TulsaPeople January 2024 by TulsaPeople

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU | LIVES WELL LIVED | CHARITABLE EVENTS CALENDAR January 2024

TULSAN OF THE YEAR TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD PRESIDENT

STACEY WOOLLEY

INSIDE THE FIGHT TO PROTECT TPS P. 57

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Contents JANUARY 2024

VOLUME 38 ISSUE 3

CITY DESK Delivering medical supplies to Ukraine. Learn the two-step at new concert series. Music news and faces. Catch the latest ﬂicks at Circle Cinema.

61 New Year, New You at Club Pilates

LIFESTYLE Brookside style staple for nearly 40 years.

January 2024

TULSAPEOPLE JANUARY 2024

TULSAN OF THE YEAR

INSIDE THE FIGHT TO PROTECT TPS P. 57

TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD PRESIDENT

STACEY WOOLLEY ON THE COVER Tulsa Public Schools Board President Stacey Woolley is TulsaPeople’s Tulsan of the Year. PHOTO BY MICHELLE POLLARD

4 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

2024 CHARITABLE EVENTS CALENDAR

STANDING UP FOR STUDENTS

Support local nonproﬁts at these upcoming events.

Inside the ﬁght to protect Tulsa Public Schools with School Board President Stacey Woolley, TulsaPeople’s Tulsan of the Year

BY MADISON WALTERS

48 JENNIFER JEZEK VSC Fire and Security president and CEO, and 2024 Tulsa Regional Chamber chair BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ

New home boasts contemporary design. Play mahjong, make new friends. Connie Cronley on winter and more.

BY TIM LANDES SPECIAL SECTIONS

66 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

72 SPRING BREAK TRAVEL

TABLE TALK Sans-booze options at Saturn Room.

LIVES WELL LIVED

New hotel dining spot.

Remembering those we lost in 2023

3 places for comfort food.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Recipe rotation staples.

MICHELLE POLLARD; CITY DESK: GREG BOLLINGER

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU | LIVES WELL LIVED | CHARITABLE EVENTS CALENDAR

CONTENTS

FROM the PUBLISHER Volume XXXVIII, Number 3 ©2023. 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

anuary may be my least favorite month

President Stacey Woolley … as you will read

of TulsaPeople is always a personal

cover profile beginning on p. 57.

on the calendar, but our January issue

favorite during the year. I value our

in Features Editor Tim Landes’ excellent The magazine has named a “Tulsan of

recognizing and naming a Tulsan as “Tulsan

the Year” each year since 1999. Honorees

1999 — because it reflects a Tulsan’s good

2000; Pete Churchwell, 2001; George

of the Year” — something we’ve done since works in the present. I value spotlighting notable Tulsans who the community lost

during the past calendar year in our annual “Lives Well Lived” feature beginning on p. 50. It reflects the accomplishment of

good works past — a form of a final bow

to deserving Tulsans — whose passion and

efforts made a difference and will be missed. Congratulations to Stacey Woolley on

her selection as our “Tulsan of the Year”

for 2024. Stacey was an easy choice for our editors this year based on her difference-

making leadership as president of the Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education, a title she has held since 2021.

It has not been an easy road for Woolley.

TPS is the largest and most diverse public

school district in the state and faces unique

have been: Ed Keller, 1999; Keith Bailey, Kaiser, 2002; Kathleen Coan, 2003; Voters For Vision 2025, 2004; Beryl Ford,

2005; Ginny Creveling, 2006; Tom Kivisto, 2007; Tom McKeon, 2008; Dr. Gerry

Clancy, 2009; Kathy Taylor, 2010; Mike Neal, 2011; Keith Ballard, 2012; Phil Lakin, 2013; Becky Frank, 2014; Dr.

Steadman Upham, 2015; Marq Lewis, 2016; Damario Solomon-Simmons,

2017; The Donors and Leaders Behind 2019; Jeff Martin, 2020; It’s You (Frontline workers, teachers, essential workers and

others who stepped-up to serve during the pandemic year); Sterlin Harjo, 2022; The

Does this issue of TulsaPeople look a

Creative Director Madeline Crawford,

Walters, political activists, representatives

of special interest groups and some parents.

The result has been a chaotic mix of ongoing political attacks that have resulted in TPS’s

EDITOR Anne Brockman FEATURES EDITOR Tim Landes EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Tiffany Howard EDITORIAL CONSULTING Missy Kruse, The Write Company CREATIVE DIRECTOR Madeline Crawford ART DIRECTOR Georgia Brooks GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ashley Guerrero MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER Michelle Pollard VIDEOGRAPHER Greg Bollinger SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Andrea Canada ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Josh Kampf Rita Kirk CONTROLLER Mary McKisick RECEPTIONIST/MARKETING ASSISTANT Madison Walters INTERN Sevyn Bahntu

MEMBER

historic Cain’s Ballroom, 2023.

have been complicated by the words and

State Superintendent of Education Ryan

PRESIDENT Juley Roffers VP COMMUNITY RELATIONS Susie Miller

Rodgers Family, owners and managers of

little different to you? You are not seeing

actions of some state leaders, including

PUBLISHER Jim Langdon

Gathering Place, 2018; Judy Kishner,

problems and challenges, some based on

sheer size alone. Of course, the difficulties

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

TulsaPeople’s distribution is audited annually by

things. Our talented and skilled team of

the magazine a new look as we enter our

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.

magazine. tp

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.

Art Director Georgia Brooks and Graphic Designer Ashley Guerrero have given

38th year of proudly publishing Tulsa’s city

accreditation being threatened, the district’s leadership attacked, and the forcing of

long-tenured Superintendent Deborah Gist to resign. It has been a frustrating display in the news media. The steady hand on-the-

wheel throughout the chaos has been Board 6 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Jim Langdon PUBLISHER

S AY N O T O H A T E

City Desk NEWS

CAUSES

PASSIONS

READ MORE ON P. 16

“If I can use individual videos to jump-start somebody else’s learning curve years, that’s what I want to do,” says Shae Haning, owner of Tallgrass Tailor. “With the YouTube channel, I want you to be able to decide you want to start sewing and then do it.”

GREG BOLLINGER

SEW-ALONG

ecause of a language barrier between Shae Haning and some of her employees at Tallgrass Tailor, she turned to YouTube to create bilingual training videos. “I started with some training and safety programs to help people learn to use new machinery, especially because some of the countries the women were coming from didn’t necessarily have automatic powered machines,” Haning says. “I used YouTube as a platform because it was easy to access. It was free and translated to different languages, including the written text.” But as she posted these videos, she noticed other people started watching them.

“It blossomed from there,” Haning says. “People started making comments and asking, ‘Well, what about this’ or ‘Would you teach us to do this?’” Her YouTube channel, The Sew Show with Shae, now has over 20,000 subscribers. “I want these videos to be a really easy entry point for people to think, ‘I can do this.’ One of the things we include in all the videos is me screwing up because I want you to know that no one is doing anything perfectly in the world.” Find Haning’s videos, all ﬁlmed in her shop, on YouTube. tp

TulsaPeople.com 7

CITY DESK

NOTEBOOK

Next project announced for Tulsa Botanic Garden

LOOKING BACK On Jan. 31 Gilcrease Museum Executive Director Susan Neal retires from decades of public service as she turns the keys of the museum over to Interim Director Jennifer Bennett, who will remain chief of staff for The University of Tulsa. While the building will be completed later this year, exhibit fabrication and collection re-install will see the museum re-open to the public in 2026. Gilcrease is in good hands with Bennett, as Neal says that now funding is complete, leaving at this time gives a couple of years for a new director to establish themselves with the institution and leave their own mark on the project. — ANNE BROCKMAN READ MORE ABOUT NEAL, HER CAREER AND RETIREMENT PLANS ON TULSAPEOPLE.COM.

FREE FORM

8 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

JIM & CHERRY BOST ARBORETU BABBLING BROOK & PAVILIO

This month Tulsa Botanic Garden crews will begin working on the Jim and Cherry Bost Arboretum, a 2-acre area that will include more than 100 trees and shrubs with pathways, a plaza, pavilion and fountain. Once completed this fall, the attraction will include trees such as oak, ginkgo, redbud, willow, sassafrass and dogwood among hydrangeas, azaleas and witch hazel shrubs. Along with fresh fall color, guests will be treated to more than 30,000 daffodils in the spring. Those interested in learning more about the project or sponsoring a tree can do so at tulsabotanic.org. — ANNE BROCKMAN

If you viewed Gilcrease Museum’s artwork in unexpected places throughout Tulsa in the past year, you weren’t alone. According to research by its staff, the Gilcrease In Your Neighborhood public art program reached nearly one-third of the Tulsa metro area, or roughly 350,000 residents. “The response we got is overwhelmingly positive,” says Alison Rossi, Anne and Henry Zarrow director of learning and community engagement. The program — which features reproductions from the Gilcrease collection —launched in 2022 to reach residents while the museum is closed during the $139 million construction of its new facility. The Gilcrease team is using research they collected from its first year — through focus groups, community conversations, social media posts and other data — to cultivate another unique experience in 2024, featuring art in five areas throughout the Tulsa area. “What we heard over and over from the community conversation was that people wanted to lean into programs that helped them focus on well-being and wellness,” Rossi says. “Putting art in another setting and providing additional context is a way we hope people can connect with art in a new way.” For 2024, Gilcrease In Your Neighborhood will go back to nature at five attractions: Gathering Place, Turkey Mountain, Oxley Nature Center, Keystone Ancient Forest near Sand Springs, and Ray Harral Nature Park and Center in Broken Arrow. The next series installment will begin in mid-January. Museum staff will create corresponding discussions, family activity guides and activities for the public that tie to the natural settings. “Art is for everyone. Museums don’t have to be an elitist space,” she says. “The collection and the museum belong to Tulsa.” — KIM BROWN

NEAL: GREG BOLLINGER; GILCREASE, TULSA BOTANIC GARDEN: COURTESY

Susan Neal, retiring Gilcrease Museum and Helmerich Center for American Research executive director

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CITY DESK

CALENDAR

JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS Jan. 2-7 HAIRSPRAY Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical “Hairspray” makes a stop at Tulsa’s Performing Arts Center for a show full of upbeat songs, laugh-outloud moments and spectacular dancing. TULSAPAC.COM Jan. 7-13 CHILI BOWL NATIONALS This year marks the 38th annual Chili Bowl, taking place at Tulsa’s Expo Square. Watch as speedcars vie for the title of champion in this not-to-bemissed event of the season. CHILIBOWL.COM Jan. 15 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PARADE Join the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Society for its 45th annual parade, honoring the great Civil Rights Movement leader. MLKTULSA.COM

MORE DATES TO SAVE

Jan. 3 VELVET CHAIR POETRY NIGHT gypsycoffee.com Jan. 4 NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S BINGO welltownbrewing.com Jan. 6 THE TULSA WEDDING SHOW thetulsaweddingshow.com

10 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Jan. 6-7 ALL-STAR TEAM ROPING allstarteamroping.com Jan. 12 OK, SO STORYSLAM oksotulsa.com Jan. 13 EBB AND FLOW: BRAHMS SYMPHONY NO. 3 tulsasymphony.org

Jan. 13 TFA TOURS — SPOTLIGHT THEATER: A BRUCE GOFF ICON tulsaarchitecture.org Jan. 20 GO SHORT, GO LONG, GO VERY LONG runsignup.com/race/ok/tulsa/ goshortgolonggoverylong Jan. 20 UNIVERSITY OF TULSA WOMEN’S BASKETBALL VS. WICHITA STATE tulsahurricane.com

Jan. 28 TULSA OILERS VS. IDAHO STEELHEADS tulsaoilers.com Jan. 29-Feb. 4 TULSA BOAT SPORT AND TRAVEL SHOW tulsaboatshow.com Jan. 30 MANIA: THE ABBA TRIBUTE coxcentertulsa.com

TIM LANDES

Jan. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 MONDAY NIGHT JAZZ AT VINTAGE BAR winebartulsa.com

CITY DESK

IN CONVERSATION

Whitney Stauffer Partner with Narrate Design and chair of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools STORY AND PHOTO BY TIM LANDES

NARRATE’S NEW OFFICE THAT HOUSES 35 EMPLOYEES STARTED OUT AS A PUBLIC SERVICE CO. OF OKLAHOMA APPLIANCE SHOWROOM ... I was excited about coming to downtown, but I totally underestimated how much I would love being in the middle of all this activity. It’s like the Downtown Tulsa Partnership created a midweek farmers’ market for us. It started right after we moved in, which is amazing. We like that we’re a part of what’s happening in the larger landscape, which is really great. You can see these big windows, it’s fun. NARRATE IS WORKING WITH PHILBROOK MUSEUM OF ART ON ITS NEW CAMPUS MASTER PLAN AND OTHER LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS, WHILE THEY ALSO WORK WITH NATIONAL CLIENTS … HEB Grocery Co. has been a client for 23 years, and we’re going on a decade of representing Chick-fi l-A. They’re both at the top of their game. They’re both innovative and laser focused on serving their customers well. We get to be part of that innovation and how that space reflects what they’re trying to do, so it’s really fun. STAUFFER’S TWO CHILDREN ATTEND TULSA PUBLIC SCHOOLS, AND SHE HAS BEEN ACTIVELY ENGAGED SINCE THEY BEGAN AT COUNCIL OAK ELEMENTARY ... I’m just a huge believer in public school. It’s the great equalizer. The most important thing that a community can do is to support their public school system. It’s very shortsighted to only think about your kids or your family. Th is group of children will be leading everything in the coming decades.

Whitney Stauffer is in business development with Narrate Design.

hitney Stauffer has a nice view of downtown from her desk that overlooks Chapman Green. She’s a partner with Narrate Design, formerly Selser Schaefer Architects, an architectural, interiors and planning firm. After 30 years the firm has changed its name and relocated to the heart of downtown. Stauffer discussed the recent changes and more from the Narrate conference room that faces the southwest corner of Sixth and Main Streets. 12 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

THIRTY YEARS IN BUSINESS MARKED A GOOD TIME TO EVOLVE ... It’s a big change. But it’s good. It feels right. It is an homage to the founders. We were founded on the idea of storytelling, so to transition to a name like Narrate is perfect. They are excited about that change as well, which is really fun and exciting. We wanted to do something different and bold, and that could represent this place for the next 30 years and beyond as people will come and go.

AS THE BOARD CHAIR FOR FOUNDATION FOR TULSA SCHOOLS, SHE HELPS RAISE MONEY, BUT THAT’S NOT HER ONLY GOAL ... One of the big things for me, personally, is to tell the good news of TPS. There are a lot of sound bites that are very negative. That is not my personal experience at all. There are a lot of fantastic things happening in this district that I think just get lost in the noise. ONE OF THOSE THINGS IS ARTRAGEOUS, A FUNDRAISING EVENT THAT FEATURES ART CREATED AND PERFORMED BY STUDENTS. THE NEXT ONE IS MAY 11 ... Holy cow! I had no idea the students in TPS fine arts programs were that great. It was just such a fantastic celebration. I’m excited to do it again. That’s just showcasing art. I think we can do that in all areas, and people would be shocked at how talented TPS students are. tp

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CITY DESK

CHANGEMAKERS

Helen Lazarin, mobile services coordinator, at a recent distribution event

The good life New center consolidates and expands services for local senior agency. STORIES BY ABIGAIL SINGREY

or the LIFE Senior Services leadership team, the new Roma Berry Center for Seniors represents a culmination of years of dreaming. When President and CEO Eileen Bradshaw joined the organization in 2019, the need to combine its scattered services under one roof was already apparent. When she stumbled across the perfect listing in 2020, it seemed like destiny. The late Ruth Nelson, a longtime supporter of LIFE and a well-known community philanthropist, made it possible for LIFE to purchase the property at 4821 S. 72nd E. Ave. with a generous donation, allowing the nonprofit to begin planning for a capital campaign. The 9-acre campus has mature shade trees and a 39,000-square-foot building built in 1974 that had formerly served as Bates Elementary School. The size of the campus allowed LIFE to build an additional 10,000-square-foot activity center, along with walking trails and pickleball courts. Opening this month, the Roma Berry Center for Seniors will bring three of LIFE’s programs to one campus — the active senior center, the adult day health program and the LIFE PACE program, which provides services to allow seniors

14 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

to safely stay under their own roof and to access medical care. “This new space synergizes a lot of our programs,” Bradshaw says. The remodeled building will feature a state-of-the-art clinic with eight exam rooms and a pharmacy. While the existing clinic in north Tulsa will remain open, this additional location will allow LIFE to double its patient load. The adult day health program, for those who cannot be left home alone all day or who need more interaction, also will have a more spacious layout. “This gives us the space to better refine our services and offer activities tailored to several levels,” Bradshaw says. Since her generous donation for the purchase of the property made the whole project possible, Nelson was given the opportunity to name the new center. After careful consideration, she decided to pay tribute to Roma Berry, the very first friend her mother, Kate Kaiser, made when the family immigrated to the United States. Berry dedicated numerous years to teaching in Tulsa Public Schools and remained a cherished family friend until her death. “Given the educational history of the building, this seemed especially fitting,” Bradshaw says. “It’s a lovely tribute.” tp

Delivering hope Emergency Infant Services’ new mobile unit is providing a lifeline. The program launched this past April to give EIS a way to better serve families across Tulsa. “For many families, finding transportation or money for gas to visit our downtown Tulsa location was a barrier to receiving services,” says Helen Lazarin, mobile services coordinator. “The mobile unit means we can reach families that we never could before by coming to them ... Everyone has been so grateful.” The mobile unit goes out four to five times a week and has supplied up to 175 families at one time with: 50 diapers per child or 100 for newborns; 1 package of wipes per family; and about 50 ounces of formula per child. Each family is eligible to receive help from EIS up to eight times a year. This program meets a critical need, as over 30% of local children under 6 years old live below the poverty line, according to EIS. As part of the organization’s mission, every family in crisis receives immediate help, because a young child cannot wait. The mobile program is funded by various charitable foundations, corporations and individual donors, which allows EIS to reach an average of 150 new families a week, bringing diapers, wipes and formula to more of the Tulsa metro area. EIS has divided the Tulsa metro area into zones, identifying partner distribution locations such as another nonprofit or a library in each one. This helps them make their services accessible to everyone. Learn more at eistulsa.org. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

LIFE Senior Services President and CEO Eileen Bradshaw outside the new Roma Berry Center that opens this month.

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Grandfather’s Clock Gallery was opened in 1987 by Harley and Mary Hunter and the store has been located at 31st and Yale in Tulsa for the past 36 years...until NOW! Store owners Talitha and Travis Grether are excited to announce they are now open at the corner of 11th and Rockford on 11th Street. “We are pleased the new store enables us to expand our offerings of clocks, fine gifts and music boxes, and have a larger service department,” noted Talitha. “And we are very excited the store is located in the Meadow Gold District, on Route 66, amongst a great group of stores and small businesses,” added Travis. The owners encourage past and future customers to come visit the new store, and attend their grand opening event on January 6, 2024.

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The team at Grandfather’s Clock Gallery includes, left to right: Alan Wolff, horologist; Megan Kane, store manager; Travis Grether, co-owner and horologist; Kailey Coffelt, sales & marketing; Talitha Grether, co-owner and horologist; Jordyn Winett, horologist; and Mike Ruttgen, horologist.

Topdog/Underdog, a full-length drama, is a premiere for Tulsa during African American History Month, which complements recognizing playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2002, as the first African American woman to receive this reward. The play chronicles the adult lives of two AfricanAmerican brothers as they cope with poverty, racism, work, women, and their troubled upbringings.

FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER | LIDDY DOENGES THEATRE TICKETS AVAILABLE AT TULSAPAC.COM OR 918-596-7111

TOPDOG/UNDERDOG is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection. (www.dramatists.com)

1416 E. 11TH ST. SUITE 4 | TULSA, OK 74120 TulsaPeople.com 15

CITY DESK

Tulsa transplant Shae Haning is the owner of Tallgrass Tailor, 1640 E. Third St., Suite A. The shop not only caters to all sewing needs — from pants to prom dresses — but also provides livable wages and flexible work schedules to immigrant mothers and women.

Tailor−made A Tulsan’s sewing business is also the perfect fit for employing female immigrants and refugees. BY JULIANNE TRAN

hae Haning passionately lives and breathes her beloved craft: sewing. “I can’t explain the draw (to sewing). It’s a total obsession. I’ve loved it my entire life,” Haning says. “I built welded pieces with my dad (growing up) and the one thing I struggled with was that though I love and appreciate art, I wanted more function.” So, she turned to sewing. “What better way to display art than to put it on,” Haning

16 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

says. “It’s a craft that you get to build on forever and see every step of the process, the journey you traveled along the way.” Haning, a Pennsylvania native, studied design and product development in New York City where she met her husband, Garrison Haning — then a West Point cadet and now an Army Major and the founder of safety tech start-up Safety Radar. No matter where her husband was stationed, people needed her sewing help.

“Everybody always needed something. There’s always (items to) patch, always a pant to hem.” And when they landed in Tulsa nine years ago, Haning found herself altering and tailoring clothing at all points in the day when she wasn’t working her full-time job. “When people find out that somebody sews, the trickle begins. Somebody brings in a pair of pants, and then somebody brings in a suit and then somebody brings in their daughter at lunchtime with her prom dress,” Haning laughs. “And I realized, ‘this could be a thing.’” So, she started a sewing and tailoring business in her garage. “It’s just really grown exponentially in a way that I didn’t initially think could be possible,” Haning says. Her shop, Tallgrass Tailor, now occupies an 1,800-square-foot space and employs women from all walks of life, many of whom are immigrants and refugees. “Sewing has been out of the schools for a bit now (in the United States), which makes it very difficult to hire. And at the same time, we were getting a large influx of Burmese coming into the country who are extremely talented at garment production, as garment production is one of the biggest exports of their country,” Haning says. Haning now employs many Burmese, Afghan, Venezuelan and Mexican immigrants, namely mothers and women. She developed a system to pay each employee based on the time and complexity per piece, so they can choose how much work to take on each week depending on their family, homelife and financial needs. This system allows her to pay her employees between $15 and $40 per hour, much more than the state minimum wage. “They have the ability to perform a really needed skill in their home while they have small children at home and while they’re acclimating to a new country,” Haning says. “The diversity I’ve been able to experience, specifically in a community of women, has been the most incredible, unforeseen aspect of this business,” Haning says. “Maybe language is still a barrier, but these are things we can work around. They do hard things well.” Whether it’s fixing a dress to fit correctly or providing employment for an immigrant mother, Haning takes pride in her work. “Every day, we’re able to provide a service that actually impacts somebody else’s life. I love that.” Learn more at tallgrasstailor.com. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

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CITY DESK

COMMUNITY

Toni Foster recently joined Downtown Tulsa Partnership as an outreach coordinator to aid Tulsa’s unsheltered community.

Helping hand Pilot program seeks to support those experiencing homelessness in downtown. BY KRISTI EATON

cross Tulsa County, 1,133 people are experiencing homelessness — an increase of more than 6% from 2022-2023 — according to Tulsa Housing Solutions’ annual point-in-time survey. A new outreach coordinator with the Downtown Tulsa Partnership — a local nonprofit whose mission is to provide a prosperous, vibrant and inclusive downtown — seeks to help support those who are unhoused in downtown Tulsa. Toni Foster was hired in mid-2023 to address the mental health and housing needs of the unsheltered in the downtown vicinity through DTP. Originally from Kansas, Foster moved to Tulsa and was a certified nurse assistant for many years before pivoting to working for a senior nutrition program in Tulsa. Foster says she has two goals for her new position: loving people where they are and meeting their needs right now. For example, “If someone needs water, I’ve had people donate water so I can pass it out,” Foster says. As the coordinator, Foster is also able to interact and get to know the

18 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

individuals experiencing homelessness and connect them to other resources that exist in the community. Brian Kurtz, president and CEO of DTP, says the pilot program is funded by Ascension St. John Medical Center. If successful, DTP wants this to become a permanent part of its program and services. “We wanted to provide an additional resource for individuals experiencing homelessness and those who are unsheltered,” he says. “Toni’s goal is to help meet immediate needs such as food, water, bedding, transportation and providing a listening ear. Bringing Toni on board allows us to have that closer touch point.” Kurtz also adds that she cannot only mitigate issues but also be a point person for the unhoused who may need support. He says the idea for this role came from the needs in downtown and mirrors similar programs and positions seen in other downtowns across the country. For more information or to request assistance, call 918-202-4093 or visit downtowntulsa.com. tp

In January 2015 TulsaPeople named its Tulsan of the Year: Steadman Upham. As the president of The University of Tulsa, Upham was recognized for leading the institution through a remarkable renaissance — new buildings, campus upgrades, advanced programs, a partnership with the City of Tulsa and Gilcrease Museum, the establishment of the Mary K. and John T. Oxley College of Health Sciences, and a comprehensive service initiative called True Blue Neighbors. Upham, who earned his Ph.D. in anthropology from Arizona State University, retired from TU in 2012 only to return that same year to his role as president at the request of the Board of Trustees. He retired again in 2016 and planned to return to teach in the anthropology department. In 2016, Upham and his wife, Peggy, established an endowment fund in association with the Chapman Legacy Society to support TU’s general operations. Three supporters named endowments in the Uphams’ honor: The Steadman and Peggy Upham Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund, The Steadman and Peggy Upham Endowment for Community Service and Outreach, and The Steadman Upham Endowed Scholarship Fund. Upham died July 30, 2017, from complications following surgery. His passionate service and contributions toward elevating TU as a dynamic educational institution live on. — ANNE BROCKMAN

GREG BOLLINGER

COVERS REVISITED

CITY DESK

NEWSMAKERS

Tomasino, second from right, made the deliveries in October with the humanitarian group Medical Life Lines Ukraine.

Former Tulsan Luc Tomasino recently visited Tulsa after traveling to Ukraine from his home in France to deliver medical supplies.

Emergency response Former Tulsan delivers medical supplies to benefit Ukraine’s war efforts. BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

TOMASINO: GREG BOLLINGER; MLLU: COURTESY LUC TOMASINO

s an international growth executive for 30 years and the son of parents with deep European roots, former Tulsan and Holland Hall graduate Luc Tomasino has spent over half his life abroad. In October, Tomasino set out from his home in France on a journey organized by London-based humanitarian group Medical Life Lines Ukraine to deliver ambulances and supplies to Ukraine. For Tomasino, the arduous trip of more than 1,500 miles through several countries was well worth the effort and the risk. “During the trip, the war’s presence was seen and felt everywhere we went by the flowers, photographs, tombstones and crosses — so many of them,” Tomasino recalls. “All the Ukrainians we met had been affected by the war. I saw strength in how unified and committed they remained. There

is no question in their mind that they will continue resisting Russia. There is no debate on that at all, and they expressed enormous gratitude for the support of France, Europe, the U.S. and all of our partners.” Tomasino was part of a convoy of five ambulances that traveled from London through eastern Germany and Poland before arriving in Lviv and Kyiv, from where the vehicles and supplies would be distributed to Ukraine’s Ministry of Health and a couple of charities for use throughout the country, primarily to high-risk areas. The group was accompanied by a team leader and several Ukrainians who helped them navigate border crossings and customs, often a four-hour process. Prior to Tomasino’s trip, MLLU had delivered 47 ambulances in 2023. The organization will continue to do so as long as they are needed. Tomasino will continue to help.

“I remain connected to MLLU and will do another trip (in 2024),” he says. “I’m also connected to people who are involved in planning for Ukraine reconstruction programs, very similar to the U.S. Marshall Plan that kicked in at the end of World War II. I aim to be involved with that.” As a nod to his Oklahoma roots, Tomasino delivered a flag from Oklahoma’s Thunderbird 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, an Oklahoma National Guard unit known for helping liberate the concentration camp at Dachau, Germany, at the end of World War II, to the director of the main Ukrainian military hospital in Kyiv. It was a personal mission for Tomasino, separate from his volunteer efforts on behalf of MLLU. “I’ve always been proud to be from Oklahoma. I feel it’s made up of extraordinary people who are smart, committed, kind and progressing, maybe not as fast as others, myself included, would like, but we are steady and consistently moving forward,” he says. “I can’t stand it when people say Oklahoma is a ‘fly-over state,’ or that we are a ‘fly-over people.’ We’re not perfect, but we matter, and we make a positive difference in more ways than people realize. When I come back to visit Tulsa, I feel really secure, happy and at peace. I love Tulsa and miss it.” Back in France after a visit to Oklahoma for Thanksgiving, Tomasino reflects on a very busy fall. “I’m happy to be home, but I still think of the Ukrainians every day and the hardships and sacrifices they are making. We were stressed just being there a week. They live with it every day.” For more information on MLLU, visit medicallifelines.org.uk. tp TulsaPeople.com 19

CITY DESK

MUSIC NOTES

Brad Harris

BEHIND THE MUSIC

Two-steppin’ good time Monthly music-and-dance series welcomes guest performances. STORIES BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

hen Oklahoma musician JD McPherson moved back from Nashville last year, he brought one of his favorite Music City traditions with him. The “Tulsey Town Two-Step” — an evening of classic country music and dance McPherson began at Tulsa’s VFW Post 577 in November — is loosely based on “Honky Tonk Tuesdays,” a well-known community event at the American Legion in east Nashville. The monthly Tulsey Town event features a full band, a host of special guests and are already gaining a loyal audience. McPherson coordinates Tulsey Town with house bandleader Jesse Aycock and describes it as a “fast-moving variety show, with multiple guest singers.” Those guests have included everyone from “Reservation Dogs” creator Sterlin Harjo and Austinbased singer-songwriter Melissa Carper to Tulsa’s own Kalyn Fay, Jacob Tovar and John Fullbright. The evening kicks off with free dance lessons, which McPherson believes is key to its success. “Dance lessons at the top of the night are essential,” he says. “It’s important to me

20 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

that everyone feels welcome, and having dance lessons provided really entices curious newcomers to check everything out.” Tulsey Town also has given McPherson an easy way to reintegrate into the local music scene. “It’s been the best possible icebreaker. I would occasionally see Tulsa musicians here and there at festivals, and it always made me homesick. I can’t say the Nashville music community isn’t welcoming, but it’s so large and the hustle is so prevalent that this kind of event would not feel the way that it does here,” he says. “Tulsa’s musical community is smaller and more nurturing — and funnier!” Tulsey Town house band drummer Paddy Ryan agrees. “What makes this a fun hometown gig is the buzz around it,” he says. “It’s no secret that it’s more fun to play to a packed room, and looking out and seeing all the dancers and the timeless atmosphere of the VFW while playing new (to me) songs makes these nights really special.” For more information on the next Tulsey Town Two-Step, visit Instagram @tulseytown2step. For more on McPherson, visit jdmcpherson.com. tp

WHAT SURPRISES PEOPLE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? Almost any show takes 8-10 hours to set up. It doesn’t matter who they are. National or regional, it takes all day to set up. People see that stage, and they think nothing of it, but that took six hours to build. WHAT DOES YOUR JOB ENTAIL? Once the contract is signed, I become the facilitator for the artist. From that point on, I’m the person they want to talk to to get stuff done — from labor, lodging and catering to logistics and sound and lights. I have to keep all of that running in smooth order. CAIN’S TURNS 100 IN 2024. WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE VENUE? The history and the vibe. You can feel it when you walk in the door. It’s brought so many people together and so much happiness. I’ve met so many people in my travels who have heard of Cain’s Ballroom. It’s great to hear that, feel that and be a part of it. tp

GREG BOLLINGER; HARRIS: PHIL CLARKIN

Dance lessons during a recent Tulsey Town Two-Step night at Tulsa’s VFW Post 577, 1109 E. Sixth St.

A familiar face to anyone who’s been to Cain’s Ballroom, Brad Harris has been the venue’s production manager for 19 years. A native of Idaho, Harris served nine years in the Marines, Air Guard and Reserves before moving to Tulsa to pursue a career in aviation. When the 9/11 attacks derailed those plans, Harris picked up some music production gigs, eventually landing his job at the historic venue where he often puts in 16-hour days. It’s both a challenging and rewarding job, and Harris loves it.

CITY DESK

MUSIC NOTES

Medicine Horse

MARSH: PHIL CLARKIN; COURTESY MEDICINE HORSE

METAL MAGIC Cherokee Nation citizen and chef Nico Albert Williams weaves her Indigenous identity into everything she does, including her creative work as vocalist and a founding member of Tulsa-based metal band Medicine Horse. Formed during the pandemic, the band released its self-titled debut album in September. In addition to Williams and her guitarist husband, Kyle Williams (Otoe-Missouria, Ponca and Ioway Nations), Medicine Horse includes lead guitarist Travis Rowe, Chris West on bass and Garrett Heck on the drums. Having a female lead vocalist and an Indigenous perspective make Medicine Horse an anomaly in a predominantly white- and male-dominated genre. “There are a signiﬁcant number of Native metal bands; it’s a whole scene. There are also truly inspiring female vocalists in metal who I think are getting a lot of long-overdue attention, but our being a combination of Indigenous and feminine representation in heavy metal music does feel like new ground,” Williams notes. “With our music, I want to tell Indigenous stories that will resonate within our own community and with non-Native people as well. The doom and sludge aspects of our sound really help convey some of those darker and thematically heavier narratives, but then we have these really bright crescendos that I feel allow us to keep a positive and hopeful message about our future too. I want our music to make our people feel empowered.” Visit facebook.com/medicinehorse918 for more. — JULIE WENGER WATSON

Whether by joining other Tulsa performers or jazzing it up with his own band, Bishop Marsh brings the soaring sounds of the trumpet across the city.

Taking risks Trumpeter makes music across the city. BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

wenty-five-year-old trumpeter and 2017 Booker T. Washington High School graduate Bishop Marsh is a fi xture on Tulsa’s music scene. You may have seen him performing with Mike Cameron at LowDown’s twice-monthly “Free Energy: All-Ages Jazz Jam,” or as a member of King Cabbage Brass Band. Born in Atlanta, but mostly raised in Tulsa, Marsh learned to play trumpet in his sixth-grade band class in Butte, Montana, where his family lived for a time. Although his fi rst choice had actually been the tuba, Marsh quickly grew to embrace the instrument. Over a decade later, it’s hard to imagine his life without it. Marsh’s dad, who worked with a number of jazz musicians in his own job as a bartender, fostered his son’s musical passion early on, encouraging him to not only listen to great trumpeters like Louis Armstrong and Dizzy Gillespie, but to also explore all kinds of music. “My dad saying that made me realize it’s OK to like the music that I like to play, as long as I’m keeping my ears open to other things,” Marsh says. “That allows your brain to be able to understand different situations that you wouldn’t otherwise normally understand.”

Marsh tries to bring that philosophy to the students at Tulsa Community College, where he volunteers with the music department several days a week. “I really try to make sure that the kids all know that it’s not wrong to be yourself. It’s not wrong to want to listen to other types of music than jazz and to let that cross over into the music that you create,” he says. “Music can be about joy. It can be about happiness. It can be about greed. It can be about jealousy. Music is an all-telling thing. Everybody can speak on their own human experience with it.” For Marsh, life, like jazz, is about finding your own voice. “Ultimately, you choose your own destiny. You should be able to say and do whatever it is you want,” he says. “To me, as someone who plays jazz music, I think it’s very important to take risks. I think taking risks is part of the development of the human experience, and especially, of your own individual thoughts — of being your own person.” For more information on Marsh, who has a new album in the works with his Bishop Marsh Quintet, visit facebook.com/ bishop.konopkamarsh. tp TulsaPeople.com 21

CITY DESK

MEET AND GREET

THIS MONTH AT

Circle Cinema FALLEN LEAVES Opens for daily screenings Jan. 5 Two lonely souls in search of love meet by chance in a Helsinki karaoke bar. However, their path to happiness is beset by obstacles. This tender romantic tragicomedy, directed by Aki Kaurismäki, is a timely reminder of the potency of movie-going. SHARED LEGACIES 6 p.m., Jan. 11 “Shared Legacies” tells the story of the coalition and friendship between the Jewish and African American communities during the Civil Rights Movement. Pivotal events come alive through a treasure trove of archival materials, narrated by eyewitnesses, activists, Holocaust survivors and leaders of the movement. Pre- and post-show events.

Pop to it OKPOP’s new director familiar with Sooner State history. BY MATTHEW ENDACOTT

amed executive director of OKPOP Museum in September, Jake Krumwiede is no stranger to the Oklahoma Historical Society, the state agency that manages the forthcoming museum. The Claremore native started his career with OHS as a volunteer in 2003 and later as an intern at Claremore’s Will Rogers Memorial Museum, where he eventually became assistant director. Most recently, he served four years as executive director of the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center in Enid. WHAT IS THE VISION FOR THE MUSEUM? It’s exploring Oklahoma’s influence on popular culture by exploring the idea of creativity. And so in some ways this is a museum of creativity, as well. Everything that we do with the exhibits we’re building, from the time people walk through that door, is to inspire. We want to make people feel like they can achieve the things that all these great Oklahomans have done. 22 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO MAKE THIS YOUR LIFE’S PATH AND TO SHARE OKLAHOMA HISTORY WITH OTHER PEOPLE? I think the best way to say it is that Oklahoma’s history is complicated. There are parts of our shared history that are inspirational, and there are parts that are challenging, too. So the better we all understand our story, the better we can progress. We all want to make the world a better place. This is how I help do it. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO IN TULSA? Music has always been the thing that I’ve loved about Tulsa. I grew up in this Tulsa area going to different local music shows since I was 15 years old — gosh, even younger. I had the great pleasure of seeing John Moreland play at the age of 15 to a room of about five people. It was such a great experience growing up in this area and hearing the music I got to hear when I was younger. Music is a big deal to me, and Tulsa has always been a good place to experience it. tp

THE WIND (1928) 11 a.m., Jan. 13 In this month’s Second Saturday Silent Series, see Lillian Gish in the romantic tragedy “The Wind.” A frail young woman from the East moves in with her cousin in the West, where she causes tension within the family and is slowly driven mad. FULL CIRCLE Open for daily screenings Jan. 12; special screening with The Center, 2 p.m., Jan. 14 In 2014, Trevor Kennison’s life was forever altered by a broken back — for worse and for better, in equal measures. Barry Corbet, a skier, mountaineer, explorer, ﬁlmmaker and Jackson Hole legend, broke his back in a helicopter crash in 1968. Their stories mirror each other, connected through time and space by common locations and motifs; but also, through their shared resiliency and refusal to let their passion for life be limited by their injuries. DRIVING MADELEINE Opens for daily screenings Jan. 26 Madeleine, 92 years old, calls a taxi to take her to the retirement home where she will live. Charles, a disillusioned driver with a tender heart, agrees to drive by the places that affected Madeleine’s life. Through the streets of Paris, her extraordinary past is revealed. Compiled by Circle Cinema’s Ryan Thomas. Visit circlecinema.org for pricing and more information.

GREG BOLLINGER

“I kind of cut my professional teeth on what we call the grandfather of Oklahoma popular culture, Will Rogers,” says Jake Krumwiede, executive director of OKPOP.

COMMON GROUND Opens for daily screenings Jan. 12 By fusing journalistic exposé with deeply personal stories from those on the front lines of the food movement, Common Ground unveils a dark web of money, power and politics behind our broken food system.

CITY DESK

BERYL FORD COLLECTION, ROTARY CLUB OF TULSA, TULSA CITY-COUNTY LIBRARY, AND TULSA HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING

Edward Calkins

Enthusiastic advocate Edward Calkins survived the Civil War and a dynamite mishap before winning Tulsa’s first mayoral race. BY MICHAEL OVERALL

newcomer to Tulsa in the late 1800s once asked Col. Edward Calkins, the city’s first mayor, if he had lost his arm in the Civil War. The aging colonel looked at her wearily. “Must an old solider relive all that?” he asked. Calkins didn’t like talking about it, but he never lied about his injury. The truth is: He

survived the war with both arms intact and suffered an accident only after moving to Indian Territory in 1894, three decades after leaving the Army. Calkins went fishing one day with a friend and grew frustrated after not catching anything with a hook and line, so he began to throw sticks of dynamite into the pond. Upon lighting the second stick of dynamite,

however, he didn’t throw it quickly enough and was lucky to only lose an arm. Born in 1836, in Burlington, Pennsylvania, Calkins volunteered for the Union Army when he was 27 years old and served two years as an officer in the 7th Regiment of the Indiana Cavalry. He was 58 years old when he arrived in Tulsa to open the city’s first law office. And he became one of 10 local pioneers who signed the city’s charter of incorporation in December 1897, allowing Tulsa to form its first municipal government. The same group of founders nominated Calkins for mayor. And, with nobody running against him, most people assumed Tulsa wouldn’t have to actually bother voting on him. But Calkins insisted. He obtained a ballot box from a local blacksmith, who simply attached a brass padlock to a cigar box and cut a slit in the top. The town went through the motions of having a mayoral election in April 1898. Calkins’ duties included chairing City Council meetings and overseeing minor court cases. And he began collecting Tulsa’s first property taxes. His most notable infrastructure project was having Main Street plowed to remove tall weeds and fill in deep ruts, making it easier for horses and buggies to navigate. Unfortunately, little else is known about Calkins’ administration because all the records, kept in a single midsized journal, went missing not long after he left office. R.N. Bynum, the great-great-grandfather of Mayor G.T. Bynum, succeeded Calkins in 1899. Then Calkins ran for mayor again in 1900 as a Republican, drawing opposition from Democrat Lewis Poe, who was also an attorney. Calkins lost by just 31 votes. While he never ran for office again, Calkins remained an enthusiastic advocate for Tulsa. He was one of several local leaders who rode aboard the famous “Royal Tulsa” booster train that traveled to New York and back in the spring of 1908, stopping at more than two dozen cities along the way to promote investment in the city. Calkins died in 1911 at age 74. News reports after his death remembered him as a “courtly gentleman” and “a good story-teller” who “on occasion became very earnest and indulged in eloquent flights of oratory.” tp TulsaPeople.com 23

CITY DESK

BENEFITS

4 2

ART PARTY Tulsa Girls Art School held its annual fundraising event on Nov. 3 at Tulsa Country Club. The 200 guests in attendance mingled with the student artists, listened to their stories of growth and had the chance to bid on their original artwork. This year’s party took inspiration from the proliﬁc Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama — “the Princess of Polka Dots” — as guests were encouraged to wear polka dots and colorful attire. Guests also were able to spend the night dancing to local musicians like Stephanie Oliver and Zingo the Band, while dining on food from Tulsa Country Club. Thanks to attendees, Tulsa Girls Art School raised 50% of its annual operating budget, which provides year-round art and youth development programming.

5 1. Karla Hoose, left, Tulsa Girls Art School committee member, and Taheerah Salim, owner of Sound Mind Sound Body Pilates 2. Tulsa Girls Art School Executive Director Adrienne Duffy, center, with board member Janieire Hagen, right, and committee member Betina Cavalcante 3. Bob Zinke, Tulsa Girls Art School board member, and Dr. Brooke Esteves, committee member, pose with a model styled by Ihloff Salon and Day Spa, wearing a one-of-a-kind fashion created by Tulsa Girls Art School students. 4. Tulsa Girls Art School teacher Tim Todd with Art School senior Tiah Gray, left, and Art School graduate Lily Williams, right 5. Work from student artists was auctioned at the event.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS Movers and Shakers, presented by Food on the Move, helped celebrate FOTM’s partners that help ﬁght food insecurity along with them. FOTM focuses on food distribution, educational programs, workforce development, health assessments and innovative solutions. Taking place at OKPOP on Nov. 11, 430 guests attended the organization’s inaugural gala, which featured performances by Full Flava Kings/Black Wall Street Collective and cuisine from PartyServe. 1. From left, Zac Hanson, Kate Hanson, Taylor Hanson, founder of Food on the Move, Natalie Hanson, Isaac Hanson and Nikki Hanson posing for a photo before the after-party hosted by Taylor 24 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

5 Hanson. 2. Taylor Hanson; Marissa Jeffery, recreation coordinator of Tulsa Parks; Nicole Brannon, park manager for the City of Tulsa; Kevin Harper, CEO and president of FOTM; and Kacy Termini, morning DJ for 106.9 FM. 3. Attendees Darlee Chaloupek and Kaci Skidgel 4. From left, attendees Jamie Taylor, Marlow Perkins Sipes, Bobby Darby, Karen Darby and Kim Pool pose for a photo at the GRAMMY-themed event. 5. Taylor Hanson and DJ Ed play some music to a packed crowd at the after-party.

ART PARTY: GREG BOLLINGER; MOVERS AND SHAKERS: TOM GILBERT

CITY DESK

BENEFITS

LEFTOVER LAST WALTZ Five hundred guests gathered Nov. 19 at the historic Cain’s Ballroom for an evening of live music and a festive feast catered by Mac’s Barbecue, all in support of the Foundation for Tulsa Schools. Featuring musical stylings from Paul Benjaman, John Fullbright, Sarah Frick, members of the King Cabbage Brass Band and many more, the event helped continue the grand tradition that was started in 2014 by Matthew Schultz, beneﬁting a

different charitable organization each year. This year’s event was organized by Greg Bollinger. 1. The musicians played excerpts from the soundtrack of the 1978 documentary, “The Last Waltz, “ which featured the musical act The Band. 2. Paul Benjaman, center left, and Sarah Frick, center right, cover the classics from the film’s soundtrack. 3. Ryan Hatcher of King Cabbage Brass Band performs

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TulsaPeople.com 25

2024

Charitable Events Calendar Published in association with the Tulsa Community Foundation C OM P I L E D BY M A D I S ON WA LT E R S

January

February

8 Modus Monday: Sponsor a Ride modustulsa.org

3 The Big Show Off thebigshowoff.org

11-12 Beyond Awareness Educational Summit thedemandproject.org 12-14 Dream Meet aimhighgym.org/dream-meet 19 Trivia Night casciahall.com/trivia 22 Eat, Drink and Be Giving tulsacenter.org/event/ edbgduet 24 Designer’s Choice tulsagardenclub.org 27 Toyland Ball toylandball.org Trivia Night bishopkelley.org

26 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

4 Dinner with Pat Gordon tulsabotanic.org/ botanic-events 9 Big Casino Night bbbsok.org 10 Bringing Broadway Home craftproductions.org/ fundraisers CASA Casino tulsacasa.org Cooking Up Compassion cceok.org 10-11 Galentine’s Tea Party jltulsa.org 15 Lived United Awards tauw.org 17 Ancient Trail Trek facebook.com/ keystoneancientforest

Pink Stiletto komenoklahoma.org Sowing Seeds for our Future educationforscholars.org/ events 20 Bingo Night bridgestulsa.org/ bingonight2024 24 Riverfield Rocks the Cain’s riverfield.org Splash! okaquarium.org TBH Junior Women’s Association Buttercup Bash tulsaboyshome.org/ buttercup-bash 27 BEERthoven signaturesymphony.org/ beerthoven 29 TBH Women’s Association Bingo Night tulsaboyshome.org/ bingo-night

March 2 Brainiac Ball brainiacball.com Sapphire Celebration riverfield.org/give/ sapphire-celebration

21-April 22 Tulsa Botanic BLOOM tulsabotanic.org 23 Raising Hope Blue Tie Gala thedemandproject.org 28 Pinnacle Awards ywcatulsa.org

5 William Booth Society Gala salvationarmyaok.org

30 Opera Ball tulsaopera.com/operaball

8 Street Party streetpartytulsa.com

TBD Legacy Luncheon lindseyhouse.org

9 Candy Ball Havana Nights candyball.org

April

Dance of the Two Moons: Mardi Gras ihcrc2moons.org 16 Red Ribbon Gala redribbongala.org Runway Run tulsamuseum.org St. Patrick’s Day Run sook.org

4 Back Roads Bash bridgestulsa.org Global Vision Gala tulsaglobalalliance.org Mentorship Matters jltulsa.org Oysters and Ale hospiceofgreencountry.org/ oystersandale

CONTINUED ON P. 28

CONTINUED FROM P. 26

The Spring Gala thespringok.org TBH Women’s Association Spring Luncheon tulsaboyshome.org 5 Celebrate Cascia casciahall.com

12-13 SpringFest tulsagardencenter.org

Oklahoma Nonprofit Excellence (ONE) Awards okcnp.org

Walk MS Tulsa events.nationalmssociety. org

13 Icons and Idols: Legends of Pop iconsandidols.org

ZooRun tulsazoo.org

29 Wish Upon a Par Golf Tournament wish.org/oklahoma

Mini-Laps littlelighthouse.org

25 Raise the Roof tinyurl.com/raisetheroof24

St. Jude Dream Home Tickets on Sale stjude.org

Pranks and Paws: Trivia Night tulsaspca.org

25-May 19 Designer Showcase tulsahba.com

5-7 Art in Bloom philbrook.org

Wafﬂes for Wishes — A Celebration Lunch and Silent Auction wish.org/oklahoma

25-27 Philbrook Wine Experience philbrook.org

6 Carnivale: Neon Symphony bestpartyintown.org

16 Aquarium Run okaquarium.org

26 Taste of Tulsa bbbsok.org

GLOW Gala global-gardens.org

19 The Bubbly Bash rmhctulsa.org

Hall of Fame willrogersfoundation.net

Grandslam Gala youthatheart.org/gala

Showing for Tulsa! tulsagardenclub.org

VOLUTE voaok.org/volute

Spring Sip and Stroll tulsabotanic.org

Women of the Year Luncheon tulsapanhellenic.org/ 2024-women-of-the-year

11 ARTrageous foundationfortulsaschools. org Glamp Fire tulsacampfire.org 12 The Monarch Ball themonarchball.com 28 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

20 Bishop Kelley Auction bishopkelley.org Go Girl Gala gogirlgala.org Heart Walk Tulsa heart.org

Tulsa Play for JA Outerspace Bowl oklahoma.ja.org 27 Hunger in your Backyard Gala hungerinyourbackyard.com Llamapalooza riverfield.org Mad Scientist Ball discoverylab.org Overture Gala signaturesymphony.org/ overture Shoot for The Center tulsacenter.org

TBD Breakfast with the Bunny tulsazoo.org Founders Dinner irongatetulsa.org Party for the Planet tulsazoo.org Spring Fundraiser owassohelps.org

May 1 Newsmakers awctulsa.org 3 Second Chance Prom yst2ndchanceprom.com Sip for Sight Gala vizavance.org 4 Brewed for Gilcrease gilcrease.org Illuminating Hope: Memory Gala 2024 memorygala.org Kaleidoscope. Colorful Minds. Bright Futures. unionfoundation.org

Garden Party littlelighthouse.org Run for the Roses tulsaboyshome.org Superhero Challenge cansuperherochallenge.org 7 Appetite for Construction tulsahba.com 10 Patron Recognition Event tulsagardenclub.org 11 Garden Tour tulsagardenclub.org Tour de Neighbors tourdeNeighbors.com 17 Conservation on Tap tulsazoo.org 18 Garden Gala anewleaf.org 18-June 22 St. Jude Dream House Open House stjude.org 19 Lager Land Festival philbrook.org 30-31 Annual Symposium jhfcenter.org

CONTINUED ON P. 30

NOT SURE HOW TO HELP THE HOMELESS? If you walk or drive past people on the street who need assistance, you can rest assured that there are dozens of organizations in Tulsa who have oneon-one relationships with the chronically homeless. While giving money directly to individuals can be problematic, your gift to the Tulsa Day Center is fully tax-deductible and will go directly to providing shelter, medical care and rapid re-housing assistance to those at risk of homelessness.

Since January 2023, the Day Center has helped:

416 1,932 22,346

people avoid homelessness through prevention services people who visited the clinic, preventing 322 ER visits people who needed an overnight shelter to stay off the streets

Start 2024 with a donation to the Tulsa Day Center by scanning the QR code or by going to tulsadaycenter.org/donate.

CONTINUED FROM P. 28

31 The Party: Just Wear White thepartyok.com 31-June 6 Just for Kids Festival okmmusic.org TBD Great Plains Journalism Awards tulsapressclub.org Madam President lwvmadampresident.com

June 1 Every Moment Counts Walk and Run clarehouse.org Inspire: A Night of Entertainment nighttoinspire.org 2-8 National Garden Week tulsagardenclub.org 6 Through the Looking Glass: Reﬂecting a Decade at Reading Partners readingpartners.org 7-9 OKM Music Festival okmmusic.org 14 Celebrate LIFE and All That Jazz events.readysetauction.com 21 Links to Independence abilityresources.org 30 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

23 St. Jude Dream House Winner Announcement stjude.org

July 1-31 Sharklahoma okaquarium.org 19 Giveback Golf Classic es. owassohelps.org 23 Bowl for Kids’ Sake give.bigoklahoma.org TBD Knock Out Violence dvis.org/kov

August 2 Summer Arts Festival tulsaboyshome.org 3 Shining the Light braininjuryrecovery foundation.org 9 Pickleball Smash Classic hospiceofgreencountry.org Ringmasters Golf and Gala tulsastatefair.com 24 Maker Faire Tulsa tulsa.makerfaire.com

27 Frank Rhoades Golf Classic tulsaboyshome.org 31-Sept. 2 Lemon-Aid thelemonaidproject.org TBD Bingo Bash tulsaspca.org

September 5 Vision Dinner tccfoundation.org 6-15 Restaurant Week okfoodbank.org 12 Flight Night tulsaﬂightnight.org Western Days saintsimeons.org 13 Day of Caring tauw.org WALTZ on the Wild Side waltzonthewildside.org 14 Rock Paper Scissors thepencilbox.org/rps 19-Oct. 31 Autumn in the Botanic Garden tulsabotanic.org 21 Race for the Cure komenoklahoma.org

Stacked Deck resonancetulsa.org Street Party stjohnstreetparty.com Walk to End Alzheimer’s tulsawalk.org 21-22 Home Remodeling Showcase tulshba.com 26 Cooking for a Cause irongatetulsa.org

5 Tulsa Dog Run tulsadogrun.com 7 Pro.Am Golf Tournament rmhctulsa.org Tulsa Hall of Fame tulsahistory.org/hof 11 Hues For HOPE huesforhope.org

27 Divas 4 H.O.P.E. hopetesting.org

12 Annual Charity Gala goodsamaritanhealth.org

Wine and Roses tulsagardencenter.org

Moonstruck clarehouse.org

TBD The Center Experience tulsacenter.org

18-20, 25-27 HallowZOOeen tulsazoo.org

Community Conversation Series clarehouse.org RAD Gala usabmxfoundation.org

18, 19, 25, 26, 31 Hallowmarine okaquarium.org 24 Boos and Booze tulsahba.com

St. Jude Walk/Run fundraising.stjude.org

25-Nov. 3 Care Card carecardok.com

October

TBD Mutt Strut dvis.org

1-Dec. 8 Toys for Tots toysfortots.org

CONTINUED ON P. 32

Save the Date

SAINT SIMEON’S FOUNDATION PRESENTS

ESTERN

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 12, 2024

CONTINUED FROM P. 30

Optimism Walk apdaparkinson.org

8 Dream Gala tulsagirlshome.org/gala

25-Dec. 13 Gifts of Hope yst.org

Porch Party lindseyhouse.org

9 Boomtown Awards typros.org

29-Dec. 30 Botanic Garden of Lights tulsabotanic.org

19-21 Stories of Light 2024 wish.org/oklahoma

TBD Art Party tulsagirlsartschool.org

Restore Hope Golf Tournament restorehope.org Taste of Brookside yst.org/taste-of-brookside

November 5 Tulsa AWARE Luncheon awareok.org 7 House Party rmhctulsa.org

21 Barbecue, Beer and Cigars tulsaboyshome.org Books, Brews and BBQ readingpartners.org Dinner of Reconciliation jhfcenter.org

Bloomingdeals jltulsa.org Gold Medal Night aimhighgym.org Movers and Shakers moversandshakersok. weebly.com Philbrook Festival philbrook.org

December 3 Visions Awards okcnp.org 6 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award tulsalibrary.org 7 Art in the Park artstulsa.org TBD ABATE Toy Run abateoftulsa.com Women’s Auxiliary Fashion Show and Silent Auction salvationarmyaok.org

Bunco for a Cause baileyeducationfoundation. com Carols and Crumpets facebook.com/tulsaherb Gifts of Hope Luncheon tulsaboyshome.org Holiday Mart tulsacenter.org Jingle Bell Run jbr.org/tulsa

LEARN MORE

STAY UP TO DATE

32 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Join us for a brain-busting trivia event at Cox Business Convention Center featuring cocktails, dinner, dancing and more.

PRESENTED BY CYCLONIC VALVE COMPANY 918.600.3843 | brainiacball@fcsok.org | brainiacball.com

JOIN TULSAPEOPLE AND IRON GATE FOR OUR ANNUAL

Cooking for a cause The Tastiest Way to Help Feed the Hungry Cooking for a Cause features tasting menus prepared by outstanding Tulsa Chefs, plus more ways to help feed the hungry.

Thursday, September 26, 2024 THe Vista at 21 - 6pm Tickets: $150 per person Sponsorship Opportunities Available 918.879.1702 www.irongatetulsa.org To reserve today, contact Carissa at cgutierrez@irongatetulsa.org

TulsaPeople.com 33

Young person visits a Safe Place location at QuikTrip

Modus Volunteer picks up client at Youth Services of Tulsa

Reading Partners volunteer tutors elementary student

Friday, May 3 | Cain‘s Ballroom

Join us at the inaugural YST 2nd Chance Prom benefiting at-risk and homeless youth

AN EVENT FOR EVERYONE 21+ EVENT

ZOORUN | APRIL 20, 2024

CONSERVATION ON TAP | MAY 17, 2024 21+ EVENT

WALTZ ON THE WILD SIDE | SEPTEMBER 13, 2024

HALLOWZOOEEN | OCTOBER 2024

VI SIT T U L S A ZOO.O RG / E V E NT S 38 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

MAKE MUSIC WITH US

PARIS A N

T H E

E V E N I N G

V O L U T E

I N

E X P E R I E N C E

F R I D AY, A P R I L 1 9 , 2 0 2 4 6:00 PM

NOVEMBER 1ST, 2024

THE MAYO HOTEL

Sponsorship or questions contact Regan Leake, Development Director reganl@foodonthemoveok.com

40 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

COX B U S I N E SS CO N V E N T I O N C E N T E R LEGACY HALL VA L E T P A R K I N G For event and sponsorship information, please go to www.voaok.org or call Susan Kenny at 918-307-3021.

SAVE THE DATE

SAV E

THE

DATE

April 27, 2024 • River Spirit Casino Resort

We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, September 5, 2024

J O I N US

SAT URDAY M AY 4 , 20 24

2 - 5 P. M .

222 N . D ETR OI T AV E .

13 LOCAL BR EWER IES JUSTIN TH OMPSON CATER ING F o r ti c kets and m o r e i nfo , s can the Q R co d e o r g o to b i t. l y /B f G 20 24

42 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

COMING IN FEBRUARY Beginning February 1st, TulsaPeople readers will be invited to nominate their favorite Tulsa businesses to the 2024 A-LIST in these five areas: DINE LOCAL • FUN FOR ALL • SERVICES • HEAD TO TOE • SHOP LOCAL

NOMINATIONS ROUND: February 1-18 A-LIST VOTING ROUND: APRIL 1-14 A-LIST ISSUE: JUNE

For information about A-LIST Nominations Round digital packages, please contact adservices@langdonpublishing.com by January 19th.

NEW YEAR NEW CONNECTIONS Make a resolution to give back and build meaningful connections.

A B OUT TOWN • A-LIST FOOD + DRINK • CALENDAR L IF ES T Y L E • D IR EC TO R IES & M O R E !

Join us in creating a positive impact.

FI N D M O R E O F TU L S A PEO PLE AT

www.mealsonwheelstulsa.org TulsaPeople.com 43

Venue & Catering Guide 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 2024 Venue Guide, Catering Guide and other informative directories.

LUDGER’S CATERING & EVENTS 1628 S. Main St. (918) 744-9988 ludgerscatering.com Catering Capacity: 20 person minimum with no max Additional information: Drop-off to full-service catering, service staff, bartenders, cash bars, linens, centerpieces and floorplan design.

RIBCRIB 9 Tulsa Metro Locations 918-712-7427 ribcrib.com/catering Catering Capacity: 5-5,000+ Additional Information: Slow-smoked BBQ and plenty of it. All packages are buffet style and include setup. Free delivery on all caters over $100.

SOCIETY 3 Tulsa Metro Locations 918-712-7427 societyburger.com/catering Catering Capacity: 5-250* Additional Information: Burgers, salads, and pasta. All packages are buffet style and include setup. Free delivery on all caters over $100. *We can customize larger caters with notice. 44 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

JUSTIN THOMPSON CATERING 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.

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.

VENUES & CATERING 108 CONTEMPORARY

ANDY’S BOWL SOCIAL TULSA

108 E. Reconciliation Way, Tulsa OK 74103 (918) 895-6302 • 108contemporary.org Event rental contact: laurel@108contemporary.org Capacity: Standing capacity for 100 people

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

GAST EVENT CENTER

GATHERING PLACE

GLASS CHAPEL WEST Modern & luxurious

HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO TULSA

LAFORTUNE STUDIO AT THE TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

LIVING ARTS OF TULSA

110 E 2nd St. • 918-596-7111 tulsapac.com/lafortune-studio Event Rental Contact: tfaith@tulsapac.com Capacity: 200 Available for rehearsal dinners, receptions, and parties.

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

LOWDOWN

MARRIOTT TULSA HOTEL SOUTHERN HILLS

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

1902 E. 71st Street (918) 493-7000 Marriott.com/TULSE Event rental contact: sales@tmsh.net Capacity: 1441

MARGARITAVILLE TULSA

MEADOW LAKE RANCH

MOTHER ROAD MARKET

ONEOK FIELD - HOME OF THE TULSA DRILLERS

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

12361 S 49th W Ave, Sapulpa, OK 74066 glasschapelwest.com • (918) 346-9094 Event rental contact: glasschapelwest.com Capacity: 200

8330 Riverside Parkway, Suite A (918) 995-8080 margaritavilletulsa.com Event rental contact: kristalw@margaritaville.com Capacity: 30-800

1124 S. Lewis Ave., Tulsa, OK 74104 motherroadmarket.com Event rental contact: events@motherroadmarket.com Capacity: Mother Road Market has dedicated space for intimate small gatherings to large festive parties.

RUFFIN EVENT CENTER

1950 E 71st Street (918) 523-3580 | ruffineventcenter.com Event Rental Contact: recinfo@tmsh.net Capacity: 60,000 sq ft.

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

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

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

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+

STATION 13

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

TULSA ZOO

6421 East 36th Street North (918) 669-6605 • tulsazoo.org Event rental contact: Nicolas Stolusky, Amy Watson Capacity: 160 indoor; 4,000 outdoor TulsaPeople.com 45

modern & luxurious www.glasschapelwest.com

46 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Jennifer Jezek also serves on the Broken Arrow Economic Development Corp. board of directors as a past chair.

48 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Jennifer Jezek Vice president/Oklahoma division manager for VSC Fire and Security, and the 2024 Tulsa Regional Chamber chair BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ

ennifer Jezek’s office is freshly painted and there is new signage hanging throughout the building. It has been a year of significant change for Jezek and her company, York Electronic Systems, which was founded in 1984 by her parents, Steve and Judi York, and bought in 2012 by Jezek. The company was acquired last summer by VSC Fire and Security, which specializes in fi re suppression and detection systems, fi re sprinklers, alarms and security systems. Jezek (Cherokee) is now the vice president/Oklahoma division manager and is excited about the new opportunities being a part of the VSC family will provide. In addition to the recent changes in her career, she brings that same enthusiasm to her new role as the chair for the Tulsa Regional Chamber.

MICHELLE POLLARD

AS CHAIR OF THE TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER, WHAT IS YOUR PRIMARY FOCUS FOR 2024? There are so many exciting things that are happening at the Chamber right now — with tourism, economic development, education, tribal relations — I want to build off that momentum from my predecessor as we continue to advance our city and region. I think our biggest asset is our quality of life. It separates Tulsa from other places — and we need to continue to tell that story. WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE AT THE CHAMBER MEAN TO YOU PERSONALLY? I have been involved with the Chamber for over 10 years in various capacities, from chairing resource development, government relations, education and community development, just to name a few. The Chamber has provided me with many amazing opportunities I wouldn’t have been afforded otherwise. As my dad

always says, “You get out of it what you put into it,” and this is my chance to use what I have learned from my experience to give back. I am grateful for this opportunity. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES FOR THE CHAMBER IN THE COMING YEAR(S)? Making sure we are aligning our community assets and not duplicating efforts. It’s very easy for people, organizations and companies to operate within their own silos. We need to work together to break down those silos, take the next steps to collaborate and bring forces together. I look forward to bringing people together for the greater good. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU ARE EXCITED ABOUT FOR 2024? I am thrilled to be a part of the inaugural State of the Tribal Nations this coming April. As a Cherokee Nation citizen, I am delighted to see the Chamber taking the initiative to recognize the significant contributions the tribes make for our community. I look forward to working with all the tribal organizations and fostering connections for continued economic growth. I also am excited to be a part of the team helping with economic development opportunities and site selection visits for our region — being a part of the momentum, contributing to our bright future, meeting new people. I look forward to all of it! TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR CAREER WITH YORK AND THE DECISION TO CHANGE TO VSC. My parents started York Electronic Systems in 1984 in our house on Newport Avenue. I started working there while I was in high school until I graduated from college. I left for a few years to work at other places, but I

came back to York and ended up buying the company when my parents retired in 2012. In 2022, we had an opportunity to partner with VSC Fire and Security, a 65-year-old family-run company. We had similar goals, cultural values, and it was just a good fit. I am still extremely involved with the day-today operations of our business — protecting people and property is our mission, and I still love it after all these years. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? In 2022, I was honored to be appointed to Board of Regents for Tulsa Community College. TCC is a special place to me. I had such great engagement with my professors and for someone who hated school, I ended up loving college. The Tulsa Achieves program is a treasure for our community and provides numerous opportunities for so many students. I am thrilled to be able to give back to a place that gave me so much. I don’t have much free time in 2024! I have a new grandbaby arriving any day now, a daughter who just graduated from college, and a daughter graduating high school in May. On top of that she is also in competitive dance, so I spend a lot of weekends on the road going to her competitions. However, I do like to play golf. Maybe in 2025 I can make it back to the golf course. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT TULSA? The community spirit. I don’t think you find this sense of community and belonging just anywhere. I love the fact that no matter where you go, you will see someone you know. I also love the six degrees of separation that exists in almost every conversation you have. Tulsa is truly a special place and I’m proud to call it my home. tp TulsaPeople.com 49

Lives Well Lived We honor here significant Tulsans who died this past year. They worked in business, entertainment, arts, medicine, athletics, education, news and religion. They were social activists, nature conservationists, patriots, historians, trailblazers and philanthropists. They were devoted to their families. They built wealth, they volunteered and they baked cookies. They made the Tulsa community a better place.

James Edwin “Jim” Barnes

Richard C. “Dick” Carson Jr.

MARCH 2, 1934-OCT. 23, 2023 Tall, handsome, mustached and charming, the epitome of an accomplished businessman (MAPCO Inc.), avid outdoorsman and active civic leader (Tulsa Area United Way, Tulsa Regional Chamber). Supported arts (Tulsa Opera, Philbrook Museum of Art) and education (Oklahoma State University Board of Regents, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education). Named among “Corporate America’s Most Powerful People” by Forbes Magazine in 1992.

NOV. 11, 1942-DEC. 2, 2022 Th ird-generation Tulsa impresario and box office expert involved in more than 7,500 public event and performances, from concerts to rodeos. Carson Attractions brought stage entertainment to Tulsa audiences, supervised ticket sales for Elvis Presley concerts, presented the Harlem Globetrotters across the country and managed ticketing for the Tulsa State Fair. He introduced computerized ticketing to Tulsa entertainment and athletic facilities.

“Jim was a well-respected business leader in Tulsa. His performance leading MAPCO was very effective. He was also an active and dedicated leader in the Tulsa community with his wife, Mary. His legacy will continue through their foundation.” — Ramez Hakim, retired partner, Deloitte and Touche LLP

“Dick Carson took over the family-owned business in 1965, presented and sold tickets for Elvis Presley, James Brown, Broadway shows, the Ringling Brothers Circus and other popular shows, then sold tickets for Tulsa venues. Under Dick’s management, Carson Attractions handled millions and millions of dollars with never so much as a penny missing.” — John E. Scott, retired director, Tulsa Performing Arts Center

50 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Casey Cooper

JAN. 20, 1942-NOV. 12, 2023 Deeply dedicated to his community as a member of nonprofit boards spanning diverse interests — including chair of the Mervin Bovaird Foundation — he was inherently focused on helping Tulsa and the people who live here. A lawyer for 50 years, he began his career in the Navy’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps. “Casey Cooper was a leader within a vanishing breed of lawyers. A committed and exceptional advocate, he embodied civility and treated all with respect, including staff and opponents. Casey knew it was an honor and a privilege to be a lawyer, a partner in a law ﬁrm and a community leader. He also recognized the duty arising from those roles. We need more lawyer-leaders like him and will greatly miss him.” — Graydon D. Luthey Jr., shareholder, GableGotwals

BARNES: OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME ARCHIVES; CARSON: COURTESY VOICESOFOKLAHOMA.COM; COOPER: COURTESY GABLEGOTWALS

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Phil Dessauer Jr.

DESSAUER, DILLARD: TULSAPEOPLE ARCHIVE; DETRICK: COURTESY NINDE FUNERAL AND CREMATION; DICK: COURTESY TULSA COUNTY; DORNBLASER: COURTESY; VAN ELLIS: TIM LANDES

AUG. 25, 1948-MAY 31, 2023 Longtime executive director of Community Service Council of Tulsa whose cutting-edge thinking addressed social issues in the community he loved through spin-off agencies: Domestic Violence Intervention Services, Tulsa Day Center, Child Abuse Network, A Way Home for Tulsa (a coalition of agencies to end veteran and chronic homelessness) and more. Former educator and administrator of Tulsa’s first alternative school, he was committed to support services for youth. “As a community visionary and diplomat, Phil tirelessly brought diverse leaders and advocates together to activate data-driven health and human service investments founded on the premise that every person is valued. He helped build veteran, Hispanic, and maternal and child health coalitions, and so much more.” — Laura Dempsey, former senior planner and director, Tulsa Area Alliance for Disabilities

Herschel Sheldon “Shel” Detrick

MAY 18, 1936-OCT. 12, 2023 A real estate broker who famously said, “I’m not in the real estate business, I am in the people business.” That attitude quickly propelled him from real estate salesman to owner of Detrick, Realtors — which was once the largest real estate company in Tulsa. Dedicated OSU alumnus instrumental in commissioning the campus’s life-size “Spirit Rider” bronze statue symbolizing the university’s Western heritage. “Sheldon Detrick was wonderfully successful as a residential real estate broker/owner and salesperson in Tulsa. He possessed tons of energy. Shel was so knowledgeable about homes and neighborhoods in our city … knowledge gained from a career that began in 1960 in Tulsa. I truly enjoyed every conversation with Shel … and learned much from him. Shel Detrick had a good heart, was a wonderful family man, and achieved great success.” — Peter Walter, Walter and Associates

Robert N. “Bob” Dick

SEPT. 21, 1939-SEPT. 26, 2023 A legend in Tulsa public service who initiated groundbreaking community service programs. After Navy service he joined the Tulsa Police Department and earned a law degree from The University of Tulsa. He made his name in law enforcement as chief of police and Tulsa Police and Fire commissioner, reshaped the city when elected Tulsa County commissioner and was instrumental in securing the BOK Center, a new Tulsa County jail, and a modernized Expo Square. “He was committed to the safety of the general public and opted to dedicate his life through his police work for that purpose. He served both in an elected capacity and as an appointed one with dignity and honor.” — Robert “Bob” LaFortune, former Tulsa mayor

Hughes Van Ellis

Ernestine Dillard

AUG. 23, 1941-FEB. 16, 2023 Spectacularly talented gospel singer of operatic grandeur, widely known as “the voice who helped heal a nation” for her electrifying rendition of “God Bless America,” which closed the April 23, 1995, Oklahoma City Memorial Service honoring the victims of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing. The self-trained singer left a 33-year career as a registered nurse to tour the world singing full time. “I knew her from the Jazz Hall of Fame and her singing at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. Her voice still rings in my ear. That memory will never die. She sang the soul of the melody.” — Rebecca Marks Jimerson, community arts advocate

John Douglas Dornblaser

DEC. 23, 1951-JULY 1, 2023 Everybody was better for knowing him. Embraced his work as Senior Star senior vice president as an opportunity to make a difference in an important industry. Valued his volunteer work including American Heart Association and Alzheimer’s Association, chaired Dementia Friendly Tulsa and instrumental in First Baptist Church’s Memory Cafe. “John’s zest for life was happily seen in his annual excursions to take a part in the nation’s tradition-ﬁlled MLB spring training. Just as he loved seeing new young players’ careers begin to blossom, John also took a keen interest in mentoring aspiring young people new to business, creating lifetime bonds. (There was) no one more kind or thoughtful.” — Bill Thomas, Senior Star co-owner

JAN. 11, 1921-OCT. 9, 2023 The survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre was just months old when he and his family escaped the violent destruction of Greenwood. He served in an all-Black combat unit in World War II, was a mechanic at what is now Tinker Air Force Base and spent his latter years seeking justice and reparations. “It isn’t a footnote in a history book for us,” he testified to Congress in 2021. “Affectionately known as ‘Uncle Redd,’ he was an international treasure, a staunch justice advocate for Greenwood and a community pillar. He inspired all who came in contact with him, offering words of wisdom and hope for a uniﬁed America. His motto was, ‘WE ARE ONE.’ We will continue to work in his honor to make his words ring true.” — Tiffany Crutcher, executive director, Terence Crutcher Foundation TulsaPeople.com 51

“George was a great college pitcher at OU and was almost unhittable, which is why he made it to the big leagues. After his retirement and while living in Tulsa, he helped many young players by giving them pitching lessons. And when he owned his sporting goods store, he wouldn’t charge a kid for needed equipment if the boy or girl didn’t have the money to buy it. He would say, ‘If you want to play sports, I’m going to help you.” — Bob Shirley, former college and MLB teammate with St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees

Nicholas Vincent “Zeke” Guagliardo

JAN. 9, 1925-AUG. 8, 2023 The last-known surviving WWII submarine veteran in Oklahoma, joined the Navy at age 17 and served on the USS Mackerel and USS Loggerhead. Graduate of Spartan School of Aeronautics and Technology, lifelong employee of American Airlines, founding member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church. In retirement, he was active with Muskogee War Memorial Park, home of USS Batfish submarine. “Until the day he passed, he had nothing but good wishes for our submarine. He was always the No. 1 man on our list. He came here as much as he possibly could. I think he would have cut off his right arm if he thought the submarine could have used it.” — James Erb, curator, Muskogee War Memorial Park

William Adrian Hamill, O.S.A

FEB. 7, 1937-MAY 2, 2023 Augustine priest, mathematics teacher, football coach and administrator at Cascia Hall Preparatory School, worked as an IBM analyst on the NASA Apollo Program in Houston, taught at TU. Held B.S. and M.S. degrees in mathematics, and a Ph.D. in computer science. In 2014, The New York Times photographed him center court at Chesapeake Energy Arena giving the invocation before an Oklahoma City Thunder game against the New York Knicks. “Although never formally assigned to Resurrection, he served as a regular priest celebrant from the early days of the parish when it met at Memorial High School and before it owned its own building (from 1968 to present) … celebrated a Mass or two a weekend and was known for his intelligent and timely homilies.” — Fr. Michael Knipe, J.C.D., pastor, Church of the Resurrection

Thomas Jefferson Hughes

Helen Jo Hardwick

JULY 8, 1939-FEB. 19, 2023 Iconic public relations/marketing director of Resonance Center for Women honored with a slew of awards: Women in Communications’ Saidie Award winner for lifetime achievement, Tulsa Women’s Foundation Pinnacle Award and TU Distinguished Alumna Award. Active in numerous nonprofits and a stellar baker known as the Cookie Lady, she dispensed cookies like fairy dust. “The most diplomatic person I’ve known with the ability to be completely honest. I don’t know anybody who didn’t like Helen Jo. I learned from her. She could work with everybody. Good at marketing, funny, personable and persuasive. Sometimes people would say, ‘I’m only doing this so I can get Helen Jo’s banana bread.’” — Penny Painter, former executive director, Resonance 52 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

MAY 10, 1933-OCT. 18, 2023 After college and the U.S. Marines Corps, joined Hughes Lumber Co., a family business begun in 1901 as a hardware store in Indian Territory. Known for his love of family, business and community, he served on boards of the BOK Financial Corp. and Bank of Oklahoma, Tulsa Regional Chamber, Holland Hall and First Presbyterian Church. “When I moved to Tulsa 18 years ago, Tom was one of the ﬁrst former Chamber chairs I met. He was always super engaged and continued to offer sound advice to Chamber leadership right up until his passing. He was an exceptional and dedicated business leader, an outstanding family man, and a gentleman who was devoted to his church and his country.” — Mike Neal, president and CEO, Tulsa Regional Chamber

Michael P. Johnson

JUNE 21, 1947-JULY 12, 2023 Dedicated to a life of impact, faith and leadership values, he set the standard as an exemplary human resources professional. Williams senior vice president and chief administrative officer, chairman of Williams Foundation, board chair of Foundation for Public Schools and trustee of OSU-Tulsa. Honored by Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, Boy Scouts of America and 100 Black Men of Tulsa. “Michael will always be remembered as a visionary business leader at Williams, and as a passionate champion for diversity, equity and inclusion. We will also remember him as a wise advisor, trusted friend and committed community leader who touched countless lives. His contributions to Tulsa are legendary, leaving us with deep gratitude and inspiring us to keep his legacy alive.” — Nancy Day, former executive director, Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice

FRAZIER: TULSAPEOPLE ARCHIVE; GUAGLIARDO, HUGHES: MICHELLE POLLARD; HAMILL: COURTESY CASCIA HALL; HARDWICK: COURTESY RESONANCE CENTER FOR WOMEN; JOHNSON: TULSA HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM

George Frazier

OCT. 13, 1954- JUNE 19, 2023 The New York Yankees held a moment of silence in memory of the former Major League Baseball player (10 seasons for five clubs including two World Series). A talented pitcher famous for his powerful fastball and popular television color analyst (nearly three decades) for the Colorado Rockies known for his “witty, insightful and uniquely entertaining perspective of the game.” He coached and mentored young players.

JONES JR.: HARVEY PAYNE, COURTESY THE NATURE CONSERVANCY; KIRCHNER: COURTESY OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME ARCHIVES; LANGENKAMP: COURTESY; MAUERMAN: COURTESY THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA; MCDONALD: MICHELLE POLLARD; METEVELIS: TULSAPEOPLE ARCHIVE

Jenkin Lloyd “Jenk” Jones Jr.

JUNE 24, 1936-AUG. 23, 2023 Dyed-in-the-wool newspaperman (third-generation) and the last editor and publisher of the Tulsa Tribune who said, “We put out a hell of a good paper for a long time.” He could be found in the middle of the newsroom wearing his trademark turquoise bolo tie, buzzing with indefatigable energy, encyclopedic knowledge and passion for politics, sports and travel. Loved and promoted Oklahoma landscape and history, nurtured young journalists, taught at TU and OSU. “We all loved Jenk. My favorite boss ever. And I had lots of them.” — Mike Sowell, former Tulsa Tribune sports writer, author of baseball books including “The Pitch That Killed”

George S. Mauerman, M.D.

APRIL 6, 1937-OCT. 2, 2023 Devoted longtime TU team physician, Phi Beta Kappa football scholarship graduate of Vanderbilt University, M.D. from Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, celebrated orthopedic surgeon who set the benchmark for sports medicine. Provided student-athletes with dedicated medical and moral support, established an endowed scholarship for athletic training at TU where the sports medicine center is named after him. “‘Doc’ has been synonymous with TU athletics on the benches, sidelines and training rooms, providing care for thousands of TU studentathletes for over ﬁve decades. No other universities’ student-athletes were better cared for than Golden Hurricane athletes under Dr. Mauerman, a TU icon.” — Rick Dickson, TU vice president and director of athletics

King P. Kirchner

R. Dobie Langenkamp

NOV. 18, 1927-SEPT. 19, 2023 A Perry farm boy who co-founded Unit Drilling Co. (later Unit Corp.) in 1963 with three rotary rigs and three employees and saw it grow to become one of the largest oil and gas companies in Oklahoma and a NYSE publicly traded company with a $3 billion market capitalization. Aviation was a passion. He owned hundreds of airplanes and held multiple pilot ratings. The message on his grave marker is “Gone Flying!”

AUG. 14, 1936-JAN. 21, 2023 Lawyer, Department of Energy official in two presidential administrations (Carter and Clinton), higher education teacher, writer, poet, enthusiast of life. Wrote his own obituary, as colorful as his zestful personality, with bromides of wisdom, including: “Do some good while you are here; Never confuse wealth with virtue or status with worth; Eschew pomposity; Never vote Republican.”

“King Kirchner’s entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic and knowledge of the oil and gas business made him one of the most successful Oklahoma businessmen of his generation. King loved Unit. As its founder, he never retired from actively following the company and its people.” — Phil Frohlich, Prescott Group Capital Management

“A rare breed — an intellectual ﬁrst and an oilman second. Fascinated with the world and the people in it, he was a perceptive observer of what he saw. Lawyer, oilman, professor, government administrator, Dobie was the archetype of the old-fashioned Tulsan who mastered whatever world he entered.” — Rodger Randle, former Tulsa mayor and Oklahoma Senate president pro tempore, currently director of University of Oklahoma-Tulsa Center for Studies in Democracy and Culture

Nancy Ann McDonald

JUNE 4, 1936-OCT. 24, 2023 Indomitable activist who broke barriers and built support for racial and gender equality, she was a force for change. Mother of four; Tulsa Public Schools author of “Partners in Education” promoting volunteerism in public schools; led integration at Booker T. Washington High School; founded Tulsa Chapter of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays; steady board president of Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma through the tragic camp murders in 1977. Community builder who left a request for people to bring homemade cookies to her funeral reception. “I considered Nancy my lifetime mentor. On every topic and policy issue, she offered such sage advice. Her impact on the whole community cannot be understated. She never forgot to give comfort and aid to each and every one.” — Dennis Neill, co-founder and ﬁrst president, Oklahomans for Equality

Marina Ann Metevelis

MARCH 25, 1922-JAN. 14, 2023 Tiny, energetic and irrepressible, an original Rosie the Riveter World War II female defense factory worker who built B-17 bombers. Proud of her Greek heritage, devout Eastern Orthodox Christian, Tulsa Community College archivist and librarian, honored by the Tulsa Air and Space Museum, she loved Big Band music, was swing dancing in her 80s, rarely missed a dance or lunch at the VFW. “… a legend in Tulsa because of her love for our community and her lifelong commitment to the U.S. Armed Forces. Those of us at Tulsa Community College who worked with her during her nearly 50-year career here remember her love for all people, feisty sense of humor, and many stories about her extraordinary life.” — Greg Stone, TCC associate vice president of academic and campus operations TulsaPeople.com 53

DEC. 2, 1935-JAN. 25, 2023 Philanthropist and social activist of signature compassion who modestly and fearlessly championed public housing (Tulsa Housing Authority), women’s education and health care (Planned Parenthood), quality of life (The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges), Bryn Mawr College and more. Tiny, impeccably tailored in heels and blue eye shadow, she was a William Faulkner fan, expert scuba diver, avid tennis player, Latin teacher, independent oil and gas producer, witty raconteur and George Kaiser’s older sister. “Ruth was a pillar of Tulsa philanthropy. Her giving was mission-driven, most often done very quietly. Her leadership, nonproﬁt board service and mentorship of a generation of executives were given not for recognition, but for the knowledge that during her life she had made a positive difference in her community.” — Judy Kishner, trustee, Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation

J. David Nunneley

MARCH 19, 1953-NOV. 19, 2023 A man of great moral conviction, he soared to celebrity as a charismatic preacher and gospel singer with his 6,000-member megachurch Higher Dimensions Family Church before spiraling to professional ruin by denouncing the concept of Hell. Declared a heretic by the Pentecostal church leadership that had consecrated him as bishop, he was resolute: “I know what God spoke to me.” His life was the subject of a film, a public radio program and a book.

“David created the statue of Daniela and me in ‘Romeo and Juliet’ that is now outside our main entrance. I love that he immortalized, with his work, a special moment in our lives … from a picture of us dancing to ‘Romeo and Juliet’ right after we got married. It depicts a moment in life that, if not for his artistry and dedication, would have been long forgotten. Instead, it will live for many more decades through his art.” — Marcello Angelini, artistic director, Tulsa Ballet

“He broke so many barriers with his message of unconditional love and was a beacon of hope for many people who felt they had been told that God doesn’t love them for one reason or another. His theology of universal love and acceptance resonated deeply with the members of All Souls and me and what this church stands for. It was a beautiful, courageous message.” — Marlin Lavanhar, senior minister, All Souls Unitarian Church

James Allen Rodgers, M.D.

JUNE 25, 1946-MAY 3, 2023 Versatile Tulsa music legend and educator whose father was a 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre survivor and business owner. Public schoolteacher and television producer, he opened a historical museum on Greenwood Avenue to showcase the area, but music was his soul. He toured with Ernie Fields’ Royal Entertainers and other bands and inspired young musicians with his character and work ethic.

“My father was a kind, hardworking father who loved helping others. He touched many lives through his practice of medicine, which he loved, but he also had a deep passion for music. Through our parents’ vision in 2002, we were able to restore it to one of the top live music venues in the world.” — Chad Rodgers, general manager, Doc Roc Productions and Cain’s Ballroom

“Leon Rollerson was a magician with a bass guitar. From bop to swing to R&B and every musical genre before, after, and in between. He made everyone he played with better because he was so damn good.” — John Hamill, writer and musician

Sherman Ray

MAY 5, 1921-SEPT. 24, 2023 The man who called himself “just a little Polish tailor,” survived three German concentration camps, immigrated to the United States, became Tulsa’s legendary master tailor to the city’s most prominent citizens for almost half a century, won the St. John Senior Olympics at age 85 bench pressing 195 pounds, forced into retirement by the COVID pandemic. His motto, “Never give up.” Died at the age of 102. “What stood out to me was his strength, both literally and physically. Most Holocaust survivors carry themselves in a way that makes their resilience obvious, Sherman was no exception. He gave me the ﬁrmest handshake I have ever received. He said in the years leading up to the Holocaust you could ‘feel something in the air’ — a message of listening to warning signs.” — Sofia Thornblad, director of collections and exhibits, Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art 54 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Carlton D. Pearson

MAY 20, 1936-FEB. 5, 2023 Multifaceted artist whose business interests ranged from pharmaceuticals to pizza parlors, and hobbies from fly fishing to harmonica playing. Created bronze statues for the United States, Canada and Mexico, including the mule mascot at West Point, an American bald eagle at Indian Nations Council of Boy Scouts and Sequoyah at Gilcrease Museum. He and wife, Marilyn, were lifelong supporters of Will Rogers High School.

SEPT. 1, 1951-MAY 17, 2023 Renowned neurosurgeon and co-founder of the Tulsa Spine and Specialty Hospital, a successful physician-owned hospital. Filled his surgical operating room with music, nicknamed “Doc Roc” for his love of rock ‘n’ roll. Bought and revitalized Tulsa’s legendary Cain’s Ballroom saying it was a labor of love to fi x up and maintain the historic music venue.

Leon Rollerson

NELSON: MICHELLE POLLARD; NUNNELEY, PEARSON: TULSAPEOPLE ARCHIVE; RAY: VALERIE WEI-HAAS; RODGERS: GREG BOLLINGER; ROLLERSON: COURTESY KEITH D. BIGLOW FUNERAL DIRECTORS INC.

Ruth Kaiser Nelson

James Kavin Ross

ROSS: TULSAPEOPLE ARCHIVE; SAGER: GREG BOLLIGER; SANDITEN: COURTESY; SKRZYPCZAK: COURTESY MONICA SKRZYPCZAK; STARR: COURTESY SAINT SIMEON’S SENIOR COMMUNITY; TURNBO: VALERIE WEI-HAAS

JUNE 18, 1962-MAY 8, 2023 Champion of Tulsa’s Black heritage, educator, photographer, journalist and chair of the Public Oversight Committee on a quest to find the graves of the victims of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, helping archaeologists and forensic anthropologists. For a quarter of a century, he interviewed massacre survivors in a study commissioned by the Oklahoma State Legislature. Son of former state Rep. Donald Ross. “Kavin was the center as well as the forerunner for this work. He was beloved, and we miss him very much.” — Cassia C. Carr, deputy mayor of Tulsa

Michael Edgar Charles Sager

AUG. 9, 1946- JAN. 12, 2023 He dreamed big dreams and lived big adventures: rodeo rider, restaurateur (Carmichaels), entrepreneur, beloved mentor to young professionals. A real estate developer who imagined the Blue Dome District into reality, transforming a drowsy part of downtown into vibrancy with businesses and an arts festival. He fi lled the city with his luminous personality. “My dream was to open a gift shop called Dwelling Spaces … a fun and quirky gift shop (downtown) that also sold furniture. Michael believed in me and my vision. In 10 years he never once raised my rent. He knew the retail business wasn’t the easiest biz to be in, but he saw my passion. His big spirit will always be with me.” — Mary Beth Babcock, owner, Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios on 66

Keith Raymond Skrzypczak

JAN. 19, 1955-FEB. 11, 2023 Gregarious and confident publisher and editor of Urban Tulsa, an alternative newspaper from 1991-2013. Native Tulsan who earned a hockey scholarship to Niagara University, then returned to graduate from TU. Ardent fan of music, baseball, hockey, journalism, backpacking in Europe, his family and his Roman Catholic faith. “He was a free spirit who always wanted to be his own boss, and he always thought he knew best. He’d worked for the Tulsa Tribune and advertising agencies, but starting a newspaper gave him the freedom to do what he wanted to do — highlight the bands playing in new places, review opening restaurants.” — Monica Skrzypczak, sister, Saint Francis Hospital chaplain and department of religion coordinator

Wilfred Ivan Sanditen

OCT. 20, 1928-MARCH 15, 2023 Philanthropist and investor who loved to dance and crack jokes. After college began working for OTASCO, a family business started in 1918 in Oklahoma by three Jewish Lithuanian immigrant brothers; later launched a commercial real estate business. “A dedicated patron and volunteer … he was honored at our 40th anniversary gala for his extraordinary commitment to the Jewish community and his dedicated generosity and leadership toward the museum. He was particularly proud of his and Jean’s gift of four stained glass windows in loving memory of their son, Scott.” — Tracey Herst-Woods, deputy director, Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art

Steve Turnbo

Eugene Eldee “Gene” Starr

APRIL 30, 1926-JAN. 18, 2023 Versatile architect of residences, schools and churches, his work ranged from a lavish 20,000-square-foot French chateau private home in Tulsa, to an ultra-modern residence to the traditional country English All Souls Anglican Church. An avid tennis player, he also was architect for the Tulsa Tennis Club where he was a past president. “The work of his that I most admired was his house in Forest Hills built in 1959. It fully embodied the principles of the American School of Architecture under Mr. Bruce Goff. It was designed in a crescent shape with a fully expressed structure in the interior, an open ﬂoor plan and a full glass exposure to the backyard. Gene embodied the legacy of the genteel architect — always ready to politely listen to the client’s thoughts and then execute those thoughts elegantly in three dimensions of quality and grace. — Ted A. Reeds II, AIA

SEPT. 26, 1945-NOV. 15, 2023 The TU graduate started his career as sports information director for the school and shifted to advertising and eventually public relations where he made his name. With mentor Chuck Schnake he founded Schnake Turnbo and Associates, working with executives, the media, nonprofits and municipalities to become the state’s preeminent PR fi rm. He was passionate about his work in civil rights and social justice, serving in many capacities for Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice. “Steve Turnbo genuinely loved people … and loved being around people … reasons why he was so good in the public relations profession. I admired his ability to always turn things in a positive direction. Steve did not have a negative bone in his body, he was truly a positive thinker and doer, a person who consistently found the good side. Of course, he loved Tulsa to the point others respectfully referred to him as ‘Mr. Tulsa.’ I greatly admired Steve.” — Burt Holmes, co-founder, QuikTrip TulsaPeople.com 55

“A Shelter Records musician and a Tulsa treasure who left a magical mark on The Church Studio’s heritage and graced the world with his unique blend of rock and pop, making our city proud. His timeless melodies and emotional lyrics continue to resonate, reminding us that Tulsa is a place where music legends are born, nurtured and celebrated.” — Teresa Knox, owner, The Church Studio

WE ALSO REMEMBER DAVID BERNSTEIN May 6, 1932-Aug. 17, 2023 Director and leader of Tulsa Mental Health Association, Community Service Council, Jewish Federation of Tulsa ROBERT CORR “BOB” BREITENSTEIN April 8, 1943-March 13, 2023 University of Tulsa and professional football star MARY WHEELER PREWITT BROWN March 5, 1941-Feb. 9, 2023 Active volunteer Sistema Tulsa, Tulsa Ballet, Circle of Care Ministries, Oklahoma Methodist Foundation PATRICIA ANN MCCUNE CLARK Dec. 27, 1956-Feb. 26, 2023 Former owner of The Farm Shopping Center, philanthropist, avid reader, loved animals (her cats and dogs and the visiting wildlife) JAN COBBLE July 12, 1941-Sept. 25, 2023 Dentist, avid tennis player, loved quail hunting and reading BEVERLY MCKEE RODOLF DALE March 26, 1924-Sept. 4, 2023 Trendsetter in fashion, interior design and entertaining, businesswoman, TulsaPeople home editor, Junior League of Tulsa, Philbrook, Ruskin Art Club 56 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

Patricia Wilson Wheeler

Joseph H. “Joe” Williams

JUNE 25, 1926-JUNE 30, 2023 Petite, blonde, glamorous widow of Roger M. Wheeler, mother of five and a dynamo as her own woman in business and civic affairs. A devout member of the First Presbyterian Church, generous volunteer and donor to Tulsa arts and education organizations. A world traveler who saw the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and transversed the Old Silk Road to China.

JUNE 2, 1933-APRIL 27, 2023 Visionary energy industry leader (Williams Cos.) committed civic leader, avid conservationist on state and national levels. He loved nature and people with equal passion, generous to both with his praise and steadfast support. A Life Trustee of Yale University and a man of personal warmth and humor, he liked quail hunting, E. E. Cummings poetry and sunrises.

“She was a wonderful board member — engaged, reliable, hardworking and dedicated to our mission. A powerhouse fundraiser with a delightful personality. When she chaired the Cinderella Ball, she set a record, raising more money than any fundraising event in the Philharmonic’s history at the time. I really enjoyed working with her.” — Nancy Sies, former executive director, Tulsa Philharmonic

“Joe was the ultimate conservationist, passionate about conservation and conserving our natural resources … in Oklahoma and throughout the world. He did not want any publicity or accolades; he did it for conservation purposes only. He was especially passionate about the tallgrass prairie and that is why it is now named the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve.” — Harvey Payne, community relations coordinator, The Nature Conservancy tp

FERNÁNDE “FERN” GALINDO (BETHANY CHRISTINE SOLER) Oct. 8, 1985-Oct. 12, 2023 Compassionate and prominent organizer in Tulsa’s LGBTQ+ community, Tulsa Intersectional Care Network co-founder YIELBONZIE CHARLES JOHNSON Aug. 26, 1952-June 2, 2023 Artist, teacher, ordained Unitarian Universalist minister, founded Church of the Restoration, organized Black Artist Collaborating-Tulsa LARRY BAILEY LIPE July 11, 1951-Feb. 7, 2023 Honored propane and natural gas litigator, mentor to younger attorneys, philanthropist instrumental in Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tulsa WAYNE MCCOMBS Sept. 10, 1952-Dec. 8, 2023 Former executive director of Claremore’s J.M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum, sports historian ELIZABETH “BETSY” MCCORMICK May 29, 1963-July 7, 2023 Lawyer, academic, pioneer in immigration justice work, associate dean TU School of Law, founder Immigrant Rights Project and Tulsa Immigrant Resource Network THOMAS RICHARD MEDLOCK, M.D. June 6, 1940-March 15, 2023 Physician and nephrology specialist, started first kidney transplant program in Oklahoma at Hillcrest, continued medical practice St. John’s Medical Center until retirement

WILLIAM J. “BILL” O’MEILIA, M.D. Jan. 2, 1922-June 4, 2023 Internal medicine private practice for 60 years, served at St. John’s Medical Center and Saint Francis Hospital, founding member Church of Saint Mary WAYNE BANES RUMLEY July 13, 1934-May 19, 2023 Chemical engineer, entrepreneur, cattleman, Western art collector, director National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and Gilcrease Museum R. THOMAS “TOM” SEYMOUR July 13, 1942-May 27, 2023 Trial lawyer, Marine Corps, board president Tulsa Opera and longtime board member All Souls Unitarian Church JACK EVERETT SHORT Feb. 28, 1941-Oct. 1, 2023 Accountant, Jenks Public Schools Foundation co-founder, past Southern Hills Country Club president, arts and civic nonprofit boards MARY AGNES “MAG” BOUDREAU SULLIVAN March 2, 1938-Jan. 1, 2023 Third grade teacher, director of Madonna House, Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma GAYLE WISE Nov. 2, 1951-July 25, 2023 Caterer, legendary hostess, restaurant reviewer, owner of The Cheesecake Lady Catering Co. NANCY ADAIR MCCORMACK YOUNG Aug. 29, 1945-Feb. 25, 2023 Staple in renowned family business Bob McCormack Photography, Trinity Episcopal Church, Women’s Association of Tulsa Boys’ Home

TWILLEY: PHIL CLARKIN; WHEELER: COURTESY FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF TULSA; WILLIAMS: HARVEY PAYNE

Dwight Twilley

JUNE 6, 1951-OCT. 18, 2023 Tulsa-born pop/rock singer and songwriter known for power pop style with two Top 20 hit songs and more than two dozen albums. Inspired at age 16 by The Beatles, he and Phil Seymour began writing and performing together, went to Los Angeles at 23 and signed with Shelter Records, and was featured on American Bandstand. “I’m on Fire” in 1975 was praised as “best debut single by an American rock ‘n’ roll band ever.”

TULSAN OF THE YEAR

STANDING UP FOR STUDENTS Inside the fight to protect Tulsa Public Schools BY TIM LANDES

MICHELLE POLLARD

hen Stacey Woolley (Choctaw) approaches someone, they can learn a lot about who she is without her saying a word. There are brightly colored beaded earrings dangling inches from her denim jacket that is covered in buttons and patches with slogans like “Make our planet great again” and “Fear no love.” Once the denim jacket comes off there’s a striking blue jay feather tattoo on her left forearm. The colors are so fresh and vibrant because it’s the newest addition. This one just might mean the most and say the most about her. “It is not my ﬁrst tattoo, but it is the only tattoo I have in a place of prominence on my body as I want to be able to see it as a reminder in challenging times,” Woolley, 47, says. “Blue jays are intelligent and fearless protectors who stand their ground in the face of imminent danger. They are considered protectors of the small birds.” Since 2019 the mother of ﬁve, which includes three TPS students, has represented District 1 on Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education. Schools in her district include Wayman Tisdale Fine Arts Academy, Clinton West, Council Oak, Eugene Field and Robertson elementary schools, and Webster Middle and Webster High School. In 2021 she became president of the board — a title she continues to hold after winning re-election this past April. That was when she planned on getting the tattoo, but her work got in the way. In recent years TPS has been under attack from state politicians, political activists, special interest groups and some parents. It’s the largest and one of the most diverse public school districts in the state with 33,873 students and 78% of those being nonwhite. From the COVID-19 craziness to political pushes for book bans and a whitewashing of Oklahoma history to ongoing political attacks veiled as educational crusades that have resulted in TPS’s accreditation being threatened and its long-tenured superintendent resigning, Woolley has led the board through it all. She’s been a vocal opponent of Ryan Walters, state superintendent of public instruction, in a showdown that has continued intensifying since last spring and by all accounts will continue into the spring as the state board looks to overhaul and take control of the accreditation process.

TULSAN OF THE YEAR Stacey Woolley TulsaPeople.com 57

RAISED ON THE CHOCTAW NATION RESERVATION To really get to know Woolley, it begins with her roots. She comes from a large family spread across southeastern Oklahoma. Her mom moved around a lot, but much of that side of the family resides in Valliant. Woolley’s dad, a Choctaw Nation citizen, was from Hugo. Woolley was born in Chickasha, the

third of ﬁve children. They lived in Anadarko before settling in Durant — the Choctaw capital. “I was the middle child that always behaved as if I were the oldest,” she says. “I actually probably was the one of my siblings who looked most Native American.” Woolley spent lots of time during the ﬁrst few years of her life under the care of babysitters who went to Riverside Indian School. “I was around very Native American kids, culturally and physically,” Woolley says. Her grandfather attended a boarding school, which she believes caused her father to disconnect from his Choctaw ancestry and ways until he was in his 40s. When she was about 4 her family moved away, and it was at a Thanksgiving gathering with her mom’s side of the family when she had a revelation: when her dad wasn’t able to make it, it made her the only Brown-skinned person in the house. “I started crying. My mom asked what was wrong, and we started talking. I vocalized to her I was upset because I was the only Brown person there. And this is a 4-year-old, who knows nothing about the greater world,” Woolley says. “But just the idea that we, as 4-year-olds, internalize things like that and get upset about not feeling a place of belonging. It just reiterates to me how important it is for the kids who we serve to see people they look like in their schools, to have teachers, to have principals who look like them. We serve a very diverse group of kids. That’s just something that always I think back on.” In 1993, 83 of 1,000 Indigenous teenage girls ages 15-19 gave birth across the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Oklahoma overall, about 40 out of

A capacity crowd attends the Dec. 14 Tulsa Public Schools board of education meeting. Later that night the board voted to make Ebony Johnson the ﬁrst Black superintendent in TPS history. 58 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

1,000 teenage girls between the ages of 15-17 gave birth. It was not the optimal path for future success. At 17, Woolley became a single mom and heard the naysayers loud and clear. Her future was now supposed to include commodity cheese and day-long visits to the Indian clinic. A crying baby and a federal government dependency. She wasn’t having it. “That was hugely important on the trajectory of my life because if nothing I am stubborn, and there were many people who didn’t think I could do things because I was a single mom,” says Woolley three decades later. Woolley married and had her second child the summer before her senior year of college at Southeastern State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in communication. She next obtained a master’s in speech language pathology from University of Central Oklahoma. “I moved to Cincinnati and did everything but my dissertation toward my Ph.D. and decided I had had enough,” Woolley says. “I had two kids, I was working full time. I was working on my doctorate and realized that as a speech pathologist, a doctorate wasn’t going to open any doors other than academia. And after my experience as a student at a research school, I didn’t feel like there was any way I would have interest in working in academia.” LEADING THE SCHOOL BOARD Ask anyone who has dealt with Woolley, and they will tell you she speaks her mind and tells it like it is. She agrees with that, describing herself as “naturally outspoken.” Watching Woolley in action at a school board meeting, she doesn’t have to say anything to show what she’s thinking. Her facial expressions run the gamut from a serious inquisitive look with a raised eyebrow to a sudden explosion of laughter, often in response to a comment made by board member Jerry Griffin. It’s Nov. 14 and the board is holding a special meeting to discuss what to do about the superintendent vacancy. There are more members of the media present than there are citizens. Months earlier the room was at capacity with parents, family members, students, activists, politicians and media, as well as then Superintendent Deborah Gist — a longtime target of Gov. Kevin Stitt and Walters, who for many months was both state secretary of education and state superintendent of public instruction. On this Monday night, however, the six of seven board members in attendance match the number of those from the public in attendance to listen to their voted-in representatives talk in circles about what to do about the vacancy currently ﬁlled by interim Superintendent Ebony Johnson, who is seated to Woolley’s right. Board member E’Lena Ashley, formerly of Army military intelligence according to her bio, states she believes the interim title means Johnson has a limited scope of work she can do. Ashley is informed that as acting superintendent Johnson can do the job as if she is the contracted superintendent.

TIM LANDES; FAMILY PHOTO: COURTESY

In November, Woolley sat down and rested her forearm on a cushion as a tattoo artist dabbed a needle in blue ink and filled in the feather. “I chose to get it because it has deep meaning for me, and I believed it would help me ground myself when times are hard,” she says. “To remind me that I do hard things, not for me, but for the kids I serve — for the kids who need protecting because they are different in some way.” Woolley stands up for Tulsa, and most importantly for all of the children in our community. It started when she moved to Tulsa and became involved in her childrens’ school. Then four years ago with the voters in her district supporting her and her vision for TPS. And then again when the school board voted for Woolley to lead them through some of the most challenging times in the district’s history. She’s fighting for public education. She’s fighting for the future of our city. These are the reasons she’s our Tulsan of the Year — a badge that can be added to her jacket next to the Choctaw Nation seal and blue jay buttons. The reason she wears all of these things is easy. “I want people to know who I am and what I represent,” she says.

This is the first time any of these board members have had to fill the superintendent position. Gist, who had been in the role since July 2015, resigned on Aug. 24 amidst accreditation threats from Walters. Everyone on the board agrees a lengthy national search would be hard to do as they fight for their continued independence from state control. After a couple of hours the conversation ends, and they are mostly where they were before it started. Woolley could have been at home that night. Having three school-age children means lots of school and after-school activities. She could have still been a PTA mom, which is how she got started being involved when her middle child was in kindergarten at Zarrow. She could have been relaxing on the couch watching fellow southeastern Oklahoma gal Reba McEntire coach singers on “The Voice.” But she wasn’t; she was leading the board through another tough meeting. What drew her to the board in the first place? “I’m a believer that there are two types of people: There are people who complain and do nothing except complain, and there are people who get active and try to help. I’m the second of the two,” she says. There had been what she calls “board normalcy” for her first year of the four-year term, then suddenly it was the endless days of the COVID-19 pandemic and to mask or not to mask, distance and hybrid learning models, Zoom meetings, conspiracy theorists and on and on. As that was subsiding the board was constructing and implementing a new district strategic plan for success. It was exhausting work. Woolley is a volunteer who is paid $25 a meeting, as is everyone else on the school board. She says she devotes over 40 hours a week to it. That translates to about 63 cents-an-hour pay. It would have been easy to call it quits, but she knew she couldn’t do that. She had to file and run again in early 2023 because the truth was in the numbers.

“I SUPPORT ALL STUDENTS, WHICH MEANS I SUPPORT ALL STUDENTS FOR WHO THEY ARE. NOT SOME OF THEM OR ONLY IF THEY ARE WHO I THINK THEY SHOULD BE.” —STACEY WOOLLEY

THE MORNING AFTER It was Nov. 9, 2022, the morning after statewide elections where Walters had defeated Jena Nelson to become state superintendent. “I called one of my good friends, who is kind of a data nerd, and asked her if she could help me pull all of the voting information from all of the precincts within TPS boundaries,” Woolley says. “If Ryan Walters is what Tulsa wants, then I wasn’t going to run because I am diabolically opposed to Ryan Walters. We looked in TPS precincts and Jena crushed him. She crushed him. And I said, ‘OK, I can’t let that happen.’” On paper Woolley ran against and easily defeated Jared Buswell in April 2023 with 68% of the 2,213 votes. But to Woolley, her real opposition lay elsewhere. “I didn’t run against my opponent. I ran against Ryan Walters,” says Woolley, who also won her ﬁrst election in 2019 with 68% of votes cast, but then from only 811 people. “On the campaign trail, those were the discussions.”

Stacey and Eric Woolley with children Dace, Ryan and Reid. Not pictured are adult children Tyler and Gavin.

In her previous run it was questions about things like school names and her thoughts on Gist. “This time on the campaign trail I had people asking me all the time, ‘Will you ban books?’ ‘Will you fight against banning books?’ ‘Do you support LGBTQ students?’ ‘Do you believe in inclusivity?’ I answered them honestly,” she says. “I support all students, which means I support all students for who they are. Not some of them or only if they are who I think they should be. So that’s why I ran. I mean, how can I not?” ‘ALL HELL BROKE LOOSE’ A month after Woolley won re-election the school year was coming to an end, which means there were graduation ceremonies for board members to attend and speak to students. Ashley went off the script and said a prayer at East Central’s ceremony. Woolley received more feedback than ever before from upset parents, many religious like her, pushing for separation of church and state. She sent an email to the board telling them the importance of sticking to the script. Woolley and TPS also issued a statement about the incident that stated: The U.S. Constitution and U.S. Supreme Court rulings are clear: district officials may not lead prayer or promote religious views at school-sponsored events. By adhering to the law, we strive to uphold religious liberty and ensure that no student or family feels excluded at school events — particularly graduation, a once-in-a lifetime celebration. Our focus remains on the important work of improving academic achievement and preparing all Tulsa students for success. Walters responded in defense of Ashley and held a press conference on July 24 in front of the TPS Education Service Center, where according to radio station KWGS, he said, “At the next board meeting we have next month, we will be looking at Tulsa Public Schools’ accreditation for all their violations, fiscal mismanagement in this district, and we are going to make sure that religious liberties are protected in Tulsa Public Schools.” “That’s when all hell broke loose,” Woolley says. In the following weeks the conflict generated news coverage as if the local reporters were war correspondents. It was a constant stream of political rhetoric and TPS defending itself in response as shots were fired back and forth. Woolley wrote a Tulsa World op-ed defending our city’s right to maintain control. A major storm had already blown through Tulsa in June and caused major destruction. With temperatures rising outside and in the board rooms, after weeks of silence on the issue from the mayor’s office, a summit was called at City Hall on Aug. 18 in hopes of preventing another outside force from causing problems in our neighborhoods. In attendance were Walters and Woolley; Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum; John Croisant, TPS board vice chair; and Donald Burdick, state board of education member. Woolley says Walters was very polite behind closed doors with lots of “yes ma’ams” and telling her “we’re gonna work great together,” which conTulsaPeople.com 59

trasts with his demeanor in front of media. “In the public domain he is intimidating and demanding,” she says adding he reminds her of Eddie Haskell on “Leave it to Beaver.” She says Bynum, who had stayed quiet on the conﬂict throughout the summer, asked lots of questions about student outcomes and his stance was “We have to do a better job.” She says she told him she “wholeheartedly agrees” and that means everyone in Tulsa needs to do a better job for TPS to reach optimal success. “Until society actually does the things society needs to do in order to help kids be successful, our schools are going to have a hard time actually getting them there,” says Woolley about a district where 80% of its student body is economically disadvantaged. “We live in a city that is one of the top in evictions. A lack of stability for our kids who need stability the most, who have very little stability in every other area of life, that matters. What can we do as a city to change that? We have to do a lot of things that are much bigger than public education to be successful.” Bynum issued a statement in regard to a takeover supporting TPS remaining under local control, stating “the City of Tulsa does not seek this, we do not want it and we do not need it.” Less than a week later, Gist was out. One of Walters’ accusations, along with a debunked conspiracy theory about Chinese state-sponsored involvement in the school system, has been the mismanagement of funds after TPS self-reported Devin Fletcher, a former administrator, embezzled $603,992. He pleaded guilty on Oct. 30 and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The district has recovered some of the money and insurance should cover the rest. Woolley says the problems Fletcher created go beyond the bank account. “He has been hugely detrimental to our students and opened some doors for vulnerabilities that will 60 TulsaPeople JANUARY 2024

further potentially negatively affect kids,” she says. “It’s a white-collar crime. I assume that means he’s made a deal that isn’t going to feel satisfactory at all, but at least there’s something, right?” It’s one small victory in a heated battle that continues to escalate despite its long-time leader falling on a sword in an effort to bring stability back to TPS. WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD? In late October, Woolley attended a conference in San Diego for the Council of the Great City Schools, of which she serves on the executive board. In attendance were school board members and administrators from 79 urban school districts. “Everyone I met, they read my name tag and were like, ‘Oh, you’re from Tulsa. I’m sorry. Keep up the good ﬁght. We’re here for you,’ which is kind of like ‘thoughts and prayers.’ No offense but what are you doing about it in your blue state?” she says. A month later at the Nov. 30 state school board meeting, interim superintendent Johnson announced during a mandatory monthly status update that TPS is seeing improvements as it makes personnel changes and looks at another round of school consolidation in response to a directive from the state board of education. Moments later Walters announced a plan to reform the accreditation process by linking accreditation to academic outcomes on state testing. This could go into effect following a 60-day period for public comment and a board vote. On Dec. 5, Bynum once again chimed in by sending a letter to the TPS board encouraging the members to hire Johnson full time because “local control of Tulsa Public Schools hangs in the balance.” Two days later, Walters sent a letter to the TPS board and Bynum that stated a national search must be conducted because current leadership isn’t working fast enough to ﬁx problems. Woolley and many others believe Walters is

It’s Dec. 11, and the TPS board of education meeting is at capacity with more people in a nearby overﬂow room watching the proceedings as each board member votes on whether to remove the “interim” from Johnson’s title. After hours of contentious discussions, public comments and an executive session it comes to down to this moment. Six votes have been cast when Woolley leans into the microphone and says “aye.” The room full of citizens jump to their feet as they cheer on Johnson. After a 4-3 vote a new leader emerges ready to guide the state’s largest public school district to improved outcomes, while retaining local control. The ﬁght is on. tp

TIM LANDES

TPS Board President Stacey Woolley, center, listens to board member E’Lena Ashley, right, during a TPS school board special meeting on Nov. 14 to discuss the superintendent vacancy after Deborah Gist resigned in August.

using his position as a campaign platform for governor and a hostile takeover remains in the cards. “I think he will take over the district. I think the only thing he’s waiting for right now is what he thinks is best for this gubernatorial run,” she says. “I think the biggest thing that keeps him from doing anything yet is that he doesn’t want accountability. If he pulls the trigger too soon and takes over the district and nothing changes, when he’s up there saying we should be able to show changes in two months or whatever, then that doesn’t help him. If he waits long enough, then he doesn’t have accountability for it.” Regardless of the reasons, Woolley sees a takeover causing irreparable damage to the youth and future of our city. “Where I see this going is a total breakdown of what public schools are supposed to be, where we actually end up in a place where there is even greater division amongst the haves and have nots,” she says. “Those kids who are left behind in a gutted public school system are going to be the same kids who have always been neglected by our society.” This is why she continues fighting, why she continues leading. “Everything in my body believes that public education is essential for a healthy democracy,” she says. “I believe education is the great equalizer, specifically public education. I believe public schools have a lot more work to do specifically around kids who have traditionally been marginalized in our society.” While no one knows for sure what the future holds for public education in Tulsa, Croisant, a former Edison Prep educator for 12 years and TPS board vice chair, says he believes in the Tulsan of the Year leading the district and Tulsa through the challenges that await. “As a leader Stacey has been fair and willing to listen to those who agree with her and those who she doesn’t agree with. I have consistently seen her do what she thought would be best for students,” he says. “Whether it be fighting for Tulsa students against the attacks and rhetoric of Ryan Walters, making tough decisions with Dr. Gist or Dr. Johnson over the direction of the district, or just keeping the focus of the TPS Board of Education on helping TPS students, Stacey is never afraid to stand up for our students and for Tulsans.”

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