn

Would you like to get in touch with us?

Homestead. The venue be reimagined

We would love to hear from you! Contact

as the Victorian Era setting for Ebenezer

us at CityLifestyle.com/OKC using the

rock

Scrooge, Jacob Marley and a host of

Get In Touch link and let us know what

Orchestra

unforgettable characters. Patrons will

you think.

is a 75-minute outdoor production

Paycom Center, 100 W. Reno

Multi-platinum, group 34

progressive

Trans-Siberian

OKC Lifestyle | December 2021

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