Only in OKlahoma Show

I’m not going to grill you with a bad steak pun, and that is rare for me. Today we are discussing The Oaks Steakhouse located in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Include The Oaks Steakhouse on your next outdoor adventure in Broken Bow. For over 20 years, this restaurant has provided hearty food, welcoming service and a cozy, rustic atmosphere to campers and travelers. Beyond the restaurant’s premium steak offerings, diners can enjoy a variety of dishes like fried fish with hushpuppies, burgers and plenty of dessert options. Little ones can partake in a children’s menu serving everything from popcorn shrimp to grilled cheese. The quaint decor and home-cooked flavors of The Oaks Steakhouse are sure to entice hungry passersby looking for a great meal. Broken Bow is a nature lover’s dream. As the home of Beavers Bend State Park, this city in southeast Oklahoma is a popular destination year-round. Take part in the many activities that one of Oklahoma’s top state parks offers, like fishing in the Lower Mountain Fork River, boating on Broken Bow Lake and horseback riding or hiking along the David Boren Hiking Trail. Relax and rent a room at the Lakeview Lodge at Beavers Bend State Park, or go backcountry camping in the Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area. Go bird watching for over 300 bird species at the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area and explore the creeks of the Little River National Wildlife Refuge. With plenty of opportunities to get out on the water in canoes and kayaks, Broken Bow is a place to take in the beautiful scenery and have an adventure in the great outdoors. Visit the Gardner Mansion & Museum, the 1884 home to a Choctaw chief, or sip a glass of wine at Girls Gone Wine. Spend some time taking in local culture at the annual Kiamichi Owa-Chito Festival of the Forest, held annually in June. Nestled between the Kiamichi and Ouachita Mountains, Broken Bow is an oasis of rich historical sites, nature and beauty with something for every interest. Chandler Ice Cream Festival News Story from USA Today. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

I recently taught my daughter the definition of bargain She said, “thanks dad that means a great deal!” Today we are discussing the Tulsa Flea Market in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Explore 50,000 square feet filled with antiques and collectibles at the Tulsa Flea Market. A favorite event for antique and vintage collectors since 1972, this massive flea market is sure to hold something that catches your eye. Head to Tulsa Expo Square and browse the diverse range of memorabilia, vintage goods and crafts for sale from indoor vendors. Whether looking for rare records, handmade jewelry, special books or primitive furniture, be sure to peruse the offerings at the Tulsa Flea Market and see what discoveries await. Visit Tulsa, Oklahoma's second-largest city, where Southern comfort and cosmopolitan style converge. A town enriched by its oil heritage, Tulsa boasts world-class cultural attractions, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and Gilcrease Museum. The city stands tall with its magnificent art deco treasures, Route 66 gems and the Cesar Pelli-designed BOK Center — a state-of-the-art venue for national concerts and sporting events. Tulsa's lively entertainment districts feature eateries, shopping and gaming, while the Tulsa music scene is the star of the state. Family fun also prevails in T-Town, home of the highly-rated Tulsa Zoo, while the city's Arkansas River trails and outdoor recreation areas offer outdoor respites from all the urban excitement. Tulsa offers a fabulous array of cultural amenities including the acclaimed Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera, Tulsa Symphony Orchestra and other programs of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Theater-going opportunities abound around town, and the music scene pulses with sound from diverse genres, ranging from country and western to indie rock and punk. Be sure to catch a concert at the famous Cain's Ballroom or Tulsa Theater, too. A multitude of annual festivals and events like the Tulsa International Mayfest, Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa and ScotFest celebrate Tulsa's culture and heritage, adding to the long list of things to do in Tulsa. Discover unique facets of Tulsa's personality by visiting the many vibrant districts within the city. Anchored by the historic Blue Dome building, the Blue Dome Entertainment District is home to nightlife hot spots, hip restaurants and live entertainment. Visit the Brookside District for unique shopping experiences, upscale dining and plenty of nightlife options. The Tulsa Arts District features historic buildings that have been brought back to prominence via art galleries, theaters, restaurants, bars and dance clubs. For antique shopping, local and regional art galleries and more than 20 top local restaurants, visit the Cherry Street District in the northern midtown area of Tulsa. Flea Market Depot Tulsa Punk Rock Flea Market News Story from KJRH News. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

How did the burger propose to his girlfriend? With an onion ring. Today we are discussing Sun Cattle Company in OKC, Oklahoma. Dig into an iconic Oklahoma delicacy when you visit Sun Cattle Co. in Oklahoma City. Sun Cattle takes Oklahoma beef and grills it in delicious, fresh onions to create their onion burgers, one of the state's most famous dishes. Additional burger topping options include hash browns, bacon, coney slaw, pimento cheese and many more. Pair your juicy burger with sides such as fries, onion rings, tater crowns or fried pickles. If you're not in a burger mood, dig into additional menu items like steak nuggets, Frito chili pie, coneys and corn dogs. Pair your choice with a drink from the full-service bar to complete the full Sun Cattle Co. dining experience. Named one of the Best Places to Visit by Frommer’s Travel and Travel + Leisure, Oklahoma City offers all of the culture, cuisine, attractions and amenities you’d expect in a modern metropolis. And with its rugged Western past, working stockyards and title as “Horse Show Capital of the World,” it’s rich in cowboy culture, as well. From family fun to romantic retreats to outdoor adventures you won’t find anywhere else, Oklahoma City has plenty of hustle without all the hassle. News Story from the Oklahoman. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Mind your own biscuits and life will be gravy! Today we are discussing the Community Cafe in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. https://www.facebook.com/communitycafe2018 On the outskirts of Pauls Valley, open from 6:30am to 4pm Monday through Saturday, you can find one of the homiest restaurants around. From the eclectic décor to the friendly staff, you will be impressed with this hidden gem. If you are in need of home cooked country cooking, that your grandma would endorse, then you have to try Community Café in Pauls Valley. The small town of Pauls Valley could take days to explore. Some journey to Pauls Valley, Oklahoma via the AMTRAK Heartland Flyer passenger train, which stops every morning on its trek from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth, Texas. Near the station, view local history and a 1902 steam engine at the Santa Fe Depot Museum. Let your imagination run wild at the acclaimed Toy & Action Figure Museum, or satisfy your sweet tooth at the Field's Pies factory. News Story from KOKH. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Be careful of robots! They byte! Today we are discussing the FIRST Robotics Competition at the OKC Fairgrounds in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global nonprofit (501(c)(3)) organization that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18 (PreK-12). Their programs are suitable for schools or structured afterschool activities and receive support from a vast network of volunteers, educators, and sponsor/donors, including over 200 Fortune 500 companies. FIRST participants are guided by a signature set of Core Values to conduct research, fundraise, design, build, and showcase their achievements. The thrilling, sports-like challenges build their self-confidence and collaborative problem-solving skills and have a proven and lasting impact on STEM learning and interest. Participants and alumni gain access to education and career discovery opportunities, connections to exclusive scholarships and employers, and a place in the FIRST community for life. October 5, 1907, was a historic day in the young life of the frontier town of Oklahoma City. All attention that day was focused on the opening ceremony of a new institution located a mile east of downtown - the Oklahoma State Fair. From those humble beginnings in 1907, the Oklahoma State Fair has grown to become one of the premier State Fairs in the nation. Named one of the Best Places to Visit by Frommer’s Travel and Travel + Leisure, Oklahoma City offers all of the culture, cuisine, attractions and amenities you’d expect in a modern metropolis. And with its rugged Western past, working stockyards and title as “Horse Show Capital of the World,” it’s rich in cowboy culture, as well. From family fun to romantic retreats to outdoor adventures you won’t find anywhere else, Oklahoma City has plenty of hustle without all the hassle. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Ribs are the reason I could never be a vegetarian! Today we are discussing The Highway 62 BBQ Competition in Nicoma Park, Oklahoma. Help raise money for a great cause while enjoying some of the state's best barbecue at Nicoma Park's annual Highway 62 BBQ Cookoff & Music Festival. Throughout this two-day event, teams of experienced grill masters will compete for the title of barbecue champion with their best brisket, ribs, chicken and small-bite appetizers. In between bites of savory barbecue, enjoy additional attractions like arts and crafts, vendors, inflatables for children and live music. All proceeds from this event will go directly to the Nicoma Park Volunteer Firefighters Association. Enjoy this can't-miss fundraiser full of food and fun for the whole family in Nicoma Park this April. The city Nicoma Park offers a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere with friendly locals, ample outdoor activities and plenty of local businesses to explore. The town is conveniently located just minutes away from both Oklahoma City and Tinker Air Force Base, making it easy to access all the entertainment and amenities the larger cities have to offer. Residents of Nicoma Park benefit from excellent schools, low crime rates, and a variety of parks with trails for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. With its beautiful landscapes, pleasant climate and relaxed lifestyle, Nicoma Park is an ideal place for families looking for a peaceful home. News Story from KOCO. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Chasing the summer vibes, one scoop at a time. Today we are discussing The Taste of Summer Ice Cream Festival in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. The Taste of Summer event in Central Park is considered a summer staple in Broken Arrow. This ice cream festival invites guests to enjoy a family fun zone with inflatables and face painting, a car show, art vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, a steak cook-off and all-you-can-eat Blue Bell ice cream. Broken Arrow is home to legendary Blue Bell Creamery, and this event packs a lot of fun into one day. Enjoy a festival atmosphere surrounded by scoops of your favorite Blue Bell flavors. This hometown event boasts big fun for the whole family. Hometown charm and suburban amenities abound in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Visitors enjoy challenging golf courses and pampering day spas as well as unique shopping, interesting attractions and family-friendly festivals and events. Shop 'til you drop at local boutiques found in the Rose District, and savor the rich aroma of handmade chocolates and gourmet coffee at Nouveau – Atelier de Chocolat on Main Street. Find an outdoor lover’s paradise at the massive Bass Pro Shop with 110,000 square feet of outdoors and sporting goods, including impressive extras like a laser rifle shooting gallery, an 18,000-gallon freshwater aquarium, 14,000-gallon saltwater aquarium and a 7,000-gallon trout stream complete with waterfalls. Plan your visit to coincide with the annual Rooster Days festival, and become part of one of the oldest festival traditions in Oklahoma with carnival rides, live entertainment, tasty festival food and a parade. Top off your Broken Arrow visit with a hot stone massage at a spa, dinner in one of over 90 restaurants and a relaxing stay at a local bed and breakfast inn or a comfy hotel. News Story from KFOR. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Quit hounding us about spring festivals! Today we are discussing The Red Fern Festival in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Bring the family to Tahlequah and enjoy the Red Fern Festival, a fun, old-fashioned fun event featuring hound dog field trials, 1930s era children's games, a car show and more. Held annually the last weekend of April, the Red Fern Festival was inspired by the renowned novel, "Where the Red Fern Grows" by native author Wilson Rawls. The festival evokes the novel's story of simple childhood joys with a wide array of old-fashioned events perfect for the whole family. One of Tahlequah's premier events, the Red Fern Festival features unique and rustic vendors, delicious local food, live music and plenty of children's activities. Come to this award-winning event and transport yourself back to the 1930s while also touring locations from the novel. Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the capital of the Cherokee Nation, has been named one of the Top 100 Best Small Towns in America. Tour the recreated ancient Cherokee village of Diligwa, located at the Cherokee Heritage Center for a dose of culture. Float down what many consider the state's best canoe waterway, the Illinois River, or make a big splash at Lake Tenkiller. Wander through the Tahlequah Original Historic Townsite District, an area where the street signs are written in English and Cherokee, and test your luck at Cherokee Casino Tahlequah next. Come time to chow down, enjoy sweet crepes and coffee at Drip, dive into Sam & Ella's Chicken Palace pizza, or take in scenic views from the Branch's outdoor patio. News Story from KFOR. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Sergeant Space Snax is an Oklahoma owned freeze dried candy company. https://www.facebook.com/sergeantspacesnaxllc

Wood you like to go for a hike with us? Today we are discussing The Skull Hollow Nature Trail in Oolagah, Oklahoma. The Skull Hollow Nature Trail in Oolagah is considered an easy route, it takes an average of 27 min to complete. This is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and running, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are March through April. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Oologah Lake provides a great getaway for fishing, boating, picnicking, camping or just drifting over the sky blue waters. Plenty of wide stretches of water, perfect for catching the wind, make it one of the most popular lakes in the area for sailing and catching catfish. The forested hills around the lake provide excellent hunting opportunities. The Oologah Public Hunting Area comprises almost 13,000 acres of easily accessible land managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. It provides excellent hunting for quail, squirrel, rabbit, deer and waterfowl. Eleven public use areas scattered around the lake offer a variety of facilities making it easy to find something that's just right for you. Recreation opportunities include a swimming beach, mountain biking, marina, RV and tent camping, picnic tables and a playground. On the east side of the lake, the Will Rogers Country Centennial Trail winds around the shore from the Spillway to Blue Creek Park, totaling 18 miles. This journey can be enjoyed by hiking or horseback riding. Horse rental is not available, so bring your own horse and enjoy the trails. News Story from News 9. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

I'm souper hungry right now. Today we are discussing The Doo-whop in Velma, Oklahoma. The Doo-Whop is a small restaurant that knows a thing or two about feeding big appetites. The restaurant lives by its slogan, “It ain’t food if it ain’t fried!” Serving everything from fried pickles and mozzarella sticks, to chicken fried steaks and curly fries, this restaurant has a passion for fried foods. Velma-Alma is a humble, community-loving town with a beautiful countryside of meadows and flowing creeks. Proud home to country music legend Joe Diffie, the 125-year-old annual Old Settler's Picnic, and the tasty Chuckwagon BBQ, this quaint town has all the small-town charm needed for a day trip of history, fun and food. As Velma developed over the years, the community became more interested in entertainment and social events. The town wanted something more entertaining than taffy pulls and country dances for the younger generations. In 1890, the Old Settler’s Picnic began an annual town tradition still cherished and celebrated today. Families would travel for miles in wagons to camp and enjoy the free community picnic. Ranchers would gladly furnish the main dish, usually barbeque, and ladies would provide complementary dishes of their own. In addition to the picnic, families also participated in local games, such as a swing pulled by a mule, and a variety of races and contests. News Story from the Daily Oklahoman. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Life is what you bake it. Today we are discussing Country Bird Bakery in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Using regionally sourced grain and flour, Country Bird Bakery supports local farmers, while also supporting physical health, economy and ecology. This bakery aims to tell the story of the farmers and the land in a creative, fun, and unexpected way. They source the majority of their ingredients from from Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Texas. By utilizing a variety of grains, this bakery yields baked goods that are more nutritious and with a more complex and diverse flavor profile. Visit Tulsa, Oklahoma's second-largest city, where Southern comfort and cosmopolitan style converge. A town enriched by its oil heritage, Tulsa boasts world-class cultural attractions, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and Gilcrease Museum. The city stands tall with its magnificent art deco treasures, Route 66 gems and the Cesar Pelli-designed BOK Center — a state-of-the-art venue for national concerts and sporting events. Tulsa's lively entertainment districts feature eateries, shopping and gaming, while the Tulsa music scene is the star of the state. Family fun also prevails in T-Town, home of the highly-rated Tulsa Zoo, while the city's Arkansas River trails and outdoor recreation areas offer outdoor respites from all the urban excitement. Tulsa offers a fabulous array of cultural amenities including the acclaimed Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera, Tulsa Symphony Orchestra and other programs of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Theater-going opportunities abound around town, and the music scene pulses with sound from diverse genres, ranging from country and western to indie rock and punk. Be sure to catch a concert at the famous Cain's Ballroom or Tulsa Theater, too. A multitude of annual festivals and events like the Tulsa International Mayfest, Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa and ScotFest celebrate Tulsa's culture and heritage, adding to the long list of things to do in Tulsa. Discover unique facets of Tulsa's personality by visiting the many vibrant districts within the city. Anchored by the historic Blue Dome building, the Blue Dome Entertainment District is home to nightlife hot spots, hip restaurants and live entertainment. Visit the Brookside District for unique shopping experiences, upscale dining and plenty of nightlife options. The Tulsa Arts District features historic buildings that have been brought back to prominence via art galleries, theaters, restaurants, bars and dance clubs. For antique shopping, local and regional art galleries and more than 20 top local restaurants, visit the Cherry Street District in the northern midtown area of Tulsa. News Story from the Oklahoma department of Tourism. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Why did the waffle breakup with its girlfriend? She kept buttering him up. Today we are discussing Waffle That in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Topped with crispy fried chicken or served sweet with fresh berries, Waffle That! in Tulsa specializes in a comforting array of waffle creations. This family-owned eatery originally started out of a food truck, and has since expanded to multiple brick-and-mortar locations in Tulsa. Whether it's for breakfast, lunch or a weekend treat, dig into everything from savory waffles stuffed with bacon, egg and cheese to seasonal specials like pumpkin spice waffles. Load up on waffle fries smothered in Waffle That's favorite sauce, or stop by for sweet treats like cookie butter waffles. Whatever you're in the mood for, this popular waffle purveyor has the soul food to satisfy. Visit Tulsa, Oklahoma's second-largest city, where Southern comfort and cosmopolitan style converge. A town enriched by its oil heritage, Tulsa boasts world-class cultural attractions, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and Gilcrease Museum. The city stands tall with its magnificent art deco treasures, Route 66 gems and the Cesar Pelli-designed BOK Center — a state-of-the-art venue for national concerts and sporting events. Tulsa's lively entertainment districts feature eateries, shopping and gaming, while the Tulsa music scene is the star of the state. Family fun also prevails in T-Town, home of the highly-rated Tulsa Zoo, while the city's Arkansas River trails and outdoor recreation areas offer outdoor respites from all the urban excitement. Tulsa offers a fabulous array of cultural amenities including the acclaimed Tulsa Ballet, Tulsa Opera, Tulsa Symphony Orchestra and other programs of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Theater-going opportunities abound around town, and the music scene pulses with sound from diverse genres, ranging from country and western to indie rock and punk. Be sure to catch a concert at the famous Cain's Ballroom or Tulsa Theater, too. A multitude of annual festivals and events like the Tulsa International Mayfest, Linde Oktoberfest Tulsa and ScotFest celebrate Tulsa's culture and heritage, adding to the long list of things to do in Tulsa. Discover unique facets of Tulsa's personality by visiting the many vibrant districts within the city. Anchored by the historic Blue Dome building, the Blue Dome Entertainment District is home to nightlife hot spots, hip restaurants and live entertainment. Visit the Brookside District for unique shopping experiences, upscale dining and plenty of nightlife options. The Tulsa Arts District features historic buildings that have been brought back to prominence via art galleries, theaters, restaurants, bars and dance clubs. For antique shopping, local and regional art galleries and more than 20 top local restaurants, visit the Cherry Street District in the northern midtown area of Tulsa. News Story from the Oklahoma department of Commerce. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

Oklahoma Smoke BBQ - Moore, Oklahoma https://www.facebook.com/OklahomaSMOKE/about/

Some people think burger puns are cheesy, but I relish them. Today we are discussing Little Mike’s Hamburgers in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Little Mike's Hamburgers in Oklahoma City has been in business since the 1970s serving up huge hamburgers that are packed with flavor. This locally owned and operated burger joint specializes in onion fried burgers and fast, friendly service. Oklahoma City embodies the Modern Frontier and defines its own future. A young city steeped in Native American and Western culture, openness, and an enterprising nature, OKC embraces its roots and continues to pave the way as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship. News Story from The Oklahoman. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show. #TravelOK #onlyinokshow #Oklahoma #MadeinOklahoma #oklaproud #podcast #okherewego #traveloklahoma

This is the history of Van's Pig Stands as written in “Historic Shawnee, The History of Shawnee & Pottawatomie County” by Bob Burke and Eric Dabney, published 2014: Oklahoma’s oldest barbeque restaurant continuously owned and operated by the same family is Van’s Pig Stands. First finding fame in the heart of historic Shawnee, nearly a century later its history is palpable. From the mouthwatering food to the friendly service and comfortable atmosphere, Van’s is a place of nostalgia and great eating. an old black and white picture of a man with his son standing next to wooden store The roots of this venerable establishment were originally planted by Tennessee native Leroy “Van” Vandegrift, who moved with family to Oklahoma City, where he graduated from Central High. He served in the Army before working as a tool dresser in the oil fields of North Texas and began cooking for fellow roughnecks on rig sites. Around 1928, Van opened his first Pig Stand in a hotel in Wewoka, Oklahoma. It was a small little store serving barbecue such as the Pig Sandwich® and Ribs. The menu also included other types of sandwiches such as Liverwurst, Pimento, Chicken Salad, and Cream Cheese. In 1929 a second Pig Stand opened in Seminole and was then sold in 1935. Pig Stands were later opened in Wichita Falls, Texas and Wichita, Kansas. On June 5, 1930, Van opened his third Pig Stand Location at 714 Highland in Shawnee. In the same year, Van married Thelma Maree Glenn. In 1935 the Shawnee store moved across the street to its present location. The stories of these earliest days in the life of Van’s flourishing Pig Stands are legendary among the family. During the Great Depression that swept across America throughout the 1930s, Van’s sandwiches—which originally cost 10 cents and had risen to 30 cents for hungry customers—returned to the 10 cent price, with a malt and pig sandwich costing a whopping 20 cents. The restaurant was also home to the area’s first ice cream machine. Specialized menu items and secret sauces quickly became a trademark event at the Pig Stand. Its loyal customers enjoyed hot BBQ sauces with jalapeño and cayenne pepper mixed so perfectly on-site that they were eventually sold in six ounce bottles from the back seat of Van’s son’s car. Van’s wife, Thelma, came up with the twice-baked potato that packed full of bacon, onions, salt and pepper, and served with garlic butter. Later, she was in charge of dinner banquets that included large private parties where she served her famous chicken pilaf. Van’s son, Jerry, remembers the time well. “When I was working the sandwich corner, my mother was making chopped pork ‘pig’ sandwiches and putting the buns on the grill with butter. We later took the BBQ sauce and thinned it down to paint the buns before we dropped them in a bun toaster. We included a relish, too. On those older menus, we didn’t have BBQ though. We sold pimento cheese, bratwurst, and even a cow’s tongue sandwich for real cheap. Our specials included chicken fried chicken or chicken and dumplings, beans, Rueben sandwiches. I felt like we had too much on the menu in those early days, but dad wanted it that way.” Within its first twenty years, the stand in Shawnee was a bustling place and even included the famous Charcoal Room by the early 1950s. It was originally created with a dance hall and shuffleboard and included an impressive Wurlitzer jukebox. Without a doubt, Van’s remains another great reason to spend some time in Shawnee and get to know its many assets. The restaurant continues to welcome guests from around the country. They have also been catering for more than twenty years and continue to build on its past successes with numerous resources to handle parties attended by thousands. Today, Oklahoma’s historic Van’s Pig Stands is located at 717 East Highland Street and 3815 North Harrison Street in Shawnee and at 320 North Porter Street in Norman, and its newest location opened at 1991 Tower Drive-in Moore in April 2014....

Located on historic Route 66, the Lokal Yukon offers modern Okie Cuisine, craft beer, local wines and mixed drinks. https://www.facebook.com/thelokalmustang

Brett and Harley answer the world's most burning questions about the great state of Oklahoma. We dug into the bowels of Google searches to see what questions people were asking about Oklahoma, like why do Oklahomans deep fry everything and do we all wear cowboy boots. Give it a listen and learn the secrets of the universe.

A Visit from St. Nicholas Poem by Clement Clarke Moore read by Brett