Outside, the wind is howling and the leaves are flying off the trees in a colorful blizzard. The first true cold snap of the season is on the way (and two hours overdue according to the forecasts, but I’ll cut the meteorologists some slack – can’t win ’em all). It was 80 degrees today, and I’ve got my flip-flops lined up next to my fleece slippers in preparation for the 60-degree temperature drop we’re expecting tonight. Ahhh, Oklahoma. You are so weird and wonderful.
By the time you read this in print, we’ll probably be finishing up turkey leftovers, anticipating Christmas and maybe even bracing for some snow – fingers crossed! After an extended mild fall, it looks like winter is really on the way.
Cold temperatures are not a reason to dampen enthusiasm for the arts, though. Writer Sean Becker explores the local music scene in his feature article “The Sound of Music in the Metro.” Perfect for relaxing and just hanging out on a chilly night, local music venues are filled with talent to spare just about every weekend.
Also in this issue, we meet some amazing volunteers who have dedicated themselves to advocating for children during the most difficult times. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) partner with children wending their way through the court system in an effort to supplement the state’s resources, with the ultimate goal of championing each child’s best interests. Celebrating 25 years of advocacy, Oklahoma County CASA is an organization that takes child welfare seriously. Learn about the process and consider volunteering yourself – it could make all the difference in a child’s life, not to mention your own.
Award-winning author and photographer M.J. Alexander has taken to the road again, and this time has focused on the incredibly intricate stained glass windows gracing houses of worship throughout our state. Home to such varied themes and subjects as history, prominent state figures, hymns, biblical stories and Native Americans, the breadth of diversity in our state is reflected in these works of art. It’s an impressively broad field of creative endeavor.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all!
