TulsaPeople July 2025

FACES OF THE 918 | TULSA’S FILM INDUSTRY

INCLUDING SOMA , THE ROOFTOP RESTAURANT AT BRUT HOTEL

THESE OUTDOOR SPACES HAVE IT ALL: AMBIANCE, GREAT FOOD AND FRESH AIR.

The first step to better health star ts with primary care.

Finding the right primary care physician is the first step toward better health and our physicians are here to guide you every step of the way. From routine checkups to managing your chronic conditions, they’re a trusted source of support, knowledge and personalized care.

Start building a healthier future today.

Scan to find a primary care provider

73% of OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine graduates are practicing in medical deserts, according to U.S. News data.

We’re proud to say we’ve done it again. U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Medical Schools rankings has once again named OSU Center for Health Sciences No. 1 in graduates practicing in Health Professional Shortage Areas. And we’re ranked No. 11 nationally for graduates practicing in rural areas.

We are educating physicians in the heart of Tulsa, and in rural Oklahoma at our Cherokee Nation campus in Tahlequah.

With a mission to educate physicians for rural and underserved populations in Oklahoma, this news is just another confirmation we are making good on that promise.

Bohemian Woodfire Pizza and Homemade Pasta’s patio is a popular East Village hangout.

EDITOR’S LETTER

I’m like many longtime Tulsans who can remember the numerous murals that were scattered throughout River Parks in the 1980s and ’90s. While my memory fails me on what exactly was painted on each one, I vaguely remember one dedicated to Mayfest and another with a gold sh or two adorned on it. In a recent conversation via email with River Parks’ Janet Kendall, she reminded me of the carousel horses painted on the electric transmission tower base at 36th Street and Riverside Drive. Over the decades an unknown number of artists painted on stormwater/sewer access structures of varying sizes, Kendall wrote, adding that the colorful paintings eventually began to fade and River Parks painted them all a uniform color once the organization began its phased renovation of the trail system in 2007. Every now and then a rogue painting lasts a bit longer than expected — anyone recall the cute black dog and its long leash painted on one side of the powerline base near Southwest Boulevard?

Last year my little nature-loving heart was delighted to see four of those structures receive new life thanks to Liz Blood and Okiebug, a company she started to focus on outdoor education and creativity (and yes, the name is rooted in the longtime bait and tackle shop that bore the same name). e four murals were created by local artists Yatika Starr Fields, Christina Henley, Paddy Ryan and Sarah ompson featuring native Oklahoma ora and fauna. I’ve known Blood for many years, including her time as a colleague of mine while she served as editor of e Tulsa Voice. I jumped at the chance to let readers know that six more murals from six di erent artists will be added to the River Parks collection this summer (see p. 8).

is is but one example of the good work being done in this city by its residents who took their passion and ran with it. Other great examples include Catherine “Skilly” Forsman, whose love of dance and manners

led her to establish a Tulsa institution that became what many considered a rite of passage for young Tulsans (p. 25). And in 1905 a group of women craved culture and community, which led them to start the Tuesday Book Club, which continues to meet and promote reading (p. 16). A third example is Mike Davidson, owner of e Hussar, who has been helping his customers dive deeper into their passions and hobbies for more than 40 years (p. 80).

Perhaps your passion is lm and TV — whether that be watching it or being involved behind the scenes. Either way Tulsa is de nitely in the spotlight as a place for productions and crew. Read Tim Landes’ feature beginning on p. 28 for insight on our local lm and TV scene from the people putting in the work.

Passionate about patios? Me too. I love a meal or happy hour al fresco. Tulsa has a bounty of restaurants where outdoor dining is more than just a meal outside — it’s a whole vibe. Find 13 of our favorite patios beginning on p. 36.

As we hit the midway point in 2025 I hope you are taking care of yourself and others. Watch out for those hot summer days and enjoy a summer break if your schedule allows. I hope you can take a bit of time for yourself — whether that’s a staycation, a nearby excursion or a journey to a new, long dreamt about location. Either way, I hope you take TulsaPeople along with you on your journey.

Happy travels. tp

Anne Brockman EDITOR

Volume XXXIX, Number 9

TulsaPeople Magazine is published monthly by 1603 South Boulder Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74119-4407 P: 918-585-9924 F: 918-585-9926 Langdon

PUBLISHER Jim Langdon

PRESIDENT Juley Roffers VP COMMUNITY RELATIONS Susie Miller

EDITOR Anne Brockman

DIGITAL

City Desk

FOR THE AGES

The newly constructed Trinity Presbyterian Church in Owasso is a work of art from the inside out. Just the planning and construction took over five years and cost more than $1,300 per square foot. Upon arrival, the gothic arches quickly capture the gaze of churchgoers. But like many elements of the church, the first glance isn’t always what it seems. Instead, every detail holds elements that point directly back to stories within the Bible or reflect the congregation’s Oklahoma roots.

Design and construction was overseen by architect Bret Pfeifer, co-owner of Pfeifer Jones Architecture, who attends Trinity’s sister church in Tulsa. tp

NATIVE ART

Drivers on Riverside Drive and those using the River Parks trails near 36th Street can now see a pack of colorful coyotes thanks to the Native Species Mural Project. “Song Dogs” by Katherine Hair Eagle is one of six new murals by local artists commissioned by Liz Blood of Okiebug, a publishing company focused on outdoor education and creativity.

“I wanted to bring the work of the ‘Creative Field Guide to Northeastern Oklahoma’ out into the public realm. A book is a personal thing. Even if many people read it, they usually do so alone,” Blood says. “A mural is a communal thing, experienced among other folks. This project is an extension of Okiebug’s work, which is to increase education about — and hopefully protection of — the Oklahoma outdoors.”

Blood partnered with River Parks Authority to identify 10 stormwater/sewer access structures for this project that features a different species native to this part of the state. The first four debuted in 2024. “One of the exciting things about this project is that all of the artwork is different, done in each muralist’s unique style,” she says. “So while you’re walking the trail or driving Riverside, you’re getting an array of visual art.”

Those interested in supporting Okiebug can shop its merch booth at Meadow Gold Mack, 1306 E. 11th St., Unit A, or follow on Instagram @okiebugok. — ANNE

BROCKMAN

Back-to-school event returns

On Aug. 2 the third annual Community Give Back event will take place at the Reed Community Foundation, 210 N. Latimer Place. The event is “to inspire our children for greatness” according to Akia Beckman , who organizes the event with Kanadra Holmes . Last year 250 children received backpacks loaded with school supplies, haircuts were provided free of charge and different activities were held on-site. While Beckman, a longtime Tulsan and hairstylist, has donated school supplies and backpacks to community children for more than 15 years, it was just a few years ago when she organized it into a formal event. Beckman is also the woman behind the Black Excellence Ball and Banquet, an annual soiree that honors eight community members and raises funds for the back-to-school event. “When we all come together we can make an impact for the next generation,” Beckman says. Those interested in supporting the event can call 918-697-9984 or email bosslady7408@gmail.com or kanadrah@ gmail.com. — ANNE BROCKMAN

In May Tulsa Community College announced its rst-ever mascot: the Goose. In a press release

TCC stated it had conducted surveys, student focus groups and discussions to determine three mascot contenders (the Goose, the Wolf, and BLU, a sasquatch character). TCC chose to introduce a mascot as an e ort to strengthen student engagement and school spirit. Later this fall TCC will invite students and employees to help name the Goose in a campus-wide naming campaign.

Katherine Hair Eagle works on “Song Dogs” in June near 36th Street and Riverside Drive.

Akia Beckman

It’s the soft sound of a Native flute. The focus of a potter shaping clay. Traditions shared by living masters.

It’s an electric arc of talent that keeps us on our toes. Our legends on silver screens, in galleries, at stickball fields and podiums. It’s here.

ONE NATION. ENDLESS ADVENTURE.

JULY

COMPILED BY MADISON WALTERS

July 26

“HIP-HOP AMERICA:” INSIDE THE EXHIBIT

Adam Bradley, co-curator of the GRAMMY Museum’s “Hip-Hop America: The Mixtape Exhibit,” will offer a look at how this Woody Guthrie Center exhibit was created and curated, highlighting the powerful role of hip-hop in shaping sound and culture over the past 50 years. woodyguthriecenter.org

July 7 IN CONVERSATION WITH STEVE DOBBS

Tulsa Herb Society will welcome the horticulturist for a special talk titled “Using Ornamental Edibles in the Landscape” at Tulsa Garden Center. facebook.com/tulsaherb

July 11 SUSIE DUMOND BOOK EVENT

Magic City Books hosts University of Tulsa alumna Susie Dumond to discuss her newest novel, “Bed and Breakup,” in which two exes reunite to fi x up and sell the bed-andbreakfast that destroyed their marriage. magiccitybooks.com

July 11-13 AN AFFAIR OF THE HEART

The shopper’s wonderland An Affair of the Heart returns to Expo Square for its summer iteration, featuring hundreds of unique vendors. tulsasummeraoth.com

July 12 DRESSED TO KILL

Veteran KISS tribute band Dressed to Kill will be taking over Vanguard Tulsa for a night of the band’s classics like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” and more. thevanguardtulsa.com

July 12 SHARKS IN THE PARK

Celebrate Sharklahoma with a splash zone, free food, yard games and so much more during this annual community event in downtown Jenks. facebook.com/jenkschamber

July 12-13 ROCK, GEM, MINERAL AND JEWELRY SHOW

Browse through vendor booths filled with unique gemstones, fossils, beads and more at this dazzling event at Expo Square. tulsarockandmineralsociety.org

July 24-27 WORLD OF BOB DYLAN

This year’s conference — held at the University of Tulsa and select venues in the Tulsa Arts District — will see a diverse array of panels, roundtables, keynote speakers, musical performances and creative experiences exploring all aspects of Dylan’s music, art, life and influence. dylan.utulsa.edu/wobd25

July 26 TULSA FLEA MARKET

Browse an eclectic array of antiques, collectibles, memorabilia, vintage, retro, funky junk, crafts and more at the monthly market. facebook.com/tulsafl eamarket

July 26 WOMPA SUMMER SONGS

Featuring an all-local lineup of artists playing originals and cover songs for your listening pleasure, WOMPA Summer Songs is this summer’s hottest event. wompatulsa.com tp

Patriotic party

COMPILED BY MADISON WALTERS

Through July 5

THE CASTLE OF MUSKOGEE FIREWORKS SALE

Get ready to shop a massive inventory of fireworks at the Castle of Muskogee. 3400 Fern Mountain Road, Muskogee okcastle.com

July 1

AMERICAN SOUNDSCAPES PERFORMANCE

Starlight Concert Band and the 145th Army Band will play an arrangement of patriotic music for a pre-Independence Day celebration. Guthrie Green, 111 E. Reconciliation Way starlightconcerts.org

July 3

4TH ON THE 3RD — STARS, STRIPES AND SYMPHONY

Celebrate life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness at the Signature Symphony’s annual concert!

VanTrease Performing Arts Center for Education, 10300 E. 81st St. signaturesymphony.org

Fireworks shows

These area displays dazzle attendees with exploding, sparkling, mesmerizing sights and sounds.

JUNE 27 BIXBY FREEDOM CELEBRATION

Bentley Sports Complex, 8505 E. 148th St., Bixby bixbyfreedomcelebration.com

JUNE 28 RED, WHITE AND BOOM BASH

Near Glenpool High School, 14502 S. Fern St., Glenpool glenpoolonline.com

JULY 1-3 RED, WHITE AND DRILLERS

ONEOK Field, 201 N. Elgin Ave. tulsadrillers.com

July 4

FLEET FEET FIRECRACKER 5K AND FUN RUN

Firecracker 5K is now in its 23rd year. Stick around after the race for a party with live music, food and drinks.

Fleet Feet, 418-A E. Second St. fleetfeet.com/s/tulsa

FOURTH OF JULY BIKE PARADE

Decorate your bike and take a spin around the block for this annual bike parade and party.

New Haven United Methodist Church, 5603 S. New Haven Ave. newhavenumc.org

JAKE KARLIK AND THE IDOLS

Leading up to the fireworks show, Jenks Riverwalk will host a free concert with Jake Karlik and the Idols entertaining attendees with their Southern rock and funk sound.

Riverwalk, 300 Riverwalk Terrace, Jenks jenksriverwalk.com

LET FREEDOM RING

The 12:15 p.m. ceremony will include a narration depicting the events leading up to the American Revolution, readings from the Declaration of Independence and more.

Bayless Plaza at The University of Tulsa, 800 S. Tucker Drive

July 5

RED, WHITE AND SWING

The Oklahoma Swing Syndicate will host an Independence Day-themed swing dance for beginners and professionals alike! Southminster Presbyterian Church Community Center, 1123 E. 35th Place theoklahomaswingsyndicate.org

JULY 4 BOOMFEST IN JENKS

Oklahoma Aquarium, 300 Aquarium Drive, Jenks okaquarium.org/229/boomfest

JULY 4 FOLDS OF HONOR FREEDOMFEST

River West Festival Park, 2100 S. Jackson Ave.; Zink Lake Watch Zone, 1800 S. Riverside Drive freedomfesttulsa.com

JULY 4 RED, WHITE AND BOOM

Owasso Golf and Athletic Club, 13604 E. 84th St. N., Owasso cityofowasso.com

JULY 5 PIER 51 MARINA FIREWORKS SHOW Pier 51 Marina, 1926 S. Highway 151, Sand Springs pier51keystone.com tp

For the kids

New city entity focuses on ensuring Tulsa kids have economic mobility.

BY ANNE BROCKMAN

The

rst meeting of the Tulsa Children’s Cabinet took place on May 15, signaling Mayor Monroe Nichols’ commitment to seeing an additional 15,000 Tulsa children on a path to economic mobility by 2030 via the establishment of the Mayor’s O ce of Children, Youth and Families.

According to Deputy Mayor Krystal Reyes, chair of the cabinet, Tulsa is in good company with other cities focused on empowering youth.

“A lot of cities have a similar kind of city-wide body that’s focused on children and youth,” Reyes says, “so it’s a model where there are a lot of best practices and we’re really excited to implement this in Tulsa.”

e 34-member cabinet includes representatives of tribal nations; leaders from public entities, philanthropy, higher education and K-12 systems; as well as workforce experts. ree public school students — Lillian Geld , Susana Argueta-Acosta and Leslie Cardiel — serve in the cabinet as

recommended by the local Tulsa Changemakers leadership development program.

Reyes says the City and MOCYF are contracting with Impact Tulsa, a local nonpro t focused on policy and cradle-tocareer initiatives across the country. Not only does Impact Tulsa have national partnerships, it also has partnerships and data agreements with local school districts, making Impact Tulsa the “perfect kind of partner for this work,” she says.

Impact Tulsa Executive Director Ashley Philippsen is co-chair of the cabinet and director of MOCYF, and says the next few months will be focused on outlining the group’s priorities.

“ e priorities the cabinet will collaborate around will be how might they shift policies, align public and private resources, and ensure programs align in service of the mayor’s priorities,” Philippsen says, adding that the priorities include ending homelessness, public safety, a ordable housing, tribal nation co-governance, economic opportunity and student outcomes. tp

NICHOLS ANNOUNCES CREATION OF GREENWOOD TRUST

On June 1 Mayor Monroe Nichols announced the Road to Repair, a plan that will help unify Tulsans and heal multigenerational wounds from the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

One step in the Road to Repair is the creation of the private charitable Greenwood Trust, which will encourage economic growth and development in north Tulsa, the Greenwood District and surrounding neighborhoods, while addressing disparities experienced by Tulsa Race Massacre survivors and descendants, area businesses and community members.

“This is a critical step to help unify Tulsans and heal the wounds that for so long prevented generations of our neighbors from being able to recover from the Race Massacre,” Nichols stated in a press release. “The Greenwood Trust is really a bridge that connects what we as a community can bring to the table and what the community needs. As we seek to make this framework a reality, I am eager to work alongside my fellow Tulsans and partners across the country to create a fundamental shift in how we further establish generational wealth, housing opportunities and repair for so many Tulsans.”

One goal in the creation of the Greenwood Trust will be to secure $105 million in assets, with most of the funding secured, or committed, by June 1, 2026. Assets could include property transferred to the Trust, philanthropic funding and public funding, if desired.

According to Nichols, the first operational year of the Greenwood Trust will serve as a planning year to stand up some of the Trust’s initial programs and the hiring of staff to carry out fundraising efforts.

Visit cityoftulsa.org/roadtorepair for complete details. — FROM STAFF REPORTS

Members of the Tulsa Children’s Cabinet gather for the group’s first meeting on May 15. The 34-member cabinet meets every other month at City Hall.

Triple impact

The

takes its mission beyond the walls of the hospital.

BY MARNIE FERNANDEZ

In 2024 the St. John Health Equity Initiative helped more than 33,000 unique individuals through 57 community projects.

Like many communities across the country, Tulsans face signi cant disparities in access to health care, mental health services, food security and housing. e St. John Health Equity Initiative was started by the Ascension St. John Foundation and a local, committed donor in 2021 to address these issues head-on. Its bold long-term vision is to reduce disease-related mortality, increase life expectancy and ensure that people’s most basic needs are met through the three programs of the initiative.

“We are intentional about reaching those who are most vulnerable in our

BY THE NUMBERS

The Medical Access Program connected 2,906 individuals, including 24 cancer patients, to diagnostic/ specialty services.

community,” says Lauren Landwerlin, president of Ascension St. John Foundation. “Our goal is to direct resources to the communities that need them most, meet them where they are and help them move toward living healthier and safer lives.”

According to Victoria Darker, director of the St. John Health Equity Initiative, this program is agnostic of being a patient at Ascension St. John. “Our foundation understands the importance of the community aspect and re ects the basic tenets of Catholic health care: to serve those who are poor and vulnerable,” Darker says.

THE MEDICAL ACCESS PROGRAM

is program provides medical resources to uninsured individuals and connects them to diagnostic and specialty health care services in the community. Last year alone, MAP served almost 3,000 patients in the region.

THE BEDROCK INITIATIVE

Launched earlier this year, this pilot program came out of multiple conversations with community stakeholders about the importance of holistic heart health and preventative care. e program partnered with ve church communities in north Tulsa. Health care workers gave heart screenings and assessments to members of their congregations and also provided them with referrals and connections to lifestyle support resources.

ST. JOHN HEALTH EQUITY INITIATIVE GRANT PROGRAM

In 2024, HEI invested almost $13 million in funding to nonpro ts who focus specifically on the root causes of health disparities. e grants are awarded to programs that can “move the needle” in terms of making a di erence with access to care, behavioral health services, food insecurity, housing and education. tp

The Medical Access Program also supported dental services that resulted in 41 life-changing oral surgeries.

Over 27,000 prescription medications were provided at no cost.

In 2024 HEI invested $13 million in direct funding to local nonpro ts and plans to invest $16.5 million in 2025.

Ascension St. John Foundation

Ascension St. John Foundation President Lauren Landwerlin and St. John Health Equity Initiative Director Victoria Darker visit The Common Good, a recipient of a $2 million, three-year Health Equity grant to address community food and health access challenges. The Common Good serves families in northwest Tulsa with services related to health, education, career development and more.

BOOKWORM

Local icon

One of Tulsa’s oldest clubs is rooted in culture, philanthropy and community.

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

The Tuesday Book Club is a Tulsa legend in the classic sense — history, tradition and philanthropy. April 24 marked the 120th anniversary of the club, which began as a study group founded in 1905 — two years before statehood in a city where amenities were scarce. A group of community-minded women wanted paved streets, city water and a sewage system for the town of about 3,500, but they also wanted culture. eir rst planning meeting was conducted at a home complete with a wooden sidewalk, an important factor in the era of ankle-length dresses and mud.

e women wore hats and gloves to the meetings, a tradition that didn’t end until 1965. ey adopted an o cial ower (carnation), colors (pink and white), Robert’s Rules of Orders, a name (Tuesday Book Club) and selected a designated pronunciation critic. ey established a club purpose: to promote culture and education by the study of literature, arts and subjects of importance to Tulsa.

eir rst community project was an art exhibit and sale. It raised $106.50 (about $3,800 in today’s money) for the high school. en they funded a drinking fountain in downtown Tulsa. rough the years the Tuesday Book Club has been instru-

mental in establishing Tulsa’s rst Parent Teacher Association, Tulsa Historical Society (now Museum of Tulsa History), a local YWCA, Tulsa Boys’ Home, Tulsa Little eatre and Junior League. With books from their personal libraries, early club members established a public reading room, then lobbied the city commission to purchase a library site. Public library support has been a foundational mission of the club and one of its proudest achievements. “ e club’s 120th anniversary,” says club president Marlene McAllister, “is a testament to the enduring power of books to bring people together and inspire reading in our community.”

Tuesday Book Club follows an unconventional book club format. Members do not all read and discuss the same book. One member gives a 30-minute review of a book of her choice, and another member presents a 10-minute presentation on a topic of interest. Membership is limited to 30, by nomination and vote.

Meeting through world wars and pandemics, the Tuesday Book Club has not only persisted but remained what former president Kathy Horne one time described as “a force — persevering women who have done so much for our community. Our founders would be proud.” tp

FICTION FORAY

Meg Myers Morgan spends her summers writing, whether that’s keynote speeches about self-worth that she gives across the country or works of nonfiction like 2015’s “Harebrained,” or 2018’s “Everything is Negotiable.”

Morgan studied creative writing and English literature as an undergraduate at Drury University. While everyone else in her class wanted to be the next great American novelist, she had aspirations of becoming a humorist. “Saying you’ll never do something,” Morgan says, “is the surest way to make something come to fruition.”

Morgan, an associate professor at the University of Oklahoma, took the summer of 2020 to start outlining what would become her first fiction novel, “The Inconvenient Unraveling of Gemma Sinclair.” Releasing July 15, the story focuses on Gemma — a wife, successful therapist and mom of two boys — whose postpartum depression uncovers fractures related to professional demands and family stresses.

“Women, especially mothers, are pressured to self-sacrifice in a variety of ways. This leads us to minimize our own needs. For us to get sick, or have a full-on unraveling, would inconvenience every person in our lives,” says Morgan, who is also a wife and mom of two like her protagonist. “I hope this book reminds every reader that the time to come fully into ourselves is right now. No matter who it might inconvenience.”

To celebrate its debut, Morgan will host a 7 p.m. book signing July 31 at Magic City Books, 221 E. Archer St. — ANNE BROCKMAN

Meg Myers Morgan

Tuesday Book Club Vice President Carol Stookey speaks to club members in attendance at the May 13 meeting inside Schusterman-Benson Library. The club recently celebrated its 120th anniversary.

Starr power

It could be the overblown description of a great boxing event: Epic match of the season — champion heavyweight hitter faces o against superstar outlaw.

Translation: Tulsa’s iconic writer Michael Wallis has a new book, the de nitive biography of legendary outlaw Belle Starr

“Belle Starr,” his 20th book, is subtitled “ e Truth Behind the Wild West Legend.” Wallis’ goal was to unwind a century of mythmaking and the notorious legacy of the Oklahoma woman known as the Bandit Queen.

e facts are that she was born in 1848 in Missouri, educated to be a Southern belle and traumatized by the Civil War and the death of her brother while riding with guerilla forces supporting the Confederate Army. She swore revenge against all Yankees and vowed to be a “friend to any brave and gallant outlaw.” She relocated to Indian Territory, associated with horse thieves, cattle rustlers and outlaws such as Jesse James and the Younger brothers. She was murdered days before her 41st birthday in 1889.

Many of the crimes attributed to her — stagecoach stickups and bank robbery — were exaggerations. “She liked bad boys and spirited horses,” Wallis says. “Sometimes the horses didn’t belong to her.” Her biggest crime, he says, was that she was unconventional. She rejected the role of a Victorian lady, strapped a pearl-handled Colt .45 to her hip, took lovers and lived outside the law.

If she were alive today, he says, “She would be out protesting what is going on in the United States, ghting for people who need help and especially for gender equality.”

“Belle Starr” is praised for its “thorough” and “exhaustive” research of the book. In a gesture of admirable authorial gallantry, Wallis dedicated the book to his longtime research assistant Hazel Rowena Mills. It took him seven years to unravel the “myth, legend, inuendo and outright lies” about her — work that was interrupted by a series of serious health issues including “a little bit of spine surgery.” Where other writers might have stopped, Wallis kept going. He attributed it to his Marine Corps training: “Never surrender. Never turn back. Keep going. Always run to the gun re.” — CONNIE CRONLEY

Michael Wallis

Courting success

Bixby food hall and its pickleball courts invite players and fans alike.

BY NATALIE MIKLES

Josh Juarez has always been in the business of building places people love. He was just 19 when in 2005 he launched Josh’s Sno Shack, a snow cone stand that quickly became a Tulsa summer staple. At rst, it was just a way to help pay for college — but it didn’t stay small for long.

As demand grew, Juarez realized he wasn’t just selling snow cones; he was creating an experience.

Now Juarez is channeling that same spirit into a new venture: Courts and Commons, a 29,000-square-foot pickleball and food hall concept in Bixby designed for everyday connection through games, good food and community.

“I’m a big community guy,” Juarez says. “I thought, ‘Why can’t we have a place where you could come every day if you wanted — to play pickleball, to eat, to hang out?’”

Courts and Commons quickly drew a crowd when it opened this spring at 7921 E. 119th Drive. Pickleball players were thrilled to have indoor courts where they could play year-round, and the food hall drew in families, friends and co-workers looking for a place to unwind. Court reservations ll up fast with everything from casual matches to corporate events, birthday parties and family tournaments.

Juarez says Mother Road Market, one of his favorite Tulsa spots, o ered inspiration on the food side. And visits to Chicken N Pickle in Oklahoma City showed him just how much potential there was in combining food and play.

But this isn’t a copy-paste concept. Juarez wanted to build something that felt true to south Tulsa.

“ ere really wasn’t a place like this,” he says. “I wanted something local to Bixby, something fun with culture where people could come together.”

Courts and Commons is as much about the food as it is about pickleball. It features four locally owned restaurant concepts with smoothie bowls, Latin fusion, sourdough pizza and American classics. Plus there’s a full-service bar that transitions from coffee in the morning to cocktails and brews later in the day.

Outside, Courts and Commons has a wide stretch of turf with lounge chairs, outdoor games and live music on Friday nights — an open-air hangout that feels more like a backyard party than business venture.

In many ways Juarez sees his new business as an evolution of Josh’s and says both concepts are about creating experiences and great moments for people.

“ at goes beyond giving a pickleball lesson or making a great burger. It goes into unreasonable hospitality, which is one of our core values,” he says. “It’s maybe from being a pastor’s kid or in the world of service that was modeled before me. Life is good, and because I see the world that way, I want to share it with people.” tp

This spring Josh Juarez opened Courts and Commons, an indoor pickleball facility and food hall. It’s open 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 8 a.m.-11 p.m., Friday-Saturday; and 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday.

The Fo Schnitzel sandwich from Backcourt Kitchen

From chemistry to community

Local fast-food operator serves beyond the counter.

BY LACEY C. TAYLOR

Inside franchise operator David Chen’s newly opened Chick-fil-A location at 1660 E. 13th St. hangs a framed rejection letter from his first attempt to become a store operator in 2009. Adorned with the ribbon from the eventual grand opening of his first franchise — the Southroads Shopping Center location at 4933 E. 41st St. — in 2015, the letter now stands as an inspiration to new employees.

“I want my team members to dream big,” he says. “I am so thankful to be a Chick-fil-A operator, and this letter serves as a reminder that hard work pays off ... It’s a reminder there is a plan.”

Graduating with a degree in chemical engineer-

RAPID FIRE Q&A

What is your order at Chick-fi l-A? It depends on the day! Either grilled nuggets with a fruit cup or kale crunch side salad or, when I’m spoiling myself, it’s a Spicy Deluxe with pepperjack cheese, waffle fries, two Polynesian sauces and a Coke Zero.

How many times a day do you hear “my pleasure”? More than I can count; it’s become second nature. The origin of “my pleasure” actually

ing from Georgia Tech in 2004, Chen’s own life plan initially seemed mapped out toward a career in science. But a calling to instead serve people led him to become a missionary overseas — where he met his wife Lynn, a native Oklahoman — and then later to the people-focused ethos of Chick-fil-A.

“I didn’t know a lot about Chick-fil-A when I first applied,” he says. “I knew I loved customer service and that Chick-fil-A was one of the best in delivering on customer service in the industry.”

While his first attempt to work for Chick-fil-A returned the rejection letter that hangs in his office, he brushed it off at the time and applied for a different position at the Chick-fil-A headquarters

in Atlanta, Georgia, eventually landing a recruiting role for franchise operators in April 2010. Moving from Texas to Atlanta, he says his time spent at the Chick-fil-A Support Center was invaluable to both his personal and career development.

“I learned so much about the organization’s history, culture and even got to meet and see the servant heart of our founder, Truett Cathy, on multiple occasions,” he says. “As I began to spend more time selecting and interviewing local owner-operators of Chick-fil-As and spending time in their restaurants, my flame to serve on the front lines in our restaurants was rekindled, which is what led me ultimately to decide to leave the Support Center to pursue a franchise opportunity.”

In April 2015 Chen moved to Tulsa to open the Southroads Shopping Center location, which opened in August of that year.

“Being back in Oklahoma as a business owner has been a homecoming for our family,” says Chen, who shares two daughters — ages 7 and 13 — with Lynn.

Chen is deeply invested in both his team and the community. Under his leadership, the Southroads location has seen the careers of over 700 employees develop and will serve its 7-millionth guest this year. The store also has been able to donate over $2.5 million in in-kind donations to the community, giving in three areas: food insecurity, education and health advocacy.

While he acknowledges that stigmas about fast-food jobs not being a career still exist, Chen can attest to the long-term impact the organization’s culture has on professional development.

“Since we opened the Southroads location, many team members have gone on to become nurses, teachers or served in the military,” he says. “We’ve had several who started with me and now serve in senior-level leadership roles. It’s a tremendous opportunity. I hear from former employees all the time about how Chick-fil-A is such an integral part in their development and caring for others.” tp

Visit TulsaPeople.com for more of this interview.

comes from the Ritz Carlton, where formalities and elevated service greetings like “ladies and gentlemen” are part of the culture. Our founder visited the Ritz Carlton and noticed that every time he spoke with someone, they responded with “my pleasure.” He loved it and brought the idea to Chick-fil-A.

At first, team members questioned whether that would work at a fast-food restaurant. It’s a great model when you think about a vision and how some great things don’t happen overnight. Now, years later, it’s so ingrained in my daily life that I find

myself saying it to my family at home or out in the community even when I don’t have my name tag on.

Have you been in the cow mascot suit? Yes! One of our values is that we are one team and that just means there is no role that’s too small for anyone. I’m always looking for opportunities to help out where and how I can and the cow is one of them! While in the cow suit, you can’t talk, but you take a lot of pictures so you have to be very animated. Even though no one can see my face, I find myself still smiling.

Franchise operator David Chen speaks with Manager Nansy Camerino at Chen’s newest Chick-fil-A location at 1660 E. 13th St.

ON EXHIBIT

Free will and fiber arts

Artist finds niche by transforming nontraditional materials into artwork.

In 2002 artist Stephen Meltzer returned to Tulsa after spending many years in the commercial art scenes of New York and Los Angeles.

Meltzer never imagined coming back to his hometown after graduating from the University of Oklahoma and the University of Southern California, teaching at both universities and working as an art director. “I came back to Oklahoma to take care of my aging parents,” Meltzer says. “When I came back, I didn’t know I was going to stay.”

Upon his departure from the commercial world on the coasts, Meltzer needed to find a new medium that was entirely different from what he was doing as an art director. “When I worked commercially in New York and had lots of things in magazines, like cosmetic ads, perfume ads, that was all high budget, famous models and photographers — a very structured, clean discipline,” Meltzer says. “So it took me a long time to get away from that aesthetic, which was restricting.”

Now, Meltzer uses a variety of media and techniques to create one-of-akind abstract pieces. “It’s fabric art or mixed media,” Meltzer says when asked about his current artwork. “This is burlap that I dip in paint and let dry in the sun and then cement it down, rather than working on canvas.”

Meltzer wanted to start making art that wasn’t precious, but practical. “I wanted to do stuff that was not vulnerable,” Meltzer explains.

With his unique approach to materials, Meltzer has been able to cultivate a distinct artistic style that continues to evolve as his career progresses. His work was recently on exhibit at Chrysalis Salon and Spa during Mayfest, and he’s preparing a show for BOX, a small gallery in Connecticut established by a former student, as well as an alumni show at USC.

For more information about Meltzer or his art, visit stephenmeltzer2023.com or his Instagram @exlibrissm. — MEGAN TURNER

Never before seen by the public, art collection “Theodore Fried: Art in Hiding” unveils mysterious and historic works hidden during World War II as the Nazis rampaged across Europe.

The charcoal and crayon drawings by Jewish-Hungarian artist Theodore Fried at the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, 2021 E. 71st St., depict pre-war life in Europe. The roughly 9-by-14-inch crayon sketch “Portrait of Jean de Vignal” (1925), embodies the enigmatic nature of the collection, according to Curator Sofi a Thornblad

“We have just absolutely no idea who she was to him,” Thornblad says. “Was she Jewish? Did she survive the war? She’s just a complete mystery, but she’s so engaging. That’s the same with virtually all of the people in his pre-war portraits. They come with that question — what happened to you?”

While Vignal may be the same woman who appears in other works, there’s no way to be certain. Little information is publicly available about Fried or his work. He worked for the French resistance and in 1942 fled Nazi-occupied Europe. He lived in New York and retrieved the hidden works from Europe in the 1950s and 1970s, though he was unable to recover everything.

The museum purchased the collection — a total of 1,200 paintings and drawings, plus hundreds of letters, photographs, sketchbooks and documents — from the Theodore Fried Trust in 2004.

“Art in Hiding” is on display through Dec. 31. For hours and more information, visit jewishmuseumtulsa.org. — BLAYKLEE FREED

“Portrait of Jean de Vignal”

Mixed media artist Stephen Meltzer returned to Tulsa in 2002 and continues to freelance as a designer and artist, along with being a real estate agent. His first novel, “The Museum of Art and Other Things,” will be published in September.

Tulsan’s first feature-length film premieres this month

If you’ve been around the local music scene, you’re probably familiar with the name Randy Crouch. If you’re really lucky, you’ve witnessed him play. Crouch on the fiddle is a magical journey full of psychedelic, Red Dirt, jam band wizardry. In documentary filmmaker Beth Turner ’s first feature-length film, “Randy Crouch: Survival of the Fiddlest,” she captures the story of this humble yet influential Oklahoma musician. The film will make its Tulsa premiere July 11 at Circle Cinema, 10 S. Lewis Ave., during the Circle Cinema Film Festival.

An Arkansas native who now makes her home in Tulsa, Turner has been telling stories all her life through music, journalism and, most recently, film. A longtime fan of Crouch and his music, Turner knew that to tell Crouch’s story was to tell the story of the community around him. Crouch is beloved by fans and admired by musicians. Many were anxious to share archival footage, photographs and stories with Turner during the making of the film.

“There is such a community around Randy Crouch. I knew what he meant to me, and I know he’s special to all of us,” she says. “It goes really deep.”

Crouch isn’t one to seek the spotlight, and Turner took her job and his trust in her seriously.

“I never wanted it to be one of those documentaries where you feel like you’re peeking behind some kind of curtain. Randy doesn’t have a curtain. He’s completely 110% himself for anyone,” Turner says.

Visit randycrouchmovie.com to learn more. — JULIE WENGER WATSON

DECADE OF DEDICATION

Local art collective and cassette label Cult Love celebrated a milestone in May with the nonprofi t’s 10th anniversary. To honor the occasion they released “Cult Love and Friends Vol. 3: 10 Year Anniversary Edition,” a compilation featuring 19 artists from across the U.S. and also here in Tulsa — like Kalup Linzy

Spanning genres as varied as goth, pop, drone, sound art, noise, punk, electronic, ambient, hip-hop and more, Cult Love co-founder Natty Gray Watson calls this special anniversary record “the best sonic embodiment of Cult Love to date and maybe the most eclectic album of all time.”

“Over the last decade, it’s become very clear that DIY arts and music are the foundation of culture building … We’re very grateful to have gotten to be on the ground-floor of Tulsa’s creative surge for so long,” Watson says. “Ultimately community is what this is all about and the people we’ve met, and experiences we’ve had are the supreme rewards of the work we’ve been doing since our teens.”

Other founders include LoDrum and George Christ , the latter of whom designed the cover for the anniversary release.

“Cult Love and Friends Vol. 3” can be purchased on bandcamp. For more information about Cult Love and its upcoming releases, visit cultlovesoundtapes.com. — MADISON WALTERS

FAMOUS FIDDLERS

GRAMMY Award-winning bluegrass star Rhonda Vincent will be inducted into the National Fiddler Hall of Fame this month during a ceremony and concert event July 10 at the Mabee Center, 7777 S. Lewis Ave. Vincent will perform with her band, The RAGE, following the induction.

“Rhonda is an exceptional performer and works very hard to promote both traditional and modern bluegrass,” says HOF board member Larry Barto. “Her membership in the Grand Ole Opry is a testament to her contribution to music.”

Vincent, a Missouri native, comes from a long line of musicians. A multiinstrumentalist, she often performs with a mandolin, but she’s also a very accomplished fiddler. According to Barto, Vincent’s performance will include some “twin fiddle” work with her band’s fiddler, Adam Haynes . Barto says the mission of the nonprofi t is to not only honor individual musicians, but also preserve and promote the art of fiddling itself.

Additional honorees that night will include Mike Hartgrove, known for his fiddle work with The Lonesome River Band, and “Old-Time” fiddler Lyman Enloe, who will be inducted posthumously into the Hall of Fame. The evening also features country music singers Jeannie Seely and Moe Bandy as special guests, and there is a VIP pre-ceremony dinner option with music from Shelby Eicher and Friends. For more information, visit nationalfiddlerhalloffame.org. — JULIE WENGER WATSON

Beth Turner

Rhonda Vincent

Stay gold, Tulsa

The Outsiders House Museum continues to honor S.E. Hinton’s classic story, ‘The Outsiders.’

BY MEGAN TURNER

EMERGING EXECUTIVE

In May Danny Boy O’Connor announced that with the hiring of Ashley Beck he would step down from his role as executive director of the museum and into a new role as founder. As the new executive director, Beck will guide the museum into a new chapter and shares a vision with O’Connor to expand the opportunities and programs o ered at the museum.

“ e future plans are to continue the mission and the preservation of the museum and S.E. Hinton’s book,” Beck says. “ is gives us the ability to continue this legacy and as we look toward the future, we have big plans in place, some of which will be expanding our programming, providing more educational opportunities and leaving a larger impact on the community.”

FROM DILAPIDATION TO DANNY BOY

In 2016, after decades of deterioration, hip-hop artist O’Connor purchased the “Curtis Brothers’ House.” He made it his goal to restore the property to the state it was in when used as a set in 1982 for “ e Outsiders.” e house has been brought back to life with the help of volunteers and the community, and it now serves as a museum for O’Connor’s extensive collection of “Outsiders” memorabilia and as a testament to Hinton’s original 1967 novel. e museum opened to the public in 2019.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS

e museum is home to exclusive, unpublished photographs and background information on the lm’s production. e gallery features candid snapshots, scenes from the lm superimposed over their current location, behind-the-scenes pics of how the lm was made and photographer collections.

MORE THAN MEMORABILIA

Although the building is home to the largest collection of “Outsiders” memorabilia, it serves as more than just a museum. e museum o ers student tours and private VIP screenings where guests can watch “ e Outsiders” inside the museum with access to the gift shop and complimentary popcorn. VIP screenings are available for a minimum of ve and a maximum of 10 people. Student tours are available from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday- ursday. Virtual tours are also available via Zoom. Regular visiting hours are 11 a.m.-4 p.m., FridaySunday. tp

‘Ahead

of the times’

Tulsan established a dance and etiquette studio many considered a rite of passage for any local teen.

BY MICHAEL OVERALL

Running a tness studio on Brookside in the 1990s, Catherine (Swyny) Forsman asked a nearby Mexican restaurant to put a healthy option on the menu for her clients. She even suggested a recipe: black beans, rice and chicken wrapped in a whole-wheat tortilla.

Cafe Ole called it “ e Skilly,” a name that generations of Tulsans would instantly recognize. Forsman got the nickname — a British slang term that means “skillful” — as a little girl, and she proved to be very “Skilly,” indeed.

Born on Valentine’s Day 1922 after her father immigrated to Oklahoma from Liverpool, England, she started taking ballet lessons at age 4 and was only 16 when she graduated from Central High School and enrolled at e University of Tulsa. She helped pay her tuition by assisting in physical education classes.

Her husband, Marion Forsman, studied law at TU but had an entrepreneurial

streak, telling his wife that if she had “spent all that time and money on dance classes, she ought to do something with it.”

ey opened Skilly’s School of Dancing in a Utica Square basement in 1952, and it quickly became one of Tulsa’s most popular hotspots for teen socialites. e Forsmans didn’t just teach the Lindy and the Rumba; they also demonstrated etiquette and good manners. Young gentlemen learned how to approach a lady, and young ladies learned how to respond, making Skilly’s an indispensable rite of passage for Tulsa adolescents.

Having taught young people how to socialize, Forsman made sure to create opportunities for them to practice. Skilly’s hosted events for middle school social clubs, military cadets, sorority pledges and pretty much any group of teenagers who needed a dance oor. Forsman always kept up with the latest trends, becoming one of the rst dance studios in Tulsa to introduce go-go dancing and “the mod look” in the 1960s.

As fashions continued to change, however, Skilly’s relocated to Brookside and evolved into a tness center, where Forsman taught aerobics instead of dance. By the 1980s, she was two or three times older than most of her students, but they struggled to keep up with her. A newspaper once described Forsman as “a 100pound pixie with a gravel voice,” perpetually hoarse from barking instructions at her classes.

“People call me a Tulsa tradition, a survivor, an institution,” Forsman complained to a reporter. “I don’t like the image. It implies being static, and I’ve always changed with the times. In fact, my problem sometimes is that I am ahead of the times.”

Forsman kept teaching tness classes even in her 80s. She died April 26, 2011, at age 89. But the Skilly burrito remains a popular item on the Cafe Ole menu, even if today’s customers might seem less familiar with the name. tp

Catherine “Skilly” Forsman outsider her fitness studio located at 3509 S. Peoria Ave. circa 1994.

After years of fundraising, planning and preparation, hard work and patience nally paid o as the newly constructed Trinity Presbyterian Church, 7660 N. Memorial Drive in Owasso, opened its doors earlier this spring.

In 2010 a core group of people began meeting for worship in Owasso, serving as a church plant of south Tulsa’s River Oaks Presbyterian Church.

Over the years, this group quickly outgrew borrowed spaces. In 2018, under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Blake Altman, the congregation purchased land and the planning began.

“We were building for the next generation,” Altman says. “ is building is a gift to our grandkids.”

is level of investment is rare not only among church architecture, but building projects in general in today’s landscape, according to Bret Pfeifer of Pfeifer Jones Architecture. While many modern churches do not invest in physical spaces,

Walls that talk

How one local church communicates the Gospel through architecture in its new sanctuary.

BY ALLY LIGHTLE

Trinity’s congregation hoped for a beautiful building that teaches stories from the Bible and re ects its Oklahoma environment.

“From the initial space planning to speci c material selections and carved wooden elements, Trinity Presbyterian Church sought to embody their Presbyterian tradition and belief systems,” Pfeifer says. “For example, the material palette is largely of natural, honest materials as embodiment of the truth and honesty of their beliefs.

e traditional carved wooden elements are pictorial representations of the Biblical narrative — from the origins of man in the Garden of Eden to Noah’s Ark.”

e amount of detail and craftsmanship that lines the church is impressive. e front doors were carved from mahogany wood with strawberry vines and redbud leaves nodding to Oklahoma’s state fruit and tree.

e wrought-iron door pulls were forged by blacksmiths in Massachusetts and resemble the seal of John Calvin, a French theologian during the Reformation in the 1500s.

Once through the front doors, church-

goers enter the narthex, where they can see hand-carved wood trim sourced from Colombia. e trim features native Oklahoma animals such as the scissor-tailed ycatcher and bison walking two-by-two, pointing back to the story of Noah’s Ark. e sanctuary is breathtaking and immediately feels like a reverent space for worship — from the wooden ceiling resembling the Ark (which is also an acoustical feature) to 12 hand-carved hammer beams telling the Bible’s story.

But perhaps the most signi cant detail within the sanctuary is the Trinity Hall Fireplace.

“We want people to feel like this is a place to rest,” Altman says, noting that the replace features the words of Matthew 11:28: “Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

“ is is a nod to one of the core values in our church — to rest in worship,” Altman says. “For people skeptical about the church, we want them to feel like they can rest in worship.” tp

The ceiling of the new Trinity Presbyterian Church is inspired by Noah’s Ark and has 12 hand-carved beams. The project team included Bret Pfeifer, right, of Pfeifer Jones Architecture, interior design by Karen Rebele, Cram and Ferguson/Liturgical Arts and Crafts Colombia. The sanctuary’s centerpiece is a fireplace that is double-sided, so there is an outdoor fireplace directly on the other side of the building.

RED, WHITE AND BLACK MASQUERADE

The Union Schools Education Foundation shattered fundraising records at this year’s Red, White and Black Masquerade on May 3, raising an unprecedented $631,000. Approximately 600 guests gathered at River Spirit Casino Resort to raise funds for various programs like STEM, literacy, student leadership, classroom innovation and more — all of which directly benefi t Union students and educators. These programs help give over 15,000 students in Tulsa and Broken Arrow the tools for future success. UHS assistant principal Brent Robison and Union counseling services coordinator Rachel Robison, Jessica and Nick Hogaboom of Cedar Ridge School, Caitlyn Brannon and her husband Union High School principal Beau Brannon are masked up for this special event.

AVIATOR BALL: A NIGHT OF FLIGHT

Tulsa Air and Space Museum’s premier charitable event Aviator Ball returned on May 17 to celebrate the spirit of aviation. Supporting the organization’s mission to inspire and educate the next generation of innovators, Aviator Ball was an evening of lively entertainment featuring a live swing orchestra, delicious food and thrilling flight demonstrations. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from American heroes like John Herrington, an Oklahoma Shuttle Astronaut Commander and STS-113 (Retired Navy), and Stormy Boudreaux, an F-4, SR-71 and U-2 pilot. Photographed at the event are pilot Trent Latshaw, TASM Executive Director Tonya Blansett and astronaut John Herrington.

GOSPEL, GRITS AND GERSHWIN

Gospel, Grits and Gershwin is Booker T. Washington Foundation for Excellence’s major annual fundraising event, which took place on March 29 at the Historic Big 10 Ballroom. Guests enjoyed a tasty brunch, thrilling auction and beautiful performances from students involved in the jazz band, choir and drum line — just three of the extracurricular activities made possible by the proceeds from this charitable event. The event was co-chaired by Bonnie Hackler and Lisa Wakefield, pictured. Other past proceeds from GGG have funded training, the availability of free ACT/SAT test preparation before testing dates, student testing fees, textbooks, travel expenses for students and sponsors to attend state and national competitions, and so much more.

STORY

PHOTOS BY TIM LANDES

Sixth Street storefronts dressed as a set for “The Lowdown,” an upcoming television release

When driving around the metro it’s become more common to see little yellow signs directing film crews to locations and Tulsa Police o cers blocking access to multiple city blocks due to the increase in TV and film productions happening in the area.

Tulsa’s award-winning filmmaker Sterlin Harjo (Seminole/ Muscogee) — who was also our 2022 TulsaPeople Tulsan of the Year — has become a local household name, and he has partnered with Oscar-nominee Ethan Hawke for the FX series “The Lowdown” premiering Sept. 23.

The show’s home base is nestled in the Pearl District at Sixth Street and Quaker Avenue. Old buildings have been given new fictionalized lives as a cafe, bookstore, law o ce and record store all in a row. Soon we’ll watch Hawke on screen at these locations with Kyle MacLachlan and Keith David along with Tulsa’s own Tracy Letts, Tim Blake Nelson and Jeanne Tripplehorn

“The Lowdown” is just one of many Tulsa-based projects that will be watched on screens of various sizes in the coming months and years. To make shows like this, as well as movies and documentaries, one needs a crew. We checked in with five people who work in the local film industry to learn more about them and their roles, plus their advice for those who want to be a part of the next big project or create their own.

TALIA BELLA

REBELLIUM FILMS CO-OWNER AND PRODUCER

Why did you relocate to Oklahoma and start Rebellium in 2019? It was before the success of FX’s “Reservation Dogs,” so what was the draw? I met my husband and producing partner, Randy Wayne, in Los Angeles in 2017. Both of us had lived in LA for 17-18 years and were looking for a change. Originally from Moore, Oklahoma, Randy pitched me the idea of moving to Oklahoma and starting a production company. He had been traveling through and saw Oklahoma was just starting to grow as a film hub; he saw the potential and sold me on it. We moved to the Oklahoma City area in 2019 and then moved to Tulsa and bought our home here in 2022. We love Tulsa.

How do you defi ne a producer’s job in your own words? I once taught a producing class and one of the students grumbled that her colleague on a group project was handling all the work, leaving her with nothing to do. My response to her was that producing means “to do.” She shouldn’t wait for permission and part of the job is taking initiative. Producing means you’re a proactive problem-solver who makes things happen on your own.

Advice for someone who wants to be a producer and/or start their own production company? First, I’d ask why they want to be a producer or start a production company. I think there are a lot of misconceptions about what producers do, thinking it’s glamorous

— sitting by a monitor, making calls and getting rich. That’s far from reality. Producing is often unglamorous, involves grueling work and many unpaid hours. It demands a specifi c personality and resilience to navigate today’s tough market.

But if you’re passionate, almost obsessed, and can’t imagine doing anything else, (you) might just be the right candidate. My advice: keep your head down and work hard. Don’t chase accolades — let your work and reputation speak for you. As the saying goes, “Be so good they can’t ignore you.”

Favorite Tulsa-area fi lming location to date?

We shot a scene at Tulsa International Airport in late 2023, and it’s my favorite because it was so seamless. Filming at LAX is a nightmare with endless red tape. (For “Everything to Me,” formally known as “The Book of Jobs”) we filmed at Tulsa on a Friday afternoon, using it as a stand-in for San Francisco International, and everything went smoothly.

What was the fi rst movie/show that made you want to do this as a career? I’ll be honest, I never wanted to be in the industry. I lived in LA for many years not working in the industry and sort of fell into it by accident and just fell in love. However, I have always loved cinema. Films that shaped my childhood/early adulthood: “The Sound of Music,” “All About My Mother” and “Cinema Paradiso.”

BELLA’S TULSA-AREA FILMED PROJECTS: “Everything to Me” (formerly known as “The Book of Jobs”) will be released in 100 theaters nationwide on Sept. 5. “Resurrection Road” (aka “Retribution”) was released in select theaters nationwide, as well as on digital and on demand, on June 6. “Cottonmouth” had its LA premiere on June 7, and wide release information will follow shortly.

READ AN INTERVIEW WITH DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKER COLLEEN THURSTON, PLUS

Talia Bella inside Coracle Coffee

“Local fi lmmakers need to be able to tell authentic stories about the world around them without other folks’ agendas compromising their ideas. If we truly want Tulsa to be a thriving fi lmmaking ecosystem, we simply need more local work of quality to be produced on a much more consistent basis. And finding money is always the biggest challenge.”

— ZACH LITWACK

Tulsa filmmaker Zach Litwack at Oklahoma State University-Tulsa where he teaches filmmaking classes to Tulsans looking to join the film industry.

ZACH LITWACK

DIRECTOR, WRITER, PRODUCER, CAMERA OPERATOR, BOOM OPERATOR, LOCATION SCOUT, PRODUCTION COORDINATOR, PRODUCTION DESIGNER, EDITOR, POST-PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR, EDUCATOR

Current project(s): I am the Filmmaker in Residence and Director of Entertainment Media at Oklahoma State University-Tulsa, where I plan, manage and teach community-based filmmaking workshops and for-credit courses in filmmaking and the entertainment industry.

I recently finished writing the fiction feature “Quiet Storm” and am working on getting it produced.

What is your favorite part of the fi lmmaking process? There are so, so many. The writing of the script, a stage where all things are possible, is tough to beat. I always think that a film is a success if it even remotely resembles the idea you originally had in your head when you sat down to write it. Filmmaking is incredibly difficult on a logistical, financial and creative level, so finishing any film is an immense accomplishment.

When you’re able to accurately recreate something that previously only lived in your imagination, this is a special thing that should always be celebrated. So, that moment when you get to watch your film for the first time with an audience is incredibly special. Every now and then, there’s a moment on set when the stars have aligned and all of the creative elements are in place just as you imagined them. There’s an entire cast and crew right there with you in the trenches, helping you bring your story to life on the director’s monitor in front of you. This is such a magical, humbling moment that makes me feel lucky to do what I do.

What advice would you give someone who wants to make a movie/show in Tulsa? Put in the time to connect with local filmmakers and help them, just as you hope to receive support on your own work. This is a small community, so treat other people with respect and kindness. Finally, check your ego at the door. There’s no room for that here.

When it comes to screenwriting, how does someone get their script in front of producers/production companies? Of course there’s the traditional route through established studios/production companies.

That route is tougher and tougher as every year goes by. When it comes to trying to produce something locally, it’s all about building relationships with the bigger local players. This is a people business and there’s no substitute for showing up and being a face someone remembers.

You lead fi lmmaking workshops at OSU-Tulsa. What are you doing in the fall? What can people expect? We’re still solidifying the roster of community film workshops but people can expect to see a wide variety of courses, including screenwriting and lighting for film. We pride ourselves on keeping the registration fees very low in comparison to other schools and organizations. One of our goals is to democratize the process — we believe anyone should be able to learn to tell a cinematic story and money shouldn’t be a hurdle if we can help it. We frequently award scholarships that remove much of the financial burden prospective students might have.

What is missing in Tulsa’s filmmaking ecosystem? We sorely need a local filmmaking grant that is available to all filmmakers who hope to produce work locally, with largely local cast and crew, no strings attached. Local filmmakers need to be able to tell authentic stories about the world around them without other folks’ agendas compromising their ideas. If we truly want Tulsa to be a thriving filmmaking ecosystem, we simply need more local work of quality to be produced on a much more consistent basis. And finding money is always the biggest challenge. Second to this, we need a larger skilled workforce. I’m trying to do my part with workshops and for-credit courses. Ultimately, we need enough skilled local filmmakers to staff multiple large crews simultaneously, supporting bigger shows that might travel to Oklahoma at the same time as local productions.

What was the fi rst movie/show that made you want to do this as a career? When I was 4 years old, I saw Terry Gilliam’s “The Time Bandits” and I immediately fell in love with filmmaking. And I never looked back.

STACY SUVINO

SET DECORATION BUYER FOR FILM AND TV PROJECTS

Are you from Tulsa or a transplant? I’m originally from Fayetteville, Arkansas. I moved here last year from Atlanta, Georgia.

How do you defi ne your role in your own words? It’s my job to help bring the artistic vision of the production designer and set decorator to life. I source and purchase everything from furniture, decorative items, food, fabric for drapes, etc. If it’s a period project, a great amount of research goes into preparing and selecting pieces.

Current project(s): I’m currently working on “The Lowdown” for FX on Hulu.

How many years in the industry and how did you get into this work? I’ve been working in this industry for six years.

Like many, I had a very interesting way of getting into this work. Long story short, “True Detective” Season 3 was filming in my hometown and was already crewed up before I found out about it. I didn’t know anyone, but my dad managed to get a phone number from the production office door and I called it. I ended up being connected to the set decorator and met him a week later about potentially coming on as a production assistant. I called every Friday for three months to see if there was an opening and finally an opportunity for me to come on the show to work opened up. It wasn’t in set decoration, but in transportation. My time there was invaluable and afforded me the opportunity to learn how different departments work and the day-to-day of working on a show. That experience came full circle last year when the very man who gave me my break came to work on “The Lowdown.” It’s an honor to work alongside him and he’s taught me so much.

What is a typical day like for you? No days ever really look alike for me. My days include everything from attending a location scout, to shopping in the tri-state area, to helping dress a set. One of the things I like most is how multi-layered this job can be.

Advice for someone who wants to get into fi lm/TV set design? My advice would be to network within the state you live and get to know people who are working in the industry. If you’re not sure what department you want to work in, try getting on a production as a production assistant and test the waters to see what appeals and excites you.

Is there a favorite prop you’ve found or purchased and were able to get into a shot? I found some incredible vintage French textiles and a vintage brass enamel lampshade with a peacock motif for a particular set that I loved so much. They felt really special and added interesting textures and such depth to the space.

What is missing in Tulsa’s fi lmmaking ecosystem? For our department, I would say not having access to local prop houses can be a challenge. We tend to buy a majority of what we are sourcing, but sometimes we don’t have the option and default to renting from prop houses in Atlanta, LA and New York. We work very quickly and it would be helpful to have options within the state to work within our time constraints.

What was the fi rst movie/show that made you want to do this as a career? I remember seeing the film “Water for Elephants” and what I saw on the screen visually took my breath away. It was as if a light bulb turned on and I knew I wanted to be a part of creating worlds within storytelling. Jack Fisk was the production designer on that film and seeing his work literally changed the trajectory of my creative path. Two years ago I met him and had the opportunity to tell him what his work means to me ... something I will carry with me forever.

Stacy Suvino sits inside The Antiquary, 3024 E. 15th St., which was one of the set locations for “The Lowdown.”

Charles Elmore on “The Lowdown” set after wrapping the second-to-last day of filming. He served as the B Camera Operator.

CHARLES ELMORE

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY AND CAMERA OPERATOR

How do you defi ne your job in your own words?

My position is typically as a director of photography or camera operator. I consider myself a camera specialist skilled and experienced in a range of technical skills and requirements within the camera-specific department of the film, television and media industry. Those terms are interchangeable, though. Depending on which branch of the medium and school of practice you’re kind of talking about, “cinematographer” is more of a kind of mastered craft position explicitly within the realm of cinema camera work. Director of photography is the person in

charge of a camera team, like a live concert event or even like a multi-cam, captured dramatic event. But yeah, my position is director of photography. I’ve also been a film loader as well as digital imaging technician and a few other things within the camera department throughout my career.

How long have you worked in the industry? Twenty-fi ve years. I have worked in the film, video and TV industry in Oklahoma since I got home from college in 2000. From 2000 until about 2010, I kicked around doing a lot of

freelance, short films, small agency work as an editor and camera person, and then eventually settled into editing and cinematography full time around 2012 and have been pretty productive and (mostly) full time, in the film business, since about 2012.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a DP? First of all, once you know what you’re going to pursue, just go and start doing the thing. This is a medium where practice is the only path to perfection and sitting around waiting for permission or validation is just going to slow you down. Start using whatever gear lets you start doing that immediately. Your phone, a cheap camera off Facebook Marketplace — whatever your tool of choice, just start. Start, but focus your intention on outcomes. Are you wanting to focus on lighting? Then set the camera still and light a scene. If you want to practice movement — Steadicam handheld, gimbal work — get your hands on the tools that give you experience.

Study your favorites and replicate them. Also be studious and deliberate. You will never get strong or sharper if you are not hitting the hammer to the iron. Iron sharpens iron and the only way to get as good as you can in this medium is to study and practice and study and practice and study and practice … you just can’t get anything accomplished growth-wise or skill-wise if you’re not failing toward perfection.

And try everything, study everything, interrogate everything. Don’t just study great shots. Find out how they made that shot, why they made it that way, and what was the logic and desires and intent behind that certain sequence, or that certain visual thing that’s inspiring you.

Additionally finding mentors, of course, and asking questions, asking theory, seeking feedback on work. And ultimately do it yourself and don’t be precious. Fail and recreate and fail and recreate until suddenly your failures are getting less and less, and your masterpieces are growing more and more.

Favorite Tulsa-area fi lming location to date: You know, it’s interesting because it’s not any one location I love in Tulsa over another, and honestly, I think Tulsa is my favorite location, period. Because it’s so beautiful and weird and amazing … Everything from its architecture … all the way down to the granularity of its surfaces and its textures … there’s just so much amazing beauty to it all.

What was the fi rst movie/show that made you want to do it for living? Before the reality TV wave that came post 9/11 and post 2000s, MTV showed the making of music videos, and they also occasionally on MTV News would do set reports from movies that were being filmed. I think it might have been covering Danny Boyle’s “Trainspotting,” or maybe something adjacent to some music videos around the time, essentially. Like even before the greats of our modern auteur cohort of filmmakers like (David ) Fincher, Michael Bay and Mark Romanek , a lot of directors came out of the music video era. We all saw them when they were directing music videos for Michael Jackson and Madonna and Aerosmith and Bjork and all of these great, great bands.

KEVIN J. TIGHE

CO-OWNER SPOTLIGHT CINEMA SUPPLY, FREELANCE LINE PRODUCER

What is your role in a TV/fi lm production with Spotlight Cinema Supply? We rent production supplies. This is basically the location stuff for when you’re not filming on a sound stage. A lot of this stuff is required. So we have pop-up tents, tables, chairs, heating and cooling stuff, fans, directors’ chairs, wardrobe supplies, wardrobe racks, hangers, steamers, irons, ironing boards — that type of stuff. Then we have some more specialty stuff, like foggers and hazers. We also have (Verizon) internet routers in various sizes and Starlink system because some areas just don’t have good (cellular) service. Then we have about 160 walkies for one large job or a couple smaller jobs.

We’ve recently gotten into grip and lighting equipment. We’ve partnered with Craig Aines and his 9R Ranch Grip and Lighting. There’s an 18K (18,000 watts) which is a pretty big light. There’s a whole array of sky panels as well as a ton of other lights and grip equipment.

What is your experience in the industry? I got into film production right out of high school like many other people in this industry. Nepotism brought me out to Los Angeles. I have an aunt who is a producer out there, and I started going out over summer and winter breaks, every opportunity I had throughout college, and then moved to LA in 2005. I was born and raised in New York, so I was going out and just loved it. I was mainly doing commercials, which I still love. They’re fast and furious, and they’re typically great money.

I’ve always been a freelance worker, so it’s always been feast or famine. When things are good, things are really good. When things get tough, you hunker down. And obviously the LA lifestyle was difficult to maintain when things were slow. I lived and worked through the recessions of 2007-2008 and then 2014. I’ve worked through (Screen Actors Guild) strikes, Teamster strikes, rough economies, and now, you know, unfortunately, Los Angeles has been suffering a lot.

What projects have you been involved with the past fi ve years? We try to get our equipment on every job that comes into town. “Reservation Dogs” first season was one of the first projects I worked on after a small horror film. “Reservation Dogs” was a great project for us. That was actually our first client. We had just got our equipment and Disney (owner of FX and Hulu) was our first client, which was great. We had some equipment on “Twisters” and “Killers of the Flower Moon.” We’ve been supplying (“The Lowdown”) with predominantly expendables.

You mentioned you also work as a line producer on fi lms like “The Last Rodeo,” which is getting nationwide screenings. There are multiple types of producer, so what does a line producer do in your own words? My job typically starts anywhere between a month and three months or more, depending on the size of the project, before the actual shoot. Typically, when I get involved, money is already in place. Producers have probably already been working for years on developing the script, getting cast attached, finding financing, distribution, all of that. So once those ducks are in a row, that’s when they say, “OK, it’s time to go film the movie.” That’s typically when I start.

Technically, a line producer is considered an above the line position. So above the line is typically your producers, your director, your hero cast, your casting director. A few people like that — line producer as well. However, my world revolves in the below-the-line, which is basically everything else. So you know, all the money management when it comes down to managing the cast, but the logistics of the shoot, the crew, the vendors, the locations and everything in between. I consider a line producer someone that is basically the breaking point between above-the-line and below-the-line. Certainly, every project is different. tp

The Tulsa connection

With the growth of Tulsa’s film industry, celebrity spotting has become somewhat of a local sport over the past few years. From Sylvester Stallone to Ethan Hawke, movie stars have been popping up all over town. While it’s a thrill to catch a glimpse of Hollywood right here in Green Country, locally produced films also boost the economy and foster our homegrown talent. The film industry is good business for northeast Oklahoma, and the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts and Culture is here to support it, helping connect filmmakers and producers with the local workforce, support services and locations.

“We’re generally the first call for films that are looking at Tulsa,” says Meg Gould, Tulsa FMAC executive director and film commissioner.

Gould and Tulsa FMAC manager Natalie Bowling break down scripts to see what key needs are for a project, such as locations, and then create location packages, connect filmmakers with local crews, help find production office space and assist with the permitting process. They’ll help with location scouting and serve as a resource for the project — whether that’s film, television, documentary, still photo shoots, commercials and others.

“We’re their connector, so we’ll help them find the different vendors, crew, all kinds of things that they need in order to start once they get here,” Gould says.

To assist with this Tulsa FMAC maintains the Tulsa Creative Directory, which lists local professionals in everything from audio and accounting to casting and catering, and the Locations Directory, which provides photos and descriptions of a wide range of available film locations. While both databases are free to join and search, in order to be included, certain categories require proof of professional credentials, and only property owners are allowed to list their property.

Tulsa FMAC’s support doesn’t end when filming stops. The office also provides support post-production.

“We’re a resource for their entire production,” Gould says. “Whenever a locally filmed project premieres, we collaborate on marketing initiatives to support its release. If the film is featured at a festival, we will often attend and celebrate the moment. With our strong social media presence, we actively promote these films online, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. Ultimately, we take pride in championing all the incredible works being filmed in the Tulsa region.”

While the Department of Commerce’s Oklahoma Film and Music office, the Cherokee Nation’s Film Commission and several cities currently offer film incentives to encourage filmmakers to utilize the state and its resources for their projects, Tulsa does not have its own incentive. According to Gould, however, that is about to change.

“(Tulsa FMAC is) working on that and hoping to get it launched in July,” she says. “A great selling point about Oklahoma that separates us from other states is we have local incentives that can be stacked on the state incentive,” meaning productions could potentially receive additional funds if they qualify for local incentives.

Gould sees a bright future for Tulsa’s film industry and is grateful for the individuals and businesses supporting it.

“I’m really excited about it. We have these amazing filmmakers like Sterlin Harjo and John Swab who call Tulsa home,” she says. “I’m a big cheerleader of those who have invested into the film industry here, and I am very privileged to be able to market them, tell their stories and help bring more people here.”

Go to tulsafmac.com for more information. — JULIE WENGER WATSON

Spotlight Cinema Supply co-owner Kevin J. Tighe in his Owasso facility

LIGHTS, CAMERA … TULSA!

12 local sites that served as sets and backdrops for past productions.

BY HARPER DOSS AND ANNE BROCKMAN

MEADOW LAKE RANCH

Film: Minari (2020)

3450 S. 137th W. Ave., Sand Springs

According to Visit Tulsa the ranch was the setting for many of the film’s farm scenes, including the iconic burning barn scene.

ATLAS LIFE BUILDING

Film: Ida Red (2021)

415 S. Boston Ave.

This thriller, directed by Tulsa filmmaker John Swab, filmed in and around Tulsa from August-September 2020.

MAGIC CITY BOOKS

TV series: The Lowdown (2025)

221 E. Archer St.

Premiering in September on FX, this series filmed in multiple locations across the city, including this Tulsa Arts District storefront.

PHILTOWER BUILDING

Film: Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

427 S. Boston Ave.

While a lot of filming took place in Osage County, select downtown buildings, including the Philtower and Federal Courthouse, were film backdrops.

APARTMENT BUILDING

Film: UHF (1989)

330 E. 11th St.

Located just outside of downtown, this apartment building served as the home of character Raul Hernandez.

RIVER SPIRIT CASINO RESORT

TV series: Reservation Dogs (2021-2023)

8330 Riverside Parkway

This Muscogee Nation establishment stood in as host for the Indian Health Service conference in season two of the series.

OUTSIDERS

HOUSE

Film: The Outsiders (1983)

731 N. St. Louis Ave.

This unassuming house in a quiet neighborhood was the home of the Curtis brothers and is now a museum dedicated to the film based on the S.E. Hinton novel.

WEBSTER HIGH SCHOOL

Film: Rumble Fish (1983)

1919 W. 40th St.

This Tulsa high school served as the protagonist’s high school in this feature film based on another Hinton novel.

TULSA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

TV series: Tulsa King Season 1 (2022)

7777 Airport Drive

The first season of this Paramount+ program welcomed Sylvester Stallone and company to downtown and other area locations, including TUL.

PHILBROOK MUSEUM OF ART

Film: Little Dixie (2023)

2727 S. Rockford Road

Another Swab film set in Tulsa, with filming locations including the midtown art museum.

PHILCADE BUILDING

Film: The Killer Inside Me (2010) Fifth Street and Boston Avenue

Set in 1950s Fort Worth, Boston Avenue is one of several Oklahoma sites where filming took place.

Film: Braking for Whales (2019)

2600 Oklahoma 66, Catoosa

A brother and sister take a trip to the iconic Route 66 landmark, as well as the Oklahoma Aquarium, in this indie film. tp

BLUE WHALE OF CATOOSA

THESE OUTDOOR SPACES HAVE IT ALL: AMBIANCE, GREAT FOOD AND FRESH AIR.

BY TIM LANDES AND ANNE BROCKMAN

Mt. Vesuvius Pizza and salads from Bohemian Woodfi re Pizza and Homemade Pasta

BOHEMIAN WOODFIRE PIZZA AND HOMEMADE PASTA

Spend an evening tucked inside an East Village alleyway patio and feel like you’ve been transported to a magical, relaxed atmosphere full of delicious Neapolitan-style pies with sophisticated toppings. If you opt for a lunch visit, we recommend the muffaletta sandwich.

818 E. THIRD ST. • EASTVILLAGEBOHEMIAN.COM

STONEHORSE CAFE

A scattering of tables along the Utica Square sidewalk makes for a comfortable yet elevated dining experience. Open for lunch and dinner, Stonehorse is the place to find seasonal specialties as well as tried-and-true entrees like woodfired pizzas, house made fettuccini and grilled steaks.

1748 UTICA SQUARE • STONEHORSECAFE.COM

MOTHER ROAD MARKET

USA Today’s best food hall three years in a row is perfect for kids, especially if they love playing mini golf or cornhole. Escape from the summer sun under the covered patio and enjoy a plethora of dining options that will satisfy even the pickiest eater in your group. The Wel Bar serves up plenty of ice-cold beers, cocktails and mocktails, too.

1124 S. LEWIS AVE. • MOTHERROADMARKET.COM

R BAR AND GRILL

This Brookside staple’s patio is a place to meet friends for a happy hour drink or for a dinner gathering after shopping the nearby stores. If you opt for dining before shopping, R Bar offers a weekend brunch menu that changes weekly. Chambong, anyone?

3421 S. PEORIA AVE. • RBARTULSA.COM

HOLÉ MOLÉ

For a long time it was known as the popular Full Moon patio, and now it has a new life as the best spot on Cherry Street to enjoy a $5 margarita and a delectable dish of Oaxacan Mexican food. Beat the summer heat by enjoying breakfast or brunch.

1529 E. 15TH ST. 3SIRENSGROUP.COM/BRANDS/HOLE-MOLE

SOCIETY BURGER

Whether it’s at the Cherry Street, Broken Arrow or the southeast Tulsa location, Society Burger’s patio is a popular spot to enjoy a burger and loaded fries while watching a game on one of the TVs, or while enjoying weekend brunch offerings like the “Thicc” Biscuit.

1419 E. 15TH ST.; 9999 S. MINGO ROAD; 901 E. KENOSHA ST., BROKEN ARROW SOCIETYBURGER.COM

MCNELLIE’S

McNellie’s downtown pub has long been known for its vast beer selection and its Wednesday burger deal, and in recent years its outdoor beer garden has become another highlight for the 21-year-old restaurant. If you’re in south Tulsa, the McNellie’s location there offers another great patio option that’s perfect for a happy hour meetup.

409 E. FIRST ST.; 7031 S. ZURICH AVE. • MCNELLIES.COM

Seasonal nonalcoholic ranch water and Orange coriander Spritz

IN THE RAW SOUTH

As the sun sets, catch panoramic views of Tulsa while dining on traditional and signature sushi rolls at In the Raw South. No matter what, don’t sleep on the itr salad — a Tulsa staple lled with roasted chicken, toasted almonds, crispy noodles and wontons tossed in a ginger vinaigrette. A night out with the girls calls for a irtini. 6151 S. SHERIDAN ROAD

Poke roll with an itr salad and edamame

EL PATRON

Snow crab legs with cocktails Jalapeno Madness and Tulsa Skies

SOMA

When Brut Hotel opened in 2023 so did Soma, its rooftop restaurant and bar. The picturesque locale attracts more than just hotel guests with its curated menu of sharable appetizers, robust entrees and delectable desserts. The patio bar often hosts concerts at sunset featuring local talent. 1840 S. BOULDER AVE. • SOMATULSA.COM

POLO GRILL

Under the shade of tall oak trees sits an intimate scattering of tables on Polo Grill’s patio. Along with an exhaustive wine list and a menu spanning everything from salads to steaks and seafood — we love the salmon tamale — Polo Grill and its patio is often the host of live music from noted guitarist Mark Bruner. 2038 UTICA SQUARE POLOGRILL.COM

RIDGE GRILL AND RIDGE CANTINA

Live music lls the air of the shared, dog-friendly patio of Ridge Grill and Ridge Cantina most nights. Whether you’re opting for a happy hour or high-end steak dinner, Ridge Grill has been satisfying customers since 2011. At Ridge Cantina, birria tacos with a skinny margarita can’t be beat. 9999 S. MINGO ROAD

RIDGECANTINA.COM, RIDGEGRILL.COM tp

DAIGORO

Enjoy an Akaushi ribeye or the kung pao chicken while taking in the views of Zink Lake at Tulsa’s newest fine dining experience that recently opened near downtown along Riverside Drive. It’s the latest endeavor from the creative minds behind Lone Wolf and Chicken and the Wolf. 1924 RIVERSIDE DRIVE DAIGOROTULSA.COM

Kung Pao Chicken and other Daigoro menu items

A LA CARTE

Buzzy beverages

Cool, refreshing co ee concoctions from 3 local cafes.

LAURANNAE BAKING CO. has some of the most refreshing drinks around. The honey chai iced latte is the perfect blend of natural sweetness and complexity. For an extra fun pick-me-up, order an iced coffee flight. Flavors like the iced butterscotch latte and iced dark chocolate coconut latte are two of our favorites. While you’re treating yourself, order a breakfast hand pie — filled with sausage, egg and cheese. 112 W. Commercial St., Broken Arrow • 918-258-5744 • lbcotulsa.com

The nitro cold brew at DRIP CITY COFFEE CO. may be the best way to jump-start the morning. For something less intense, try the sweet cold brew latte — delicious with vanilla syrup and plenty of ice. Or if you’re looking to really indulge yourself, try the Blended Baklava; it’s Drip City’s take on a frappuccino with espresso, pistachio syrup, honey, ground cinnamon and milk blended into a creamy, shake-like consistency. 8931 S. Yale Ave. • 918-392-3322 • dripcitycoffeeco.com

Cool down with the iced coffee drinks at CAFE CUBANA . A berries and cream cold brew has just the right amount of sweetness with house-made blueberry syrup and sweet cream. Or try a Cafe Cubana specialty, like the cafe con leche made with espresso, milk and sweetened condensed milk poured over ice or blended. 4201 S. Sheridan Road • 918-960-3121 • linktr.ee/cafecubanatulsa — NATALIE MIKLES

RANCH LUNCH BUNCH

For a limited time participating Mazzio’s locations have added a new Ranch Bar to its lunch buffet options. In addition to its classic ranch, avocado, jalapeno and smokey varieties will be available through Aug. 10. The Ranch Bar is included with every buffet or salad bar purchase, according to a press release. Visit mazzios.com for location information.

NEW RESTAURANT

These fi ve restaurants — winners of TulsaPeople’s annual A-LIST Readers’ Choice Awards — are already making waves in Tulsa’s vibrant food scene.

CHEEVER’S CAFE 1345 E. 15th St. 539-867-2055 cheeverscafe.com

RUBY D’S BURGER JOINT 12 W. Fourth St. 918-574-8732 rubydsburgerjoint.com

BARONS ON 1ST 302 E. First St. 918-417-5290 baronson1st.com

HOLÉ MOLÉ 1529 E. 15th St. 539-867-2164 3sirensgroup.com

CITY HALL STEAKHOUSE 123 E. Main St., Jenks 918-984-2489 cityhallsteak.com

Barons on 1st

Laurannae Baking Co. iced coffee flight

WHAT’S COOKING?

NEW FARMERS MARKET-INSPIRED

SWEET TREAT

Watermelon season is here. We’re putting it in salsas, salads and, of course, eating it right off the rind. But one of our favorite ways to eat watermelon is in a granita — a semi-frozen, icy dessert. This shaved ice treat is easy to make and the perfect thing to enjoy on a hot summer day.

— NATALIE

MIKLES

WATERMELON GRANITA

Makes 6-8 servings

5 cups peeled and seeded watermelon chunks (from about a 3-pound watermelon) 1/2 cup sugar

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Place the watermelon chunks in a blender or a food processor and blend on high until very smooth. Transfer the watermelon puree to a mixing bowl and add the sugar and lime juice. Stir with a wooden spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes.

Transfer the mixing bowl to the freezer and freeze for 30 minutes.

Remove the bowl from the freezer and use a fork to scrape any ice crystals from the sides of the bowl. Stir to incorporate the crystals. Return to the freezer.

Repeat this scraping procedure every 30 minutes, or until the consistency is “snowy” when scraped with a fork or spoon, at least 4 hours. Then scoop into bowls or dessert glasses and serve.

Everyone’s always looking for the next cool thing in food. Tulsa foodies want to be in the know about new restaurants, up-and-coming chefs and must-have trends.

One to put on your list is The Meat and Cheese Show’s new, twice-monthly Saturday night farmers market-inspired dinners and twice-monthly Sunday brunch events. It also hosts a Friday Night Supper Club dinner every Friday with menus changing monthly.

Opened in 2021 at 1306 E. 11th St., Suite H, The Meat and Cheese Show is owned by longtime Tulsa chefs Joel Bein and Amanda Simcoe (aka the Cheese Wench).

“These dining experiences feature food inspired from our childhoods, travels, seasonality, locality and stuff we just love to eat,” Bein says.

These original menus have so far been a hit with diners looking for unique dining experiences.

In addition to their events, The Meat and Cheese Show has a cheese shop, specializing in cheese and charcuterie from small producers. At the shop they also have a curated selection of wine, gourmet graband-go offerings, seasonings, spices and gourmet grocery items.

“Guests can purchase premade cheese sample packs, grazing boxes or just purchase cheese to enjoy with a glass of wine or bubbles,” Bein says, adding that catering also is available.

Reservations required for the weekend dinners and brunches can be made on the events pages of their social media. — NATALIE MIKLES

Amanda Simcoe and Joel Bein

OF SECRETS AND SUSHI

When Brandon Fischer considered opening a sushi restaurant his original plan was to make it a ghost kitchen (a food operation that prepares food solely for pick-up or delivery), running it out of the Chimi’s location near 81st Street and Sheridan Road. But Fischer, owner of all three Chimi’s restaurants in Tulsa, understood customers might hesitate to order nigiri and sashimi from a kitchen also serving enchiladas.

So the next plan was to make it a speakeasy — Fischer would create a secret door from inside

Chimi’s to a small sushi restaurant. Only insiders would know. But as word spread that Fischer was fl ying in top-tier fish and reviving recipes from former Tulsa restaurant institution Fuji (which closed in early 2024), the secret didn’t last. And so while Mr. Nobu’s Sushi opened in the spring at its own address (6709 E. 81st St.) with a primary kitchen and seven sushi chefs, it has still retained some of the fun, secret elements Fischer envisioned — like a secret paneled door leading to a 10-person private omakase-style sushi bar.

Fischer’s friendship with chef Nobu Terauchi is the foundation behind Mr. Nobu’s. Fischer says his appreciation for sushi came in part from the time he spent talking to Terauchi in the early days of Fuji, which was Tulsa’s first sushi bar, opening in 1986. Naming the restaurant Mr. Nobu’s was Fischer’s way of honoring Terauchi and his the impact on the Tulsa restaurant scene.

Mr. Nobu’s is an intimate space. Its walls are adorned with hand-painted florals and Japanese characters. Fischer set out to create a high-quality sushi bar focused on temaki (hand-rolled sushi), sashimi and dressed nigiri.

“These are bites that you shouldn’t need your soy sauce and wasabi for — they should have the perfect balance of flavors,” Fischer says. “For us, it’s not about putting out a large amount of food, it’s really about toning it back and going back to really great food.”

The star of the menu, Fischer says, is the omakase — chef’s choice, from the Japanese phrase meaning “I’ll leave it up to you.”

Fischer’s standards are high and start with the quality of the rice, which he says sets Mr. Nobu’s apart. — NATALIE MIKLES

The scoop on Swirl 66

A charming new ice cream shop has opened at 1802 S. Cincinnati Ave. just in time for summer. Located in a restored Phillips gas station, Swirl 66 focuses on a signature vanilla soft serve and pineapple whip. The shop’s nostalgic Route 66 theme and pink-painted façade easily tempt passersby to make a sweet summer pitstop.

The shop opened on May 9 and offers a variety of Signature Swirls — combinations of either vanilla soft serve or pineapple whip with a range of toppings. Early bestselling Swirls include Nutty Buddy (vanilla soft-serve with brownies, Reese’s and hot fudge) and Raspberry Whip (pineapple whip with raspberry puree and graham cracker). For lovers of customization, Swirl 66 also offers a build-your-own option where you can choose from a variety of toppings to personalize your ice cream cup or cone.

Swirl 66 is open noon-9 p.m., Sunday-Thursday, and noon-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday. — MEGAN TURNER

NEW BREW ON THE BLOCK WHAT THE ALE

Firefl y Brew, located at 1924 E. Sixth St., is the newest addition to Tulsa’s brewery district.

Founded and owned by Rashel Hudson, Firefl y brews kombucha, a nonalcoholic fermented tea made with black or green tea, sugar and a SCOBY — a live, symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. Hudson’s probiotic-rich beverage is carbonated and flavored with organic fruits and ingredients through secondary fermentation.

Hudson started her business in her Tulsa home in 2020 making elderberry syrup and selling it at farmers markets and other shops in the area. Now she’s about to officially open Firefl y’s taproom to the public, and a larger-scale manufacturing line is nearing completion as well.

The facility required extensive renovation since it had been empty for so long.

“I really wanted to be in what I consider the brewery district — by the Cabin Boys, American Solera and Marshall’s. A lot of work had to be done,” Hudson says, noting upgrades included a new roof, updated plumbing, new HVAC systems, all new wiring, a special dehumidifier system and ADA-compliance areas.

Firefl y’s distribution channels include regional retailers, online sales and plans to enter key markets like Florida and Colorado. Products can also be purchased online at firefl ybrew.com. — TOM GILBERT

Mr. Nobu’s omakase

Rashel Hudson

Pineapple whip from Swirl 66

RibCrib

Founded in 1992 by Bret Chandler at 16th Street and Harvard Avenue, RibCrib continues to impress its patrons with its casual dining approach to Oklahoma-style barbecue, burgers, spuds and salads.

“Like Oklahoma, RibCrib is a blend of styles and flavors,” says Regional Manager Matt Patterson. “There’s a little Kansas City sweetness with our sauces and some Florida vibes with our pulled pork. We’re always keeping our eyes open for new ways to introduce regional styles to our fans.”

Each of the 41 RibCrib locations across eight states smokes its barbecue every day. All the ribs, brisket, chicken and pork are slathered, seasoned and smoked by RibCrib’s teams at each location. Beyond barbecue, the eatery is known for its wide-ranging menu. “Our catfish is very popular, as are our half-pound burgers and our loaded spuds,” Patterson says. “We want folks to come hungry and leave happy every time.”

RibCrib provides catering option for groups or events of any size, along with takeout and delivery through ribcrib.com.

Every business has a story to tell.

TulsaPeople is proud to present our eighth annual edition of “FACES OF THE 918,” a special sponsored editorial section that tells the stories behind a variety of locally owned businesses serving “the 918.” Each profile features owners and/or employees of 42 Tulsa-area companies with a description of their business. We hope you will find the presentation informative and useful.

Each company represents a different business category. Two-page spreads, full page and half-page profiles are presented alphabetically by category.

The Face of Barbecue

Olivia Cassell, Matt Patterson

The Face of Business Banking Security Bank

Security Bank’s approach to banking is about personal connections. They have become a trusted name in the local business community because they treat their customers like family.

“We know our customers, their friends and their families, just like they know us,” says Shelby Peters, Universal Teller. “They tell us their hopes and dreams, and in turn, we try to help make that happen.”

In an advancing automated society, Security Bank is committed to preserving the community banking culture where live interactions matter. Whether it’s a call or a visit to the bank, people know they will encounter familiar faces and engage in meaningful conversations.

“Our customers are trusting us with their finances and livelihood,” says Marilyn Boone, Receptionist. “Making each customer feel welcome with a friendly greeting and a listening ear is important to me, as it allows me to guide them toward the solution that best suits their needs.”

For the past 25 years, Security Bank has been growing alongside its customers, forming bonds, building trust and investing in people and the com-

munity. Whether it’s helping a new business owner secure their first loan or a mom-and-pop shop planning an expansion — and everything in between — business owners know they can rely on Security Bank to be close by and ready to help when a need arises.

“We want our customers to feel comfortable to come and talk to us,” says Joshua Cole, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Commercial Lender.

“Whether they’re sharing about a recent family trip or expressing a concern at the office, open communication is important to us. We want them to know we do listen and that we are here to help them think through their next move.”

As Security Bank looks to the future, their commitment remains the same: people first. Real connections, meaningful relationships and dependable service — experience the Security Bank difference. 10727 E. 51ST ST. | 918-664-6100 | SBTULSA.BANK

From left to right: Marilyn Boone, Receptionist; Art Yero, Security Guard; Shane Gibson, AVP, Treasury Services; Joshua Cole, SVP, Commercial Lender; Shelby Peters, Universal Teller; Staci Barrett, Executive Assistant, Lending; Lisa Rogers, Personal Banker; Austin Burkdoll, VP, Commercial Lenderr

The Face of Mental Health and Addiction

Family & Children’s Services — Community Outreach Psychiatric Emergency Services (COPES) Team

Community Outreach Psychiatric Emergency Services Crisis Hotline and Mobile Outreach, one of over 72 programs offered by Family & Children’s Services, is expanding its services to address the increasing mental health needs in Tulsa County.

The expanding COPES team, integral to the fabric of Tulsa, is dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of the 918 community. COPES provides free and confidential crisis intervention for children and adults, operating 24/7 to offer immediate telephone and mobile support for those experiencing suicidal crises or emotional distress.

COPES plays a crucial role in the community by collaborating with family members, friends, schools, law enforcement and other professionals to ensure safe resolutions and stabilization plans. The program addresses issues such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm threats, aggressive behavior, depression and overwhelming anxiety.

To better serve the community, COPES has several initiatives. Three specialized School Crisis mobile teams operate in partnership with Tulsa, Union and Jenks Public Schools, providing crisis response for students from 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Friday. These teams focus on stabilizing youth

crises and connecting families to ongoing support services. Additionally, COPES has enhanced its collaboration with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, ensuring a 24/7 mobile response for crisis calls. Over 400 iPads have been deployed to Tulsa County law enforcement agencies and community partners, enabling immediate face-to-face risk assessment and crisis stabilization with COPES clinicians.

The Community Response Team exemplifies COPES’ commitment to integrated crisis intervention. This team, which includes mental health professionals, Tulsa Police Department officers and Tulsa Fire Department paramedics, responds to 911 calls involving psychiatric distress. The CRT model, operating five days a week, aims to de-escalate situations on-site, avoiding unnecessary arrests or hospital transports.

Moreover, COPES is also part of the Alternative Response Team and Integrated Response Team. The ART, a partnership with the Tulsa Fire Department, responds to low-acuity mental health crises. The IRT embeds

COPES mental health professionals within all Tulsa Police Department patrol divisions, allowing them to respond to multiple officer calls. COPES’ philosophy of treating individuals in their natural environments, combined with its culturally diverse, trauma-informed approach, ensures better outcomes.

Through ongoing training and education, COPES equips the community with the tools needed for mental health crisis prevention. Its partnerships with core stakeholders, such as the City of Tulsa, TPD, TFD and the 911 center, solidify COPES’ position as a vital resource in the community.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call COPES at 918-744-4800 or call 988.

Seated from left to right: Lynn Page - COPES Supervisor, Amanda Bradley – VP COPES, Emily Farmer - COPES Senior Program Director and Amy Hogan – COPES Clinical Director with many on the COPES team.

Ludger’s Catering and Events

Scott and Megan Sherrill purchased Ludger’s Catering in 2009 and in the past 16 years the high school sweethearts and lifelong Tulsans have helped to transform the catering company into a staple for weddings, corporate events, galas, nonprofit events and private occasions. Known for its exceptional food, Ludger’s Catering also provides beverages, bar services, linen rentals, rental coordination, floorplan design, service and bar staff.

“Each and every event is custom planned with pride to fit clients’ needs and budget, all with the goal of helping to fulfill your vision,” Megan says. Choose from a versatile range of offerings including breakfast and brunch options, lunches, dinners, enticing hors d’oeuvres and exquisite sweets and desserts. No event is too big or small; Ludger’s services span full-service catering, drop-off orders and everything in between.

From planning to execution, they will handle every detail, allowing you to engage fully with your guests and savor each moment. With flexible options including buffet, plated meals, bartending services (whether you envision

a full or cash bar experience) and rentals, they will ensure that your event reflects your unique style and budget. It’s not just catering; it’s a complete event experience tailored just for you.

If you’re interested in hiring Ludger’s Catering, call 918-744-9988 or email sales@ludgerscatering.com. For more details on menus, services and client testimonials, visit ludgerscatering.com. In-person appointments can be scheduled online; online consultations are also available. With Ludger’s Catering and Events, Scott and Megan believe that every bite tells a story — and they can’t wait to help write yours.

The Face of Catering

Scott and Megan Sherrill

The Bros. Houligan

A Tulsa classic, the Bros. Houligan specializes in comfort. Evident from the minute you walk through the door by the relaxed, casual atmosphere and welcoming wait staff. Followed up by mouth-watering dishes that span the gamut of casual American food that will make you feel right at home, no matter where you are from.

The menu is full of delicious comfort food, including crispy Chicken Tenders and an array of delicious Burger options, as well as Steaks, Pork Chops, Shrimp, Salmon and White Fish. Freshly breaded fresh to order, fried entrees are never pre-made or frozen.

The Bros. Houligan became famous beyond Tulsa’s borders when the Chicken Fried Steak, repeatedly voted the best in Tulsa in various publi-

cations, had its recipe featured in a Southern Living Magazine cookbook. First-timers and veteran “Houligans” alike rave about their special recipe green beans, and the Cottage Fries — waffle-cut fries served with a side of gravy — are the stuff of legend. The motto at the Bros. Houligan is “Eat More Gravy” and once you get your first taste you’ll know why.

The Bros. Houligan has been a Tulsa staple for over 38 years. Serving both lunch and dinner and featuring a full bar.

4848 S. YALE AVE. | 918-254-1086 BROSHOULIGAN.COM

The Face of Chicken Fried Steak

Brian Trufitt, Brandon Reavis Funk, Corwin Moore, Conor McMurchy and Megan Mitchell

The Face of Civil Justice

Bundy Law

Legal disputes are stressful enough without having to worry about keeping up with appointments, invoices or even how to reach your lawyer. The attorneys at Bundy Law recognized that if your hair salon and your dentist can send helpful text reminders and provide a sleek intake on a tablet, your lawyer should, too. So the firm has implemented a next-gen system incorporating the newest and best technology available today in order to ensure efficiency and effective communication, including text-capable office phones.

In addition to their established reputation as lawyers for all aspects of family law — guardianship, divorce, child custody and more — Bundy Law has a specialized personal injury practice. Their niche may surprise you. The firm focuses on dog bite injury claims. Bundy Law has assisted the injured with a range of dog bite claims, including cases involving minors, the elderly and even dog-on-dog attacks.

“Laws about dog attack liability vary from state to state and even from city to city,” attorney Danya Bundy says. “The standards for holding the dog

owner accountable, the type of defenses available and even the time limits for filing a claim can differ dramatically. Dog bite injuries can be gruesome and leave victims grappling with severe physical wounds and enduring psychological trauma. Dog bite victims deserve specialized attention and care.” The firm’s emphasis on customer service specially positions them to assist the injured in dog bite cases, providing comprehensive advice, strategy and advocacy for clients dealing with the unique nature of their claims.

Founded in 2006 by Aaron Bundy, Bundy Law has locations in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Sapulpa and Bentonville, Arkansas, for client ease and accessibility. Each attorney is licensed and practices in both Oklahoma and Arkansas.

2200 S. UTICA PLACE, SUITE 222, TULSA | 918-208-0129 BUNDYLAWOFFICE.COM

Danya Bundy

The Face of Commercial Cleaning

Final Touch Commercial Cleaning Co.

When it comes to keeping spaces spotless, Final Touch Commercial Cleaning isn’t just in the business of cleaning — they’re in the business of caring. With over 40 years of experience, they know that what really makes a difference isn’t just a polished floor or a smudge-free window — it’s the people behind the work.

Whether it’s a busy school hallway, a bustling office, a medical facility or a manufacturing floor, FTCC shows up with heart, hustle and a whole lot of know-how.

“We believe that great service starts with great people,” says President Sandra Mullins. “Our mission has always been to support our team so they can deliver the best possible experience to our clients. When our people thrive, so does our work.”

And thrive they have. Over the past five years, FTCC has grown fast — doubling in size and now covering nearly 10 million square feet of clean,

fresh, welcoming space. They run day and night shifts across Tulsa and beyond, but no matter how big they get, their focus stays personal.

Vice President Jackie Vu, who has been Mullins’ right hand for over 25 years, puts it best: “At Final Touch, it’s about more than mops and machines — it’s about the people who bring pride to every job. We’re like a family, and our clients feel that, too.”

With smart systems, dedicated crews and a whole lot of passion, FTCC is raising the bar on what commercial cleaning can be. Reliable. Professional. And always, always people-first.

10404 E. 55TH PLACE, SUITE C | 918-663-1919

Chelsea Hanoch, Lindsay Henderson, Jackie Vu, Brooke Taylor and Madi Page

The Face of Commercial Real Estate

MCP - McGraw Commercial Properties

Established in 2008, McGraw Commercial Properties has emerged as a trusted name in commercial real estate. Headquartered in Tulsa, MCP is a privately owned, full-service commercial real estate firm. With a focus exclusively on commercial buildings and land, MCP has become synonymous with local market insight and exceptional service.

MCP’s foundation is built on strong relationships and a steadfast commitment to its clients. With a history of providing tailored solutions, MCP positions itself as a partner in achieving business objectives. By combining local expertise with cutting-edge tools, MCP identifies market trends and opportunities, ensuring its clients excel within a competitive landscape.

MCP offers a wide range of services to address the diverse needs of commercial clients, including investment sales, tenant representation, project leasing, corporate real estate services and property management. One of the hallmarks of MCP is its unique platform and flat management structure. Free from bureaucratic limitations, MCP’s structure empowers its professionals to act swiftly and decisively when market opportunities arise.

MCP’s professionals specialize across multiple property categories, such as office, retail, industrial, land and multifamily properties. What sets MCP apart is the seamless integration of its property management team with its leasing and sales experts. This collaborative approach ensures portfolios are managed with exceptional efficiency and aligned with broader goals.

MCP operates as a subsidiary of McGraw REALTORS®, a powerhouse in the real estate industry. With nearly 800 experienced sales associates serving Oklahoma and Arkansas, McGraw REALTORS® is one of the fastest-growing real estate companies in the nation. MCP benefits from McGraw’s 86-plus year legacy, creating a synergy that blends heritage with forward-thinking strategies.

For clients seeking an experienced partner in commercial real estate, McGraw Commercial Properties is poised to deliver results that transform challenges into opportunities.

4105 S. ROCKFORD AVE. | 918-550-4455 MCGRAWCP.COM

Back row: Dakota Brasher, Will Brock, Dee Robison, Gary Krisman, Kalvin Burghoff, Lee Wallis, Dick Alaback, Neil Dailey, Andrew Leach

Front row: Doug Keith, Drew Dossey, Kevin King, Ariel DuBose, Cindy Grogan, Amanda Cherry, Julie Buxton, Warren Stewart, Bill McCollough, Dilon Argo, Noah Lindskov

The Face of Community Banking

First Oklahoma Bank

While many banks rely on automation over connection, First Oklahoma Bank stands out as a refreshing exception — where relationships come first, decisions are made locally, and every customer call is answered by a real, friendly voice right here in Oklahoma.

For over 15 years, First Oklahoma has built something extraordinary: a community-focused bank that has grown beyond $1 billion in assets without ever losing sight of what matters most — people. That kind of quality growth doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of a clear vision, a bold entrepreneurial spirit and a deep commitment to the communities it serves.

“Every decision we make is rooted in understanding our customers’ needs and helping them succeed,” says First Oklahoma Bank President and CEO Thomas Bennett III.

That local decision-making power is a game-changer. Whether you’re a small business owner seeking a loan or a family planning for the future, you’re working with someone who knows your town, your challenges and your goals. In addition to offering competitive CD rates and concierge-

level services, First Oklahoma is a leader in local deposits, secure digital banking, Treasury services and business lending.

And when you call? You won’t be stuck in a loop of robotic voices. You’ll speak with a real person — someone who lives and works in Oklahoma.

First Oklahoma Bank’s impact goes beyond banking. As a proud supporter of the United Way, First Oklahoma Bank has been recognized as a “Best of the Best” company for 15 consecutive years. The bank actively participates in community initiatives. Through financial literacy programs and community partnerships such as the one it has with Jenks CarePoint, which provides free clothing and shoes to families in need, First Oklahoma helps ensure that everyone — regardless of where their journey began — has the tools to thrive.

You’re invited to “Move up to Better Banking” and experience relationship-focused service.

4110 S. ROCKFORD AVE., TULSA | 100 S. RIVERFRONT DRIVE, JENKS 918-392-2500 | FIRSTOKLAHOMABANK.COM MEMBER FDIC

Tom Bennett III, President and CEO of First Oklahoma Bank

The Face of Cosmetic Surgery Green Country Surgical Arts

In the world of cosmetic surgery, where precision meets artistry, few names stand out quite like John V. Tedesco, D.O., FACOS, FAACS.

For Tedesco, cosmetic surgery is more than just science — it’s an art.

“As an artist I offer each patient a unique cosmetic surgery experience,” he says.

Tedesco’s credentials are as extensive as his commitment to excellence. A graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, he completed his general surgical training at Largo Medical Center in Tampa Bay, Florida, and went on to refine his artistic eye under the mentorship of renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Jim English during a prestigious cosmetic fellowship in Little Rock, Arkansas. Today, he is triple board-certified in general surgery, cosmetic surgery and facial cosmetic surgery — a rare distinction that reflects both his technical skill and comprehensive understanding of the human form.

With over 20 years of surgical experience, Tedesco has built a reputation for consistent, beautiful outcomes and compassionate care. Tedesco also serves as president-elect of the Tulsa County Medical Society, a testament to his leadership within the medical community.

The practice specializes in a full range of facial and body procedures. Common facial surgeries include facelifts, brow lifts, facial rejuvenation and fat grafting — procedures that restore youthful, natural appearances. On the body side, Tedesco and his team offer breast augmentation, lifts, reductions, implant exchanges and tummy tucks, along with liposuction for sculpting and definition.

In addition to cosmetic procedures, Tedesco is highly regarded for his work in facial reconstruction following skin cancer removal and breast reconstruction for women undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Whether you are seeking subtle enhancement or a dramatic change, Green Country Surgical Arts delivers not only transformation but also a deeply personal experience guided by a surgeon whose passion is as evident in his results as it is in his care.

11911 S. OXFORD AVE., SUITE 200 | 918-600-0026 GREENCOUNTRYSURGICALARTS.COM

John V. Tedesco

The Face of Credit Unions

Oklahoma Central Credit Union

Since its founding in 1941, Oklahoma Central Credit Union has experienced steady growth in Tulsa and the surrounding areas. “We attribute our success, in large part, to our loyal members and the communities we serve,” says OCCU President Gina Wilson. “At OCCU, we place a high priority on local volunteerism. We believe it’s incredibly important for our employees to support the local nonprofits they care about.”

In 2024, OCCU employees contributed 2,862 volunteer hours to local 501(c)(3) organizations such as Domestic Violence Intervention Services, Night Light Tulsa and the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. The Food Bank recognized OCCU as its top corporate volunteer last year. OCCU’s support included quarterly shifts packing thousands of pounds of food and hosting canned food drives during events like Shred Day, where community members safely dispose of old bank statements, tax records, receipts and more.

In 2024, more than 90% of OCCU employees participated in a program that allows them volunteer up to 40 hours of paid work time without using

personal paid time off. Wilson is especially proud of the 33 employees who each volunteered 40 or more hours in 2024.

Over 80 years ago, Oklahoma Central Credit Union received its state charter with 27 charter members and $638 in assets. Today, it had grown to more than 40,000 members and $700 million in assets, now among the largest credit unions in the state. OCCU branches can be found in Tulsa, Broken Arrow and Owasso. Later this year, it will celebrate the grand opening of its newest location in Jenks at 114th Street and Union Avenue.

Oklahoma Central Credit Union’s top volunteers, from left: Fran Reynolds, Sal Paredes, Jessica Hays, Gary Cornett, Kiyana Hibbert, Jennifer Martin and Tim Dyer. Together, they helped the credit union contribute 2,862 volunteer hours to local nonprofits in 2024.

The Face of Fine Dining Barons on 1st

Opened in 2024, Barons on 1st is a celebration of the finer things in life. The Blue Dome District restaurant was named for Tulsa’s oil tycoons who enjoyed the extraordinary and exquisite alongside the everyday. This contrast inspires both menu and ambiance. The Tulsa-centric interior includes displays of black-and-white photos of oilmen like Frank and Waite Phillips as well as themed artwork.

The stylish interior is matched with impeccable service and unforgettable food. “Our hope is that diners will step through our front door and experience something incredible,” says Managing Partner Rustic Goughenour.

The fine dining menu is ever-evolving as Executive Chef Justin Donaldson sources the finest ingredients for their seasonality and freshness. “It’s a world-class dining experience that’s approachable, not stuffy,” Donaldson says. “I want people to feel surprised and delighted every time the menu refreshes. We want you to feel transported to another place from the moment you walk in the door. Whatever was happening to a person before they sat down doesn’t matter anymore — their evening completely transforms.”

Some dishes have already become a mainstay on the curated menu — appetizers like the champ frites or smoked prawn dumplings, a good example of the way Barons on 1st approaches its dishes with high-quality ingredients and a focus on technique, or entrees like the Dover sole, beef short rib or filet mignon.

Barons on 1st is Chandler Hospitality’s first foray into fine dining. Goughenour leads a team ready to serve each and every guest with knowledgeable insight in wine pairings and dish selection. Guests are encouraged to ask their server about the tasting menu to experience a meal curated by the chef.

Barons now offers lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Friday.

302 E. FIRST ST. | 918-417-5290 BARONSON1ST.COM

Managing Partner Rustic Goughenour, Chad Dixon, Hanna Sage, Tabi Graham, Emily Wilson, Lacey Deckard, Gabi Moreland, Chef Justin Donaldson, Mckenzee Young, Michael Cossey, Michael Craddock, Solomon Smiley

The Face of Heating, Air Conditioning, Electric and Plumbing

For brothers Austin and Chase Boyce, running Airco Service is more than a job — it’s a family tradition. Founded in 1961 by their grandfather, Airco has grown into one of Oklahoma’s most trusted names in HVAC, plumbing and electrical services. Today, with seven locations, the company remains grounded in its original mission: to treat every customer like family.

“When you do something that’s part of your family’s story, it means everything,” says Chase. “It’s not just a job; it’s wearing my family on my shirt.”

Airco makes home service simple by offering everything under one roof. Their HVAC, plumbing and electrical teams work together seamlessly, providing homeowners with efficient, high-quality service without the hassle of juggling multiple contractors. Whether it’s installing a new system, fixing a leak or handling storm damage, Airco’s technicians are trained to see the job through from start to finish — with care, transparency and no high-pressure sales.

Their rapidly growing plumbing division uses cutting-edge tools to handle everything from sewer lines to tankless water heaters. Their electrical team is equipped to support everything from new construction to meter upgrades. And their HVAC experts not only repair and install systems but also offer maintenance plans to help customers prevent issues and extend equipment life.

At Airco, customer comfort and satisfaction come first — backed by a 100% guarantee. It’s all part of the Airco difference: personal service, expert care and a proud legacy that spans generations.

Austin Boyce and Chase Boyce

JMARK

With more than 30 years of experience, JMARK helps Tulsa organizations turn technology into a strategic advantage. Their award-winning managed IT services include 24/7 support, cybersecurity, network infrastructure management, backups/disaster recovery, compliance, hosted phone systems and more. Every service is designed to reduce downtime, increase efficiency and strengthen operations.

What makes JMARK unique is their proactive approach. While many providers are more reactive, JMARK builds systems that prevent problems before they start. Their solutions are tailored to each business, with a deep focus on aligning technology to long-term goals.

Clients benefit from access to more than 130 experts who bring knowledge across security, compliance, automation, AI and strategic planning. This team-based model allows for faster response, broader insight and has resulted in a 99% client satisfaction score year over year.

At the heart of their work is the belief that relationships drive results. Their People First. Technology Second.® philosophy ensures that every engagement starts with trust and ends with impact. Recognized nationally for both culture and performance, JMARK is proud to bring its peoplefocused approach to the Tulsa business community. When IT works better, business does too. That’s the JMARK difference.

110 W 7TH ST, SUITE 1710 | 918-496-4223

JMARK.COM

Pictured left to right: Matt Csolak, Bronson French, Ryan Porter, Karen Shipe, Keith Child, John Mount, Aaron Glover

The Face of IT Services

The Face of Nonprofits

Green Country Habitat for Humanity

Since 1988, the Tulsa chapter of Habitat for Humanity has been working tirelessly to help families achieve the dream of homeownership. Providing a hand up — not a handout — Habitat homes are not given away. Instead, families purchase their homes through the program with an affordable, low-interest mortgage. Buyers also invest time by completing required educational classes and sweat equity hours. In addition to building traditional single-family homes, Habitat for Humanity has recently completed a series of townhomes in the Kendall Whittier neighborhood. Up to $50,000 is now available to qualifying families.

“Homeownership is the No. 1 way a family can create generational wealth in the United States,” says Cameron Walker, president and CEO of Green Country Habitat for Humanity. “In Tulsa, the affordable housing crisis is real. The people most affected — teachers, service workers and first responders — are the backbone of our community, and those are the individuals Habitat for Humanity serves.”

The organization does more than just build a few homes a year. “We are now revitalizing and constructing entire neighborhoods,” Walker says. In 2024 alone, thanks to the support of generous donors, Green Country Habitat was able to build 76 homes as well as create 325 local jobs,

proving that their work strengthens communities economically as well as socially.

But Green Country Habitat for Humanity can’t do these necessary services alone. They need the Tulsa community to help support with donations and spread the word. Together, we’re not just building homes. We’re building a better Tulsa.

If you know a hard-working family that could benefit from a path to affordable homeownership, especially those in service professions, please encourage them to apply on Habitat for Humanity’s website, where you can also find applicant qualifications.

Those looking to support the local Habitat chapter can do so by shopping the four ReStore locations in the area. These stores sell everything from paint, cabinets and building materials to furniture, appliances and more.

6235 E. 13TH ST., PLUS FOUR RESTORE LOCATIONS 918-592-4224

Cameron Walker

Vista Pools and Outdoor Living

Founded in 2018, family owned Vista Pools has built a reputation for outstanding customer service with expertise in the construction of fiberglass and gunite pools, as well as outdoor living spaces. The company, a 2025 TulsaPeople A-LIST winner, also renovates existing pools and spas.

“At Vista Pools, we believe a pool is not just a place to swim, but also a place to relax and unwind with family and friends. That’s why we work closely with our clients to create a pool that not only meets their functional needs, but also reflects their personal style and enhances the beauty of their outdoor living space,” says Scott Bakkala, owner of Vista Pools with wife, Jennifer “J.J.”

The Bakkalas take pride in their attention to detail and accuracy on complex projects with creative solutions to challenging spaces. The Vista Pools team is committed to providing high-quality workmanship and exceptional customer service. Vista uses only the best materials and equipment in the industry, ensuring that every pool built is durable, energy-efficient and low-maintenance. They have long-standing relationships with manufacturers, suppliers and contractors to ensure project delivery and execution in a timely manner and within budget.

918-813-9639 | VISTAPOOLSOK.COM

The Face of Pools and Outdoor Living

The Face of Residential Real Estate McGraw REALTORS®

When it comes to one of life’s most meaningful journeys, navigating the real estate market can feel exhilarating and overwhelming. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, expanding your living space or investing in commercial properties, having the right partner is essential. For over 86 years, McGraw REALTORS® has been that trusted partner.

Founded in Tulsa, McGraw REALTORS® began as a small, independent residential real estate firm. Today, it stands as one of the nation’s top 10 fastest-growing real estate firms, with nearly 800 associates and 20 offices across Oklahoma and Arkansas. Built on a foundation of trust, McGraw has helped countless individuals and families achieve their real estate goals.

Buying or selling property is not just a transaction; it’s a life-changing decision. The professionals at McGraw REALTORS® take this responsibility seriously. With a deep industry expertise, state-of-the-art tools and expansive network, McGraw’s team guides clients through each step of the process with precision and care. No two clients are the same and that’s why McGraw provides tailor-made solutions that align with your unique goals.

The real estate market never stands still, and neither does McGraw. To stay ahead, McGraw REALTORS® invests in cutting-edge technology such as advanced property search tools, virtual tours and digital transaction management to provide you with a seamless experience. By reimagining the way real estate transactions work, McGraw’s professionals prioritize convenience, efficiency and transparency, giving you the confidence to make decisions with clarity.

Many real estate firms promise results, but McGraw REALTORS® delivers an experience built on trust, advocacy and collaboration. Its longstanding reputation for excellence is a product of a deep understanding of the industry and a drive to exceed expectations.

Contact McGraw REALTORS® to help bring your dreams to fruition. 4105 S. ROCKFORD AVE. | 918-592-6000 MCGRAWREALTORS.COM

Left to right: Kira Allert, Rachel Hicks, Lara Elliott, Heidi Williams, Bill McCollough, Becky Orr, Courtney Roberts, Lindsey Schlomann, and Veronica Oswald

Duralast Roofing Specialists

Your roof is the first line of defense in protecting your home against the elements — like the scorching heat of summer, the freezing cold winter, and the crazy winds and storms Oklahoma is known for. Duralast Roofing Specialists is focused and ready to help with all your roofing needs.

Owned by Zach and Angie Harbaugh, Duralast Roofing Specialists works on every type of roof from residential to commercial, as well as gutters, skylights, metal and trim work. “Our experts provide thorough inspections, budget-friendly options and flexible financing,” Zach says. “Customer service and installation excellence is our priority.”

Duralast encourages homeowners to think twice before allowing anyone who knocks on your door to be hired to work on your home’s roof and gutters. “If you have been hit by a storm, call a local, licensed roofing expert,” Zach says. “Duralast Roofing Specialists is a phone call away, and committed to helping our customers better evaluate, file and negotiate insurance claims to ensure owners receive proper compensation to cover the full extent of property

storm-related damages.” Angie adds, “We treat your home as if it were our own home.”

The Owasso-based roofing construction company uses only the highest quality American-made materials, installed with the most advanced systems, excellent craftsmanship and outstanding customer service. “It’s the only way we do business,” Angie says.

A 2023, 2024 and 2025 A-List Winner, Duralast Roofing Specialists serves the greater Tulsa metro area and all of northeast Oklahoma. The Duralast name stands for Durable, Affordable and Guaranteed to Last!

Give Duralast Roofing Specialists a call or request service via their website.

8555 N. 117TH E. AVE., SUITE 103, OWASSO 918-906-7800 | DURALASTROOFING.COM

The Face of Roofing

Angie and Zach Harbaugh

The Face of Wine & Spirits

Ranch Acres Wine

& Spirits

Ranch Acres Wine & Spirits has been family owned and operated in the same location since Oklahoma repealed prohibition in late 1959. Owned today by the mother-daughter team of Mary and Emily Stewart, the store is well known for its extensive wine collection, craft beer and spirits, and its excellent customer service offered by a friendly and knowledgable staff.

“We specialize in food and wine pairings and helping our customers put together dinners, parties and celebrations,” says Mary Stewart. “We also take pride in our amazing crew. No matter the day or time, there is always someone here to help answer questions.”

Ranch Acres encourages patrons to check out the store’s specials each week on social media. Customers are also invited to sign-up for “The Ranch’s newsletter” to learn about special happenings and to receive discount coupons.

Back Row: Evan Bogle, Damon Daniel, Tommy Ball, Cody Greene

Front Row: Val Lindsay, Mary Stewart, Emily Stewart

The

of Workplace Technology

ImageNet Consulting

ImageNet Consulting has been at the forefront of every technological step in the modern workplace since the company’s start in 1956 servicing typewriters out of a home garage. Today, the company’s Managed IT Division leads the way along with other technolgy offerings.

If your company is considering outsourcing your IT or has outgrown your current “IT Guy” or is simply looking for a change, look no further than ImageNet’s Managed IT services team. With over 40 individuals providing small and medium-sized clients across multiple verticals with essential IT services from 24/7 help desk support, network and server management, data backup, disaster recovery to critical cyber security. Additionally, we also provide help on IT budgeting, planning and strategic alignment with a company’s business goals. “We are here to listen and understand your challenges and align technology to meet your business needs,” says Ben Berghall, Director of Managed IT.

“Our company has evolved from the early days in 1956 to a full-service IT company,” says Alan Webb, Oklahoma Market president. “From managed IT services, managed print services, software for document management, to Audio Video and digital signage,” we have it covered for our clients,” says Alan Webb, Oklahoma Market President. “Call on us”.

ImageNet provides evolving IT services to businesses throughout Oklahoma and five other states. The company partners with Youth Scoreboards to provide interactive, LED scoreboards to baseball and softball complexes throughout Oklahoma and five surrounding states. The scoreboards brilliantly light-up ballfields and provide affordable advertising options that ultimately give-back to the participating sports complexes. Legendary OU and Dallas Cowboys head football coach Barry Switzer is the founder of the business along with ImageNet’s Chairman of the Board Tom Russell.

Face

ImageNet leaders include, left to right, Stephen Demsky, Divisional Chief Information Security Officer; Ben Berghall, Director of Managed IT Services; Jeff Harris, Virtual Chief Information Officer; and Alan Webb, President.

Hotel

Ambassador Hotel, Tulsa

Tucked into the heart of Tulsa with timeless charm and impeccable service, the Ambassador Hotel has spent over 25 years crafting an experience that feels less like a stay — and more like a moment to remember. A beloved boutique destination for both leisure seekers and business travelers, this historic gem marries elegance with personalized hospitality in a way that’s distinctly Tulsa.

“We have a passion for service and we pay attention to every detail that goes into providing a memorable experience for our guests,” says General Manager Brad Venable.

Guests can elevate their stay with exclusive experience packages, created in partnership with local favorites. One standout: The Chalkboard Restaurant — located right inside the hotel. Known for its seasonally inspired menu, cozy ambiance and occasional live music, it’s a favorite for everything from romantic evenings to power lunches.

Set in a prime downtown location, the Ambassador Hotel is just minutes from cultural icons like the BOK Center, Cain’s Ballroom, and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Whether you’re catching a show, attending a gala or simply soaking in the skyline, you’re right where you need to be. Ambassador Hotel is more than a place to stay — it’s a place to savor.

1324 S. MAIN ST. | 918-587-8200 AMBASSADORHOTEL.COM

Celebrity Attractions

Celebrity Attractions has been presenting Broadway and other touring entertainment in Tulsa since Kay and Larry Payton founded the company in 1983. Today the 11-member team has over 150 years of collected experience in the entertainment industry with a commitment to customer service and an outstanding reputation among producers and shows.

Season tickets for the upcoming Tulsa Broadway season are available for purchase now through July 13, with package prices starting at $236 for all seven shows. It is the only way to guarantee and secure tickets in advance to “The Outsiders” and its national tour opening here in Tulsa on Oct. 7-12.

Tony Award-winning best musicals “Kimberly Akimbo,” “The Outsiders”

and “The Wiz,” along with Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” “A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical,” “Mamma Mia” and “The Notebook” are all included in the season package. Guests can choose seats online at celebrityattractions.com/tulsa.

The best way to stay updated on what Celebrity Attractions is bringing to Tulsa is by registering your email for updates and presales, plus be sure to follow BwayTulsa on both Facebook and Instagram. Celebrity Attractions is an ATG Entertainment company.

7506 E. 91ST ST. | 918-796-0212 | CELEBRITYATTRACTIONS.COM

The Face of Broadway

Back Row: Shane Stroud, Harrison Williams, Melissa Jack Front Row: Randy Cole, Allyson Davis, Alison Waddell, Melinda Summar, Kristin Dotson

The Face of Boutique

Left to right: Makenzie Brown, Sales Manager; Thomas Daley, Executive Chef; Brad Venable, General Manager; Ryan Anderson, Restaurant Manager; Michelle Iverson, Director of Operations (seated)

The Face of Burgers Society

With three Tulsa-metro locations, Society is a place for locals to find elevated takes on American classics like smash burgers, chicken sandwiches and tenders, as well as salads, shakes and cocktails. The menu features 13 burgers – from the Classic, featuring American cheese, lettuce, tomato and pickles, to the PB&B, with peanut butter, bacon, jalapeno jelly and cheddar cheese.

“We put a lot of care into everything we serve here,” explains General Manager Clayton Turner. “Our chicken breasts and tenders are all handbreaded, we make our own batter for the fish and chips, and our jalapeno cheddar tots are made completely from scratch.” The kitchen also prepares their own pickles, candied jalapenos and pickled onions in-house. “Our burgers are smashed fresh when you order them,” Turner adds. “That’s what gives them such great flavor and texture.”

Each location boasts a dog-friendly patio, which is always weather-sealed during the cold months. A delectable brunch menu is available every weekend from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays.

Society, which first opened in 2018 with its original Cherry Street location, features craft beers and has a full cocktail menu that includes Boozy Shakes, which are Society’s signature milkshakes featuring a 21-plus spirit.

The Face of Community College

Tulsa Community College

The Tulsa Community College Admission team is the face of TCC to parents and prospective students in the 918. This team works tirelessly to connect, inform and guide future students on their path to higher education. You’ll find them at local high schools, summer pop-ups, career days and community events ready to answer questions, provide resources and connect with future students. Whether you’re a parent looking for support through the enrollment process or a high school senior exploring your next steps, this team is here to help.

Their goal is simple: to make the journey to Tulsa Community College feel personal, clear and achievable. They are committed to helping students discover their path and take the next step with confidence. With deep ties to the community and a passion for student success, this team ensures every prospective student knows they belong at Tulsa Community College. Wherever your journey begins, the Admission team will walk alongside you — because You Belong Here. You Can. We’ll Help.

METRO CAMPUS: 909 S. BOSTON AVE. NORTHEAST CAMPUS: 3727 E. APACHE ST. SOUTHEAST CAMPUS: 10300 E. 81ST ST. WEST CAMPUS: 7505 W. 41ST ST. 918-595-7000 TULSACC.EDU/ADMISSION

Clayton Turner

The Face of Disaster Restoration Oklahoma Disaster Restoration

At the center of Oklahoma Disaster Restoration (ODR) are Tammy and Jay Stokesvisionaries who’ve built more than a company; they’ve cultivated a mission-driven culture rooted in compassion, integrity, and innovation. In an industry where urgency often overshadows empathy, ODR leads with both. Tammy and Jay believe that restoring homes and businesses is about restoring lives, and that principle guides everything their team does.

What sets ODR apart isn’t just cutting-edge technology, it’s how that technology is used: to educate, to empower, and to bring clarity when people are at their most vulnerable. ODR’s commitment to training is equally strong, with every team member certified and continually developing skills to stay at the forefront of restoration science.

But the heartbeat of ODR is its values. Tammy and Jay have created a culture where doing what’s right always comes before doing what’s easy. They’ve championed kindness in crisis and professionalism in chaos, ensuring every customer feels seen, heard, and cared for.

ODR is more than a restoration company - it’s a trusted guide through disruption, a beacon of reliability, and a reflection of the leadership and heart that Tammy and Jay bring to every job.

6565 E. 42ND ST. | 918-992-4ODR | OKDISASTER.COM

In 2003, Chad Potter founded Drywall Specialists Inc., a residential and commercial drywall installation company that has since completed over 10,000 projects in the Tulsa area. Potter is committed to the construction industry, a field he has worked in since high school.

“I personally train our professional staff and guarantee advanced wall and ceiling services, including drywall repair, plaster repair and finishes,” Potter says. “My team is committed to prompt service with strong attention to detail.”

Drywall Specialists Inc. has worked on thousands of Tulsa home remodels and new builds, as well as commercial properties such as medical facilities, office buildings and car dealerships.

CHARLES PAGE BLVD. | 918-437-9255 | DRSPROS.COM

The Face of Drywall

Chad Potter

The Face of Education

Miss Helen’s Private School

Miss Helen’s Private School is a long-time tulsa gem that has been providing excellence in early childhood education since 1954. It was then that “Miss Helen” Wingo realized many of the children entering Kindergarten had difficulty adjusting socially, emotionally and academically. She believed there was a better way for the young students of Tulsa to be prepared for their academic futures.

Today, Executive Director Lynda Wingo—who is beginning her 51st year at Miss Helen’s—believes in the philosophy of her mother-in-law: to provide a great learning institution where children can develop their reading, math and social talents as well as improve communication skills and learning habits.

Miss Helen’s currently has openings in 3 and 4 year-old classes in the fall. Contact director@misshelens.com for more information.

Leadership at the school is a Wingo family affair. In addition to Lynda, her daughter Jayme Wingo-Baker has served the school for 30 years. Lynda’s husband, Gary Wingo, the son of the founder, is a favorite with families and staff. Other Executive Staff members are: Rhonda Reidy, Pre-School Director, 44 years; Christi Ray, Kindergarten Director, 28 years and Pam Elmore, Elementary Lead Teacher, 23 years.

Miss Helen’s heritage lives on in the school’s facility at 48th Street and Mingo Road. The school offers programs in three areas: Preschool, Kindergarten, and Elementary Grades first through fifth. The school employs degreed professionals and encourages ongoing teacher training throughout the school year. Each pod is supported by a lead teacher with experience and expertise in their grade level.

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

The Face of Emergency Care

Tulsa ER and Hospital

Founded in 2019, Tulsa ER & Hospital is a full-service concierge hospital and emergency room open 24/7/365. Here you’ll find the level of emergency and hospital care you’d hope for in a major hospital — but with the comfort and speed of a place that truly sees you. From bedside ultrasound and MRI to a full clinical lab, as well as the new CADScore — a non-invasive test for coronary artery disease — Tulsa ER & Hospital offers the latest advanced technology without the long wait or chaos.

“We combine the capabilities of a major hospital with the personalized attention of a concierge practice,” says Medical Director Dr. Mark Blubaugh. Both adults and children are seen in under five minutes, with all commercial insurance accepted and a clear, competitive self-pay pricing option available.

Located near Tulsa Hills, the hospital provides a clean, calming space designed with patient comfort in mind. Every detail reflects their commitment to faster, higher-quality care.

“Our motto is simple — more personal, more caring, more convenient,” Blubaugh adds. “As board-certified, residency-trained physician-owners, we’re personally invested in every patient’s experience.” From pediatric needs to serious adult emergencies, Tulsa ER & Hospital provides swift, compassionate care without the wait or stress.

717 W. 71ST ST. | 918-517-6300 | TULSAER.COM

Executive Director Lynda Wingo with Director Jayme Wingo-Baker.

The Face of Family Fun Tulsa Zoo

Since opening its doors in 1928, Tulsa Zoo has grown to be Green Country’s largest paid daily attraction with more than 700,000 visitors each year across its 124 acres.

“A visit to the zoo supports our mission of connecting, caring and advocating for wildlife, people and wild places,” Carissa Hon, director of marketing, PR and design services says. “Whether visiting our Nature Exchange, The Mary K. and John T. Oxley Family Elephant Experience and Preserve or one of our temporary exhibits like Zoorassic World: Frozen in Time, guests come to the Tulsa Zoo knowing they will have a fun and educational experience.”

Tulsa Zoo has also expanded its educational programming. In 2024, nearly 250,000 adults and children were educationally enriched by the zoo’s programming including Nature Academy, Nature Buddies, U 2 Zoo, Zoo 2 U, a new behind-the-scenes tour of their ambassador animal facility or seasonal camps.

Tulsa Zoo is owned by the City of Tulsa and managed by nonprofit Tulsa Zoo Management, Inc.

6421 E. 36TH ST. N. | 918-669-6600 | TULSAZOO.ORG

Empire Fence Company

When founder Bob Richison began Empire Fence Company in 1955, it was just a small backyard enterprise. With a lot of hard work and a love for helping others, the Tulsan built Empire into a successful small business.

In 1998, Richison’s grandson — Nathan Nelson — joined the successful family business and now serves as President/CEO of Empire Fence.

“It’s exciting to see the growth that has occurred over the years,” noted Nelson. “We now offer a variety of residential and commercial fencing, as well as gate fabrication, installation and access control. We love our

customers and our team remains committed to our foundation of integrity by offering quality fencing and excellent service at a fair price.”

Nathan Nelson takes great pride in carrying on Empire Fence as the quality business his grandfather created 70 years ago. “It has been an honor to grow the business and expand the vision with an incredible team of hardworking and dedicated employees.”

22 N. GARNETT ROAD | 918-437-1671 EMPIREFENCE.NET

The Face of Fencing

From left to right: Kevin Pilger, Josie Villareal, Pia McBride, Nathan Nelson, Sandy Caldwell, Linda Dover, Krystal Ford and Nick Robinson

The Face of Fine Jewelry J. David Jewelry

When Joel Wiland crafted his first tulip ring at just 15 in 1987, he had no idea he was beginning a legacy. Guided by a passion for goldsmithing and mentored by Oklahoma’s finest, Joel — alongside his wife and partner, Kendra — founded J. David Jewelry in 1994. Today, it stands as Tulsa’s family-owned luxury fine jeweler and Oklahoma’s premier custom jewelry destination.

With locations in south Tulsa, Brookside and Broken Arrow, J. David Jewelry is a full-service luxury jeweler, offering a stunning collection of bridal and fashion jewelry — but it’s their heart that sets them apart. Their mission, “We show unconditional love through our people, our process, and our jewelry,” shines through every interaction.

As a Master IJO Jeweler, J. David maintains the highest standards of craftsmanship and service. Every piece — from custom engagement rings to heirloom restorations — is designed, crafted and completed in-house by their skilled jewelers. “Our guests don’t just buy jewelry; they experience a deeply personal journey,” Joel says.

In an industry driven by trends, J. David Jewelry remains committed to relationships, tradition and love. As Joel puts it, “Every day we get to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments — and being part of those stories is one of the greatest honors of our lives.”

3646 S. PEORIA AVE. | 918-969-6300

8200 E. 101ST ST., SUITE B | 918-364-6300

613 N. ASPEN AVE., BROKEN ARROW | 918-251-6300

The Face of Fireworks and Festivals

The Castle of Muskogee

The Castle of Muskogee is home to the state’s largest fireworks retail showroom with more than 37,000 square feet of air-conditioned pyrotechnics. With over 50 years of experience, father and son owners Jeff and Matt Hiller have worked to curate a selection of over 800 different products including everything from fountains to artillery shells, novelty items for the children and even 500-gram heavyweights.

Once fireworks sales close on July 5, the Hiller’s and Castle staff will begin preparations for the annual Halloween Festival that begins on Sept. 26 and runs every Friday and Saturday night through Nov. 1. “We strive to create a realm of imagination and entertainment for everyone. We specialize in craft and creativity with a Renaissance flair,” Jeff says. The Castle’s Halloween village spans 12 acres with nine different events (indoor and out), shops and lots of delicious food. There’s something for thrill-seekers, scaredy cats and everyone in between.

During the winter holidays the Castle transforms into a wonderland of light displays and events like holiday hayrides, Santa visits and shopping. A special experience is also the Boar’s Heade Feast, an Elizabethan yuletide celebration set for Nov. 22. Come spring, the annual Oklahoma Renaissance Festival will return for its 31st year.

3400 W. FERN MOUNTAIN ROAD, MUSKOGEE 918-687-3625 | OKCASTLE.COM

Joel and Kendra Wiland

Jeff Hiller and Matt Hiller

The Face of Hospitality Brut Hotel

Take in Tulsa at the Brut Hotel, one of Tulsa’s newest boutique hotels that opened in 2023.

Brut Hotel is a blend of brutalist architecture and tropical serenity offering one-of-a-kind stays catering to adventurers and peace-seekers alike.

Guest rooms are designed with natural aesthetics with views of Zink Lake, the surrounding Riverview neighborhood and downtown. The heated, outdoor pool is a respite for travelers with lounge chairs, umbrellas and access to Rosa, the poolside restaurant and bar.

Check in next door to the hotel at 1820 Spa, led by Julie Victoria, for services such as customized facials, massage therapy, private yoga and sauna sessions.

Soma, the hotel’s rooftop terrace restaurant, is brought to life by chef Matt Shipley. Diners can experience brunch seven days a week with dinner service highlighting locally produced ingredients. Happy hour is daily from 3-6 p.m. and is a great way to enjoy cocktails, snacks and a stunning view of Tulsa. The terrace often hosts local musicians for intimate concerts as well as other events such as rooftop yoga sessions. On the lawn, Tulsans can shop at Brut’s monthly Artisan Market full of locally made treasures. Brut routinely welcomes special guests and gatherings to its multiple event areas. Visit soma.com/ events for a complete calendar.

1840 S. BOULDER

The Face of Marble & Stone Countertops

Eurocraft, a leading local provider of marble and stone products has been in the Skaftason family for over 45 years since Johann Skaftason started the business in 1976.

After decades of providing the finest product and craftsmanship to Tulsa’s new-build and remodeled homes and businesses, Johann is passing the torch down to his daughter Hjorny Skaftason and her husband, Ryan Phillips.

As a generational family-owned business, the passion for bringing in exotic stones from all over the world and creating unique projects from them right here in Tulsa is unmatched by any other fabricator. With the precision and care that only a family-run business can bring, Eurocraft continues to take pride in rejuvenating Tulsa.

Pictured from left: Nick Jourdan, Music Ambassador; Denise Davis, Director of Operations; Matt Shipley, Food and Beverage Director; Ramie Mercado, Soma Manager; Travis Nelson, Chef de Cuisine; Alysia Elliott, Brand Ambassador; Brian Elliott, Manager; Julie Victoria, Spa Director; Justin Strong, Bar Manager. Not pictured: Taylor Riley, Front Office Manager; Anessa Fisher, Housekeeping Manager; Tania Kerney, Director of Sales; Rob Stuart, Food and Beverage Consultant

Ryan Phillips and Hjorny Skaftason

The Face of Payroll and Tax Processing

Red River Payroll

Red River Payroll believes small businesses deserve a solution that combines cutting edge human capital management technology with the highest level of personal service available.

“Human Capital Management software and payroll tax compliance are evolving at an extremely rapid pace and we want our clients to experience the most advanced technology possible, but we don’t think small business owners should have to sacrifice a personal relationship with their payroll service bureau in order to do that. We were honored to receive an award this year for our growth, but our primary focus has and always will be on taking care of our current clients because they are the reason we exist,” says Steve Hobbs, the owner of Red River Payroll.

Red River offers a comprehensive workforce management solution designed to help automate the entire employee lifecycle from onboarding new hires to tracking time and labor to automating benefits and retirement plans all within a single platform. “More importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and are always just a phone call away.”

2512 E. 71ST ST., SUITE B | 918-488-6196 REDRIVERPAYROLL.COM

The Face of Pet Boutiques Dog Dish

What makes a local pet store different?

“The human—and often canine—touch of a local business is priceless when it comes to serving our guests. Pets are a huge part of a family and the vast world of pet products is confusing and sometimes intimidating. People like to have a place they trust that can give them advice and offer only a specialized curation of products. At Dog Dish we have over 20 years of experience in pet specialty in an industry that is always evolving,” says Emily Bollinger, store owner.

“Our new store has a fenced backyard that is a dream come true for us... we’ve been utilizing it in various fun ways such as sharing it with pet rescue organizations, pet professionals, and pet parents. You can usually find pet adoptions taking place every Saturday, dog water play on the weekends, workshops with other businesses here and there, and we’ve also started renting out the yard for pet birthday parties—or any kind of pet get-together”.

Plus, does that big box store or website have a Dennis? Our shop dogs are models, product testers, and testimonials to what we carry in store. Come in to ask us questions, give a pup a pet or belly rub, and let us help you.

2803 SOUTH HARVARD | 918-624-2600 DOGDISHTULSA.COM

OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 10-6, SUNDAY 12-5

Steve Hobbs

Emily Bollinger with Dennis

The

of Pet Grooming Muddy Paws

The Muddy Paws family does more than just care for your pets. They are rebuilding lives and forming a community founded on education, enrichment and entrepreneurism.

Founded in 2009 as Pets Helping People Inc., Muddy Paws is the only school in the state of Oklahoma that offers a hands-on, full-time dog grooming school for justice-involved women.

“We provide a path for re-entry into society for anyone desiring to work hard and be self-sustaining,” Executive Director Debbie Davis says. “The dog grooming business provides a solid career path for individuals with felonies and criminal backgrounds. I am very proud of how our team works together, forming a family where our students often love to come back home for reassurance.”

Muddy Paws has five full-time groomers, one director of training and one student training assistant who all groom the public’s dogs offering over 40 years of combined experience. They also work with several animal rescue groups to get dogs ready for adoption. Davis says Muddy Paws recently earned the AKC S.A.F.E. grooming certification.

Each woman accepted into the four-month program is provided training free of charge thanks to donations and community sponsorships. Pets Helping People successfully places program graduates in employment with area grooming shops and some graduates open their own business.

Chick-fil-A Midtown Tulsa — with convenient locations at Southroads Shopping Center and 13th Street and Utica Avenue — is more than a quick-service restaurant. It’s “a place where hospitality meets purpose,” says Owner/Operator David Chen, “and both locations are guided by the mission to have a positive influence on all of whom we serve.”

Whether it’s a hot chicken biscuit on the way to work, a quick lunch break between meetings, an afternoon playdate with the kids in the indoor playground, or a convenient dinner for the whole family, guests can count on Chick-fil-A Midtown Tulsa ”for fresh food served with care in a clean, welcoming environment.”

The Chick-fil-A team takes pride in a deeply-rooted, people-first culture, notes Chen. “We are strongly passionate about developing leaders, investing in our team members, and being a positive force in the community through local partnerships and outreach,“ he says. “At Chick-fil-A Midtown Tulsa, every meal served is an opportunity for us to please our customers, to connect and uplift.”

E 41ST ST. | 918-622-7815

E. 13TH ST. | 918-570-0411

Face

Pets Helping People Inc./Muddy Paws LLC Professionals

The Face of Quick Service Restaurants

The team at Chik-fil-A’s new Midtown Tulsa location at 13th Street and Utica Avenue. Franchise operator David Chen is pictured second from left on the back row.

The Face of Staffing and Workforce Management

Barracuda Staffing & Consulting

Kevin Burr founded Barracuda Staffing and Consulting in 2009 amidst one of the biggest economic crises of our time. The resulting success was achieved because of his belief he could build a higher quality staffing and consulting agency to serve the Tulsa business community.

“We are a full-service company that specializes in long-term staffing placements, OnDemand HR services, business strategies and workforce solutions,” he said. “We provide Human Capital Management strategies that protect organizations, strengthen infrastructures and nurture cultures for greater growth.”

Burr notes that many times business leaders feel stuck and unsure of how to implement the positioning of their people, systems and processes for long-term success. This unintentionally creates a disengaged workforce lacking in trust and innovation, resulting in low morale and a suffocating company culture.

“Our business consultants, HR professionals and staffing specialists work with clients to implement, measure and provide active support for your business,” he said. “Together, we will connect individual goals to performance management processes that pave the way for long-term success.”

Barracuda has been listed twice on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately-Held Companies and recognized on Inc. Magazine’s Best Places To Work list. The company has supported the work of many local organizations over the past 13 years, including Soldiers Wish and The Tulsa Christmas Parade.

802 W. MAIN ST., SUITE 105, JENKS | 918-488-0887

We B Trees

We B Trees is a family business that has been dedicated to taking care of Tulsa’s tree canopy since 1995. The company is led by owners Barbara and Tim Nall, a certified arborist, registered forester and tree risk assessment qualification-certified arborist. “We are grateful to our longtime customers and dedicated team of employees who strive for professionalism and safety,” Tim says. “We love working in the Tulsa area and our goal with every job is customer satisfaction and a healthy tree.”

Many of those who have worked at We B Trees have done so for a long time. Omar Caracheo has been with the company for 14 years and is a ground and bucket leader. Skyler Cardenas is a crew foreman and lead climber who has been with We B Trees for almost four years. Lead climber Ron Roberts has been with We B Trees for almost two years, while office manager Whitney Upton is new to the team.

We B Trees provides tree trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, pest management and arborist consultations in the Tulsa area. Over the years, the Nalls have established partnerships with Tulsa icons like Gathering Place, Philbrook Museum of Art, River Parks and more.

Kevin Burr

The Face of Tree Care

Whitney Upton, Bradley Wright, Tim & Barbara Nall, Omar Caracheo, Skyler Cardenas, Ron Roberts

The Face of Wedding and Event Venues J Potter Collective

J Potter Collective is a collection of three different, unique event venues in Tulsa. From an urban and modern feel at The Union Building, to a historic firehouse at Station 13, to an idyllic country setting at The Barn at Pecan Valley, there is a venue to suit any event.

Choosing and booking an event venue can be stressful and expensive. The person there to help you through every event is Jackie Potter, owner of J Potter Collective. “I love walking clients through the properties and helping them create an unforgettable event — whether that’s a wedding reception, birthday celebration or any special event. I want to make sure their event is one they’ll never forget!” Potter strives to make the process easy, enjoyable and affordable.

The art deco Station 13 features 2,200 square feet of indoor event space, along with 18,000 square feet of beautifully landscaped outdoor space. The Union Building is an eclectic loungestyle vacation rental perfect for overnight stays or special events with games, an outdoor firepit and lots of room for gathering. The Barn at Pecan Valley sits on 10 acres and is only three miles from downtown Tulsa. It has both indoor and outdoor event possibilities and welcomes events ranging from receptions and corporate events to overnight excursions.

JPOTTERCOLLECTIVE.COM

The Face of Women’s Wellness

Balanced Wellness

Ready to take control of your health during perimenopause and menopause? Navigating hormone changes doesn’t have to mean surrendering to discomfort, confusion or a one-size-fits-all solution. At Balanced Wellness, Jessi Brewer, APRN-CNP, brings a fresh, personalized and integrative approach to menopause care that goes beyond symptom management — helping women thrive through midlife and beyond.

As a board-certified nurse practitioner, Brewer views Hormone Replacement Therapy as a proactive tool to protect long-term health — not just a way to cope with hot flashes or mood swings. “I educate women on the true benefits of estrogen therapy, which include reduced risks of heart disease, osteoporosis and cognitive decline when started within ten years of menopause onset,” Brewer says. Far from the outdated fears, she emphasizes that estrogen therapy alone reduces a woman’s risk of breast cancer and combined therapy risk is extremely low — approximately 0.04% — and often greatly outweighed by its protective effects.

Brewer favors transdermal estradiol (through patches, spray or gel) paired with oral micronized progesterone for those with an intact uterus, a combination that supports balance while reducing common side effects like breast tenderness or irregular bleeding. In select cases, she also incorporates topical testosterone to restore libido, energy and overall vitality.

At Balanced Wellness Brewer offers a whole-body, evidenced-based strategy tailored to your unique needs — helping women embrace this life stage with strength, clarity and confidence.

Jackie Potter

Jessi Brewer, APRN-CNP, FNP-C

Photo by

Jolie Photography

SOUTH TULSA

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

For Mark Gorman, Tails and Ales is more than a private dog park; it’s a community spot. Gorman opened the SoBo District hangout in 2024 and since then has welcomed dogs, their owners and friends to the space that also serves coffee, cocktails, beer, wine and snacks. Across the outdoor fenced yard are picnic tables, large umbrellas and plenty of space for all breeds to play and mingle. Throughout the week are special events like trivia night on Tuesdays and breed days. “We had 40 golden retrievers here at one time,” Gorman recalls of a recent Saturday evening. At tailsandalestulsa.com guests can purchase a day pass or become members, as well as learn requirements of each canine visitor. This summer Gorman expects Tails and Ales to host live music, food trucks and other dog-centric activities. tp

Treasure trove

Tulsa shop has focused on military history and memorabilia for 4 decades.

BY JANE ZEMEL

The Hussar — a combination hobby shop, bookstore, museum, art gallery and souvenir store — is a salute to military history and memorabilia with miniature soldiers, historical books, painting kits and souvenirs.

“I’ve had an interest in military history since I was a kid,” says owner/operator Mike Davidson. “I thought it would be neat to have a shop for military history books and gure painting.”

e store derives its name from the cavalry of medieval Hungary and has occupied the same location for 44 years, tucked between Savoy and La Roma Pizza at 61st Street and Sheridan Road. Davidson and veterans meet in both beloved Tulsa eateries to share stories over cinnamon rolls or a slice of pizza.

Inventory includes model kits of toy soldiers or pre-painted miniatures. Not those plastic toy soldiers sold by the bagful, but individual pieces of art, priced accordingly. Some customers have hundreds of soldiers — worth tens of thousands of dollars. e store’s selection of books covers battles from medieval times to modern day.

His customer base is multi-generational — from 30-somethings who were introduced to toy soldiers by their parents who now bring in their own kids, to the 55-plus demographic shopping with grandchildren to celebrate a birthday or good report card.

Davidson, who also plays bagpipes and has authored ve books on painting miniatures, revels in being a reliable resource for school projects. “You learn so much in the research to get the accurate colors, textiles and more,” he says. “You can’t separate the hobby from the learning.” tp

Mike Davidson

Five figures make up the Black Watch Colour Party boxed set, $300.

Young Miniatures Templar Knight in Jerusalem bust hand-painted by Davidson, $450.

Don Troiani Civil War limited edition print, $75-$250.

BEYOND CITY LIMITS

SEC adventures await

Sooner fans can visit a variety of di erent cities for away games this season.

BY LAUREN ROGERS

As University of Oklahoma’s football team heads into their second year of playing in the SEC, Sooner supporters have a few new spots to explore. If you are planning to tag along to an OU away game, these trip tips are for you, including a non-conference matchup in “The City of Brotherly Love.”

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

Temple University • Sept. 13 • Lincoln Financial Field

PLACES TO STAY: A 14-minute walk from Lincoln Financial Field, Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia is the closest hotel to the game. If you want to be closer to downtown, you could stay somewhere like the Guild House Hotel. Occupying a National Historic Landmark row home, this overnight option is one of many near the convenient SEPTA Broad Street Line (subway) that will take you to Lincoln Financial Field.

FOOD AND FUN: There are several dining options inside the stadium, along with the nearby XFinity Live! complex. There, you can grab a cheesesteak from Geno’s Steaks, home to the self-proclaimed “best cheesesteaks in Philadelphia.”

While in the city stop by landmarks in Philadelphia’s Historic District like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

University of South Carolina • Oct. 18 • Williams-Brice Stadium

PLACES TO STAY: Williams-Brice Stadium is about a 10-minute drive from downtown Columbia, where you can stay at hotels like the Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel or Hotel Trundle.

FOOD AND FUN: Columbia has diverse dining options all over town. Near the stadium, you can grab “Broasted Chicken” at Bernie’s. Around town, try places like Terra in West Columbia boasting skyline views and fresh flavors. Lula Drake Wine Parlour serves sustainable wines and small plates just a six-minute walk from the Columbia Museum of Art.

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE

University of Tennessee • Nov. 1 • Neyland Stadium

PLACES TO STAY: Located on the University of Tennessee campus, Neyland Stadium is easy to access from downtown Knoxville. Whether you decide to walk the mile-or-so route or take public transportation, there are a variety of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. You can check out the boutique Oliver Hotel complete with a hidden speakeasy, or the Embassy Suites by Hilton Knoxville Downtown with a rooftop restaurant that provides views of the Smoky Mountains.

FOOD AND FUN: Near campus, Calhoun’s on the

River is known for scenic views and Tennessee barbecue. There are also tons of options around Market Square in downtown Knoxville like the classic Petro’s Chili and Chips, which has been serving loaded Fritos since the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville.

Speaking of, World’s Fair Park is just a 15-minute walk from Neyland Stadium. There, you can find attractions like the Sunsphere and the Knoxville Museum of Art.

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA

The University of Alabama • Nov. 15 • Bryant-Denny Stadium

PLACES TO STAY: Once you make it to town, you can stay near Saban Field on The University of Alabama campus at Hotel Capstone. Or, you can opt to book a room at a hotel in the center of town like the Hotel Indigo Tuscaloosa Downtown, which is a mile-and-a-half from Bryant-Denny Stadium.

FOOD AND FUN: Close to campus, you can find casual eateries like Rama Jama’s and Glory Bound Gyro Co., which offer quick meal options for before or after the game. For more sophisticated snacks, you can go to Forté inside the Alamite Hotel — which is co-owned by former Alabama coach Nick Saban

In town you can stroll along the Tuscaloosa River Walk or scope out Capitol Park, where you can see the ruins of the Alabama Capitol that burned down in 1923. tp

Read about destinations in Dallas, Texas, and more on TulsaPeople.com.

Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, home of University of Tennessee football

High temps hit harder for seniors and homebound neighbors. You can help make the summer heat a little more bearable

Donate a new fan in person at Meals on Wheels of Metro Tulsa or order one online and have it shipped to us directly. (5151 E. 51 Street) st Donate a fan today. MealsOnWheelsTulsa org ORDER HERE

Growing healthy communities

How Tulsa Health Department is helping address food insecurity in north Tulsa.

BY MEREDITH BOE

Tulsa Health Department has nine locations around the Tulsa area, including its North Regional Health and Wellness Center at 5635 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. is modern facility provides food and nutrition programs to Tulsans in an area of the city known for its lack of food resources and grocery stores.

When THD opened the center in 2012 it aimed to address the stark life expectancy gap between north and south Tulsans. According to data from THD, residents in the north Tulsa zip code of 74130 have

a life expectancy that is 19.5% lower than residents in the south Tulsa zip code of 74137. is THD location focuses on social determinants of health outside of just health care, like healthy eating and creating a holistic public health center — all at no cost to the community.

THD’s cooking classes led by nutritionist Jasmine Daviston teach people how to make healthy meals that are a ordable and delicious. Recent demos focused on gourmet cooking for gut health and nutrition for women featuring recipes like salmon with roasted vegetables and hummus, strogano

and homemade ginger ale. e location also houses the From the Ground Up community garden, which grows produce for the demos and residents.

“We live in a kind of desert,” Daviston says of north Tulsa in regard to its lack of fresh produce accessibility. She incorporates dry and fresh foods into her classes so Tulsans get “higher levels of nutrition and are not just eating a lot of processed foods.”

In addition to classes for adults, Daviston also holds kids’ classes, which she says are more hands-on to keep them occupied and engaged. At an Easter-focused lesson in April the kids decorated eggs and learned how to make egg salad, and in another class they made cake pops.

Daviston says the people are her favorite part of the job. “I love the feedback,” she says. Attendees are “introduced to things they’ve never tried before,” like learning how to incorporate legumes or seeds into their diets.

Amber Hallford , the center’s community garden specialist since 2023, plans out the 45-bed garden behind the facility. is year she added a bed that provides produce solely for the kitchen demonstrations. Volunteers can work in the garden on Fridays, and the center holds free how-to gardening events. e food is distributed to local food pantries, churches and directly to those living in the community.

“ ere’s a lot of surprise in the garden, so that’s probably the most joyful part,” Hallford says. “I love to harvest and collect the bounty and the beauty of it. We’re feeding people good, healthy food and we’re growing it to make fresh food more accessible.” One welcome surprise was having a colony of swallowtail butter y caterpillars as temporary visitors.

e goal with these programs, Daviston says, is “to reach people where they are information-wise.” She receives loads of new nutrition research that she then relays to the community through her classes.

Hallford adds, “We’re feeding people good food, good healthy food, and we’re also growing it to be accessible.”

Learn more at tulsa-health.org. tp

Nutritionist Jasmine Daviston prepares stroganoff for a recent cooking class at Tulsa Health Department’s North Regional Health and Wellness Center.

Once upon a time that was us

BY CONNIE CRONLEY

Few people are more reviled these days than migrants. Immigration is a term of scorn.

e movement of masses of people from one place to another is tearing nations apart politically, economically and emotionally.

Once upon a time, that was us. Oklahomans. It wasn’t all that long ago — 90 years in fact — when half a million Oklahoma migrants made their way to California. ey were driven West by drought, dust storms, busted farms, eviction and poverty. Many were sharecroppers or tenant farmers. ey were looking for work and a way to feed their families; they faced hostility all along the way; some were turned back at the California border. Once there, many lived in roadside encampments and migrant campsites, disdained and reviled.

“Okie” was a derogatory and shaming word for migrant workers and refugees from Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Missouri and Arkansas. It meant poor and ignorant; it meant white trash from the Plains.

e worst drought in U.S. history began in 1931. e land had been over-plowed

and over-grazed. Topsoil blew o by the ton (850,000,000 tons in 1935 alone) in dust storms known as black blizzards. Before rain came in 1939, the Dust Bowl would a ect 27 states and more than 75% of the country.

One Oklahoma family that migrated to California was Benjamin and Anna Elizabeth McDaniel, tenant farmers with eight children including a 17-year-old daughter. at daughter, Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel, lived in California the rest of her life where she became known as the “Okie Poet Laureate” because many of her poems conveyed longing and memory of her home state. Historian, writer and activist Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz admired her, and professor Gerald W. Haslam compared her poems to Walt Whitman, saying “She took plain language and turned it into something magical.”

I fell in love with her poems, so brief and direct they remind me of a cross between Emily Dickinson and haiku. ey are as Oklahoman as a swatch of faded calico apping on a clothesline. Here are two of them:

From McDaniel’s “Gravy Tells a Lot” “You can put your trust in gravy the way it stretches out the sausage the way it stretches out the dreams”

McDaniel’s poem “Naming a Poet” “Some relatives not close enough by love to really matter would command the awkward girl with eyes that didn’t match pick up your bare feet don’t drag them across the splintered oor pick up your oursack dress and hang it on a rusty nail until a woman called from outside the broken window pick up your name and write.”

e heroine of this column is Karen Nuerohr, library professor with the Oklahoma Oral History Research Program at Oklahoma State University. She read the Tulsa World obituary of McDaniel in 2007 and said “I need to know more about her.” She began interviewing people for what became the Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel Collection at OSU. One person interviewed was the late Lee Roy Chapman, writer, artist and something of a Tulsa legend. He revered McDaniel, considered her saintly and said that in her poetry “ ere’s a sacredness to being an outsider,” a migrant and dirt poor.

Nuerohr interviewed Dunbar-Ortiz, a writer colleague of McDaniel. DunbarOrtiz’s family did not migrate during the Depression, but for a heart-rending account of those Oklahoma days read her memoir “Red Dirt: Growing Up Okie.” Betty Blanks leaned on the oral history to write her new biography of McDaniel, “Pick Up Your Name and Write.”

e 1930s were hard, hard times for many Oklahomans. Some stayed, some left. e late University of Tulsa history professor Patrick Blessing, an Irish emigrant himself with a Ph.D. from University of California, Los Angeles, was a migration expert. He might have been quoting Will Rogers when I heard him say with the classic Irish wit of a smile and a tear, “When the Okies left Oklahoma for California, it raised the IQ of both states 2%.” tp

Wilma Elizabeth McDaniel

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The historic Percy/Elliott House, Bruce Goff’s first Tulsa design, is on the market for the first time in nearly 50 years. Nestled in Maple Ridge North, this Prairie-style gem blends architectural significance with modern updates like a granite kitchen and dual sunrooms. 312 E 19th Street. $1,195,000.

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GRAND LAKE

Buffalo Shores South Waterfront with 100 feet of shoreline! This doesn’t happen very often. This lake home has 3,194 s.f. per courthouse records, two main bedrooms with large bathrooms on the first floor and three bedrooms on the second level with one having a private bath and the other two bedrooms share a pullman bath. The cheerful kitchen with a combined breakfast area overlooking Grand Lake, offers a subzero frig, one single range/oven, built in oven and cook top, wet bar area with a sink and ice maker, and tons of storage. There is a formal living and dining room with a sunroom with a view. Improvements made recently is a lakeside stone patio with outdoor fireplace, new 2-slip covered boat dock, new hvac, furnace, and entry drive. The roof is only five years old.This just might be your dream home! 3112 Shore Drive, Grove. $895,000.

BROOKSIDE

This 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is ready for your enjoyment. Experience the best of Tulsa! Recent improvements include: freshly painted kitchen and family room, newer roof, AC replaced in 2024. Fabulous Brookside home. 4331 S Norfolk Avenue. $385,000

RIVERSIDE

Purchased in 1981, this home has been completely transformed. Cherry wood floors span the upstairs, and both bedrooms feature new carpet. The kitchen is fully renovated, and the first-floor bedroom—currently a home office— sits next to a second bathroom. The primary suite includes extra storage above the closet, and the laundry room is neatly tucked under the stairs. All in a great location overlooking Zink Lake! 1503 Riverside Drive 1503. $239,000.

5

THIS IS LIVING

Custom-built estate in Owasso Schools

5 spacious bedrooms (3 downstairs, 2 upstairs)

4 Full Bathrooms & 1 Half Bathroom

6,835 sq.ft. / AP

9.27 Acres (M/L)

4 Car Garage and Porte Cochere

2 bedrooms have a private en-suite bath and walk-in closet

Formal dining room (or optional media room)

Dedicated office with private exterior entrance and covered porch

Spacious game/family room downstairs

Saltwater pool with spa

Outdoor oasis complete with fireplace and covered patio

Includes 2 parcels of land in Clear Brook plus 2 additional parcels of land outside Clear Brook totaling approximately 9.27 acres (M/L) of land and privacy

TIME WARP

Pink palace

In January 1962 Tulsa’s latest and most architecturally striking bowling alley, the Rose Bowl located along Route 66, opened its lanes to bowlers and travelers alike.

It was the golden age of bowling in the United States and the Rose Bowl, with its pink facade, was the 13th bowling alley in Tulsa, showcasing 36 of the city’s 292 lanes. e building was designed by local architect William Henry Ryan who served during World War II and was directly in uenced by the design of German bomb shelters and their domed rooftops.

e interior was modern and featured the latest bowling technology. Attached to the rooftop were ba es that hung above the lanes to control light and sound throughout the building. It also contained a snack bar, meeting space and nursery.

It quickly became a landmark and a popular destination for family fun. Despite ownership changes, it remained in business as a bowling alley until March 2005 under the name Rose Lanes. ere were res and several acts of vandalism after it closed.

After beginning renovations on the building, it was reopened as the Rose Bowl

Events Center in July 2008. It struggled to be a successful venue due to the additional renovations that were still needed and the poor acoustics the facility exhibited. e building was o ered a new life in 2012 when it was purchased by the nonpro t One Hope Tulsa that now operates the building as a recreation center geared toward youth programming and community engagement. Earlier this year it served as an emergency shelter for those impacted by this year’s winter storms. tp

STORY AND COMPOSITE IMAGE BY PATRICK MCNICHOLAS

Image taken of the Rose Bowl bowling alley, located at 7419 E. 11th St., shortly after opening in 1962. It became a landmark along Route 66 and continued to operate as a bowling alley until 2005.

Founded in 2008, the Rotary Club of Tulsa’s Above and Beyond Awards recognize Tulsa’s Firefighter and Police Officer of the Year. The event acknowledges these public servants for outstanding acts of character, commitment and compassion to both their profession and our community.

2025 Firefighter of the Year Captain Chisom Frazier

Captain Frazier has served the TFD for over 17 years. His current position is an Assistant Fire Marshal, Code Enforcement office of the Fire Prevention branch of the Department, His cousin, Cpt. Reagan Caram, with the Stillwater Fire Department, introduced him to firefighting. Helping his fellow citizens and the camaraderie with other dedicated firefighters became Frazier’s professional and personal calling.

He experienced another calling to minister to other’s needs when Cpt. Caram was diagnosed with kidney failure and in need of a transplant. Cpt. Frazier somehow knew he would be the best match. He and his wife, pre-teen daughter and son made the decision together as a family to start the long donor testing process. Frazier and his wife wanted their children to experience the pride, joy and reward of helping someone else.

Three months later, Cpt. Frazier notified Cpt. Caram that he was a match. In February the transplant was successful and after using Cpt. Frazier’s own medical leave/vacation leave, he returned to duty the end of March. Cpt. Caram recovered rapidly and has returned to duty. He feels better than he has in years thanks to his fellow firefighter’s selfless act of kindness, compassion and dedication to help others.

His award was presented in honor of late Tulsa Fire Chief E. Stanley Hawkins. He received a trophy, commemorative pin, ribbon, overnight stay and dinner for two at The Mayo Hotel. In his name, $5,000 was donated to the Tulsa Firefighter’s Benevolent Fund.

Presenting sponsor:

Media sponsor:

2025 Police Officer of the Year Lieutenant

Lieutenant McCarty has dedicated 17 years to TPD. Her interest in law enforcement was sparked when she was a child and learned about her grandfather’s cold case murder. As supervisor of the Mental Health Unit, she transformed the department’s approach to mental health crises, playing a key role in establishing the Officer Wellness Unit and Peer-to-Peer Program.

Her leadership helped bridge the gap between law enforcement and mental health services. She was instrumental in the success of the Community Response Team (a TPD officer, a TFD paramedic and a Family & Children’s Services’ COPES clinician). Her dedication to mental health education is evident in her work as TPD’s Crisis Intervention Team Coordinator and an OK CIT Instructor for the state’s team, Lt. McCarty extends her dedication to service through her involvement with Mighty Oaks. Its mission is to serve and restore our nation’s warriors and families who have endured hardship through their service, and to help them find a new life purpose through hope in Christ and peer-to-peer recovery programs. It serves active-duty military, veterans and first responders. She is a Legacy Program Team Leader providing an intensive, peer-based approach to helping individuals overcome past traumas, PTSD and build a life of purpose. She received a trophy, commemorative pin, ribbon, overnight stay and dinner for two at The Mayo Hotel. In her name, $2,500 was donated to Woodlake Church which houses Mighty Oaks’ meetings and $2,500 to the Mighty Oaks Foundation.

Amber McCarty

Captain Chisom Frazier

Lieutenant Amber McCarty