TulsaPeople August 2026

INSIDE THE IC BUS PLANT | MEET TU’S NEW PRESIDENT | PERFORMING ARTS GUIDE August 2026

E X TR CREDIA T

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Leaders with Heart INTEGRITY. INTELLIGENCE. KINDNESS. Everett Stallcop’s story is built on steady hands and a generous spirit. From small-town beginnings to big systems that keep communities running, he’s learned that leadership isn’t loud; it’s consistent and practical.

Born in Bartlesville and raised in Nowata, Oklahoma, Everett started working early, delivering the local newspaper and running projectors at both the indoor and drive-in theaters.

That mix of responsibility and handson problem-solving never left him. He attended Oklahoma State University, earning an associate degree and his Airframe & Powerplant aircraft mechanic’s license, along with a bachelor’s degree in adult education.

After college, Everett headed briefly to Boeing in the Seattle area, where he worked in rapid revision and modification on 727s, making lastminute repairs and changes in final assembly when issues surfaced. It was high-stakes, detail-driven work that suited him. Tulsa then became home base for his decades-long career with PSO, where he ultimately served as Supervisor of Transmission Operations for the entire system. He officially retired in 2006, then returned for several more years part time.

Everett’s faith anchors him. At Kirk of the Hills, he served with the Deacon’s Fund, helping research requests for assistance so resources could be

directed wisely. He also served as an Elder and as a Trustee in the Eastern Oklahoma PC (USA). His guiding principle is the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have done unto you” (Matthew 7:12).

One mission trip changed his perspective in a lasting way. Soon after retiring, Everett took a mission trip to Rainbow Acres in Camp Verde, Arizona — a residential community for adults with learning difficulties.

With no children, nieces, or nephews of his own, Everett wasn’t sure what to expect. What he found was joy and welcome. Everett describes meeting residents, many with Down syndrome, ranging from 18 to over 50, as “the neatest group of people” he’d ever known. He returned five years in a row, helping with painting and cleanup, but receiving something more enduring in return: friendship.

Back in Tulsa, that same passion helped fuel Pathways – a Christian program that supports adults with intellectual disabilities – where Everett was a founder and served as the first Board Chairman for five years and then the Finance Committee for three years.

He credits much of his servant mindset to his father who expressed love through action more than words.

Everett recalled coming home after a week at Boy Scout camp to find a gocart his dad had built for him. That kind of quiet love became a blueprint: do the work, meet the need, don’t make it about yourself.

Outside of service, Everett is an avid traveler and lifelong “gearhead.” He’s logged more than 200,000 miles on motorcycles, riding to all 48 state capitals and visiting over 50 national parks. He also enjoys model railroading and radio-controlled cars and boats.

“I am always a bit smarter after my interactions with Everett,” says Tom Bennett Jr., Executive Chairman of the Board for First Oklahoma Bank.

“Through his work and gracious spirit, he has made a meaningful difference to those around him. I deeply appreciate the example he sets and the goodness he shares with others.”

Midtown: 4110 S. Rockford Avenue | South: 100 S. Riverfront Drive, Jenks FirstOklahomaBank.com

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Answering the call for Oklahoma.

Read about all of our top rankings this year.

Scan the QR code or visit okla.st/chs-usnews.

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on data from 207 accredited allopathic and osteopathic medical schools in the United States.

Contents AUGUST 2026

VOLUME 40 ISSUE 10

7

CITY DESK New Bike Club HQ. Online school for 6-12th grade.

She Brews bakes up change.

30

LEGENDS: JOHN ERLING A conversation with the longtime KRMG radio host and founder of Voices of Oklahoma.

BY MICHAEL OVERALL

32

EXTRA CREDIT Will Rogers High School students tackle college credit classes and even associate degrees by graduation.

BY TIFFANY HOWARD

34

A NEW DAY Stacy Leeds begins her first year as president of The University of Tulsa.

BY MADISON WALTERS

36

ALL ABOARD Once a WWII bomber factory, Tulsa's IC Bus Plant is now the ‘School Bus Capital of the World.’

BY LAUREN ROGERS

69

LIFESTYLE Couture meets comfort.

Fresh finds at Grisaille Cottage.

Connie Cronley talks procrastination.

75

TABLE TALK Hats off to The Helen.

Sons of Amalfi shines in Sapulpa.

After-school snack attack.

ON THE COVER Students participating in the Will Rogers High School Dual Credit to College Degree program include: (front) Malaki Mills; (seated, middle, left to right) Donovan Rowe, Caiden Cannizzaro, Francisco Lopez-Lopez, Sarahi Gomez; (seated, back row, left to right): Demetrius Alexander, Iyan Balan, Susy Escalera and Lulu Brown.

Meet Goldie III, the new face of The University of Tulsa’s Canine Ambassador program. She begins orientation this month with the incoming Class of 2030.

4 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

COVER PHOTO BY GREG BOLLINGER

MICHELLE POLLARD

SPECIAL SECTIONS 39 BACK TO SCHOOL 58 FALL TRAVEL 62 PERFORMING ARTS GUIDE

Show Tulsa What You’ve Got. THIS IS THE KIND OF NIGHT THAT BECOMES A STORY BY MORNING GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT ARTINITULSA.COM

Saturday, August 15, 2026

Doors open at 7PM

101 East Archer Tulsa Arts District

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S LETTER

Stay connected at TulsaPeople.com.

Visit for exclusive stories, giveaways, music and event listings, photo galleries and our weekly e-newsletter.

6 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

I was eager to learn more and delighted we also got to have a photoshoot with pup mascot Goldie, who is on p. 4. You’ll see more of her on our social media.

I took a different route and visited the “School Bus Capital of the World,” Tulsa’s IC Bus Plant, alongside our photographers Greg Bollinger and Michelle Pollard.

The amount of work they pack into that mile-long facility is nothing short of impressive, but the dedication of the plant employees completely blew me away. See their stories on p. 36.

If you’re interested in schooling yourself on Oklahoma History, be sure to check out writer Michael Overall’s conversation on p. 30 with the legendary John Erling, longtime radio icon and mastermind behind the Voices of Oklahoma project.

Finally, if you want to support local students as they head back to school, there are a plethora of local nonprofits that could use your help. On p. 12 you can see snippets from my recent chat with Tulsa Girls Art School Executive Director Amber Litwack, Ph.D., about what’s ahead for their students this year and where you can purchase work from these talented young women.

Thank you for taking time to read about Tulsa this month. If there’s anything you see missing or would like us to explore, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at lauren@langdonpublishing.com. tp

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MICHELLE POLLARD

E

ven though it’s been a few years since I’ve been enrolled in a semester of anything, I have to admit I still get the back-to-school blues every year. Don’t get me wrong — even as a kid, I valued getting an education — but I can’t help but connect August’s shortening daylight hours with memories of being forced to re-learn math after months of avoiding the subject entirely.

Now, I get to live the season vicariously through our intern team. Over the last few weeks, each of these talented college students have been diligently covering Tulsa in spite of their looming fall schedules. You may have already seen Kamron Williams’ back-to-school events calendar online, which she is continually updating with new listings. On p. 10 you’ll find Mary A. Smith’s most recent Tulsa 10 round up, which gives a broader view of what’s ahead this month. Meanwhile, Michael Searles provides insight as to what’s on the menu for after school snacking around town on p. 79.

Tulsa Community College is gearing up to welcome students from across the city, including high schoolers stepping up for dual enrollment classes. On p. 32, Assistant Editor Tiff any Howard catches up with students from a special program at Will Rogers High School that propels participants to finish their associate degree by the time they graduate high school. At The University of Tulsa, Stacy Leeds is kicking off a new era as the school’s fi rst permanent female president. Digital Editor (and TU alum) Madison Walters got the chance to meet the new leader — who attended TU herself for law school — and explores her vision for the university’s future on p. 34. As a TU grad myself,

City Desk NEWS

CAUSES

PASSIONS

GREG BOLLINGER

Program Manager Adam Vanderburg, Bike Club Co-Founder Mike Wozniak, Director of Programs and Research Emily Adamic, and Director of Supply Chain and Finance Jonah Panther

FULL SPEED AHEAD

Earlier this year, Bike Club moved into its new headquarters near Bales Park at 5801 S. Union Ave. The multipurpose building partially stores the nonprofit’s fleet of 1,300 bikes, which enable the organization to continue its work introducing hundreds of local elementary and middle school students to the benefits of cycling. Bike Club Tulsa was co-founded

by Mike Wozniak (second from left) and Jason Wharton (not pictured).

Wozniak also gives “a special nod to former TPS school board member Gary Percefull for helping us connect with TPS district and site leaders.”

Read more on p. 22.

TulsaPeople.com 7

CITY DESK

NOTEBOOK TULSA ARTIST FELLOW’S WORK FEATURED ON BON APPÉTIT COVER

Bon Appétit’s Summer issue

Originally from Brooklyn, Tulsa Artist Fellow Adam Davis has been inspired by Oklahoma’s Black rodeo scene, finding it to be a home for “Black Magic.” Traveling around the state to highlight Black Western culture and community through various photographic mediums, Davis’ work was recently featured as the cover image for Bon Appétit’s Summer issue cover story.

“Without a doubt, some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life has been in the back country of Oklahoma at an arena surrounded by cowgirls and cowboys taking in the summer heat,” Davis shared on his Instagram (@admdav) regarding the story.

“It is an honor to expand the language and reach that this culture inarguably has.”

Davis’ cover image was made using tintype photography. Celebrating Black identity and culture, Davis aims to build the largest contemporary archive of Black American tintype portraits through his “Black Magic” project. — STAFF

Tulsa Race Massacre descendent Brenda Nails-Alford, one of the earliest board members at Greenwood Rising, with a framed display detailing her ancestors’ Black Wall Street business.

MEMORY LANE

40 years of TulsaPeople

New mural inside Grocery Box at 36N, 3525 N. Peoria Ave.

North Tulsa Phoenix District welcomes fresh mural Dedicated July 15, a vibrant new mural adorns one of the walls inside Grocery Box at 36N — a recently opened micro-grocery by RG Foods, Inc. nestled inside the 36N mixed-use development at 3525 N. Peoria Ave. Created by Antonio “Tone” Andrews of No Parking Studios, the mural depicts beloved Phoenix District food establishments of the past while also celebrating the area’s future as a place where fresh food is easily accessible and healthy families can grow. To bring the mural to life, local public art consulting and management firm Scraps Designs conducted extensive community engagement and selected Andrews to carry out the neighborhood’s collective vision. — STAFF REPORTS 8 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

In the August 2022 issue of TulsaPeople, writer Jane Zemel checked in with leaders at the Greenwood Rising Black Wall Street History Center to reflect on its first year of impact.

The history center at 23 N. Greenwood Ave. was officially dedicated on June 2, 2021, to coincide with the centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre. It fully opened to the public on Aug. 4 of that year.

At the time, Tulsa Race Massacre descendent Brenda Nails-Alford served on the history center’s board of directors. Her grandparents, James Nails Sr. and Vasinora Nails, owned successful businesses in Greenwood with her great-uncle Henry Nails — all of which were destroyed during the horrific night in 1921.

“I do everything to honor them,” she said in her 2022 interview. “They gave their best so we could be our best.”

Earlier this year, Digital Editor Madison Walters reconnected with Nails-Alford, who is now one of the driving forces behind the City of Tulsa 1921 Graves Investigation. Read about the effort and find more coverage of Greenwood Rising’s first five years of operations at tulsapeople.com. tp

MAGAZINE COVER: COURTESY ADAM DAVIS AND BON APPÉTIT; NAILS-ALFORD: MICHELLE POLLARD; MURAL: COURTESY

NORTH GREENWOOD AVENUE AND EAST ARCHER STREET

A moving and powerful story takes shape by presenting the complete, unfiltered past of Cherokee Nation.

A NATION OF

RESILIENCE Immerse yourself in our stirring history, and learn about the inspiring people who shaped it.

ONE NATION. ENDLESS ADVENTURE. Cherokee National History Museum Tahlequah, Oklahoma

CITY DESK

TULSA 10

AUGUST COMPILED BY MARY A. SMITH

August 1, 15 KIDS LOST CITY ARCHERY CLUB Children ages six-12 can test out their archery skills at the Chandler Park Community Center. The interactive program, named after the park’s longtime nickname, is designed to target skills such as hand-eye coordination, breathing methods and teamwork.

Chandler Park August 1, 22 LEGENDARY MIDNIGHT DRAGS Head to the Osage Casino & Hotel Tulsa Raceway Park for action-packed midnight drag races. This family-friendly event offers free admission for children 10 and under. All are welcome to run their own vehicles at the drags with a valid driver’s license or NHRA license. tulsaracewaypark.com/schedules August 6 ‘THE MAGIC FLUTE’ Join Circle Cinema for a screening of “The Magic Flute,” directed by Ingmar Bergman. The 1975 masterpiece will be preceded by a special lobby concert by Tulsa Opera, where The Spotlight on Opera participants will perform selections from the film. circlecinema.org August 8 GREENWOOD RISING’S 5TH ANNIVERSARY GALA Greenwood Rising celebrates five years as an active organization working to preserve Black Wall Street history and foster growth for future generations. The evening includes a special address from renowned journalist Mara Gray. greenwoodrising.org August 8-9 OKLAHOMA COMIC CON Featuring special guests such as Tom Kenny, Ruth Connel and more, Oklahoma Comic Con returns to Tulsa for a weekend of fun taking place at the Arvest Convention Center. oklahomacomiccon.com August 9 SUNDAY SALSA ON THE GREEN Attendees of all ages and levels are invited for a night of dance at Guthrie Green. Move to the rhythms of bachata and salsa on the lawn with DJ Klave. Entry is free with nearby food and beverage options available at En Fuego. guthriegreen.com/events

High Vibrations Co. and 1820 Spa’s Floating Sound Bath at the Brut Hotel

VISIT TULSAPEOPLE.COM FOR TULSA 10 WEEKLY RUNDOWNS.

August 2, 16 FLOATING SOUND BATH Find serenity in the Brut Hotel pool with High Vibrations Co. and 1820 Spa. These Floating Sound Baths are designed to foster a safe space to regulate the body and restore the mind before the day begins.

Attendees can reserve sound bath seating nearby the pool or opt for the full floating experience. high-vibrations.co/upcoming-events 10 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

August 15 BONSAI FOR BEGINNERS If you’re interested in the art of bonsai but don’t know where to start, this event is for you. Join the Green Country Bonsai Society at the Teaching Garden at Woodward Park to begin your bonsai journey with a hands-on workshop. tulsagardencenter.org August 20-23 BLUE WHALE COMEDY FESTIVAL Be ready for big laughs at this boisterous annual event with headline acts like Chris Fleming, Demetri Martin and Ehsan Ahmad, along with sets by local comedians including Evan Hughes. bluewhalecomedyfestival.com tp

KRISTEN HOWARD, COURTESY BRUT HOTEL

August 14 OK SO, TULSA STORY SLAM: LET’S GET IT ON Prepare your strongest true, personal story and head to Living Arts for this monthly themed storytelling competition.

Attendees have a chance to participate as a reader, judge or observer in this celebration of compelling narratives. livingarts.org

PARADISE NEVER SOUNDED So Good

Tickets On Sale Now!

THUNDER FROM DOWN UNDER AUG 1 THE STRAY CATS AUG 7 XFN 412 AUG 14 VINCE GILL AUG 20 SOLD OUT

To Purchase Tickets Visit RIVERSPIRITTULSA.COM

or Call 888.748.3731

8 3 3 0 R I V E R S I D E P A R K W AY T U L S A , O K 74 13 7

SCAN TO SAVE YOUR SEATS

Entertainment schedule subject to change.

Must be 21 to enter.

CITY DESK

IN CONVERSATION We also did a metal stamping class with a local artist, Kayla Ortiz with Mineralbound Silver, in her studio, where they made copper cuffs, and that was really impactful as well ... It was really meaningful for them to meet an incredible female artist/entrepreneur and learn more about her creative journey. We had a lot of really fun dinners together, and then we went to the Plaza to explore in small groups, do a little shopping — stuff like that.

Our days were packed; we were there for five days total.

Executive Director of Tulsa Girls Art School

BY LAUREN ROGERS

I

t’s been just over one year since Amber Litwack took the helm as executive director of Tulsa Girls Art School, a nonprofit that inspires young women between third and 12th grade through art education. Tulsans can see the students’ work for themselves at annual fundraisers like Art Party, taking place Nov. 7 this year, and Spring Show, scheduled for April 15, 2027. There is also a special showing at the Tulsa Artist Fellowship Archer Studios Building (205 E. Archer St.) during the First Friday Art Crawls Aug. 7 and Sept. 4.

Litwack is no stranger to the Tulsa arts community, having served as executive director at Tulsa Foundation for Architecture, in addition to her work with the Any Given Child-Tulsa program and the former ahha Tulsa. She took time between summer sessions to tell me more about Tulsa Girls Art School and what is on the horizon. Find more of this conversation at tulsapeople.com.

12 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

YOU RECENTLY GOT BACK FROM THE ANNUAL SUMMER TRIP WITH YOUR ADVANCED (9TH-12TH GRADE) STUDENTS. We took 17 girls this year to Santa Fe. We had a very packed agenda; we were all over the place. We went to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which was really exciting and meaningful because Georgia O’Keeffe is the theme for Art Party this year, so they’ll be creating works inspired by her for that. It was really exciting to get to go and see so many of her pieces in person.

We also took them to the Folk Art Museum, which they loved, and to Meow Wolf, which they also loved. And then we had a couple of different opportunities to make art. We found an incredible place called Bluebird Studios — it’s a private art studio/ranch, so they had horses on the property. The girls got to learn more about the horses and interact with them, and then we spent several hours making horse sculptures ... It was just such a special experience.

AS YOU LOOK AHEAD TO THE NEXT FEW YEARS, WHAT EXCITES YOU THE MOST? I’m really excited about a number of things, but serving more girls is number one because there is a tremendous need ... For most of our grades, we are very much at capacity with a waiting list, but being able to serve more girls is really exciting to me. We were able to restructure the program slightly to serve 90 girls this fall instead of 75 by breaking up our advanced cohort into Middles (grades 6-8) and Advanced (grades 9-12).

We’re developing strategies around communications and public visibility, and then also looking for more opportunities for community partnerships. We really want to instill in our girls that they are part of this community. All of these incredible things in this community — like our museums and our other arts organizations — these things exist, and they’re for them. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

Amber Litwack, Ph.D.

CAN YOU TELL ME MORE ABOUT ART SCHOOL’S PROGRAMMING BEYOND THE ARTWORK? First and foremost, we’re a youth development program that uses art as the vehicle to develop strong, confident young women ... We work really intentionally on things like communication, collaboration, problem-solving skills, confl ict resolution skills, all of those kinds of things that serve you throughout life, regardless of what your path is.

One of the big components of our program is that we teach our girls financial management skills ... We set up holding accounts for all of our girls, and then teach them how to manage their money. The girls sell art at Spring Show and at Art Party, and we are currently creating additional opportunities for them to make sales ...

Th roughout their time at Art School, if they need art supplies for a special project they want to work on ... (they can) access their money to be able to buy things like that. We just had five girls graduate this year, and they walked away with almost $10,000 total.

119 S DETROIT AVE FANTASTICMRKIMS.COM

CITY DESK

COMMUNITY

At last year’s Cuts 4 Kids, Clary Sage College cosmetology students provided upwards of 800 free haircuts for local children headed back to school. This year’s event will take place over two days at the beauty school, Aug. 5-6.

Buzzing with confidence

T

he clippers buzzed to life as a stylist carefully carved a bold “Z” into the side of a little boy’s hair, while a girl nearby requested layers and another just wanted a trim.

For hundreds of families, those haircuts are about more than a fresh look. At Cuts 4 Kids, a free back-to-school initiative launched by Community HigherEd Institute, the parent organization of Clary Sage College, cosmetology students and instructors help children head into the new school year with confidence. Last year alone, the program provided more than 800 free haircuts to local kids.

Th is year’s Cuts 4 Kids will take place Aug. 5-6 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. each day at Clary Sage College, 3131 S. Sheridan Road, where organizers hope to surpass

14 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

last year’s total by providing more than 1,000 free haircuts to local children.

For President of Community HigherEd Institute Kimberly Sebastian, Ph.D., the most rewarding moments of Cuts 4 Kids come when children catch their fi rst glimpse of their new haircut in the mirror.

“Theres a lot of smiles and high-fives,” she says.

The event operates on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis, so families may have a short wait. To keep kids entertained, organizers offer free face painting, while parents and guardians can connect with community partners providing resources such as immunizations, school supplies and more.

A key benefit of this back-to-school beautification is the opportunity for

cosmetology students at Clary Sage to practice their skills in a real-world environment. Beginning students can help by shampooing hair and sanitizing supplies, while more advanced students cut hair with their instructors’ supervision.

“Our students get a lot of practice on their skills and leave feeling pretty confident in themselves,” Sebastian says.

More than anything, the event reflects Community HigherEd’s mission as a nonprofit dedicated to serving both its students and the broader community.

By combining hands-on learning with meaningful service, the organization helps children head back to school with confidence while giving students the opportunity to make a lasting impact, one haircut at a time. tp

COURTESY COMMUNITY HIGHERED INSTITUTE

The free back-to-school haircut event that’s making a difference. . SINGREY

BY ABIGAIL

CITY DESK

EDUCATION

Teaching assistant Karen Grant and second grade teacher Debbie Douglass have both been with Town and Country School for more than four decades. The two taught at the school’s first location, John Knox Presbyterian Church, commemorated in the framed photo.

Dynamic duo A two-teacher team at Town and Country prepares students for a lifetime of success.

I

nside one Town and Country School second grade classroom, two educators share almost a century’s worth of teaching experience between them.

Debbie Douglass has been teaching at Town and Country School for 44 years.

Her assistant Karen Grant has been working there even longer — 48 years.

Founded in 1961, Town and Country is a private school specifically serving children in grades 2-12 with learning differences such as ADHD and Autism. The institution’s mission is to improve the lives of these students by providing a nurturing environment for academic, social and personal growth.

Grant herself was in the very fi rst class at Town and Country — as a student.

“I’ve been there a really long time,” she laughs. “I love working with the kids and helping them, just like people helped me.”

Grant began her journey with Town and Country at the school’s original site, John Knox Presbyterian Church. It was at that location where she later joined the faculty, along with Douglass.

“We had to share our classroom with the Sunday School class,” Douglass

16 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

remembers. “It’s amazing to look back and see how much Town and Country has changed.”

The school moved several times between 1988 and 2012. Today, Town and Country is settled at the former Tulsa Public Schools Fulton Teaching and Learning Academy at 8906 E. 34th St. Since moving in nearly 15 years ago, Town and Country has added amenities to the campus including its 10,400-square-foot Zarrow Sports Complex, a running track, a storm shelter, and an outdoor classroom and musical garden.

Th roughout all of these moves and enhancements, Douglass and Grant have spent 42 years working together in the same classroom.

“Ms. Grant is a huge help,” Douglass says. “She gets to school early each morning and gets our room ready for the day.”

Even with all of the transformation both inside and outside of Town and Country, Douglass and Grant continue to stick to the basics with their second graders to establish a solid foundation.

“We teach everything from nose blowing to learning how to be a good friend,”

Douglass says. “I believe the most important skills we can teach is how to read and how to get along with others. If you have those two skills, you can have a successful and productive life no matter what your learning difference may be.”

Douglass also shares her knowledge by leading workshops for the new teachers.

“I make my own materials,” she says.

“After all these years, you learn what works and what doesn’t. The trickiest part is teaching the social skills.”

As they prepare for the upcoming school year, Douglass and Grant don’t show any signs of slowing down. Grant is looking forward to meeting their new students and going with them to their specials — which rotate between art, music, computers and gym.

“My favorite is art,” Grant says. “But I also really love music too.”

For Douglass, fulfi lment comes from seeing the impact Town and Country has on every pupil.

“Th is is defi nitely something you have to have the heart for,” Douglass says.

“The best part is watching your students grow up.” tp

GREG BOLLINGER

BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ

NEXT EVENT: Sept. 24, 2026 The Mayo Hotel

Every time Narrate Design Partner Whitney Stauffer attends a Tulsa Regional Chamber Women’s Programming Series (WPS) event, she comes away invigorated.

“There’s something special about a room full of women,” said Stauffer, a member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “It’s a gathering of women who are willing to share experiences openly and vulnerably, which creates a supportive atmosphere and a unique sense of connection.”

“Events like WPS create space for women to connect over shared experiences and challenges that often are unique to our professional journeys. There’s a level of understanding, encouragement and camaraderie that is incredibly powerful – and honestly – a little therapeutic, too.”

The WPS grew out of a desire to hold more free or affordable Chamber events that were member-exclusive.

A soft launch in 2025 led to two heavily supported ‘26 WPS gatherings that drew a total of about 500 attendees. This year’s WPS finale on Sept. 24 at the Mayo Hotel is expected to attract more than 300 people.

YOUR PARTNER IN INSIGHT

“Without a doubt, it’s the quality of the speakers and the caliber of the event itself,” Stauffer said of the reasons behind the success of the WPS. “The Chamber consistently brings in accomplished leaders who leave attendees feeling both inspired and empowered.”

Stauffer, herself, is an inspiration, having risen to partner at Narrate Design (formerly Selser Schaefer Architects) only four years after joining the firm in 2013.

She said she leads by focusing on passion, patience and authenticity.

“Be unapologetically yourself,” Stauffer said. “The most effective leaders aren’t trying to be someone else; they build trust by leading with authenticity and confidence in who they are.”

The Sept. 24 event will feature Lauren Sweeney, a master coach and trainer at Rise Up for You, a global personal development and corporate training company.

REGISTER ONLINE

CITY DESK

CHANGEMAKERS

Following her life-changing experience with She Brews, Maria Morris is now leading a bakery training program for the nonprofit dedicated to supporting women transitioning from incarceration and addiction. Inset: Morris and Tamra Bissell, manager of the new Claremore location.

ON THE RISE She Brews’ new program bakes up hope.

BY ABIGAIL SINGREY 18 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

MORRIS: GREG BOLLINGER; MORRIS AND BISSELL: COURTESY

M

aria Morris found a way to transform the darkest chapter of her life into a mission of hope.

After her home caught fi re in 2018, Morris was incarcerated and charged in the death of her 22-month-old daughter, Carabelle, as she battled addiction. At her lowest point, she met Rhonda Bear, founder of She Brews Coffee Roasters, a nonprofit that helps women transition from prison and addiction to stable, independent lives.

“With tears in her eyes, she told me, ‘Th is was a tragic accident,’” Morris recalls. “She began to advocate for me. That was the beginning for me.”

Morris was ultimately cleared of the charges and, with support from She Brews, began rebuilding her life. The organization meets women “at the gate,” providing safe, affordable housing and employment through its coffee shops in Tulsa (1 N. Lewis Ave.) and Claremore (408 W. Will Rogers Boulevard). Morris worked at the coffee shop in Tulsa for about a year, eventually transitioning to other employment.

Drawing on her background as a chef, Morris later launched Carabelle’s Micro Café in Legacy Plaza East at 5310 E. 31st St., serving She Brews coffee alongside fresh sandwiches and pastries while honoring her daughter’s life.

Now, Morris is helping shape the next chapter of She Brews. The nonprofit recently opened its new Claremore location, which is nearly twice the size of its previous storefront at 414 W. Will Rogers Boulevard and includes a full commercial kitchen. The additional space will allow She Brews to launch a bakery training program, starting with an eight-week boot camp designed and led by Morris. Participants will continue in the program for six to 12 months, gaining hands-on experience and professional skills that can lead to careers in bakeries, restaurants, cafes and commercial kitchens. Designed for women who may prefer behind-the-scenes work to customer-facing roles, the program creates another pathway to stable employment, but it also provides another key ingredient: hope.

“I get to help other women be successful,” Morris says. “It’s important to know that change is possible ... You’re not as bad as your worst day.

It’s meaningful to be able to tell other women that there’s something on the other side of tragedy.”

Between the two operating locations, She Brews is able to support, employ and train a shifting group of 20 to 30 women, with participants moving into permanent jobs elsewhere as new women enter the program. Learn more at shebrews.org. tp

CITY DESK

Michelle Martin, High School Math Interventionist for Insight School of Oklahoma, with ISOK High School Principal Jennifer Pace. Inset, 2026 ISOK graduate Yanieliz Albarran.

An insightful option Virtual charter school offers students flexibility and specialized support.

BY MACY GOODNIGHT

T

he Insight School of Oklahoma — a statewide online public school serving grades 6-12 — offers much more than just the convenience of accessing an education wherever there’s Wi-Fi. For students like Yanieliz Albarran, who was seeking a nontraditional option to finish her education, ISOK offers a pathway to hope.

“I was raising my two children, working full time and trying to build a better future for my family,” says Albarran, who graduated from ISOK earlier this year. “It gave me the flexibility and support I needed to keep going, even when life was challenging. Earning my diploma showed me, and hopefully others, that your circumstances don’t define your future.”

20 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

Since 2014, Insight School of Oklahoma has been on a mission to help every student fi nd their path to success. By offering individualized support, flexible pacing and credit-recovery options, ISOK is designed to keep all learners — including students at risk of dropping out, facing health challenges or dealing with other complicating life circumstances — on track to graduation.

“We offer flexible schedules to meet the needs of the individual student,” says Jennifer Pace, ISOK high school principal.

Pace explains that middle and high school students attend live virtual sessions with their classmates, but they also have a “Flex” option of working asynchronously alongside the class (with weekly check-

ins required). Additionally, high school students can opt for the “Momentum” pathway — which allows them to pace content to their own speed — or to attend Night School, through which live support is accessible from 6-8 p.m. Monday-Thursday.

“Both middle school and high school also offer a blended pathway,” Pace adds.

“That is a combination of any or all of the different pathways — for example, one student might need the live classes for their math class, but can handle their history class in a Flex/Momentum type of pathway. That is what makes our school unique.”

Families across Oklahoma are certainly taking note of ISOK’s singularly supportive approach: The school’s enrollment has grown nearly 80% since 2022, from 949 students in 2022-2023 to kicking off the 2026-2027 school year with more than 1,700 students. ISOK’s graduation rates have been on the rise as well, with the annual graduate count increasing from 169 in the 2023-2024 school year to around 280 in 2025-2026.

Th is data signals success for the approximately 100 teachers and staff members at ISOK, indicating that students who are often left behind in traditional settings are achieving their educational goals.

“I think a lot of our growth attributes to word-of-mouth, and people know who we are now,” Pace says.

For Michelle Martin — who has been a High School Math Interventionist with ISOK for nine years — the digital classroom has become a powerful tool for redemption.

“Math anxiety is a real barrier for many of our kids, especially if they’ve fallen behind,” she explains. “I can have more individualized time with them and begin with the building blocks to curb very real math anxiety. We build valuable relationships with our students and show them they can succeed.”

For Pace, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is seeing the direct impact ISOK has on students.

“I love my staff, and I love watching them change these kids’ lives,” Pace says.

“For some of our students this is the last option. If it wasn’t for our school, they would drop out. We also get kids who haven’t schooled in a few years and are in need of something different. To see these lives change and the direct impact of my teachers is monumental.”

For more information on ISOK, visit insightok.k12.com. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

TECHNOLOGY

ONE YEAR. EVERY SECOND. ALWAYS READY. With the first Level 1 Trauma Center in Tulsa, we’re honored to continue a century-long commitment to lifesaving care — and this is just the beginning.

Learn more at ascension.org/StJohn

© Ascension 2026. All rights reserved.

TulsaPeople.com 21

CITY DESK

SPORTS

A project years in the making, Bike Club Tulsa’s new headquarters is also part of a larger effort to revitalize Bales Park at 5801 S. Union Ave. Bottom right: Bike Club Co-Founder Mike Wozniak, Director of Programs and Research Emily Adamic, Program Manager Adam Vanderburg and Director of Supply Chain and Finance Jonah Panther.

On the right path With a brand-new HQ, Bike Club gears up for a new school year.

L

ocal nonprofit Bike Club started out as an after-school program at Tulsa Public Schools’ Emerson Elementary. Twelve years later, the organization serves 38 elementary and middle school campuses across the city, where more than 200 volunteers — along with teachers and Bike Club personnel — introduce some 700 kids to the joys of cycling each school year.

Th is spring, Bike Club opened a 14,000-square-foot headquarters near Bales Park at 58th Street and Union Avenue.

Designed by architect Shane Hood of Align Design, the space is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, blending natural, cycling-inspired design elements with practical industrial materials. Nestled against an urban forest, the building has a large overhead door that opens like an invitation to adventure, leading directly to the multiuse trails beyond.

The new Bike Club HQ also includes a state-of-the-art bike repair shop and plenty of storage areas for the bikes themselves, as well as the equipment Bike Club uses to build and maintain miles of trails.

22 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

The organization’s core after-school program meets on campuses ten times each fall and spring during the academic year.

The average club consists of 20 students and five volunteers, including a faculty member.

Bike Club provides all of the equipment needed for club activities, such as bikes, helmets and curriculum. The fall is spent learning cycling basics and safety.

In the spring, club members put their knowledge to use with off-campus rides and experiences, like trips to a fi re station, park or other nearby places of interest. Those who successfully complete the program not only gain confidence, but also their very own bike and helmet.

Equally passionate about community as he is about cycling, Bike Club Co-Founder Mike Wozniak sees the program as a way to facilitate connection.

“Bikes are a tool to connect with each other, to connect with adult mentors, and also a connection to neighborhoods and nature,” he says.

Bike Club Director of Programs and Research Emily Adamic shares in the responsibility of overseeing the after-school

clubs. She also collects and analyzes data used to evaluate the program’s impact.

According to Adamic, there are many benefits beyond improvements in physical health.

“The bike is a tool for all these other things that are really beneficial for well-being in general,” she says. “Th ings like being outside and spending time with friends — all those kinds of things that aren’t necessarily directly related to the bike itself.”

The kids aren’t the only ones who benefit. Jonah Panther, Bike Club’s director of supply chain and finance, is a former elementary teacher who also worked at Tom’s Bicycles for 20 years. For Panther, Bike Club is a dream job.

“It’s the perfect thing for me. I get to teach kids about bikes,” he says. “It’s far more rewarding than I ever thought it could be interacting with these young people and seeing them thrive, at least in part, because of this after school club they belong to.”

To find out more about Bike Club and all of its programs, visit bikeclubtulsa.com. tp

GREG BOLLINGER

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

DOUBLE-A AFFILIATE OF THE 9X WORLD SERIES CHAMPION LOS ANGELES DODGERS

SCAN FOR MORE INFO & PURCHASE TICKETS NOW!

Trinity welcomes Dr. Daniel Morrow as our new rector. Dr. Morrow comes to Trinity from The Church Of The Ascension in Munich, Germany, but is a native of Sand Springs.

Join us for Eucharist at either 8:00 a.m. (spoken) or 10:30 a.m. (choral)

Trinity Episcopal Church 918-582-4128 | 501 S. Cincinnati Ave TrinityTulsa.org

918.744.5901 | @TULSADRILLERS

| TULSADRILLERS.COM

JOIN IRON GATE AND TULSAPEOPLE for the 20th annual event featuring delicious tasting menus prepared by talented Tulsa chefs and restaurants! All proceeds benefit Iron Gate: Tulsa’s largest stand-alone soup kitchen and grocery pantry.

FEATURED FOOD PARTNERS: Le’Roux’s • The Tavern/Bull in the Alley • Doctor Kustom • BOK Center and Arvest Convention Center • The Vault • Justin Thompson Catering • Iron Gate • Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma • Lil Momma Cakes • Vintage Wine Bar • Simply De-Lish Catering • Absolute Cheesecake

Thursday, September 24, 2026 at The Vista at 21 Tickets and sponsorships available TulsaPeople.com 23

CITY DESK

Tulsa ballet students Josephine Jobe and Harper White are in London this month training at the prestigious Royal Ballet School.

London calling Two Tulsa dancers participate in the Royal Ballet School’s summer program.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

24 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

T

his month, a girlhood dream is coming true for best friends Josephine Jobe, 18, and Harper White, 17, as the two Tulsa dancers hop a plane to participate in a multiweek intensive summer workshop with the prestigious Royal Ballet School in London.

Jobe and White are both students at Tulsa Ballet Center for Dance Education, but it is only coincidental that Tulsa Ballet performed at the Royal Opera House this past May. Jobe and White’s acceptance to the Royal Ballet School’s competitive summer program is due to their own efforts.

“This remarkable achievement is a testament to their dedication, artistry, discipline and passion for dance,” says Lauren Richter, School Director of Tulsa Ballet Center for Dance Education.

Meeting at Eisenhour International School in kindergarten, both girls have studied dance since childhood and grew up participating in recitals together. White, now a senior at Booker T. Washington High School, began creative movement classes when she was a toddler. She has been a Tulsa Ballet student since kindergarten, barely old enough to audition for a role in “The Nutcracker.” She went on to perform in “The Nutcracker” for a decade, playing everything from a little soldier to the party scene.

Jobe, a senior at Epic Charter School, began studying with Tulsa Ballet’s dance school when she was around six years old.

She, too, danced in “The Nutcracker” and, also like White, performed in the Tulsa company’s production of “Dorothy and the Prince of Oz.” “Dancing, for me, is a way of selfexpression,” she says. But as much as she loves performing, Jobe says she also loves the discipline and the daily structure of ballet class with its regimented barre and center work, as well as “the chance to get to improve every day. (In performance) all the hard work pays off.”

For White, what she likes about ballet class is the way it resets her day. “You can have a stressful day but when you get to the studio, you have to leave it at the door and your focus has to be on ballet,” she says, “because ballet is so consuming, both mentally and physically.” Yet as much as she appreciates the required concentration, White adds what she loves the most is “just that feeling when you’re dancing.”

Both dancers are veterans of summer workshops — for Jobe, this is actually her second round with the Royal Ballet, and she also participated in New York City Ballet’s School of American Ballet summer program in 2023. As For White, she spent her time off from school with the Colorado Ballet, BalletMet in Columbus, Ohio, and the National Ballet of Canada.

Now it’s off to London, where the girls say they are looking forward to exploring the city and all its markets and shops, as well as learning new styles of dance and meeting new people from all over the world.

“The Royal Ballet School (is) such a prestigious program that has a lot to offer and amazing opportunities,” White says.

“Early on we both wanted to go and thought it would be so fun to be able to go together, making this even more special that it’s finally happening.”

More dreams ahead. Both want to continue dancing. On the future’s horizon they envision classic ballets “Giselle,” “Romeo and Juliet” and — the ballerina quintessential — “Swan Lake.” tp

JOBE AND WHITE: COURTESY; PRIDE: GREG BOLLINGER

APPLAUSE

CITY DESK

MUSIC NOTES

Local indie Christian songwriter Taylor Pride recently released a new single. The song, “Any Vessel,” features backing support from his musically talented sisters.

Pride and O passion Local high school faculty member is also a talented songwriter.

BY JULIE WENGER WATSON

n July 17, Taylor Pride — a college and career advisor at Will Rogers High School — released his most recent single, “Any Vessel.” The praise and worship song perfectly blends the indie Christian artist’s dedication to his faith with his passion for songwriting.

Pride’s enthusiasm for crafting lyrics dates back to his high school days at Metro Christian Academy, when he began writing songs and sharing them at the school’s chapel services and at his church, Christian Chapel.

Although music has always been a big part of Pride’s life — his mom, Renee, was a piano teacher, his sister Nicole Pride Conner was a jazz vocalist and his sister Kelley Pride Mason performs with the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra — the pandemic brought his songwriting into focus.

“I felt like God was redirecting my attention back toward songwriting,” he says. “I started diving into it in a very different way. It was much more serious this time.”

Pride also began co-writing and collaborating with other songwriters across the U.S., attending some songwriting camps and using his summers off from his work at Rogers to travel and record. A selfdescribed “people person,” he’s grateful for the opportunity to create music with other writers who share his faith.

“I’m really looking to steward this gift of songwriting well,” says Pride. “I know that the main focus for any of the songs that I write or release is to encourage others in their faith journey.”

To make his music more accessible, Pride released “Agua Viva,” a Spanish language version of his 2021 praise and worship song, “Living Water,” in June. He was able to put his own language skills to use, having taken Spanish classes in high school and interned at the Mexican Consulate in Chicago in college, but he also partnered with native Spanish speakers to fine-tune the translations.

“What I loved most was hearing everyone bring their own background into the process,” he explains. “My friends from Mexico would hear one angle of a lyric, my friends from Venezuela would suggest something slightly different, and my friends in the U.S. would bring yet another perspective.”

As the school year kicks off, Pride continues to juggle a rewarding day job that allows him to use his Spanish to help bilingual students and their families navigate the college application process with his burgeoning music career.

According to Pride, songwriting success isn’t about the streaming numbers.

“What’s important to me is to use this gift to express my love for God and to encourage other people to express their love for God, too,” he says.

Pride’s music is available on all major streaming platforms. For more on Pride and his music, visit taylorpridemusic.com. tp TulsaPeople.com 25

CITY DESK

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING

Jill of all trades Tulsa’s first District 3 councilor Dorothy DeWitty was a trailblazer, peacemaker and bridge builder across the city’s racial divides.

Otis Autry, Gwen Taylor, and Dorothy DeWitty at a Human Rights Commission meeting, 4328.10386.

The Eddie Faye Gates Tulsa Race Massacre Collection. Gilcrease Museum, Tulsa, OK.

D

uring a meeting in August 1990, the Tulsa City Council fell into a heated debate over allocating federal block grant money. Some members wanted the funds to go to the Tulsa Economic Development Corporation.

Others complained that previous grants had been squandered.

“The management of that organization is atrocious,” declared council member and future mayor Dewey Bartlett.

One of the fi rst deeply divisive issues the council had faced, the debate became a test for Tulsa’s new form of government.

Created just five months earlier under a new city charter, the council was going to set a precedent for how it would handle controversial issues.

Dorothy DeWitty, representing northeast Tulsa’s District 3, suggested a way to lower tensions: delay the vote.

26 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

“We are here making a decision about replacing one organization with another without logic and objective analysis,” she said during the meeting. “The timing is wrong.”

Born in Bristow in 1926, DeWitty moved to Tulsa at age 9. Growing up under segregation, she would remember the daily restrictions — seeing “White Only” signs on drinking fountains, sitting in the back of city buses and being barred from entering certain grocery stores.

“It was constant,” she said later in life.

DeWitty graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1944, earned a bachelor’s from Langston University, and built a 30-year career with Tulsa Public Schools as a teacher, counselor and librarian. She made Tulsa history in 1969 as the fi rst Black female school principal, taking the top post at Whitman Elementary.

The position became a springboard for DeWitty, who became an increasingly visible public figure during the 1970s and ’80s. Outspoken on civil rights and neighborhood issues, she nonetheless developed a reputation as a peacemaker and bridge builder, especially between the city’s racial divides. Whitman Elementary, a formerly all-white school that became largely Black after desegregation, evolved from one of the district’s struggling schools into one of its better-performing schools by the time DeWitty retired from TPS in 1985.

Five years later, after Tulsa revamped its city charter, DeWitty became a part of the fi rst batch of candidates for the new City Council. Her campaign focused on public safety, economic development and education. Elected with 72% of the vote, she recognized that the fi rst group of councilors would serve a unique role in shaping the future of city government by establishing norms for how the body would handle debates and disputes. Her fi rst priority, she promised, would be “impacting council operational policy and procedure.”

At the August 1990 meeting, the other members embraced DeWitty’s suggestion that they take more time to study the block grant proposal before making a decision.

Ultimately, the council voted 5-4 to approve funding for TEDC, with DeWitty siding with the majority. The final debate that October seemed calmer and more rational, as DeWitty had hoped.

She left the council in 1992 after one term but remained active in civic affairs.

She served on the Tulsa Human Rights Commission and the board of trustees for the University Center at Tulsa, which later became Oklahoma State University’s Tulsa Campus. She is also remembered for writing a book on race relations — “Tulsa: Tale of Two Cities” — published in 1987.

The City Council honored her with a Lifetime Public Service Award in 2008.

DeWitty died Dec. 7, 2012, at age 85. tp

HISTORICALLY SPEAKING: COURTESY GILCREASE MUSEUM, TULSA, OK; POPPIN’ BOTTLES: CHRIS HUMPHREY; ASCENSION: TOM GILBERT, COURTESY

BY MICHAEL OVERALL

CITY DESK

BENEFITS

AUGUST CHARITABLE EVENTS COMPILED BY TIFFANY HOWARD 1 Til Death Do Us Part Murder Mystery Dinner Benefits The Museum Broken Arrow. brokenarrowmuseum.org

POPPIN’ BOTTLES With a theme of “Vegas, baby!,” Emergency Infant Services held its annual Poppin’ Bottles fundraiser June 26 at the Summit Club.

The 100 guests in attendance enjoyed casino tables, silent auction, live illustrations, a magician and a Vegas trip raffle. The event was co-chaired by Susanna Powell, Emily Haygarth and Taylor Latchem, and the funds raised during the course of the evening will go toward basic necessities such as diapers, wipes and formula for area children. Above: Executive Director Bill Andoe, Director of Development Sarah Flowers, Ashley Mendoza, Cindra Rainbow, Sheng Lee and Ashley Davidson Henry.

Tulsa Firehouse 5k Benefits Tulsa Firefighters Benevolent Fund.

Tulsa Firefighters Benevolent Fund 4 Bowl for Kids’ Sake Celebration Party Benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma. bigoklahoma.org 7-9 Latch Fest Benefits T-Town TNR. linktr.ee/latchfest 7 Collinsville Moonlight 5K and Fun Run Benefits the Collinsville Education Foundation. collinsvillechamber.org/events Flower Picking on the Farm Benefits A Bigger Table Foundation. abiggertable.foundation Ringmaster Golf and Gala Benefits Tulsa State Fair Night of Champions and Scholarship Fund. tulsastatefair.com/golf-gala

ASCENSION ST. JOHN CENTENNIAL GALA On June 13, the Ascension St. John Centennial Gala welcomed a sold-out crowd at the Arvest Convention Center. As part of the evening’s festivities, guests enjoyed a special private performance by country music group Little Big Town. The event became the St. John Foundation’s most successful fundraiser in its history, as well as the first ever to raise over $1 million. The gala funds will support the St. John Centennial Fund and — combined with a $170 million investment from the national Ascension heath care system — fuel a historic campus modernization that will transform St. John Medical Center. Above, Lauren Landwerlin, Ascension St. John Foundation President, with Bo Beaudry, Ascension St. John CEO, and Jessica Beaudry.

For more event galleries, visit tulsapeople.com

14 Zoo Nights (21+) Benefits Tulsa Zoo. tulsazoo.org/zoo-nights 15 ARTini Benefits Arts Alliance Tulsa. artstulsa.org Sand Springs Murder Mystery Dinner Benefits Sand Springs Community Theater.

Sand Springs Community Theater 17 Arrowhead Consulting Charity Golf Tournament Benefits Circle of Care. arrowheadconsulting.com/golf JA Golf Classic Benefits Junior Achievement of Oklahoma. oklahoma.ja.org 22 Downtown Deco Challenge Benefits Tulsa Area United Way. tauw.org Wild Brew Benefits the George Miksch Sutton Avian Research Center. wildbrew.org 29 Maker Faire Tulsa Benefits Tulsa Fab Lab. tulsa.makerfaire.com

8 Shining the Light Benefits the Brain Injury Recovery Foundation. braininjuryrecoveryfoundation.org

Run for Hope Benefits Hope is Alive. hopeisalive.net/runforhope

Taste of Change Benefits the Tulsa Day Center. tulsadaycenter.org

31 Drive Out The Demand Golf Tournament Benefits The Demand Project. thedemandproject.org

10 Hope Games Benefits the Case Family Safety Center. fsctulsa.org

Tom Boyd Memorial Golf Classic Benefits The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. cff.org/chapters/ eastern-oklahoma-chapter TulsaPeople.com 27

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

Why 529 Plans Offer a Smarter Way to Save for College

A

s kids head back to school, it’s an ideal time for parents and grandparents – current and expectant – to consider the advantages of 529 college savings plans.

These state-sponsored investment accounts created for education expenses have been a popular savings tool due to their triple tax advantage: contributions grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are exempt from federal and Oklahoma state income taxes.

Additionally, Oklahoma residents receive a generous state income tax deduction on contributions – up to $10,000 annually for single filers and $20,000 for 28 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

married couples filing jointly – helping to reduce annual tax liability while building an educational foundation.

Here are other ways these accounts offer powerful advantages.

cost-of-attendance limit. For families with younger children, the annual withdrawal limit for K–12 tuition is up to $20,000 per student.

EXPANDED BENEFITS AND FLEXIBILITY

Savvy families use 529 plans as a strategic wealth-transfer tool to lower their taxable estate. The IRS permits “front-loading” five years’ worth of gifts into a 529 plan for a single beneficiary. This allows individuals to contribute up to $95,000 and married couples up to $190,000 all at once. This jump-starts tax-free compounding while immediately removing those assets from your taxable estate.

Beyond traditional four-year degrees, 529 funds now cover vocational programs, registered apprenticeships and professional certifications. Eligible expenses include tuition, fees, books and technology like computers or internet access. Room and board for both part-time and full-time students are also eligible, whether living on campus or off, up to the school’s official

POWERFUL WEALTH TRANSFER TOOL

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

“EXIT RAMPS” FOR UNUSED FUNDS

Families often worry about overfunding if a student receives a scholarship or chooses a different path. Fortunately, a Roth IRA exit ramp allows families to roll over up to $35,000 of unused 529 funds into a Roth IRA for the beneficiary over their lifetime. This rollover is subject to annual contribution limits ($7,500) and requires the account to have been open for at least 15 years, effectively giving the next generation a retirement head start.

Additionally, if a student drops a class and receives a tuition refund, you have 60 days to recontribute those funds into the 529 plan to avoid a 10% penalty and maintain tax-free status.

WHEN YOU CAN START SAVING

Opening a 529 at birth or toddlerhood is the standard window, but you can start before they’re born. Just open an account with yourself as the beneficiary, and once the baby receives a Social Security number, simply transfer the beneficiary designation to them.

If your child is 14 or 15, it’s not too late. Many states offer a state income tax deduction or credit for contributions. Even if the money only sits in the account for a year, you are essentially getting a “discount” on tuition through those tax savings.

Viewing a 529 plan through a wealth management lens helps optimize both your student’s future and your long-term financial goals. Connect with an Arvest Personal Client Advisor today to build your education funding strategy.

Arvest and its associates do not provide tax or legal advice. Arvest Wealth Management, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investments and Insurance Products: Not a Deposit, Not Guaranteed by the Bank or its Affiliates, Not FDIC Insured, Not Insured by Any Federal Government Agency, May Go Down in Value.

Joe Lienhard is a client advisor with Arvest Wealth Management in Tulsa and can be reached at jlienhard@arvest.com.

TulsaPeople.com 29

LEGENDS

John Erling A conversation with the legendary KRMG radio host and founder of Voices of Oklahoma.

BY MICHAEL OVERALL 30 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

O

ilman and philanthropist Walt Helmerich used to have his secretary call about once a month to schedule lunch with John Erling, a well-known voice on Tulsa’s KRMG radio. At fi rst, Erling felt uneasy, describing himself as “a North Dakota farm boy” who wasn’t used to sitting down with prominent business tycoons. At least, not off the air.

But they bonded through humor, politics and colorful stories. During one lunch, Erling remarked that Helmerich’s life story should be preserved for posterity and not shared only with family and friends.

He suggested recording an interview with Helmerich and putting it online for students, historians and the general public.

Helmerich, who had turned Tulsa-based Helmerich & Payne into one of the world’s most successful drilling companies, liked the idea and sat down with Erling in 2009 to complete the interview. Erling then asked Helmerich if he could speak with his friend Henry Zarrow about also sitting to record a conversation. After that, the Helmerich and Zarrow family foundations funded an effort for Erling to interview a litany of Oklahoma politicians, business figures and trend-setters, as well as many other unsung yet nonetheless compelling voices from across the Sooner State.

“I love interviewing people that aren’t well known so that their stories can be heard as well,” Erling says.

The archive of these conversations eventually turned into the Voices of Oklahoma nonprofit, which launched in April 2010 as a dedicated resource for preserving and sharing the oral histories of Oklahomans.

The website, which operates in partnership with the Oklahoma Historical Society, has since grown to include more than 320 archived interviews that can be streamed at no cost at voicesofoklahoma.com (also find the Voices of Oklahoma podcast across all major platforms).

WHERE DID YOU GO TO SCHOOL? Erling grew up in Grand Forks, North Dakota, but graduated from Hillcrest Academy, a Lutheran boarding school in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, in 1959.

After high school, he briefly attended the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks before transferring to the Brown Institute in Minneapolis for radio school.

“I actually left school a month early because a station in Grand Forks wanted to hire me,” Erling remembers. “The school said, ‘Well, if you can keep your job for

“Some people like me, and some don’t,” he says. “Not everybody is going to like you, and I don’t like everybody myself.

That’s okay.”

Erling on TulsaPeople’s August 2001 cover with his faithful dog, Remington.

“There’s an energy here.

There’s a magic that’s happening in Tulsa that wasn’t happening in ’76.”

–JOHN ERLING

longer than a month, we’ll give you a diploma.’ So I did, and it worked out.”

Erling worked in North Dakota, Minnesota and Omaha, Nebraska, before taking a job at KRMG in 1976.

HOW OLD ARE YOU AND HOW OLD DO YOU FEEL? At 84, Erling still enjoys running and remains active with Voices of Oklahoma.

“It just does not dawn on me until I see, ‘Oh, that guy died. He was 84. Well, wait a minute! I’m 84.’ I don’t even think about it.”

HOW WOULD YOUR FRIENDS DESCRIBE YOU? Some might call him sarcastic. Others might say he is funny. A few might observe that he is well-preserved for his age, Erling suggests.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? Despite spending a lifetime talking on the radio, Erling is a loner by nature.

“If there was a group of people a distance from me, and I saw them,” he says, “I would more than likely turn and walk the other way.”

WHAT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE WORST TIMES IN YOUR LIFE, AND HOW DID YOU GET THROUGH IT? “I am a recovering alcoholic. My years of drinking were not pleasant — not for me and not for my family — and that was many years of my life. As I look back, I’m fortunate to even be alive today.

“It became so painful, the hangovers were so horrible, that I thought, ‘Why am I doing this to myself?’ I said, ‘I am actually pouring poison into my body. It’s making me feel sick. It’s disrupting my family. I’ve gotta stop this.’

“While I had been going to AA off and on, I wasn’t really committed to AA the way I should have been. But that day, when I said, ‘I have to stop hurting people,’ I quit.

The compulsion to drink was taken away, and I fortunately came out of it, and I’ve been a recovering alcoholic for over 30 years.

“I don’t mind saying that because it’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s a disease.

Some people don’t look at it that way, but it’s a disease of the mind.”

WHAT CONCERNS YOU TODAY ABOUT THE FUTURE? Erling says he worries about growing tensions in the United States.

“Will the democracy of this great country still exist?” he asks. “In what form does it exist?”

On the other hand, he says, “My 23-year-old granddaughter and 18-year-old grandson will enjoy technology that I do not know exists today.”

WHAT IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT WAY THAT TULSA HAS CHANGED SINCE YOU’VE LIVED HERE? Tulsa has become a destination city since he fi rst arrived, Erling says, mentioning several landmarks such as the Gathering Place, the Woody Guthrie Center, the Bob Dylan Center, ONEOK Field and the BOK Center.

“There’s an energy here,” Erling says.

“There’s a magic that’s happening in Tulsa that wasn’t happening in ’76.” tp TulsaPeople.com 31

The Dual Credit to College Degree program at Will Rogers High School puts students on track to graduate with the associate degree of their choice from Tulsa Community College. Participating students include (seated) Donovan Rowe, Malaki Mills, (kneeling) Iyan Balan, (standing, left to right) Sarahi Gomez, Edel Jaramillo, Jesus Moreno (2025 graduate), Ariel Moctezuma, (sitting on shelf, left to right) Lulu Brown, Francisco Lopez-Lopez, Caiden Cannizzaro, Demetrius Alexander, Susy Escalera, Ruby Escalera, Jacoby Reynolds, Elizeo Perez-Ruiz, Kaiden Angel and Lucian Riley. Jodi King (far left, standing) is the Dual Credit Site Coordinator at Rogers.

Louis Coleman (far right, standing) represents the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation as past president, and Rogers’ Principal Cindy Largent-Williams stands to his right.

EXTRA CREDIT

Will Rogers High School students tackle college credit and even associate degrees by graduation.

BY TIFFANY HOWARD

32 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

GREG BOLLINGER

A

uthor. Anesthesiologist. Lawyer.

Lawyer and a performer. These are just a few of the future ambitions cited by the Will Rogers High School students participating in the school’s Dual Credit to College Degree scholarship program — a rigorous and academically-demanding track that allows them to earn an associate degree through Tulsa Community College at no cost by the time they graduate high school.

“It’s just such a good way to get ahead,” says junior Malaki Mills. “You’re able to get to where you want to be a lot quicker than if you were to just go through high school regularly.”

Pursuing his associate’s in Business Administration, Mills is one of 22 students (10 juniors, 12 seniors) currently participating in Dual to Degree. The Rogers program, which officially began in 2025, is built from TCC’s Dual Credit options available to all Oklahoma high schoolers, as well as financial support provided by the State of Oklahoma’s Concurrent Enrollment tuition waivers, Tulsa Public Schools and the Assistance League of Tulsa. But according to Louis Coleman, past president of the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation, there are still some significant gaps in funding for tuition overages, other miscellaneous fees and student needs inherent to earning an associate degree.

“That’s where the foundation steps in,” he says, noting the foundation covers about $7,000 per student in the program for costs such as books, computers and even certain classes that may not be covered by state tuition waivers.

High-achieving Rogers students are invited to apply for the Dual to Degree program in the spring of their sophomore year, but there are certain exacting standards they must meet to even be considered.

“To qualify, students have to have very high GPAs, and they have to have at least two college level scores on their preACT categories, because they’re pretty much full-time college their junior and senior year,” says Rogers’ Dual Credit Site Coordinator Jodi King.

The Dual to Degree students also spend their summers taking TCC classes in order to hit all necessary credit requirements for their chosen associate path by graduation, but they come into the program knowing it will require the sacrifice of social and leisure time. Most of the 22 program participants also have jobs, so the students say learning to balance everything can be a challenge.

“The hardest part is keeping track of yourself and trying to make sure you’re on top of all of it,” says senior Ruby Escalera, who is studying Computer Information Systems and hopes to attend the University of Washington in Seattle. “We have all of these high expectations put on us because we are at the top of each of our respective grades.

We’re expected to stay on it from our parents, our peers and our sponsors.”

To stay motivated, the students say it helps that they are a tight-knit group and can lean on each other for support, as well as some good old-fashioned competition. They admit the competitive spirit that exists among the two cohorts helps them all stay sharp (and also fuels a bit of healthy razzing during games of pool played at TCC’s Northeast Campus student center).

A couple students also share their own personal reasons that keep them going when things start to get tough.

“It’s the thought of earning the degree and being ahead, especially if you want a longer career,” says Sarahi Gomez, a junior seeking her associate’s in Pre-Veterinary Medicine.

“I was about to not do (the program) anymore,” adds Lulu Brown, Pre-Medicine, whose father passed away in the spring. “But then I decided that I did want to, and one of the motivations is because it was one of the last things I was really talking with my dad about, so I feel like I want to keep what I said to him and do it.”

College-confident In addition to the Dual to Degree track, there are many other pathways for Rogers students to earn everything from a couple of college credits to a full associate’s by the time they graduate. This year, King says there are 165 Rogers high schoolers slated to take advantage of TCC’s Dual Credit program, which recently became the first in Oklahoma to earn accreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships for meeting standards of quality, rigor and student support.

“The biggest benefit to dual credit in general is that I think a lot of students don’t realize how different college is from high school — the expectations, independence and things like that,” says King. “This gives them a soft opening into it, where they have accountability. However many credits they take with them, they go in with a lot more confidence.”

To further encourage students to take advantage of concurrent enrollment, Rogers implemented TCC’s EDGE program in 2025. Also available at Memorial High School and McLain High School of Science and Technology, EDGE (which stands for Earn a Degree, Graduate Early) is designed for students to earn a tuition-free Associate of Liberal Arts. While students apply for the program in eighth grade, only 30 will qualify during their freshman year to become a part of a new EDGE cohort at Rogers. Starting sophomore year, participants will take four TCC classes on the Northeast campus, working their way up to becoming full-time college students by senior year.

No matter which track students are on, they have an abundance of resources available to help them succeed. On the Rogers campus, two classes are taught each semester by either adjunct or full-time TCC professors, and the courses are designed by TCC to satisfy both high school and

general education credit requirements. King works extensively with each student to isolate their goals and help them stay on track, while dual credit coordinators on the TCC campuses are always available to lend support as well.

“Mrs. King is genuinely so kind, and she does so much for all the TCC students — not even just this (Dual to Degree) cohort, but for all of us,” says senior Lucian Riley, who is working toward an associate’s in English. “I think that if we didn’t have her as a counselor, it would be harder for us all to do this, so we’re all very grateful for her.”

Funding the future While Rogers has long shared a partnership with TCC for students to pursue college credits, it wasn’t until recently that the groundwork was laid for programs like Dual to Degree. In 2022, a student named Vanessa Solís approached King to ask if it was possible for her to earn a full associate degree by graduation. King worked with TCC, determining it was possible, and Solís graduated in 2024 with an Associate of Business Administration through a grant from the American Electric Power Foundation available at that time.

Inspired by Solís, another student named Jesus Moreno graduated a year later with not one — but three — associate degrees in Physics, Chemistry and Liberal Arts.

“When Jesus and Vanessa did this, (the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation) started asking why more students weren’t doing this, and it’s because it’s expensive,” says King.

Now, with the assistance of generous donors, Coleman says the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation is able to support 10-12 kids every year, as well as others working toward partial associate degrees.

“The good news is these are incredible, highly motivated, very intelligent kids, and we’re doing a lot to help them achieve their goals and their wants and needs,” he says. “The bad news is, there’s just a whole bunch more behind them that we could be helping if we had more funding.”

Moreno, who is now studying Chemical Engineering at The University of Tulsa on a full-ride scholarship, is quick to credit Rogers for setting him up on a pathway to success.

“All this would not have been possible without Mrs. King’s help, Ms. Haag’s help, Mr. Pride’s help — all the teachers who helped me get to the point where I am,” he says. “I’m excited to see how many people are now starting to get their associate’s and to also pursue careers.”

To help support Rogers students in their college endeavors, donations can be made to the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation at willrogersfoundation.net. tp

“The biggest benefit to dual credit in general is that I think a lot of students don’t realize how different college is from high school ...

However many credits they take with them, they go in with a lot more confidence.”

— JODI KING, ROGERS’ DUAL CREDIT SITE COORDINATOR

Rogers Dual Credit Site Coordinator Jodi King and junior Iyan Balan, Dual Credit to College Degree participant

TulsaPeople.com 33

READ THE FULL VERSION OF THIS STORY AT TULSAPEOPLE.COM

Stacy Leeds begins her first year as president of The University of Tulsa.

BY MADISON WALTERS

34 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

MICHELLE POLLARD

A NEW DAY

T

his fall, when Stacy Leeds walks across The University of Tulsa campus among the waves of excited freshmen decked out in blue and gold, she won’t just be stepping into the president’s office; the university’s new leader will also be adding a chapter to her family’s history with the institution.

Her brother Scott was the first person in her family to attend college, and he earned his undergraduate degree from TU. Leeds followed in his footsteps, joining the Golden Hurricane community while pursuing her Juris Doctor, studying Native American Law and Energy and Natural Resources Law. As Leeds begins her first year in a position of leadership on campus, her son will also be on campus pursuing his undergraduate studies — further cementing Leeds’ connection with the university.

While her appointment to this role marks a full-circle homecoming, it also marks a historic milestone for the college itself. Leeds is the first permanent female president in The University of Tulsa’s 132-year history, and the second alum to hold the position.

Growing up as a Cherokee citizen in Muskogee, she keenly watched the leadership of former Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Wilma Mankiller, a trailblazer who helped normalize the concept of seeing women in positions of power. Leeds has always admired Mankiller’s work and her authenticity. “(She) was a model for me (in) that, if you’re going to be in these roles, then the whole point of you being in that role is that you are entirely yourself ... You better be exactly who you are, or you’re not going to be as effective as a leader; don’t model yourself on something that you’re not,” Leeds says.

These thoughts have guided Leeds throughout her life and career, from becoming the first woman on the Cherokee Nation Supreme Court to now the president of her alma mater.

SEEDS OF CHANGE Prior to coming back to TU, Leeds served as the Willard H. Pedrick Dean and Regents Professor at the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. When it came to her career transition, Leeds says she would not have left ASU for any other university.

“I’ve always hoped that there would be an opportunity for me to come back home,” she says.

As Leeds steps into the first year of her presidency, she’s eager to lead the campus into a new era marked by transparency, stability and unification.

It’s safe to say following four previous presidential transitions over the past 10 years, the student body, faculty and staff are ready to welcome these changes. Student Government Association President Bruce Bigler is taking advantage of this period of transition, tilling the fertile soil to plant the seeds of change for TU’s student body. “(We’re) working with administration to bridge the different corners of campus like Greek life, athletics, religious organizations and other clubs into one greater community united around shared school pride and ambition,” the lifelong Tulsan says. “SGA is also hoping to practically secure more support for campus life and activities that breathe life into the college experience and truly set TU apart ... Students are ready for change, for leadership and for direction.”

As Leeds goes into her first semester, she realizes the importance of being accessible to the student body. In addition to her responsibilities of leading the college, she will also maintain dual faculty appointments in the College of Law and the Kendall College of Arts and Sciences, and she will teach classes beginning this spring.

“I think it’s important for people outside of a university setting to understand that, yes, I am an administrator in this moment, but at my heart and soul I’m an educator,” she says, noting that she’s looking forward to engaging hands-on with students. “It’s going to be good for all of us involved.”

DEEPENING CITY PARTNERSHIPS Besides fostering a more united campus, one of Leeds’ main goals is to help position TU as an equal collaborator in the broader Tulsa community and in the city’s economic development; she believes a successful university must help move the entire city and region as a whole forward.

“What really drew me to (TU) at this moment is that when you look all across Tulsa, (you) just see this energy and this resurgence ... To have TU step up and lead together with the region and the city, that’s what I think our future (as a university) is,” she says.

Going forward, she wants the university to be a true partner to Tulsa Public Schools, Mayor Monroe Nichols’ office, local businesses and other regional entities that are helping to drive the city into a period of shared cooperation and prosperity. Not only does she believe strengthening partnerships will bolster the city’s forward momentum, but this effort could also directly benefit students.

“I want our students to have even more opportunities to work in the surrounding community via internships or externships,” she says.

THE STATE OF HIGHER EDUCATION A 2024 study from the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education reports a 13% projected drop in U.S. college-age students graduating high school through 2041 due to birth rate declines during the 2008 Great Recession. At the same time, vocational training and trade schools have become an increasingly popular trend among Gen Z students — according to the National Student Clearinghouse, from 2020-2025 there has been a 20% increase in enrollment for these types of institutes. The combination of these and other factors poses a particular challenge for higher education institutions nationwide.

While not every university is struggling financially, Leeds notes that 35-40% of universities are operating at a deficit. The University of Tulsa is among this group.

“I think that higher education as a whole has a significant amount of problems right now, and some of those problems are self-inflicted wounds, where decisions sometimes get made in a vacuum,” Leeds says. “We have to pay attention to our own house and get that clearly in order, while we continue to do the great things that we want to do on the horizon.”

Executive Vice President and Provost Jennifer L. Airey agrees. “We’re all tracking the decline in the population of students who are coming to college, and so we need to make sure incoming students realize that TU is an amazing place; we need to continue to make prospective students recognize there is value in coming to college,” she says.

Leeds explains that part of TU’s plan to recoup its deficit, in addition to improving student population growth, is to focus on finding new revenue streams.

“We have a growing research enterprise where new innovations and ideas come out, and that gets partnered with companies and industry either here or nationally,” Leeds says. “There’s revenues that come to us in a variety of different ways.”

AI ON CAMPUS Earlier this year, the university received $12.6 million in federal appropriations to help support student research in projects related to AI, cybersecurity and energy systems. As many universities try to determine how artificial intelligence fits into academia, TU is positioning itself at the unique crossroads of high-tech adaptation and the preservation of a more analog learning environment.

“I am very tech forward and pro-technology in the smartest ways we can use it, so I would caution anyone who just says no to AI whatsoever ... I don’t think that it’s setting up our students for future successes if we don’t help prepare them,” Leeds says.

“It’s here to stay, and it’s in everything that we do.

So, let’s fully understand it ... Rather than being afraid of it, let’s make sure that there’s some core competency

in what it can do and what it can’t do. What it ethically should and shouldn’t do.”

To support these goals, TU has rolled out its first applied AI major, as well as an AI minor, under the College of Engineering and Computer Science. The Bachelor of Science awarded to the AI major is not a standalone diploma, but rather a paired degree that is available for a variety of engineering, cybersecurity and computer science majors.

Airey describes the idea behind the major as teaching students how AI influences their field. “I think that probably we’re going to start to see AI classes being embedded in most engineering disciplines, because you have to know how to use it,” she says.

Conversely, Airey — who is also a professor for both the Kendall College Department of English and Creative Writing and Honors College — and other TU leaders also see the value in a more analog classroom experience.

The Honors College and the Arts and Sciences College will begin rolling out technology-free classes this fall.

For these more analog experiences, students will leave their phones in a box at the door, and faculty will use chalkboards or whiteboards.

“One of the things that I have found interesting about the latest generation of students is they come into class, and they’re not chatting with each other beforehand.

It’s almost like there’s still this idea that you’re a little box on a Zoom screen,” Airey says. “One of the beautiful things about academia is it’s really the only time in your life when you get to study the thing you love all the time with people who love it too. I want students to have those shared experiences.”

REMAINING TRUE TO TU’S ROOTS While she keeps AI advancements front-of-mind, Leeds and her administration realize the importance of championing TU’s foundation in the liberal arts — Leeds herself studied history as an undergrad. She believes these human-focused disciplines help ensure that critical thinking, creative expression and a human touch continue to exist in an ever increasingly automated world.

“Our history and our origins come from a place of the humanities. Every student — regardless of what they ultimately do in their career path — they’ll be better in whatever they do, if they’re good communicators and critical thinkers,” Leeds says. “I don’t see a day where the future of TU doesn’t match its past in that core identity.”

Airey is excited to have a president with a strong background in humanities at the helm. “I think President Leeds understands why it matters for students to study the social sciences and humanities. I also think that students are craving engagement with those bodies of knowledge. Even if students want to go into the business world, they still want to take classes in English, anthropology or film studies,” Airey says. “From a career perspective, students who combine training in some kind of professional field with liberal arts training perform better; they tend to get better initial placements, and they tend to have higher salaries throughout their career.”

‘THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT’ A renewed sense of momentum is emerging through campus as students and faculty alike look forward to a transformative new chapter under Leeds.

“I’m happy and excited about the future. I think that Stacy was a really good choice. The future’s bright,” Airey says with a smile.

Bigler has similar feelings of excitement, and hopes university leadership will look at students not as passive observers, but rather leverage their passion and ideas to help TU maximize its potential. “Please take advantage of our passion, our voices and our ideas as we march toward an even brighter future,” he says.

“I think faculty, staff and students on this campus are ready for a new day and to move forward,” Leeds says. “That’s the way I’m approaching everything.” tp TulsaPeople.com 35

ALL ABOARD

Once a WWII bomber factory, Tulsa’s IC Bus Plant is now the ‘School Bus Capital of the World.’

BY LAUREN ROGERS PHOTOS BY GREG BOLLINGER AND MICHELLE POLLARD 36 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

As students across the United States and Canada head back to school this fall, if they are in a school bus — there is a 41% chance that the bus was made in Tulsa.

Just southeast of Tulsa International Airport, the Tulsa IC Bus Plant has operated for more than 25 years from a 1 million-square-foot manufacturing floor originally constructed to make bombers during World War II. Last fall, the facility celebrated completing 250,000 buses since starting operations in 2001.

Each day, roughly 1,500 employees at the IC Bus Plant produce around 65 school buses — a combination of diesel, gasoline and electric models. The roughly three-day process begins with coils of metal that go through different stampings and presses before they are glued, riveted and welded together to form the floor, side sheets, topping and roof of each bus — which are then combined and sent down a pre-finish line to receive windows, roof hatches and various coats of paint to become the bus’s body.

Simultaneously, the chassis is assembled from a blank set of frame rails, with workers adding axles and propeller shafts as the structure continues down the line before receiving its engine and instrument panel. After proceeding through four quality gates, the chassis is ready to be matched with its corresponding body — which is hoisted from the ceiling of the 56-foot-tall warehouse and dropped onto the awaiting framework.

The bus then makes its way down the complete finish line, where it is fitted with seats, heaters and other interior components while on its way to predelivery inspection. Before leaving the building, each bus drives past a vibrant “We Love Our Kids” banner adorned with tiny handprints made by children of IC Bus employees. Once cleared for departure, buses are typically driven to their next destination. The four electric vehicles completed per day, however, are usually transported via flatbed.

TAKE A TOUR OF THE IC BUS PLANT AT TULSAPEOPLE.COM.

TulsaPeople.com 37

Looking to grow from working at her father’s motorcycle shop, Manufacturing Operations Supervisor Stephanie Ogden started in the pre-paint department in 2008.

“Never in a million years did I think I’d be here 18 years,” she says. “This plant is very good at taking care of our people and building them.”

Now, Ogden oversees plant-wide training initiatives like the “Lego Live” simulation, where employees practice building buses on a micro-scale to mimic floor procedures.

“What our employees do out there on the floor is hard work,” she says. “It’s my job — at least part of my job — to make sure that they are set for success.”

Quentin Hamer, a team leader in the fronts and rears department, got his start at the IC Bus Plant in 2014 as a welder. “I was just starting a family at the time,” he recalls.

Now, twelve years later, his son Javon works at the plant, too. “You see a lot of legacy employees,” Hamer says.

While day-to-day operations are physically demanding, Hamer shares there is no shortage of camaraderie. “I have a lot of energy ... (and) I can bring that energy in here and it helps motivate people,” he explains. “I think that’s what I most enjoy — the connections that you can make with the people on the plant.”

International Vehicle Audit Bus Inspector Randy Coleman remembers his first day at the plant: Feb. 19, 2001. While the mission is the same, Coleman says the operation “continues to evolve, and we continue to produce more efficiently.”

Having worked in several positions over 25 years, Coleman takes pride in having a direct impact on product quality through his detailed inspections. “People trust you to build a good, safe school bus,” he says.

His son Joshua, a teacher and coach at Mannford High School, has even driven IC-produced buses himself.

“If you want the best bus built,” Coleman says, “you’ve got to come to Tulsa.” tp

38 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

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50 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

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6363 S. TRENTON AVE. • 918-745-9868 • METROCA.COM

Metro Christian Academy Discover a unique blend of academic excellence, faith-based values and a thriving community at Metro Christian Academy — an interdenominational Christian school serving students ages 3-12th grade.

At Metro, community is at the core of everything. It’s not just a school; it’s a family. Students, parents, faculty and staff collaborate to create an environment that fosters growth and helps each student realize their full potential.

High school at Metro is more than just classes; it’s a journey of growth and preparation. A Freshman Foundations class lays the groundwork for high school, while a senior Bible seminar equips students for life beyond the classroom.

With a range of on-level, honors and advanced placement classes, students can tailor their education to pursue their passions and excel academically. The school also offers concurrent enrollment classes, enabling students to earn college credits and get a head start on their higher education journey.

Beyond academics, Metro Christian Academy boasts competitive varsity sports teams, vibrant fine arts programs, high school robotics, leadership and missions classes. It’s an approach to education that goes beyond textbooks.

To explore admissions or book a tour go to visitmetro.com.

AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION

YEAR FOUNDED: 1983

Metro Christian Academy offers a Spanish Immersion learning track students can join in pre-K or kindergarten that continues through middle school. Spanish Immersion students become bilingual by learning core subject content in Spanish including history, language arts, science and math.

ENROLLMENT: 1,186 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 11-to-1 GRADES: P3-12th grade

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TUESDAY SEPT. 15 | DEC. 8

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TulsaPeople.com 51

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

4849 S. MINGO RD. • 918- 622-2327 • MISSHELENS.COM

Miss Helen’s Private School Miss Helen’s Private School remains in the hearts of countless Tulsans. The school was founded in 1954 by “Miss Helen” Wingo, who recognized a gap in education that overlooked children’s academic, social and emotional needs.

Education at Miss Helen’s fosters a lifelong love of learning — prioritizing core subjects, including reading and math, while cultivating generations of poised communicators with strong social skills. Now in its 73rd year, the school continues to challenge the norms of early childhood education with a devotion to excellence.

Miss Helen’s Executive Director, Lynda Wingo, has continued to pursue her mother-in-law’s dream for fifty-three years, investing in an education system where young students are respected, recognized and capable. For over 30 years, Lynda and her daughter, Jayme Wingo-Baker, have been the school’s dynamic duo and driving inspiration. Gary Wingo, Lynda’s husband and the founder’s son, is an invaluable light within the school — offering laughter, compassion and meaningful relationships throughout the school. At Miss Helen’s, family is the strongest pillar, embodied not only by the Wingos but also by its devoted Executive Staff: Rhonda Reidy, Pre-School Director, 46 years; Christi Ray, Kindergarten Director, 30 years; and Pam Elmore, Elementary Lead Teacher, 25 years.

AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Accredited by Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Miss Helen’s Private School family owned and operated.

Back: Rhonda Reidy, Christi Ray and Pam Elmore Front: Lynda Wingo and Jayme Wingo-Baker YEAR FOUNDED: 1954 ENROLLMENT: 140 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 10-to-1 GRADES: 3 Years to 5th Grade

Visit us at our downtown campus or atlasschool.com to learn more!

NOW ENROLLING NIGHT CLASSES!

20-month programs that prepare graduates for entry-level positions in software development.

Full-Stack Development Machine Learning Systems Programming

52 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2206 S. LEWIS AVE. • 918-746 - 4238 • MONTECASSINO.ORG

Monte Cassino For a century, Monte Cassino School has inspired students to grow intellectually, spiritually and personally. Our rigorous, engaging curriculum develops well-rounded, morally grounded students who are prepared for success in high school and beyond. As an independent Benedictine Catholic school serving PreK3 through eighth grade, Monte Cassino combines a strong foundation in reading, writing, mathematics, and science with exceptional programs in music, art, world languages, STEAM and athletics.

With an 8:1 student-teacher ratio and small class sizes, every child receives the individualized attention, encouragement and support needed to thrive.

Coming in Fall 2027, Monte Cassino will launch Saint Scholastica Academy, an educational division serving second and third grade students with diagnosed dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Monte Cassino proudly participates in the Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit Program and is committed to making an exceptional education accessible through generous tuition assistance. Discover the Monte Cassino difference. Schedule your personal tour today by contacting Brooke Jones at bjones@montecassino.org or 918-746-4238.

AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION

YEAR FOUNDED: 1926 ENROLLMENT: 823

81% of our recent 8th graders earned recognition as Distinguished, Rising, or Early Scholars on the 8/9 PreACT exam. Accredited by SAIS, Cognia, OSDE and members of NCEA and SAIS.

STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 8-to-1 GRADES: PreK3–EIGHTH GRADE

Pre-K through 8th Grade Benedictine School

Celebrating 100 Years of Inspiring a Love of Learning

NOW ENROLLING 2206 South Lewis

918-746-4238

www.montecassino.org

OK Parental Choice Tax Credit Program Partner

TulsaPeople.com 53

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

2433 W. 61ST ST. • 918- 446 -3553 • RIVERFIELD.ORG

Riverfield Country Day School Educating infants through 12th grade, Riverfield’s mission is to ignite adventure, inspire inquiry and build excellence to empower students to change their world.

Since 1984, Riverfield has offered a challenging, personalized curriculum as an integrated process, blending learning across subjects and through studentled projects. At every age, students’ interests and ideas are valued, leading to a high level of engagement and learning.

Riverfield’s unique 120-acre campus cultivates creativity, reflection, inquiry and adventure through hiking trails, creeks and ponds, a variety of gardens and a barnyard full of animals.

All Riverfield students benefit from the collaborative spaces of our Center for Creativity, including a black box theater, recording and film studios, and an open-air art studio and makerspace. Our athletics facilities support Ravens basketball, tennis, cross country and soccer teams in addition to many competitive programs where students thrive, including Speech and Debate, Academic Bowl and eSports.

Riverfield Country Day School is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS).

Schedule your tour today with Admissions Director Kacey Davenport by calling 918-446-3553.

AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Riverfield students of all ages achieve academic excellence in and outside of the classroom, utilizing carefully curated, state-of-the-art creative spaces and athletic facilities, and 120 acres of hiking trails, ponds, creeks and gardens to learn and explore.

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Riverfield Upper Schoolers Adam Krefft and Aiden Uddin show off their 1st Place medals for Champions Policy Debate.

YEAR FOUNDED: 1984 ENROLLMENT: 625 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 4-1 TO 15-1 (based on age/grade level) GRADES: Infants-12th grade

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

1701 W. WILL ROGERS BLVD., CL AREMORE; 918-343-7777 • 401 S. DEWEY AVE., BARTLESVILLE; 918-338-8000 • 2155 HIGHWAY 69A, PRYOR; 918-825- 611 • RSU.EDU

Rogers State University Rogers State University boasts one of the region’s lowest stu-dent debt loads for graduates. This is driven by RSU’s affordable tuition, along with the scholarships and financial aid available to deserving students.RSU offers in-demand degree programs (nursing, chemical engineering, unmanned aircraft systems, cybersecurity) along with unmatched facilities, including world-class student housing, on-campus nature reserve, behavioral sciences lab and more.

Programs in medicine are among the state’s leaders, and RSU nursing graduates are always in high demand.

RSU offers small class sizes with a student-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, allowing students to personally know their faculty. According to RSU’s Class of 2020 graduates, 94% reported they were satisfied to very satisfied with their overall RSU experience. RSU is the Tulsa metro area’s only public university with on-campus housing, allowing students to fully participate in the traditional college experience. Campus residents enjoy a variety of amenities including a swimming pool, sand volleyball court, outdoor gathering spaces with a fire pit, movie rooms, themed housing areas and nearby hiking/walking trails. RSU has more than 40 student organizations that promote involvement and leadership, along with 12 NCAA Division II sports. The RSU women’s softball team won the 2022 NCAA Division II national championship. RSU offers bachelor’s and associate degrees entirely online, along with online master’s degrees, all for an affordable value.

AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Nursing, Business, Chemical Engineering, Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence.

YEAR FOUNDED: 1909 UNDERGRADUATE ENROLLMENT: 3,409 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 16-TO-1 ADVANCED DEGREE PROGRAMS: 6 BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMS: 22 ASSOCIATE DEGREE PROGRAMS: 12

Join the

HILLCAT NATION

RSU is the Tulsa area’s only residential public university.

Offering a worldclass collegiate experience at affordable prices, RSU is the place to earn your degree, graduate with little or no student debt, know your professors personally, and start your career prepared to succeed and advance.

✓ Programs in today’s top fields, on campus and online. ✓ Additional scholarship support for freshmen and transfers. ✓ Ranked among the top 25 colleges in the west by U.S. News and World Report.

APPLY TODAY

918-343-7546 admissions@rsu.edu www.rsu.edu Claremore | Bartlesville | Pryor | Online RogersStateU | #HillcatNation

TulsaPeople.com 55

SPONSORED EDITORIAL

326 S. COLLEGE AVE. • 918- 630-5060 • USCHOOL@UTULSA.EDU

University School Located on The University of Tulsa campus, University School offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in connection, curiosity and academic excellence. The school’s partnership with a world-class research institution opens doors for inquiry, discovery and meaningful engagement — creating opportunities that set its program apart.

At University School, students are known, supported and inspired to reach their full potential. The school’s approach balances challenge and nurture, creating an environment where children feel confident to venture outside their comfort zone, ask bold questions and explore big ideas. Through a dynamic, advanced curriculum, students engage profoundly with their education and develop skills needed to think critically, collaborate effectively and solve problems creatively.

The University School community reflects a shared commitment to lifelong learning, personal growth and a belief that the diversity within our halls deepens understanding and broadens perspectives. Relationships are at the heart of everything, and the school values strong partnerships with families from the very beginning, working together to facilitate each child’s unique journey.

AREAS OF ACADEMIC DISTINCTION

YEAR FOUNDED: 1982

University School has been a pioneer in educating bright young minds since its inception in 1982, and strives every day to embody and honor the spirit of its founding.

If there is one tradition at University School, it is innovation.

ENROLLMENT: 231 STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 7-to-1 GRADES: AGE 3-EIGHTH GRADE

Why University School?

Learn more about the USchool difference from the people who know it best.

USCHOOL.UTULSA.EDU PreK3-8th grade education TU is an EEO/AA institution, including disability/veteran. TU#26232

56 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

Join us for an admission open house Friday, September 4.

Register at uschool.utulsa.edu

FA L L T R AV E L

WORTH the DRIVE Mark your calendar for these road trip-worthy events.

BY FAITH HARL

LAS CRUCES, NEW MEXICO HARVEST WINE FESTIVAL SEPT. 5-7 Situated just under 50 miles north of the Mexico border, Las Cruces teems with 4,000 years of Native American, Spanish and Mexican culture. By car, it’s around a 12-hour drive from Tulsa depending on your route.

To break up the long-haul, which largely follows Route 66, you can crash overnight at the Big Texan Motel in Amarillo, Texas.

The motel is next to the Big Texan Steak Ranch, where diners can attempt its legendary 72-ounce steak challenge.

Because of its high-desert climate and year-round sunshine, Las Cruces is one of the oldest wine-making regions in the country. In honor of its grape-growing traditions, the city puts on the Harvest Wine Festival every Labor Day weekend, bringing together some of the region’s best wineries, artisans, live music and food trucks this year from Sept. 5-7.

For a truly upscale experience, book a table at D.H. Lescombes, a premier winery and bistro owned by a sixth-generation family of French winemakers. Lescombes also offers VIP tours of its lush, 240-acre vineyard during the harvest season, which runs August through September.

Las Cruces is also renowned for its Farmers and Craft Market. Held every Wednesday and Saturday in the downtown area, the award-winning market features arts and crafts, fresh produce and 58 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

more, with Saturdays typically drawing over 200 vendors to seven blocks of the city’s Main Street.

You’ll also want to taste the region’s famous Hatch chile. Serving traditional southwestern food, Andele Restaurant is known for its posole, huevos rancheros and homemade salsa and tostada chips. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, venture to Caliche’s Frozen Custard for a New Mexican sundae, which comes topped with green chile sauce and salty pecans.

When you’re ready to hibernate, head to Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces, which offers daily complimentary yoga classes, a swanky outdoor pool and a full-service spa onsite.

MANITOU SPRINGS, COLORADO HERITAGE BREWFEST SEPT. 26 Known as the gateway to Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs is a roughly 10-hour trip from Tulsa by car. It’s definitely worth the

Downtown Manitou Springs, Colorado

drive time, and you can plan a few fun pit stops on the way there. Just off Interstate 135 in Salina, Kansas, the Cozy Inn is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a quick bite. Founded in 1922, the historic diner features a retro six-stool countertop and serves up its classic “cozy” burger for $1.79 a pop.

With plenty of scenic vistas and parks to explore, Manitou Springs and nearby Colorado Springs make a wonderful choice for a weekend getaway. But beer fans, mark your calendars for Sept. 26, when Manitou Springs’ Memorial Park transforms into a massive biergarten for the yearly Heritage Brewfest.

Returning for an 11th year, the event includes unlimited craft beer tastings, live music and food trucks, with proceeds benefiting the Manitou Springs Heritage Museum. You can visit the museum to learn more about the region through exhibits that focus on the history of Pikes Peak, railroad

MARTY CASTROGIOVANNI / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

I

f you’re in need of a change of scenery, nothing beats the magic of a road trip.

Being centrally located within the U.S., Tulsa is driving distance from several exciting destinations — many of which will kick off a lineup of festivals and family-friendly activities this fall. Loved by their communities, these long-standing traditions are sure to provide days of entertainment, making them well worth the drive.

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FA L L T R AV E L

Bentonville City Square, located in the middle of downtown Bentonville

transport and the city’s eight natural mineral springs.

No trip to Manitou Springs is complete without a dose of outdoor adventure. The city is located at the base of Pikes Peak, which is known as a “fourteener” for its elevation of 14,115 feet. Voyage to the summit on a 19-mile scenic route or, for even more thrills, book a zipline tour of the mountain with Adventures Out West.

At the foot of Pikes Peak is The Cliff House, a Victorian-era hotel replete with spectacular views, fine dining and a wine cellar. Guests can lodge in one of the hotel’s 54 rooms, including the Buffalo Bill Suite, which resembles the inside of a teepee.

Renowned for its distinct, towering geological formations, Garden of the Gods is another one of Colorado’s natural wonders. Located five minutes from Manitou Springs, the park can be explored by car, bike or on foot. Visitors can also soak in the views while enjoying breakfast and lunch at the Gateway Cafe. Or, take a picnic lunch into the park with goodies from Wimberger’s Old World Bakery and Delicatessen.

Before heading home, pay a visit to the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. Once slated for demolition, these historic dwellings have been preserved for visitors to learn more about the architecture and culture of ancestral Puebloans.

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HEAVENER, OKLAHOMA THE VIKING FESTIVAL OCT. 24-26 Only a two-hour drive from Tulsa, Heavener is a small town packed full of intrigue. During the fall, the city bursts to life with vibrant foliage and its annual Viking Festival. The event, which runs Oct. 24-26, pays homage to the Heavener Runestone — a large sandstone slab bearing mysterious runic inscriptions that are believed to have originated from the Vikings.

Family-friendly entertainment abounds during this unique tradition, which takes place over the Heavener Runestone Park every year. Visitors can participate in a war cry competition, spear and shield-making demonstrations, ax throwing and other themed festivities. The event also includes guided tours to the runestone, with tickets starting at $10.

For nearby lodging, check out Hodler Inn. The no-frills motel has made its name as Oklahoma’s only crypto stay by accepting Bitcoin as a form of payment. But if you’re looking for a more unplugged experience, head 14 miles south of Heavener to the Blackfork Cabins.

Nestled along the banks of the Blackfork River, these secluded cabins are the ideal getaway for fishing and watersports. They’re also located near the Ouachita National

BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS THE MOMENTOUS MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL NOV. 6-7 Just two hours away by car, Bentonville is far enough from Tulsa for a change in scenery without requiring days of travel preparation. Known as the birthplace of Walmart, the fast-growing city is chock full of history, leisure and outdoor recreation.

Crystal Bridges Museum is one of Bentonville’s main attractions, showcasing an expansive collection comprising five centuries of American art. Best of all, admission to the permanent collection is free.

The museum is also home to several installations and traveling exhibitions, including one of Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s infi nity mirrored rooms and a full-scale home designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

In 2020, the museum opened a concert venue, The Momentary, which serves as a multidisciplinary space for community gatherings and live performances. From Nov. 6-7, The Momentary becomes the site of the Momentous Music and Arts Festival, featuring performances from electronic duo Sofi Tukker, rapper Channel Tres and other up-and-coming acts.

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, book a room at the 21C Museum Hotel. Located in the heart of Bentonville, the hotel doubles as an art museum, presenting specially curated exhibitions by contemporary artists.

21C Museum Hotel also houses The Hive, a fi ne-dining restaurant that elevates country cooking with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers. Led by Executive Chef Micah Klasky, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with happy hour running Monday through Thursday from 4-6 p.m. tp

DRAGER CREATIVE, COURTESY VISIT BENTONVILLE

Forest, a 1.8 million-acre preserve that encompasses an ancient mountain range.

You can spend a day exploring the forest, which has 700 miles of walking trails, vistas, lakes and crystal-clear streams.

Castle Rock Vista, located right off the Talimena Scenic Byway, offers panoramic views of the rugged landscape.

With so much outdoor recreation, you’ll need to fuel up on some grub. Operating out of an original 1905 railroad car, the Southern Belle Restaurant is a favorite among locals, serving up classic southern fare including country-fried steak and homemade hushpuppies.

A world of

ADVENTURE

PLAN YOUR VISIT | Tulsazoo.org

Where electrified gas in tubes . sparks wonder

6 N. LEWIS | 918.584.2217 | ZIEGLERART.COM CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING FINE ART • HOME ACCESSORIES ART SUPPLIES

to Route 66 W elcome Neon Park. Once le

to decay in roadside fields or buried under piles of junk in dusty sheds, these mid-century marvels have been meticulously restored to their original glory. Travel back in time between sunrise and midnight at this one-of-a-kind open-air museum.

Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial in Pulaski County, MO. For more information, directions, and an online interactive map, visit pulaskicountyusa.com.

SAINT ROBERT, MO Route 66 TulsaPeople.com 61

performing arts guide

Coming soon to stages FROM SCHUBERT TO ‘SPAMALOT,’ TULSA’S 2026 – 2027 THEATER CALENDAR OFFERS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. COMPILED BY MICHAEL SEARLES

EVERY SATURDAY THE DRUNKARD America’s longest-running play continues with weekly performances filled with laughter, drama and audience participation.

Tulsa Spotlight Theater tulsaspotlighttheater.com THROUGH NOVEMBER VELVET NIGHTS SERIES On the fourth weekend of every month, renowned jazz artists perform in this intimate, speakeasy setting.

LowDown • lowdowntulsa.com THROUGH AUG. 16 RODGERS & HAMMERSTEIN’S OKLAHOMA! This enthralling love story returns as a Tulsa PAC production.

Tulsa PAC • TPAC Produces tulsapac.com AUG. 1 SLEEPING BEAUTY Youth ballet performers bring this iconic fairytale to life.

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center South Tulsa Children’s Ballet & Theatre southtulsachildrensballet.org AUG. 1-2; 7-9 IT HAPPENED ON ROUTE 66 In this Route 66 tribute, a young waitress’s life is forever changed when a glamorous runaway bride seeks refuge in her 1950s Arizona diner.

Tulsa Spotlight Children’s Theatre tulsaspotlighttheater.com AUG. 4 SUMMER SERENADE The cast of “Oklahoma!” presents a new perspective of musical classics through role-reversals and reimagining.

Tulsa PAC • TPAC Produces tulsapac.com/tpac-produces AUG. 11 THE DUST BOWL RADIO HOUR Experience a stage reading of the original bluegrass musical, created by OU alumni.

Tulsa PAC • tulsapac.com

AUG. 14-23 DIARY OF ANNE FRANK Wendy Kessleman adapts the emotional history of a young girl facing increasing horror of Nazi-occupied Amsterdam.

Theatre Tulsa Studios • Theatre Tulsa theatretulsa.org

SEPT. 11 AARON SPIERS JAZZ ORCHESTRA A bold voice in large-ensemble contemporary jazz debuts with new, dynamic arrangements and creative rhythms for an 18-piece band.

LowDown • lowdowntulsa.com

AUG. 15 SEUSSICAL JR. Beloved characters from across Dr. Seuss’ colorful world unite in song, imagination and adventure.

Kirkland Theatre South Tulsa Children’s Ballet & Theatre southtulsachildrensballet.org

SEPT. 11-13; 17-20 CREATIONS IN STUDIO K Three legendary choreographers produce new commissioned works to highlight the voices of tomorrow.

Tulsa Ballet Theater, Studio K Tulsa Ballet • tulsaballet.org

AUG. 21-30 SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL Told through a wedding-day flashback, a Kansas farmer and a visitor from Maine learn, stumble and grow in this touching story about the search for love.

Broken Arrow Community Playhouse bacptheatre.com AUG. 29 BLONDE: A LIVE REIMAGINING OF FRANK OCEAN’S 2016 CLASSIC Nearly a dozen Tulsa musicians collaborate to bring to life this emotional reimagining for two shows.

LowDown • lowdowntulsa.com SEPT. 4 SYMPHONY IN THE PARK A free public concert full of summer vibes to kick off Tulsa Symphony Orchestra’s 2026-2027 season.

Guthrie Green Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org SEPT. 10-13 AHEAD OF THEIR TIME This original play depicts the true struggles of women across four generations — from 1893 to 2002.

Tulsa PAC • tulsapac.com/events GREASE Rock along with classic hits like “Summer Nights” and “We Go Together” in this timeless tale from the class of ’59.

Tulsa PAC • Theatre Tulsa theatretulsa.org

SEPT. 15-20 SPAMALOT This musical comedy won three Tony awards when it debuted in 2005, inspired by — and riffing on — the film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions celebrityattractions.com SEPT. 18-27 ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’S NEST An adaptation of the celebrated Ken Kesey novel by Dale Wasserman.

Tulsa PAC • World Stage Theatre Co. okworldstage.org SEPT. 19 NEW WORLD, NEW VOICES Saxophonist Lance Bryant headlines a program that includes Dvorak’s “New World Symphony” and Duke Ellington’s “Three Black Kings.”

VanTrease PACE Signature Symphony at TCC signaturesymphony.org LOVE ON HOLD: THE TELEPHONE AND AT THE STATUE OF VENUS This double bill combines two modern stories in one night of love, music and performance.

Laven Sowell Opera Center Tulsa Opera • tulsaopera.com SCHUBERT & BRAHMS Soprano and piano star on the opening night of the 101 Unplugged Chamber Music Series.

101 Archer • Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org

COURTESY TULSA SYMPHONY ORECHESTRA

Tulsa Symphony Orchestra

62 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

A new season of TPAC Presents shows for the whole family!

HE ADLINERS The Second City: Laughing for All the Wrong Reasons

Ann Hampton Callaway Sings the 70s

September 25, 2026 8:00 p.m.

John H. Williams Theatre

October 3, 2026 8:00 p.m.

John H. Williams Theatre

John Lloyd Young’s Broadway

AILEY II — The Next Generation of Dance

February 13, 2027 8:00 p.m.

John H. Williams Theatre

February 15, 2027 7:00 p.m.

John H. Williams Theatre

IMAGINATION SERIES Fun and learning for kids!

FRANKENSTEIN: A Living Comic Book

The Musicians of Bremen, LIVE!

October 22, 2026 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

John H. Williams Theatre

March 10, 2027 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

John H. Williams Theatre

Recommended for ages 8+

Recommended for ages 5+

GET TICKETS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SHOWS AT

tulsapac.com/tpac-presents | 918.596.7111

performing arts guide SEPT. 19-20 AKROPOLIS REED QUINTET Featuring the world premiere of a new work by Jennifer Higdon.

Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org SEPT. 25 ADM. JAMES STAVRIDIS: 21ST CENTURY GLOBAL RISK & OPPORTUNITY 4-Star Naval Officer and Former Commander for NATO shares his expertise on cybersecurity and international relations.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Town Hall tulsatownhall.com THE SECOND CITY: LAUGHING FOR ALL THE WRONG REASONS A celebration of Second City’s comedy archive with sketches, songs and improvisation.

Tulsa PAC • tulsapac.com SEPT. 26 OPENING NIGHT — BEETHOVEN’S FOURTH Principal Conductor James Bagwell directs the first night of the Patti Johnson Wilson Classics Series.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org OCT. 2-3 THE UGLY DUCKLING A modern reimagining of the classic story, choreographed by Natasha Adorlee.

Tulsa Ballet Theater, Studio K Tulsa Ballet • tulsaballet.org

OCT. 3 DEBUSSY & BORODIN Session II of 101 Unplugged features colorful interplay between harp, flute, viola and a string quartet.

101 Archer Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org EMMALINE Rising jazz singer-songwriter Emmaline has opened for Grammy award-winning artists and sold-out venues across the country.

LowDown • lowdowntulsa.com THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW SPOOKTACULAR WITH PATRICIA QUINN Join the original Magenta from the film for a screening and shadow cast performance just in time for Halloween.

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions tulsapac.com

OCT. 9-11 THE WOMAN IN BLACK A lawyer hires an actor to help reenact a haunting funeral experience.

Theatre Tulsa Studios Theatre Tulsa • theatretulsa.org OCT. 11 JIM HENSON’S LABYRINTH: IN CONCERT 40TH ANNIVERSARY Experience the iconic fantasy film accompanied by a live band performing the soundtrack by David Bowie and Trevor Jones.

Tulsa Theater • tulsatheater.com OCT. 16 DR. LAURIE SANTOS: WORKING YOUR WAY TO HAPPINESS This professor of psychology teaches Yale University’s most popular course in over 300 years.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Town Hall tulsatownhall.com

OCT. 4 ISRAELI CHAMBER PROJECT Their program “American Immigrants” reflects America’s westward journey in recognition of the Route 66 centennial.

Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org

INVOKE With a packed program lineup, this quartet combines bluegrass, jazz and minimalism in their original compositions.

Renaissance Square Event Center Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org

OCT. 8-25 ANNE OF GREEN GABLES Dreams take root in this charming, coming-of-age classic.

Tulsa PAC • Pembroke Players pembrokeplayers.com

OCT. 17 VERDI REQUIEM Tulsa Chorale and the Bartlesville Community Choir join an all-star lineup of musicians to perform this six-part masterpiece.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org

OCT. 18 PETER CASE Triple Grammy-nominated singersongwriter Peter Case brings his rock ‘n’ roll blues music to Tulsa.

LowDown • lowdowntulsa.com OCT. 22-25 SWAN LAKE Tulsa Ballet will perform this classic with a live accompaniment by the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.

Tulsa Ballet • Tulsa PAC tulsaballet.org OCT. 23-NOV. 1 THE ADDAMS FAMILY - MUSICAL When Wednesday Addams confides in her father about her new boyfriend, a family dinner becomes a buffet of secrecy and wackiness.

Broken Arrow Community Playhouse • bacptheatre.com OCT. 24-25 KEYS TO MY HEART A faith-based love story following a young couple challenged by secrets and forced to make a choice.

Tulsa PAC • Films From Within keystomyheartlive.com OCT. 30-NOV. 8 HAMLET Tulsa Shakespeare Company will present Shakespeare’s classic tale of murder, betrayal and madness.

Tulsa Shakespeare Company Lynn Riggs Theatre at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center tulsashakespeare.com

NOV. 3 STRAIGHT NO CHASER Holiday spirit flows through the air and through this nine-man a cappella act.

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center brokenarrowpac.com NOV. 5-8 COME FROM AWAY Based on a true story with original music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein.

Tulsa PAC • Theatre Tulsa theatretulsa.org NOV. 6 LYNSEY ADDARIO: LOVE+WAR: STORIES OF TRAGEDY & RESILIENCE FROM AROUND THE WORLD Two-time Emmy nominee and Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist discusses her coverage of global conflicts.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Town Hall tulsatownhall.com NOV. 7 CELEBRATING ROUTE 66 Inspired by America’s heartland, four pieces weave together folk themes and nostalgia to celebrate Route 66’s 100th anniversary in this orchestral performance.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org NOV. 13-22 OUT OF MIND A one-act musical with guest performers from New Zealand.

TBA • World Stage Theatre Co. okworldstage.org

KATE LUBER, COUTESY TULSA BALLET

Tulsa Ballet’s “Swan Lake”

64 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

3 DAYS OF MUSIC, FOOD & “MAYO”MENT IS COMING TO TOWN Seven members of Bishop Kelley’s 2024 Senior Class who had previously graduated from Miss Helen’s Private School dropped by Miss Helen's school post Bishop Kelley’s graduation. They are, left to right: Olivia Miles, Anna Donathan, Hallie Ragsdale, Miss Helen’s Private School Executive Director Lynda Wingo, Sophia Hassany, Miss Helen’s Private School Director Jayme Wingo-Baker, Gary Wingo, Marin Moulton, Anna Sandmeyer, and Curry Kendall.

Clean.

Back to Schol. Back to

SERVING THE BEST CLIENTS IN TULSA FOR OVER 40 YEARS

Providing peace of mind for families since 1954.

Miss Helen’s Private School Pre-K through 5th grade • Accredited by OSDE 4849 South Mingo • Tulsa, Oklahoma 74146 918.622.2327 • misshelens.com TulsaPeople.com 65

DEC. 11-12 CHRISTMAS IN TULSA Joined by Tulsa Opera Signature Chorale, Tulsa Youth Opera and 2026 Tulsa Sings! winner Natalie Grace Taylor.

VanTrease PACE Signature Symphony at TCC signaturesymphony.org

NOV. 18-29 PHANTOM OF THE OPERA A disfigured musical genius falls for a talented young soprano in this story of jealousy, love and madness.

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions celebrityattractions.com

DEC. 11-20 THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER Full of hilarity and holiday spirit, this story of a mother’s challenge to put on the annual Christmas pageant is perfect for the whole family.

Broken Arrow Community Playhouse bacptheatre.com

NOV. 20 MASTERCLASS TEEN CABARET Theatre Tulsa students present a feature cabaret performance after a masterclass series with veteran performers.

Theatre Tulsa Studios Theatre Tulsa • theatretulsa.org NOV. 21 VIANO QUARTET This internationally recognized string quartet continues Tulsa PAC and Chamber Music Tulsa’s Saturday Salon concerts.

Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org NOV. 21-22 LITTLE WOMEN Mark Adamo transforms Louisa May Alcott’s iconic, heartwarming novel into a lyrical adventure of four sisters during the Civil War. Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Opera tulsaopera.com DEC. TBA A CHRISTMAS CAROL The 50th anniversary of this holiday tradition, adapted by Tulsa’s own Bob Odle.

Tulsa PAC American Theatre Company americantheatrecompany.org DEC. 5-20 THE NUTCRACKER Holiday magic fills the air courtesy of Tulsa Ballet in this timeless family-friendly spectacle.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Ballet tulsaballet.org DEC. 8 GRADY NICHOLS CHRISTMAS SHOW The legendary saxophonist is joined

by Andy Chrisman and Alaska Rayne Holloway for this festive concert.

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center • brokenarrowpac.com DEC. 9-12 RADIUM GIRLS Set in 1926 and based on true events that redefined U.S. labor law.

101 Archer • Riffraff Tulsa riffrafftulsa.org

Isaiah Bailey as The Phantom in “The Phantom of the Opera” North American Tour 66 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

JAN. 8-24 LES MISÉRABLES A musical set in 19th century France that spins a tale of broken dreams, unrequited love and the pursuit of redemption, with timeless music from Claude-Michel Schönberg.

Tulsa PAC • Theatre Tulsa theatretulsa.org JAN. 14 TAKÁCS QUARTET Performing three famous Beethoven pieces is this internationally recognized quartet that won a 2021 Presto Music Recording of the Year Award.

Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org JAN. 15-24 EVERY BRILLIANT THING An experimental, interactive solo show by Duncan MacMillan with Jonny Donahue.

TBA • World Stage Theatre Co. okworldstage.org JAN. 16 SIBELIUS’ ‘FINLANDIA’ The night opens with “William Tell Overture” and Scottish rhythms and concludes with a bold, triumphant symphony performance.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org JAN. 22 MARVELOUS MOTETS An curated collection of timeless motets performed in a historic venue.

Holy Family Cathedral Tulsa Chorale tulsachorale.org JAN. 23 OPERA IN THE KEY OF JAZZ Enjoy an evening of genre bending featuring the Filstrup Resident Artists.

Dennis R. Neill Equality Center Tulsa Opera • tulsaopera.com JAN. 24 SYMPHONY SESSION II: THE SEASONS REIMAGINED Violinist Rossitza Goza guides this orchestral journey through dramatic musical contrasts.

Lorton Performance Center Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org

JAN. 30 BRUCKNER AND VIDEO GAME SOUNDSCAPES Iconic video game themes (Super Mario, Stardew Valley) meet classic symphonies in this ultimate mashup that includes a pre-concert talk, “Breaking Down Bruckner.”

VanTrease PACE Signature Symphony signaturesymphony.org FEB. 5-7 BRENTANO QUARTET To honor the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death, this string quartet performs six exciting pieces across three concerts in two locations.

Renaissance Square Event Center; Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org FEB. 5-14 STEEL MAGNOLIAS In Chinquapin, Louisiana, the regulars of a beauty salon search for strength together in the wake of tragedy.

Theatre Tulsa Studios Theatre Tulsa • theatretulsa.org FEB. 12 KEN JENNINGS: SECRETS OF JEOPARDY! - BACKSTAGE AT AMERICA’S FAVORITE QUIZ SHOW Former “Jeopardy!” contestant and current host goes behind-the-scenes of the iconic quiz show.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Town Hall tulsatownhall.com FEB. 13 CELEBRATING AMERICA’S COMPOSERS This night of melodies features everything from triumphant fanfares to rhythmic jazz Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org FEB. 16 LEGALLY BLONDE - NATIONAL TOUR Elle Woods tackles stereotypes, scandal and more in pursuit of her law school dreams.

Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center • brokenarrowpac.com FEB. 18-21 CINDERELLA From storybook to stage, Tulsa Ballet performs with new sets and costumes from renowned designer Jerome Kaplan.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Ballet tulsaballet.org FEB. 27 LESLIE ODOM, JR. WITH THE TULSA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Tony and Grammy-winning artist Leslie Odom, Jr. joins Tulsa Symphony Orchestra for a night featuring selections from “Hamilton,” “American Songbook” and other musical theater classics.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org

PHANTOM: MATTHEW MURPHY AND EVAN ZIMMERMAN, COURTESY CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS; JENNINGS: COURTESY TULSA TOWN HALL; LES MISÉRABLES: COURTESY THEATRE TULSA; EMMALINE: COURTESY LOWDOWN

NOV. 13 MUSICAL LABORATORY Theatre Tulsa Academy’s young imaginations created the story, music and technical production for an original musical.

Theatre Tulsa Studios Theatre Tulsa • theatretulsa.org

FEB. 28 RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE: WERQ THE WORLD NEWS This high-camp news show offers the biggest headlines in weather, entertainment, sports and more, delivered with drag and spectacle (ages 18+).

Tulsa Theater • tulsatheater.com MARCH 2-7 SHUCKED A corn-bred, Tony-winning American musical comedy about the battle to save a small town.

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions celebrityattractions.com MARCH 6 CARMINA BURANA Carl Orff sourced from medieval songs and poems for his 1936 opus.

Now, it unites the Tulsa Opera, Signature Chorale, OSU Choirs, TCC Concert Choir, Tulsa Youth Opera and more.

VanTrease PACE Signature Symphony at TCC signaturesymphony.org MARCH 6-7 SITKOVETSKY TRIO Continuing the Beethoven Spring are some iconic piano trios by the legendary composer, as well as Robert Schumann and Cecile Chaminade.

Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org MARCH 12 PATRICK MCGEE: THE ASCENT OF APPLE — A REVISIONIST HISTORY A journalist who has covered Apple, Silicon Valley giants and global financial markets.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Town Hall tulsatownhall.com MARCH 12-21 MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG Beginning in 1977 and ending in 1957, this reverse-chronology play shows the devolving relationship between three friends.

Theatre Tulsa Studios Theatre Tulsa • theatretulsa.org APRIL 1-4 ROMEO & JULIET Shakespeare’s famous play is reimagined through choreography by Edward Liang, with accompaniment from Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Ballet tulsaballet.org APRIL 2-11 CHARLOTTE’S WEB The classic children’s book, adapted

by Joseph Robinette, comes to life on the Broken Arrow stage.

Broken Arrow Community Playhouse bacptheatre.com APRIL 6-11 DEATH BECOMES HER A laugh-out-loud musical phenomenon based on the 1992 classic film.

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions celebrityattractions.com

APRIL 9-18 1984 George Orwell’s timeless dystopian warning is adapted for the stage by William Hern.

TBA • World Stage Theatre Co. okworldstage.org

MAY 7, 9 COSÌ FAN TUTTE A friendly bet becomes a comedy of errors in this witty tale that includes music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Opera tulsaopera.com

APRIL 10 BEETHOVEN & PROKOFIEV Lively and expressive are the themes of this concert, which includes a complimentary drink and hors d’oeuvres.

101 Archer Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org

MAY 7-9 BEETLEJUICE JR. A fresh adaptation of the iconic motion picture with music and lyrics

by Eddie Perfect.

Tulsa PAC • Theatre Tulsa theatretulsa.org

APRIL 15-18 GUYS AND DOLLS This romantic musical comedy brings you inside the high-stakes world of gamblers, showgirls and big city life.

Tulsa PAC • Theatre Tulsa theatretulsa.org APRIL 17 DVORÁK’S EIGHTH Guest conductor Shira SamuelsShragg leads a dynamic program that highlights Tulsa trombonist Andrew Carrillo.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org APRIL 23-25 POIESIS QUARTET Before making their Tulsa debut, they won First Prize at the 2025 Banff International String Quartet Competition.

Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, Tulsa PAC • Chamber Music Tulsa chambermusictulsa.org APRIL 24 TULSA SINGS! — TOTALLY ’80S Local amateur vocalists compete in a nostalgia showcase for juried and audience awards.

VanTrease PACE Signature Symphony at TCC signaturesymphony.org MAY TBA MACHINAL An ordinary woman is pushed to the breaking point — inspired by a 1928 true crime story.

Riffraff Tulsa • riffrafftulsa.org MAY 1 BACH AND POULENC Concluding Season XXI’s 101 Unplugged series is three small-chamber concert groups.

101 Archer Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org MAY 6-9 CARMEN This dark tale of passion, power and the spiraling pull of desire is helmed by Northern Ballet’s Resident Choreographer Kenneth Tindall from Leeds, West Yorkshire, England.

Lorton Performance Center Tulsa Ballet • tulsaballet.org

Ken Jennings

MAY 12 VOICES OF TOMORROW Tulsa Youth Opera shines in an imaginative, whimsical mixture of musical and opera favorites.

Tulsa PAC • Tulsa Opera tulsaopera.com MAY 15 SEASON FINALE — SHOSTAKOVICH’S TENTH The monumental conclusion to Season XXI for the Tulsa Symphony Orchestra.

Tulsa PAC Tulsa Symphony Orchestra tulsasymphony.org

“Les Misérables”

MAY 22 MENDELSSOHN’S ELIJAH Tulsa Chorale concludes their season with a powerful oratorio, drawn from biblical texts.

TBA • Tulsa Chorale tulsachorale.org JUNE 4-13 TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Harper Lee’s bestselling novel is adapted by Christopher Sergel and directed by Mollie McBride Rogers.

Broken Arrow Community Playhouse bacptheatre.com JUNE 5 THE IMPRESARIO Mozart’s lived-experience comedy sees dueling stars fight for the title of Prima Donna.

Laven Sowell Opera Center Tulsa Opera • tulsaopera.com

“Emmaline”

JULY 6-11 HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD This time-traveling adventure won six Tony Awards.

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions celebrityattractions.com AUG. 3-8 HELL’S KITCHEN Broadway’s Grammy-winning hit based on the iconic Alicia Keys and her music provides an energizing musical experience.

Tulsa PAC • Celebrity Attractions celebrityattractions.com tp

TulsaPeople.com 67

Vision Dinner celebrates the people who make education shine while raising funds to help students succeed through scholarships, internships, textbook vouchers, technology and more.

RESERVE YOUR SEAT TODAY!

918.595.7977 | tccfoundation@tccfoundation.org

Lifestyle HOME

HEALTH

TRENDS

THAT’S THE SPIRIT

MICHELLE POLLARD

Support your favorite school in style with customized gear from Cappy Hour, led by Tulsa moms Kelly Weber and Kristen O’Connor.

What started out as a focus on custom hats quickly expanded to offer a curated collection of campus musthaves, gameday essentials and other giftable pieces.

Cascia Navy Hat ($39). Hornets White Hat ($39). The University of Tulsa Hat ($39).

LEARN MORE AND SHOP THE COLLECTION AT CAPPYHOUR.SHOP. TulsaPeople.com 69

LIFESTYLE

Tulsa transplant Christina Danaee upcycles damaged quilts into clothing and accessories.

COMFORT C COUTURE Tulsan fashions wearable art from sustainable source.

BY ANNA HOLTON-DEAN 70 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

reating one-of-a-kind garments from damaged quilts, textile designer and artist Christina Danaee builds on the artistry of others to highlight the craft of handmade fiber arts, while also encouraging more conversation around sustainable clothing choices.

“I’ve always been interested in fashion, textiles and sustainability, so when I came across my fi rst damaged quilt in Tulsa it just felt like something I wanted to try, to see if I could do it,” Danaee says.

Growing up in the Seattle area, Danaee’s early lessons began with custom doll clothes before she eventually advanced to making clothes for herself.

“My mother and grandmother both had a hand in teaching me how to sew, knit and crochet starting at a very young age ... My grandmother knit sweaters and blankets for everyone in our family and was also a proficient quilter,” she says.

Danaee went on to build a successful career in knitwear design, creating more than 75 original patterns since 2011. She is also the author of “Modern Heritage Knits,” a collection of 15 original patterns inspired by the American yarn industry and its cultural significance.

“I started to hear stories about folks breeding heritage animals (breeds of sheep, goat, alpaca or other fiber-producing animals that may be less popular because of their rarity, or the difficulty raising the animal incurs), revitalizing historic mills and dye houses, and doing their best to keep this legacy craft and knowledge alive,” she says.

After moving to Tulsa in 2023 and taking a break from knitwear design, Danaee found a new source of inspiration in upcycling damaged quilts into wearable pieces. One turned into two and friends began requesting more. “The best part was trying to find a quilt that matched their style and personality,” she says.

Sourcing her quilts from places like thrift stores, estate sales and antique shops, Danaee carefully preserves their history while giving them new life. Before repurposing a quilt, she thoughtfully assesses its condition, selecting only those that can no longer fulfi ll their original function.

In doing so, she honors each quilt’s legacy while extending its story in a new form.

For Danaee, each quilt isn’t merely a functional object but rather a representation of the lives and communities that made them.

“I think the craft continues to be very under-appreciated,” she says. “Since quilting has mainly been a craft that women engage in, it can be undervalued and seen as less important than other art. But each quilt, its colors, pattern and materials tell a story from a specific time and place. No two are alike!”

Ultimately, Danaee hopes every piece she creates carries forward the love stitched into it.

“I always say wearing one of my coats is like getting a hug from me and everyone else who’s had a hand in its creation.”

Danaee’s third collection debuts Sept. 18 alongside collaborating artists at Chimera Cafe in downtown Tulsa. Learn more at shopchristinadanaee.com or @christinadanaee. tp

MICHELLE POLLARD

CRAFTING

LIFESTYLE

STOREFRONT S H O P FAV O R I T E S

Decorative transfers, moulds, stamps and paint inlays from Iron Orchid Designs make it easy to add timeless details to furniture and home decor, as shown on this decorated piece. (Transfers from $9.99).

Eloise the Fox from the Eric + Eloise Antiqued Brass Collection is a striking wall-mounted statement piece crafted in metal and bronzed aluminum. ($132.50).

Susan Mansisidor is the owner, designer and curator of Grisaille Cottage, a home decor haven in midtown.

Patina and possibility Vintage meets creativity at this whimsical boutique in The Farm Shopping Center.

BY ANNA HOLTON-DEAN

A

t Grisaille Cottage in The Farm Shopping Center, the experience begins before you ever walk through the door. Hand-painted furniture and hanging flowers greet shoppers at the entrance, setting the tone for a boutique fi lled with vintage-inspired home decor, one-of-a-kind furnishings, gifts, apparel and DIY products. Owner, designer and curator Susan Mansisidor initially launched the concept in Idaho in 2017.

After relocating to Oklahoma with her husband Joe, she opened the Tulsa shop in August 2024 and soon expanded to a larger space within The Farm in November 2025, where they remain today.

The shop’s name reflects both artistry and atmosphere. “Grisaille” is a French painting technique that uses varying shades of gray and taupe to create depth and texture, a concept echoed throughout the boutique’s soft, neutral palette and tastefully weathered pieces. The word “cottage” adds a

sense of warmth that carries throughout the carefully curated space.

The boutique blends vintage, handcrafted and new adornments and accessories for old-fashioned aesthetics, including the entire line of Fusion Mineral Paint, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Iron Orchid Designs transfers, inlays, stamps and moulds.

Mansisidor says one of the things that sets Grisaille Cottage apart is its range of offerings under one roof.

“Tulsa has some wonderful shops for antiques, home decor and craft supplies,” she says. “Most focus on just one of those categories, while we try to offer all of them in one location.”

She also provides hands-on guidance for customers tackling creative projects with the products she carries, offering occasional workshops and classes when time allows including tutorials on how to create custom stamped tea towels and vintage-style resin deer head mounts.

“I make it my goal to make each customer feel like family, and I want everyone to leave feeling confident and inspired,” she says.

That familial atmosphere is what initially drew her to The Farm Shopping Center.

“All of the shops support each other,” she says. “When I decided to open my store here, I could envision what The Farm not only used to be, but what it can be again.”

She hopes Grisaille Cottage continues to grow alongside the community, introducing more shoppers to the creative, cottagecore space she has built.

Visit grisaillecottage.com to learn more about Grisaille Cottage, sign up for their newsletter and keep up with upcoming workshops. tp

GRISAILLE COTTAGE

6508 E. 51st St. • 918-527-5609 grisaillecottage.com Tue.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.; Mon., closed TulsaPeople.com 71

LIFESTYLE

MUSINGS

O

h, I had so much to do in the coming week.

I was expecting out-of-town guests. I was hosting a party at my home. I was attending an event. I had work assignments due. I was going to be so, so busy. That meant the house had to be cleaned and the garden tidied. That meant food and drink had to be planned and bought. That meant clothes had to be chosen and readied. The list went on and on. So. Much. To. Do. What I needed to do was fly into action.

What I actually did the Sunday before my big week was stare out the window. Read the papers. Take a nap. Oh, the joy of procrastination.

Procrastination is one of life’s great, guilt-heavy pleasures. It’s like triple cream cheese, or pie with extra whipped cream, or a baked potato with double butter and sour cream, or a multi-layer chocolate cake with thick frosting. How many more calories can we add? How much more self-indulgent can we be?

My plan for my big week, if I had a plan, was to wake up early Monday and move steadily through the chores. What I actually did Monday was oversleep. That wasn’t as bad as you might think because sudden panic turbocharged me into motion. All was accomplished. And all left me depleted and deflated as flat as a bad souffle.

If you, too, ever procrastinate and wonder why, my advice is: don’t. I mean, don’t ask yourself why because that is likely to take you into research that will tell you more than you want to know. It’s what happened to me. And I felt as if I were being scolded by a 19th century Puritanical preacher and I replied like a petulant teen: “You’re sugarcoating your behavior when you say you are dawdling or dallying.”

“So what?”

72 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

“It could mean you’re avoiding action for fear of failure or out of anxiety.”

“I am not! I’m just delaying a little bit.

Building up my energy.”

“Maybe you are depressed. Weighted down by self-doubt. Feeling inadequate.”

“You take that back! I’m just not quite in the mood. Sometimes I work better under pressure.”

“Liar! You don’t manage your time well.

You’re nothing but a slothful, lazy procrastinator!”

flowing their containers. Some were dying.

“Oh,” he brushed it aside, “any plant that can’t live on the driveway for two years isn’t worth having.”

By comparison, Laura Vanderkam, author of a book titled “Big Time: A Simple Path To Time Abundance,” grasps time management with an iron grip.

Most people, she says, muddle along without direction. Not her, by cracky. She divides each day into 30-minute sections on a spreadsheet and marches in measured stride through her schedule. One year, she allocated 10 minutes a day to reading Leo Tolstoy’s 1,455-page “War and Peace.” She finished the book in December exactly as she planned. The thought of living like this made me have to lie down.

Bestselling romance novelist Carley Fortune, determined to write her fi rst book — an 80,000-word manuscript — in a year by getting up at 5 a.m. and writing 338 words a day before going to work. She did it, and it sold for $500,000 in a two-book deal. Another story that makes me queasy.

Reba McEntire, the country music legend renowned for her self-discipline and work ethic, says “I love to piddle.” Piddling, she explains “is what other people might think a waste of time.” She lists examples like cleaning out a closet or organizing a drawer — drifting slowly from task to task.

We all have responsibilities, jobs, duties and deadlines, but when we can, what luxury to piddle. It’s the happy cousin of procrastination. tp

Some people wear their procrastination lightly. Longtime City of Tulsa horticulturist Russell Studebaker was also an exuberant gardener and plant shopper. Every inch of his personal garden was planted cheekto-jowl, and his driveway was covered with pots and flats waiting to be planted. Some had been there so long they were over-

Award-winning journalist Connie Cronley is the author of three books of essays — “Sometimes a Wheel Falls Off,” “Light and Variable” and “Poke a Stick at It” — and the biography “A Life on Fire: Oklahoma’s Kate Barnard.” She has been writing TulsaPeople's "Musings" since 2010.

The joy of procrastination

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

TIM HAYES 918 -231-5637 thayes@mcgrawok.com

SHERRI SANDERS 918- 724-5008 ssanders@mcgrawok.com

GORDON SHELTON 918- 697-2742 gshelton@mcgrawok.com

DIANA RILEY PATTERSON 918- 629-3717 dpatterson@mcgrawok.com

McGraw Realtors

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

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

GRAND LAKE Situated in Ketchum Cove between Langley and Ketchum, this lakeview lodgestyle home features beautiful vaulted wood ceilings, a large great room with a fireplace, and a walkout basement. The spacious layout includes three bedrooms, three full baths, a sleeping loft, and a kitchen equipped with a granite island and its own fireplace. The main bedroom boasts two cedar walk-in closets and direct access to a wrap-around deck.

207 Gary Drive, Vinita, OK $749,000

BIXBY This single-level full brick home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage situated on a scenic, fully fenced 3-acre corner lot in Bixby. The carpet-free interior offers a spacious living room and an island kitchen, seamlessly connecting to large front and back covered porches perfect for outdoor living. 4899 E 191st St S, Bixby, $300,000.

TULSA Carefully maintained by one owner for 49 years, this charming, full-brick corner lot home features a versatile one-level layout with multiple living areas and recent updates throughout. It comes complete with a wood-burning fireplace, a spacious primary suite, and a fenced backyard with an oversized two-car garage and deck. 5843 S 68th East Ave, Tulsa. $329,000

MOUNDS

SOLD!

78 acres of vacant land on SE corner of 201st & Harvard in Tulsa County. 3 ponds. RWD 6.

201 S Harvard Road. $1,700,000

SOLD!

OAKS COUNTRY CLUB

This stunning 4,549square-foot estate sits on a private oneacre lot backing up to the Oaks Country Club.

4825 W Oak Leaf Dr, Tulsa. $745,000.

MIDTOWN This stunning 2350-square-foot contemporary residence is nestled on a sprawling half-acre lot within the highly sought-after Timberlane neighborhood. It perfectly blends mid-century charm with modern living, featuring a spacious deck and a private pool ideal for outdoor entertaining.

2433 E 33rd Street, $565,000

MIDTOWN Built in 1950 and occupied by the current owners since 1995.

This one level home has undergone renovations like roof, newer heat and air, upgraded electrical, hot water tank and kitchen upgrades since 2018. A comfortable oone level home with a newer master bathroom!2 large living areas and 3 bathrooms make this home a must see. 2812 E 29th St, Tulsa. $599,000

TulsaPeople.com 73

McGraw Realtors

LauraBryant 918.693.2961

lbryant@mcgrawok.com

918.808.4780

mkeys@mcgrawok.com Scan here to view more listings!

4137 S Detroit Ave, Tulsa | $859,000 4 Beds | 5 Baths |3,211 sq.ft.

2773 E 28th St, Tulsa | $799,000 4 Beds | 3 Baths |3,084 sq.ft.

4331 S Norfolk Ave, Tulsa | $378,900 3 Beds | 3 Baths | 1,945 sq.ft.

Sold - representing seller

3631 S Gary Pl, Tulsa | $549,000 4 Beds | 3 Baths |2,384 sq.ft.

4655 S Trenton Ave, Tulsa| $238,900 3 Bed | 1 Bath | 1,345 sq.ft

Sold - representing seller

Scan here to view more listings!

3215 E 65th St S, Tulsa |$2,600,000 5 Bed | 6 Baths |7,992 sq.ft.

7785 Forest Ln, Tulsa |$1,399,000 5 Bed | 5 Baths |4,692 sq.ft.

4211 S Cincinnati Ave, Tulsa |$865,000 5 Bed | 4.5 Baths |3,494 sq.ft.

12011 S Vandalia Ave, Tulsa|$750,000 4 Bed | 3 Baths | 2,970 sq.ft.

405 N Main Street #6B|$699,000 2 Bed | 2 Baths |1,593 sq.ft.

2102 E 138th St S, Bixby| $499,000 3 Bed | 4 Baths | 2,588 sq.ft.

Sold - representing seller

Sold - representing seller Sold - representing buyer

PROVEN RESULTS AND 0 INVENTORY: BUYERS ARE WAITING FOR YOUR LISTING! SCOTT COFFMAN | 918-640-1073 SCOFFMAN@MCGRAWOK.COM

74 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

Table Talk DINING

FOOD

DRINKS

Drip check At The Helen on Route 66, the showstopping French Toast Tower is dressed to impress. It’s hard to keep your hands off the sticks of milk bread soaked in custard, topped with whipped cream and powdered sugar. The dish comes served with berry compote and maple syrup to drizzle as desired.

MICHELLE POLLARD

READ MORE ABOUT THE NEW BREAKFAST AND LUNCH BISTRO ON P. 76.

TulsaPeople.com 75

TA B L E TA L K

DINING OUT

Made with love New daytime restaurant inspired by owner’s warm memories of his grandmother.

BY JARED S. GLEATON

The Helen’s Classic Benedict comes served with a side of the restaurant’s “Smashbrowns.”

For something sweet, try the Cinnamon Roll Crumb Cake — a warm cinnamon coffee cake layered with a luscious brown sugar ribbon, finished with a buttery crumb and vanilla glaze.

With an open kitchen, The Helen makes its comfort food favorites fresh daily.

76 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

HELEN: MICHELLE POLLARD; BEER FOR CHICKS: TOM GILBERT

A

fter spending more than three decades working in some of New York City’s most prominent restaurants, Timothy Rucker never expected that the next chapter of his hospitality career would bring him back to Tulsa. Officially opening The Helen earlier this year in May, Rucker’s breakfast and lunch restaurant combines the standards of big city dining with the comfort of a neighborhood diner.

“We believe in familiar dishes done better (and) served with intention, curiosity and genuine hospitality,” Rucker says.

A Tulsa native, Rucker left Oklahoma in 1992 to pursue acting in New York before finding his way into the restaurant industry.

What began as a room service position evolved into leadership roles with acclaimed chefs including Mario Batali, Bobby Flay, Michael White and Geoff rey Zakarian.

In 2023 he left New York to oversee restaurant operations in Stockton, New Jersey, and Austin, Texas, before returning home in January to pursue the prospect of opening The Helen.

“My whole life has been, if the door opens, I go through it,” Rucker says.

“My whole career, I became who I became because I took chances ... I saw an opportunity, and I went for it.”

The restaurant’s name carries personal significance as it is named after Rucker’s grandmother, Helen Covington, whose home and cooking left a lasting impression on him growing up.

“We were at her house all the time.

She was just a big part of my life,” he says, adding that his grandmother embodied the warmth and hospitality he hopes guests experience every time they visit.

TA B L E TA L K

WHAT THE ALE

The dining room is a direct reflection of that philosophy — natural light pours through expansive windows while colorful chairs, vintage-inspired chandeliers and soft blue accents create an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. An open kitchen anchors the space, giving guests a peek at how each dish comes together.

The room is lively and energetic — the kind of place where conversation, coffee cups and plates moving from kitchen to table all intermingle to create a lively and memorable experience.

For fi rst-time visitors, The Helen’s breakfast staples are a natural place to start.

Pair a cup of the medium-bodied blend from Tulsa’s Topeca Coffee with one of the restaurant’s signature breakfast dishes such as the Classic Benedict — locally sourced eggs with rich orange yolks atop ham and a toasted English muffin, balanced with a layer of bright hollandaise. The restaurant’s “Smashbrowns” provide a crisp, golden exterior that gives way to a soft, peppery interior, making them a standout accompaniment.

No Oklahoma breakfast feels complete without an order of biscuits and gravy.

Light buttermilk biscuits are topped with a silky pepper gravy filled with housemade sausage, creating a comforting dish that remains balanced rather than overly heavy. Non-savory breakfast items include the French Toast Tower — thick slices of custard-soaked milk bread are griddled until crisp on the outside and pillowy within before being topped with whipped cream, real maple syrup and berry compote. The latter adds a welcome brightness that keeps the dish from becoming too sweet.

“We do things with love,” Rucker says.

“We use only fresh ingredients and make sure everything that goes to the table is exactly what we want. Even if we’re doing 50 covers or 250 covers on a Saturday and Sunday, everything has to be at its peak at all times.”

Asked how he hopes guests remember The Helen years from now, Rucker says he wants it to be the same as he remembers his grandmother’s home: a place where friends and family gather, meals are consistently good and every guest feels welcome. tp

‘BEER FOR CHICKS’

F

or one local friend group, Tuesdays are for the girls. “Beer for Chicks” has been gathering weekly for over fifteen years to enjoy a couple cold ones and the company of others. The tradition has brought together a group of Tulsa women (and some men) whose friendships have endured careers, marriages, divorces, new family members and even deaths.

It all started through a knitting group at the Brookside Library, where several of the group first met. After the knitting stopped, they found a nearby pub to continue their meeting over a beer. Then, in 2011, they discovered “Beer for Chicks,” a monthly event designed to introduce women to the rapidly growing world of craft beer.

The recurring event was started at Dilly Deli (now Dilly Diner) by Meg Nelson, wife of McNellie’s Group founder Elliot Nelson.

“It was thoughtfully put together,” says Sue Ennes, part of the group’s original makeup. “You learned why the beers were paired with certain foods, the history behind different styles and you got to taste things you never would have ordered on your own.”

Meg was tired of all of Elliot’s projects that seemed geared toward men. Back then, craft beer was still largely viewed as a man’s hobby, but Meg envisioned that Beer for Chicks would become a way to open that world to a different audience.

The idea worked.

At that Beer for Chicks meeting, the former knitting group sampled beers alongside foods, discovering combinations that surprised even longtime beer drinkers. Coconut cream pie paired with Left Hand Milk Stout remains the standout favorite among the group. Others still remember chocolate cake served with Lindemans Framboise or learning that an IPA suddenly made perfect sense alongside a bowl of spicy chili.

“It wasn’t just about beer,” Ennes says. “It was about learning.”

When McNellie’s temporarily paused the program during Dilly’s remodeling in 2015, the women refused to let the tradition disappear. Instead, they simply adopted the event’s name as their own and kept meeting every Tuesday, choosing a different restaurant or brewery each week. Even during the pandemic, when gathering indoors wasn’t possible, they continued meeting virtually or outdoors in parks.

“My family knows not to schedule anything on Tuesday,” Kathy Doss laughs. “Everybody knows Tuesday belongs to this group.”

For Doss, that support became invaluable when her husband was diagnosed with cancer.

“I honestly don’t know how I would have made it through his illness and his death without this group,” she says. “Some nights I wanted to talk about what was happening. Other nights, I didn’t want to think about it at all. Just sitting with them for a couple of hours gave me strength.”

Although the friends were already beer lovers, they knew very little about Oklahoma craft brewing when they first attended Beer for Chicks. They simply wanted to spend time together. But soon they started to discover their favorite styles, learned to appreciate food and beer pairings and gained confidence ordering something other than the familiar.

The beer brought them together, but their friendships are what have endured. — TOM GILBERT

The Helen 1306 E. 11th St. • 918-764-8630 • thehelentulsa.com Wednesday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-2:29 p.m.

A Beer for Chicks meeting at El Patron, 3837 E. 51st St. Left to right: Jeri Tucker, Cathy Reynolds, Kathy Doss, Ann Schneider and Rene Norman.

TulsaPeople.com 77

TA B L E TA L K

Intimate Italian restaurant Sons of Amalfi is staffed exclusively by owners Moe Abrishamkar Jr. (far left), Johnny Abrishamkar (far right), Teresa Abrishamkar (center, front) and general manager Jeremy Pedone (center, back).

Above, the White Pizza is a customer favorite dish, and all pastas— such as the San-Marzano-based Pomodoro — are handmade with imported Italian flour.

TIMETESTED TASTE Sapulpa’s Sons of Amalfi builds upon a nearly 50-year familial legacy.

BY JARED S. GLEATON 78 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

A

sk owner Johnny Abrishamkar what a fi rst-time guest should order at Sons of Amalfi and he’ll be quick with his answer: “The White Pizza has to be fi rst,” he says without hesitation.

Open only for dinner service four days per week, the 10-table Sapulpa restaurant begins the poolish for its famous pizza on Saturday nights so it is ready to go by Wednesday evening. Made with imported Italian flour and baked in an imported Italian pizza oven, the White Pizza is crafted from fontina and mozzarella cheeses and served with a sweet red pepper relish of piquillo peppers, Oklahoma honey and aged balsamic vinegar.

“People tell us that we need to jar (the relish) and sell it at the fair,” says Johnny, who owns the restaurant with brother and Head Chef Moe Abrishamkar Jr. as well as their mother, Teresa. Friend and “brother from another mother” Jeremy Pedone acts as the general manager.

The intimate restaurant isn’t trying to recreate Italy so much as create a family experience built around delicious food.

“With only 10 tables, and my mom seating all customers, and Jeremy and I waiting on all tables, and Moe cooking every entree, there is no slipping through the cracks,” Johnny says. “You get the best service and food every single time because everything is done by the family.”

In addition to the White Pizza, Johnny says that The Eggplant — their version of eggplant parm — is the highest selling dish in the restaurant’s history. “We have always been told that it is literally the best in the world.”

That may sound like hyperbole for a small Oklahoma establishment, but guests will see that it isn’t once they learn of the enduring legacy on which the restaurant is built.

The story begins when Johnny and Moe Jr.’s father, Moe Abrishamkar Sr., immigrated to the U.S. from Iran in the early 1960s to attend North Carolina State University. Teresa had also immigrated from Bolivia around that same time, and the two later met at a bus stop in Washington, D.C. Falling deeply in love and marrying against their parents’ wishes, both were financially cut off from their wealthy, powerful families and made to find their own way.

“Even though they came from everything, they had to make their way in America with nothing,” Johnny says.

Moe Sr. secured a job as a dishwasher at the D.C. favorite A.V. Ristorante Italiano, where he worked hard and learned everything he could. Later partnering with an Italian chef named Renata Vaccari, they opened a restaurant called Amalfi Ristorante Italiano in Rockville, Maryland, in 1977.

Over the next four decades, Amalfi earned a devoted following across the D.C. region.

“We saw couples on their fi rst dates to their future kids on their fi rst dates,” says Johnny, who was also born in 1977. “We had many celebrities, politicians and sports personalities as regulars throughout those decades.”

He adds that his parents tried to discourage him and Moe Jr. from getting involved in the business, but it didn’t work.

“It’s a hard life and they wanted other things (for) us, but too bad — because that was the life I wanted,” he says, noting he started working behind the scenes when he

MICHELLE POLLARD

WHAT’S COOKING

TA B L E TA L K

A LA CARTE was 16. Moe Jr. got involved when he found his love of cooking in his early twenties, and Pedone came on board at 19 as a server and never left.

Moe Sr. sadly passed away in 2016, and the family later sold Amalfi in 2022.

Wanting to make a change and escape from the demands of operating in a major metropolitan area, they found what they were looking for in Oklahoma.

“Jesus brought us here,” Johnny says.

“My only regret is that we didn’t move to Sapulpa years before ... Oklahomans are truly the kindest people on the planet. I will never move again — this town is my new ride or die.”

Opened this past December, Sons of Amalfi represents the family’s newest chapter.

“We designed the experience in honor of (Moe Sr.) and all of his hard work,” Johnny says. “Without his actions we might not have been in the position to sell everything and risk it all with this giant move.”

Located at 1111 E. Denton Ave., the restaurant pairs decades of hospitality with a more focused culinary vision from Moe Jr. “Delicious,” Moe Jr. says when asked to describe the restaurant’s philosophy. “That’s it. Delicious, fresh. Nothing frozen.”

Guests can expect house-made pasta crafted from imported Italian flour and dishes that balance the restaurant’s legacy with Moe Jr.’s own culinary instincts. Looking at the menu, it’s almost heart-breaking to have to choose between such exquisite-sounding entrees as the light and bright Pomodoro (San Marzano tomatoes, Parmigiano, basil, garlic and extra virgin olive oil), cheese-stuffed tortellini or the luxurious Parmesan Cream prepared with nutmeg and pistachio. Rotating house specials also include the Pasta all’Amatriciana, a slightly spicy San Marzano-based tomato sauce combined with guanciale (a cross between pancetta and bacon) and served with either homemade Tagliatelle or Ziti.

Begin with the White Pizza. End with a cannoli. Between those two bookends lies nearly five decades of family restaurant experience. With Johnny and Pedone’s infectious enthusiasm in the dining room, Moe Jr.’s steady hand in the kitchen and Teresa’s welcoming presence, guests often leave feeling less like customers and more like dinner guests.

“We just want everyone to feel like they are eating at our house and always feel cared for and welcomed,” Johnny says. “We want to them to smile and laugh, and we do our best to not only serve the food but to entertain them as well.” tp

The Sweetheart at Happies Nutrition, which combines raspberry tea, cranberry, aloe, vanilla, pina colada, pink starburst, strawberry and citric acid.

After-school snacks

BY MICHAEL SEARLES

HAPPIES NUTRITION strikes the perfect balance between delightful tastes and healthboosting supplements with their list of specialty teas, shakes and various protein-packed snacks.

Powered by essential vitamins and minerals, specialty enhancers can offer an energy boost or immune system and fitness support. Their signature Loaded Teas come in all your favorite fruity flavors, with added caffeine, aloe (to support digestion and absorption) and vitamin C, B6 and B12. While waiting at the counter, try their house-made protein balls — available in servings of two or five and studded with chocolate chips or M&M’s — that provide a hearty complement to the drink-driven menu.

3220 E. 21st St., Suite 102 • 918-508-3516 • happiesnutritiontulsa.com In cozy, bistro-style LITTLE J’S BAKING CO., a warm, welcoming atmosphere invites you in to enjoy fudgy brownies, cookies, pies and more, all made fresh in-house. A favorite of many is their classic cinnamon roll — the warm, buttery center pairs perfectly with a latte or americano to fuel your extracurricular activities. As for the cookies, which come both big and small, the gooey, double chocolate chip is a great choice. Sprinkled sugar cookies offer another tempting option, as do the thick and tart lemon bars. With additional selections of muffins, scones, drinks and various seasonal options, Little J’s has something to satisfy all cravings — but get there quick, because these freshly made treats sell out fast. 10032 S. Sheridan Road, Suite J • 918-995-7979 • littlejsbakeshoppe.com From fresh fruit to ice cream, FRESKO SNACKS is an authentic one-stop-shop for all your Mexican snack cravings. For a cool summer treat, try one of their dozen ice cream options or snow cones, coming in large and small sizes. If a salty crunch is more your vibe, try the Conchitas — creamy corn and chips drizzled with mayonnaise, cheese and creme — which comes in a convenient travel container, making it a perfect on-the-go snack. Or you can grab a table and mix-and-match foods with a group of friends. Either way, with four locations in Tulsa and one in Broken Arrow, Fresko Snacks is a fun, tasty option with enough variety to satisfy everyone. Find the full list of locations at freskosnacks.com tp TulsaPeople.com 79

LAST LOOK

TULSA TIME WARP

A 1958 image of the Tulsa Paper Company building

Tulsa Paper Company

T

he Tulsa Paper Company opened for business in a small one-room building located on West First Street in 1917. The company started with three employees, but within a few years it became one of the top paper suppliers in the state.

In 1922, the company moved into a newly completed warehouse at 124 E. Brady St. (now Reconciliation Way). The warehouse was adjacent to the Sand Springs Railway, and both projects were directed

by Charles Page and his self-sustaining institution, the Sand Springs Home.

The concrete datestone on the exterior of the warehouse reads “19 S.S. Home 22,” which referred to the institution and the 80 TulsaPeople AUGUST 2026

year when the building was constructed, 1922. However, as the paper company expanded its operations within the building, its own name was painted on the brick exterior (still seen today).

The Tulsa Paper Company distributed, marketed and stored large amounts of paper products such as paper bags, wrapping paper, paper towels, and specialty products like custom ledger paper and commercial envelopes. As a major supplier of newsprint, the company was a key resource for many local newspaper outlets.

An increase in business led to expansions in the late 1920s, mid 1930s and late 1950s until eventually the company facilities reached the entire block between North

Cincinnati Avenue (now M.L.K. Boulevard) and North Boston Avenue.

After 50-plus years at this location, the Tulsa Paper Company was sold and later relocated to southwest Tulsa in 1980. The building became a massive auto parts house named the Mathews Automotive Warehouse Distributors.

By the 1990s the building was mostly vacant, but it was used occasionally by local art institutions as an exhibit space.

In the early 2000s the building’s full potential began to be realized, and it is now home to office and exhibit space, classrooms and world-renowned museums including the Bob Dylan Center and Woody Guthrie Center. tp

BERYL FORD COLLECTION TULSA LIBRARY

STORY AND COMPOSITE IMAGE BY PATRICK MCNICHOLAS

RESTAURANT WEEK CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

SEPT. 18-27

MEALS THAT GIVE BACK.

Join Tulsa’s best restaurants as we celebrate Tulsa’s 20th annual Restaurant Week which benefits the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma’s Food for Kids programs. Participating restaurants will offer special prix fixe menus, a specialty item, or their regular menus which will all include an automatic 3% donation to the Food Bank! In addition, donations will be generously matched up to $25,000 by the George Kaiser Family Foundation.

To learn more and see menu options:

PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS INCLUDE*: Ava June • Barons on 1st • Bar Serra • Chimi’s (81st Street) • Dilly Diner • Elgin Park Brewery • Empire Slice House Howdy Burger • LoFi Pizza • Malfi Enoteca • Maple Ridge Grocer • Mr. Kim’s • Red Light Chicken • Rise Souffle Rib Crib (Harvard) • Roka • Society Burger (Cherry Street) • Sisserou’s • The Hemingway • The Pump • The Tavern • The Vault TXMZ Tacos X Mezcal • Yokozuna Downtown Blue Dome *As of 7/22/26

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