Calling all downtowners!

Please join us for the Business Improvement District’s Annual Meeting Wednesday, Jan. 16 at 8:00 a.m. in the Leadership Square Conference Center. (North Tower, second floor.) We'll give a year-end review of downtown activities in 2012 and discuss downtown's plans for 2013.

For more information, email jill@downtownokc.com or call 405.235.3500. No RSVP required.

Good news for foodies: Downtown Restaurant Week is coming!

Downtown OKC, Inc. and the Oklahoma Gazette present Downtown Restaurant Week January 20-26. That's right - downtown OKC is about to turn into a paradise for foodies.

During Downtown Restaurant Week, several local eateries team up to create special prix-fixe menus that feature delicious items you won't see on their regular menus. Each meal is offered at a fixed price: $35 per person for dinner and $12 per person for lunch. And it's all for a good cause!

As a bonus, everyone who completes a comment card after their meal will be entered to win cool prizes like restaurant gift cards. For every comment card you complete, Downtown OKC, Inc. will donate $1 to the City Rescue Mission Impact Hunger Food Resource Center, up to $10,000!

For more information, including a list of participating restaurants, visit DowntownOKC.com. 

Kitchen No. 324 opens in downtown OKC

Residents, visitors and employees in downtown Oklahoma City have a new option for breakfast and lunch with the opening of Kitchen No. 324, a seasonally inspired café, craft bakery and coffee curator serving American rustic cuisine. The restaurant is located on the first floor of the historic Braniff Building. Kitchen No. 324 is named for the address of the Braniff Building, 324 N. Robinson.

“Kitchen No. 324 is the downtown address for fresh,” said Keith Paul, owner of Good Egg Dining Group. “The restaurant is a mix of both modern and classic, in the menu offerings and the design and décor of the space. We want to respect the history of the Braniff Building for which Kitchen is named, but add a contemporary feel, as well.”

The restaurant includes a 3,000 square-foot café, bakery and coffee curator, serving inventive breakfast entrees, baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and gourmet donuts, along with lunch fare, including handmade sandwiches, house-cured meats and colorful, out-of-the-ordinary salads. The coffee bar serves local and artisan coffees, and the bakery sells specialty breads, pastries and desserts.

Kitchen No. 324 is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit kitchen324.com.

Don't miss the most decadent event of the year

Historic Automobile Alley cordially invites you to celebrate the 16th anniversary of Chocolate Decadence, one of Oklahoma City’s most anticipated events and Valentine traditions.

Chocolate Decadence 2013 will be held Thursday, Feb. 7 from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m., again at 825 N. Broadway, the Hudson-Essex Loft Offices, in one of the coolest venues this City has to offer. The party showcases decadent chocolate treats from premier local restaurants and caterers while featuring smooth jazz, wine and champagne, gourmet coffees and the ever popular Valentine auction.

Chocolate Decadence sells out annually and the same is expected this year, so reserve your tickets today by calling (405) 973-4746 or by visiting downtownokc.com. See you in February!

RUNderground 5k back for another year

The OKC Boathouse Foundation will host its third annual RIVERSPORT RUNderground 5K Run through the OKC Underground Saturday, Feb. 16. Avoid those chilly winter winds, and join fellow runners for this unique event through the tunnels under downtown OKC!

All participants will receive a complimentary t-shirt and free admission to the Bart & Nadia Sports & Health Festival in association with the Oklahoman. T-shirts are limited.

The run will begin and end at the Cox Convention Center in the Northwest Lobby. Registration is $25 and is open online now through 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 15. Runners can also register on site the morning of the race from 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. for $30 (cash only). The race begins at 12 p.m. Parking is available at the Cox Convention Center and surrounding garages on the day of the event. To learn more and register online, visit  signmeup.com.

Enjoy free, daily entertainment in downtown OKC

Art Moves, Presented by Devon, is the Arts Council of OKC’s newest initiative, offering hour-long lunchtime art events in Downtown OKC. The program has provided free music and theater performances, short film selections, and visual arts demonstrations each weekday at Noon since October 2011.

Art Moves showcases both local artists and member agencies (such as OVAC, Red Earth, and the OKC Philharmonic) in over 20 rotating venues including the new Devon Tower, Leadership Square, the Ronald J. Norick Downtown Library, the OKC Museum of Art, and the newly renovated Myriad Gardens.

Events run Monday-Friday, Noon-1:00 (unless otherwise noted), and are free and open to the public. Check out the January schedule:

Friday, Jan. 11 - Dustbowl Gypsies (bluegrass/country trio), First National Center
Monday, Jan. 14 - Mark Galloway (acoustic guitar singer/songwriter), First National Center
Tuesday, Jan. 15 - Susan Herndon (Red-Dirt singer/songwriter), Chase Tower Lobby
Wednesday, Jan. 16 - Nathan Lee, "Inclusion in Art" artist demonstration, Leadership Square
Thursday, Jan. 17 - Cellovoce (OCU Classical Cello ensemble), City Rescue Mission (11am-1pm)
Friday, Jan. 18 - "Baroque-Lahoma" (OCU Chamber ensemble), nebu (11:30am-12:30pm)
Monday, Jan 21 - MLK Day - no ArtMoves
Tuesday, Jan. 22 - "Go for Baroque" Trio (harpsichord and strings), nebu (11:30am-12:30pm)
Wednesday, Jan 23 - 'OKC Woodcarvers Club' Demonistration, Downtown Library atrium
Thursday, Jan. 24 - Aaron Newman (acoustic guitar singer/songwriter), The Underground
Friday, Jan. 25 - Clayton Stroup (vibraphone), Oklahoma Tower
Monday, Jan. 28 - Mitch Bell Duo (modern jazz guitar), Oklahoma Tower
Tuesday, Jan. 29 - Romy Owen's Open Studio & Photo Booth Project, Artist's Studio, Skirvin Hotel
Wednesday, Jan. 30 - Apnea Brothers (acoustic guitar duo), Leadership Square
Thursday, Jan. 31 - Wayne McEvilly ("Schubert's Birthday" piano), OKCMOA Theater

For more information about Art Moves, visit artscouncilokc.com.

Thunder up!

Mark these dates on your calendar so you don't miss this season's Thunder action:

Friday, Jan. 11 - OKC Thunder at L.A. Lakers, 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 13 - OKC Thunder at Portland Trailblazers, 8 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 14 - OKC Thunder at Phoenix Suns, 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 16 - OKC Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets, 7 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 18 - OKC Thunder at Dallas Mavericks, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 20 - OKC Thunder at Denver Nuggets, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 22 - OKC Thunder at L.A. Clippers, 9:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 23 - OKC Thunder at Golden State Warriors, 9:30 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 25 - OKC Thunder at Sacramento Kings, 9 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 27 - OKC Thunder at L.A. Lakers, 2:30 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 31 - OKC Thunder vs. Memphis Grizzlies, 7 p.m.

Visit nba.com/thunder to view the full schedule.

Go support your OKC Barons

It's true... there's never been a better time to check out an OKC Barons game.

Friday, Jan 11 - OKC Barons vs. Charlotte Checkers, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 12 - OKC Barons vs. Charlotte Checkers, 7 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 13 - OKC Barons vs. Texas Stars, 4 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 18 - OKC Barons vs. San Antonio Rampage, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 19 - OKC Barons vs. San Antonio Rampage, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 23 - OKC Barons at Grand Rapids Griffins, 6 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 25 - OKC Barons at Milwaukee Admirals, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan 26 - OKC Barons at Rockford IceHogs, 7:05 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 31 - OKC Barons vs. Charlotte Checkers, 7 p.m.

Visit okcbarons.com to view the full schedule.

Noon Tunes continues at the Downtown Library

Do you ever hum softly or semi-whistle while you’re sitting at your desk, working away?  What you need is a lunch time music break. Bring your lunch to the Downtown Library Atrium (300 Park Avenue) on Thursdays in January and February from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to enjoy a variety of musical styles.

“A live musical performance can really help break up the day,” said the Metropolitan Library System’s Director of Outreach Services Dana Morrow.  “Not only will the music itself re-vitalize you, but a quick trip to the library and lunch with friends will also help you prepare for the rest of the work day.”

The schedule for Thursday Noon Tunes is as follows:

January 5:  Oklahoma Seniors Cabaret, show business
January 12:  Callen Clark Ensemble, incl. Oud, buzuq, percussion
January 19:  Serenade Sting Quartet
January 26:  Native Connections, keyboard/vocal duo
February 2:  Shade of Blue, jazz trio
February 9:  Maurice Johnson, Trio, smooth guitar
February 16:  Quartet Greer, classical plus
February 23:  Tony Gonzales’ Norman North HS Jazz Choir

All performances are free and open to the public.  For more information, call 606-3833.

There's plenty to see and learn at the Myriad Gardens

Bring the kids to Reading Rainforest
The Reading Rainforest series for kids kicks off Wednesday, Jan. 16 in the Myriad Botanical Gardens. From 10-11 a.m., children can listen to a story read by a staff member in the warm comfort of the balmy Crystal Bridge, and then enjoy working on a craft related to the story. Afterwards, go on a hike through the rainforest of the Crystal Bridge. The first Reading Rainforest will spotlight “The Umbrella” by Jan Brett. Children will enjoy making their own miniature leafy umbrella after this fun animal story.

This activity is recommended for children ages 3-5. Free for members; nonmembers pay regular Crystal Bridge admission.

Free skate day for Myriad Gardens members
If you're a member of the Myriad Gardens, mark your calendars for Tuesday, Jan. 15 & 22. On these days, from 3-8 p.m., members skate for free at the Devon Ice Rink.  Just show your membership card and the skating and skate rentals are free! Family membership entitles bearer to four free skate passes; dual/individual receive two.

If you're not a member, what are you waiting for? Sign up online today at myriadgardens.org. 

OKC Philharmonic presents Pristine Visions

In last week's newsletter, we announced that on Saturday, Jan. 12 at 8 p.m., the Oklahoma City Philharmonic will present Pristine Visions - featuring a performance by guest violinist, Stefan Jackiw. The OKC Phil recently reported that due to a treatable injury, violinist Stefan Jackiw will not perform, but will be replaced by Japanese-American violinist, Ryu Goto. 

"We are excited to announce that we have secured the services of violinist Ryu Goto to appear at our concert," said Eddie Walker, Philharmonic Executive Director. "He's considered a 'superstar' in Japan and is just starting to build his international career," said Walker. Goto will perform the Beethoven Violin Concerto with the OKC Philharmonic.

Goto has established himself as a significant voice in classical music, with a large and growing public in Asia, North America and Europe. Ryu's career began at age seven when he made his debut at the Pacific Music Festival in Sapporo, Japan, playing Paganini's Violin Concerto No.1. Since then, Ryu has appeared as a soloist with many of the world's leading orchestras, ensembles including National Symphony Orchestra, London Philharmonic, Wiener Symphoniker, European Union Youth Orchestra, China Philharmonic Orchestra, Shanghai Symphony Orchestra and Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. 

For more information, visit okcphilharmonic.org. 

The Downtown College will help you succeed in 2013

Whether you're wanting to get fit or learn a new language, the OKC Downtown College will help you achieve your goals in 2013. 

Be a Good Buddy
Enroll in a fitness or language class at the regular price and enroll a friend for 50% off. This “Good Buddy” special offer includes classes beginning in January or February in Zumba, Pilates, Chinese, French, Italian, or Spanish. Classes are conveniently held at the noon hour or after work.

Get fit in 2013
Tuesday, Jan. 15, from 12-1 p.m., the OKC Downtown College will present demonstrations in Pilates and Zumba. Come meet certified Zumba instructor LaLinda Harrison and certified group fitness instructor Denise Johnson. You can participate in the demo or just observe. Water, coffee, juice and fruit will be provided, but you're welcome to bring your own lunch.

These Tuesday Topics events will take place on the 4th Floor of the Downtown Library.  For more information or to RSVP, call 405.232.3382 or email info@downtowncollege.com. The Tuesday Topics Series is sponsored by OKC Downtown College, Allegiance Credit Union, Downtown OKC Incorporated, and the Norick Downtown Library.

How do those new parking meters work anyway?

With the addition of more than 600 on-street parking spots resulting from downtown street renovations, the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COTPA) is phasing out the mechanical meters for a more advanced “pay station” in the downtown area. As many as 125 multi-space, solar-powered pay stations that accept U.S. coins or debit/credit cards are being installed in the new streetscaped Project 180 areas.

If you've seen the new meters, but are still confused about how they work, check out this funny instructional video made by COTPA. It'll clear things right up!

Other downtown news

Downtown Oklahoma City retail takes root on weekends
Kitchen No. 324 in Oklahoma City's Central Business District defies retail “rule” with crowds of weekend customers.

Redevelopment is proposed for Journal Record Building is Oklahoma City
A $13.7 million makeover is proposed for downtown's Journal Record Building as part of a bid submitted Monday to the Oklahoma City Cultural and Industrial Facilities Trust by the chairman of Heritage Trust Co.

Project 180 restructuring moves forward with restored projects, new budget
2013 is a crossroads for Project 180, which is reconstructing downtown streets, sidewalks and parks.

Other downtown events

Art Moves, Presented by Devon, various locations, ongoing

Jan. 10-12 - Film: The Loneliest Planet, OKCMOA

Jan. 11 - OKC Barons vs. Charlotte Checkers

Jan 11 - Art Moves: Dustbowl Gypsies, First National Center

Jan. 11-12 - Film: Wuthering Heights, OKCMOA

Jan. 11 - Live music; Cover Me Badd, TapWerks Ale House

Jan. 12 - OKC Philharmonic: Pristine Visions, Civic Center Music Hall

Jan. 12 - OKC Barons vs. Charlotte Checkers

Jan. 12 - UFC: Strikeforce, Chesapeake Arena

Jan. 12 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Jan. 13 - OKC Barons vs. Texas Stars

Jan. 14 - Art Moves: Mark Galloway, First National Center

Jan. 15 - Free Skate Day for Myriad Gardens Members

Jan. 15 - Art Moves: Susan Herndon, Chase Tower Lobby

Jan. 15-20 - Jekyll and Hyde, Civic Center Music Hall

Jan. 16 - OKC Thunder vs. Denver Nuggets, Chesapeake Arena

Jan. 16 - Art Moves: Nathan Lee, "Inclusion in Art" demo, Leadership Square

Jan. 16 - Reading Rainforest, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 17 - Art Moves: Cellovoce, City Rescue Mission 

Jan. 17-19 - Film: 2012 Sundance Short Films, OKCMOA

Jan. 18 - OKC Barons vs. San Antonio Rampage

Jan. 18 - Art Moves: "Baroque-Lahoma", nebu 

Jan. 19 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Jan. 19 - George Strait: The Cowboy Rides Away Tour, Chesapeake Arena

Jan. 19 - Jeff Mangum, 7pm, ACM@UCO Performance Lab

Jan. 19 - DYI: Hot Cocoa Mix, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 21 - The Peanut Man, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 22 - Art Moves: "Go for Baroque" Trio, nebu

Jan. 23 - Reading Rainforest, Myriad Gardens

Jan 23 - Art Moves: 'OKC Woodcarvers Club', Downtown Library atrium

Jan. 24 - Art Moves: Aaron Newman, The Underground

Jan. 24-27 - Film: Chasing Ice, OKCMOA

Jan. 24-Feb. 28 - Gallery Show: Joy Richardson, Myriad Gardens (opening reception, Jan. 24)

Jan. 24-April 21 – Photorealism Revisited Exhibition, OKCMOA

Jan. 25 - Free Day at the Crystal Bridge, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 25 - Art Moves: Clayton Stroup, Oklahoma Tower

Jan. 25-26- The Music of Michael Jackson, Civic Center Music Hall

Jan. 25-26 - Film: The Waiting Room, OKCMOA

Jan. 25-26 - Film: The House I Live In, OKCMOA

Jan. 26 - All About Terrariums, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 26 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Jan. 26 - Children's Winter Flower Arranging, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 27 - OKC Phil's Discovery Series: America the Beautiful, Civic Center Music Hall

Jan. 27 - Perfect Brunch by Picasso's, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 28 - Art Moves: Mitch Bell Duo, Oklahoma Tower

Jan. 29 - Art Moves: Romy Owen's Open Studio, Skirvin Hotel

Jan. 30 - Reading Rainforest, Myriad Gardens

Jan. 30 - Art Moves: Apnea Brothers, Leadership Square

Jan. 31 - Art Moves: Wayne McEvilly, OKCMOA Theater

Feb. 2 - OKC Philharmonic: Motion & Emotion, Civic Center Music Hall

Feb. 2 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Feb. 7 - Crimes of the Heart, Civic Center Music Hall

Feb. 7 - Chocolate Decadence

Feb. 8 - Defending the Caveman, Civic Center Music Hall

Feb. 9 - Paris Rouge, Civic Center Music Hall

Feb. 9 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Feb. 12 - 100 Years of Broadway, Civic Center Music Hall

Feb. 16 - (Food) Lovers Dinner, Myriad Gardens

Feb. 16 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Feb. 22-23 - OKC Philharmonic: Cole Porter Songbook:: Anything Goes!, Civic Center Music Hall

Feb. 23 - Drop-In Art, OKCMOA

Project180 Update

Don't frown at the construction downtown... let us show you how to get around!

Visit the Project180 website or check them out on Facebook and Twitter

Be informed and prepared for traffic changes downtown by joining the Project180 mailing list

Get the Project180 weekly map here

Check out the Downtown Traffic Advisory updates. This list provides a summary of downtown streets expected to be under construction for the next few weeks.

Connect with Downtown Oklahoma City, Inc.

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211 North Robinson
Suite 225
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
405.235.3500

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