Bixby Living
THE BIXBY SCHOOL DISTRICT IS EXPANDING QUICKLY TO MEET DEMAND
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IIn2009, stepping through the doors of the Bixby Chamber of Commerce office in Downtown Bixby, little did I anticipate that this Chamber would shape my career fifteen years later — affording me one of the most fulfilling roles within our vibrant community. We now have over 10,000 more residents and buildings, and those numbers keep growing! Within these pages, you’ll discover why our community thrives. What resonates most deeply for me about life in Bixby is our sense of connectedness. Whether you reside at 101st & Memorial or 181st & Sheridan, we stand united as #OneBixby. We’ve demonstrated this unity, weathering both challenges and triumphs together.
As this publication goes to print, I’m thrilled to declare that we find ourselves in one of the most exhilarating periods in Bixby’s recent history. As we approach the midpoint of 2024 with 2025 on the horizon, the fruits of our labor are becoming increasingly evident. Each significant announcement reflects not only extensive deliberation, but also years of collective effort — from countless meetings and funding negotiations to site visits, alongside enduring public investment, council sessions, and unwavering support from our citizens and local businesses.
The Bixby Metro Chamber and Bixby Development Foundation are
now realizing longstanding aspirations and initiatives: from startup business planning cohorts to citizen education and engagement in matters of policy, elections, and advocacy. Additionally, community programs are underway, designed to showcase our businesses to residents and visitors alike, while offering engaging activities for our citizens to enjoy. It is our hope this magazine grants you a deeper insight into the abundance that Bixby offers. Enjoy the journey!
Krystal Crockett, IOM CEO/President
Bixby Metro Chamber
Nestled
in the rolling hills of northeastern Oklahoma, Bixby is a city with a lot to offer. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, Bixby is a great place to call home. With its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and thriving economy, Bixby has something for everyone.
Bixby is located just south of Tulsa, one of Oklahoma’s largest cities.
This proximity provides residents with access to a wide range of amenities, including employment opportunities, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. Bixby residents can enjoy the benefits of living in a smaller, more peaceful community while having easy access to the amenities of a larger city. Bixby has experienced significant economic growth in recent years. The town’s
growing economy contributes to a stable job market and a positive business environment.
One of the greatest things about Bixby is its strong sense of community. From neighborhood block parties to community-wide events like the Bixby Green Corn Festival or BBQ & Blues, there’s always something going on in this tight-knit city. Residents take a lot of pride in their city, and it shows in the well-maintained
Photo By: Tyler Lane Photography
parks, public spaces, and local businesses. Whether you’re looking to establish roots or just passing through, the friendly atmosphere of Bixby is bound to make you feel right at home.
Many families are also drawn to Bixby for its excellent schools. The Bixby Public School District consistently ranks among the top districts in the state, offering rigorous curriculum, extremely dedicated teachers, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. From athletics to music to robotics, Bixby schools provides all kinds of opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop their talents. The district’s commitment to student success is reflected
in the high graduation rates and large amount of college acceptance rates of its graduates.
On top of all of this, the town is surrounded by beautiful public parks and landscapes that offers a variety of different outdoor recreational opportunities for the community. Bixby is located near the scenic Arkansas River, where there are numerous parks and nature trails to adventure on, providing residents with ample opportunities and easy access for safe and fun outdoor activities as well as a direct connection with nature.
After knowing this, who wouldn’t want to call Bixby their home sweet home?
FFormore than 75 years, the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce, along with its staff, boards of directors, and volunteers, has consistently dedicated efforts towards fulfilling our mission of meeting the needs of every member, from individual entrepreneurs to large corporations, all aimed at enhancing the resilience and liveliness of our community.
I’m pleased to share that 2024 continues this tradition.
The chamber has continued to accomplish goals made through our previous strategic planning session.
These four areas of focus are being targeted in 2024:
1.Continue to execute a long-term strategic workforce development plan.
2.Continue to enhance our relationship with community leaders to accomplish a publicly accessible, collaborative economic development plan.
3.Maintain clear, consistent, and forceful support for Bixby Public Schools.
4.Promote timely, good news about Bixby.
By prioritizing these essential aspects, we can uphold Bixby as an exceptional environment for residence, commerce, and education for our children.
Our community thrives due to the dedication and hard work of its individuals and families. Sustaining
this excellence takes a lot of planning and action, united effort, and strong support for our local businesses. By achieving these goals, Bixby will undoubtedly continue its trajectory of prosperity and expansion.
Bixby’s attraction as a fantastic place to live and work is a testament to your contributions. Thank you for shaping our community today and for your ongoing efforts in building the future Bixby.
Grant Sullivan Board Chair
Bixby Metro Chamber
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Itis my pleasure to write to you today and share with you all the great things that Bixby, Oklahoma has to offer to its residents. As your Mayor, I am proud to say that Bixby is a city that is flourishing in every way, providing our residents with an exceptional quality of life, an abundance of opportunities, and a vibrant community to call home.
At the heart of Bixby is its people, who are known for their warmth, generosity, and strong sense of community. Our residents are dedicated to making Bixby a better place, and they take pride in their homes, businesses, and public spaces. As a result, we have a
city that is both welcoming and safe, with a strong civic spirit that is hard to match.
Bixby is ranked as one of the safest cities in the nation of its size with a low crime rate. In January of 2024, we rolled out our own Bixby Ambulance service. This will provide faster response times for our residents who have a medical emergency. Our public safety agencies are second to none, providing residents with peace of mind and a sense of security.
Another great advantage of living in Bixby is the excellent public education system that we have in place. Our schools are recognized for their high academic standards, athletic
achievements, innovative programs, and dedicated teachers. Additionally, the Bixby school district is consistently ranked as one of the best in the state. Our excellent school system is one of the contributing factors that has so many families moving to our community.
In terms of economic development, Bixby is on the rise. We have a strong and diverse economy, with a growing number of businesses and industries moving into our city. This means that residents have access to excellent job opportunities, and entrepreneurs have a supportive environment in which to start
and grow their businesses. Our downtown area is also thriving, with a mix of new businesses and old favorites, creating a unique and exciting destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Of course, Bixby is also home to plenty of natural beauty, with an abundance of parks, trails, and outdoor recreational areas. We are proud to be the gateway to the Green Country region of Oklahoma, which offers stunning landscapes and a rich history. Our parks are well-maintained and offer a range of amenities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. And coming soon in 2024, new pickle ball and volleyball courts for our residents to enjoy.
In addition to all these advantages, Bixby is known
for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes it easy to make friends and get involved in the community. We have a wide range of community organizations, clubs, and events, including the annual Green Corn Festival and the Bixby BBQ ‘n Blues Festival. These events provide residents with opportunities to meet new people, celebrate our shared heritage, and have fun with family and friends.
As your Mayor, I can assure you that our City Council is committed to making sure that Bixby continues to thrive and prosper, and that our residents have access to everything they need to succeed and flourish. As our community continues to grow and evolve, we are committed to maintaining the high standards that make Bixby such a great
place to live. We are investing in infrastructure, attracting new businesses and industries, and providing top-notch services to our residents. Whether you are a long-time resident or a newcomer, I encourage you to get involved in our community, to explore all that Bixby has to offer, and to take pride in the many things that make our city great.
Thank you for choosing Bixby as your home, and I look forward to seeing you around town soon.
Sincerely,
Brian Guthrie Mayor of Bixby City of Bixby
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CITY OF BIXBY
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COMMUNITY
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BIXBY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
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TULSA COUNTY
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Ifyou have recently ventured down Bixby’s South Riverview Avenue, you have undoubtedly noticed a lot of earth being moved, a lot of steel being erected, a lot of concrete being poured, and a lot of walls being built.
Our community, with its unwavering support, is growing, and the Bixby school district is expanding quickly to meet the demand for more classrooms, athletic and fine arts facilities, and other spaces to support our students and employees. Just north of our Bixby
Freshman Academy is the future home of our district Administration Offices. Travel a hundred yards to the south, and you’ll witness the ongoing expansion of our Home of the Spartans (HOTS) athletic facility. Another jump past Spartan Stadium, and you’ll be in the center of Bixby High School’s new, 200,000-squarefoot, state-of-the-art Academic Building. What is most exciting is that these projects are all scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, bringing a new era of learning and growth to our
community very soon! These projects and others across the district are in response to Bixby’s tremendous growth over the past few years. Since 2018, the district has added 2,000 students to reach an enrollment of over 8,100 - a 33% increase over six years. With a few high school classes numbering in the 600’s, the need for additional learning spaces has become urgent. However, these construction projects are not just about accommodating more students; they are about creating better
learning environments and ensuring our children receive the best and highest quality education they deserve.
In addition to 55 new classrooms, the new threestory academic building will host a 2,400 sq. ft. community room, several college-style lecture halls, a studentfocused “creation hub,” teacher offices, multiple student dining options, a college and career center, a coffee shop, student collaboration spaces, an updated Spartan Store and media center, and an expansive outdoor gathering space.
Inside these new classrooms, technology will be synched so that teachers can efficiently manage student learning, and furniture will be adaptable to meet the various needs of students.
The district appreciates the community’s incredible support for these new facilities. We will update the timelines and provide up-todate information about each project as we get closer to official ribbon cuttings. I hope you will enjoy viewing a few renderings of the High School Academic Building. It is going to be a fantastic facility—one that should make every Bixby resident proud!
The Spartan Way. Learn Well. Live with Honor.
Rob Miller Superintendent Bixby Schools
Nestledin the heart of Bixby, the Downtown River District is an active center that encapsulates the city’s historical roots, lively cultural scene, and economic endeavors. Its picturesque setting along the Arkansas River has added to its appeal and established it as a premier destination drawing in both locals and tourists, all enticed by its unique blend of character, entertainment, and economic prospects.
Downtown emerges as a bustling and diverse landscape of businesses, each offering a distinct charm to cater to the diverse needs of residents and visitors alike.
From Scott’s Hamburgers, Scratch Indoor Golf, to Copper Key Coffeehouse
and the cultural richness of The Bixby Historical Society, every corner of this district is overflowing with life and possibility. Whether one seeks handcrafted goods at Cashmere Home, trendy sports gear at Fieldhouse Gear, or a peaceful walk around Charley Young Event Park, downtown promises an experience tailored to every person.
Yet, beyond its array of businesses, what truly sets this district apart is its vibrant cultural scene. Hosting a plethora of festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances throughout the year, it has become a hub for creativity and celebration. The lively streets buzz with a mix of music, laughter, and
lively chats, making it a spot where memories happen and friendships are formed.
More than a mere reflection of the past, the Downtown River District serves as a dynamic canvas that paints a vivid picture of Bixby’s present vitality and future promise. It stands not only as a spark for economic prosperity but also as a space that fosters community engagement and celebrates artistic expression. As one explores its streets, they are invited not just to witness history but to partake in shaping the exciting chapters yet to come, making the Downtown River District a true embodiment of Bixby’s enduring spirit and boundless potential.
Photo By: Tyler Lane Photography
TheBixby school system, a place where we all work and learn together, is a testament to our community’s dedication and support. As we mark the completion of my sixth year as superintendent, I am thrilled to share that our district, buoyed by your unwavering support, stands on a robust foundation of success. We are poised to achieve remarkable milestones for Bixby’s children in the coming decade and beyond. With our community’s continued growth, we are one of the fastest-growing districts in Oklahoma. With an enrollment
of over 8,100 students, the district has expanded by 22% since May 2021. The district’s growth is anticipated to continue for the next few years, potentially reaching 11,000 students a decade from now Thankfully, due to the strong support of our families and Bixby citizens, we have passed bond issues to keep up with this growth. The district added 20 new classrooms at our West campus this year and is scheduled to complete a 200,000-square-foot classroom addition at the high school late in 2024.
These are just a few of the many bond projects our community approved in 2022. The bond campaign, “Building An Extraordinary Future Together,” will continue to deliver significant improvements and renovations to most of our school sites and athletic facilities over the next three to five years. The district has a well-deserved reputation for excellence in academics, athletics, arts, and student activities. Bixby High School is rated among the top 15 high schools in the state in annual
ratings by the US News and World Report. Our students’ proficiency levels on annual state testing are among the highest in Oklahoma. Of course, we are very proud of our nine-time state champion Spartan Football Team, the six-time state champion Pride of Bixby Marching Band, our state champion Girls Wrestling team, the high school’s seven academic state championships this year, and our awardwinning Marine Corps JROTC program, among many others.
I am also pleased with our district’s efforts to instill character and citizenship in our students. Bixby
Schools is the only district in Oklahoma to be recognized as a Great Expectations Model District. These practices and philosophies match our Spartan motto to “Learn Well and Live with Honor.”
Our vision in Bixby Schools is to be a place where every student has the opportunity to learn, excel, and shape their own future. We are steadfast in our commitment to the shared mission of “igniting the potential of every child.”
Our updated strategic plan is a testament to our innovative and responsive approach, ensuring we meet the unique needs of every child in our schools. This is a time filled with promise
and potential for every Bixby Spartan!
Bixby is truly fortunate to have a community that is not just involved but deeply committed to making our city a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Your pride in our schools and community is a testament to the strong bond we share.
Rob Miller Superintendent Bixby Schools
Photo By: Tyler Lane Photography
The Spartan Way - Learn Well. Live with Honor.
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The Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards
Gala is a prestigious event that recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements and contributions of businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders within the Bixby Metro area. This glamorous affair serves as a platform to acknowledge the remarkable successes and significant impact made by these individuals and organizations, highlighting their dedication to excellence and commitment to the growth and prosperity of the local business community.
The primary purpose of the gala is to honor those
who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in various aspects of business and community involvement. Awards are presented in several categories, like Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Citizen of the Year, and many others. These categories encompass a wide range of industries and sectors, reflecting the diversity and vitality of the Bixby Metro business community.
The Gala not only celebrates achievements but also serves as an inspiration for the future. By highlighting the accomplishments of exceptional individuals and organizations,
the gala encourages others to set ambitious goals, pursue excellence, and make a positive impact on the community.
The stories shared during the event serve as a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility, shaping a brighter future for the Bixby Metro area.
Also being a platform for networking and collaboration, the event strengthens the local business community and fosters a spirit of entrepreneurship. The gala serves as a yearly reminder of the tremendous potential within the Bixby Metro area and encourages everyone to strive for greatness.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Nowlin Orthodontics
DIVERSE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Las Cazuelas
LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Chick-fil-A
WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: 181 Ranch
NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR: Elite Pediatric Therapy
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR: Cathy
Peters, Bixby Public Schools
OF 2023 Best
TOP CO-BRANDING
ENTREPRENEUR
SALES: Justin Langston, Two Men And A Truck
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR: Jordan Cash, Two Men And A Truck
OF THE YEAR: Cierra Campbell, Bluebird Art Studio
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Regina LeBlanc, Oklahoma Disaster Restoration
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: Greg Campbell, Chick-fil-A
CHAIR AWARD: Shawn Stephens, Firstar Bank
MISS BIXBY PAGEANT
This event in March, sponsored by the Bixby Optimist Club, is a chance for young women at Bixby High School to win scholarship money by showcasing their talents and becoming great role models.
FOOD TRUCKS FOR KIDS
This event by the Bixby Outreach Center hosts Food Trucks at Charley Young Event Park and funds lunch bags for local students.
ARBOR DAY
Every spring, the Friends of Irving Foundation host a community celebration of tree-planting in Washington Irving Memorial Park and Arboretum.
BIXBY ROTARY CLUB BBQ N’ BLUES FESTIVAL
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bixby, this event takes place in May at Washington Irving Memorial Park and features great food and entertainment for the whole family.
YOUTH FISHING DERBY
This event in May, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bixby, invites children ages 2 to 15 to participate in a morning of fishing with friends at Lake Bixhoma.
BIXBY BITES & BEVS
Indulge in a variety of amazing treats, complemented by some refreshing beverages straight from your favorite local food vendors to fulfill all your cravings while fostering valuable connections.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY STREET PARTY
Kick off St. Paddy’s Day in style witht the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce in Downtown Bixby with games, booths, activities for the whole family, delicious food, and more.
GREEN CORN FESTIVAL
This June festival at the Charley Young Event Park area features food, music, crafts, bingo, carnival games, rides, and contests for our community youth, sponsored by the Bixby Optimist Club.
BIXBY FREEDOM CELEBRATION
Sponsored by The Bridge Church, this event features a variety of food vendors, representation of military branches, fireworks, and more.
9/11 MEMORIAL
This event commemorates Patriot Day in Washington Irving Memorial Park, which contains an I-beam from the World Trade Center.
COMMUNITY TABLE
This event is an evening of food, drinks, and entertainment, benefitting the Bixby Development Foundation.
TRICK OR TREAT DOWNTOWN
This Halloween event sponsored by the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce, includes booths, food, activities, and fun for the entire family in the heart of downtown Bixby.
BLUE JEAN BALL
This fundraiser for the Bixby Outreach Center invites the community to enjoy a night of music, dancing, local food, and auctions to provide resources to those experiencing hardship in the South Tulsa County area.
BUY BIXBY
This program put on by the Bixby Metro Chamber encourages all shopping for the holidays to take place in Bixby, incentivizing participants with a chance to win cash prizes.
CHRISTMAS IN DOWNTOWN BIXBY
This event in early December invites the community to spend the evening in Downtown Bixby, enjoying the Christmas parade, photos with Santa, ice skating at Winter Wonderland, and more
Visit our events calendar!
Thehistory of Bixby is like many other cities—agriculture was the major industry, and the attraction was its land. Oil and gas also played a large part of Bixby’s story, along with the ongoing issues with bridges and crossing the Arkansas River.
Bixby’s fertile soil and climate attracted settlers who established homesteads and began cultivating the land. Cotton farming became a dominant industry, and the town thrived on trade.
Before the 1970s, Bixby had been self-sufficient with everything located within one square mile. As Tulsa expanded,
it became easier for Bixby residents to drive there for events or shopping. This shift led to more spending north. Bixby could grow to meet these demands or plateau, so it adapted and grew.
Over the following decades, Bixby transformed from an agricultural community into a suburban city. The population steadily increased as families sought the community atmosphere and convenience offered by Bixby.
In recent years, Bixby has experienced significant growth and development. The town’s proximity to Tulsa and its own
attractions and amenities, has made it a very attractive place to live. Bixby’s strong sense of community, excellent schools, and low crime rates have contributed to its reputation.
Today, Bixby continues to evolve and thrive. Its economy is very diverse, encompassing a range of industries, and the town’s leadership focuses on sustainable growth and community development. Bixby’s history is preserved by the Bixby Historical Society who works to collect, document, and display photographs and stories that highlight Bixby’s past.
Photos By: The Bixby Historical Society
We are a community of people, not bound by We are a community of people, not bound by geography, with hearts to consider one another, geography, with hearts to consider one another, fellowship together and be moved to spread love and fellowship together and be moved to spread love and hope throughout our communities and the world. hope throughout our communities and the world
Bixby
