Tulsa September 2015

Tulsa SEPTEMBER 2015

TulsaLifestylePubs.com

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For the Love of Animals RESCUE GROUPS HELP ANIMALS ADOPTION STORIES MEET DONNAS FASHION’S OWNER

Holland Hall presents the 2015 ARTworks gallery exhibition featuring local artist, Christopher Westfall.

The gallery is open to the public October 19 through November 24, Monday – Friday, 9am to 4:30pm at Holland Hall’s Holliman Gallery.

Friends LeveL

4 Patron Reception Tickets

$2,500 masters LeveL

6 Patron Reception Tickets

$5,000 dutcH masters LeveL

8 Patron Reception Tickets

beCOme A patron

$1,000

2015

ARTworks kicks off on Sunday, October 18, with the gallery opening of Christopher Westfall’s work and exclusive Patron Reception in the Walter Arts Center.

Funds raised from this evening’s gallery sales and Patron sponsorships go toward supporting arts programming at Holland Hall and provide wonderful opportunities that are not possible without your support.

To become a patron or learn more about ARTworks, please contact Katie Johnson at kjohnson@hollandhall.org or 918.481.1111.

HollandHall.org

Editor’s Letter

Angels on our shoulders.

M

y mother-in-law always said pets are "angels on our shoulders."

I remember the first day my husband and I were introduced to Charlie Brown. We had just gotten married and moved into our new home. We are both huge animal lovers and we had both wanted to rescue a pit bull.

After doing our research on numerous organizations in Tulsa, we came across a pitbull rescue organization and after seeing Charlie Brown, we instantly fell in love. Charlie Brown had been abused by a previous owner before the heroes of the pitbull organization were able to rescue Charlie Brown and repair the injuries he had sustained. It's been two years since Charlie Brown came home with us and he has made our lives better.

Different breeds of dogs serve a myriad of both functional and working relationships and let's not forget the unconditional love they give to us.

SEPTEMBER 2015 publisher Kathy Slemp | KSlemp@LifestylePubs.com

editorial coordinator

Sarah Dewberry | Sarah.Dewberry@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers Liz Aizpiri, Jim Cosgrove, Sarah Dewberry, Stuart Harle, Casey Struttmann

contributing photographers Sarah Dewberry, Stuart Harle, Sherry Stinson, Zeller Photography

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry chief financial officer | DeLand Shore

In the wake of one of the most heartbreaking tragedies that was reported on recently, the death of Cecil the lion resonated with millions of animal lovers. Although he was taken from this world too soon, the team at Oxford University that was studying him has received more than $780,000 in donations.

director of marketing | Brad Broockerd art director | Sara Minor ad coordinators | Cyndi Vreeland, Chelsi Hornbaker, Katy James layout designer | Nicole Sylvester

Animals are one of the greatest things this world has to offer.

copy editor | Kendra Mathewson

There are some amazing organizations here in Tulsa doing their part by helping rescue animals from dire conditions, and working hard to make sure animals are found and placed into loving homes.

executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell web developer | Hanna Park it director | Randy Aufderheide

Animals are our protectors and best friends. They never judge and love us no matter what.

If you are interested in adopting the amazing animals mentioned in this month's magazine, we have provided the organization's numbers for you to contact.

I'll see you around the neighborhood!

Sarah Dewberry, Editorial Coordinator Sarah.Dewberry@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

ON THE COVER Penny is a 3-year-old Cane Corso who was

adopted almost immediately after her photo was posted.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHERRY STINSON

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Tulsa Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Tulsa’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Tulsa Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

September 2015

18

Departments 8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Home Matters

16

Local Limelight

26

Locally Owned

29

Sold Properties

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

Parting Thoughts

16 Meet Donna Brollier Donna’s Fashions owner has it all.

22 Big Hearts Two animal lovers talk about the adoption/rescue process.

24 Helpful Heroes Animal organizations in Tulsa going above and beyond to save those in need.

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䘀爀攀攀 渀 愀搀洀椀猀猀椀漀

昀爀攀攀 䬀椀搀 娀漀渀攀 䄀挀琀椀瘀椀琀椀攀猀

䘀愀爀洀攀爀✀猀 䴀愀爀欀攀琀

昀 愀 挀 攀 瀀 愀 椀渀 琀椀 渀 最

渀 倀愀琀挀栀 倀甀洀瀀欀椀

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搀漀爀猀 䘀漀漀搀 瘀攀渀

搀漀最最椀 攀 挀漀猀琀甀 洀攀 挀漀渀琀攀 猀琀

瀀氀愀琀攀搀 昀 樀漀椀渀 甀猀 伀挀琀漀戀攀爀 ㄀㠀琀栀 攀愀猀琀 䄀 䘀甀渀ⴀ䘀椀氀氀攀搀 䔀瘀攀渀琀 䘀漀爀 䄀氀氀Ⰰ 䰀攀琀✀猀 䌀攀氀攀戀爀愀琀攀 吀栀攀 䄀爀爀椀瘀愀氀 伀昀 䘀愀氀氀℀

㄀ ─ 漀昀 瀀爀漀挀攀攀搀猀 戀攀渀攀昀椀琀 夀漀甀琀栀 匀攀爀瘀椀挀攀猀 漀昀 吀甀氀猀愀

䐀漀渀✀琀 洀椀猀猀 漀甀琀 漀渀 琀栀攀 昀甀渀⸀⸀⸀䰀攀愀爀渀 洀漀爀攀 愀琀 眀眀眀⸀栀愀爀瘀攀猀琀昀攀猀琀椀瘀愀氀琀甀氀猀愀⸀挀漀洀

瀀爀攀猀攀渀琀攀搀 戀礀

Good Times

Mike Fretz Event Center Opening The Home Builders Association of Tulsa recently celebrated the Grand Re-Opening of the newly renovated Mike Fretz Event Center.

Building Revitalization Committee- Peter Grant, Darrell Jenkins, Jeffrey Smith, Brandon L. Jackson, HBA President Allen Jenkins, HBA CEO Paul Kane, Howard Kelsey, Weldon Bowman, and Brandon T. Jackson.

HBA President Allen Jenkins welcoming everyone to the Grand Re-Opening.

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Around Town OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER PLAYING IN TULSA The Oklahoma City Thunder will be returning to Tulsa for an Oct. 13 preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks. This year’s game will mark the seventh time the team has visited Tulsa for an exhibition game.

“We love our fans in Tulsa and all of northeastern Oklahoma,” says Brian Byrnes, senior vice president of sales and marketing for the Thunder. “They are loyal and passionate about our team, and we are pleased to be able to bring them another chance to enjoy the Thunder Basketball experience.”

The Thunder game will tip off at 7 p.m. at the BOK Center. Tickets are on sale now through BOKCenter.com, at the Arby’s Box Office or by phone at 866.7.BOK.CTR.

TULSA OILERS NAME NEW HEAD COACH Jason Christie, 46, was named the Tulsa Oilers’ head coach on July 23 after spending the past four seasons as the head coach of the Ontario Reign. In each of his four seasons behind the Reign bench, Christie recorded 43 or more wins and qualified for the ECHL’s Kelly Cup Playoffs. He led Ontario to three consecutive Pacific Division titles and last season, Christie guided the Reign to a 43-19-10 regular season record and a berth in the Western Conference Finals.

A native of Gibbons, Alberta, Christie has been a head coach for 13 seasons in the ECHL and CHL. He boasts a career coaching record of 520-304-105 (.616 winning percentage) and has led his teams to a total of 11 postseason appearances. With 483 victories in the ECHL, Christie ranks second on the league’s alltime coaching wins list.

SUE MONK KIDD TO OPEN TOWN HALL SERIES IN OCTOBER Best-selling author Sue Monk Kidd will open the 81st season of Tulsa Town Hall on Oct. 2 at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Kidd's debut novel, "The Secret Life of Bees," spent over two years on The New York Times bestseller list, has been translated into 23 languages and was made into an award-winning movie. Her latest work, 10

Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

"The Invention of Wings," was chosen upon publication for Oprah’s Book Club, and was Amazon’s number one bestselling book in 2014.

Kidd’s other New York Times bestsellers include "The Mermaid Chair" and "Traveling with Pomegranates."

"The Secret Life of Bees" started as a short story in the University of Tulsa’s Nimrod International Journal of Prose and Poetry. Kidd has received other writing awards and honors, including the 2010 Homecoming Award from Oklahoma Center for Poets and Writers at OSU Tulsa, the 2004 Book Sense Paperback Book of the Year, a nomination for the Orange Prize in England and the selection of "The Secret Life of Bees" as "Good Morning America’s" Read This! Book Club pick.

Kidd's appearance is presented in collaboration with the Oklahoma Center for Poets and Writers at OSU Tulsa, where she will speak on Oct. 1. For ticket information for that event, visit MyTicketOffice.com.

Kidd is the designated Tulsa Reads Author and her entire body of work will be studied in a community-wide reading initiative sponsored by Tulsa Town Hall, the Oklahoma Center for Poets and Writers at OSU Tulsa, the Tulsa City County Library, and the Tulsa World. Previous Tulsa Reads authors are Anna Quindlen, Pat Conroy, Kahled Hosseini and Bill Bryson.

Tulsa Town Hall tickets are available by season subscription only at TulsaTownHall.com or by calling 918.749.5965. Tulsa Town Hall is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing outstanding speakers to Tulsa to open minds, stir curiosity and inspire imaginations.

CLAREHOUSE'S RAISIN’ CAIN Clarehouse, a non-profit dedicated to 24-hour compassionate care for dying people, celebrates life at the annual fundraiser Raisin’ Cain, A Ballroom Bash on Thursday, October 1. The fun begins at 6 p.m. with a fiesta atmosphere at historic Cain’s Ballroom, 423 N. Main Street in Tulsa. Mary Cogan will perform on the historic stage graced by Bob Wills during his glory years and guests will enjoy a tex-mex buffet from Los Cabos, as well as dancing, a wine and beer pull, games, and giveaways. Sponsorships are still available and tickets are on sale at ClareHouse.org.

The final days care that Clarehouse offers is free of charge, so the organization depends on the generosity of the community. Donations built and support the cozy, 10-bedroom home, where people in need find peace, comforted by the presence of family and friends.

Contact Stacy Haggard at 918.893.6150 for more information.

2ND ANNUAL SICKLE CELL 5K As a part of National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, Oklahoma nonprofit Supporters of Families with Sickle Cell Disease (SFSCD) will host the second annual Sickle Cell 5K for a Cure and Community Awareness Bazaar on Sept. 5 in the historic Greenwood District at Langston University. The public is invited to participate in raising funds and awareness surrounding the most common genetic blood disorder in the world; affecting an estimated 1,500 Oklahomans living with the disease, and another 40,000 who carry the gene and their families.

“The strain on individuals and families living with the disease is enormous,” shares Jeremiah Watts, SFSCD Development Director and parent

of a child living with the disease. “One in 500 African-American infants are born with Sickle Cell disease, and throughout their lifetime they struggle to stay healthy. They face the reality of a lifetime of prescription medications to manage the disease, all the while facing the uncertainty of vital organ damage, failure and even fatal complications.”

Join celebrity participants Tulsa’s Sen. Kevin Matthew, Rep. Seneca Scott, Councilman Jack Henderson and author Clifton Taulbert for the 5K kickoff at 9 a.m. on Sept. 5. After, participants can enjoy the Community Awareness Bazaar featuring a family and kid’s zone with vendors to shop, inflatables, book mobile, face painting, balloon artists, therapeutic recreation, food and performances from the Edison Dance Company of Thomas A. Edison High School.

The Oklahoma Blood Institute will also be on site for a blood drive for all non-5K participants.

Pre-event registration is encouraged to reserve an event t-shirt: Signup online at SickleCell5k.SplashThat.com or call 918.408.1460.

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OPEN HOUSE FOR PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2015, 1:00 - 3:00 pm No reservation required.

Science Research Team STAND DOWN FOR HOMELESS VETERANS Two Men and a Truck, the “Movers Who Care,” are proud to partner with the Department of Veteran Affairs homeless program to provide moving service free of charge for their annual Stand Down for Homeless Veterans event. This one-day event will be held in Tulsa for homeless veterans where they can receive food, clothing, information, and referrals on needed services to help end their homelessness.

Numerous community agencies partner with the VA homeless program to provide resources and services to homeless veterans. The 2015 event will be held Sept. 19 at the Downtown First Baptist Church 424 South Detroit Avenue in Tulsa. For more information regarding the VA homeless program's services please visit Muskogee.Va.Gov.

Congratulations to the Upper School Science Research Team which earned the Sweepstakes Trophy for the second consecutive year at State competition last spring. Five team members were invited to the 2015 International Science and Engineering Fair in Pittsburgh. For more details, go to www.casciahall.com/research.

Register for a November entrance exam at www.casciahall.com/admissions.

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www.casciahall.org admissions@casciahall.org September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

11

Home Matters

Where to Start When Remodeling

Your Kitchen or Bathroom?

CARRIAGE HOUSE KITCHEN DESIGNS PROVIDES HOMEOWNERS WITH BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN REMODELS ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY STUART HARLE

H

omeowners visiting our showroom for the first time are always asking the WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, WHY and HOW of kitchen and bathroom remodeling and the steps involved in getting started. I always initiate the conversation by asking my own set of questions to get the thought process started, and then I listen, listen, listen…..

MY NEXT QUESTION IS “HOW LONG DO YOU PLAN TO LIVE IN THIS HOME ONCE THE PROJECT IS COMPLETED?”

I always approach the project differently if the homeowner is planning on selling the home in the near future.

MY NEXT QUESTION IS LOCATION, “WHERE IS THE HOME LOCATED?”

MY FIRST QUESTION IS WHY?

“Why is the homeowner wanting to do this?” Is the kitchen in need of repair, is it outdated or does it not support what they do in that space.

12

Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

By having a vast knowledge of the local real estate market and trends help me in determining the budget. I never allow our client to over improve or under improve their home.

Tumbled marble stone subway tile adds texture and pattern to the backsplash. A custom stone and glass tile mosaic backsplash inset is located over the range framed in stone pencil moulding.

The next set of questions is a survey of the client’s general knowledge of products, styles and tastes. There is such a knowledge curve among consumers with the start of the “This Old House” series 30 plus years ago and more recently with HGTV. Some clients can really run me through the paces with their high level of product knowledge and or sometimes their lack of knowledge. My job is to educate my client with information that supports their project, and with knowledge comes appreciation of what has been created.

• After a site visit consultation of the client’s home and a review of their expectations I am then able to determine a preliminary budget. If we all are in agreement then we start the design phase of the project which includes floor plans, cabinetry and appliance selection, plumbing fixture specifications and the blending of materials and finishes such as countertops, paint, tile, etc.

• Once everything is selected and a proposal is agreed upon, then we set up a project schedule and get started. The actual construction, once all the materials have arrived, can last anywhere from four to 12 weeks depending on the size and intricacies of the project.

• Once the project is completed the homeowner has added a well thought out new kitchen or bathroom with countless benefits and features along with the increased value to their home.

Stuart Harle, founder of Carriage House Design, brings a Bachelor of Science degree in interior design and 20 years of successful experience to every project. Moreover, he is one of the area’s leading custom cabinetry experts with a showroom located in Tulsa featuring Wood-Mode and Dakota Cabinetry. Stuart is a member of the American Society of Interior Designs, a Certified Kitchen and Bathroom Designer and member of The National Kitchen and Bath Association were he also serves on the National Dealer Advisory Council. His award-winning work includes memorable projects of all sizes and budgets.

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Local Limelight

T-TownSpotlight TULSA LIFESTYLE SPOTLIGHTS DONNA'S FASHIONS OWNER DONNA BROLLIER

ARTICLE SARAH DEWBERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY ZELLER PHOTOGRAPHY

D

onna Brollier has it all: A beautiful family, a famous son and a successful business. For 17 years, Brollier has owned and operated Donna’s Fashions in south Tulsa. Her store offers Tommy Bahama and all the latest fashion trends.

Before Brollier made Tulsa her home, she was just a country girl from Broken Bow trying to decide what she wanted to do with her life. She was crowned Miss Tulsa in the early 1990s in the Miss Oklahoma Scholarship Pageant, but her real passion was people.

“I went to Oklahoma State University, graduated and decided to attend graduate school in Tulsa,” Brollier says. “I went to the University of Tulsa for one semester and finished up at Oral Roberts University.” Once she hit Tulsa, though, she knew she wasn’t ever going to leave.

“I did an internship in Tulsa and once I got to Tulsa I knew that Tulsa was going to be my home,” Brollier says. “I just thought it was the neatest combination of urban not too big, but way more greater vibe then what I had in Stillwater. It was like the perfect fit and I have loved it ever since. This is home.”

After graduating from ORU, Brollier became a career counselor.

But after a few years of doing that, Brollier realized she was meant to do something else. So one day while at work, Brollier went to speak with her boss and her life was changed in an instant.

“My love is people. But I would find myself looking outside the box and coloring outside the lines engaging with people,” Brollier says.

“I went to talk to my advisor at work and she suggested I go live my dream, and if it doesn’t work out I’ll always have a job there. She said, ‘Be bold and take the step because it’s a step most of us wish we got to take, and you have a job to come back to if it doesn’t work out.’" For Brollier, this was her way to color outside the box.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

“I get to use my people skills with anyone who walks through my shop doors,” Brollier says. “The way I see it you’re still engaging loving people and it has served me well. In a small town it’s very important to know and to greet everyone that comes into your store, even if they’ve been in the store one time or been in your story a thousand times -- you want to make everyone feel welcomed.”

There are a lot of clothing boutiques to choose from in Tulsa, but there are many reasons why Donna’s Fashions is worth shopping at: She offers layaway and 24-hour apparel approval.

With a highly successful clothing boutique thriving in south Tulsa, Donna Brollier said there was talk a few years back about opening a second store.

“We thought about doing that in 2008 and that’s when we decided to expand our south Tulsa store,” Brollier says.

“I think it’s important to keep a balance of being a mom, your priorities to your family, so as for me, thinking about trying to divide my time at being at a downtown location and a south location was overwhelming," says Broillier.

"We were having growing pains and we needed to grow. We actually took on the menswear Tommy Bahama – my father-in-law would say, ‘If you just carried a few of the shirts we could walk over from The Bistro and have something to look for.’ So, we started doing that and south Tulsa responded immediately to the customer service and now we are a top 100 Tommy Bahama store."

"Staying in this location, expanding our store and adding the menswear has been one of the best decisions we have ever made,” she says.

The clothing brands Donna’s Fashions offers are not local, but one local company, Rustic Cuff, is sold there. The creator of

C O N T I N U I N G

Rustic Cuff, Jill Donovan, is a close friend and someone Brollier admires very much.

With a bigger store under her belt, Brollier says she wanted to grow and change. As she looked to branch out more, Steel Magnolia Jewelry was born.

“I get to a point where if I don’t see something out there I'll dream it and create it,” Brollier says. “I would find jewelry lines and fall in love with them and I would buy them but eventually they would stop making those pieces. I then started taking these things I loved, recreated it and made it my own. Most of the Steel Magnolia Jewelry (SteelMagnoliaJewelry.com) has a .38 special casing surround it.”

Brollier isn’t the only famous person in her family. For fans of the "The Voice" you may have seen Brollier on the hit NBC show while she watched her son Corey Kent White perform for the judges.

“Corey has always loved music,” Brollier says. “When he was 8 years old, he wanted to learn how to play the guitar. It took us a while to see that this was something he was very serious about.”

After taking lessons from renowned music legend Shelby Eicher and touring with Oklahoma Stomp for a few years, White’s career path was heading in a different direction once he reached the age of 17.

“He graduated from Bixby High School a year early because he wanted to get his solo career off the ground,” Brollier says.

“When Corey makes up his mind to do something that is what he is going to do.”

White was flying back and forth from Nashville and Tulsa, setting up the groundwork with songwriters before he moved to Nashville full-time last August and tried out for "The Voice" shortly thereafter.

“As his mom, it was really exciting that out of 145,000 people to see him make the cut right off the bat and then to be one of the 100 people to perform in front of the judges -- that is something to be proud of,” Brollier says. “Each time he would audition he would make it through to the next phase. It was wonderful to go and watch each time they were there and see how much he had grown and learned and apply what he had learned throughout to the next round of auditions."

White finished in the top seven on the hit show, but that didn’t slow him down. Back in July, White opened up for “The Voice” alums The Swon Brothers at The Joint.

With a successful business and a famous son, Brollier loves what she does and wouldn’t trade it for the world.

“My goal has always been to make sure that a young lady can come in with her mom or her mom’s mom and have three generations come into the store and like something and they can all shop together,” Brollier says.

Brollier sure knows how to make anyone who walks into her store feel like a million bucks.

A

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Day in the Life of a Dog ARTICLE SARAH DEWBERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY SHERRY STINSON AND PROVIDED

S

everal dogs have been offering their community love and care. In this feature, we are spotlighting three wonderful dogs.

18

Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

my life. Her name is Destiny and Mama felt it was Destiny for us to all meet that day. So there ya go!

• HOW OLD ARE YOU? I think I’m like 2 or 3, but since I was a stray, Mama really doesn’t know. Three sounds good. It means I can finally drive (in dog years!)

• WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? Ice cream! Ice cream! Ice cream! Did I mention ice cream?!

Destiny the Pibble’s owner Sherry does pro bono rescue shoots for animal shelters and rescues across the state, particularly Tulsa Animal Welfare (as well as rescues in New Orleans, LA). She’s taken photographs for TAW for three years and rescue photography for free for seven years. Her company name is TylerDog Photography.

DESTINY THE PIBBLE • WHAT IS YOUR NAME? My name is Destiny the Pibble. I wanted it to be Destiny the Amazing Pibble, but Mama said Jazzy the Amazing Wiener already stole that name. Jazzy is my sister and she’s very loud!

• WHERE DO YOU HAIL FROM? Hmm, well, Mama found out I’m an American bulldog, AmStaff, pharaoh hound mix. My golden eyes and reddish color is definitely pharaoh hound and I read on the computer (don’t tell Mama), that pharaoh hounds come from Egypt! And we’re a really old breed, like 4,000 years old! Not quite as old as my old sister, Jazzy, she’s like 6 million years old. But please don’t tell her. She’s a mean little wiener!

• WHAT IS THE NAME OF YOUR OWNER? I call her Mama, but everyone else calls her Sherry.

• HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LIVING WITH YOUR OWNER? Mama brought me home from Tulsa Animal Welfare on March 25, 2014.

A few days earlier, while Mama was taking photos at Tulsa Animal Welfare, an 8-year-old little girl saved my life when she saw me terrified in the kennel. She said 10 simple words: “We can just feed her and she’ll get better, right?” My story is at TylerDog.com/Destiny.

• WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN? Hmm, I really love playing with Jazzy, even though her breath is awful! I love playing with the water hose and getting soaking wet. I really love playing “jump on the couch like a kangaroo,” but Mama’s not too fond of that one.

And I really love to do zoomies in the yard!

• WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL DAY LIKE? Hmm, well, I get up and give Mama like 500 kisses! Then I wiggle a whole bunch and smile! After that, I go outside to do my business and run around a little bit. I get to eat breakfast, then it’s almost time for a nap! Sometimes I help Mama run errands, so we drive to the post office or places like that. After I get done navigating for Mama (I’m a backseat driver), we normally go for ice cream. I absolutely LOVE ice cream and Mama timed it once: it took me four minutes to eat my cone! I savor every single lick! Once we’re back home, I say hey to all my other sisters: Maggie Monster, Katie the doberman, Xena the pit bull, Andi Dandy, and of course, my bestie, Jazzy the Amazing Wiener. She’s really my bestest friend in the whole wide world, but don’t tell her that.

She’s already got a big head! Um, then I might nap again, get up for dinner, a snack, and then we all kick back to watch a movie or something. My favorite movie is ‘Pitch Perfect.’ I’m quite musical!

• HOW DID YOU GET YOUR NAME? Well, if I tell you it will ruin the story link above! But if I must, it was due to the little girl who saved

MAVIS PERAL BAIN • WHAT IS YOUR NAME?

My name is Mavis Pearl Bain.

• WHERE DO YOU HAIL FROM?

I am an English Bulldog. My breed originated in England. I was originally bred to help butchers control livestock. I only slightly resemble my ancestors in appearance. Despite my serious demeanor, I am one of the sweetest dogs you will find. I love people, and love helping those who are hurting. I love giving high fives and lot’s of smooches! I am a friend indeed!

• WHAT IS THE NAME OF YOUR OWNER?

My owner’s name is Lisa Bain.

• HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LIVING WITH YOUR OWNER?

I have been living with my owner for 4 years.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

I love to play with my sisters, Holly (a lab) and Gracie (golden retriever).

I love visiting people who need a smile. Being a registered therapy dog is my favorite thing to be and do. I love being the ambassador for Joy In The Cause, a 501c3 non profit local charity (My mom is the founder) I am a dog with a cause! I love spreading joy to those who need a smile.

I LOVE to dress up in fun outfits! In fact I even pick out my own tutus, CONTINUED > and bring them to Mom before we go on our visits!

September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

19

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A DOG (CONTINUED) SIMONE WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL DAY LIKE?

WHAT IS YOUR NAME?

I wake Mom up bright and early! I have a great breakfast, then I have a fun play session with my sisters. Then it’s off to work I go! Only I don’t think it’s work, it’s fun! I love picking out the fun outfits I wear.

My favorite thing to wear is a tutu and a bandana with my name on it!

(The Mavis Pearl bandana and bow.) I think I have more clothes than my Mom does! We go to cancer treatment centers, patient home visits, nursing homes, hospices, or visits to those with special needs. My day is filled with bringing smiles to those in need of some joy. I find it’s quite easy to bring a smile, being that I am a fat little bulldog wearing a funny outfit! I’m also a R.E.A.D dog, and I love it when kids read to me!

My full name is Sombra’s Simone II of Saint Simeon’s, but I really just go by “Simone.”

WHERE DO YOU HAIL FROM?

HOW OLD ARE YOU?

The staff members at Saint Simeon’s spent a long time researching breeders throughout the United States, trying to find one that could breed a puppy that would have a calm, yet fun temperament, be in good health, have a desire to want to be with people, and of course, be beautiful. They landed on a breeder in the Green Bay, Wisconsin area. I was one of three puppies in my litter born on April 1, 2009. My breeder, Jeanette, watched as I grew, and decided that I had the right temperament to go to Saint Simeon’s. Donna Mayotte with Saint Simeon’s picked me up on June 25, 2009. I came to work at Saint Simeon’s just a few days later. Staff members Donna Mayotte and Dara Harris helped train me and raise me. I was enrolled in a puppy kindergarten at K9 Manners and More in Broken Arrow, where I learned the basics of coming when called, sit, stay, down, and how to walk on a leash. After the advanced obedience classes, I earned a Canine Good Citizenship Certificate in April of 2010.

I am 4 years old.

WHAT IS THE NAME OF YOUR OWNER?

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?

Technically, I am owned by Saint Simeon’s Senior Community.

However, I do go home each night with my “handler/mom,” Kathy Hinkle, who is the education director at Saint Simeon’s.

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR NAME?

My Mom named me after her elementary school lunch lady. This sweet lady battled cancer, but never complained. She always had a smile and a kind word. She made a real impression on my Mom. Her hair net smushed her face down to resemble that of a bulldog. (but we would never tell her that one!)

I love peanut butter!!! I could eat it all day!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LIVING WITH YOUR OWNER?

I have been working at Saint Simeon’s for six years, and my handler/mom, Kathy, has been taking me home with her since 2010.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN?

I love walks and runs at Mohawk Park, where I can explore offleash. I especially enjoy roaming the woods there and rolling in leaves. I also like visits to Joe Station dog park. I especially love children, and they love me! I love to have my belly rubbed.

WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL DAY LIKE?

Simone celebrating her 6th birthday with Saint Simeon’s Resident Bob Snow.

Simone at Saint Simeon’s annual fundraiser Western Days with her “mom/ handler,” Kathy Hinkle, Saint Simeon’s Education Director.

Most mornings, “Mom” Kathy and I go exploring at Mohawk Park. Then we head to work at Saint Simeon’s. I spend the day visiting the Residents of Saint Simeon’s. Many of them have treats ready for me when I visit them in their rooms or their favorite spot on campus. At Saint Simeon’s, we have beautiful courtyards filled with peacocks and turtles, and I enjoy hanging out with all of the wildlife and know not to chase them. One very special peacock that was born at Saint Simeon’s last year, Rocky, was rejected by his mother since he was born under an incubator, so I ended up raising him the first few weeks of his life. So you could say I’m a momma to a peacock!

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR NAME?

My name was chosen because it sounds like Simeon’s. Also, the letters in “Simone” and “Simeon” are interchangeable. Any dog that lives here will all be named “Simone,” just as my predecessor, who lived here until 2010, was Simone I. HOW OLD ARE YOU?

I am 6 years old. Each year, Saint Simeon’s throws a big birthday party for me. The party usually helps dogs in need. In April this year, we asked people to bring dog food for the dogs of Tulsa’s homeless population, and we raised more than 500 pounds of dog food! The party always includes a cake made for dogs and a separate cake for humans.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?

Beggin’ Strips. But I’ll eat pretty much anything!

20

Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

21

PETS: The Angels on Our Shoulders ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY SARAH DEWBERRY

Daphne's cat Black Panther.

W

Cidnee's dog Gus.

hile meeting a new group of friends, I was asked “If you won the lottery, what would you do?” People sometimes respond with traveling the world, buying an island or retiring. My response is always to buy land for rescued animals.

Ever since I can remember, I have always been affected by an animal's death in movies. I believe it all started when my mother sat me down to watch Bambi and witnessing Bambi’s mother die made me sensitive to animals dying in movies. I can remember watching the newest "King Kong." I was a blubbering mess. Yes, I know the ape dies, but actually witnessing it on the big screen tore my heart apart.

I have always had a big heart for animals and when deciding to rescue a dog for my husband and me to call our own, we turned to an animal rescue group here in Tulsa. Two fur babies later, I come home to wagging tails and lovable licks from two amazing dogs Charlie Brown and Jax. I commend people who have stepped up to the plate to rescue those in need and below you’ll find several people who have opened their homes and hearts to some amazing animals.

DAPHNE AND BLACK PANTHER

While living out in California, Daphne was working at an animal clinic when fate stepped in.

“A coworkers sister used to bring cats to the clinic in hopes of finding them good homes," Daphne says. I fell in love with one and took it home." You could say the rest is history. Before she adopted her cat, Black Panther, Daphne read up on who she was adopting from and knew the person she was adopting from very well.

“The previous owner of the cat kept great paperwork, so I knew what I was getting myself into when I adopted the cat,” she says.

Currently working at another animal clinic in town, Daphne gets asked quite a bit of what others should do when thinking about adopting or rescuing a pet and she offers the same great advice to pet owners.

“If you are rescuing a dog, take them to a dog school because it’s a great opportunity to help strengthen the bond and relationship between you and the dog," Daphne says.

22

Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

CIDNEE AND GUS

Cidnee and her family are blessed with three dogs, all of which were rescued.

“Our first dog that we rescued, Sonny, came from the local animal shelter,” Cidnee says. “He was a part of a large puppy mill bust. Our second dog, Gus, which is my dog, came from Pekes and You Rescue out of Oklahoma City. Our third dog Samuel was rescued from there, too.”

Cidnee fell in love with the Pekes and You rescue so much that she began working for the group, by fostering and adopting what dogs she can, while also assisting the coordination of picking up dogs who are awaiting euthanasia.

Before setting out to find a dog to adopt, Cidnee did plenty of research, which she recommends anyone thinking of rescuing a dog to do first.

“I ask people to do their research,” Cidnee says. “I did my research before I even thought of fostering. Just like humans every dog has a different personality and quirks. If you're lazy and don't enjoy taking multiple walks or being outside playing all the time then don't get a Labrador. Find a dog that fits your lifestyle and personality, don't get one just because it's cute. I've fostered plenty of dogs that got adopted and then returned because the owner didn't want to put the time and effort in that the dog needed.

Also, don't just look at adopting puppies. There are plenty of older dogs out there that need homes, too. They're not super old either.

There are many dogs that are 1-6 years old sitting in shelters. Most of them are already potty trained and have some obedience skills too, which makes it way easier on the owner.”

After doing extensive amount of research, and meeting the rescue owner, Cidnee and her family decided to rescue three Pekingese.

“Sonny came from the local animal shelter after a large puppy mill was busted,” Cidnee says. “He was around 8-9 months old at the time.

Gus came from Pekes and You Rescue, he was dumped in Yukon at around 2-3 months old and left on the streets until he was picked up at around 4-5 months old. He started out as a foster and then I ultimately adopted him because he needed a lot of social rehabilitation. Samuel also came from Pekes and You. He also started out as a foster. He was 8 years old when we got him. He was blind in one eye, had an ulcer in the other and is deaf. He had spent his entire life in a cage at a mass breeder's house. We picked all of our dogs up on their euthanasia dates.”

When it comes to adopting pets, there can be things that may go wrong, but Cidnee states there is only positive things that come from rescuing.

“One of the major pros is that you’re saving a life,” Cidnee says. “You're giving someone who was deemed another person's "trash" a second chance. You're showing them that not all humans are the same and they are worthy of being loved unconditionally. Just always check with your rescue to make sure you are aware of the care your animal may be needing.”

Having rescued three dogs, Cidnee says she wouldn’t change one thing about the rescuing process.

“By adopting, my family and I have saved three lives and gained some amazingly goofy best friends,” Cidnee says. “From fostering we have given over 50 dogs and counting a new lease on life with their new families.”

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Saint Simeon’s was the only place in town that offered the type of quality care I wanted for my father. Also, the staff members have become like family to him. People like Dr. Mary Nole in the Wellness Center see my dad almost every day and are committed to keeping him healthy.

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23

HEROES Saving Animals Lives

The Million Mutt March in 2014 at Riverwalk. The walk kicks off Woofstock and benefits OAA to support their anti-cruelty efforts.

This year’s event will be Sept. 26.

A

ARTICLE CASEY STRUTTMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

nimals are introduced to us at an incredibly young age. In the beginning of our existence, we are automatically informed that we share this world with more than ourselves.

Nursery rhymes and children’s books welcomed us to explore the animal kingdom with main characters such as Peter Rabbit and Mary’s lamb. As we age, our relationship and understanding of animals may change by experience and interaction. However that may be formed, a relationship with the animal world exists throughout our lives.

“Pets are humanizing,” said actor and animal activist James Cromwell, famous for his role in the movie “Babe.” “They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.” Several local organizations have taken that work to heart.

OKLAHOMA ALLIANCE FOR ANIMALS

Oklahoma Alliance for Animals, in collaboration with several animal welfare organizations, is taking the responsibility seriously.

After finding 10 dogs dumped on her property, OAA President Jamee Suarez asked the Tulsa SPCA for their help. The group's response inspired Suarez, who soon began to volunteer for the organization.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

“I never knew the magnitude of pet overpopulation until I volunteered,” she says.

Suarez decided that she needed to do more. She and several others traveled to New York City to speak with Jane Hoffmann, president of the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals, to learn about animal alliances and the impact that they have.

Oklahoma’s Alliance for Animals was established in 2004. With a collaborative force of animal welfare organizations across the state, the nonprofit organization had found a purpose. Its mission is simple: to reduce pet overpopulation, encourage responsible pet ownership, and promote the humane treatment of animals through community education.

OAA hopes to begin reducing pet overpopulation by stopping it at its root. For the month of February, OAA teams up with Spay Oklahoma for its “Hip to Snip” event. By providing funds, OAA is able to help Spay Oklahoma provide low-cost spay and neuter services to pet owners who would not be able to afford the procedures. OAA is also working with Spay Oklahoma on a year-round voucher, providing help to those who are eligible based on financial need.

According to Spay Oklahoma, an estimated 11 million cats and dogs are killed in shelters each year. Shelters cannot keep up with the influx of animals coming in the door, and must turn to euthanasia.

Having room for the animals is key. A former employee of Oklahoma Alliance for Animals began advocating to provide holding facilities so animals have a place to stay while they are temporarily in shelters. The plan, funded through Tulsa architects Olsen-Coffey, became reality. Facilities are already up and running in Collinsville and Eufaula. The cost of building a shelter is approximately $25,000-to $30,000.

Suarez is excited about the movement and hopes that more holding facilities will be built in the future. “We recently have partnered with Capital Steel out of Skiatook, Oklahoma, to provide the construction," she says. "Once a city agrees and is on board, OAA will provide a $500 grant to kick off their campaign.”

OAA’s team-effort programs are expanding. “Pawsitively Pits” provides free neuter and spay services during pit bull awareness week to pit bulls and pit bull mixes, the most prevalent type of dog entering shelters today. “Unchain Oklahoma” is educating pet-owners on the importance of keeping their pets near them and educating pet-owners on the negative effects of chaining them outdoors.

Oklahoma Alliance for Animals is more than a collaboration of organizations. Within these organizations are individuals-who have jobs and families, people like you and me. By supporting, adopting, volunteering, and/or donating, you are making a difference.

Below is a list of reputable animal welfare organizations. For a full list of OAA supporters and volunteer opportunities, go to AnimalAllianceOK.org.

TULSA ANIMAL WELFARE

A division of Working in Neighborhoods, Tulsa Animals Welfare is the city department responsible for the welfare of animals in our community. Their services include: picking up stray animals, reuniting lost pets with their owners, and finding new homes for unwanted pets.

They are currently in need of “in-kind” donations of pet animal care supplies, cleaning products, office supplies, and other materials that can be used to support the shelter’s activities.

Tulsa Animal Welfare is located at 3031 N. Eerie. Visit their website at CityofTulsa.org

TULSA HUMANE SOCIETY

Tulsa Humane Society is a private non-profit organization. Their mission is to promote responsible pet ownership and pet population control. Completely funded through private donors, financial support is key to their success. They are always open to volunteers. You can find a wish list of supplies on their website at TulsaPets.com. Tulsa Humane Society is located at 6232 E. 60th Street, Tulsa, OK 74135. You can reach Tulsa Humane Society by contacting them at 918.495.3647.

STREET CATS

StreetCats, Inc. is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to shelter abandoned and lost cats in hopes of finding them a new home.

They are currently seeking volunteers to help with the many tasks that help the organization operate on a day-to-day basis. Volunteer applications can be found at StreetCatsTulsa.org. Contact StreetCats at 918.298.0104 StreetCats is located at 6520 E. 60th Street in Tulsa.

TULSA SPCA

Tulsa SPCA is a temporary home for thousands of animals. They provide nutritious food, a safe place to sleep, medical care, and gentle handling. They also support an ongoing animal cruelty investigation program. You can volunteer through their various programs.

The auxiliary program helps to keep the organization strong through marketing and fundraising Pets are love (PALS) consists of volunteers and dogs who visit nursing homes. K-9 Social Club are a group of volunteers that help the dogs get exercise by various activities such as running, and walking with them. For more information on how to help, contact Tulsa SPCA at 918.428.7722. Tulsa SPCA is located at 2910 Mohawk Blvd., Tulsa, OK 74110.

Jamee Saurez with "Reed" from Reeds Foundation. He is a three legged pittie.

The event was at The Canebrake.

AMORE PIT BULL RESCUE

Amore Pit Bull Rescue, rescues and finds homes for unwanted and abandoned pit bulls. They are currently seeking volunteers that will be able to give their dogs one-on-one attention, creating that connection that otherwise would not be readily available. Donations can be dropped off at Southern Agriculture in Tulsa Hills. For more information please contact Amore Pit Bull Rescue at 918.230.0828 or by email at AmorePitbullRescue@outlook. com. You can also like them on Facebook at Facebook.com/AmorePitbullRescue

Spay and neuter at a SNIP Clinic that OAA sponsors.

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Thinking About Retiring Early?

ANSWER THESE 5 QUESTIONS FIRST

W

hile many retirees have to stop working earlier than they’d planned due to health or employer issues, an early retirement continues to be a longstanding dream for many people. The upside of early retirement is easy to understand – more time to pursue your interests, and to do so while you are still in good health. The downside risk centers on whether it will create a financial strain over time and the emotional impact of changing your routine. Keep in mind that given today’s life expectancies, anybody who retires prior to age 65 or 66 could easily spend two-to-three decades or more in retirement. Given this reality, here are five key questions you should answer before you decide to retire early:

nest egg in the future. To meet this financial challenge, you need to have saved diligently for years and invested wisely. You also should account for other sources of retirement income – Social Security, access to a pension from your workplace and inheritance you have received or can count on receiving.

QUESTION #2 – DO YOU HAVE OUTSTANDING DEBTS TO PAY?

If you continue to carry a home mortgage, automobile loan, credit card debt or home equity loan into retirement, ongoing payments need to be accounted for in your monthly budget. The ideal situation is to have little or no debt when you head into retirement so you can be more efficient in the use of your available financial resources.

QUESTION #1 – DO YOU HAVE A REALISTIC PLAN TO GENERATE INCOME FOR DECADES?

QUESTION #3 – ARE YOU GOING TO CLAIM SOCIAL SECURITY

Accounting for all potential sources of revenue and making realistic projections about how much income you can draw from it over a lifetime really matters. Keep in mind that living costs will likely increase over time, requiring you to withdraw more from your

BENEFITS EARLY?

26

Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

Most people are first eligible to claim Social Security benefits when they reach age 62. However, the monthly benefit is reduced if you begin collecting Social Security before your full retirement age (which varies

between 65 and 67, depending on your year of birth). As you develop your income strategy for early retirement, you either need to substitute for Social Security benefits in earlier years or be prepared to accept smaller Social Security payments throughout your life.

QUESTION #4 – WHAT IS YOUR PLAN FOR HEALTH CARE?

One of the costliest aspects of early retirement is paying for health insurance and related expenses. You aren’t eligible to enroll in Medicare until age 65 so you’ll need to find another form of insurance coverage in the meantime. Explore your options on health care exchanges and through private insurers. You may be fortunate enough to be covered under a former employer’s plan for retirees. Keep in mind that those in their 50s and 60s may be paying the highest premiums for health insurance, so it will likely represent a significant expense.

QUESTION #5 – ARE YOU EMOTIONALLY PREPARED FOR A DRAMATIC CHANGE IN YOUR LIFE?

Leaving the workforce and the day-to-day routine you’ve been living for decades can require a significant adjustment in your mindset.

Before you retire, try to envision what you want your life to be like after leaving the workforce. Have a plan to stay active and connected to people. Make sure you have outlets available that will provide the kind of stimulation you became accustomed to while you worked.

But be sure to put some thought into this in advance.

Early retirement is likely to work out best for those who plan ahead. Answering these five questions in an honest and comprehensive way is a good starting point.

Sylvia Karimian, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® and David Karimian, CRPC® are Financial Advisors with Karimian & Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Tulsa, OK. They specialize in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies. To contact them, call 918.388.2003 or email David.x.Karimian@ ampf.com and Sylvia.j.Karimian@ampf.com. Karimian & Associates is located at 7712 S Yale Ave, Suite 240, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136. To learn more, visit KarimianAdvisors.com. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment advisor. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC.© 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File # 1065887

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27

Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Tulsa Properties NEIGHBORHOOD

SALES PRICE

Woody Crest

$1,116,565

Berwick Fairways II

BDRMS 4

F/H BATH GARAGE CAP. 3/1

2

YEAR BUILT

SQ. FT.

LOT SQ. FT.

1985

4,466

13,548

$1,112,500

5

5/2

3

2015

65,000

16,114

Timberland

$960,000

3

2/1

2

2009

4,132

16,447

Darrell-Wayne

$925,000

4

4/1

2

1955

4,927

27,234

Louise

$920,000

4

3/1

3

2015

*

10,500

Villa Grove Park

$845,000

5

3/2

2

1956

4,858

36,158

Woodhill Estates

$799,000

4

4/2

3

1989

5,088

27,566

Oakwold

$775,000

3

4/1

2

1954

3,644

39,160

Tradition

$732,500

6

4/1

3

2012

5,032

15,358

Skyview II

$699,000

4

3/1

3

1953

3,263

13,700

Forest Park South II

$685,000

5

3/2

3

1990

5,424

23,271

The Lakes at Indian Springs

$676,000

4

3/2

3

2008

5,143

23,095

Fieldstone

$630,950

5

5/0

3

1989

5,151

29,500

Sheila Terrace

$630,000

4

4/0

3

2013

3,015

9,636

Highland Park Estates

$629,000

4

4/0

2

1946

3,741

13,500

Crowne Pointe

$615,000

5

5/1

3

1987

5,849

24,536

The Lakes at Indian Springs II

$590,000

5

4/1

3

2005

4,852

19,693

Signal Hill II

$589,000

4

4/2

3

2004

4,367

14,163

Bryan-Mawr

$560,000

4

3/1

2

2014

3,739

10,001

Sunset Terrace

$550,000

3

2/1

2

1927

2,633

10,428

Ranch Acres

$548,000

3

3/0

2

2008

3,018

16,128

South Lewis Park

$542,200

4

3/2

3

1985

4,102

27,963

Harters IV

$535,000

4

4/0

3

2014

3,150

10,500

Berwick on Cedar Ridge

$520,000

4

3/1

3

2006

4,452

17,883

Stonebrooke Glen

$520,000

4

4/1

3

2011

3,968

12,853

Graystone

$515,000

5

4/0

3

2004

4,853

16,105

Signal Hill II

$515,000

4

3/1

3

1997

3,948

18,738

*Information not disclosed. Source: Tulsa NORES MLS. 07/1/15 -07/31/15

September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

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September Lifestyle Calendar

SATURDAYS

TULSA FARMERS MARKET CHERRY STREET

From 7 to 11 a.m.. Contact: Penni Shelton at 918.605.5049 TulsaFarmersMarket.org

SEPTEMBER 1-4 TULSA DRILLERS GAMES ONEOK FIELD

There will be fireworks after the game Sept. 4. TulsaDrillers.com

SEPTEMBER 6

Where Caring Really Matters. 6 p.m. Tickets start at $75. Visit WesternDaysEvent.com for details.

SEPTEMBER 19 ONE-DAY TENT SALE THE FARM SHOPPING CENTER

Gather the family and come on down to The Farm! We’ve pitched lots of tents and filled them with great deals, food and other surprises! Stop by each one to sign up for great giveaways! The Oklahoma Alliance for Animals will be on hand with furry friends looking for forever homes.

TULSA ROUGHNECKS FC MATCHES

SEPTEMBER 22

ONEOK FIELD

BLOOD DRIVE

7:30 p.m. Contact: Justin Gorski 918.744.5998. There will be fireworks after the game. TulsaDrillers.com

THE FARM SHOPPING CENTER

SEPTEMBER 12-20 RESTAURANT WEEK TULSA

Enjoy Tulsa’s best restaurants and support the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma’s Food for Kids Program during Restaurant Week. Fifty restaurants will offer fixed-price brunch, lunch and dinner menu options and will donate 10 percent of proceeds to support Food for Kids. For more information, visit OkFoodBank.org.

SEPTEMBER 15 SAINT SIMEON’S WESTERN DAYS EXPO SQUARE’S CENTRAL PARK HALL

Saint Simeon’s Western Days: Celebrating Saint Simeon’s,

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Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

The American Red Cross Blood Mobile will be parked in front of I.O. Metro Furniture from noon-5 p.m. For a few minutes out of your day, you can save a life. How great is that! If you’d like to donate, please call 918.622.3860.

OCTOBER 6 RAISIN’ CAIN, A BALLROOM BASH CAIN’S BALLROOM

Set in the historic Cain’s Ballroom, to the toe-tapping music of Tulsa’s own Mary Cogan, guests will two-step around the hardwood floor, and the tex-mex buffet, as they support a mission of kindness. Raisin’ Cain, A Ballroom Bash will fund months of Clarehouse care. Event starts at 6 p.m. Sponsor this charity event and buy tickets at ClareHouse.org or call 918.893.6150

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SEPTEMBER 1-30

Humorous Illuminous: The Illustrations of Dan Mcheen

2

Shelby Eicher

4-20

Miss Saigon

PAC Gallery

Brown Bag It, PAC Trust

Theatre Tulsa

11-12

Half Life

12

Parsons Dance

Living Arts of Tulsa Choregus Productions

13

Pacifica Quartet

25-27

Next to Normal

26

Experience the Exotic

30

Alonzo King Lines Ballet

Chamber Music Tulsa Theatre Tulsa Tulsa Symphony Choregus Productions

24: Mannheim Steamroller OR TULSAPAC.COM TICKETS: 918-596-7111 Christmas

Celebrity Attractions

September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

31

ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION

Woodland West Animal Hospital (918) 299-1208 woodlandwestanimalhospital.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Animal Emergency Center (918) 665-0508 aec-tulsa.com

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Humphrey Photographer (918) 625-4630 chrishumphreycreative.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS

Tulsa Performing Arts Center (918) 596-7111 tulsapac.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING First Mortgage Company (918) 496-2241 firstmortgageco.com Karimian & Associates (918) 388-2003 karimianadvisors.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS

Privatised Banking, LLC (918) 688-7906 PrivatisedBanking.com

Raj M. Patel, D.D.S (918) 369-3024 rajmpateldds.com

EDUCATION

Cascia Hall School (918) 746-2604 casciahall.org Grade Power (918) 250-5500 gradepowerlearning.com Holland Hall (918) 481-1111 hollandhall.org

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

Knotty Rug (913) 677-1877 knottyrug.com

First Call (Tulsa) (918) 665-1011 my-firstcall.com

Midtown Market (918) 607-4817 midtownmarkettulsa.com

My Choice In-Home Senior Services (918) 728-6085 mychoiceok.com

Two Men And A Truck - Tulsa (918) 771-4049 twomenandatrucktulsa.com

Carriage House Design Inc (918) 949-9017 chdkitchenandbath.com NichTech Roofing (918) 283-2001 nichtechroofsystems.com

Visions Tile & Stone (918) 592-1234

Fall Harvest Festival (918) 779-6333 jtrgroup.com

HOME SERVICES

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

Tom’s Outdoor Living (918) 695-1653 tomsoutdoorliving.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Griffin Interiors (918) 794-3851 griffininteriorstulsa.com

Twisted Soul Sisters (918) 943-3246 twistedsoulsisters.com

Tulsa Botanic Gardens (918) 289-0330 tulsabotanic.org

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Saint Simeon’s Senior Community (918) 425-3583 saintsimeons.org

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Clinical Aesthetics of Tulsa (918) 970-4995 caotulsa.com

SHOPPING CENTERS The Farm Shopping Center (918) 622-3860 farmshoppingcenter.com

Hillcrest Healthcare Systems (918) 585-8000 hillcrest.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS Look Eyecare & Eyewear (918) 992-5337 looktulsa.com

Plastic Surgery Center Of Tulsa (918) 712-0888 pscoftulsa.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

The Campbell Hotel & Event Center/Maxwells Restaurant (918) 744-5500 thecampbellhotel.com

Brian Frere Home Team (918) 298-6900 brianfrere.com

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Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

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September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

WORDS JIM COSGROVE

“O

lly olly oxen free!”

Do kids play “Kick the Can” any more? Or “Flashlight Tag”? Or “Ghost in the Graveyard”? Or “Red Rover”? Do they even play outside in the evenings?

When I was a kid, all the moms on the block would start calling us home when the street lights came on. And whoever happened to be “it” would shout out the all-safe signal “Olly olly oxen free” (we all used the phrase, but nobody knew exactly why). Like a herd of sweaty little oxen smelling like sidewalk, we’d come galloping from the shadows back toward our respective bug-yellow porch lights.

On our block alone there were more than 20 kids – granted nearly half of them lived at our house – but there was always enough on any given night to field a couple of teams for Wiffle Ball or “Capture the Flag”.

Shortly after dinner, neighbor kids would start gathering in our yard. We lived on a corner lot that was just the right size for a playing field for any sport. My poor father tried to grow grass every spring, but it was a losing battle. By June there were permanent base paths worn into the turf. And no matter how much he griped and groaned about the kids trampling his grass, he couldn’t deflate the pride I felt in having a yard that was the epicenter of activity.

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Tulsa Lifestyle | September 2015

For hours we would play outside. And we played hard. Running, falling, scraping, crying, laughing, and peeing in the bushes because we didn’t want to run home. I even broke my arm playing “Red Rover” when Peggy McShane and Dana Rowland let go of their hands right as I was about to bust through their grip, sending me rolling down the hill behind them. And I swear I had a semi-permanent ring of chigger bites around my waste that lasted all summer.

We were having way too much fun to care about the chiggers or the thick humid air or the slimy slugs we stepped on in our bare feet or all the other natural things that now persuade us to stay cooped up in our air-conditioned houses watching reruns of The Andy Griffith Show.

I can’t tell you the last time I had a chigger bite. I don’t even know if the critters exist any more. Are they extinct? Either I’ve been lathered up with too much toxic bug repellant lately, or I don’t roll around in the grass enough. And I don’t know that my girls have even had a chigger bite.

Well all of that is going to change this summer. My goal is teach my girls and the other neighbor kids the ins-and-out of “Kick the Can.” I pledge to sweat more and not be bothered by it. And I am going to do everything I can to rack up a few chigger bites.

We Take Care of Your Pet at Every Age and Every Stage.

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www.aectulsa.com September 2015 | Tulsa Lifestyle

35

one day tent

SALE SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19th

10am to 6:00pm

STOP BY EACH TENT TO SIGN UP FOR

Great Giveaways!

Over 30 Shops and Restaurants Participating!

Oklahoma Alliance for Animals will be on hand with furry friends looking for forever homes.

Located at 51st & Sheridan • FarmShoppingCenter.com