Lookin' Through the Window

A multicultural event this past weekend exhibited a number of cultures, incorporating music, art and food.

Window Into Other Worlds, a house concert event at Mission Hill in Norman, took place this past Saturday, and quite a few people came out to support it. The show allowed local residents to experience and support the work of many local artists and musicians, and 50 or more people came and did just that.

Arabesque, a world music duo consisting of Steve Vanlandingham and OU world music teacher Miranda Arana, headlined the show. They have been a group for six years, and in that time have developed a unique sound that includes a number of cultural traditions

"We have that Asian element, and we also have a very strong Irish and Celtic music plant," Arana said. "And then we also have some Arabic influences, and finally we are representing Latin American culture as well."

This mix of traditions made for quite a performance, and was a great cultural experience.

The two local artists who were included in the exhibit were Beverly Herndon and Arisha Burmingame. Herndon is an Oriental brushwork painter, and Herndon works mostly with glass mosaics, representing her cultural appreciation.

"It was a really fun show," OU student Katie Ulrey said. "I really enjoyed not only the music, but the art and food as well."

The food was contributed by "O" Asian Fusion and Himalayas restaurant, and provided a delicious addition to the cultural experience.

"I'd really like to see more things like this around Norman," Ulrey said. "It's always important for people to experience other cultures."

Some Place for Lunch

There's certainly no lack in sandwich options throughout the metro area, but perhaps it's time you try someplace else.

Someplace Else A Deli & Bakery, located in Oklahoma City on Western Avenue just south of NW 23rd, is a great choice for all your sandwich favorites, and an even better place to stumble upon a new favorite. The restaurant, which is locally owned and operated by Peggy and David Carty, was established in 1976.

The offer pretty standard sandwich options, such as hoagies, but also have some choices outside of the norm, like avocado and cream cheese (a great option for vegetarians). They also have a large assortment of desserts, including cookies and lemon squares. Perhaps the best part is that they bake everything (including the bread) themselves, for utmost freshness.

The environment is very pleasant, and the people are very nice. Most of the employees have been working there for sometime, so it is a very easy place to get used to. It is a great place for families to go, and Peggy Carty really enjoys what it's become.

“I still work every single day,” Carty said “and it's a lot of families that come back so now we're seeing children and grandchildren, and within generations it's evolved.”

The restaurant has over the years gained quite a strong following, as the people Oklahoma love its combination of environment and food.

“It's very quaint and laid back,” Oklahoma City native Alison Delucca said. “I've been coming here for years and the food is really great, and the owner's so nice.”

Someplace Else is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 6:30 p.m., and on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., but is closed on Sundays. It's a great place for a quick lunch, and they even offer catering options, such as party subs and vegetable trays.

“It's all pretty casual in here, and we really like it,” Carty said.

Going Greek

Are you a fan of Mediterranean cuisine who hasn't had much success finding any of value in the area?

The Greek House, located in Norman on Jenkins Avenue just north of Boyd Street, offers a solution to this problem. This establishment, which is run by a Greek family, gives a delicious option for authentic Greek food in Oklahoma.

The menu for the restaurant is certainly not the most diverse, but this clearly hasn't posed a problem for them, as one can see their parking lot full at all hours. All they really offer are gyros, but the taste of these gyros makes the limited selection justifiable. The meat is cooked and cut right in front of you, offering a most delicious smell you can recognize from a block away.

Another great thing about the restaurant is the price, which is cheaper than the average sit down restaurant. A gyro platter, which includes fries and Greek salad, runs about six dollars, and you'll be mesmerized by the amount of their always delectable meat that comes with this order. You're almost certain to need a to-go box by the time you're finished.

The service is also very pleasing. They are very polite and welcoming, and get the food out very fast. The atmosphere is very "Mom and Pop's", with all utensils and dishes being disposable, and all the food preparation being visible. The great combination of food and service has given them a loyal following.

“The food is really great,” Norman resident Trey Shelton said. “And the people there are always very nice. I've been eating there for years, and it really never gets old.”

The Greek House is open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and is a wise choice for lunch or dinner.

“I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys good Mediterranean food.” Shelton said. “It's definitely the best I've had in the area.”

PWOP/SOP

This is my SOP of the Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.

This is my PWOP, representing Oklahoma!