TulsaPeople January 2023

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU | CHARITABLE EVENTS CALENDAR January 2023

TULSANS OF THE YEAR

ROCK ON! THE RODGERS FAMILY MARKS 20 YEARS OF CAIN’S OWNERSHIP P. 52

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VIDEO VISITS

WARREN CLINIC 24/7 VIRTUAL URGENT CARE No matter what time it is or where you are in Oklahoma, you can conveniently connect to a locally-based Saint Francis provider through Warren Clinic 24/7 Virtual Urgent Care.

Through a simple video visit, adult and pediatric patients with minor illnesses or non-emergency conditions can be evaluated and provided with a treatment plan.

To access Warren Clinic 24/7 Virtual Urgent Care through your smartphone or computer, visit saintfrancis.com/urgentcare or sign in to your Saint Francis MyChart account to start your visit.

*If you are experiencing severe illness, a major injury, symptoms of a heart attack, stroke or shortness of breath, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.

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AT FIRST OKLAHOMA, WE HOPE YOUR YEAR IS ...

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JANUARY 2023 | VOLUME 37 ISSUE 3

Hunter and Chad Rodgers

7 CITY DESK Feeling the Red Heat.

Virtual reality cafe offers a new experience.

Costume collection lives on.

Riding into confidence at Bit by Bit.

63 LIFESTYLE A clear favorite for organization.

Destinations for spring break travel.

Mind, body and soul for the New Year.

30 TOM BIOLCHINI Chairman of Vast Bank and the 2023 Tulsa Regional Chamber chair

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

32 LIVES WELL LIVED Remembering those we lost in 2022.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

ON THE COVER: CAIN’S BALLROOM PHOTO BY GREG BOLLINGER

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

37 2023 CHARITABLE EVENTS CALENDAR Soirees, parties and gatherings to support local nonprofits.

BY AMANDA HALL

52 CUSTODIANS OF TULSA’S MUSIC HISTORY As Cain’s Ballroom nears its 100th anniversary in two years, we recognize Tulsans of the Year Chad and Hunter Rodgers, as well as their parents Jim and Alice Rodgers, for their 20 years of ownership.

BY TIM LANDES

89 TABLE TALK New Cherry Street steakhouse.

Celebrating 115 years of Ike’s Chili.

Three places for pho.

Dry January suggestions.

CAIN’S: PHIL CLARKIN; CITY DESK: GREG BOLLINGER; MICHELLE POLLARD

Connie Cronley is over it … almost.

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Weight-loss results may vary depending on the individual.

There is no guarantee of specific results. © Ascension 2023. All rights reserved.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Volume XXXVII, Number 3 ©2022. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher, including created advertising in a proofed or printed stage.

TulsaPeople Magazine is published monthly by

T

ulsa’s vibrant music scene — thriving for decades — is a source of pride and an attraction for our city. One can easily pinpoint the start of it all to the 1930s when charismatic fiddler Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys band broadcast live on the radio each Saturday night from a place called Cain’s Ballroom. The live music from “Cain’s on Main in Tulsa” became one of the most popular places to tune-in on the radio to listen to Wills’ special musical mixture known as Western swing. And the highly danceable swing style of music made Cain’s a magnet for local couples, including my newly married parents who — in the late 1940s — would drive up with friends from Henryetta for a night of fun at Cain’s Ballroom.

Today, Cain’s Ballroom is not only a Tulsa icon, but a national one: CNN ranked the Tulsa shrine No. 8 nationally as a pioneering live music venue, and the Los Angeles Times pegged it at No. 4 as a place to experience the “best live music in America.” The ever-popular Cain’s Ballroom today might easily be a downtown warehouse had it not been for its purchase by the visionary Rodgers family — Alice and Jim with sons Hunter and Chad — in 2002.

Thanks to the Rodgers family, Cain’s Ballroom today may be more popular than ever as its 100th anniversary approaches in a few years. For breathing new life into the iconic place over the past 20 years, we are proud to recognize the Rodgers family as our Tulsans of the Year.

A signature feature in our January issue each year is titled “Lives Well Lived,” which begins on p. 32. The piece shines deserved recognition on Tulsans we lost during the past calendar year ... people whose presence and work enriched our city over decades. The special feature was coordinated by Editor Anne Brockman and researched and written by Columnist Connie Cronley.

A longtime practice of the magazine is to present a framed copy of the publication’s cover to the person or persons featured on the front of the issue. We continued this practice with our November issue, even though our cover subject — strikingly photographed by our Michelle Pollard — happened to be canine. Winston, the inimitable French bulldog from Bixby, won “Reserve Best in Show” at the annual Westminster Dog Show this past June, and followed it up by winning “Best in Show” at the 21st annual National Dog Show on Thanksgiving Day in Philadelphia. The telecast was watched by an estimated 20 million viewers.

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

1603 South Boulder Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119-4407 P: 918-585-9924 F: 918-585-9926

PUBLISHER Jim Langdon PRESIDENT Juley Roffers VP COMMUNITY RELATIONS Susie Miller EDITOR DIGITAL EDITOR ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR CITY EDITOR

Anne Brockman Tim Landes Blayklee Freed Tiffany Howard

EDITORIAL CONSULTING Missy Kruse, The Write Company CREATIVE DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER VIDEOGRAPHER

Winston and handler Perry Payson with the framed cover

You might have seen Winston and handler Perry Payson on NBC’s “Today” show the following morning. The super dog’s win in Philly was his 75th Best in Show title, according to Payson. No surprise, Winston is now the No. 1 All-Breed Dog in the country, which is a fi rst for a French bulldog.

I admit I am partial to the French bulldog breed. We have had two Frenchies in our family: fi rst Reggie, and now Bruce, who was a birthday gift to my wife, Juley, a few years ago. Bruce’s coloring is mostly black with a mix of brindle. When I brought him home as a puppy, Juley thought his color and pointed ears made him resemble Batman, so she named him Bruce Wayne.

Thanks to Perry Payson for allowing me the opportunity to come meet Winston at his home in Bixby, and take the inset photo. Of course, I love the breed, and it was truly special to see and engage the great Winston.

Thank you for reading TulsaPeople as we enter our 37th year as Tulsa’s city magazine. TP

Madeline Crawford Georgia Brooks Ashley Guerrero Michelle Pollard Greg Bollinger

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Andrea Canada ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Josh Kampf Rita Kirk CONTROLLER Mary McKisick DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Amanda Hall INTERNS J. D. Myer

MEMBER

TulsaPeople’s distribution is audited annually by

Langdon Publishing Company sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. This issue of Tulsa People was printed on recycled fibers containing 20 percent post-consumer waste with inks containing a soy base blend. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally, meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards. When you are finished with this issue, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it. We can have a better world if we choose it together.

Disregard any TulsaPeople subscription solicitation that is not directly mailed from the Langdon Publishing office at 1603 S. Boulder Ave. Contact Langdon Publishing directly if you are interested in subscribing or renewing your TulsaPeople subscription.

Jim Langdon PUBLISHER

S AY N O T O H A T E

Clayful Imaginings GREG BOLLINGER

J

anuary itself is much like untouched clay — smooth, yielding, just waiting to take on the shape of ideas and actions, dreams and decisions. Red Heat Ceramics studio, nestled in the Pearl District, assists Tulsans in forming and firing new visions while also building community along the way.

“The varied opportunities for artistic expression are unbelievable with clay,” Red Heat owner Whitney Forsyth says. “I also love that it’s accessible for people who have never made anything with their hands.

Because it’s so tactile, people feel more connected and at ease with the material.”

As for the name “Red Heat,” that isn’t something she exactly fired up from the blue. “When clay changes from a soluble to a permanent in the firing process, there is a point at about 1,200-1,300 degrees when the color in the kiln turns red,” she says. TP LEARN MORE ABOUT RED HEAT CERAMICS ON P. 22.

TulsaPeople.com

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NOTEBOOK

BY T IFFAN Y HO WAR D

Tulsa Artist Fellow J. Preston Witt demonstrates his papiermache sculpture creation process during a First Friday TAF open studio.

SUPPORTING THE ARTS

JAZZING IT UP

Tulsa Artist Fellowship, a place-based arts initiative established in 2015 by George Kaiser Family Foundation, recently announced an expansion in both funding and residency length for future fellows of the program. The 10 individuals chosen to represent the 2024-2026 cohort will be welcomed for a three-year award term rather than two, and will collectively receive more than $1.95 million in support and studio spaces in Tulsa.

“Tulsa Artist Fellowship’s newly expanded award model is a natural evolution of the program’s success, offering significant resources and support to fellows,” says Nathan Young, TAF artistic program producer and former fellow. “The new award structure will enable artists to contribute to the already thriving arts community in Tulsa by supporting innovative long-term projects that will help to sustain and grow the artistic vibrancy of the city.”

The application window for new fellows is Jan. 18-Feb. 16, and art workers of all disciplines demonstrating an established practice and innovative project proposal are encouraged to apply. Informational in-person meetings will be held for those interested locally.

Infrastructure and interior renovations are well underway at the iconic downtown Jazz Depot, home of the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. The design phase has so far included reconstruction of the lobby’s arch design and coffered ceiling, and the incorporation of limestone into the lobby’s interior walls serves to enhance the building’s character and history.

A large multi-purpose art installation also has been designed for the performance hall’s east wall that will showcase prominent art deco Tulsa buildings while also functioning as a lighting and acoustic feature. Sam Berkow of SIA Acoustics, whose past design work includes the Appel Room for Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, is advising on the acoustic makeover of the performance hall and other music areas; a new control room also will allow for full in-house production and packaging of live music streaming and recording.

Other future renovations to the historic venue — originally built in 1927 to function as the Tulsa Union Depot — include the addition of a rooftop entertainment space.

While projected completion and reopening dates have not been set, weekly live performances including Jazz Jam and Eicher Wednesday continue at Baxter’s Interurban Grill.

For updates on renovation progress visit jazzdepotlive.com.

VISIT TULSAARTISTFELLOWSHIP.ORG TO LEARN MORE.

FIGHTING OKLAHOMA’S FOOD DESERTS Thanks to Restore Hope Ministries distributing more than

$750,000 in Housing Stability grants, partners including Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma, the Tulsa Dream Center, Tulsa Day Center and Housing Solutions Tulsa were able to expand their services to help more Tulsans stay in their homes and work toward financial stability in 2022.

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Double Up Oklahoma programs currently operate in 10 grocery stores and 17 independent farmers markets across the state.

With its new grant, Hunger Free Oklahoma will be able to reach 50 of Oklahoma’s most food-insecure communities.

On Nov. 22, Hunger Free Oklahoma was awarded $14.2 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture — the largest Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program grant ever recorded. The GusNIP grant will provide critical funding toward expanding Double Up Oklahoma programs into more farmers markets and grocery stores in areas across the state where access to fresh, nutritious food is severely limited.

Hunger Free Oklahoma’s DUO program, first implemented in 2019, offers a dollar-for-dollar match (up to $20 per day) on SNAP purchases of qualifying fruits and vegetables at participating locations. Find locations and more information at doubleupoklahoma.org.

JAZZ HALL: ABSTRACTICO STUDIOS/COURTESY JAZZ DEPOT; HUNGER FREE OKLAHOMA: COURTESY; WITT: MARISSA BURGER/COURTESY TULSA ARTIST FELLOWSHIP

Multiple new murals such as this scissor-tailed flycatcher and skyline concept sketch will be incorporated into the renovation and redesign of the Jazz Depot, 111 E. First St.

BLUEPRINT

TCC BLUEPRINT IS FOR STUDENTS & PARENTS/GUARDIANS 9:30 A.M., SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2023 TCC NORTHEAST CAMPUS You have a Blueprint for your child’s freshman year at college? Did you know if you live in Tulsa County, your graduating high school senior can go to TCC for almost free, which can save you tens of thousands in college costs?

TCC Blueprint teaches you everything you need to know about our Tulsa Achieves program. We’ll cover eligibility and program requirements, explore academic majors, college resources, and why TCC is the less debt, more value solution to college.

GOOD THINGS START HERE. Tulsa Achieves Week starts Feb. 13 For more information and to register, go to

TulsaCC.edu/BluePrint

JANUARY COMPILED BY BL AYKLEE FREED

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

JAN. 7 THE TULSA WEDDING SHOW This event for the betrothed showcases vendors and the latest nuptial trends, and attendees are entered to win a grand prize from Something Bridal.

RENAISSANCE TULSA HOTEL AND CONVENTION CENTER, 6808 S. 107TH E. AVE. THETULSAWEDDINGSHOW.COM

JAN. 16 TULSA MLK PARADE It’s the 44th anniversary of this celebration honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s theme is “We Are Stronger When Working Together.”

BEGINS AT NORTH DETROIT AVENUE AND JOHN HOPE FRANKLIN BOULEVARD. MLKTULSA.COM

JAN. 12 STORY SLAM Spend the evening hearing true, harrowing tales at Ok, So Tulsa’s monthly story slam themed “Dramatic Exit.” Veteran story slammers and newbies alike take the mic for this 18+ event.

LIVING ARTS OF TULSA, 307 E. RECONCILIATION WAY FACEBOOK.COM/OKSOTULSA

JAN. 17 STEM NIGHT Young participants at the Oklahoma Aquarium will learn about the importance of environmental conservation and create a STEM project to take home.

OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM, 300 AQUARIUM DRIVE, JENKS OKAQUARIUM.ORG

JAN. 14 TULSA SYMPHONY PERFORMS Hear “Invigorating: Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5” by the Tulsa Symphony with Gerard Schwarz guest conducting. Later this month, hear Mozart from the Chamber Orchestra at First Presbyterian Church.

TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER CHAPMAN MUSIC HALL, 110 E. SECOND ST. TULSAPAC.COM

JAN. 20 OILERS HOCKEY The Tulsa Oilers gear up to face the Utah Grizzlies in game No. 20 of the season.

BOK CENTER, 200 S. DENVER AVE. TULSAOILERS.COM

JAN. 14 TFA WALKING TOUR The second Saturday every month, Tulsa Foundation for Architecture gives tours of select historical sites. January’s tour is of Will Rogers High School, “a deco darling” of the city.

WILL ROGERS HIGH SCHOOL, 3909 E. FIFTH PLACE FACEBOOK.COM/TULSAARCHITECTURE

VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM/ABOUTTOWN FOR MORE LOCAL EVENTS AND A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF WEEKLY MUSIC LISTINGS.

COMPO: CHARLES COMPO/COURTESY TAC GALLERY; STORY SLAM: GREG BOLLINGER; WILL ROGERS HIGH SCHOOL, AQUARIUM: BLAYKLEE FREED; MLK PARADE: TIM LANDES; SYMPHONY: COURTESY

JAN. 6 Charles Compo, New York City-based contemporary painter, brings his solo exhibit “Psychodramatic Landscapes” to Tulsa Artists’ Coalition’s gallery space for the month.

TAC GALLERY, 9 E. RECONCILIATION WAY TACGALLERY.ORG

paradise never sounded So Good.

On Sale Now Howie Mandel JAN 13

boyz II men JAN 20 NELLY JAN 26 Steve Treviño JAN 28 Aaron Lewis FEB 2 All performances subject to change.

Live Music 7 Nights a Week in 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar Fridays & Saturdays in Margaritaville!

Visit margaritavilletulsa.com for a complete schedule.

8 3 3 0 R I V E R S I D E PA R K W AY T U L S A , O K 7413 7 8 8 8 . 74 8 . 3 7 3 1 • R I V E R S P I R I T T U L S A . C O M

COFFEE WITH

BRENT ORTOLANI CIRCLE CINEMA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STORY AND PHOTO BY TIM LANDES

B

rent Ortolani’s career has come full circle in more ways than one. Last summer he became the new executive director of Circle Cinema, and it calls back to his first job as a projectionist at a movie palace in Coffeyville, Kansas. Ortolani discussed his new role over coffee at She Brews Coffee and then continued the conversation inside screening room 3 at the nonprofit theater.

MUCH OF ORTOLANI’S CAREER WAS FOCUSED ON JOURNALISM AND PUBLIC RELATIONS WITH DECADE-LONG STINTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA AND ROGERS STATE UNIVERSITY. HE THEN SPENT A DECADE AT TULSA AREA UNITED WAY ... I started out as vice president of marketing. We were a fundraising machine, so I got more interested in fundraising there. Then I took about 18 months off during COVID; I kind of felt that I had worked full time since I was 14, so I needed a break.

THE 58-YEAR-OLD IS A FILM LOVER, SO WHEN CIRCLE POSTED THE POSITION ... It was kind of like a dream, really. Like, wow, operating an art house cinema would be just a great way to close out my career and I’m not closing it yet. I’ve got years left.

WHEN HE TRAVELS, HE’S ALWAYS SEEKING OUT THE LOCAL MOVIE LISTINGS ... I always like to visit an art house. My partner does a lot of business in New York, and I’ll tag along. People will ask, “What show are you going to see?” meaning Broadway shows. I’m not gonna see a Broadway show, I’m gonna go to the art house and see movies. Having visited art houses in different cities when I’ve traveled, the product here at the Circle is just as good as you can find nationwide.

ON WHAT MAKES CIRCLE CINEMA UNIQUE ... We have four screens, which allows us to show such a wide variety of films. That’s my favorite thing about the Circle. At any given time, you can catch an obscure 12

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independent film or a silent film accompanied by our organ. You can see a blockbuster like “Top Gun: Maverick,” which was our highest performing film of the year. I always say a film is never just a film at the Circle. We may have been showing “Top Gun” as the multiplexes were, but we had a Q&A with Jay Ellis, who is from here and plays one of the fighter pilots. So it’s more than selling a ticket, it’s the whole art house experience.

AFTER TWO YEARS OF STRUGGLES DUE TO THE PANDEMIC, MOVIEGOERS ARE RETURNING ... We are seeing more people attend the cinema this fall than we have in the last few years, so people are slowly coming back.

cuterie boxes. I think a lot of people get off work and they have a difficult time having dinner and then making it to a seven o’clock film.

CIRCLE ALSO SHOWS FREE EDUCATIONAL FILMS TO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS ON A WEEKLY BASIS ... At least once a week, we’ve got a school bus parked out back. We’re showing “The Outsiders” to a lot of middle school students since that book has really entered the canon of young adult literature. We work with teachers to show films that fit within their curriculum. The schools pay for the transportation, and we don’t charge them anything. We screen educational films to thousands of students every year.

MEMBERSHIP IS ALSO BACK UP TO PRE-PANDEMIC LEVELS ... We dropped to 1,500 members. Local philanthropists Mark and Mona Whitmire generously agreed to pay half of all new and renewed memberships in October and November. We finished the drive with 3,001, which met our stretch goal. A lot of those are new members, so we’re really excited to have a lot of new people experience the Circle.

CIRCLE HAS HAD LOTS OF SUCCESS SHOWING HORROR FILMS AND ANIME. ORTOLANI SAYS THEY ALSO PLAN TO EXPAND OFFERINGS OF NATIVE AMERICAN AND AFRICAN AMERICAN FILMS THIS YEAR .... Probably our most popular program has been the Native American Spotlight Series. (In 2022) we showed four films in that series and (this year) we plan to show eight in addition to other Native American content. TP

ORTOLANI SAYS THEY HAVE THE BEST POPCORN IN TOWN, AND NOW MORE FOOD OFFERINGS ... We’re elevating our food options. We serve a rosé and offer char-

VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM TO READ ABOUT ORTOLANI’S FIRST JOB IN THE MOVIE INDUSTRY.

BIZ WHIZ

AARU READY FOR THE FUTURE? NEW VIRTUAL REALITY CAFE OFFERS EXHILARATING ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS FOR TULSANS. STORIES BY J. D. MYER

A

aru (pronounced “ah-roo”) is the first virtual reality arcade in Tulsa, turning fantasies into real-life experiences for friends, family and awkward first dates to participate in as they flirt with the boundaries of technological innovation. Opening this past October at 7 N. Cheyenne Ave., Aaru offers highly immersive games and educational simulations — as well as a cafe, bar and game development center — to both its members and the public.

The team behind Aaru has partnered with tech companies like W5 Omni to create the first publicly accessible Omnideck in the world. Typically used only in academic research centers and by governments for military and public service simulation training, Aaru’s Omnideck allows guests to walk 360-degrees in a VR headset while never straying too far from the treadmill’s designated center. While you move, the in-game character model is directed by the same movement as you explore various digital environments.

Shai Kaiser, Aaru CEO and operator, has lived in Tulsa since age 5 and graduated from Riverfield Country Day School. During Aaru’s development, he spent time away from Tulsa but realized there was no better place to establish a business.

“One of the coolest things we can do here, for the students who thought tech was never an option, is make that dream realistic for them through accessible top-tier VR and all the support we can give to the Tulsa gaming industry,” he says.

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Aaru’s cafe and bar offers delicious drinks both with and without alcohol, as well as light snacks.

In the arcade, Aaru’s lightweight Vive Focus 3 headsets connect wirelessly through dedicated 6GHz networks to an array of beefy gaming PCs for a crisp, high-quality resolution display. Additionally, the standard VR experiences are held in six 8-by-10-foot padded play areas that can lock from inside and hold individualized climate control, ensuring users can keep cool while being immersed ($50/45 minutes; $40 for members).

Alongside the virtual gaming scene, Aaru’s cafe and bar offers sips and light snacks while also welcoming outside food. A hip upstairs lounge is the perfect place to chill, work, study or play tabletop games with friends. Fun future happenings will include single or ongoing Dungeons and Dragons campaigns, cosplay competitions and esports livestreams.

For more information visit aaru.games, or check out Aaru’s Facebook to stay up to date with special events and experiences. TP

Covers REVISITED In 2012, Chase Curtiss, founder and CEO of Sway Medical — a mobile software company that turns any smartphone into a medical device to assess balance and cognition — appeared on the cover of TulsaPeople’s July issue in recognition of his startup company.

Just after the initial article was published, Sway received an FDA 510(k) clearance as an official medical device, the green light necessary to put the app on the market.

“The last 10 years have exemplified the entrepreneurial journey including incredible highs and tremendous lows,” Curtiss says. “It hasn’t always been easy, and my wife, Rachel, has played an incredible role of support through many of the challenges over the years.”

After leaving the company in 2014, Curtiss returned to Sway shortly after its relocation to Fort Worth, Texas, in 2018. As chief product officer, he rebuilt the product under Sway’s new ownership. “It was incredibly hard to leave the company I had founded, but having a second chance to build my original vision was an amazing opportunity,” Curtiss says.

In 2019, Curtiss became the CEO again, and by 2020 Sway had returned to Tulsa. In 2021, the company doubled its user base.

As of 2022, Sway has become a globally recognized medical software company used by professional sports teams, college athletics programs, large health systems and schools all over the world. Having quadrupled its total annual revenue since 2019, Curtiss expects to see yet another significant jump amid what promises to be another great year in 2023. TP

GREG BOLLINGER

Aaru Entertainment, a recently opened virtual reality cafe in downtown Tulsa, provides visitors the chance to experience the Omnideck — the most immersive omnidirectional treadmill experience in the world that is also the first to be built for video games.

Inset, Shai Kaiser, Aaru CEO and operator.

EXPLORE our Six age-appropriate playgrounds 162 acres

Daily art and PE classes

Come tour our PreK and Primary School spaces. Now enrolling students as young as 3.

For more information call 539-476-8046 or visit hollandhall.org.

SWEAT IT

Hot yoga participants hold a pose at Updog Yoga, 415 E. 12th St., led by Annie Clark. Right, Derek J. Smith, certified Wim Hof Method coach, assists in an ice bath session.

HOT AND COLD THERAPIES TWO METHODS TO OPTIMIZE WORKOUT ROUTINES.

I

f you’re like many Tulsans who have committed to optimizing wellness practices in the new year, consider incorporating some hot and cold therapy into your routine to mix it up and maximize health benefits.

Derek J. Smith, a personal trainer of 15 years and certified Wim Hof Method coach, uses cold therapy (in the form of five-minute ice baths) to help others “step into their power” and overcome the challenges of discomfort when exercising.

“The cold is a metaphor for the resistance we all experience,” he says. “It’s about dancing with that resistance, stepping into the fear and doing it anyway.”

The Wim Hof Method is based on three pillars: breath work, cold therapy and commitment.

The breath work puts you in a meditative state that preps you for the ice plunge, and from there it’s about commitment. Smith says one of the biggest benefits people get out of this technique is self-empowerment, but it also can improve anxiety, depression and sleep, and can increase dopamine production.

Smith became master certified in the Wim

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Hof Method by spending a week in Colorado with Wim Hof himself. He incorporates Hof ’s teachings into his personal training sessions and also hosts a biweekly ice bath event at 2 p.m. on Sundays at Magness Fitness, 10032 S. Sheridan Road, Suite E. It is donation based and open to the public. For more information or to inquire about a session, you can connect with Smith by phone at 918-933-8507, by emailing derekjsmith2000@gmail.com or at facebook.com/ smithderekj.

On the other side of the temperature spectrum, Annie Clark, owner and general manager at Updog Yoga, says hot therapy offers a lot of health benefits without the mental rigor. “It’s detoxifying, and you’re going to sweat,” she says.

“But you’re not pushing yourself to an extent where your body starts freaking out.”

Clark says the low impact nature of the yoga practice sends the message to the body that all is right in the world, which stimulates a healthy metabolism and lean muscle mass. Other benefits of the heat are that it oxygenates the body and improves flexibility. Clark has been a certified

yoga instructor since 2002 and has completed more than 500 hours of training in a variety of methods including ashtanga and various styles of vinyasa. She opened Updog Yoga in February 2021 as a means to offer a safe workout environment during the pandemic.

The facility offers both standard and hot yoga classes every day of the week, but the space is unique in that it functions as an indoor and outdoor studio simultaneously. Indoors, the studio maintains a 95-degree temperature during hot yoga classes and utilizes a hospital-grade HVAC system along with HEPA filters that ensure fresh, filtered air return. Outside on the 800-squarefoot deck, you can count on the infrared heat panels to keep warm, but the weather will be the dominating temperature variable. The sound system provides speakers in both spaces, so you can follow along with the instructor regardless.

“I don’t think it’s really ever been done before,” she says. “But we’re doing it. We are very, no pun intended, flexible.”

For more information on classes and upcoming events, visit updogyogatulsa.com. TP

YOGA: MICHELLE POLLARD; ICE: GREG BOLLINGER

BY LAURA DENNIS

­ ­ ­

COMMUNITY

NEW YEAR, NEW CREW 3 WAYS TO STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND BUILD COMMUNITY THIS YEAR.

BY JAMIE RICHERT JONES

Whitty Books book club

Clockwise from left, Training on Turkey members Bob Doucette, Michael Walker, Larry Gullette and Kia ShebertSmith. Each session ends with camaraderie and cold beers shared from communal coolers.

TOTs (Training on Turkey) informal running group If you’ve been wanting to run or hike more, try Turkey Tuesdays with the TOTs running group.

“We are totally free, we don’t have memberships or sign ups. Show up as yourself and come as you want,” says Kia Shebert-Smith, group administrator and participant since 2017.

Shebert-Smith says all fitness levels are welcome — from walkers and hikers to novice trail runners and seasoned athletes.

“We always meet Tuesday evenings at 6:15 and hit the trails by 6:30 at the lower part of Turkey Mountain (6800 S. Elwood Ave.),” she says.

They run all year long, rain or shine.

For Shebert-Smith, the group has brought more to her life than just running. “For me, it’s actually my family here in Tulsa. I’m a transplant and the group has been my friends and my family. I spend holidays with members. Mostly it’s just a very casual group of people who love running at Turkey Mountain.”

Search “Training on Turkey” on Facebook or follow the TOT Instagram account @tulsatots for more information. TP 18

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Queer Women’s Collective organizers Hannah Jackson and Terah Williams at the group’s December meetup at Lefty’s on Greenwood.

Queer Women’s Collective Tulsa (formerly LGBT Women’s Network) Terah Williams and Hannah Jackson organize a monthly happy hour at different locations throughout the year.

“The goal was just trying to meet new lesbians in Tulsa. We tend to run with the same circles all the time,” Williams says. “It creates a safe space to come out to meet people like you.” Williams says it can be hard to know how someone identifies, so the dedicated space opens up the opportunity to easily connect with others in the community. The group’s original focus was networking but has evolved into a casual place to hang out with like-minded people. It is open to all who identify as a woman.

The group typically meets the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m.

— except for this month’s meeting, which will take place Jan. 11 at Bar 46. Visit facebook.com/queerwomenscollectivetulsa for updates or follow on Instagram @qwc_tul. TP

WHITTY: GREG BOLLINGER; TOT: COURTESY; QUEER WOMEN'S COLLECTIVE: TIM LANDES

Whitty Books, located in Kendall Whittier, offers three book clubs that meet Wednesday evenings once per month: the next Native American book club is Jan. 4; sci-fi/fantasy is Jan. 11; and horror is Jan. 25.

Whitty Books, 2306 E. Admiral Blvd., hosts monthly book clubs on Wednesday evenings in the genres of sci-fi/ fantasy, horror and Native American literature.

“Something we really try to stress with people who are new to our book clubs, they are completely free and casual,” Whitty Books owner Victoria Moore says. “We want everyone to feel comfortable. It’s not going to feel like school, it’s really just a conversation.”

In addition to the book clubs, the store also hosts a variety of other fun events.

“We have a creative writing group that meets every other Sunday,” Moore says. “We also have a group called Knitty Whitty for knitters. We invite anyone who wants to bring any hand work project — knitting, crochet, embroidery, etc. — and enjoy a little community. We also host blackout poetry once a month at Heirloom Rustic Ales just down the street.”

Visit whittybooks.com/upcoming-events for the most current event schedule, or follow @shopwhittybooks on Instagram. TP

The Tulsa Regional Chamber has again earned five-star distinction – the highest possible honor – from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Thank you to the members, investors and partners who enable us to shine.

ON STAGE

Crista Patrick, former costume shop manager for the University of Tulsa’s theatre department, and Jeremy Stevens, community engagement director for the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, hold ensemble cast dresses from TU’s 2010 production of “Little Women.”

‘THE PERFECT FIT’

FORMER UNIVERSITY COSTUME SHOP MANAGER FINDS NEW HOME FOR 50,000-PIECE COLLECTION.

S

ome artistic legacies live on in the realm of the intangible. Th ink about the teachers whose gifts keep influencing the work of their students, or a performer who made such a mark on a role that future interpreters can’t help but stay in conversation with it as they craft their own versions.

But sometimes, legacies take a very tangible form — for instance, the 50,000 costume pieces recently donated to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center Trust by Crista Patrick, the longtime costume shop manager of the University of Tulsa’s theatre department.

Over the 15 years she taught costume design and construction at TU, Patrick (who serves as District 3’s city councilor) amassed an extensive collection representing productions that span more than 30 years. Not only did TU use the collection, but the greater Tulsa theater community also was welcome to reach inside the closet for its costuming needs.

Now, with the shuttering of the TU program, Patrick and the TPAC, in partnership with the City of Tulsa, have ensured the collection will live on.

“After learning TU was going to close its theatre doors, I wanted to try and preserve the community resource I had been offering,” Patrick says.

“On average I would loan costumes to around 40

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The TU costume collection represents more than 30 years of past theatrical productions.

productions a year, outside of the four to six TU productions we worked on per year. It was very important to me that organizations like Theatre North and Theatre Tulsa not lose the ability to pull quality costumes on a very limited budget.

“I approached the TPAC to see if they might be willing to take it on, knowing it was not a small request,” she continues. “I wanted a neutral, publicly-owned theater group who would be willing to work with all groups inside the community. The TPAC Trust was the perfect fit.”

Housed at the old City of Tulsa Health and

Wellness facility at Boeing Park and open to all TPAC resident community partners, the collection includes pieces like a medieval tunic made of eating utensils, hats made from feathers and exquisite period costumes from the 1900s, plus an array of shoes and accessories. Access to these costumes at no charge can increase production value and free up funds for other aspects of a show, explains Jeremy Stevens, community engagement director at the TPAC. So far, Theatre Tulsa, American Theatre Co., and the TPAC themselves have used the collection for recent productions.

“Costuming can be cost prohibitive. Sometimes it’s even the sole responsibility of the actor to provide their own costume for a community theater production,” Stevens says. “If the show is a ‘period’ piece, the price increases dramatically due to the labor and materials needed to produce or rent that style of costume. Th is collection will, hopefully, help ease those financial burdens.”

Does Patrick have a favorite piece? “That’s like asking someone to choose a favorite child,” she says. “I love them all, from the period gowns of ‘Little Women,’ to the fairies of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ to the street artists of ‘Rent.’

Each was given a piece of my heart. I am just so happy they will get to be used for many productions to come.” TP

GREG BOLLINGER

BY ALICIA CHESSER

Nan Kemp

THIS MONTH AT

Circle Cinema THE OLD WAY Opens Jan. 6 Nicolas Cage dons his spurs and saddles in this new action Western. Retired gunslinger Colton Briggs faces the consequences of his past when the son of a man he murdered arrives seeking revenge. When Briggs’ wife is killed, he takes up arms once more, this time joined by his young daughter.

Elvie Ellis as Judas with Isaac Ryckeghem as Caiaphas

REMAINING relevant The 50th anniversary tour of rock opera “Jesus Christ Superstar” takes the stage Jan. 24-29 at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Oklahoma City native Elvie Ellis, who plays the iconic role of Judas Iscariot, discusses the musical’s impact and how it remains just as relevant to the stage today as it was when it premiered in 1971 on Broadway.

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR: EVAN ZIMMERMAN FOR MURPHYMADE; KEMP: JOSH NEW PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT HAVE YOU APPRECIATED MOST ABOUT BEING IN THIS PRODUCTION? We were all challenged to bring ourselves to the piece, instead of putting on these characters as we’ve come to know them through our own experiences with this popular story. It’s an approach that’s not so common with works this popular.

DOES THE SHOW’S PORTRAYAL OF JUDAS CHALLENGE THE NEGATIVE VIEW MANY HOLD OF HIM? Most definitely. And that is purposeful. I think it’s easy for us (believers and non-believers) to look at Judas and say, “How dare he betray the Son of God!?” without remembering that the whole idea of God having a son who was fully God and fully man was totally brand new and confusing information at the time. Personally, I hope the audience leaves thinking, “Wow — that could’ve been me if I was in that situation,” that any of us could have been Judas.

HOW MIGHT SETTING BIBLICAL STORIES AGAINST ROCK MUSIC OPEN UP NEW WAYS OF SEEING A FAMILIAR STORY? Merging it with rock music written in our time and with our language opens a window for us to see our own humanity in these stories; to see the characters less like legends and more like people, possibly even people we know in our own lives. — TIFFANY HOWARD

HISTORY RETOLD When audiences attend a performance of Theatre Tulsa’s “1776” adaptation, history is retold with a twist as America’s founding fathers are portrayed by an all-female cast and creative team.

Local actress Nan Kemp plays Benjamin Franklin in the show, which runs Jan. 13-29 at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

Kemp, a longtime choral singer, began acting on stage in 2013 and had her first Theatre Tulsa production in 2016. We checked in with her before “1776” performances began.

WHAT DREW YOU TO AUDITION FOR “1776.” It looked like an opportunity to play a significant role, not just be an ensemble member. This is one musical in which each actor is significant. It may be a case of “be careful what you ask for,” because Ben Franklin is in almost every scene and has quite a few important lines.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE MUSICAL AND WHY? The second scene in which Franklin and John Adams are meeting with Richard Lee of Virginia.

Franklin is trying to persuade Lee to go to Williamsburg to convince the Virginia House of Burgesses to formally support the cause of independence. The scene reveals Franklin to be a manipulator, good at getting people to do what he wants, all the while thinking it is their own idea.

WHY SHOULD TULSA AUDIENCES ATTEND A “1776” PERFORMANCE? This production will be a unique experience.

While not strictly historical, the play gives insight into the issues of the day, highlighting the dilemma and risks of daring to break away from England and the differences of opinion on slavery and personal rights.

— ANNE BROCKMAN

CORSAGE Opens Jan. 6 Vicky Krieps, Best Actress winner at Cannes, stars in a fictional account of one year in the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. On Christmas Eve 1877, Elisabeth, once idolized for her beauty, turns 40 and is officially deemed an old woman; she starts trying to maintain her public image.

MANSLAUGHTER (1922) — SECOND SATURDAY SILENT SERIES 11 a.m., Jan. 14 Enjoy a classic silent film with a live score played by Bill Rowland on Circle’s restored 1928 theater pipe organ. This month features a drama of ups and downs from the legendary Cecil B. DeMille. Socialite thrillseeker Lydia causes the death of a motorcycle policeman and is prosecuted by her fiancé, Daniel. While she’s in prison she reforms, and Daniel becomes a wasted alcoholic.

THE SON Opens Jan. 20 Oscar-winner Florian Zeller (“The Father”) continues to explore familial ties in his latest starring Hugh Jackman, Vanessa Kirby and Anthony Hopkins. Peter, with new partner Beth and their baby, has his busy life thrown into disarray when his ex-wife Kate turns up with their teenage son, Nicholas.

LIVING Opens Jan. 27 Bill Nighy stars in a modern retelling of Akira Kurosawa’s 1952 classic “Ikiru.” An ordinary man, reduced by years of oppressive office routine to a shadow existence, makes a supreme effort at the 11th hour to turn his dull life into something wonderful.

Compiled by Circle Cinema’s Ryan Thomas.

Visit circlecinema.org for pricing and more information.

TulsaPeople.com

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ART SPOT

Local artist Jillian Selene.

Inset, Selene’s acrylic paint and metallic ink on canvas piece, “Kundalini.”

PEARL WITHIN THE PEARL

DOWNTOWN CERAMICS STUDIO SHAPES CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY.

BY BRENDA CAROL

C

hemistry. Heat. Artistry. Spirit.

At Red Heat Ceramics, these elements converge to create a haven for established and aspiring artists in Tulsa’s Pearl District.

Located just east of the long shadows of downtown’s high-rise buildings and bustle at 1645 E. Eighth St., this charming new studio extends an invitation for connectivity and creative escape to all skill levels.

The space brings together a diverse group of clay artists, from sculptors to potters. It’s the essence of the vision owner Whitney Forsyth sees in her new venture into community-based ceramic imaginations.

“Because of COVID (isolation), I think people had a real desire to be a part of a community, and to be doing something meaningful with their hands,” Forsyth says of the studio’s opening in March 2021. “We had tons of people come out to take classes or become members.”

Red Heat hosts 30 members and six resident artists, and classes — from eight-week beginner and intermediate courses on learning to throw, to more specialized weekend workshops focusing on creating items like candleholders, jewelry, dishware and even cakes — fi ll up so fast they’ve generated past waitlists of up to 70 people.

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“Over 230 people have taken classes since we opened,” Forsyth says. “It’s been an amazing opportunity for people to come together, do something meaningful and find ways to share it with the larger community.”

Forsyth is a ceramic artist and accomplished art professor. She has lived in Tulsa since 1999 and taught as the head of the ceramics department at the University of Tulsa for 17 years. With degrees from Oklahoma State University and New Mexico State University, she has a broadbased perspective of the ceramic community both domestically and abroad.

“We offer a professional studio space very similar to what I had at TU in terms of equipment, quality and cleanliness,” she says. “We also have a lot of flexibility of when people can use the studio since some have full- or part-time jobs and are limited in the hours they can be here. We’re accommodating to their schedules. There’s a tremendous sense of camaraderie, responsibility and the sense of belonging.” TP EVENTS AND CLASSES CAN BE FOUND AT REDHEATCERAMICS.COM.

Jillian Selene sees a method to the madness, a “cyclical nature to everything,” as she calls it, and she’s out to illustrate it.

Selene’s work, which she primarily does digitally or in watercolor, is distinctly fantasy oriented.

A fan of symbols and archetypes, Selene borrows from the illustrative aesthetic of children’s literature and populates her pieces with animals, stars, crescent moons and the landscape itself.

“I feel like a lot of the messages and themes that we see in kids’ literature are actually for everybody,” she says. “I love narrowing down those themes and symbolism (in my work).”

A Broken Arrow native, Selene graduated from Union Public Schools, showing a predilection and talent for visual art from a young age. However, she chose not to go to art school.

“I took a bit of an unorthodox approach, and I kind of dove right in,” she says. Her ambition to work in the arts was unshakable, so she found work at tattoo shops, at arts nonprofits and even at Philbrook Museum of Art. She’s also nabbed a few lucrative partnerships, most recently in designing the Play Tulsa Music poster for the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture. You also may have seen one of her holiday card designs at the Philbrook Festival last month. Currently, she’s collaborating with The Church Studio on a new poster design, and the future promises yet more collaborations.

Selene’s work can be purchased locally at pop-up events such as First Fridays in the Tulsa Arts District or on her website at jillianselene.com. You also can access extra perks like her coloring club or pen pal club at patreon.com/ jillianseleneart. — ETHAN VEENKER

GREG BOLLINGER

Top left, artists learn the art of wheel throwing as part of an eight-week course. Bottom left, Whitney Forsyth, owner of Red Heat Ceramics. Right, artist and staff member Adrien Lee works on a creation.

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ART SPOT

Lane Hicks and Spike Shavor, co-founders of mindfulness-based recovery program Zen and the Art of Whatever Works

WHAT WORKS

GLASS ACT

TULSA STAINED GLASS CATERS TO ALL SKILL LEVELS AND INCLUDES A “RAGE ROOM” EXPERIENCE.

BY ETHAN VEENKER

S

tained glass, according to local artist Richard Bohm, can tell a story.

The self-taught craftsman is the founder of Tulsa Stained Glass at 4131 S. Sheridan Road — a full-service stained glass studio and store offering a packed calendar of classes and themed events open to all skill levels.

“Some (people) just want to make something pretty to hang,” Bohm says. “Others start thinking, ‘Oh, my gosh, I have an opportunity here.’

And they put their creative intuition to work.” The secret is that everyone has the same opportunity because everyone has a story.

Bohm’s story with stained glass began in 1975.

He worked in mechanical design and became interested after his wife, Carol, began taking a hobby class in stained glass. Seeing how much fun she was having, Bohm decided to take a class himself and fell in love with the craft. And it wasn’t long after that Tulsa Stained Glass was born.

Bohm has no formal training but has become surpassingly comfortable with the material in the past few decades. Another wing of his business concerns restorations — like old stained-glass windows found in places like attics or church

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basements — and commissions. He has created pieces for the Ronald McDonald House and Saint Francis Children’s Hospital, among others.

In the back of the studio is a small room covered with shattered glass and porcelain — this is the Tulsa Rage Room, where participants can smash away negative thoughts. Some shards on the ground have messages written on them in permanent marker, the idea being that in smashing a plate adorned with a negative thought, one is smashing the thought itself.

Bohm’s plans for the future involve online video tutorials and working on condensing and publishing all he knows about stained glass — from the history of the craft to its therapeutic possibilities — in his “storytelling guide,” a longtime work in progress.

“I’m doing all this just from passion. I really don’t have an education,” he says, chuckling. “I’m just doing what I think I need to do.” TP FIND A SCHEDULE OF CLASSES AND SMASH EVENTS AT TULSASTAINEDGLASS.COM.

We are the misfits. The cast out.

We are the ones who do not fit in the traditional molds of addiction recovery.

Those are the first few lines of the mission statement for Zen and the Art of Whatever Works, a secular addiction recovery program, typically read at the beginning of every meeting. The program is based in mindfulness, with a harm reduction outlook, explains Lane Hicks, who co-founded Zen Recovery with Spike Shavor in December 2021.

It’s different than a typical 12-step recovery program and exists to be more inclusive.

Hicks points to the mission statement, prioritizing seeing “the benefit of meeting each person where they are in their journey to recovery.” Just because someone is looking for support doesn’t mean they’re looking for sobriety. All are welcome at Zen meetings — held Sunday, Wednesday and Saturday — at WOMPA, 3306 Charles Page Blvd., Building No. 4.

Rather than focus on addiction, topics in meetings instead focus on trauma healing, coping strategies, grounding techniques and the importance of building supportive community, Hicks says. “Because of this, people struggling with nearly any habitual pattern that has become problematic can and do find something useful in these meetings.”

The holidays and New Year can be difficult for those in recovery, Hicks says, so Zen offers meeting topics that address “the impact of drinking holidays and anniversaries related to our traumas and/or our sobriety. We will host a meeting about setting attainable goals that will outlive resolutions as well.”

Visit zenrecoverytulsa.com for more information. — BLAYKLEE FREED

GREG BOLLINGER

Richard Bohm, owner of Tulsa Stained Glass, has studied under some of America’s finest stained glass artists and offers premier repair and creative services.

Inset, Rage Room participant Tiffany Howard engages in smash therapy.

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CHANGEMAKERS

Shae Hedrick, Balcony Women board member, with Melissa Phenicie, founder

HORSE HAVEN

LOCAL EQUINE THERAPY PROGRAM HELPS BUILD STUDENTS’ CONFIDENCE AND LIFE SKILLS. STORIES BY JULIANNE TRAN

“T

here is nothing as healing and unconditional as the love horses can show in their eyes, or as they are touched and cared for by humans,” says Linda Barron, founder and board member of Bit by Bit Therapeutic Riding Center. “They sense needs that many times we are unaware of in ourselves.”

Located in Oologah, Bit by Bit offers therapeutic horseback riding sessions to individuals of all ages with learning differences, behavioral challenges and disabilities. Combining her love of horses with a background in special education, Barron, who retired from the role of executive director last year, founded the program in 1997 with a single horse named Sundance and four students. Now, they have 14 horses and have served over 1,500 individuals since the beginning.

A trained instructor and equine manager match each new rider to a horse based on the individual’s size and potential balance issues.

Riding can help to address a participant’s physical needs, like increasing flexibility or muscular strength.

“If a participant is unable to walk, or lacks core strength to sit, these muscles are exercised (while on the horse) and will slowly become stronger,” Barron says. “We have several riders that arrive being carried into their sessions but will later be able to walk using a walker, or even unaided.”

Besides the physical, Bit by Bit also aims to support an individual’s communicational, emotional and social needs. For example, Barron notes activities like feeding and grooming can teach a participant how to interact gently with

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Linda Barron, founder of Bit by Bit

the horse, which can in turn lead to better gauging of touch strength with family and friends.

Tariku Moseby, 8, is in his fi rst semester at Bit by Bit. His mother, Kara, says she’s already noticed the impact of his horseback riding sessions.

“After only a few months, I can see his confidence building. He was very timid and fearful the fi rst lesson. However, he now walks in with confidence and excitement,” she says. “It is by far the activity he looks forward to most each week.”

Beyond improving their capabilities and confidence, instructors and volunteers simply want to support riders and their families.

“Caregivers can witness accomplishments that have seemed out of reach, and new skills are able to be incorporated into our participants’ lives,” Barron emphasizes. “Bit by Bit is often a launch pad for improvement in many other important life areas.”

For more information on how to sign up as a participant or volunteer, visit bitbybitok.org. TP

SERVICE AND SUPPORT When a woman loses her spouse, she finds herself in a dark place. “Widows lose 75% of their support base, 33% are clinically depressed and 50% leave their home church,” says Melissa Phenicie, founder of local nonprofit Balcony Women.

Balcony Women, founded in 2014, seeks to serve and support widows in the Tulsa area.

Though not a widow herself, Phenicie says she’s seen friends and family travel that path and knows how difficult it is. As ways to lend encouragement, the organization facilitates monthly support groups, sends birthday cards and hosts a Valentine’s Day and summer dinner each year.

“During our dinners, we treat them like princesses. We provide a nice dinner, fun entertainment, door prizes and gifts,” Phenicie describes.

“We spoil them, we love on them.”

The first dinner in 2014 hosted 85 widows. Now, Balcony Women serves more than 700 widows in the community.

“One of my favorite Bible verses is from 1 Thessalonians, ‘Therefore encourage and lift others up,’” Phenicie says.

And that has become the main mission of Balcony Women. “A balcony woman is a woman that’s placed in your life to encourage you,” Phenicie says. “You find her on the balcony of your life, hanging over the railing, cheering you on.”

Along with serving widows, the organization also seeks to build up young girls in the community.

“With our young Balcony Girls, we teach them they’re given a purpose and a plan in this life,” Phenicie says. “From there, their goal is to encourage other women.”

Balcony Girls meet in small groups and serve the organization’s widows, making birthday cards and volunteering at dinners.

To get involved, visit balconywomen.com. The next widow dinner will take place Feb. 9. TP

HORSE HAVEN: GREG BOLLINGER; BALCONY WOMEN: COURTESY

Tariku Moseby, student at Bit by Bit Therapeutic Riding Center, rides on Buddy during a session with instructor Jennifer Jacobsen.

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Champions of Health The Champions of Health awards program, presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, celebrates individuals and organizations making a positive impact on the health of Oklahomans through innovative programs. On Sept. 27, 400 guests attended the organization’s 19th annual gala held at the Cox Business Convention Center Ballroom, raising nearly $125,000 for the Oklahoma Caring Foundation — a nonprofit providing basic health care needs to Oklahoma children. OCF specifically focuses on offering childhood immunizations at no charge, distributing them locally and across the state through its signature Caring Van program.

1. Keynote speaker Erin Andrews, NFL sportscaster and former participant and host of “Dancing with the Stars,” with Brooke Townsend, executive director of the Oklahoma Caring Foundation and director of community affairs for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma 2. Guests mingle and sip cocktails ahead of a dinner provided by the Cox Business Convention Center.

3. KOKI-TV anchor Ron Terrell emcees the event.

4. Wes Glinsmann, CEO of Oklahoma State Medical Association presents the Champions of Children’s Health award to Audrey McCraw, executive director of the Tristesse Grief Center.

5. Keith Reed, commissioner of health for the Oklahoma State Department of Health; Stacy McNeiland, CEO of the Care Center in Oklahoma City and recipient of the Dr. Rodney L. Huey Memorial Champion of Oklahoma Health award; and Todd Hoffman, chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma 6. Caring Van Specialist Fernando Guillen of Oklahoma Caring Foundation

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Iron Gate held its largest fundraiser, Cooking for a Cause, on Oct. 6 at the Vista at 21. The 228 guests in attendance sampled dishes by 14 premier area chefs that ranged from venison Bolognese with whipped ricotta and basil by Shangri’ La Resort’s Jonathan Moosmiller, to carne adovada tacos by La Tertulia’s Richard Purtell. Emceed by KOTV’s Amy Slanchik, the evening’s activities also included a silent auction, a gift card/wine pull and live music by Rebecca Ungerman and Rob Muraoka. A total of $214,571 was raised to benefit Iron Gate’s three programs: the grocery pantry, community meal and kid’s packs.

1. Paige Shelton, Iron Gate board president, with Carissa Gutierrez, Iron Gate development manager, and Lindsey Bristow, event chair 2. Jeremy Johnson, sous chef and vice president of culinary services for Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, with Joaquinn Juarez, mobile eatery assistant for Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, and Carrie Vesely Henderson, executive director of Iron Gate. Food Bank’s boneless quail breast with Nueske’s smoked bacon, sundried cherry and apricot marmalade was voted the night’s favorite dish.

3. Attendees Mary Burchett, Brandy Pieper, Michelle King and Rick Pieper 4. A trio of deviled eggs — blue cheese with bacon, avocado and Sriracha lime — was provided by chef Grady Perryman of Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology.

5. The Vista at 21’s rooftop terrace offers beautiful downtown skyline views to guests.

6. Attendees Daniel Eddings, Brittney Stephens and Mitch Stephens

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CHAMPIONS: DAMON PENNINGTON/BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF OKLAHOMA; COOKING FOR A CAUSE: MCKENNA KOLB, TERRYCE BOXLEY

Cooking for a Cause

Keeping Tulsa Modern Since 1979

80th Anniversary Gala In celebration of its eight decades, the Home Builders Association of Greater Tulsa held a gala Dec. 2 at the Mayo Hotel’s Crystal Ballroom. The menu included filet and shrimp scampi with mini cheesecakes to finish the evening. Guests numbered 250 for an event that included live music

by Travis Kidd. The association installed its new officers and introduced its 2023 president, Matt Emmons, owner of Emmons Construction.

1. To honor the association’s 80 years, several displays were erected to showcase memorabilia from past events and functions.

2. The installation gala was decorated with seasonal bouquets of evergreens and red florals.

3. The night’s theme was “Eighty Years of Traditions and Memories.”

4. 2022 HBA President Cahn Wiggs, Woman of the Year Emily Machetta, CEO Jeffrey Smith 5. Wiggs, Remodeler of the Year Matt Emmons 6. Wiggs, Builder of the Year Jeff Starkweather 7. Wiggs, Associate of the Year Chris Hodges, Smith

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TOM BIOLCHINI CHAIRMAN OF VAST BANK AND THE 2023 TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER CHAIR

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON Tom Biolchini’s office on the fifth floor of the Vast Bank building in downtown Tulsa is a pleasant surprise. The chair of this family-owned financial institution is an avid outdoorsman, film buff, father and husband, and his office walls reflect his passions. Charming photos of his wife, Jess, and kids, Rocco and Lucy, share space with a fascinating array of movie props — everything from Indiana Jones’ bullwhip to Ivan Drago’s boxing shoes from “Rocky IV.” A lifelong Tulsan, Biolchini believes in this city, and he’s ready to put that belief into action as incoming chair of the Tulsa Regional Chamber.

“Tulsa needs to think big and carry itself with confidence, continually reinvesting in itself and never calling it quits,” he says. “Don’t accept second or third place.”

AS CHAIR OF THE TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER, WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY FOCUS FOR 2023? First and foremost, it’s the continuation of what the Chamber started in terms of business retention and recruitment to Tulsa. I think that’s key. It’s also going to be very important over the next year to focus on the homeless and the lack of affordable housing in Tulsa.

The mayor and others have talked about this collaboration between Tulsa, northeast Oklahoma, northwest Arkansas and Oklahoma City. I’d like to continue to cultivate that. There’s more of an economic powerhouse working together when we’re competing around the nation with other cities. I want them to look at Tulsa and see we’re only an hour and a half from Oklahoma City and an hour and a half from Arkansas. It’s like being in a very big city, if that makes sense. We can sell together, as opposed to sell against each other.

WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE AT THE CHAMBER MEAN TO YOU PERSONALLY? I’ve been involved with the Chamber for close to eight years. To me, it’s an honor, and I take it pretty seriously. I was born and raised here, and Tulsa has given my family so much. This is a way for me to use my skills to give back to the city.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGER CHALLENGES FOR 30

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

“Tulsa needs to think big and carry itself with confidence, continually reinvesting in itself and never calling it quits. Don’t accept second or third place.”

— TOM BIOLCHINI THE CHAMBER IN 2023 AND BEYOND? It’s going to continue to be education and workforce development. That’s always a hot topic, because it’s important. I don’t know if there’s ever been a time in Tulsa’s history since the oil boom of the ’20s and ’30s that we’ve had so much national attention in terms of economic development and opportunities in Tulsa. It’s a great thing, but we need to have the workforce to support that. In a perfect world, we’ll create an environment that our children will want to return to, not just to be with us, but because Tulsa has so much opportunity.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU’RE EXCITED ABOUT FOR 2023? The (Gilcrease Expressway Extension) and the Arkansas River pedestrian bridge. I love that Mayor (G.T.) Bynum took the vision of leaders in Tulsa from 50 to 60 years ago and finally executed and made it happen. I think you’re going to see development occur along the river as a result. That was a bold move, and I can’t wait for it to come to life. It’s going to be very good for Tulsa.

It’s already open, but I think the Bob Dylan Center is really special. That’s something nobody else in the entire world has. As an attraction, it’s garnered worldwide attention, and I think that’s a really big deal for Tulsa.

AS CHAIR OF VAST BANK, WHAT DO YOU FEEL YOUR ROLE IS IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY WHEN IT COMES TO A FLUCTUATING ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT? I think we continue to do what the Chamber has already started, and that is to diversify our economy. Oil and gas is still important to northeast Oklahoma,

but there are so many other industries that are now coming here. I think that diversity is going to be really important for challenging economic times. Historically in Tulsa, we would rise and fall based on the price of oil, and that’s not a really healthy way to run a city. So again, it goes back to diversifying the economy.

We’re a small bank, generally speaking. We’re pretty diverse in our portfolio on purpose. Vast’s No. 1 goal is just to support our community in any way we can and has been doing so for 40 years.

We do a lot of real estate projects. We support a lot of businesses. We support a lot of homes and people and retail activities.

ARE THERE ANY COMMUNITY CAUSES ABOUT WHICH YOU ARE PARTICULARLY PASSIONATE? I’ve always been passionate about alleviating poverty. I’ve spent 15 to 16 years involved with (Tulsa) Day Center, but there are other organizations, such as Catholic Charities, that do a phenomenal job taking care of the poor in Tulsa.

I’ve also spent a lot of time with an organization called ACT Tulsa. It helps facilitate Blackand Latino-led businesses in Tulsa. It provides seed money, education and training. It gives these businesses the opportunity to thrive by helping them find financing or equity partners.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? It’s got to start with my friends and my family. They’re the most important things in life. After that, I love spending time in the mountains — anything outdoors — skiing, hiking. I love college football, specifically the (Notre Dame) Irish. I’m also a collector. I collect all sorts of things, including screen-used movie props.

WITH ALL OF YOUR MANY OBLIGATIONS, HOW DO YOU JUGGLE YOUR TIME? ANY TIPS? A friend once told me you always have to be thinking about the greatest and best use of your time on a daily basis.

Is this thing I’m doing, or that I’ve blocked off time to do, a good use of my time considering all the goals I’m trying to achieve? I feel like that’s really good advice, and I try to focus on that. If I’m spending time on something, it has to make a difference, make a change or help somebody. TP

MICHELLE POLLARD

Lifelong Tulsan Tom Biolchini leads Vast Bank, a family-owned financial institution. This year he chairs the Tulsa Regional Chamber, which represents 2,000 member organizations and more than 170,000 workers, and serves as the primary driver of regional and individual prosperity in northeast Oklahoma.

TulsaPeople.com

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Cecille Lorraine Bales

LIVES WELL LIVED

OCT. 30, 1926-MARCH 25, 2022 As an award-winning executive and female pioneer in advertising and marketing, Bales blazed a new path for women in business and was recognized for her lifetime achievements by the Association for Women in Communications.

Board chair of both Gilcrease Museum and the City of Tulsa Parks and Recreation, a city park at 5801 S. Union Ave. was named in her honor.

In retirement, she still served as executive director of the Grand Lake Association and promoted tourism of the lake and the state.

“Cecille Bales was deeply committed to improving and protecting Tulsa parks. We are collaborating with community partners to improve and re-activate the park, so thousands of people will be out playing ball or using the trails, benefiting from the contributions of volunteers like her.”

— Anna America, city chief, Tulsa’s Parks, Culture and Recreation Department

They were teachers, artists, leaders and historians, as well as newsmakers, physicians and business professionals. Tulsa lost many

individuals whose marks on the Tulsa landscape will never fade.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Charles “Mike” Barkley JUNE 16, 1948-OCT. 1, 2022 A talented attorney who specialized in medical negligence defending the Saint Francis Health System, Barkley handled litigation for major Fortune 500 companies in 36 states, chaired the Children’s Hospital Foundation at Saint Francis and was generous with his volunteer time for many Tulsa arts and social service organizations.

He was an accomplished athlete known for his zest for life and loving kindness.

“He did so much good for a lot of people. He was always positive, fun to be with and had a big, tender heart. He was so important to Saint Francis, did the malpractice work almost exclusively and was extremely dedicated to the Children’s Hospital. He filled his life, loved his family and was a wonderful person. I will really miss him.”

— Suzanne Warren, civic volunteer and philanthropist

32

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

BALES: COURTESY NINDE FUNERAL DIRECTORS; BARKLEY: COURTESY

in the past year; here we recognize these

CURTIS: COURTESY TULSA WORLD; HERRON: GREG BOLLINGER; DUNITZ: COURTESY TULSA BONE AND JOINT ASSOCIATES; FRASIER: COURTESY TULSA CITY-COUNTY LIBRARY AND OKLAHOMA LIBRARY ASSOCIATION; GATES: COURTESY GILCREASE MUSEUM; GAMBLE-SMITH: MICHELLE POLLARD

William Eugene “Gene” Curtis MARCH 7, 1929-AUG. 31, 2022 The son of a small-town newspaper owner, Curtis had ink in his veins that led to a half-century career as an old-school newspaper man. A university student when hired by the Tulsa World, Curtis was a beat reporter, news editor and then managing editor — always a guard dog for style and language. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame in 1996 and was a celebrated member of Lions Club.

“More than any other staffer, Gene was the heart and soul of the Tulsa World. A superb reporter, he was an even better editor. His great reporting and writing skills showed once again when he was called out of retirement in 2000 to produce two popular series, ‘History in Headlines’ and ‘Only in Oklahoma.’”

— Ken Neal, retired Tulsa World opinion editor

Norman L. Dunitz, M.D. SEPT. 25, 1927-SEPT. 10, 2022 Dunitz literally put Tulsa on its feet, introducing total hip and knee replacements after specialty training in Switzerland in 1969. His one-man medical practice grew into Tulsa Bone and Joint Associates, only one aspect of a wide-reaching medical professional career. A college athlete and jazz band clarinetist, he supported Tulsa performing arts, the University of Tulsa Golden Hurricane Club and Philcrest Tennis Club.

“Former trainees who became colleagues capture his essence in describing him as a Renaissance man who was very well trained, provided great care and compassion for his patients and as a skilled surgeon who consistently got excellent results. If necessary, he came in at 3 a.m. to help a colleague ‘with a smile on his face and a spring in his step.’”

— John Schumann, M.D., “Studio Tulsa: Medical Monday” host on Public Radio Tulsa 89.5 FM

Sally Frasier

Eddie Faye Gates

DEC. 17, 1941-AUG. 21, 2022

FEB. 5, 1934-DEC. 9, 2021

Committed social activist, skillful Democratic Party political organizer, and champion of equal rights and women’s rights, she served on the Oklahoma Commission for the Status of Women and boards of Planned Parenthood and Booker T. Washington High School Foundation. Public libraries held a special place in her heart. So did antiques. She took her harmonica on shopping trips with the Antique Collectors Guild.

Without her fierce activism and fervor for history, the story of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre may have stayed hidden. As a student at the historic Black college Tuskegee Institute (now University), Gates was taught to be “an activist for life.” She worked 24 years in Tulsa Public Schools, had a second career as an author and left a legacy as rallying advocate for the Race Massacre survivors.

“Sally was a longtime friend and chair of my campaign for state Senate. She served for 34 years on the Tulsa City-County Library Commission, was placed on the American Library Association’s 50th Anniversary Honor Roll and was named to TCCL Hall of Fame. We were very close, and I admired her very much.”

— Pat Woodrum, former executive director, Tulsa City-County Library

“Ms. Gates loved her elders, whom she credited with the vision, tenacity and resilience that built and sustained ‘Black Wall Street.’ She spoke from the heart and through the eyes of our oft-unheralded Black kin. Passionate about history and inclusion, she lovingly chronicled the Black experience. Her work filled a void. For her and for that, we’re eternally grateful.”

— Hannibal B. Johnson, author, attorney and consultant

Sherry Gamble-Smith

Gaylord Oscar Herron

JAN. 23, 1967-JULY 6, 2022

APRIL 11, 1942-OCT. 25, 2022

Visionary community leader, charismatic minister and forever Ms. Juneteenth, Gamble-Smith was founding president/CEO of the Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce and the human engine who revitalized Tulsa’s Juneteenth celebration, a festival to celebrate the Historic Greenwood District. Indefatigable advocate, she was an inspiring champion of Tulsa’s Black community, promoting businesses and empowering women. She made a joyful noise for a grateful community.

Gifted photographer, carpenter, poet, bicycle mechanic and eccentric, some of Herron’s Tulsa photographs are in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, and his autobiographic photo essay book “Vagabond” is a collector’s item. An original who left newspaper photography and television reporting to operate G. Oscar Bicycles in midtown, he was intrigued by majestic trees and the city’s evolution.

“A beloved daughter, sister, cousin, aunt, wife, mother and grandmother, Sherry was a mighty woman of God who preached joy, waged peace, walked in faith and sought justice. She was steadfast in her commitment to rebuild Greenwood to honor the legacy of our ancestors and inspire future generations of successful entrepreneurs.”

— Vanessa Hall-Harper, Tulsa District 1 City Councilor

“Gaylord possessed an incomparable eye in terms of technique, but most importantly in the depth of his emotions and his astute perceptions of people and nature.

Some are aware of his genius, but he never received the recognition he deserved. He left a vast body of astounding work. Time will prove him to be one of Oklahoma’s most important artists.”

— Glenda Silvey, former colleague and longtime friend TulsaPeople.com

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Boncilla “Bonnie” Klein

Dwain Elliott Midget

AUG. 8, 1932-AUG. 15, 2022

DEC. 14, 1932-JUNE 4, 2022

JAN. 4, 1954-AUG. 2, 2022

Jackson held a degree in anthropology, had a career in aerospace (from Douglas Aviation to Rockwell International’s Apollo space program), wrote a book about investment strategy for ordinary people and served his church in many roles.

He was recognized with Tulsa’s fi rst Humanitarian of the Year award for founding a free tax preparation program for low-income people at Community Action Project.

A gifted gardener whose garden was recognized by the National Garden Conservancy, an ardent golfer who took her clubs when she traveled, Klein was a keen traveler who visited all seven continents with her husband, Joe. Her favorite place in the world was Tulsa, where her wide-ranging philanthropy included the University of Tulsa, Up With Trees, and others, especially Tulsa Ballet.

The devoted public servant, tireless community leader and longtime city employee began his public service career with a summer job working on a garbage truck. He earned a law degree and rose to senior leadership, advising eight mayors on human rights and community development.

Most recently director of the Working in Neighborhoods Department, he was known for his colorful bow ties, sense of humor and kindness.

“Rich was an active, dedicated member and financial officer of Hope Unitarian Church who helped achieve financial stability for the church, reduced the church’s environmental footprint (receiving certification as a wildlife sanctuary and accreditation as a ‘Green Sanctuary’) and worked hands-on to prepare our meals for the homeless.”

— Rebecca Jones, president Hope Unitarian Church board of trustees

“Supporter of the arts, philanthropist, community leader — she was all that. Plus some. On steroids! Beyond her actions, as a person Bonnie was the embodiment of strength, integrity, moral compass, compassion, grace, humor … Humor! We will all miss the generous supporter that Bonnie was. Personally, I will miss Bonnie Klein, the person, the human being, the friend.”

— Marcello Angelini, artistic director, Tulsa Ballet

“A lifelong Tulsan, Dwain was a beloved husband, father, family member, friend and colleague. His generosity of spirit, infectious smile and dedication to improving the lives of others connected him to people across Tulsa.

Through eight mayoral administrations, his intelligence and expertise built a more inclusive Tulsa. Dwain’s legacy is his dedication to a life of service. He is remembered and missed.”

— M. Susan Savage, former Tulsa mayor; currently CEO, Morton Comprehensive Health Services

John B. Jarboe

Margaret Fleming “Dale” McNamara

MARCH 28, 1940-MAY 1, 2022 Businessman (wholesale wine and spirits) and lawyer, he helped legalize Oklahoma’s liquor-bythe-drink, served as general counsel for the Catholic Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma, and was instrumental in incorporating Catholic Charities. He served on the University of Liberal Arts (now the University of Sciences and Arts of Oklahoma) board of regents and the Water Resources Board. He loved auto racing and considered international travel “the best education available.”

“John’s love for the Lord and dedication to his wife, Sally, and their children are what all should strive to emulate.

His knowledge of law, business and dedication to Catholic Charities have helped Tulsa flourish. He was far more concerned with others than himself. John’s endeavors have also been the source of a great deal of fun for Tulsans!”

— Deacon Kevin Sartorius, CEO, Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma 34

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

DEC. 14, 1935-OCT. 30, 2022 A trailblazing women’s golf coach at TU, she started as a volunteer coach in 1974 and built the program from scratch and led teams to four national championships. She was the most successful coach in any sport in TU history and was inducted into the National Collegiate Golf Coaches Hall of Fame. She actively supported Gilcrease Museum and Tulsa Parks Board.

“Dale had a larger-than-life persona, yet in her own way and the TU way, she was always very genuine, authentic and accessible. She didn’t understand or accept ‘No’ or that you couldn’t be something in life. She used the phrase, ‘Take dead aim,’ which precisely summed up Dale McNamara — set your goal high, take dead aim and believe in yourself.”

— Rick Dickson, vice president/director of athletics, University of Tulsa

Philip Jay O’Meilia JULY 17, 1927-JAN. 26, 2022 This prolific artist is best known for his paintings that captured the action and drama of sports, and sculptures of larger-than-life-sized figures — from ballerina to oil patch roughneck. He made a point of dressing like a businessman and described himself as a professional painter, sculptor and printmaker supporting a family of five children. A straight talker, he said, “This is what I do.”

“Jay O’Meilia was a very talented artist, whose work is included in more than 500 private and public art collections around the world. One of his best-known bronze sculptures is, ‘Oklahoma Indian Ballerina,’ installed on Williams Green next to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

He worked fervently to promote and encourage local artists. His passion and his talent will be greatly missed.”

— Ken Busby, executive director and CEO, Route 66 Alliance

JACKSON: COURTESY HOPE UNITARIAN CHURCH; JARBOE: COURTESY; KLEIN, O’MEILIA: MICHELLE POLLARD; MCNAMARA: COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF TULSA ATHLETICS; MIDGET: COURTESY CITY OF TULSA

Richard Harold Jackson

Julius Pegues MAY 5, 1935-MARCH 29, 2022

PEGUES: TIM LANDES; PETTIGREW: EVAN TAYLOR; POWERS: COURTESY TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH; RADFORD: COURTESY; RAYNES: MICHELLE POLLARD; ROACH: COURTESY

A towering figure of influence and inspiration, Booker T. Washington High School alumnus, University of Pittsburgh basketball player and aerospace engineer, he memorialized the history and culture of Black Tulsans, guided the integration of Tulsa Public Schools and led Tulsa Development Authority’s revitalization of north Tulsa and downtown, including the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park. With a commitment to social justice, he reshaped the city.

“Julius loved his family, loved his church and cared deeply about the Tulsa community. His unwavering focus on human rights, education, reconciliation and justice was infectious and his leadership has influenced many Tulsa citizens to pursue their aspirations and realize their fullest potential. Tulsa has truly lost an iconic agent of change for the common good.”

— Reuben Gant, executive director, John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation

Cecil Lee Pettigrew MARCH 24, 1958-SEPT. 15, 2022

The Rev. Canon John C. Powers DEC. 21, 1936-DEC. 26, 2021 A beloved priest (Tulsa’s Trinity Episcopal Church, St. Bede’s in Westport) known for his high energy and sense of humor. He loved the Episcopal Church and his hometown of Tulsa, tending both with persuasion and charm. A humble food ministry he and two parishioners began behind the iron gates of the church cloister garden grew into Iron Gate, Tulsa’s biggest soup kitchen and grocery pantry.

“Father Jack Powers was inclusive in living life! He accepted and loved all people regardless of race, religion or sexual preference. From the beginning, he declared that all hungry people would be fed at Iron Gate, no questions asked. He treasured his family, he brought a smile to many friends, he was a wise counselor — one of God’s saints with a little ‘s’.”

— Keenan Barnard, a co-founder of Iron Gate

Joseph “Britt” Radford AUG. 15, 1954-NOV. 3, 2022

Professional boxer “Lethal Cecil,” ranked fi fth in the National American Boxing Federation, retired from the ring after 17 years and devoted himself to personal training and mentoring at-risk youth. He was a volunteer middle school football coach and tough but beloved trainer at his Team Lethal Boxing Gym. “Keep moving, stay active,” he said with a gravel voice and irresistible laugh. “Life’s too short to mess around.”

Radford lived in his hometown for 68 years except for four years while earning his degree at the University of Oklahoma. The 1972 Edison High School graduate was a proud Sigma Chi brother and OU devotee. He belonged to Trinity Episcopal Church and the Brotherhood of Saint Andrew, and he was a member and past president of the Tulsa Executives Association. Britt served as president of Oil Capital Valve, a manufacturing company founded by his father in 1952.

“East Central High School Alumni and Community Foundation lost a great Cardinal. Cecil and his wife, Carrie, … were the first to donate to any cause that benefits East Central students and teachers. He was a beloved member of our community, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Fly high, Cardinal!”

— Cathy Boley, president, ECHS Alumni and Community Foundation

“I’m fortunate to have worked with such a fair, honest, caring and kind man. Britt worked diligently and successfully to not only continue the company’s success, but expand its base in producing control valve systems for worldwide distribution. He never thought about himself and made life better for everyone else.”

— Robert Paiva, Tulsa site manager, OCV/Aquestia USA

Carl Lynn Raynes APRIL 3, 1949-SEPT. 29, 2022 Founding member and ultimate frontman of The Fabulous Mid Life Crisis Band, Raynes was a soulful singer for almost six decades, starting in junior high. Salesman and businessman by profession, he brimmed with life and energy whether playing sports (golf, soccer, tennis, basketball) or music (the band was especially popular at Utica Square events) and supercharged family events with joy.

“Carl always said he would be on the stage until he couldn’t walk on to it, and he pretty much did just that.

His last show was our annual New Year’s Eve bash, and he absolutely killed it that night. The Tulsa music scene lost a shining star, and our band lost a musical brother and a dear friend. Rock on, Carl!”

— Hayden Burlingame, guitarist, The Fabulous Mid Life Crisis Band

Gregory John Roach OCT. 20, 1947-SEPT. 11, 2022 Supremely talented actor on stage and TV, Roach was a comedian named one of Tulsa’s funniest people. He also was celebrated for his photography and as an accomplished writer and marketer; the steady line running through his multi-faceted creative life was his stalwart support of American Theatre Co. as leading actor and board member.

The bedrock of his life was his Catholic faith and his family.

“One of the most versatile and talented performers to be local to Tulsa. Greg was a funny guy. Above all, that was his currency — making people laugh to make them feel relaxed. He could play anything from Shakespeare to good ol’ boy Bubba Martel and create loveable, believable characters. A real loss for the Tulsa performing community.”

— Melanie Fry, actor, stand-up comedian, American Theatre Co. board member TulsaPeople.com

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WE ALSO REMEMBER Richard Hicks Brunson Sr.

JUNE 28, 1931-MARCH 1, 2022 Optician and owner of Hicks Brunson Eyewear

AUG. 16, 1938-AUG. 24, 2022 It was a music career as short and bright as a bottle rocket. A popular young singer-guitarist known for talent and class, he was frontman for Bobby Taylor and the Valentines with Johnny (JJ) Cale, George Metzel, Jimmy Turley and Roger Stallings. After military service, he began a successful career with credit unions as founder and advisor, making music on special occasions. He served as Oklahoma Credit Union League president from 1970-1986.

“One of the first rock ‘n’ rollers in Tulsa, coming straight out of the Elvis tradition. Because he started in 1956 and left town after enlisting in the Air Force a couple of years later, he may not be as well-known as some of the other original Tulsa Sound guys. But he was certainly an early T-town star.”

— John Wooley, writer and pop-culture historian TP

SAINT FRANCIS HOSPITAL SHOOTING

Margo Ruth Dunbar

SEPT. 27, 1950-FEB. 16, 2022 Co-owner of Beshara’s Formal Wear and Bridal

Marc Alan Frazier

SEPT. 3, 1938-OCT. 10, 2022 Dentist, hospital emergency room volunteer, singer and classical music supporter

Robert “Bob” Hendrick JAN. 27, 1957-DEC. 3, 2022 Local parks events coordinator and theater actor

a gunman armed with two weapons

entered the orthopedic center killing the

surgeon who had operated on him as well

APRIL 7, 1965-OCT. 12, 2022 Burger diner icon and owner of Claud’s Hamburgers

Preston Phillips, M.D. SEPT. 11, 1962-JUNE 1, 2022

Stephanie Husen, D.O. APRIL 19, 1974-JUNE 1, 2022

Jeff Jordan

NOV. 23, 1943-OCT. 2, 2022 Football player (University of Tulsa, Minnesota Vikings) and financial advisor

Connie Dena Matthews

OCT. 1, 1930-MAY 7, 2022 Math teacher, pioneering computer programmer and Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church volunteer

James Robert McKinney JULY 16, 1941-JULY 27, 2022 Air Force veteran and co-founder of Trust Co. of Oklahoma

Amanda Glenn OCT. 22, 1981-JUNE 1, 2022

William Love NOV. 22, 1948-JUNE 1, 2022

36

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

Eugene Sellmeyer

JAN. 16, 1929-JUNE 4, 2022 Tulsa Fire Department captain, pilot and rancher

Robert “Bob” Stuart

MAY 7, 1926-MAY 30, 2022 Noted football star and leader of J.D. Young Co.

C. Thomas Thompson, M.D. FEB. 2, 1925-JUNE 17, 2022 Pioneering physician who helped establish Saint Francis Hospital

John Houchin

AUG. 17, 1947-OCT. 16, 2022 Owner of Houchin Electric

as three others and wounding more.

The four victims include:

Julia Ratliff

JULY 21, 1935-MAY 11, 2022 Educator, author, member of Friends of Oklahoma Public Libraries, Tulsa Global Alliance supporter

Robert Paul Hobson

Tulsa joined the list of U.S. sites of

multiple shootings June 1, 2022, when

MARCH 14, 1952-SEPT. 18, 2022 Businessman (Petty’s Fine Foods, National Occupational Health Services), outdoorsman and philanthropist

Sandra Joy Brownlee Norman JUNE 24, 1941-APRIL 2, 2022 Interior and landscape designer, golfer and longtime Philbrook Museum of Art trustee

Johnny Ace Watson

JAN. 11, 1949-JULY 2, 2022 McLain High School athlete, football player (University of Oklahoma, San Francisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints)

Rev. James D. White

APRIL 15, 1939-JULY 17, 2022 Historian, author and priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma

Margaret M. Wright

JULY 5, 1927-JULY 21, 2022 Clothing designer of children’s wear, TV shows and couture

Rachel Williams Zebrowski

JULY 25, 1951-APRIL 26, 2022 Architect, Sarah Lawrence College board member and supporter of Tulsa civic organizations TAYLOR: COURTESY

Robert Wayne “Bob” Taylor

Bradley J. “Brad” Petty

2023

CHARITABLE EVENTS CALENDAR Published in association with the Tulsa Community Foundation COMPILED BY AMANDA HALL JANUARY 13-15 THE DREAM MEET Benefits Aim High Academy. aimhighgym.org 23 EAT DRINK AND BE GIVING Benefits The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. tulsacenter.org 28 TOYLAND BALL Benefits Parent Child Center of Tulsa. toylandball.org FEBRUARY 3 COOKING UP COMPASSION Benefits Catholic Charities. cceok.org 4 AN EVENING TO REMEMBER Benefits Payne County Youth Services Inc. pcys.org THE CANDY BALL Benefits Child Abuse Network. candyball.org RIVERFIELD ROCKS THE CAIN’S Benefits Riverfield Country Day School. riverfield.org UNITED WAY NIGHT AT THE SYMPHONY Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org 5 AN EVENING WITH P.S. GORDON Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org

11 BRINGING BROADWAY HOME ANNUAL GALA Benefits Craft Productions of Oklahoma. craftproductions.org

SAPPHIRE CELEBRATION ANNUAL AUCTION “NIGHT ON BROADWAY” Benefits Riverfield Country Day School. riverfield.org

MARDI GRAS GALA Benefits Youth Services of Tulsa. yst.org/gala2023

7 LIVE UNITED AWARDS Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org

18 ANCIENT TRAIL TREK Benefits Sand Springs Parks. sandspringsok.org/526/ ancient-trail-trek 25 CENTENNIAL TEA PARTY Benefits Junior League of Tulsa. jltulsa.org CHAMPAGNE AND CHOCOLATE Benefits Living Arts of Tulsa. livingarts.org PENNIES FOR PEARLS MUSIC TRIVIA Benefits American Parkinson Disease Association OK Chapter. apdaparkinson.org/oklahoma SPLASH Benefits Oklahoma Aquarium. okaquarium.org 28 KIPP STAR TALENT SHOW AND GALA Benefits KIPP Tulsa. kippok.org/kipp-tulsa MARCH 4 BRAINIAC BALL Benefits Family and Children’s Services. brainiacball.com DANCE OF THE TWO MOONS: FABULOUS FIFTIES Benefits Indian Health Care Resource Center. ihcrc.org/2moons

8 LEGACY LUNCHEON Benefits Lindsey House. lindseyhouse.org 11 ST. PATRICK’S DAY RUN Benefits Special Olympics Oklahoma. sook.org SIP FOR SIGHT GALA Benefits Vizavance. sipforsight.com 18 “STANG THANG” MUSTANG CAR SHOW Benefits Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium. tulsamuseum.org 21 WILLIAM BOOTH SOCIETY GALA Benefits The Salvation Army. salarmytulsa.org 23 WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION BINGO NIGHT Benefits Tulsa Boys’ Home. tulsaboyshome.org 24 DREAM HOME TICKETS ON SALE Benefits St. Jude Children’s Hospital. stjude.org/give/dream-home/ tulsa.html

PINNACLE AWARDS Benefits YWCA Tulsa. ywcatulsa.org STREET PARTY Benefits Street School. streetpartytulsa.com 25 CARNIVALE Benefits Mental Health Association Oklahoma. bestpartyintown.org OKLAHOMA SHOWS! DESIGN SPECIALTY FLOWER SHOW Benefits Tulsa Garden Club. tulsagardenclub.org/ flower-show TIPTOE THROUGH THE TULIPS Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org WAFFLES FOR WISHES – A CELEBRATION BRUNCH + SILENT AUCTION Benefits Make-a-Wish Oklahoma. wish.org/oklahoma

GARDEN PARTY Benefits Little Light House. littlelighthouse.org/ garden-party 2 PLEIN AIR PAINTING Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org 4 OKC AWARE LUNCHEON Benefits Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter. awareok.org 6 10TH ANNUAL OYSTERS AND ALE Benefits Hospice of Green Country. hospiceofgreencountry.org TIME FOR A CAUSE Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org 7-8 SPRINGFEST! Benefits Tulsa Garden Center. tulsagardencenter.org/springfest

30 MENTORSHIP MATTERS Benefits Junior League of Tulsa. jltulsa.org

8 BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org

31 MONARCH BALL Benefits DVIS. themonarchball.com

BRIGHT LIGHTS Benefits Sangha Inc. sanghatulsa.org

APRIL 1 ARTRAGEOUS Benefits Foundation for Tulsa Schools. foundationfortulsaschools.org AQUARIUM RUN Benefits Oklahoma Aquarium. okaquarium.org

OPERA BALL Benefits Tulsa Opera. tulsaopera.com/operaball RHAPSODY GALA Benefits Tulsa Youth Symphony. tulsayouthsymphony.org 13 OVERTURE Benefits Signature Symphony. signaturesymphony.org/overture

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15 BREWED FOR GILCREASE Benefits Gilcrease Museum. gilcrease.org CASA CASINO Benefits Tulsa Casa. tulsacasa.org ICONS AND IDOLS Benefits Tulsa Ballet. iconsandidols.org 16 CAN SUPERHERO CHALLENGE Benefits Child Abuse Network. cansuperherochallenge.org 20 THE DINNER PARTY Benefits Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. okfoodbank.org WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION ANNUAL SPRING LUNCHEON Benefits Tulsa Boys’ Home. tulsaboyshome.org 21 DAY OF CARING FOOD DRIVE Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org PLAY 4 JA SPORTS BOWL Benefits Junior Achievement of Oklahoma. jaok.org

VOLUTE Benefits Volunteers of America. voaok.org/volute 22 AVIATOR BALL Benefits Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium tulsamuseum.org CENTENNIAL GALA Benefits Junior League of Tulsa. jltulsa.org THE GLOW GALA Benefits Global Gardens. global-gardens.org OKLAHOMA NONPROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARDS (ONE AWARDS) Benefits Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. okcnp.org/page/one-awards PRANKS AND PAWS TRIVIA NIGHT Benefits Tulsa SPCA. tulsaspca.org RAISING HOPE BLUE TIE GALA Benefits The Demand Project. thedemandproject.org RED RIBBON GALA Benefits Tulsa CARES. redribbongala.org ZOO RUN Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org 23 TOM BOYD MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. cff.org

FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES’ BRAINIAC BALL

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24 WISH UPON A PAR GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits Make-a-Wish Oklahoma. wish.org/oklahoma 25 MADAM PRESIDENT Benefits League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Tulsa. lwvtulsa.org 27 RAISE THE ROOF Benefits Revitalize T-Town. revitalizettown.org/events 28 THE BASH IN BLOOM Benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tulsa. thebashtulsa.org CELEBRATE CASCIA Benefits Cascia Hall Preparatory School. casciahall.com GLAMP FIRE Benefits Camp Fire Green Country. tulsacampfire.org GO GIRL GALA Benefits Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma. gogirlgala.org GRAND SLAM GALA Benefits Youth at Heart. youthatheart.org 29 DISCOVERY LAB GALA Benefits Discovery Lab. discoverylab.org

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA’S VOLUTE

HEART WALK Benefits American Heart Association. heart.org

TASTE OF TULSA Benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma. bbbsok.org

RIVERFIELD ROCKS LLAMAPALOOZA Benefits Riverfield Country Day School. riverfield.org

6 HATS OFF TO UNION! A DERBY DAY SOIRÉE! Benefits Union Schools Education Foundation. unionfoundation.org

SHOOT FOR THE CENTER: THE EDDIE SUTTON CHALLENGE Benefits The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. tulsacenter.org WALK MS Benefits National Multiple Sclerosis Society. walkms.org TBD BEST OF BRUNCH Benefits DVIS. dvis.org

MEMORY GALA Benefits Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter. alz.org/oklahoma RUN FOR THE ROSES Benefits Tulsa Boys’ Home. tulsaboyshome.org 12 GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits Cookson Hills Children’s Home. cooksonhills.org/golftournament 13 BOOKED UP FOR SUMMER Benefits Reading Partners. readingpartners.org

FOUNDERS DINNER Benefits Iron Gate. irongatetulsa.org MAY 4-21 DESIGNER SHOWCASE Benefits Foundation for Tulsa Schools and Home Builders Association Charitable Foundation. tulsahba.com 5 GREAT PLAINS JOURNALISM AWARDS Benefits Tulsa Press Club. tulsapressclub.org

15 DREAM HOME TOURS BEGIN Benefits St. Jude Children’s Hospital. stjude.org/give/dream-home/ tulsa.html 19 CONSERVATION ON TAP Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org CONTINUED ON P. 40

SIGNATURE SYMPHONY’S OVERTURE

BRAINIAC BALL: JOHN BIVENS PHOTOGRAPHY; OVERTURE: RESOLUSEAN, SEAN CAPSHAW; VOLUTE: BETH HAWKINS VIDEO AND PHOTOGRAPHY

14 TULSA PANHELLENIC WOMAN OF THE YEAR Benefits Tulsa Area Alumnae Panhellenic. tulsapanhellenic.org

2019: A TRIBUTE TO QUEEN

2022: A TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON

WHO WILL ROCK THE HOUSE IN 2023?

2021: A TRIBUTE TO PRINCE

GET READY TO

RAISE THE ROOF! Green Country Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization devoted to building quality, affordable homes for hardworking Tulsa area families. Since 1988, we have partnered with organizations and families in our community to make housing affordable and sustainable.

Don’t miss Rock The House 2023 – Tulsa’s hottest fundraiser that is taking fun to a whole new level. Your support helps local families’ dreams of home ownership become a reality.

OCTOBER 28, 2023 COX BUSINESS CONVENTION CENTER rockthehousetulsa.org

CONTINUED FROM P. 38

10TH ANNUAL LINKS TO INDEPENDENCE GOLF CLASSIC Benefits Ability Resources Inc. abilityresources.org 20 GOLF FORE GROCERIES Benefits Kendall Whittier Inc. kendallwhittierinc.org GREAT STRIDES WALK Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. cff.org PASSPORT TO PARADISE GARDEN TOUR Benefits Tulsa Garden Club. tulsagardenclub.org/garden-tour 24-27 NATIONAL RECONCILIATION IN AMERICA SYMPOSIUM Benefits John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation. jhfcenter.org TBD DIG: DAY IN THE GARDEN Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org JUNE 1 EVENING OF GIVING Benefits Home Builders Association Charitable Foundation. tulsahba.com 2 THE PARTY: JUST WEAR WHITE Benefits Family and Children’s Services. thepartyok.com 2, 16 ZOO NIGHTS Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org 3 ASCENSION ST. JOHN STREET PARTY Benefits Ascension St. John Foundation. stjohnhealthsystem.com/ foundation/street-party EVERY MOMENT COUNTS RUN/WALK Benefits Clarehouse. clarehouse.org/events

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INSPIRE: A NIGHT OF ENTERTAINMENT Benefits The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. tulsacenter.org 15 A STATELY AFFAIR Benefits Oklahoma State University Foundation. astatelyaffair.com 16 CELEBRATE LIFE Benefits LIFE Senior Services. lifeseniorservices.org 19 CRAFT GOLF CLASSIC TOURNAMENT Benefits Craft Productions of Oklahoma. craftproductions.org 25 ST. JUDE DREAM HOME WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT Benefits St. Jude Children’s Hospital. stjude.org/give/dream-home/ tulsa.html JULY 14 ROUTE 66 NATIVE ARTS GALA Benefits Route 66 Native Arts Alliance. rt66nativeartsalliance.org 18 BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE Benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters. bbbsok.org 29 BINGO BASH Benefits Tulsa SPCA. tulsaspca.org TBD GREAT FUTURES GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa. salarmytulsa.org AUGUST 5 RINGMASTERS GOLF AND GALA Benefits Tulsa State Fair Ringmasters. tulsastatefair.com/golf-gala

26 MAKER FAIRE TULSA Benefits Fab Lab Tulsa. tulsa.makerfaire.com

WESTERN DAYS Benefits Saint Simeon’s Foundation. saintsimeons.org/western-days

STACKED DECK Benefits Resonance Center for Women. resonancetulsa.org

WILD BREW Benefits G.M. Sutton Avian Research Center. wildbrew.org

15 FALL DAY OF CARING Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org

WILD TURKEY Benefits River Parks Authority. riverparks.org/events/wildturkey

28 DRIVE OUT THE DEMAND GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits The Demand Project. thedemandproject.org

HUES FOR HOPE Benefits Global Foundation for Peroxisomal Disorders. huesforhope.org

29 CENTER EXPERIENCE Benefits The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. tulsacenter.org

JA CLASSIC Benefits Junior Achievement of Oklahoma. jaok.org TBD PICKLEBALL SMASH CLASSIC Benefits Hospice of Green Country. hospiceofgreencountry.org GREAT FUTURES GALA Benefits The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa. salarmytulsa.org

MIX Benefits Philbrook Museum of Art. philbrook.org 16 ROCK PAPER SCISSORS Benefits The Pencil Box. thepencilbox.org 21 APPETITE FOR CONSTRUCTION Benefits Home Builders Association Charitable Foundation. tulsahba.com

WINE AND ROSES: UNDER THE HARVEST MOON Benefits Tulsa Garden Center. tulsagardencenter.org TBD GOLD MEDAL GALA Benefits Special Olympics Oklahoma. sook.org GOLF INVITATIONAL Benefits Union Schools Education Foundation. unionfoundation.org

22 WALTZ ON THE WILD SIDE Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org

GOLF TOURNAMENT Benefits Restore Hope Ministries. golf.restorehope.org

7 VISION DINNER Benefits Tulsa Community College Foundation. tccfoundation.org

23 SUSAN G. KOMEN RACE FOR THE CURE Benefits Komen Oklahoma. komen.org/community/ oklahoma

HEADLINERS AWARDS Benefits Tulsa Press Club. tulsapressclub.org

8-17 RESTAURANT WEEK Benefits Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. okfoodbank.org

25 FRANK RHOADES GOLF CLASSIC Benefits Tulsa Boys’ Home. tulsaboyshome.org

USA BMX GALA Benefits USA BMX Foundation. usabmx.com

9 DAY GALA Benefits Women Helping Other Women. whownetwork.org

GOLF CLASSIC Benefits Oklahoma DAV (Disabled American Veterans). birdease.com/okdav

OCTOBER 2 TULSA HALL OF FAME Benefits Tulsa Historical Society and Museum. tulsahistory.org

SEPTEMBER 2-4 CITY-WIDE LEMON-AID STANDS Benefits The Lemon-Aid Project. thelemonaidproject.org

MILES FOR MILESTONES Benefits Little Light House. littlelighthouse.org 14 FLIGHT NIGHT Benefits Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance. tulsaflightnight.org

LINKS FOR LITTLE ONES Benefits Little Light House. littlelighthouse.org 28 COOKING FOR A CAUSE Benefits Iron Gate. irongatetulsa.org

PORCH PARTY Benefits Lindsey House lindseyhouse.org

6 DIVAS 4 HOPE Benefits Health Outreach Prevention Education. divas4hope.org CONTINUED ON P. 42

CONTINUED FROM P. 40

AN EVENT FOR EVERYONE

7 ANNUAL GALA Benefits Good Samaritan Health. goodsamaritanhealth.org HUMAN NATURE Benefits Up With Trees. humannatureok.org 20-22; 27-29 HALLOZOOWEEN Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org

ZOORUN

27 CORKS AND KEGS Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. cff.org OCT. 27-NOV. 5 CARE CARD Benefits Family and Children’s Services. carecardok.com

WALTZ ON THE WILD SIDE

CONSERVATION ON TAP

T U L S A ZOO.O RG / E V E N T S 42

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14-18 STORIES OF LIGHT RADIOTHON Benefits Make-a-Wish Oklahoma. wish.org/oklahoma 16 BARBECUE, BEER AND CIGARS Benefits Tulsa Boys’ Home. tulsaboyshome.org 17 BEAUJOLAIS WINE DINNER Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org

2 HOLIDAY MART: MEMBER ART SALE Benefits The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. tulsacenter.org 2, 9 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org 5 CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW Benefits The Salvation Army. salarmytulsa.org TBD ABATE OF TULSA TOY RUN Benefits Toys for Tots. abateoftulsa.com

NOV. 24-DEC. 24 PHILBROOK FESTIVAL Benefits Philbrook Museum of Art. philbrook.org

2023 TBD 70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Benefits TSHA. tsha.cc

ROCK THE HOUSE Benefits Green Country Habitat for Humanity. rockthehousetulsa.org

NOV. 24-DEC. 30 BOTANIC GARDEN OF LIGHTS Benefits Tulsa Botanic Garden. tulsabotanic.org

BOOKS, BREWS AND BBQ Benefits Reading Partners. readingpartners.org

TBD TASTE OF BROOKSIDE Benefits Youth Services of Tulsa. yst.org/taste-of-brookside

28 VISIONS AWARDS Benefits Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. okcnp.org/page/visions

NOVEMBER 3 ANNUAL GALA Benefits Operation Hope Prison Ministry. ohpm.org

TBD HEROIC: HONORING HEROES IN RECOVERY Benefits Sangha, Inc. sanghatulsa.org

28 HALLOWEEN BASH Benefits Tulsa Foundation for Architecture. tulsaarchitecture.org

ART PARTY Benefits Tulsa Girls Art School. tulsagirlsartschool.org HALLOWZOOEEN

RG FOODS FARM TO TABLE DINNER Benefits RG Foods. tulsarealgoodfood.org

4 BOOMTOWN AWARDS Benefits TYPROS Foundation. typros.org

DECEMBER 1 PEGGY V. HELMERICH DISTINGUISHED AUTHOR AWARD GALA Benefits Tulsa City-County Library. tulsalibrary.org

DAY OF CARING BACK TO SCHOOL GIVEAWAY Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org RELAY FOR LIFE Benefits American Cancer Society. relayforlife.org/ tulsametrook RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE PARTY Benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tulsa. rmhctulsa.org RUNWAY RUN 5K Benefits Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium. tulsamuseum.org

Check TulsaPeople.com each month for updated event listings throughout 2023.

Have an event you would like listed? Email amanda@langdonpublishing.com.

There’s no other event like the Tulsa Boys’ Home’s Annual Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby party!

All There’s proceeds benefit Tulsa Home to support no other event likeBoys’ the Tulsa Boys’ Home’s AnnualOklahoma Run for the Roses Derby party! troubled boys.

WeKentucky expect nothing short proceeds benefit Tulsa Boys’ Home to support of aAllthrilling, sold out extravaganza for the 2023 troubled boys.full Weofexpect nothing short Run for the Oklahoma Roses event; fun, food, prizes, of a racing, thrilling,and soldmore! out extravaganza for the 2023 horse Run for the Roses event; full of fun, food, prizes, and more!

Ourhorse 19thracing, Annual Run for the Roses will kick off at 1:30pm on Saturday, at the will fabulous Our 19th Annual RunMay for 6th, the Roses kick off Pavilion at Expo Square.

Festivities will conclude at 1:30pm on Saturday, May 6th, at the fabulousat approximately 5:45pm afterFestivities the running the Pavilion at Expo Square. willof conclude Kentucky Derby. Our guests willthe enjoy the sights at approximately 5:45pm after running of Kentucky Derby. Our guestsincluding will enjoya the andthe sounds of Churchill Downs, sights and sounds of Churchill Downs, including a simulcast of all afternoon Derby Day races on giant simulcast of all afternoon Derby Day giant screens, along with the opportunity to races placeon bets on screens, along with the opportunity to place bets all afternoon races piped in live from Churchill on all Our afternoon piped in live from Churchill Downs! guestsraces will also enjoy fabulous food Downs! Our guests will also enjoy fabulous food and refreshing drinks at our open bar, thousands of and refreshing drinks at our open bar, thousands fresh red roses, more than a hundred exciting silent of fresh red roses, more than a hundred exciting and live auction items, and much more! silent and live auction items, and much more!

Tulsa Boys’ and hope hopewith with Tulsa Boys’Home Homeprovides provides healing healing and highest quality residentialcare carefor foryoung young boys thethe highest quality residential needing placementoutside outsidetheir theirhome, home,for for the the needing placement purpose of developing well-adjusted, responsible purpose of developing well-adjusted, responsible adults, and wherepossible possiblestrengthening strengthening the adults, and where the family.

Tulsa Boys’ Home has family.

Since Since 1918,1918, Tulsa Boys’ Home has helped helped provide healing and hope for more than provide healing and hope for more than 14,000 14,000 troubled young boys from all 77 counties troubled young boys from all 77 counties throughout the great state of Oklahoma. We throughout the great state of Oklahoma. We focus focus on providing true healing and a new found on sense providing trueinhealing and a lives new of found sense of hope the shattered the young of hope in the shattered livesresidents of the young boys boys we serve.

Most of our are placed weby serve.

MostWelfare of our Division residents are Department placed by the the Child of the Child Welfare Division of the Department of of Human Services (DHS).

The other boys are privately placed(DHS). by parents legalboys guardians.

Human Services Theor other are privately placed by parents or legal guardians.

For sponsorship or registration information Forregarding sponsorship or registration information this year’s event, please contact Carissa Harris atthis 918-245-0231, ext.please 5004. You can also regarding year’s event, contact Carissa find at event information on our5004. website atcan also Harris 918-245-0231, ext.

You www.tulsaboyshome.org. find event information on our website at www.tulsaboyshome.org.

Photos from previous Run for the Roses fundraisers may also be viewed at facebook.com/tulsaboyshome.

Photos from previous Run for the Roses fundraisers may also be viewed at facebook.com/ tulsaboyshome.

S AT U R D AY, M A R C H 4 , 2 0 2 3 Join us at Cox Business Convention Center for Tulsa’s smartest soirée featuring dinner, drinks, team trivia, dancing, entertainment and more!

www.BrainiacBall.com

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Don’t miss Tulsa’s hottest dance party featuring top mixologists, music, entertainment, fireworks and more.

J U NE 2 , 2 0 2 3 | O NEOK FIELD

www.ThePartyOK.com

VOLU NT E E RS

O F

A M ER I C A

O KL A H O M A

P R E S E N T S A N E V E N I N G C R E AT I N G M O M E N T U M

BENEFITTING VETERANS, THE AGING, THE HOMELESS AND THE DISABLED

APRIL 21, 2023 6 : 0 0 PM | COX B U S I N ESS CO N V EN T I O N C EN T ER

JOIN US! T O S P O N S O R O R F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T V O A O K . O R G / V O L U T E

C E L E B R AT I N G 3 0 Y E A R S O F S E R V I C E T O O K L A H O M A N S

Join Youth Services of Tulsa for the 2023 Mardi Gras Gala While we love putting on a party, this evening is all about our youth! When you become a Gala 2023 supporter, you help ensure YST has the resources to assist thousands of youth across our community who turn to us for support – often at some of the most difficult times of their lives.

Sponsorships and tickets are now available!

Join us for delicious food, party games, and dancing.

Saturday February 11 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

For more Information:

www.yst.org/gala2023

G FO R A C IN

Join TulsaPeople and Iron Gate for our annual

COO

SE AU

K

Join TulsaPeople and Iron Gate for our annual

2023 The tastiest way to help feed the hungry.

Cooking for a Cause is an evening that features tasting menus prepared by some of Tulsa’s top culinary talent, plus many more ways to help feed the hungry.

Iron Gate is a downtown soup kitchen and grocery pantry that feeds the hungry and homeless of Tulsa every day.

Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 6PM Tickets: $150 per person 918-879-1702 | www.irongatetulsa.org

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

The tastiest way to help feed the hungry.

501 W. Archer Tulsa, OK 74103 • (918) 879-1702

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE If you would like to reserve today, contact Carissa at cgutierrez@irongatetulsa.org

Join us for one of the most entertaining fundraising events of the year!

MAKE MUSIC WITH US

APRIL 13, 2023 Reception 6 p.m. • Dinner and Program 7 p.m. • River Spirit Casino Resort Funds raised help Signature Symphony provide music education, community outreach and premier concerts to the greater Tulsa area.

To learn more or become a sponsor, scan the QR code.

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Celebrating 50 years of preserving independence and meeting the needs of our aging population.

SAVE THE DATE

LOCATION

Friday, June 16, 2023

Cox Business Convention Center

HONORARY CHAIRS

SPONSOR OUR 50TH EVENT

Denise & John Redmond LIFEseniorservices.org | 918-664-9000, ext. 1213

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2023 | 6PM | COX BUSINESS CONVENTION CENTER HONORING TULSA CARES CHAMPIONS, CHRISTOPHER MURPHY AND BENJAMIN STEWART, AS RECIPIENTS OF THE PATRICIA G. CHERNICKY LUMINARY AWARD

B E C O M E A S P O N S O R AT R E D R I B B O N G A L A .O R G 2023 EVENT CHAIRMEN: RYAN JUDE TANNER & JAY KROTTINGER | PATRON CHAIRMAN: BOB STEWART FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT CARLY SENGER AT 918.834.4194 OR CARLYS@TULSACARES.ORG BENEFITTING TULSA CA R ES, A U NITED WAY PA RTNER AG ENCY

TULSANS OF THE YEAR

CUSTODIANS OF TULSA’S MUSIC HISTORY For the past 20 years the historic Cain’s Ballroom has been owned and managed by the Rodgers family who have become stewards to one of Tulsa’s —— and the nation’s —— most iconic music institutions. As Cain’s nears its 100th anniversary in two years, we recognize Chad and Hunter, as well as their parents Jim and Alice, as the Tulsans of the Year.

BY TIM LANDES

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Marcus Mumford plays Oct. 17 at Cain’s Ballroom to a sold-out crowd.

GREG BOLLINGER

M

Alice, Hunter, Chad and Jim Rodgers inside Cain’s Ballroom, which they have owned since 2002.

arcus Mumford stands alone on the Cain’s Ballroom stage, performing a couple of hit songs from his band Mumford and Sons.

The Grammy winner is 15 shows into his North American tour and performing for a sold-out crowd of 1,700 people who had purchased all the tickets within minutes of the show going on sale six weeks earlier.

Cain’s co-owners and brothers Chad and Hunter Rodgers take in the scene and relish the moment. It’s one of the biggest nights of the year for the ballroom that survived the COVID-19 shutdown and no major tours for two years.

After playing a few songs, Mumford stands in the spotlight and shares how excited he is to be playing for the first time in the venue that has hosted many of the biggest names in music over the decades.

“This is a great room to skateboard in,” Mumford says as he laughs. He then plays his solo debut album in its entirety before an encore that includes the Taylor Swift cover “Cowboy Like Me.” Holding a Western-themed guitar with cowboys on it, Mumford proclaims he’s finally in the appropriate venue for playing this specific guitar as giant portraits of country legends who have played Cain’s hang on the walls surrounding the capacity audience. The British-American from California says he feels at home.

It’s been 20 years since the Rodgers family first hosted a show inside the historic music venue that Bob Wills made famous nearly 90 years ago when he started playing music for Cain’s Dance Academy.

In those two decades, Cain’s Ballroom, 423 N. Main St., has hosted over 2,000 shows featuring hundreds of musicians of all genres, some of them playing the intimate venue multiple times before moving up to arenas like BOK Center or bigger. Some keep coming back because of the great sound, the fully engaged audience and the history that envelopes everyone when the lights go down and the first chord is struck.

The Rodgers family are stewards of an iconic piece of Tulsa that continues to generate national news and create new and lasting musical relationships between Cain’s Ballroom and the city. Their hard work and dedication to the historic building and the Tulsa music scene make them our Tulsans of the Year.

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TAKING ON THE CHALLENGE

Cain’s was built by W. Tate Brady in 1924 as a garage to showcase his collection of Hupmobiles, early 20thcentury cars made by the Hupp Motor Co. of Detroit.

Brady’s name remains partially exposed on the building, but a star bearing his name on the sidewalk was removed by the Rodgers family in 2020 after it came to light Brady, a Tulsa founding father, was a member of the KKK and involved in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

The Rodgers family acknowledges Cain’s wouldn’t exist today without Brady, but they also point out his intentions were for cars and not bringing together music fans of all walks of life.

In 1930, Madison W. “Daddy” Cain purchased the 54

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

building, naming it “Cain’s Dance Academy.” Soon he was charging 10 cents for lessons. Cain and his right-hand man Howard Turner operated the venue and were instrumental in securing Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys to Tulsa, after the Texas fiddler and his band made their debut on the stage New Year’s night 1935. For the next seven years, Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys played weekly dances and performances broadcast on KVOO at noon and midnight. It was then “The Home of Bob Wills.” Today it’s “The House That Bob Built” or “The Carnegie Hall of Western Swing.”

According to Tulsa World reports, in 1976, Marie Mayers sold her Western swing hall and private event space after four years of ownership for $60,000 to local promoter Larry Shaeffer, who opened the building with the name Tulsans know today: Cain’s Ballroom. During

In the 1930s, Cain’s Dance Academy hosted dances and weekly performances by Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys.

This longstanding gig is what earned the dance hall the moniker “The House That Bob Built” and “The Carnegie Hall of Western Swing.”

The site joined the National Register of Historic Places on Sept. 4, 2003.

Shaeffer’s tenure as owner, Cain’s became a home for more than country. There were multiple Leon Russell shows, plus early performances by Metallica, Van Halen and U2.

On Jan. 11, 1978, the Sex Pistols played for a Cain’s crowd of about 800 that paid $3.50 a ticket to watch the British punk band perform their sixth of seven U.S. dates before their career-ending show in San Francisco three days later. During the Cain’s performance Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious punched a hole in the wall. It is now framed and a must-see piece of history for touring bands and VIPs. Shaeffer owned it until 1999 when he sold it to promoters and brothers Danny and Mark Finnerty, who then sold it to Jim and Alice in 2002.

GREG BOLLINGER

“THE HOUSE THAT BOB BUILT”

Chad and Hunter Rodgers handle the day to day operations of the historic music venue.

TULSA HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM

In late July 2002, Dr. Jim Rodgers and then wife, Alice, were watching the 10 o’clock news on channel 6 instead of their usual channel 2 when it was reported Cain’s Ballroom was up for sale. According to that report, “the asking price is $685,000 and includes a one-of-a-kind spring-loaded dance floor and a bar area with a walk-in cooler. More than 320 musicians have performed over the years in the historic building.”

Born and raised in Tulsa, Jim loved music, but he never went to Cain’s. He’s a rock ‘n’ roll guy, and during his younger days he says the ballroom was known for hosting country and western swing music, plus there was a period of shuttered doors in the 1960s and into the ’70s. Jim graduated from the University of Tulsa in 1972 and then attended medical school at the University of Oklahoma, where he focused on neurosurgery. He started his medical career in Muskogee from 1981 to 1989 before returning to co-found Tulsa Spine and Specialty Hospital. He pivoted to private practice in 2001 and retired in May 2022.

As the blue light of the news played across his face that summer night, Jim couldn’t stop thinking about the opportunities and possibilities that could come if he and Alice saved Cain’s.

At the time, his son Chad was operating Hardwood Bar and Grill across from TU’s Skelly (now Chapman) Stadium, but the lease was coming to an end, and the Rodgers family was looking to invest in downtown property. They had looked at the property that would soon become Flytrap (now Whiskey 918) and were about to sign the contract for it when Cain’s suddenly became available.

The next morning Jim called to arrange a tour as soon as they could show it to him and Alice.

“We walked in, saw the portraits on the wall, and then realized looking around this is a special place, but it’s not really been taken care of,” Jim says. “So there were two reasons for buying it: one is to preserve it forever, and the other is I always loved music. I love rock ‘n’ roll.”

By the end of the week he and Alice held the keys to the storied doors. They’d soon turn them over to their boys.

Chad was the only person in the family who experienced shows at Cain’s. While in high school at Holland Hall, he attended a show in the mid ’90s to see classmate David Terry and others perform in a band (pre-Aqueduct).

He returned again in the late ’90s for a Train concert.

Soon they’d learn how much history had occurred within the walls and how much work and money they’d have to spend to make it the iconic venue music fans love today.

“My mom called me and said, ‘We bought Cain’s,’ and I said, ‘What is Cain’s?’” Hunter says.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION “When we bought Cain’s, we just wanted to fix it up enough so we could open it,” Alice says. The problem was the building was not up to code and needed numerous repairs.

There was a drop ceiling comprised of old white tiles that needed to be removed. Sprinklers and a fire alarm needed to be installed. Additional lighted exits needed to be added. The room needed a fresh coat of paint. The doors needed push levers installed. The plumbing needed to be replaced. The restrooms needed to be overhauled because the men’s room had two troughs and the women’s had two stalls and two sinks.

Historically the ballroom rarely held shows in the summer because there was no air conditioning. The Finnertys had installed two portable units on the north side of the building that Chad says were connected to air ducts that ran into two holes cut into the side of the building. Those had to go.

They took on a previously booked show for the fall of 2002, then in early 2003 hosted Blake Shelton, Willie Nelson and Queens of the Stone Age before shutting down for renovations before a fall grand re-opening with Dwight Yoakam set for Oct. 1, 2003.

They installed a new stage, new sound and lighting, tore out the old ceiling to expose the rafters. They added air conditioning and heating and expansive restrooms.

A research trip to Austin’s music scene led to the creation of a second-level mezzanine based on something Chad saw at Antone’s Nightclub. They also purchased the warehouse space next door from David Sharpe for $100,000 that became space for another bar, a second smaller stage and a catering kitchen that today houses Mac’s Barbecue.

Chad, then 25, was officing out of a trailer that sat where Davenport Lofts exists today. When he wasn’t busy painting, he was begging bands to book a date. Then Hunter showed up with an audio engineering degree from Full Sail University, which he says he has never used.

“So they’re 25 and 21, had no idea what they were doing, and now look what they’ve done,” Alice says.

“It was on the job training for them,” Jim adds.

Chad called on local alt-rock band Mad Verb’s Jeff Martinson and Mike Jameson to help them out early on with some bookings because they were the only people he knew with any experience. Their first booking was The Charlie Daniels Band.

“I came back, and Chad had already been here for almost a year,” says Hunter, who focuses on ticketing and operations and splits marketing duties with his brother. “I just got thrown into it. I didn’t look for another job and just started helping him. He had Jeff and Mike working with them until Jeff moved on to manage JJ Cale and then we took it all on ourselves.”

Renovations and restorations dragged on through the summer and into the fall of 2003.

“I remember being pretty nervous we weren’t going to be ready,” Chad says. “Luckily the City approved everything at the last minute. It was down to the day before Dwight Yoakam was to play for a sold-out crowd.”

The boys were off and running. On Feb. 28, 2004, as Bob Dylan closed his sold-out show with “All Along the Watchtower,” Chad says it was then he knew they were on to something good.

“That was the first time where I was like, ‘holy moly,’”

“THERE’S SO MUCH HISTORY IN THIS ROOM WE CALL IT A LIVING MUSEUM, AND WE HAVE TO TAKE CARE OF IT. WE WANT TO KEEP MAKING IT BETTER.” —— C H A D R O D G E R S

Chad says. “It made me also realize the renovations really were worth all this money we put into it. Like there’s something there. There’s really something there. If someone as huge as Bob Dylan is going to play here, we were going to make it.”

ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO SEE A SHOW IN AMERICA Chad found a successful formula in booking popular country acts like Cross Canadian Ragweed and Pat Green, while mixing in up-and-coming rockers from the thriving indie scene. The brothers partnered with Camel Cigarettes to host young bands like The Black Keys and Kings of Leon, which both would go on to play a trio of shows before needing the BOK Center seating to meet demands when they returned to Tulsa. Jim says the KOL shows remain his favorite.

In the pre-social media age, they relied on word-ofmouth, traditional advertising and street teams to hang posters on poles. It also wouldn’t be unusual to see Alice commuting across Tulsa promoting shows like G. Love and the Special Sauce from stoplight to stoplight.

“I would drive around with concert posters in the back window of my car,” says Alice as she laughs at the memory. “I also started Ida Red (in 2007 at the Brookside location) to help sell tickets.”

In 2005, Cain’s ranked No. 27 in ticket sales in Pollstar Pro’s worldwide ranking for club venue (under 3,000 capacity).

In the ensuing years acts like The Strokes (Hunter’s favorite show), The Avett Brothers, Beck, OneRepublic, Tech N9ne, Sonic Youth, Girl Talk, Ghostland Observatory, Luke Bryan, Lucinda Williams, Wilco, Interpol, The National, TV On The Radio, Run the Jewels, Tame Impala, Phoenix, Gary Clark Jr. and Post Malone played the venue.

Some, like Jason Isbell, often can be seen on social media sporting the Cain’s logo shirt that has remained a topselling merch item for over a decade.

The multitude of shows and all that dancing finally compromised what was long rumored to be a spring-loaded wood dance floor. They replaced the flooring and learned there were no springs. It was replaced again in 2017.

On April 22, 2010, The Dead Weather took the Cain’s stage and launched into “60 Feet Tall” as they played a 16-song set in front of a sold-out crowd. It was the first time Jack White played the venue and in Tulsa. He loved it so much he returned to the Cain’s numerous times to play sold-out shows, including three nights in October 2019 with his band The Raconteurs, which Alice and Chad recall as their favorite shows.

“I can’t thank him enough for what he’s done for us,” says Chad about White. “You never know what one artist’s experience here will lead to who else comes or who else all of a sudden has interest. Marcus Mumford is another example. That was a Live Nation tour. We were not going to get the show, but he said he wanted to play here because of the reputation we’ve built.”

In 2022, White returned to Tulsa and played BOK Center, making him one of dozens of acts to play Cain’s before the BOK, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this August.

“Cain’s is an important part of our music ecosystem,” says Bryan Crowe, BOK Center vice president and general manager. “It’s a venue that is very well known with a lot of great history, and so artists want to play that. For many that is their first exposure to Tulsa, and that’s great. When they get the opportunity to come back around, and they’re at that scale where they need the arena, that first impression is big in helping them choose to come back.”

Yahoo News in 2011 ranked Cain’s as one of the best 10 venues in the nation. CNN followed suit in 2012 (and again in 2017) and by 2013 Cain’s was ranking in the Top 15 nationally for ticket sales according to Pollstar Pro. In January 2020, Los Angeles Times’ Christopher Reynolds ranked Cain’s Ballroom as the fourth best place to see live music in America.

The times have changed and bands are now begging Chad and Hunter to play Cain’s. There’s lots of love for the little old music joint on Main Street that needed lots of love itself 20 years ago when Jim and Alice purchased the building.

“It’s a miracle that we bought it, then it’s a miracle that we threw it at (Chad and Hunter) and said, ‘Here you take care of it,” Jim says.

“It is a miracle they’ve done what they’ve been able to do,” Alice adds.

Chad and Hunter Rodgers enjoy their jobs, but also understand the responsibility they have to the music, Tulsa and Cain’s Ballroom.

“Someone called us custodians of this church,” Chad says. “It feels amazing, but it feels like a lot of pressure.

There’s so much history in this room we call it a living museum, and we have to take care of it. We want to keep making it better.” TP

Watch a behind-the-scenes look of a show day at Cain’s Ballroom.

TulsaPeople.com

55

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Venue & Catering Guides When planning an event – large or small – there are many details to coordinate.

From finding the right space to choosing catering options and amenities, the to-do list can be overwhelming. We hope you will find the TulsaPeople Venue and Catering Guides to be a helpful resource for your planning.

Visit TULSAPEOPLE.COM/DIRECTORIES for the updated 2023 Venue Guide, Catering Guide and other informative directories.

THE CAMPBELL HOTEL & EVENT CENTERS 2636 East 11th Street (918) 744-5500 EventsAtCampbell.com Event rental contact: Diane Morrison Capacity: 225

GATHERING PLACE 2950 S. John Williams Way gatheringplace.org Event rental contact: info@gatheringplace.org or fill out a private event form on the website.

Capacity: Varies on location

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA

777 West Cherokee Street Catoosa, OK 74015 (918) 384-5946 hardrockcasinotulsa.com/amenities/meeting-and-events Event rental contact: Laura.asbil@hardrockcasinotulsa.com Capacity: 900

COX BUSINESS CONVENTION CENTER

100 Civic Center (918) 894-4257 coxcentertulsa.com Event rental contact: Jennifer Thornton, Director of Sales

GAST EVENT CENTER

1429 Terrace Dr. (918) 744-6997 gasteventcenter.com Event rental contact: Sara Gonzales Capacity: up to 200

THE LARK VENUE Tulsa’s Premiere Greenhouse Venue

3009 E. 101st St. thelarkvenue.com Event rental contact: Info@TheLarkVenue.com Capacity: 150+

LOWDOWN

307 East Reconciliation Way (918) 585-1234 livingarts.org Event rental contact: Gallery Manager, info@livingarts.org Capacity: 260

108 N. Detroit Ave., Level B lowdowntulsa.com Event rental contact: info@LowDownTulsa.com or fill out a private event form on the website.

Capacity: 140

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11545 East 43rd Street (918) 663-5820 mikefretzeventcenter.com Event rental contact: Caleb Rice Capacity: 256 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

8711 S. Lewis Ave. (918) 299-9494 bowlandybs.com Event rental contact: Ryland Bristow Capacity: 600

LIVING ARTS OF TULSA

1902 E. 71st. St. (918) 523-3561 marriott.com/tulsa Event rental contact: sales@tmsh.net Capacity: 10-800

56

ANDY’S BOWL SOCIAL TULSA

3450 South 137th West Avenue, Sand Springs (918) 494-6000 • meadowlakeranch.com Event rental contact: Susie Warren, manager@meadowlakeranch.com Capacity: Up to 200. Indoor & Outdoor Venues.

201 North Elgin Avenue (918) 744-5998 tulsadrillers.com Event rental contact: events@tulsadrillers.com Capacity: 10 – 8,000+

PINOT’S PALETTE

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Broken Arrow, Cherry Street and Riverwalk locations (918) 893-6447 (BA); (918) 794-7333 (CS); (918) 518-5433 (RW) pinotspalette.com Event rental contact: Contact desired location Capacity: Broken Arrow-56; Cherry Street-48; Riverwalk-60

732 East 116th Street, Jenks (918) 691-3040 spainranch.com Event rental contact: Cecily Tawney Capacity: 100

3226 E 62nd Street South (918) 663-5820 | tulsahba.com Event rental contact: Sarah Gentry, sgentry@tulsahba.com Capacity: 150 Dates Available: April 22-May 20

57301 East Highway 125, Monkey Island, Oklahoma 74331 (918) 257-7714 • shangrilaok.com/groups-events Event rental contact: dana.able@shangrilaok.com Capacity: Conference Center Space - 9,000 sq. ft.; Outdoor Multiple outdoor patios, lawns, and rooftop available for events.

3924 Charles Page Boulevard (918) 810.6765 station13tulsa.com Event rental contact: Jackie Potter, info@station13tulsa.com Capacity: 500 Indoor/Outdoor

6421 East 36th Street North (918) 669-6605 tulsazoo.org Event rental contact: Nicolas Stolusky, Amy Watson Capacity: 100-350 indoor; 4,000 outdoor

HOLD YOUR NEXT CORPORATE EVENT AT THE ZOO

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57

JUSTIN THOMPSON CATERING

Venue & Catering Guides

MCNELLIE’S GROUP CATERING 608 East 3rd Street (918) 442-2993 catering@mcnellies.com Catering Capacity: Unlimited Additional information: McNellie’s Group Catering is Tulsa’s go to catering service that offers full-service catering and event planning that specializes in weddings, corporate events, special events, and non-profits.

1115 S. Lewis Ave., Suite A (918) 779-6333 TulsaCatering.com Catering Capacity: We can cater any sized party!

Additional Information: Featuring elevated cuisine and beverages inspired by concepts within the Justin Thompson Restaurant Group.

OLIVETO 8922 S. Memorial Drive (918) 994-7000 olivetobistro.com Catering Capacity: 10-1,000 Additional information: Unchain yourself from the ordinary. A unique variety of fresh appetizers, salads, and pastas that are sure to make your next event special.

The store your pet deserves!

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The store is brimming with healthier foods, toys, treats, gear... and fun shopping!

2803 South Harvard | 918-624-2600 Open Mon.–Sat. 10-6, Sun. 12-5 WINNER

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

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IT’S TIME TO TULSA Ordinary is expected. At Hard Rock Hotel Tulsa, we’re not in the business of status quo. We’re at our best helping you discover yours. Let’s talk.

CONTACT US FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING, EVENT OR GOLF TOURNAMENT. 918.384.5946 | MEETINGSTHATROCK@HARDROCKCASINOTULSA.COM

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

6 N. LEWIS | 918.584.2217 | zieglerart.com

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Mad for

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Hat, $30; gloves, $18; clutch, $48; from Shoppe Sasha, 1307 E. 35th Place. Coat, $190, from Ribbons, 3525 S. Peoria Ave.

PANTONE’S COLOR OF THE YEAR, VIVA MAGENTA, IS POPPING UP IN BEAUTY, CLOTHING AND HOME ACCESSORIES.

MICHELLE POLLARD

Visit TulsaPeople.com to see more of this vibrant hue.

TulsaPeople.com

63

STOREFRONT

Tidy tools ORGANIZER’S RETAIL SPACE OFFERS TULSANS A CLEAR PATH TO AN ORDERLY HOME.

BY KENDALL BARROW Katie Tuttle

T

hanks to celebrity home organizers like Marie Kondo and The Home Edit’s Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin, professional organizing is having a moment. But, for Tulsan Katie Tuttle, the skill has always been a passion. As a little girl Tuttle loved organizing and decorating her room.

“There is just such a sense of order to having a place for everything and then knowing just where to look for it,” she says.

With an obvious talent, Tuttle often helped friends and family organize their closets and kitchens, but it was not until her eldest daughter went to college that she started thinking about the business potential. After several years working from her home and a small retail space, Tuttle’s friend Tracy Salisbury, designer and owner of TA Lorton, offered her the chance to take over a small portion of a building she was renovating for her own shop in the Kendall Whittier District. “I just knew this would be an opportunity that if I turned down, it would never come again.”

Clear’s storefront opened in September 2020 where Tuttle offers many of the products she uses for professional organizing jobs, as well as numerous products for home and lifestyle. “When I wanted to help someone clean out their closet or pantry, I typically would have to go out of town for products or order it online. I love being able to have our own inventory and also offer it locally.”

Tuttle’s goal with Clear was to have different options and several price points for various organizational products so people could choose how much they want to spend. When buying for the store, Tuttle looks for containers that make organizing and separating all the household items we use daily easier. Other local professional organizers frequent the store, and Tuttle says she enjoys the opportunity to exchange ideas with them about products they get from the store and the different ways they use them.

“It’s fun to hear people say that our shop has things that they haven’t seen before,” Tuttle says. “I find it so satisfying to be able to show someone options to help them simplify their life and keep their home in order.” TP

Clear 2207 E. SIXTH ST. | 918-200-7382 | THECLEARHOME.COM 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Saturday

Clear’s best-selling items are those Tuttle designs herself, such as acrylic drawer inserts, tiered acrylic carts and acrylic hangers, all of which she has custom made locally. $8 and up.

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

The shop is primarily stocked in Tuttle’s signature style of clear acrylic products. To help warm the space up, she has several antique pine desks and vintage cabinets for sale throughout the shop.

Christmas is definitely the busiest time of year for Clear, followed by graduation in the spring.

These acrylic boxes and picture frames, which can be engraved (often with a date or initials), make the perfect gift. $22 and up.

Bins and containers are a staple for pantry organization. Clear carries multiple sizes in several lines and styles including those made

by The Home Edit. $18 and up.

MICHELLE POLLARD

SHOP FAVORITES

SOUL

Hello, 2023.

As we welcome a new year, we seek advice from local experts on healthy habits for mind, body and soul.

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

Reading Partners volunteers donate one hour of their time each week to help Tulsa students gain lifelong literacy skills.

Growing through giving MAKE THE MOST OF THE NEW YEAR BY VOLUNTEERING AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE TULSA COMMUNITY.

BY ABBY BELLER

I

n the new year, everyone wants to become the best version of themselves. Whether that is to eat healthier, save more money or pick up a new hobby — we all want to make the most of the next year. For some, that means starting a new volunteer role.

Alison Anthony, Tulsa Area United Way president and CEO, has insight to share. For starters, we all have the same 168 hours in a week, so why not start there?

“Instead of thinking always, ‘What do I have to do today?’ Think instead, ‘Who am I?’ And Can I be someone who has fun and finds meaning in doing things that help others and has community impact?’”

In its 98 years, TAUW has connected with local partner agencies and raised tens of millions of dollars annually through individual donors, businesses and foundations throughout six counties.

Volunteers are the backbone of the organization, and thousands of volunteers work with TAUW in various ways. They host multiple Days of Caring events throughout the year, which brings in over 6,000 volunteers annually.

Each year its annual campaign sets an ambitious fundraising goal. “The money raised goes

into many of the most high performing nonprofits in our six-county area and about 146 programs within 59 nonprofits,” Anthony says.

Reading Partners is one of the local organizations partnered with TAUW. Volunteers with the program spend one hour a week helping local students gain literacy skills, according to Brenna Peterson, Reading Partners senior external relations manager. “Literacy is the foundation for learning across subjects,” she says. “Without strong literacy skills, students will not have equitable access to higher education institutions to further their education, and career options will be limited.”

Reading Partners offers in-person and virtual tutoring options for students across 23 school sites. For those interested in learning more or signing up, visit readingpartners.org/volunteer or call the office. “We provide all of the materials and curriculum, so no prior experience is required,” she says. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old to sign up.

Visit TAUW’s website volunteer.tauw.org to learn more about volunteer opportunities at its 59 partner agencies and how you can help make an impact in your community. TP

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67

BODY

E-bikes have grown in popularity for their ease of ride. Local bicycle shops, like Tom’s Bicycles, have numerous options and price points.

With the new year often comes a renewed focus on annual resolutions — and for many, that means the addition of healthy habits.

One health trend that has exploded in popularity over the last few years is the electric bicycle, or e-bike. Designed to assist its rider, the e-bike is equipped with an electric motor that helps ease the act of pedaling without completely taking over the propulsion. This means the rider often exerts less energy to move the bike.

Because they’re easier to ride, electric bicycles have gained a following that spans generations — from everyday cyclists to exercise newbies.

According to Tom Brown, owner of Tom’s Bicycles, the demand for electric bicycles boomed during the pandemic and has remained consistent ever since.

For many riders, the allure of the e-bike comes from its ability to make exercise less exhausting. What was once a 30-minute bike ride could easily become an hour-long trek with the same amount of spent energy.

“Some people are using them to commute because they can ride to work and not be sweaty when they get there,” Brown says. “Other people use them for health reasons because they help get over the exercise hump and get in shape easier.”

With an average starting price of about $1,800, e-bikes are an investment that — when treated with care — should last for years. “They’re like a cell phone, so you have to take care of the battery. We’ve had some electric bikes on the road for 10 years,” Brown says.

The supply of electric bikes remains consistent in Tulsa, and prospective buyers shouldn’t have a hard time finding one that fits their needs.

If you’re unsure if an e-bike is right for you, most bicycle shops offer test rides so you can take one for a spin before making a commitment. But be prepared; you may just get hooked.

“People come back from test rides with a smile on their face,” Brown says. “With electric bicycles, you go more places and have more fun.”

— HEATHER KOONTZ

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

NUTRIENT KNOW-HOW From diet to exercise, staying healthy in the new year looks different for everyone. But one habit many people can agree on is the use of vitamins and supplements to support a healthy lifestyle. Studies have repeatedly shown most diets don’t supply all the nutrients our bodies need to remain truly healthy.

And while the importance of vitamins and minerals to a daily diet is no secret, how can consumers be sure their vitamins of choice are right for their individual needs?

Mary Ann O’Dell, a registered dietitian with Akin’s Natural Foods, says there are several important factors to remember when choosing vitamins and supplements: Know why you are taking each one, learn to read the label, look up any interactions with medicines and ask questions.

“Before making a purchase, ask questions of someone knowledgeable about what a supplement is and how it works in the body,” O’Dell says. “Certain herbs and nutrients may interact with medications, so be sure to look this up or check with your doctor.”

Another important factor to consider is the intake frequency. Some vitamins, like a multivitamin, can be taken every day. However, not all supplemental nutrients are intended to be taken at the same frequency. Some people may take extra vitamin C and zinc during winter months to support their immune system, while those who are pregnant or nursing might seek out a reliable prenatal vitamin for the extra iron, folic acid and calcium.

Regardless of which vitamins you choose to add to your diet, O’Dell says you should always purchase from a reputable source, follow all label recommendations, and let your health care provider know which supplements you’re taking.

“Vitamins do not take the place of, or make up for, an unhealthy diet,” O’Dell says.

“They are meant to be used as a companion to a healthy diet, fill in nutritional gaps or boost nutrients when needed.”

If you’re looking to add new vitamins or supplements to your diet, start by speaking with a registered dietitian, physician or health care professional about what’s appropriate for you. — HEATHER KOONTZ

MICHELLE POLLARD

THE PLACES YOU’LL GO

Mary Ann O’Dell, a registered dietitian with Akin’s Natural Foods, says there are several factors to remember when choosing vitamins and supplements.

MIND 415 E 12TH ST TULSA, OK

Mind your mind

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES ASSIST IN MENTAL HEALTH PROGRESS.

BY ANNA HOLTON-DEAN Jackie Rago, co-owner of Transcendent Tulsa at 1401 E. 11th St., leads a sound bath session. Sound bathing can reduce stress and is purported to eliminate toxins from the body.

W

hile traditional methods of mental health treatment certainly have their place, alternative holistic therapies such as meditative light therapy, sound therapy and breathwork also can serve as effective stand-alone treatments or complements to traditional methods, according to local facilitators.

Debra Worthington, co-owner, light guide and facilitator at Transcendent Tulsa, says benefits can include reduced stress, enhanced self-awareness, improved sleep, pain control and more. “Most people find their way to us when they have exhausted most traditional or more known modalities, but still feel like they know there is more and are working on their own self-healing (on any level) or self-understanding,” Worthington says.

Worthington adds “accessing deeper meditative states, or states of consciousness, can allow for inner exploration and accessing more information for psychic exploration, creativity, flow states, deepening spiritual practices and more.”

MICHELLE POLLARD

LIGHT THERAPY

As humans, our cells communicate through light, Worthington explains. Lucia Light meditation is the most popular therapy option at Transcendent Tulsa. The stroboscopic light downregulates the nervous system and allows a person to experience the hypnagogic state — “the magical state between waking and dreaming,” Worthington says. “This is a powerful way to quickly get into deep meditative states in a beautiful, easy way with a ‘wow’ factor. This experience also has been compared to a psychedelic experience without taking a psychedelic.”

It is appropriate for adults 18 years and older, excluding those pregnant or with a history of seizures or epilepsy, and sessions can accommodate up to nine people.

“Colors, shapes and patterns dance behind closed

eyelids, like watching a neuro art show within,” Worthington says. “Alongside this beautiful visual journey, the body begins to let go and deeply relax on vibroacoustical tables. Visionary journeys, healing memories and deeper understandings can emerge.”

Worthington says clients report feeling instant calm and remembering what the deepest level of relaxation can feel like again, being more centered out in the world and having more awareness and understanding about themselves.

SOUND THERAPY

Sound bath sessions allow for full-body meditation with vibration and frequencies, literally and figuratively, moving over the participant. Sound bath sessions use Himalayan singing bowls, gongs, tingsha and chimes for deep meditative relaxation led by a trained facilitator.

Worthington says the sounds stimulate stress relief and the elimination of toxins from the body, among other benefits. Sessions can be for one person or groups up to six and are appropriate for all ages.

Quantum sound voice code therapy sessions are another option. Participants recline and listen to a customized recording of their own voice through headphones and Tesla Coil Scalar Energy technology. A more subtle approach, Worthington says the process opens up emotions stored in the body, and customized frequencies help release and transform the patterns of energy.

In this altered state of awareness, perceptions also can be altered, and “you will begin to dissolve many old patterns of conflict that have held your life together in a certain form,” Worthington says. The soundtrack can even be listened to at home for convenience. Sessions are available for individuals or couples, 18 and older. TP

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South Padre Island

FROM SUNNY BEACHES TO SNOWY SLOPES, THESE DESTINATIONS ARE DRIVEABLE FROM T-TOWN.

BY RHYS MARTIN

S

pring Break typically brings to mind either images of sunny beaches or snowy mountains ready to be shredded. Oklahoma is lucky in that our central location in the country puts us within reach of a wide variety of fun destinations to suit anyone’s idea of relaxation.

Hit the sand

A beach vacation is indeed an option with a long day’s drive from Tulsa. Padre Island in south Texas is split into two parts: the Padre Island National Seashore in the north (more of a primitive nature preserve for camping) and South Padre Island, known as a top national Spring Break hotspot. For good reason, too. South Padre boasts over 30 miles of beaches and warm, sunny weather for more than 80% of the year. Whether you’re more about nature and a visit to the sea turtle rehabilitation center or the thrill of parasailing and charter fishing, it’s all happening here.

Alternatively, if you head southeast instead of 70

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

southwest for about the same distance, you’ll arrive in Destin, Florida. This community also contains many maritime attractions and traditional Spring Break fanfare. The pinnacle of its shoreline is Henderson Beach State Park, which covers more than a mile. It’s a serene and stunningly beautiful spot to lose track of time. There’s also more shopping and dining along Destin Harbor than you can shake a beach umbrella at!

On the slopes

Hitting the slopes on a snowboard or a pair of skis is the polar opposite (to coin a phrase) type of vacation — but one that is also within driving range from northeast Oklahoma. Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a vibrant center of Southwest style and is also home to one of the best ski areas in the region. Ski Santa Fe, just 15 miles from town (there’s even a shuttle), offers slopes to fit all skill levels. A bit further north, Taos Ski Valley is nestled on the site of Continued on p. 72

Crested Butte

SPRING BREAK IS OFTEN THE LAST CHANCE OF THE SEASON TO SHRED THE SLOPES. HERE ARE A FEW MORE OPTIONS TO TRY. CRESTED BUTTE MOUNTAIN RESORT With an average snowfall of 236 inches per year, Crested Butte has more than 1,540 skiable acres with runs suitable for all — from beginners to experts. skicb.com VAIL This ski paradise turned 60 in December.

Sitting at a base elevation of 8,120 feet, Vail has 32 lifts with 195 trails, with the longest run being the 4-mile Riva Ridge. vail.com MONARCH MOUNTAIN A short drive from Salida and Buena Vista, Colorado, Monarch boasts 100% natural snow in a family friendly ski area that has been in operation since 1939.

Along with skiing and snowboarding, try snow tubing and catch the slopes from a different angle. skimonarch.com

SOUTH PADRE: JOEY WAVES; CRESTED BUTTE: TAYLOR AHEARN/CRESTED BUTTE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Spring break BOUND

Continued from p. 70 an 1800s mining town. It’s been a popular skiing destination since the 1950s. While in the area, time spent exploring the towns of either Taos or Santa Fe will be rewarded with excellent local dining and a robust cultural scene. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is a fascinating portrait of the famous artist’s life and work, and Meow Wolf is an immersive art experience that … well, can’t really be explained properly in writing. You just have to experience it.

Santa Fe’s Meow Wolf

One with nature

If solitude is more to your liking when you have a few days off, there are plenty of options close to home. The State of Oklahoma has been focused on improving the state park experience in the past few years and one of the areas that has benefitted the most from this attention is southeast Oklahoma.

The Ouachita National Forest is a beautiful spot to visit at all times of the year, but spring brings a special quality to the oldest national forest in the United States. The longest trail in the region is 223 miles long, though there are many scenic trails from which to choose. The network is populated with overnight shelters and other resources for hikers of all skill levels. The Broken Bow Lake area is particularly beautiful, with Beavers Bend State Park providing a wealth of activity and secluded lodging options. You’re going to have to fuel up the car while exploring, so why not go someplace unusual? Gasquatch is a roadside attraction-style station in Idabel with a giant Bigfoot sign. The travel center also houses a classic car museum.

While in Idabel, check out the Museum of the Red River. This hidden gem hosts a giant dinosaur skeleton and Native American artifacts — both popular with all ages. Admission is free.

Regardless of how you plan to spend your leisure week — with a few or with many — there’s a ton to do within a day’s drive from Tulsa. TP 72

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

Preservation Hall in New Orleans

MEOW WOLF: ATLAS MEDIA, COURTESY OF MEOW WOLF; PRESERVATION HALL: ZACK SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY/NEWORLEANS.COM

In the city

“Getting away from it all” doesn’t always mean an outdoorsy vacation. For some of us, a big city is the perfect place to unwind. New Orleans isn’t just an exciting spot for Mardi Gras — the French Quarter is a blast any time of the year. For an intimate and authentic musical journey, taking in a performance at Preservation Hall can’t be beat.

This small venue started as a space for local musicians to hold rehearsals; today it’s a place where people can experience traditional jazz in a personal way. People line up outside the unassuming entrance to the hall early, so plan accordingly.

Beyond jazz, New Orleans bars and clubs offer live music and entertainment until the wee hours of the morning every night of the week. You can add a dash of history with your frivolity by visiting the Sazerac House. There a tour tells the story of how the famous signature cocktail was invented.

The National World War II Museum is within walking distance of Jackson Square and is considered one of the premier military museums in the country with an impressive collection.

Staying in T-Town?

Tulsa Botanic Garden

Spring in Tulsa is lovely and with a school break there are several attractions that can fill the week with fun for everyone.

It almost seems like a requirement to visit TULSA ZOO on Spring Break. The 84-acre zoo features nearly 3,000 animals in exhibits ranging from an African penguin habitat to an immersive tropical rainforest to the Helmerich Sea Lion Cove and the Mary K. Chapman Rhino Reserve. At the 5-acre Lost Kingdom, visitors have excellent views of Malayan tigers and other Asian mammals and reptiles that are critically endangered. You’ll also find a petting zoo, live animal presentations, the Safari Train and a gift shop.

It’s bound to rain sometime during the week and a great place to escape a springtime downpour is in Jenks at the OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM. With eight exhibit galleries and more than 1 million gallons of water, you can see the many mysterious and wonderful creatures of the ocean that now make their home right here in Oklahoma. Visit the Polynesian Reef exhibit to see an exotic South Pacific coral reef surrounded by more than 500 colorful tropical fish of approximately 75 species. Sharks swim over visitors’ heads as they walk through an underwater tunnel. Another highlight is Sea Turtle Island, which has three viewing levels and an underwater observation station for children that allows them an up-close look while remaining dry. Plus, take a spin on the new carousel.

Each Spring Break GATHERING PLACE organizes a special daily itinerary and activities specifically for the Spring Breakers. Kids can traverse the medieval towers of the Chapman Adventure Playground and uncover the architectural gems inside the Williams Lodge welcome center. There are sports courts, a skateboarding park, as well as walking trails and varied dining options.

Just to the south is Gathering Place’s new neighbor, DISCOVERY LAB, an interactive kids’ science museum and play center.

Venture to the TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN to explore acres of prairie and woodland among the Osage County countryside. Explore the Children’s Discovery Garden and visit the floral terraces for a springtime color show. — ANNE BROCKMAN

WE’RE A SOCIAL SPECIES TULSAZOO

E P A ESC E H T TO S C I P T RO

TIM LANDES

A lush, immersive experience awaits.

80° year-round. More than 200 animals to discover.

Take a trip through the Rainforest at the Tulsa Zoo.

TULSAZOO.ORG/ TICKETS

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SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Dive in and explore at Wonders of Wildlife Journey to Springfield, Missouri to explore the depths of the ocean in the heart of the Midwest! Wonders of Wildlife has recently opened three new must-see exhibits including the American Museum of Fly Fishing, Nature’s Best Photography, and the Gulf of Mexico Coastal exhibit.

The American Museum of Fly Fishing (AMFF) is a 2,300 square foot gallery space located in the Leigh H. Perkins Hall. The exhibition displays countless items from its permanent collection of the sport’s most significant rods, reels, and flies. AMFF is dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of fly fishing and promoting the conservation of the waters.

Nature’s Best Photography found its permanent home at Wonders of Wildlife after being previously only displayed on the walls of the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC. Nature’s Best features jaw-dropping photography from the Windland Smith

Rice International Awards, one of the most recognized photo competitions in the world. This 10,000-foot gallery space transports visitors to some of the most stunning places in the world all while being here in the Ozarks and encourages guests to get out in the great outdoors.

Our Pacific Northwest Coast exhibit has recently transitioned into The Gulf of Mexico Coastal exhibit. It features an inverted touch tank where guests can learn and engage with some of our Florida coast’s species like horseshoe crabs, whelk, starfish, and urchins!

Discover a new experience this year at Wonders of Wildlife! Voted America’s Best Aquarium for a record-breaking fourth time, don’t miss these stunning exhibits honoring hunters, anglers and conservationists around the world.

LEARN MORE AT WONDERSOFWILDLIFE.ORG.

2-DAY TICKET Explore America’s Best Aquarium this year with a two day ticket! Journey around the world as you get up close with wildlife like never before.

WWW.WONDERSOFWILDLIFE.ORG

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

There’s a lot you may not know about Springdale.

For starters, we’re the largest city in Northwest Arkansas. We’re also the home of three-time CMA Musician of the Year winner Jenee Fleenor and the NWA Naturals baseball team, the AA affiliate of the Kansas City Royals.

Springdale has an amazing culinary scene. Did you know we have one of the largest Spanish-speaking populations in Arkansas?

You can find incredible authentic food from across Latin America here. We also boast the only hard cidery in Arkansas – Black Apple, located in downtown Springdale.

You can spend a whole weekend in Springdale without leaving, but we’re also the best home base for any excursions in Northwest Arkansas. Springdale straddles I-49, just 10 minutes away from concerts at the Walmart AMP, 20 minutes from the renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and 15 minutes away from the University of Arkansas campus and athletic venues.

LEARN MORE AT EXPLORESPRINGDALE.COM!

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

Our Best Offer of the Year S TA R T I N G AT

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TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

MUSINGS

I’M OVER IT NOW. ALMOST.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

ASHLEY GUERRERO

I

had a bumpy start to the holidays.

One minute I was fine, the next I was yelling “Dammitohell” at my dog Zeke. I regretted it instantly. Worse than regret, I was ashamed. I saw myself as one of those overwrought mothers we see in public screaming at a crying child. The scene renders us all with pity — for the child, for the mother, for the cause, for our own helplessness.

With pats and kisses I apologized to Zeke and said I wasn’t yelling at him as much as the situation. There was no excuse for my behavior but there is somewhat of an explanation. When I’m stressed or depressed, I try three remedies: I paint something, plant something or cook something.

Once I painted polka dots on my outdoor furniture. Polka dots are happy.

The weather was cold and I was fretful. Who wasn’t? Nasty politics, Zingo economics, lurking COVID. Nothing to paint, wrong season to plant, so cooking was up. As a cook, I’m inept but ever hopeful. I would feel better, I thought, if the kitchen was warm and smelled like comfort food.

Meatloaf!

I spent almost an hour chopping and mincing and stirring and mixing. The meatloaf was in the pan waiting for the oven to warm and the glaze to be made. I left the room for one minute and

when I came back, Zeke was standing with his front paws on the kitchen counter polishing off the last bites of the raw meatloaf. I wish I’d had the self-control to laugh and correct him gently. I shrieked like a banshee instead.

Zeke threw me a sly “sticks and stones” look, and with a smug expression of “I’d do it again in a second,” settled down for a nap.

How did I arrive at a life governed by two big dogs? I’ve always been a cat person. I understand cats; they’re quiet, aloof and independent.

If cats had a phone, the message on the answering machine would be “What do you want?” with #howdidyougetthis number?

Dogs are so emotional. They split the air with maniacal barking: “Invading hoard walking by on the front sidewalk!” or “Squirrel. Squirrel.

Satanic squirrel sighted in the backyard.” Sometimes it’s “Treat treat treat or I will starve to death this instant!” Bucky times his earsplitting barks when I’m trying to focus on something like changing toner in a printer.

I don’t want to be a shrew. I want to float through the house in a silky caftan, a beatific smile on my face, listening to Debussy, drinking something with vodka in a stemmed glass. I’ve tried that but the dogs are so needy for attention

they paste themselves to my legs and step on the heels of my shoes. Stumbling and tripping generates more cursing.

Not that Isabelle the cat is undemanding. She reigns quietly, prevailing with the persistence of a dripping faucet.

Somehow, the pets in my life have taken over.

They set the schedule and establish the timetable of eating, sleeping, working. I am their cartoon scullery maid, scuttling from pet to pet trying to keep them happy.

Yet, they are my day-to-day family and they distract me from the hungry, gray wolves circling the house and howling about politics, finances and epidemics. Sometimes grizzly bears peer through the windows. Then I take a breath and remind myself to be grateful. I have a snug house, a hot bath, piles of books.

Those books are full of wisdom and comfort.

French novelist Albert Camus wrote, “In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.”

No matter how hard the world pushes against us, we have something stronger within us pushing right back. It’s a new year and I have many things to be happy about. No meatloaf, but other things. TP TulsaPeople.com

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McGraw Realtors TulsaPeople.com

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McGraw Realtors

Frankie Harkey Experience the Difference

2022 Sold Homes!

Let me help you sell your home in 2023.

fharkey@mcgrawok.com 82

TulsaPeople JANUARY 2023

918.230.6315

McGraw Realtors

LauraBryant 918.693.2961 | lbryant@mcgrawok.com Over 28 Million in Production in 2022!

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McGraw Realtors

LUXURY

TIM HAYES

PROPERT Y GROUP

918-231-5637

thayes@mcgrawok.com

A T M C G R AW R E A L T O R S

Call any of the Luxury Property Group Realtors about one of these homes, or any property that you have an interest in.

We will provide you with superior personal service with the highest integrity.

SHERRI SANDERS

918-724-5008

ssanders@mcgrawok.com

GORDON SHELTON

DIANA PATTERSON

918-697-2742

918-629-3717

gshelton@mcgrawok.com

dpatterson@mcgrawok.com

OAK COUNTRY ESTATES

PRESTON WOODS

Elegant gated estate situated on approx 2.44 acres. Gorgeous setting on corner lot with mature trees. Grand entry has marble floors,soaring ceiling & sweeping staircase. Formal living & Dining.Great room opens to kitchen with huge island. Master suite with study (or exercise). Upstairs has bedroom with private bath,2 additional bedrooms with pullman bath. Game room. Safe room.

Inground Pool. Located near 71st & Hi-way 75 So. just west of Tulsa Hills by Oaks Country Club. $875,000

Beautiful home on a quiet cul-desac in Preston Woods Subdivision in Jenks Southeast School District! True 5 Bedroom home with formal dining, formal living & study. Kitchen opens to den. Master suite with double closets & stunning brand new master spa bath.

Large game room + bonus room (could be media or exercise) & 4 spacious bedrooms upstairs with 2 full baths.

Extensive hardwoods. Newer paint, carpet & roof. Covered Pergola overlooks a beautiful park-like yard. $559,900 LD

SO

GRAND LAKE LOT

MIDTOWN

Enjoy living at the Points

A pristine Mid Century

on this lakefront lot with

Modern home built in

155 feet of shoreline,

1950! Completely and

unbelievable views of Grand

professionally renovated

Lake, dockable cove, utilities

to today’s standards. 3

and paved roads, large trees, gated and well-maintained subdivision and surrounded by lovely homes and just over an hour from Tulsa and 5 minutes east of Ketchum!

0.61 Acres $499,000

LD

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bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms, spacious living/dining combo wall-to-wall windows overlooking the gunite diving pool. Fabulous kitchen with granite counters, and mahogany cabinets.

Master bedroom with luxury bathroom. $805,000

MIDTOWN All brick, well-built, home located on a quiet street in Midtown Tulsa.

Master bedroom downstairs, combo living/dining, den with a wood burning fireplace, screened-in patio, and additional living space looking over backyard. Ready for cosmetic updates. 3,393 sq. ft. $419,000

SOUTHRIDGE ESTATES Large Master suite, a great outdoor deck area, and large rooms. There are several recent updates, new gutters, a new deck. Enjoy your wooded setting in complete privacy! $375,000

E N J OY T H E LU X U RY L I F E ST Y L E YOU D E SI R E 84

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McGraw Realtors

allison jacobs Mobile: 918.850.2207 4105 S. Rockford Ave. Tulsa, OK 74105

4824 S. YORKTOWN PLACE | $424,000

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Incredibly well maintained & spacious patio home in a gated neighborhood in Midtown, Bolewood Place. This home has 2 bedrooms on the first floor, and en suite bathrooms attached to all 3 bedrooms. Large kitchen and vaulted living room with French doors opening up to a courtyard and patio. 3rd bedroom and game room upstairs with full bathroom and storage. Hardwood floors in the main living area and the open concept makes this home attractive for entertainment. Don’t miss this one!

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3142 E. 34TH STREET | $605,000

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Beautiful home in Ranch Acres neighborhood on a large corner lot. 3 beds, 2.5 baths & 2 car garage with additional workspace. Gorgeous hardwood floors with newer windows and fresh paint. The backyard and large patio are perfect for entertaining. A fully automated saltwater pool with a waterfall cascading from the hot tub plus a tanning ledge with a bubbler built by Wallace Pools. Pre-wired for electric vehicles.

9090 ROCK SCHOOL ROAD SKIATOOK, OK 74070 | $449,500

6671 E. 124TH STREET, BIXBY | $445,000 4 BEDROOMS | 2.5 BATHROOMS | 3 CAR GARAGE | 2,543 SF

3 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 3 CAR GARAGE | 2,370 SF | 12.28 ACRES

918.695.4945 DAdamek@mcgrawok.com

Updated property with beautiful views located in the Osage foothills, 20 minutes from downtown Tulsa. The home overlooks a stocked pond on 12 fenced acres, complete with a horse stall. The vaulted loft opens to downstairs and can be used as an office or extra bedroom. Updates include a gourmet kitchen with DCS commercial appliances (farmhouse sink, gas stove, and double oven) laundry room off the kitchen with two extra large closets, and a full wall of pantry storage comprised of pull-out shelving and more!

HAILEY ADAMEK

KIM FORD

918.277.1239 HAdamek@mcgrawok.com

918.629.1000 kford@mcgrawrealtors.com

DEBRA ADAMEK

HAILEY ADAMEK

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Tulsa Community Foundation (“TCF”) is proud to begin its twenty-fourth year in service to our community through meaningful partnerships with nonprofit agencies, corporations, individuals and families. TCF is a collection of over 2,000 funds, varying in size from a few thousand to multiple millions of dollars. Each fund has its own identity and philanthropic purpose and benefits from being invested with other funds to create a lasting community resource.

Fund contributions are taxdeductible. Should you like to learn more about opening a Donor Advised Fund to assist in your charitable endeavors, please scan code below.

TULSA GIVES BACK A highlight of the year for Tulsa was being the host city for the PGA Championship this past May at Southern Hills Country Club. Months before the players teed off at the championship, several community leaders started discussing the importance of using the excitement of the tournament to advance our entire community. TCF was honored to be part of these efforts.

In collaboration with the PGA, the concept of a new charitable initiative called Tulsa Gives Back was established. As a charitable Fund at TCF, Tulsa Gives Back raised funds from more than 100 generous donors for events that took place during the week of the tournament.

The Fund’s proceeds were then distributed to select nonprofits providing critical services to thousands in our community.

Tulsa Gives Back was a huge success and a first time charity concert event series conducted during the week of a PGA Championship, which resulted in over $1,000,000 going to four charities: The First Tee of Tulsa, Tulsa Day Center, Tulsa Dream Center and PGA Reach.

Tulsa Community Foundation did a wonderful job managing the revenue and expenses for the events and helped them be very successful. The corporate community and many individuals stepped up and supported the charity events as well, which will have a significant, positive impact on all four charities.

– Scott Mabrey, President of Southern Hills Country Club and chairman of Tulsa Gives Back

TULSA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION In 1998, TCF was established to assist nonprofit agencies, corporations, individuals and families with flexible charitable giving solutions. TCF delivers easy, low-cost solutions to benefit the community and region.

FUND TYPES DONOR DESIGNATED

DONOR ADVISED

EMPLOYEE DISASTER RELIEF

AFFILIATE

Choose a focus area or create a program benefitting specific charitable organizations or causes

Establish (by employer) guidelines to assist employees in the event of unexpected and unavoidable emergencies or disasters TCF manages the application and award process

Recommend grants over time to your favorite charitable organizations

Focus (as a group of area leaders) on charitable community efforts TCF oversees administrative and financial operations Current affiliate funds with TCF include Grand Lake Communities Foundation, McCurtain Community Fund, Owasso Community Foundation and Pawhuska Community Foundation

SCHOLARSHIP

SUPPORTING ORGANIZATION

TCF manages the application and award process

Board of Directors and investment objectives separate from TCF

FISCAL SPONSORSHIP

CHARITABLE AGENCY

Establish your approved scholarship criteria

Establish a charitable entity (emerging nonprofit) under TCF

TCF provides administrative and grantmaking services

Establish (by nonprofit agency) a permanent pool of assets or operations (reserve) dollars

TCF receives donations on behalf of the charity, receipts donors and assists with oversight

CONTACT TCF TCF staff is dedicated to supporting and sustaining the charitable efforts of its donors and programs. We provide services to individuals, families and companies to simplify charitable giving, identify important community services, and administer charitable programs. To find out more about TCF, visit www.tulsacf.org. To request a meeting with a program officer, please contact our offices at 918.494.8823.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES TOM BIOLCHINI VAST Bank G. T. BYNUM City of Tulsa

TOTAL GRANTS MADE 2021: $276,977,000 Graph in thousands

$101,828

JIM CAMPOS State Farm Insurance ERICA DORWART Frederic Dorwart Lawyers

$66,651

SHANE FERNANDEZ USA BMX/BMX Canada BECKY FRANK Schnake Turnbo Frank, Inc.

$36,911 $23,149

JACKIEZ GONZALEZ Best Buy Social Impact

LIABILITIES NET ASSETS Without donor restrictions With donor restrictions TOTAL NET ASSETS TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

FY 2021 $6,075,118 $163,897 $6,239,015

FY 2020 $4,871,587 $120,313 $4,991,900

$357,189

$409,620

$5,831,676 $50,150 $5,881,826

$4,512,325 $69,955 $4,582,280

$6,239,015

$4,991,900

FY 2021 $329,372 $1,255,486 $1,584,858

FY 2020 $224,464 $284,350 $508,814

$276,977 $8,335 $285,312

$241,980 $7,767 $249,747

$1,299,546 $4,582,280 $5,881,826

$259,067 $4,323,213 $4,582,280

STATEMENTS OF ACTIVITIES As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, in thousands

REVENUE Contributions Investment gains (losses) TOTAL REVENUES EXPENSES Grant awards and other program services General and Administrative TOTAL EXPENSES TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS NET ASSETS, BEGINNING OF YEAR NET ASSETS, END OF YEAR

AL

ASSETS Cash and investments Receivables and other assets TOTAL ASSETS

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LANE WILSON Williams Companies

As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, in thousands

O

ROSE WASHINGTON Tulsa Economic Development Corporation

STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION

I AT

STUART SULLIVAN QuikTrip

RN

BAILEY SIEGFRIED NORDAM Group, Inc.

$20 TE

REBECCA RICHARDS Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation

$169

IN

BRENDA PIPESTEM Attorney & Associate Justice Cherokee Supreme Court

$1,202

E C AL IM AN ST AN SI AS CY EN G ER EM T EN NM RO VI EN

RAY OWENS Metropolitan Baptist Church of Tulsa

US IO G LI RE

JOE MCGRAW McGraw Realtors

TH AL HE RE TU UL C & TS AR PS HI RS LA HO SC

STACY KYMES BOK Financial

N IO AT UC ED

HANNIBAL JOHNSON Author, attorney and consultant

TY IE C SO

ALANA HUGHES Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation (retired)

&

RIK HELMERICH The Helmerich Trust

IC BL PU

SARAH HANSEL Hall Estill

$9,132 $2,863

ES IC RV SE

JOHN HALE Hale Family Foundation

$13,984

AN M HU

STEPHANIA GROBER Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma

$21,068

MICHELLE POLLARD

TAMALES TONIGHT

T

he tamale platter ($14), shown here with an extra third tamale and molé, is just one of many entrees that make up the menu at Holé Molé, the evening concept that resides at Bramble Breakfast and Bar’s Pearl District location. There are five namesake molés (a Mexican sauce that can vary flavor profiles) from which to choose, finding their way onto everything from chicken to tamales to enchiladas.

Read more about Holé Molé on p. 94. TP 1302 E. SIXTH ST. | 539-664-5635 FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM @HOLEMOLETULSA

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DINING OUT

Cherry Street’s newest dining destination is The Hemingway, a steakhouse replete with elegance and refinement.

WINED AND DINED THE HEMINGWAY PLEASES WITH ITS TAKE ON STEAKHOUSE FARE.

BY NATALIE MIKLES

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MICHELLE POLLARD

T

he Hemingway is the kind of place you find yourself planning the next visit before the first is even finished.

The truly gorgeous setting is a feast for the eyes, making such a good first impression I think we would have been happy with anything set before us. There’s the dark, carved wood ceiling, a chandelier above each table, floor-to-ceiling glass wine cabinets and classic American art on the walls. The attention to detail in the table settings includes perfectly pressed white tablecloths, crystal water glasses and silver serving dishes.

The Hemingway is the new concept by Brett Rehorn of Watershed Hospitality (the group behind Kilkenny’s and Nola’s). It’s a steakhouse without the full “classic steakhouse” vibe. The Hemingway is certainly a place for special occasions, steaks, red wine and a multicourse dinner.

But it also was created to be a place where you could stop in for a simpler — though still elegant — dinner.

The weeknight we dined, we noticed a couple at a nearby table sharing a New York strip steak and a plate of French fries. Another couple shared several small plates and bowls of side dishes, French onion soup and a braised beef short rib.

Clearly, it is hard for guests to settle on just one item, but too many wonderful dishes on the menu is a delicious problem to have.

Our servers were attentive and knowledgeable without fussiness or pretentiousness. We began with both the Caesar and the Obligatory Wedge.

The wedge is the best in town, with baby iceberg, smoky lardon (a form of bacon), blue cheese and a fresh herb buttermilk dressing. A fried onion ring tops it. Rather than an enormous wedge that’s difficult to cut, the baby iceberg is manageable and more flavorful.

The Caesar Gratine isn’t a classic Caesar, but a composed salad with a broiled Parmigiano Reggiano gratin-like topping. It’s a nice change from a typical Caesar.

I’m afraid we missed out on the French onion soup, which I’ve since heard is a must. Rich, roasted shallots and a Gruyere-topped baguette are brought to the table, and the server then pours a veal broth over it — a visual that made those at our neighboring table ooh and ahh before the first bite.

As mentioned, The Hemingway intentionally sets itself apart from some classic steakhouses.

Steak makes up only a small portion of the menu.

Other entrees include braised beef, roast chicken roulade, a dry-aged burger and a fresh daily pasta.

The pasta is made in house each day and is usually vegetarian.

We tried the salmon, served skin-side up with a crisp skin, snap peas and a shiitake aigre-doux, a sweet and sour sauce that paired perfectly with the salmon.

The steak portion of the menu includes 4- and 6-ounce cuts of filet mignon, NY strip and a dryaged bone-in strip. The evening we dined, the special was a Wagyu tomahawk. We thoroughly enjoyed the 4-ounce filet, which was the perfect amount considering all the sides we were tasting.

Side dishes are served separately to share and there are several to choose from including onion rings, hasselback potato au gratin, fries, charred asparagus and creamed spinach. We chose the mac and cheese, with house-made pasta, breadcrumbs and a mornay sauce. This was a rich mac and cheese — Gruyere stood out, and made the dish special. We also enjoyed the corn gratin with roasted jalapeños and tajin. The corn gratin goes perfectly with steak.

The bittersweet chocolate pot de creme was the perfect choice to end dinner. The rich, but nottoo-sweet dish was served with a sesame seed miso tuile cookie, adding some complexity to the pot de creme, which can sometimes end up as a one-note dessert.

A family celebrating a birthday nearby ordered Ze Ziggy Piggy, a celebration-sized ice cream sundae with chocolate syrup, whipped cream and colorful toppings. Tall sparkly candles made it even more fun.

I can’t overstate the elegance of the restaurant’s interior. Diners enter on the west side of the building, in a speakeasy-like alleyway. Through the doors, you enter a small hallway with a full-length mirror where we saw a group taking a predinner selfie. Down the staircase, a wine collection is displayed and lit behind glass. There is also an accessible entrance with an elevator.

Little touches, like a vintage brass peacock fireplace screen, taxidermy, small marble busts and framed artwork create a feeling of classy coziness.

It’s rare for a place to feel both comfortable and refined, but The Hemingway has managed both. TP

Caesar Gratine

Salmon is served skin-side up with a shiitake aigre-doux, a sweet and sour sauce.

The Hemingway opened in September in a new building along Cherry Street.

The Hemingway 1515 E. 15TH ST. | 918-248-0185 THEHEMINGWAYTULSA1515.COM 5-11 p.m., Monday-Saturday

6-ounce filet mignon

Basque-style “burnt” cheesecake with seasonal fruit compote TulsaPeople.com

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Sesame ratatouille

W H AT’S COOK ING

VEG OUT

R

esolutions don’t have to hurt or cause dread.

Actually, they can be quite delicious if you choose the right ones.

Eating more vegetables. Committing to meatless Mondays. These are resolutions to get behind.

Eating less meat is both good for your personal health and the health of the planet. If either of those ideas sounds appealing, then take the leap, incorporating some great-tasting dishes into your week.

The market is full of great plant-based meat alternatives. You can easily sneak them into your favorite chili, stew or stir fry without much notice.

Here are two of our favorites. — NATALIE MIKLES This Asian-style ratatouille is a favorite. You won’t miss having any meat in this tasty dish. Serve it over rice or with warm French bread. The recipe comes from “The New Basics” cookbook. Once you have the technique down, you can choose any vegetables, oils or herbs you like.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat 3 tablespoons of sesame oil in a Dutch oven. Saute the celery, onion and bell pepper over medium heat until soft-tender, about 5 minutes. Remove the vegetables, setting aside.

Add remaining sesame oil to pan. Saute the zucchini, mushrooms and eggplant until soft, 5 minutes. Add the onion, bell pepper and celery back to the pan. Add garlic, stirring to soften and cook through.

In a small bowl, combine the vegetable broth, soy sauce, sherry and cornstarch, blending well. Stir into the vegetables. Add hoisin sauce, stirring to combine. Cover the dish, and transfer to the oven. Bake 40 minutes.

Top with cilantro, scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

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MICHELLE POLLARD

SESAME RATATOUILLE Serves 4 6 tablespoons sesame oil, divided 2 celery stalks, cut into slices 1 onion, sliced 1 red bell pepper, sliced 2 small zucchini, sliced 8 ounces sliced mushrooms 1 small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 2 cloves crushed garlic 1 cup vegetable broth 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon sherry 1 teaspoon cornstarch 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro 2 scallions, sliced 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

This Padma Lakshmi recipe is a good alternative to a chicken tikka masala. The small gram lentils give a nice crunch to complement the pillowy potatoes. She notes if you don’t have gram lentils, you can use raw cashew pieces.

SMASHED POTATO MASALA Serves 4 1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes 3 tablespoons canola oil 2 1/2 tablespoons white gram lentils (urad dal) 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard seeds 2 onions, diced 4 jalapeño peppers, cut into rings (with seeds) 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger Salt, to taste

1 teaspoon turmeric 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons lemon juice Boil the potatoes (whole) for 35-40 minutes. Drain, and let cool. Peel and quarter.

In a large saute pan over medium heat, add the oil, then the gram lentils and mustard seeds. After the seeds start to pop and crackle, add the onions, peppers and ginger. Stir for 5 minutes. The lentils should be toasted golden brown. Add potatoes, salting to taste. Add turmeric. Smash the potato mixture with a spoon, and mix well so the turmeric gives as even a yellow hue as possible. Remove from heat. Stir in cilantro and lemon juice.

Serve hot.

Ike’s Chili owner Len Wade; inset, chili and spaghetti

Ike’s Chili celebrates 115 years Let’s put it into perspective: Oklahoma became a state in 1907. Ike’s Chili opened in 1908.

That’s how long Ike’s Chili has been in Tulsa. One year after statehood, Ike’s became part of the fabric of the city, and this year will celebrate its 115th anniversary.

Owner Len Wade says he still has many customers who have been eating at Ike’s for 50, 60, 70 and more years. And yet nearly every day, new customers come in, too. Some are people who googled “best chili in Tulsa,” others just happened by. Some are in Tulsa specifically to explore Route 66. Those travelers are thrilled to find a restaurant on the Mother Road that’s been around well over 100 years.

Ike’s originated in an alleyway of downtown Tulsa, near East Second Street and South Boston Avenue. In 1913, Ike’s moved to 312 S. Main St. Ike’s location has hopped around a few more times over the years, but loyal customers always knew where to find it.

The menu from 1913 shows chili cost 15 cents a bowl.

You could order it straight, with beans or with spaghetti. The price has changed, but remarkably, the chili is the same, and people are still ordering it straight, with beans or with spaghetti.

Another remarkable thing — Ike’s has managed to remain a family-run restaurant. Wade, who married into the family, is the current owner, and takes immense pride in the restaurant’s origins and history.

But Wade isn’t resting on history or nostalgia. He keeps Ike’s relevant in many ways, including the 2014 move to the Pearl District at 1503 E. 11th St., where he hoped to capture a new audience of chili lovers. Just two months ago, Ike’s took first place in the Horton Records Rock ‘n Folk ‘n Chili Cook-Off. Ike’s is the place for good, old-fashioned Oklahoma chili. Ike’s has never tried to be something it isn’t. It’s a chili house, a food destination and a Tulsa landmark — and we have little doubt it will remain so for many years to come. — NATALIE MIKLES

CHEERS!

NO-BUZZ BREWS The benefits of a break from boozy beverages are something Emily Stewart, Ranch Acres Wine and Spirits owner, knows firsthand. After a successful “Dry January,” in 2022 during which she abstained from alcohol, Stewart decided to keep it going for the whole year.

“It was highly beneficial to me,” she says.

“I honestly didn’t start to see big effects until like three months in, right as I was losing steam, wondering why I was doing this, I noticed an improvement in sleep quality.”

During her year of sobriety, she found herself wanting not necessarily the alcohol, but the taste of her favorite drinks, so she turned to Ranch Acres’ selection of nonalcoholic drinks.

Stewart’s curated a variety of beers, wines and other drinks sans alcohol. Options have grown in popularity and availability.

“When I started this journey, I had to source all of these individually,” she says. “Now there are distributors.”

Today, options abound for booze-free libations. Stewart says to name a few, Leitz — a German brand known for its Reisling — makes a good NA wine. Bigger breweries like Guinness and Heineken have NA brews, as well as newer ones like Athletic Brewing Co. With the NA spirits — Stewart uses airquotes for spirits — a good mindset is to expect an all-new experience, not one that mimics whiskey or vodka. An exception is gin-inspired drinks. “The gin-types are the closest,” Stewart says. “With tonic, it tricks my brain.”

Because of the extensive selection, she recommends coming into Ranch Acres and seeing what they have in store. Any staffer can answer questions, but Stewart has tried them all. — BLAYKLEE FREED

TulsaPeople.com

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TRY THIS!

Huevos rancheros FROM WILDFLOWER CAFE

1306 E. 11TH ST., SUITE F | 918-764-8843 | WILDFLOWERCAFETULSA.COM

NEW FAVORITES Three kinds of crepes can be found on the menu, as well as other breakfast dishes like pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and creative waffle combos like the Banana Nut or the Snickerdoodle.

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Pollo con molé

BRUNCH STAPLE Huevos rancheros are a must on many brunch menus, including at Wildflower Cafe. Two eggs are served with rice and beans, as well as tortillas and salsa for a flavor-packed bite. $14.

Beyond BREAKFAST Bramble Breakfast and Bar, with its three Tulsa-area locations, is a favorite local option for brunch. But like many business owners when COVID-19 hit, Johnna Hayes brainstormed about how her restaurants operated and would grow moving forward.

“It didn’t make sense for us to have these beautiful spaces empty during the evening, so we wanted to find a fun new way to utilize them, while also showcasing new concepts,” Hayes says. “And I always wanted a way to honor the girls from Oaxaca who’ve worked alongside me for many years — this was all about them.”

Holé Molé’s diverse menu is predominantly gluten-free and includes small plates like a veggie tostada ($8), ceviche ($13) and esquites ($8), a dish of roasted corn, crema and cotija cheese. Dinner entrees include diner favorites such as birria tacos ($14) and pollo con molé ($18), a chicken thigh and leg smothered in a traditional molé negro and served with tortillas.

The ¡Holé Molé! ($30) allows guests to experience three different molés with their choice of shredded chicken, mojo pork or chicken thighs, Hayes’ personal favorite.

A full bar is heavy on tequila and mezcal concoctions. The Tequini ($5) is a Holé Molé specialty — choose from salty and dirty, or sweet and limey.

Bramble’s Broken Arrow location also has an evening concept: Shaky Jake’s Burgers and Franks. Hayes continues to thank her guests who are supporting the two-in-one local concept. “From the 12-hour molés to the garnishes that take special care and time to make, these kids at Holé Molé have put their heart and souls into this concept,” she says.

Holé Molé is open 3-9 p.m., TuesdayThursday; 3-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. — ANNE BROCKMAN

MICHELLE POLLARD

NICE VIBES Open for breakfast and lunch, this spot in the Meadow Gold District sports funky yet modern vibes within its space that treats guests to downtown views from nearly any table.

A LA CARTE

The Brook

OLD FAVORITE

You can’t go wrong with any of these — the winners of TulsaPeople’s annual A-LIST Readers’ Choice Awards.

Pho and Japanese Sushi

Bowls of comfort PHO FAVORITES FOR SOUP SEASON

Generous portions and reasonable prices make Pho and Japanese Sushi a favorite. As the name implies, the menu has a little of both, though it seems more people come for bowls of pho. Choose thin-sliced rare steak, brisket, meatballs or chicken for your pho. Classic toppings of lime, cilantro, basil and bean sprouts are served alongside each. If you’re more of a ramen fan, give theirs a taste. The Tokyo-style Shoyu is great. Also worth a try — the shrimp spring rolls and Vietnamese coffee.

8122 S. HARVARD AVE. | 918-574-2888

MICHELLE POLLARD

KAI

PHO DA CAO

At Kai, beef broth is simmered for hours, and you can taste it in every bite. One of the best bowls is the Pho Sate, a spicy beef broth with noodles, steak, tomato, cucumbers, scallions and peanuts. We also like the comforting chicken noodle soup, Pho Ga, made with chicken broth and all the traditional pho toppings. Kai also makes an excellent banh mi. Try the lemongrass pork or mushroom with carrots, cucumber and jalapeño. 201 W. FIFTH ST. | 918-582-0200 Pho is what we need in the bitter cold of January, and Pho Da Cao has some of the best in town. The cooks start with a bone broth, adding star anise, cinnamon, coriander and other spices. They also have a vegetarian broth for those who prefer it. This no-fuss-all-flavor Tulsa favorite has one of the most delicious bowls of pho around. 9066 E. 31ST ST. | 918-270-2715 — NATALIE MIKLES

The Brook 3401 S. Peoria Ave., 918-748-9977 7727 E. 91st St., 918-392-9977 201 E. Second St., 539-424-1256 brookrestaurant.com Kilkenny’s 1413 E. 15th St. 918-582-8282 tulsairishpub.com Tally’s Good Food Cafe 6100 S. Sheridan Road, Suite 4051; 918-895-6375 1102 S. Yale Ave., 918-835-8039 tallyscafe.com McNellie’s 409 E. First St., 918-382-7468 7031 S. Zurich Ave., 918-933-5250 mcnellies.com Charleston’s 251 E. Hillside Drive, Broken Arrow; 918-355-9177 3726 S. Peoria Ave., 918-749-3287 6839 S. Yale Ave., 918-495-3511 charlestons.com Ron’s Hamburgers and Chili 11 area locations. ronsburgersandchili.com The Bros. Houligan 2508 E. 15th St., 918-747-1086 4848 S. Yale Ave., 918-254-1086 broshouligan.com TulsaPeople.com

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TULSA TIME WARP

First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa on the northwest corner of East Seventh Street and South Boston Avenue in 1926 (709 S. Boston Ave.).

You can see the original 1911 domed church on the corner and the 1925 building to the right.

CONTINUED GROWTH I

n 1883, Presbyterian minister Robert M. Loughridge began monthly sermons on the storefront of one of the few buildings standing nearby the Frisco railroad tracks. The arrival of the railroad a year prior directly influenced the new demographical make up and development of the town, then part of Muscogee (Creek) Nation territory.

Loughridge’s sermons coincided with the development of the Union Sunday School, a mission school established by a group of religious citizens with the first meetings held in a tent near Main Street and the Frisco railroad tracks.

On Oct. 5, 1885, the First Presbyterian Church of Tulsa became a chartered congregation. Its services were held in the newly completed building shared with the mission school which became the Presbyterian Home Mission school located on the southeast corner of East Fourth Street and South Boston Avenue.

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The mission school was part of Tulsa’s first educational program until a public education system was established in Tulsa in 1899. Plans for a new church were underway following the decision.

A new church was dedicated on April 8, 1900, under the leadership of pastor Charles W. Kerr.

It was the first of three churches built under the longtime and influential pastor who first arrived in the small pioneer town in 1899.

The second church was a domed facility made of stone and officially dedicated February 19, 1911, at East Seventh Street and South Boston Avenue. As Tulsa grew, so did the congregation. A portion of the church we see today at 709 S. Boston Ave. was officially dedicated on May 25, 1925.

In more recent years, the church has continued to grow and add to its historic footprint in downtown Tulsa. TP

OKLAHOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY

STORY AND COMPOSITE IMAGE BY PATRICK MCNICHOLAS

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GIF TS FOR E VERY RE A SON • DECOR FOR E VERY SE A SON AMBERMARIE ANDCO.COM .

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