Bassett Custom Capabilities in 30 Days!
Custom Furniture Sale
10137 East 71st Street Tulsa, Oklahoma 918.254.6618 www.bassettfurniture.com
Capture, Share #uticasquare
uticasquare.com
March is made for exploring. So grab a light jacket, your kiddos and head to Utica Square for a day of discovery and fun. Vibrant landscaping, cheerful merchants and delicious treats await you at every turn. Lucky you, getting to make memories at Utica Square, Tulsa’s hometown treasure.
#4leafclover #greenisgorgeous #memorymaking #uticasquare
Michelle B.
Corrina Bi.
every moment is a gift. Michelle was surprised to learn the small lump in her breast was cancerous and required a full mastectomy. Because of her diagnosis, she required another 20 weeks of chemotherapy treatment after her cancer spread to her lymph nodes. With the help of her Hillcrest team, she was able to keep a positive attitude. “Sometimes you just have to smile and make the best of it. There’s a good reason it’s called ‘the present’ - because life itself is a present.” Cancer-free today, Michelle now volunteers at Hillcrest, sharing her remarkable story and encouraging others. To learn more about Michelle’s life-changing experience with Hillcrest Medical Center, visit Hillcrest.com.
Hillcrest.com | 918.585.8000 “Like” us on Facebook.
Features MARCH 2016 ✻ VOLUME 30 ISSUE 5
Downtown through the decades
39
Downtown now
Multiple downtown construction projects will be completed in 2016. by JULIE RAINS
Relive the past at these downtown destinations. by ANNA BENNETT
42
The view up ahead
As Tulsans prepare to vote on the Vision 2025 extension proposals, we look at the projects and discuss what is at stake. by NELLIE KELLY
45
50
What’s next for Greenwood?
With redevelopment booming around it, one historic downtown area is full of potential. by SCOTT WIGTON TulsaPeople.com
3
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LOCATIONS 918.523.3911 1500 S. Utica Ave., Tulsa, OK 74104 918.523.3914 2431 E. 61st St., Tulsa, OK 74136
Departments
Evan Taylor
MARCH 2016 ✻ VOLUME 30 ISSUE 5
22
59 CityBeat
116 The Dish
Agenda
11 Reader service Creating a literacy-friendly neighborhood
59 Italian comfort Tavolo delivers on Italyinspired fare.
111 Cast away This month’s standout events
12 Notebook Topics of interest to Tulsans
60 Table Talk The buzz on Tulsa’s tastiest restaurants, products and events
115 Benefits Fundraisers and fun happenings
14 Passions Helping local girls reach the summit 16 Conversations A Tulsan’s love of her city inspires her endeavors. 18 Everyday stories Coffee house visionary 20 Storefront Downtown’s new reading nook 22 Artist in residence Painting with glass and tile 24 Locker room A young gymnast beams a champion’s attitude. 26 Where are they now? Chuck Lamson is still in the game.
61 The list Only in downtown 62 Spirits A wee bit of Irish 64 For the cause Metro Appliances & More hosts the first Gourmet Gathering.
The Good Life 67 That’s a wrap Changing seasons call for layers. 68 Wright on Please pardon my twitterpation.
28 Musings Crackup
70 Weekend getaways An Austin adventure
32 A park grows in Tulsa The Helmerich Trust honors its namesake’s love of green spaces.
78 In the garden Lenten roses give a taste of spring.
114 Out & about See and be seen. 116 Behind the scene Teaching love, preserving tradition 117 Tulsa sound Main squeeze 118 Screen/Print A Q&A with Michael Wallis 120 Flashback Celebrating TulsaPeople’s 30th anniversary
Special Section 82 Buying and selling A list of Tulsa’s Top Realtors, according to the 2015 Multiple Listing Service
73 Health Options abound for rejuvenations.
81 Home Buying and selling tips from local experts TulsaPeople.com
5
From the editor BRADLEY GARCIA: Coffee house visionary
by ANNA BENNETT
Anna Bennett Digital Editor
6
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
A Q&A WITH Michael Wallis March 2016
March 2016 ✻ THE DOWNTOWN ISSUE ✻ www.TulsaPeople.com
T
hree years ago, when I returned to Tulsa after a semester abroad, the Brady Arts District was unrecognizable. The Zarrow Center, AHHA, Guthrie Green and more seemed to have sprung up overnight. And suddenly, this transformed downtown became the new normal — it seems I’ve always gone to Food Truck Wednesdays and dance rehearsals at Fly Loft. As evidenced by the plethora of new developments and ongoing projects (p. 39), the metamorphosis has only just begun. A bookstore with a unique vision will bring something special to the Brady Arts District (p. 20), and an increasingly diverse group of retailers, like Simply Boutique in the Blue Dome District (p. 67), are calling downtown home. Downtown Tulsa may be reaching new heights now, but it has a long and storied history, too. This was the inspiration for our “Downtown through the decades” feature on p. 45, which illustrates new ways to explore the modern inner-dispersal loop through the lens of the past, whether by visiting historic spots or by capturing the spirit of bygone eras. Thankfully, amid all the changes, many beloved institutions remain. The Gypsy Coffee House has been cool way longer than downtown itself (p. 18) — by the time I started haunting it in high school, it was already a local fixture. With all these exciting downtown developments, one area seems to be overlooked. So, what about Greenwood? On p. 50, we explore the myriad possibilities for the area, as well as the district’s push to receive a historic designation, which would be a major boon for cultural tourism. But exciting development takes funding and community advocacy. Vision 2025 is a shining example of how taxpayer support has dramatically changed our city. Now, with the Vision 2025 extension vote (p. 42) coming in April, it is crucial for Tulsa’s citizens to educate themselves and get to the polls. I can’t wait to see what the new downtown “normal” is like in another three years. What conveniences and pleasures will we take for granted? More affordable housing? Easy public transit? A real grocery store? A parking garage-turned-tiny-house-settlement? A build-your-own gourmet kolache speakeasy? Regardless, it’s only going to get better, and in the words of Macklemore, “You ain’t seen nothing yet until you’re downtown.” tþ
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Chuck Lamson
Visit TulsaPeople.com all month long for exclusive content you won’t want to miss, including photo galleries, videos and much more.
D OW N T OW N DECADES THROUGH THE
RELIVE THE PAST AT 56 STYLISH SPOTS.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR GREENWOOD? A DISTRICT FILLED WITH POTENTIAL
2016 VENUE GUIDE
ADVERTISING
TULSA
EVENT & WEDDING VENUE GUIDE
GUEST GUIDE
When planning an event — large or small — there are so many details to coordinate. From finding a place with the right amount of space to choosing from catering options and amenities, the to-do list can be overwhelming. Use this guide to wedding, event and conference venues around Tulsa as a resource.
AMBASSADOR HOTEL TULSA, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION 1324 South Main Street (918) 587-8200 AmbassadorHotelCollection.com Event rental contact: Joshua Ozaras Capacity: 70
DRESSER MANSION 235 West 18th Street (918) 585-5157 www.dressermansion.com Event rental contact: Bethany Faber Capacity: 200
ANDY B’S
EXPO SQUARE
8711 South Lewis Avenue (918) 299-9494 www.andybtulsa.com Event rental contact: Chuck West Capacity: 700
4145 East 21st Street (918) 744-1113 ext-2090 www.exposquare.com Event rental contact: Sarah Thompson Capacity: Multiple facilities available
THE BLUE COTTAGE
FOREST RIDGE GOLF CLUB
409 East “A” Street, Jenks (918) 299-8204 www.bluecottagejenks.com Event rental contact: Kay Greer Capacity: 50-60 (upstairs, no elevator)
7501 East Kenosha Street, Broken Arrow (918) 357-4407 www.forestridge.com Event rental contact: Brian Bodenstob Capacity: Up to 150
BLUESTONE STEAKHOUSE AND SEAFOOD
GILCREASE MUSEUM
10032 South Sheridan Road (918) 296-9889 www.bluestonesteakhouse.com Event rental contact: Bill Tackett Capacity: 60
1400 North Gilcrease Museum Road (918) 596-2771 www.gilcrease.org Event rental contact: Kacy Hughes Capacity: 60-250 in various locations
BROKEN ARROW LANES
MIKE FRETZ EVENT CENTER
4701 South Elm Place, Broken Arrow (918) 455-4616 www.brokenarrowlanes.com Event rental contact: Michelle Engelby Capacity: 250
11545 East 43rd Street (918) 663-1100 www.mikefretzeventcenter.com Event rental contact: Marlena Turley Capacity: 256
THE CAMPBELL HOTEL & EVENT CENTERS
OKLAHOMA AQUARIUM
2636 East 11th Street (918) 744-5500 www.thecampbellhotel.com Event rental contact: Cristen Burdell Capacity: 150-250
300 Aquarium Drive (918) 296-FISH www.okaquarium.org Event rental contact: events@okaquarium.org Capacity: Varies with room/area, 20-1,000+
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TULSA DOWNTOWN
ONEOK FIELD EVENTS
616 West 7th Street (918) 587-8000 www.tulsadowntown.doubletree.com Event rental contact: Barbara Gresh Capacity: Up to 900
201 North Elgin Avenue (918) 574-8324 www.oneokfieldevents.com Event rental contact: Courtney Gemmett Capacity: 20-350
Published by:
The essential 2016 visitors’ guide to shopping, sightseeing, nightlife and much more From the publishers of
HOTEL COPY
Please leave this copy for future guests
Magazine
POH2015_CoverMW.indd 1
5/22/15 3:20 PM
TulsaPeople.com is the place to find digital versions of our helpful annual guides, including the 2016 Tulsa Guest Guide, the Event & Wedding Venue Guide and the Parade of Homes Guide.
VIDEO
Nailed it (p. 24) Gymnast Sheridan Ramsey trains for competition.
YOUR HEALTHIEST LIFE IS OUR
HIGHEST PRIORITY. AN INFORMED PATIENT IS AN EMPOWERED PATIENT. That’s why, at St. John Clinic, our team of more than 500 primary and urgent care physicians, specialists and staff is united under one banner, providing compassionate care based on clear and open communication at every level. With 97 locations, St. John Clinic offers convenient access to a wide range of services, which include: family medicine, internal medicine, geriatric medicine, general surgery, obstetrics & gynecology, cardiology, neurosurgery, oncology, urgent care, pain management, ENT, pediatrics and dermatology. We’re honored to join you in the journey to your best possible health.
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EDITORIAL CONSULTING Missy Kruse, The Write Company CREATIVE DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS MANAGING PHOTOGRAPHER CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER VIDEO DEVELOPMENT
Madeline Crawford Morgan Welch, Georgia Brooks Michelle Pollard Evan Taylor Greg Bollinger
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8
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Take good care of your heart and it will take good care of you.
Dr. Sharolyn Cook knows that the human heart is resilient. As a cardiologist at the Heart Hospital at Saint Francis, she and her colleagues care for patients with a broad range of conditions that include heart attacks, arterial blockages, congestive heart failure, vein conditions, arrhythmias and so much more. But even though the heart is resilient, people should be mindful of preventing heart disease, Dr. Cook says. “It’s very important for people to monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol. However, taking those extra steps by quitting smoking, being more active, adding more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to their diets, and reducing sweets is just as important,” she says. The Heart Hospital at Saint Francis provides experienced cardiac care, the latest technologies and treatments for patients. “I always tell my patients,” Dr. Cook says, “Take good care of your heart, and it will take good care of you.”
Dr. Sharolyn Cook INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGIST
Matthew E. Meyer, M.D. LAUREATE PSYCHIATRIST
Healthcare for life. saintfrancis.com/hearthospital | 918-488-6688
citybeat
Reader service
NEWS ✻ PEOPLE ✻ OPINIONS
B
ibliophile Clara Nipper would be happy if libraries were on every corner — as plentiful as QuikTrip and Starbucks. She is doing her part by offering her own Little Free Library in front of her home near East 41st Street and South Peoria Avenue. It is named for her father, who read to her every night as a child. Free community book exchanges like Nipper’s are popping up around Tulsa to encourage residents to “take a book, leave a book.” Initially the concept seemed confusing to some, but 11 months in, Nipper is seeing more adults and children browsing her resource. Her mission is to increase access to books and stories by creating a literacy-friendly neighborhood. “Books meant the world to me when I was a kid,” she says. “The more books, the better.” Editor’s note: March is National Reading Month. Visit a public library or go to www.littlefreelibrary.org to find a nearby book exchange.
Two eager readers visit Clara Nipper’s Little Free Library in front of her midtown home. As a bonus, visitors might see some critters; Nipper’s yard is an urban wildlife habitat.
Affecting outcomes P. 14
✻
Cup of vision P. 18
✻
Corner store P. 20 TulsaPeople.com
11
CITYBEAT
NEWS ✻ PEOPLE ✻ OPINIONS
36°North in the Universal Ford Building.
A Way Home for Tulsa representatives at a Jan. 21 conference.
John Erling
‘VOICES’ SHARES PERSONAL STORIES
Notebook
Topics of interest to Tulsans by MORGAN PHILLIPS
GORDON NAMED ‘LIVING LEGEND ARTIST’ This month, Claremore native Patrick (p.s.) Gordon will receive Living Arts of Tulsa’s inaugural Living Legend Artist Award. The award honors artists who have pushed the art world forward, furthered the reputation of Tulsa as an artistic city and contributed to the encouragement and inspiration of other artists in the community. In April, Living Arts will exhibit some of Gordon’s paintings never before seen in a public exhibition. Living Arts also will host an intimate dinner with the artist on March 31. See p. 115 for details.
COWORKING SPACE OPENS DOWNTOWN A co-working space in the Universal Ford Building at 36 E. Cameron St. opened Jan. 25 with 156 members from various industries working from the facility. 36°North provides flexible, affordable workspaces that promote entrepreneurship. Aaron Miller, program officer for founding partner the George Kaiser Family Foundation, calls it “a tool to attract and retain the best talent.” Day passes and monthly memberships are available at www.36n.co.
TULSA HOUSES HOMELESS VETERANS Nearly 300 homeless Tulsa veterans now have housing, reports a collaborative group focused on ending homelessness in Tulsa. The group of 23 agencies, called A Way Home for Tulsa, found housing for 298 veterans in 2015, exceeding its goal of 290. The housing emphasis is part of Zero: 2016, a national initiative to end veteran homelessness by Dec. 31, 2015, and chronic homelessness by Dec. 31, 2016. Tulsa is one of 75 communities to participate. In 2015, A Way Home for Tulsa found housing for 78 of 95 chronically homeless individuals. The group expects to find housing for the remaining individuals in 2016. For more on Zero: 2016, visit TulsaPeople.com to read our November 2015 feature. 12
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
P
reserving Oklahoma’s oral history is a natural fit for John Erling, who has made his living with his voice. But the 30-year KRMG Radio broadcaster could not have guessed how his project of the past seven years, “Voices of Oklahoma,” would develop out of a friendship with late oilman Walter Helmerich III. Erling says Helmerich, a regular KRMG listener, often phoned in anonymous donations for community causes when contributions lulled at the last minute. “He would call me and say, ‘Don’t tell anyone, but I’ll give you the $10,000,’” Erling recalls. The men met for lunch in the 1990s at Utica Square — and the lunches continued most months for 12 years, always at the request of Helmerich, who told many stories of his life. It was through these meetings that Erling came up with an idea to record Oklahomans telling their personal stories. The financial support of Helmerich, along with many other philanthropists and foundations, helped officially launch “Voices of Oklahoma” in 2010. In 2014, the University of Tulsa acquired “Voices,” which is now headquartered at the Oklahoma Center for Humanities at TU. Erling has recorded the stories of 175 Oklahomans; so far, 110 are available on VoicesofOklahoma.com. Since he started the project, 35 of the storytellers have died. That’s one of the reasons Erling believes in the project. “You can read a person’s story, but until you really hear their voice ... It becomes more personal and brings you closer to the storyteller,” he says. Editor’s note: Starting in April, TulsaPeople will publish excerpts from “Voices of Oklahoma” transcripts. Readers can find the excerpts here in “Notebook” each month.
Painting image courtesy private collection of Stuart and Sherri Goodall
“The Engagement Portrait” by p.s. Gordon.
PASSIONS
People, places and other things Tulsans love
Reaching for the summit Premadonna Braddick gives hope to young girls facing challenges. by JACKIE WELTON DIPILLO
S
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TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
April 1-2 GIRLS’ TEEN SUMMIT
Registration: 2-4 p.m., Friday, and 7-8 a.m., Saturday; summit: 4-8:30 p.m., Friday, and 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Saturday. Tulsa Dream Center, 200 W. 46th St. N. Free. Advance registration is requested; call 918-739-8336 to register. Visit www.facebook.com/girlsteensummit or www.soaringeaglesyfs.org. Premadonna Braddick is the founder of the Girls’ Teen Summit, which brings positive female role models together to encourage, educate and empower at-risk teen girls in the Tulsa area. of females will become pregnant. One out of four will develop PTSD, and only 3 percent will earn a college degree. It became Braddick’s passion to help prevent these outcomes in the lives of young girls. “If we can reach at-risk teen girls before they become a statistic, how great would that be?” she thought. In 2012, she put together a platform of female speakers to demonstrate overcoming life’s challenges. Named the Girls’ Teen Summit, the event targeted seventh- through 12th-grade girls in the Tulsa metro area.
Approximately 120 girls attended the first year. To date, more than 300 have participated. Braddick promotes the summit to Tulsa-area high schools, youth shelters and group homes. Through her nonprofit, Soaring Eagles Youth and Family Services, Braddick offers counseling, mentorship and workshops at GTS. Financial support comes from various fundraisers throughout the year and community partnerships. The nonprofit received its first operational grant last year from the Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation.
Evan Taylor
ome people are dealt a bad hand. Born into poverty, abuse, neglect, addiction ... coming out a winner is difficult. But a few rise above. They have an inner compass so focused on climbing out of life’s darkest struggles, they become a beacon of light. Premadonna Braddick, founder of the Girls’ Teen Summit, is one such shining example of hope. Coming from impoverished beginnings, Braddick grew up in foster care because her biological parents had drug habits and criminal records. A victim of abuse in several California foster homes, she had a severe speech impediment and a learning disability and endured bullying at school and at home. Most would’ve spiraled downward, but not Braddick. “It doesn’t have to be that way,” she told herself. At age 15, she started working 10- to 12-hour fast food shifts during summer and holiday breaks. She saved enough money to eventually attend college at San Jose University, where she majored in communications. She instinctively found mentors whose wisdom she respected. As a teenager, she attended church alone. Her pastor, Bishop Ernestine Cleveland Reems, a board member of Oral Roberts University, encouraged Braddick to continue her education there. While earning a double master’s degree in Christian counseling and family and marriage counseling, Braddick learned Oklahoma has the highest percentage of incarcerated women in the nation. Additionally, she learned that over 400,000 U.S. children are in foster care. Of those who age out at 18, 74 percent will be incarcerated within two years, 25 percent will become homeless and 70 percent
Teens at GTS learn about topics such as college readiness, financial literacy, red flags about dating, health and fitness and the importance of resilience. They also learn to value themselves, Braddick says. She recalls one GTS participant who “came up to the mic, crying ... She had never shared her story (of witnessing her stepfather abuse her mother), but felt safe enough to talk, without judgment” from staff and participants. The girl shared her underlying anger, defiance of authority and suspensions from school. “She said, ‘I know I have to do better with my life, and I can’t continue to carry this anger and pain with me any longer,’” Braddick recalls. Sonia Brown, shelter coordinator for Youth Services of Tulsa, regularly accompanies girls to the summit. “It’s so powerful,” she says. “One young lady said her whole life had changed. It’s phenomenal ... and so much fun.” Brown calls Braddick “quite the person; modest, passionate, visionary.” “Premadonna’s enthusiasm is infectious,” agrees Angel Harris, a college student and former GTS participant. Her favorite workshop, “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” discussed domestic violence and bullying and how to avoid the trap of sex trafficking. In 2014, Braddick started the monthly “Real Life, Real Talk” series to help GTS alumni stay connected. The workshops are one Saturday a month during the school year. At all of her events, Braddick tries to instill in teen girls the advice that was given to her. “Don’t just accept the story that is given to you,” she says. “We’re helping individuals rewrite their stories.” tþ
un and done!
“With my first mortgage, I remember being pretty freaked out. I was like, I’m 22 years old and I’m gonna try to get a mortgage, how crazy is that? But I had my checking and savings with TTCU, so I went over there… and I bought my first house! It was so easy-breezy. Cheryl S. TTCU Member
It’s like everything else with TTCU. It’s comfortable. They know my name. It’s like Cheers for me. I walk in and it’s like, ‘Heyyyy Cheryl!’ I’m the Norm of TTCU!”
That’s my unbank. Federally insured by NCUA. With approved credit. Some restrictions apply.
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
CONVERSATIONS
Tulsans’ points of view
Tulsa gal
Nancy Schallner creates Tulsa-centric pillows and accessories for her Etsy shop. Her great-great uncle, James B. A. Robertson, was the fourth governor of Oklahoma. Her grandfather was a City of Tulsa engineer who inspired her love of history.
Nancy Schallner’s love of her city inspires her. by ANNA BENNETT
How did your work at THS inspire you to create TulsaGal.net? For about a year or so, before 2007, I got all of the emails that came in with questions. The executive director at the time, Sharon Terry, said, “I think this would be a good job for you.” Of course, I loved it, because I got to do research. It came about because the very first blog post I ever did was about the doors.
Your blog has been quiet recently. Will you pick it up again? I just haven’t been inspired. I may be again. My other business (Tulsa Gal Designs) is just swallowing me, and that’s great. I’m thrilled about that. How long has your Etsy shop, Tulsa Gal Designs, been active? I’m in my fourth year. I’ve been a crafter for a long time. And a quilter. I’ve always made pillows of one sort or another. The way you write gives Tulsa this sense of magic and wonder. The more you research Tulsa’s history, you can see why it’s the magic city. Everything that happened to it is because of oil, and it just transformed everything. We were called “The Magic City” for a long time, too. (See p. 20.)
Someone donated a bunch of old doors from buildings torn down during urban renewal in the 1960s-70s, and it was your task to figure out their origins. It really sent me on a quest. Like a dog with a bone. I had to find out what I could. And it was so interesting, I thought, “I need to share this.” And the more I thought about it, I thought, “There’s a lot of stuff I could share.”
As a high school history buff, did learning about dark times such as the Tulsa Race Riot change your opinion of Tulsa? Actually, it just enlightened me. And it helped a lot of the puzzle pieces fall into place. Why everything is the way it is, why generations after generations of bad feelings had just been passed on. And it’s sad, but at least I know why.
What’s your blogging process? I have to be inspired to want to do that much work. And it is a lot of work. Then comes the research, and the photos. I learned a lot about reading photos here (at THS), to really magnify and look up close. You see some of the coolest stuff besides the “big picture.”
Do you think Tulsa has learned from its mistakes in the “urban renewal” era? I think they’re definitely more aware of it now. Because enough of us have finally spoken up. But you can’t bring back what you’ve lost. I’m always happy to hear when something has been saved. tþ
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TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Evan Taylor
N
ancy Schallner has quietly worn many hats, but most locals probably know her as the woman behind the popular — and often-copied — Tulsa history blog, TulsaGal.net. We visited at the Tulsa Historical Society, where she has been a volunteer and researcher since 2002.
Chris Teel and Dan Schaudt
A BETTER
CHOICE
AT MEMORIAL
PARK
Tulsa Area Funeral Pricing Comparison
Pricing as reported on the Federal Trade Commission’s Mandated Price List (pricing subject to change without notice)
$6,000
Dan Schaudt and Chris Teel are personally available 24 hours daily to provide the most professional services to you and the most dignified care to your loved one. Schaudt-Teel is pleased to offer Tulsa’s most modern and immaculate facility, accommodating traditional funeral services and specializing in life celebration events. The funeral home is located just south of the iconic Memorial Park Cemetery. Surprisingly, you will find Schaudt-Teel to be a significantly greater value than other area funeral corporations and providers.
$5,000 $4,305
$5,045
$4,890
$4,645
$4,000 $3,000
$3,315
$2,995
$2,665
$2,400
$2,000 $1,000 0
$1,371
$905
Schaudt-Teel
Moore’s
Fitzgerald’s
Traditional Funeral Without Casket
Ninde’s
Floral Haven
Direct Cremation
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TULSAFUNERAL.COM 5757 SOUTH MEMORIAL DRIVE, TULSA 74145
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NUMBERS EVERYDAY STORIES
Mighty writers
Tulsans you should know
by MORGAN PHILLIPS
F
Evan Taylor
or nearly four decades, the Friends of the Tulsa City-County Libraries have encouraged local writers to submit their original work to the Adult Creative Writing Contest. Manuscripts for the 2016 contest were due Jan. 31, and local professors and English teachers will anonymously judge the entries. At the April 9 awards ceremony, firstplace winners will read short selections from their entries. Tulsa World Columnist Jay Cronley will be the guest speaker.
Crews removed more than 16 tons of gypsum plaster and lead pipes from the building Bradley Garcia bought in 1998. Initially the building had neither electricity nor water. Today the rehabbed structure houses Gypsy Coffee House, Garcia’s salon and his home.
Coffee house visionary Bradley Garcia was downtown before downtown was cool. by JANE ZEMEL
B
radley Garcia had two reasons for buying the building at East Cameron Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in 1998. First, “Tulsa had to grow this way,” he says from his Brady neighborhood location. “If the city were to ever have an arts district, it would have to be here. It was the only area with an inventory of older buildings.” Secondly, he wanted coffee and croissants early in the morning. So, he opened Gypsy Coffee House. “I had zero money,” Garcia says. “No bank would touch me.” He sold three businesses and gave up his Mercedes and home in Maple Ridge to raise the cash. What he lacked in restaurateur experience he made up for in confidence. And vision. “I never doubted anything I decided to do,” he says. The 1906 building was originally the headquarters for Gypsy Oil Co., owned by J. Paul Getty and A.K. Warren. By 1998, it was mostly abandoned and nowhere near code. Neighbors called the adjacent warehouse the Hobo Hilton, referring to the 15-20 people who lived in or under — yes, under — the building. Garcia acted as general contractor for the complete overhaul. The city’s first multi-zone rehab came with a razor-sharp learning curve for the new owner.
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“It was an arduous task,” he says. But there was that vision. “I wanted it to be a 1960s-like Beatnik hangout,” he says. For years, Gypsy Coffee House was a gathering place for teens, hosting raves and all-night dance festivals. More recently, it’s a familiar stop on the Tulsa music scene. The Gypsy has the longestrunning open mic night in Oklahoma — nearly 900 nights and counting. “All original stuff, no covers. Sometimes magic, sometimes teenage angst,” Garcia says. Now in its 17th year, the Gypsy offers gourmet coffees, pour-overs, cold brews and 40-plus varieties of tea. Customers from age 8-80 also come for baked goods, salads, flatbreads and sandwiches. “The first 10 years, there were never any families,” Garcia says. “Now, they’re everywhere.” The building’s top two floors include his second business, a salon, and his “bohemian hideaway” — home sweet home. He likes being able to walk wherever he needs — “except to a grocery store.” And he loves the vibe, calling his location “the epicenter of the arts movement here in Tulsa.” After nearly two decades, Garcia’s vision has paid off. “It’s been a lesson in humility, patience and servitude,” he jokes. tþ
38 18
Years the Friends have hosted an adult creative writing contest.
Is the minimum age of contest participants. Participants also must reside, work or attend school in Tulsa County or have a non-resident Tulsa library card.
4
Categories of work can be submitted: poetry, informal essay, children’s fiction and short story.
5,000
Words is the maximum submission length for short stories. The maximum submission length for poetry is 400 words.
1
st
And second-place winners in each category receive cash prizes of $100 and $50, respectively.
129 162 $6
People entered the contest by press time.
2016
Entries were submitted for 2016 by press time.
Is the entry fee for each manuscript. There is no limit on the number of entries per person, although first-place winners cannot enter the same category the following year.
$10
Is the cost to join Friends of the Tulsa City-County Libraries, a nonprofit arm of the library system that plans library programs and activities.
April 9 39TH ANNUAL FRIENDS OF THE TULSA CITYCOUNTY LIBRARIES ADULT CREATIVE WRITING CONTEST AWARD CEREMONY 2:30 p.m. Rudisill Regional Library, 1520 N. Hartford Ave. Free and open to the public. Visit www.tulsalibrary.org/friends/contest.
Thanks
for making us Tulsa’s only five-star hospital HIGHEST R ATING BASED ON PERSONAL E XPERIENCES OF PATIENTS The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services implemented a ratings system to help consumers quickly and easily compare hospitals. That system is based on the results of a patient-experience survey referred to as HCAHPS, the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems.* Just 4% of hospitals in the country received five stars, the highest rating possible. And Cancer Treatment Centers of America® was the only hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma to earn that distinction.** In the surveys, 93% of our patients said they would definitely recommend our hospital to others—and 92% rated their overall experience a nine or ten on a 10-point scale. With results like that, it’s easy to see why so many of our patients travel here for treatment. To learn more about five-star care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Tulsa, visit cancercenter.com/tulsa.
cancercenter.com/tulsa 800-515-9610
Now In-Network With
Atlanta | Chicago | Philadelphia | Phoenix | Tulsa * HCAHPS results can be found at www.cms.gov. ** HCAHPS results were based on the published summary ratings provided by CMS for a data collection period of 4/1/2014 to 3/31/2015.
©2016 Rising Tide
STOREFRONT
Looking at small businesses
Turning the page By year’s end, downtown Tulsa will be home to a bookstore.
WHY “MAGIC CITY”?
Better known as the one-time “Oil Capital of the World,” Tulsa also earned the moniker “The Magic City” in its heyday. President Harry Truman even used the term in a 1948 address at the University of Tulsa.
by JOSHUA R. WAGNER
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“They’ll know you when you come in. They’ll know your name, know what you like to read and help put a good book in your hands.” Rather than carry a huge selection of books, Magic City Books will stock a smaller inventory. “We’re going to focus on best-sellers and a really curated selection of midlist and backlist books,” Martin explains. The store will be a haven for readers and book clubs, offering a small café/bar, group discounts on book club selections, private meeting space, workshops, Skype calls with authors and more. Building on BookSmart Tulsa’s success, Magic City Books also plans to bring in famous writers for book signings and meet-andgreets. “In the same way that Cain’s and Soundpony bring musicians to Tulsa, Comedy Parlor attracts comedians, Tulsa Tough draws bicyclists and all of our art museums and galleries attract artists, Magic City will give us an opportunity to interact with writers,” Doyle says. “It benefits Tulsa residents, and each author that visits becomes another emissary sent off into the world to tell everyone how great Tulsa is.” Martin says best-selling writers such as David Sedaris, Ann Patchett, Salman Rushdie and Jonathan Franzen are on the bookstore’s board of advisors. Magic City Books isn’t only about the books, Martin says. It is about building a community that loves to read. “The books are cool, but the real thing is about the love of reading and the passion for literature,” he says. “The books are just our tool.” tþ
Jeff Martin, co-founder of Magic City Books, says he was inspired by the historical reference to Tulsa and also by a comment author Neil Gaiman made when he visited Tulsa in 2015. Growing up in England, Gaiman idolized Tulsa science fiction writer R. A. Lafferty. He wrote him a fan letter, which grew into correspondence. Gaiman said he grew up thinking of Tulsa as a place of literary magic.
Evan Taylor
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ate this year, the Brady Arts District will add a new chapter to its growing community. Planned for the corner of East Archer Street and North Detroit Avenue, Magic City Books was envisioned by two book lovers: Cindy Hulsey, the adult services coordinator for the Tulsa City-County Library, and Jeff Martin, founder of BookSmart Tulsa, a program that encourages reading. About a year ago, the George Kaiser Family Foundation approached Hulsey and Martin about the idea of putting a bookstore in its Archer Building project. “Realtor Anne Pollard James and I put the question out there to Jeff, and he and Cindy spearheaded the movement,” says Stanton Doyle, a foundation representative. “Surprisingly, the concept came together very quickly, and they agreed to lease some space in our building.” Unlike your typical bookstore, Magic City Books is owned by a nonprofit, the Tulsa Literary Coalition. All profits from the store will go directly to TLC to fund literary programming for the community. “We want people to feel like it’s a place where ideas are born and discussions happen,” Martin says. “I don’t want people to imagine Tulsa without it.” Magic City Books plans to set itself apart from the competition by offering individualized service. Employees will read the books they are selling, preventing customers from taking a shot in the dark. “We’re going to be able to offer a level of service that people can’t get anywhere else,” Hulsey says. “We are going to have really experienced booksellers that can talk to people about what they like to read.
Jeff Martin and Cindy Hulsey at the corner of East Archer Street and North Detroit Avenue, the future location of Magic City Books. The bookstore‘s revenue will help fund literary programming for the community. Magic City Books will open in late 2016.
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ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
Highlighting local talent
Piece of work Painter Linda Allen successfully ventured into the world of mosaic. by JUDY LANGDON
S
Courtesy Linda Allen
ometimes the best opportunities arrive purely by chance. That happened in 1994 for artist Linda Allen, who was asked to design and create an outdoor mural for Mayo Demonstration School. Allen, who is represented by the M. A. Doran Gallery, is a painter and ceramics artist who also has stayed consistently busy the past 23 years with her mosaic creations. ceramic pieces, shells, rocks, found objects, etc., depending upon the requirements of the piece. The mosaic is created on a fiberglass mesh, which is then grouted. After the grouting, it is then installed at the site, either on a concrete board or other such surface. This process is very labor-intensive, in that each piece of glass is individually cut and installed one piece at a time, which is very time-consuming.
How did your mosaic mural at Mayo come about? My son, Grant, was a student at Mayo Demonstration School, where Margaret Erling was the director, and she asked me to paint a mural for the front of the school. Being a ceramic artist, I had been doing some pieces with shards of glass, which inspired me to attempt a mosaic piece. I was afraid a painted mural would not withstand the elements, and with time, would deteriorate, whereas the mosaic would be more forgiving of the Oklahoma weather. It was a huge project, some 20-by-40 feet. Another mother, 22
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Evan Taylor
Was becoming an artist a lifelong dream for you? I always wanted to be an artist and was encouraged by my parents. As a child I was taken to Philbrook Museum of Art and thought it was a beautiful and magical place. Who wouldn’t fall in love with art? I entered a citywide art contest when I was 8 years old, and I did a painting of an oil derrick and won. That was the first piece of art that I received recognition and prize money for, and additionally I was recognized by a piece in the local newspaper. Quite a big deal for a young girl. I suppose I was inspired by the Golden Driller, since we lived by the Tulsa Fairgrounds. Linda Allen’s most recent public installations include mosaics at the new DVIS facility and St. John’s Episcopal Church. Her mosaic crew, top right, helps her put together large-scale pieces. For more examples of Allen’s mosaic work, visit www.lindaallenart.com. Cindy Harris, also an artist, worked with me. Every child in the school participated, as did parents, teachers and grandparents. Tulsa Public Schools provided scaffolding, and many Tulsa businesses provided supplies. The project took a year to complete, and I’m proud to say, continues to be a favorite background for that “first day of school photo.” I love that. Walk us through the mosaic process. The creation of a mosaic be-
gins with a preliminary meeting with the client where we decide on size, subject, budget, site and installation. I then prepare drawings and a budget and get the client’s approval. Once the project is approved, I draw a design scaled to the project, including colors, subject matter, etc. With the help of my mosaic crew, the piece is created using the material chosen by me and the client. This material could include Italian glass, Mexican glass, tile,
Who is your mosaic crew? I have been fortunate to have the help of wonderful people whom I have trained over the years. My crew through the years has included friends, family, young artists and retired individuals who wanted to participate in an artistic process. We have all become good friends, and I could have never completed the large projects I have done without their help and support. The time required for these projects depends upon size, detail, scope, conditions and size of the crew. The process seems arduous but worthwhile, considering the results. Creating a mosaic for me is like painting with small pieces of glass and tile. It is very tedious, physical, time-consuming and, finally, very rewarding. tþ
Do anything you imagine, like paint with light. Introducing Gigablast Internet from Cox. With nearly 100x the power, it won’t just change the Internet, it will change the way we live. How will you live the Gig Life? Visit cox.com/GigLife Š2015 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Available in select Cox service areas. Speed comparison based on maximum download speed of Cox Gigablast service (1 Gbps) vs. U.S. average DSL speed (10.6 Mbps) per www.dslreports.com/speedtest/results/country as of 08/08/2015. Actual speeds may vary. Check cox.com/GigLife for service availability in your area and other information. Other restrictions may apply.
Getting to know Tulsa’s top athletes and coaches
TulsaPeople.com VIDEO Ramsey makes challenging techniques look easy.
AIMING FOR A NEW BUILDING Aim High Academy is fundraising to build a new practice facility to accommodate its approximately 250 students. Aim High leased the west Tulsa facility that was destroyed by the March 2015 tornado, and the owner chose not to rebuild on the site. Since then, the gym has operated from the borrowed facilities of Glenwood Baptist Church and Elite Gymnastics in Owasso. “We had offers from all around the area after the tornado hit,” says Aim High Executive Director Jennifer Patterson. A GoFundMe account has been established to assist the academy in raising funds. Patterson estimates $50,000 has been raised toward approximately $5.5 million needed to build a new facility in north Tulsa and grow Aim High’s programs. Visit www.aimhighgym.org for more information.
Evan Taylor
LOCKER ROOM
Sheridan Ramsey of Aim High Academy will compete this month for a second consecutive state title. The 13-year-old says work ethic makes a great gymnast. “Skills can come later,” she says.
Fearless potential State champion gymnast sets her sights high. by DOUG EATON
T
hirteen-year-old gymnast Sheridan Ramsey is anxiously anticipating the upcoming state gymnastics meet later this month. And for good reason. At last year’s meet in Bartlesville, she captured first place on the balance beam, second place on vault, and third place on floor exercise and uneven bars en route to a first place overall finish in the level eight division. However, any thoughts of another state championship are likely tempered with the recollection of an upcoming anniversary. On March 25, 2015, just two days before the state meet, an EF2 tornado descended upon west Tulsa and destroyed the practice facility where Ramsey and others from Aim High Academy were practicing. Thankfully no one was 24
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
hurt as the young gymnasts took refuge in the facility’s basement. Ramsey’s aunt introduced her to the sport about seven years ago. “I like the four different events in gymnastics,” Ramsey says. “In basketball, if you have a bad game, you have a bad game. In gymnastics, you get a second chance. If you have a bad event, there are always three other events to do better in.” Which one is her favorite? “It changes over time,” she says. “My favorite right now is floor exercise. I’m more powerful than I am flexible, so I seem to do better.” The 4-inch-wide balance beam offers some challenges, but Ramsey is confident in her approach. “The beam is scary at times, but during the season since we’ve been practicing it so long, you have to count on your muscle
memory,” she says. “If you have been practicing your skills, you can do it.” Ramsey and her teammates certainly put in the work. They typically practice four hours a day, four days a week. What does Ramsey think about when she is spinning, flipping and flying at full speed on the uneven bars? “Not falling,” she giggles. Ramsey is a high-achieving eighth-grader at Carver Middle School, where math happens to be her favorite subject. “Math really keeps my brain thinking, and you have to do it by yourself,” she explains. “I’m taking algebra this year.” Long-term, she would like to get a college scholarship and continue competing in gymnastics. She even has her sights sets on at-
tending Louisiana State University or the University of Oklahoma. “They both have great gymnastics programs,” she says. Jennifer Patterson is the founder and executive director of Aim High Academy, a nonprofit organization that combines Christian principles with physical fitness and serves children in north Tulsa. She recognized Ramsey’s potential almost immediately. “Real quickly, she was jumping on the beam, and her fingers were going into the ceiling tiles,” Patterson says. “She has always had a lot of power. Not only did we outgrow that space with the number of kids, but Sheridan literally outgrew that space with her power. “She is fearless and hasn’t minded the effort and dedication required to perfect her skills. She is willing to work hard to get better.” tþ
50 Years and Still Going Strong Having cultivated a reputation for being distinguished, intelligent and kind, true Renaissance man Henry Will continues to serve both his clients and the community. Henry Will. The words distinguished, intelligent and kind come to mind. An outstanding attorney whose last name fits perfectly with his specialization in trusts and estates law, Henry has the ability to conceptualize the big picture when it comes to complicated tax planning, business succession planning and effective strategies for charitable organizations. Henry goes the extra mile for his clients, who often turn to him for practical as well as legal advice. He is proud of the many long term relationships established with generations of families, some of whom now live in distant places. Thankfully for Conner & Winters and its clients, 2016 is not the year of Henry’s retirement— instead it’s his 50th anniversary as an attorney at the firm. This magnificent milestone includes years spent in a leadership role at the firm, many mentoring sessions for younger attorneys and countless hours counseling clients.
Henry epitomizes the Renaissance man. He is curious and knowledgeable about literature, world affairs and community activities. Recent travels in the past five years to Morocco, Turkey, Alaska, Ireland, Cuba and Africa have sparked fascinating conversations with friends and family. His photography skills have merited shows and his interest in music has manifested itself in serving as President of the Tulsa Philharmonic and Tulsa Opera Boards. He has served on other boards in Tulsa and currently is Chairman of Dillon International, an international adoption agency. Recently he has become a creative writer specializing in penning whimsical tales. He is known for wearing a jacket and tie, even on casual Fridays and when the temperatures soar above 100 degrees.
It’s not hard to imagine why so many people seek out Henry for expert guidance, enlightening conversations, and for a trustworthy view of the big picture.
Henry is married to Susanna and has three children: Matt, Zach and Rachael.
Henry’s roots in Tulsa run deep. He attended Central High School in Tulsa before graduating from Yale University and Yale Law School. He is a respected member of the Oklahoma and Tulsa County Bar and a member of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel. He has served on the Tulsa County Bar Foundation and other community boards too numerous to mention. He has been responsible for organizing the Estate Planning Update for the Tulsa County Bar Association, a continuing educational seminar attended by many area practitioners who want to be informed about the newest strategies for efficient estate and trust administration and minimizing taxes. Attorney Henry Will is celebrating his 50th anniversary at Conner & Winters, LLP in 2016.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Catching up with former newsmakers
STILL in the GAME by DAVID HARPER
Evan Taylor
Chuck Lamson, former majority owner of the Tulsa Drillers, is a member of the Texas League Hall of Fame and a three-time winner of the league’s Executive of the Year award.
F
ive years after selling his majority share of the Tulsa Drillers, Chuck Lamson has branched out into other fields. But the lure of the baseball diamond has not gone away. In recent years, he has worked as a consultant for minor league teams through Southpaw Sports Consulting. He also is part-owner of SpringDeck, an application designed to help sales professionals in various fields increase efficiency. Lamson says the app is being rolled out to an increasing number of minor league baseball teams “because in minor league baseball, it’s all about sales.” Baseball is clearly a world he knows well. For 32 years, Lamson’s name was synonymous with the Drillers organization. His career with the team began when he was a young pitcher for the Texas Rangers. When informed by the Rangers in 1979 that he was being assigned to pitch for the club’s Double-A
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affiliate in Tulsa, the New Jersey native recalls thinking he was being sent to a land of “teepees and tumbleweeds.” But Lamson’s performance reflected his excitement to be in Tulsa. According to BaseballReference. com, he was 11-8 with a 3.29 earned run average in 1979. A 10th-round draft pick in 1977, Lamson seemed destined for the Major Leagues. However, fate threw him a curveball. Bone chips in his pitching elbow and tendon damage led to a subpar season in 1980. He stayed in Tulsa that winter, first working a $4.81an-hour construction job and later selling Drillers tickets by phone. Lamson continued to struggle on the mound and was released by the Rangers organization in May 1981. He played briefly in the Dominican Republic and literally answered a call from Hall of Famer Hank Aaron to pitch for an Atlanta Braves minor league affiliate in Durham, North Carolina.
However, by 1982, Lamson had to face reality: He would never pitch in the big leagues. He took an offer to become the Drillers’ director of stadium operations. Luckily for Lamson, the stadium had been converted to artificial turf, meaning his groundskeeping duties consisted of sweeping and vacuuming, not actual horticulture. That left him more time to get involved in the other aspects of operating a team and began Lamson’s evolution from assistant general manager to general manger to majority owner after purchasing Went Hubbard’s share in 2006. Drillers Stadium at East 15th Street and South Yale Avenue had been upgraded significantly since Lamson first arrived in Tulsa, yet it was clear that “for the long-term viability of pro baseball in Tulsa, we would need a new facility,” he says. He soon found an ally in then-Mayor Kathy Taylor, and the downtown stadium opened in 2010
to big crowds and positive reviews. When Hubbard’s son, Dave, approached Lamson with a “great offer” to resume ownership of the club, Lamson took it. “At that moment, I thought it was the best thing for me to do,” he says. Went Hubbard died in 2012, but the team remained in his family. Lamson is happy in Tulsa. Yet, with his children grown, the youthful-looking 59-year-old indicates he is open to returning to baseball on a full-time basis. “I wouldn’t close the door to anything if the right opportunity came along,” he says. “It would have to be the right job in the right organization.” tþ David Harper has been a member of the Tulsa-area media for more than 20 years. A native of Virginia, he has two degrees from the University of Tulsa, including a law degree.
The University of Tulsa
Presidential lecture series Sponsored by The Darcy O’Brien Endowed Chair Presents
Elaine Pagels March 24, 2016 7:30 p.m. Donald W. Reynolds Center 3208 East 8th Street
Elaine Pagels
Princeton Professor Elaine Pagels is known for her role in disproving the myth that the early church was a unified movement. A Harvard graduate, Pagels has received Rockefeller, Guggenheim and MacArthur Fellowships. Pagels’ findings were published in The Gnostic Gospels, which won the National Book Critics Circle Award and National Book Award. The New York Times called it “The first major and eminently readable book on Gnosticism benefiting from the discovery in 1945 of a collection of Gnostic Christian texts at Nag Hammadi in Egypt.” Pagels also authored NYT bestsellers Revelations: Visions, Prophecy and Politics in the Book of Revelation and Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas. Other books include The Origins of Satan and Adam, Eve and the Serpent. Her next book, Why Religion?, is slated for a 2018 release. She has appeared in Time, The Atlantic, Vogue, The New Yorker and Newsweek’s “Women and Power” issue.
Free to the Public book signing to Follow lecture utulsa.edu/Pls
The University of Tulsa is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action institution. For EEO/AA information, contact the Office of Human Resources, 918-631-2616; for disability accommodations, contact Dr. Tawny Taylor, 918-631-2315. To ensure availability of an interpreter, five to seven days notice is needed; 48 hours is recommended for all other accommodations. No tickets or registration required. Please call 918-631-2309 for event details. TU#16030
MUSINGS
Thoughts about everyday life
Crackup by CONNIE CRONLEY
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Georgia Brooks
I
had my most recent breakdown in the neighborhood grocery store. In the canned vegetable aisle, to be exact. It was near the end of December, and I went in to buy a can of tomatoes to make soup. Suddenly, I was faced with a wall of canned tomatoes of all types, labels and varieties: Roma, organic, peeled whole, diced, crushed and so many more my vision blurred. Looming nearby were cans of tomato paste, puree and tomato sauce. My heart began to pound. I felt light-headed. I thought, “I’m having an anxiety attack. I’m having an anxiety attack about a can of tomatoes.” I felt dizzy. I thought, “I have to sit down. Right now. I have to sit down in the canned vegetable aisle and wait until kind grocery clerks come to help me to my car, asking in quiet voices if there is someone they can call.” I didn’t sit down on the floor. I closed my eyes, took several deep breaths, grabbed a can of tomatoes (Any kind. I didn’t care.) and went home to make my soup. I also made a little loaf of bread to go with it. Year’s end is a crazy season. All around me, all over town, I saw shoppers with wild eyes and hair frizzed by the holiday spirit. I saw sellers and servers who were hollow-eyed and shell-shocked. I was in both camps.
I thought, “This episode in the grocery store is an epiphany. It’s the end of a busy year with a lot of personal losses, and I’m tired and I’m stressed. I have been running on adrenal overload. I need to stop. Right now.” So, I did. I stepped aside quietly and let Christmas pass me by. No gifts, no parties, no decorations — except one string of lights in the front yard (my duty as a good neighbor) and one whimsical wreath by artist Nancy Godsey. I also sat, as quiet as a mouse in the grass, as New Year’s and Valentine’s Day roared past like noisy 18-wheelers. Then I looked around me and thought, “Declutter! I’m drowning in stuff. How many pairs of black pants and shoes do I need? How
many flower pots in the garage? I am akin to a Bowerbird that collects brightly colored trinkets for its nest.” About the same time I had my crackup in the supermarket, I discovered I have magical powers. I can make things disappear! I have always been able to do this with cash, but now I can do it with objects. I use a pair of scissors to cut one end of a ribbon, turn around to cut the other end — and the scissors have disappeared. I take the lid off a jar, and the lid vanishes. I will attend the next wizards’ and magicians’ convention in Tulsa, not in costume, but dressed as myself. What has always saved me is more rest, less stuff, better nutrition and a good book. For me, reading is a cure for most any ail-
ment. However, Julie DelCour wrote in the Tulsa World that liquor stores outnumber bookstores 3-to1. Americans spend $2,500 annually on entertainment but only $100 annually on reading materials. I understand devices, gadgets and the Internet have lowered our attention span to 8 seconds. Eight seconds is less than a goldfish’s attention span. Being drunk with a short attention span may be why reading is difficult for some people. Are Tulsans reading? I called Chris Rogers, Tulsa’s Central Library circulation manager, and after research from the circulation department staff, he told me the most popular book of 2015. “The Girl on the Train,” a best-selling psychological thriller by Paula Hawkins, was checked out 1,984 times. I’ve read it! I’ve read it, and so have nearly 2,000 other Tulsans and library patrons — let alone readers who bought the book. I’m OK now. We’re not goldfish. We’re reading, we’re in libraries and not bars, we’re sober, and we’re not having breakdowns over tomatoes. We’re all OK. tþ Connie Cronley is a columnist, an author of three books and a public radio commentator. She is executive director of Iron Gate soup kitchen and food pantry.
Why buy at Don Carlton Honda?
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ROUGHNECKS FC
2016 SEASON HOME GAME SCHEDULE
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A PARK GROWS IN TULSA
Courtesy The Helmerich Trust
A GATHERING PLACE – PART 7
Brothers Zak, Hans, Matthew, Jono and Rik Helmerich are trustees of The Helmerich Trust.
A legacy to stand on
The Helmerich Trust honors Walt Helmerich’s love of green spaces. Hans Helmerich, trustee of The Helmerich Trust and chairman of Helmerich & Payne Inc., remembers driving through the woods of fellow oilman B. B. Blair’s former estate — land that is now being transformed into A Gathering Place. With construction well underway on the iconic park, the scenery looks quite different now. That is thanks to donors such as the trust, which committed $5 million for the bridge over Peggy’s Pond. The water feature is named for another park donor, Peggy Stephenson. The bridge will connect the Williams Cos. Lodge and the Chapman Foundations’ Adventure Playground to the ONEOK Boathouse and QuikTrip Great Lawn. 32
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
The Helmerich Trust’s donation to A Gathering Place is a project the family’s late patriarch, Walter Helmerich III, would have been proud to support. “Dad always had a huge affinity for making Tulsa a more livable city,” says Hans, who oversees the family’s trust with brothers Rik, Zak, Matthew and Jono. “He believed open spaces and park land were important pieces of that puzzle.” As for the late Blair, Hans thinks his friend would be excited about the park. “He loved Tulsa,” Hans says. “I think to know his property would become the hallmark of what Tulsa has to offer ... I think he would be pleased.” tþ
Rendering courtesy Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates
by MORGAN PHILLIPS
SITE PROGRESS THIS MONTH Complete piers, foundations and elevator pits for the ONEOK Boathouse, Williams Cos. Lodge, Water Mountain, Mist Mountain and the Maintenance Building. Continue work on each building’s steel infrastructure. Complete drilling and pouring of the land bridges’ piers and continue work on head wall construction. Continue north and south bumpout construction, including armoring of the shoreline. Continue sitewide dirt work, including stabilization of the slopes throughout the elevation changes of the park. First shipment of playground towers to arrive at offsite location, where they will be erected and stored. City of Tulsa to continue work on two major stormwater projects on north and east sides of site. City to continue upgrading water and sewer lines on west side of Riverside Drive. City to continue reconstruction of Riverside Drive on north end of site. Editor’s note: Construction plans subject to change. For more information, visit www.agatheringplacefortulsa.com.
A rendering of the bridge over Peggy’s Pond, named for donor Peggy Stephenson. TulsaPeople.com
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NEWS FROM OUR ADVERTISERS
EXPERT CARE FOR ALL
Services and have already served more than 350 families. They say their commitment to service makes Schaudt-Teel stand out from other providers. “We don’t use answering services or outsourced transportation,” Teel says. “Most importantly, a loved one never leaves our expert care.” Teel manages the day-to-day operations, with the Rev. Gary Volz serving as the staff chaplain, officiant and counselor. Diney Kantola is the site’s office manager and receptionist. “We work hard to deliver the most professional service to client families and deliver the most dignified care to their loved one,” Teel says. “Our facility is second to none and provides a beautiful atmosphere to celebrate lives well lived.” Schaudt-Teel Funeral Services & Cremation Care is located at 5757 S. Memorial Drive. Visit www.tulsa funeral.com or call 918-523-5757.
Courtesy Tulsa Community College
The owners of Schaudt-Teel Funeral Services & Cremation Care are devoted to each family’s individual needs. Since renovating and opening their property, they have already served more than 350 families.
At Schaudt-Teel Funeral Services & Cremation Care, co-owners Dan Schaudt and Chris Teel are devoted to each family’s individual needs. “As owner-operators, our ability to create a broad range of flexible service options to meet the specific needs of each family we serve really sets us apart,” Teel says. “Every client family is unique and deserves our undivided attention, whether they choose a traditional funeral experience, a life celebration event or a private ceremony with a simple burial or cremation.” Schaudt and Teel, both longtime area residents with extensive pre-planning and funeral service expertise, became business partners two and a half years ago when the funeral property at 5757 S. Memorial Drive became available. After renovating the property, they opened Schaudt-Teel Funeral
TCC open during spring break for college readiness High school students staying in Tulsa over spring break can get a head start on college preparations thanks to Tulsa Community College. TCC’s Metro Campus, located at 909 S. Boston Ave., will remain open March 14-18 to offer regular services and academic support to current students and will be available for prospective students to see an advisor, apply and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). “We see this as an opportunity to help prospective students and current students at a time when it is convenient for them,” says TCC President and CEO Leigh B. Goodson. “By expanding the services we provide during this week, we believe spring break access will be welcomed by students and fulfills the student-focused mission of the college.” TCC information sessions will be held daily at 1:30 p.m. in the Metro Campus Film Lecture Room and campus tours will begin at 2 p.m. A financial aid and Tulsa Achieves presentation will be 3 p.m., March 16. Visit www.tulsacc.edu for more information. 34
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Melanie Blackstock, M.D.
SculpSureTM fat-elimination laser treatment offered in Tulsa One of the top new technologies at the 2015 American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery annual conference was a new, non-invasive lipolysis treatment called “SculpSure.” The treatment, which now is being offered in Tulsa by Melanie Blackstock, M.D, uses temperature to destroy fat cells with heat. “SculpSure is the world’s first FDA-cleared laser treatment for non-invasive lipolysis of the abdomen and flanks,” says Blackstock, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist in Tulsa. “It’s a state-of-the-art, controlled light-based technology, ideal for patients looking to get rid of stubborn fat. We are very excited to bring it to Tulsa.” The simple and efficient method can treat multiple areas of the body in just 25 minutes. SculpSure is intended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less. Blackstock’s medical practice will host an open house for interested persons on Tuesday, March 8, at 5:30 p.m. Call 918-236-3064 to RSVP or for additional information.
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56 Years
Tradition of
TULSA OPERA BALL 2016
2016 Debutantes
Faye Andrea Nielsen Bartlett
Morgan Milann Coonce
Nicole Cleary Davis
Elizabeth Caroline Easterling
Cassandra Clair Farmer
Caroline Lee Lanier Fravel
Cadijah Cana Helmerich Frizzell
Kadriye Elizabeth Hargett
Mary Elizabeth Hawley
Katherine Holt Lehman
Sara Katherine Love
Colleen Marie Mordhorst
Anne Merrill Murphy
Madeleine Marie Patovisti
Isabelle Joy Perkins
Margaret Suzanne Sartin
Hayden Elizabeth Siegfried
Sydney Anne Smith
Madalene Louise Steichen
Alison Claire Tuttle
Anna-Jean Walz
Audrey Kelly Warren
Rachel Allison Wenger
Katherine Grace White
Tulsa Opera Ball 2016 March 5, 2016 • The Mayo Hotel
For more information, please call Tulsa Opera at 918-582-4035, ext. 111.
2016 Squires
Baylor Joseph Calvin
Bryce Wayne Consedine
William Baker DeSelms
Samuel James Harrison
Jack Baxter Hays
Brock James Morgan
Harris Michael Neuens
Michael Adebowale Oyekan
Austin Williford Powell
George Harold Saxon
Seth Barrett Steinke
Grant Edward Summers
Jake Wayne Van Hooser
Maddux Steven Walton
Garrett Johnston Warren
Melissa Sartin Melissa Easterling Opera Ball Co-Chairs
Suzanne Warren Honorary Chair
Kathy Murphy Debutante Chair
Kristi Gavlik Squire Chair
Please join us for these up and coming Tulsa Opera performances
Streetcar Named Desire Friday, March 4th at 7:30pm and Sunday, March 6th at 2:30pm
Samson and Delilah Friday, May 6th at 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 8 at 2:30pm
For tickets, call 918-587-4811 or go to www.TulsaOpera.com
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TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Gates Hardware Building/Elgin Park
Downtown now Multiple downtown construction projects will be completed in 2016.
F , T ’ in the past 40 years. But within the inner-dispersal loop, the view is changing from the ground up. Gone (or almost gone) are the days of vacant buildings and businesses of questionable morals. Instead, downtown is home to exciting local food, professionals who can ride their bikes home for lunch and an ever-growing population of construction crews. Building on that success, 2016 promises an influx of opportunities to eat, live, work and play downtown.
Melissa Lukenbaugh
F
by JULIE RAINS
Gates Hardware Building/Elgin Park 323 E. M. B. Brady St. N.
The Boxyard East Third Street and South Frankfort Avenue
Selser Schaefer Architects
When KSQ began extensively renovating the Gates Hardware building, “it was just a shell with four exterior walls and no roof,” says David Short, the firm’s president. Today, KSQ occupies the second floor, and preparations are underway for a new McNellie’s Group restaurant, Elgin Park, to occupy most of the first floor. The sports bar-meets-brewpub is a collaboration with Marshall Brewing Co. The space will feature two hydraulic windows for inside-out seating as well as thoughtful sports references like barstools upholstered in the same leather Rawlings uses for its gloves — after all, ONEOK Field is just across the street. You can plan to enjoy MLB’s Opening Day over an exclusive Elgin Park-Marshall brew in April.
The Boxyard
Extra-tall, repurposed shipping containers will form a new retail space in the East Village. Based on similar open-air malls in London, Las Vegas and Nashville, Tennesee, The Boxyard will be home to Dwelling Spaces, Masa restaurant, Stemcell science store, a rooftop bar and more. Tulsans also can expect public events coordinated by Dwelling Spaces’ Mary Beth Babcock as the site’s programming manager. Casey Stowe of project developer Nelson + Stowe Development says The Boxyard will bring even more energy to the neighborhood. “It will be contained in a pretty small footprint,” he says, “but you’ll have 18-20 new businesses opening, just like that.” See a new side of shipping by June.
Y Lofts
Brickhugger LLC, the development group that restored the Mayo Hotel, will begin pre-leasing units this spring in its newest project, the Y Lofts in the former YMCA building. The 80 units range in size from 400-2,200 square feet. “All the apartments will be different, so there will be something for every resident,” Shelby Snyder, president of Brickhugger. As reported in the Tulsa World, progress on the project was delayed due to seeking the use of historic tax credits and finding the best developing practices for the unique spaces.
John Amatucci Photography
Y Lofts 515 S. Denver Ave.
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Central Library
Central Library 400 Civic Center
MSR Architecture
Across the street from the former YMCA, another iconic Tulsa structure is getting more than a facelift. The funds for the Central Library’s $54 million LEED-certified renovation were raised through foundations, corporations, individuals and Improve Our Tulsa funds. The Central Library will house the first Starbucks inside a public library. Grab a cup of coffee and a book this summer.
The Edge at East Village
The Edge at East Village 211 S. Greenwood Ave.
American Residential Group is partnering with Nelson + Stowe Development to bring downtown Tulsa the only new-construction residential offering opening in 2016. Several of the one- and two-bedroom units at The Edge will have balconies, and all residents will have access to the pool in the center courtyard. According to Becky Weaver of ARG, monthly rental rates are expected to range from $1,020-$2,000. The first phase of units will be ready for occupancy this spring.
American Residential Group
The Meridia 522 S. Boston Ave.
The Meridia
Walk by this building now, because by summer you might not recognize it. Over the next several months, the building will transform into 93 luxury apartments ranging from 710-1,600 square feet. Balconies will be included on 88 units. “All we are keeping is the bones of the building,” says Hannah Demuth, River City Development property manager.
McNellie’s Group office/Bond Event Center 608 E. Third St.
The McNellie’s Group has occupied the former Bond Baking Co. building since 2013 and has been in the process of remodeling it ever since. By this summer, the building will be home to the company’s offices, a commissary kitchen and storefront bakery, and a 10,000-square-foot event space called the Bond Event Center, a venue for corporate retreats, weddings, fundraisers, parties and more.
SQD Architects
Tulsa World/Palace Building 324 S. Main St.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TULSA will build a 70,000-square-foot children’s and preschool building and renovate the existing Detroit Tower structure at East Fifth Street and South Detroit Avenue to improve accessibility for older adults. The project will affect nearly every age group in First Baptist’s 1,500-member congregation. The church’s third renovation in 14 years is expected to be complete by mid-2017. FOX HOTEL AND UNIVERSAL FORD BUILDING wraps up construction this month near East Cameron and North Main streets. The last projects to be finished will be the new brewpub, a collaboration between the minds at R Bar and Prairie Artisan Ales, and offices above The Tavern restaurant for Lilly Architects and Arts Alliance Tulsa. Antoinette Baking Co. opened first in the building, which is now also home to The Tavern and The Lounge speakeasy. In January, coworking space and business incubator 36°North celebrated its grand opening. The building’s 31 apartments are all leased and occupied, and tenants include Tulsa Artist Fellowship participants, teachers with Teach For America and City Year and entrepreneurs with 36°North.
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The Tulsa World and its parent company, BH Media, are collaborating on the renovations of the Palace Building. The 1912 building had been vacant since 2012, but renovations will transform the property into 60 apartments with affordable rent and commercial space on the ground floor. A structure will be built over the existing parking lot to serve as a paper storage facility. “The primary reason (to renovate the Palace Building) was a feeling within Berkshire Hathaway that this would communicate that we care about Tulsa and are here for the long haul,” President and Publisher Bill Masterson says. tþ
OKLAHOMA MUSEUM OF POPULAR CULTURE (OKPOP) will take up residence in the Brady Arts District on land donated by Bank of Oklahoma along Archer Street near the Center of the Universe. Expect 30,000 square feet celebrating Oklahoma’s “creative spirit.” Once architects and consultants have been determined, an approximately three-year timeline for design, construction and museum completion will be set. The state has allocated $25 million to cover the museum’s construction, and fundraising is ongoing for exhibits and collection care. SANTA FE SQUARE is a six-story, multi-family living, hotel and retail space that will occupy two blocks between First and Second streets and Greenwood and Elgin avenues. It will grow out of the existing Santa Fe Depot and will be completed in 2017. THE VIEW is a new construction project from American Residential Group that will bring 195 high-end residential units and 15,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space to the newly vacated lot just south of ONEOK Field. Construction should begin this fall and take 16-18 months to complete.
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Tulsa votes
The view up ahead As Tulsa voters prepare to cast ballots on the Vision 2025 extension proposals, we look at the projects and discuss what’s at stake.
I
I , T C V — four proposals that grew every corner of the county, from building the BOK Center to keeping American Airlines jobs in Tulsa. The suburbs benefited from projects like swimming pools in Broken Arrow, a water storage tank for a medical complex in Owasso, and a building to house fire and emergency medical services in downtown Collinsville. The Vision 2025 tax of .6 percent on sales and services within Tulsa County raised about $662 million through December 2015. It will expire at the end of 2016. A vote on April 5 seeks to keep the improvements — worth more than $884 million — coming to Tulsa. The city’s new Vision package proposes extending .55 percent of the current Vision 2025 sales tax. If approved, the package will not increase the current overall tax rate of 8.517 percent. The three Vision proposals are for: 1. A permanent sales tax dedicated to police and fire. This tax will begin at .16 percent and increase to .26 percent in four years. 2. A permanent sales tax of .085 percent for public transportation and street maintenance. 3. A 15-year sales tax of .305 percent to promote economic development, including river development. The tax will increase to .805 percent for four years (from 2021 to 2025) and then go back to .305 percent. Nearly 92 percent of the extension tax will benefit the City of Tulsa; the remainder will fund county projects. Beyond that, each Tulsa suburb — some of which have already passed extensions — will decide whether to coordinate its own city projects and proposals, says Councilor G.T. Bynum. Sand Springs, Bixby and Broken Arrow already have passed a .55 percent extension for public safety and streets. Owasso and Jenks also plan to put the .55 percent tax to vote. Tulsa’s package, however, is more complex than streets and safety because of the city’s size and responsibility to the suburbs.
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by NELLIE KELLY
ONLINE SALES IN OKLAHOMA Mayor Dewey Bartlett says the City of Tulsa has been living off of the same amount of sales tax since 1984. For the past 10 years, he has placed the blame squarely on online shopping. “Because of Internet sales, we’ve seen a significant decline in sales tax revenue,” Bartlett says. That means that while the tax rate has remained fairly high, the city hasn’t seen increasing revenues because, by state law, online retailers without a physical presence in Oklahoma — such as Amazon — cannot collect sales taxes. Residents are supposed to report their online purchases when filing their state income taxes, but most do not. Bartlett and the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s OneVoice legislative initiative are advocating for changes in how Oklahoma collects and uses sales tax for online purchases. In her State of the State address, Gov. Mary Fallin also advocated for legislation requiring all online sales be taxed. The mayor estimates the City of Tulsa currently misses out on approximately $20 million per year. Until the law changes, goods purchased online simply don’t count toward the city’s bottom line the way shopping in a store does, Bartlett says. To view the full Vision 2025 extension proposal, visit www.TulsaPeople.com.
“As the core city, we have the responsibility and the necessity to provide the core attractions that draw people to the area and keep them here,” Bynum says. “We are unique because of our role and responsibility in the region.”
Permanent funding for public safety About 30 percent of the package calls for a permanent tax dedicated to public safety. The revenue would allow the City of Tulsa to hire 160 police officers and 65 firefighters for a total of $202 million and $70 million, respectively, in the first 15 years. “As long as we’re making economic development a priority, we’re going to have to make sure that visitors and citizens feel safe,” says Tulsa City Councilor Karen Gilbert who spearheaded the effort to include public safety in the Vision renewal.
Currently, the city is not able to hire enough officers to replace those retiring, let alone increase the force to appropriate levels, she says. “Water in the river excites me tremendously,” says Mayor Dewey Bartlett Jr., “but the No. 1 thing that excites me is support for public safety because the priority for any city is keeping people safe.”
Permanent funding for public transportation and streets If approved, the second Vision proposal also would generate permanent funding for public transportation and streets — $102 million in the first 15 years. The proposal would allow the city to build a transit hub, a multi-modal facility designed to bring all transit offerings under one roof, while also facilitating the downtown circulator. It would serve as a transit “home base” for everything from bike share to passenger rail. Tulsa Transit also would dramatically expand bus routes and decrease wait times; create a downtown route; and expand evening and weekend service. The public transportation piece would generate $57 million for these projects in the first 15 years. The street maintenance portion would generate $45 million in the first 15 years to hire street crews charged with making street repairs, including filling pot holes and striping lanes.
Economic development and river The third proposal encompasses a variety of economic development projects totaling $366 million. An expansion of Gilcrease Museum would receive $65 million. The BMX national headquarters would relocate to Tulsa for $15 million. Also on the list would be improvements to the Cox Business Center, Tulsa International Airport, Langston University, the Air National Guard Mission Training Center, the Tulsa Zoo
WHERE WOULD $884 MILLION GO? POLICE $202 MILLION FIRE $70 MILLION STREETS $45 MILLION TRANSIT $57 MILLION RIVER $145 MILLION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT $365 MILLION
and a new program to provide housing incentives for public school teacher attraction and retention. About $145 million of additional funds would be dedicated to the Arkansas River. Projects would include Zink Dam improvements, including an iconic pedestrian bridge; a Jenks dam and boat dock; Turkey Mountain expansion; and river corridor trails. “The idea is to take the river from being something that you might look at or drive by to being something that you can actually use,” Bynum told an overflow crowd of more than 250 at the Greenwood Cultural Center in January. “It runs the length of our city, so it ought to be something that people can utilize.”
Community input In 2003, each of the four Vision 2025 proposals passed with about 60 percent of the vote. Before that, two proposals in 1997 and 2000 were rejected by Tulsa County voters. In April, voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballot on each package proposal. Supporters say Tulsans should approve all three. Councilor Blake Ewing says that over the past two years, the city council reviewed proposals from the public worth more than $2 billion. They were able to put less than half of those into the final Vision package. He says some of the ideas were cut because they were not fully developed, lacked capital or simply weren’t prioritized by a majority of the councilors and mayor. Still, Ewing says, through task forces led by councilors and public meetings, residents were able to have a conversation about their priorities and goals. Late in the game, during three public forums in mid-January to obtain final public input for the package, it was unclear whether even the council members would reach a consensus. At the final hour, the final plan came together Jan. 28 with unanimous council support. “It is a real vision,” Gilbert says. “I am extremely excited. This is something that’s going to truly enhance the quality of life in Tulsa.” tþ TulsaPeople.com
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DOWNTOWN THROUGH THE DECADES Relive the past at these downtown destinations. BY ANNA BENNETT
1900s
By the time Oklahoma attained statehood in 1907, the rowdy boomtown of Tulsa had already established many institutions, from religious life to commerce. Vernon AME Church, now at 311 N. Greenwood Ave., has been around since 1905; what’s now the Mimosa Tree Capital building at 301 E. Third St. was the first combination residential/commercial building in town. Take the Tulsa Historical Society’s tour of the central business district on the last Friday of the month at 10 a.m. to walk in the footsteps of the earliest Tulsans.
1910s
You don’t have to leave the inner-dispersal loop to experience a century of history, culture and, above all, fun. Explore downtown Tulsa through the lens of your favorite decade, whether you’re a midcentury modern buff or just haven’t changed your hairstyle since the 1980s. One thing is for certain: 12 decades of development have left downtown with no shortage of things to do. So, let’s fire up the time machine and get started!
Stop by the original Tulsa Municipal Building at 124 E. Fourth St. Built in 1917, the Neo-Classic-style structure served as City Hall until 1969. Then, walk the streets of historic Greenwood. Take notice of the plaques on the sidewalks throughout the district and imagine what it must have been like during its Black Wall Street heyday. Though there are plenty of plans for revitalization (p. 50), the Greenwood of this era was one of the wealthiest black communities in early 20th century America. Visit the Greenwood Cultural Center at 322 N. Greenwood Ave. to learn more. In the days before “talkies,” live entertainment like vaudeville was the thing. One relic from that era, the Brady Theater (105 W. M. B. Brady St.), still hosts many concerts and performances. For modern takes on turn-of-the-20th-century entertainment — from variety shows to classic ballets — check out the Comedy Parlor (328 E. First St.) and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center (110 E. Second St.). TulsaPeople.com
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1920s
Two words: art deco. Tulsa Foundation for Architecture’s Second Saturday walking tours, which start at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of the month, offer a fascinating look at the story behind downtown’s opulent buildings. Take in the sounds of the Jazz Age at free Depot Jazz Jams Tuesday nights at the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, 5 S. Boston Ave. If you seek a “speakeasy” experience, head down the stairs to the unassuming Cellar Dweller at 417 W. Seventh St. Remember the 1920s weren’t all glitz, glamour and Gatsby, unfortunately. Pay a visit to John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park, 321 N. Detroit Ave., to honor the lives and livelihoods that were lost in the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot.
1930s
ONEOK Field, 201 N. Elgin Ave., is a new gem, but the games within harken to the days when Babe Ruth and Joe DiMaggio made baseball America’s Pastime. Experience Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl days and the legacy of the legend himself at the Woody Guthrie Center, 102 E. M. B. Brady St. Then, visit the Tulsa Art Deco Museum, 511 S. Boston Ave., to catch a glimpse into the lives of the swankier set during the era.
1940s
Get into the “swing” of a favorite WWII-era pastime with Tulsa’s Vintage Swing Movement group. Lessons in Lindy Hop are at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays at the TCC Metro Campus Student Activities Center, 909 S. Boston Ave. Then, show off your vintage moves at “Lindy in the City,” VSM’s free dances on the second Friday of the month at TCC’s Center for Creativity, 910 S. Boston Ave. If you’re looking for the saucier, sexier side of the decade, unleash your inner pin-up girl with a photo session at Voulez Vous Boudoir in the East Village, 820 E. Third St.
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1960s Relive your favorite scenes from the iconic film “The Outsiders.” Some of the downtown locations include Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, 1301 S. Boston Ave., the now-demolished Bowen Lounge at West 11th Street and South Denver Avenue and Tulsa Regional Medical Center (now OSU Medical Center) at 744 W. Ninth Street. Then, taste the British Invasion at Mod’s Coffee and Crepes, 507 S. Boston Ave., or sample the ’60s penchant for tropical kitsch at the Saturn Room, 209 N. Boulder Ave. If you think “Mad Men” is groovy, check out the midcentury modern vibes, far-out fare and cool cocktails at The Vault, 620 S. Cincinnati Ave.
1980s You can still rock a sweatband, high-cut leotard and legwarmers at free fitness classes at Guthrie Green (111 E. M. B. Brady St.) and Fly Loft (117 N. Boston Ave.). If you’re ready to flashdance the night away, mark your calendars for the 14th annual ’80s Prom April 23 at Cain’sBallroom,423N.MainSt.“Prom?!Gagmewithaspoon!”MaybeTheMaxRetropub, 114 S. Elgin Ave., is a better fit for a nerd like you. Shoot for the high score on classic arcade games like Tron, Pac-Man, Burger Time and more while sipping some righteous cocktails based on your favorite ’80s cartoons.
1950s
The post-war era may conjure images of vast suburbia, but there’s plenty of old-fashioned family fun in the heart of the city. Pick up some classic candies for the kiddies (of any age) at the Candy Castle at 511 S. Boston Ave. Just a quick jaunt to Decopolis, 502 S. Boston Ave., and the youngsters can pick out a toy or two from yesteryear — who needs YouTube and iPads when you have puppet shows and picture books? For a grown-up blast from the past, grease your hair, put on that leather jacket and grab a beer at Orpha’s Lounge (112 W. Fourth St.) or Arnie’s Bar (318 E. Second St.), two dives that have been staples since the ’50s. If pool and jukeboxes aren’t your scene, capture the spirit of Beatnik culture at open mic night at the Gypsy Coffee House, 303 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The beats, jams and verses start flying at 7 p.m., but arrive before 6:30 if you’ve got something to share. We’ll snap for that.
1970s
Tuck in that mock turtleneck, hike up those athletic shorts and polish your supersized glasses — the ’70s are back in full force at Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge (211 S. Elgin Ave.). The ultra-retro joint is as famous for tater tots and White Russians as it is for bowling. If you’re feeling less square and more punk, catch a show at Cain’s Ballroom (423 N. Main St.) and relive the frenetic energy of the Sex Pistols’ infamous 1978 show there — you can still see the fist-sized hole in the wall left by band member Sid Vicious. TulsaPeople.com
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2000s
1990s
The dream of the ’90s is alive in Tulsa, perhaps most visibly at The Fur Shop, 520 E. Third St. Known for killer local brews and bands, this East Village bar/music venue captures the DIY spirit, featuring hella cool musical acts — local and otherwise — in a variety of genres. Songwriters, shoegazers, roots rockers, ska slayers, triphoppers, loud and proud vintage devotees and other modern throwbacks frequent the scene. The 1990s also saw the expansion of coffee culture, a way of life that’s taken very seriously at Chimera Café (212 N. Main St.), Foolish Things Coffee Co. (1001 S. Main St.), Hodges Bend (823 E. Third St.) and Topeca Coffee (115 E. Fifth St. and 100 E. Second St.).
2010s
It’s all about food fads. Get your trendy cupcake fix at Pinkitzel, 201 S. Denver Ave., and hop on the mobile food bandwagon at Food Truck Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Guthrie Green, 111 E. M. B. Brady St. This public space represents Tulsa’s promising, urban future, while already being a fixture in local life. Catch today’s biggest stars at the BOK Center, 200 S. Denver Ave. And don’t forget to take a selfie at the Center of the Universe, on the pedestrian bridge between East Archer Street and East First Street. tþ
Hair and makeup courtesy Toni Jones of Posh Blow Dry Bar. Models courtesy Linda Layman Agency. Vintage clothing courtesy Cheap Thrills Vintage.
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TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
During a time when Tulsa seemed to be expanding outward, several visionaries put roots downtown. Grab a pint at Elliot Nelson’s original McNellie’s, 409 E. First St., or sip wine at Chris Girouard’s early East Village anchor Girouard Vines, 817 E. Third St. Relive your “American Idol” fantasies at a plethora of karaoke nights: Sundays at Mainline (111 N. Main St.) and Enso (104 S. Detroit Ave.), Tuesdays in the spring at East Village Bohemian Pizzeria (818 E. Third St.), Wednesdays at Club Majestic (124 N. Boston Ave.) and Woody’s Corner Bar (325 E. Second St.), Fridays at Elote Café (514 S. Boston Ave.). Live it up “Sex In The City”-style by taking your gal pals to cocktails or brunch. For cocktails, try Valkyrie (13 E. M. B. Brady St.), Mixed Company (South Denver Avenue and West Third Street) and Hodges Bend (823 E. Third St.). For brunch try Antoinette Baking Co. (207 N. Main St.), and 624 Kitchen on Sundays (624 S. Boston Ave.). For the best of both, opt for The Tavern (201 N. Main St.), Dilly Diner (402 E. Second St.) or Bramble Breakfast and Bar (311 E. Second St.).
VISIT
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What’s next for
GREENWOOD? With redevelopment booming around it, one historic downtown area is full of potential.
Much of the original Greenwood district is just a memory, but the intersection of East Archer Street at North Greenwood Avenue looks rather similar to the inset photo, circa 1940. 50
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Courtesy Beryl Ford Collection/Rotary Club of Tulsa, Tulsa City-County Library and Tulsa Historical Society.
by SCOTT WIGTON
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WEDGED IN A QUIET CORNER OF DOWNTOWN TULSA’S EXTREME NORTHEAST MARGIN lie the remnants of what used to be the pulsating heart of a proud, vibrant and economically self-sufficient community. Once known as Deep Greenwood, this foreshortened strip of quaint redbrick buildings and storefronts on Greenwood Avenue at East Archer Street comprises most of the historical remains of an area that once bustled with so much commerce, entertainment and entrepreneurship that it came to be called Black Wall Street. The area thrived for decades (see p. 54) but the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot, desegregation, changing economics and, ultimately, urban renewal left Greenwood a shadow of its former self. Even now, many fondly remember the larger Greenwood District when it was a livelier place that offered a complete array of services and amenities for local residents. One of those is Regina Goodwin, an artist and now state representative whose district (73) includes Greenwood. “You had everything there: theaters, doctors, lawyers, restaurants, a newspaper,” she says. “There was no need to leave the community because it had what you needed. It was like any vibrant community.” TulsaPeople.com
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Community activist Michael Reed, Greenwood Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sherry Gamble Smith and Chamber Board President Dr. Art Williams believe Greenwood needs to seize the moment and develop the district to attract residents, locals and tourists.
Goodwin grew up on Greenwood Avenue, near the main business hub (today, north of the OSU-Tulsa campus), attended Carver Middle School, graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and went to church at First Baptist Church of North Tulsa. Although by then Greenwood was past its heyday, 1960s Greenwood was still an important and active district. “Greenwood is dear to my heart,” Goodwin says. “There was a lot that went on in Greenwood, and it’s an area and a street that showed us the best of who we are.” Shrunken by urban renewal, divided by a highway and, some say, largely ignored by developers and city planners for years, Greenwood became — in Goodwin’s words — “Gonewood.” Yet, with downtown Tulsa’s resurgence over the past decade — in particular the Brady Arts District adjacent to Greenwood and the Blue Dome and East Village districts to the south — some community leaders, Goodwin included, are sensing a growing opportunity. An opportunity for Greenwood to once again stake its claim and become a more vital and vibrant part of downtown’s ongoing redevelopment, rather than a largely overlooked relic. 52
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WHY NOT GREENWOOD? Among those calling for a Greenwood District revival is the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce. Gathered in the chamber’s offices located in one of the remaining historic buildings on Greenwood Avenue, GCC Executive Director Sherry Gamble Smith, Board President Dr. Art Williams and longtime community activist Michael Reed speak of seizing the moment. Especially in light of the hundreds of millions of dollars in development that has already been invested in adjacent areas. “We are trying to get on that wave (of development),” says Gamble Smith, who has served in her current role for several months and has been involved in various capacities for two years. “But it comes down to securing funding.” After a period of stagnation, the GCC has enjoyed its own resurgence in recent times and now has 100 paying members, Gamble Smith says. More than that, the GCC is more determined than ever to make its voice heard.
Reed says the time has come for Greenwood-area development that rivals surrounding districts and attracts locals and tourists. “So many people, both here and even around the world, know about Greenwood and its history as the Black Wall Street and what happened with the riot, but when they come here to see it, there is only this little block,” Reed says. “It’s embarrassing.” The district’s importance and race riot are commemorated across the country — from a tribute in Baltimore to a Smithsonian exhibit to an upcoming Oprah Winfrey Network miniseries — but here there’s little celebration of the history in the Greenwood District itself. What more does the GCC hope to see happen in the Greenwood District? It believes the area’s distinctive history, including being the epicenter of the one of the nation’s worst race riots, make it a destination for cultural tourism. “It’s a terrible thing for a historical area of such importance to be neglected,” says Williams, a professor at Langston University, which is located farther north on Greenwood next to OSU-Tulsa.
MAP OF GREENWOOD E Pine St Carver Middle School
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With the addition of more attractions along Greenwood and nearby such as restaurants, entertainment and historical exhibits, the aim would be to create a walkable, inviting environment that attracts more people, from Tulsa and beyond, to the area and keeps them there. The GCC also would like to see a “business incubator” established that helps minorities, in particular, develop businesses. “The goal would be to create destination tourism and keep the dollars in this area,” Gamble Smith adds. At least part of the effort to enhance Greenwood and make it more viable for bigger development hinges on securing its recognition on the National Register of Historic Places. An amended proposal to name the greater Greenwood area to the register is pending. Perhaps of greater importance, at least in the short term, is the fate of the nearby Evans Fintube facility. Located across the Watco railroad tracks to the east, the sprawling former steel manufacturing plant is a rusting, brownfield behemoth on nearly 50 acres of land. “That’s the last major land grab in this area that can be developed into something iconic,” Reed says. One proposal for the site, Rawspace Tulsa, was recently cut from the proposed Vision 2025 sales tax extension. Described as an “industrial-sized innovation space with multiple organizations housed under one roof,” the concept behind Rawspace was to create an incubator where advanced technology, traditional manufacturing, established industries and the broader community could mix. Reed, however, believes this development would be a better fit for other areas of the city. He hopes that the Evans Fintube site will be developed into a mixed-use development similar to Branson Landing in Branson, Missouri. He says this development would cost about $49 million. The site requires environmental remediation, and the Environmental Protection Agency has given the city $600,000 to help clean-up, but extensive additional work must also be done to prepare the site for use. The GCC would love to see the complex become a place of attractions, entertainment and commerce that lures people into the Greenwood area while also serving the immediate, practical needs of local residents. Late last year, the City of Tulsa, which owns the property, entered into a memorandum of understanding with Dallas-based developer Jackson-Shaw. The agreement should see the firm present a plan this spring for developing a mixed-use site that could include office, light industrial, retail and multi-family residential purposes. According to the mayor’s office, it will take several months for a defined project proposal. Reed hopes the community’s wishes are considered when it comes to the Evans Fintube
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GREENWOOD: Dr. Jocelyn Lee Payne, executive director of the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation, says additional streetscaping is in the works for the district this year. She calls for collaboration on upcoming and future projects to capitalize on the district’s enduring history and culture.
site. He says that in discussions with previous developers, the Greenwood community was intimately involved. With Jackson-Shaw he says he and the community feel excluded in the process, but have addressed these concerns with the City’s office of economic development. “I think the question that we are asking is, ‘Why not Greenwood?’” Williams says. “I think it’s time. But I also think it’s time for the City to make a commitment.” After years of serving on committees, contributing to development proposals and working for renewal, Reed says he is disappointed in the insufficient city funding to finish proposed projects. “Maybe we have a chance this time,” he says, claiming that input in two previous Vision 2025 proposals was disregarded. “All that input has not been heeded. We have put in stacks of requests, and no action has been taken.” Many, including Goodwin, want Greenwood to qualify as a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district as other developing areas have. TIF designation allows targeted districts to get needed funding through real estate and sales taxes based on rising property values and economic activity. According to the City of Tulsa, there are currently four such districts, including two downtown: the Brady Arts District and the Blue Dome District. TIF districts are approved through a vote of the city council. “It’s time for the City to ante up,” Williams says.
COLLABORATE AND DISCARD THE ‘OLD MODEL’ On Greenwood Avenue, just past the IDL overpass, is the Greenwood Cultural Center, which also houses the John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation. Dr. Jocelyn Lee Payne, executive director of the JHFCR, believes Greenwood has unique elements that can drive further development. 54
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“I think it would be wonderful if this district, with its authentic place in Tulsa history, could capture that history and culture and convey it to local citizens and guests its own kind of arts and entertainment district with an amazing array of experiences for visitors,” she says. Greenwood could become a tourist destination by combining its rich musical heritage along with opportunities for learning about its African-American roots. “The musical legacy alone is so great it would make this a sparkling gem,” Payne says. Her office oversees the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park, named in honor of the late, renowned African-American scholar and Booker T. Washington High School graduate. Located to the west of ONEOK Field, the park has become one of the treasures of downtown’s renewal. Payne says more streetscaping is set for this year that will improve the area around the park by adding lighting, landscaping and more secure street crossings. Ultimately, she would like to see the park, located in Greenwood, better connected to the Brady Arts District. She says a corridor will be created along East Cameron Street between Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and North Detroit Avenue for foot traffic from Guthrie Green to Reconciliation Park. With more housing options downtown, including the GreenArch development, Payne hopes residents will help to spur, even demand, additional entertainment options and amenities in the Greenwood District. That is a sentiment echoed by Patrick Fox, managing broker for Fox & Allen Commercial Realty, which represents GreenArch. The first phase of GreenArch created commercial and residential property that has attracted young professionals and millenials with affordable rents and the desire to live in an urban historic area. “Greenwood obviously has a long and important history in Tulsa,” Fox says. “There’s nothing that we will do that diminishes that,
A’ B W S
The Oklahoma Legislature’s first act (Senate Bill 1) upon statehood was a law mandating racial segregation. One of its results was the Greenwood District in Tulsa, which became the focal point of African-American cultural and economic life in the city. Essentially, Greenwood became a large town within a city, concentrating all the energy, professionalism and entrepreneurship of Tulsa’s black population in one area. Although African Americans worked in other parts of the city, mostly as domestic workers and other laborers, in Greenwood there were doctors, lawyers, dentists and a host of other professionals. It was one of the most successful black communities in the United States. By the time of the Tulsa Race Riot in 1921, there were over 10,000 black residents in the Greenwood District and surrounding areas. The riot resulted in the destruction of 35 city blocks, with nearly every church, home and business in Greenwood burned to the ground and close to 300 people killed. Still, even with resistance from the white community, Greenwood was rebuilt and thrived through the 1950s, when desegregation meant African Americans could leave their community and do business elsewhere. Many white merchants were more than happy to capture their dollars. Through the 1960s, Greenwood continued its decline with businesses disappearing and parts of the area growing shabby. Urban renewal in the early 1970s cleared vast swaths of the formerly proud district, and a leg of the IDL cut right through its heart. Today, much of what was the original Greenwood District is occupied by large facilities, including ONEOK Field and the campus of OSU-Tulsa. but also we want it to rise from the proverbial ashes so there is a revival of the district through a mix of new development blending with the older historical buildings.” GreenArch’s second phase will address the parking lot area across the street and develop strictly commercial property on the site. “We have big plans and vision, and we are working diligently to make that happen,” Fox says.
The Evans Fintube site is a much-discussed opportunity for Greenwood development. The statue (right) in the center of John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park is a chronological representation of African-American struggle.
Payne calls for collaboration and for Tulsa to discard what she refers to as the old model of development, especially in traditionally African-American areas, where members of the community get together and present an idea to a group of benevolent, wealthy outsiders. “We need to get past this,” she says. Rob Gardenhire, board chairman for the Greenwood Cultural Center and vice president of marketing and business development for the Tulsa Drillers and the Tulsa Roughnecks, also speaks of enhancing the Greenwood District to become a destination. “There is absolutely a vision to create an interactive tourist loop in the district,” he says. “We want to become a tourist destination.” It’s about creating more reasons for people to come to Greenwood and stay there. A big part of that is its inimitable history. “You’ve got Black Wall Street and the Race Riot, and you want to make sure you tell the story in the correct way, but you’ve got to get the right people and right vision in place,” Gardenhire says.
BENEFITS OF CROSSFERTILIZATION Like Goodwin, Kevin Matthews remembers at least the dying embers of the old Greenwood, which still had a few familiar business staples. Now retired from the Tulsa Fire Department, Matthews continues to serve north Tulsa as a state senator (Dist. 11). He also is heading the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot Centennial Commission. In just over five years, from May 31-June 1, 2021, Tulsa will mark the tragedy. The commission is tasked with leveraging “the rich history surrounding the 1921 event” by facilitating actions, activities and events that commemorate the tragedy and educate all citizens.
If anything, Matthews expects the centennial to help motivate stakeholders in Greenwood to continue to push for further development while raising the profile of the entire area in the minds of locals, developers and potential tourists alike. “The centennial is an opportunity to show that Tulsa cares about all its people,” he says. “On Greenwood, what we want to see is more activity, more people and more traffic coming into the area. For the dream to be real, we need to have more people, and that means people up north coming south and people down south coming north.” But Matthews isn’t waiting for five years from now. He sees any development of Greenwood as part of a larger improvement in the overall economic fabric of north Tulsa itself, a historically underserved area with a paucity of businesses that has resulted in food deserts and lack of access to other commercial services. In fact, Matthews already has his hand in helping push forward business developments in other parts of north Tulsa. For example, he hopes conversations with the Osage Nation Casino bear fruit in the form of a hotel near 36th Street North and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Like others, he feels that cultural tourism, particularly for African Americans, can help spark growth in Greenwood, but again, sees it within the larger context of north Tulsa revival. “I want people to be able to live, work and be entertained in north Tulsa,” he says, adding that tourism and economic growth in Greenwood would benefit the state as a whole. Hannibal B. Johnson, an attorney, consultant, author and Greenwood historian who offices on Greenwood Avenue, agrees it’s time to make the district more vital and attractive, recognizing the past but also embracing changes. “What we need to get done is something meaningful, productive and substantial rath-
er than preserve Greenwood as just hallowed ground,” he says. Greenwood, he argues, needs to be better integrated with surrounding areas to become one of the destination spots of downtown Tulsa. “What I would like to see is a community that is connected and not isolated,” Johnson says. “We need cross-fertilization of districts and migration of people among those districts. “It’s a new world. We have to preserve and share our historic legacy, our legacy of entrepreneurship and promote it, particularly to African-American kids.” Johnson, author of “Black Wall Street: From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District,” is helping raise funds for a Black Wall Street/Greenwood District exhibit at Tulsa International Airport. The exhibit, which will be unveiled May 31, will give visitors a taste of Greenwood’s unique history and hopefully inspire visitor traffic to the area. Goodwin says the historical Greenwood area’s residents, who are mostly African American, are “rightfully frustrated” by the lack of amenities in their community, including basic necessities like grocery stores. “Residents there feel it every day,” Goodwin says of this conspicuous lack. “Sometimes when you have a dominant culture in any city making decisions where money is allocated, that leads to some being left out of the progress,” she says. “But that doesn’t have to be the case.” Goodwin believes a more inclusive process would lead to concrete implementation of ideas — ideas that benefit both African American-led businesses and the community as a whole. “For all of us to be one Tulsa, we’ve got to try and level the playing field,” she says. “Why not embrace our rich African-American history and promote it? We need to make new history that is inclusive, and that comes from the folks that live there.” tþ TulsaPeople.com
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FROM LEFT TO RIGHT Jack Frank, Carnivale Co-Chair Becky Frank, Carnivale Co-Chair Carldell Pearson, Employee of Tulsa World and Mental Health Association Oklahoma Drew Edmondson, Carnivale Co-Chair (not pictured) Mollie Craft, Carnivale Committee, Past Chair Michael Brose, CEO, Mental Health Association Oklahoma Monica Basu, Carnivale Committee, Past Chair CREATIVE DIRECTOR Todd Pyland, Talmadge Powell Creative PHOTOGRAPHER Jeremy Charles ART DIRECTOR & PRODUCER Tony Li CINEMATOGRAPHER Tanner Herriott
SET DESIGN & DECORATOR Stacy Suvino WARDROBE STYLIST Shannon Schroeder MAKEUP ARTIST & HAIR Jordan Best PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT Travis Hall
SET ASSISTANTS Kailey Gullet Madeleine Black PRODUCTION ARTIST Rachel Everett EXTRAS Anna Turnage Ryly Ziese
SPECIAL THANKS TO 624 Kitchen and Catering (Location) Beshara’s Formal Wear Bix Antiques Dale Gillman Antiques Linda Layman Agency Jeffrey S. Metcalf JTR Group/Justin Thompson Kulsum Zahir Siddiqui Monica Basu (Wardrobe/Accessories) Saks Fifth Avenue Sheeba Atiqi Star Avenue Hookah Lounge
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HEY TULSA,
IT’S TIME TO VOTE FOR THE A-LIST!
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It’s your annual opportunity to vote for YOUR favorite Tulsa businesses in the five categories shown above for the 2016 A-List. You may choose to vote in one or all five categories. Each completed category ballot will automatically enter your name to win the $500 CASH PRIZE! Complete all five category ballots to increase your chances to win!
Visit TulsaPeople.com by March 13th to participate and register for the $500 prize!* 1603 S. Boulder Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119 918-585-9924 • TulsaPeople.com *75% of each ballot must be completed in order to register for $500 cash prize; each completed ballot will result in one chance to win. Only five different category ballots may be submitted per email address; must be 18 or older to vote.
TABLE TALK ✻ DINING ✻ SPIRITS
ITALIAN COMFORT T
avolo’s linguine and meatballs ($13, lunch; $18, dinner) will make you feel as if you’re in Italy, not downtown Tulsa. Atop a bed of fresh, house-made linguine, two spicy meatballs and a generous ladle of San Marzano tomato sauce create a magnifico dish. Be sure to visit the restaurant’s new Caffe and Market, located just next door, for fresh-baked goods, to-go meals and pantry items. Tavolo, 427 S. Boston Ave., 918-949-4498, www.tavolotulsa.com
Flavorful garnish P. 60
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A gourmet gathering P. 64 TulsaPeople.com
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The buzz on Tulsa’s tastiest products, restaurants and events by NATALIE MIKLES
KATE JENNEMANN might not know what to do with a finishing salt. But listen to her talk about the stuff, and you’ll know why your sprinkle of kosher isn’t cutting it. “The great thing about using Garnish is that it makes you feel like a gourmet chef even when you’re not,” she says. And she would know. Jennemann is a gourmet chef, having graduated from the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Paris. She has worked at Juniper in Tulsa and as a personal chef. Unable to find high-quality finishing salts using organic and seasonal ingredients, she created her own, and a business called Garnish. Flavors of Meyer lemon herbs de Provence, rosemary grapefruit, Thai chili lime and habanero Valencia orange make any food taste better. Jennemann starts with high-quality fleur de sel and incorporates it with organic produce, herbs and citrus zests. “I love even the simplicity of sprinkling Garnish on a piece of crusty bread with a drizzle of honey,” she says. “Try it on a margarita. Sprinkle it liberally on a nice piece of meat.
The simplicity of Garnish makes it fun and extremely versatile.” Jennemann understands the needs of chefs and everyday cooks. She also consults with chefs about their restaurant needs. So for her, Garnish Salt needed to be a product that could serve both groups. Salt, she says, is what drives flavor, making it a culinary staple. Jennemann is a Tulsa native and graduate of Bishop Kelley and the University of Tulsa. After working with Chef Justin Thompson at Juniper, she began a catering company, La Petite Chef. You can find Garnish Salt at Tavolo Caffe and Market, 427 S. Boston Ave., or at www.garnish salt.com. tþ Natalie Mikles is a writer who loves food, cooking and the people behind the stove. If she could only eat one food every day, it would be pie — hands down. She explores life with her husband and three children, who she is determined will become adventurous eaters.
Sapien Brands
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Kate Jennemann
LEMON RISOTTO WITH PEAS, BACON AND BUTTERPOACHED LOBSTER TAIL
Spring is just around the corner, so stash Jennemann’s recipe to use when you find fresh asparagus at the farmers’ market. Top with any flavor of Garnish Salt.
6 asparagus stems 3 tablespoons soft cheese, sliced Zest of 1 lemon 6 strips bacon
Parmesan cheese, to taste Lobster tail Garnish Salt
In a pot, heat chicken stock. In a pan, saute sliced leeks. Add Arborio rice to pan, and cook on medium-low. Add hot stock, one ladle at a time, until absorbed by rice. Stir constantly. Poach lobster tail in butter, then set aside. Roast peas and sliced asparagus with salt and extra-virgin olive oil in a hot oven. Combine lemon zest and soft cheese in a bowl. In a 350-degree oven, cook bacon until crisp. When risotto is al dente, add soft cheese and zest mixture, roasted vegetables and chopped, crispy bacon. Finish with Parmesan. Serve with poached lobster tail, and season with Garnish Salt to taste. 60
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
Sapien Brands
1 carton chicken stock 3 leeks, sliced 3 cups Arborio rice ½ package frozen peas
Lasalle’s New Orleans Deli
THE
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The Tavern
H e r e ’s t o t h e n e x t 3 0 y e a r s !
East Village Bohemian Pizzeria
Lucky for us, great Tulsa restaurants are sprinkled all over the map. For those special, one-of-a-kind gems found only in downtown, we offer this list.
Lassalle’s New Orleans Deli Only downtown will you find a slice of Bourbon Street in Tulsa. Chris and Amanda West came to Tulsa after Hurricane Katrina, bringing with them real-deal, New Orleans-style po’boys; red beans and rice; and more. During the lunch hour, the line moves quickly, with favorites like jambalaya often selling out. But no worries — just choose something else, since everything on the menu is a winner. The muffuletta ($6.99 for a quarter of a sandwich) is particularly good, loaded with salami, ham, provolone and chopped olives. 601 S. Boston Ave., 918-582-6652 www.lassallesneworleansdeli.com East Village Bohemian Pizzeria You can find pizza anywhere, but you won’t find it in such a unique setting as this. East Village Bohemian Pizzeria is the place to go when you want to feel like you’re out of town. The shotgun-style setting has cozy seating, with soft pillows, beautiful Turkish light fixtures and artwork. And then there’s the pizza, which is made Neopolitan style in a wood-fired oven. Bits of charred crust add to the deliciousness of the dough. The Isle of Capri ($14) with San Marzano tomatoes, prosciutto, roasted artichokes, olives, sundried tomatoes, fresh basil and fresh mozzarella is a favorite. 818 E. Third St., 918-895-6999 www.eastvillagebohemian.com The Tavern Every meal at the Tavern feels like a special occasion. Maybe it’s the newly remodeled interior and stunning bar, smack dab in the heart of all that is happening downtown, or the seasonal menu plus standards that have become Tavern classics since its opening. Chef Ben Alexander has put his stamp on the menu, adding a unique touch to favorites like the Tavern Burger ($13) with blue cheese, mushrooms and a Cognac cream sauce. 201 N. Main St., 918-949-9801 www.taverntulsa.com Bramble Breakfast and Bar Make a “best of” restaurant list, and Bramble would hit many categories. It’s a great place to take out-oftowners, grab a mimosa with the girls or have a leisurely weekend breakfast. Its intimate setting has more space for bar than restaurant and breakfast here is unlike anything in town. You’ll find everything from coffee cake ($4) and Swedish pancakes ($7) to a traditional English breakfast ($12) of sausage and baked beans, plus a griddled tomato and eggs. 313 E. Second St., 918-933-4495 www.bramblebartulsa.com
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Jennifer Nelson and Dan Mailath APRIL 4, 2015
sparking a cookies from Nelson’s niece, Mailath bought Girl Scout sister. matchmaking idea for Nelson’s d be perby talking to him, she knew he’ “He purchased cookies and just us together.” worked with his parents to bring fect for me,” Nelson says. “She history. their first date, and the rest is A year later the two finally had in the park,” she session photo holiday “We were invited to the family proposed in front of my family.” at says. “During the session, Dan gardens the in 4 April family ceremony The couple married in a small on the muelegant family dinner followed Philbrook Museum of Art. An seum’s terrace. B H P , C
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SPIRITS
A wee bit of Irish
Channel the emerald isle with these sips. by RANDA WARREN, MS, CWE, AIWS, CSS*
Knappogue Castle 12-year-old Irish single-malt whiskey — $37.99 Smooth and elegant, this is an experience in luxury sipping. It’s tripledistilled to enjoy with or without water or coffee.
A
A I , it’s also famous for its spirits. Guinness is the most popular of the Irish brews, representing a robust style of beer made from roasted barley, hops, water and yeast. It is instantly recognizable by its dark color, caramelized flavors and ultra-creamy head that first hits your lips. But there are many other delicious stouts, like O’Hara’s and Murphy’s. Stouts are sometimes called “a meal in a cup” due to their filling nature.
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Murphy’s Irish Stout beer (4-pack) — $8.19 A big black brew with notes of dark-roasted coffee, cocoa powder, damp earth and a bit of hops. This is sure to satisfy anyone who likes hearty ales.
Irish Mist honey liqueur — $25.99 Sweet with notes of herbs and spice, this is a chilly evening’s goodnight sip. Serve it slightly chilled if drinking straight up, or slip some into a warm beverage like tea or coffee.
Another “go-ahead-and-tempt-me” Irish grog is whiskey (spelled with an “e” versus without in Scotland). Irish whiskey is distilled three times; most Scottish whisky is distilled twice. Peat is rarely used in the whiskey malting process, so you won’t taste earthy, smoky notes in the drink. What you get instead is a smooth style perfect for sipping on its own or in the renowned Irish coffee. Quick recipe: 4 parts hot coffee, 2 parts Irish whiskey, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar and 1 ounce of fresh, heavy cream on top. Pour coffee, whis-
key and sugar into a glass. Top with the cream. Sneak a little sip of Irish Mist into your mug tonight for a special treat. This is Ireland’s legendary whiskey liqueur made with honey, herbs and other spirits. It is sure to warm you on one of March’s deceptively chilly days. tþ *Wine columnist Randa Warren is a Master Sommelier; Certified Wine Educator; Associate Member of the Institute of Wines and Spirits; and is a Certif ied Specialist of Spirits.
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SPONSORED EDITORIAL
Braised pork belly tacos
GOURMET GATHERING The Restaurant at Gilcrease Museum’s Chef Geoffrey van Glabbeek presented a cooking demonstration Jan. 7 at Metro Appliances & More for supporters of Project Special Courage. by ANNE BROCKMAN AS THE AROMA OF THE FOUR-COURSE MEAL permeated the air, nearly three dozen supporters of Project Special Courage gathered to experience a night of good food and wine in honor of the trailblazing organization. Chef Geoffrey van Glabbeek prepared the evening’s menu, inspired by his Southwest-infused kitchen at the world-famous Gilcrease Museum.
First, diners were treated to braised pork belly tacos topped with a cool slaw, queso fresco and cilantro pesto. A creamy tomato and corn bisque with ancho shrimp followed. When introducing the main course, van Glabbeek was inundated with a round of “oohs and aahs” as he described the braised short ribs, which had cooked for P R E S E N T E D BY
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nearly 10 hours. The short ribs were paired with a root vegetable hash that included bacon, onions, parsnips and potatoes, along with roasted Brussels sprouts deglazed with pomegranate and molasses. To end the evening, a round of sparkling wine, Cascinetta Vietti moscato d’asti, was served with dessert —— a flourless chocolate cake served atop a blood orange glaze.
Chef Geoffrey van Glabbeek, Metro Appliances & More’s Linda Johnson and Project Special Courage co-founders Michael and Lisa Turner. Guests enjoying the inaugural Gourmet Gathering.
Flourless chocolate cake
Braised short ribs and root vegetable hash
a dinner benefit
SUPPORTING
PROJECT SPECIAL COURAGE
Sous Chef Daniel Eller and Chef Geoffrey van Glabbeek cooking in Metro’s Bosch demonstration kitchen at the inaugural Gourmet Gathering.
FOUNDED BY TULSANS LISA AND MICHAEL TURNER in 2014, Project Special Courage advocates for a higher quality of life and enhanced opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Speaking to a room of dedicated board members, friends and guests, the nonprofit’s executive director Michael Turner says, “Your help lifts us, carries us, and I can’t thank you enough.” One of the organization’s first endeavors is an adaptive kayaking program that provides therapeutic outdoor recreation to the individuals and families it serves. Soon, the organization will announce launch dates for the pilot programs and training opportunities for volunteers. For more information visit www.special courage.org or www.facebook.com/special courage.
DON’T MISS
The next Gourmet Gathering on March 24 benefiting MUSED. Visit www.musedorganization.org for details. TulsaPeople.com
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the
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TRENDS ✻ HOME ✻ HEALTH
THAT’S A WRAP by KENDALL BARROW
When the weather is not quite spring nor winter, a wrap provides the perfect outer layer to keep you cozy and stylish.
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Austin calling P. 70
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Spring rejuvenation P. 73
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Seller’s market P. 81 TulsaPeople.com
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WRIGHT ON
Please pardon my twitterpation by JASON ASHLEY WRIGHT
M
M was to Oklahoma City. I hadn’t been to the outlet mall there yet, so Lord V and I went west on the turnpike, stopping first at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art before spending three hours — and only $40, thank you — perusing post-Christmas sale shelves and clearance bins. On the drive back, I became excited about our own Simon Premium Outlets coming to Jenks in 2017 — or another in east Tulsa or any of the 17 others that seem to be vying for our market. Soon, Costco will open in south Tulsa, Cherry Street will have a few new restaurants and the Margaritaville hotel already rising along the Arkansas River will hopefully lure tourism dollars by year’s end. But, having worked in downtown all my Oklahoma life, I am most exci- … No, wait, already used the E word, so let’s go with twitterpated. Yes, I am most twitterpated about what’s happening within the inner-dispersal loop — more specifically, the Brady Arts, Blue Dome, Deco and Greenwood districts. Although I’m anxious to see development in north Tulsa, and it’s thrilling to read updates on new retailers coming to the Tulsa Hills and Hard Rock retail areas, downtown is Tulsa’s heartbeat. On my ride into work on my first day at the Tulsa World years ago, my smalltown self was impressed with the tall buildings but depressed about downtown’s shortcomings, as everything seemed to shrivel after 5 o’clock traffic headed south. Especially since the BOK Center came to town a decade ago, though, downtown’s pulse has quickened. Over the holiday season, I took a couple of lunch breaks to browse the Deco District Shops in the historic Philcade Building at East Fifth Street and South Boston Avenue. Looking up from the goodies in Okie Crowe and out through their display windows, it was heartening to see people milling about on the sidewalks — and not just at lunchtime. People were actually looking around and enjoying themselves. Sigh … This is what a real downtown is supposed to be like. So eager (i.e., nerdy) am I to hear about anything new, I visit the City of Tulsa’s online
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building permit center once a month to scan the commercial reports. Actually, my excitement may teeter past mere geeking out to relative stalking, as I started bugging Mary Beth Babcock via Facebook less than a week into the New Year. Babcock — best known as both the owner of the popular Dwelling Spaces shop and the unofficial ambassador of the 918 — was my go-to for the skinny on The Boxyard project, an upcoming “community of shops operating in and out of repurposed shipping containers.” Babcock’s boutique, along with her Joe Bot’s Coffee Bar, will be among The Boxyard’s oneof-a-kind tenants, along with the mmm-mahvelous Masa restaurant. Anyway, she put me in touch with Casey Stowe, co-namesake of Nelson+Stowe Development, which is bringing the project to life. In fact, I am so worked up about this place that I considered asking Stowe about leasing a space there. For what purpose, I don’t know. Do we have a need for a combination make-yourown-scent parfumerie, low-fat malt shop and Botox bar? I’ll think on that …
Another Stowe+Nelson project I’m pumped about is Santa Fe Square, which will be 600,000 square feet of fabulousness, judging by renderings of this two-block project mixing retail, hotel, offices and apartments. It almost makes me want to reconsider renting just to be close to all the excitement — the restaurants, the bars, race events, concerts, shops. It’s not that I won’t go back to Oklahoma City and visit the museums or look at the skyline and ponder when we’ll get a skyscraper taller than the Devon Energy Center (it’s a competition, ya know), but I’m beyond enthusiastic to have more and more reasons to stay closer to home — and closer still to downtown. So, in the meantime, please pardon my twitterpation. tþ See p. 39 for more on downtown development projects.
A Mississippi native, Jason Ashley Wright has called Tulsa home since 1998. He spends his free time f inishing a novel, contemplating his next meal and hanging with his Maine Coon, Ali Tabouli.
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W E E K E N D G E TA W AY S
An Austin adventure Fill up on fun in the heart of Texas hill country.
1.
Barton Springs Pool Located in picturesque Zilker Park, Barton Springs is Austin’s own natural, spring-fed pool where water remains a steady 68 degrees year-round. Texas Monthly Magazine named the 3-acre pool the “Best Swimming Hole in Texas.” Entry is a mere $3 for adults. Zilker Park also is home to the ABC Zilker Kite Festival — the oldest of its kind in the U.S. and a huge draw on March 6. Continue your outdoor experience by hiking along the 7-mile Barton Creek Greenbelt, which runs southwest of the park and features numerous places to rock climb — or just watch others do the grappling. 2201 Barton Springs Road, Austin; 512-867-3080; www.zilkerpark.org
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2.
Rainey Street In the heart of Austin is the Historic Rainey Street District, where many of the picturesque 1920s bungalow homes have been preserved and transformed into bars and cocktail lounges. While nearby Sixth Street draws tourists, Rainey Street draws the locals. Try out the sexy Lucille or the whiskey-themed Blackheart (pictured) bars. As the bars sling drinks,many of Austin’s favorite food trucks fill the pedestrian-friendly district. Located between Lady Bird Lake and East Cesar Chavez Street, just west of Interstate 35.
3.
Shopping on SoCo Residents and visitors alike descend on the vibrant South Congress Avenue to peruse the unique array of shops, restaurants, boutiques, antiques, music venues and galleries. Every first Thursday, shops remain open until 10 p.m. Stroll into Allens Boots, an Austin tradition since 1977, to pick up a new pair of cowboy boots and the latest Western wear. Grab a bite at the new Torchy’s Tacos or The Magnolia Café South, which serves up big flavor 24/7. South Congress Avenue from Johanna to Gibson streets.
4.
Baked by Amy’s Need an afternoon pick-me-up after all your Austin adventures? Head over to Baked by Amy’s, an adorable sweet spot that bakes cookies, cupcakes, macarons and other goodies. It’s an offshoot of the Austin-loved Amy’s Ice Creams, so, trust me, it’s good. 13265 N. Highway 183, Austin; 512-918-2253; www.bakedbyamys.com
5.
Barbecue You can’t visit Austin without a stop at one of the local joints. Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue is an even bigger deal than before with his recent James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest. But, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. You’ll wait in a long line to eat some of his delicious brisket. The world-famous Salt Lick is another must, steeped in tradition as a BYOB, cash-only establishment. The best part is the drive through the Texas hill country to get to the original location in Driftwood. Franklin Barbecue: 900 E. 11th St., Austin; www.franklinbarbecue.com The Salt Lick: 18300 FM 1826, Driftwood; 512-858-4959; www.saltlickbbq.com tþ
1) Photo by Andy Mahr, courtesy Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau, 2) John Pesina, 3) Photo by Dave Mead, courtesy Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau, 4) Courtesy Baked by Amy’s, 5) Eric Ellis
A
A A S by Southwest Festival this month, here are some favorite ways to get your fill of Texas’ “weirdest” city. If SXSW isn’t your jam, there’s plenty else to do to experience the Texas capital.
by ANNE BROCKMAN
Two weeks of festivities, March 5-20!
THREE TH THR REE EE SISTERS SISTE C E L E B R A T I O N Join us March 5-20 as we plant the “Three Sisters” (beans, corn and squash) in the village. Enjoy traditional games, storytelling, stickball, archery, living history – plus, new exhibits, horticultural tours and butterfly gardens. Squash, one of the Three Sisters
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W
W’ taking care of ourselves starts with us. But sometimes we need a little extra help. Whether you want to remove unwanted hair, tighten skin or undergo a more invasive procedure like a tummy tuck, Tulsa providers offer an array of services.
H E A LT H
Preventative care Across the board, prevention is the first key to taking care of your skin and body. Aging happens no matter what, but Dr. Greg Ratliff with the Plastic Surgery Center of Tulsa says slowing the process is possible. “Prevention is always preferable to correction,” says Ratliff, a board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Doing preventative maintenance will help you look good consistently. Prevention usually means less drastic intervention later in life with corrective care when the need arises.” Dr. Nicole Patel of Aesthetic Surgery Institute of America tells her patients to keep things in perspective. “You want to be healthy, so when it comes to, say, skin care, you want to be preventative and you want to protect your skin,” says Patel, who is certified in general cosmetic surgery by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. “You want to do things to avoid aging and damaging your skin and increasing your risk of skin cancer.” Meagan Tyler, board-certified physician assistant with SkinRenewal of Tulsa, says people start to notice skin imperfections in their early 20s and beyond. “At home, your regimen should include products that cleanse impurities from the day, correct those minor imperfections and protect and prevent your skin from further signs of aging,” she says. The body is a little different, and it involves a discussion between the patient and provider about the best solution for aging. But remember, taking care of yourself starts with you, and you can begin by eating healthy and exercising. “It’s a matter of discussion — patients have to do their part, and I do what I can to help and educate,” Patel says.
Corrective care Before scheduling a consultation, ask yourself what you’re trying to achieve. Patel says, “If you’re working to try to contour and get rid of some bulges and reduce fat, then there are both non-surgical options and surgical options,” such as CoolSculpting, SculpSure and liposuction with or without a laser. However, if you want work done on your breasts, surgery is the only option.
In this skin Today’s medical environment provides numerous preventative and corrective options for patients. by RACHEL WEAVER SMITH
TulsaPeople.com
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PLASTIC SURGERY VS. COSMETIC SURGERY: What’s the difference? The terms “plastic surgery” and “cosmetic surgery” are often used interchangeably, but experts caution they are not the same. Cosmetic surgery is focused on enhancing appearance, while plastic surgery repairs defects to restore normal function and appearance, according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. More specifically plastic surgery is defined as a surgical specialty dedicated to reconstruction of facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns and disease. However, many plastic surgeons choose to complete additional training and perform cosmetic surgery, as well.
To learn more about cosmetic surgery or to find a cosmetic surgeon, visit www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org. To learn more about plastic surgery or to find a plastic surgeon, visit www.plasticsurgery.org.
When it comes to facial rejuvenation, Patel prefers good skin care, anti-aging products and procedures, and subtle volume restoration to aggressive surgical procedures for the face. Recovery is another element to consider; generally, the more invasive the procedure, the longer the recovery. Some procedures can be done in the office and in a series of treatments with no downtime. For example, micro-needling, which is done with a local anesthetic, stimulates collagen formation and skin tightening. It also is used to stimulate hair growth and helps treat acne scarring and wrinkles, Patel says. A device delivers multiple fine needle pricks to stimulate the skin’s natural healing process. Some laser procedures require frequent appointments with no downtime; others are more invasive and require 7-10 days of downtime, says Lacy Jack, director of client services for Skin Care Institute. She says downtime can vary, but it usually requires the patient to stay out of the sun for 7-10 days until the skin heals. “Listening to the goals and needs of the client is extremely important in helping the client decide what is best for them,” Jack says. Facials, chemical peels and waxing pose lower risks to patients than injectable fillers and lasers. But with any procedure, it is important 74
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
SURGERY CENTERS VS. MEDICAL SPAS Plastic surgery centers offer a range of procedures, from non-invasive — such as fillers, Botox and laser hair removal — to invasive surgical procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction and fat transplants. Medical spas typically don’t perform invasive procedures. They specialize in procedures such as laser treatment of acne scars, wrinkles and spider veins; microdermabrasion; and facials, massages and waxing.
to ask about side effects and potential complications. Choose a facility with highly trained individuals with years of experience. Ask the following questions: 1. Is a doctor on-site? 2. How many years of experience do they have? 3. How long has the business been in operation?
It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the outcomes. Educate yourself about the limits of procedures, Tyler suggests. Unrealistic expectations include perfectionism or looking like a celebrity. “The most realistic expectations are improving a certain feature or minimizing the effects of aging,” she says. Realistic expectations also include the possible need for recurring treatments or a regular regimen. “If a client is having a back issue, one massage is not going to fix it,” Jack says. “A client may need to be seen every week for eight weeks and then go on a maintenance schedule to help with preventative care.” Ultimately, preventative and corrective care are often both needed for optimal results. “We can keep ourselves looking good with a good maintenance schedule,” Jack says. “Everyone needs preventative and corrective care for the overall health of skin, in the same way that we need prevention and correction when we are sick.” During a consultation, Patel discusses patients’ goals and the best methods to get there. “What’s most important is for patients to be healthy and have a healthy outlook,” she says. “So, my goal is to help people feel better about themselves.” tþ
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IN THE GARDEN
Lenten rose Hellebores bloom in late February and early March. The flowers endure for more than a month.
Winter roses
Early blooming Lenten roses give gardeners a taste of spring.
L
L flowers resemble single-flowered roses that bloom during Lent, 40 days before Easter. They are members of the buttercup family. Pictured is the cultivar I grow, a new hybrid called “Ivory Prince” (Helleborus xhybrida). The newer cultivar’s 1- to 2-inch flowers have colors from white to almost black. Others might be yellow, red or pink, and some have spotted petals. Other cultivars can produce double-petaled flowers. In addition to the wider range of colors or double flowers, the newer hybrid’s flowers face upward — not down and bell-like. They also have stronger foliage and several have silvery-mottled foliage, as does “Ivory Prince.” With tissue culture, a laboratory technique of propagating new plants from tiny portions of the parent plant — their main means of propagation — these plants flower sooner and have the characteristics true to their cultivar name. Hellebores’ foliage is evergreen and divided into seven to nine segments. They are resistant to deer and voles and have no serious pests or problems. But be aware that all parts of Hellebores are poisonous if consumed.
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Story and photo by RUSSELL STUDEBAKER
March 19
FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED: ENVIRONMENTAL VISIONARY Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted famously codesigned New York City’s Central Park with his partner, Calvert Vaux. On March 19, the Oklahoma Horticultural Society, in conjunction with its annual meeting, presents Kirk R. Brown’s lecture and enactment of the man who changed the landscapes of America. Along with Central Park, Olmsted is known for his designs for the Biltmore Estates, the Columbia Exposition in Chicago in 1893, the grounds of the U.S. Capitol and the designs of public parks in more than 5,500 American communities. A conservationist, his work included efforts for Niagara Falls and the National Park System. 6:30 p.m., Tulsa Garden Center, 2435 S. Peoria Ave. Free and open to the public. www.ok-hort.org
These are one of the easiest perennials to grow as their main requirements are some shade and good soil drainage. If planted in a rich, fertile soil and a slightly alkaline soil, they can tolerate full shade. After they are established and wellrooted, they require only an occasional watering. The only other maintenance needed is the removal of any winter-damaged stems or leaves before flowering. Clumps can remain for 20 years without dividing.
“Pink Frost,” “Winter’s Ghost” and “Onyx Odyssey” (whose petals are black as night) are some good selections. Lenten roses make excellent floral arrangements. Plant in the shade perennial garden, on shady slopes and in rock gardens. Combine with ferns, hostas, spring ephemerals like bloodroot, Virginia Bluebells, Celandine poppies, snowdrops, sedges, Heucheras and foam flowers. Or, plant them in the foreground of shrubs that have attractive bark, like the yellow-stemmed dogwood, or those with exfoliating bark like the ninebarks, Physocarpus. These tough and hardy perennials are readily available and reasonably inexpensive at local nurseries. Every garden has some shade, and a couple of Lenten Hellebores give those areas great interest. tþ
Russell Studebaker is a professional horticulturist, book author and garden writer in Tulsa and can be reached at russell.studebaker@cox.net.
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HOME
Buying and selling The Tulsa real estate market is a seller’s dream, and it has never been easier to buy. by KIM BROWN
I
I ’ in 2016, it could be your year. Real estate and mortgage experts predict that high demand for homes will make this the “Year of the Seller” in Tulsa. Sellers could see multiple offers due to lower inventory, says David Momper, a Realtor at Coldwell Banker Select and the Oklahoma Association of Realtors’ 2015 Realtor of the Year. “We’re pretty enthusiastic about the year,” Momper says. “The words we’re saying a lot are ‘stable growth.’ It’s not going to be barn-burner great, but I think it’s going to be a good year. “It’s a seller’s market, and some buyers are frustrated with the lack of choices, so we’re seeing multiple offers. Anyone thinking about selling a home should look at (discussing it with a Realtor).” Tulsa’s economy is in “fairly good shape,” but some Realtors are concerned about the impact of the energy industry due to rock-bottom oil and gas prices, Momper says. “Some are scared the jobs will start falling off,” he says. “But on the flip side, cheap oil is creating stronger purchasing power for a lot of people, and a lot of businesses are more profitable because they’re not paying those high energy prices.” Mortgage rates have been on the lower end for years, below 4 percent, says Julie Griffith,
senior vice president and regional manager for BOK Mortgage. But they creeped up past 4 percent at the end of 2015 and will probably stay between 3.75 percent and 4.25 during 2016, according to Griffith. As of Feb. 4, the average rates reported by Freddie Mac, or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., were 3.72 percent for a 30year fixed rate mortgage and 3.01 percent for a 15-year mortgage. “It’s typically a 10-year cycle on average of how rates go up and come back down,” Griffith says. “So, it takes time and it’s a gradual process. Mortgage rates are predicted to go up in the next 12 months to two years. It’s the hardest thing to predict. But if you’re interested, you’ll definitely want to buy sooner versus later to take advantage of lower rates.” The good news is that getting a home mortgage isn’t too difficult, provided the buyer is qualified and knowledgeable. And first-time buyers have expanded options in recent years, thanks to programs designed to assist them. Those include programs through the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency and the City of Tulsa Housing Authority. “Mortgages aren’t terribly difficult to get, but know that as a buyer you may have less negotiating ability in a seller’s market,” Griffith says.
It’s also a better environment for buyers of second homes or vacation properties, Griffith says, because credit score requirements have loosened a bit. Now, less money down is required and buyers can use income from rental properties to qualify for a loan rather than using their primary cash flow. No matter your specific situation, being prepared is the key to getting your dream home, according to Momper. “Arrange your credit and be pre-approved and pre-financed, so that when you do see a home you want, you can act quickly,” he says. “You’re going to be very disappointed if you find a home you like but lose out because you’re not ready to act.” And even though it’s a seller’s market, Momper says buyers are “smarter than ever before.” “Sellers need to understand that buyers aren’t going to overpay, even though it’s a seller’s market,” he says. “Buyers are very educated because of technology and they know value. “A seller has to have the property in excellent, marketable condition and have the right price.” tþ For more information about buying a home, contact the Oklahoma Homebuyer Education Association or visit www.homebuyereducation.info/homebuyers.htm. TulsaPeople.com
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Broken Arrow
918-665-8559
TULSA’S TOP REALTORS The residential Realtors presented here — in company groupings — were ranked top in the Tulsa area in 2015, according to the Multiple Listing Services (MLS). The rankings are based on the “total sales volume” (listings plus sales) of individual Realtors. The following pages feature professional profiles purchased by top Realtors to inform readers about their businesses.
Chinowth & Cohen Allison Sheffield Gayle Roberts-Pisklo Deb Wilmoth JoAnna Blackstock Susie Genet Carrie DeWeese John Sawyer Shawn Peters Cheri McLain Allison Hayes Robb Hopper Michelle Poplin Amanda Dudley Amanda Gamble Pamela Braswell Cindy Hand Missy Hagin-Pittman Cindy Rogers Ben Ruefer
Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa
918-746-6000 918-746-6000 918-746-6000
Bixby Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Owasso Broken Arrow Owasso Bixby Sand Springs Broken Arrow Sand Springs Owasso Broken Arrow Broken Arrow Tulsa
918-943-3009 918-392-0900 918-392-0900 918-392-9900 918-392-0900 918-392-0900 918-392-9900 918-392-9900 918-392-9990 918-259-0000 918-392-9990 918-943-3009 918-419-2333 918-259-0000 918-419-2333 918-392-9990 918-259-0000 918-259-0000 918-392-0900
Coldwell Banker Select Alice Slemp-Owens Corrie Egge Joanna Ford Lisa Mullins Janet Vermillion Deborah McGuire Caroline Gorinsky-Huesler Kevin Rhoades Mary Carter Alicia Parker Julie Tetsworth Maureen Kile Trish Allison Lee Ann Kreps Paula McGuire Bonnie Gross Teri Sherwood Tiffany Martin Ron Sumner Donna Borthick Terry McHenry Julie Roberts Adrienne Steinocher Ronald Buckner Chad LaFevers
Tulsa Broken Arrow Broken Arrow Tulsa Owasso Tulsa Owasso Claremore Sapulpa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Broken Arrow Sapulpa Sapulpa Owasso Sapulpa Tulsa Broken Arrow Sapulpa Broken Arrow Tulsa Broken Arrow Tulsa Sapulpa
Keller Williams Advantage Heather Lamb Brett Bland Jennie Wolek Kasia Olek Terry Gobbo DeAnn Heckenkemper Jennifer Sanders Priscilla Peck Max Heckenkemper
Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Glenpool Glenpool Tulsa
Keller Williams Preferred Brian Frere Tracy Ellis Ryan Treadway Kathryn French Heidi Bents Suzy Moore Austin Cochran John Kaiser Richard Thompson
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Tulsa Tulsa Broken Arrow Broken Arrow Tulsa Tulsa Broken Arrow Tulsa Tulsa
Julie Mullinax Cindy Crawford Molly Jordan Juli Edwards
Owasso Owasso Owasso Owasso
918-272-0809 918-272-0809 918-272-0809 918-272-0809
Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Owasso Tulsa Tulsa Langley Tulsa Tulsa Bixby Broken Arrow Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Owasso Tulsa Tulsa Broken Arrow Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Broken Arrow Tulsa Tulsa
918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000 918-592-6000
918-852-1094
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Stan Gardner John Smucker Brenda Woodward
Keller Williams Premier
918-712-4310 918-251-4142 918-251-4142 918-496-3333 918-272-9531 918-712-4310 918-272-9531 918-343-3822 918-224-5915 918-496-3333 918-496-3333 918-496-3333 918-251-4142 918-224-5915 918-224-5915 918-272-9531 918-224-5915 918-712-4310 918-251-4142 918-224-5915 918-251-4142 918-496-3333 918-251-4142 918-496-3333 918-224-5915
McGraw, REALTORS Curtis Roberts Carol Brown Richard Pierce Pam Case Laura Grunewald Chris Zinn Jacki Crews John Ragan Becky Orr Gordon Shelton Jessica Scott Diana Patterson Katy Houchin Laura Hawkins Brian Guthrie Judy Stocker Becky Moore Sherri Sanders Katie Lieberman Frankie Harkey Ann LaGere Debra Adamek Bob Haywood Stephanie Joy Cheryl Thompson Vanessa Moctezuma Sue Ann Blair David Palik Lindsey Schlomann Ronda Butler Gini Fox Larry Harral
Pepper Properties LLC Randy Pepper
Platinum Realty Group David Dumont
RE/MAX Results Dennis Becker Amy Whitmarsh
Realty Connect Angie Cianfrone
Robert Kleven
918-496-2252 918-496-2252 918-251-2252 918-251-2252 918-496-2252 918-496-2252 918-251-2252 918-496-2252 918-496-2252
Ricky Powell
918-258-6161
Owasso Owasso
918-376-6400 918-376-6400
Tulsa
918-901-9690
Sand Springs
918-693-4003
Tulsa
918-277-4931
The Garrison Group LLC Kelly Garrison
Trinity Properties Carri Ray
Tulsa
918-808-3065
Broken Arrow
918-520-7149
Walter & Associates Inc. Peter Walter Blake Loveless Frank Petrouskie Barbara Winder
Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa Tulsa
Zion Real Estate Services Steve Wilson
918-505-9777
Broken Arrow
Sand Springs Realty Inc. Skyline Realty LLC
918-712-2252 918-712-2252 918-712-2252 918-712-2252 918-712-2252 918-712-2252 918-291-2425 918-291-2425 918-712-2252
Owasso
Tulsa
918-743-2001 918-743-2001 918-743-2001 918-743-2001
918-747-5000
HOME LOANS WITH LOCAL SERVICE Arvest retains the servicing of 99% of the home loans we make, giving you peace of mind that you won’t suddenly be dealing with an unknown mortgage servicing company. You can also make payments at any
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branch location, over the phone, or even online. If you're considering buying a home, give us a call or visit your nearest Arvest location. Fee assessed to non-Arvest checking accounts for online and telephone payments.
(918) 631-1000 arvest.com/homeloan
Member FDIC
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918-GET-HERE
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tUlsa’s tOP 100 aGents Of COldwell Banker seleCt
Alice Slemp Team
Corrie Egge Team
McGuire-Cooley Team
Joanna Ford
The Mullins Team
Maureen Kile
Tetsworth-McClain Team
Mary Carter Team
The Vermillion Group
Alicia Parker
The Rhoades-Foster Team
Lee Ann Kreps
Tiffany Martin Team
Trish Allison
Paula McGuire Team
Caroline Gorinsky-Huesler
Borthick-Bridges Team
Bonnie Gross
Adrienne Steinocher
Chad LaFevers
Teri Sherwood
Terry McHenry
Julie Roberts
Ron Sumner
Ron Buckner
OklahOma’s Premier lUXUR Y real estate COmPanY
Pam Case 918-809-3247
Laura Hawkins 918-260-7885
Chris Zinn Group 918-994-1235
Curt Roberts 918-231-0691
Katie Lieberman 918-698-3800
Extraordinary Home Collection McGraw Realtors
Extraordinary Realtors. Extraordinary Homes. With more than 85 combined years of local real estate experience, the EHC — Extraordinary Home Collection — is comprised of five of the Tulsa metro’s most seasoned and accomplished real estate professionals. Serving Tulsans across all price points and areas, the members of the EHC ended 2015 with over $86 million in closed sales volume, easily ranking them as the leading group at McGraw Realtors and the Tulsa area. The team provides real estate consulting services in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate including home buying, home selling, new construction, development and investing. Whether looking for a first home, a luxury estate or a commercial building, clients can expect unmatched levels of service, experience, marketing and networking all working together to accomplish their goals and needs. “Our entire group is fully dedicated to the highest degree of excellence and our clients are at the center of all that we do,” says Realtor Chris Zinn. “Whether working with Pam, Katie, Curt, Laura or myself, our clients receive the same standard of care.”
More like a collective than a traditional real estate team, the EHC consists of individual Realtors as well as successful teams — all working together to create a powerful networking and marketing force to provide the most comprehensive exposure for their clients. It’s a strategy that has proven successful and rewarding for group members and their clients.
The EHC – Extraordinary Home Collection McGraw Realtors 4105 S. Rockford Ave. 918-592-6000 www.mcgrawrealtors.com
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Molly Jordan
Molly Jordan
Keller Williams Realty Premier Sold by MJ
“Grateful” is the one word Molly Jordan would use to describe her experience with her business, MJ Group within Keller Williams Realty Premier. “During my 10 years in real estate, I’ve been privileged to form many long-lasting friendships,” says Jordan. “Receiving a call from a past client’s friend or family member absolutely gives me chills and confirms I’m where I’m supposed to be.” Today, personal referrals comprise more than half of her thriving business. Jordan blends professional real estate expertise and a heartfelt intuition for her client’s needs. With a master’s degree in business administration, Jordan has been a business consultant, business owner and an adjunct professor of finance. While serving her clients with the utmost integrity and honesty, Jordan continually tries to put herself in their shoes, looking out for their best interests in every facet of
their real estate journey. Molly Jordan’s areas of expertise include both commercial and residential real estate — from first-time homebuyers to luxury properties — as well as custom home consulting and sales. From the surrounding Owasso area to south Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Molly Jordan’s proven marketing strategies and business acumen have resulted in a growing number of homes becoming “Sold by MJ.”
Molly Jordan Keller Williams Realty Premier 12150 E. 96th St. N., Suite 100 918-520-6015 www.mollyjordanhomes.com
Heidi McMurray Bents, ALC Keller Williams Realty Preferred Making Your Dream Happen Is My Soul Priority Since 1991, Heidi has enjoyed serving Tulsa by partnering with people as a valuable resource to achieving their dreams. Honoring each client and advocating their goals are key priorities. For sellers, she offers proven target-market strategies with professional polish. Buyers say she listens, endeavoring to find a perfect match for their vision. Securing desirable property and streamlining the transaction are added benefits. Specialties include Luxury Division, New Construction, Executive Transfers, First-Time Homebuyers, and Investor Acquisition. Offering concierge realty service, Bents attributes success to a solid network of happy clients; homeowners, developers, builders and investors. Her marketing degree, advertising expertise & background in residential design contribute to being a Top Producer. While clientfinancial aspects are vital, she’s not afraid
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to work outside the box, considering open-ended possibilities to maximize outcomes. Bent thrives on negotiating and creative problem-solving. “I believe the most successful transactions are those where the realistic need of the client is met and everyone walks away from the closing table feeling like a winner,” says Bents. Serving with integrity, Heidi strives to “Love God, Love People.” (Matthew 22:37-40) “We begin as business partners in real estate,” says Bents. “I intend to end as friends.” Heidi McMurray Keller Williams Realty Preferred 4745 E. 91st St., Suite 100 918-313-1786 heidibents.yourkwagent.com
Heidi McMurray Bents
Laura Grunewald & Associates • McGraw Realtors Building relationships and lifestyles Over the past 18 years, Laura Grunewald has built a team of experienced real estate professionals dedicated to helping Tulsans buy and sell properties. The team is made up of both listing and buyer specialists in order to provide a higher level of customer service. “Our backgrounds help anyone — whether you’re looking to buy a $100,000 home or selling a $2 million property,” says Grunewald. Grunewald and her team, including Randy Kay Young, Steve Bullard, Krystie Cupp and Julie Hester, also dominate in land sales in and around Tulsa. As the daughter of builder Steve Murphy and the wife of builder Greg Grunewald, Laura Grunewald is intimately familiar with the home-building process, from land purchase to move-in day. She says the most rewarding parts of her job are the relationships she develops with her clients. “We work by referral, which means most of our business comes from our past clients recommending us to their friends and family,” she says. The team goes above and beyond for their clients, whether that means working with a seller to make pre-listing improvements, staging interior spaces or providing a home sales and market analysis — whatever it takes to go from listed to sold.
Krystie Cupp, Steve Bullard, Laura Grunewald, Julie Hester, Randy Kay Young
Laura Grunewald & Associates McGraw Realtors 5711 E. 71st St., Suite 100 918-734-0695 • www.lauragrunewald.com
McGuire Cooley Team • Coldwell Banker Select This time, it’s personal With over 30 years of experience and a strong selling presence in both Midtown and south Tulsa, the McGuire Cooley Team caters to a wide range of clients in every phase of life, from the first-time homebuyer to the empty nester. Led by Deborah McGuire and Jessica Cooley, the team offers clients a real estate service second to none by being present from the initial meeting to the closing table and beyond. “We love to help people invest their lives and finances in Tulsa,” says Cooley of the team’s passion for the city. “Helping people make one of the most important decisions of their lives is humbling and rewarding.” The 2016 team of full-service associates consists of McGuire, Cooley, Cindy Paul, Amber Helvey and Jennifer Parker. Clients also receive the benefit of working with Coldwell Banker, a cutting-edge real estate company that offers the newest and most effective marketing strategies and constant educational opportunities for their industry-leading associates. Having been mentored by Tulsa real estate icons Gordona Duca and Patt Cooley, McGuire and Cooley know the importance of honesty, integrity and hard work in the real estate industry. At the McGuire Cooley Team, clients become lifelong friends.
McGuire Cooley Team
McGuire Cooley Team Coldwell Banker Select 3010 S. Harvard Ave., Suite 200 918-695-9711 / 918-639-2590
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Diana Riley Patterson McGraw Realtors
Diana Riley Patterson
Making lakeside living a reality
Grand Lake waters run deep for Diana Riley Patterson. She came from a family who listed and sold Grand Lake for years. Today, she continues their legacy as McGraw Realtors Grand Lake’s top agent. Patterson says, “I love Grand Lake and want everyone to experience what I have been so blessed with all my life.” While Patterson has had her license since she was 21, she just entered the profession ten years ago. She feels
her success comes from hard work, relationships and honesty with her clients. Grand Lake is her home and she loves sharing it with her family, friends and clients. Diana Riley Patterson McGraw Realtors P.O. Box 820, Langley 918-629-3717 www.southgrandlake.com
Kathryn French
Kathryn French
Keller Williams Realty Preferred Personal touch, passionate service
Kathryn French brings energy and passion to her real estate career. Though she specializes in selling, French also works with buyers, investments, lake properties and more. She thrives on delivering her clients the results they want in the time frame they require. With a strong marketing background, French loves technology and what it has to offer her clients. “Understanding the process of buyers and sellers is at the front of my mind daily,” says French. Consistency,
hard work and prioritization have made French successful; she works seven days a week, but still makes time for her church and her daughters. Kathryn French Keller Williams Realty Preferred 2438 W. New Orleans St. 918-720-5663 www.searchingtulsahomes.com www.facebook.com/real.estate.tulsa
Ricky Powell
Ricky Powell
Skyline Realty
Professionalism and personal attention to your real estate needs Whether it’s a buyer seeking an investment property or a seller hoping to get the best offer on a home of any age, Skyline Realty is ready to handle the detailed problem-solving and negotiating that comes with any real estate transaction. Skyline offers clients a variety of extra services, including pre-listing market analysis and staging consultation, professional photos, aggressive online marketing and post-listing analysis. In 2015, Ricky Powell’s closed listings
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spent an average of only 28 days on the market. The extra care taken in the pre-listing stages, plus a focus on communication, honesty and innovation, enable this level of success. Ricky Powell Skyline Realty 5415 E. 15th St. 918-277-4931 www.skylinerealtyok.com
Love where you live! Sue Ann Blair Real Estate Agent since 2002
Designer Showcase Chair since 2011 Top 100 Tulsa Realtor
918.813.3477 • sueann@mcgrawok.com
Your Real Estate Professional! • Number 1 Realtor Individual and/or Team Coldwell Banker Select Midtown office from 2002 through 2014 and Rookie of the Year in 2001 • Averaging over $1 million per month in real estate sale • Over $115 million in career real estate sales • Utilizing a team concept to better server our client needs in an everchanging market • Most of my business is repeat business and referrals from past clients
Looking to buy or sell... give me a call!
Tiffany Martin 918.852.2326 Tmartin@cbtulsa.com
COMING IN APRIL 2016
OUTDOOR LIVING Our monthly HOME feature will explore how to transform outdoor spaces for the warmer months and much more.
For advertising information contact adservices@langdonpublishing.com TulsaPeople.com
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Congratulations,
Tulsa’s TOP REALTORS! From All of Us At Tulsa Abstract & Title Co.
• TU
ACT AND
ABSTRACTS TITLE INS. ESCROWS
TU
LE CO. •
6060 S. American Plaza • Tulsa, OK 74135 • (918) 742-8000
ST R
T IT
in Tulsa is pleased to announce Valerie Zwosta has joined the firm as Vice President-Investments.
LSA A B
Wells Fargo Advisors
L S A , O K LA
Serving Tulsa Since 1920 We do it right
We Are Proud To Recognize Peter Walter • Blake Loveless • Frank Petrouskie • Barbara Winder For Being Ranked Among Tulsa’s
Top 100 Realtors
1319 East 35th Street 918-743-2001 WalterAndAssociates.com
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McGraw Realtors
theEHC
Extraordinary Home Collection
Extraordinary Realtors Extraordinary Homes Woody Crest, Tulsa
$2,250,000
Understated elegance adorns this stately home. Over 7,000 sq ft of updated living space on 9/10 acre. Center island kitchen inspires great meals and opens to vaulted family room. Each Bedroom Suite features 2 rooms. ◆ 3 Bedroom Suites
◆ 4 Full, 3 Half Baths ◆ 4 Living Areas ◆ 6 Fireplaces ◆ Finished Basement ◆ 7,274 sq ft / AP
Wellington South, Tulsa
$899,000
European-inspired design. Open floor plan designed for entertaining. Bedrooms have private bath access. Veranda and large patio overlooks pond, fountain & foot bridge. Gated with guard. ◆ 5 Bedrooms
◆ 4 Full, 1 Half Baths ◆ 3 Living Areas ◆ 3 Fireplaces ◆ Jenks SE ◆ MLS 1551850
Terwilleger Heights, Tulsa
$1,195,000
Historical home known as the “Castle” house. Meticulously maintained Art Deco architecture. Four floors and Carriage House/Quarters. Totally updated kitchen. Gunite pool, outdoor fireplace and pergola. ◆ 4 Bedrooms
◆ 5 Full, 2 Half Baths ◆ 5 Living Areas ◆ 3 Fireplaces ◆ Corner lot ◆ MLS 1601897
Curt Roberts 918.231.0691 92
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Katie Lieberman 918.698.3800
Laura Hawkins 918.260.7885
McGraw Realtors
theEHC
Extraordinary Home Collection
Extraordinary Realtors Extraordinary Homes Bryn-Mawr, Tulsa
$1,100,000
New Midtown construction. Designer finishes. Master down with over-sized closet and spa-like bath. Eat-in island kitchen with second prep kitchen. In-ground gunite pool. ◆ 4 Bedrooms
◆ 4 Full, 1 Half Baths ◆ 3 Living Areas ◆ 3 Fireplaces ◆ 2 Stories ◆ MLS 1548625
Wind River, Tulsa
$675,000
Gorgeous pool, spa and outdoor fireplace. Extensivehardwoods and granite throughout. Master and Guest suite down. Safe room. Theatre with wet bar, game room or 5th bedroom and hobby room. Jenks Schools. ◆ 5 Bedrooms
◆ 4 Full, 2 Half Baths ◆ 4 Living Areas ◆ 2 Fireplaces ◆ Built-ins ◆ MLS 1546041
Hunters Pointe, Tulsa
$3,500,000
Prominent Builder’s personal home with pond view. Luxurious home but not too formal. Pool, cabana, outdoor kitchen and complete outdoor living. Downstairs media room is the bonus! Jenks Schools. ◆ 5 Bedrooms
◆ 4 Full, 2 Half Baths ◆ 6 Living Areas ◆ 5 Fireplaces ◆ Side Entry Garage ◆ MLS 1538971
Pam Case 918.809.3247
Chris Zinn Group 918.994.1235
theEHC
Extraordinary Home Collection
TulsaPeople.com
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McGraw Realtors
theEHC
Extraordinary Home Collection
Extraordinary Realtors Extraordinary Homes Sperry / Owasso
$2,950,000
Extraordinary custom built home secluded on approx. 140 acres. Spectacular views from almost every room. Commercial grade chefs kitchen. Outdoor living with fireplace. Owasso schools. ◆ 5 Bedrooms
◆ 6 Full Baths ◆ 4 Living Areas ◆ 3 Fireplaces ◆ Wood floors ◆ MLS 1539923
Rockwood Hills Estates, Tulsa
$4,950,000
Fabulous French Chateau. Unbelievable quality in the finishes. Marble and white oak floors. Antique Crystal Chandeliers. Potential multiple closets in master suite. Separate bedrooms. Spa off master. ◆ 5 Bedrooms
◆ 6 Full, 3 Half Baths ◆ 6 Living Areas ◆ 7 Fireplaces ◆ 17,389 sq. ft. ◆ MLS 1543669
Timberlane Heights, Tulsa
$375,000
Full brick home. Eat in kitchen updated with double ovens, gas range and Corian counters. Master up or down. Full privacy fence and patio. Gorgeous landscaping. ◆ 5 Bedrooms
◆ 3 Full, 1 Half Baths ◆ 2 Living Areas ◆ 1 Fireplace ◆ Mature trees ◆ MLS 1546635
Curt Roberts 918.231.0691 94
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Katie Lieberman 918.698.3800
Laura Hawkins 918.260.7885
McGraw Realtors
theEHC
Extraordinary Home Collection
Extraordinary Realtors Extraordinary Homes
Lexington, Tulsa
$500,000 Park Plaza, Tulsa
Berwick Fairways I, Broken Arrow
$ 779,000 Oakview Estates, Tulsa
Manor View Estates, Tulsa
$969,000
$239,000
$1,399,000
Sunset Park, Tulsa
$997,000
Contact an
EHC Group Member today for help finding your Extraordinary...
Pam Case 918.809.3247
Pam Case
Chris Zinn Group 918.994.1235
Chris Zinn
Laura Hawkins
Curt Roberts
theEHC
Katie Lieberman
Extraordinary Home Collection
TulsaPeople.com
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McGraw Realtors
918.994.1235
chriszinngroup@mcgrawok.com www.chriszinngroup.com
6861 E 125th Place South - $435,000 Beautiful Transitional Design with Pond Views in Bixby North! Extensive hand-scraped hardwoods by Renaissance, rustic beams, faux finishes by Carolyn Finch, covered outdoor living, fire pit and over $25K in upgrades and landscaping! Granite and glass tile Kitchen with stainless steel appliances, open Great Room, Formal Dining, Study, vaulted Master and Guest Suite down! Huge Game Room, separate Theater Room, Granite Wet Bar, two Bedroom Suites and walk-out attic up. Four full and one half Baths, three-Car Garage and generator hookup. Backs to neighborhood pond and fountain. Short walk to convenient neighborhood pool and clubhouse.
10476 S 87th East Avenue - $360,000 Coveted Outdoor Living with fireplace and updated designer finishes in Jenks SE! Soaring ceilings, rustic beams, extensive hardwoods and crown mouldings. Open gourmet island Kitchen, two-story Family Room with stone fireplace, executive Study with custom built-ins, elegant Formal Dining and Master Suite down. Large Game Room plus three Bedroom Suites up. Three full and one half Baths. Three-Car Garage. Updated roof, paint and lighting. Fabulous neighborhood pool and park. Convenient location near shopping, restaurants and expressways. Chris Zinn Team Leader 96
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Suzy Stewart Realtor
Jill Taylor Realtor
Brooks Cone Realtor
Kevia Buckley Realtor
Tuesdye Fletcher Closing Manager
Traci Zinn Listings/Staging
nkavanaugh@mcgrawok.com
McGraw Realtors
Nancy Kavanaugh 918-625-6260
Debra Adamek 918-695-4945 dadamek@mcgrawok.com
10764 S. 93rd E. Avenue - Legends - Exquisite Luxury Estate on .41 acre greenbelt lot. Outdoor living with fireplace and spa. Large kitchen island, floor-to-ceiling windows, hand scraped wood floors & European travertine tile. Vaulted study., formal dining, butler’s pantry w/wine fridge. Game room + bonus room. Central vac, sprinkler & security systems. Bixby North Elementary. $750,000. Call Debbie
3911 S. Tamarack Place - The Estates of Birchwood - Like new, incredible floor plan. Granite, stainless appliances, huge island. Private master suite down, Study and formal dining. Three bedrooms, two full baths, game room plus bonus up. Gorgeous terraced backyard. Covered patio. Three car garage. Security and central vac system. Broken Arrow Schools. $299,500 Call Debbie
119 E. 123rd Place - Wakefield Ponds - Water Front! Open, contemporary with Soaring ceiling in great room. Fab kitchen has island+bar & breakfast room, gray Corian counter tops & new stainless appliances. Formal dining+study. Private 1st floor master suite w/ sitting area. Game room, 3 bedrooms/2 baths upstairs. 3 car tandem garage. Sprinkler & security systems. Jenks West Elementary.$297,000. Call Debbie
6768 S. Birmingham Avenue - Williamsburg Estates - New Listing. 5 BR, 3.5 BA, 3 Living areas + 2 Car in back. Iron fencing with elec. gate. Circle drive. Beautifully updated. Kitchen opens to family room and large dining room. New Kitchen includes new cabinets and seated island with stunning granite. Master on first floor. All bathrooms redone with granite. Great family home with all the space you need. Call Nancy
8437 S. Toledo Avenue - Brookwood - NEW PRICE! 4 BR, 2.5 BA. 2 living areas. Newly Remodeled with new open spaces! All new kitchen with new cabinets, granite, stainless steel appliances and back splash...opens to family room. All new flooring, paint, new bathrooms top to bottom. New decks outside with new outside paint. Lots of trees. Deck off master. New Roof! Jenks Schools. $218,000. Call Nancy
7418 S. Fulton Place - Minshall Park III - NEW LISTING. Beautifully and Fully Updated Home. Four bedrooms, two full and one half baths. New kitchen appliances. Two new energy efficient HVAC Units (2012). New bathrooms and hardwood floors. Large game room plus formal dining. Backyard has new pergola and patio area. Must See! New Roof 2015. $248,800. Call Nancy
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McGraw Realtors 3840 S. Florence Place Amazing Mid-Century one story ranch with over 4,000 sq ft of floor space. Poured terazzo floors. Combo formal living and dining with floor-to-ceiling windows. Open kitchen and family room with Travertine fireplace. Master suite has floating fireplace, large walk-in closet and spacious bath. Three additional bedrooms each with private baths. Office. Pool. $749,0000 6010 E. 117th St. Beautiful new listing in the prestigious 10625 S. Garnett rd. Gracious Georgian manor home on 5 acres. South Tulsa neighborhood of River Oaks. This English Estate A winding drive and a pool with a fountain greet you through the gate. There are over 6000 sq. ft. of pure luxury in this home. Gorhas every amenity possible to make easy. kitchen 6519 S. Gary ave. living - Located on aOpen culdesac behind geous woodwork, and deep crown moldings. Marble entry. Large and familyroom hasSouthernHills. granite and stainless appliances. The The hosue is a beautiful drive up withmasgreat 2651 center S. St. island LouiS kitchen. - Orginial home views in John Book’s granite Fabulous andWalton balconies. Salt-is exceptional in design. The ter suite offers sitting area with fireplace to cozy up on winter landscaping, W E! extra parking and a rear entry garage. The water pool.marble $1,350,000 circullar staircase greats you as you enter with an imprssive 3 story entry with E nights, the spa bathhouse hasNafeatures soakingon tub. additional bedC Isalted 2 bedrooms the3first floor each having orginial fixtures. Extensive use of wood and moldings throughout will be a feast for the rooms. Billards room has PR full kitchen, media room and more. access to $2,995,000 a bath. Spacious kitchen with granite and tile eyes. The kitchen has been updated with large prep island. 4 bedrooms located on the Call for more information. flooring. Upsatirs has 2 bedrooms, bath, plus game room 2nd floor. Master retains the orgianl tile bath. Basement clubroom with laundry and and exercise room. Ultimate outdoor kitchen with all the storage. Guest apartment is updated located over the 3 car garage. Pool. $1,150,000 stainless applainces you need. Pool. $510,000
3120 e. 71St Street- Beautiful unit in gated GuierWoods 60 woodward Boulevard - Boston Square condo located is done to perfection. Located on corner lot with outdoor near Downtown, Riverparks and The Gathering Place. A 7777 S. JameStown avenue - Amazing custom built Jack fireplace and built-in grill. Hardwod floors and plantation larger unit in the complex features open living and dining. Arnold home built for the current owners. Attention shutters. Kitchen has been opened up to living areas with Kitchen with solid wood cabinets and Corian counters. to details are in every room of the house. Hardwood granite and lots of cabinetry. Master on first floor along Upstairs you will find two bedrooms each having access to floors, beamed ceilings, beautiful cabinetry and lots of natural light make this house one of a kind. 6 with an additional bedroom. Upstairs features a living area, baths plus bonus office space having fireplace. $249,000 bedrooms each having walk-in closets and full baths. bedroom and bath. $495,000 3266 e. 75th St. well - Custom2404 built home with quality 77772S.located JameStown ave.floor. - Amazing custom built Arnold 60 woodward BLvd. - Boston Cir. SquareThis Condos with close accessbackyard. on first Lower level has highJack ceilings, 6623 S. Evanston could be your This E. 28th St. Wide front porch with rocking chairs makes craftsmanship. Beautiful glassyou frontfeel doorwelcome open to officein home built for thestyle current owners. Attention to details are in to Riverparks and newwith Gathering Place. First floor features media room, gameroom, kitchenette plus work out appointed home gorgeous wood, hardware and marble is this colonial home. Large open rooms nd PlaceFormal living every room of the house. Hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, 11413 e.&132 paneling, built-ins fireplace. combo living/dining area having fireplaceisand wetbar. The with outside surfaces are covered in Pennsylvia situated on 2.8 acres. The ahouse close to 8000 sq. rich ft. beautifully with a lots of windows room. makeAllthe house great for lots of living. and dining rooms. Large island kitchen with on beautiful cabinetry and lots ofpool. natural light make this house kitchen has solidand wood cabinetry Corianlot. countertops. landscaped has a largeandtreed The 6 bedrooms, kitchen Hardwood floors 1st floor. suite plus additional bluestone tile.Master Inground $1,500,000 Custom Built center house with attention high-end opens tobedroom family room. Master suite one of a kind.up. 6 bedrooms each having walk-inhas closetscenter and full Upstairs featuesliving master suite with double closets, large bath and formal areas are on one-level. There are 7appliances full baths and 3 bedrooms Spacious kitchen detail in every room. Located onroom baths. 2 located on first floor. Lower level has high ceilings, thetokitchen first floor. Upstairs features game and private Second bedroom pluslevel study,gameroom full bath and located and one balcony. ½ bath. Large lower with on full island and double dishwashers. 3 living areas. $898,000 over an acre of land. Master plus two plus two additional bedrooms. Wonderful outdoor media room, game room, kitchenette plus work out room. laundry. Calloverlooks for more details and bath a beautiful pool. $1,500,000 additional bedrooms down. Upstairs entertaining space has stone fireplace. $599,900 All outside surfaces are covered in Pennsylvia bluestone tile. features game room, two other Inground pool. Call for more details. bedrooms and office. Open kitchen with Alderwood cabinetry and granite counters. Saferoom. Four-car garage. Must See!
3126 E. 87th PL Gated Wellington 4942 E. 103rd St. Custom Built in Wexford 10520 S. 91st E. Ave. Magnificent home in South has view of the pond. Recently by Murphy has been nicely updated. Formal Legacy Park II built by Bill Haynes Homes. The 6423 S. indianapoLiS ave. attention Modern twist with a great floorplan 11413floorplan e. 132nd pLis. Custom with attention to 59th pLKitchen . Gated Garden Parkbacksplash, with hardwoodopen remodeled with grabbing living2117 and e.dining. has tile great built for home entertaining with make this in house one ofroom. a kind. Gated courtyard with2koi granite pond floorscounters detail inroom every room. Located on overfireplace. an acre of land. Master and lots of natural Combo formal living andgreat details every 5 bedrooms, and light. stainless appliances. having stone Granite opens to double front1st doors. Floating formalRedone living and dining plus 2 additional bedrooms appliances down. Upstairs and features game dining. Kitchen double windows overlooking front located on the floor. Study. Familyroom withhasbuilt-ins and fireplace. 3 kitchen has stainless cherry is over a lower with level family stone fireplace. room, 23507 other bedrooms and office.onOpen with patio. on Kitchen appliances. bedrooms. 2bedbaths.cabinets. 3524having S. Utica Avenue 66th Place gameroom wet room bar. Beautifully bedroms 1st Aid floor with 2 2additional Office. 3 bedrooms the kitchen first floor. Spacious eat-inallkitchen withlocated pantry.in Bedroom wing features Alderwood and trees granite Saferoom. 4 car Bonus room a studio. $175,000 landscaped. $760,000 rooms upfloors + gameroom and One sitting New on Plantation Shutters. Expansion upstairs New listing on 1-level desirable Brookside area. Cork inused openhas living Story area. house located beautiful lotcabinetry with mature andcounters. privatespace setting. Formals. private study. Master suite plus 4Bonus additional andand $475,000 garage. Must Roof. with plans. Call forappliances. more details. $334,500 and kitchen area with fireplace. room.bedrooms 3 bedrooms 2 full baths. New Roof. Paneled office. Kitchen with granite and See! stainless 3 bedrooms. Bonus room pullman baths. Large lot. $419,000 $289,500
located off kitchen is flexible with outside door, closet and desk. $379,000
Wonderful lot to build your dream home on in Woodlar. The property is 1.077 acres. $275,000
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McGraw Realtors
CarmaGrigsby.com
Carma Grigsby
260-1800
Specializing in Fine Quality Homes
11415 South Sandusky
Exceptionally stunning, this luxury custom home features four bedrooms, four full and two half baths and four-car garage. Grand living and dining rooms with views, family room opens to wonderful chef’s kitchen with enormous Labradorite granite island. Wide plank wood flooring throughout. Entry door, office and doors to patio are 100-year-old hand-carved wood with special hardware. Down stairs basement features theater room. Staircase to second floor game room is made of 100-year-old Mountain Maple. Wet bar in game room. In-ground gunite pool is surrounded by expansive patios. Words cannot express what an exceptional home this is. One of the most beautiful settings in this gated neighborhood. $1,850,000
11318 S. 109TH E. AVENUE
Wonderful one-story Country French home featuring split bedroom plan, granite island kitchen open to family room with wood floors & fireplace. Office and formal dining. Covered back patio. Light & bright with lots of windows. Three car garage & RV parking. Lot next door could be purchased. $399,900
7435 S. Gary Place Stunning brick and stone French home on 1/2 acre corner lot in Guierwoods III, Jenks. Kitchen/Family room has dramatic vaulted ceilings with wood burning fireplace. Huge 10’ center island features 8’ X 4’ custom built, lighted pot rack, double ovens, sub zero refrigerator, cook top with built-in grill. Formal dining room and formal living room with fireplace. Office with boocase, hobby room and exercise room. Hardwood floors, crown moldings and decorative moldings around windows and doorways. Four bedrooms, four full baths and two half baths. In-ground Lagoon pool, gazebo and fire pit perfect for entertaining. Three car garage. Jenks Schools.
7907 S. Braden Avenue
Gated Holland Lakes. Gormet Kitchen unlike any in Tulsa. Breakfast Bar & Dining nook, two Viking refrigerators, 6cm granite, three levels of living. Huge game room with wet bar, second gameroom, three bedrooms plus three bonus rooms, four car garage with safe room. 5 zones. $960,000
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luxury ProPerTy GrouP aT mcGraw realTors Grand Lake
sHerri sanders
Sawmill Hollow Point custom home built for large family gatherings, 6 BR, 5.5 BA, 3 living areas, huge open living space on main floor w/floor to ceiling windows overlooking Grand Lake, leading out to large outdoor living space on 2 levels to a 2-slip dock. Nothing was left behind on the design of this lake home including a 3 car oversized garage. $2,100,000
918-724-5008 ssanders@mcgrawok.com
Gordon sHelTon
avaLon PLace
918-697-2742 gshelton@mcgrawok.com Gordon@GordonShelton.com
3020 S. Trenton Avenue One owner custom built smart house. Architect Rachel Zebrowski calls it “Desert Mediterranean�. Pool overlooks green belt and Crow Creek. Granite eat-in island kitchen. Four bedrooms, four full and one half baths, 3 living areas and seven fireplaces! Large pool. $1,150,000
diana PaTTerson
918-629-3717 dpatterson@mcgrawok.com
Tim Hayes
BoLewood acres
918-231-5637 thayes@mcgrawok.com Tim@TimHayesJr.com
Kelly Howard
918-230-6341 khoward@mcgrawok.com 102
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ContaCt the Luxury ProPerty GrouP to enjoy the Luxury LifestyLe you desire.
4141 S. Zunis Avenue A 1 level home devoted to the ultimate in comfortable living. The stacked stone exterior creates a rustic feel to this 4 bedroom, 4 1/2 bath home. Formal living & dining rooms combine with a vaulted ceiling family room and separate study for the public areas. A spacious master bedroom has a luxury bath w/ walk-in closet. The kitchen was remodeled in 2014 & features granite counters, Sub-Zero fridge & Kitchen Aid double ovens. 4,178 sq ft of living space. 3 car garage and a gorgeous lagoon pool & waterfall. $765,000
McGraw Realtors
a neTworK of BroKers rePresenTinG THe finesT ProPerTies worldwide
Braniff Hills
Grand laKe
2916 E. 68th Street - Stunning contemporary home. Artisan craftsmanship throughout. Limestone & Hickory floors, exotic granites and sleek cabinetry. Soaring ceilings, ceiling to floor stone FP & wet bar. Dining, study, music, game & fitness rooms. Beautiful gardens & waterfall. 4 bedrooms, 5 full and one half baths. $895,000
Pelican Point lake front 3 BR, 2 BA, completely renovated, new kitchen, tile, stainless, Brazilian walnut hardwoods, new carpet, fresh paint inside & out, new roof, incredible 2-slip dock, completely furnished inside & out and 5 min east of Ketchum. $565,000
rancH acres
3919 S. Delaware Pl. - Easy living in this 4 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath home. Private master bedroom features a big walk-in closet and newer master bathroom. Gameroom w/ office on the lower level overlooks the park-like back yard. 4,154 sq ft. $529,000
woodland HeiGHTs
1626 E. 36th Pl - Beautiful treed midtown cul-de-sac lot at 36th & Utica. .25 acre M/L. Desirable flat lot ready to accommodate your new home. $315,000
Grand laKe
Contemporary w/incredible views, 3 BR, 3.5 Bath, 2 mast. suites, game room w/wet bar, custom doors & cabinetry, oversized dual head shower with steam sauna, jacuzzi tub in every bath and standup shower, SS, granite, insulated doors & windows, awesome outdoor living. $399,000
cresTwood aT THe river
6043 E. 119th Pl - Great opportunity to build your dream home in Gated Crestwood at the River. Bixby North Elementary School. $137,500
sunrise ridGe
12795 S. 14th Circle - Park-like setting. 1+acre. Kitchen opens to family room overlooking pool. 2 FPs. Office could be fourth bedroom.Great storage. Detached 1500 sf workshop. $405,000
Call any of the Luxury Property Group Realtors about one of these homes,or any property that you have an interest in. They will provide you with superior personal service in concert with the highest integrity.
THe luxury ProPerTy GrouP TulsaPeople.com
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8523 S. Braden - Signal Hill Beautiful treed lot in gated south Tulsa community awaits your dream home. $85,000
BT
Belinda Tucker 918.698.4418
7916 S. Frisco Avenue - The Reserve at Stonebrooke
Stunning 5 BR, 5.5 Bath New Construction with impressive Great Room w/ Floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and beamed ceiling. Fabulous Kitchen w/2 sinks, 5-burner Induction cooktop, “hidden” Pantry. Custom hand-carved door opens to downstairs Theater Room with wet bar. Double Game/ Gaming Rooms, 2 attics, 2-sided outdoor Fireplace, 2 Mudrooms. Circle Drive and 4 Car Garage. $998,000
13319 S. 68th E. Avenue - River’s Edge
6739 E. 134th Place - River’s Edge
NEW CONSTRUCTION. 4 Bd/4 Bath. Full stucco home with transitional flare. Family with wall of windows overlooking greenbelt, is open to stunning Kitchen with massive granite island and top-of-the-line appliances which adjoins a huge Hearth Room with windows that provide a great view and loads of light. Master Suite includes a luxurious Bath and 2 deluxe closets. Game Room w/wet bar has doors to walk-out upper deck. $635,000
NEW CONSTRUCTION loaded w/ extras. 4/3/1. Great curb appeal on corner lot. Beamed Family w/built-ins opens to gourmet Kitchen w/Butler’s pantry and spacious dining area. French doors lead to faux painted Office. Stunning faux painted Formal Dining. Master Suite w/luxurious bath and closet. Large Game and Theater Rooms. Bonus/Flex Room. Outdoor Fireplace. Energy Star Home. Bixby North. $598,000
DeeDee Jesiolowski Fulfilling dreams, one HOME at a time!
231-3821
6026 E. 140th Street
No detail has been overlooked in this distinguished property. Located within the hilltop neighborhood of Eagle Rock this four bedroom home boasts a stately home library, two-story family room, elegant formal dining room, spectacular island kitchen, grand master suite, game room, theater room, home elevator, generator and so much more. $900,000 104
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4608 E. 109th Place
deedee@deedeej.com
Five bedroom home located in gated Stonebriar Estates. Built in 2005. Spacious granite island kitchen, large family room, home office, formal dining room, upstairs game room,theater room plus bonus room over three-car garage. In-ground pool and spa. $630,000
10415 S. Joplin Avenue
Country French home in Forest Park South. 4 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, 3 living areas, formal dining, home office, spacious island kitchen, large master suite with loft & updated master bath, front and back staircase, refinished hardwood floors, 3 car garage. Inground pool, spa and grill. $589,000
918.808.9007 6425 E. 85th Place
McGraw Realtors
&
Judy Burns
Aaron Dillard 918.605.4929
Luxurious custom, full brick, one-owner home in exclusive gated Pinnacle Estates on 1.29 acres with dramatic view. Five Bedrooms, four full and one half Baths, four-car Garage. Four Living Areas which include Theater Room, Study and Office. Formal Dining Room and two spacious Utility Rooms. Granite Island Chef’s Kitchen. Two huge Masters fit for royalty. Designer fauxe and Trompe Loeil finishes. Plantation shutters. Newer roof, windows plus soundproofing between floors and piered at bedrock at construction. Approx. 7,890 sq. ft. per appraiser. Listing agent related to seller. $1,199,000. Contact Judy Burns 918-808-9007 for private tour.
Two adjoining lots with house are to be purchased as a package deal, for a total of $1,199,000.
T C
C heryl
Included in Tulsa’s Top 100 Realtors for 2015
cthompson@mcgrawrealtors.com
www.mcgrawrealtors.com/cherylthompson
Laurie Smith 918-638-4030 Toni Gant 918-859-5937 Monica Bell 918-200-3010
T hompson &
A
s s o c i A t e s
918. 812. 3828
Serving the Tulsa Metro Area
The Estates of Ravenwood
(Located off 111th between Memorial and Sheridan)
A hidden gem offering both a secluded neighborhood and the convenience of city life. ◆ Bixby North Elementary ◆ Premier South Tulsa/BixbyLocation ◆ Gated Community ◆ Near Lifetime Fitness ◆ .36 to .61 Acre Wooded Lots ◆ Small Neighborhood with 15 Lots
Call for location, completed homes for sale, and information on custom building.
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Judy Stocker
918.605.0998
J S TO C K E R@M CG R AW O K.CO M
8977 E. 16th Street Unique and Immaculate Ranch Style Home! Home has been gorgeously updated! Three living areas, eat-in granite island kitchen, master has private living area and closet you’ll swoon over! Fireplace and wood floors. Heated pool and spa. Fully fenced. 36’ X 36’ shop wih electric and water. Private office with heat and air plus 1/2 bath in garage. $256,000
McGraw Realtors proudly congratulates Judy Stocker, for being recognized by Tulsa People Magazine as one of the 2016 Top 100 Realtors in Tulsa.
Esplanade - 7300 South Lewis Avenue
Esplanade Condominium Amenities Security ◆ Gated entry ◆ Entry by code or phone ◆ Security cameras Community ◆ Pool ◆ Community herb garden Maintenance ◆ Lawn ◆ Roof ◆ Exterior painting
If you are considering an upscale lifestyle change, please consider Esplanade. Esplanade is Tulsa’s finest garden-style condominium community. Enjoy lovely neighbors, beautiful gardens and walking paths. Each home has its own private courtyard, spacious living areas, two-car garage as well as additional guest parking area. Many properties have been updated to Architectural Digest standards and others you can treat as a blank canvas and make design changes to customize to your personal taste. Call Rodger Erker at 918-740-4663 to see available properties or to be put on the waiting list for future offerings.
Rodger Erker 918-740-4663
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◆ Termite Monitoring ◆ Water/Sewer/Trash included in dues ◆ Garages with storage and electric overhead doors ◆ Mature trees in charming private courtyards
McGraw Realtors
Allison JAcobs 918-850-2207 Call or Text
ajacobs@mcgrawrealtors.com
2677 Terwilleger Boulevard
Own a piece of Tulsa History! Former Designer Showcase home on large Midtown lot, near Utica Square and Philbrook. Remodeled, freshly painted in and out, refinished hardwood floors and NEW kitchen! Four bedrooms, two full and three half baths. In-ground pool with UV light filtration system - no chemicals needed. $1,100,000
4748 S. 202nd E. Avenue - Concrete floors and new carpet! Well kept home and move in ready! Four bedrooms and office with French doors, two full bathrooms. Cozy fireplace in living room with open floor plan. Located in New Bedford III with neighborhood pool. $189,900
Bovasso S OU ! E M RG TO GOCUS
& Beal Team
Sharna Bovasso (918) 605-2995 | sbovasso@mcgrawok.com Dee Ann Beal (918) 688-5467 | dbeal@mcgrawok.com
7035 E. 118th Street Beautiful estate on cul-de-sac lot. Amazing kitchen! Oversized master, office plus second bedroom down! Multiple living areas and media room. Granite, hand scraped hardwoods, custom tile and iron work throughout. Safe room! Lagoon pool and hot tub. Four+ car garage! Price Reduction. $875,000
Scott coffman 918-640-1073
scoffman@mcgrawok.com
3636 South Florence Place
IC Y EN TR ! SC UN TE A CO ST E
6126 E. 191st Street Full brick custom home on 10 acres with additional land available. Chef’s granite kitchen and new Miele fridge. Four living areas and hardwoods. Master suite with sauna. Saltwater pool. Morton 3240 sq.ft. building with stable and RV parking. New $100,000 Decra roof! $850,000
Stunning one-level in Ranch Acres. Three bedrooms, two full and one half baths. Formal living and dining, wood floors. Beautiful entry, spacious living with fireplace and wet bar. Views of gorgeous yard with pool from kitchen, living and master. Eating bar and granite countertops in updated kitchen. Totally updated baths. Two-car garage. Very large private lot with deck and mature trees. $449,000 TulsaPeople.com
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McGraw Realtors
’s a s l Tu Top
Becky Moore Sherri Sanders Katie Lieberman Frankie Harkey Ann LaGere Debra Adamek Bob Haywood Stephanie Joy Cheryl Thompson Vanessa Moctezuma
Congratulations Thank you for your hard work, dedication and professionalism the reason that McGraw Realtors has remained the largest independent Real Estate company in Oklahoma for over 75 years.
Curtis Roberts Carol Brown Richard Pierce Pam Case Laura Grunewald Chris Zinn Jacki Crews John Ragan Becky Orr Gordon Shelton
Sue Ann Blair
Jessica Scott
David Palik
Diana Patterson
Lindsey Schlomann
Katy Houchin
Ronda Butler
Laura Hawkins
Gini Fox
Brian Guthrie
Larry Harral
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100 R e a l t o r s
TulsaPeople MARCH 2016
www.mcgrawrealtors.com - 918.592.6000
Judy Stocker
Q&A
From Tulsa Professionals
For information about participating in Q&A, please contact adservices@langdonpublishing.com.
VETERINARIAN Q: Please explain feline heartworm disease. A: Heartworm disease in cats is a very serious syndrome that can result in serious debilitation. Mosquitoes transmit the disease. The heartworms live in the bloodstream, lungs, and heart. The main symptoms are coughing, difficult breathing, vomiting/diarrhea, weight loss, seizures, and, if left unchecked, can result in acute death. There are several products available from your veterinarian that are easy to administer on a monthly basis that will prevent this deadly disease in cats.
GENERAL DENTISTRY Q: Can poor dental hygiene affect the rest of my body? A: Yes, it most certainly does. We will discuss this over the next few months. Have you heard the term halitosis? Lack of regular brushing and flossing leaves small food particles wedged between the teeth that collect bacteria and emit chemicals, like hydrogen sulfide — an unpleasant-smelling compound. Visit your dentist for a check-up and cleaning regularly.
Gene McCormick DDS SAFE/COMFORT Dentists 2106 S. Atlanta Pl. • Tulsa, OK 74114 918-743-7444 • www.genemccormickdds.com
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT Q: As a senior citizen, I own my home but could use some additional cash flow. Should I consider a reverse mortgage? A: Approach this major financial decision cautiously, as new rules apply. You must be at least 62 and must own your home. Loan origination fees, closing costs and even monthly service fees can be expensive. Most agreements state the loan must be repaid if the home is unoccupied for a specified period of time. If married, be careful that both spouses are included. Generally speaking, a reverse mortgage should be used as a last resort to generate cash.
Dr. Erin Reed 15th Street Veterinary Group 6231 E. 15th St. • Tulsa, OK 74112 918-835-2336 • www.15thstreetvet.com
J. Harvie Roe, CFP, President AmeriTrust Investment Advisors, Inc. 4506 S. Harvard Ave. • Tulsa, OK 74135 hroe@amerad.com • 918-610-8080
WILLS AND TRUSTS
BEAUTY AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
Q: Do I still need a trust since tax laws have changed? A: Saving taxes is only one of many issues in determining the need for creating a trust. Family dynamics and the types of assets a family owns truly drive that decision. Can all children handle finances? Is there a bully in the family? Is there substance abuse or chronic unemployment? Do you own more than one piece of property? Your estate-planning attorney can help you have the best plan for you and your family. Karen L. Carmichael The Law Office of Karen L. Carmichael 918-493-4939 • 2727 E. 21st St., Ste. 402 www.tulsawillsandtrusts.com
Q: I need something cost-effective to help my scaly winter skin. What treatments work best? A: Our newest procedure, the HydraFacial®, is the best way to shed your winter skin before spring. This multi-step treatment evenly exfoliates and extracts to remove impurities and dead skin cells, while replenishing vital nutrients like antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid. These performing ingredients help mitigate environmental damage, reduce fine lines and wrinkles and plump and firm skin for long-term results you can see and feel instantly. For more information on the HydraFacial® and to schedule your complimentary skin care consultation, call 918-872-9999. Malissa Spacek and Dr. James Campbell BA Med Spa & Weight Loss Center 500 S. Elm Place • Broken Arrow, OK 74012 918-872-9999 • www.baweightspa.com TulsaPeople.com
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BECAUSE OF YOU, TULSA WAS A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE IN 2015
Today, the Tulsa Area United Way is an intentional community builder, committed to providing a better life for all through five major areas of investments: n Annual allocations to 60 partner agencies in the areas of education, health/safety and financial stability,
By summoning our best selves, we can ensure our community remains caring and strong in 2016.
Dr. Gerry Clancy 2015 Chair, Board of Directors
However, our United Way would be unrecognizable to previous generations.
This United Way belongs to you – and you are responsible for its success. You have made Tulsa one of America’s most generous cities.
In 2015, you helped us keep operating expenses low, organizational efficiencies high, and partnerships smart, effective and outcomesfocused.
Ted Haynes 2015 Chair, Campaign Cabinet
In the last century, you have entrusted us to invest nearly $1 billion to help those in need.
Perhaps you gave to United Way through payroll deduction at work, volunteered at a partner agency, or participated in one of our nation’s largest Days of Caring.
Mark Graham President and CEO
Last year, you helped the Tulsa Area United Way surpass the largest goal in its 91-year history by raising more than $26.5 million for our community.
n Funding for collaborative, community-wide coalitions with other non-profit, civic and educational organizations, n Grants for new, innovative solutions to social challenges, n Bridge funding to help new agencies reach sustainability, n And emergency funding in times of need.
Financial Review - Financial Summary for years ended 12/31/15 and 12/31/14
Total Revenues
$ 26,161,068
$ 26,878,109
Program Services Education Health/Safety Financial Stability Collaborative and Innovation Grant Funding Other Special Funding Partner Agency Relations Total Program Services Management and General Expense Fund Raising Costs
$ 6,639,296 9,543,988 4,564,515 1,425,989 1,045,219 481,758 $ 23,700,765 1,140,452 1,556,338
$ 6,809,723 8,873,276 4,952,527 1,100,494 813,439 467,496 $ 23,016,955 1,054,692 1,630,471
Total Expenses
$ 26,397,555
$ 25,702,118
& INDIVIDUAL S YEES O L P EM
$ 25,859,681 1,641,182 (1,095,671) 271,985 107,287 92,225 1,420
Unrestricted Change in Net Assets Unrestricted Net Assets, Beginning of Year Unrestricted Net Assets, End of Year
(236,487) (255,020)
43% HEALTH & SA FET Y
EXPENSES
Change in Net Assets Less Change in Restricted Net Assets
WHERE FROM
THE DOLLARS COME
60%
$ 25,724,995(2) 748,299 (827,629) 340,687 33,560 89,121 52,035
24% F INA NC I
WHERE INVESTED
THE DOLLARS ARE
1,175,991 715,985
18,533
460,006
12,029,048
11,569,042
$ 12,047,581
$ 12,029,048
(1) 2015 amounts are unaudited. (2) As of 12/31/2015. The Tulsa Area United Way does not charge membership fees or dues to its partner agencies.
BECAUSE OF YOU
JAMES GRADUATED FROM COLLEGE AND HAS A BRIGHTER FUTURE AHEAD OF HIM
Board Chair Dr. Gerry Clancy - The University of Tulsa Chair Elect Ted Haynes - Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma Vice Chair Caron Lawhorn - ONE Gas, Inc. Secretary Jim Langdon - Langdon Publishing Co. Treasurer Cathy Gates - Ernst & Young, LLP Assistant Secretary Mike Rhoads - Oklahoma Department of Insurance Assistant Treasurer Stuart Sullivan - QuikTrip Corporation Immediate Past Chair Becky J. Frank - Schnake Turnbo Frank Ethics Officer Page Bachman - St. John Health System Alison Anthony - Williams Basil Barimo - NORDAM Monica Basu - George Kaiser Family Foundation Jesse Boudiette - Propeller Communications Chet Cadieux -QuikTrip Corporation Jeff Callison - United States Postal Service Steve Capron - Capron & Edwards, PLLC Daniel L. Christner - John Christner Trucking William J. Collins, III - American Airlines Phil Cook - Samson Resources Eric Draheim - Kimberly-Clark Corporation Elizabeth Frame Ellison - Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation Lee Eslicker - D & L Oil Tools Shane Fernandez - Nabholz Construction Kevin Gore - BKD, LLP Kevin Gross - Hillcrest HealthCare System Tracy Hardin - TWU, Local 514 John Hewitt - Matrix Service Company John Hickey - Hall Estill Anita Holloway - Ernst & Young, LLP Betsy G. Jackson - Hall Estill Phil Lakin - Tulsa Community Foundation John W. Lindsay - Helmerich & Payne, Inc. Mandy Leemhuis - NORDAM Dean Luthey - GableGotwals Marcia MacLeod - WPX Energy Steve McIntosh - Williams Rob Martinovich - ONEOK Bill Masterson - Tulsa World Media Company Mike Mears - Magellan Midstream Partners, LP Chad Miller - Tulsa Fire Fighters, Local 176 Chuck Mitchell - OG&E - Sapulpa Dennis Neill - Charles & Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation Karl Neumaier - Hilti, Inc. LareRonita Ratcliff - AT&T/CWA, Local 6012 Janet Selser - Selser Schaefer Architects Eli Smith - Saint Francis Health System Clint Swanson - Swanson Law Firm Mark Wilson - The University of Oklahoma-Tulsa Maggie Yar - Hille Foundation
33%
Contributions - Current Campaign Contributions - Prior Years’ Campaigns Collection Loss Provision Special Grants Net Investment Return In-Kind Contributions Other
REVENUES
12% FOUND ATIO NS
TY BILI STA AL
2014
ORPORATIO 28% C NS
2015 (1)
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You – donors, volunteers and partner agencies – came together to serve more than a half million of our friends and neighbors in 2015.
2015 Board of Directors
Ex-Officio Members Michael Redman Neuens Mitchell Bonds, pllc Mark R. Graham Tulsa Area United Way
Board Interns Jeremy Cavness Leadership Tulsa Madeleine Wille Leadership Tulsa Aaron Tracy Leadership Tulsa
ANNUAL REPORT 2015
agenda ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ✻ OUT & ABOUT ✻ BENEFITS
3/4-6
CAST AWAY by BRITT GREENWOOD
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Gary Tramontina
housands will attend the “Super Bowl of bass fishing” at the 2016 GEICO Bassmaster Classic on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. You can cheer on three Okie anglers in person at the Wolf Creek Ramp in Grove, Oklahoma, or visit the BOK Center for daily weigh-ins. The Cox Business Center will simultaneously host the Classic Outdoors Expo. Visit www.bassmaster.com for a full schedule of events.
The 2015 GEICO Bassmaster Classic champion, Casey Ashley of Donalds, South Carolina, competes on the 2015 Classic fishery, Lake Hartwell in Greenville, South Carolina. Ashley will defend his title March 4-6 at the 2016 GEICO Bassmaster Classic.
Giving to the grieving P. 115
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Made of honor P. 116
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Shake it P. 117 TulsaPeople.com
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CALENDAR
Can’t-miss events
MARCH SUN
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The band Breaking Benjamin will take over the Brady Theater, pleasing post-grunge, alternative music fans.
Outfit the kids from head to toe with bargains from Just Between Friends at Expo Square’s spring/ summer sale. FEB. 28-MARCH 5
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The Christian music event of the year returns to the BOK Center: Winter Jam presents For King & Country, Matthew West, Lauren Daigle and others.
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Tiffany Ivanovsky from TLC’s “Extreme Couponing” will share her tricks and tips at the Renaissance Hotel.
The Japanese enjoyed Edo period artwork for hundreds of years. See it at Philbrook Museum of Art’s exhibit opening of “Japanese Painted Screens and Scrolls.” 13
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Save creative kiddos from spring break boredom at the Henry Zarrow Center and Gilcrease Museum’s Spring Break Art Camps for ages 5-12.
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Oklahoma funny man Rodney Carrington’s Southern comedy hits the BOK Center.
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Commemorate the Irish holiday with a healthy, charitable start: the St. Patrick’s Day 5K Run benefiting Special Olympics.
19 Reel in some deals at the Tulsa Expo during the Mid-South Tackle, Hunting and Boat Show.
Experience Tulsa’s top St. Patrick’s Day bashes at local Irish joints like Kilkenny’s, Arnie’s and McNellie’s.
MARCH 17-20
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The Tulsa Overground Film & Music Festival showcases some of the best entertainment near and far.
Enjoy Tulsa Ballet’s variety performance, “Masters of Dance,” at the Tulsa PAC.
MARCH 24-27
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Remember the blue Na’vi characters from “Avatar”? See them again in acrobatic form at “Cirque du Soliel: TORUK — The First Flight” at the BOK Center. MARCH 24-27
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Celebrity Attractions presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella.” MARCH 29-APRIL 3
31 Social Media Tulsa’s Social Business Conference presents two days of training on the latest digital strategies. MARCH 31-APRIL 1
Social Media Tulsa photo by Casey Hanson
MARCH 18-20
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JULIETTE L W JULIETTE L W LEADERSHIP SOCIETY JULIETTE L W LEADERSHIP SOCIETY
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND THE 2016 JULIETTE LOW LEADERSHIP SOCIETY LUNCHEON HONORING YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND THE 2016 JULIETTE LOW LEADERSHIP SOCIETY LUNCHEON HONORING YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO ATTEND THE 2016 JULIETTE LOW LEADERSHIP SOCIETY LUNCHEON HONORING
LEADERSHIP SOCIETY
Michelle Hardesty Michelle Michelle Hardesty Hardesty
Thursday, April 21, 2016 Thursday, 21,Club 2016 Southern HillsApril Country Thursday, April 21, 2016 2636 EAST 61ST STREET, TULSA Southern Hills Country Club 2636 EAST 61ST STREET, TULSA
Southern Country Club 11:00 a.m.Hills Check-in 2636 EAST 61ST Luncheon STREET, TULSA 11:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Check-in 11:30 11:00 a.m. a.m. Luncheon Check-in GUEST SPEAKER 11:30 a.m. Luncheon Tererai Trent GUEST SPEAKER
Tererai Trent Tererai Trent
Tererai Trent is an internationally renowned speaker, educator, mentor GUEST and one of SPEAKER Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favorite guests. She is the author Tererai is anBuried internationally renowned speaker, mentor of “TheTrent Girl who her Dreams in a Can,” a storyeducator, about a little and onedreams of Oprah Winfrey’s all-timeDr. favorite Shean is adjunct the author girl, big and perseverance. Trent isguests. currently Tererai is anBuried internationally renowned speaker, educator, mentor of “TheTrent Girl her in ainCan,” a story about a little professor inwho Monitoring andDreams Evaluation Global Health at Drexel and onedreams ofSchool Oprah Winfrey’s all-timeDr. favorite Shean is adjunct thewith author girl, big and perseverance. Trent isguests. currently University, of Public Health. She is a senior consultant of “The Girl who Buried her in ainCan,” ainstory about a little professor in18 Monitoring andDreams Evaluation Global Health at Drexel more than years of international experience program and policy girl, big dreams and perseverance. is currently an adjunct University, School ofworked Public on Health. SheTrent is a senior consultant with evaluation and has five Dr. continents for major humanitarian professor and Evaluation in Global at Drexel more thanin18Monitoring years of international experience in Health program and policy organizations. University, School Public on Health. She is a senior consultant with evaluation and hasofworked five continents for major humanitarian more than 18 years of international experience in program and policy organizations. evaluation and has worked on five continents for major humanitarian organizations.
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OUT & ABOUT
People, places and events
OU-Tulsa The ribbon-cutting ceremony for OU-Tulsa’s Tandy Education Center included Dr. Gerard Clancy, dean of the University of Tulsa College of Health Sciences; Alana Hughes, Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation; Jon Stuart, Oklahoma Board of Regents; Dr. James Herman, dean of the OU-TU School of Community Medicine; David L. Boren, OU president; Addison Jezek, president of the inaugural School of Community Medicine class; Dr. John Schumann, OU-Tulsa president; Dr. Michael Weisz, Simulation Center medical director; Dr. Julie Miller-Cribbs, director of the Anne & Henry Zarrow School of Social Work; Paul Giehm, A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Foundation trustee; Carol Tandy; and John Gaudet and Emily Lim, both of the Tandy Education Center.
Oklahoma Home Builders Association Broken Arrow resident Joe Robson, former National Association of Home Builders chairman, was named to the state housing industry’s first hall of fame on Jan. 9 in Oklahoma City. Robson (right) is pictured with the outgoing Oklahoma Home Builders Association president, Tulsan Phil Rhees.
Tulsa Town Hall University of Oklahoma President David L. Boren spoke Jan. 15 at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center as part of the Tulsa Town Hall 2015-16 Speaker Series. He is pictured with Tulsa Town Hall Executive Director Kathy Collins and Board Member Jill Thomas. 114
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Uncorking the Cure for MS More than 250 people attended the MS Society’s fundraiser on Oct. 15 at Cain’s Ballroom, including Jim Hawkins, Lucia Laughlin, Brent Laughlin and Suzanne Hawkins. The event raised $142,000 for people living with and affected by multiple sclerosis.
OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine The Pros for Africa Club of the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine hosted a dinner honoring Sister Rosemary Nyirumbe on Jan. 19 at the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum. The club raised $10,000 to help benefit Nyirumbe’s Sewing Hope Foundation in Uganda. The funds also will help pay for the education of a Ugandan medical student. Pictured are Ashley Shumaker, Karley Koch, Nyirumbe, John Lowe, Lauren Kollmorgen and Conner Moslander.
Juliette Low Leadership Society The 2016 luncheon for the Juliette Low Leadership Society is April 21. Pictured are Michelle Hardesty, the event’s honorary chairwoman; Cindy Bottomley, JLLS adviser; Roberta Preston, Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma CEO; and Erin Dailey, event chairwoman.
Lauren Petersen
Fundraisers and fun happenings
CHARITABLE EVENTS REGISTRY
MARCH
March Volunteer Spotlight by JUDY LANGDON
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Loren Baldwin
compiled by JUDY LANGDON
or two years, Lauren Petersen has organized other volunteers at the Tristesse Grief Center. Her employer, New York Life Insurance Co., recently recognized Petersen’s community service with two $25,000 Community Impact Grants to fund the nonprofit’s grief centers for children, one of Petersen’s passions. Through employees’ accumulated volunteer hours, New York Life’s Tulsa office also has earned more than $20,000 in the past two years for the Grief Center and its grief camps, beautification projects, and Hike for Healing and Artscape fundraisers. Tristesse Grief Center mission statement: To create a caring community where grieving families know they are not alone; to provide a safe place to grieve the deaths and celebrate the lives of loved ones; to provide professionally facilitated support groups, individual counseling and special programs for grieving children, teens and adults; and to be the primary community resource for providing comprehensive grief support, advocacy and education. As a Grief Center volunteer, you have spent the most time assisting in the grief camps for children. What have you learned from your involvement? I have seen how important it is for children to be in the presence of other children who have also experienced the immediate loss of a parent or sibling. They open up and find comfort knowing that there are other kids who are going through the same experience. Tristesse has helped me learn how to talk to others about a recent death and what I can do and say to comfort people on the anniversary of the death of a loved one. I have also discovered that the time period it takes for each person to deal with grief differs tremendously. tþ
March 3 REBUILDING TOGETHER TULSA PRESENTS: EAT LOCAL Benefits Rebuilding Together Tulsa. www.rebuildingtogethertulsa.org
March 10 NINTH ANNUAL KEEPING ‘EM IN THE GREEN Benefits Meals on Wheels of Metro Tulsa. www.mealsonwheelstulsa.org
March 4 BROADWAY BASH: OLD SCHOOL ALWAYS COOL Benefits Theatre Tulsa. www.theatretulsa.org/broadwaybash
March 12 DANCE OF THE TWO MOONS Benefits Indian Health Care Resource Center programs. www.ihcrc2moons.org
March 4 CASA CASINO: PARTY LIKE IT’S 1922 Benefits Tulsa CASA. www.casacasino.org
March 12 ST. PATRICK’S DAY RUN Benefits Special Olympics Oklahoma and Tulsa Running Club. www.sook.org
March 4 HARWELDEN AWARDS Benefits Arts & Humanities Council of Tulsa. www.ahhatulsa.org
March 13 SOUPER SUNDAY: MARDI GRAS Benefits Total Source for Hearing-loss & Access (TSHA). www.tsha.cc
March 4-5 NILES NIGHT AT THE ROUNDUP Benefits Will Rogers High School Community Foundation Inc. www.willrogersfoundation.net March 5 25TH ANNUAL SIP FOR SIGHT, “LIGHTS, CAMERA, VINO,” GRAND WINE TASTING Benefits Prevent Blindness Oklahoma. www.sipforsight.com March 5 BUNCO FOR BREAST CANCER Benefits the Breast Cancer Assistance Program (BCAP) Fund. www.bcapfund.org March 5 HIKE FOR HEALING Benefits Tristesse Grief Center. www.thegriefcenter.org March 5 SAPPHIRE CELEBRATION: UNDER THE BLUE MOON Benefits Riverfield Country Day School. www.riverfield.org March 7 KINGPINS FOR KIDS Benefits Operation Aware. www.operationaware.org March 8 YOUTH OF THE YEAR BANQUET Benefits Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Tulsa. www.salarmytulsa.org
March 19 CITYWIDE BABY SHOWER Benefits Emergency Infant Services. www.eistulsa.org March 22 TALK AND TOUR Benefits Youth Services of Tulsa. www.yst.org March 25 RELAY FOR LIFE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA Benefits American Cancer Society. www.relayforlife.org/utok March 29 REDBUD CELEBRATION Benefits OK2GROW. www.ok2grow.org March 31 FEATURED LIVING ARTIST DINNER Benefits Living Arts of Tulsa. www.livingarts.org March 31 FOUNDERS DINNER 2016 Benefits Iron Gate. www.irongatetulsa.org March 31 OYSTERS & ALE Benefits Hospice of Green Country. www.hospiceofgreencountry.org/oystersandale March 31 TU NEWMAN CENTER SOCIETY DINNER Benefits the St. Philip Neri Newman Center at the University of Tulsa. www.tu-newman.org TulsaPeople.com
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BEHIND THE SCENE
Perspectives on local art and culture
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Teaching love, preserving tradition by GAIL BANZET-ELLIS Sam Proctor at the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Council House, at the center of the historic Okmulgee town square. 116
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devoted advocate of Muscogee (Creek) Nation heritage, tribal elder Sam Proctor will be inducted into the Tulsa City-County Library’s Circle of Honor this month. The award recognizes efforts made by American Indians to enrich the lives of others while preserving their native culture. That Proctor will receive the award is no surprise. He has dedicated his life to teaching Creek customs that promote balance and harmony within the tribe and the world. Born to a traditional Muscogee (Creek) family, he grew up in the small American Indian community of Weogufkee (Muddy Water) in southeastern Oklahoma. He attended Dustin High School and left the Creeks’ ceremonial way of life, falling in step with his mother’s staunch Western style of worship. He became a Baptist preacher in his early 20s and served the church for 16 years before having an epiphany that redirected his life’s path. “I was traveling to an event to preach, and there was this feeling I had,” Proctor says. “I knew it was the last time. Something told me to turn back to my traditional ways of the tribe. The creator said, ‘I want to teach you to love people.’” From that moment on, he was a changed man. He began living and teaching the Creek traditions he’d learned from his father as a young boy. Over the past four decades, he has taught the Creek language and met with descendants of the tribe across Oklahoma and the southeast, reintroducing ancient Creek culture and ideology. “There’s no better place than returning to your heritage,” Proctor says. “I believe in my creator and what our ancestors have handed down to us. Now it’s time for the younger generation to keep that going.” One of his passions is passing on sustainable Creek agricultural practices. In 2007, he assisted with the Mvskoke Food Sovereignty Initiative in Okmulgee to help Creek members improve their quality of life through economic development and community engagement.
Proctor also helped create a monthly class to revitalize and preserve traditional Creek hymns, and he serves as the medicine man of the Tallahassee (Wvkokaye) Ceremonial grounds in rural Okfuskee County. In tribal ceremonies, medicine is prepared for the members of the grounds. Its purpose is for purification and healing. Plant roots are gathered, blessed and placed in water for drinking. “He makes the medicine for the good of all of us and starts the fire we consider our altar,” says his son, David, who works in the Creek Nation’s cultural preservation department. “Coals from that fire are carried to each camp on the grounds to signify a new start and the cycle of life.” A kind soul with a weathered face and a warm smile, Proctor resides in Okmulgee and will turn 84 in April. He still travels at least once a month to speak on the preservation of Creek language and culture. His life’s work follows three principles taught by his family: love, long-suffering and patience. Approximately 72,000 Creek Indians reside in the United States, and fewer than 1,500 of those are full-blood members, according to David Proctor. Sam Proctor says it’s critical the tribe preserve its heritage for future generations. “It’s never too late,” he says. “We need to ask ourselves, ‘What are we going to leave with them when we go?’ I love to talk about it.” tþ March 5 CIRCLE OF HONOR CEREMONY WITH SAM PROCTOR 10:30 a.m. Hardesty Regional Library, 8316 E. 93rd St. The ceremony kicks off a month-long celebration of Native American achievements and systemwide library programs. Events are free and open to the public. Call 918-549-7472 or visit www.tulsalibrary.org/airc.
Gail Banzet-Ellis has been fascinated with Tulsa since she was a little girl. It’s a dream come true to write about the city’s magic and charm.
The local music scene
TULSA SOUND
3/13 ROBERT PLANT & THE SENSATIONAL SPACE SHIFTERS, CAIN’S BALLROOM Robert Plant, the iconic frontman for Led Zeppelin, has contributed greatly to the world of music in his nearly 50-year career. The English musician has turned his attention in recent years to wholly American styles of music like bluegrass, collaborating with Alison Krauss on the Grammy Award-winning record “Raising Sand.” On Plant’s newest solo album, “Lullaby and … The Ceaseless Roar,” the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer is supported by a new band, The Sensational Space Shifters. The concert starts at 8:15 p.m. Doors open at 7.
Main squeeze by WYNDHAM WYETH
Tulsans can see Dead Shakes — Amelia Pullen, Luciano Tarcetti, Cameron Clouser and Arturo Jiminez — at three performances this month at Soundpony, 409 N. Main St. The garage rockers are inspired by bands such as The Velvet Underground and Thee Oh Sees.
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ulsa’s gritty garage rock outfit Dead Shakes began to take shape when founding member Cameron Clouser decided to make a change. Instead of assuming his usual spot behind the drum kit, he moved front and center to handle guitar and vocals. “Whenever you’re a drummer, people tend to overlook you,” Clouser says. “I’ve always been a guitar player though, and I kind of like being up in everyone’s face anyway. With drums, you can’t really do that. I try to be really aggressive on drums, but I’m still confined to a chair.” Luciano Tarcetti, the band’s other founding member, has a slightly different approach when it comes to performing. “My entire technique is to hide,” he says. With mumbled vocals and guitar drenched in reverb, Tarcetti might come across as reserved. But what he holds back in the spotlight, he makes up for in the volume and
the ferocity of his instrument. After a few lineup changes, Clouser and Tarcetti rounded out the band with Arturo Jiminez on bass and Amelia Pullen on drums, forming Dead Shakes as it is known today. All of the members agree that the songwriting is collaborative and organic. Inspired by a mutual appreciation of a range of bands, from The Velvet Underground and The Cramps to modern garagerock heroes like Thee Oh Sees and Ty Segall, the members of Dead Shakes create a sound that is energetic, raunchy and raw. And it shows when the band performs live. “We are really careful about making sure that every show is going to be good,” Clouser says. Aside from ensuring that Dead Shakes plays quality venues and shares the bill with bands they respect, Clouser says the band works to connect and feed off its audience. “We get our energy from the
crowd,” he explains. “If we know the crowd is having a good time, it helps us have a good time.” Aside from a handful of digital singles, the band’s primary release was “Live at Young Camelot,” a recording of its scorching performance at a renovated Chicago church following the Pitchfork Music Festival in summer 2015. Dead Shakes hopes to release a 7-inch record in the near future, followed by another tour. Until then, the band will continue to play shows in and around Tulsa and work on new material. “We take this band very seriously,” Clouser explains. “Everything else is a side project, and this band is basically our main squeeze.” Tulsans can catch Dead Shakes this month at one of three performances at Soundpony — on March 15 with Gym Shorts, March 18 with Gnarly Davidson (Lawrence, Kansas) and March 23 with Leggy (Cincinnati). tþ
3/18 CAGE THE ELEPHANT, SILVERSUN PICKUPS, FOALS AND BEAR HANDS, BOK CENTER It’s nearly unimaginable to see four stellar indie bands in one place for less than $42. This month, the Spring Fling Rock AF tour stops at Tulsa’s BOK Center, headlined by Kentucky-based garage rockers Cage the Elephant. The well-rounded lineup also includes shoegaze outfit Silversun Pickups, English art-rock group Foals and the experimental, postpunk stylings of Brooklyn’s Bear Hands. Fans can expect to hear a host of new material from the bands as most of them released records in the latter part of 2015. The concert starts at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6. Wyndham Wyeth grew up hearing his mother sing John Denver tunes, so he will always have a soft spot for “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” TulsaPeople.com
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Evan Taylor
MARCH’S BEST BETS FOR LIVE MUSIC
SCREEN/PRINT
Regional film and literature by MORGAN PHILLIPS
Michael Wallis by HEATHER KOONTZ
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hose who know Michael Wallis would agree he is a gifted storyteller, a painstaking researcher and a true gentleman. He has penned 18 books on people and topics from Billy the Kid to Wilma Mankiller to Route 66. As usual, TulsaPeople found him hard at work — on two new works of historical nonfiction set for publication in late 2016 or 2017. Tell us about your books in progress. “The Way West: The Tragic Story of the Donner Party”* tells the story of the arrogance and foibles of Manifest Destiny as told through the eyes of the Donner Party, the foot soldiers of America’s Westward expansion whose experiences have never been fully and accurately presented. W.W. Norton will publish it. “Los Luceros: The Morning Star of New Mexico”* chronicles the colorful history and legacy of Los Luceros (“The Morning Stars”), a truly extraordinary historic site on the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico. I was commissioned to write this book by the State of New Mexico, and the Museum of New Mexico Press is publishing it. * Tentative, working titles If you had to pick one genre to read for the rest of your life, what would it be? That’s an easy question to answer. My primary genre of choice is nonfiction (history and biography). Describe the plot of your favorite book without spoiling it for the rest of us. This book begins in a mid-19th century village perched on the banks of the Mississippi River. The main character (clue: whose name is in the book’s title) is a likable young rascal who serves as the narrator sharing his story of an adventure-filled journey 118
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Evan Taylor
Historian, author and speaker
“Beehives: A Suspense Novel”
down the big river and the host of colorful and memorable characters and misfits he encounters along the way. In the telling of his odyssey, the youngster exposes the notion of race and identity. Although it was written long ago, the book remains a timeless classic. It is as relevant today as it was when it first appeared. This is a provocative book that has always generated much controversy. It has been banished from many school libraries and remains one of the most banned books in American history. Yet it is also considered to be the first genuine American novel. Certainly Ernest Hemingway thought so. He declared that this is the one book from which all modern literature came. “There was nothing before, there has been nothing as good since,” Hemingway wrote. I agree. (The book is “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain.)
During a romantic weekend getaway, a couple’s macabre discovery leads them to solve a strange and sinister mystery in this novel by Tulsan Mary Coley.
“In the Wake of Our Misdeed”
Oregonian novelist George Byron Wright’s tale of reconciliation takes its main character through Oklahoma cities such as Tulsa, Sapulpa, Tahlequah and Tonkawa in search of a nephew he has never met.
Your other favorite books of all time: “To Kill A Mockingbird,” “The Grapes of Wrath,” “Lonesome Dove,” “A Confederacy of Dunces,” “Lolita,” “The Old Man And The Sea,” “In Cold Blood,” “A Moveable Feast,” “Desert Solitaire.” If you could pick someone to write the story of your life, who would it be? Hands down, the best and most qualified person to write the story of my life is my own life partner, Suzanne Fitzgerald Wallis. tþ Heather Koontz is a graduate of the University of Tulsa’s Film Studies program. She enjoys spending time with her Westie and French bulldog, as well as remodeling her 100-yearold home with her husband, Byron.
“The Red Stock Company”
Claremore author T. Roy Jackson’s novel on the formation of an American mercenary group was inspired by events from Vietnam and the Cold War.
Get Ready to Rumble!
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BlankCanvas 2016
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H April 8, 6:00 pm Coach Michelle Donaldson
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APRIL 8, 2016 H
Let the Games Begin! Your Ticket to Blank Canvas includes:
HFANTASTIC
AUCTION ITEMS! HEXCITING RAFFLES!
• Pre-event “Tailgate” Food Truck Competition!
• Four-course competition between some of Tulsa’s best chefs!
• After Party featuring EHB (the Eric Himan Band)!
H Cox Business Center
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Casual Friday Dress
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Coach Justin Thompson
Tickets are $150 per person. To purchase tickets, become a patron or get more info, visit www.yst.org, or contact Brian Young at 918.382.4457 or byoung@yst.org. Benefiting
Flashback 30 Archived photos capturing three decades of TulsaPeople Magazine by MORGAN PHILLIPS
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3 2) Celebrity Attractions brought “Little House on the Prairie: The Musical” to Tulsa in fall 2009. While in town, the cast and crew, including actress Melissa Gilbert, helped paint a Habitat for Humanity house in Tulsa. Pictured are Ed Payton, Celebrity Attractions CEO; Gilbert; and Paul Kent, the recently retired executive director of Tulsa Habitat for Humanity.
1 1) Coney Island Hot Weiners, a downtown Tulsa staple, celebrated its 90th anniversary in January. Started by Christ Economou, a Greek immigrant, the business was eventually passed down to his son, Jim Economou, in 1973. The popular restaurant has had several downtown locations, including inside the Tulsa World building. Today it is in the Brady Arts District. Pictured in 1995 are owner Jim Economou and longtime Coney Island employees Georgia Tsilekas, Economou’s sister; and her husband, Costa Tsilekas.
3) The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History brought a preview exhibit called “Puzzles, Paleontologists & Prehistoric Life” to the 1996 Mayfest International Festival kids’ zone. Holding a cast dinosaur bone are Kristin Alexander, museum fundraising coordinator; the late David Cameron, Mayfest governing board chairman; Suzanne McAuley with the museum; and Debbie Luthey. The museum opened in Norman in 1999.
Help celebrate TulsaPeople’s 30th anniversary.
Share your favorite magazine photos and articles on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #flashback30. Be sure to tag @TulsaPeople. 120
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Jason, Lou, Perry, Justin Moreau Chris &&Christy Rawlings A&B Distributors, Inc. PRIME Workforce Placement Mabrey Bank Clients Mabrey Bank Clients
Here’s to relationships. It’s no accident beer distributor Lou Moreau is on a first-name basis with over 100 employees. His company, A&B Distributors, is a success built on relationships. That’s why he chose Mabrey Bank. Thirty-five years ago, Carlisle Mabrey III helped Lou expand his business when other banks wouldn’t. The relationship stands strong today, extending to a second generation of Moreaus and Mabreys working alongside their dads in the family business.
You can’t keep a good man down. Most people would quit after being turned down 70 times. But Chris Rawlings knew his staffing idea would work, if he could just get a loan. 19 years later, with Christy’s help, PRIME Industrial Recruiters is going strong and Chris’ banking experience is much more positive. In fact, he sees Mabrey Bank as a strategic partner. With a deep understanding of their business and proactive service, Mabrey goes beyond the expected. Which helps keeps the business primed for success.
mabreybank.com • 888.272.8866 • Our Midtown Location is Now Open! mabreybank.com • 888.272.8866
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